Amended Agenda Item 1A- Draft Minutes 9-26-16 AMENDED AGENDA ITEM 1A
OCTOBER 24, 2016
MINUTES
REGULAR CITY COMMISSION MEETING
September 26, 2016
CITY HALL, 800 SEMINOLE ROAD
IN ATTENDANCE :
Mayor Mitchell E. Reeves City Attorney Brenna Durden
Mayor Pro Tern Jimmy Hill City Manager Nelson Van Liere
Commissioner Harding City Clerk Donna L . Bartle
Commissioner John Stinson Recording Secretary Della Giovanni
Commissioner M. Blythe Waters
Invocation and pledge to the flag
Commissioner Hill gave the Invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Call to Order
Mayor Reeves called the meeting to order at 6 : 30 p .m.
Mayor Reeves moved Items 6A and 7A.
Items 6A and 7A were taken out of sequence and acted on at this time .
6. A. Public Hearing on adopting Resolution No. 16-05 for the Millage Rate.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF ATLANTIC BEACH, FLORIDA LEVYING
THE AD VALOREM PROPERTY TAX MILLAGE RATE FOR MUNICIPAL
PURPOSES ON ALL TAXABLE PROPERTY WITHIN THE CITY FOR THE
FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING OCTOBER 1 , 2016 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30,
2017 ; STATING THE PERCENTAGE BY WHICH THE MILLAGE TO BE LEVIED
EXCEEDS THE ROLLED-BACK RATE ; AND, PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
City Clerk Bartle read the Resolution by title .
Mayor Reeves stated the first item to be considered is the Adoption of the Millage Rate by
Resolution 16-05 . He stated the Tentative Millage Rate is 3 .2285 ; the Roll-Back Rate is 3 . 1754 ; and
the Tentative Millage Rate is 1 . 67% more than the Roll-back Rate .
He stated the purpose for adopting the millage rate of 3 .2285 is to maintain a level of ad valorem tax
revenue sufficient to support funding for the proposed level of services at anticipated and proposed
cost and to continue to maintain the City ' s infrastructure.
Motion : Adopt Resolution No. 16-05 as read by title.
Moved by Stinson, Seconded by Harding
Mayor Reeves opened the public hearing and asked if anyone wished to speak about the item.
September 26, 2016 REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING Page 2
Chris Jorgensen, 92 West 3rd Street, thanked the Commission for supporting the millage reduction.
No one else in the audience spoke, so Mayor Reeves closed the public hearing.
There was no discussion.
Roll Call Votes :
Aye : 4 - Harding, Hill, Stinson, Reeves
Nay : 1 -Waters
MOTION CARRIED
7. A. Public Hearing and Final Reading on Adoption of a Tentative Millage Rate and
Ordinance No. 20-16-140 establishing the Operating Budget for fiscal year
2016/2017.
AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE FINAL BUDGET FOR THE CITY OF
ATLANTIC BEACH, FLORIDA FOR FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING OCTOBER 1 ,
2016 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2017 .
Mayor Reeves read the agenda item. City Clerk Bartle read the Ordinance by title .
Motion : Adopt Ordinance No. 20-16-140 as read by title.
Moved by Stinson, Seconded by Harding.
Mayor Reeves opened the public hearing. No one in audience spoke, so Mayor Reeves closed the
public hearing.
Mayor Reeves explained the need for an additional park ranger and requested a motion be made to
move $42,000 from the proposed media position to the Public Works Department for the park ranger
instead. He indicated that such a move would not affect the budget dollar wise .
Motion : Move the funding for the media position to the Parks Department.
Moved by Hill, Seconded by Stinson
Commissioner Hill commented on his support of the media/communication position, and feels that
the position is a critical one and is needed. He suggested having the media position for one year to
focus on communications and help resolve an issue that has been ongoing. He prefers to leave the
funding for the new media communication position.
Commissioner Waters stated she does not believe the fact that they overlooked funding for a current
employee and wanting to maintain cun'ent levels of service changes any of the discussion that they
have had about how important it is to citizens that we increase our outreach through dedicated
communication channels . She believes the media position is very important in order to meet the
expectations of our citizens . She indicated, although it is important to fund the additional park
position, she does not believe it should replace the media communication position.
Commissioner Stinson stated that, because of the timing, the Commission should authorize the City
Manager to allocate the funding for an addition of a park ranger. He believes it would allow them
more time to better define the role of the media position, see what candidates are out there and come
September 26, 2016 REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING Page 3
back at a later time to include the additional expense in the budget. He explained it would be
postponing it until they get a better idea of what the position' s role would be .
Commissioner Harding reminded them about the discussion during the budget workshop and the
importance of meeting the concerns of the citizens and keeping them up to date with
communications . He spoke against defending the media communication position.
Commissioner Hill asked for clarification on whether the funding is for an additional park ranger
position or an existing one that was left off the budget.
Mayor Reeves explained it would be a new one and would switch monies from one department to
another. He indicated he is supportive of media communications getting out to the public . He
believes that the City Manager can be creative in finding ways to meet our communication needs .
Mayor Reeves does not feel that there is enough work for a full-time person to just do media
communications . He explained the importance of our parks and the importance of maintaining them.
He suggested having one-on-one discussions with department heads during the budget process so
that they can better communicate their funding needs .
Commissioner Hill explained his idea of using contractors for parks department projects . We
reiterated his support for having a communications position.
Commissioner Waters asked to hear from Mr. Jacobovitz about what he has in mind for this position.
City Manager Van Liere clarified that during the budget workshops they envisioned needing a
maintenance worker more than a park ranger. Public Works Director Don Jacobovitz explained the
difference in the two positions and why the park ranger can do more than the maintenance worker
can do without costing the department overtime . City Manager Van Liere stated they are mixing
conversations and explained that there was a request to upgrade a position from park maintenance
worker to a park ranger position to solve some of the problems Mr. Jacobovitz spoke about. Mr.
Van Liere explained that what we are talking about now is an addition of a maintenance worker for
storm drain cleanup and general maintenance around the City.
Commissioner Waters clarified the request and it was determined that the request is for an additional
maintenance worker instead of a park ranger. Mr. Jacobovitz answered questions about tasks and
staffing.
Mayor Reeves explained there are already people doing the job of media communications and does
not believe there is justification to hire a full-time employee for that. He spoke in favor of moving
the money for a maintenance position.
Commissioner Stinson explained that if the City Manager thinks he needs a maintenance person
more than a media person, then the Commission should probably honor that and give him his
maintenance worker. He reiterated that they can research and determine whether a media position is
needed and amend the budget at a later time .
Commissioner Hill agreed that the Commission should give the money to the City Manager and let
him use his discretion for the needs of what he feels is most important. He agreed that a
communication person is needed, but stuck to his original motion.
September 26, 2016 REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING Page 4
Commissioner Waters requested to hear from the City Manager.
City Manager Van Liere explained that during the budget workshop, the Commission agreed that
some positions are needed and the consensus was to not do the maintenance worker, but do the
media position. He also explained that funds were budgeted to update the website. He stated that
Public Works has rearranged things so that the Administrative Assistant will be able to do Facebook.
Mr. Van Liere asked that they approve a maintenance worker and let city staff work on improving
communications in their departments and have some money for contracts for publication-type
services such as brochures . He suggested that they see how it goes this year and if they still see a
need for a media specialist, then revisit it next year. Mr. Van Liere suggested putting the funds
toward the additional maintenance worker position in the Public Works Department instead of
funding the media communication position. He clarified that he is asking to change the line item of
the money that is sitting in the media specialist in the City Manager budget and put it in Public
Works ' budget.
Amended Motion : Allow the City Manager to move the line item that is earmarked for a
media person to the Public Works Department.
Motion by Hill, Seconded by Stinson
Roll Call Votes :
Aye: 5 - Stinson, Waters, Harding, Hill, Reeves
Nay: 0
MOTION CARRIED
Motion : Adopt Ordinance No. 20-16-140 as amended.
Moved by Stinson, Seconded by Harding
Roll Call Votes :
Aye : 5 - Waters, Harding, Hill, Stinson, Reeves
Nay : 0
MOTION CARRIED
1 . A. Approve minutes of the Town Hall meeting of August 27, 2016 .
B . Approve minutes of the City Commission meeting of September 12, 2016 .
Mayor Reeves asked if there were any corrections to the above . minutes . There were no corrections,
so Mayor Reeves stated the minutes stand as submitted.
2. Courtesy of the Floor to Visitors
A. Presentation of Congressional Awards by Jackie Smith, representing
Congressman Ander Crenshaw.
Mayor Reeves introduced Jackie Smith, who was presenting congressional awards by the United
States Congress for young people who meet specific challenges in a non-competitive program. An
award ceremony took place. Ms . Smith gave the criteria participants met in order to receive an
award. Participants from the Beaches Habitat educational program honored and recognized the
recipients who were all from Atlantic Beach. Some students received their medals in Washington
September 26, 2016 REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING Page 5
DC . Each award winner were recognized for their award level and contributions in achieving that
level . Recipients recognized were :
Shyla Blackmon, Jelisa Jackson, Jacques Baldwin, Diamond Jackson, Jozie Martinez, Mulleak Pitts
and Alexis Williams . Jackie Smith recognized Kathy Christensen, Beaches Habitat director, in
encouraging these young people in their success .
Mayor Reeves complimented the recipients on behalf of the Commission. A photo was taken of the
Commission and recipients . -
Courtesy of the Floor to Visitors
Mayor Reeves acknowledged that the City is losing Chief of Police, Mike Deal and asked him to
give a farewell .
Chief of Police Mike Deal thanked the Mayor, Commissioners and City Manager for the honor to
serve the City and his appreciation for the support. He explained that the only reason for his
departure is the distance of being away from his family. He feels that he has accomplished the task
with the department working as a team in building a relationship with the community by gaining
respect for the department and he encouraged leaders within the agency to move forward by building
on the positives of the foundation. He thanked the citizens of the city for their support and feedback.
Their support has lifted the moral of the department to serve .
After a standing ovation from everyone in the room, Mayor Reeves thanked Chief Deal and invited
Commissioners to make a few comments .
Commissioner Hill expressed his appreciation to Police Chief Mike Deal stating "the glue of strong
leadership will last long after the builder is gone and it is appreciated" .
Commissioner Stinson thanked Chief Deal and explained he is truly grateful for his interaction with
the public.
Commissioner Waters echoed Commissioner Stinson with the appreciation of Chief Deal ' s
interaction with the public and how she hopes it will continue even after he is gone .
Commissioner Harding stated that it has been a pleasure and an honor working with Chief Deal and
believes he is a "class act".
City Manager Van Liere acknowledged that Chief Deal came into a city of turmoil and he has given
the city a sense of security and the well-being that the city was missing. He shared his appreciation
for Chief Deal ' s hard work and wished him well.
Mayor Reeves opened the Courtesy of the Floor to Visitors . City Clerk Bartle called each speaker to
the podium.
Sally Clemens, 1638 Park Terrace West, expressed farewell to Chief Deal and complimented him
on his accomplishments .
September 26, 2016 REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING Page 6
Chris Jorgensen, 92 W. 3rd St. gave farewell to Chief Deal; made a suggestion to have a policy in
place for the next Chief of Police to be a resident of the City; addressed concern of road conditions,
and showed a concern of the Aquatic project of leakage in retention drains . He suggested building a
retention pond as a resolution to prevent run-off. He spoke about the CRA.
Mike Whalen, 1420 Mayport Road acknowledged that Chief Deal is the first police chief to ever
visit businesses and introduce himself, along with the current commission getting out and showing
concern for local businesses . Regarding the CRA, Mr. Whalen does not see a need for it. He feels
that the City can work with the business owners instead of waiting a long time to make the process
happen and gave examples of ways the City and the business owners can solve problems . He
explained a suggestion to allow businesses/owners to adopt a park. He feels that a coalition is
needed to work out problems among the city and does not feel that the businesses need the CRA to
do it for them.
Brad Kennelly, 2265 Beachcomber Trail handed the City Clerk the right-of-way maps that were
marked up according to the standards which are spelled out in the contract for the sidewalk project.
Dara Gourley, 2027 Mayport Rd. served on the Technical Committee for CRA and stated she is
not against the CRA; She learned that the community is divided on the project; residents are against
the commissioners in how they have handled projects and planning. She used the Gate Station as an
example and does not feel there was good representation of certain projects concerning the
community. She feels that an outside influence is not needed to tell the city what it needs to do and
the amount spent on it was excessive. Benefits of the CRA would secure funding and hold the city
accountable . In her opinion, she does not feel the residents feel that the city has been accountable
and that the residents ' best interest has been taken into consideration.
No one else from the audience spoke so Mayor Reeves closed the Courtesy of the Floor to Visitors .
3. Unfinished Business from Previous Meetings
A. LIUNA Local 630 "Blue Collar" Union Negotiations 2016-2018 Contract.
Motion : Authorize the City Manager to sign the two-year (2016-2018) agreement with
the LIUNA union.
Moved by Hill, Seconded by Waters
There was no discussion.
Roll Call Votes :
Aye : 5 - Harding, Hill, Stinson, Waters, Reeves
Nay : 0
MOTION CARRIED
B. Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association (PBA) Negotiations 2016 .
Motion : Approve the Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association (PBA) Negotiation
as included in our packet.
Moved by Waters, Seconded by Harding
September 26, 2016 REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING Page 7
There was no discussion.
Roll Call Votes :
Aye : 5 - Hill, Stinson, Waters , Harding, Reeves
Nay: 0
MOTION CARRIED
C. Report on applications submitted for the Beautification & Natural Resource
Preservation Advisory Committee.
City Clerk Bartle reported that she received applications for the committee, through September 23rd,
and the names were sent to the Mayor and Commissioners over the weekend. The names presented
were : Richard Bell, John November, Jeff Montanye, Mike Borno, Jonathon Bryson, Frank
Redmond, Sarah Andrews Dark, Margo Mudge, Chip Drysdale, Bruce Andrews . She also reported
that Commissioner Hill called in his recommendations which are Tim Anderson and Don Ford.
Mayor Reeves acknowledged names presented and made a request to the Commission to prepare to
present two representatives at the next meeting that they would like to have on the Committee and
they do not have to be from the list that was presented.
Commissioner Hill asked for clarification as to whether there would be a conflict for Don Ford to
serve on the committee since he is employed by another city.
Mayor Reeves confirmed that this is an advisory committee to help guide us through the steps to see
what we want the beautification committee to do .
Commissioner Hill explained that Mr. Ford would be an excellent resource but would not serve on
the (standing) committee . He asked whether the Commission found it to be a conflict for Mr. Ford to
participate since it is not a standing board or committee and wanted to hear what the City Attorney
had to say about it.
City Attorney Brenna Durden saw no conflict; she verified that there are no restrictions for an
Advisory Committee regarding residency or employment.
Mayor Reeves explained he would like to hold a public roundtable with the committee, once it is
selected, to give specific charges and share what the desires are. He suggested having a designated
staff member monitor the progress, someone who can be very open and is able to communicate with
the committee without heading it up, unless there is a designated chairperson.
Commissioner Stinson suggested that since there is a Town Hall meeting on October 15th, it would
be a good idea to use the meeting to go over the expectations with the advisory group .
Commissioner Harding shared that he does have a topic that will be discussed at the Town Hall
meeting, which addresses the funds raised and the desires for the Bennett ' s Landing. He thinks that
having a discussion with the new advisory committee would be a good time to do so .
Mayor Reeves confirmed that the Town Hall meeting will have both discussions and reminded
Commissioners to have their picks at the next Commission meeting.
September 26, 2016 REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING Page 8
4. Consent Agenda
ALL MATTERS LISTED UNDER THE CONSENT AGENDA ARE CONSIDERED TO
BE ROUTINE BY THE CITY COMMISSION AND WILL BE ENACTED BY ONE
MOTION IN THE FORM LISTED BELOW. THERE WILL BE NO SEPARATE
DISCUSSION OF THESE ITEMS . IF DISCUSSION IS DESIRED, THAT ITEM WILL
BE REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA AND WILL BE CONSIDERED
SEPARATELY. SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION AND STAFF
RECOMMENDATIONS HAVE BEEN PREVIOUSLY SUBMITTED TO THE CITY
COMMISSION ON THESE ITEMS .
A. Acknowledge receipt of the Public Works Status Report as of September 14, 2016 .
B . Authorize the City Manager to sign the attached contracts with ABAA from October
1 , 2016 through September 30, 2017 .
C . Approve a salary increase of 3 % for the City Manager effective 10/ 1 / 16 .
D . Approve a salary increase of 3 % for the City Clerk effective 10/ 1 / 16 .
City Clerk Bartle read the consent agenda.
Mayor Reeves asked if any Commissioner wanted to pull an item from the Consent Agenda for
discussion.
Mayor Reeves pulled Item B off for discussion.
Mayor Reeves explained the reason for pulling Item B off the consent agenda, stating his concern of
charging ABAA $200 . 00 in comparison to ABET being the same price of $200 . 00; ABAA spends
their time and money for kids to play, provides monies to those who cannot afford to play, and have
installed clocks at the field. He mentioned how the city could not afford to pay an athletic director to
do what ABAA does for our community to run the fields . He questioned whether the city needed to
charge ABAA that much.
Commissioner Hill stated he was concerned of the revenue lost when the theater is used regularly.
He went on to say that, if the issues can be compartmentalized and associations can give back to the
community, the Commission just needs to make sure the city maintains control. He would like to
make sure that any third party involved understands that the city property is under city control . He
concurred with Mayor Reeves that he would be in favor of lowering the fee for the baseball contract.
Mayor Reeves requested confirmation from the City Attorney regarding having to charge a fee on a
legal basis .
City Attorney Durden clarified that when there is a contract, a fee does have to be charged.
Commissioner Stinson asked if ABAA is non-profit and Mayor Reeves said yes . Commissioner
Stinson warned that if the fee is changed, other organizations will also want to be treated the same .
His suggestion was to use caution with this kind of thinking process, as there are liability risks and
perhaps this needs some extra thought before making a decision.
Mayor Reeves questioned what the existing non-profit organizations are putting back into the city.
September 26, 2016 REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING Page 9
City Manager Van Liere verified that all organizations have supplied insurance for liability and
agreed that some barrier is needed to prevent it getting out of control with organizations taking over
city property.
Commissioner Waters stated she feels the $200 . 00 is a nominal fee and does not believe that non-
profit organizations should be free . She likes the balance where it currently is, as a give and take .
She stated we are already significantly discounting market rate to have them bring their amenity to
our community.
Commissioner Hill agreed with the Mayor that the City should help support organizations who assist
the community financially to those who are not economically in a position to play. He would like to
consider lowering the amount for ABAA, but strongly agrees that each one of these contracts should
be looked at on an individual basis .
Recreation Director Timmy Johnson stated he feels it is more about the service as opposed to the
dollar amount. The City cannot provide the service that the organizations provide .
Commissioner Harding indicated he would not have a problem changing the amount as long as there
is consistency and expressed concern over the precedence it will set.
Further discussion ensued. Commissioner Stinson gave an update on the meetings with the members
of ABET and First Act. He reported that ABET eventually agreed to share the space with First Act
by giving them the same hours they were previously keeping, but does not want First Act to store
their items in the theater; ABET will continue their plan with their children program during different
time slots . He explained that final commitment was that if any of the groups needed more time, it is
the city' s right and responsibility to allocate or dedicate that time. He also reported that both parties
were in agreement with the results .
He reported on the meeting he had with the tennis group and explained their discussion about how
time slots are allocated and the issue of the leagues dropping in on the courts unannounced. He
reported that both attending parties were happy with the solutions of Mr. Johnson.
City Manager Van Liere confirmed that ABET, the tennis pro and First Act will all have contracts at
$200 .
Mayor Reeves requested that the Commission defer Item 4B to the October 10th meeting.
Motion : Defer Consent Item B to October 10, 2016.
Moved by Hill, Seconded by Stinson
There was no further discussion.
Votes :
Aye : 5 - Harding, Hill, Stinson, Waters, Reeves
Nay: 0
MOTION CARRIED
September 26, 2016 REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING Page 10
Motion : Approve the Consent Agenda Items A, C & D.
Moved by Hill, Seconded by Stinson
There was no discussion on these items .
Votes :
Aye : 5 - Harding, Hill, Stinson, Waters, Reeves
Nay : 0
MOTION CARRIED
5. Committee Reports
None.
6. Action on Resolutions
A. Public Hearing on adopting Resolution No. 16-05 for the Millage Rate.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF ATLANTIC BEACH, FLORIDA LEVYING
THE AD VALOREM PROPERTY TAX MILLAGE RATE FOR MUNICIPAL
PURPOSES ON ALL TAXABLE PROPERTY WITHIN THE CITY FOR THE
FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING OCTOBER 1 , 2016 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30,
2017 ; STATING THE PERCENTAGE BY WHICH THE MILLAGE TO BE LEVIED
EXCEEDS THE ROLLED-BACK RATE ; AND, PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
This item has taken out of sequence and acted on earlier in the meeting.
7. Action on Ordinances
A. Public Hearing and Final Reading on Adoption of Ordinance No. 20-16-140
establishing the Operating Budget for fiscal year 2016/2017.
AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE FINAL BUDGET FOR THE CITY OF ATLANTIC
BEACH, FLORIDA FOR FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING OCTOBER 1 , 2016 AND
ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2017 .
This item was taken out of sequence and acted on earlier in the meeting.
B. Ordinance No . 20-16-141 , Public Hearing and Final Reading
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE OPERATING BUDGET FOR THE CITY OF
ATLANTIC BI-CACH, FLORIDA FOR FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING OCTOBER 1 ,
2015 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2016 FOR APPROPRIATING
ADDITIONAL FUNDS IN THE LEGAL SERVICES DIVISION, AND
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
City Clerk read the Ordinance by title.
Mayor Reeves asked the Commissioners if they needed the Finance Director to brief them on
anything. No explanation was needed.
September 26, 2016 REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING Page 11
Motion : Approve Ordinance No. 20-16-141 as read.
Moved by Waters, Seconded by Hill .
Mayor Reeves opened the public hearing. No one wished to speak so Mayor Reeves closed the
public hearing.
There was no discussion.
Roll Call Votes :
Aye : 5 - Stinson, Waters , Harding, Hill, Reeves
Nay: 0
MOTION CARRIED
8. Miscellaneous Business (Discussion only)
A. Mayport Road Community Redevelopment Plan Presentation .
Commissioner Hill believes the City can get bond money to do the improvements instead of
going through the CRA. Discussion ensued about the half-cent sales tax and the City' s
relationship with Jacksonville .
Commissioner Stinson made a request from Derek Reeves to give updates . Mayor Reeves
requested input from Planner Derek Reeves and the City Manager.
Planner Derek Reeves believes that the CRA works best with Jacksonville ' s dollars and if the
City does not get it, then it is probably not worth it noting this is the best way in the State of
Florida to lock up a long-term commitment. He explained there are a lot of changes that can
be made just by changing our land development regulations and believes that is going to be a
much bigger hurdle than some might realize. He further explained there are residents who
have one thought and feeling and we have the businesses that have a totally opposite feeling.
He stated he is the one that is saying no on all those business tax applications so he knows
what they are going through and that the buildings are designed for uses that we do not allow.
He explained there are very tough decision that need to be made such as do we go backwards
in that respect or do we try to go toward with what the residents and some past commissions
have pushed for which is to eliminate those auto uses and warehouse uses . He believes the
CRA plan or Redevelopment plan addresses those issues by improving the industrial areas
which has more intensive uses . He believes that the long-term commitment is necessary and
from the planner perspective and his education and background, the CRA is the answer. He
reiterated that it will improve the industrial areas and long-term commitment is what this
project needs .
Commissioner Waters questioned whether the report that was presented was a unanimous
decision. It was explained that it was unanimous based on those who were present at the
Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) meeting.
Commissioner Stinson questioned members of VHB about what the cost would be to get the
City from creation to year five .
September 26, 2016 REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING Page 12
Curtis Ostrodka, representing VHB, 225 East Robinson Street, Orlando, explained that
in the schedule there was $ 100, 000 . 00 budgeted for the Comp Plan and LDC updates in the
first year and believes the City will cover it through the General Fund. He recommended that
since the process takes so long moving through the TPO prioritization process and to do
some meaningful redevelopment of Mayport Corridor, it may be in the city' s best interest to
have some skin in the game initially because that can help leverage other funds from the
TPO . He said that, in their experience, a similar corridor study could cost between $ 150,000
to $250, 000 so they put in the higher amount. He explained that a CRA would need an
agency to administer it. Commissioner Stinson reiterated his question asking for a dollar
amount for the first five years . Mr. Ostrodka stated he would have to go back and take a look
at it, but he gave a ballpark number for the cost, some of which are recurring, of $50,000 per
year for the community events organizer and some of the improvements to the aesthetics
noting they are trying to create a flexible plan.
Commissioner Stinson explained the need for a cost schedule in five year increments in order
to figure out at what point the funding starts to take over.
Planner Reeves addressed Commissioner Stinson' s concern explaining that you can pay
whatever you want to pay or with whatever revenue you get. He explained we don't have to
throw a dollar at this if you don't want to, other than for implementing which would include
ordinances and resolution at a minimal cost.
Commissioner Hill expressed concern about a comment that staff made about the general
direction of the community. He explained that we have business owners who have purpose-
built structures and it sounds like staff might want to head away from that direction because
they sense that we or a previous Commission had given them that thought. He explained that
is disturbing to him that our planner would say that a warehouse is not our desired use for a
warehouse. He believes our most valuable asset is the ability to employ people locally. He
explained that empty warehouses have no value to us and he does not want to change the
industrial area because the economic future of our community has a certain amount of
industrial built into it. He stated that if that is the direction that staff got from the
Commission, then he would like to make sure that it is revisited as a group . Commissioner
Hill commented that the general consensus is that people want something done. He spoke
against the CRA but agreed something has to be done . He expressed concern that it seems
like it is being lead. He asked if the firm doing the research has a vested interest in the future
of the contract and if it influenced their decision.
Mr. Ostrodka confirmed that they are a for-profit company and he is a stockholder of that
company. He explained they have an interest in anywhere they can do work which includes
private development and public entities and would like very much to continue working for
the City because they have gotten to know the staff and the community members and because
they believe in this project and want to improve communities . He answered a question from
Commissioner Hill regarding whether there would be a need for his type of services if they
choose not to do the CRA. He believes that whether or not the Commission determines to do
a CRA, there are other planning issues that have a need for some assistance .
Mayor Reeves suggested that he and the City Manager reach out to Mayor ' s Chief of Staff in
Jacksonville to see if there is any interest in the project.
September 26, 2016 REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING Page 13
Planner Derek Reeves responded to Commissioner Hill ' s comments, pointing out that the
direction he gets is from the Codes and he has to enforce them as they are . He explained that
the uses listed in CG are not workable for warehouses .
Commissioner Hill asked that the Commission revisit the needs of the business community
and discuss at future meetings .
Mayor Reeves stated that he would like to see the City Manager put together a business
association.
Commissioner Waters believes that, if we revisit the code regarding restrictions on light
automotive and heavy automotive, we are going backwards because we are not addressing
the buffer between residential community and the light industrial district. She explained
various considerations that affect the decisions about our Codes. She explained a
comprehensive code review is important in order to balance the vested stakeholders in our
community noting the residents count as much as business owners do .
Commissioner Hill indicated he does not want to categorize businesses . He would rather
limit the things they do not want specifically. He does not believe anyone should care what
the business is along as it does not have hazardous materials stored or the leakage of smell,
sound or other undesirables . He believes it needs a simple language change .
City Manager Van Liere explained that the City is already moving in the right direction with
or without the CRA and some of the things on the presented list is already in the planning
stages and in the budget. He reported that he has interviews scheduled with candidates for
the Director' s position. He reiterated that the City is already moving in the right direction,
whether we get a CRA or not. He explained that the Commission needs to decide if they
want to try to get Jacksonville to participate to help us with funding.
Commissioner Harding expressed concern about the report being represented as unanimously
approved to bring forward, noting he believes it was skewed because it was only based on the
decision of the members in attendance at that particular meeting. He explained issues have
been identified in areas of west Atlantic Beach and they need to be addressed and taken care
of whether it is through CRA or through our own funding sources .
Commissioner Stinson addressed concerns mentioned by Commissioner Harding and
wondered if the change in Commission every two years has been one of the road blocks that
has caused that area to be overlooked. He stated he likes the idea that you put something
together that the City is committed to moving forward with because if we keep doing the
same things that we have always done, ten years from now someone will look at Mayport
and say it has been overlooked; what are we going to do .
Mayor Reeves stated that he and the City Manager will report back to the Commission after
they meet with Jacksonville. Discussion ensued about needing to see the numbers before
moving forward.
Planner Derek Reeves clarified that any additional costs would be for an extra audit on this
account otherwise we do not have to spend a dollar we are not spending today.
September 26, 2016 REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING Page 14
Commissioner Hill wanted to know what happens to all the projects that need to be done now
that we were going to use that money for. He asked for clarification whether the City would
have to hold off on the current projects while waiting for the funds .
Mr. Ostrodka replied by referring to it as a piggy bank explaining it is one of many that the
City has such as the General Fund, Grants or other funding mechanisms and is another
alternative way to pay for some of these things and should provide some flexibility for use of
the General Funds or the other grants the City receives . He explained that whether or not the
City waits to pay for a project is at the City' s discretion and approving the CRA does not
mean that you need to wait on anything, but you can choose to if you want to ; you do not
need to wait for funds to accrue; it is just another financing strategy for the City to have in
hand. The CRA, the TIF funds itself, will not fund everything or every single project that the
City wants to do, but it is another mechanism for you to create a dedicated funding source to
address a particular issue.
It was the consensus of the Commission to move forward to keep this ongoing for
discussion only, not for action at this time, so that we can investigate some more and
then move forward and then make a decision.
Mr. Ostrodka addressed the unanimous issue explaining that all members were given the
information prior to the meetings and had an opportunity to oppose whether they attended or
not.
9. City Manager
A. City Manager' s Report.
• 90-Day Calendar (October 2016 through December 2016) .
City Manager Van Liere reported on the Town Hall Meeting scheduled for October 15 , stating there
will be a couple of items to be discussed. He asked Police Chief Deal to share details regarding the
Web . corn Tournament.
Chief Deal explained the details of the event from October 2-9, stating there will be several pre-
events, private and public . He further described that there will be extra officers, and that general
parking will be at 500 Atlantic Boulevard and a shuttle will go through the backside gate . He
explained that there will be one street closure and message boards will be on Atlantic Blvd.
Mayor Reeves reiterated that there will be twelve off-duty officers assigned and will not affect the
City' s regular service of the department. He suggested that the City could possibly borrow the white
fences from Jacksonville Beach to block off designated areas . He explained that Johansen Park has
been contracted for valet parking only, and that the Monday night event at the Town Center event is
free.
Mayor Reeves thanked the City Manager, Recreation Director Tim Johnson, the Police Department,
Public Works and everyone who has been involved in supporting the event. He shared that every
player is being housed by local residents and this event could generate 4 . 5 to 5 . 5 million dollars for
the City and put us on the map .
September 26, 2016 REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING Page 15
City Manager Van Liere advised that the mess on Francis Avenue is almost complete and that
additional water trucks are keeping the dust under control for the residents .
He reported the Dutton Island improvement project is wrapping up and near completion. Mayor
Reeves asked if there was any update on Seminole Road from the 5 -way to Atlantic Boulevard.
Public Works Director Don Jacobovitz said it will probably be another two weeks .
10. Reports and/or requests from City Commissioners and City Attorney
City Clerk Bartle
• Welcomed Della, stating she will be transitioning from the Recreation Department to the
City Clerk' s office .
• Thanked the Commission for the pay increase .
City Attorney Durden
• Gave an update on the Cloister, stating we did receive the Order to show cause and our
response brief will be due October 6 .
• Reported for the Adeeb petition case, our response brief will be due October 19 .
Commissioner Harding
• Attended the League of Cities meeting in Palatka.
• Thanked Mr. Van Liere and the Public Works Director for the barrier by Memorial Park
and the American Legion.
• Would like to get the ball rolling on the sun shade at Tideviews Park.
• Thanked Chief Deal for his service and wished him well on his future endeavors .
Commissioner Waters
• Attended the Dig Local Fundraiser and encouraged everyone to support the market.
• Thanked Chief Deal for his service, stating he has set the bar high.
Commissioner Hill
• Thanked Chief Deal, stating he has left the City in a better position.
• Stated there are some physical issues with the Safe Routes to School Project and
encouraged everyone to look at what was put in the record.
• Stated if we get out of the way of the businesses on the west side of Mayport Road, the
businesses will thrive.
• Officially requested we petition the FDOT to reduce the speed limit on Mayport Road to
40 mph from the overpass to the gate.
Commissioner Stinson
• Thanked Chief Deal and wished him the best of luck.
• Thanked Jackie Smith and Congressman Anders Crenshaw for contacting him about all
the young people that were here tonight for the award ceremony.
• Thanked ABET, First Act, Mr. Catalan, Mr. Keith, Mr. Van Liere and Mr. Johnson for
meeting with him and for their support.
September 26, 2016 REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING Page 16
• Reported that next month is the last Acoustic Night for the year and encouraged all to
attend.
• Assisted the Oceanside Rotary Club in picking up flags after 9- 11 , stating how proud he
is to be an American.
Mayor Reeves
• Thanked the Commission for approval of the millage rate reduction.
• Thanked the City Attorney and the City Clerk for getting their bios .
• Explained he spoke with the City Manager about the Russell Park parking lot, addressing
the ongoing construction, and empty trailers that could be moved.
• Wished Chief Deal all the best.
• Suggested the City Manager include the Chief in reviewing the applications for his
replacement.
• Requested a meet and greet with the Commission and the top three finalists to see how
they socialize and interact with the people.
• Reported he has been appointed by the President of The Florida League of Cities to be on
a legislative committee for the state league and he is honored to serve the City and it
helps us to meet people.
Adjournment
There being no further discussion, Mayor Reeves declared the meeting adjourned at 8 : 56 p .m.
ATTEST : Mitchell E. Reeves
Mayor/Presiding Officer
Donna L . Bartle, CMC
City Clerk