City Council Business Meeting

City Hall City of Palm Coast 160 Lake Avenue Minutes Palm Coast, FL 32164 www.palmcoastgov.com City Council Business Meeting Mayor Michael Norris Vice Mayor Theresa Pontieri Council Member Charles Gambaro Council Member Ty Miller Council Member Raymond Stevens Tuesday, November 19, 2024 9:00 AM City Hall - Community Wing City Staff Lauren Johnston, Acting City Manager Marcus Duffy, City Attorney Kaley Cook, City Clerk  Public Participation shall be in accordance with Section 286.0114 Florida Statutes.  Other matters of concern may be discussed as determined by City Council.  If you wish to obtain more information regarding the City Council’s agenda, please contact the City Clerk's Office at 386-986- 3713.  In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, Florida Statutes, persons needing a reasonable accommodation to participate in any of these proceedings or meeting should contact the City Clerk at 386-986-3713, at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.  City Council Meetings are streamed live on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@PalmCoastFL.  It is proper meeting etiquette to silence all electronic devices, including cell phones while Council is in session.  Any person who decides to appeal any decision of the City Council with respect to any matter considered at this meeting will need a record of the proceedings, and for such purpose, may need to hire a court reporter to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. A. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Alfin called the meeting to order at 9:03 a.m. B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG AND A MOMENT OF SILENCE C. ROLL CALL City Clerk Kaley Cook called the roll. Mayor Alfin, Vice Mayor Ed Danko, Council Member Gambaro, and Council Member Pontieri were in attendance. D. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION City of Palm Coast Created on 11/21/24 8  Public Participation shall be held in accordance with Section 286.0114 Florida Statutes. And pursuant to the City Council’s Meeting Policies and Procedures: (1) Each speaker shall at the podium, provide their name and may speak for up to 3 minutes. (2) The Public may provide comments to the City Council relative to matters not on the agenda at the times indicated in this Agenda. Following any comments from the public, there may be discussion by the City Council. (3) When addressing the City Council on specific, enumerated Agenda items, speakers shall: (a) direct all comments to the Mayor; (b) make their comments concise and to the point; (c) not speak more than once on the same subject; (d) not, by speech or otherwise, delay or interrupt the proceedings or the peace of the City Council; (e) obey the orders of the Mayor or the City Council; and (f) not make any irrelevant, impertinent or slanderous comments while addressing the City Council; which pursuant to Council rules, shall be considered disorderly. (4) Any person who becomes disorderly or who fails to confine his or her comments to the identified subject or business, shall be cautioned by the Mayor and thereafter must conclude his or her remarks on the subject within the remaining designated time limit. Any speaker failing to comply, as cautioned, shall be barred from making any additional comments during the meeting and may be removed, as necessary, for the remainder of the meeting. Members of the public may make comments during the public comment portion of the meeting. Please be advised that public comment will only be permitted during the public comment portions of the agenda at the times indicated by the Chair during the meeting. Howard Holley, local business owner, and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, representing their Board of Directors, expressed appreciation for the service of David Alfin, Ed Danko, and Nick Klufas. Mr. Holley continued his comments to welcome the new City Council and Mayor and looked forward to working with the new City Council. Robert MacDonald spoke of his grandson, loss of a child in a neighboring city, supported public swimming lessons for young children, and discussed a prior agenda item proposed for renaming the Community Center in honor of John Netts, suggesting renaming the Community Wing of City Hall in honor of Mr. Netts. Celia Pugliese wished happy trails to the Council and appreciated their running for office, shared concern for saltwater canal survey, land use plan, provided details from documents which have been attached to these minutes, and was thankful that City Council did not rename the Community Center at the prior meeting. Gary Kunnas was concerned that the appointment of Mr. Gambaro to the Council was a plant, based on information sent to him by a Council Member, did not agree with an appointment for such purposes, and discussed a deceiving amendment. City of Palm Coast Created on 11/21/24 9  Cameron Orr discussed a lack of shelter space for animals in our community, thanked the outgoing Mayor and Council Members, congratulated incoming Council Members, discussed the Animal Refuge of Florida (ARF), and that the members are comprised of current volunteers in animal welfare organizations. Doug Laidlaw discussed a lawsuit related to the Bert Harris Act, discussed his prior service on appointed agencies, addressing growth, and did not believe the Act applies to things such as this. Olga Smirnoff thanked the Council for their service, welcomed the new Mayor and Council, and spoke of an ongoing Code Enforcement issue. Mayor Alfin deferred to Ms. Johnston for responses and responded to Ms. Pugliese that there is something to be learned from every visit to the podium. Ms. Johnston responded to various public comments to discuss swim lessons as a future policy discussion, the process and application for consideration of renaming the Community Wing, a meeting with Mr. Orr related to municipal animal shelters, that the City Attorney’s office is working through the Bert Harris claim, that staff is aware of the Code Enforcement issue, and the Strategic Action Plan priority for the saltwater canal study. Mayor Alfin asked Ms. Johnston to describe the purpose of the study. Ms. Johnston replied explained the Strategic Action Plan Priority and the priority to maintain and dredge the saltwater canals. E. MINUTES 1. MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL: NOVEMBER 12, 2024, BUSINESS MEETING Pass Motion made to approve by Vice Mayor Danko and seconded by Council Member Gambaro Approved - 4 - Mayor David Alfin, Vice Mayor Ed Danko, Council Member Theresa Pontieri, Council Member Charles Gambaro F. RESOLUTIONS 2. RESOLUTION 2024-192 APPROVING THE FINAL 2024 GENERAL ELECTION RESULTS Attorney Duffy read the title into the record. Council Member Pontieri asked about the number reported for total registered voters. City of Palm Coast Created on 11/21/24 10  Ms. Cook, City Clerk, responded that the report was provided by the Flagler County Supervisor of Elections Office, and that clarification would be sought. Discussion was held by City Council on the accuracy of the number and potential causes for the discrepancy. Attorney Duffy advised that City Council could move forward with the approval of the Resolution and that the corrected report would accompany the Resolution. Public Comment: There were none. Pass Motion made to approve by Council Member Gambaro and seconded by Vice Mayor Danko Approved - 4 - Mayor David Alfin, Vice Mayor Ed Danko, Council Member Theresa Pontieri, Council Member Charles Gambaro G. OATH OF OFFICE FOR THE NEWLY ELECTED COUNCIL MEMBERS 3. OATH OF OFFICE FOR THE NEWLY ELECTED COUNCIL MEMBERS FOR MAYOR AND DISTRICT SEATS 1 AND 3 Mayor Alfin shared parting comments sharing that Palm Coast is at a rare moment in time, 3 time periods have come together in 2024, on both the 50th anniversary of ITT’s creation of our City and the 25th anniversary of the City’s incorporation. Mayor Alfin continued his comments to share that at this juncture, the community has been honoring the fond memories of our past, living for today, and anticipating tomorrow by planning for our future, and that it is his belief that focusing on this interweaving of these time periods will safeguard Palm Coast’s strength, innovation, and solvency. Mayor Alfin concluded his comments to share his hope that the Council and community will be unified when considering the outlined elements to invest in a city where we will always be proud to call home. City Clerk Kaley Cook conducted the oath of office for the newly elected Council Members. Mayor Norris sought consensus to allow public comment. Council concurred. Public Comment: Mark Schreiber, retired Navy chaplain, shared a word of prayer. Chantel Preninger welcomed the new members and challenged the Council to revisit the 3-minute public speaker allowance. City of Palm Coast Created on 11/21/24 11  Celia Pugliese welcomed the new members, wanted the members to keep the residents’ quality of life in mind, discussed flooding, infill lots, Florida Park Drive, rezoning, and use of the pool. Rich Cooper, with the Flagler-Palm Coast Chamber of Commerce, and Co-Chair of the Government Affairs Committee, extended an invitation to work with the Council in the years to come. Cameron Orr discussed the issue of only one private animal shelter in the city, recent joint Cities/County meeting, and the ask for a municipal shelter. Cathy Saris welcomed the new members, spoke of the newly named ARF group, the need for a public shelter, and concerns for the care of the animals at the Flagler County Humane Society. Mark Stancel shared congratulations, shared that the public spoke out because they want change, discussed infrastructure and rebuilding the city, and encouraged the council to make it happen. Doug Laidlaw spoke about development, concurrency, concern for infrastructure, and asked Council to please take a hard look at what we are facing. Annamaria Long, Flagler Home Builders Association, welcomed and thank the new members and looked forward to working together. Kelly Cositino, Flagler County Association for Responsible Development, looked forward to working with the County. Cornelia Downing Manfre, welcomed the New Council, discussed items that should be on the agenda including a capable City Manager, reviewing budget needs to address infrastructure and needs of the community, preserving land for future development with buffering, and wanted the city to welcome new businesses. Paul (no last name provided) congratulated the newly elected officials and spoke of a breath of fresh air, prayer, and asking God for wisdom when you're making decisions. Donna McGevna provided advice to the City Council, items lacking from prior leadership, hours invested by the Council, and thanks for taking on the job of serving Palm Coast. Ed Fuller congratulated the new Council Members, Mayor, and their family members, wished everyone success and leadership, and encouraged civility, leadership, and respect. Dennis McDonald congratulated the new Mayor and Council Members, congratulated, and thank the voters for the outcome of the election, doing the right thing for the voters, violation of the City Charter and activities in August, City Charter as the founding document, and complaints filed for violation of the City Charter. City of Palm Coast Created on 11/21/24 12  Candi Stevens congratulated the new Council, felt hopeful, wanted Council to stop changing zoning, focus on infrastrucutre, and listen to residents. Gary Kunnas welcomed the new members, discussed that many residents worked hard to get the new members elected, and discussed 3 departments he believed need help: code, electrical, and building. Jeremy Davis congratulated the new Council and wanted to see the actions promised. H. ORGANIZATIONAL ITEMS 4. VICE MAYOR APPOINTMENT FOR FY 2024-2025 Mayor Norris sought a motion, sharing that he would prefer that it not be him, and wanting his vote to be a forgone conclusion. Motion by Council Member Stevens, seconded by Council Member Pontieri, to appoint Council Member Pontieri as Vice Mayor. Public Comment: Ed Fuller shared compliments to Council Member Pontieri, sharing that she has demonstrated her willingness, steadfastness, patience, and civility in a lot of difficult situations. Celia Pugliese shared congratulations, that Council Member Pontieri has done wonderful work for residents, discussed agenda length, supported 6 p.m. council meetings, and discussed Council salary. Mark Stancel shared support for Council Member Pontieri, that she is always standing up for the City, discussed prior projects, and her fight in support of residents. Donna McGevna shared that Council Member Pontieri goes beyond her own district, gains respect from the citizens, does remarkable work, relates to all citizens, and brought a sense of decorum to the Council. Chantel Preninger supported Council Member Pontieri and discussed her respect from the citizens. Cathy Saris, wanted to third the motion, shared that Council Member Pontieri is most familiar with the City and County, that she is very knowledgeable, always has beneficial input, and that she holds meetings with residents. Jeanie Duarte opposed the appointment, did not trust what she has seen, discussed the Council’s involvement in writing the referendum that was opposed, and prayed that Council Member Pontieri would do what is best for the community. City of Palm Coast Created on 11/21/24 13  Dennis McDonald was pleased to see support for Council Member Pontieri, discussed her tireless fight, and discussed favorable actions by Council Member Pontieri. Mayor Norris called for a roll call vote. Pass Motion made to appoint Council Member Pontieri to Vice Mayor by Council Member Stevens and seconded by Council Member Pontieri Approved - 3 – Mayor Michael Norris, Council Member Stevens, Council Member Pontieri Denied – 2 –Council Member Gambaro, Council Member Miller 5. COUNCIL LIAISON APPOINTMENTS FOR FY 2024-2025 Ms. Johnston provided a background of the item. City Council held discussion and provided consensus for the following appointments: Affordable Housing Advisory Committee – Mayor Norris Family Life Center – Vice Mayor Pontieri Flagler County Cultural Council – Vice Mayor Pontieri Flagler County Transportation Disadvantaged Local Coordinating Board – Mayor Norris Flagler School Oversight Committee – Council Members Miller and Gambaro Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, Circuit 7 – Council Member Stevens Joint Cities and County Workshop – Mayor Norris and Council Member Miller River to Sea Transportation Planning Organization – Mayor Norris St. Johns River Water Management District – Council Member Gambaro Tourist Development Council – Vice Mayor Pontieri I. PRESENTATION 6. PRESENTATION - STRATEGIC GOVERNMENT RESOURCES (SGR) CITY MANAGER RECRUITMENT BROCHURE Ms. Johnston opened the item. Ms. Fuller congratulated the new Council and provided a background of the item. Mr. Thomas presented the topic to Council. Topics presented included: 5 keys to a successful search, national recruitment and Florida presence, position profile brochure, noted challenges and opportunities, compensation considerations, recruitment process, and draft search timeline. City Council held discussion on the following topics: FLUM challenges and the importance to highlight FLUM experience, long/proven record of applicants, openness to suggestions, continuity and a candidate who is here to stay, City of Palm Coast Created on 11/21/24 14  process timeline, cost fully burdened, full compensation package, total compensation, remaining flexible if the search needs to continue for the right person, and budget process timeline. Mr. Thomas responded to Council comments and questions. J. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION Remainder of Public Comments is limited to three (3) minutes each. Chantel Preninger, found the presentation interesting, believed the position to be unique, that people here are still dealing with the cost of life, and that the people of the City will pay for whoever is hired. Celia Pugliese believed the City Manager should have experience in Land Development growth and quality of life, and that residents have faith that you will resolve many of those issues and find the right City Manager. Denise Henry, spoke about the Stewart Marchman Act and shared the importance of attempting to attend the organizations meetings. George Mayo congratulated the new members, and Vice Mayor Pontieri, did not want the Council to pick the cheapest applicant for City Manager, urged the Council Members to attend County meetings on items that involve the City, discussed public participation, appropriate responses, supported lunch and lectures, potential large developments on John Anderson and hoped the City doesn't provide water and wastewater to them. Jeremy Davis discussed his public records request. Bruce Stone congratulated all of the new members elected, discussed requests that were ignored by the prior Council, and wanted to stop corruption. Jaclyn Miller, long time resident of the City, discussed the issues facing Palm Coast, supported being smart in hiring a City Manager, and believed that budget needs to be considered. Ty Miller asked for details of Stewart Marchman Act meetings. K. DISCUSSION BY CITY COUNCIL OF MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA Council Member Stevens made a motion to change the City Council Meeting time to be consistently at 6:00 p.m. and to hold proclamations prior to the meeting. Attorney Duffy shared that there is a current Ordinance in place setting the Council Meeting schedule and time and that the motion would be to amend the Ordinance. Council Member Miller seconded the motion and shared considerations for different meeting times allowing for different shifts and City staff schedules. City of Palm Coast Created on 11/21/24 15  Vice Mayor Pontieri agreed with the comments of Council Member Miller and believed that moving all meetings to night would preclude a different section of citizenry, shared about the addition of an evening workshop, supported holding proclamations at 5:30 p.m., and shared items for consideration. Council Member Gambaro agreed with doing the proclamations early, believed that the current schedule represents a balanced approach to conducting Council business, and asked Attorney Duffy for the procedure of amending the Ordinance. Attorney Duffy provided the process of adopting an Ordinance. Ms. Johnston further explained that there is an Ordinance which sets the business meeting, that City Council can adopt an additional workshop through a Resolution, and that changes to the agenda would require an updated Resolution for City Council policies and procedures. Mayor Norris supported holding the meetings at night. Council Member Miller sought any methodology that can be used to streamline the meetings. Public Comment: Celia Pugliese discussed her participation in meetings and the importance of resident participation at the meetings. George Mayo believed that we should keep the schedule as is, was fine with moving proclamations to 5:30, discussed business attendance and not wanting to take time away from their families, salaried employees, hourly workers, and asked the Council if they are willing to pay overtime for staff to attend the meetings. Dennis McDonald supported trying to increase participation with the residents, believed that no matter how you place the meetings, a deterrent is the large block of proclamations at the beginning of the meeting. Mayor Norris discussed public involvement, salaried employees, and encouraged offsetting hours for senior level employees. Attorney Duffy encouraged Council to be cognizant that employee scheduling is the decision of the City Manager. Ms. Johnston outlined the process to address the asks of City Council at a future workshop meeting. Vice Mayor Pontieri suggested looking at the items discussed holistically, wanted to be respectful of all residents, encouraged a workshop on the topics, and discussed previous attendance at evening Council Meetings. City of Palm Coast Created on 11/21/24 16  City Council held discussion on the topics. Council Member Stevens withdrew the motion. Mayor Norris requested to add review of the policies and procedures on a future agenda. Ms. Johnston responded that the item will be added to the December 10 workshop, shared that the second Council workshop has not been adopted by Resolution, and asked if City Council would like to include the item on December 10 as well. Vice Mayor Pontieri agreed to add the item after the discussion on policies and procedures. Council Member Gambaro congratulated the new members and looked forward to working with everyone and driving change in a positive way. Council Member Miller thanked is family, friends, voters, those that supported him during the campaign, and hoped to support everyone within the City to the best of his ability to work with the Council to move forward in the right manner. Vice Mayor Pontieri echoed the comment of Council Member Gambaro and congratulated the new Council Members. Mayor Norris discussed his history in the city, spoke of his campaign, shared that the City is at an inflection point, his goals for kids to be able to come back to live and work in the city, and the working relationship he has had with Vice Mayor Pontieri. L. DISCUSSION BY CITY ATTORNEY OF MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA Attorney Duffy congratulated the new members and looked forward to working with, and advising, the Council. M. DISCUSSION BY CITY MANAGER OF MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA Ms. Johnston echoed the comments of Attorney Duffy, welcomed the new leadership, and shared that staff received the revised certification from the Supervisor of Elections Office, that the report will be attached to the Resolution, and the tabulation system doubled the registered voters in the unofficial results. Ms. Johnston responded to public comments that the City has had no conversations with that development group, that she will work on the Stewart Marchman liaison appointment, and that she will share the final brochure for the City Manager search with City Council. N. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 12:13 p.m. City of Palm Coast Created on 11/21/24 17  Respectfully submitted by: Kaley Cook, CMC, FCRM City Clerk City of Palm Coast Created on 11/21/24 18 Attachment to November 19, 2024, Business Meeting Minutes 19 20 21 22 23 24 25