City Commission Regular Meeting
Regular MeetingEustis, FL · March 3, 2022
Minutes
APPROVED:3/17/2022
MINUTES
Regular City Commission Meeting
6:00 PM - Thursday, March 3, 2022 - City Hall
INVOCATION: A MOMENT OF SILENCE WAS HELD
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: VICE MAYOR LEE
CALL TO ORDER: 6:12 P.M.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF QUORUM AND PROPER NOTICE
PRESENT: Vice Mayor Emily Lee, Commissioner Karen LeHeup-Smith, Commissioner
Nan Cobb, Commissioner Willie Hawkins and Mayor Michael Holland
1. AGENDA UPDATE
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
2.1 February 17, 2022 - Regular City Commission Meeting
Moved by Vice Mayor Lee, seconded by Commissioner Cobb, to approve the
Minutes as submitted. Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Commissioner Cobb,
Commissioner Hawkins and Mayor Holland
3. PRESENTATIONS
3.1 Presentation by Lake Economic Area Development Partnership (LEAD)
Mandy Wettstein reviewed the history of the Lake Economic Area Development
Corporation and the intent to privatize economic development and cited the Marion
Ocala CEP (Chamber Economic Partnership). She explained they have been
successful in getting workforce age people (ages 30 - 38) to move to their county
and they are greatly partnered in matters of workforce housing. She commented
on the lack of workforce housing in Lake County. She stated that the Marion
Ocala CEP was able to create 17,000 measurable jobs during the pandemic with
an average wage of $68,000. She explained Lake 100's intent to partner with the
Marion Ocala CEP and noted they have been to every city in the County and
indicated that only Mascotte and Minneola have not committed to joining the
organization.
Ron English gave a presentation regarding the program. He explained they will be
signing a contract with Ocala Marion County CEP to manage the Lake County
program with the office to be located in Leesburg at the airport. He indicated that
the Chambers will not be involved in the program. He stated they have met with
all of the County Commissioners and they are trying to get funding for $10,000 in
Eustis City Commission Page 1 of 13 March 3, 2022
the current fiscal year and for $500,000 in the next fiscal year. He also stated they
will be also asking for $150,000 from the County in the current fiscal year. He
added they are asking each City to put in their next fiscal year budget $2 per
resident and then annually. He stated they would also be asking for some funds in
advance.
The Commissioner questioned how the program will help the citizens of Eustis.
Mr. English responded that economic development in all of the cities helps
everyone to win throughout the County by providing jobs.
The Commission also questioned how much control Lake County would have over
the program.
Ms. Wettstein explained that the Ocala program is 80% private funded and 20%
government funded. Currently, the Lake County program will be about 50/50 with
the intent to shrink the government portion. The Board will consist of
representatives from the member cities and the County Manager, not an elected
official.
The Commission asked the connection with the Chambers with Ms. Wettstein
responding they have none.
Mr. English stated they will be working with the Chambers once they are up and
running.
3.2 Presentation by EHS Future Business Leaders of America - Sonya White
Sonja White, FBLA Advisor, thanked the Commission for allowing them to present.
She provided a report to the Commission regarding the club's activities and their
participation in the State conference. She cited the need for more mentors and
financial donations to assist the club. She also cited the need to have individuals
allow a member to job shadow. She introduced a number of students that would
be participating at the State conference.
4. AUDIENCE TO BE HEARD
4.1 James Tilquist addressed the Commission and thanked them for how the City is
looking.
Tonya Wilder addressed the Commission regarding the need for additional lighting
on Palmetto near Selene. She commented on an encounter she had with a police
officer at 4:00 a.m. on a weekday and her experience with the officers in question.
Mayor Holland asked her to speak with Chief Capri about her experience.
Daniel DiVenanzo addressed the Commission regarding the City Manager
vacancy and expressed support for undergoing a comprehensive search.
Gail Isaac Thomas thanked the City and Commission for the Thomas Mcclary
concert during Georgefest.
Eustis City Commission Page 2 of 13 March 3, 2022
5. CONSENT AGENDA
5.1 Resolution Number 22-16: Vacation of unimproved right-of-way platted as Green
Lake Drive in Lake Eustis Place Subdivision Plat
5.2 Resolution Number 22-17: Approving Multiple Annual Purchases in Excess of
$50,000 for Manhole Repairs and Rehabilitation
5.3 Lake County Library Advisory Board appointment
5.4 Historic Preservation Annual Report
Moved by Vice Mayor Lee, seconded by Commissioner Cobb, to approve the
Consent Agenda as submitted. Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Commissioner Cobb,
Commissioner Hawkins and Mayor Holland
6. ORDINANCES, PUBLIC HEARINGS & QUASI-JUDICIAL HEARINGS
6.1 Resolution Number 22-18: Bay State South utilities agreement
Derek Schroth, City Attorney, announced Resolution Number 22-18: A Resolution
by the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida; approving a
utility agreement between the City of Eustis and Bay State South Community
Association, Inc.; and authorizing the City Manager to execute the agreement and
all other documents associated therewith.
Tom Carrino, Interim City Manager, provided a history of the Bay State South
infrastructure and explained that the City has never taken over the system. He
indicated the Bay State South Homeowners' Association has approached the City
regarding taking over the system. He explained that the City will undertake an
internal camera survey of the system to determine if there are any deficiencies.
He stated the survey will be paid for by Bay State South (BSS) at a cost of
approximately $10,000. He indicated that, if there are no deficiencies, then the
City would take over most of the system. He stated the City would not take over
the mains and laterals adjacent to the lots on Park Street until those are relocated
by BSS to a location acceptable to the City. He then explained that all of the water
service lines (the lines that run from the mains to the meter) would be replaced by
BSS at a cost of $73,600; after which the City will own and maintain the lines. He
stated the mains would continue to be owned and maintained by Bay State South
until they are replaced at their cost. Once they are replaced to a standard
acceptable to the City, ownership will transfer to the City.
Mr. Carrino then explained that the agreement provides a total payment from Bay
State South of $82,600 with half due upon signing and the remaining half financed
over five years at no interest. Payments of $8,360 would be due each January 1st
for five years. He indicated that Bay State South has also agreed to provide a
surety bond guaranteeing the City will be paid the balance. He concluded stating
that the City is protected since the City will review the system before taking
ownership and then they will be guaranteed payment through the surety bond and
the significant downpayment.
Eustis City Commission Page 3 of 13 March 3, 2022
The Commission asked if there are deficiencies found during the review what
would happen with Mr. Carrino stating the City would not bear those costs for
repairs so it would have to come back for an addendum. He reviewed concerns
that the Public Works Department has regarding the lines adjacent to the lots on
Park Street due to them being either close to buildings or even under the
buildings; therefore, Public Works will not accept them. He indicated that, if there
are serious deficiencies, Public Works will decline to accept them.
Mark Huling, President of HOA, confirmed that Bay State South is comfortable
with the agreement and ready to move forward.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 6:49 p.m.
An unidentified gentleman confirmed the amount of the downpayment noting that
half would be $41,300 not $41,800.
There being no further public comment, the hearing was closed at 6:50 p.m.
Moved by Commissioner Cobb, seconded by Commissioner Hawkins, to approve
Resolution Number 22-18. Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Commissioner Cobb,
Commissioner Hawkins and Mayor Holland
6.2 Resolution Number 22-19: Agreement to cure deficiencies and abate foreclosure
litigation - Colonial Inn Motel LLC
Mr. Schroth announced Resolution Number 22-19: A Resolution by the City
Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida; approving an agreement
to cure deficiencies and abate foreclosure litigation; authorizing the City Manager
to execute the agreement and all other documents associated therewith; and
establishing an effective date.
Mr. Schroth explained the agreement with Colonial Inn Motel, Inc. provides them
with 30 days to cure the deficiencies and, to the City's satisfaction, develop an
interconnected fire alarm system and install the surveillance cameras on the
outside. He stated the only action required at that time would be to abate the
foreclosure until the Commission instructs him otherwise. He explained that, once
the deficiencies are cured, it will come back to the Commission and they can refer
it back to the Code Enforcement Board for a recommendation on reducing the
fines and then it will come back to the Commission for final approval.
The Commission questioned whether or not the 30 days was reasonable with Mr.
Schroth stating that, if necessary, they can come back and request an extension.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 6:51 p.m. There being no public
comment, the hearing was closed at 6:51 p.m.
Moved by Commissioner Hawkins, seconded by Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, to
approve Resolution Number 22-19. Motion carried by the following votes:
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Ayes: Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner LeHeup-Smith , Commissioner Cobb,
Commissioner Hawkins and Mayor Holland
6.3 Ordinance Number 22-05: Planned Unit Development Overlay and Planned Unit
Development Master Plan for Pine Meadows Reserve - Second Reading
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 22-05 by title on final 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.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 6:53 p.m.
The following individuals addressed the Commission in opposition to the
ordinance with the following issues of too many homes, possible flooding, affect
on the wildlife, overcrowding in the schools, increasing crime, building in the 100-
year floodplain: 1) Terri Roher; 2) Cindy Newton; 3) Patricia Klancer; 4) Jill
Neland; 5) Rebecca Polin; 6) William Peacock; 7) Nathan Hicks; 8) Jessica Smith;
9) Paine Luce; 10) Amanda Hall; 11) Sean Jenness; 12) Walter Gross; 13)
Unidentified male; 14) Jessica Causden; 15) Bethany Reichwein; and 16)
Unidentified male. It was suggested that individuals with larger tracts could
provide space for the displaced animals.
Eileen Tramontano, Trout Lake Nature Center, requested that the City make sure
the developer maintains the connection to the trail to the Nature Center.
The following individuals addressed the Commission in support of the project: 1)
Daniel DiVenanzo who cited the need for affordable retail housing for workers. He
also stated there is a ten-year housing shortage in Florida. 2) Stephanie Carder
who also commented on Lake County trying to get rid of the Lake County Water
Authority; 3) Pam Rivas who also expressed the need for workforce housing ; 4)
George Asbate who stated the development actually offers a variety of products
and cited the need for more realistically priced homes.
Ben Sneider, Hanover Land Company, stated that the maximum that could have
been allowed was 741 so the requested number is significantly lower at 548. He
indicated that the buildout will not be for 7 to 9 years.
There being no further public comment, the hearing was closed at 7:39 p.m .
The Commission asked how many entrances and exits would the project have
with Ayman As-Saidi , traffic engineer for the project, stating there would be one
off CR 44 and one entrance off Pine Meadows Golf Course Road .
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The Commission asked the estimated traffic with Mr. As-Saidi responding that the
peak hour traffic is 133 per hour entering and 79 exiting. He explained the analysis
is based off the morning peak and the afternoon peak.
The Commission confirmed there would only be one entrance off of CR 44 with
Mr. As-Saidi indicating there would be two lanes coming out and one lane going
in. He also confirmed that the Pine Meadows entrance would be one lane in and
one lane out.
Commissioner Cobb noted that 21 years ago the County had stated they would
install a a traffic signal which has not been done. She asked if that has been
discussed.
Mr. Sneider responded that FOOT and the County requires that a study has to
indicate that a light is warranted before they can install a light. He explained a
light cannot be installed, even if they want to, if the study does not warrant it.
Mr. As-Saidi explained how a signal warrant study is conducted and what is
required for a light.
The Commissioner confirmed that 52% of the land will not be developed with Mr.
Sneider explaining they are actually only required to provide 25% open space and
no development is occurring within the wetlands.
The Commission confirmed there has not been a lot of crime in that area and
asked Chief Swanson about the impact of the anticipated traffic with Chief
Swanson responding it would not have a significant impact.
The Commission then asked how they came to the number of houses proposed
with Mr. Sneider explaining how it was determined. He stated they looked at how
they wanted to develop the site and then backed into the number of homes. He
then commented on the amount of amenities to be included with park space, trails
and the wetlands.
The Commission asked about the possibility of flooding with Mr. Sneider
commenting on their wetlands engineer and his expertise and how they will make
sure each home will be protected from flooding during heavy rains.
The Commission asked about the possible impact on the wildlife with Mr. Sneider
indicating there is a lot of space for the existing wildlife. He commented on the
previous use of the site as a golf course and then a sod farm so there was
probably not a lot of wildlife at that time.
The Commission confirmed the buildout would be seven to nine years with Mr.
Sneider indicating it will probably be two years before they are ready to sell so
probably 11 years until buildout. He indicated there is a mix of product within each
phase.
Moved by Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, seconded by Commissioner Cobb, to
adopt Ordinance Number 22-05 on final reading. Motion carried by the following
votes:
Eustis City Commission Page 6 of 13 March 3, 2022
Ayes: Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Commissioner Cobb,
Commissioner Hawkins and Mayor Holland
6.4 Ordinance Number 22-06: Conditional Use Permit for the operation of a bakery
retail/restaurant use in the Residential/Office Transitional (RT) land use district at
320 South Grove Street.
Mr. Carrino introduced the new Deputy Director of Development Services Jeff
Richardson.
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 22-06 by title on first reading: An Ordinance
of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida; approving a Conditional Use
Permit to allow the operation of a bakery retail/restaurant use in a residential
office/transitional land use district at 320 South Grove Street.
Heather Croney, Senior Planner, reviewed the requested Conditional Use Permit
for a bakery retail/restaurant use at 320 S. Grove Street. She stated the property
has a future land use designation of RT (Residential Office Transitional) with an
Urban Corridor design district. She explained that a bakery is not allowed in that
designation by right only by conditional use. She provided an overview of the site
and explained the need for an agreement to allow access to the bakery through
the house driveway. She explained the regulations pertaining to a conditional use
permit. She stated staffs recommendation for approval of the CUP with the
following conditions: 1) Perpetual access easement with adjacent property; 2) Off-
site parking will only occur where such parking is allowed in accordance with the
City of Eustis laws and ordinances; 3) Site plan approval within six months; 4)
Property building permits will be pulled as needed which may include a change of
use building permit; 5) Permit approval prior to signage additions/modifications; 6)
Business Tax Receipt approval; 7) All approvals and permits to be completed
within one year; 8) Any CUP modifications will require City Commission approval;
and 9) Recommended that the business address any deficiencies pertaining to
accessibility.
The Commission asked where offsite parking would be located with Ms. Croney
stating it would be on Ward Avenue or at the parking garage. She confirmed it is
not specifically designated.
The Commission further asked about the parking with Ms. Croney explaining that
the commercial parking will be based on the square footage.
The Commission asked what is planned for the retail portion with Dett Jolks
responding that it is an authentic French bakery and they would offer French
related items. He commented on the history of the previous uses of the property.
The Commission expressed concern regarding how the parking traffic will flow
onto Grove Street and Ward.
The Commission questioned the restaurant use with Mr. Jolks explaining they
have dropped the restaurant use to reduce the parking issue. He confirmed they
would also be purchasing the house and confirmed there would not be any other
activity in the building when they go on vacation.
Eustis City Commission Page 7 of 13 March 3, 2022
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 8:13 p.m.
The following individuals expressed support for the bakery: 1) Marie Aliberti; 2)
Gail Isaac Thomas; 3) Dee Gretzler; 4) Nathan Hicks; and 5) Vicki Langerfeld.
David Porter expressed concern about the parking noting that the church
members had parked across the street at the gas station.
There being no further public comment, the hearing was closed at 8:20 p.m.
Mr. Schroth asked Commissioner Hawkins if he would have a conflict of interest
due to the proximity to property he owns with Commissioner Hawkins confirmed
he would not have a conflict.
Moved by Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, seconded by Commissioner Hawkins, to
approve Ordinance Number 22-06 on first reading. Motion carried by the following
votes:
Ayes: Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Commissioner Cobb,
Commissioner Hawkins and Mayor Holland
7. OTHER BUSINESS
7.1 Mayor Holland announced that the Fire Department had raised 32,258 pounds of
food for Lake Cares Pantry. He noted a plaque the department received in
recognition of raising the most food during the drive.
7.2 Presentation regarding Bates Avenue Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion and
ARPA Funding
Mr. Carrino reported on the award of the ARPA funds to the City and reviewed the
criteria for use of the funds. He explained the original rule for use of the funds to
replace lost revenue was extremely complicated so the federal government
changed it to assume that each municipality lost at least $10 million; however, it
cannot be used to replace lowered taxes.
Rick Gierok, Public Works Director, provided a presentation regarding the planned
expansion of the Bates Avenue Wastewater Treatment Plant 0/VWTP). He
provided an overview of the wastewater treatment plant history. He stated that the
plant serves all City residents with the eastern plant serving Red Tail and other
developments outside the City to the east. He then provided a report on the
planned expansion and the related RFP. He stated for a 20-year plan the
estimated expansion need is for a 1 million MGD expansion. He then reviewed
the project alternatives and the pros and cons of each as follows: 1) Meet the
demand needs at the minimum price; and 2) Meet the 20 year demands in the
most economical manner. He commented on the difficulty in estimating the
construction costs. He then provided an overview of a third alternative which
would provide a minimum 5,000,000 GB □ expansion at $7.8 million but would
have some built-in flexibility. He stated there is currently $7 million in the sewer
fund. He commented on the possibility of either using a state revolving low
interest loan or the ARPA funds for the project. He estimated the total cost at $9.4
million.
Eustis City Commission Page 8 of 13 March 3, 2022
Mike Sheppard, Finance Director, reviewed the City's current outstanding bonds
and notes stating that the wastewater plant loan would double the City's
indebtedness. He commented on the inflation rate and how much the annual
interest rate might increase. He recommended the use of the ARPA funds for the
plant to minimize the City's indebtedness. He commented on other projects that
were suggested for the funds. He emphasized the need for a new fire truck and
explained the cost for the truck stating that a payment has to be made in March in
order to capture the cost and order the truck. He stated that the fire truck would
be eligible for the ARPA funds and explained the original cost of the truck was
planned to be paid out $290,000 per year over the next five years. He explained
that, if the Commission agrees to the use of the ARPA funds for the truck, staff
would bring back a resolution.
Mr. Carrino stated that if the ARPA funds are used for the plant it will help hold
down the utility rates. He stated that if the plan meets the approval of the
Commission staff will bring back immediately a resolution for the fire truck with the
wastewater treatment plant to come back later. He indicated that using the ARPA
funds will also free up sales tax money for other projects.
Chief Swanson explained that the planned fire truck is a 100-foot aerial platform
truck. He cited the number of taller buildings in the City and indicated that the
existing 85-foot aerial truck is 22 years old and is being traded in due to the age
and condition of the vehicle.
The Commission asked what the problem was with Alternative #2 with Mr. Gierok
explaining it was primarily the budget. He stated that without approval to use the
ARPA funds he did not have the budget to proceed with the plans. He confirmed
that if the ARPA funds are approved , then it would be essentially Alternative #2
that would be used .
CONSENSUS : It was a consensus of the Commission to proceed with both
projects using the ARPA funds .
7.3 Request for Direction on former Waterman site
Mayor Holland confirmed that the Commission wanted to continue with the
agenda.
Mr. Carrino explained how the request for proposals may be prepared versus a
request for qualifications and how the processes differ. He stated staff's
recommendation that they utilize a request for qualifications process after going
back to the CRA Board. He asked for Commission direction regarding how to
proceed. He explained the benefit to utilize the RFQ process and then obtain
more input from the stakeholders. He also explained that, if they receive multiple
applicants and can't make a final decision, they could then issue an RFP that
would only be open to the selected applicants.
Discussion was held regarding when the RFQ would go back to the CRA Board
with Mr. Carrino indicating the first meeting in April due to his vacation in mid-
March .
Eustis City Commission Page 9 of 13 March 3, 2022
CONSENSUS: It was a consensus of the Commission for staff to bring back an
RFQ to the CRA Board at the first meeting in April.
7.4 Eustis Codes Pertaining to Signage and Littering
CONSENSUS: It was a consensus of the Commission to postpone the discussion
to the next meeting.
7.5 Discussion regarding City Manager Vacancy
Bill Howe, Human Resources Director, reminded the Commission that previously
the Commission had decided to postpone the search for a new City Manager and
provide adequate time for the Acting City Manager Tom Carrino to prove his ability
to undertake the job. At that time, it was agreed that further discussion on the
vacancy would occur after Georgefest. He stated staff is now asking for direction
from the Commission regarding how to proceed. He explained the process that
would be used if they decided to proceed with a search.
Discussion was held regarding what the cost would be for an executive search
with Mr. Howe indicating the approximate cost would be $20,000 and would take
approximately six months.
Commissioner LeHeup-Smith expressed support for issuing an RFP for an
executive search.
Commissioner Cobb asked Mr. Carrino if he is interested in staying in the City
Manager seat or if he would prefer to return to Economic Development.
Mr. Carrino responded that he is enjoying what he is doing and willing to do
whatever is requested. He acknowledged that he does not have extensive City
Manager experience but willing to serve at the pleasure of the City Commission.
Commissioner Hawkins noted he had discussed with Mr. Carrino whether he can
do the job and work with five "type A" Commissioners and be able to tell them "no"
when necessary. He stated that Mr. Carrino indicated he could. He commented
on how much work Mr. Carrino puts in and emphasized he needs to run the City,
not the Commission .
Vice Mayor Lee commented on the process used by the trustees at the college in
selecting a new president.
Mr. Carrino commented that, if the Commission is interested in hiring a manager
with extensive City Manager experience, then they should use the RFP process
but stated his willingness to stay in the position.
Vice Mayor Lee emphasized the need for Mr. Carrino to do the job of the manager
the way he sees fit.
Commissioner Hawkins commented on Mr. Carrino's passion for the job.
Commissioner Cobb noted she spoke with him about continuing education once
the other jobs are filled .
Eustis City Commission Page 10 of 13 March 3, 2022
Commissioner LeHeup-Smith expressed concern about what the City is facing and
Mr. Carrino having to learn by fire which is not always the best way to learn.
Mayor Holland stated he thinks Mr. Carrino sells himself short. He commented on
the amount of effort he puts into the job. He expressed support for hiring Mr.
Carrino as the permanent City Manager. He asked if Vice Mayor Lee would work
with Mr. Schroth and Bill Howe on a contract.
Mr. Schroth noted the contract would need to address a timeframe for Mr. Carrino
to move into the City.
CONSENSUS: It was a consensus of the Commission to appoint Mr. Carrino as
the permanent City Manager and for HR to immediately begin the search for a new
Economic Development Director.
8. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS: NONE
9. COMMENTS
9.1 City Commission
Commissioner Hawkins asked if the City could get additional lighting installed in
the dark area on Palmetto with Rick Gierok indicating he would drive through and
look at it to make sure the intersection is lit.
Mayor Holland noted the park was not there when the last lighting study was done.
Commissioner Hawkins announced the Eustis High School Band would be holding
a Jazz Revue in Ferran Park. He commented on the amount of use Ferran Park is
receiving.
Mayor Holland asked for Mr. Carrino to check the Commission budget and see if
they could purchase a table for the Jazz Revue at the cost of $140.
Commissioner Hawkins asked to find out if the "mow to own" was ever awarded to
a not-for-profit with it to be discussed at the CRA Review Committee meeting .
Commissioner Hawkins asked about the roadwork being done on Woodward with
Mr. Gierok reporting that the City conducted the first phase and now the next
phase is being done by the contractor and consists of the sewer, water and
stormwater. He indicated they are two weeks behind schedule due to
groundwater issues. He stated he would determine the projected end date and
provide a report to all of the Commissioners.
Commissioner Hawkins noted the issues the Bay Street Players have had that
they are working through and may have turned it around. He expressed support
for the City to get more involved noting that he would be attending the "Play Your
Part" fundraiser.
Mayor Holland indicated he would also be attending so the City Clerk needs to add
it to the Commission's meeting notices.
Eustis City Commission Page 11 of 13 March 3, 2022
Vice Mayor Lee asked to have on the next agenda a discussion about the blighted
areas especially those in the County. She complimented the Eustis Community
Alliance on their work at the resource center on Clifford Street. She mentioned
that the funeral of Supervisor of Election Alan Hays' mother had been that day.
Commissioner LeHeup-Smith reported on the success of the "Spayghetti" dinner.
She thanked Chris and James Tilquist for their assistance and George Asbate for
the auction. She noted the passing of John Harvison. She complimented
everyone on how great Georgefest was. She thanked the Public Works and
Public Safety employees for all of their work during the event.
Vice Mayor Lee also noted the success of the African American Heritage Festival.
Commissioner Cobb reported she is going to be meeting with County Commission
Chair Sean Parks on Monday to drive him around and show him the blighted areas
that are the County's responsibility.
9.2 City Manager
Mr. Carrino reported the County had expressed concern regarding an annexation
application coming to the Commission on March 17th that may be creating an
enclave. He stated City staff will be working with the County staff to review the
application.
Commissioner Hawkins questioned how successful those meetings are with Mr.
Carrino explaining that they work with County staff.
Mr. Carrino then asked if the Commission was interested in donating to Project
Graduation with a consensus of the Commission to provide a donation.
Mr. Carrino noted that Vice Mayor Lee asked about a charette for Palmetto Plaza
and stated he and Rick Gierok would be meeting with the original designer to
discuss that. He then reminded the Commission that the CRA Review Committee
would be meeting on March 10th and reported that staff met with FOOT regarding
the issues at the 441 and 19 entrance and they have begun work on that.
9.3 City Attorney - None
9.4 Mayor
Mayor Holland complimented the African American Heritage Committee on a
wonderful festival. He thanked staff and the vendors for a great Georgefest. He
thanked the audience for staying throughout the meeting. He then announced the
passing of Emogene Stegall, former Supervisor of Elections, at the age of 95 and
asked for prayers for her family noting how long she served the citizens of Lake
County.
10. 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 may be obtained from the office of the City Cieri< for a fee.
Eustis City Commission Page 12 of 13 March 3, 2022
MARiC.MONTEZ MICHAEL L. HOLLAND
City Clerk Mayor/Commissioner
Eustis City Commission Page 13 of 13 March 3, 2022
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