City Commission Meeting
Regular MeetingEustis, FL · October 23, 2025
Minutes
APPROVED 12/09/2025
MINUTES
City Commission Meeting
6:00 PM -Thursday, October 23, 2025 - City Hall
Invocation: Moment of Silence
Pledge of Allegiance: Commissioner George Asbate
Call to Order: 6:02 p.m.
Acknowledge of Quorum and Proper Notice
PRESENT: Commissioner George Asbate, Vice Mayor Gary Ashcraft, Commissioner
Michael Holland, Commissioner Emily Lee and Mayor Willie L. Hawkins
1. Agenda Update
Ordinance Numbers 25-31, 25-32 and 25-33: Annexation of Parcels with Alternate Key
Numbers 1743320 and 1407940 and affiliated future land use designation and design district
designation
Tom Carrino, City Manager, noted that Ordinance Numbers 25-31, 25-32 and 25-33 were
heard on first reading on September 18, 2025. He stated the applicant has requested that
second reading of the ordinances be moved to 11/20/2025.
Motion made by Commissioner Holland, Seconded by Vice Mayor Ashcraft, to move
Ordinance Numbers 25-31 , 25-32 and 25-33 to November 20, 2025. Motion passed on the
following vote:
Voting Yea: Commissioner Asbate, Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Commissioner Holland,
Commissioner Lee, Mayor Hawkins
2. Approval of Minutes
September 18, 2025 City Commission Workshop: Impact Fees
September 29, 2025 City Commission Workshop: Impact Fees
September 29, 2025 City Commission Special Meeting: Impact Fees
Motion made by Commissioner Holland, Seconded by Vice Mayor Ashcraft, to approve the
Minutes. Motion passed on the following vote:
Voting Yea: Commissioner Asbate, Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Commissioner Holland,
Commissioner Lee, Mayor Hawkins
3. Presentations
3.1 Recognition for Retirement of Jobey Jones
Mayor Hawkins read the recognition plaque for the retirement of Jobey (Joseph) Jones,
Deputy Director of Public Works.
The Commission, Mr. Carrino and Rick Gierok, Public Works Director, thanked Mr. Jones for
his 27 years of dedicated service.
Eustis City Commission Page 1 of 10 October 23, 2025
3.2 Fire Department Meritorious Award for Positive Outcome for a Critical Traumatic Call
Mike Swanson, Fire Chief, recognized Eustis Fire Department staff on B-shift with an award for
a call on 06/29/2025 in Grand Island. He thanked the hospital workers, dispatchers, and Lake
County staff for their help on the call for a critically injured youth.
The following EFD personnel were presented the Lifesaving Award: Lt Paramedic Michael
Peckham, Lt Paramedic Michael Buschor, Sr Eng Paramedic Kyle Bateman, Eng Paramedic
Sammy Rimes, Firefighter EMT Alexis Anderson and Firefighter Paramedic Iman Mencia.
The following Lake County Fire Personnel were also recognized: Fire Battalion Chief Robert
Fickett, EMS Battalion Chief Steven Wheeler, Firefighter/EMT Christopher
Richter, Firefighter/EMT Daniel James and Firefighter/Paramedic Josh Kibler.
The following Arnold Palmer Hospital Children's Emergency Department & Trauma Center
personnel were also recognized: Emergency Medical Services Liaison Ernest Weishaupt
and Trauma Center Director Julie Frey.
Sunny Wysap and Julie Frey from Arnold Palmer Children's Hospital thanked the staff on the
call and gave each a challenge coin.
3.3 Events Department: City of Eustis Sunsational Awards Recognition
Mr. Carrino introduced Cheri Moan, the City's new Events and Communications Director.
Ms. Moan introduced her Events team as follows: Carl Saenger, Events Manager; Christine
Guiffre, Vendor and Community Relations Coordinator; Anne Heslop, Events Coordinator; and
Teagan Ferrin, Events Aide.
Mr. Carrino announced that the City had received six first place awards, one second place and
one third place, which may be the most first place awards they have won.
Recognition of Eustis Police Department Accreditation
Craig Capri, Police Chief, stated this was the City's fourth cycle in the accreditation. He
commented on the findings of the accreditation team and noted they were impressed that the
Mayor and City Manager attended the accreditation ceremony.
Mayor Hawkins expressed appreciation for the work done with the department by Chief Capri.
4. Audience to be Heard
Mr. Carrino explained that Daniel DiVenanzo had submitted Request to Speaks cards for Items
7.1, 7.2, 7.3 and 7.4 however, the City does not normally take public comment on items under
Other Business.
Daniel DiVenanzo, nonresident and City business operator, expressed concern that the City
Manager is proposed to receive a 5% increase. He noted the salaries for other City Managers
in the area and stated that the current manager is overpaid. He commented on the increase in
impact fees. He then noted Items 7.2, 7.3 and 7.4. He expressed support for the City hiring
an onboard City Attorney.
5. Consent Agenda
5.1 Resolution Number 25-78: Annexation Agreement and Developer's Agreement To
Provide Water Service Outside the City Limits for a Real Property (addressed
unassigned) on Honey Blossom Drive (Alternate Key 1407591)
Eustis City Commission Page 2 of 10 October 23, 2025
5.2 Resolution Number 25-79: Authorizing Multiple Annual Purchases in Excess of
$100,000 for Products and Services Essential to the Daily Operations of Public Utilities
5.3 Resolution Number 25-80: Approving an Expenditure in Excess of $100,000.00 for
Construction Phase I of the Greenwood Cemetery Improvements and the Veterans
Memorial
5.4 Resolution Number 25-81: Authorizing an Expenditure in Excess of $100,000 for the
Eastern Wastewater Treatment Plant Reuse Pump Station Project
5.5 Resolution Number 25-84: Police Department FY 25-26 Drone Grant
Motion made by Commissioner Holland, Seconded by Commissioner Lee, to approve the
Consent Agenda. Motion passed on the following vote:
Voting Yea: Commissioner Asbate, Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Commissioner Holland,
Commissioner Lee, Mayor Hawkins
6. Ordinances, Public Hearings, & Quasi Judicial Hearings
6.1 Resolution Number 25-75: Refinancing of CRA Community Redevelopment Loan
Sasha Garcia, City Attorney, read Resolution Number 25-75 by title: A resolution by the City
Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida, approving a promissory note to document interfund
financing from the City's General Fund to the Eustis Downtown & East Town Redevelopment
Agency, authorizing execution of said note, and providing for an effective date.
Lori Carr, Finance Director, reviewed the financing options previously discussed with the
Commission and following the direction provided by the Commission. She explained the
resolution would formalize the loan between the City's General Fund and the CRA.
Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 6:30 p.m. There being no public comment, the
hearing was closed at 6:30 p.m.
Motion made by Commissioner Asbate, Seconded by Commissioner Holland, to approve
Resolution Number 25-75. The motion passed on the following vote:
Voting Yea: Commissioner Asbate, Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Commissioner Holland,
Commissioner Lee, Mayor Hawkins
6.2 Resolution Number 25-83: Preliminary Subdivision Plat for Tealwood Estates (2025-S-03)
with Alternate Key Numbers 1215013, 1215544, 1094828, 1215536, and 1215005
Attorney Garcia read Resolution Number 25-83 by title: A Resolution of the City Commission of
the City of Eustis, Florida; approving a preliminary subdivision plat for Tealwood Estates
Subdivision (2025-S-03), a 61-lot townhome single-family residential subdivision, on
approximately 8.44 acres of property located on the north side of Orange Avenue, east of
Glover Street and west of Cardinal Street (Alternate Key Number 1215013, 1215544,
1094828, 1215536 and 1215005).
Jeff Richardson, Deputy Director Development Services, reviewed the proposed preliminary
subdivision plat for Tealwood Estates (2025-S-03), a 61-lot townhome single-family attached
residential subdivision, on approximately 8.44 acres of property located on the north side of
Orange Avenue, east of Glover Street, and west of Cardinal Street (Alternate Key Numbers
1215013, 1215544, 1094828, 1215536, and 1215005). He stated the net density would be
7.23 units per acre with approximately 42% open space provided. He indicated they would be
providing 1.1 acres of dog park, walking paths and passive park. He noted they would also be
Eustis City Commission Page 3 of 10 October 23, 2025
providing an additional 32 parking spaces for guest parking. He provided a history of the
project application and a description of the location of the project. He reviewed the
surrounding land uses and provided a map of the proposed plat. He stated staff's
recommendation for approval.
The Commission asked if there would be parks or tot lots with Mr. Richardson identifying the
locations of a pavilion, walking trail and other park areas. He explained the location of the dog
park.
Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 6:37 p.m. There being no public comment, the
hearing was closed at 6:37 p.m.
Mayor Hawkins asked for a motion to allow discussion.
The Commission discussed wanting to see the development be more kid friendly. It was noted
that the City's code does not require tot lots or playgrounds.
David Klutz, developer, noted there is room to do that and added that most of their
developments have wound up with those amenities. He confirmed that the condos are two
and three-bedroom.
Attorney Garcia explained that the preliminary plat approval is primarily ministerial at that point
unless it does not meet existing code. It was noted that due to Senate Bill 180, their hands are
tied.
Motion made by Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Seconded by Commissioner Holland, to approve
Resolution Number 25-83. Motion passed on the following vote:
Voting Yea: Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Commissioner Holland, Commissioner Lee, Mayor Hawkins
Voting Nay: Commissioner Asbate
6.3 FIRST READING
Ordinance Number 25-37: Residential Backyard Chickens Program
Attorney Garcia read Ordinance Number 25-37 on first reading: An Ordinance of the City
Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida, creating Chapter 14, entitled "Animals
and Fowl," and adding Article 11, entitled "Residential Backyard Chickens Program," and
creating Section 115-11.8 of the Land Development Regulations, entitled "Backyard Chickens
Program Standards"; providing for legislative findings and intent; establishing definitions;
providing for permit requirements; providing for standards of care; providing for enforcement
and penalties; providing for program review and automatic continuation; providing for
severability; providing for conflicts; providing for codification; and providing for an effective
date.
Attorney Garcia explained the purpose is to establish a two-year pilot program allowing for the
limited keeping of hens as an accessory use to single-family residential properties within the
City of Eustis. She provided an overview of the specifics of the program including criteria,
limitations, fines for noncompliance of the permits and benefits of the program. She stated
staff's recommendation for approval of the ordinance and establishment of the backyard
chicken pilot program.
Discussion was held regarding the proposed ordinance with the following issues or questions:
1) Requirements for the structure and health benefits; 2) Issues with someone having to deal
with a neighbor having chickens; 3) Additional responsibilities for Code Enforcement; and 4)
Who will monitor the number of chickens at one location and whether or not they are sold.
Eustis City Commission Page 4 of 10 October 23, 2025
Attorney Garcia reviewed the specific limitations within the ordinance including what is the
responsibility of the applicant. She cited what might result in denial of the application. She
noted that a denial can be appealed to the City Manager and the Commission. She explained
what would require Code Enforcement to go out and how they would determine if the $75 fee
is sufficient. She commented on what would occur if there were to be a health advisory
regarding poultry health. She then cited what would be included in the Land Development
Regulations pertaining to the chickens.
Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 7:06 p.m.
Pam Rivas spoke in support of the ordinance and cited numerous cities and counties that allow
backyard chickens.
Daniel DiVenanzo noted the limitation of 15 permits with three chickens per permit totaling 45
chickens.
Karen LeHeup-Smith spoke in support of the ordinance and the limitation of 15 permits ..
·There being no further public comment, the hearing was closed at 7:09 p.m.
The Commission noted that the ordinance is strictly for a pilot program to determine if it will
work with Attorney Garcia confirming that it is for a two-year pilot program. She noted that, if
there are five verified complaints within twelve months, then staff will bring it back to the
Commission.
The Commission commented on the amount of effort that went into development of the
ordinance, the fact that there is an educational requirement in the ordinance and the benefits
to the community.
Motion made by Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Seconded by Commissioner Asbate, to approve
Ordinance 25-37 on first reading. Motion passed on the following vote:
Voting Yea: Commissioner Asbate, Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Mayor Hawkins
Voting Nay: Commissioner Holland, Commissioner Lee
RECESSED: 7:14 p.m. RECONVENED: 7:20 p.m.
7. Other Business
7.1 City Manager's Annual Evaluation
Karen Crouch, Human Resources Director, noted that the City Manager's evaluation was
completed by the Commission. She stated staff is recommending that Mr. Carrino receive a
5% salary increase, which is the same as the other employees, plus $1,000. She added that
the other cities' managers' salaries that were provided were as of October 1st.
Commissioner Holland confirmed he had met with Mr. Carrino regarding his evaluation and
expressed support with him receiving the same increase as the other employees.
Commissioner Lee confirmed that she had also met with Mr. Carrino.
Vice Mayor Ashcraft indicated he had also met with Mr. Carrino. He commented on the
challenges facing the City and stated he would not be in favor of a 5% raise.
Commissioner Asbate indicated he had met with Mr. Carrino and HR. He commented on a
comparison of City budgets between Eustis and other area cities, and Mr. Carrino's experience
as a City Manager compared with other cities. He cited his concerns regarding City finances
Eustis City Commission Page 5 of 10 October 23, 2025
and expressed opposition to the 5% increase plus the $1,000 additional. He noted he had
asked Mr. Carrino for his response on some items and indicated he had not yet received that
back. He suggested that the Commission could re-visit the City Manager's compensation in
less than one year.
Mayor Hawkins confirmed he had also met with Mr. Carrino. He noted that some of the
challenges have been caused by the Commission and added that Mr. Carrino has saved the
City from some situations where the City might have been sued. He expressed support for Mr.
Carrino receiving the same increase as other employees.
Commissioner Holland commented that the City Manager and Assistant City Manager are only
as good as the City Commission and the Commission has given mixed signals.
Mr. Carrino stated his intent is to listen to the Commission's comments. He commented on the
years of experience that other City Managers in the area have.
Mayor Hawkins noted the downtown development projects have consumed the City for years
and Mr. Carrino has been following Commission direction.
Mr. Carrino noted that the City Manager's contract has included a $200 monthly vehicle
allowance since 2015 and added that he included in the budget a request to increase that
allo'!l'ance to $400 per month.
Discussion was held regarding the need to provide more concise direction to Mr. Carrino and
how they conducted their individual reviews with Mr. Carrino and HR. It was suggested that
they hold a workshop to discuss the City Manager and their direction.
Mayor Hawkins polled the Commission regarding the salary increase with Commissioner
Holland agreeing to the same as the rest of the staff, and Vice Mayor Ashcraft asking for less.
The Commission discussed the delays held due to things being postponed to hold workshops
rather than action taken. Discussion was also held regarding the need for a new evaluation
process.
Mayor Hawkins finalized the poll with a consensus for the City Manager to receive the 5% plus
$1,000 increase with Vice Mayor Ashcraft supporting a 2.5% increase and Commissioner
Asbate supporting a 1% increase.
7.2 Staff seeks Commission direction on a policy to guide the sale or transfer of surplus
City-owned residential lots. including both CRA and non-CRA properties. Discussion will focus
on options to prevent speculative resale and ensure community benefit, such as reverter
clauses, deed restrictions, or performance-based mortgages. Direction is needed on preferred
safeguards and criteria to apply in future dispositions. (City Attorney)
Attorney Garcia requested direction on development of a policy on the sale or transfer of
surplus City-owned residential lots, both CRA and non-CRA. She stated staff is looking for
direction on what safeguards and timeframes they would like to have. She noted there are
state statutes that would affect the policy as well. She explained that a uniform policy would
support transparency, fairness and defensibility. She reviewed the benefits of having an
adopted policy and provided an overview of the different types of safeguard mechanisms that
could be used. She summarized the request for direction on the preferred protective
mechanisms, preferred timeframes for development and resale restrictions, and whether to
apply different standards for CRA vs. non-CRA lots. She reviewed her recommendations for a
tiered approach for non-CRA lots and her recommendation for the CRA lots.
Eustis City Commission Page 6 of 10 October 23, 2025
Vice Mayor Ashcraft expressed concern regarding the ability for mortgages to be obtained
based on the restrictions.
Attorney Garcia explained that, based on the Commission direction, she would bring back a
draft resolution for consideration along with templates for the various types. She suggested
that Vice Mayor Ashcraft could assist with drafting the resolution due to his concerns.
CONSENSUS: It was a consensus of the Commission for Attorney Garcia and Vice Mayor
Ashcraft to work on a resolution to bring back to the Commission.
7.3 Staff requests Commission direction to bring forward a resolution adopting the City's
standardized Public Records Exemption Request Form and administrative procedures. These
tools implement expanded protections under Section 119.071 (4)(d), Florida Statutes, and
Senate Bill 268 (2025) for qualifying officials, employees, and family members. Adoption will
ensure legal compliance and consistent processing of exemption requests. (City Attorney)
Commissioner Holland asked if the City isn't subject to state statute regarding the next two
discussion items - Public Records Exemption Form and Public Records Compliance and Due
Diligence Form.
Attorney Garcia explained her reason for recommending they adopt the forms. She further
explained her decision to bring forward to the Commission certain items for discussion only
prior to bringing them forward for consideration unless it is something that is required.
Commissioner Asbate questioned the need to approve the forms when it is governed by state
statute. He asked for it to be tabled until he has a chance to read some of the information.
Attorney Garcia explained the City doesn't currently have policies in place with Commissioner
Asbate further asking both items to be tabled. He asked the Mayor to poll the Commission
about tabling.
Mayor Hawkins began polling the Commission regarding tabling the discussion with Attorney
Garcia explaining that Senate Bill 268 expands the exemptions. She explained the additional
exemptions and stated that staff needs a form to assist with the handling of those exemptions
and to confirm the individual actually qualifies for the exemption. She confirmed that other
cities do have similar forms.
Further discussion was held with a consensus to table both items and have them brought back
in two weeks as discussion items.
7.4 Staff requests Commission direction to advance a resolution adopting a standardized
acknowledgment form for use when public records requests involve personal devices or
accounts of City officials or employees. The form affirms the individual's legal duty under
Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, to exercise due diligence in identifying, preserving, and
producing responsive records. It also provides written documentation of compliance efforts to
protect the City and individual from potential liability. Adoption will enhance transparency and
reduce legal exposure. (City Attorney)
This item was not heard due to the determination to table Items 7 .3 and 7 .4 for two weeks.
8. Future Agenda Items and Comments
8.1 City Commission
Commissioner Holland congratulated the Fire and Police Departments and expressed
appreciation for both departments' command staff. He noted the upcoming Halloween holiday
Eustis City Commission Page 7 of 10 October 23, 2025
and encouraged everyone to be careful. He cited an upcoming event with Parks and
Recreation.
Commissioner Lee expressed pride in all of the awards won by the City.
Commissioner Ashcraft requested that the agenda be published on Thursday rather than
Friday to allow more time for Commissioners to ask questions of staff. He asked for the City to
reimburse him for his travel expenses to attend a conference in Japan. He noted that they
would be meeting with some companies interested in coming to Florida.
The Commission asked how much is budgeted for travel for each Commissioner with Mr.
Carrino responding that they budget $2,000 per Commissioner for the League of Cities
conference and $1500 per Commissioner for the Legislative Days in Tallahassee. He
indicated they also budget for the Florida Redevelopment Association but that is in the CRA
budget. He noted they also budget for other, smaller local events. He noted those funds are
in the Travel and Per Diem under those specific events.
Discussion was held regarding Commissioners being allowed to travel to other conferences
that may be beneficial to the City utilizing the funds already in the budget versus the benefits in
all of the Commissioners going to specific conferences.
Discussion was held regarding what benefits would be gained from Vice Mayor Ashcraft
attending the conference in Japan with a suggestion that Economic Development Director Al
Latimer also attend. It was noted that they needed additional information regarding the
purpose of the conference and benefit to the City.
Vice Mayor Ashcraft asked the Mayor to poll the Commission.
Commissioner Lee declined to comment, Commissioner Holland expressed opposition.
Commissioner Asbate expressed support. Vice Mayor Ashcraft noted he had a copy of the
itinerary if anyone wanted to see it.
Attorney Garcia suggested they consider adjusting the travel policy. She noted that the
Charter does have some restrictions. She indicated that, if there is found to be some public
benefit, there could be reimbursement. She suggested he attend the conference and bring
back information regarding the public benefit and then the Commission can consider doing a
budget amendment to allow the reimbursement.
Mayor Hawkins indicated he would need more information to be able to make a decision. He
asked if Vice Mayor Ashcraft was open to Attorney Garcia's suggestion with Mr. Ashcraft
concurring.
Chief Capri announced that retired sergeant Phil Livingston recently passed away. He noted
that Mr. Livingston had asked for certain things for his funeral. He provided information
regarding the planned services and procession to the Lakeside Memory Gardens. He invited
the Commissioners to attend.
Commissioner Asbate raised the issue of parking concerns for local businesses. He noted that
some people are parking in front of the businesses for hours, and sometimes days, at a
time. He indicated that he doesn't allow employees to park in front of his business.
Mayor Hawkins indicated that he and Chief Capri would be meeting with the downtown
businesses. He noted that business owners are also parking in the customer parking.
Vice Mayor Ashcraft noted the problem with tenants residing above the businesses as well.
Eustis City Commission Page B of 10 October 23, 2025
Commissioner Asbate commented on the upcoming services for Aaron Bellaire. He then
commented on the inter-relationship among the Commissioners.
8.2 City Manager
Mr. Carrino announced Dr. Levey has been engaged and he has met with a Commissioner
and members of the leadership team. He noted the need to schedule additional meetings with
individual Commissioners and to schedule the workshop sometime in early December. He
reported staff is working with the State on the Evaluation and Appraisal Report and explained
that is for evaluation and modification of the Comprehensive Plan. He stated that has been
complicated by Senate Bill 180; therefore, staff is working with a consultant. He indicated that
the City is coming up on some deadlines but they are also experiencing delays due to SB
180. He explained that it may affect their ability to approve some comprehensive plan
amendments and annexations in the future. He thanked everyone for the time they put into his
evaluation and indicated he would put time into working on those comments. He expressed
appreciation for the Commission and how they have to serve the dual role of being an
employer and a steward of the public funds.
8.3 City Attorney
Attorney Garcia reported on the Community Center property and stated they did receive a
revised title commitment which shows that the City does hold fee simple clear title to the
property. She added that it is no longer subject to any deed restrictions or reverter
clauses. She said they can move forward with the existing legal description; however, the title
insurer did recommend having a new boundary survey. Costs for that were found to be pretty
high. She recommended that whoever gets the property should pay for the survey to insure
they have exact delineations on that conveyance. She indicated that would save the City
unnecessary expense and noted it would need to be included in the advertising. She
explained the process to be used for advertising the City's intent to dispose of the property.
The Commission asked if that would be done this year with Mr. Carrino indicating it could be
on the next agenda. The Commission expressed concern regarding the City not having a plan
for relocation of the community building.
Attorney Garcia explained the information that would be included in the advertising with
Commissioner Lee noting they need to also tell what their plans are for replacement of the
community building.
Attorney Garcia confirmed that the RFP is not mandated by law with Mr. Carrino indicating that
30 days' notice is required.
The Commission asked about the unsolicited proposal the City received with Attorney Garcia
indicating they will be able to submit an application once the Notice of Intent goes out. She
indicated that the City has no obligation to respond to the proposal. She confirmed she told
their attorney she would notify him once the Notice of Intent is issued.
Attorney Garcia asked if the Commission wants the content of the advertising to be brought
back to them with Commissioner Asbate asking for them to receive a copy of it and for them to
be told when and how it would be advertised. He also asked that the responses be opened in
public.
Attorney Garcia indicated it would be brought back to the Commission at the next meeting.
Attorney Garcia reported on the charging stations. She indicated a draft contract was
submitted for her to review. She stated it would need to be revised and negotiated. She noted
Eustis City Commission Page 9 of 10 October 23, 2025
that the current draft includes a lot of control for the vendor and limits flexibility for the City and
does not include clear performance standards. She added that it is an exclusivity agreement
and she would like the ability to negotiate other locations and providers.
Attorney Garcia reported that the City received notification that two property owners have filed
lawsuit with Lake County and reached out to Development Services seeking an appellate
process for Resolution 25-55 which granted approval of the Huddle 44 site plan including the
drive through . She explained the City does not have an appellate process for that; therefore,
they would need to seek recourse through the courts. They are alleging the City did not
comply with provisions of the Land Development Code. She stated that no damages are being
sought but is essentially a review of the City's process. She explained why a shade meeting
was not needed as she is only providing them information that is already a public record not
discussing legal strategy.
Attorney Garcia explained that the court has conducted the review and issued an Order of
Initial Cause. She explained the City will have 30 days to prepare a response and they will be
coordinating to get a certified record. She indicated that, if necessary, she will request to hold
a shade meeting.
8.4 Mayor
Mayor Hawkins confirmed that the groundbreaking will be held at 9:00 a.m. He provided a
statement regarding serving in public administration and what it entails. He stated that what
they do is not about controlling outcomes but about creating conditions where good outcomes
remain possible. He emphasized that they have work to do for the people and it is not about
them. He stated they need to be focused and get the work done.
9. Adjournment: 8:44 p.m.
*These minutes reflect the actions taken and portions of the discussion during the meeting. To review the entire discussion concerning any agenda item,
go to www.eustis.org and click on the video for the meeting in question. A DVD of the entire meeting or CD of the entire audio recording of the meeting
can be obtained from the office of the City Clerk for a fee.
~~
CHRISTINE HALLORAN KINS
City Clerk
Eustis City Commission Page 10 of 10 October 23, 2025
Agenda
AGENDA
City Commission Meeting
6:00 PM – Thursday, October 23, 2025 – City Hall
Invocation
Pledge of Allegiance: Commissioner George Asbate
Call to Order
Acknowledge of Quorum and Proper Notice
1. Agenda Update
1.1 Ordinance Numbers 25-31, 25-32 and 25-33: Annexation of Parcels with Alternate Key
Numbers 1743320 and 1407940
Ordinance Number 25-31 – Voluntary Annexation
Ordinance Number 25-32 – Comprehensive Plan Amendment
Ordinance Number 25-33 – Design District Assignment
2. Approval of Minutes
2.1 September 18, 2025 City Commission Workshop: Impact Fees
September 29, 2025 City Commission Workshop: Impact Fees
September 29, 2025 City Commission Special Meeting: Impact Fees
3. Presentations
3.1 Recognition for Retirement for Jobey Jones
3.2 Fire Department Meritorious Award for Positive Outcome for a Critical Traumatic Call
3.3 Events Department: City of Eustis Sunsational Awards Recognition
4. Audience to be Heard
5. Consent Agenda
5.1 Resolution Number 25-78: Annexation Agreement and Developer's Agreement To
Provide Water Service Outside the City Limits for a Real Property (addressed
unassigned) on Honey Blossom Drive (Alternate Key 1407591)
5.2 Resolution Number 25-79: Authorizing Multiple Annual Purchases in Excess of
$100,000 for Products and Services Essential to the Daily Operations of Public Utilities
5.3 Resolution Number 25-80: Approving an Expenditure in Excess of $100,000.00 for
Construction Phase I of the Greenwood Cemetery Improvements and the Veterans
Memorial
5.4 Resolution Number 25-81: Authorizing an Expenditure in Excess of $100,000 for the
Eastern Wastewater Treatment Plant Reuse Pump Station Project
5.5 Resolution Number 25-84: Police Department FY 25-26 Drone Grant
6. Ordinances, Public Hearings, & Quasi Judicial Hearings
6.1 Resolution Number 25-75: Refinancing of CRA Community Redevelopment Loan
6.2 Resolution Number 25-83: Preliminary Subdivision Plat for Tealwood Estates (2025-S-03)
with Alternate Key Numbers 1215013, 1215544, 1094828, 1215536, and 1215005
6.3 FIRST READING
Ordinance Number 25-37: Residential Backyard Chickens Program
7. Other Business
7.1 City Manager’s Annual Evaluation
7.2 Staff seeks Commission direction on a policy to guide the sale or transfer of surplus
City-owned residential lots, including both CRA and non-CRA properties. Discussion will
focus on options to prevent speculative resale and ensure community benefit, such as
reverter clauses, deed restrictions, or performance-based mortgages. Direction is
needed on preferred safeguards and criteria to apply in future dispositions. (City
Attorney)
7.3 Staff requests Commission direction to bring forward a resolution adopting the City’s
standardized Public Records Exemption Request Form and administrative procedures.
These tools implement expanded protections under Section 119.071(4)(d), Florida
Statutes, and Senate Bill 268 (2025) for qualifying officials, employees, and family
members. Adoption will ensure legal compliance and consistent processing of
exemption requests. (City Attorney)
7.4 Staff requests Commission direction to advance a resolution adopting a standardized
acknowledgment form for use when public records requests involve personal devices or
accounts of City officials or employees. The form affirms the individual’s legal duty
under Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, to exercise due diligence in identifying, preserving,
and producing responsive records. It also provides written documentation of compliance
efforts to protect the City and individual from potential liability. Adoption will enhance
transparency and reduce legal exposure. (City Attorney)
8. Future Agenda Items and Comments
8.1 City Commission
8.2 City Manager
8.3 City Attorney
8.4 Mayor
9. Adjournment
This Agenda is provided to the Commission only as a guide, and in no way limits their consideration to the items contained hereon. The Commission has
the sole right to determine those items they will discuss, consider, act upon, or fail to act upon. Changes or amendments to this Agenda may occur at any
time prior to, or during the scheduled meeting. It is recommended that if you have an interest in the meeting, you make every attempt to attend the
meeting. This Agenda is provided only as a courtesy, and such provision in no way infers or conveys that the Agenda appearing here is or will be the
Agenda considered at the meeting.
If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the board, agency or commission with respect to any matter considered at such meeting or hearing, he
or she will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he or she may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made,
which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based (Florida Statutes, 286.0105). In accordance with the Americans
with Disabilities Act of 1990, persons needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the City Clerk 48 hours prior to
any meeting so arrangements can be made. Telephone (352) 483-5430 for assistance.
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