City Commission Regular Meeting

I APPROVED 3/21/2024 I MINUTES City Commission Meeting 6:00 PM -Thursday, March 07, 2024- City Hall INVOCATION: MOMENT OF SILENCE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: COMMISSIONER WILLIE HAWKINS CALL TO ORDER: 6:01 P.M. ACKNOWLEDGE OF QUORUM AND PROPER NOTICE PRESENT: Commissioner Willie Hawkins, Vice Mayor Emily Lee, Commissioner Gary Ashcraft, Commissioner Nan Cobb, and Mayor Michael Holland 1. AGENDA UPDATE Bill Howe, Human Resources Director, serving as Acting City Manager, noted there were no agenda updates. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 2.1 Approval of Minutes: February 15, 2024 City Commission Meeting Motion made by Commissioner Hawkins, Seconded by Commissioner Ashcraft, to approve Minutes as submitted . The motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea : Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb, Mayor Holland 3. PRESENTATIONS 3.1 Eustis Police Department K9 Retirement Craig Capri, Police Chief, recognized retiring K9, Mya, who was escorted by Senior Officer Victor Cortes, on her official retirement. He commented on her effectiveness as an officer. Senior Officer Cortes reviewed her statistics regarding number of deployments from 2020 to 2024 and amount of drugs, firearms and currency recovered. Chief Capri explained that Mya would remain with Senior Officer Cortes as a member of his family. 3.2 AdventHealth Community Clinic Update Abel Biri, CEO AdventHealth Waterman, and Edlyn Fernandez, Community Clinic Manager for AdventHealth, provided an update on the Eustis Community Clinic and Advent Health. Mr. Biri cited various new health programs and treatments now available at AdventHealth Waterman. He commented on the increasing expense for health care and noted how their organization is attempting to address that for the community. He added that the level of care available at the clinic is inadequate for the area uninsured's needs. Ms. Fernandez played a brief video of a patient who received care through the clinic for breast cancer. She reported the clinic provides care to uninsured adults who are residents in Northeast Lake County that have incomes at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level Eustis City Commission Page 1 of 12 March 07, 2024  (FPL) which is $30,120 per year and stated that 95% of clinic patients are at or below 100% FPL. She reviewed their patient statistics noting that 33% of their patients are from Eustis. She commented on how they assist patients with the cost of their prescriptions and announced they did receive some funding from the State of Florida in the past year. She reviewed further community statistics pertaining to underinsured residents and other physical and mental health needs. Mayor Holland commented on the hospital's start in Eustis and its subsequent growth. He expressed support for the hospital. Mr. Biri indicated they are also looking at food pantries and day shelters to assist those in need. 3.3 Update from Hansel Rodriguez to City Commission on 44 Sharps LLC Mayor Holland noted that public comment would not be taken during Mr. Rodriguez's presentation. If members of the audience wanted to speak to Mr. Rodriguez, they could do so outside the Commission Room. If they wanted to address the Commission, they would have the opportunity during Audience to be Heard. Hansel Rodriguez, Sharps Mobile Home Park, provided an update to the Commission on improvements to the park. He noted his offer to conduct zoom calls with each of the Commissioners. He added that all code issues have been addressed except the seawall. He indicated he would not address issues with individual residents. He noted other staff members are present who could address some of those issues. He commented on how much things have been improved since his last appearance before the Commission. The Commission expressed concern about the treatment of the residents and asked Mr. Rodriguez to address allegations by residents that spoke at previous City Commission meetings. Mr. Rodriguez commented on the need to differentiate between City issues such as the seawall and code enforcement and property management issues. He indicated there seems to be a misunderstanding regarding those issues. He stated there is an onsite manager and that person has been forbidden from interacting with specific residents when any interaction has gotten out of line. He indicated that those interactions go to the next layer up. He cited those staff members who are available. He added that, with some of those residents being referenced, those are active matters and the residents are trying to leverage those interactions to their benefit. The Commission expressed further concern regarding how the residents are being treated with Mr. Rodriguez citing all of the improvements that have been made. He confirmed that he has reviewed some of the Commission videos to see what has been said. He indicated the complaints to the Commission are related to cases where some form of litigation is involved. He noted they have offered settlements and the residents have rejected those offers in order to obtain more money. Regarding issues with sewage on the ground, Mr. Rodriguez responded there is a time lag between when a line breaks and getting a plumber onsite to resolve the issues. He noted one issue was actually caused by the resident. He indicated they are trying to be good at responding quickly to any problems. The Commission complimented Mr. Rodriguez regarding their response to a number of the code issues with Mr. Rodriguez indicating his willingness to speak with any of the Commissioners by phone at any time. Eustis City Commission Page 2 of 12 March 07, 2024  Attorney Sasha Garcia thanked Mr. Rodriguez and his team for appearing before the City Commission in-person . Mr. Rodriguez stated his desire for the City to always let them know if there is an issue and then, if they fail to address those issues, they will provide regular reports on the resolutions. He asked that they let them handle the property management issues. Vice Mayor Lee encouraged Mr. Rodriguez to have his staff better trained on how to address the residents with respect with Commissioner Hawkins indicating the residents need to reciprocate that as well. Commissioner Cobb noted that if they are communicating with the residents, then the City doesn't need to get involved. Mr. Rodriguez commented on how they have determined that certain issues with certain residents are escalated to a higher level. He cited how they are working to train their personnel and respond. He indicated his willingness to hear if someone on their staff is not responding effectively. Mayor Holland commented on the Commissioners taking an oath to serve the citizens. He asked for Mr. Rodriguez to take care of the residents and listen to them. He added that it is also necessary for the residents to be respectful to management. He indicated that there is only so much the City can do. He commented on the need for some people to relocate if they can no longer live in the park. He invited Mr. Rodriguez to introduce his team. Danielle Prentis, Director of Operations for the Eustis park, introduced herself and commented on her background and stated that their staff is being trained on customer service and on the state laws. Jennifer, District Manager for North Florida, introduced herself and indicated she had been in her position for approximately three weeks. Robert Rudd, Park Manager, stated he is doing the best he can for the residents. Mr. Rodriguez explained that Danielle oversees all operations and is working to better train their staff. He stated they are building training programs and expressed support for Danielle improving the situation. 3.4 Presentation of Findings and Recommendations from the Business Incubator Feasibility Study Al Latimer, Economic Development Director, commented on the history of the development of a business incubator and the City's receipt of a matching grant to be used for the business incubator feasibility study. He then introduced Mark Long, President of Long Performance Advisors. Mr. Long reviewed his background and expertise. He presented a synopsis of the findings and recommendations from the Business Incubator Feasibility Study. He explained what is a business incubator and the types of programs offered. He added what the goals are for an incubator including promoting startup company growth. He went on to explain why some programs fail and cited varying problems that may be experienced. Mr. Long then explained that a feasibility study was conducted to first determine if there is a need for the incubator and sufficient interest and stakeholder support. He then reviewed what was found during the study and cited both the positives and concerns. He stated their final recommendation is that the City not move forward with a separate, stand-alone, incubator that would have to be supported over the years. He recommended they support what is already Eustis City Commission Page 3 of 12 March 07, 2024  there and that they move forward with a combination seed accelerator program in conjunction with UCF and feed into the current Mega Workplace incubator. Mr. Long reviewed the study recommendations including building community awareness, taking advantage of existing resources, working with UCF to establish a Seed Accelerator program and co-hosting events with local entrepreneurs. He cited the need to attract more funding to the area and recommended holding an annual event with funders from other areas. Mr. Long provided a list of recommended actions and related timelines. Mayor Holland asked for a consensus to have staff move forward with the recommended actions and work with the local group. CONSENSUS: It was a consensus of the Commission for staff to move forward with the recommended actions. 3.5 Clifford House Historical Museum's landscaping and garden designs Rick Gierok, Public Works Director, reviewed the history of the landscaping, improvements, and garden designs for the Clifford House. He commented on the estimated timeframe, budget, and work scopes for the budgeted $100,000. Mr. Gierok explained the decision to divide the project into two phases and the related grant opportunities including the Florida Wildflower grant. He reviewed "Florida Native" vs "Florida Friendly" plantings and explained the removal of the trees in the front to allow more sun for the plantings. Mr. Gierok reviewed the budget for the two phases noting that Phase I is slightly under budget but the project total will be over due to the addition of sidewalks and site lighting and planting of some trees. He commented on the $7,500 budgeted for a fountain and repair of the windmill. He indicated that staff would do that in house. He concluded stating the estimated budget is approximately $8,000 over the original estimate. He added they have delayed Phase 2 work until after the submittal of several grants including $50,000 from T-Mobile, $3,000 from Florida Wildflower and $2,500 from Waste Management. The Commission asked about possibly applying to DEP for a grant with Mr. Gierok responding they are looking at a grant for the interior of the house. Mr. Gierok reported on work already underway including painting the Clifford House, Citrus Museum and gazebo. He indicated there may be some termite issues so they will be having an exterminator do an inspection. He added they have submitted an application to the Historic Preservation Board due to the need to change the material for the re-roof. He commented on the need to do asbestos abatement on the old roof. He noted that their continuing roofing contract is with Eustis Roofing and they have agreed to do the work as a subcontractor under the winning roofing company. He stated that the roof may be done prior to the planting . Mr. Gierok reported that the mural on the Citrus Museum doors is rotted. He explained they have reached out to a local artist to do a new mural. He indicated they have tried to contact the original artist but have not been successful. Therefore, the new artist will provide some conceptual renderings for a new mural. He added that the existing mural could possibly be restored and rehung inside the museum. Mr. Gierok then asked for direction on the cannon and commented on how it was relocated from the American Legion building . He indicated it doesn't really fit with the house. He noted the decay in the woodwork on the cannon . He asked for input on where the cannon could be relocated to. He noted they are working on a Veteran's memorial for the cemetery and Eustis City Commission Page 4 of 12 March 07, 2024  suggested the cannon could be incorporated into that with a plaque. He asked for concepts on the conceptual so they could move forward with Phase 1 to be completed by May and beginning Phase 2 by the end of May. The Commission expressed support for completing the plantings by May prior to the American in Bloom conference. The Commission asked about the fencing and what is being done for security with Mr. Gierok noting the fence did not provide any security. He stated he could discuss security with Chief Capri to see what could be done. He commented on the planting of some sabal palms to prevent people pulling in from the parking. He indicated they determined the fencing did not prove to be a true deterrent and commented on the need for lighting. He added that having more foot traffic through the grounds would help reduce some issues. The Commission commented on the recent increase in people visiting the site and utilizing the gazebo. They asked if the gazebo was going to be moved. Mr. Gierok stated it would be left where it is unless he was instructed to move it. He explained he had previously tried to move a similar gazebo and it was not successful. The Commission commented on the cannon catching the attention of passersby. It was noted that the America in Bloom project would include the cemetery and that the cannon may fit in well at the cemetery. Discussion was also held regarding the water feature and improved landscaping and lighting at the Clifford House. It was noted that the more attractive the site is, the more it will be used. Mr. Gierok stated that Phase 1 would be completed by May. He indicated that he was told there would be an opening in May. He commented on those items they can do in advance so they can move quickly once the grant is approved . Vice Mayor Lee noted that Ace Hardware had donated towards the Clifford House restoration with Mayor Holland noting there are other residents interested in donating as well. 4. AUDIENCE TO BE HEARD Mr. Howe indicated the following individuals submitted Request to Speak cards but had already left the meeting: Tristen Nappi, Ivan Gonzalez, Margie Blanco, Amy Baker and Eileen Fontaine. Juan Aguayo, with the assistance of Elis Forman as translator, distributed some materials to the Commission . He indicated he had materials for Hansel Rodriguez but he had already left the meeting. He commented on his issues with Sharps Park. He indicated he has not left as he still has not received the title to his home. He complained about water and sewer issues with the park and cited a $12 ,000 bill he received for damages. He explained they are alleging he and his wife are dumping drugs into the sewer. He stated they are charging him for all three properties that he supposedly damaged. He provided photographs of the damage as well. He complained about the taste and smell of the water. Attorney Garcia asked if he had contact information for DBPR and Legal Aid with Mr. Aguayo indicating he had those but no one would help him. He further commented on the sewer issues and other properties being affected . He complained about the Sharp's management lack of response. He thanked the Commission for listening. 5. CONSENT AGENDA 5.1 Resolution Number 24-26: Police Department Request to Purchase Motorola In Car Radios Eustis City Commission Page 5 of 12 March 07, 2024  5.2 Resolution Number 24-27: Purchase in Excess of $50,000 for the Clifford-Taylor House Museum's Roofing Project 5.3 Resolution Number 24-28: Approval of Purchase in Excess of $50,000 for Rental of a Concrete Crushing Machine 5.4 Resolution Number 24-29: Authorizing Award of Bid Number 002-24 to Tank Wizards Inc for the Grand Island Fuel Tank Project and Approving a Purchase in Excess of $50,000 5.5 Resolution Number 24-30: Fire Station Number 22 Bay Doors Replacement- Emergency Request Motion made by Vice Mayor Lee, Seconded by Commissioner Cobb, to approve the Consent Agenda. The motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb, Mayor Holland 6. ORDINANCES, PUBLIC HEARINGS & QUASI-JUDICIAL HEARINGS 6.1 Resolution Number 24-06: Approval of preliminary subdivision plat for Kurt Street Townhomes (Alternate Key Numbers: 2930497 and 3859180) Sasha Garcia, City Attorney, read Resolution Number 24-06 by title: A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida; approving a preliminary subdivision plat for Kurt Street Townhomes, a 62-unit Town Home 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) . Mike Lane, Development Services Director, reviewed the proposed preliminary subdivision plat. He noted the previous denial and description of what has been changed . He stated the pickleball court was changed to a tot lot. They also added a walking trail to connect the cul-de- sac to the dog park on the southeastern corner. He commented that the developer immediately went back and made the changes requested by the Commission and resubmitted it within days of the hearing . Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 7:33 p.m. There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 7.33 p.m. Motion made by Commissioner Cobb, Seconded by Commissioner Hawkins, to approve Resolution Number 24-06. The motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb , Mayor Holland 6.2 Resolution Number 24-21 : Purchase of Pumper Truck for Eustis Fire Department Attorney Garcia read Resolution Number 24-21 by title: A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida; amending the 2023-24 budget to purchase financing in the amount of $891,170 to acquire a Pierce Impel side control pumper truck, to use funds available in the Sales Tax Revenue Fund , the purchase will be a partial payment in 23-24 in the amount of $297,056 and the remaining amount in 24-25, providing for an effective date. Mike Swanson , Fire Chief, explained the requested budget amendment and indicated it takes 46 to 49 months to receive the truck once ordered . He stated that the intent is to get on the list for the truck and, once received, it would be applied to the planned future Station #3 . Eustis City Commission Page 6 of 12 March 07, 2024  Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 7:36 p.m. There being no public comment, the hearing was closed by 7:36 p.m. Motion made by Vice Mayor Lee, Seconded by Commissioner Cobb , to approve Resolution Number 24-21. The motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb, Mayor Holland 6.3 Resolution Number 24-24: Corey Rolle Memorial Field Phase 1 Improvements and Corresponding Budget Amendment Attorney Garcia read Resolution Number 24-24 by title: A Resolution of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida; approving the Corey Rolle Field improvements Phase 1 and authorizing an amendment of the 2023-2024 budget for this purpose. Rick Gierok, Public Works Director, discussed the history of the project and reviewed the proposed improvements. He stated he was looking for approval for Phase 1 improvements only. He cited pre-work that had already been completed and noted a volunteer group had offered to help paint the racquetball court. He listed the planned Phase 1 improvements and cost estimates totally $63,375 and cited work to be done inhouse. He noted he is asking for approval of the purchase of the second level of the press box but it would not actually be installed until Phase II. Mr. Gierok explained the plan to do a stacked unit for the press box. He stated he was asking to include the purchase of the second level to make sure the two sections match. He added that they would need engineering to do the structural changes for the press box. He noted they would need to bring in some utilities for the concession stand. He stated they are targeting August completion so the project is ready for football season. Mr. Gierok emphasized it is not a budgeted project and would require a budget amendment. He stated there is currently a fund balance in the Parks and Recreation impact fee fund just over $330,000. He indicated the project would qualify for funding from that source. Mr. Gierok then explained that Phase 2 would be done in coordination with the Coolidge project. He commented on the need for the fence to separate the players from the spectators as a security measure. He explained the plan to put in a long hedge row and sidewalks to prevent cars pulling in rather than security fencing . He further explained the fencing, parking and a manned gate that could be used for ticketed events. He commented on the high expense for the stairs due to them needing to be load rated . He indicated he put site design and permitting in Phase 1 but the work would be done in Phase 2. Mr. Gierok explained that if the Commission agrees to Phase 2, he would add that project to the Capital Improvement Plan. He noted he is not currently looking for approvement of Phase 2. He cited the possibility of obtaining a FRDAP grant for the project and noted other City projects funded with those grants. Mr. Gierok then discussed future consideration for replacement of the turf which is in poor shape. He explained it was replaced in 2018 with bermuda but that requires a "real" mower which costs up to $50,000. He noted options for turf replacement from sod to artificial turf considering maintenance, irrigation, and weather dependent considerations. He recommended installing artificial turf at a cost of $500,000 which allows for play in a shorter time after rainfall events. He suggested allowing him to further research the replacement. Eustis City Commission Page 7 of 12 March 07, 2024  Mr. Gierok asked for approval of Phase 1 along with any suggestions for Phase 2 and whether they want him to include future capital projects. The Commission discussed the anticipated amount of Parks and Rec impact fees for future years, possibility of air conditioning for the press box, turf replacement, final completion date and need to proceed as soon as possible. It was recommended that a full capital project be brought back to the Commission as soon as possible. Discussion was held regarding the cost of the stairs and the possibility of funding those through the rental of the Service Center with Mr. Gierok indicating he would have to proceed with installation of the second level which would bring the Phase 1 total to about $100,000. He added that he would have to bid out the various items. Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 8:07 p.m. Gail Isaac-Thomas thanked the City Commission for the project. Coach Johnny Saunders thanked the Commission and Public Works for their efforts to provide for the City youth. He showed to the Commission samples of the new Junior Panther uniforms. There being no further comments, the hearing was closed at 8:11 p.m. Motion made by Commissioner Hawkins, Seconded by Commissioner Cobb, to approve Resolution 24-24. The motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb, Mayor Holland 6.4 SECOND READING Ordinance Numbers 24-02, 24-03, and 24-04: Explanation of Ordinances for Annexation of a Parcel with Alternate Key Number 1123461 and related designations Ordinance Number 24-02 - Voluntary Annexation Ordinance Number 24-03 - Comprehensive Plan Amendment Ordinance Number 24-04 - Design District Assignment Attorney Garcia read Ordinance Number 24-02 by title on second and final reading: An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida; voluntarily annexing approximately 1.88 acres of real property at Alternate Key Number 1123461, on the south side of East Bates Avenue at 2596 East Bates Avenue. Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 8:12 p.m. There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 8:12 p.m. Motion made by Commissioner Ashcraft, Seconded by Vice Mayor Lee, to adopt Ordinance Number 24-02 on second and final reading. The motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb, Mayor Holland 6.5 SECOND READING Ordinance Number 24-03: Comprehensive Plan Map Land Use Assignment for Recently Annexed Parcel with Alternate Key Number 1123461 Attorney Garcia read Ordinance Number 24-03 by title on second and final reading: An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Lake County, Florida; amending the Eustis City Commission Page 8 of 12 March 07, 2024  City of Eustis Comprehensive Plan pursuant to 163.3187 F.S.; changing the future land use designation of approximately 1.88 acres of real property at Alternate Key Number 1123461, on the south side of East Bates Avenue at 2596 East Bates Avenue, from Urban Low in Lake County to Suburban Residential in the City of Eustis. Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 8: 13 p.m . There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 8: 13 p.m . Motion made by Commissioner Ashcraft, Seconded by Commissioner Cobb, to adopt Ordinance Number 24-03 on second and final reading. The motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb, Mayor Holland 6.6 SECOND READING Ordinance Number 24-04: Assignment of Design District for Recently Annexed Parcel with Alternate Key Number 1123461 Attorney Garcia read Ordinance Number 24-04 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 1.88 acres of real property at Alternate Key Number 1123461, on the south side of East Bates Avenue at 2596 East Bates Avenue. Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 8:14 p.m . There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 8:14 p.m. Motion made by Commissioner Hawkins, Seconded by Vice Mayor Lee, to adopt Ordinance Number 24-04 on second and final reading . The motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb, Mayor Holland 6.7 SECOND READING Ordinance Numbers 24-08, 24-09, and 24-10: Explanation of Ordinances for Annexation of Parcels with Alternate Key Numbers 1784069, 2814128, and 2814144 and related designations Ordinance Number 24-08 - Voluntary Annexation Ordinance Number 24-09 - Comprehensive Plan Amendment Ordinance Number 24-10 - Design District Assignment Attorney Garcia read Ordinance Number 24-08 by title on second and final reading: An Ordinance of the City Commission of the City of Eustis, Florida, voluntarily annexing approximately 13.72 acres of real property at Alternate Key Numbers 1784069, 2814128 and 2814144, on the south side of Getford Road, east of Coolidge Street and west of Gatch Road. Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 8:15 p.m. There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 8:15 p.m. Motion made by Commissioner Cobb, Seconded by Commissioner Ashcraft, to adopt Ordinance Number 24-08 on second and final reading . The motion passed on the following vote: Eustis City Commission Page 9 of 12 March 07, 2024  Voting Yea: Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb, Mayor Holland 6.8 SECOND READING Ordinance Number 24-09: Comprehensive Plan Amendment, Comprehensive Plan Map Land Use Assignment for Recently Annexed Parcels with Alternate Key Numbers 1784069 1 2814128 1 and 2814144 Attorney Garcia read Ordinance Number 24-09 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 13. 72 acres of real property at Alternate Key Numbers 1784069, 2814128 and 2814144, on the south side of Getford Road, east of Coolidge Street and west of Gatch Road, from Urban Low in Lake County to Suburban Residential in the City of Eustis. Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 8: 16 p.m. There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 8:16 p.m. Motion made by Vice Mayor Lee, Seconded by Commissioner Cobb, to adopt Ordinance Number 24-09 on second and final reading. The motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea : Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb, Mayor Holland 6.9 SECOND READING Ordinance Number 24-10: Assignment of Design District for Recently Annexed Parcels with Alternate Key Numbers 1784069 2814128 and 2814144 1 1 Attorney Garcia read Ordinance Number 24-10 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 13.72 acres of real property at Alternate Key Numbers 1784069, 2814128 and 2814144, on the south side of Getford Road, east of Coolidge Street and west of Gatch Road. Attorney Garcia opened the public hearing at 8:17 p.m . There being no public comment, the hearing was closed at 8:17 p.m . Motion made by Commissioner Ashcraft, Seconded by Vice Mayor Lee, to adopt Ordinance Number 24-1 O on second and final reading . The motion passed on the following vote: Voting Yea: Commissioner Hawkins, Vice Mayor Lee, Commissioner Ashcraft, Commissioner Cobb, Mayor Holland 7. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS AND COMMENTS 7 .1 City Commission Commissioner Hawkins asked Rachel Amman, Interim Parks and Recreation Director, for an update on the awnings for the bleachers. Ms. Amman stated there is $23,000 in the budget; however, quotes were received for approximately $33,000. She stated it had been put on hold to see what was being done with Corey Rolle Field. Commissioner Hawkins commented monies from W.I.N. 1 Ministries should be returned back to Parks and Recreation. Eustis City Commission Page 10 of 12 March 07, 2024  Mike Sheppard, Finance Director, explained that the facility rental funds go into the General Fund but they could go back and allocate the funds to Parks and Recreation . Commissioner Hawkins expressed thanks to Rick Gierok for his work on the Corey Rolle Field project. He then noted the hiring of the new Parks and Recreation Director and expressed concern that the Commission had not yet met the new director. Mr. Howe explained that the start date for the new Parks and Recreation Director isn't until April 1st so he was only in town for a short time. He indicated he would provide a copy of his resume to the Commissioners. Mr. Howe then noted that the previously proposed Finance Director does not have an exit strategy for his current position; therefore, City staff is looking at other options for hire. He indicated that the City Manager would be interviewing a new applicant the following week that was promising so they hoped to bring forth a new candidate in the near future. He noted that the Commission is responsible for confirming the Finance Director. Commissioner Hawkins reported that he had been contacted by Pastor Jay with the United Methodist Church . He wants to hold a meeting with the local residents around Forward Path. He stated it is tentatively set for April 3rd, 6 to 8 p.m., at the church. Commissioner Cobb commented on Arbor Day being moved to April 13th due to something else being held on April 20th. She indicated Duke Energy is donating $2,500 toward that event and she would be working on additional sponsorships. She reported on the 4-H public speaking contest for elementary and middle school students. She asked to have the winners attend the March 21st Commission meeting. Ms. Cobb thanked Public Works for the progress on the Coolidge project. She announced that the City is receiving so far $1.59 million from Tallahassee for that project and another $500,000 for the Bates Avenue water treatment plant. She noted there is still a shortage on the Coolidge project and staff is working with the Lake County Water Authority to try and get some funding . She then asked Police Chief Capri about the school zone camera program. Craig Capri, Police Chief, responded that in two weeks there have been over 360 violations caught. He indicated it is still in the warning period for another two weeks after which tickets will be issued. He announced that he will be bringing before the Commission at the next meeting a request to install vehicle license tag readers. He explained they would like to install twelve readers around the perimeter of the City to help reduce criminal activity from entering the City. He stated eight of the cameras will be paid for by Altumint with the City paying for four of them . He indicated it would cost $12,000 per year. Chief Capri noted two criminal cases where they were able to catch the perpetrator using the County's tag readers. He indicated that only information concerning criminals will be entered into the system. He explained a tag has to be uploaded into the system in order for it to be flagged. He confirmed that the system would communicate with the system that The Gables had installed as well as with Lake County's real time crime center. He added that the EPD has created its own emergency operations center with monitors for Palmetto Plaza as well as cameras going into Sunset Park. He expressed support for putting cameras in Ferran Park and City Hall as well. Commissioner Cobb thanked Senator Baxley and Representative Truenow for their work on behalf of the City's projects. Commissioner Ashcraft thanked staff for all their work on Georgefest and complimented them on how great the event was. Eustis City Commission Page 11 of 12 March 07, 2024  Vice Mayor Lee commented on the Dining in the Dark event and how much it helps you appreciate your sight. She also commented on the Georgefest turnout and parade. She thanked Rick Gierok for his work and cited the Events staff for the work on Clifford House and the Mother's Day tea. Commissioner Hawkins announced the next comedy show would be held April 13th. He stated they are hoping to attract up to 10,000 people to the downtown. He then announced the African American Heritage Festival and Parade had been rescheduled to April 20th. 7 .2 City Manager Mr. Howe reported the City Manager and his wife are doing well. Mayor Holland thanked Bill Howe for sitting in as Acting City Manager. 7 .3 City Attorney - None 7.4 Mayor Mayor Holland thanked the legislature for its support. He complimented all of the City departments on the 122nd Georgefest celebration . He congratulated the Eustis Fire Department for the food drive and noted that Eustis' department had won the plaque for all four years. He said Eustis was 10,000 pounds over the next City. Mayor Holland played a video taken during Georgefest of Commissioners Hawkins and Ashcraft dancing during one of the concerts . He commented on how well the Commission works together. Commissioner Cobb thanked Jobey Jones for picking up the damaged fencing at the Mount Olive cemetery. Mayor Holland commented on the Community Service Awards and congratulated everyone that won awards. 8. ADJOURNMENT: 8:38 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 12 of 12 March 07, 2024