City Commission Regular Meeting
Regular MeetingEustis, FL · May 21, 2020
Minutes
APPROVED:6/18/2020
MINUTES
Regular City Commission Meeting
6:00 PM - Thursday, May 21, 2020 - City Hall
INVOCATION
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: COMMISSIONER LEHEUP-SMITH
CALL TO ORDER: 6:03 P.M.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF QUORUM AND PROPER NOTICE
PRESENT: Commissioner Karen LeHeup-Smith, Commissioner Robert Morin,
Commissioner Marie Aliberti (via telephone) , Vice Mayor Emily Lee and Mayor
Michael Holland
1. AGENDA UPDATE: NONE
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
2.1 March 12, 2020 - Special City Commission Meeting
May 7, 2020 - Regular City Commission Meeting
Moved by Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, seconded by Vice Mayor Lee, to approve
the Minutes as submitted. Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Commissioner Morin, Commissioner Aliberti,
Vice Mayor Lee and Mayor Holland
3. AUDIENCE TO BE HEARD: NONE
4. CONSENT AGENDA
4.1 Resolution Number 20-37: Emergency Drawdown of Blue Lake and Corresponding
Budget Amendment
Mayor Holland noted that discussion does not usually occur on Consent Agenda
items; however, a number of individuals had expressed interest in the one item. He
polled the Commission and asked for permission to open the floor to the public. It
was a consensus to allow public comment on the one Consent Agenda item -
Resolution Number 20-37.
Derek Schroth, City Attorney, announced Resolution Number 20-37: A Resolution of
the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida, approving an emergency
drawdown of Blue Lake and authorizing an amendment of the 2019-2020 budget for
this purpose .
Eustis City Commissioner Page 1 of 12 May 21, 2020
Ron Neibert, City Manager, explained that the resolution does not approve the
project but provides a budget amendment to allow the acceptance of donations for
the project and budget the cost.
Rick Gierok, Public Works Director, explained that the City has received numerous
requests from residents as well as requests from Rep. Jennifer Sullivan's office for
assistance with flooding in the Blue Lake area. He provided an overview of the
history of the problem and noted the Commission asked staff to look at the problem
and see what could be done to assist the residents. He stated a meeting was held
including representatives from the Lake County Water Authority, St. John's Water
Management District, Lake County, the City and the Blue Lake Estates HOA. He
stated discussion was primarily regarding how funding could be obtained since the
lake is privately owned. Lake County and St. Johns suggested that a temporary
solution would be to do a temporary drawdown. He stated the normal level of the
lake is 129.10 NAVO and the 100 year flood level is 134.00 NAVO. He added that
the current level is 137.6 NAVO which is 3 feet higher than the 100 year flood level
and noted that since then the level has dropped approximately two feet.
Mr. Gierok explained how the water would flow once pumped to the outfall at Lake
Joanna to a canal that runs west of the church property and goes under Bates
Avenue to Lake Swatara and would eventually flow into Lake Eustis through Hitch
Ditch and Trout Lake. He further commented on the meeting and noted that Lake
County had just hired a new engineering manager with a specialty in drainage who
offered to obtain an emergency permit and check to make sure the conveyance
system could carry the flow and that the plan was feasible. He stated the residents
raised the money for the project. He indicated that the HOA had communicated with
the residents around the lake to obtain input and inform them about what was
happening. He explained that the City obtained the costs for running the pumps,
fuel and daily inspections. Once the costs were obtained and the Duffy's raised the
money, staff went back to Lake County and they obtained the emergency permit
from St. John's.
Mr. Gierok then presented an aerial photo of Blue Lake with the various water levels
indicated in color. He explained a 4-inch diameter pump with a whisper jet and fuel
tank will be set on Lifepointe Church property to the west of the lake. The water will
be pumped into the church's conveyance system and will flow underground to their
retention ponds after which it will be a natural flow. He explained there is a weir
overflow on the north end of the westernmost pond where it will then flow into the
canal, then to Bates Avenue and then into Lake Swatara. He indicated it will be a
slow process and stated staff will be watching the Bates Avenue crossing, the
crossing at Spring Ridge and Lake Swatara. He indicated that Lake Swatara is
currently running approximately one foot lower than its natural outfall. He stated the
most they will stage the drawdown is 1/2 the diameter of the pipe. If it rises, the
pump will be shut down. He added that if Lake Swatara hits the overflow the pumps
would be shut down. He noted that the ditch between Joanna and Swatara is now
dry and the church is not currently holding services. He explained that the Consent
Agenda item is for a budget amendment to receive the donation and budget the
cost. He stated the City is not paying for the project but is assisting .
Mr. Gierok then reviewed the annual rainfall back to 2009 and the annual deviation
from the 30 year average. He explained that it can take as much as a year for
rainfall to reach the lake; however, the lake is very much affected by rainfall but
there is a very strong confining layer. He stated the water has dropped about 1.5
Eustis City Commissioner Page 2 of 12 May 21, 2020
feet over the past five months which is about normal. He explained how the City
monitors lake levels as part of the City's consumptive use permit. He noted that, to
date, 2020 has been dryer than most and cited the effect on the lake. He indicated
that the permit has a limited term and is for one time only.
Ron Neibert, City Manager, asked when the plan is to begin the pumping with Mr.
Gierok indicating the intent to begin the following Tuesday.
The Commission confirmed that Blue Lake is not a spring fed lake. They
commented on how all of the parties have worked together including the City,
County and State.
Mayor Holland opened the floor to public comment at 6:26 p.m.
The following individuals addressed the Commission in opposition to the project: 1)
Rick Gonzalez.
The following individuals addressed the Commission in support of the project: 1)
Nola Wilsky; 2) Grace Duffy; and 3) John Duffy, who commented on his efforts to
contact all of the property owners around the lake and the mailings he sent to them
regarding the proposed project.
There being no further public comment, Mayor Holland closed the hearing at 6:37
p.m.
The Commission discussed the proposal with the following comments: 1) the homes
previously damaged by the flooding; 2) the need for everyone to work together and
communicate to resolve issues; 3) the amount of work and time spent and need for
empathy; 4) the assistance the City provided to one property owner whose property
was not actually within City limits; 5) the purpose of the resolution to do a budget
adjustment; and 6) concern regarding the pumping down of a natural lake.
Moved by Commissioner Morin , seconded by Vice Mayor Lee, to approve Resolution
Number 20-37. Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes : Commissioner LeHeup-Smith , Commissioner Morin, Commissioner Aliberti,
Vice Mayor Lee and Mayor Holland
5. ORDINANCES, PUBLIC HEARINGS & QUASI-JUDICIAL HEARINGS
5.1 Resolution Number 20-20: Lake Lincoln Residential Concept Plan
Derek Schroth , City Attorney, announced Resolution Number 20-20: A Resolution of
the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida , approving a concept plan for a
121-lot single-family residential subd ivision on approximately 35.8 acres on the
south side of Lake Lincoln Lane.
Lori Barnes, Development Services Director, reviewed the proposed concept plan
for a 121-lot single-family residential subdivision. She noted that Greg Beleveaux is
present from LPG Urban & Regional Planners representing the current property
owner, Charlie Johnson Builders. She also noted the presence of Tony Iorio and
Ben Schneider from Hanover Land Company who is under contract to purchase the
Eustis City Commissioner Page 3 of 12 May 21, 2020
property. She then explained the purpose of a concept plan and stated that no
entitlements are granted via concept plan approval. She further explained that it
does provide the applicant with the Commission's thoughts regarding the plan which
gives the applicant some level of comfort before moving forward in the process. She
stated that the next step would be submittal of the preliminary subdivision plat which
would be advertised to the public and brought before the Commission for approval.
She provided an overview of the proposed project as follows: 1) Future land use
designation of Suburban Residential with a Suburban Neighborhood design district;
2) 121 lots on 35.8 acres for an approximate density of 3.38 du/ac. The land use
allows up to 5 units per acre; 3) House lot typology; 4) 31 % open space (minimum
25% required) and 5) 2.68 acres of parks (1.5 acres required) .
Ms. Barnes provided an overview of the concept plan and then explained that the
entrance will be from Lake Lincoln Lane and Estes Road; however, there will be a
secondary access to the south through the former Pebble Creek development. She
stated the entrance to the subdivision includes a mini-park area with the subdivision
entrance sign. To the south will be a playground area which includes the
preservation of over 30 mature oak trees. To the east is the proposed stormwater
area which will be designed as a multi-purpose park with a proposed dog park and
other amenities. The southernmost portion of the site includes a green garden with a
walking path and a connection to the neighborhood and dog park. The stubout to
the south will provide connectivity to the former Pebble Creek property. Ms. Barnes
explained Mr. Beleveaux is working with that property owner and prospective buyer
to time the connectivity consistent with the completion of the infrastructure for Lake
Lincoln Subdivision and their proposed project which is currently in design. She
provided information regarding the house lot typology which provides for minimum
size lots of 55x100 ft. She reviewed the varying sizes of the lots and stated that was
done to provide a more substantial buffer around the perimeter of the development.
She stated the boundary will be dedicated as a conservation easement area which
will preclude any impervious surface in that area. Ms. Barnes then provided photos
of the proposed homes and noted the sizes will vary from 1700 to 3300 square feet
and they will offer one and two story homes. She stated the proposed sale prices
will start in the low $200,000 and go to the low $300,000.
Ms. Barnes reported that the Development Review Committee (DRC) has reviewed
the concept plan with comments and the latest submittal is substantially consistent
with land development regulations. She then stated the developer and LPG held a
community meeting with the major concerns being the treatment of boundary
perimeter fencing, stormwater and preservation of tree canopy. The developer
committed to providing an uniform perimeter boundary fence and open space to
retain as many trees as possible. She noted that the landscaping plan provides
over 850 trees. She confirmed the project is in the Wekiva Study Area. She noted
that, while not required at this stage, the applicant did submit an environmental
report that shows no Wekiva related vegetative species on site and a geotechnical
report which shows there are no karst features, wetlands or sinkholes on the
property. She stated that they have designed the site in a manner consistent with
the City's site design criteria in the land development regulations which calls for plan
preparers to be mindful of the natural resources and topography on the site and to
preserve trees wherever possible. She stated the density and lot sizes are
consistent with the LDR's and the proposed density of 3.3 is below the maximum of
5 units per acre . The open space and park space are in excess of that required by
code. She stated the developer has completed additional studies to address the
stormwater concerns and their stormwater plans will provide for the placement of
piezometers which will improve the drainage flow in the area. The plan also
Eustis City Commissioner Page 4 of 12 May 21, 2020
provides for a pedestrian connection from Lake Lincoln across Estes which is
important due to the location of the middle school. She commented on concerns
regarding the Lake Lincoln access road and stated that will be worked out during the
preliminary plat review. She added that staff is already working with Lake County
and the developer of another proposed subdivision on the northwest corner, as well
as Hanover and their engineer, to develop solutions for an alignment of the driving
lanes as well as meet the City's standard roadway cross section.
Ms. Barnes stated the concept plan is substantially consistent with the goals,
objectives and policies of the Comprehensive Plan and LDR's. She stated some
waivers may be requested at time of preliminary subdivision plat regarding setback
requirements for interior lots and fencing of stormwater ponds . She indicated that
the final design of Lake Lincoln Lane will be coordinated with Eustis and Lake
County.
The Commission asked about the fenced stormwater ponds that may need a waiver.
Ms. Barnes explained that the City has certain criteria for stormwater ponds to be
considered toward the open space requirement. The engineering design standards
have criteria regarding the slope of the pond that would trigger a requirement for
fencing. She further explained they are trying to come to an amenable design that
meets the intent of the code, insures safety, while allowing the stormwater area to
function as a park and amenity. According to the engineer, the ponds will be dry
most of the time. Once staff sees the actual calculations and the City Engineer can
review, it will be evaluated and staff will provide a recommendation.
Mayor Holland opened the public hearing at 7:02 p.m .
Kathy Gonzalez expressed opposition to the future land use designation indicating
that it is not compatible with the surrounding properties that have agricultural uses
with all of the properties having in excess of two acres. She also cited the amount
of wildlife in the area .
Greg Beleveaux stated the future land use and design district designations were
found to be consistent when the property was annexed and were found to be
consistent by the state as well. He noted they are not asking for the allowed 5 units
per acre, only asking for three. He commented on the previous applications through
the County and how those issues have been resolved. He stated the applicants
have gone above and beyond in providing information due to the comments brought
up at the community meeting . He noted they have oversized the retention pond to
take care of offsite drainage.
There being no further public comment, Mayor Holland closed the public hearing at
7:08 p.m.
Moved by Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, seconded by Commissioner Morin , to
approve Resolution Number 20-20. Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Commissioner Morin, Commissioner Aliberti,
Vice Mayor Lee and Mayor Holland
Eustis City Commissioner Page 5 of 12 May 21, 2020
5.2 Resolution Number 20-28: Site Plan with waivers - Lulu's Candles at Cobb
Commerce Park
Mr. Schroth announced Resolution Number 20-28: A Resolution of the City
Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida; approving a site plan with waivers for a
21,644 square foot industrial building/light manufacturing facility on approximately
+/- 2.62 acres located on Lot 8 of the Cobb Commerce Park, Cobb Drive.
Ms. Barnes explained that Lulu's operates out of Miami and they have been
impacted due to the current situation. They are concerned regarding the economic
impact and therefore have requested an additional continuance to August 6th.
Mayor Holland expressed support for the continuance noting it will bring 30 jobs to
the area and perhaps more in the future.
Moved by Commissioner Morin, seconded by Vice Mayor Lee, to approve the
postponement of Resolution Number 20-28 until the August 6, 2020, Commission
meeting. Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Commissioner Morin, Commissioner Aliberti,
Vice Mayor Lee and Mayor Holland
5.3 Ordinance Number 20-18: Voluntary Annexation of Property at 19122 State Road 44
Ordinance Number 20-19: Comprehensive Plan Map Amendment to Assign a Future
Land Use to the Annexed Property
Ordinance Number 20-20: Design District Map Amendment to Assign a Design
District Designation to the Annexed Property
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 20-18 by title on second and final reading:
An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida; voluntarily
annexing approximately 2.1 acres of real property located at 19122 SR 44.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 7:12 p.m. There being no public comment,
the hearing was closed at 7: 12 p.m.
Moved by Commissioner Morin, seconded by Vice Mayor Lee, to adopt Ordinance
Number 20-18 on final reading. Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Commissioner Morin, Commissioner Aliberti,
Vice Mayor Lee and Mayor Holland
5.4 Ordinance Number 20-19: Changing future land use designation of property located
at 19122 SR 44
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 20-19 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(1) F.S .;
changing the future land use designation of 2.1 +/- acres of recently annexed real
property located on 19122 SR 44, as more particularly described herein, from Urban
Low in Lake County to Mixed Commercial Residential (MCR) in the City of Eustis.
Eustis City Commissioner Page 6 of 12 May 21, 2020
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 7:13 p.m. There being no public comment,
the hearing was closed at 7:13 p.m.
Moved by Commissioner Morin, seconded by Commissioner Aliberti, to adopt
Ordinance Number 20-19 on final reading. Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Commissioner LeHeup-Smith , Commissioner Morin , Commissioner Aliberti ,
Vice Mayor Lee and Mayor Holland
5.5 Ordinance Number 20-20: Assigning the Suburban Corridor design district
designation to property located at 19122 SR 44
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 20-20 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 2.1
acres of recently annexed real property located at 19122 SR 44.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 7:14 p.m. There being no public comment,
the hearing was closed at 7:14 p.m.
Moved by Vice Mayor Lee, seconded by Commissioner Morin, to adopt Ordinance
Number 20--20 on final reading . Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes : Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Commissioner Morin, Commissioner Aliberti ,
Vice Mayor Lee and Mayor Holland
5.6 Ordinance Number 20-22: Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map Amendment
Ordinance Number 20-23: Design District Amendment
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 20-22 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(1) F.S .; changing the future
land use designation of 5.59 acres of real property located on County Road 452/SR
19/Northshore Drive from Suburban Residential to Mixed Commercial/Residential.
Ms. Barnes reviewed the requested change in the future land use designation for
the subject property from Suburban Residential to Mixed Commercial/Residential; as
well as the design district designation change from Suburban Neighborhood to
Suburban Corridor. She explained staffs analysis of the request and stated the
request is consistent with the comprehensive plan and land development
regulations . She stated staffs recommendation for approval.
Mayor Holland opened the public hearing at 7:24 p.m .
Greg Beleveaux commented on the good shape of the canal on the property and the
amount of use by boats. He noted comments made at the Local Planning Agency
expressing concern about the access and traffic on Northshore Drive and they will
take that into consideration .
There being no further public comment, Mayor Holland closed the public hearing at
7:26 p.m.
Eustis City Commissioner Page 7 of 12 May 21, 2020
Moved by Commissioner Morin, seconded by Vice Mayor Lee, to approve Ordinance
Number 20-22 on first reading. Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Commissioner Morin, Commissioner Aliberti,
Vice Mayor Lee and Mayor Holland
5.7 Ordinance Number 20-23: Changing the design district designation for property
located at CR 452/SR 19/Northshore Drive
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 20-23 by title on first reading: An Ordinance of
the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida; changing the design
district designation of approximately 5.59 acres of real property on County Road
452/SR 19/Northshore Drive from Suburban Neighborhood to Suburban Corridor.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 7:27 p.m. There being no public comment,
the hearing was closed at 7:27 p.m.
Moved by Commissioner Morin, seconded by Vice Mayor Lee, to approve Ordinance
Number 20-23 on first reading . Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Commissioner Morin, Commissioner Aliberti,
Vice Mayor Lee and Mayor Holland
5.8 Ordinance Number 20-24: Renewing the inclusion of the City within the County
MSTU for Ambulance and Emergency Medical Services
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 20-24 by title on first reading: An Ordinance of
the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida, adopted pursuant to
Section 125.1 (1 )(q), Florida Statutes, consenting to the inclusion of the City of
Eustis, Florida, within the countywide municipal service taxing unit for the provision
of ambu lance and emergency medical services, as adopted by the Board of County
Commissioners of Lake County, Florida; providing for the City to be included within
said M.S.T.U . for a specific term of years; providing for an effective date.
Mr. Neibert explained the ordinance was to extend the City's inclusion in the
countywide municipal service taxing unit for the provision of ambulance and
emergency medical services. He commented on the benefits to the City from being
in the MSTU and recommended approval.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 7:29 p.m. There being no public comment,
the hearing was closed at 7:29 p.m .
Moved by Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, seconded by Commissioner Aliberti, to
approve Ordinance Number 20-24 on first reading. Motion carried by the following
votes:
Ayes: Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Commissioner Morin, Commissioner Aliberti,
Vice Mayor Lee and Mayor Holland
5.9 Ordinance Number 19-30: Amending Chapter 34 to prohibit littering and dumping of
waste, authorizing placement of signs and surveillance cameras and authorizing
imposition of fines
Eustis City Commissioner Page 8 of 12 May 21, 2020
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 19-30 by title on first reading: An Ordinance of
the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida; amending Chapter
34, Sections 34-31 through 34-55 of the Code of Ordinances; prohibiting the
littering, dumping, leaving, placing, or disposing of waste and related offenses;
adding and changing current definitions; repealing all prior Eustis ordinances
inconsistent herewith; providing penalties; authorizing the placement of signs and
cameras; providing for renumbering subsequent sections accordingly; providing for
conflict with existing ordinances, and providing for codification , severability and an
effective date.
Mr. Schroth and Ms. Montez explained that staff became aware that the ordinance
had not been properly advertised due to the newspaper suddenly billing the City for
having run the ad in April long after it was asked to be run by the City. Due to the ad
not running , the ordinance must be re-considered by the Commission.
The Commission asked if yard waste could be specifically included in the ordinance
with Mr. Schroth responding he would look to see if it could be changed prior to
second reading .
The Commission commented on the amount of waste along roads and whether the
ordinance would assist with that.
Mr. Neibert noted that officers have to see the infraction in order to cite someone.
He stated they would do their best to enforce the ordinance.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 7:30 p.m . There being no public
comment, the hearing was closed at 7:30 p.m.
Moved by Commissioner Morin, seconded by Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, to
approve Ordinance Number 19-30 on first reading. Motion carried by the following
votes:
Ayes: Commissioner LeHeup-Smith , Commissioner Morin , Commissioner Aliberti ,
Vice Mayor Lee and Mayor Holland
6. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
6.1 Mayor Holland noted an email received regarding issues with skateboarders on the
racquetball courts. He asked if signs could be put up and a water fountain installed
on the other side.
Mr. Gierok stated he would look at putting in some fencing and an additional water
fountain .
Mayor Holland thanked Mr. Gierok for the handling of the Blue Lake issue. He then
noted that many other cities are cancelling their fourth of July events. He stated that
the City Attorney's opin ion is that the City can hold the event as long as social
distancing is observed.
Mayor Holland suggested that the City hold a limited event with just a fireworks
display and possibly a virtual showing of the fireworks. He indicated he had spoken
Eustis City Commissioner Page 9 of 12 May 21, 2020
with Lake County Sheriff Grinnell who is willing to provide marine patrol. He stated
the City would need to encourage social distancing.
Commissioner Aliberti expressed concern regarding people from other cities
attending which would make the event too crowded .
The Commission discussed the following : 1) setting up social distancing in the park;
2) how far in advance the City would have to cancel the fireworks; 3) letting the
public make their own decision about attending ; 4) offering the fireworks virtually; 5)
not having vendors present; and 6) encouraging the public to picnic with social
distancing .
Mr. Neibert reported that the City of Groveland would be having fireworks but would
be holding them in two separate locations and encouraging people to watch from
home. He expressed support for encouraging the public to go to the area
restaurants .
Mayor Holland suggested closing Magnolia and Eustis and allowing the restaurants
to put tables outside.
Mr. Neibert stated staff would present a plan at the first meeting in June for
consideration.
CONSENSUS: It was a consensus of the Commission to hold the fireworks and for
staff to proceed with planning for a 4th of July celebration.
Mayor Holland noted he had received a text message from the Eustis Chamber
asking the City to consider allowing them to have a beer tent.
Mayor Holland then reported he had been working with Eustis High School
regarding graduation . He stated a vehicle parade will start at 6 p.m. on June 12th
beginning at the Methodist Church . The Senior will exit their car, walk across the
stage, receive their diploma and then have their picture taken . He indicated that
Eustis High has 320 graduates and Alee Academy has 50 graduates. Alee
Academy wants to do their graduation the same way on June 13th at 9 a.m. He
announced the senior banners shou ld be in on Wednesday and City staff can begin
installing them .
Commissioner Morin asked for an update on the FOOT traffic study.
Mr. Gierok responded that he had only seen the preliminary report and FOOT had
not yet released the full study.
Mr. Neibert stated that he would provide an update to the Commission on the report
via email.
7. COMMENTS
7.1 City Commission
Commissioner Aliberti reported that the last Lake Community Action Agency (LCAA)
meeting was held remotely.
Eustis City Commissioner Page 10 of 12 May 21, 2020
Commissioner LeHeup-Smith thanked Rick Gierok and Jobey Jones for being
responsive to her questions and concerns. She also recognized Lori Barnes having
to do all the Development Services work by herself due to her assistant retiring . She
thanked Waste Management for removing a hot tub she put out. She noted the
regular guys put it in the regular truck before the claw truck could get there.
Commissioner Morin thanked staff for all the work and recent accomplishments .
Commissioner Lee commented on everyone working together including staff and the
Commission . She requested that staff look at the rehab housing program and get
LCAA to provide an update.
Mr. Neibert reported he had a meeting with them a few weeks prior and they have
only completed one house this year due to the Covid situation. He stated the funds
can be rolled over to the next fiscal year.
7.2 City Manager
Mr. Neibert report he would be discussing with staff the next day plans for re-
opening City facilities . He indicated his plan is to re-open City Hall June 1st and
they will discuss what needs to be done and filtering in at-home workers. He stated
the library is now open at 50% capacity and the community buildings have been re-
opened at 50% capacity. He commented that staff needs to develop a plan for the
summer recreation program . He suggested the Commission meetings continue as
is depending on the Governor's orders. He then reported on anticipated revenue
losses due to the Covid pandemic stating staff is anticipating a loss of sales tax
revenue of $160,000 for capital projects and $175,000 in General Fund sales tax
and revenue sharing. He also reported that staff was notified by the Property
Appraiser's office of a loss of $29 million in capital equipment from one of the
telephone companies. He said the City is now targeted to have a 5% increase in the
assessed value if the capital equipment loss had not occurred the City would have
had a 7% increase. Those issues would be addressed during the budget process.
Mr. Neibert then reported on the status of the ISBA process noting that the May 18th
meeting was cancelled. He commented that previously the Commission had said
they did not want a Pine Meadows only agreement. At this point, County Chairman
Leslie Campione and her staff have agreed for the City to pass an ISBA ordinance
including both the Pine Meadows and Keating properties. He asked for a
consensus to place that on first reading at the next meeting.
CONSENSUS: It was a consensus of the Commission for staff to place the ISBA
ordinance on first reading at the first meeting in June.
7.3 City Attorney - None
7.4 Mayor
Mayor Holland asked if Mr. Schroth could now represent the City in the ISBA
negotiations since East Crooked Lake is no longer part of the ISBA considerations.
Mr. Schroth concurred that he would no longer have a conflict and could represent
the City.
Eustis City Commissioner Page 11 of 12 May 21, 2020
Mayor Holland asked the rest of Commission their preference in only using Mr.
Schroth for the rest of the ISBA process . It was agreed for both attorneys to review
the draft ordinance.
Mayor Holland complimented City staff on all their efforts and the great work they
have been doing . He further commented on how well the City is moving forward.
He thanked the Commission for agreeing to proceed with the 4th of July celebration
and thanked everyone for attending the meeting .
8. ADJOURNMENT: 8:03 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 or verbatim transcript of the meeting can be obtained from the office of the City Clerk for a fee.
\
I
MICHAEL L. HOLLAND
City Clerk Mayor/Commissioner
Eustis City Commissioner Page 12 of 12 May 21, 2020
Get email alerts for Eustis
A daily email when new agendas and minutes are posted.