City Commission Regular Meeting

City Commission Meeting Minutes February 18, 2025 (APPROVED) 2/18/2025 - Minutes 1. INVOCATION Rev Scott Markley gave the invocation. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Hilligoss called the meeting to order at approximately of 6:00 p.m. after the invocation and pledge of allegiance. 4. ROLL CALL Members Present: Mayor Jack Hilligoss, Robin Gibson, Keith Thompson, Carol Gillespie, Daniel Williams Staff Present: James Slaton, City Manager; Jennifer Nanek, City Clerk; Albert C. Galloway, Jr., 5. PROCLAMATIONS AND AWARDS 5.I. PROCLAMATION - FFA Week Mayor Hilligoss proclaimed February 17-24 as FFA week. Representatives from Bok Academy North accepted the proclamation. 6. COMMENTS AND PETITIONS Cassandra Richards, non-resident, shared concerns about traffic issues on East State Road 60 and her neighborhood. Robert Loos, resident, requested assistance with maintaining a tree near his house. He said this should be the City's responsibility not his. Aurea Loos, resident, also spoke about the problem with the tree. 7. CONSENT AGENDA Commissioner Williams made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda. Commissioner Gillespie seconded the motion. by voice vote: Commissioner Williams "YES" Commissioner Williams made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda. Commissioner Gillespie seconded the motion. by voice vote: Commissioner Williams "YES" Commissioner Gillespie "YES" Commissioner Thompson "YES" Deputy Mayor Gibson "YES" Mayor Hilligoss "YES" Motion passed 5-0 7.I. Minutes- February 4, 11, 12, & 14, 2025 7.II. Buyout Of The Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) Equipment From The Lease Agreement With Data Flow Systems. [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: Staff is seeking commission approval to buyout the lease for the Supervisory Control and Data equipment with Data Flow Systems for $53,319.00. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the City Commission take the following action, approve the buyout of the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) Equipment for the purpose of continuing to have the interconnecting of all the City’s water plants, enabling off site monitoring. BACKGROUND Water demand and energy costs are rising on a global level and resources are shrinking-all while aging water infrastructures are rapidly deteriorating. These are a few reason calling for smarter technology solutions when it comes to operating and monitoring the city’s various water treatment plants. Having control over our water plants allows staff to avoid excessive waste. Recent advances in technology have positioned water plant operators as a major force for system improvement, regulatory compliance, and financial planning. Supervisory Control and Data (SCADA) also makes it possible to review historical data for the sake of comparison and troubleshooting. Alarms provide another layer of security. These alarms might be triggered by high level or low pressure switches, pump failure, or valves not closing. The Programmable Logic Controller (PLCs) serve as an early warning system so that issues can be resolved before they become disasters. Five years ago the City of Lake Wales entered into a lease agreement to have the Supervisory Control and Data (SCADA) system installed that allows the operators to be able to focus more on what they do best and less on tasks that can take them away from more important work. Supervisory Control and Data (SCADA) equipment is one way water utility operators can effectively monitor network efficiency and performance. When issues are detected, operators can quickly take action to prevent adverse public health and economic issues. Staff is recommending that we proceed with the 60 month lease buyout option so the City of Lake Wales will have ownership of the Supervisory Control and Data (SCADA) equipment from Data Flow System. OTHER OPTIONS The commission could chose not to approve the lease agreement and staff  recommending that we proceed with the 60 month lease buyout option so the City of Lake Wales will have ownership of the Supervisory Control and Data (SCADA) equipment from Data Flow System. OTHER OPTIONS The commission could chose not to approve the lease agreement and staff would go back to monitoring the water treatment plants manually. FISCAL IMPACT $5000.00 was placed in the 2025-2026 Operating Supply budget with the intent to purchase the equipment out right. A budget transfer will be completed to pay for the buyout. [End Agenda Memo] 7.III. Longleaf – Live Oak Blvd Pipe And Inlet Repair [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: The roadway at the intersection of Longleaf Blvd and Live Oak Blvd has begun to sink due to a compromised stormwater inlet and a cracked underground storm pipe. The damaged infrastructure is allowing groundwater intrusion, undermining the integrity of the road and posing a growing safety concern. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Commission take the following action: 1. Approve expending funds for the repair of the storm inlet and pipe to Odom Contracting for $28,450. 2. Authorize the City Manager to execute the appropriate documents, on the City’s behalf. BACKGROUND The City of Lake Wales operates and maintains an extensive stormwater management system, requiring periodic inspection and maintenance to ensure functionality and safety. During routine assessments, staff identified subsidence near a storm inlet at Longleaf Blvd and Live Oak Blvd. Subsequent video inspections confirmed a cracked stormwater pipe beneath the roadway, allowing groundwater infiltration and causing progressive road failure. If left unaddressed, the continued deterioration of the pipe will exacerbate roadway instability, increase repair costs, and present a significant public safety hazard. To mitigate further damage, staff recommends proceeding with the necessary repairs immediately. Odom Contracting has provided the most cost-effective and timely solution, ensuring the structural integrity of the roadway and stormwater system is restored efficiently. OTHER OPTIONS The Commission may elect not to approve the recommended repairs; however, this would allow the condition to worsen, increasing the risk of further roadway collapse, higher repair costs, and potential liability concerns for the City. FISCAL IMPACT Funds for this repair have been allocated within the Maintenance & Repairs (M&R) Stormwater Repairs budget. [End Agenda Memo] 7.IV. USA Services Of Florida, Inc. Agreement [Begin Agenda Memo]  [End Agenda Memo] 7.IV. USA Services Of Florida, Inc. Agreement [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: Staff requests Commission approval to enter into a service agreement with USA Services of Florida, Inc. for public street sweeping. The current contract has expired, and staff has elected to utilize Sourcewell to continue these services. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends the City Commission consider taking the following action: 1. Approve entering into a contract with USA Services of Florida, Inc., for public street sweeping. 2. Authorize the City Manager to execute the appropriate documents associated with the contract, on the City’s behalf. BACKGROUND Street sweeping is a critical public service that enhances community aesthetics, supports stormwater management, and mitigates water pollution by preventing debris from entering drainage systems. Since 2014, the City of Lake Wales has contracted street sweeping services with USA Services of Florida, Inc., transitioning away from in-house operations due to high equipment and maintenance costs. At that time, the City entered into a contract with a sweeping rate of $35 per curb mile, totaling $52,200 annually. The new 2025 proposal under the Sourcewell contract reflects an increased rate of $45 per curb mile, bringing the projected annual cost to $72,360. While this represents a 28% increase over the previous contract, it is important to note that over a 20-year period, the per-mile cost has risen by only $10—a gradual and reasonable adjustment when considering inflation, rising labor costs, and increased operational expenses. This controlled cost growth further supports the financial viability of continuing contracted services with USA Services of Florida, Inc. A survey of other municipalities revealed limited vendor competition, with USA Services consistently securing contracts when competitive bids were solicited. Given the City's ongoing service needs and the cost-effectiveness of continuing with an established provider, staff recommends renewing the contract through Sourcewell. OTHER OPTION The Commission may choose to discontinue contracted street sweeping services with USA Services and initiate a competitive bidding process. However, an analysis of procurement trends in surrounding municipalities indicates that such an effort is unlikely to yield alternative providers, making it an inefficient use of City resources. FISCAL IMPACT $90,000 is allocated to G/L 405-542-100-334-900 Contract Services – Other for street sweeping services. [End Agenda Memo] 7.V. Task Order With Chastain Skillman For Professional Engineering Services – Addendum #1 For Orange And Crystal Avenue Streetscape To Include Storm And Water Line Upgrades  for street sweeping services. [End Agenda Memo] 7.V. Task Order With Chastain Skillman For Professional Engineering Services – Addendum #1 For Orange And Crystal Avenue Streetscape To Include Storm And Water Line Upgrades [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: Staff is requesting City Commission approval of the Task Order (Addendum #1) with Chastain Skillman for Orange and Crystal Avenue Streetscape. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the City Commission take the following actions: 1. Approve the Task Order (Addendum #1) with Chastain Skillman. 2. Approve agreement in the amount of $49,700. 3. Authorize the City Manager to execute the necessary documents on behalf of the City. BACKGROUND In 2021, the City approved a Master Continuing Agreement with Chastain Skillman to construct upgrades to Orange Avenue, Crystal Avenue, and Market Street. This proposed Task Order for Professional Engineering Services (Addendum #1) with Chastain Skillman is to produce construction drawings and a permit application package for the water line and storm upgrades in the vicinity of the Orange, Crystal, and Market Street Streetscape Project. Much of this area has already been mapped by surveyors, but additional mapping will be required for the water line upgrades in the alleys and near the water plant. OTHER OPTIONS Do not approve the Task Order with Chastain Skillman. FISCAL IMPACT The fiscal impact is $49,700. [End Agenda Memo] 7.VI. Proposal Agreement With Colliers For Lake Wales Fire Station #3 Project [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: Staff is requesting City Commission approval of the Proposal Agreement with Colliers for the Lake Wales Fire Station #3 Project. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the City Commission take the following actions: 1. Approve the proposal agreement with Colliers Project Leaders. 2. Approve agreement in the amount of $71,910. 3. Authorize the City Manager to execute the necessary documents on behalf of the City. BACKGROUND In November 2024, the City of Lake Wales purchased 5 acres of property at the intersection of Hunt Brothers Road and Nest Egg Road. This property is the location of a future fire station. It is currently outside of the city limits, but there are plans to annex into city limits. This purchase will allow the City to maintain adequate service levels for growth on our southern and eastern boundaries.  the intersection of Hunt Brothers Road and Nest Egg Road. This property is the location of a future fire station. It is currently outside of the city limits, but there are plans to annex into city limits. This purchase will allow the City to maintain adequate service levels for growth on our southern and eastern boundaries. Colliers Project Leaders has submitted a proposal agreement to provide project management services for the design of this project. The City’s goal for Colliers is to be the primary representative for the City to manage the design phase of the future Fire Station. Based on their scope and schedule, the total fee for service is $71,910. Fees would be invoiced at a lump sum rate of $7,990 per month for 9 months. OTHER OPTIONS Do not approve the Proposal Agreement with Colliers. FISCAL IMPACT The total amount is for $71,910 (9 equal payments of $7,990 per month). [End Agenda Memo] 7.VII. Proposal Agreement With Parlier + Crews Architects, P.A. For Lake Wales Fire Station #3 [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: Staff is requesting City Commission approval of the Proposal Agreement with Parlier + Crews Architects, P.A. for the Lake Wales Fire Station #3 Project. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the City Commission take the following actions: 1. Approve the Design Professional Fee Proposal with Parlier + Crews Architects, P.A. 2. Approve agreement in the amount of $246,000. 3. Authorize the City Manager to execute the necessary documents on behalf of the City. BACKGROUND In November 2024, the City of Lake Wales purchased 5 acres of property at the intersection of Hunt Brothers Road and Nest Egg Road. This property is the location of a future fire station. It is currently outside of the city limits, but there are plans to annex into city limits. This purchase will allow the City to maintain adequate service levels for growth on our southern and eastern boundaries. The proposal with Parlier + Crews Architects, P.A. includes performing full architectural and engineering services for Fire Station #3. The scope of services from Parlier + Crews Architect, P.A. includes the following: • Schematic Design • Design Development • Construction Documents • Structural Design • Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing/Fire Protection Design & Documents • Civil Design  • Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing/Fire Protection Design & Documents • Civil Design • Construction Administration (Maximum 8 months from construction start) OTHER OPTIONS Do not approve the proposal with Parlier + Crews Architects, P.A. FISCAL IMPACT The fiscal impact is $246,000 for architectural and engineering services. [End Agenda Memo] 7.VIII. Proposal Agreement With Colliers For Lake Wales Police Station Annex Project [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: Staff is requesting City Commission approval of the Proposal Agreement with Colliers for the Police Station Annex Project. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the City Commission take the following actions: 1. Approve the proposal agreement with Colliers Project Leaders. 2. Approve agreement in the amount of $177,281. 3. Authorize the City Manager to execute the necessary documents on behalf of the City. BACKGROUND On August 29, 2024 the City of Lake Wales purchased the building at 122 E. Tillman Ave formerly known as the Family Elder Law Building. It is proposed that the Lake Wales Police Department will move several units there. In addition, several other areas have been identified to design for the Police Department including training room, several interview rooms, conference room and a storage room. Colliers Project Leaders has submitted a proposal agreement to provide project management services for the design, bid construction, and closeout phases of this project. The City’s goal for Colliers is to be the primary representative for the City to manage project management services. Based on their scope and schedule, the total fee for service is $177,281. Fees would be invoiced at a lump sum rate of $8,442 per month for 21 months. OTHER OPTIONS Do not approve the Proposal Agreement with Colliers. FISCAL IMPACT The total amount is for $177,281 (21 equal payments of $8,442 per month) [End Agenda Memo] 7.IX. Jewel Ridge Right-Of-Way Conveyance And Preliminary Plat Vesting Agreement [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: Staff proposes an agreement between the City and the Developer of Jewel Ridge PDP that would vest the project approval in return for the dedication of a portion of right-of-way to the City.  [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: Staff proposes an agreement between the City and the Developer of Jewel Ridge PDP that would vest the project approval in return for the dedication of a portion of right-of-way to the City. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends approval of the agreement. BACKGROUND Jewel Ridge PDP was approved by City Commission in May of 2022 as a 172- lot single family residential subdivision on 43 acres of land north of Post Salter Road and east of 11th Street. The PDP was approved with a condition that additional unimproved right-of-way would be dedicated to the City for Post Salter and Hamlin Road. This typically takes place at time of platting; however, the developer is not yet ready to move the project forward for site construction and platting. Due to the commencement of development in the area, the City has an interest in obtaining the right-of-way so that the extension of Post Salter Road and Hamlin Road may be constructed by the Hunt Club Grove development currently underway. Planned Development Project (PDP) approvals are valid for two years, unless an extension of time on approval is granted by the City Commission after a recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Board. In exchange for dedicating the right-of-way to the City prior to the development of the site, the Developer requests that the PDP approval be vested in order to avoid the need to request extensions of time on the approval. OTHER OPTIONS Deny to approve the agreement between the City and the Developer. FISCAL IMPACT None. [End Agenda Memo] 8. OLD BUSINESS 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.I. ORDINANCE 2024-43 Amending Chapter 16, Pensions And Retirement – City Of Lake Wales Municipal Firefighter’s Pension Plan And Trust – First Reading [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: Ordinance 2024-43 seeks to improve the efficiency and overall administration of the Firefighters’ Pension Plan. Based on recommendations from its financial consultant, actuary and attorney. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the City Commission approve Ordinance 2024- 43 as recommended by the Board of Trustees after First Reading. BACKGROUND Effective on December 29, 2022 as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, President Biden signed the Secure 2.0 Act of 2022 (“the Act”) into law. This Act provides for an increase in ages for required minimum distributions from qualified plans. Participants in tax-qualified pension plans are not taxed on the value of their retirement benefits until they begin to receive benefits under the plan. increase in ages for required minimum distributions from qualified plans. Participants in tax-qualified pension plans are not taxed on the value of their retirement benefits until they begin to receive benefits under the plan. The deferral of taxes is limited by the Required Minimum Distribution rules in Section 401(a)(9) of the Code, which require that participants begin to receive benefits (and therefore pay taxes) once they reach a certain age after retirement. For many years, retirees were required to begin receiving benefits once they had retired and reached age 70 ½. The first Secure Act, passed in 2019, raised that age to 72. Section 107 of the Secure 2.0 Act of 2022 has further extended the allowable tax deferral by again raising the age by which retired participants must begin to receive benefits. The new ages are as follows: a) For individuals who attain age 72 after December 31, 2022, and age 73 before January 1, 2033, the applicable age is 73; b) For individuals who attain age 74 after December 31, 2032, the applicable age is 75; Therefore, in order to comply with the requirements of the SECURE 2.0 Act and ensuring its tax qualification the plan recommends an amendment to the following section of the City’s governing code of ordinances: Section 16-175, “Internal Revenue Code Compliance”, subsection b., “Required beginning date;” and subsection c., “Required minimum distributions” are being amended in accordance with recently enacted amendments to the Internal Revenue Code to satisfy the qualification requirements applicable by providing a mandatory distribution age for Plan benefits paid to its participants and beneficiaries. FISCAL IMPACT According to the Actuary (Foster & Foster) there is no cost to the City to implement the proposed amendment. [End Agenda Memo] Jennifer Nanek, City Clerk, read ORDINANCE 2024-43 by title only. ORDINANCE 2024-43 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAKE WALES, FLORIDA, AMENDING SECTION 16-175, CHAPTER 16, ARTICLE III, FIREFIGHTERS’ PENSION PLAN AND TRUST FUND, OF THE LAKES WALES CODE, TO PROVIDE FOR COMPLIANCE WITH THE SECURE 2.0 ACT; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR A SAVINGS CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Commissioner Thompson made a motion to approve ORDINANCE 2024-43 after 1st reading. Commissioner Williams seconded the motion. by Roll call vote: Commissioner Thompson "YES" Commissioner Williams "YES"  by Roll call vote: Commissioner Thompson "YES" Commissioner Williams "YES" Commissioner Gillespie "YES" Deputy Mayor Gibson "YES" Mayor Hilligoss "YES" Motion passed 5-0. 9.II. ORDINANCE 2024-44 Amending Chapter 16, Pensions And Retirement – City Of Lake Wales Municipal Police Officers’ Pension Plan And Trust – First Reading [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: Ordinance 2024-44 seeks to improve the efficiency and overall administration of the Police Officers’ Pension Plan. Based on recommendations from its financial consultant, actuary and attorney. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the City Commission approve Ordinance 2024- 44 as recommended by the Board of Trustees after First Reading. BACKGROUND Effective on December 29, 2022, as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, President Biden signed the Secure 2.0 Act of 2022 (“the Act”) into law. This Act provides for an increase in ages for required minimum distributions from qualified plans. Participants in tax-qualified pension plans are not taxed on the value of their retirement benefits until they begin to receive benefits under the plan. The deferral of taxes is limited by the Required Minimum Distribution rules in Section 401(a)(9) of the Code, which require that participants begin to receive benefits (and therefore pay taxes) once they reach a certain age after retirement. For many years, retirees were required to begin receiving benefits once they had retired and reached age 70 ½. The first Secure Act, passed in 2019, raised that age to 72. Section 107 of the Secure 2.0 Act of 2022 has further extended the allowable tax deferral by again raising the age by which retired participants must begin to receive benefits. The new ages are as follows: a) For individuals who attain age 72 after December 31, 2022, and age 73 before January 1, 2033, the applicable age is 73; b) For individuals who attain age 74 after December 31, 2032, the applicable age is 75. Therefore, in order to comply with the requirements of the SECURE 2.0 Act and ensuring its tax qualification the plan recommends an amendment to the following section of the City’s governing code of ordinances: Section 16-251, “Internal Revenue Code Compliance”, subsection b., “Required beginning  Therefore, in order to comply with the requirements of the SECURE 2.0 Act and ensuring its tax qualification the plan recommends an amendment to the following section of the City’s governing code of ordinances: Section 16-251, “Internal Revenue Code Compliance”, subsection b., “Required beginning date;” and subsection c., “Required minimum distributions” are being amended in accordance with recently enacted amendments to the Internal Revenue Code to satisfy the qualification requirements applicable by providing a mandatory distribution age for Plan benefits paid to its participants and beneficiaries. FISCAL IMPACT According to the Actuary (Foster & Foster) there is no cost to the City to implement the proposed amendment. [End Agenda Memo] Jennifer Nanek, City Clerk, read ORDINANCE 2024-44 by title only. ORDINANCE 2024-44 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAKE WALES, FLORIDA, AMENDING SECTION 16-251, CHAPTER 16, ARTICLE IV, MUNICIPAL POLICE OFFICERS’ PENSION PLAN AND TRUST FUND, OF THE LAKES WALES CODE, TO PROVIDE FOR COMPLIANCE WITH THE SECURE 2.0 ACT; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR A SAVINGS CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Commissioner Thompson made a motion to approve ORDINANCE 2024-44 after 1st reading. Commissioner Williams seconded the motion. by Roll call vote: Commissioner Thompson "YES" Commissioner Williams "YES" Commissioner Gillespie "YES" Deputy Mayor Gibson "YES" Mayor Hilligoss "YES" Motion passed 5-0. 9.III. ORDINANCE 2025-01, Amending Ordinance 2024-21, Relating To Republic Services Solid Waste Franchise Contract – First Reading [Begin Agenda Item] SYNOPSIS Amendment of Ordinance 2024-21, five-year contract for solid waste services with Republic Services of Florida, Limited Partnership. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the City Commission approve Ordinance 2025- 01, amending the five-year contract with Republic Services after first reading. SYNOPSIS Amendment of Ordinance 2024-21, five-year contract for solid waste services with Republic Services of Florida, Limited Partnership. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the City Commission approve Ordinance 2025- 01, amending the five-year contract with Republic Services after first reading. BACKGROUND In October 2024, the City Commission adopted Ordinance 2024-21, a five- year contract with Republic Services. However, there was a clerical error relating to bulk and yard waste pickup. Under the expiring solid waste contract, bulk and yard waste used to be picked up weekly, however under the new contract bulk and yard waste was negotiated to every other week pickup. This change was done in order to try to keep the solid waste costs down for the citizens. Due to a clerical error, the wording within the contract was not changed from weekly to every other week, Section 1(a) bulk pickup and Section 2(a)-yard waste pickup. OTHER OPTIONS Should the City Commission want bulk and yard waste picked up every week the cost per residential residence would be $27.58. Should the City Commission want to keep bulk and yard waste picked up every other week the cost would be $25.51 (Difference of $2.07 per month, or $24.84 annual). FISCAL IMPACT Should the City Commission decide to have bulk and yard waste pickup every week, staff would recommend that the additional costs of $2.07 per month be added to the customers’ billing for Solid Waste Services. [End Agenda Memo] Jennifer Nanek, City Clerk, read ORDINANCE 2025-01 ORDINANCE 2025-01 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAKE WALES, POLK COUNTY, FLORIDA; AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF LAKE WALES, FLORIDA (“CITY CODE”); AMENDING CHAPTER 17, CITY CODE; GRANTING A FRANCHISE FOR SOLID WASTE COLLECTION, RECYCLING AND DISPOSAL SERVICES WITHIN THE CITY; PROVIDING FINDINGS, DEFINITIONS, TERMS AND CONDITIONS TO THE GRANT OF THE FRANCHISE; SETTING RATES; REPEALING ORDINANCES 2011-09, 2018-02 AND 2024-21; PROVIDING FOR A BUSINESS IMPACT ESTIMATE, SEVERABILITY, AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Commissioner Gillespie said that public education about this change is important. Commissioner Thompson asked the public for feedback about this change. He wants to know if this is not working for people. Commissioner Gillespie made a motion to approve ORDINANCE 2025-01 after 1st reading. Commissioner Thompson seconded the motion. by Roll call vote: Commissioner Gillespie "YES" Commissioner Thompson "YES" Commissioner Williams "YES"  Commissioner Gillespie "YES" Commissioner Thompson "YES" Commissioner Williams "YES" Deputy Mayor Gibson "YES" Mayor Hilligoss "YES" Motion passed 5-0. 10. CITY ATTORNEY Albert Galloway, Jr., City Attorney, explained that any alteration to the bulk waste collection schedule established in Ordinance 2025-01, specifically a return to weekly collection, would require the enactment of a new, separate ordinance. 11. CITY MANAGER James Slaton, City Manager, provided several updates to the Commission. First, he announced that the intersection of Park Avenue and Scenic Highway had reopened to traffic, marking the substantial completion of that project. He also reported on a meeting with representatives from the Turnpike Authority and the Polk TPO, where he reiterated the Commission's concerns regarding the proposed parkway. He indicated they are reevaluating alignments and are open to suggestions. Slaton then mentioned upcoming downtown events, including the art show this week, Mardi Gras the following weekend, and the Park Avenue event after that. Finally, he noted he would review the matter concerning the tree issue brought up earlier. 11.I. Commission Meeting Calendar 12. CITY COMMISSION COMMENTS Commissioner Gillespie inquired about an upcoming groundbreaking ceremony for a water project. City Manager Slaton clarified that it is for the Polk Regional Water Cooperative's Southeast Wellfield. He explained that Lake Wales is currently a "project associate" and founding member, meaning they are involved in the cooperative but not yet financially contributing to this specific project. They are considering joining as a participating member in phase two, after the wellfield is operational. Currently, the project is being funded by other members, including the retail customers of those members. Commissioner Gillespie expressed her positive assessment of the recent improvements to the downtown area, noting that the results of the work are "fantastic" and "beautiful." She acknowledged that there had been some minor issues during the process but emphasized the overall success of the project and expressed anticipation for the upcoming ribbon-cutting ceremony. Commissioner Williams expressed support for traffic improvements in the Highland Park Manor neighborhood, acknowledging that while it's outside city limits, many Lake Wales residents live there. He commended Cassandra's efforts to secure speed bumps for the area and offered the city's support to help the county move forward with those improvements. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the project's completion for the benefit of the residents. Deputy Mayor Gibson shared three points. First, he expressed great satisfaction with the newly reopened Park Avenue, calling it a "magnificent achievement" and vastly superior to anything considered during his early involvement with downtown development in the late 1960s and early 1970s. He highlighted the significant underground infrastructure improvements. Second, he suggested the city consider adopting an ordinance similar to one recently implemented in Bartow, which enforces penalties for illegal "snipe signs" attached to trees, fences, or utility poles in public rights-of-way or on city property. He framed this as an extension of code enforcement and quality of life initiatives. Finally, he recommended simplifying the intersection of Central and Martin Luther King by removing the traffic light and making Central Avenue a throughway with stop signs on Martin Luther King. He cited confusion caused by the current setup and suggested this change would improve traffic flow.  ordinance similar to one recently implemented in Bartow, which enforces penalties for illegal "snipe signs" attached to trees, fences, or utility poles in public rights-of-way or on city property. He framed this as an extension of code enforcement and quality of life initiatives. Finally, he recommended simplifying the intersection of Central and Martin Luther King by removing the traffic light and making Central Avenue a throughway with stop signs on Martin Luther King. He cited confusion caused by the current setup and suggested this change would improve traffic flow. 13. MAYOR COMMENTS Mayor Hilligoss celebrated the reopening of Park Avenue and the Market Plaza, along with the linear park and connector trail, calling it a "great day" for Lake Wales and emphasizing that it's just the beginning of ongoing improvements. He highlighted the city's commitment to the 2019 Lake Wales Connected plan, contrasting it with other cities where such plans often remain unimplemented. He praised the city's success in securing $23 million in grants to continue these projects, despite criticism, and noted that investors are now showing interest in Lake Wales. He specifically commended the city staff for their work. Regarding the proposed parkway, he mentioned attending a TPO meeting where the project was discussed for the first time since 2021. He stated he spoke with the project manager and requested an informational meeting in Lake Wales in April, which she seemed open to. He also mentioned discussing the route with others, aiming to keep it away from Bok Tower and Mountain Lake. He then said that this project was proposed years ago and noted past inaction about this, noting that while studies were done years ago, no action was taken, and other cities developed, losing potential rights-of-way. He contrasted this with Lake Wales' current proactive approach and said that the county is considering raising impact fees, which may hinder economic development. He concluded by reiterating that inaction leads to lost opportunities and reiterated his belief that an informational session regarding the parkway will be held in Lake Wales. 14. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 6:33 p.m. _______________________ Mayor ATTEST: _______________________ City Clerk