City Commission Workshop Meeting

Commission Workshop Minutes July 9, 2025 (APPROVED) 7/9/2025 - Minutes 1. CALL TO ORDER & ROLL CALL Commission Members Present: Deputy Mayor Gibson, Daniel Williams, Keith Thompson, Carol Gillespie Commission Member Absent: Mayor Jack Hilligoss Staff Present: James Slaton, City Manager; Jennifer Nanek, City Clerk; Albert C. Galloway, Jr., City Attorney, In absence of the Mayor, Deputy Mayor Gibson called the meeting to order at approximately 2:00 p.m. 2. City Manager Comments Deputy Mayor Gibson reflected on yesterday's CRA meeting, which he found initially "puzzling" and "disjointed" due to the difficult issues, aspirations, and shortcomings discussed. However, upon reflection, he concluded that the meeting actually went "pretty doggone well." He noted that the City Manager, representing the administration, effectively sought guidance from the commission. Deputy Mayor Gibson said that he viewed this as a positive and proper function of the administration's role: to take ultimate responsibility for administrative tasks, gather information, offer options, make recommendations, and present matters clearly for informed decision-making. He acknowledged that the commission itself was initially "stumbling around" without prior preparation, thinking out loud. As the presiding officer, he initially worried they weren't performing well. His final point was that the citizens who made comments did a "good job" because their feedback was substantive and issue-based, not personal. This helped clarify the respective roles of the administration (to act on the issues) and the commission (as ultimate decision-makers needing all the help they can get). He felt the stage is now set for future decisions. He ultimately believed that everyone involved, despite the spontaneity and lack of guarded comments, performed their roles "very well," staying in their respective lanes. He asked the City Manager if he felt he received the guidance needed, concluding that the commission gave "all we had to give," and that the honest, on-point, and spontaneous discussion was "excellent." James Slaton, City Manager, said he got what he needed. Deputy Mayor Gibson also commended the commenters who were not present at the current work session. He then yielded the floor to the City Manager to continue with the work session agenda. James Slaton, City Manager, informed the Commission that an urgent item, not initially scheduled for the work session, will be added to next week's Commission agenda. This time-sensitive matter involves applying for new hazard mitigation grants, for which the application deadline is before the subsequent Commission meeting. Therefore, a resolution will be presented to the Commission next Tuesday, requesting authorization to apply for these grants. 3. Certification Of 2025 Taxable Value, Interim Millage & FY25’26 Budget Hearing Dates [Begin Agenda Memo]  applying for new hazard mitigation grants, for which the application deadline is before the subsequent Commission meeting. Therefore, a resolution will be presented to the Commission next Tuesday, requesting authorization to apply for these grants. 3. 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 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 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 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] Dorothy Abbott, Finance Director, reviewed this item. Deputy Mayor Gibson reflected on the previous year, acknowledging that despite challenges, staff successfully maintained the rollback rate and achieved financial stability with healthy reserves. He noted,  [End Agenda Memo] Dorothy Abbott, Finance Director, reviewed this item. Deputy Mayor Gibson reflected on the previous year, acknowledging that despite challenges, staff successfully maintained the rollback rate and achieved financial stability with healthy reserves. He noted, however, that this merely postponed the current difficulties, and the commission had anticipated a challenging year for the budget, making the current news unsurprising. Commissioner Williams expressed agreement, stating that the proposed actions are expected and city staff has done a good job. Commissioner Gillespie echoed this sentiment, praising staff's work and recommending no changes to the proposal. Commissioner Thompson emphasized the historical good fortune of Lake Wales, which has navigated tough times without the economic development needed to expand services. He highlighted that the city is now in an "interesting historical time" with many positive developments on the horizon. He addressed citizens directly, asking them to understand that while taxes may increase, it's historically "the right thing to do" after years of maintaining a rollback rate and managing the budget responsibly. He believes the increased revenue will lead to improved quality of life as the city grows smartly and responsibly, concluding that staff has done a great job. Deputy Mayor Gibson added that the previous period of level demand and rolled back rates saw a remarkable increase in productivity. He noted that many grants obtained during that time will mature, coinciding with the necessary millage increase, which will significantly help. He expressed confidence that the combination of the millage increase and grants will maintain the city's upward trajectory in productivity, reinforcing its reputation as a productive city "on a roll." He finds the upcoming projects remarkable, stating he hasn't seen anything like it in his 56 years in the city, and thanked staff for delivering the "difficult news." Commissioner Gillespie sought clarification on the terminology "rolled back rate" and "interim rate." Dorothy Abbott, the Finance Director, explained that the rolled-back rate is the property tax rate a city would need to set in the current year to collect the exact same dollar amount of tax revenue as it did in the previous year. Because property values generally increase, the rolled-back rate is typically lower than the previous year's actual rate to achieve this "revenue neutral" collection. If a municipality chooses to keep its millage rate the same as the prior year, it is considered a tax increase because the increased property values will result in more collected revenue. State law requires that when setting the interim and final millage rates, the rolled-back rate must be stated, along with the percentage by which the proposed rate exceeds it. James Slaton, City Manager, added historical context, noting that over the past 12 years, the City of Lake Wales has adopted either the rolled-back rate or a flat millage decrease nine times. This means the city has largely maintained the same amount of revenue while the cost of operations has consistently increased. Deputy Mayor Gibson emphasized the significance of this, particularly concerning the CRA. He reiterated that while the rolled-back rate aims for the "same amount of dollars" in revenue for the city, the value of citizens' primary investment – their property – has been increasing during this period. He concluded that this increase in property value, even with a stable tax collection amount, is a "big deal" for citizens. 4. 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.  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] Sara Irvine, Special Projects Administrator, reviewed this item. Deputy Mayor Gibson said that this comes from the Utilities budget. Ms. Irvine confirmed this. 5. 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] Sara Irvine, Special Projects Administrator, reviewed this item. Deputy Mayor Gibson said this road meanders to get around a little pothole lakes and things like that? Ms. Irvine confirmed this. She said this Ordinance will transfer that to the city. Commissioner Gillespie asked if there was any expense. Ms. Irvine said no. 6. 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  [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. FISCAL IMPACT This project is fully funded by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) [End Agenda Memo] Amanda Lomneck, Airport Director, reviewed this item. Deputy Mayor Gibson said we like these. There was discussion about the differences in the bids. 7. 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: 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 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. 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] James Slaton, City Manager, reviewed this item. Autumn Cochella, Growth Management, reviewed this item. Ms. Cochella shared a slide of the proposed map. Deputy Mayor Gibson considered the long-term implications, particularly for Orange Avenue, a street slated for improvement. He saw the benefit of confining the district initially to ensure compatibility and enhance the area, with the assumption that it could be expanded later, even beyond the tenure of current commission members. Commissioner Thompson expressed philosophical support but relayed a citizen's question about the distinction between consuming alcohol purchased from restaurants/bars versus package liquor stores within the district. Autumn Cochella, representing staff, clarified that state law limits the city's ability to regulate alcohol sales beyond zoning. She explained that package liquor stores are licensed for "purchase and leave" sales, not "consumption on premises" (COP), so they would not be allowed to serve alcohol for immediate consumption within the district, even at the state level. Commissioner Thompson then asked about enforcement against someone drinking outside designated areas, to which Ms. Cochella stated it would be handled by the Police Department, similar to current enforcement. City Manager James Slaton added that the plan includes using readily identifiable, clear cups (yet to be designed) for drinks consumed within the district, making it easy to spot if someone is drinking outside the boundaries. He acknowledged Commissioner Thompson's call for increased police presence downtown. Mr. Slaton then addressed concerns about potential abuse, like people drinking from Yeti cups at events, and the fear of things getting "out of control." He emphasized that if the social district doesn't work, it can be stopped. He also noted that other Florida cities with similar social districts initially had the same fears, but these concerns largely "never came to fruition"; instead, many districts have been successful and even expanded. He explicitly stated, "We are not trying to turn downtown into Bourbon Street in New Orleans. We just want people to carry their drink to an event or to shop." Commissioner Gillespie expressed a significant concern that allowing open containers would lead to people "wandering around drinking and then getting in their cars" to drive home, resulting in a "huge increase in drunk driving accidents." Mr. Slaton pointed out that people "can already do that," implying that individuals already have the ability to drink and drive, and the social district itself doesn't fundamentally change that existing risk. Autumn Cochella clarified the existing regulations regarding bars in the downtown mixed-use (DMU) area. She explained that since 2022, the first three bars to open in the DMU were permitted "by right," while subsequent ones required a special exception use permit from the Planning and Zoning Board. She noted that despite this, the city currently has zero standalone bars, only restaurants with alcohol sales. Commissioner Thompson expressed philosophical support for the district, hoping it would encourage people to walk or bike downtown rather than drive. He believed the city wouldn't face issues with public intoxication, citing his experience at local events. Mr. Slaton confirmed that large events would still follow existing special event processes, but the social district would cover daily activities. He mentioned that Main Street already hosts "wine walks," indicating that the concept isn't entirely new to the area. to walk or bike downtown rather than drive. He believed the city wouldn't face issues with public intoxication, citing his experience at local events. Mr. Slaton confirmed that large events would still follow existing special event processes, but the social district would cover daily activities. He mentioned that Main Street already hosts "wine walks," indicating that the concept isn't entirely new to the area. Ms. Cochella then highlighted a significant proposed change in Ordinance 2025-17. The current ordinance (Chapter 23, Table 23-421) proposes that all bars in the downtown area, not just those after the first three, would require a special exception use permit. This means every bar application would go through the Planning and Zoning Board and include a public hearing. She asked the Commission if they wished to revert to the original "first three by right" policy or proceed with the proposed amendment requiring a special permit for all. Deputy Mayor Gibson suggested a compromise: the first three bars would be "presumed granted" but would still require city commission approval, with the commission retaining veto power. This would introduce an initial "caution" even for "by right" bars. Ms. Cochella explained the benefit of the existing special exception permit process, which includes clear parameters for review, public hearings for community input, and decisions based on findings of fact, preventing arbitrary denials. Deputy Mayor Gibson agreed that this process would demonstrate to the public that there are "cautions" in place and it's not a "pure right." Commissioner Thompson stated his preference for "the process we have now." Mr. Slaton sought to clarify if Commissioner Thompson meant the current system where the first three are by right, or the proposed change where all bars require a special exception permit. Both Commissioner Thompson and Deputy Mayor Gibson confirmed their agreement to the proposed change: all bars in the downtown area should go through the special exception use permit process. Commissioner Gillespie expressed strong concern, questioning whether people "need alcohol to socialize" and if the city was "turning to marijuana instead" by encouraging alcohol expansion. She found it strange to promote increased alcohol use, which she believes can lead to obnoxious, hostile, and destructive behavior. She saw little benefit in simply allowing people to walk around drinking instead of sitting in bars. Deputy Mayor Gibson countered, cautioning against immediately labeling someone who buys a drink as a "drunk." He emphasized that law enforcement has existing powers to manage public behavior, and he pointed to the success of Main Street's "wine walks" as evidence that public drunkenness hasn't been an issue, even though many attendees don't even drink. He argued that allowing drinking doesn't automatically lead to drunks, and if it does, law enforcement can handle it. Ms. Cochella then detailed how the ACE District would operate: l Signage would clearly delineate district boundaries. l Registered establishments, like restaurants, would opt-in and receive signage. l Patrons would use a city-designed and provided designated cup to take beverages outside from registered businesses. l This encourages people to walk around, sit in public spaces like Market Square, and enjoy their beverages, fostering a more pedestrian-friendly downtown. Commissioner Thompson advocated for the district, sharing a scenario about his wife having to "chug" her wine at a restaurant before an outdoor concert because she couldn't take it outside. He argued that the district is not about encouraging more drinking, but allowing people to enjoy a drink responsibly over a longer period while participating in downtown activities. He believes it enhances the overall evening experience and doesn't see it leading to widespread public drunkenness, noting that existing downtown events already manage alcohol consumption without major issues. Commissioner Gillespie distinguished the Wine Walk from the proposed district. She noted Wine Walks involve small samples of wine consumed in establishments, often with food, creating an enjoyable but controlled environment. She expressed concern that the ACE district, allowing hard liquor, could lead to "tipsy people" becoming "rowdy" and disturbing others at concerts, ultimately not enhancing downtown but filling it with "inebriated and misbehaving" individuals. She differentiated between beer/wine and hard liquor. Commissioner Thompson said that the type of alcohol isn't the sole determinant of inebriation; consumption levels and alcohol content matter. He felt the debate was misplaced, arguing the core issue is where people can enjoy a drink, not whether it leads to public drunkenness, which law enforcement already manages at  controlled environment. She expressed concern that the ACE district, allowing hard liquor, could lead to "tipsy people" becoming "rowdy" and disturbing others at concerts, ultimately not enhancing downtown but filling it with "inebriated and misbehaving" individuals. She differentiated between beer/wine and hard liquor. Commissioner Thompson said that the type of alcohol isn't the sole determinant of inebriation; consumption levels and alcohol content matter. He felt the debate was misplaced, arguing the core issue is where people can enjoy a drink, not whether it leads to public drunkenness, which law enforcement already manages at events. Chris Velasquez, Police Chief said that he believes people's behavior is influenced by their environment. If the social district is "managed properly" with the right "culture and control," he doesn't foresee it becoming a place for people to "get flat hammered." He acknowledged that if issues arise, the city can "change any of those [rules]" or "stop any of it." He stressed that businesses with alcohol licenses have "tremendous responsibility" and generally act responsibly. While past issues with restaurants turning into nightclubs have been managed, he doesn't anticipate the social district becoming a focus for "wild and crazy" behavior. Deputy Mayor Gibson sought assurance from Chief Velasquez that if someone, particularly an out-of- towner, abuses the system, the police are equipped to handle it. Chief Velasquez confirmed, "Absolutely." Commissioner Gillespie expressed a new concern about the presence of children. She worried that allowing people to openly drink around children at concerts or in public spaces sets a "very bad example" for families who might otherwise avoid alcohol at home, yet wish to attend downtown events with their children. She expressed concern that children would be exposed to "people who've been drinking during dinner and bring their drinks" into family-friendly environments. Deputy Mayor Gibson addressed Commissioner Gillespie's concerns about alcohol consumption and its impact on children, drawing a parallel to the Mardi Gras event in Lake Wales. He emphasized that the atmosphere of an event, and how it is managed, dictates public behavior. He noted that while New Orleans Mardi Gras has a reputation for heavy drinking, Lake Wales Mardi Gras is deliberately managed as a "family event," with a clear focus on families and children. This intentional atmosphere, he argued, leads people to behave accordingly, resulting in a "huge success" that benefits the community without public inebriation. He asserted that if the city wants a controlled environment, it can achieve it through monitoring and management. Gibson then linked the social district to the downtown design. He explained that downtown streets are designed with a 60% pedestrian and 40% vehicle split, encouraging people to walk and socialize. He believes the social district aligns perfectly with this design and the city's established character of community socialization. He commended the proposal, particularly its "arts" component, finding it consistent with Lake Wales' identity. Chief Velasquez clarified that the proposal isn't about "promoting and encouraging" everyone to drink, but rather "permitting and authorizing" the consumption of alcohol within specific parameters, with the understanding that individuals must still "behave and follow the law." Mr. Slaton asked Commissioner Williams for his opinion, to which Commissioner Williams stated, "It's a no for me." 8. 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  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] Autumn Cochella, Growth Management, reviewed this item. Commissioner Gillespie asked where this was. Ms. Cochella showed the location on a map. 9. 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. 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] Autumn Cochella, Growth Management, reviewed this item. 10. 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.  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 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] Jennifer Nanek, City Clerk, reviewed this item. 11. CITY COMMISSION AND MAYOR COMMENTS 12. ADJOURN The meeting was adjourned at 3:12 p.m. _____________________ Mayor ATTEST: ____________________ City Clerk