5-11-26 Regular Commission Meeting Adopted MinutesMINUTES
Regular City Commission Meeting
rs t Monday, May 11, 2026 - 6:00 PM
J r
Commission Chamber
fit City Hall, 800 Seminole Road
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
CALL TO ORDER:
Following the Pledge of Allegiance, Mayor Ford called the meeting to order at 6:00 PM. CC Bartle
called the roll.
ATTENDANCE:
Present: Curtis Ford, Mayor - Seat 1 (At Large)
Bruce Bole, Commissioner - Seat 2 (District 1308)
Thomas Grant, Commissioner - Seat 3 (District 1307)
Candace Kelly, Commissioner - Seat 4 (District 1306)
Jessica Ring, Commissioner - Seat 5 (District 1312)
Also Present: Kevin Hogencamp, Interim City Manager (CM)
Jason Gabriel, City Attorney (CA)
Donna Bartle, City Clerk (CC)
Ladayija Nichols, Deputy City Clerk (DCC)
PLAT APPROVAL DEFERRED
Mayor Ford announced that the plat approval application for 0 Seminole Road, which had been
publicly noticed but was not included on the agenda, would be deferred and re -noticed for the
May 26, 2026 meeting. CA Gabriel clarified that, as a replat application rather than an ordinance,
the item would require only one hearing on May 26.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1A. Approve minutes of the Regular Commission Meeting held on April 27, 2026.
The Commission approved the minutes as submitted.
2. COURTESY OF FLOOR TO VISITORS
PUBLIC COMMENT
The following speakers provided their comments:
Roy Schleicher
Ellen Glasser passed around a photo (which is attached hereto and made part of the
official record as Attachment A).
5-11-26 Attachment A
Regular City Commission
May 11, 2026
2.A. National Public Works Week Proclamation
Mayor Ford presented the proclamation (which is attached hereto and made part of the
official record as Attachment B) to Chris Barron, Administrative Coordinator, and
Angela Irizarry, Public Works Inspector and GIS Coordinator, on behalf of the Public
Works Department.
5-11-26 Attachment B
3. CITY MANAGER REPORTS
3.A. Accept the 90 -Day Calendar (May - July 2026)
There was a CONSENSUS to accept the 90 -Day Calendar including the addition of
budget workshops scheduled for 6:00 p.m. on June 29, July 20, and August 19, 2026.
3.11. Tree Protection Code Update
CM Hogencamp reported on agenda items 3B - 3E as detailed in a handout (which is
attached hereto and made part of this official record as Attachment C) and answered
questions from the Commission.
5-11-26 Attachment C
3.C. Stormwater Master Plan Update
3.D. Marsh Oaks Community Center Update
CM Hogencamp mentioned that workshop dates would be provided to the Commission
within two weeks. He also confirmed that nearby residents would receive direct notice
and that the City would utilize its communication platforms to broadly publicize the
workshops.
3.E. Other Reports
Staff was directed to provide the Commission with an update at the next meeting
regarding the Beaches Town Center streetlight project, including the procurement
timeline and any identified budget impacts.
4. REPORTS AND/OR REQUESTS FROM CITY COMMISSIONERS
4.A. City Manager Recruitment Update (Commissioner Bole)
The Commission discussed narrowing a pool of eight firms and identifying additional
information needed for selection.
CA Gabriel advised that commissioners may submit questions to HR individually, but
any staff -compiled information must be included in the public agenda packet and not
discussed among commissioners in compliance with Sunshine Law requirements.
CONSENSUS direction:
Regular City Commission
May 11, 2026
• Commissioners will email HRD Blanco their preferred firms and questions by
May 15 (or no later than May 20).
• HR will compile responses, conduct follow-up research as needed, and include
an analysis in the May 26 agenda packet.
• HR Director and the Procurement Manager are requested to attend the May 26,
2026 meeting to present findings and support discussion.
Mayor Ford requested staff also review references from comparable municipal
placements, including Fernandina Beach and Orange Park.
Commissioner Kelly
• Inquired about timing for city hall ethics training; CA Gabriel advised no date is
set, likely not until fall, and noted interim training is available through the Florida
League of Cities. Commissioners will be notified once scheduled.
• Referenced a nationwide effort to read the Declaration of Independence on July
8 and suggested incorporating a reading into the City's July 11 event. The
Commission expressed consensus support.
Commissioner Ring
• Noted the recent town hall meeting was productive.
• Inquired about the upcoming Form 1 financial disclosure deadline of July 1. CA
Gabriel confirmed filings are completed electronically and commissioners
should receive email notifications, and he will confirm timing with the State
Ethics Commission.
Commissioner Grant
• Provided a brief update on the Beaches Town Center Agency streetlight project.
• Reported concerns regarding material accumulation at the City yard off Selva
Marina, including aggregate and stone from recent projects. CM Hogencamp
acknowledged the concern and will follow up.
Mayor Ford
• Raised a concern regarding unintended impacts of a 2024 code amendment
reducing maximum driveway width from 22 to 20 feet at the street, noting
potential challenges for homeowners with existing wider driveways. He
suggested exploring options such as permeable pavers to balance property needs
with stormwater objectives.
4.B. Professional Municipal Clerks Week Proclamation (Mayor Ford)
Mayor Ford presented the proclamation (which is attached hereto and made part of the
official record as Attachment D) to CC Bartle and DCC Nichols.
5-11-26 Attachment D
4.C. National Safe Boating Week Proclamation (Mayor Ford)
Mayor Ford made brief remarks about the proclamation (which is attached hereto and
made part of the official record as Attachment E).
5-11-26 Attachment E
Regular City Commission
May 11, 2026
5.
6.
7.
8.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS
None.
CONSENT AGENDA
6.A. Approve Resolution No. 26-63.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF ATLANTIC BEACH, FLORIDA,
ASSIGNING A TASK AUTHORIZATION TO GEOSYNTEC CONSULTANTS,
INC. FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES TO DESIGN, PERMIT, AND SUPPORT
THE BIDDING PHASE OF SIX DUNE WALKOVERS; AUTHORIZING THE
CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE CONTRACTS AND PURCHASE
ORDERS IN ACCORDANCE WITH AND AS NECESSARY TO EFFECTUATE
THE PROVISIONS OF THIS RESOLUTION; AND PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
MOTION: Approve Resolution (No.) 26-63 (Consent Agenda Item 6A as written).
Motion: Bruce Bole
Second: Candace Kelly
Curtis Ford
For
Bruce Bole (Moved By)
For
Thomas Grant
For
Candace Kelly (Seconded By)
For
Jessica Ring
For
Motion passed S to 0.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
None.
ACTION ON RESOLUTIONS
8.A. RESOLUTION NO. 26-69
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF ATLANTIC BEACH, FLORIDA,
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE AND THE
CITY OF ATLANTIC BEACH FOR THE USE OF A DISASTER DEBRIS
MANAGEMENT SITE; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE
ALL NECESSARY DOCUMENTS TO EFFECTUATE THE PROVISIONS OF
THIS RESOLUTION; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
MOTION: Adopt Resolution No. 26-69.
Motion: Bruce Bole
Second. Candace Kelly
Regular City Commission
May 11, 2026
Curtis Ford
For
Bruce Bole (Moved By)
For
Thomas Grant
For
Candace Kelly (Seconded By)
For
Jessica Ring
For
Motion passed S to 0.
9. ACTION ON ORDINANCES
None.
10. MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS
None.
11. CITY ATTORNEY/CITY CLERK REPORTS AND/OR REQUESTS
None.
12. CLOSING COMMENTS BY CITY COMMISSIONERS AND CITY MANAGER
None.
13. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 7:13 PM.
Attest:
b
Donna L. Bartle, City Clerk
Date Approved: �(i'/Z a2 6f-
& - I KAI.,
C rR Ford, May&r
Regular City Commission
May 11, 2026
I
Attachment A to
5-11-26 Minutes
Li6i"r
Attachment B to
5-11-26 Minutes
Prottamation of the
Citv of Z(flantic �eac�j
in Recognition of
National Public Works Week
WHEREAS, public works services provided in our community are an integral part of our citizens'
everyday lives; and
WHEREAS, the support of an understanding and informed citizenry is vital to the efficient operation of
public works systems and programs including streets and stormwater infrastructure, beaches, water supply,
wastewater and water treatment, solid waste management, parks and facility maintenance, landscape and
beautification efforts; and
WHEREAS, the health, safety, and comfort of this community greatly depends on these facilities and
services; and
WHEREAS, the quality and effectiveness of these facilities, as well as their planning, design, and
construction, is vitally dependent upon the efforts and skill of public works officials; and
WHEREAS, the efficiency of the qualified and dedicated personnel, who staff the public works
department, is materially influenced by the people's attitude and understanding of the importance of the work
they perform; and
WHEREAS, this year's theme "Rooted in Service, Powered by Community" speaks to the essential
nature of public works services in support of everyday quality of life.
NOW, THEREFORE, 1, Curtis Ford, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor of the City of
Atlantic Beach, Florida, do hereby proclaim the week of May 17th through May 231d, 2026 as
NATIONAL PUBLIC WORKS WEEK
in the City of Atlantic Beach, and call upon all citizens and civic organizations to acquaint themselves with the
issues involved in providing our public works; and to recognize the contributions which public works officials
make every day to our health, safety, comfort, and quality of life.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have set my hand and
caused the Official Seal of the City of Atlantic
Beach to be affixed this 11 `s day of May 2026.
Curtis Ford, Mayor
Attachment C to
5-11-26 Minutes
CITY OF ATLANTIC BEACH
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
800 Seminole Road
Atlantic Beach, Florida 32233
(904) 247-5817
City Manager's Community Update
Date: May 11, 2026
To: The Atlantic Beach Community and City Commission
From: Kevin Hogencamp, Interim City Manager/khogencampCa)coab.us
CENTENNIAL
EM tszs
This report provides an update on some primary administrative and community -focused initiatives
underway in our office. Our office remains focused on maintaining momentum across key
programming, infrastructure, environmental, and intergovernmental projects. City Manager's
Community Updates, including related links, are available on the City's website and across official
digital channels.
1. Tree Protection Code Update Following up on the Commission's discussion at the recent
town hall, staff intends to present a draft ordinance by June 8 focusing on the immediate
preservation of our old-growth maritime forest, specifically our iconic live oaks. This represents
the first phase of a two-phase approach which includes automatically designating all maritime
trees over a certain DBH as protected landmark trees requiring double mitigation for removal;
requiring a certified arborist's "Statement of Infeasibility" for removals; and introducing a 30 -
day "time-out" period before any landmark tree is removed. Ultimately, staff will need the City
Commission to define the specific size requirements for landmark trees. We continue to solicit
public input on prospective tree -protection code changes and request that the Commission
provide any alternative direction by the May 26 meeting to ensure staff's draft remains aligned
with Commission goals.
2. Stormwater Master Plan Update Staff is collaborating with our consulting partner to finalize
a draft scope of work for the Stormwater Master Plan update, which is expected to be complete
within the next month. Because the project involves federal HMGP funding, we anticipate
initiating a competitive procurement process via a formal Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to
ensure full compliance and minimize risk.
3. Marsh Oaks Community Center Update The Marsh Oaks Community Center is entering its
final development phase, with J. Howard Construction beginning immediate work on parking
lot replacements and site clearing. This phase includes removing old fencing and vegetation to
better integrate the center with Beaches Veterans Memorial Park. The parking improvements
are primarily funded by a Community Development Block Grant and are expected to take 60 to
90 days to complete. While building construction wraps up, the project will also introduce a
new community garden in preparation for a grand opening this September. Residents will soon
Attachment C to
5-11-26 Minutes
be invited to participate in workshops to help define the programming and operational strategy
for the new facility.
4. Farmer's Market Operator Staff has successfully negotiated the framework of an agreement
with the nonprofit Dig Local Network that is slated to be presented for City Commission
consideration on May 26.
5. Public Safety Success: Multi -State Missing Person Recovery Our Police Department
successfully located a missing adult recently following a complex multi -state search
operation. By leveraging our Flock License Plate Reader (LPR) technology, officers tracked the
individual's vehicle through West Virginia and North Carolina in real-time. Our Emergency
Communications Officers coordinated seamlessly with the North Carolina Highway Patrol,
utilizing emergency cellphone pings to pinpoint the individual's exact location in Fayetteville.
The individual was safely transported to a local hospital. This outcome is a testament to the
vital role that advanced technology and inter -agency cooperation play in ensuring the safety of
our community members.
6. Jack Russell Park Court Closures: Resurfacing Project To maintain our high standards for
recreational facilities, the basketball and tennis courts at Jack Russell Park are undergoing
necessary resurfacing. Please note the following schedule (weather permitting):
• Basketball Courts: May 11 - May 15
• Tennis Courts 1 & 2: May 18 -June 26
• Tennis Courts 3 - 6: May 4 - June 26
• Note: Courts will reopen as soon as the surfaces are cured and safe for play. We
appreciate the community's patience as we improve these popular amenities.
7. Staff Achievement: Certified Local Government Communicator Recreation Associate
Veronica Oullette was among the inaugural cohort of professionals statewide to earn the
Certified Local Government Communicator (CLGC) credential. Developed by the Florida
Municipal Communicators Association, this certification recognizes staff who excel in building
public trust through strategic, transparent messaging. Veronica's achievement underscores
our city's commitment to ensuring our residents are well-informed and their voices are heard.
8. On the Calendar:
• Dancin' in the Street: 11 a.m.- 9 p.m. Saturday, May 16, Beaches Town Center.
Featuring live music, food trucks, and local vendors. Roads in the area will a closed.
• Memorial Day Ceremony: 9 a.m. Monday, May 25, Beaches Veterans Memorial Park
Attachment C to
5-11-26 Minutes
CITY OF ATLANTIC BEACH
Mission
The place to be -- through exceptional public services.
2040 Vision
In Atlantic Beach, we have a strong sense of belonging and safety. Our citizens and government
care deeply about community character, and we understand that unified support is required to
preserve it. We are graced with the functional beauty of our beach, our marsh, and our
tree canopy. Our shady streets and multi -use paths connect our welcoming
neighborhoods and vibrant local businesses. Our city supports our diverse,
multigenerational, socially linked community with green spaces, active lifestyles, parks,
and programming.
City Commission Priorities
In 2018, the Atlantic Beach City Commission began undertaking an annual exercise that
establishesrp iorities for city government. This endeavor is facilitated by Atlantic Beach
resident Linda Lanier, who volunteers her services.
Attachment D to
5-11-26 Minutes
Proclamation of the
Citp of Rtlantir 7'="Oleacb
in Recognition of
Professional Municipal Clerks Week
WHEREAS, the Office of the Professional Municipal Clerk, a time honored and vital part of local
government exists throughout the world; and
WHEREAS, the Office of the Professional Municipal Clerk is the oldest among public servants; and
WHEREAS, the Office of the Professional Municipal Clerk provides the professional link between the
citizens, the local governing bodies and agencies of government at other levels; and
WHEREAS, the Professional Municipal Clerks have pledged to be ever mindful of their neutrality and
impartiality, rendering equal service to all; and
WHEREAS, the Professional Municipal Clerk serves as the information center on functions of local
government and community; and
WHEREAS, professional Municipal Clerks continually strive to improve the administration of the
affairs of the Office of the Professional Municipal Clerk through participation in education programs, seminars,
workshops and the annual meetings of their state, provincial, county and international professional
organizations; and
WHEREAS, it is most appropriate that we recognize the accomplishments of the Office of the
Professional Municipal Clerk.
NOW, THEREFORE, 1, Curtis Ford, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor of the City of
Atlantic Beach, Florida, do hereby proclaim the week of May 3`a through May 9'h, 2026 as
PROFESSIONAL MUNICIPAL CLERKS WEEK
in the City of Atlantic Beach, and further extend appreciation to our Professional Municipal Clerks, Donna
Bartle and Ladayija Nichols, and to all Professional Municipal Clerks for the vital services they perform and
their exemplary dedication to the communities they represent.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have set my hand and
caused the Official Seal of the City of Atlantic
Beach to be affixed this I I 1 day of May 2026.
Curtis Ford, Mayor
Attachment E to
5-11-26 Minutes
Vrodamation of the
Cftv of Atlantic 7,V'102eacb
in Recognition of
National Safe Boating Week
WHEREAS, for tens of millions of Americans, boating continues to be a popular recreational
activity. From coast to coast, people are taking to the water and enjoying time together boating, sailing,
paddling and fishing; and
WHEREAS, safe boating begins with preparation, and, during National Safe Boating Week, the
U.S. Coast Guard and its federal, state, and local safe boating partners encourage all boaters to explore and
enjoy America's beautiful waters responsibly; and
WHEREAS, safe boating begins with preparation. The U.S. Coast Guard estimates that human
error accounts for most boating accidents and that life jackets could prevent nearly 75 percent of boating
fatalities; and
WHEREAS, through basic boating safety procedures — carrying lifesaving emergency distress and
communications equipment, wearing life jackets, attending safe boating courses, participating in free boat
safety checks, and staying sober when navigating — we can help ensure boaters on America's coastal,
inland, and offshore waters stay safe throughout the year; and
WHEREAS, National Safe Boating Week is observed to bring attention to important life-saving
tips for recreational boaters so that they can have a safer, more fun experience out on the water; and
WHEREAS, the Coast Guard reports that on average, more than 650 people die each year in
boating -related accidents in the United States, and about three-quarters of these are fatalities caused by
drowning; and
WHEREAS, a significant number of boaters who lose their lives by drowning each year would be
alive today had they worn their life jackets.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Curtis Ford, Mayor of the City of Atlantic Beach, Florida, do hereby
support the goals of the Safe Boating Campaign and proclaim May 16-22, 2026, as NATIONAL SAFE
BOATING WEEK and the start of the year-round effort to promote safe boating, and encourage all who
boat to practice safe boating habits and wear a life jacket at all times while boating.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have set my hand
and caused the Official Seal of the City of
Atlantic Beach to be affixed this I Ph day of
May 2026.
Curtis Ford, May6r