City Commission Regular Meeting
Regular MeetingEustis, FL · February 17, 2022
Minutes
APPROVED:3/3/2022
MINUTES
Regular City Commission Meeting
6:00 PM -Thursday, February 17, 2022 - City Hall
INVOCATION: PASTOR RICHARD ALLEN, COMMUNITY FELLOWSHIP CHURCH
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: COMMISSIONER HAWKINS
CALL TO ORDER: 6:01 P.M.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF QUORUM AND PROPER NOTICE
PRESENT: Commissioner Willie Hawkins, Vice Mayor Emily Lee, Commissioner Karen
LeHeup-Smith, Commissioner Nan Cobb and Mayor Michael Holland
1. AGENDA UPDATE
Tom Carrino, Interim City Manager, announced that the applicant has requested that
Resolution Number 22-12 for Ellianos Coffee be postponed to the date certain of April 7,
2022.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
2.1 January 24, 2022 - City Commission Workshop
February 3, 2022 - Regular City Commission Meeting
Moved by Vice Mayor Lee, seconded by Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, to approve
the Minutes as submitted . Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner LeHeup-Smith,
Commissioner Cobb and Mayor Holland
3. PRESENTATIONS
3.1 Presentation by Lake Cares - Kelsey Gonzalez
Kelsey Gonzalez and Ruthie Haffner provided a presentation to the Commission
regarding Lake Cares Pantry and their programs and the number of clients they
have assisted in the past year, particularly those in Eustis.
Ms. Gonzalez announced that they would be launching a capital campaign to build
a new 15,000 sq.ft. facility off of 19A outside Mount Dora.
Ms. Haffner reported on their children's feeding programs in the schools, their
resource advocate program, as well as how they assist other programs such as
Habitat for Humanity. She noted they served over 55,000 individuals in the
previous year and cited their over 200 volunteers.
Eustis City Commission Page 1 of 14 February 17, 2022
3.2 Update on use of See-Click-Fix application
Kristina Rosenburg, Community Relations Coordinator, explained that See-Click-
Fix is a new platform the City launched back in November to better allow residents
to submit service requests to the City. She explained how the program works and
provided a demonstration of how the program works. She reviewed all the ways
an individual can access the program.
The Commission commented on how they have already utilized the program and
encouraged the audience to download the app and make use of it.
4. AUDIENCE TO BE HEARD
4.1 Nancy Muenzmay thanked the City for assisting with the advertising for the third
annual Antique Toy and Advertising Show. She provided a report on the event
and how it has grown over the past three years. She cited how the event also
utilizes local food trucks and other vendors and commented on the wide variety of
individuals that attended and where they were from. She announced that 65% of
the vendors have already rebooked for next year. She cited the possibility of
having antique tractors at next year's event. She emphasized the lack of adequate
venues in the immediate area and cited the opportunity to improve the fairgrounds
for local use.
Cindy Newton thanked Mayor Holland and Tom Carrino for attending the joint
planning workgroup with Lake County and the other municipalities.
Michael Kennedy addressed the Commission regarding establishing design
standards for the east town area and cited the need for improving the quality of the
homes in that area. He asked that the City look at standardizing the design
standards throughout the City.
Jane Hepting announced that the Lake Eustis Sailing Club would be hosting the
Wayfair International Championship sailing event March 7 through March 11. She
thanked the City for being supportive of the Sailing Club. She then commented on
the February 7th joint planning meeting and the need to get more public input on
the growth within the County. She asked that the Commission appoint an advisory
board or other group to discuss growth.
Brian Broomfield stated he was sent a video through Facebook regarding an
incident with the City's police officers. He expressed concern regarding what he
saw in the video and stated that Michael Kennedy handled himself very well in the
situation. He emphasized the need for the City to address those types of situations
and make sure they do not escalate so the City keeps moving in a positive
direction.
Yolanda Taylor, Eustis Community Redevelopment, Inc., addressed the
Commission regarding previous reports regarding Cares Act funding. She asked
to have that placed on a future agenda.
Mr. Carrino stated that one of the projects being discussed for funding through the
Cares Act funds is the Bates Avenue Wastewater Treatment Plant and that will be
brought forward in the near future.
Eustis City Commission Page 2 of 14 February 17, 2022
Mayor Holland asked to have an update on the use of those funds.
Mr. Kennedy informed the Commission that he has already scheduled a meeting
with Chief Capri regarding the incident Mr. Broomfield referred to .
5. ORDINANCES, PUBLIC HEARINGS & QUASI-JUDICIAL HEARINGS
5.1 Resolution Number 22-11: Site plan with waivers for a drive-through Scooter's
Coffee Shop Restaurant
Derek Schroth , City Attorney, announced Resolution Number 22-11: A Resolution
of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida; approving a site plan with
waivers for a 664 +/- square foot Scooter's Coffee Drive-through Only Restaurant
on approximately +/- 0.458 acres located at 809 South Bay Street.
Heather Croney, Senior Planner, announced that the applicant is Ty O'Toole,
Massey Roofing , and the request is for approval of a site plan with waivers. She
explained the proposal is for a drive-through only coffee shop and no walkup
customers will be served . She stated it is a redevelopment of the site so it is
necessary for there to be some flexibility. She provided an overview of the project
and stated there are no changes to be made to the southern portion of the
property. She reviewed the current land use and design district designations and
provided an example of what types of businesses could be placed on the site.
Ms. Croney then reviewed the requested waivers as follows: 1) Waiver to the
minimum 50% frontage buildout to allow frontage buildout percentages of 29%,
21 % and 9% ; 2) Waiver to the landscape buffer requirement of five feet between
drive-through lane and the perimeter of the property that is visible from the street.
She explained what is being proposed for the landscaping is shrubs and sod
around the building and property perimeter which would screen the drive-through
from public view and the property owner to the south. She continued the review of
the additional waivers as follows : 3) Waiver to the landscape buffer requirement
along the public streets to allow a three-foot landscape buffer along each public
street frontage; and 4) Waiver to the landscape area and a ten-foot minimum
planting around the buildings. She explained that if they provided what is required
by the code, they would have very little area left for the development. She then
presented the overall landscape plan. She stated the final waiver request is for
the glazing requirements of the building design standards. She explained the
requirements under the code and stated that if the applicant met those , the
windows would be looking into the storage , shelving and materials. She stated
that the reason for the requirements is to encourage walkability; however, the
location of the project is not an area where there would be many pedestrians and
it is intended to be drive-through only. She commented on how the landscaping
would improve the appearance of the site.
Ms. Croney presented elevations of the proposed building showing what it is
planned to look like stating they worked to meet the City's requirements as much
as possible. She reviewed the notices provided and indicated she only received
one inquiry regarding the project. She stated staff's recommendation for approval
stating that it is substantially consistent with the LDR's and the waivers do not
jeopardize the health, safety or welfare of the public.
Eustis City Commission Page 3 of 14 February 17, 2022
The Commission asked how many points of entrance are there to the property
currently with Ms. Croney stating there are three entrances. She indicated the
proposal is for the entrances on the east and north to be both ingress and egress
but the west side would be ingress only. She confirmed that the pickup window is
on the west side and the speaker and menu board is on the north. It was noted
that the speed limit in the area is 35 mph.
The Commission expressed concern regarding patrons getting in and out with Ms.
Croney responding that the applicant has had a traffic study done and there were
no recommended changes. She indicated they have been in contact with FOOT
and they will require a turn lane be constructed if traffic becomes an issue.
The Commission asked if they have discussed the project with the business to the
south with Ms. Croney indicating that is who contacted the City about the project
and they have discussed the project with the applicant and, she believed, they
have addressed their issues.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 6:52 p.m.
Brad Verkaik, property owner to the south, indicated he had discussed his
concerns with the applicant and he is good with how it is designed to keep the
patrons from encroaching on his property.
The following individuals expressed opposition or concern regarding the project
and possible traffic issues: 1) Cathy Gonzalez; 2) Unidentified woman; and 3)
George Asbate.
There being no further public comment, the hearing was closed at 6:59 p.m.
The Commission expressed concern regarding the larger delivery trucks
navigating through there with Ms. Croney stating there is adequate space for a fire
truck to access the property noting that the site plan was reviewed by the Fire
Department, FOOT, Kimberly Horn and Public Works. She stated that FOOT will
be monitoring and, if necessary, will require installation of a left turn lane. She
noted that pedestrians won't be an issue as they will not allow walk-up customers.
Jessica O'Toole, applicant, explained that they actually have requested to put in a
turn lane but FOOT asked them to hold off. She stated that the lane is already
there and it would only be a restriping once FOOT approves the permit. She
commented on the Scooter's company stating they pride themselves on their
speed in handling customers and there will not be ten employees at one time in
the building. She indicated that they have been searching for a location since
August 2020.
The Commission asked about how that will affect the traffic coming off of
Woodward with Ms. O'Toole explaining that is where the turn lane is being
considered for entrance only.
Moved by Commissioner Hawkins, seconded by Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, to
approve Resolution Number 22-11. Motion carried by the following votes:
Eustis City Commission Page 4 of 14 February 17, 2022
Ayes: Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner LeHeup-Smith,
Commissioner Cobb and Mayor Holland
5.2 Resolution Number 22-12: Site plan with waivers for an Ellianos Coffee Drive-
through Coffee Shop Restaurant
This item was announced under "Agenda Update" that it was being postponed to
April 7, 2022, at the request of the applicant.
5.3 Resolution Number 22-13: Preliminary Subdivision Plat {with waiver) for the Lake
Lincoln Lookout Subdivision at the Northeast Corner of Estes Road and Lake
Lincoln Lane
Mr. Schroth announced Resolution Number 22-13: A Resolution of the City
Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida; approving a preliminary subdivision plat
with waiver for the Lake Lincoln Lookout Subdivision, an 18-lot single family
residential subdivision, on approximately 5.25 acres on the northeast corner of
Estes Road and Lake Lincoln Lane.
Lori Barnes, Development Services Director, reviewed the preliminary subdivision
plat with one waiver for the Lake Lincoln Lookout Subdivision. She stated the
applicant is Lake RC, Inc. and explained it is for an 18-lot single family residential
subdivision on 5.25 acres. She explained the one waiver request is for landscape
buffer plantings due to a 60-foot power utility easement that prohibits any plantings
within that area. She stated the property is in the Wekiva Study Area; however,
the environmental assessment study did not show any Wekiva related vegetative
species on the site.
Ms. Barnes stated the site has a Suburban Residential future land use designation
and is located in a Suburban Neighborhood design district. She indicated the 18
lots will result in a density of 3.4 dwelling units per acre which is below the
maximum of 5 d/u allowed. The plan provides for the required 25% open space
and the park space requirement of .25 acres. She stated that the landscape
buffers along the public right-of-way are 15 to 24 feet as required; however, along
the south side of the site, the landscaping plantings will have to be placed on the
first two lots within the subdivision due to the power line easement restriction.
Ms. Barnes stated the project will utilize the house lot typology and presented the
subdivision plan noting that it does include a greenway park along the western
boundary of the property with landscape buffers to the south and west. She
explained the applicant is dedicating right-of-way to the County along Estes Road
and to the City along Lake Lincoln Lane. She stated the site does drain to the
northeast and the drainage has been designed to meet the St. John's River Water
Management District requirements as well as the City of Eustis stormwater
regulations. She added that the post development runoff shall not exceed the pre-
development runoff. She presented a view of the landscaping plan and stated the
applicant intends to retain as many trees as possible within the greenway tract to
provide a natural buffer that will be supplemented with Florida native landscaping.
Ms. Barnes again noted the 60-foot power easement along Lake Lincoln Lane and
stated the restrictions prohibit the placement of structures, trees or plantings so
they have requested the waiver to allow them to place the plantings on Lot 1 and
Lot 18. She stated staff has received one letter of opposition from the Friends of
Eustis City Commission Page 5 of 14 February 17, 2022
the Wekiva. She stated staffs recommendation for approval and indicated that the
plan is substantially consistent with the goals, objectives and policies of the
Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Regulations. She confirmed that the
hearing was properly noticed; however, the wrong proof of publication was
attached to the agenda item.
The Commission asked if there would be a fence with Ms. Barnes responding that
the applicant has not requested fencing within their landscape buffers. She
explained that the code restricts any fencing or walls within the landscape buffer in
a Suburban district to decorative fencing no taller than four feet.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 7:11 p.m.
The following individuals expressed opposition or concern regarding the
development: 1) Cindy Newton and 2) Cathy Gonzalez.
Tim Green , Green Consulting, addressed the Commission representing the
applicant. He explained the only waiver requested was due to the Duke Energy
easement which prohibits trees being planted there. He stated, otherwise, the
plan adheres to the City's code and design standards.
There being no further public comment, the hearing was closed at 7: 16 p.m.
Moved by Vice Mayor Lee, seconded by Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, to approve
Resolution Number 22-13. Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner LeHeup-Smith,
Commissioner Cobb and Mayor Holland
5.4 Resolution Number 22-14: Approving an interlocal agreement relating to the North
Lake Trail Phases 1 and 2 Project
Mr. Schroth announced Resolution Number 22-14: A Resolution of the City of
Eustis, Lake County, Florida, approving and ratifying an interlocal agreement
relating to the North Lake Trail Phases 1 & 2 project, providing for severability and
an effective date.
Tom Carrino, Interim City Manager, explained the agreement is between Lake
County, Eustis and the cities of Umatilla and Tavares. He explained where the
trail is anticipated to be placed and stated the agreement allows for the feasibility
study. He added this is the first step in moving forward for Phases 1 and 2 of the
North Lake Trail. He stated staffs recommendation for approval.
The Commission asked about the funding with Mr. Carrino stating the agreement
does not commit the City to any funding at this time but will require future funding.
He stated that the City does have some funding earmarked for the trail process.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 7:19 p.m.
Eustis City Commission Page 6 of 14 February 17, 2022
Mike Stephens, Lake 100 and Friends of Lake County Trails, explained that this is
just the first step. He reported on the status of other trails that are underway in the
area.
There being no further public comment, the hearing was closed at 7:21 p.m.
Moved by Commissioner Cobb, seconded by Vice Mayor Lee, to approve
Resolution Number 22-14. Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner LeHeup-Smith,
Commissioner Cobb and Mayor Holland
5.5 Ordinance Number 20-32: Voluntary Annexation of property located on north side
of CR 44A east of East Eldorado Lake Drive
Ordinance Number 20-33: Comprehensive Plan amendment assigning future land
use designation to above property
Ordinance Number 20-34: Assigning a design district designation to the above
property
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 20-32 by title on second reading: An
Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida, voluntarily
annexing approximately 20.691 acres of real property located on the north side of
County Road 44A, east of East Eldorado Lake Drive.
Mr. Schroth reported on his and Mayor Holland's attendance on February 16th to
the Florida Community Trust (FCT) board meeting. He reviewed the history of the
issue and stated that the FCT did not deny Lake County's action; therefore, the
City cannot move forward with the annexations. He concluded stating his
recommendation that the annexations must be denied.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 7:22 p.m. There being no public
comment, the hearing was closed at 7:22 p.m.
The Commission asked if all of the ordinances could be denied at one time with
Mr. Schroth explaining that if they deny Ordinance 20-32 it stops contiguity for all
of the other properties; therefore, those would be denied as moot.
Following the motion and second, the Commission discussed what occurred at the
FCT Board meeting, expressed concern regarding how it was handled and cited
an issue with the audio and with the Board members calling in to the meeting
rather than being present in person.
Moved by Commissioner Cobb, seconded by Vice Mayor Lee, to deny Ordinance
Number 20-32 on second reading. Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Commissioner Cobb and
Mayor Holland
Nays: Commissioner Hawkins
Eustis City Commission Page 7 of 14 February 17, 2022
5.6 Ordinance Number 20-35: Voluntary annexation of property located on the south
side of CR 44A and west of Thrill Hill Road
Ordinance Number 20-36: Comprehensive Plan amendment assigning a future
land use designation to the above property
Ordinance Number 20-37: Assigning a design district designation to the above
property
These ordinances were not considered due to the denial of Ordinance Number 20-
32.
5. 7 Ordinance Number 20-38: Voluntary annexation of property located on the east
side of Thrill Hill Road and north of Reedy Road
Ordinance Number 20-39: Comprehensive Plan amendment assigning a future
land use designation to the above property
Ordinance Number 20-40: Assigning a design district designation to the above
property
These ordinances were not considered due to the denial of Ordinance Number 20-
32.
5.8 Ordinance Number 22-04: Amendment to Chapter 102 and 115 of the Land
Development Regulations
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 22-04 by title on second reading: An
Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida, amending the
Land Development Regulations, Chapter 102-Administration and Enforcement,
Section 102-21, and Chapter 115-General Building and Site Standards, Section
115-1 of the Land Development Regulations, to exempt homestead lot residential
subdivisions containing no more than four lots, each lot containing a minimum of
1.5 acres of gross land area, and which do not include establishment of new
streets and alleys, from certain submittal requirements and site design standards;
providing for codification, severability and an effective date.
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 Cobb, seconded by Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, to
adopt Ordinance Number 22-04 on final reading. Motion carried by the following
votes:
Ayes: Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner LeHeup-Smith,
Commissioner Cobb and Mayor Holland
5.9 Ordinance Number 22-03 {Reconsideration): Design District Assignment - Property
Proposed for Annexation on Suanee Avenue
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 22-03 by title on first reading: An Ordinance
of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida; assigning the
Suburban Neighborhood design district designation to approximately 0.494 acres
of recently annexed real property on Suanee Avenue (Alternate Key Numbers
1064309 and 1427118).
Eustis City Commission Page B of 14 February 17, 2022
Ms. Barnes reviewed the proposed design district designation of Suburban
Neighborhood for property proposed for annexation located on Suanee Avenue.
She explained that the Commission approved Ordinances 22-01 annexing the
property and 22-02 assigning the future land use designation on first reading;
however, the design district ordinance was denied. She explained that action
rendered the property as undevelopable. At the February 3rd meeting, the
applicant requested that Ordinance 22-03 be reconsidered on first reading and the
Commission voted to rehear Ordinance 22-03 and to postpone second readings of
Ordinances 22-01 and 22-02 to March 3rd.
Ms. Barnes explained the Suburban Neighborhood designation is consistent with
that area of the City. She stated the Land Development Regulations require that a
consistent transect is applied when assigning design district designations. She
indicated that the Suburban Neighborhood would be the applicable designation for
the subject property. She explained why the other designations would not be
appropriate for that site and why Suburban Neighborhood is applicable. She
stated staffs recommendation for approval and indicated the related ordinances
are also compatible and consistent with the joint planning area. She noted that
staff received one email regarding the request; however, it did not indicate
opposition or support but linked to an excerpt from the City's historic preservation
report that was done for the east town neighborhood in the 1990's.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 7:32 p.m.
Cindy Newton indicated she is the one that sent the link to the historic preservation
report and reviewed a history of Rosenwald Gardens and the area.
The following individuals expressed opposition to the development citing the
number of homes proposed, the street being a dead-end street, the need for
additional green space and better roads and sidewalks and the number of children
in the immediate area of the site: 1) Patricia Moore; 2) Bryan Broomfield; 3)
Madelyn Love; and 4) Michael Kennedy.
There being no further public comment, the hearing was closed at 7:42 p.m.
At that time , no motion was forthcoming; therefore, the ordinance died for lack of a
motion.
5.10 Ordinance Number 22-05: Planned Unit Development Overlay and Planned Unit
Development Master Plan for Pine Meadows Reserve
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 22-05 by title on first reading: An Ordinance
of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida; approving a Planned Unit
Development (PUD) Overlay for Pine Meadows Reserve pursuant to Section 102-
29 and 109-2.8 of the Land Development Regulations; approving a planned unit
development (PUD) master plan for a 548-lot mixed-product single family
residential subdivision on 240.43 gross acres on the north and south sides of Pine
Meadows Golf Course Road, establishing permitted uses and development
standards, providing for a phasing plan, providing for conditions of approval,
providing for severability and an effective date.
Eustis City Commission Page 9 of 14 February 17, 2022
Ms. Barnes reviewed the requested PUD overlay and master plan for the Pine
Meadows Reserve. She stated the request is for a 548 unit mixed-product
residential subdivision to be completed in three phases. She reported on the May
18, 2021, community meeting held on behalf of the applicant. She stated the
applicant did make some changes to the plan based on those comments. She
stated the concept plan was presented on August 19, 2021 and proposed 578 lots
at that time. She explained the location of the proposed development and
indicated it is not located with the Wekiva Study Area. She further explained how
the Rural Neighborhood Design District will govern the development of the site to
protect the natural resources. She reviewed the conservation design process and
how it was used to develop the site plan. She then reviewed the community
characteristics including the density, open space, impervious surface area, park
space and landscape buffers and how the proposal compares to the minimums
and maximums required in the code.
Ms. Barnes then explained the use of the planned unit development overlay and
how it allows the developer to provide a higher level of amenities. She further
explained the required seven findings for approval of a PUD. She noted the
property is an irregular shape and is bisected by Pine Meadows Country Club
Road.
Ms. Barnes then reviewed the departures from the Land Development Regulations
as follows: 1) Limitation of permitted uses; 2) Use of distinctive lot typologies to
facilitate preservation of 138-acres of combined wetland preservation,
conservation, open space and parks; 3) Minimum living area per unit of 1,000
square feet; 4) Landscape buffer to pastureland; preservation and conservation
areas provide for wider separation than a 50-foot supplemented landscape buffer;
and 5) Use of Miami curb instead of ribbon curb or swale.
The Commission asked what is a Miami curb with Rick Gierok, Public Services
Director, explaining that Miami curbing is a concrete curb and has a small valley to
channel the runoff water.
Ms. Barnes continued reviewing the requirements for approving a PUD including:
1) The existing or planned infrastructure is adequate to support the anticipated
development. She indicated the City does have capacity to serve with water,
sewer and reclaimed water. She stated that the primary access is to County Road
44 with right and left turn lanes and deceleration lanes with a future connection to
the property to the west. She indicated that the traffic study was reviewed by the
City's consultant Kimberly Horn as well as Lake County and FOOT. She
commented that the County has initiated discussions with the applicant regarding
dedication of the trail. She added that the DRC review determined it would not
impact the level of services standards with the improvements as planned. 2) The
development incorporates best management practices for stormwater
management, "green" building, and water and energy efficiency. 3) The
development protects, preserves, and/or manages areas of significant natural
resources. She stated the project proposes 92.2 acres of wetland preservation
and added that only a small portion of the site along the south entrance would
have an impact on the wetland area. She added that the project will provide a
23.86 acres passive park to the south of Pine Meadows Golf Course Road and
south of the conservation area and 138.22 acres will be permanently dedicated as
conservation, park and open space for 57% of the total site.
Eustis City Commission Page 10 of 14 February 17, 2022
Ms. Barnes provided various images of the proposed landscaping at the entrance
to CR 44, the enhanced landscaping near the tennis courts, and the landscape
buffer near Fairway Drive. She noted that residents had requested that no new
driveways be placed on Fairway Drive; therefore, the applicant is proposing to
having a landscape buffer along Fairway. She then provided an image of the
northeast portion of the site where the passive park, walking trail and conservation
area will be provided.
Ms. Barnes continued reviewing the requirements for approval of a PUD stating
that the arrangement of the proposed uses should better integrate future
development into the surrounding neighborhood. She indicated that the applicant
has provided for conservation land and open space/buffers on the periphery,
clustered the dwelling units and the townhomes are strategically sited to internally
maximize the distance from the existing single family residences in the area.
Ms. Barnes then stated that the phasing plan shows that each phase can act
independently as well as together. She indicated that staff has reviewed the plan
according to the Comprehensive Plan and cited the following: 1) The density of
3.69 du/acre is less than the maximum of 5 du/ac; 2) The proposed impervious
surface of 39% is less than the maximum of 40%; and 3) the plan is consistent
with the FLU Element and FLU Appendix. She indicated the site is several miles
from the eastern boundary of the City's joint planning area and is south of the
northern JPA boundary. She commented on Map #19 which indicates a density of
2.5 dwelling units per acre for a large portion of the Pine Meadows property. She
indicated that Map #19 is inconsistent with the balance of the City's
Comprehensive Plan; therefore, staff does find that the proposed density is
consistent with the City's regulations.
Ms. Barnes then commented on the review per the City's Land Development
Regulations stating that the project exceeds the requirements for open space and
park space; provides for density and impervious surface area under the maximum,
meets the rural neighborhood definition and site design criteria and meets the
required findings for a PUD Overlay.
Ms. Barnes summarized the proposed plan stating that the applicant did hold a
community meeting, submitted a concept plan and presented it to the
Commission, the PUD has been reviewed by the Development Review Committee
and was advertised and posted as required by the regulations. She noted that
there will be a number of additional reviews of the project. She stated that LPG
has asked to provide a presentation to the Commission regarding the project
which will be presented by Heather Erwhiler.
The Commission complimented Ms. Erwhiler on their report.
Ms. Erwhiler reviewed the conceptual plan versus what is now being proposed
noting they have reduced the number of lots from 578 to 548. She commented on
the uniqueness of the property and the environmental sensitivity of the site. She
cited the community benefits and explained how they developed the plan in order
to protect the natural resources. She explained they will be having a 23 acre
upland recreation area with trails that will eventually connect to the Pine Meadows
Conservation Area.
Eustis City Commission Page 11 of 14 February 17, 2022
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 8:13 p.m.
The following individuals addressed the Commission regarding the project citing
various concerns: 1) Cindy Newton; 2) Terri Roher; 3) Jill Nelon; 4) Jessica
Causden; 5) Jane Hepting; and 6) Michael Kennedy.
Jim Schneider responded to the comments stating they have endeavored to meet
or exceed all requirements of the City code.
There being no further public comment, the hearing was closed at 8:27 p.m.
The Commission discussed the proposed PUD noting the following: 1) That Hicks
Ditch is supposed to flow north, not south, to the old muck farm in Umatilla; 2)
That the proposed plan meets code requirements; and 3) that the City worked with
Lake County on a specific ISBA for the site.
Mr. Schroth explained that Lake County encouraged the annexation of the
property prior to Commissioners Cobb and Hawkins being elected. He noted that
in 2007 the family that owned the property hired Bruce Duncan and they and the
City were in negotiations for development of the site so it has been under
consideration for over 15 years.
The Commission discussed the purpose of a PUD and the amount of green space
and open space being provided. Comments were made regarding the applicant
working to exceed the City's requirements and the amount of opposition the City
keeps receiving when developers are working hard to meet the requirements. The
Commission commented on how well the developer has worked on the plan.
Further comments were held regarding how other communities are developing but
every time a development comes to Eustis the Commission receives opposition.
The Commission discussed meetings they individually held with the area residents
and cited how well the developer worked to meet the resident and Commission
expectations.
The Commission commented on how the County had promised to install a traffic
signal on CR 44 but never has. They encouraged residents to contact the County
Commission regarding the need for the signal.
The Commission commented on the need for residents to complain to Lake
County regarding the state of the County-maintained roads and regarding the
areas of the City that are actually in the County that are not being maintained.
They commented on the County enclaves that are in poor condition. They also
noted that the City not annexing the property on Suanee leaves it to be developed
under County regulations which are less stringent.
The Commission thanked Ms. Barnes for her presentation and for her work with
the City noting it was her last presentation to them.
It was agreed to bring back the signage and littering codes to the next agenda.
Eustis City Commission Page 12 of 14 February 17, 2022
Moved by Commissioner Cobb, seconded by Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, to
approve Ordinance Number 22-05 on first reading. Motion carried by the following
votes:
Ayes : Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner LeHeup-Smith,
Commissioner Cobb and Mayor Holland
6. OTHER BUSINESS
6.1 Eustis Codes Pertaining to Signage and Littering
It was agreed to postpone this item to the March 3rd Commission meeting.
7. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS: NONE
8. COMMENTS
8.1 City Commission
Commissioner Hawkins reported on the African American Heritage Parade
scheduled for Saturday at 10 a.m. to go down Bates Avenue to the Ninth Grade
Center.
Commissioner Cobb reported on a meeting she had with the Northshore
Neighborhood Watch noting that Public Works and the Police Department have
worked on that area. She thanked Public Works for beautifying the City for
Georgefest and the African American Heritage Festival.
Commissioner LeHeup-Smith reported that the Spayghetti Dinner is sold out.
Vice Mayor Lee reported on the retirement party for Wes Williams who had been
employed with the City for 47 years. She noted that his retirement party was held
on his 80th birthday and thanked him for his service to the community. She
complimented the Eustis Community Alliance for the work they are doing at the old
Resource Center.
8.2 City Manager
Mr. Carrino stated that LEAD would provide a presentation to the Commission on
March 3rd . He stated that the next CRA Review Committee meeting is tentatively
set for March 10th. He then asked for the Commission's feedback on whether to
continue the working group meetings or hold a joint City/County Commission
meeting. He indicated he could contact the Commissioners individually to get their
input. He then reported that staff has developed a job description for a grantwriter
and that has been posted. He commented on the unacceptable condition of the
right-of-way at 19 and 441. Staff set up a meeting with FOOT about the condition
and they agreed that the level of maintenance was unacceptable so they are
working on dates to get that improved. He then stated that Public Works is
working on scheduling a design charette for Palmetto Plaza. He reported that
various developers have reached out to the City regarding the former Waterman
site. He stated he would be coming back to the Commission to ask for direction
on that. He announced he would be taking vacation in mid-March and asked to
Eustis City Commission Page 13 of 14 February 17, 2022
appoint Bill Howe as Acting City Manager during his absence. He then thanked
Lori Barnes for all her work with the City.
8.3 City Attorney
Mr. Schroth also thanked Lori Barnes for her service. He then announced that he
needs to meet in closed session with the Commission regarding the SpenceTF
lawsuit. He stated there has been no further contact since he filed the Motion to
Dismiss.
CONSENSUS: It was a consensus of the Commission to meet in closed session at
5 p.m. on March 3rd prior to the regular meeting.
8.4 Mayor
Mayor Holland recognized Martha Taylor, president of the NAACP. He noted the
upcoming African American Heritage Festival and Georgefest. He thanked Mr.
Schroth for attending the Florida Community Trust meeting with him.
9. ADJOURNMENT
*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.
MARY~bNTEZ
City Clerk Mayor/Commissioner
Eustis City Commission Page 14 of 14 February 17, 2022
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