City Commission Regular Meeting
Regular MeetingEustis, FL · January 21, 2016
Minutes
APPROVED:2/4/2016
City Hall
City of Eustis, Florida 10 North Grove Street
Post Office Drawer 68
Eustis, FL 32727-0068
Meeting Minutes - Final*
City Commission
Thursday, January 21, 2016 6:00PM City Hall
INVOCATION: Rev. Marc Kappell, Faith Lutheran Church
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Commissioner Brett
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Holland-6:18p.m.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF QUORUM AND PROPER NOTICE
Present: 5- Commissioner Bill Brett; Commissioner Carla Gnann-Thompson ; Vice-Mayor Karen
LeHeup-Smith ; Commissioner Linda Bob; and Mayor Michael Holland
I. AGENDA UPDATE
Ron Neibert, City Manager, reported that the Lifepointe Church had withdrawn its conditional use
permit application which was to be considered under Ordinance No. 16-01 so that item would not be
considered.
II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
16004 January 6, 2016- Regular City Commission Meeting
A motion was made by Vice-Mayor LeHeup-Smith, seconded by Commissioner Brett, to
Approve the Minutes. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5- Commissioner Brett; Commissioner Gnann-Thompson ; Vice-Mayor LeHeup-Smith;
Commissioner Bob; and Mayor Holland
III. PRESENTATIONS
16006 Proclamation declaring January 27, 2016 as "Read Across Eustis Day"
Mayor Holland announced that four local schools were notified they have won either first, second or
third place in a statewide literacy civic service award contest.
Rhonda Hunt, Eustis Heights Elementary (EHES) Principal, introduced some of the project
members and explained that it was an all schools project. She explained the project included five
students from each school. She stated the group selected the project which is an alphabet book
with photos from throughout the community and which is currently being published. She further
explained that copies of the books will be provided to local preschools and daycares as well as the
elementary schools and read by ambassadors. She stated it is a statewide contest with monetary
awards. She explained the group will meet with the Governor's wife, Ann Scott, at the Florida
History Museum and then have lunch and a tour of the capitol.
Michelle Wiseman, Literacy Coach for Eustis Heights Elementary, explained how the photos were
compiled with the students working together, selecting the pictures and writing the descriptions for
each photo.
Ms. Hunt explained they will find out on January 28th whether they placed first, second or third in
the state. She recognized Dr. Moxley, Lake County Schools Superintendent, who will be providing
a bus for the students to go to Tallahassee.
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Mayor Holland and Commissioner Bob presented a proclamation to Ms. Hunt recognizing January
27, 2016 as "Read Across Eustis Day".
Kay Sawchuck, Eustis Elementary Principal, expressed thanks to the City and invited representatives
of the police and fire departments to participate by reading to the students on the 27th.
Mayor Holland announced that EHES would be having their dedication ceremony for the new school
on Sunday, January 24, 2016.
IV. AUDIENCE TO BE HEARD - None
V. CONSENT AGENDA
16009 Resolution No. 16-10: Release of Code Enforcement Lien- 1032 East
Clifford Avenue
16003 Resolution No. 16-11: Amending Fiscal Year 2015-2016 Budget
Recognizing Lease Financing Proceeds
16008 Appointment to Code Enforcement Board - Larry Turnbow
A motion was made by Commissioner Brett, seconded by Vice-Mayor LeHeup-Smith, to
Approve the Consent Agenda. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Commissioner Brett; Commissioner Gnann-Thompson; Vice-Mayor LeHeup-Smith;
Commissioner Bob; and Mayor Holland
VI. ORDINANCES, PUBLIC HEARINGS & QUASI-JUDICIAL HEARINGS
16014 Resolution No. 16-12: Cattle Grazing License Agreement with Jonah
Vandergriff for the Use of City-Owned Property
Derek Schroth, City Attorney, announced Resolution No. 16-12: A Resolution of the City
Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida, authorizing the Mayor to execute a cattle grazing license
agreement with Jonah Vandergriff for the use of City-owned property north of County Road 44.
Tom Carrino, Economic Development Director, explained the City previously put out a bid for use of
the sprayfield property for cattle grazing. He stated that the runner-up Jonah Vandergriff
approached the City to determine if there was additional property available. The subject property
was first offered to the original bid winner who declined. The City asked if Mr. Vandergriff would
meet the original high bid price and he agreed. He reviewed the proposed license agreement and
cited the following specifics: 1) establishes annual fee of $2, 750 with a 3% annual increase; 2)
protects the City by allowing the contract to be cancelled at any time; and 3) prohibits any
non-cattle grazing activities. He expressed staffs approval of the resolution and agreement.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 6:36p.m. There being no public comment, the hearing
was closed at 6:36p.m.
A motion was made by Vice-Mayor LeHeup-Smith, seconded by Commissioner Bob, to
Approve Resolution No. 16-12. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5- Commissioner Brett; Commissioner Gnann-Thompson; Vice-Mayor LeHeup-Smith;
Commissioner Bob; and Mayor Holland
16013 Resolution No. 16-13: Marketing Agreement between Eustis Partners,
LLC, Lake Eustis Properties, LLC and the City of Eustis
Mr. Schroth announced Resolution No. 16-13: A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of
Eustis, Florida; authorizing the City Manager to execute a Eustis Partners, LLC., Lake Eustis
Properties, LLC., and City of Eustis marketing agreement.
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Mr. Carrino explained the history of the discussions and the proposed marketing agreement between
the City, Eustis Partners LLC and Lake Eustis Properties LLC for the marketing of the three vacant
downtown properties. He stated the term of the agreement is for two years but any of the partners
can terminate the lease at any time. He noted that representatives of all parties were in attendance
and stated staff's recommendation for approval.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 6:40p.m. There being no public comment, the hearing
was closed at 6:40p.m.
A motion was made by Vice-Mayor LeHeup-Smith, seconded by Commissioner
Gnann-Thompson, to Approve Resolution No. 16-13. The motion carried by the following
vote:
Aye: 5- Commissioner Brett; Commissioner Gnann-Thompson; Vice-Mayor LeHeup-Smith ;
Commissioner Bob; and Mayor Holland
FIRST READING
16011 Ordinance No. 16-01: Conditional Use Permit for a Metal Building
(Accessory Structure) at 3551 East Orange Avenue
Mayor Holland asked if a public hearing needed to be held on the withdrawn ordinance.
Mr. Schroth confirmed the ordinance was withdrawn, not postponed. He opened the public
hearing on the withdrawal of the ordinance at 6:47p.m. There being no public comment, the
hearing was closed at 6:47p.m.
16010 Ordinance No. 16-02: Conditional Use Permit Modification - Metal Building
on Mount Homer Road
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance No. 16-02 by title on first reading: An Ordinance of the City Commission
of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida, modifying a Conditional Use Permit to change the
proposed location of a previously approved metal building in a Mixed Commercial/Industria/ Land
Use District on approximately 0. 62 acres south of Mount Homer Road and west of Dillard Road.
Lori Barnes, Development Services Director, explained the proposed modification to the previously
approved Conditional Use Permit for Jerry Moye Storage. She reviewed the site specifics and
explained the previously approved 260 foot setback would not meet fire code requirements for
distances from public right-of-ways without a turnaround which was not a viable alternative. They
are requesting the setbacks be reduced to 149.95 feet to meet the fire code requirements. She
noted there are a number of existing metal buildings in the surrounding area and showed the
proposed new location of the building. She stated it would still be blocked from view from the
right-of-way of Dillard, David Walker and Huffstetler by other buildings. She reviewed the proposed
landscape plan and expressed staff's recommendation for approval of the setback modification.
The Commission confirmed the fire department approved the modification.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 6:45p.m. There being no public comment, the hearing
was closed at 6:45p.m.
A motion was made by Vice-Mayor LeHeup-Smith, seconded by Commissioner Brett, to
Approve Ordinance No. 16-02 on First Reading. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5- Commissioner Brett; Commissioner Gnann-Thompson; Vice-Mayor LeHeup-Smith ;
Commissioner Bob; and Mayor Holland
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VII. OTHER BUSINESS
16012 Possible Revisions to Signage Regulations
Ms. Barnes explained that the U.S. Supreme Court had issued an opinion in Reed v. Town of Gilbert.
She stated that the opinion concludes that if a sign must be read in order to determine if a certain
regulation applies, then the regulation is content-based and presumed unconstitutional. She further
explained that, as a result of the decision, content specific regulations within the City's sign
ordinance are no longer enforceable. She provided a summary of various sections of the sign
ordinance that would need to be revised. She asked for direction from the Commission regarding
whether or not the sign regulations should be amended. She explained that enforceability and risk
to the City are the primary concerns.
The Commission discussed bringing the regulations into compliance with the Supreme Court's
decision.
Ms. Barnes explained that when staff brings back the ordinance it will not be a complete sign code
rewrite but would primarily address temporary signs and signs that are exempted from permitting
requirements.
CONSENSUS: It was a consensus of the Commission for staff to bring back an ordinance
to bring the sign regulations into compliance with the Supreme Court decision.
VIII. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS -None
IX. COMMENTS
City Commission
Commissioner Brett commented on his successful recovery from his back surgery.
Commissioner Bob commented on her activities since her retirement and noted she will be going to
Tallahassee with the students for the literacy program.
Commissioner Gnann-Thompson thanked the police and fire chiefs for their professionalism and
hard work. She commented on the coffee with the police department event and a recent
experience with taking her Key Club members to the fire department.
Vice Mayor LeHeup-Smith cited the upcoming Lake Eustis Museum of Art (LEMA) dance, the
newest artist display at the museum, Family Fun Day January 30th at Palmetto Point Park, and the
February 5th First Friday event.
Mayor Holland reported he would be out of town Friday attending a fire expo in Daytona Beach with
the City Manager and Fire Chief He announced the funeral of former Mayor Dandridge would be
held Saturday, as well as the memorial service for Dale Carpenter at Bay St. Players. He stated
the dedication of Eustis Heights Elementary would be held Sunday, as well as the formal opening of
the Gethsemane Baptist Church new facility He complimented City staff on their service to the
community.
City Manager
Mr. Neibert reported on a meeting sponsored by the City that included a large number of community
partners that provide services and events to residents. He explained the purpose of the meeting was
to inform all of the participants of what else is being offered within the community and help to foster
communication and cooperation between the organizations. He indicated he is looking forward to
his first Georgefest and the LEMA dance.
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City Attorney- None
Mayor
Mayor Holland announced it was National Hug Day and thanked the audience for their attendance.
X. ADJOURNMENT-7:02p.m.
Mayor/Commissioner
*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 or verbatim transcript of the
meeting can be obtained from the office of the City Clerk for a fee .
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Agenda
City Hall
City of Eustis, Florida 10 North Grove Street
Post Office Drawer 68
Eustis, FL 32727-0068
Meeting Agenda
City Commission
Thursday, January 21, 2016 6:00 PM City Hall
INVOCATION: Rev. Marc Kappell, Faith Lutheran Church
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Commissioner Brett
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Holland
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF QUORUM AND PROPER NOTICE
I. AGENDA UPDATE
II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
16004 January 6, 2016 - Regular City Commission Meeting
III. PRESENTATIONS
16006 Proclamation declaring January 27, 2016 as "Read Across Eustis
Day"
IV. AUDIENCE TO BE HEARD
V. CONSENT AGENDA
16009 Resolution No. 16-10: Release of Code Enforcement Lien - 1032
East Clifford Avenue
16003 Resolution No. 16-11: Amending Fiscal Year 2015-2016 Budget
Recognizing Lease Financing Proceeds
16008 Appointment to Code Enforcement Board - Larry Turnbow
VI. ORDINANCES, PUBLIC HEARINGS & QUASI-JUDICIAL HEARINGS
City of Eustis, Florida Page 1 Printed on 1/15/2016
City Commission Meeting Agenda January 21, 2016
16014 Resolution No. 16-12: Cattle Grazing License Agreement with
Jonah Vandergriff for the Use of City-Owned Property
16013 Resolution No. 16-13: Marketing Agreement between Eustis
Partners, LLC, Lake Eustis Properties, LLC and the City of Eustis
FIRST READING
16011 Ordinance No. 16-01: Conditional Use Permit for a Metal Building
(Accessory Structure) at 3551 East Orange Avenue
16010 Ordinance No. 16-02: Conditional Use Permit Modification - Metal
Building on Mount Homer Road
VII. OTHER BUSINESS
16012 Possible Revisions to Signage Regulations
VIII. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
IX. COMMENTS
City Commission
City Manager
City Attorney
Mayor
X. 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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City Commission Meeting Agenda January 21, 2016
"Any invocation that may be offered before the official start of the Commission meeting shall be the
voluntary offering of a private citizen, to and for the benefit of the Commission and the public. The views
or beliefs expressed by the invocation speaker have not been previously reviewed or approved by the
Commission, and the Commission is not allowed by law to endorse the religious beliefs or views of this, or
any other speaker.
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