Item 1A- Draft Minutes- Commission 10-10-16IN ATTENDANCE:
MINUTES
REGULAR CITY COMMISSION MEETING
October 10, 2016
CITY HALL, 800 SEMINOLE ROAD
AGENDA ITEM 1A
DECEMBER 12, 2016
Mayor Mitchell E. Reeves
Mayor Pro Tern Jimmy Hill
Commissioner Mitch Harding
Commissioner John Stinson
City Attorney Brenna Durden
ABSENT:
City Manager Nelson Van Liere
City Clerk Donna L. Bartle
Recording Secretary Della Giovanni
Commissioner M. Blythe Waters (excused)
Invocation and pledge to the flag
Mayor Reeves gave the Invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Call to Order:
Mayor Reeves called the meeting to order at 6:34p.m. City Clerk Bartle called the roll and Mayor Reeves noted
that a quorum was present. Mayor Reeves reported that Commissioner Waters has an excused absence because she
followed the evacuation rule for Hurricane Matthew; she is out of town trying to make it back.
1. A.
B.
C.
D.
Approve minutes ofthe Workshop on September 26, 2016.
Approve minutes ofthe Roundtable meeting on September 10, 2016.
Approve minutes of the Budget Workshop on August 15, 2016.
Approve minutes of the Budget Workshop on August 24,2016.
Mayor Reeves asked if there were any corrections to the above minutes. There were no conections, so Mayor
Reeves stated the minutes are accepted as submitted.
2. Courtesy of the Floor to Visitors
A. Presentation from Margo Moehring on Maritime Management Plan
Margo Moehring, Policy Director with the Northeast Florida Regional Council, 6850 Belfmi Oaks Place,
Jacksonville, gave a presentation on the Maritime Management Plan. She explained the Plan is being funded by
the City of Jacksonville and the Florida Inland Navigation District. The team is led by her with the assistance from
the University ofNorth Florida and Jacksonville University, who will assess the City of Jacksonville facilities and
develop a methodology to prioritize investment in maintenance, capital improvements and acquisition. The City of
Atlantic Beach will continue to review their facilities as they are currently being done. There will be an overall
inventmy for Duval County.
Another goal of the Plan is to assess the importance of waterways to the county's economy, natural resources,
community resources and develop policy recommendations to retain and enhance the value of the watetways. She
explained the three phases which are 1) Research and survey phase, 2) Assessment phase, and 3) Final phase. She
added that the Jacksonville University team is working on a story map to tell the story of the resources.
Commissioner Stinson questioned what involvement, if any, the St. Johns Waterway Management has in the Plan.
Ms. Moehring responded that St. Johns Waterway Management is not a partner working on the plan but is aware of
the Plan.
Commissioner Hill asked what the goal of the Plan is. Ms. Moehring explained the City of Jacksonville wants a
review and assessment of their facilities and then a methodology to prioritize what work they should do going
forward. She explained it is also to look at the value of waterways having to do with economics, community value
and resource value.
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Commissioner Hill asked about the format of the meetings. Ms. Moehring responded that they are back and forth
open floor discussions.
2. Courtesy of the Floor to Visitors
Mayor Reeves opened the Courtesy of the Floor to Visitors and explained the process. City Clerk Bartle called
each speaker to the podium.
Anne Roberts, 222 Poinsettia St., did not come to the podium, but expressed her support of First Act Theater
project.
Aine Healy-Richardson, 612 13th Ave. N., Jacksonville Beach, spoke in support of First Act.
Chris Jorgensen, 92 W. 3rd St., spoke about hurricane preparedness. He thanked First Responders, the Police and
Fire Departments, residents who assisted in the hurricane, Public Works' staff and Public Utilities' staff. He spoke
about erosion. He thanked Commissioner Stinson for his campaign on Emergency Preparedness. He suggested a
generator for City Hall and reported the number of hits received on his Twitter site which has public service
announcements.
Lou Keith, 1845 Tierra Verde Dr., professional tennis umpire, explained his professional tennis credentials,
experience and involvement with organizations. He spoke against Item 4E regarding the tennis pro. He stated his
disapproval of the suggestion to install a CC television at the Russel Park Tennis Courts explaining it is not a
solution for public access to the City tennis courts. He spoke against allowing a For-Profit business to lease 50%
of the tennis courts at $200 a year. He reported discussions he had with Recreation Director Timmy Johnson and
with Mr. Catalan and believes Mr. Catalan has been allowed to monopolize public tennis courts with the City's
blessing. Mr. Keith explained his recommendations for handling the tennis court schedules. He strongly
recommended that the tennis professional contract not be renewed.
Betsy Cosgrove, 116 Poinsettia St., thanked the Commission and staff for their service. She referred to the
September 29, 2016 letter from T.R. Hainline, which was included in the agenda packet for Item lOA. She stated
she agrees with Mr. Hainline's interpretation of Section 3-2, and Chief Deal's confirmation, but wanted to share
Section 3-4 since Mr. Hainline did not address that section of the Code in his letter. She referred to her handout and
explained her interpretation of Sections 3-2 and 3-4. She asked the Commission to consider limiting the hours of
operation for the Gate Gas Station and suggested the hours of operation be from 6 am -11 pm.
John November, 536 South St., Neptune Beach, thanked the Commission for moving forward with the creation
of the committee to support our trees, ours parks and the overall beautification of the city. He indicated he looks
forward to beginning the dialogue at the meeting this Saturday at Jordan Park and hopes for a good turnout from
the committee members. He explained the presentation he plans to give regarding Bennett's Landing and expressed
support for the acquisition of Johnson Island. Mr. November feels that the new plan will benefit the City of Atlantic
Beach for years to come. He gave thanks to the public officials for their work during the hurricane.
Mark Tingen, 1198 Sandpiper Ln., thanked the Mayor, City Commissioners, City Staff, Police Department, Fire
Department and Public Works for doing a great job, for the communication to citizens, for pulling together, and for
giving their time to the residents when they could have been with their families.
Suzanne Shaughnessy, 168 Ocean Walk Dr. S, congratulated the City on the way it came through the storm. She
pointed out that our great fortune was a result of not only the storm changing its tracks, but also our geography and
she explained the reasons. She congratulated and thanked Mayor Reeves for being at the emergency operations
center and explained the importance of it. She was impressed by how the City of St. Augustine gave televised
briefings from their city manager and staff. She suggested our city manager briefings not only be televised, but also
be posted immediately to the City's website for citizens to see. She explained how ABAA has contributed to the
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City by providing supplies and equipment for the fields. She believes they serve more citizens than any other
activity in the city and they plow more money back into the city facilities than any other 501(c)(3) organization in
the city and suggested their contract be renewed at an annual cost of$10.00.
Sharette Simpkins, 354 19th St., stated she is disgusted about how code enforcement works for Atlantic Beach.
She noted she has been in the same house for 30 years and has seen things go haywire. She gave examples ofhow
the City handled her complaints, noting she has been writing complaint letters since 1999 and is still dealing with
the same problem. She read from a letter she wrote to the Mayor on July 13,2016 regarding several complaints she
had submitted to the City of Atlantic Beach Code Enforcement Office. She further explained why she believes the
services she is receiving from the City is insufficient and would like code enforcement to review the Code and make
necessary changes.
Brooke Anderson, 824 Sherry Dr., parent of a child who has benefitted from Aine Healy Richardson's program,
spoke in support of the First Act program being at the Adele Grage Theater. She thanked the Commission for
listening and valuing the desires of Atlantic Beach residents. She also thanked Commissioner Stinson for being
action-oriented and for coordinating a meeting with the appropriate stakeholders to rapidly coming up with a
solution that allows First Act to return to their home theater. She expressed gratitude to Mayor Reeves for his
handling of the weather emergency and for his capable leadership and desire to serve the citizens.
Judy Hulett, 1100 Seagate Ave., Neptune Beach, president of ABET, thanked the Commission for always
supporting ABET. She explained what ABET does for the City. They offer the community local theater; they bring
people into the City; and they entered into an agreement with the City for a grant where they pledged $25,000 for
improvements to the building which will benefit evmyone, if the grant is received. She stated they do try to make
sure others can use the building as well for things such as weddings and Songwriters. She is proud that the City
supports and appreciates the theater for their citizens.
City Clerk Bartle read the names and comments from the citizens who did not want to speak as follows:
Ingrid McCawley, 345 4th St., supports First Act's utilization of the Adele Grage Community Center for the benefit
of our community.
Mary Di Matthew, 901 Ocean Blvd. #10, suppotis First Act.
Sally Clemens, 1638 Park Terrace West, supports Item 8C.
Anne Marie A wad, 2254 Barefoot Trace, supports First Act.
No one else from the audience spoke so Mayor Reeves closed the Comiesy of the Floor to Visitors.
3. Unfinished Business from Previous Meetings
A. Establishing the Beautification & Natural Resource Preservation Advisory
Committee and Appointing the Members.
Mayor Reeves asked that each Commissioner present two names for membership on the Committee and
explained that Commissioner Waters submitted hers to the City Clerk which she will report. The names
were given as follows:
Commissioner Waters-Linda Lanier and Bruce Andrews
Commissioner Stinson -Mike Borno and Sarah Andrew Dark
Commissioner Hill-Tim Anderson and Don Ford
Commissioner Harding -Dawn Scott
Commissioner Harding tried choosing John November as his second name but Mayor Reeves advised
him that Mr. November has already been appointed. After brief discussion, he decided to yield the
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second person as one of the qualified applicants that were submitted to the City Clerk. Commissioner Hill
spoke about Chip Drysdale and his background.
Mayor Reeves -Judith Leroux and Suzanne Shaughnessy
Mayor Reeves explained that all the appointments should be made prior to the October 15, 2016 Town Hall
Meeting.
Mayor Reeves recommended a motion and Commissioner Hill suggested that the item wait until after the
first break to allow Commissioner Harding time to look over the applications. Commissioner Harding stated
he is unfamiliar with the names on the list, other than John November.
Motion: Accept the names that have been mentioned and accept a final name (from Commissioner
Harding) off of the existing list, not to be added to, before the Town Hall Meeting on October 15,
2016.
Moved by Hill, Seconded by Commissioner Harding.
Mayor Reeves recommended having past Mayor Mike Borno be the Chair and past Mayor Suzanne
Shaughnessy be the Vice Chair to the Committee. Discussion ensued about how the Chair should be
chosen.
Commissioner Stinson agreed with the idea, however preferred that the roles be co-chairs for Mr. Borno
and Ms. Shaughnessy to help keep the committee focused on its purpose.
Commissioner Hill spoke about allocating City Attorney time to the early stage of the committee. Mayor
Reeves explained they need to come up with a charge for the Committee. Commissioner Hill liked the
suggestion from Commissioner Stinson for co-chairs.
Mayor Reeves expressed concern about residents not knowing the rules for permitting in regards to trees
and directed the City Manager to get infonnation out as soon as possible, while the tree people are here due
to the storm.
Commissioner Hill explained there is a huge difference in an Arborist and a Tree Service. He believes
there are a lot of tree cutters in our City right now. He urged citizens to use professional arborist.
Commissioner Stinson questioned whether Mayor Reeves is asking for an amended motion to include the
co-chairs explaining it was not in the original motion. Mayor Reeves requested an amended motion to
include the co-chairs.
Amended Motion: Amend the original motion to appoint Mike Borno and Suzanne Shaughnessy as
co-chairs of this Committee in the interest of efficiency.
Moved by Stinson, Seconded by Commissioner Hill.
Votes:
Aye: 4 -Harding, Hill, Stinson, Reeves
Nay: 0
MOTION CARRIED
Commissioner Stinson questioned whether a vote needs to be taken on the original motion. City Attorney
Durden answered that she thought that the original motion was voted on already, but deferred to the City
Clerk for guidance. Discussion ensued and it was determined that another vote was needed to approve the
original motion as amended which is: Accept the names that have been mentioned and accept a final
name (from Commissioner Harding) off the existing list, not to be added to, before the Town Hall
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DECEMBER 12, 2016
October 10, 2016 DRAFT REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING PageS
Meeting on October 15,2016 and appoint Mike Borno and Suzanne Shaughnessy as co-chairs of this
Committee in the interest of efficiency.
Votes:
Aye: 4 -Harding, Hill, Stinson, Reeves
Nay: 0
MOTION CARRIED
4. Consent Agenda
ALL MA TIERS 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 Building Department Monthly Activity Report for July 2016 and
Financial Report and Business Information List for August 2016.
B. Authorize the City Manager to sign the contract with ABET for use of Adele Grage Cultural Center
from October 1, 2016 through September 30, 2017.
C. Authorize the City Manager to sign the contract with First Act for use of Adele Grage Cultural
Center from October 1, 2016 through September 30, 2017.
D. Authorize the City Manager to sign the contract with ABAA for October 1, 2016 through September
30, 2017.
E. Authorize the City Manager to sign the contract with Brecht Catalan for scheduled use of the tennis
courts at Russell Park from October 1, 2016 through September 30, 2017.
City Clerk Bartle read the consent agenda.
Mayor Reeves asked if any Commissioner wanted to pull an item from the Consent Agenda for discussion.
Commissioner Hill pulled Items B, C, and E from the agenda. Mayor Reeves pulled Item D.
Motion: Approve Consent Agenda Item A.
Moved by Reeves (No second was requested.)
Votes:
Aye: 4 -Harding, Reeves, Stinson, Hill
Nay: 0
MOTION CARRIED
Mayor Reeves opened discussion on Item 4B. Commissioner Hill asked for a report on the final solution.
Recreation Director Timmy Johnson gave an updated report on Item 4B regarding renewal of contract for ABET
noting the executive director and president of ABET, owner of First Act, city staff and Commissioner Stinson met.
He explained that after an extensive discussion, everyone was in agreement to work together, have the uses
scheduled and ABET relinquished Mondays and Saturdays to First Act.
Commissioner Hill expressed concern about parking.
Commissioner Stinson complimented the two organizations for working together and explained that ABET agreed
to restructure their children's programs to prevent overlapping with First Act.
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Commissioner Hill wanted to be assured that any children activity includes background checks and that the city
needs standards if we continue this path.
Mayor Reeves clarified that the city already has background checks as a policy. He asked for Judy Hulett to come
forward to the podium. He questioned whether ABET has a plan to find another building in order to grow. Ms.
Hulett indicated they have a program and a very nice reserve in case they have to leave. Mayor Reeves advised
Ms. Hulett that the organization needs to understand that the theater is not their space; it is City space. He suggested
that ABET consider paying more than the $200.00 since they are not charged for the electricity to run the lights and
sound-system for their programs.
Commissioner Stinson expressed interest in renewing the contracts tonight and having the City Manager come back
to the Commission in January with a plan showing the assets, the history of charges, and the worth.
Mayor Reeves stated he would like to know how many people are being turned away from using the facility due to
ABET's usage and what that value is.
City Manager Van Liere suggested that for next year, request for proposals for these services be accepted in order
to allow other organizations to compete for the use of the facility. He explained that the City does not want to be
in business to give tennis lessons, run a theater or run baseball but could put the facilities up for rent with an RFP
to let organizations bids and award those instead of doing the same contracts each year.
Commissioner Hill was not supportive of the City Manager's idea. He indicated that all this started when ABET
separated from the kid's program with First Act. Instead of charging more to the organization, he suggested that
they expand their involvement with community-based activities, outreach to seniors, get more local people involved,
try not to go geographically larger and keep it a walk/bike to theater. He explained that citizens are in support of
kid programs and it is not about economics, rather it is about the value the theater brings to the citizens.
Commissioner Hill recommended a 6-month contract that goes for review.
Judy Hulett indicated that ABET will no longer have a children's program, but will have a teen program and First
Act will continue with the children's program as they have in the past.
Mayor Reeves suggested that the Commission renew the annual contract. He stated it is a great theater, but would
love to see some programs on the west side of Mayport Rd.
Commissioner Stinson reiterated the agreement among ABET and First Act and stated they realize there are some
growth issues which is why they are having to coordinate through the city. He commented on an article in the
Beaches Leader and clarified that he believed all patiies left feeling like they had agreed to a great plan that offered
a solution in the interest of the children, the theater and the city.
Commissioner Hill asked if First Act will be able to stand on their own. Commissioner Stinson believes that both
organizations can function independently.
Motion: Approve Consent Agenda Item B as written.
Moved by Stinson, Seconded by Harding
Roll Call Votes:
Aye: 4 -Harding, Hill, Stinson, Reeves
Nay: 0
MOTION CARRIED
Mayor Reeves opened discussion on Item 4C. Commissioner Hill asked if the city could provide First Act with a
trailer for storage if that is still an issue.
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Mayor Reeves spoke about the need to add storage on the Adele Grage property. Recreation Director Timmy
Johnson stated that he needs storage also.
Aine Richardson, 612 13th Avenue North, Jacksonville Beach, owner of First Act, explained First Act currently
has storage in a warehouse on Mayport Road and is comfortable with moving her items to and from the theater due
to space restraints as long as they have a little extra time to set up and break down.
Commissioner Harding spoke in support of separate contracts for the two organizations.
Motion: Approve Consent Agenda Item C as written.
Moved by Stinson, Seconded by Harding
Roll Call Votes:
Aye: 4 -Hill, Stinson, Harding, Reeves
Nay: 0
MOTION CARRIED
Mayor Reeves opened discussion on Item 4 D. Mayor Reeves suggested only charging $1.00 to ABAA for the use
of the fields since they give back to the community in many ways.
Commissioner Hill agreed with Mayor Reeves on his suggestion.
Mayor Reeves stepped down to have Commissioner Hill chair the meeting as Mayor Pro Tern so that Mayor Reeves
could make a motion.
Motion: Approve the contract (with ABAA) for one year at $1.00.
Moved by Reeves, Seconded by Harding
Commissioner Stinson stated he does not have a problem with reducing the fee, but would like to wait for city staff
to go through their evaluation of contracts and make a recommendation. He believes there should be a definitive
way to determine who falls under which fee.
Mayor Pro Tern Hill requested a vote.
Roll Call Votes:
Aye: 4 -Stinson, Harding, Reeves, Hill
Nay: 0
MOTION CARRIED
Mayor Reeves opened discussion on Item 4E. Commissioner Harding refened to No. 2 regarding proof of non-
profit status being provided to the City Manager noting that he believes it is a for profit entity. He added on No. 3
on the agreement it states that no fees or admission costs will be charged to the general public for use of these
facilities and he believes that the tennis professional is using all six courts still, even after the meeting with him.
Commissioner Harding stated he cannot support this contract.
Commissioner Stinson reported he has received a letter of concern from a citizen, in reference to allowing "For
profit" organizations using city property with little or no fees, wanting the same kind of deal. He also reported three
separate letters he received from Louis Keith explaining his ideas and suggestions (which is attached and made
part of this Official Record as Attachment A). He believes the City needs to have a way to schedule the use of
the courts. He stated he understands Commissioner Harding's concern and believes RFP's may be the answer.
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Commissioner Hill questioned how many citizens were being served by the tennis pro and explained small
businesses that use city facilities and do not allow other citizens to use them is problematic and needs addressing.
Mayor Reeves suggested that the contract not be renewed and expressed concern about the financial report that was
submitted. He stated he would like to give this back to the City Manager and bid it out.
City Manager Van Liere explained that, if he is to put specifications out for a contract, he will need guidance
regarding how much court time can be tied up.
Commissioner Hill requested researching what other cities do based on the number of hours available per court, not
number of lessons taught. He would like to keep the courts accessible to non-paying recreational tennis players as
much as possible.
Motion: Not renew Item 4E.
Moved by Hill, Seconded by Harding
Roll Call Votes:
Aye: 4 -Harding, Hill, Stinson, Reeves
Nay: 0
MOTION NOT CARRIED
Commissioner Stinson requested that the Commission give the City Manager clear direction on where we want to
go from here. Discussion ensued and it was decided that 1) The City Manager should notify Brecht Catalan
that his contract has not been renewed and 2) The City Manager research with other cities and come back
with a recommendation. He asked the City Manager if he has a good idea ofwhere he needs to go from here.
City Manager VanLiere believes that the research will vary. He believes the arrangement that the city has had over
the years has not changed partly because it has been accepted and to change it means something is going to have to
give in the other direction. He stated it is not going to be an easy task to change this, but we can look at the options
and see what others are doing and put a chart together and see what we like.
5. Committee Reports
There were no committee reports.
6. Action on Resolutions
There were no resolutions.
7. Action on Ordinances
There were no ordinances.
8. Miscellaneous Business (Discussion only)
A. Mayport Road Community Redevelopment Plan Discussion.
Planner Derek Reeves presented a slide show (which is attached and made part of this Official Record as
Attachment B) as he addressed concerns raised from a previous meeting. He spoke about public input, Mayport
Village CRA, COJ meetings and the first five-year costs and he answered questions.
Discussion ensued about the process going further. Mayor Reeves explained that he and the City Manager will
need to meet with every council member to see where we stand and whether we have a chance or not.
Commissioner Hill stated his concern regarding the lag time of waiting for Jacksonville when Atlantic Beach has
resources to move forward on some of the projects instead ofwaiting on funds from Jacksonville.
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Mayor Reeves agreed and explained it will not cost anything but time to go and meet with the Jacksonville officials.
He stated it has to have a retum on its money and he believes that if Jacksonville does not buy in, we will have to
look into another way to get some things done over there.
Discussion ensued about making investments with other funds in an effott to make propmty values rise. City
Manager Van Liere stated he does not see any reason to hold back on improving the community waiting for this to
happen.
Commissioner Stinson confirmed that unused monies go back to the taxing authorities.
After further discussion, Mayor Reeves stated the consensus is to keep it in discussion. Mayor Reeves
reiterated his plans to meet with each council member in Jacksonville before moving forward.
B. Discussion on requesting Florida Department of Transpottation to reduce speed limit on Mayport
Road.
Commissioner Hill indicated that there has not been much progress made on this due to the storm and was interested
in deferring it if staff needed more time.
City Manager asked Public Works Director Don Jacobowitz to report on the status of his research.
Don Jacobowitz indicated that some research was completed. He reported on his discussion with the FDOT. He
leamed that a request to reduce the speed limit can be made. He explained the City made a request in 2002 and
repotted that a study was done showing that 85 percent of drivers drove 45 mph. He stated that the same type of
study was done again in 2015, which was released in December with the same results. He explained that by deviating
from the speed that most people will drive normally, it causes more congestion, more safety concems and more
accidents on the road. He explained that FDOT recommended leaving it at 45 mph, back in December 2015 .q2
Commissioner Hill disagreed with their assessment and believes they put the ticker in the wrong area for their study.
He would still like to explore lowering the speed limit. He expressed concem about the high number of fatalities
of pedestrians, not in the road but on sidewalks.
Don Jacobowitz repotted that the traffic data only showed one pedestrian injury which was not a fatality.
Commissioner Hill questioned why certain incidents he recalls were not included in the data.
Mayor Reeves suggested that Commissioner Hill get with the City Manager and possibly the City Attomey to come
up with a resolution to bring to the Commission for a vote and if it passes, the resolution can be sent to the FDOT.
Commissioner Hill stated Acting Chief Gualillo should be asked if he thinks it would help the police do their job
and if not, he does not want to put the City Manager through the drill. Mayor Reeves reported that he had a
discussion with Chief Deal and they are not seeing an issue with accidents on Mayport Road. Commissioner Hill
reiterated that they will ask Acting Chief Gualillo his opinion on the matter.
City Manager Van Liere indicated that he would find the report from the police depattment that was given to the
Commission showing data regarding accidents and fatalities.
c. Welcome Park and Welcome Center Opportunity-Johnston Island.
Mayor Reeves explained that he would like a consensus to move the item forward. He reported on a meeting he
had with the president of the City Council and believes that the City of Jacksonville will join us on this project and
that it would be a good opportunity for our city.
Discussion ensued about the elevation of the land and what the land could be used for.
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Commissioner Hill stated that he sits on a Small Craft Advisory Subcommittee and reported that the FDOT for
security reasons, has eliminated the State of Florida's access to hundreds of places for the public to access water.
He stated that the proposed project is a unique oppotiunity to replace one ofthose with a park that does not present
a big security risk and would serve a very large number of people. He believes it would provide and maintain a
good fishing area for a mixed-use park and there is a potential for additional funding from other sources. He
indicated that any infi·astructure on that park would have to be on stilts. He expressed his support of the project and
believes it would be a huge asset for the citizens of Atlantic Beach.
Commissioner Stinson questioned the history of the property since developers and investors have shied away from
this piece of property. Commissioner Hill explained that the City has made it very difficult and have killed projects
in the past.
Commissioner Harding indicated that there used to be an automotive body shop on the propetiy many years ago
and said that people are always fishing there. He stated he would be interested in exploring this project further.
City Manager Van Liere stated if the Commission wants to move forward, they should discuss negotiating the
purchase of it and if we plan to develop it, we should make sure the project is pennittable before we pay for it. He
requested input from City Attorney Durden about the process of acquiring it.
City Attorney Durden explained they would negotiate a contract for the purchase of the propetiy and ask for an
extensive long period of time for doing our due diligence. During which time we would investigate the property,
investigate the permitting issues and determine whether or not we can obtain those permits. She also expects that
if the City of Jacksonville is interested in this, there would be some additional funding available, and an interlocal
agreement between the COJ and COAB for the development, long-term maintenance and operation of the facility.
She explained there may some non-profit organizations that we would want to enter into agreements with for
potential operation of some aspects of this project. She stated it is a long process, but it is exciting. She believes it
would be an asset for the citizens of Atlantic Beach and her Film will be able to assist.
Mayor Reeves asked Derek Reeves if there is an existing PUD. Planner Reeves indicated it was ten or eleven years
ago and he would have to see if it expired. Mayor Reeves expressed his interest in finding out what the PUD was
for. Commissioner Hill commented about the PUD and the marina being in a difficult location.
Commissioner Hill suggested asking Jacksonville if they have any interest in helping us with the project.
Commissioner Stinson wanted to know the cost to the taxpayers to negotiate a purchase agreement and to do the
due diligence to get us to the point that we are ready to write the check and buy the propetiy. The City Manager
was asked to provide an estimate before they move forward.
Planner Reeves explained that they have been meeting with the Jacksonville Parks Department and this was
mentioned to them. Public Works Jacobovitz suggested posting something on the City's website about the City
looking into it and allowing citizens to take an online survey. Mr. Jacobovitz explained that the Maritime Plan
people could help identifY other funding sources and other things that could be used to either manage it or acquire
it.
Planner Reeves reported they are open to working with us to manage this propetiy. The acquisition is the big part
they were afraid of, so if we can handle that end, they will partner the rest of the way. They can include it in this
Maritime Management Plan and prioritization for their future parks.
The consensus was to move forward, investigate it some more, and get some more information for
Commissioner Stinson.
October 10, 2016 DRAFT REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING
9. City Manager
A. 90-Day Calendar (October 2016 through December 2016)
AGENDA ITEM 1A
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Page 11
City Manager VanLiere reported on the 90-day calendar explaining the Town Hall meeting is scheduled for October
15 1h at Jordan Park Community Center.
City Manager Report
He gave a hurricane update and highlighted the following:
• Staff is currently doing damage assessments to try to summarize the various impacts the storm has on
our city buildings, dune walkovers, lifeguard station, parks, and the kayak launch.
• Public Works Director is working with the debris clean up company to get them underway. There is
a little delay for the opening of the Girvin Landfill, but should be in full force tomorrow. A three-year
contract was signed in 2014 and the contracted company came to our aid for this. This delay allowed
time for the families to bring their debris to the road which will help with us not making multiple trips
to the same locations.
• Looking at run-time cost on equipment. Believes the efforts of pumping down the pond in Aquatic
Drive prevented water from getting in the homes in the area.
• Accumulating a list of the many homes that had trees on them and businesses that had damage. He
believes the community came out better than everyone expected. The massive cost for our city will be
for debris cleanup.
• The post office will deliver mail tomorrow; the power for almost everyone has come back on; There
are still issues with AT&T, phones and cable companies with lines down.
• Information is on our website about having trees cut up and hauled off.
• Thanked Public Safety and Public Works Departments for their pre-storm preparations. They went
above and beyond and were ready. Public Works and Utilities Crews cleaned up storm drains, cut
away branches, and put pumps in place which proved to help us; They did a great job getting things
ready for the storm. Public Safety took us through the event, came out to the city, assessed all the
damage, rode around reporting all the incidents such as down power lines and trees blocking the
roadway. They worked real well together with Public Works and Utilities crews getting things taken
care of. He appreciates their work.
• Communications was blasted out as information was received. He believes it helped keep the calls
down. Reported the calls frequently asked questions were related to boil water notices and opening
of the bridge. The water system never went down, so we never had a boil water notice. The boil water
notice was for JEA water customers which Atlantic Beach is not.
• Thanked Mayor Reeves for being at the EOC and keeping communications going with the Public
Safety Depmiment.
• Thanked everybody for their hard work including the Administrative Staff that came in and helped
answer the phones.
Mayor Reeves addressed Interim Captain Vic Gualillo about the amazing team the City has in our police department.
He described how the police personnel was held on the island until it was almost too late. They stayed off the island
for 7 Yz hours. He spoke about the Command Post and their constant communications with one officer that stayed
on the island. Mayor Reeves showed a video of the police depmiment returning to the island in treacherous weather
because it meant more to the depmiment to protect their city than staying off the island. Mayor Reeves explained
that when he learned that the officers had brought their own food to the shelter, he made a promise to the interim
chief, that they will never again have to provide their own food under his leadership and the City will provide
depmiment food and water at all times during an emergency. He complimented Interim Captain Gualillo for being
a true leader, a team player and for doing a great job.
Interim Chief Vic Gualillo responded by explaining the team of officers are the true heroes. He explained that they
worked long hours, had very little sleep and eat cold soup, but did not hear one complaint from them. They were
anxious to get back on the island. He commented that they are the reason this was successful and they had a great
attitude. He repotied that the Police and Public Works Departments worked well together and believes the hardest
October 10, 2016 DRAFT REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING
AGENDA ITEM 1A
DECEMBER 12, 2016
Page 12
thing they had to do was to leave their family and be unable to protect them. He stated that the team did so without
hesitation and did their duty to protect the City. He was grateful that Hurricane Matthew was not worse. He
complimented City Hall staff for doing a great job and working together to prepare for the storm by moving records
and other important things before the storm arrived. He stated the City has a great team of people who came together
and did a tough job quickly under some stressful situations and we are thankful. He thanked Mayor Reeves for his
kind comments.
Commissioner Harding echoed Mayor Reeves sentiments regarding the sacrifices that staff made. He explained his
experienced being on the law enforcement side during Hurricane Katrina. He asked that they recognize the
sacrifices noting it is very difficult to leave your family at home and not know whether they are safe or not. They
are out there doing their job protecting our property and it says a lot about the men and women we have working
for the City. He explained that when he worked for the City of Gulfport they came up with a badge and a challenge
coin designed specifically for Hurricane Katrina. He asked the Commission to support the recognition and funding
for challenge coins and qualification badges that the police department would wear on their Class A uniforms
recognizing them as enduring the hardships that were caused by Hurricane Matthews. He offered to show his coin
and badge to anyone interested. He thanked staff for keeping everyone updated on the progress of the storm and
was grateful that it moved offshore.
Commissioner Hill compared this stonn to others that affected the area and believes the City went to work early
which he gave the City Manager full credit for. He stated the reason you do not see the City Manager is because it
is his job to make sure you do not see him; if you see him, there is a problem. He explained that staffwas working
hard and believes that this was the best prepped and responded to incident he had ever seen. He believes the City
did a great job and explained that residents may not even know because a lot of work was done before they returned
to their homes. He thanked the City Manager and staff for the preparation and thanked the citizens for doing a good
job of leaving and of coming back. He asked that the residents be given an independent fmm of information that
does not get tied into the regular EOC stuff so we can give specific Atlantic Beach instructions. He believes the
problems with communications were that we got lumped into areas of the town that were not the same as ours. He
reiterated his gratitude and asked that employees be made aware of it.
Commissioner Stinson thanked Mayor Reeves for what he did stating he went above and beyond and kept a lot of
people informed as to what was happening on the island which was a true information outlet that a lot of people
reached for as the storm passed. He thanked City Manager Van Liere for what he did to get the City ready. He
stated to his knowledge, there were no injuries and believes it is critical to get the citizen out of the City and back
into the City safely. He also thanked Interim Chief Gualillo and the Police Department for their amazing feat under
some really tough circumstances and Officer Jevic for staying on the island throughout the storm. He asked that
his gratitude be conveyed to the department. He thanked Mr. Jacobovitz for the preparations and keeping the
citizens safe and water out of their homes. He believes the focus on keeping people safe in the City has been
tremendous and thanked all the staff.
City Clerk Bartle requested that 9A be discussed in order to address which topics are to be covered at the Town
Hall meeting on October 15th. She explained her understanding of the two topics and the confusion about discussing
the Beautification and Natural Resource Preservation Advisory Committee charge when a charge has not been
drafted.
Mayor Reeves explained the purpose of the Town Hall meeting is to get feedback from our community about what
they would like and an introduction from the Commission to the Advismy Committee. Then, they will come up
with a charge for the Advisoty Committee.
Commissioner Harding explained the other item which is to get public input on John November's proposal
regarding a gazebo at Bennett's Landing and the private funding.
Mayor Reeves confitmed that both topics should be covered.
October 10, 2016 DRAFT REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING
10. Reports and/or requests from City Commissioners and City Attorney
AGENDA ITEM 1A
DECEMBER 12, 2016
A. Letter from T.R. Hainline to Chief Deal regarding the hours of operation for the Gate
service station.
City Attorney Durden
• Repmted on the Cloister-A response was filed with the court on Thursday.
• Reported on the Gate Appeal-A response brief will be filed on October 19 1h.
Page 13
• Addressed the letter (Item lOA) which was added to the agenda on Wednesday-A meeting was held
with a number of people including Gate representatives, City Manager Van Liere, City Attorney Durden
and three members of the Police Department, Interim Chief Gualillo, Commander Layson and Former
Police Chief Deal. They discussed the hours of operation for the Gate Store development and questions
were asked about how the police department interprets Section 3-2 and about the hours of operation. Gate
proposed that they would have a 24-hour operation, but the sale of alcohol would be prohibited between
2 am - 7 am, in compliance with Section 3-2. As a result, the law firm that represents Gate Petroleum,
drafted a letter and requested Chief Deal to sign it. Through the conversation they had at the meeting,
they recognized that there were a number of facilities here in Atlantic Beach on Mayport Road and on
Atlantic Blvd. that are open during hours that either extend beyond 2 am or earlier than 7 am and although
they do not sell beer and wine during those hours, they are in fact open. As a result, Chief Deal looked
at the letter and considered the letter and made a determination that it was appropriate for him to sign it.
She explained that she wanted to bring it to the Commission's attention because of the many discussions
about what the hours of operation would be for the Gate development. She believes that this letter shows
that a decision has been made and it was put on the agenda in order to advise the Commission, the citizens
and everyone involved. She offered to answer questions and stated she believes it is a reasonable
interpretation and it is consistent with past practice that the City has conducted for a number of years
Commissioner Stinson asked City Attorney Durden to explain her interpretation of how it differs from the letter
Ms. Cosgrove presented. She indicated that Ms. Cosgrove stated she does not disagree with the letter that was
addressed and signed by Chief Deal. She explained Ms. Cosgrove's concern is a different section, Section 3-4.
There is a provision that provides where retail sales are limited to beer and wine may occur for off-premises
consumption. She read from Section 3-4 and explained that this ordinance was adopted May 10, 2004. She disputed
Ms. Cosgrove's interpretation by explaining that businesses have been allowed to come into the City to sell beer
and wine since 2004. She explained the code provides for two locations that allow for the retail sale of beer and
wine for off-premises consumption.
Commissioner Hill suggested that the ordinance be reworded to avoid confusion and misinterpretation. City
Attorney Durden stated that it could be, but she does not know if it is necessary.
City Attorney Durden responded to a question from Mayor Reeves about whether the intention of the ordinance
focused on bars. She explained how research shows that since 1957, the hours of businesses selling alcohol have
remained the same. She fmther explained that in Chapter 3, not only rooms or places are mentioned, but also to
prevent going from one bar to another during those hours. She believes the focus was on bar situations.
Mayor Reeves
• Thanked the Police Department and all the depmtment heads for an outstanding job.
• Commented that not everything was petfect. He requested that the City Manager have department heads
debrief the Commission on what went well, what went bad and come up with solutions for improvement.
He explained he saw poor communications between departments. He would like to see the City Manager
pull his staff together, then have a meeting with the Commission for the debriefing. He believes decisions
during emergencies should be made with evetyone sitting in the room instead of over the phone. He
explained that he had asked the City Manager to meet with depmtment heads earlier today in order to
provide evetything that Interim Chief Gualillo needed and he thanked him for doing that. He suggested
having the topic discussed at a Town Hall meeting and allow citizens to provide their input.
October 10, 2016 DRAFT REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING
AGENDA ITEM 1A
DECEMBER 12, 2016
Page 14
• Reported that he released an open letter to the citizens. He will take full responsibility for any decision
that was made, whether it was good or bad. He spoke about the Declaration noting that once it is signed,
he and the City Manager have equal powers and there are a lot of tough decisions. He spoke about the
bridges closing, the importance of evacuating, and DOT's authority to open the bridges. He explained
that the DOT had to check the bridges for safety and had to coordinate with neighboring cities to prevent
crowding of the bridges. He said decisions were made for protection and safety of the people. He
commended Governor Scott for his help and concern and gave a history about what went on after the
storm. He expressed concern that inconect infmmation about the timing for the bridges to open was
posted on Facebook by a Commissioner may have contributed to the traffic backup. He apologized to
the citizens for the inconvenience and for some of the decisions that were made, but he explained it was
for everyone's safety. He urged everyone to evaluate next time.
• Reported he took a tour on the beach with FEMA and the Corps of Engineers and addressed getting the
dunes replaced.
Adjournment
There being no further discussion, Mayor Reeves declared the meeting adjourned at 10:11 p.m.
ATTEST:
Donna L. Bartle, CMC
City Clerk
Mitchell E. Reeves
Mayor/Presiding Officer
John,
AGENDA ITEM 1A
DECEMBER 12, 2016
Just a few comments on our meeting last week with Mr. Catalan, Tim Johnson
and Nelson van Liere.
I was surprised to find out that Mr. Catalan was not leasing two courts, but three
(#4, 5, 6) of our six public tennis courts for $200 annually.
Coupled with this, Mr. Catalan also confirmed that he had recently conducted a
large group lesson on Courts# 1, 2, 3. He failed to mention that the $75 rental
for these three courts was never paid to the City. I know that Mr. Catalan has
used these same courts for at least two clinics over the past six weeks.
Also, Mr. Catalan commented that if I would have asked him, he would have
allowed me to participate in the above group lesson at no charge. Really? He
obviously believes that citizens have to clear it with him to use any court at
Russell Park.
Attached is a draft of the Rules that I believe needs to be posted on the Tennis
Courts' Bulletin Board.
Thanks again for your support and valuable time on public access to the Russell
Park Tennis Courts.
Let me know if I can help you on any project.
Lou
904/403-6003
LEAGUE PLAY
I '
AGENDA ITEM 1A
DECEMBER 12, 2016
Atlantic'Beach based non-profit tennis teams may reserve
Courts #3, 4, 5, 6 at no charge for league play, Sunday
through Saturday, between the hours of 1:OOPM to 5:00PM.
Courts #1 and 2 are for public use only--no league play.
Send your reservation request at least 30 days in advance to
recreation@coab.us The Recreation Department will post
your reservation on the Court #1 Bulletin Board.
TENNIS PROFESSIONALS
A tennis professio~al may give individual or small group
lessons at no charge, on one court, either Court #5 or 6. The
Russell Park tennis courts are heavily utilized Saturday,
Sunday and holidays from 8:00AM to 1:OOPM. During these
hours, a tennis professional may use Court #6 only, if
available.
A tennis professional may reserve Courts #3, 4, 5, 6 only for
large group lessons for $25 per court, Sunday through
Saturday, between 1:OOPM and 5:00PM. Courts #1 and 2 are
for public use only--no lessons. Complete a permit request
along with payment 14 days in advance at the Recreation
Department, 716 Ocean Blvd, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233. The
Recreation Department will post your reservation on the
Court #1 Bulletin Board.
LEAGUE PLAY
AGENDA ITEM 1A
DECEMBER 12, 2016
Atlantic Beach-based non-profit tennis teams may reserve
Courts #3, 4, 5, 6 at no ·charge for league play, Sunday
through Saturday, between the hours of 1:OOPM to 5:00PM.
Courts #1 and 2 are for public use only--no league play.
Send your reservation request at least 30 days in advance to
recreation@coab.us The Recreation Department will post
your reservation on the Court #1 Bulletin Board.
TENNIS PROFESSIONALS
A tennis professional may give individual or small group
lessons at no charge, on one court, either Court #5 or 6. The
Russell Park tennis courts are heavily utilized Saturday,
Sunday and holidays from 8:00AM to 1:OOPM. During these
hours, a tennis professional may use Court #6 only, if
available.
A tennis professional may reserve Courts #3, 4, 5, 6 only, for
large group lessons, for $25 per court, Sunday through
Saturday, between 1:OOPM and 5:00PM. Courts #1 and 2 are
for public use only --no lessons. Complete a permit request,
along with payment, 14 days in advance at the Recreation
Department, 716 Ocean Blvd, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233. The
Recreation Department will post your reservation on the
Court #1 Bulletin Board.
Talking Points
• Public Input
• Mayport Village CRA
• Summary Sheet for COJ Meetings
• First 5 Year Costs ...
AGENDA ITEM lA
DECEMBER 12, 2016
First 5 Year Costs in the Plan
• 1. Mayport Road-$250,000 (Cost Share with FOOT)
• 2. Neighborhood Roads-$725,000-$2,825,000
• 6. Commercial Node-$12,000-$60,000 per year
• 7. Coordinator-$40,000-$50,000 per year
• 9. Fa~ade Improvement Grants-$50,000 per year
• 10. Stormwater Study-$50,000
• 11. Police/Code Officer-$50,000 per year
• 13. LDR Updates-$100,000
• Total Expendatures-$1,885,000-$4,275,000
• Total Projected CRA Revenue-$856,600
AGENDA ITEM 1A
DECEMBER 12, 2016