City Commission Regular Meeting
Regular MeetingEustis, FL · June 2, 2022
Minutes
I APPROVED: 6/16/2022
MINUTES
Regular City Commission Meeting
6:00 PM - Thursday, June 2, 2022 - City Hall
INVOCATION: REV. JONATHAN PEARSON, LIFEPOINTE CHURCH
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: COMMISSIONER LEHEUP-SMITH
CALL TO ORDER: 6:10 P.M.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF QUORUM AND PROPER NOTICE
PRESENT: Commissioner Nan Cobb, Commissioner Willie Hawkins, Vice Mayor Emily
Lee, Commissioner Karen LeHeup-Smith and Mayor Michael Holland
1. AGENDA UPDATE
Tom Carrino, City Manager, commented that several members of the Eustis Fire
Department to be recognized at the meeting were delayed due to a call. Mr. Carrino
recommended moving agenda item 3.1 later to presenting prior to 3.4.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
2.1 May 19, 2022 - Regular City Commission Meeting
Moved by Commissioner Hawkins, seconded by Vice Mayor Lee, to approve the
Minutes as submitted.
Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Commissioner Cobb, Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee,
Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Mayor Michael L. Holland
3. PRESENTATIONS
3.1 Eustis Fire Department Badge Pinning Ceremony
Mike Swanson, Fire Chief, led the Badge Pinning Ceremony - a ceremonial
tradition for promotions honoring the fire personnel. Chief Swanson
administered the oath and pinned Lieutenant/Paramedic Jordan Burkholder,
Engineer/Paramedic Tanner Long, Engineer/Paramedic Chris Weathington ,
Engineer/Paramedic Adam Nelson, and Firefighter/Paramedic Stephanie
Brunson.
3.2 Presentation by Lake Sumter State College President - Heather Bigard
Eustis City Commission Page 1 of 10 June 2, 2022
Heather Bigard, new President and former Provost and Executive Vice
President of Lake Sumter State College, presented her mission for the
community college and higher education to find ways to increase access to
education for our citizens to support the economic mobility of all community
members. Ms. Bigard commented on moving through and learning from the
pandemic and her intention to adopt a growth mindset and find opportunities to
reconnect with the community. She explained her interest forging relationships
and finding out how Sumter State College can better serve those needing
opportunities for work and a prosperous life. Ms. Bigard noted her strategic
plan to learn about workforce opportunities, revise curriculum, and improve
skilled work within the programs offered to prepare students to enter work force
or go to university. She noted learning from the educational experience and
shifting structures to offer a variety of ways to gain education at college in-
person and remotely. Ms. Bigard is interested in expanding access and looking
forward to finding way in Eustis to be strategic with programming to meet the
needs of the community. She welcomed the opportunity to meet with
community members and learn how the college can better serve Eustis.
The Commission asked about a satellite presence for access to support
services with the enrollment process to create opportunities for students to
connect. The Commission noted looking forward to supporting the mission of
education and encouraging the community members to look at options for the
future to encourage a vision for college.
Mayor Holland encouraged the community to write to the Governor to support
State Colleges to be sure the funding is there to do what needs to be done in
Lake County.
3.3 Presentation by Lake County School Board regarding ballfield improvements
and Kurt and Golf Links
John Carr, Assistant Superintendent of Lake County Schools, presented with
Gary Rogers, Warehouse and Grounds Supervisor for Lake County Schools,
on behalf of the Superintendent to honor Eustis with a contribution to the City
1
of Eustis for making the renovations for the girls softball fields. Mr. Carr
commented on the growth of youth baseball and girls' softball as a powerhouse
in Eustis. Mr. Rogers noted appreciation for the funding and supportive efforts
of the City of Eustis to support this long 5-year project that changed the look of
the area to support the community and Lake County Schools. The Commission
noted being honored and humbled by the commitment of how the schools work
with government.
3.4 Acceptance of Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) 2023-2027
Tom Carrino, City Manager, commented on the process for the Capital
Improvement Plan (CIP). The CIP is an extensive document to review. Mr.
Carrino requested the Commissioners hear the presentation and later in the
agenda entertain the first reading of the Ordinance to adopt this and
incorporate it into the Comprehensive Plan understanding that there will be a
full presentation of the CIP as part of one of the upcoming budget workshops.
Eustis City Commission Page 2 of 10 June 2, 2022
Mr. Carrino asked for the Commission to entertain second reading after the
budget workshop in which the CIP is discussed.
Mike Sheppard, Finance Director, presented the City of Eustis Five Year
Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) FY2023-2027 which includes major capital
projects and acquisitions of over $25,000 with a useful life of five or more years
and also includes repair and maintenance projects when the cost meets the
budget threshold. He updated the Commission on the process and noted the
increase of cost of goods and supply chain issues. Mr. Sheppard noted that
this process fulfills the State Statute requirements.
Mr. Sheppard noted that the CIP includes updated information on projects
previously submitted for the CIP as well as new project needs and evaluated
those projects based on current economic conditions, requirements of the
Comprehensive Plan, requirements to implement the City's Strategic Plan, the
need to expand City service levels, and the need to meet renewal and
replacement demands on existing infrastructure. Mr. Sheppard discussed
prioritization of projects based on criteria of risk, return on investment, level of
service maintenance, and improved level of service. He noted the largest
contributors to the CIP which are water and sewer and public works
departments which have been able to reduce some costs by limiting
outsourcing. Mr. Sheppard explained the use of the sales tax revenue fund and
discussed CIP funding analysis breakdown using a conservative approach to
forecast capital revenue.
Mr. Sheppard noted the first reading of the Ordinance upcoming in the agenda
and the process to review the CIP at the budget workshops and return for
second reading at a later date. Mr. Sheppard mentioned the process to monitor
the CIP throughout the process and make any changes after adoption by
resolution .
The Commission commented on budgeting for the stormwater expansion at the
main wastewater plant. Mr. Carrino commented on the process of design and
construction being a 2-3-year process.
4. AUDIENCE TO BE HEARD
4.1 Gail Isaac Thomas addressed the Commission regarding the comedy show to
be held in two weeks on June 18th at the Eustis Community Center (ECC);
tickets are available. She commented on the heavy traffic on Bates Avenue
due to construction and resurfacing.
5. CONSENT AGENDA
5.1 Resolution Number 22-37: Purchase in Excess of $50,000 for the Water
System Master Plan
5.2 Resolution Number 22-38: Purchase in Excess of $50,000 for Amendment #1
to the GIS On-call Services Contract
5.3 Resolution Number 22-39: Purchase in Excess of $50,000 for Coolidge Street
Utility Improvements Design
Eustis City Commission Page 3 of 10 June 2, 2022
Moved by Vice Mayor Lee, seconded by Commissioner Hawkins, to approve the
Consent Agenda as submitted .
Motion carried unanimously.
6. ORDINANCES, PUBLIC HEARINGS & QUASI-JUDICIAL HEARINGS
6.1 Resolution Number 22-36: Preliminary Subdivision Plat for Pine Meadows
Reserve Subdivision
Derek Schroth, City Attorney, announced Resolution Number 22-36: A resolution of
the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida; approving a preliminary
subdivision plat for the pine meadows reserve subdivision, a 548-lot mixed-
product single-family residential subdivision, on approximately 239.8 acres of
property located on the North and South sides of Pine Meadows Golf Course
Rd, with frontage on County Road 44.
Jeff Richardson , Deputy Director of Development Services, reviewed the
applicant's request for 240 acres including 148 acres of developable land. He
commented regarding consistency with the approved City ordinances, plans,
and regulations. Mr. Richardson indicated that this is the first step in planning
process and provided background regarding the timeline, pertinent site
information , analysis according to applicable policies, codes and land
development regulations. He included specifics of 5 units per acre, land
dedicated as conservation land, 25 acres of park space, and amenities for the
community. Mr. Richardson noted site location and future land use designation
with a phase-in plan of 214 units in the first phase with 2023-2024 construction,
construction of infrastructure in 2026 and land development in 2029. He noted
that the absorption in market will depend on determine how fast construction
proceeds. Staff recommends approval of the subdivision plat.
Commissioner Hawkins inquired about the entrance and exit for the subdivision
for the phases of development. A representative of Pine Meadows Subdivision
commented that the developers will work through the process with
groundwater, stormwater and emergency services and noted that phase 1 will
have access from Pine Meadows Road to 19.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 7:00 p.m .
A resident of unincorporated Lake County commented on concerns with the
flood zone and open space.
Mr. Carrino requested the resident submit questions in writing .
There being no further comment, Mr. Schroth closed the public hearing at 7:02
p.m.
Eustis City Commission Page 4 of 10 June 2, 2022
Moved by Commissioner Cobb, seconded by Vice Mayor Lee, to approve
Resolution Number 22-36 for the Pine Meadows Reserve Preliminary
Subdivision Plat.
Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Commissioner Cobb, Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee,
Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Mayor Michael L. Holland
6.2 Ordinance Number 22-10 for 2022-A-02 Voluntary Annexation for property
located North of CR44 approximately 1,000 feet East of South Fish Camp Road
(Alternate Key Numbers 3395948 and 1407877)
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 22-10 by title on second and final reading:
An ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida, voluntarily
annexing approximately 16.28 acres of real property at alternate key numbers
3395948 and 1407877, on the North side of County Road 44, East of South Fish
Camp Road.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 7:02 p.m.
There being no comment, the hearing was closed at 7:02 p.m.
Moved by Vice Mayor Lee, seconded by Commissioner Cobb, to approve
Ordinance Number 22-10 on second and final reading.
Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Commissioner Cobb, Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee,
Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Mayor Michael L. Holland
6.3 Ordinance Number 22-11: 2022-CPLUS-02 Comprehensive Plan Amendment
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 22-11 by title on second and final
reading: An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake
County, Florida, amending the City of Eustis comprehensive plan pursuant to
163.3187 F .S.; changing the future land use designation of approximately
16.28 acres of recently annexed real property at alternate key numbers
3395948 and 1407877, on the north side of County Road 44, East of South
Fish Camp road from urban low in Lake County to suburban residential in the
City of Eustis.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 7:03 p.m.
There being no comment, the hearing was closed at 7:03 p.m.
Moved by Commissioner Hawkins, seconded by Vice Mayor Lee, to approve
Ordinance Number 22-11 on second and final reading.
Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Commissioner Cobb, Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee,
Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Mayor Michael L. Holland
Eustis City Commission Page 5 of 10 June 2, 2022
6.4 Ordinance Number 22-12 - Assignment of Design District
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 22-12 by title on second and final
reading: An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake
County, Florida, assigning the suburban neighborhood design district
designation to approximately 16.28 acres of real property on the north side
of County Road 44, East of South Fish Camp Road.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 7:04 p.m.
There being no comment, the hearing was closed at 7:04 p.m.
Moved by Commissioner Hawkins, seconded by Commissioner Cobb, to
approve Ordinance Number 22-12 on second and final reading.
Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Commissioner Cobb, Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee,
Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Mayor Michael L. Holland
6.5 Ordinance Number 22-13 - Voluntary Annexation for property located on Joleen
Drive
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 22-13 by title on second and final reading: An
Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida, voluntarily
annexing approximately 0.36 acres of real property at alternate key number
1723183, on the South side of Joleen Drive, West of Abrams Road.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 7:04 p.m.
There being no comment, the hearing was closed at 7:04 p.m.
Moved by Commissioner Hawkins, seconded by Vice Mayor Lee, to adopt Ordinance
Number 22-13 on second and final reading .
Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Commissioner Cobb, Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee,
Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Mayor Michael L. Holland
6.6 Ordinance Number 22-14 - Comprehensive Plan Amendment
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 22-14 by title on second and final reading: An
Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida,
amending the City of Eustis Comprehensive Plan pursuant to 163.3187 F.S.;
changing the future land use designation of approximately 0.36 acres of recently
annexed real property at alternate key number 1723183, on the south side of
Joleen Drive, West of Abrams Road from urban low in Lake County to suburban
residential in the City of Eustis.
Eustis City Commission Page 6 of 10 June 2, 2022
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 7:05 p.m.
There being no comment, the hearing was closed at 7:05 p.m.
Moved by Commissioner Hawkins, seconded by Vice Mayor Lee, to adopt Ordinance
Number 22-14 on second and final reading.
Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Commissioner Cobb, Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee,
Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Mayor Michael L. Holland
6.7 Ordinance Number 22-15 - Design District Assignment
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 22-15 by title on second and final reading: An
Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida,
assigning the suburban neighborhood design district designation to approximately
0.36 acres of real property on the south side of Joleen Drive, West of Abrams
Road.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 7:06 p.m.
There being no comment, the hearing was closed at 7:06 p.m.
Moved by Vice Mayor Lee, seconded by Commissioner Hawkins, to approve
Ordinance Number 22-15 on second and final reading.
Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Commissioner Cobb, Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee,
Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Mayor Michael L. Holland
6.8 Ordinance Number 22-16 Annual update of the five-year Capital Improvement of
the Comprehensive Plan fiscal year 2023-27
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 22-16 by title on first reading: An Ordinance of
the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida, approving the
annual update of the Five-Year Capital Improvement Schedule of the
Comprehensive Plan pursuant to Florida Statutes 163.3177(3)5(b); providing for
conflicting ordinances, severability, and effective date.
Mr. Sheppard, Finance Director, discussed this first step in a three-step process:
(1) first reading of the ordinance, (2) meet with departments to ask any questions,
and (3) second reading. He noted that this process was in compliance with State
Statutes.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 7:07 p.m.
There being no comment, the hearing was closed at 7:07 p.m.
Eustis City Commission Page 7 of 10 June 2, 2022
Moved by Vice Mayor Lee, seconded by Commissioner Hawkins, to approve
Ord inance Number 22-16 on first reading.
Motion carried by the following votes:
Ayes: Commissioner Cobb, Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee,
Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Mayor Michael L. Holland
6.9 Ordinance Number 22-17: Amending Chapter 115 prohibiting placement of signs
without property owner's authorization
Mr. Schroth read Ordinance Number 22-17 by title on first reading: An Ordinance of
The City Commission of The City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida; Amending
Chapter 115, Section 115-11 .4 of the Land Development Regulations, Prohibiting
the Placement of Signs Without A Property Owner's Authorization; Providing for
Enforcement, Repeal of Conflicting Ordinances; Codification, Severability, and an
Effective Date.
Mr. Schroth commented that he worked with Police Chief Capri at the
Commission's request regarding concerns about signs in rights of way placed there
without the proper authority and authorization. He addressed the specific issue to
provide several remedies, including removal of the signs, fines, injunctive relief, the
discretion to trespass that individual for placing signs without the authority for a use
that is not permitted, and criminal action.
The Commission asked how to communicate this to residents . Mr. Schroth
indicated several methods.
Chief Capri commented that the goal of this ordinance is compliance and not to fine
people. The City will launch an educational campaign to provide code enforcement
information to be successful and make an impact. He noted that fines were the last
resort; enforcement and follow though would be the focus. Chief Capri explained
that he would move quickly to make a difference in a short period of time and gain
compliance. Chief Capri indicated zero tolerance for this issue.
Mr. Schroth opened the public hearing at 7: 12 p.m.
Eileen Tramontana, on behalf of Trout Lake Nature Center, indicated that the
Nature Center puts out a sign in the easement when they are open to the public.
Mr. Schroth commented that the permissions to do so depend on the nature of
easement. After this ordinance passes on second reading, the Nature Center may
wish to obtain permission from the County for display of this sign. The Commission
noted providing assistance with the process.
There being no further comment, the public hearing closed at 7: 13 p.m .
Moved by Nan Cobb , seconded by Emily Lee, to approve Ordinance Number 22-17
on first reading .
Motion carried by the following votes:
Eustis City Commission Page 8 of 10 June 2, 2022
Ayes: Commissioner Cobb, Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee,
Commissioner LeHeup-Smith, Mayor Michael L. Holland
7. OTHER BUSINESS
7 .1 Scheduling of workshops for departmental budget presentations
Tom Carrino, City Manager, commented on the interest of the Commission to
replicate the budget process utilized last year. He indicated the budget
workshops will be scheduled; and, in July, preliminary millage rate items will be
brought to the Commission. Mr. Carrino indicated budget meetings to be
scheduled for late June and early July with two workshops for the general fund
and a third for water and sewer and CIP. He noted the half-day budget
planning session at 8:00am on Saturday, June 25, 2022. The Commission
discussed options. The Commission scheduled Budget Workshops for 5:30
p.m. on June 23rd, 28th, 30th and July 14th, if needed.
8. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Commissioner Cobb thanked Chief Capri and Mr. Schroth for assistance with the sign
ordinance. She indicated an interest in a sign workshop later in the summer to
thoroughly review and update the sign Ordinance considering the changes in the
community, signs and styles of signs.
Commissioner Hawkins commented on the covering over the basketball courts at
Carver Park and the option to include in the master plan and the CIP.
9. COMMENTS
9.1 City Commission
Commissioner LeHeup-Smith thanked retired City Clerk, Mary Montez, for her
efforts and noted Mary will be missed. She recognized saying goodbye to Jill
Warren who was a beautiful person inside and out. Commissioner LeHeup-
Smith reminded the community of the upcoming First Friday event with a
Jurassic Park theme.
Commission Cobb commented on the missing covering over the Water
Department drive-up. Mr. Sheppard noted that metal roofing requires
engineering , and he is looking into a canvas cover. She recognized long-time
employee Mary Bryan who passed away a year ago and the loss of her son
Ray last night; he was a staple to the Umatilla community. she asked for the
community to keep the Bryan family in your prayers.
Commissioner Hawkins commented on being so pleased with graduation
ceremonies with 10-15 Magna Cum Laude honorees. He noted that on days
with community event, the Commission meeting should be rescheduled. The
Commission noted that they can work with the school board to adjust the
schedule for community events.
Eustis City Commission Page 9 of 10 June 2, 2022
Vice Mayor Lee participated with Commissioners Cobb and Hawkins for the
kids' bike ride with the Chief of Police noting the touching moment when a
young child won a bike and donated it to another child.
9.2 City Manager
Mr. Carrino commented that after the Palmetto Plaza Design Charette,
Commissioner Hawkins made a connection with a representative of the church
that owns the property adjacent to the church. He noted that the church is
willing to discuss selling a portion of the property, specifically the house and
the property within the fence line. He explained that any time the City is
interested in purchasing property, the City is required to get an appraisal which
may cost a few thousand dollars. Mr. Carrino noted that funds are available
within the General Fund and the CRA for appraisals and real estate due
diligence and would like to move forward. The Commission commented, and
agreed it was acceptable to proceed.
Mr. Carrino noted the half day retreat on June 25th. He commented on topics
for discussion at the retreat, including the existing strategic plan and the option
to move forward with a strategic planning facilitator.
Mr. Carrino explained that the City entered into an interlocal agreement with
Umatilla and wished to discuss trails and where the trails should be located
throughout Eustis. Commissioner Cobb requested notice to Mike Stevens,
trails guru, to discuss trails.
9.3 City Attorney
No comments.
9.4 Mayor
Mayor Holland recognized the recent loss of close friends and Jill Warren who
was a staple in the community. He spent time with the Governor who
presented his budget and the shift in monies. He asked the community to be
aware of the budget and how it affects Lake County. Mayor Holland
commented on the City of Eustis preliminary budget numbers and being
pleased. He noted the Saturday event at the Fairgrounds where Chief Capri
was recognized so early in his tenure for his efforts and that of his command
staff. He recognized Fire Chief Swanson for his efforts and that of the Fire
Department - second to none. Mayor Holland commented that he was proud of
the City staff for their efforts to serve the citizens of Eustis.
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
~ ; : :t~ ofthemeetingcanb~ ~ ~ zyci rorafee.
CHRISTINE HALLORAN MICHAEL L. HOLLAND
City Clerk Mayor/Commissioner
Eustis City Commission Page 10 of 10 June 2, 2022
Get email alerts for Eustis
A daily email when new agendas and minutes are posted.