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CITY OF ATLANTIC BEACH
CITY COMMISSION MEETING OCTOBER 23, 2006
AGENDA
Call to order
Invocation and pledge to the flag
1. Approve minutes of the Regular Commission meeting of October 9, 2006.
2. Courtesy of Floor to visitors
ITnfmished Business from Previous Meetings
A. City Manager's Follow-up Report (City Manager)
4. Consent Agenda
s
AT.T. MATTERS LISTED UNDER TUE. CONSENT AGENDA ARE CONSTDF.RPD
TO RF ROTMINE BY THE CITY CfMMTSSTnN AND WIT .T. RE ENACTED BY
DNF. MfTTfN TN THE FORM LISTED BELnw. T TRF. WTT.T. RF. NO
SEPARATE DTSCT TSSTON nE THESE ITEMS. IF DISCI TSSTnN TS DESTR FT),
THAT ITEM WTT L RF R EMOVF.D FROM THE CONSENT A C.FND A ANT) WTT .T .
RE CONSIDERED SEPARATELY, SupPORTTNG DOCUMENTATTnN ANn
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS HAvP RFFN PRFVTOTJSLY SUBMITTED To IT4P
CITY COMMTSSTON ON THESE ITEMS
A. Acknowledge receipt of T Ttility Sales for September "mn6 (City Manager)
Committee Reports
None
6. Action on Resolutions
A. Resolution No. 06-11
RESOLUTION OF THE CTTv nE ATT.ANTTC REACH SUPPORTING A STTCCF.SSOR
PR DGR AM TO FLORIDA FOREVER AND THF. CONTINUED FUNDING- OE
PRfCTRAMS STJCTT AS THE FLORIDA TUT. ET.ORIDA COMMUNITIES TRUST.
WHTCH A S STSTS CTTTFS ANT) COUNTIES IN TNF. A COT TTSTTTON,
CONSERVATTnN AND MANAGEMENT OF ENVTPnNMFNTAT.T.V AND
CULTURALLY SIC,NTFTC ANT T . ANDS
Action on Ordinances
A. nrrlinance No. 90-06-196, Introduction and First Reading
AN OR DTN ANCF. OE THF. CTTY OF ATLANTIC RF A CH, COT TNTY OE DUVAL,
STATE OF ELnRTnA, AMFNDTNG ORDINANCE NUMBER 9()-(16-1 A5, SAID
ORDINANCE PREVIfUST.V ADDING SECTION 24-172, RESTDENTTAT.
DF.VET .OPMFNT STANDARDS TO THE T . AND DEVELOPMENT REC,T TT . A TTnNS,
IT -TTS ORDINANCE SPECIFICALLY AMF.NDTNG SAID RESIDENTIAL
DPVFT [)T MF.NT STANDARDS TO DELETE PAR AGR APH (c) (1)i. FROM SECTTnN
2d-17). PRnVTDTNG EnR RECORDATION AND PRmVTDTNG AN EFFECTIVE DATE
1
R
Miscellaneous Business
A. New Sidewalk Construction for EY 2007
R. Budget Modification for Wect Plaza Bike Path
C. Recommendation for temporary waiver of requirement to connect to city sewer
system for house at 2359 Seminole Road (City Manager)
n. Discussion and related action on the City Manager's Compensation (Born)
E. Cost of Living Adjustment for Retirees (deferred from Sept. 95, 9()t) „meeting)
9. City Manager
A. Cites Manager's Report
10. Reports and/or request% from City Commi%%ioners and City Attorney
A. Recommendation for reappointments to the Code Enforcement Board (Mayor)
F . Recommendation for appointment of a new member to the Cultural Arts and
R ecreation Advisory Committee (Mayor)
C. Creation of a committee to study district representation (Mayor Wolfson)
Adjournment
If any person decides to appear any decision made by the City Commission with respect to any
matter considered at any meeting, such person may need a record of the proceedings, and, for such
purpose. may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record shall
include the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to he hased.
Any person wishing to speak to the City Commission on any matter at this meeting should submit a
request to the City Clerk prior to the meeting. For your convenience, forms for this purpose are
available at the entrance to the Commission Chambers.
Every effort is made to indicate what action the City Commission is expected to take on each
agenda item. INowever. the City Commission may act upon any agenda subject. regardless of how
the matter is stated on the agenda.
In accordanc : with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 2R6.26, Florida Statute:,
persons with disabilities needing special accommodation to participate in this meeting sho»id
contact the City Clerk by 5:00 PM, Friday. nctoher 90, 90Of
2
MINUTES
REGULAR CITY COMMISSION MEETING
October 9. )nn6
CITY HALT ., Rnn SFMTNOT .F. R (SAD
Attendance IN A TTFNTI A NCE:
Mayor Donald Wolfson City Manager Tim Hanson
Mayor Pro Tem J. De7mond Waters ITT City Clerk Donna L. l»ssey
Commissioner Mike Borno City Attorney Alan C. Jensen
commissioner Sylvia N. Simmons
Commissioner Tamie El etcher
call to order/Pledge Mayor Wolfson called the meeting to order at 7:1.5 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance to
the Flag followed the Invocation. given by Commissioner Rorno.
Mayor welcomed the Troop Master and Scout from Troop 776.
Mayor Wolfson explained Ttem 7A will he taken out of sequence and acted on after the
Approval of the Minutes and before courtesy of the Floor to Visitors.
Approval of Minutes 1. Approval of the minutes of the Regular Commission Meeting on September
2.5, 2006
otion: To approve the minutes of the Regular Commission Meeting on
September lc, 2nn6 as presented.
Moved by Waters, seconded by El etcher
Votes:
Aye: 5 - Borno, Fletcher, Simmons, Waters, Wolfson
Nay: 0
MOTION CARRIED
Item 7A was talzen out of sequence and addressed at this time.
Action on ordinances A. Reconsideration of Ordinance No, 90-06-195 with respect to FAR.
(taken out of sequence)
Mayor Wol£fon explained he would be opening the floor to a public hearing, but the
only component of the ordinance that is being discussed iQ the Eloor Area R atio (EAR).
He further clarified that the Ordinance has already been passed and the reconsideration
is for the measurement from a .54 to .(n. He then explained what a FAR is.
Mayor Wolfson opened the floor to the public hearing.
Mae Jones, 126 1.5th Street, spoke in opposition of increasing the FAR.
Jane Wytiti i. 157 second Street, spoke in opposition of increasing the EAR.
ncrnhvr 9, 2006 REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING p.ge
Rodney neCarle, 51 Reach Avenue, spoke in favor of increasing the FAR.
Steve Piscitelli, 37d Magnolia street, expressed his ohservation of the recent dehates
on Community Character issues. He thanked the commission for their hard work on
the ordinance.
Lindley Tolbert. 114 sixth Street, spoke in favor of increasing the EAR.
.Tudv Sheklin, 1985 Krista De Mar Cir, spoke in opposition of increasing the EAR.
Theresa Weatherford, 171 Ninth Street, spoke in opposition of increasing the FAR.
Joan Carver, 46 15th Street, spoke in opposition of increasing the EAR,
Pat Pilimore, 995 Camelia Street, spoke in opposition of increasing the FAR.
Richard Reil, 1 QC? Reachside Ct., spoke in opposition of increasing the FAR until the
problem is solved with the small lot sizes.
T -isa Rruno, 175 / 177 Plaza, spoke in opposition of increasing the EAR.
Robin Soergel, 336 Ninth street, spoke in opposition of increasing the EAR.
Mayor closed the public hearing and read the ordinance by title only.
Mayor Wolfson explained his reason for supporting the change in the EAR from a .54
to .60 but also explained his support for the ordinance with either EAR.
Mayor Wolfson opened the floor for discussion. City Attorney Jensen called a Point of
Order. He indicated that a motion and a second is needed to begin a debate among the
Commission.
Motion: Approve the Ordinance with a .60 FAR.
Moved by Porno, seconded by Wolfson
Commissioner Porno explained why he was considering increasing the EAR from .54
to .6n.
Commissioner Fletcher referenced communications he received from -Toho Fletcher on
September 6, 2006 and indicated itis evident to him the .54 is an excellent
compromise.
commissioner Simmons expressed her support in keeping the EAR at .54 and gave
examples of houses to explain why.
Commissioner Waters reflected on the past issues and the process of the Community
character Project. T4e believed it was never intended to cover the entire city, only the
flefpher Q, 7nn6 RFC -TIT ,Al2 CfiMMTSSTfiN MF.F.TTN(_
Page 3
Core City. - e indicated he does not see a hig difference in the .in EAR and believes
that it addresses what must people have said they can live with.
Commissioner Simmons wanted clarification on whether the ordinance will need two
readings again. City Attorney Tensen explained that would not he necessary since itis a
reconsid eratinn.
(Restated Motion)
Motion: Approve the Ordinance with a .M EAR.
Roll Call Vote:
Fletcher — nay
Simmons — nay
waters — aye
Rorno — aye
Wolfson — aye
Votes: 1-2
MOTION f ARRTF.ii
Courtesy of the Floor 2. Courtesy of the Eloor to Visitors
rhe Mayr opened the floor to visitors.
Commissioner Waters left the meeting at 8:19 pm.
Valerie Rritf. ';78 Tilefish (''n„rt - Taricson\,ille, Pab1 Point Civic. Association's
Director of Land Use & Zoning, spoke regarding a Jacksonville proposed Plan
Amendment (7006D -f01) and difficulty in hurricane evacuation.
Curtis Sanders. 12O Barefoot Trace, spolre regarding rental property iss1es. He gave
examples c)f \Tariaus hnusehuld ulatiuns and aslred the Commission to research the
possibility of requiring mandatory inspections on rental properties.
Mayor Wolfson aslred that the issue he discussed during the next Strategic Planning
Worlrshops.
Pat Pillmore, 995 Camelia Street, asked the Commission to make an official statement
regarding the city's position on the Mayport Eerry.
Mayor Wolfson noted that he was going to mention the Maypart Ferry later in the
meeting.
Mayor Wolfson announced that Teff Minton is leaving the Beaches T-eader and this is
his last meeting. - e read and presented a letter of appreciation to Mr, Minttun from the
Mayr and City Commissioners. Mayor Wolfson thanked him and wished him the best
of luck in his endeavors.
nrtpber 9, 2006
REa_Trr An CnMMTSSION MEETING p=age d
Mr. Minton indicated he has enjoyed reporting for the City of Atlantic Beach and
introduced his replacement Alexandra Kummernes.
A. Presentation of the Sewer Master Plan Update 2006 from Grant Misterly
grant Misterly, Applied Technology and Management, Tnc., introduced John Collins
and June Smith and explained they contributed to the report being presented. T -Te
presented a summary of the 7nn6 Sewer Master Plan Updat. He explained it is a plan
for the city over the next ten years of capital Fxpenditure for the Sewer System which
is comprised of Wastewater Plants and the collection System. He explained
Wastewater Treatment Plants have the 'biggest issues and expenses mainly because of
the legislation on TMDT .'s or nutrients entering the St. Tohns River and the Sewer
Collection issues are mainly about the age and condition gale Sewer. He explained
the overall cost of the ten year plan is approximately twenty-six million dollars
($9 ,nnn,nnn).
Mr. Misterly. presented a slide show on the overhead. T -Te explained a Sewer System,
the reasons for the new legislation on TMDT,, and the agencies that will he impacted.
He then explained the Collection System. The presented plan identified recommended
improvements, associated costs and timelines.
Mr. Misterly answered questions from the City Manager and the Commission. Mayor
Wolfson explained the impact and importance in complying with the regulations.
TTnfnished Business 3. Unfinished Rusiness from Previous Meeting
from Previous Meeting A. City Manager's Follow-up Report
Consent A gend a
City Manager Tim Hanson reported on the use of the Eleet T •anding east gate. He
indicated that after searching records, two documents were found. Mr. Hanson read the
related information from 1) an amendment to the plan from the Haskell Company, and
7) a letter from April 5, 1991 from T eo-R ahuck from Fleet Landing. T -Te reported it
appeared there was no intention to restrict the use of the gate to emergency vehicles
only. and that residence of Fleet Landing could use it all along.
Mayor Wolfson aslced that the Commission be provided a Copy of those documents.
He explained service vehicles are using that exit and asked the City Manager to send a
letter to the Executive Director explaining the usage of the east gate being restricted to
residence and employees ofEleet Landing.
4. Consent Agenda
A. Acknowledge receipt of New Orrupational T-icenses issued in September 9nm
(City Manager)
B. Award the hid for T Ttility Contractor Annual Service contract to Gruhn May,
Tnc. at the prices specified in Bid No. (15(16-16 (City Manager)
Mayor Wolfson read the Consent Agenda.
(lrtnher 9, inn(, RF(,TTT,AR COMMISSION MF.FTTN(,
Motion: To approve Consent Agenda as read
Moved by Simmons, seconded by Borno
Votes:
Aye: d - Rorno, Fletcher, Cimmonc, Wo1fcon
Nay: 0
MOTION CARRIED)
(Commissioner Waters was absent for the vote.)
committee P eports 5. Committee Reports
None
Action on Resolutions IS• Action on Recolutionc
None
Page 5
Action on Ordinances 7. Action on Ordinances
A_ Reconci.lerat on of Ordinance No. 90-06-195 with respect to FAR.
(Item 7A was taken out of sequence and acted on earlier in the meeting.)
Miscellaneous Business & MicrellaneOnc Rucinecc
A. Discussion and related action on the City Manager's Compensation
Motion: Consider a 6.S"-/ increase to the City Manager's pay with effective (late of
1 nil mt.
Moved by Borno, seconded by Simmons
Commissioner Rorno referred to the T.ist of the city's Accompliehmente provided and
included in the agenda packet. He e,rplained the research he did on determining
appropriate pay and believed the 6.5% would be compatible with the increases given to
other City employees.
commissioner El etcher agreed with the increase to salary and suggested a one-time
honus between one and four percent (1-4%) be given as well.
Mayor Wolfson commended and thanked Mr. Hanson.
commissioner RoMo asked commissioner Eletnher to explain his idea of the one-time
bonus Commissioner Fletcher reiterated the reason for suggesting a bonus was
because of the increased workload put on the City Manager and other staff
Motion: To amend the motion to add a one-time bonus of d%.
Moved by Fletcher, seconded by Borno
City Manager
October 9, 2006 REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING Page 6
Discussion ensued regarding a one-time bonus for the City Manager. Mayor Wolfson
asked for guidance on the history of bonuses. chief David Thompson eYplained his
„ndeYstand,ng of the City's Bonus Program for the Commission.
Commissioner Simmons indicated she did not evaluate the City Manager for a honus
consideration and had not researched comparisons to previous nears workload.
Votes:
Aye: 2 - Borno, Eletcher
Nay: 2- Simmons, Wolfson
MOTION ti AII,1F',I)
(Commissioner Waters was absent for the vote.)
Commissioner Fletcher asked if this item could be deferred in order to allow
Commissioner Waters to vole on the bonus. Mayor indicated a vote could he taken
regarding the pay tonight and come hack for fiirther discussion.
Motion: Consider a 6.5% increase to the City Manager's pay with effective date of
1nn/06.
Moved by Borno, seconded by Simmons
Votes:
Aye: 4 - Dorno, Fletcher, Simmons, Wolfson
Nay: (1
MOTION CARRIED
(Commissioner Waters was absent for the vote.)
Mayor Wolfson asked the city Clerk to put the item on the nett agenda for discussion
and consideration for a 4% one-time bonus.
City Manager expressed his gratitude and believed the pay increase of 6.5% is fair and
adequate.
9. City Manager
A. City Manager's Report
City Manager Tim uanson referred the Commission to his written report. He reported
the next Hazardous Waste Collection has been scheduled for Saturday, March 10, 2007.
He also reported on the amount of Recycling and Green Waste Collections in the City.
Reports/Requests 10. Reports and/or requests from City Commissioners and City Attorney
City Commissioners A, Recommendation for reappointments and one new appointment to the
City Attorney Community Development Board
Ortpher 9, 2006
RT.rTTT.AR COMMISSION MEFTTN(_ Page 7
Mayor Wolfson explained the Board Member Review committee's recommendation to
reappoint Samuel Jacobson, Craig Burkhart and Carolyn Woods to the Community
Development Board. The Mayor expressed his support.
Motion: Reappoint Samuel •Tacohson, Craig Burkhart and Carolyn Woods to
serve on the Community nevelopment Board for an additional term.
Moved by Simmons, seconded by Fletcher
Votes:
Aye: 4 - Borno, Flettiher, Simmons, Wolfson
Nay: 0
MOTION CARRIED
(Commissioner Waters was absent for the vote.)
Mayor Wolfson explained a new member is needed on the community Development
-Board to fill the expired term of Steve -Jenkins since he is not interested in
reappointment due to scheduling conflicts. Mayor expressed his support.
Commissioner Simmons commended Steve Jenkins for his service. Mayor Wolfson
concurred.
Motion: Appoint David Boyer to serve on the Community nevelopment Board.
Moved by Fletcher, seconded by Simmons
Votes;
Aye: d - Rorno, Fletcher, Simmons, Wolfson
Nay: 0
MOTION CARRTFn
(commissioner Waters was absent for the vote.)
R.
Creation of a committee to study district representation
Mayor Wolfson reminded the commission of the decision from the strategic Nanning
Session to consider appointing a committee to study the district representation
possibility and the timelines. He asked the commission to think about it for discussion
at the next meeting. commissioner Borno asked that the tasks of the Committee he
identified prior to appointing the members. Mayor Wolfson agreed to send out a
memorandum explaining the mission. Commissioner Borne expressed concern
whether staff could commit to the project at this time since many hours will he spent.
Commissioner El etcher agreed with Commissioner Borno. Mayor Wolfson said he
would get with the city Manager to discuss other priority issues and timelins.
Commissioner Rorno
➢ Reported that he and Commissioner Waters enjoyed meeting with the African
Officials while they were visiting Atlantic each and presented the Mayor with
a sash given to the city from them. Mayor expressed his appreciation.
Adjournment
October 9, 2006
RF(TULAR COMMISSION MFF.TTN(T
Page 8
Mayor Wolfson
R eported Selva Marina has ideas of developing the country Club and part will
he in Atlantic Beach and part in Tacksonville. He indicated concerns have been
expressed to them and that they have agreed to keep in communication with the
City and are sensitive to community Concerns. Commissioner Fletcher
requested informal updates on their plans to develop.
➢ Advised there is a board discussing the Mayport Ferry that is chaired by
councilwoman Brown. Ne asked for a volunteer to represent the city of
Atlantic Reach. Commissioner norm volunteered.
There being no further discussion, the Mayor declared the meeting
adjourned at 9:33 pm.
A TTFCI:
norma I -. Bussey
City Clerk
Donald M. Wolfson. Mayor presiding Officer
AGENDA ITEM # 3A
OCTOBER 23. 8006
October 16, 2OO
MEMORANDUM
TO: The T-Tonorahle Mnynr
and Memhers of the City Commission
FROM: Jim Hanson
City Manager
ST TR TF.CT: Fol l ow_up Report
Moody Marine Property;. A citizen approached the City Commission at the last meeting on
October 9th stating that the rezoning process fnr the Moody Marine property nn the west side of
the intercnastal waterway had heen restarted. The Commission asked staff to find the current
status nfthat zoning application. The land is sti11 owned by the Moody T and Cnmpany and they
are represented by Attorney Paul Hardin. He has indicated that he will be submitting a proposed
comp plan amendment and rezoning application to the City of Jacksonville. Neither is complete
at this time. They plan to use approximately 90% of the development fnr residential purposes
and intend fnr it to he zoned as a planned „nit development (PTTM. Mr, TTardin promised to send
copy of the design and development application aq well as the preliminary site plan when they
are ready. Copies will be provided to the City Commission when received.
AGENDA ITEM #4A
=c.TORFR 23. 1006
City of Atlantic Beach, FL
Utility Sales Report
_ . . . . . _ ..,.. .-xik : "" : t_ ..
September 2006
.. _...',I, ""�, m.+e"`ri_- "-"z.,A.7- :mss
September 2005
Gallons Actual Revenue Gallons Actual Revenue
-; Wa a S a � Aeera i to nnnn Rave ie n ear n� tc nnnn R v �a '
�, t r - al S o o Der 1,0_0 gl
Atlantic Beach 5.579 50.099 $13].0]0 $0.60
Ruurraneer 2,51/1 98,795 $80,.41 $2.Rn 2 705 77 758 $69,903 $7.49
Total Water Sales 8,258 80,737 $194,OOd $2,40.
....
Gallons Gallons __:
Water Plant Production anon 0000
Atlantic Beach 64,382 60,2J4
Rurraneer J R,R1Q 24,fR1
Total Production 83,021 84,997
Total Water Rilled 79,9j4 R0,737
Water I nee fnr month; d.207 d,26n
I
e►Y_Pnt2ga I nee .ri,n7% s01%
';Total 92 mo. Avg. loss 9,69% 11.69%
f:ahnoe Acfoal Raveolia
Accounts 0000 Revenue Per 1.000 al'
rallnoe Anil al Reveal e
Accounts 0000 Revenue Per 1,000 gl
Sewer Sales
Atlantic Reach
Buccaneer
5,055 3R,Rft $]R9,7R] 4;4 40
2,423 25,613 $139,608 $5.45."
5,072 39,851 $170-633 $4.28''„
2,586 26,357 $V 7,a0R $5.0]
Total Sewer Salee
7,478 64,181 $309,389 $4 82 ;',
7,615 66,208 $308,061 $4.65
gallons Actual Revenue Gallons Actual Revenue
Sewer Treatment 0000 Reven' 'e Per',000 gl 0000 Re"e ''e Per 1,000 gl
Atlantic Beach 64.445 $169 781 $2.63
RI trranaar 9A.701 $139,/10/1 $5.5,5
r 62.757 $170,633 $2.72
=i 98,170 $1'17,49R $5.22
Total Sewer Treated 89.148 $309,389 $3.47 89.077 $308,061 $3.46
AGENDA ITEM # 6A
=CTOBER 23, 200
CITY OF ATLANTIC BEACH
CITY COMMISSION STAFF REPORT
AGENDA ITRM: Resolution supporting a successor program to Elorida Eorever and the
continuer) funding of programs such as the Elorida Communities Trust,
which assists cities and counties in the acquisition. conservation and
management of environmentally and culturally significant lands.
SIIBMITTRI) BY: Sonya Doerr, AICP .410
Community Development Director
DATE: October 16, 7nn6
BACKGROUND: Current legislation establishing Elorida Forever and its various public land
conservation programs will sunset over the next four years. nn ()etcher 9th, T attended the Florida
T ocal Government T and Acquisition, Development and Management Summit sponsored by The
Department of Community Affairs and the Florida Communities Trust. At this meeting, DCA
Secretary Thaddeus Cohen and Representative Alan nays announced that the Florida Forever
Coalition will support a successor program that would commit $1 pillion yearly to land purchase
and protection. Local governments are asked to express support for this program and the increased
level of funding as this effort begins to move through the legislative process.
1 UT1( E.T• The CnAR has an application pending with Florida Communities Trust for assistance
with purchase of the T iickman Tract. The EV 7nn6-n7 budget appropriates X450,000
to be used for local match towards purchase of the Buckman Tract.
RECf1MMENDATIf)N: Adoption of proposed Resolution 06-13.
ATTACHMENTS: Proposed resolution and press announcement related to Elorida Forever
Coalition.
REVIEWED RV f ITV MA AGER
:
nrt_her 7q• WiM rPRnlar meeting
AGENDA ITEM 6,
OCTOBP 13, 2006
RESOLUTION NTTMRER 06-13
PC ROT •UTTON OF THE CITY OF ATLANTIC BEACH SUPPORTING A
SUCCESSOR PROGRAM TO FLORIDA FOREVER AND THE
CONTTNTTF,i) FUNDING OE PROGRAMS SUCH AS THE FT.ORIJ)A THE
EiI.ORIJ)A CfMMTTNITTES TRITST, WHICH ASSISTS CITIES AND
CCITTNTTFS IN THF. ACOTTISITION, CONSERVATION AND
MANAGEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTALLY AND CULTURALLY
SIGNIFICANT LANDS
WHEREAS, the Florida Eorever nrogram and its nredecessnr preservation 7000 program
Dave immeasurably contributed to environmental health. quality of life, recreation. and
sustainability in Florida for this and future generations, and
WHEREAS, Florida Forever has acquired over one million acres throughout Florida
since 7000 and allocate' $100 million annually to purchase environmentally sensitive and ether
lands. and has done so through numerous successful partnerships with cities, counties, state
agencies, water managements districts, nonprofit organizations, private landowners, and others in
achieving its conservation purposes, and
WHEREAS, Florida Forever, through its partnerships with the Florida nepartment of
Environmental Protection, Water Management Districts, and others, produces benefits that include
clean air and water; healthy fisheries and wildlife habitat; improved water supply protection; and
protected open spaces including greenway corridors, park lands, forests, and water bodies, and
WTIF.RF.AS. Florida Forever. thrnugh the Florida Communities Trust, has assisted
Florida's cities and counties in protecting their cultural and historical resources. and in providing
recreational outdoor experiences in both urban and rural settings, and
WHEREAS, Florida Forever has helped to save many of Florida's beaches, rivers, bays,
forests, coral reefs and estuaries that provide the foundation for our $3 billion tourism industry
that attract more than 70 million visitors each year, and
WHEREAS, Elnrida is expeT1encing ranid nnnulatinn growth, with approximately 1,100
new residents every day; and Floridians demand a high quality of life that includes green space,
access to water, pastoral settings and recreatinnal opportunities, and
WHEREAS, Florida Forever and other land conservation programs must compete in
Florida's market of surging land and housing prices; and,
WIIF.RFAS, the finding fnr the Florida Forever program will sunset in 7010; and
WHEREAS, research by the Florida Forever Coalition has found that over $?0 hillion is
currently needed to nurchase parks and recreational facilities, wildlife and wildemess areas, and
open space for our state's increasing population.
AGEND A 'TEM # 6A
OCTOBER D, 2006
NOW THEREFORE, RF IT RFSnT.VF.D THAT THE CITY OF ATT.ANTTC REACH
HFRFRV SUPPORTS A STTf C1'SSOR PROGRAM TO ET,ORHA FnRFVV.R AND THE
CONTTNTTFD ETTNIING OF PROGRAMS SUCH AS TIIF, FT.nRInA THE FLORIDA
rnMMTTNTTTF.S TRUST, WHICH ASSISTS CTTTFS AND COUNTIES IN THF,
ACQTTISITION, CONSFRVATTON AND MA NA GEMENT OF FNVTRONMFNTAT.T.V
AND CIA. ,TI IRAI,T,AT SIGNTETCANT LANDS, ADOPTED RV TNF. clay
COMMISSION nE ATLANTIC REACH, FLORIDA, THIS 2'TRD DAV OE nCTOBER,
2006.
Donald M. Wolfson
Mayor and Presiding officer
Approved as to form and correctness:
Alan r. Tensen, Esquire
City Attorney
Attest:
Donna Bussey
City Clerk
Recnlntinn 0613
Qrtpber 1 ?nm
rsi r
TRUST
Jr
PUBLIC
LAND
on
100
FRIENDS
FLORIDA
raURs to.traals
conservancy
UM"
THE ONSER A Obi FUND
Te titre
Coriservancy
Iled7NG INE. LAST GIREAT.FLAZES f7A CARTIt
AGENDA ITEM # GA
OCTC 1k23. n D6
r�l1�11 ^4i a:
tistroxides
CONSERVANCY
Of Southwest Florida
gym,m,„01,3rMeTR US T
Florida Forever Cit lition Backs $1
Dear Floridians:
,/
71.01.1. T. 'zf LZu1
i pJJ mor_tunme
FLORIDA CHAPTER
AMERICAN SOCIETY OF
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS
inion AM -Yu d1 ' for Land "rotection
October 9, 2006
The preservation of more than two million acres of Florida's natural landscape is a proud legacy of our
governors, Iegislators, and fellow citizens dating back 40 years. As successive generations of leaders have added
their influence, new public conservation funds have been approved, and many acres of land have been saved.
Now, as time rims out for Florida's remaining open spaces, preserving land for parks, people, and wildlife
takes on a new urgency, It is time again for Florida's leaders to put land conservation a the top of their to-do lists.
The conservation projects approved by the Florida Cabinet on October 3 will effectively drain Florida Forever's
natural lands preservation funds for this fiscal year -- with three-quarters of the year still remaining.
The loss of land to development is irreversible. While many societal and policy choices can be made as needs
arise, we cannot replace woods and wetlands once they have been paved over. We cannot make new beach access
for family fun once condos have walled off the shoreline.
The loss of every acre of natural Florida puts wildlife and water resources under increasing stress. One of the
central lessons of Florida Forever and of the Everglades plan is that it is far cheaper to protect the environment today
than to attempt to restore it later.
That is why the Florida Forever Coalition -- sixteen regional, state, and national nonprofit organizations -- is
proposing that the Florida Forever Program, which has been so successful at providing funds for land and water
conservation, be extended and expanded. Our Coalition believes that this great program, the purchasing power of
which has dropped precipitously in recent years, must be funded commensurate with the conservation needs and the
economy of today.
State leaders who take charge after the November elections have an extraordinary opportunity to shape
Florida's future. The Florida Forever Coalition believes that Florida's new political leaders must step up the pace of
environmental protection and continue the job started in 1962 -- to preserve enough of natural Florida and to protect
special nlaces ranging from 1andscane--scale tracts of land to widely used urban narks,
AGENDA ITP IA 7A
OCTOBER 23, 2006
ORDINANCE NUMBER 90-06-196
AN ORDTNANCF, nE TNF. CITY OE ATLANTIC BEACH-, CfTTNTY OF
DUVAT,, CTATF. nE FLORIDA, AMENDING nRTIINANCF, NTTMRF.R 90-06-19.5,
SAID ORDINANCE PREVTOTTCT,V ADDING SECTION 24-172., RF.SIDENTTAT,
DFVFT,lPMENT STANDARDS TO THE T,ANT) DEVELOPMENT
RF.GITT.ATIONS, THTC nP1)TNANCE SPFCTETCAT,T,V AMENDING GATT)
R1 ST>nENTIAL DFVET.nPMFNT STANDARD' Tr) DFT.ETE PARAGRAPH (e)
(1)i. FROM CFCTTnN 24-172, PROVTT)TNG EOR RECORDATTnN AND
PROVIDING AN F.EFECTIVF,1)ATF,
NOW THFRFFOR , RE IT ENACTFT) RY THE CTTV COMMISSION ON BF,HAT,ti OE
THE. PFnPLE OE THE CCTV nE ATT .ANTIC REA CH, Ei T ,nInDA;
SECTION 1. Chapter 74. Zoning, Suhdivision and T and Development Regulations
Article III, Zoning Regulations. Division 7, Supplementary Regulations, Section 74-172,
Residential Development Standards, paragraph (c) (1) Fluor Area Ratio, of the Code of Ordinances
for the City of Atlantic Beach, Florida is hereby amended and upon enactment shall read as
follows.
(c) Additional Residential Development •Vtandards. The following standards and requirements
shall apply to that area defined in preceding paragraph (h), and as further and more specifically
described for each particular standard or requirement.
(1) Floor Area Ratio (EAR). Floor Area Ratio limits are established to prevent incompatible
mass and scale where new Development might otherwise excessively dominate the existing
streetscape and existing adjacent residences. EAR shall be defined as the ratio of total
counted above -grade floor areas of certain Buildings on a T ot or Parcel compared to the
total T of Area.
FAR = Total ennntPrl Floor Area ÷ Tnoal Lot Area
The following EAR provisions shall apply to new Single-family and Two-family DWellings
and additions which expand interior Floor Area by more than twenty-five percent (75%).
i.
L is r Parcels that c ntain 6000 square feet f L t Arca r less shall be assumed t
i. A maximum Eloor Area Ratio limit of .tfl shall apply.
ii. EAR calculations shall be included on all Single-family Dwelling and Two-family
Dwelling Construction Plans submitted to the City for review and permitting.
iii. The following elements of a Single-family or Two-family Dwelling shall be counted in
the EAR calculation.
Page 1 of
ordinance Number 9n-n�-196
Effective Date:
▪ Interior heated and cooled areas.
AGENDA ITEM # 7A
nrTnRFu 9nn6
: Porches, balconies, patios and breezeways with a solid cover or roof when
enclosed Hy solid walls on more than two sides.
▪ That portion of an attached garage exceeding Sfl() square feet of Floor Area.
iv. The following elements of a Single-faYnily or Iwo -family Dwelling shall he
excluded from the EAR cal cul ation.
Porches, balconies. patios. breezeways, and decks (as lare11 as overhangs, eaves,
cantilevers, awnings and similar features) with a solid cover or roof, hut not
enclosed hy solid walls on more than two sides. Such porches, balconies, patios,
breezeways, and decks shall remain open on at least two sides and shall not later
be enclosed in any manner.
Detached Private Garages that are incidental to the Principal TTse on a T.ot.
Detached Private Garages shall remain subject to established si7e, height and
placement regulations.
▪ Carports
that are open on two or more sides.
SECTION /. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon its final passage and
adoption and shall be recorded in a hook kept and maintained by the Clerk of the City of Atlantic
Reach, Duval County, Florida, in accordance with Section 17.5.6g, Florida Statutes.
Passed upon first reading and p„hlic hearing hy the City Commission of the City of Atlantic Reach
this day of , 2006. Passed upon final reading and public hearing thiq day
of , 7006.
Approved as to form and correctness:
AT .AN C. TFNSFN, ESQUIRE
City Attorney
ATTEST
Tl(1NNA RTTSSFY
City Cleric
DONAT .D M. WOT .FSON
Mayor/Presiding Officer
Ease70f7
Ordinance Number 90-m-1 9M
Fffective Date:
AGENDA ITEM # 8A
OCTOBER 23,1006
CIIY OE AlI ANIIC REACH
CITY rOMMISSInN MFFIIN(;
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA ITEM: New Sidewalk Construction for FY 9nn7
SIJRMIIIFf RV• Rjrk ('arpPr, P.P.. Puhljc Works flirPctnr,
❑AIE: Octnher 13, 2006
BACKGROUND: During Budget Workshops in August, Public Workg proposed consto ictinn
of new sidPte[alks nn West'st Street, from Vet Park to Main Street - $35,5nn,
fh West JO Street from Mayport Rd to Orchid Street - 535,300 and West 6 Street
— Maypnrt Rd to Main StrPPt — $45,1 nn. the (;nmmissinn was concerned that
the traffic levels (auto and pedestrian) did not justify a sidewalk nn West 9 st
Street.
Based on a comment made at one of the Mayor's M ighhnrhnnd Meetings,
interest was expressed toward replacing existing sidewalk on Orchid Street
(he{ween W sin and W, Ath) and Rose Street (hetween the W. Playa Ditch and W.
14'h) that has excessive cross -slope. staff inveCtigated and found a total of
apprnxjmately 700 LF of sidewalk and driveways that exceed the standard 2%
rrnss-sjnpe, the cross slope varies from apprnximatejy 5% up to a maximum of
13.5%. Because replacement would include up to 9 9 driveways (more SP than
sidewalk), installation of knee walls at hack of sidewalk and some water service
adjustments, rust to replace this sidewalk is estimated to he in exress of
550.000. The sidewalk in question was installed using CDR( indc in 91n9: anti
js in gond condition.
BUDGET: New sidewalk construction is funded using the Half Cent SaleC IaY Fund. J1J-
5002-541-5300, Project PW0707, Initial Balance $120,000.
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends construction of sidewalk on W. 10th Street and W WI'
Street with remaining project funds held pending a constructability analysis of
Aguatir Drive (survey realiired to determine if room to place sidewalk in right of
way along western side of street). Staff recommendq against re,nnvaj and
replacement of existing sidewalk while streets where residents have requested
initial sideqe[alk cnnstructinn still exist.
ATTACHMENTS: 1. Sidewalk Evaluation Summary
RFVLIFWFf) RY CIIY MANA(ER:
nr4phor 73, 9nns Pogiilar KAootina
AGENDA ITEM # 8A
OCTOBER 23, 2006
Ranking
SIDEWALK EVALUATION SUMMARY
Score Estimated Cost
Location
1
Main Street - West 1st to Levy Road
70
$165,888
2
West 9th St. - Mayport Road to Main Street
60
$82,800
%
West 1st St. - Vet Park turnaround to Main Street
58
$15,606
4
West 10th St. - Mayport Road to Orchid Street
55
$36,338
5
Aquatic Drive - Atlantis BI"rd to Aquatic Garden
55
$87,469
6
Wes+ R+h St. - Mayport Road to Main Street
50
$40,R8R
7
West 11th St. - Mayport Road to Orchid Street
50
$7,400
8
Selva Marina Drive - Saturiba to 20th Street
45
9
Ardella Road - Mayport Road to Richardson Lane
43
10
Mandalay Park - Seminole Road to 16th Street (along Ocean)
38
11
Seminole Road - Garden Court to 20th Strout
30
12
West 1st St. - Main Strout to-lasmine Street
30
11
Simmons Road - Mayport Road to Francis Avenue
28
14
Dutton Island Road - Donner Park to Paradise Oaks ,,
25
Sidewalks Completed
Year
Seminole Road - Vicinity Seaspray Avenue
2005
Sandpiper Lane - Plaza Road to Donners Road
2006
West 3rd St. - Mayport Road to Main Street
2006
Francis Avenue - Walter Road to Simmons Road
2006
Royal Palms Driie - Atlantic Blvd to ravalla Road
2006
Sailfish Drive - Atlantic Blvd to Tijuana Flats
2006
Jordan Road - Donner Road to End
2006
NOTES:
i Main Street deferred for Bicycle path decision - if side^1alk rhncen.
Prnpnce daain StrAAt he done in two gartc - the north section (W. 9th St to Levy Road - $7F,nnn)
this year, the southern section (W. Jet qt to W. ath St. - $gi ,nnn) OeYt year,
2 Rennmmend W. j nth rather Chao W. 9th due to Mayport Road turn lane location.
4 Aquatic Dri""e sidewalk lex,ei ^_f riiftirulty high - mutt he raoctrurterl oo Hopkins Creek bank.
4 Wect jjth Street has j /2 hlock sidewalk, needs remaining half hick.
5 Jordan Road c^moletert this vear with r,nRr; funric.
FY117 Sidewalk Recp122122endatltans.Ylc
n/j F/2nnF
AGENDA ITEM 8B
r'CTOBER 23, 200E
CITY nF ATLANTIC BEACH
CITY COMMISSION MEETING
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA ITEM: RurigPt Mnriifiratjnn for West Plaza Bike Path
SUBMITTED BY: Rick Carper, e.F., eublic Works Director/z- C
DATE: Ortnher j � 2nnA
BACKGROUND: At the any 22nd C;nrnnjssinn Meeting, Staff was directed to rlacign
and construct a bicycle path hP1wPPn Rose Park and Main Street, mostly along
the north bank of the \Meet ela7a Hitch. Because of delays in relocating utility
interferences (guy wireq). riPsign anri construction of the project was delayed
such that only funds for the concrete portion of the bike path were encumbered
before the end of the fiscal year. staff estimates $15,000 is required for
guardrail construction anri lanrisraping nn the path. This does not include
beautification efforts for the Stnrks anri Hihiscus street ends.
RECOMMENDATION: Recommenri that Staff hp riirected to prepare a budget
modification for First reading to arm $i .(-inn to eroject PW0606, Account 131-
5002-541-6300.
ATTACHMENTS: 1) None
RLInGET:
Unencumbered project hajanre at Pnri of fisral year was $80,000
(Account 131 -5002 -541 -Finn). Nn funris warp allocated for Project
PW0606 in the current budget year.
RFVIFWED BY CITY MANAGER: C..
October 23. 2006 Regular Meeti=o
AGENDA ITEM # 8C
OCTOBER 21, 2006
UT]V OE AIT.ANTTU REACH
CITY COMMISSInN MEETING
STAFF REPORT
AG FNDA ITEM: Recommendation for temporary waiver of requirement to
connect to city sewer system for house at 7 59 Se,ninole Road
SUBMITTED BY:
iIATF:
RAfKf_RnTTNii:
Jim Hanson, City Manag
(lctnher 11, 7006
Several years ago the Mayor and Commission adopted a policy for the
enforcement of the state law requiring the conversion from septic tanks to
a public sewer system. The state requires any owner of a septic tank to
connect to a public sewer system within one year if that system is located
within 100 feet of the property line. unWever, lural governments are
expected to nforce the state law, The Atlantic Reach policy sets a
timetable for conversion with a minimum of 5 years to connect which has
now expired for many septic tank owners. The City has been quite
successfiul with this program and over half of the septic tanks in Atlantic
Reach with public sewer availahility have been converted to the public-
system.
ublicsystem.
There is one septic tank owner for which the timetable for enforcement
has expired that has not connected to the sewer system. The property is
located at 91S9 Seminole Road and is owned by Ram Tarohson, There are
numrous probltIns with the physical connection to the sewer system
which would result in a very high cost which, staff believes, is
unreasonable. Even though the lot is within 100 feet of the nearest city
sewer line, it is long and narrow with the house located quite a distance
from the city street. There is a -dip- in the property between the house
and the street that Wonld preclude using a gravity sewer system. Two
pumps and a force main would bP required to connect to the two septic
tanks that are currently in use. One of these tanks is located partially
under some pool decking. The front of the lot, across which the
connection would be needed, is heavily wooded. The installation of a
sewer force main would probably require the elimination of several large
trees. A survey of the property is attached for yn„r information. Recanse
of all the problems with the connection. the city's contractor (Gruhn May)
has estimated the cost of this work to be in excess of $30,000.
Most of the other septic to sewer conversions that have heen completed in
Atlantic Reach have ranged in cost between $9,000 and $S,nnn. To date,
the most expensive conversion that has been completed for a single
building (duplex) has been $12,096 including impact fee and tap fees.
RTTT)(i'F.T-
AGGNDA ITEM # 3C
OCTOBER 23,'006
At some point in the future, it is expected that the area between the house
at 7159 Seminole Rd, and the street will he subdivided to create one or
more new lots and that dWelling units will be built on those new sites. The
City will require that those new units be connected to the city's sewer
system. The cost to connect the existing house at the rear of the property
would be much lower if done in connection with a new development. We
have discussed a possible temporary waiver with the property nwner and
he is agreeahle.
There is no cost to the City of Atlantic Beach for septic to sewer
conversions. All these costs are paid by the property owners.
RECOMMENDATION: Approve a temporary waiver from the city's policy reouiring cnnnertinn to
the city sewer service for the homeowner at 9'59 Seminole Road until
such time in the fi,t„re when the front (westward) portion of the lot is
developed or either of the septic tanks fails and require that the provisions
of this waiver be acknowledged and accepted aS part of any future transfer
in title for any part or all of this property.
ATTACHMENTS• (1) Survey of property at ')A59 Seminole Road.
POINT OF BEGINNING
South 11NE 01' rH)6C LAIJ)6 DESCRI3:D
11J I) :ED BOOK Ir E7. PAGE i
DD11IT DF REFEREN)E
NORTI4NO : 21131118.6
EAS11NO : 173149.6 1 1FOU'
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October 10, 2006
MEMORANDUM
To: Mayor Wolfson and City Commissioners
,~ From: Jim Hanso
Subject: ,Bonus for City Manag r
~c~r~NC~~ i•rsnt +I sr~
OC`I'Ok~I:R 23, 2006
The possibility of paying a bonus for my services as City Manager in addition to the regular
salary increase was discussed in the commission meeting on October 9th and deferred for final
consideration until the meeting on October 23`d when Commissioner Waters could take part in
the discussion. I am flattered that you would consider that a bonus is warranted and appreciate
the support that this discussion implies. However, I believe that the payment of a bonus for my
work in the last yeaz would be inappropriate.
Commissioner Borno attached to his memo a list of city accomplishments for the last 12 months
that I had recently prepared. Similar lists have been prepared for each of the years that I have
served this city since 1999. It is important to understand that these accomplishments were
achieved only through the work of many indi~uduals which include quite a number of city staff,
~• the Mayor and Commission and others. These accomplishments are truly "ours" and not "mine".
This list was never intended to imply my individual success.
~. Accepting a personal bonus for work that was done mostly by others is inappropriate. If the
Mayor and Commission wish to express appreciation for the accomplishments that the city has
achieved in the past, it would best be in the form of continuing support for salaries and benefits
necessary to attract and retain the best people possible. Your support for these in recent yeazs
has improved the caliper of our workforce and the resulting level of service to our citizens.
~"* Thank you for considering the possibility of a bonus, but I would respectfully decline if any such
bonus were offered. The opportunity to live and work in Atlantic Beach, along with my normal
salary and your support, are sufficient payment for my services.
~.
AGENDA ITEM # 8E
OCTOBER 23. 2006
CITY COMMISSION MEETING
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA ITEM: Cost of Living Adjustment for Retirees
SUBMITTED BY: Jim Hanson, City Mana
DATE: October 12, 2006
BACKGROUND: The Mayor and Commission considered the recommendation of the
Pension Boards to grant a 3% cost of living adjustment (COLA) for city
retirees at the meeting on September 25, 2006 and deferred consideration
on the item until the meeting on October 23, 2006. This staff report is to
pass along some thoughts and observations on that subject.
First, the cost of our pension plans is high and will continue to rise in the
next yeaz. You (the Mayor and Commission) recently expressed concern
over the increasing cost of the pension funds and asked me to check with
our financial advisors for advice on whether the city should stay with the
Defined Benefit system, or instead change to a less expensive form of
retirement in the future. A report dated August 22, 2006 was submitted
„~, for your review shortly thereafter. A copy of that report, along with the
portions of the yeazly actuary statements for the two retirement funds that
raised the concern for the Commission, are attached. Since the time of
~„ that report, final decisions have been made as part of the 2007 budget
adoption process resulting in payroll increases for city employees that aze
above the actuary's financial assumptions. Unless the return from the
~„ invested funds is considerably greater than anticipated, the cost for the
pension funds will rise again next yeaz. Any COLA for retirees would
increase pension costs further.
A second issue to bring to your attention is one that was identified by the
City's Finance Director during the last report about who would be eligible
to receive COLA. Several of you have expressed sympathy for long term
city employees (20 years plus) who have retired from the city and who are
counting on the city's pension (plus Social Security) as their sole means of
retirement. Most of the city's retirees do not meet that definition. With a
five yeaz vesting requirement, most retirees are drawing benefits after
working less than 20 years for the City. Should a 5 year employee get a
*~ COLA? Some people have only recently retired, having left the city
during the last yeaz. Should they be given a COLA increase if they have
been retired for less than one year? There are some other people who have
left the city's employment and who aze vested but will not be eligible to
receive retirement benefits when they reach a certain age. Should they be
given a COLA? Also, several employees have entered the DROP plan
AGENDA 1'CI:M # SFi
OCCOBER 23.2006
a~w
whereby the retirement system considers them to have been retired,
although they are still working for the city. Their monthly retirement
~"" benefits are going into a 401 Plan which they can utilize after they stop
working. Should these people receive a COLA?
One last observation of the city's plan is that it is very generous. With 33
years of service to the city, a police employee can retire receiving 100% of
their final average salary. Social security benefits are on top of that.
~" Consequently, after retirement, they begin receiving more in retirement
benefits than they were making while they were working for the city. Most
other defined benefit plans offer amounts for long-term employees that are
~. much less. While some other pension plans, although rare, offer an
automatic COLA adjustment to their retirees, the amount a retiree receives
is almost always far less than if they were covered by Atlantic Beach's
®. plan. An long-retired employee from Atlantic Beach would probably still
be making considerably more from their Atlantic Beach pension than an
employee retiring from a different company that had an automatic COLA
~.
adjustment each year because it would take many years for any COLA to
"catch-up".
BUDGET: Refer to the staff report dated 9/7/06 which is attached.
~, RECOMMENDATION: In light of all the factors listed above, it is my opinion that this is not an
appropriate time to provide a COLA increase to the city's retirees. Any
available funding should be used for salary and benefits for current and
,~„ future employees.
ATTACHMENT: (1) Staff report from Pension Boards dated September 7, 2006.
(2) Memo to Mayor and Commission dated August 22, 2006 concerning pension
costs.
(3) Computed employer contribution comparative schedules for General and
Police retirement systems
(4) Required supplementary schedule of funding progress for General and Polio
retirement systems
m.
~,.
AGENDA ITEM # 8E
CITY OF ATLANTIC BEACH OCTOBER 23, zoob
CITY COMMISSION MEETING
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA ITEM: The General Employee and Police Employee Pension Boazds have
requested that the City Commission grant a one time three (3)
percent cost of living adjustment or COLA, for city retirees and
beneficiaries.
SUBMITTED BY: General Employee Pension. Board, and
Police Employee Pension Board
DATE: September 7, 2006
BACKGROUND: Previous to this request, retirees and their beneficiaries have
received three previous cost of living adjustments. These were in
the amount of 12.5% in 1987, 3% in 1997 and 5% in 2001. In
1993, as a separate adjustment, retiree and beneficiary benefits
were increased by raising the multiplier related to each respective
plan.
'" During the August 10, 2006 pension board meetings, both boards
reviewed the need for a cost of living adjustment and voted to have
the plan administrator propose a one time cost of living adjustment
'~ of three (3) percent to the City Commission for approval. The
boazd was asked if they wanted to consider other options such as
restricting the eligibility for the COLA in order to reduce cost.
Options such as requiring the retiree or beneficiary to have been
receiving a benefit for at least five yeazs, as an example, was
discussed. Both boazds did not want to "discriminate" with the
~.
eligibility criteria.
Attached is the cost estimates prepared by the plan's actuary,
Gabriel Roeder Smith and Company.
BUDGET: If a COLA is approved, the action will affect the budget for the
City and for the City's pension funds. The City will have to
budget and transfer additional funds as calculated by the actuary to
amortize the cost of the increased benefit over fifteen years. The
pension fund will have to budget and pay the additional costs of
the increased benefits being paid out.
City Budget:
The actuary report attached estimates that the increased
contributions to the General Employee Plan would be $2,414 per
yeaz for a one (1) percent adjustment. A three (3) percent COLA
would therefore cost $7,242 per year for fifteen years. This will
~• require an additional 0.21 % increase in contributions as a percent
of payroll.
~*
AGENDA ITEM # 8E
OCTOBER 23, 2006
The actuary report attached estimates that the increased
contributions to the Police Employee Plan would be $3,039 per
year for a one (1) percent adjustment. A three (3) percent COLA
~* would therefore cost $9,117 per year for fifteen years. This will
require an additional 0.60% increase in contributions as a percent
of payroll.
Pension Budget:
Both of the above increases in the City's budget for transfers to the
pension fund will be revenues in the pension fund. This will off-
set the increased expenses of the additional benefit to be paid. For
the General Employee Plan this is estimated at $9,625.83 per year
'" and for the Police Employee Plan the increased cost would be
$10,261.23 per year.
~"' RECOMMENDATION: The City Commission consider the request of the General
and Police Employee Pension Boards to provide a three (3) percent
Cost of Living Adjustment to all retirees and beneficiaries as of
'~"" September 30, 2005.
REVIEWED BY CITY MANAGER
~. ATTACHMENTS:
,~, • Supplemental Actuarial Valuation to determine the costs associated
with providing a cost of living adjustment for the General Employee
Pension Plan
• Supplemental Actuarial Valuation to determine the costs associated
with providing a cost of living adjustment for the Police Employee
Pension Plan
AGENDA ITEM # SE
nCTOBER 23. 2006
August 22, 2006
MEMORANDUM
To: Mayor and Commission
From: Jim Hanson, City Manager
Subject: Pension Costs
During a recent meeting to discuss negotiations with the city unions, the levels of benefits,
ti including the pension plans, were discussed. The Mayor and Commission expressed concern
over the increasing cost and decreasing funded ratio of both the police and general pension plans
after many years. A question was asked about the city's fiduciary responsibility both to the
~.
employees and to the citizens of Atlantic Beach in light of this continuing trend. One issue was
at what point should major changes to the plan provisions be considered? You directed me to
check with the city's auditor to obtain an answer to the question. This memo is to report the
auditor's comments, recommendations and other related information.
Ron Whitesides, a partner with Purvis, Gray & Company, the city's current auditors,
acknowledged in a phone conference earlier this month that "the cost of the plan is high." He
recommended that we first consider what is causing the unfunded liability to increase in the two
~,,, pension funds. There are three reasons for this in recent years; salaries have gone up more than
the assumptions, pension benefits have increased and the market return for investments has been
lower than expected. He thinks the assumptions of a rate return of 8%, raises of 5 '/2% and a 5%
~„ discount factor are OK and in line with those of other cities. He advised "if you believe that
recent market trends are an aberration and will change back, then you should leave the funds
alone". He personally believes that we are in a downturn in the economy and that the returns
will improve in the future. Although the six year return on investment is below expectations at
5.1 % for both plans, both have a 9.3% rate of return since their inception. He advises the city to
"stay the course unless we come to a conclusion that the costs are to great". What is too great?
„~, We have to determine the value of the retirement plan in attracting and retaining good
employees. Ron noted that "today's work force is more transient and therefore retirement
systems may not be as important" as they have been in the past.
~.
If the decision is that the costs are too high, then changing the retirement benefits is one way to
lower the costs. Note that the city has recently taken two actions to reduce the City's cost for the
general employee pension plan. These actions reduced the multiplier for the general employees
from 2.85% to 2.5% per year of service effective April 11, 2005 and also increased the general
employees' pension contribution rate from 2% to 5% in 1% increments with the last 1% increase
~• to be effective in September 2006. The change to the multiplier only applied to employees hired
after the date of the change whereas the change in the general employee pension contribution
rate applied to all general employees within the pension plan. Another option noted by Mr.
.~
Whitesides was that some, but not many, cities have changed to a defined contribution plan
recently because of cost increases.
Before considering any changes to the pension plans, it is important to understand that the city
has much less flexibility in the police pension provisions than for those of general employees.
The general employees' system is somewhat more flexible. Benefit changes can be made
relatively easily subject to union negotiations. Any changes to reduce the benefits can only affect
new employees hired after the date of the change. .,
For the police department pension, many Hiles are imposed by the state legislature in exchange
for insurance premium tax proceeds that go into the pension fund for enhanced benefits. Police
and fire unions have had tremendous success for many years in getting benefits for city/county
police and fire employees mandated by the state legislature. These have resulted in police and
fire pensions being some of the most generous of any groups of public or private employees in
the country. The State insurance premium tax, referred to as Section 185 funds, received by the
City totaled $108,000 this year. Even with these tax premiums, the City contribution rate for the
Police Pension Plan increased from 17.73% to 19.85% in the last year as compared to the City's
contribution rate for the General Employee's Pension Plan being reduced from 16.09% to
13.99% (due to recently adopted plan changes). Because of the state requirements, the only way
the city could reduce the pension benefits and thereby lower the cost in the police fund would be
to forego any state revenues. To the best of our knowledge, no other cities or counties in the
state have done this.
Another source of advice on pension cost is the city's pension fund accountant or actuary.
Actuarial reports for both the police and general employee pension funds are now available for
the year ending 9-30-OS from the city's actuary; Gabriel, Roeder, Smith & Company. Both
reports will be presented to the Commission at the next meeting on August 28~'. While each is
lengthy and contains a considerable amount of data, you may be interested in the "Comments"
section of each report on page A-4. A portion of those comments are quoted as follows;
"The funding objective contemplates achieving a funded ratio of 100% over a period. of up to
30 years. The recent trend of the funded ratio has been falling away from 100%. This is not a
cause for concern based on two critical measures of vitality of the retirement system. Those
two measures are the cash flow needs and the contribution history. The cash flow is currently
positive and existing assets can meet current expenditures for over 15 years without any
additional contributions or investment income. The contribution history is of high credit
quality over the last 10 years because contributions have been made at the recommended
levels and in a timely manner. If you think in terms of a mortgage on a house, the retirement
system has 69% equity [general employee system] and a history of making payments on time.
Not bad"
The funded ratio for the police plan was 68.2%.
One other portion of those actuarial reports that you may want to reference is on page D-3 which
includes a table showing the funded ratio and unfunded liability of each fund from 1994 through
~•
AGENDA ITEM # 8E
OCTOBER 23. 2006
2005. This was the information upon which the Mayor and Commission expressed concern at
the recent meeting.
This information is the best advice that is available from our experts; the city auditors and the
pension system actuary. There is no simple formula to determine when, and under what
°" conditions, major changes to an employer's pension plan should be made. Like many complex
issues, this one ultimately comes down to a value judgment for the Mayor and Commission to
consider; Is the city's cost to provide retirement benefits to city employees necessary to attract
~'" and retain the employees needed to provide the services to the citizens of Atlantic Beach? Most
cities and counties still provide defined benefit retirement plans like ours, although the trend in
private industry is clearly moving away from those in favor of defined contribution plans. To
~° remain competitive in a labor market, we should probably continue to provide defined benefit
plans for our employees. However, it is certainly reasonable to consider changes to those plans
in light of increasing costs. If we can provide any further information or if you have any
questions, please do not hesitate to ask.
cc: Ron Whitesides
Nelson Van Liere
George Foster
~.
AGENDq ITEM # 8E
OCTOBER 23, 2006
CONTRIBUTIONS REQUIRED AND CONTRIBUTIONS MADE
The City's funding policy provides for periodic employer contributions at actuarially determined rates
that, expressed as percentages of annual covered payroll, are designed to accumulate sufficient assets
to pay benefits when due. The normal cost and actuarial accrued liability are determined using an
entry age actuarial funding method. Unfunded actuarial accrued liability is being amortized as a level
percent of payroll over periods of 3 to 30 years.
~„ During the year ended September 30, 2005 contributions totaling $544,992 -- $464,893 employer and
$80,099 employee -- were made in accordance with contribution requirements determined by an
~. actuarial valuation of the plan as of September 30, 2003. Employer contributions represented 14.6%
of covered payroll during the year ended September 30, 2005.
COMPUTED EMPL
Fiscal
Year Valuation
Ending Date
September 30 September 30
OYER CONTRIBUTION COMPARATIVE
SCHEDULE
Contribution Rates Dollar Contribution
As Percents of Valuation For Fiscal Year
Valuation Payroll Payroll Computed Actual
1994 1992 9.07 % $1,669,325 $164,069 $163,165
1995 1993 * 9.57 1,818,597 188,594 188,594
1996 1994 * 10.85 1,910,275 224,597 224,597
1997 1995 * 11.12 1,757,893 211,824 213,538
1998 1996 * 11.99 1,927,373 250,417 250,416
1999 1997 * 11.94 1,990,938 257,597 257,597
2000 1998 11.58 2,067,310 259,414 259,411
2001 1999 11.24 2,185,131 266,148 266,148
2002 2000 11.41 2,329,877 288,070 288,070
2003 2001 * 11.81 2,462,229 315,106 315,106
2004 2002 12.72 2,767,895 381,518 381,518
2005 2003 * 15.02 2,856,303 464,893 464,893
2006 2004 16.09 3,051,289 532,028
2007 2005 13.99 3,182,450 482,364
* After changes in benefit provisions and/or actuarial assumptions and/or actuarial cost methods.
l•'
~yy ~
1, ~
w ~ City of Atlantic Beach General Employee Retirement System D-1
M.~~';
AGENDA ITEM # SE
nCTnRRR 23. 2000
CONTRIBUTIONS REQUIRED AND CONTRIBUTIONS MADE
The City's funding policy provides for periodic employer contributions at actuarially determined rates
that, expressed as percentages of annual covered payroll, are designed to accumulate sufficient assets
to pay benefits when due. The normal cost and actuarial accrued liability are determined using an
entry age actuarial funding method. Unfunded actuarial accrued liability is being amortized as a level
.u;,
;ti` percent of payroll over periods of 3 to 28 years.
During the year ended September 30, 2005 contributions totaling $342,995 -- $208,555 city, $25,622
employee and $108,818 premium taxes from State -- were made in accordance with contribution
requirements determined by an actuarial valuation of the plan as of September 30, 2003. Employer
contributions represented 22.6% of covered payroll during the year ended September 30, 2005.
COMPUTED EMPLOYER CONTRIBUTION COMPARATIVE SCHEDULE
Fiscal
Year Valuation Contribution Rates Dollar Contribution
Ending Date As Percents of Valuation For Fiscal Year
September 30 September 30 Valuation Payroll Payroll Computed Actual
1994 1992 10.34 % $ 744,717 $ 83,443 $ 84,912
1995 1993 * 11.32 740,734 90,863 92,120
1996 1994 * 14.95 768,662 124,525 124,483
1997 1995 * 14.56 831,573 131,202 148,774
1998 1996 * 18.90 837,853 171,596 182,213
1999 1997 * 18.98 820,949 168,846 168,802
2000 1998 17.67 940,002 179,988 180,020
2001 1999 16.70 1,018,459 183,091 183,091
2002 2000 17.10 1,213,234 224,812 224,812
2003 2001 * 18.05 1,155,404 225,991 226,041
2004 2002 18.74 1,194,950 242,637 242,637
2005 2003 * 24.31 1,129,034 297,361 297,361
2006 2004 23.76 1,360,051 350,161
2007 2005 25.70 1,402,444 390,494
* After changes in benefit provisions and/or actuarial assumptions and/or actuarial cost methods.
of Atlantic Beach Police Officers' Retirement System D-1
AGENDA ITEM # 8E
REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION ocTOSEa z3, zoos
SCHEDULE OF FUNDING PROGRESS C
Actuarial
Accrued Active Unfunded AAL as
Actuarial Liability Participant a Percentage of
Value of (AAL) Entry Unfunded Funded Covered Active Member
Valuation
Date @ Assets
(a)# age
b AAL Ratio Payroll Covered Payroll
)
( (b)-(a) (a)/(b) (c) ((b-a)/c)
1994 $4,549 $6,061 $1,512 75.1 % $3,068 49.3
1995 5,546 7,200 1,654 77.0 3,054 54.2
1996 6,517 8,290 1,773 78.6 3,107 57.1
1997 7,435 9,275 1,840 80.2 3,305 55.7
1998 8,457 10,404 1,947 81.3 3,609 53.9
1998(w/o Fire) 7,127 9,144 2,017 77.9 3,007 67.1
1999 4,650 5,796 1,146 80.2 2,185 52.4
2000 5,229 6,462 1,233 80.9 2,330 52.9
2001 * 5,587 6,986 1,399 80.0 2,462 56.8
2002 5,747 7,479 1,732 76.8 2,768 62.6
2003 * 5,951 8,186 2,235 72.7 2,856 78.3
2004 6,273 9,005 2,732 69.7 3,051 89.5
2005 6,802 9,822 3,020 69.3 3,182 94.9
Dollar amounts are in thousands.
* After changes in benefits and/or actuarial assumptions and/or actuarial cost methods.
# The actuarial value of assets used before 9/30/97 plan year were at market value; the asset method used after that
date is shown on page B-4.
@ Includes Poli,, e and•~''ire prior to 1999 except one case in 1998.
,.
~;
~,~:
~;,
Analysis of the dollar amounts of the actuarial value of assets, actuarial accrued liability, or unfunded
actuarial accrued liability in isolation can be misleading. Expressing the actuarial value of assets as a
percentage of the actuarial accrued liability provides one indication of the system's funded status on a
going-concern basis. Analysis of this percentage over time indicates whether the system is becoming
financially stronger or weaker. Generally, the greater this percentage, the stronger the plan. The
unfunded actuarial accrued liability and annual covered payroll are both affected by inflation.
Expressing the unfunded actuarial accrued liability as a percentage of covered payroll approximately
adjusts for the effects of inflation and aids analysis of the progress being made in accumulating
sufficient assets to pay benefits when due. Generally, the smaller this percentage, the stronger the
plan.
City of Atlantic Beach General Employee Retirement System D-3
AGENDA ITEMS # ] 0 AB
MINUTES OCTOBER 23, 2006
~"" Board Member Review Committee Meeting
October 12, 2006
1. Call to order
~"" The meeting was called to order by Mayor Pro Tem Dezmond Waters at 5:00 pm. Those in attendance
were Mayor Pro Tem Dezmond Waters, City Manager Jim Hanson, Member Glen Fisher, City Clerk
Donna Bussey, Code Enforcement Officer Alex Sherrer and Recreation Advisory Committee Chair
~" Laurie Melancon. Member Casey Quinif was absent.
2. Discuss/review possible reappointment of current members on the Code Enforcement Board
A. Mamie Hurd
B. Barbara Weiss
City Manager Hanson explained Carl Jacobson was unable to attend but indicated an email was sent
with his opinion to support reappointing both Mamie Hurd and Bazbaza Weiss.
Alex Sherrer reported his evaluation of Ms. Hurd's and Ms. Weiss' service and attendance while on
the Code Enforcement Board. The committee discussed it further.
Motion: Recommend reappointing Mamie Hurd and Barbara_Weiss to the Code Enforcement
~,,, Board for an additional term.
Moved by Fisher, seconded by Hanson
Aye: 3 Fisher, Hanson, Waters
~. Nay:O
MOTION PASSED
3. Discuss/review new applicant(s) to the Cultural Arts and Recreation Advisory
Committee
A. Gary Becka
The Committee interviewed Mr. Becka The purpose of the interview and an overview of the duties and
responsibilities of the Cultural Arts and Recreation Advisory Committee was explained. Mr. Becka
explained his personal accomplishments, his goals and his interest in the community. The Committee
offered him the opportunity to ask questions. The Committee responded to those questions. After the
interview, the committee discussed the candidate.
*" Motion: Recommend appointing Gary Becka to the Cultural Arts and Recreation Advisory
Committee to fill the vacancy of Linda Ginsberg.
Moved by Fisher, seconded by Hanson
~"' Aye: 3 Fisher, Hanson, Waters
Nay: 0
MOTION PASSED
Minutes of the Boazd Member Review Committee Meeting on October 12, 2006 Page 1 of 2
CITY OF ATLANTIC BEACH
BOARD /COMMITTEE MEMBER APPLICATION FORM
Please check (~) beside each Board or Committee that you aze applying to serve on:
(A summary of each boazdlcommittee is available on page 2 of this form.)
Code Enforcement Board Community Development Board
Pension Board of Trustees Tree Conservation Board
X Cultural Arts and Recreation Advisory Committee
AGENDA ITEMS # ]0 AB
OCTOBER 23, 2006
APPLICANT'S NAME: Gary Becka
ADDRESS: 2304 Beachcomber Tr., Atlantic Beach, FL 32233-6607
A'" DAYTIME PHONE: 904-247-0176 (h) or 904-910-3383 (c) EVENING PHONE: same
E-MAIL ADDRESS: ackebQcomcast.net FAX: n/a
Please explain any employment experience, board/committee experience, and/or community volunteer
experience relative to the board/committee applying for.
21 years an the executive staff of the PGA TOUR, recently retired as Vice President of Competition and Administration
for the Champions Tour. Member of the United States Golf Association (USGA) Equipment Standards Committee for
~ 14 years as PGA TOUR representative; Served on the World Galf Hall of Fame Advisory Board for 10 years as PGA
TOUR/Champions Tour representative. In addition to my decades in the golf industry/community, I also have job
experience in the music business as a writer, promoter, and independent record label operator.
Please provide a brief explanation of your interest or any special qualifications you have in this field and
your reasons for wishing to be appointed to this boardlcommittee.
~,,, Accessible cultural and recreational opportunities are fundamental to a community's quality of life and unique
character. Enduring community activities and "happenings° cultivate neighborhood atmosphere, bringing together
residents of all ages and backgrounds. The "skate park° is an outstanding example of our community being open to
new recreational opportunities. I have been a resident of Atlanfic Beach for Hearty 22 years.
Please return completed form to
Donna L. Bussey, City Clerk, 800 Seminole Road, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
~~
AGENDA ITEM # 8E
OCTOBER 23. 200(
REQUIRED SUPPLElV1ENTARY INFORMATION
SCHEDULE OF FUNDING PROGRESSO
aluation
Date*
Actuarial
Value of
Assets
(a)# Actuarial
Accrued
Liability
(AAL) Entry
age
(b)
nfunded
AAL
(b)-(a)
unded
Ratio
(a)/(b)
Active
Participant
Covered
Payroll
(c)
Unfunded AAL as
a Percentage of
Active Member
Covered Payroll
((b-a)/c)
1994 $4,549 $6,061 $1,512 75.1 % $3,068 49.3 °Io
1995 5,546 7,200 1,654 77.0 3,054 54.2
1996 6,517 8,290 1,773 78.6 3,107 57.1
1997 7,435 9,275 1,840 80.2 3,305 55.7
1998 8,457 10,404 1,947 81.3 3,609 53.9
1998(w/o Fire) 7,127 9,144 2,017 77.9 3,007 67.1
1999 3,393 4,089 696 83.0 1,018 68.4
2000 3,791 4,615 824 82.1 1,213 67.9
2001 4,068 5,016 948 81.1 1,155 82.1
2002 4,230 5,334 1,104 79.3 1,195 92.4
2003 4,373 5,986 1,613 73.1 1,129 142.9
2004 4,534 6,405 1,871 70.8 1,360 137.6
2005 4,775 6,997 2,222 68.2 1,402 158.5
Dollar amounts are in thousands.
* After changes in benefits and/or actuarial assumptions and/or actuarial cost methods.
# The actuarial value of assets used before 9/30/97 plan year were at market value; the asset method used after that date
is described un page B-4.
@ Includes General and Fire prior to 1999 except one case in 1998.
Analysis of the dollar amounts of the actuarial value of assets, actuarial accrued liability, or unfunded
actuarial accrued liability in isolation can be misleading. Expressing the actuarial value of assets as a
' percentage of the actuarial accrued liability provides one indication of the system's funded status on a going-
~; concern basis. Analysis of this percentage over time indicates whether the system is becoming financially
stronger or weaker. Generally, the greater this percentage, the stronger the plan. The unfunded actuarial
accrued liability and annual covered payroll are both affected by inflation. Expressing the unfunded
actuarial accrued liability as a percentage of covered payroll approximately adjusts for the effects of inflation
,, and aids analysis of the progress being made in accumulating sufficient assets to pay benefits when due.
+~N;
Generally, the smaller this percentage, the stronger the plan.
City of Atlantic Beach Police Officers' Retirement System D-3
AGENDA ITEMS # 10 C
nCTnRER 23. 200(,
wa
CITY OF ATLANTIC BEACH
CITY COMMISSION MEETING
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA ITEM: Creation of Committee to consider a Referendum establishing
District Elections in Atlantic Beach
SUBMITTED BY: Jim Hanson, ~~r~-~
DATE: October 16, 2006
BACKGROUND: At the last city commission meeting on October 9, 2006, you requested
information on two subjects related to the possibility of creating a
committee to consider a referendum on district elections. Those included
an evaluation of staff time available in the next few months to begin new
legislative initiatives and about items to include in the enabling legislation
creating such a committee. .
During the strategic planning sessions earlier this year, you set out
~„ priorities to be addressed. On the top of the list was completion of the
community character zoning standards. The discussion and public input
on community character has taken considerably longer than originally
~, anticipated and is still ongoing. After the community character work was
to be completed, the Commission agreed to take up three other major
legislative subjects, although not necessarily at the same time. These
~, included consideration of a referendum concerning district elections in
Atlantic Beach, major amendments to the tree ordinance and a Town
Center Overlay Zoning District. With the completion of the community
~, character discussions, it is anticipated that some staff and legislative time
will be available to consider one of these legislative initiatives. However,
given the amount of time that was taken for the community character
discussions as well as the anticipated time it would take for each of these
three items, I do not believe that either staff or legislative time would be
available to take on more than one at a time. Therefore, it would be
~• appropriate for the city commission to choose which of the three you want
to move ahead with, and then agree to postpone consideration of the other
two, at least until priorities are reconsidered in connection with the next
~* strategic planning meetings in 2007.
If you choose to pursue the district election referendum, then some group
should be created and then educated on the pros and cons of various
district election alternatives so as to make an informed recommendation
about which would be best for Atlantic Beach. During the strategic
AGENDA ITEMS # ]0 C
OCTOBER 23, 2006
e~
planning discussions, the Mayor and Commission reached a consensus
that a committee of citizens should be appointed to study these issues and
~* make a recommendation in time to be included on the ballot for the
election in October of 2007. The creation of this committee should be
done through a resolution that would set forth a number of provisions
~"" including membership, terms, a sunset provision, purpose and other items.
Attached for your review is a summary of items recommended. If it is
your desire to move ahead on this subject, it would be appropriate for the
~"' Mayor and Commission to provide direction on how to prepare such a
resolution for your consideration. Most of the items on this draft come out
of the recent strategic planning discussions.
One final recommendation deals with membership. While district
representation may appear to be a simple question on the surface, like
many of the other legislative initiatives, the details can be very
complicated and extremely important. Understanding the details
thoroughly before making a recommendation will be essential. For this
reason, it would be best if all appointees to this committee have open
minds going into the discussion. They should have no preconceived
preferences for district elections or for staying with the current system.
BUDGET: While the creation of a committee to consider district representation is
expected to take quite a bit of staff time and several months of meetings,
very little cost is anticipated. There may be travel costs either on the part
of the committee members or to bring people to Atlantic Beach to address
the committee.
RECOMMENDATION: It would be appropriate for the Mayor and Commission to first determine
~. which of the legislative priorities they would like to pursue next and, if
that is the district representation issue, then provide feedback on an
enabling resolution and the appointment of members.
ATTACHMENT: Items to include in resolution creating district election committee.
~.
AGENDA ITEMS # 10 C
OCTOBER 23, 2006
0
Items to Include in Resolution Creating District Election Committee
October 16, 2006
Name; District Election Committee
Purpose: The committee is created solely for the purpose of considering whether the citizens of
Atlantic Beach should vote in a referendum to change the method of electing city
commissioners, and possibly the number of commissioners, from the present at-large basis for all
members of the Mayor and Commission to a different form where some or all commissioners are
elected to represent individual districts. If the committee's recommendation is to place such a
referendum on the ballot, then a recommendation should be made as to the specifics of a district
election plan. The committee's recommendation should be made to the Mayor and Commission
of the City of Atlantic Beach in time for an item to be included in the Fa112007 ballot for the
City of Atlantic Beach election.
Membership
- Number of members/who to appoint; A committee of 25 was discussed at the Planning
workshops, but a smaller group of 11-19 may be easier to work with.
- Geographic basis of membership; if members from each area of Atlantic Beach is desired,
it would be appropriate to include
- Chairman/who to appoint (Mayor was the consensus at the Strategic Planning workshops)
- Terms of committee members; to continue until recommendation is made to the Mayor
and Commission in summer of 2007
Responsibilities and Assignments to Committee
- Work in conjunction with city staff to set a series of meetings to become familiar with the
~, pros and cons of various forms of district representation. For example, these may include,
but not be limited to, all Commissioners except the Mayor being elected from single
member districts (Mayor and four or more district-elected members) to a combination of
~,. single member and at-large districts (for example Mayor, 2 or 4 district-based
commissioners and 2 at-large commissioners), whether the district representatives would
be required to live in the districts, whether they would be voted on only by citizens of
~. those districts or on a city wide basis or whether the existing, at-large form of electing the
Mayor and Commissioners should be retained.
- The committee members should meet as a group to utilize resources available from
several sources to educate themselves about the various district options including the
Florida League of Cities, the National Urban League and representatives from other cities
or counties that have various forms of district elections.
0
AGENDA ITEMS # 10 C
OCTOBER 23, 2006
Timetable;
The primary election for the City of Atlantic Beach Commissioners is scheduled for October 2,
2007. To be able to place an item on the ballot for consideration in that election, a
recommendation must be made to the Mayor and Commission in final form and in writing no
later than June 30, 2007.
Other Provisions;
- Sunset; this committee will cease to exist upon the presentation of the final
recommendations to the Mayor and Commission.
- This committee will operate under the .Florida Sunshine and Open Records Acts. This
should be a subject on one of the earliest committee agendas to educate members as to the
~"' requirements of state law.
- Expense reimbursement; committee members can be reimbursed for expenses, but only
~"' with prior approval from the City Manager.