City Commission Regular Meeting

City Commission Meeting Minutes August 5, 2025 (APPROVED) 8/5/2025 - Minutes 1. INVOCATION Commissioner Williams 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 - Water Professionals Month Mayor Hilligoss proclaimed August as Water Professionals Month. Holly Britt and Jose Perez from the Water Department accepted the proclamation. 5.II. AWARD - Small Public Water System Of The Year From Florida Rural Water Association Mayor Hilligoss presented the Florida Water Rural Association Small Public Water System of the Year Award to the Water department. Holly Britt and Jose Perez from the Water Department accepted the proclamation. 6. PRESENTATION/REPORT 6.I. Presentation - Superintendent, Lake Wales Charter Schools Julie Conrad-Peters, new Superintendent of Lake Wales Charter Schools, introduced herself. There was discussion on the importance of education in Lake Wales. 7. COMMENTS AND PETITIONS Edo Rousse Charif, resident, requested a change in zoning in an are in the northwest are from C1 to Cr2 which allows residential and commercial. Charlene Bennett, resident, asked to allow dialogue between Commissioners and citizens during comments and petitions. Danny Krueger, resident, spoke against recent articles on the Lake Wales news site on FDC and said they are misleading.  which allows residential and commercial. Charlene Bennett, resident, asked to allow dialogue between Commissioners and citizens during comments and petitions. Danny Krueger, resident, spoke against recent articles on the Lake Wales news site on FDC and said they are misleading. 8. CONSENT AGENDA Commissioner Thompson made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda. Commissioner Williams seconded the motion. by voice vote: Commissioner Thompson "YES" Commissioner Williams "YES" Commissioner Gillespie "YES" Deputy Mayor Gibson "YES" Mayor Hilligoss "YES" Motion approved 5-0. 8.I. Minutes - July 15 & 30 8.II. Edward Byrne Memorial State And Local Law Enforcement Assistance Grants [Begin Agenda Memo] Synopsis: Approval of this item will allow the police department to receive grant funding and purchase protective equipment with JAG-C funds. Recommendation: Staff recommends that the Honorable Mayor and the City Commission authorize the Police Department to accept funding through the JAG-D Edward Byrne Memorial State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance Grants and purchase protective equipment. Background: Since 1999, the Police Department has received funding from the Edward Byrne Memorial State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance Grant Program. Since that time, the department has utilized this funding to create numerous community programs as well as purchase needed equipment to enhance public safety. This year, the Edward Byrne Memorial State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance Grant award amount for the JAG-C is $17,920.00. If approved, the department will purchase sixteen (16) ballistic shields to help protect law enforcement officers during high-risk situations that involve active shooters, armed suspects and other dangerous encounters requiring immediate tactical response. This equipment is crucial during high-risk operations such as warrant services, barricaded subjects and active assailant incidents. Addressing this equipment need through grant funding will enhance our department’s capacity to respond swiftly and safely to violent encounters, potentially saving lives while maintaining law and order within our community. Matching funds are not required for this grant and the revenue will cover the entire amount of the proposed purchase. If approved, the department will purchase the ballistic shields from Automotive Armor Manufacturing, Inc. through the competitive bid process  subjects and active assailant incidents. Addressing this equipment need through grant funding will enhance our department’s capacity to respond swiftly and safely to violent encounters, potentially saving lives while maintaining law and order within our community. Matching funds are not required for this grant and the revenue will cover the entire amount of the proposed purchase. If approved, the department will purchase the ballistic shields from Automotive Armor Manufacturing, Inc. through the competitive bid process Other Options: The Commission may choose not to authorize the department to accept the Edward Byrne Memorial State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance Grant or purchase this equipment. Fiscal Impacts: The Finance Department has reviewed this application. This will require a future budget amendment in the amount of $17,920.00. [End Agenda Memo] 8.III. Event Permit Application: Pancake Breakfast On September 20, 2025 [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS This is a request from the Rotary on the Ridge to host a pancake breakfast at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center on Saturday September 20, 2025. The event will include alcohol. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends 1. That the City Commission approve the permit request to hold the Pancake Breakfast events sponsored by Rotary on the Ridge on Saturday September 20 from 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 2. That the City Commission approve the serving of alcohol during the event. BACKGROUND The Rotary on the Ridge has submitted an application to host a pancake breakfast at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center on Saturday September 28, 2025 from 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. The event will include alcohol and will require for two off-duty officers. OTHER OPTIONS Do not approve the Special Event Permit. FISCAL IMPACT None. Costs will be 100% covered by Rotary on the Ridge. [End Agenda Memo] 8.IV. The Transfer Of Ownership Of One Parcel From The City Of Lake Wales To The Lake Wales Community Redevelopment Agency. [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: The purpose of this request is to obtain approval to transfer ownership of a city owned property located at 206 C Street. Parcel: 27-29-35-879000-003110 to the CRA. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended the City Commission consider the following action(s) 1. The City Commission authorize the donation of parcel 27-29-35-879000-003110 to the Community Redevelopment Agency for the purpose of redevelopment. BACKGROUND The City recently acquired property from the County at 206 C Street, this is located within the North West CRA area and is in a prime location for redevelopment. The  1. The City Commission authorize the donation of parcel 27-29-35-879000-003110 to the Community Redevelopment Agency for the purpose of redevelopment. BACKGROUND The City recently acquired property from the County at 206 C Street, this is located within the North West CRA area and is in a prime location for redevelopment. The overall goal for Lincoln Ave. during and after the streetscape improvements, is to activate commercial development in the area. FISCAL IMPACT None OTHER OPTIONS Not accept staff recommendation. [End Agenda Memo] 9. OLD BUSINESS 9.I. ORDINANCE 2025-17 Proposed Amendments To Land Development Regulations – Arts, Culture, And Entertainment District (ACE District) 2nd 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. Ordinance 2025-17 was approved by City Commission at 1st reading on July 15, 2025. 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 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. Cites 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 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 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. 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. 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 CLOSED PUBLIC HEARING Commissioner Gillespie questioned the proposed name, "Arts, Culture and Entertainment District," stating that she felt it was a euphemism. She contended that the ordinance's primary purpose was simply to expand the area for alcohol sales and consumption, and that the chosen name seemed to conceal this true intent. She expressed her preference for a more accurate, less misleading title that directly reflects the amendment's function.  Commissioner Gillespie questioned the proposed name, "Arts, Culture and Entertainment District," stating that she felt it was a euphemism. She contended that the ordinance's primary purpose was simply to expand the area for alcohol sales and consumption, and that the chosen name seemed to conceal this true intent. She expressed her preference for a more accurate, less misleading title that directly reflects the amendment's function. Deputy Mayor Gibson made a motion to adopt ORDINANCE 2025-17 after 2nd reading and Public Hearing. Commissioner Thompson seconded the motion. by roll call vote: Deputy Mayor Gibson "YES" Commissioner Thompson "YES" Commissioner Gillespie "NO" Commissioner Williams "NO" Mayor Hilligoss "YES" Motion passed 3-2. 9.II. ORDINANCE 2025-19 Second Reading Ordinance For County Road Transfer Agreement – Conner Road – Request To Table Mayor Hilligoss said staff has requested to table this item Commissioner Thompson made a motion to table the motion. Commissioner Williams seconded the motion. by voice vote: Commissioner Thompson "YES" Commissioner Williams "YES" Commissioner Gillespie "YES" Deputy Mayor Gibson "YES" Mayor Hilligoss "YES" Motion approved 5-0. This item was tabled. 10. NEW BUSINESS 10.I. RESOLUTION 2025-14, Airport Improvement Program Grant Agreement 3-12-0040-036-2025 [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: The City Commission will consider adopting Resolution 2025-14, authorizing an agreement with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to provide funding for Lake Wales Airport Wildlife Hazard Management Plan. [Begin Agenda Memo] SYNOPSIS: The City Commission will consider adopting Resolution 2025-14, authorizing an agreement with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to provide funding for Lake Wales Airport Wildlife Hazard Management Plan. RECOMMENDATION 1. Approve Resolution 2025-14, authorizing the execution of Airport Improvement Program Grant Agreement 3-12-0040-036-2025 by the Mayor with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for funding in the amount of $46,265 BACKGROUND The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has award an Airport Improvement Grant for 95% of the project cost. This project is to create a Wildlife Hazard Management Plan for the Lake Wales Municipal Airport. A Wildlife Hazard Assessment was completed in 2023 that outlined potential risks posed by wildlife to aircraft operations. This Wildlife Hazard Management Plan is a document that outlines strategies to minimize the risks associated with wildlife encounters. It is a proactive approach to managing wildlife populations and their behavior to enhance aviation safety, reduce wildlife strikes, and comply with regulations of the FAA. OTHER OPTIONS Do not approve the agreement with FAA FISCAL IMPACT This project is funded 95% by the FAA and 5% by the FDOT [End Agenda Memo] Jennifer Nanek, City Clerk, read RESOLUTION 2025-14 by title only. RESOLUTION 2025-14 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF LAKE WALES, POLK COUNTY, FLORIDA AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF AN AIRPORT IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM GRANT AGREEMENT FOR FUNDING FOR AIP GRANT NUMBER: 3-12-0040-036- 2025 (LAKE WALES AIRPORT WILDLIFE HAZARD MANAGEMENT PLAN) WITH THE FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION TO ALLOW THEIR PARTICIPATION IN AN AVIATION PROJECT AT THE LAKE WALES MUNICIPAL AIRPORT. Deputy Mayor Gibson made a motion to adopt RESOLUTION 2025-14. Commissioner Thompson seconded the motion. by roll call vote: Deputy Mayor Gibson "YES" Commissioner Thompson "YES" Commissioner Gillespie "YES" Commissioner Williams "YES" Mayor Hilligoss "YES"  Commissioner Gillespie "YES" Commissioner Williams "YES" Mayor Hilligoss "YES" Motion passed 5-0. 11. CITY ATTORNEY Albert Galloway, Jr., City Attorney, informed the commission that a lawsuit has been proposed by a group to challenge the constitutionality of Florida Senate Bill 180. The group is asking ten communities to contribute to the effort, with an initial deposit of $10,000. He noted that the prepared resolution is well- drafted and that larger communities will likely be the first to participate, which may negate the need for smaller communities to get involved due to the cost. He concluded by offering to prepare a resolution for the commission's consideration if they wished to move forward with a financial contribution. 12. CITY MANAGER James Slaton, City Manager, reported a major milestone in the redevelopment of the Walesbilt Hotel. The Request for Qualifications (RFQ) period has closed, and the city received four responses from interested firms. A ranking committee is now vetting these firms and will send out notifications this Friday to those who have been pre-qualified to advance in the process. 12.I. Commission Meeting Calendar 13. CITY COMMISSION COMMENTS Commissioner Gillespie congratulated the Lake Wales Water Department for receiving an award, noting that it shows they are doing a good job. She acknowledged resident concerns about water supply due to new development and praised the department's efforts. She then addressed a citizen, Mr. Charif, asking why he had not raised a zoning issue at a recent planning and zoning board meeting. After learning he was unaware of the meeting, she advised him to attend future planning and zoning meetings, as that is the appropriate venue to raise such points. Commissioner Williams congratulated the Water Department for their award, stating that it reassures him about the city's water supply concerns. He then advised Mr. Charif to contact the City Manager directly to discuss his zoning issue. Finally, he suggested that the commission consider revisiting the policy that prohibits citizens from speaking directly to city commissioners, believing that the relationship between the two groups has improved and is now more collaborative. Commissioner Thompson congratulated the Water Department for their award, emphasizing that a well- managed system is crucial for the city's future. He praised the department's use of technology to mitigate water loss and reassured the public that Lake Wales is not in danger of running out of water. He expressed his excitement about the new superintendent and the future of the water system. He also commented on the redevelopment of the Walesbilt Hotel, noting that he is eager to see what the four applicants propose. He believes that the city only needs "the right one" to come along to make the hotel vibrant again. Regarding the discussion about allowing citizens to speak directly to the commission, Commissioner Thompson voiced concerns about the time constraints of meetings, suggesting that it might not be the most effective venue for detailed questions. He believes that other committees, like the planning and zoning board, are better suited for addressing these issues. He concluded by expressing his excitement to be a citizen and commissioner in Lake Wales, acknowledging the challenges but also the collaborative spirit of the current commission and leadership. Deputy Mayor Gibson stated that he has submitted a proposal to the City Manager and the city clerk regarding ways to promote clean campaigns following controversial practices in the last election. He promised that everyone would be notified once it is on the agenda and that he would explain the thought process behind it.  Deputy Mayor Gibson stated that he has submitted a proposal to the City Manager and the city clerk regarding ways to promote clean campaigns following controversial practices in the last election. He promised that everyone would be notified once it is on the agenda and that he would explain the thought process behind it. He also expressed his skepticism about the idea of a "give and take" session between the commission and the public. He believes the primary purpose of public speakers is to state a position or make a suggestion for the commission to consider. He has witnessed a history of speakers using the time to argue rather than to provide constructive input. He also pointed out that it is inappropriate for a speaker to ask a question of the five-member commission and expect a single answer, as no single commissioner can speak for the entire body. He concluded by emphasizing that the current system, where the administration researches issues brought up by the public and presents them to the commission for a decision, is the proper and most effective procedure for the city to function well. 14. MAYOR COMMENTS Mayor Hilligoss noted that the city has received many awards in recent years, which he attributes to good leadership. He expressed his excitement about the four highly qualified firms that responded to the Walesbilt Hotel redevelopment RFQ, and is confident that the project will get done and restore the hotel to its place as a central part of a vibrant downtown. He also stated the need for the city to work with property owners to ensure that buildings are not left vacant and neglected. He concluded the meeting by expressing his pride in the direction of downtown and looking forward to the future of the city. 15. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 6:50 p.m. _______________________ Mayor ATTEST: _______________________ City Clerk