City Commission Regular Meeting

APPROVED 02/01/2024 MINUTES City Commission Meeting 6:00 PM - Thursday, January 18, 2024 - City Hall INVOCATION: MOMENT OF SILENCE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: VICE MAYOR EMILY LEE CALL TO ORDER: 6:11 P.M. ACKNOWLEDGE OF QUORUM AND PROPER NOTICE PRESENT: Vice Mayor Emily Lee, Commissioner Gary Ashcraft, Commissioner Nan Cobb, Commissioner Willie Hawkins and Mayor Michael Holland 1. AGENDA UPDATE Tom Carrino, City Manager, and Sasha Garcia, City Attorney, announced Ordinance 24-01 died at the Local Planning Agency and that Ordinances 24-02, 03, and 04 and 24-08, 09 and 10 were postponed . She stated that anyone present to discuss any of those items can come up under Audience to be Heard to comment. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 2.1 Approval of Minutes January 4, 2024 City Commission Meeting Motion made by Commissioner Hawkins, Seconded by Vice Mayor Lee, to approve the Minutes as submitted . The motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb, Commissioner Hawkins, Mayor Holland 3. PRESENTATIONS 3.1 Eustis Fire Department Badge Pinning Ceremony Mike Swanson , Fire Chief, recognized seven firefighters and administered the Oath of Office. Their new badges were then pinned by their family members. The following personnel were pinned : Niki Everson, Senior Inspector; Garrett Griswold, Firefighter; Orlando Lorenzo, Firefighter/EMT; Nicholas Zeitler, Firefighter/EMT; Nathan Gardner, Firefighter/Paramedic; Michael Peckham, Lieutenant/Paramedic and Shawn Kelleher, Deputy Chief of Operations. Chief Swanson then presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Lieutenant Williamson and his team for their success in delivering a baby in a resident's home - Baby Janice was born at 8 a.m. on November 11, 2023 . 4. AUDIENCE TO BE HEARD Mr. Carrino, introduced Sherri Takalloo, the City's new Senior Planner. Shikita Hill expressed appreciation for the Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Walk and specifically thanked Chief Capri and the Fire Department. Mayor Holland welcomed County Commission Chair Kirby Smith. Eustis City Commission Page 1 of 11 January 18, 2024 5. CONSENT AGENDA 5.1 Resolution Number 24-03: Revision of the Building Department's Schedule of Fees 5.2 Resolution Number 24-04: Budget Amendment for the Building Services 5.3 Resolution Number 24-09: Approving a Purchase in Excess of $50,000 for Professional Services to Replace a Section of Force Main Along County Road 44 and Authorizing a Budget Transfer in the amount of $55,000 $55,000 5.4 Resolution Number 24-12: Purchase in Excess of $50,000 for a New Vacuum Truck Motion made by Vice Mayor Lee, Seconded by Commissioner Hawkins, to approve the Consent Agenda. The motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb , Commissioner Hawkins, Mayor Holland 6. ORDINANCES, PUBLIC HEARINGS & QUASI-JUDICIAL HEARINGS 6.1 Resolution Number 24-05: Preliminary Subdivision Plat for Angler's Pointe 48-Lot Subdivision on CR 44, East of Dollar General Store (Alternate Key Numbers 1407877 and 3395948) Sasha Garcia, City Attorney, announced Resolution Number 24-05: A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida; approving a preliminary subdivision plat for Angler's Pointe, a 48-unit single-family residential subdivision, on approximately 16.27 acres of property located on the north side of County Road 44, approximately 1,000 feet east of South Fishcamp Road (Alternate Key Numbers 1407877 and 3395948). Mike Lane, Development Services Director, reviewed the Angler's Pointe Preliminary Subdivision Plat for a 48-lot single-family (detached) residential subdivision . He noted the general location near Dollar General. He reviewed the site specifics with a Future Land Use Designation of Suburban Residential with a Suburban Neighborhood Design District. He noted the applicant is requesting no waivers and meets or exceeds all City requirements in the Code of Ordinances and Land Development Regulations. He commented that the Developer is proposing a minimum of three building model elevations to provide more opportunities/options to future homeowners. He reviewed the subdivision plat process, open space map, house lot typology, neighborhood compatibility, and proposed landscape plan. Mr. Lane explained the project would be exempt from a Tier 1 Traffic Impact Analysis as it was determined that the proposed development is projected to consume less than 5% of the roadway directional peak hour. In addition, the project will generate less than 100 peak hour trips. Mr. Lane confirmed that the project was properly noticed, the property did have appropriate signage and 77 public notices were mailed to property owners within 500 feet. He reviewed the development project approval steps and stated staff's recommendation for approval. He stated the project meets or exceeds the City's Land Development Regulations and the Comprehensive Plan. The Commission confirmed that no waivers were requested. They noted that recent projects have been approved in the area with mixed commercial residential and questioned how the property was designated Suburban Residential. Eustis City Commission Page 2 of 11 January 18, 2024  Mr. Lane indicated that the property shows on the Future Land Use Map as Suburban Residential. Mr. Carrino stated that the intersection is designated Mixed Commercial/Residential and it becomes less intense as you move away from the intersection which may explain why it was designated Suburban Residential. Discussion was held regarding the commercial uses in the immediate area . Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 6:44 p.m . There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 6:44 p.m. The Commission expressed concern regarding the designated land use, traffic concerns and lack of designated space for children. Mr. Lane stated that the lower density developments are all in the county. The one south of the roadway which is in the City actually has a 2.98 density. The Commission noted that the development meets all of the City's codes. It was stated that if they want something different, they need to change the code. Mr. Carrino explained that the highest intensity would be at the intersection and, from a planning perspective, intensity should lessen as you move away from the intersection. He noted that if the project were Mixed Commercial Residential then the density could be as high as 12 dua. The Commission commented on the possibility of moving the tot lot away from the front due to safety concerns. Motion made by Commissioner Ashcraft, Seconded by Mayor Holland, to approve Resolution Number 24-05. The motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb, Commissioner Hawkins, Mayor Holland 6.2 Resolution Number 24-06: Approving a Preliminary Subdivision Plat for Kurt Street Townhomes, A 62-Unit Townhome Residential Subdivision, located on the West Side of Kurt Street, West of Charlotte Avenue (Alternate Key Numbers 2930497 and 3859180) Attorney Garcia announced Resolution Number 24-06: A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida; approving a preliminary subdivision plat for Kurt Street Townhomes, a 62-unit townhome residential subdivision, on approximately 5.97 acres of property located on the west side of Kurt Street, west of West Charlotte Avenue (Alternate Key Numbers 2930497 and 3859180). Mr. Lane reviewed the proposed preliminary subdivision plat for a proposed 62 unit (13 buildings) townhome subdivision. He reviewed the general location map and surrounding developments and indicated the property has a Future Land Use Designation of Mixed Commercial Residential with a Suburban Neighborhood Design District. He presented relevant project information and reviewed the park and open space amenities including a walking trail, pickleball court and dog park. He noted the location of the various amenities and reviewed the landscape plan. He confirmed the development had been properly noticed and stated staff's recommendation for approval. The Commission questioned the future land designation of Mixed Commercial Residential and where is the commercial. They discussed the need to move up the timeline for reviewing the City's code and land development regulations. Eustis City Commission Page 3 of 11 January 18, 2024  The Commission expressed concern regarding the lack of a playground for children . Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 6:57 p.m . There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 6:57 p.m. Motion made by Commissioner Ashcraft, Seconded by Mayor Holland, to approve Resolution Number 24-06. The motion failed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Mayor Holland, Commissioner Ashcraft Voting Nay: Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Cobb, Commissioner Hawkins 6.3 Resolution Number 24-07 : Approving a site plan with waivers for a 4,750 square foot convenience store with gas on approximately+/- 2.03 acres located east of 2640 East Orange Avenue at Abrams road (Alternate Key Number 1443024) Attorney Garcia announced Resolution Number 24-07: A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida; approving a site plan with waivers for a 4,750 square foot convenience store with gas on approximately+/- 2.03 acres located east of 2640 East Orange Avenue at Abrams Road (Alternate Key Number 1443024). Mr. Lane reviewed the proposed site plan and explained the requested waivers as follows: 1) Increase of maximum lot size from 300 feet to 354 feet in depth and 402 feet in width; 2) Waiver of both street setbacks to allow setbacks of 131 feet from the property line adjacent to CR 44 and 103 feet from the property line adjacent to Abrams Road, in lieu of the maximum setback of 75 feet; and 3) Waiver to both minimum 50% frontage buildout percentage to allow frontage buildout on CR 44 of 23.4% and 14.5% on Abrams Road. Mr. Lane stated that the traffic impact analysis indicates they are required to do a Tier 2 Analysis. The analysis indicated that the roadway segments and intersections currently operate at acceptable Levels of Service (LOS) and, at build out, the roadway segments and intersection will continue to operate at acceptable LOS on both frontages . Mr. Lane reviewed the lighting plan and indicated there should not be any bleed over. He stated the appropriate notifications were completed . He stated staffs recommendation for approval and commented on the lack of an appropriate lot type for the project. The Commission asked about the retention pond and whether or not there would be trees with Mr. Lane responding that the landscape plan indicates that the trees that may be removed would be replaced. The Commission expressed concern regarding the traffic on Abrams and the difficulty in turning onto Orange Avenue. They questioned the plans for the exits with Mr. Lane noting they will be sharing a driveway with Dollar General and there would be two other entrances. It was noted that it would be right turn only onto Orange Avenue. Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 7:03 p.m. Cindy Newton expressed opposition to the project due to it being in the Wekiva Study Area and due to the type of possible runoff. Kristie Chicarelli asked about the existing traffic signal indicated on the plan at Abrams and Orange Avenue and stated there is only a stop sign there. She expressed concern regarding additional visibility issues and cited the need for a fence to prevent people from cutting through the adjoining yards. Kimberly Newcombe indicated her property adjoins the subject property and expressed concern regarding a number of safety, environmental and health issues. Eustis City Commission Page 4 of 11 January 18, 2024  There being no further public comment, the hearing closed at 7:09 p.m. Motion made by Commissioner Cobb, Seconded by Commissioner Ashcraft, to approve Resolution Number 24-07. The motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb, Mayor Holland Voting Nay: Commissioner Hawkins 6.4 Resolution Number 24-13: Authorizing the recording of liens on delinquent utility accounts Attorney Garcia announced Resolution Number 24-13: A Resolution by the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida, approving the recording of water, wastewater and irrigation liens. Mike Sheppard, Finance Director, reviewed the various liens to be recorded and cited those locations where meters have been pulled. The Commission asked about the success with collecting liens with Mr. Sheppard explaining they assess the liens in order to insure the money is collected when the property is sold. The Commission asked what happens when the property is sold and there is an outstanding water bill. Mr. Sheppard responded that is discovered during the lien search and it gets paid prior to closing. He explained that the City uses a company called Orange Lien who researches any municipal bills prior to a property closing . Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 7:14 p.m. There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 7:14 p.m. Motion made by Commissioner Ashcraft, Seconded by Commissioner Hawkins, to approve Resolution Number 24-13 . The motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb, Commissioner Hawkins, Mayor Holland 6.5 FIRST READING Ordinance Number 24-01: Amending LDRs for Community Service Uses This item was denied by the Local Planning Agency and, therefore, not heard by the City Commission. 6.6 FIRST READING Request for Postponement Ordinance Numbers 24-02, 24-03, and 24-04 Annexation, Future Land Use and Design District Assignment for Parcels with Alternate Key Number 1123461 The Local Planning Agency voted to postpone these ordinances as requested by the applicant. 6. 7 FIRST READING Ordinance Numbers 24-05, 24-06, and 24-07: Explanation of Ordinances for annexation of parcels with Alternate Key Numbers 1213355 and 1213347 Ordinance Number 24-05: Voluntary Annexation Ordinance Number 24-06: Comprehensive Plan Amendment Ordinance Number 24-07: Design District Assignment Eustis City Commission Page 5 of 11 January 18, 2024  Attorney Garcia read Ordinance Number 24-05 by title on first reading: An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida, voluntarily annexing approximately 6.67 acres of real property at Alternate Key Numbers 1213355 and 1213347, on the west side of South Fishcamp Road, north of County Road 44 . Jeff Richardson, Deputy Director of Development Services, reviewed Ordinances 24-05, 24-06 and 24-07 for the requested annexation of 6.67 acres located on the west side of South Fishcamp Road , north of County Road 44, and the related land use and design district designations. He stated the requested future land use is Mixed Commercial Residential with a design district designation of Suburban Corridor. He provided a general location map showing the specific site of the project. He explained staff's review of the annexation request and the requested land use and design district designations. He indicated the current land use designation is Urban Low in Lake County with a maximum density of four units per acre. He explained the difference between the County and requested designation. He stated the requested designations are compatible with existing development and City utilities are available. He reviewed the environmental characteristics of the site and confirmed that the required notices were completed. He stated staff's recommendation for approval of Ordinances 24-05, 24-06 and 24-07. Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 7:22 p.m. There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 7:22 p.m . Motion made by Commissioner Ashcraft, Seconded by Commissioner Cobb, to approve Ordinance Number 24-05 on first reading. The motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb, Commissioner Hawkins, Mayor Holland 6.8 FIRST READING Ordinance Number 24-06: First Reading - Comprehensive Plan Map Land Use Assignment for Recently Annexed Parcels with Alternate Key Numbers 1213355 and 1213347 Attorney Garcia read Ordinance Number 24-06 by title on first reading : An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida, amending the City of Eustis Comprehensive Plan pursuant to 163.3187 F.S.; changing the future land use designation of approximately 6.67 acres of real property at Alternate Key Numbers 1213355 and 1213347 on the west side of South Fishcamp Road, north of County Road 44, from Urban Low in Lake County to Mixed Commercial Residential in the City of Eustis. Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 7:23 p.m. There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 7:23 p.m . Motion made by Commissioner Ashcraft, Seconded by Commissioner Cobb, to approve Ordinance Number 24-06 on first reading . The motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb, Commissioner Hawkins, Mayor Holland 6.9 FIRST READING Ordinance Number 24-07 : First Reading - Assignment of Design District for Recently Annexed Parcels with Alternat Key Numbers 1213355 and 1213347 Attorney Garcia read Ordinance Number 24-07 by title on first reading : An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida; assigning the Suburban Corridor Eustis City Commission Page 6 of 11 January 18, 2024  design district designation to approximately 6.67 acres of real property at Alternate Key Numbers 1213355 and 1213347, on the west side of South Fishcamp Road, north of County Road 44. Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 7:24 p.m . There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 7:24 p.m. Motion made by Commissioner Ashcraft, Seconded by Vice Mayor Lee, to approve Ordinance Number 24-07 on first reading. The motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb, Commissioner Hawkins, Mayor Holland 6.10 FIRST READING Request for Postponement Ordinance Numbers 24-08, 24-09, and 24-10: Annexation, Future Land Use and Design District Assignment for Parcels with Alternate Key Number 1784069, 2814128 and 2814144. Ordinances Number 24-08, 24-09 and 24-10 were postponed by the Local Planning Agency at the applicant's request. 6.11 FIRST READING Ordinance Number 24-11 : School Zone Speed Enforcement Amending Chapter 90 - Traffic and Vehicles of the City's Code of Ordinances, by creating new Article VII to be titled "School Zone Speed Enforcement;" authorizing the establishment of a speed detection system on roadways maintained as school zones within City limits Attorney Garcia read Ordinance Number 24-11 by title on first reading : An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida, enacting Article VII - "School Zone Speed Enforcement" - Chapter 90 of the City of Eustis Code of Ordinances; providing for purpose, intent and definitions; establishing a School Zone Speed Enforcement Program and authorizing the use of speed detection systems with in the City; providing for program implementation requirements and designation of school zones; providing for enforcement and administrative procedures; providing for severability; providing for conflict; providing for codification; and providing an effective date. Attorney Garcia reviewed Ordinance Number 24-11 and explained that House Bill 657, as codified under Chapter 2023-174 of the Laws of Florida, went into effect July 1, 2023, and authorizes counties and municipalities to use speed detection systems, which are similar to red light cameras, to enforce school zone speed limits for violations in excess of 10 miles per hour over the applicable speed limit when children are going to or from school and during the entirety of the school day. She stated that an ordinance is required for implementation and reviewed the specifics as stated in the statute. Attorney Garcia cited traffic data performed by All Traffic Data Services that support the identified schools of Eustis High School , Eustis Elementary and Eustis Heights Elementary. She announced that the full report is available upon request. She reviewed the Florida Department of Transportation (FOOT) specifications and required public awareness campaign . She cited the requirements for public meetings to approve or renew vendor contracts and data reported to the Department of Highway and Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). She specified the process for violation notices and procedures, and other implementation requirements. She added that a ticket issued by a law enforcement officer would be considered separately and not under the program. She commented on the use of Eustis City Commission Page 7 of 11 January 1B, 2024  the proceeds to create a School Crossing Guard Recruitment and Retention Program. She reviewed additional requirements and retention and reporting regulations. Attorney Garcia summarized Ordinance 24-11 as amending the City Code to set forth parameters for the establishment and implementation of a school zone speed enforcement program using speed detection systems to further protect the health, safety and welfare of the City's residents. She stated the ordinance is consistent with the intent and provisions of Chapter 2023-174, Laws of Florida. The Commission confirmed a school must be included in the study in order to be eligible for the program and then asked if the Curtright Center on Bates Avenue would be eligible. Police Chief Craig Capri explained the need for the program due to speeding in the City. He indicated the City would be the first in the state to implement the program . The Commission asked if Fahnstock was included in the study near the high school and whether or not 44 was studied near the middle school. It was noted that the middle school is in the City; however, the roadway in question is in the County. Mayor Holland discussed the importance of the speed enforcement program. Chief Capri noted that the department would be providing school resource officers at the two elementary schools. He explained that the system only activates once a vehicle is over the set speed limit and cannot be used for surveillance. He commented on the benefit of the program and how it will reduce speeding. Attorney Garcia noted that to include additional schools they will need the required traffic data with the Commission asking to have the Curtright Center added. It was indicated that the Curtright Center was included in the study and could be added to the ordinance. Mr. Carrino indicated that Fahnstock was not previously studied but could be done and then they could add that school zone. Attorney Garcia stated that if they wanted to add all the schools at once, they could postpone second reading. It was determined to proceed with second reading . The Commission asked about any anticipated need to return to the Lake County Board of Commissioners for approvals with Attorney Garcia indicating that would not be necessary. Discussion was held regarding annexing the bypass into the City with Chief Capri noting that Lake County is also considering the program . Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 7:49 p.m. Kristi Chicarelli expressed support for the program and asked how many cameras would be in place and how far down the street they will document. Chief Capri indicate they will take in the entire school zone on both sides of the road. It was noted that there are cameras on both sides of the road. It was explained that the vehicles will only be captured if they are exceeding the speed limit by at least 10 miles per hour. Ms. Chicarelli asked about how the system will know if someone already received a regular speeding ticket for the same infraction. Attorney Garcia explained that all of the tickets must be reviewed by a trained officer. She noted that plenty of warning will be provided . Eustis City Commission Page B of 11 January 18, 2024  The Commission asked about other driver violations such as passing a stopped school bus with Chief Capri indicating the cameras will only capture speeding; however, they try to have officers monitoring the school zones. There being no further public comment, the hearing was closed at 7:54 p.m. Motion made by Vice Mayor Lee, Seconded by Commissioner Hawkins, to approve Ordinance Number 24-11 on first reading. The motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb, Commissioner Hawkins, Mayor Holland Mr. Carrino stated he would speak to the Code Enforcement Board and he would ask Attorney Garcia to prepare a resolution appointing the Code Enforcement Board as the Local Hearing Officer and a resolution to appoint staff as a clerk to the officer. He added that they would also have a resolution to approve the Altumint contract. CONSENSUS: It was a consensus of the Commission to have those resolutions on the same agenda with second reading of the ordinance. Mr. Carrino added that he would keep the Commission informed about getting the data to add the other schools to the ordinance. Attorney Garcia confirmed the Commission was agreed with moving forward with the Altumint contract rather than seeking other companies. 7. COMMENTS 7.1 City Commission Vice Mayor Lee asked that the developments approved be good neighbors and work with the surrounding residents to resolve any issues. Mayor Holland agreed and expressed support for Mike Lane to work with them. It was noted that, if it is not in the code, then the City can't enforce it. The Commission asked the Police Department to do more enforcement around the current convenience store on Abrams. It was noted that there is also an enclave in that area so the City can't enforce there. They encouraged the residents of the area to seek annexation. Discussion was held regarding the possibility of the area being improved following the new development. Vice Mayor Lee complimented staff on the Building Department luncheon. She reported on the Mt. Olive Cemetery clean up and noted the Martin Luther King Jr. Day events. She congratulated Lake Sumter State College for the addition of the bachelor's degree in elementary education . She cited how the program will differ from others including paid practicums. Mayor Holland thanked Vice Mayor Lee for sitting on the Lake Sumter Board of Trustees. Commissioner Cobb expressed appreciation for the cemetery cleanup and other events over the weekend . She asked Chief Capri for a code enforcement update. Chief Capri noted the receipt of $50,000 in code enforcement fines and indicated that the absentee Popeye's owner will be paying a $30,000 fine . Eustis City Commission Page 9 of 11 January 18, 2024  Mr. Carrino reported that Popeye's informed the Code Enforcement Board that they have a landscape contractor on board. Mike Lane, Development Services Director, reported that he has been contacted by a company claiming to be brokers for that property. Commissioner Cobb announced she would be attending the next County Commission meeting. She noted that she met with the County Manager to request $100,000 for a septic to sewer project. Discussion was held regarding the various areas that are still on septic. Commissioner Cobb requested that the nonslip strips put on the City Hall steps be added to the other side as well. Commissioner Ashcraft also expressed appreciation for the cemetery clean up project and thanked the residents that assisted. He commented on the number of complaints that the City is too slow at getting things accomplished . He stated that the City Manager may need help and stated every other department has a second in command . It was noted how each project suggested has to be studied first before they can proceed . Commissioner Hawkins agreed that the City Manager needs some help and cited the need to streamline City processes. He expressed thanks to everyone that helped with the cemetery clean up and cited the Martin Luther King Jr. Day events. He asked if the City was purchasing a table for the African American Heritage Festival banquet. Mayor Holland indicated he usually does that for the City. Commissioner Hawkins complimented Parks and Recreation for the Daddy-Daughter Dance and noted the number of attendees. He then stated that previously he had asked for the rest of his donation funds to be given to Open Door and the Senior Breakfast. He asked if that had been completed . Mr. Carrino noted that other Commissioners had also asked for funds to go to Coach Johnnie's program and stated staff needs to get those donations processed. Commissioner Hawkins thanked the rest of the Commission for all of their work together. 7.2 City Manager Mr. Carrino reported he and Rick Gierok had met with FOOT regarding the cloverleaf and SR 19. He indicated that he has asked them to prepare a draft agreement for the City to take over maintenance of those areas. He explained that FOOT has indicated that they have certain specifications set by state statute and, if the City wants a higher level, then they can enter into an agreement. He added that FOOT indicated they could also provide some capital funds to make some improvements after which the City could assume maintenance. Mr. Carrino noted the upcoming Legislative Action Days and reported that the City's lobbyist is attempting to arrange for the City to meet with DOT regarding the issue. He stated that the Commission has asked about getting periodic reports from the lobbyist; however, right now they are very busy with the current session. He indicated the presentation probably won't occur until after session . Mr. Carrino reported on the strategic planning project and noted he had sent out possible dates for a meeting. He asked if February 8th would work. He proposed meeting from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. that day. Eustis City Commission Page 10 of 11 January 18, 2024  Commissioner Cobb indicated she would not be available that day with Mr. Carrino stating he would continue to look for a good date. Vice Mayor Lee asked about getting an update from the Gunthers and Derek Wallace. Mr. Carrino responded that staff meets weekly with the master plan consultants some of which include the Gunthers and Derek Wallace. He stated that the consultant has put together some concepts for them to look at; however, Derek was at the last meeting but not the Gunthers. He indicated that more information would be provided soon . He added that the consultants will be present at Georgefest to solicit public comments. 7.3 City Attorney - None 7.4 Mayor Mayor Holland thanked staff for the recent events and commented on how much the City has changed over the years. He noted how the Commission may change following the upcoming election. He agreed that the City Manager does need some assistance. He emphasized the need for the Commission get some things accomplished over the next year since it will be different the following year. Mayor Holland commented on the plans for the 2024 Georgefest and announced that Tracy Byrd was going to be the headliner. He added that the reigning Miss Florida would host the Miss Eustis contest. He thanked the Eustis Area Chamber of Commerce for their willingness to participate and their involvement in the City's growth. Stephanie Carder announced that the Shriners would again be involved in the Georgefest parade. Mayor Holland thanked everyone for their encouragement and asked them to stay involved with the City. 8. ADJOURNMENT: 8:25 P.M. *These minutes reflect the actions taken and portions of the discussion during the meeting. To review the entire discussion concerning any agenda item, go to www.eustis.org and click on the video for the meeting in question. A DVD of the entire meeting or CD of the entire audio recording of the meeting can be obtained from the office of the City Clerk for a fee. ~ CHRISTINE HALLORAN MICHAEL L. HOLLAND City Clerk Mayor/Commissioner Eustis City Commission Page 11 of 11 January 18, 2024