City Commission Meeting

APPROVED 2/S/2026 MINUTES Gity Gommission Meeting FXlStisl 6:00 PM - Thursday, January 22,2026 - Gity Hall --: tl6rld. Err rxr3,1 lnvocation: Mayor Emily Lee Pledge of Allegiance: Vice Mayor Gary Ashcraft Call to Order: 6:09 p.m. Acknowledge of Quorum and Proper Notice PRESENT: Vice Mayor Gary Ashcraft, Commissioner Willie L. Hawkins, Commissioner George Asbate, Mayor Emily Lee ABSENT: Commissioner Michael Holland 1. Agenda Update: None 2. Approval of Minutes 2.1 Januarv 8, 2026 Citv Commission Meetinq Motion made by Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Seconded by Commissioner Hawkins, to approve the Minutes. Motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Commissioner Hawkins, Commissioner Asbate, Mayor Lee 3. Presentations 3.1 Carver Park Master Plan Tom Carrino, City Manager, reported that they have engaged Kimley-Horn for development of the Carver Park Master Plan. He commented on the need to use the master plan in their future planning for their various facilities. Sam Brinson, Parks and Recreation Director, cited the discussions that have been held regarding the aquatics center and other City facilities. He introduced Ray Lopez and Scott Mingonet from Kimley-Horn to present the Carver Park Master Plan. Scott Mingonet commented on his history with the City and their work for the City and County. He cited the need to have actionable objectives and noted that they have worked with Dr. Levey before. He provided an overview of the Carver Park Master Plan and cited the need for it to work with the citywide parks master plan. He commented on how some of the aspects might be monetized. Ray Lopez, landscape architect, reviewed in-depth the proposed elements in each section of the park. Proposed improvements include sports fields and courts, parking, shade structures, two-story observation tower, aquatic center, rooftop terrace, pathways, community garden and community building to include exercise rooms and a kitchen. He cited the plan to enlarge the baseball fields to high school level at 300 feet with two fields and a two-story concession stand. Eustr's C ity Com m ission Page 1 of 11 January 22, 2026  Mr. Mingonet discussed the overall image of the master plan as a critical element with CAPA certification which can assist with grant applications. He commented on potential financial costs to be overcome and how the master plan would fit into the vision of the Downtown Master Plan and Eustis Community Center. He highlighted the park and trail system and how that can increase property values. He cited the need to obtain additional input on the plan. Vice Mayor Ashcraft commented on the importance of the parks and recreation master plan. He asked about the anticipated costs with Mr. Mingonet responding they have not priced it out but it could cost as much as $60 to $70 million. He indicated the final cost would be based on specific details of the various facilities. He commented on how sports facilities can be an economic driver. Commissioner Asbate asked about feasibility and the probable phase-in timeframe. Mr. Mingonet cited additional information that would be needed to get that information and answer those questions. He commented that the northern section could be the first phase due to what is already in place. Commissioner Asbate asked about a projected budget for phase one with Mr. Mingonet stating that a synthetic turf field with underground drainage and ancillary lights would probably run $1.5 million. He suggested using pre-fab bathrooms to reduce the cost for the bathrooms initially. He added his belief that would still be a good value in phase one. Discussion was held regarding the facilities they saw during the high school softball championship games. Mr. Carrino reviewed the next steps, including consideration of the use of the Curtright Center property, placement of the aquatic center, and the probability that things will change based on other projects the City is undertaking. He noted the Downtown, Ferran Park and the waterfront are priorities for the upcoming workshop on January 29,2026. Mr. Mingonet discussed the possibility of renovating rather than rebuilding and consideration of the location of the North Lake Trail and how that might affect the City's plan. Further discussion was held regarding how to phase the master plan and determining a clear direction. Discussion was held regarding getting community engagement on the plan with Mr. Mingonet indicating that could take approximately one year although it could be done quicker. He emphasized the need to get the CAPA certification to assist with grants. He noted they have staff that specialize in those types of grants including stormwater projects that can be utilized for recreational activities. Mr. Carrino stated that they should discuss what is low hanging fruit, what could be done right away, financing, and funding sources such as grants and bonds. Discussion was held regarding the need for a workshop with Mr. Carrino indicating that the downtown, Ferran Park and the waterfront are priorities and will definitely be discussed at the workshop on January 29th. He noted they could possibly also discuss the aquatic center. Discussion was held regarding expanding the CRA boundaries with Mr. Carrino indicating the process is the same as creating a new CRA. He explained the process that would be required including issuance of a Finding of Necessity and how that would be created. He added that the state legislature is currently not very supportive of CRA's. Eastis City Commission Page2of11 January 22, 2026  Mr. Mingonet commented on other cities they are working with where they are doing subsurfice stormwater management projects within an existing CRA. He indicated they would provide that information to staff. 4 Appointments 4.1 Lake County rv Advisorv Board Mr. Carrino explained the appointment is for a City representative to the Lake County Library Advisory Board and staff is recommending the appointment of Betsy Dokken. Motion made by Commissioner Hawkins, Seconded by Vice Mayor Ashcraft, to approve the appointment of Betsy Dokken. Motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice MayorAshcraft, Commissioner Hawkins, Commissioner Asbate, Mayor Lee 5. Audience to be Heard Daniel DiVenanzo asked who will be responsible for cleaning the new drain system along the state highway that was installed by FDOT. He questioned if that would be the City's responsibility and noted trash that is accumulating in the drain system. He commented on the possible purchase by the City of the former Bank of America Building. He cited the additional parking and the possibility of relocating the Chamber of Commerce. He then commented on the Carver Park Master Plan presentation and how new facilities can result in displacement of the existing community residents due to gentrification. Estella Mosley also expressed concern about the Carver Park Master Plan and the possible displacement of area residents and where they would go. 6. Gonsent Agenda 6.1 Resolution Number 26-06: Amendins the FY2025l26 Adopted Budset for the General Fund for Duke Energv Donation 6.2 Resolution Number 26-08: Approvinq a Purchase in Excess of $100.000 for a Public Works Dump Truck 6.3 Resolution Number 26-09: Amendinq the FY2025l26 Adopted Budqet for the Librarv lmpact Fees Fund to increase the Librarv's eBook Collection 6.4 Resolution Number 26-10: Acceptance of FY 2025-2026 FDOT State Funded Grant Agreement (SFGA) for the Rosenwald Gardens Roadwav and Stormwater Proiect 6.5 Resolution Number 26-11: Approval of Purchase of Pumper Truck 6.6 Resolution Number 26-12: Authorizinq Acceptance ol FisqalYear71025 2O26 FDO-T State Funded Grant Aqreement (SFGA) for the Northshore Bridqe and Culvert Enqineerinq Proiect Motion made by Commissioner Asbate, Seconded by Vice Mayor Ashcraft, to approve the Consent Agenda. Motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Commissioner Hawkins, Commissioner Asbate, Mayor Lee 7 Ordinances, Public Hearings, & Quasi Judicial Hearings 7.1 Resolution Number 26-04: Budget Amendment for FY2025126 for Carry-over of FY2024l25 unencumbered budgeted funds for various Capital Proiects and Consultinq Services Eustis City Commission Page 3 of 11 January 22, 2026  Sasha Garcia, City Attorney, read Resolution Number 26-04 by title: A Resolution by the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida; amending the budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1,2025, and ending September 30, 2026, for the General, Sales Tax, Street lmprovement, Parks lmpact Fees, Cemetery Trust, Stormwater, Economic Development, Community Redevelopment, Grants, Water/Sewer Utility, R&R and Grants, Water lmpact and Sewer lmpact Fees Funds and by adjusting expenditures; repealing all resolutions or parts of resolutions in conflict herewith; and providing for an effective date. Lori Carr, Finance Director, noted the previous discussions on the carry-overs and indicated staff was present to answer any questions. Commissioner Asbate noted items he would like removed from the carry-over as follows: 1) Capital - Traffic calming - $78,600; 2) Capital - Palmetto Plaza Park Phase 2 - $469,000. Mr. Carrino asked if the Commission wanted to go through the list and then discuss or discuss each item as it is brought up. lt was a consensus of the Commission to discuss each item as presented. The following items were discussed and agreed to be removed from the list and rolled into Reserves or the appropriate fund: Capital - Traffic calming - $78,600; Palmetto Plaza Phase 2 - Reduced to $300,000; Capital - Carver Park B-ball Court Pavilion - $400,000; Prof Svc - Pavement Assessment Study - $69,000; Prof Svc - Engineering Wetland Monitoring - $55,300; Prof Svc - US Water Work - $84,400; and Capital - Coolidge WM Expansion - $6,700. Ms. Carr reviewed the deletions and changes and noted that the $6,700 had already been removed. Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing al7:28 p.m. There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 7:28 p.m. Attorney Garcia indicated that Ms. Carr would adjust the exhibit to coincide with the changes made. She asked for a motion to table the item to allow staff time to make the revisions and then consider action on the final version as the last item on the agenda. Motion made by Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Seconded by Commissioner Hawkins, to table Resolution Number 26-04 to the end of the agenda. Motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Commissioner Hawkins, Commissioner Asbate, Mayor Lee ofaMe um of Understand MOU for Human of Lake-Sumter Florida lnc. for Program Attorney Garcia read Resolution Number 26-13 by title: A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida; authorizing the City Manager to execute a Memorandum of Understanding with Habitat for Humanity of Lake-Sumter, Florida, lnc. for the City Home Repair Program; providing for findings of public purpose; providing for administrative authority; providing for severability; and providing an effective date. Attorney Garcia reviewed the proposed home repair program and explained the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). She stated the purpose is to establish a formal framework for the City's Home Repair Program, under which Habitat for Humanity of Lake- Sumter will assist the City with intake, eligibility screening, project development, construction oversight, and compliance monitoring for income-eligible, owner-occupied residential properties within the City limits. The MOU preserves full City discretion over funding, eligibility criteria, and program guidelines, and includes fiscal controls, insurance, indemnification, public Eusfls City Commission Page 4 of 11 January 22, 2026  records compliance, and termination protections. She stated that approval of the resolution authorizes the City Manager to execute the MOU and delegates administrative authority to the City Manager or designee. Attorney Garcia then reviewed the program guidelines contained in the MOU. She stated that application to the program does not create an entitlement. She noted that the current program is only within the CRA and is funded through the CRA so it can only be used for CRA properties. The MOU opens up the program to non-CRA properties to be funded with non-CRA monies. She explained that safeguards are in place to make sure properties do not receive services from both programs. She added that the program is coming to the Commission for approval since it may, in the future, exceed the $100,000 limit. The Commission asked if Habitat for Humanity ever does multi-tenant properties with Vice Mayor Ashcraft stating he did not believe so. Commissioner Asbate asked for the program to be only for owner-occupied properties. Mayor Lee suggested that background checks be done on any applicants for both programs with Vice Mayor Ashcraft stating that would be the responsibility of Habitat, not the City. Discussion was held regarding requiring background checks with Vice Mayor Ashcraft emphasizing these are people that already own their homes and expressing concern about over-complicating the program. Attorney Garcia explained the vetting will be done by Habitat and each application will be brought to the City for approval before monies are spent. Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing al7:44 p.m. Dee Gretzler expressed support for the program and agreed that the applicants are already living in the community. Daniel DiVenanzo commented on the lower cost items that can be done to improve a home such as changing out doors and replacing a toilet or water heater. He questioned how much Habitat for Humanity is going to charge to manage the program. Attorney Garcia closed the public hearing at7:47 p.m. Motion made by Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Seconded by Commissioner Hawkins, to approve Resolution Number 26-13. Motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Commissioner Hawkins, Commissioner Asbate, Mayor Lee 7.3 Explanation of Ordinances 25-34, 25-35, 25-36 for Annexation, Future Land Use Designation and Design District Designation for Parcel with Alternate Key Number 1213835 SECOND READING Ordinance Number 25-34: Voluntarv Annexation of Parcel with Alternate Kev Number 1213835 Attorney Garcia read Ordinance Number 25-34 by title on second and final reading. An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida; voluntarily annexing approximately 5.6 acres of real property at Alternate Key Number 1213835, generally located north of County Road 44 and east of State Road 19. Eusfr.s City Commission Page 5 of 11 January 22, 2026  Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 7:50 p.m. There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 7:50 p.m. Motion made by Commissioner Hawkins, Seconded by Vice Mayor Ashcraft, to adopt Ordinance Number 25-34 on final reading. Motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice MayorAshcraft, Commissioner Hawkins, Commissioner Asbate, Mayor Lee 7.4 SECOND READING Ordinance Number 25-35: Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Alternate Kev 1213835 Attorney Garcia read Ordinance Number 25-35 by title on second and final reading: An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida; amending the City of Eustis Comprehensive Plan pursuant to 163.3187 F.S.; changing the future land use designation of approximately 5.6 acres of recently annexed real property at Alternate Key Numbers 1213835, generally located north of County Road 44 and east of State Road 19, from Urban Low in Lake County to Mixed Commercial lndustrial in the City of Eustis. Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing al7:51p.m. There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 7:51 p.m. Motion made by Commissioner Hawkins, Seconded by Vice Mayor Ashcraft, to adopt Ordinance Number 25-35 on final reading. Motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice MayorAshcraft, Commissioner Hawkins, Commissioner Asbate, Mayor Lee 7.5 SECOND READING Ordinance Number 25-36: Desion Distri ct Assiqnment for Alternate Kev 1213835 Attorney Garcia read Ordinance Number 25-36 by title on second and final reading: An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida; assigning the Suburban Corridor design district designation to approximately 5.6 acres of recently annexed real property at Alternate Key Number 1213835, north of County Road 44 and east of State Road 19. Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at7:52 p.m. There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 7:52 p.m. Motion made by Commissioner Hawkins, Seconded by Vice Mayor Ashcraft, to adopt Ordinance Number 25-36 on final reading. Motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Commissioner Hawkins, Commissioner Asbate, Mayor Lee 7.6 SECOND READING Ordinance Number 26-01: Second Readino / Adoption of Development Aqreement - Grand lsland Crossings Attorney Garcia announced that the ordinance was heard on first reading at the Local Planning Agency meeting and this would constitute second reading. Attorney Garcia read Ordinance Number 26-01 by title on first reading: An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida; approving and authorizing the execution of a development agreement between the City of Eustis and Grand lsland Crossings, LLC, a Florida limited liability company, for the development of approximately 19.96 acres of real Eusfi.s City Co mm ission Page 6 of 11 January 22, 2026  property into a single-family residential subdivision; providing for implementation; providing for severability; and providing for an effective date. Attorney Garcia noted there were previous questions and stated the applicant is present to answer any questions. She noted there were answers to the previous questions distributed to the Commission. Applicant Attorney Brett Jones clarified there would be a tot lot and they would comply with the City's open space requirements. The Commission asked about seeing a site plan with Mr. Jones responding that a site plan would cost nearly a half million dollars. He stated they have submitted a conceptual plan and it will be substantially similar to what will be created and the only reason why it would vary would be if the Water Management District, City staff, FDOT or DEP says it can't be done that way. Mike Lane, Development Services Director, explained that the plan will change. He stated that the City's code will require 25o/o open space and staff has not seen any plan for the stormwater pond to call it a recreational/park amenity. Until they actually see that, they would expect to see both the stormwater pond and another 25Yo open space. He emphasized the typical concept plan always changes. He confirmed that the Development Review Committee has reviewed the concept plan and made comments. He stated that their concept plan was changed based on comments from the reviewers. The Commission asked if Mr. Lane is comfortable with the process so far with Mr. Lane commenting on the differences between the normal process. Mr. Jones stated that the unit count could go down based on site specifications and the concept plan will change but will be substantially similar to what has been presented. Mr. Lane explained that the DRC process will make sure that all recommendations and land development regulations are met. The Commission asked how a retention pond can be made an accessible and usable amenity with Mr. Lane stating they can put in trails or benches and add trees to make it more aesthetically pleasing. lf it's a dry stormwater pond, it can be available for recreation activities. Discussion was held regarding how the developer is agreeing to the City's design standards in exchange for certain development allowances. Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 8:01 p.m. There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 8:01 p.m. Due to the absence of Commissioner Holland, Mayor Lee took a straw poll which showed all Commissioners present supportive of the ordinance. Motion made by Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Seconded by Commissioner Hawkins, to adopt Ordinance Number 25-01on final reading. Motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice MayorAshcraft, Commissioner Hawkins, CommissionerAsbate, Mayor Lee RECESS: 8:02 p.m. RECONVENE: 8:07 p.m. 7.7 Explanation of Ordinance Numbers 26-02, 26-03, and 26-04 providing for voluntary annexation, future land use designation and design district designation for 0.31 acres of real property at Alternate Key Number 1197309 Eustis City Commission Page7of11 January 22, 2026  FIRST READING Ordinance Nu ber 26-02: Voluntarv Annexati on of Parcel with Alternate Kev Number 1 1 97309 Attorney Garcia read Ordinance Number 26-02 by title on first reading. An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida; voluntarily annexing approximately 0.31 acres of real property at Alternate Key Number 1 197309, located at77 West Seminole Avenue. Kyle Wilkes, Senior Planner, reviewed the proposed annexation, comprehensive plan land use amendment and design district designation. He explained staffs review of the application, confirmed the proposal conforms to the Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Regulations and stated staffs recommendation for approval. Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 8:11 p.m. There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 8:11 p.m. Motion made by Commissioner Hawkins, Seconded by Vice Mayor Ashcraft, to approve Ordinance Number 26-02 on first reading. Motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Commissioner Hawkins, Commissioner Asbate, Mayor Lee 7.8 SECOND READING Ordinance Number 26-03: Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Alternate Key 1 197309 Attorney Garcia read Ordinance Number 26-03 by title on first reading: An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida; amending the City of Eustis Comprehensive Plan pursuant to 163.3187 F.S.; changing the future land use designation of approximately 0.31 acres of recently annexed real property at Alternate Key Numbers 1 197309, located at77 West Seminole Avenue, from Urban Low in Lake County to Residential Office Transition in the City of Eustis. Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 8:12 p.m. There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 8:12 p.m. Motion made by Commissioner Hawkins, Seconded by Vice Mayor Ashcraft, to approve Ordinance Number 26-03 on first reading. Motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice MayorAshcraft, Commissioner Hawkins, Commissioner Asbate, Mayor Lee 7.9 SECOND READING Ordinance Number 26-04. Desiqn District Assignment for Alternate Key 1197309 Attorney Garcia read Ordinance Number 26-04 by title on first reading: An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida; assigning the Urban Neighborhood design district designation to approximately 0.31 acres of recently annexed real property at Alternate Key Number 1 197309, 77 West Seminole Avenue. Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 8:13 p.m. There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 8:13 p.m. Motion made by Commissioner Hawkins, Seconded by Vice Mayor Ashcraft, to approve Ordinance Number 26-04 on first reading. Motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Commissioner Hawkins, Commissioner Asbate, Mayor Lee Eusfi.s City Co mm ission Page8of11 January 22, 2026  Resolution Number 26-04: Budqet Amendment for FY2025-26 for carry-over of FY2024-25 unencumbered budqeted funds for various Caoital Proiects and Consulting Services Ms. Carr reviewed the changes made to Exhibit A with the removal of the following items: 1) Traffic calming in the Street lmprovement Fund; 2) Palmetto Park Plaza Phase 2 reduced to $300,000; 3) Carver Park pavilion; and 4) Water & Sewer Fund - Professional services for Pavement Assessment Study, Engineering Wetland Monitoring and US Water Work. Attorney Garcia announced that the new amount of the Carry Forward is $4,911,600. She asked for a motion to re-open the voting on the resolution. Motion made by Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Seconded by Commissioner Hawkins, to re-open the voting on Resolution Number 26-04. Motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Commissioner Hawkins, Commissioner Asbate, Mayor Lee Motion made by Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Seconded by Commissioner Hawkins, to approve Resolution Number 26-04 with the amended exhibit and a new total of $4,911,600. Motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea. Vice Mayor Ashcraft, Commissioner Hawkins, Commissioner Asbate, Mayor Lee 8. Other Business 8.1 Discussion on Aqenda Process Mr. Carrino reviewed the current agenda preparation process and his and staffs commitment to try to get the agenda out one day earlier. He indicated that, if that is delayed, staff will let them know or if an item needs to be amended or added, staff would notify the Commission of the changes. Vice Mayor Ashcraft explained his reasons for requesting that the agenda get out a little sooner. He commented on the need to have an extra day to prepare for the meeting and, by the time the Commission gets the agenda on Friday, staff isn't available for questions. He expressed the hope that any questions can be answered prior to the weekend. Mr. Carrino committed to staff trying to get the agenda out by close of business on Thursday so that they have Friday to contact staff. CONSENSUS: lt was a consensus of the Commission for staff to proceed with the new process. 8.2 Discussion on lnterim Citv Manager Mr. Carrino announced that he has executed an agreement with Strategic Government Resources (SGR) which was executed January 21st. They have sent a request for information regarding the City and photos of the City so they can begin putting together their marketing materials. He indicated SGR would engage with the Commissioners, facilitated by City staff, so they can put together the Commission's ideal candidate profile which will then be advertised. He explained the City was able to move fonarard by piggybacking off another City's agreement with SGR. He stated that their process, if it goes perfectly, is a four-to-five-month process. He indicated he would be leaving mid-March; therefore, the Charter requires that the Commission appoint an Acting City Manager. He noted that ICMA and FCCMA both have a Senior Advisor program which can be used. He stated that it now seems to be just to obtain advice on specific issues not to obtain a fulltime interim city manager. Eustr's City Co mm ission Page9of11 January 22, 2026  Mr. Carrino cited the need for institutional knowledge, consistency, stability, and continuing the positive momentum; therefore, he recommended that they consider Rick Gierok as the lnterim City Manager. He emphasized that is with the full support of Miranda Burrowes (Deputy City Manager). The Commission asked if Mr. Gierok would work with him during the interim before Mr. Carrino leaves and Mr. Carrino responded affirmatively. He stated that he, Rick and Miranda would work together to ensure the continuity. The Commission asked about Mr. Gierok managing his current position with Mr. Carrino explaining the City will need to negotiate with Mr. Gierok. He indicated they will not be able to fill Mr. Gierok's position as he wants to go back to his position after. He added that Mr. Gierok's staff will provide him the support he needs. He noted he will have to perform some aspects of both jobs. The Commission discussed who would be doing the various jobs with Mr. Carrino explaining that Mr. Gierok is now over Engineering and Capital Projects with Greg Dobbins being the Public Works Director. The Commission expressed support for Mr. Gierok's appointment once a contract is negotiated. lt was noted that there should be some protection for him to go back to his previous position. CONSENSUS: lt was a consensus of the Commission for staff to prepare an employment contract for Mr. Gierok as lnterim City Manager. 9. Future Agenda ltems and Comments 9.1 City Commission Commissioner Asbate thanked Commissioner Hawkins for his introduction to the FBLA organization. He commented on their attendance at a recent competition. He noted he has a new grandson and cited his wife's 30th anniversary of her 30th birthday. He expressed thanks to Mr. Gierok. Commissioner Hawkins complimented the FBLA students on their presentations. He noted he spoke with Mr. Lane and stated that the City owns a lot of land. He expressed support for the City working on developing trails within the City using City propefi. Vice Mayor Ashcraft congratulated Darius Kerrison on the So Funny Sunday event and encouraged people to attend. He cited the need for the City to get more economic development and the need to develop the big picture. He complimented staff on the Carver Park Master Plan. 9.2 City Manager Mr. Carrino invited Chief Swanson to report on the Tri-City Food Drive. Chief Swanson announced the food drop off would be at Station 22 and reported on various activities in support of the drive. He noted the lack of participation by Winn Dixie due to their store closing this year which has made it more difficult. Mr. Carrino announced they received confirmation from Florida Commerce that they are receiving a $1.5 million grant for road improvements. He recognized Greg Dobbins and Veronica Whetro for their work on the grant who pulled it together quickly. Mr. Carrino then reported on the group going to Tallahassee for Lake County Days on legislation they both support and have concerns about. He noted the participation by Continental Strategy who helps them have access to various legislators. He stated that he and Eustr's City Commission Page 10 of 11 January 22, 2026  Miranda Burrowes would both be in Tallahassee. He recommended they appoint Rick Gierok as Acting City Manager. CONSENSUS: lt was a consensus for Rick Gierok to be the Acting City Manager. 9.3 City Attorney: None 9.4 Mayor Mayor Lee asked everyone be prepared to discuss good ideas at the January 29th workshop with Dr. Levey. She asked them to work on having shorter meetings. She commented on the need for the City to work on "tightening its belt" and reducing the budget. 10. Adjournment: 8:48 p.m. 'These minutes reflecl the actions taken and portions of the discussrbn duing the meeting. To review the entire discussion conceming any agenda item, go to www.eustis.ory and clbk on the video for the meeting in question- A DVD of the entirc meeting or CD of the entire audio recotding of the meeting can be obtained from the office of the City Clek for a fee. a CHRISTINE HALLORAN ILY A. City Clerk ioner Eusfis City Commission Page 11 of 11 January 22, 2026