City Commission Regular Meeting

City Commission Meeting Minutes July 15, 2025 (APPROVED) 7/15/2025 - Minutes 1. INVOCATION Rev Bill Fisackerly gave the invocation. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Hilligoss called the meeting to order at approximately 6:00 p.m. after the invocation and pledge of allegiance. 4. ROLL CALL Members Present: Mayor Hilligoss, Robin Gibson, Keith Thompson, Carol Gillespie, Daniel Williams Staff Present: James Slaton, City Manager; Jennifer Nanek, City Clerk; Albert C. Galloway, Jr., City Attorney 5. PROCLAMATIONS AND AWARDS 5.I. PROCLAMATION - Parks And Recreation Month Mayor Hilligoss proclaimed July Parks and Recreation Month. Stephanie Lutton, Parks and Recreation Director and other Recreation staff members accepted the proclamation. 6. COMMENTS AND PETITIONS Dwight Wilson, resident, shared concerns about new houses in the Northwest area especially duplexes and triplexes. Jessica Bower, resident, shared concerns about maintenance on Conner Road. Becky Wynkoop, resident, shared concerns about follow up between staff and citizens and spoke against granting variances to developers. Michelle Threatt, resident, announced the upcoming school supplies giveaway on Saturday at Frasier Field. 7. CONSENT AGENDA Deputy Mayor Gibson made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda. Commissioner Williams seconded the motion. by voice vote: 7. CONSENT AGENDA Deputy Mayor Gibson made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda. Commissioner Williams seconded the motion. by voice vote: Deputy Mayor Gibson "YES" Commissioner Williams "YES" Commissioner Gillespie "YES" Commissioner Thompson "YES" Mayor Hilligoss "YES" Motion approved 5-0. 7.I. Minutes - July 1 & 9 2025 7.II. Bid Award For Runway 6-24 Lighting, Signage And Marking [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: The City Commission will consider authorizing a bid award to H.L. Pruitt Corporation for the Runway 6-24 Lighting, Signage, and Marking project at the Lake Wales Municipal Airport. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the City Commission take the following action(s): 1. Award bid number 25-10 to H.L. Pruitt Corporation for the Runway 6-24 Lighting, Signage, and Marking project. The bid amount is $340.785.00, which will be fully funded by the FDOT and the FAA. BACKGROUND Runway 6-24 is in need of new paint, signs, and lighting in order to continue to comply with FAA and FDOT requirements. This project will completely replace all runway lighting and signage as well as re-paint all markings on runway 6-24. This project will be fully funded by FDOT and FAA with FDOT participating 10% and FAA participating 90%. There will be no fiscal impact to the City. Bid Tabulation Summary: Bid Schedule A Bid Schedule B Bid Schedule C Total Bid H.L. Pruitt $224.045.00 $31,360.00 $85,380.00 $340,785.00 EAU Gallie Electric $267,000.00 $46,300.00 $101,000.00 $414,300.00 Trinity Electrical Services $301,715.00 $70,540.00 $130,172.00 $502,427.00 The New Florida Industrial Electric, Inc. $401,666.58 $82,241.20 $179,051.22 $662,959.00 OTHER OPTIONS The City Commission may reject the proposal submitted by H.L. Pruitt Corporation and direct staff to initiate a second sealed bid solicitation or award the bid to another bidder.  The New Florida Industrial Electric, Inc. $401,666.58 $82,241.20 $179,051.22 $662,959.00 OTHER OPTIONS The City Commission may reject the proposal submitted by H.L. Pruitt Corporation and direct staff to initiate a second sealed bid solicitation or award the bid to another bidder. FISCAL IMPACT This project is fully funded by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) [End Agenda Memo] 7.III. Belle Lago Final Plat [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: Belle Lago Development, LLC, owner, requests approval of the Belle Lago Final Plat. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends approval of the Final Plat for Belle Lago. Neither a recommendation from the Planning Board, nor a public hearing is necessary for approval of a final plat. Provided the plat meets all of the requirements of state statutes and local ordinances, approval by the City Commission is a formality. BACKGROUND The 32-acre project is located west of west of South Scenic Highway along Lake Belle. The Preliminary Subdivision Plat and Planned Development Project for an 85-lot singlefamily residential subdivision was approved by City Commission in July of 2021. An application for the Site Development Permit was submitted to the City in June of 2022, and engineered plans were approved by the City in April of 2024. Pursuant to Section 23-223.4 of the City’s Land Development Code, the developer is providing a performance bond in lieu of constructing certain improvements, as shown in the attachment Belle Lago Lift Station Bond. The cost estimate for the performance bond was approved by the Public Works Director. FISCAL IMPACT Approval of the final plat enables the construction of 85 new single-family homes. [End Agenda Memo] 7.IV. Event Permit: Paint And Sip With The Lake Wales Arts Council [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS This is a request from the City of Lake Wales, Lake Wales Family Recreation Center to host three Paint n Sip events with the Lake Wales Arts Council event on Saturdays August 2, September 6, and November 8, 2025. The event will include alcohol. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends 1. That the City Commission approve the permit request to hold the Paint n Sip events with the Lake Wales Arts Council on Saturdays August 2, September 6, and November 8, 2025 from 2pm -4pm. 2. That the City Commission approve the consumption of alcohol during the event. BACKGROUND The Lake Wales Family Recreation Center has applied to host a Paint n Sip with the Lake Wales Arts Council event at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center, the  2pm -4pm. 2. That the City Commission approve the consumption of alcohol during the event. BACKGROUND The Lake Wales Family Recreation Center has applied to host a Paint n Sip with the Lake Wales Arts Council event at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center, the former YMCA, on Saturdays August 2, September 6, and November 8, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. The event will include alcohol. The City Manager has waived the requirement for two off-duty officers. OTHER OPTIONS Do not approve the Special Event Permit. FISCAL IMPACT None. [End Agenda Memo] 7.V. Interlocal Agreement For Reimbursement Of Costs For Relocation Of City-Owned Water Main And Force Main Along Thompson Nursery Road [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: Polk County and Peace Crossing Community Development District entered into an agreement to design and construct certain sections of Thompson Nursery Road (TNR). The project includes widening of TNR, which necessitates the relocation of city water main and force main. RECOMMENDATION Approve the Interlocal Agreement for reimbursement of costs for relocation of city-owned water main and force main along Thompson Nursery Road and authorize the Mayor to execute the agreement. BACKGROUND The City has water and sewer lines on the north side of Thompson Nursery Rd that were originally installed in the early 2000’s when Lake Ashton was developed. The property on the north side of Thompson Nursery Rd had an issue during design with placement of all the utilities in the right of way. The widening of Thompson Nursery Rd has resulted in the city utility lines needing to be relocated. These utility lines are the facilities the Winter Haven Corp property would be connecting to. Staff wanted to avoid having to move these lines twice by relocating to their final resting place in the right of way now while the Winter Haven Corp property are installing the utilities for the project. OTHER OPTIONS None, city verbally committed to the arrangement. FISCAL IMPACT $543,197.70 [End Agenda Memo] 8. OLD BUSINESS 8.I. ORDINANCE 2025-15 Annexation Of 47 +/- Acres At Capps Road And State Road 60 E - 2nd Reading And Public Hearing [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: Ordinance 2025-15 proposes the annexation of approximately 47 +/- acres of land located west of Capps Road, and contiguous to the city limits, following the adoption of Annexation Ordinance 2025-14. [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: Ordinance 2025-15 proposes the annexation of approximately 47 +/- acres of land located west of Capps Road, and contiguous to the city limits, following the adoption of Annexation Ordinance 2025-14. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends approval of Ordinance 2025-15. This Ordinance was approved by City Commission at 1st reading on July 1, 2025. BACKGROUND The subject property is located west of Capps Road and currently under development within unincorporated Polk County. In August of 2021, Garden Street Communities petitioned for annexation into the city, in exchange for municipal water to serve the project. The petition provides for the City to annex the property at such time as the City deems the property is suitable for annexation. The Hickory Ridge subdivision is a 73-lot singlefamily residential neighborhood designed and approved under the County’s Land Development Regulations. The lots will be served by City water. City sewer service is not yet available to serve the project; therefore, the lots are designed for septic tanks. In September of 2021, the owner of the adjacent .25 acres proposed for annexation under Ordinance 2025-14, FLLWCC, petitioned for annexation into the corporate city limits. The purpose of the annexation petition was to allow for the future annexation of Hickory Ridge. As the Hickory Ridge project nears final plat, it is in the City’s best interest to act on the annexation agreement now, before the lots are officially platted and recorded in the County. FISCAL IMPACT Annexation of this piece of land would allow the City to receive the tax benefit of the 73 developed lots. [End Agenda Memo] Jennifer Nanek, City Clerk, read ORDINANCE 2025-15 by title only. ORDINANCE 2025-15 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAKE WALES, FLORIDA PROVIDING FOR THE ANNEXATION OF APPROXIMATELY 47+/- ACRES OF LAND WEST OF CAPPS ROAD AND CONTIGUOUS TO THE INCORPORATED TERRITORY OF THE CITY OF LAKE WALES, AS SHOWN ON ATTACHMENT “A” AND SPECIFICALLY DESCRIBED HEREIN; GIVING THE CITY OF LAKE WALES JURISDICTION OVER THE LAND ANNEXED; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. OPENED PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED PUBLIC HEARING Commissioner Gillespie made a motion to adopt ORDINANCE 2025-15 after 2nd Reading and Public Hearing. Commissioner Williams seconded the motion. by roll call vote: Commissioner Gillespie "YES" Commissioner Williams "YES"  by roll call vote: Commissioner Gillespie "YES" Commissioner Williams "YES" Commissioner Thompson "YES" Deputy Mayor Gibson "YES" Mayor Hilligoss "YES" Motion passed 5-0. 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.I. Certification Of 2025 Taxable Value, Interim Millage & FY25’26 Budget Hearing Dates [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: The City Commission will consider approval of the Polk County property appraiser’s certification of taxable value for 2025, set the interim millage rate, and set the dates for the public hearings to adopt the final millage rate and the FY25’26 budget. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the City Commission take the following actions: 1. Approve the Property Appraiser’s Certification of Taxable Value for 2025. 2. Set the interim millage rate at 8.0462 mills, which is greater than the rolled back rate of 6.6772 mills by 20.50%. 3. Set the dates for the required public hearings for the final millage rate and adoption of the FY25’26 Budget as Wednesday, September 3 and Tuesday, September 16. BACKGROUND Certification of Taxable Values Attached for your review and approval is the Polk County property appraiser’s Certification of Taxable Value for 2025. As indicated, the City’s gross taxable value for operating purposes is $1,322,637,537. Lake Wales has experienced an increase in taxable value of $144,469,003, since the 2024 certification. The certification for 2025 is 11.67% above 2024's final gross taxable value of $1,237,434,449. It is recommended that the City Commission approve the Certification of Taxable Value for 2025. Interim Millage Rate In order for the property appraiser to proceed with the mailing of the required TRIM notices, it will be necessary for the Commission to set an interim millage rate and establish the required public hearing dates for adoption of the final 2025 millage rate and the FY25’26 budget. Staff recommends setting the interim millage rate at 8.0462 mills, which is greater than the rolled-backed rate of 6.6772 mills by 20.50%. The City current millage rate is 7.0462. The City Commission will be able to lower the millage rate throughout the budget public hearing dates for adoption of the final 2025 millage rate and the FY25’26 budget. Staff recommends setting the interim millage rate at 8.0462 mills, which is greater than the rolled-backed rate of 6.6772 mills by 20.50%. The City current millage rate is 7.0462. The City Commission will be able to lower the millage rate throughout the budget adoption process but will be unable to raise the rate above the interim rate. OTHER OPTIONS & FISCAL IMPACT Taxes levied by the various options are as follows: Interim Millage Rates Rate CRA Library General Total Proposed Rate 8.0462 2,616,718 765,212 7,737,142 11,119,072 Current Year Rate 24'25 7.0462 2,291,507 670,109 6,775,552 9,737,168 Difference 325,211 95,103 961,590 1,381,904 Proposed Rate 8.0462 2,616,718 765,212 7,737,142 11,119,072 Rolled-back Rate 6.6772 2,171,505 635,017 6,420,724 9,227,246 Difference 445,213 130,195 1,316,418 1,891,826 The City does not receive 100% of ad valorem tax levy due to 1) discounts offered for early payment and 2) unpaid delinquent taxes. Staff estimates Ad Valorem for budget purposes at 97%. The final adopted millage rate may not exceed the interim millage rate, but it may be lower than the interim millage rate. Millage Rate - Historical Data 14'15 8.3638 Rolled-back Rate 15'16 7.3638 Lowered a Full Mill 16'17 7.3273 Rolled-back Rate 17'18 7.0438 Rolled-back Rate 18'19 7.0438 Current Rate 19'20 6.9339 Rolled-back Rate 20'21 6.7974 Rolled-back Rate 21'22 6.7697 Rolled-back Rate 22'23 6.3626 Rolled-back Rate 23'24 7.1214 Rate Increased 24'25 7.0462 Rolled-back Rate 25'26 8.0462 Rate Increased  23'24 7.1214 Rate Increased 24'25 7.0462 Rolled-back Rate 25'26 8.0462 Rate Increased Date and Time for Public Hearings: State law requires that the county property appraiser notify each property owner of the interim millage rate and the dates of the meetings for adoption of the millage and budget. To give time for the mailing of this notice to the property owner, the City must, by law, adopt an interim millage rate no later than August 4. Florida Statutes stipulate that the first public hearings can be held no sooner than 65 days after the Certification of Taxable Value by the Property Appraiser or July 1, whichever is later. Certification occurred on July 1, therefore the first public hearings can be held no sooner than Wednesday, September 3 (65 days after July 1). This year, the Board of County Commissioners has scheduled its public hearings on Monday, September 8 and Monday, September 15. The School Board’s final public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, September 9. We are recommending the first public hearings for the millage and budget be set for Wednesday September 3, 2025. We are also recommending that the second public hearings be set for Tuesday September 16, 2025. The City Commission is not required to make a decision on the final millage rate at this meeting. The final decision should be made after we thoroughly review and discuss the budget and all of its implications; however, we do have to make a decision on the interim millage rate at this meeting. [End Agenda Memo] Deputy Mayor Gibson commended the Finance Department on a job well done. Deputy Mayor Gibson made a motion to approve this item. Commissioner Williams seconded the motion. by roll call vote: Deputy Mayor Gibson "YES" Commissioner Williams "YES" Commissioner Thompson "YES" Commissioner Gillespie "YES" Mayor Hilligoss "YES" Motion passed 5-0. 9.II. ORDINANCE 2025-17 Proposed Amendments To Land Development Regulations – Arts, Culture, And Entertainment District (ACE District) 1st Reading And Public Hearing  Motion passed 5-0. 9.II. ORDINANCE 2025-17 Proposed Amendments To Land Development Regulations – Arts, Culture, And Entertainment District (ACE District) 1st Reading And Public Hearing [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: Staff proposes the creation of an Arts, Culture and Entertainment District within Chapter 5 of the Code of Ordinances with associated amendments to Section 18- 82 and 18- 87 and the following sections of the Land Development Regulations (LDRs) (Chapter 23, Lake Wales Code of Ordinances): 1) Section 23-342 Alcoholic Beverage Sales and Services 2) Section 23-353 Outdoor Seating Areas 3) Section 23-402 Maps 4) Table 23-405 Correspondence of Zoning Districts to Comprehensive Plan Land Uses 5) Section 23-802 Definitions RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends approval of Ordinance 2025-17. At a special meeting on May 1, 2025, The Planning Board recommended approval of the Chapter 23, Land Development Regulations, code amendments. Staff recommends the following: 1) Approve the amendments and creation of the Arts, Culture, and Entertainment District within Chapter 5. 2) Approve the amendments to Chapter 18 associated with the creation of the Arts, Culture, and Entertainment District. 3) Approve the amendments to Chapter 23 of the Land Development Regulations associated with the creation of the Arts, Culture, and Entertainment District. BACKGROUND City of Lake Wales management expressed an interest in economic development for the city and specifically in the downtown area through the Economic Development Element of the Comprehensive Plan and Lake Wales Envisioned plan. While these plans focus on attracting businesses to Lake Wales, the City should also consider programs to retain them. Additionally, there is a desire by the city and its residents to create a vibrant downtown that is walkable and pedestrian friendly to encourage residents and visitors to visit more than one local business during their visit. The vitality of a downtown is directly tied to its walkability and pedestrian activities. Cities around the state have elected to complement their economic development activities by creating social or entertainment districts. Social Districts allow visitors to enjoy an adult beverage while strolling downtown sidewalks and exploring the local storefronts. This encourages them to linger and spend more time in the downtown area. Increased time downtown equals increased window shopping, which results in an increase in sales for local businesses. Planning Staff was directed to evaluate and provide recommendations to the City Commission encourages them to linger and spend more time in the downtown area. Increased time downtown equals increased window shopping, which results in an increase in sales for local businesses. Planning Staff was directed to evaluate and provide recommendations to the City Commission regarding the opportunity to establish such a district in the downtown area. The provisions for the proposed Arts, Culture, and Entertainment (ACE) District will be considered in the Code of Ordinance under Chapter 5, Alcoholic Beverages. However, when evaluating the City’s codes other sections were identified for modifications in order to support the ACE District. District Policies Article II of Chapter 5 was created to establish the district purpose and boundaries. The chapter also creates the policies for outside consumption in the district, registered establishments, and violations. The district boundaries are generally recommended to follow the D-MU zoning district. The goals for the D-MU align well with the objectives of the ACE District and can serve as a testing area. The district proposes containers approved by the City and signage clearly delineating the boundaries. Registered establishments that could allow the sale of alcoholic beverages for outside consumption would also have signage and guidance for customers regarding the district guidelines. There are City-owned areas within the proposed district. An exemption for the ACE District was added to the list of exemptions in Section 18-82 prohibited acts in city parks and facilities, and Section 18-87 Alcoholic beverages. However, the exemptions do not extend to the Community Centers or any facilities outside of the ACE District. Definitions Definitions in Chapter 5 and Chapter 23 were updated to conform with the definitions in Florida Statutes. The bulk of the definitions are in Chapter 5 to several chapters. Chapter 23 Zoning, Land Use and Development Regulations often refer to Chapter 5 Alcoholic Beverages for guidance and clarification regarding the definitions and regulations of alcoholic beverages. Changes in 23-342, Alcoholic beverage sales and service and Section 23-802, Definitions primarily update terms that are needed to support concepts specified in Chapter 23. Service Areas Sections 23-342, Alcoholic beverage sales and service, Section 23-353 Outdoor Seating Areas, and Section 23-402 Maps have been updated to reflect the possible creation of the proposed Arts, Culture, and Entertainment (ACE) District. The proposed ACE District would follow the same provisions as the Downtown Historic District regarding alcoholic sales and services and outdoor seating areas. Additionally, all applications for bars would be treated in the same manner by requiring approval through a special exception process in the Downtown Historic District and the ACE District. This change is also shown in Table 23-405 Correspondence of Zoning Districts to Comprehensive Plan Land Uses. Partners Growth Management staff and the project manager worked with and obtained feedback from other City Departments regarding the proposed changes. Additionally, the changes are anticipated to support community events hosted by the Lake Wales Arts Council, Lake Wales Main Street, the Lake Wales Area Chamber of Commerce & EDC, and private businesses in the downtown. Other options The City Commission has options when determining the policies for the district including the district boundaries, hours, or other polices. Additionally, if the City Commission decides not to establish the ACE District at this time, the Commission could still consider the amendments to update definitions and changes to Section 23-342 Alcoholic Beverage Sales and Services to allow for a more equitable evaluation and permitting of businesses requesting to serve alcoholic beverages. decides not to establish the ACE District at this time, the Commission could still consider the amendments to update definitions and changes to Section 23-342 Alcoholic Beverage Sales and Services to allow for a more equitable evaluation and permitting of businesses requesting to serve alcoholic beverages. FISCAL IMPACT Minimal – there will be some costs associated with the development of district branding, notices, and signage. [End Agenda Memo] Jennifer Nanek, City Clerk read ORDINANCE 2025-17 by title only. ORDINANCE 2025-17 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAKE WALES, POLK COUNTY, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 23, ZONING, LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, AMENDING SECTION 23-342 ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE, SALES AND SERVICES, SECTION 23-353 OUTDOOR SEATING AREAS, SECTION 23-402 MAPS, SECTION 23-405 CORRESPONDENCE OF ZONING DISTRICTS TO COMPREHENSIVE PLAN LAND USES, SECTION 23-802 DEFINITIONS; AND AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES CHAPTER 5, ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, CREATING ARTICLE I. - IN GENERAL, AMENDING SECTION 5-1 APPLICABILITY, SECTION 5-2 DEFINITIONS, SECTION 5-4 CONSUMING ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES AND POSSESSING AN OPEN CONTAINER IN PUBLIC AREAS, SECTION 5-5 CONSUMPTIONS, SALE AND SERVICE OF ALCOHOL BEVERAGES WITHIN 500 FEET OF A CHURCH OR SCHOOL PROHIBITED; AND AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES CHAPTER 18 STREETS, SIDEWALKS AND OTHER PUBLIC PLACES AMENDING SECTION 18-82 PROHIBITED ACTS IN CITY PARKS AND FACILITIES, SECTION 18-87 ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. OPENED PUBLIC HEARING Dolores Vogel, Business owner representing Main Street, expressed support for the Ordinance. Becky Wynkoop, resident, asked that all of Orange and Central be included. CLOSED PUBLIC HEARING Autumn Cochella, Growth Management, reviewed the proposed map and said it can be modified as needed in the future. Commissioner Gillespie stated her belief that while the city wants a lively downtown, she doesn't believe that necessarily requires the promotion of public alcohol consumption. She is not in favor of creating a district that encourages the use of alcohol in public spaces. She clarified that she is not opposed to alcohol in private settings, but she personally is against establishing a district for public drinking. Commissioner Thompson stated his support for the ACE District, believing it is the right step for downtown's continued success. He found it inconsistent to allow public drinking during special events but to oppose it in the day-to-day use of public spaces. He argued that while downtown can be enjoyed without alcohol, he hasn't seen this approach be successful or sustainable in his travels. He framed his "yes" vote as a matter of personal freedom and responsibility, stating he trusts the people of Lake Wales to make responsible choices. He connected this belief to his broader philosophy as an elected official, which is to protect individual rights, including the right of people to choose how they enjoy a beverage. He dismissed the argument of public intoxication as a "red herring," citing existing laws against both underage drinking and public drunkenness, and expressed confidence that  without alcohol, he hasn't seen this approach be successful or sustainable in his travels. He framed his "yes" vote as a matter of personal freedom and responsibility, stating he trusts the people of Lake Wales to make responsible choices. He connected this belief to his broader philosophy as an elected official, which is to protect individual rights, including the right of people to choose how they enjoy a beverage. He dismissed the argument of public intoxication as a "red herring," citing existing laws against both underage drinking and public drunkenness, and expressed confidence that the Lake Wales Police Department would handle any irresponsible behavior. Deputy Mayor Gibson, drawing on his extensive experience in downtown Lake Wales dating back to 1973, spoke in favor of the Ordinance. He recalled his time as chairman of the downtown development commission and his personal investment in renovating five buildings, underscoring his belief that downtown is the heart of the community. He pushed back against the idea that allowing alcohol in the district would automatically lead to public drunkenness or harm to children. Citing his decades of experience with downtown events, he stated he could not recall a single incident of public drunkenness. He used the city's Mardi Gras event as an example, explaining that while the New Orleans version is associated with public inebriation, Lake Wales successfully transformed it into a family-friendly, beneficial event. He argued this demonstrates that the people of Lake Wales are not the kind to engage in such behavior. Deputy Mayor Gibson concluded by stating that an entertainment district would benefit the community by giving people the freedom to enjoy themselves, with existing "guardrails" and a police force ready to address any potential issues. He affirmed his belief that the district would be beneficial to both downtown and the community as a whole. Commissioner Williams expressed concern about the potential negative consequences of the ACE District. He noted that the district would attract visitors from outside Lake Wales, and while he's not suggesting it would lead to widespread public drunkenness, he believes that "giving permission" for public drinking increases the possibility of a negative incident. He focused on the serious potential of a tragedy, stating that it only takes "one incident" of someone leaving the district not in a "sound mind" due to alcohol to harm or kill a child. For this reason, he said he could not support the district. Mayor Hilligoss stated that while he holds strong personal convictions about alcohol, he recognizes the importance of separating them from his civic duty. To address his concerns, he spoke with several local pastors and the police chief. The City Manager also met with the pastors to discuss their concerns, which helped calm some of the mayor's own apprehension. He noted that the ordinance can be amended if it doesn't serve its purpose or if it leads to unintended negative consequences. Although he shares some apprehension, he believes it is not right to make decisions based on fear. As he agrees with the district's stated purpose, he is inclined to vote for it. Commissioner Thompson made a motion to approve ORDINANCE 2025-17 after 1st Reading and Public Hearing. Deputy Mayor Gibson seconded the motion. by roll call vote: Commissioner Thompson "YES" Deputy Mayor Gibson "YES" Commissioner Gillespie "NO" Commissioner Williams "NO" Mayor Hilligoss "YES" Motion passed 3-2. 9.III. ORDINANCE 2025-19 For County Road Transfer Agreement – Conner Road – First Reading [Begin Agenda Memo]  Motion passed 3-2. 9.III. ORDINANCE 2025-19 For County Road Transfer Agreement – Conner Road – First Reading [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: The City Commission will review a Road Transfer Agreement to accept Conner Road from the County via adopting the accompanying Ordinance. RECOMMENDATION The City Commission should approve Ordinance 2025-19 after 1st reading and authorize the Mayor to execute the Agreements, which are exhibit A of the Ordinances. BACKGROUND Shelton Rice, attorney for Lake Wales Property Holdings, LLC, has requested that the city accept transfer of Conner Road, a Polk County road. The current road bifurcates a residential pod for BTI (WH Corp) and will be relocated consistent with staff discussion and exhibits provided. Residents beyond Conner Road will not be deprived of legal access to their property. OTHER OPTIONS Decline to accept the road transfer. FISCAL IMPACT Ongoing operations and maintenance costs. [End Agenda Memo] Jennifer Nanek, City Clerk, read ORDINANCE 2025-19 by title only. ORDINANCE 2025-19 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAKE WALES, POLK COUNTY, FLORIDA, PROVIDING FOR THE TRANSFER OF A PUBLIC COUNTY ROAD, CONNER ROAD, FROM MOUNTAIN LAKE CUTOFF ROAD TO DEAD END NORTH, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO THOSE PARTS OF THE RIGHTS-OF-WAYS FOR CONNER ROAD THAT LIES WITHIN THE ABOVE- DESCRIBED CORRIDOR AS SHOWN ON “ATTACHMENT A” AND SPECIFICALLY DESCRIBED HEREIN; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Commissioner Gillespie expressed caution, urging the city to "be real careful" with the transfer. She emphasized the importance of safety and proper maintenance, particularly to prevent issues like culvert failures and property flooding, which would be little comfort to residents after the fact. She stressed that Public Works should keep this in mind. Commissioner Thompson, in contrast, saw the transfer as an opportunity. He expressed hope that with the road under city control, staff would be able to react "a whole lot faster" to issues. He also hoped that the city would be given the chance to "make it better" and "do so that we can make sure that it doesn't fail and that houses don't flood," viewing the transfer as a chance for the city to proactively improve the road. Deputy Mayor Gibson made a motion to approve ORDINANCE 2025-19 after 1st Reading. Commissioner Williams seconded the motion. by roll call vote: Deputy Mayor Gibson "YES"  Commissioner Williams seconded the motion. by roll call vote: Deputy Mayor Gibson "YES" Commissioner Williams "YES" Commissioner Gillespie "YES" Commissioner Thompson "YES" Mayor Hilligoss "YES" Motion passed 5-0. 9.IV. Resolution 2025-13 – Local Mitigation Strategy - Hazard Mitigation Grant Applications [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: The city has been an active participant in the Polk County Local Mitigation Strategy, which allows the city to be eligible for certain funding from Florida Department of Emergency Management. RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution 2025-13 which will authorize staff to submit the grant application(s) to FDEM and authorize execution of any documents related to the applications. BACKGROUND: The City staff had submitted four drainage projects to the LMS project list. Three of those projects are included on the Polk County LMS project list. This allows the city to submit applications to FDEM for consideration of project funding with Hurricane Milton Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP). The city will also get a letter of support from the County related to submission of the applications. The drainage projects are listed in the 2024 update to the Watershed Management Plan completed by Kimley-Horn. The attached documents are the application the city used to put the projects on the Polk LMS project list. The data will now have to be entered in to the online FDEM portal and an application will need to be signed. The deadline to submit is July 25th. FISCAL IMPACT 1. Lakeshore Drainage Federal Share: 433,558 Local Share: 107,900 Total Funding: 541,548 2. Johnson Ave & 3rd St. Drainage Improvements Federal Share: 114,714 Local Share: 38,238 Total Funding: 152,952 1. Lake Wailes Water Quality improvements (proposed storage) Federal Share: 1,608,716 Local Share: 536,239  1. Lake Wailes Water Quality improvements (proposed storage) Federal Share: 1,608,716 Local Share: 536,239 Total Funding: 2,144,955 [End Agenda Memo] Commissioner Williams made a motion to adopt RESOLUTION 2025-13. Commissioner Gillespie seconded the motion. by roll call vote: Commissioner Williams "YES" Commissioner Gillespie "YES" Commissioner Thompson "YES" Deputy Mayor Gibson "YES" Mayor Hilligoss "YES" Motion passed 5-0. 10. CITY ATTORNEY Albert Galloway, Jr., City Attorney, gave an update on recent state legislation. 11. CITY MANAGER James Slaton, City Manager, thanked the Troutman family and Lake Wales Heritage for their coordination with the city in installing a large oak tree in Oakley Park. He also provided a recreation update, noting that as of today, the recreation staff has vending machines with pickleball rackets and cornhole boards available for use. 11.I. Commission Meeting Calendar James Slaton, City Manager, said there was no meeting for 2 weeks. 12. CITY COMMISSION COMMENTS Commissioner Gillespie began by reminding everyone about the backpack giveaway event on Saturday from 9 AM to 12 PM. She then returned to the topic of the ACE District, stating her belief that public drinking will inevitably lead to negative incidents. She urged people to be vigilant and record any such occasions, as it makes public areas "a lot less pleasant" for non-drinkers. Commissioner Williams requested more information from staff regarding the discussion about duplexes and triplexes. He also commented on the issue of granting variances to developers, stating his trust in staff to recommend them only when it is in the city's "best interest." Commissioner Thompson defended the city's citizens, suggesting that Lake Wales might be a "strange place" with responsible people. He expressed hope that Lake Wales will become a destination and that anything the city can do to encourage this is worthwhile, even if there is some associated risk. He stated his confidence in law enforcement's ability to handle any potential problems. He also encouraged attendance at the backpack giveaway and expressed his gratitude for the upcoming week off from city meetings.  Commissioner Thompson defended the city's citizens, suggesting that Lake Wales might be a "strange place" with responsible people. He expressed hope that Lake Wales will become a destination and that anything the city can do to encourage this is worthwhile, even if there is some associated risk. He stated his confidence in law enforcement's ability to handle any potential problems. He also encouraged attendance at the backpack giveaway and expressed his gratitude for the upcoming week off from city meetings. Deputy Mayor Gibson addressed a local political controversy surrounding the organization BizLinc, clarifying a false online statement that he had personally contributed $50,000 to the group. He explained that the actual contribution was $9,550 and it came from the Robin and Jean Gibson fund, a charitable fund established in 1998. This fund can only contribute to 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations or their equivalent, and it cannot donate to for-profit businesses. Therefore, the money was donated to the city's Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), not BizLinc. The CRA then used the funds to pay an architect to design a business front for a building on Lincoln Avenue, a project Gibson supported to improve the aesthetics of the Northwest section of the city. He also mentioned that his motivation had nothing to do with whether BizLinc was a for-profit or non-profit entity. Deputy Mayor Gibson also clarified a source of the confusion: the city attorney mistakenly used language from a non-profit document (the Keystone Challenge Fund) in a document related to BizLinc. He commended the city attorney for taking ownership of this error, which had contributed to the controversy over the organization's status as a non-profit. He stated that the central issue that needs to be addressed is the "adequacy" and proper use of the CRA's public funds. He praised City Manager James Slaton for deciding to "pull this back" and conduct a thorough review of the facts. Gibson emphasized the importance of finding the "ultimate facts" to make a decision that is in the best interest of the city's residents, as the commission has a fiduciary duty to manage public money responsibly. He concluded by acknowledging that all the people involved in the debate are "good people" who have the city's best interests at heart, with the exception of one partner who was arrested, adding a criminal element to the saga. 13. MAYOR COMMENTS Mayor Hilligoss addressed the City Attorney, expressing his complete confidence in his motivations regarding the miscommunication. He noted that the CRA board and the commission must base their decisions on "accurate information" to determine "what's best for Lake Wales." He emphasized the importance of taking the necessary time to ensure all information is correct and expressed his hope that the public would also understand the need for a thorough and deliberate process. 14. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 7:16 p.m. _______________________ Mayor ATTEST: _______________________ City Clerk City Clerk