- Present:
- Mayor Linda Hudson; Commissioner Rufus Alexander; Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson; Commissioner Thomas Perona; Commissioner Reginald Sessions
- Staff Present:
-
- Interim City Attorney Benjamin Bryan
- City Clerk Linda Cox
- City Manager Nicholas Mimms
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson to approve item 5 a.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
Motion was made by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve item 5 b.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
The following letters will be kept on file in the City Clerk's Office.
John Benmoshe spoke on item 11 c.
Vincent Marcellino spoke on item 11d, 11, e and 11 f.
Motion was made by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Thomas Perona to approve the agenda as presented.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
Doris Tillman with Main Street Fort Pierce, indicated there were four points of Main Street and these consisted of design, organization, economic vitality and promotion. Some restaurants going through difficulty finding help were assisted. Among the several events offered during the 2018-2019 year, included were Coffee with the Mayor, Friday Fest, Art Shows, Ghosts of Ft. Pierce Past Historic Walking Tour, Treasure Coast History Festival, to name a few. Ms. Tillman also spoke of grants and partnerships they were involved with. The Main Street Focus magazine serves downtown Fort Pierce and advertises new businesses free of charge.
Pam Carithers with Lincoln Park Main Street provided the City Commission with the history of the organization and presented the City Commission with the accomplishments from 2017-2018. Additionally, she touched on the strategic planning, fundraising, board development, Human Resources and community engagement. They helped the community by providing Fair Housing Seminars, Historic Preservation (i.e. Walk Lincoln Park, Lincoln Park Guided Tours). In their monthly newsletters they provide information on topics like Black History Program with IRSC, Annual Job Fair, Highwaymen Heritage Trail, among others.
Motion was made by Commissioner Reginald Sessions, seconded by Commissioner Thomas Perona to approve items 11 a, 11 b, 11 d, 11 e, 11 f, 11 g and 11 h.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve item 11 c.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
Mr. Sweeney indicated that means that the only other individuals that may be heard are people who might have relevant information and their comments are limited to three (3) minutes each. Members of the public may be permitted to present their non-expert opinions, but the Commission must know that public sentiment is not relevant to the decision which must be based on competent, substantial evidence.
Mayor Hudson called the proceeding to order.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, confirmed the City complied with advertisement and notice requirements.
Mayor Linda Hudson inquired with the Commission regarding ex-parte communications; no one had.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, was asked to swear in those wanting to speak during this Quasi-Judicial hearing. Individuals in the audience intending to speak on this item were asked to stand, raise their right hand, and administered an oath to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. Those that were sworn in were asked to clearly state their name for the record and confirm they were sworn in at such time as they were asked to come forward to testify.
Vennis Gilmore, Planning Analyst, indicated this conditional use was to operate a short-term rental offering lodging for less than six months with a minimum of 31 days. This is located at the northeast section to Hernando Street and Avalon Avenue. All affected City Departments have reviews the proposed Conditional Use and have provided approval with conditions based on compliance with requirements of the City Code. The Planning Board voted unanimously in favor to recommend approval. Staff recommends the City Commission approve the request with the following conditions:
1) The maximum occupancy ensures compliance with City Code Section 8.5-43. - Required space in dwelling units, based upon the size of each unit;
2) Registration of the property manager accessible at all times, to resolve complaints or violations of City Code;
3) Issuance of guide booklets (available from Code Enforcement) for renters regarding local rules and public service resources to minimize conflicts; and
4) The applicant files for and obtains St. Lucie County & City of Fort Pierce Business Tax Licenses within thirty (30) days of Conditional Use approval.
5) Limit no more than two (2) vehicles.
6) Include the City of Fort Pierce Business Tax License number on all advertising.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Nancy Rayborne, the applicant, confirmed she was sworn-in and indicated she manages the property for out-of-country owners.
Seeing no one else, the mayor closed the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Rufus Alexander, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to approve item 12 a.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
Mayor Hudson called the proceeding to order.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, confirmed the City complied with advertisement and notice requirements.
Mayor Linda Hudson inquired with the Commission regarding ex-parte communications; no one had.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, was asked to swear in those wanting to speak during this Quasi-Judicial hearing. Individuals in the audience intending to speak on this item were asked to stand, raise their right hand, and administered an oath to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. Those that were sworn in were asked to clearly state their name for the record and confirm they were sworn in at such time as they were asked to come forward to testify.
Vennis Gilmore, Planning Analyst, indicated this conditional use was to operate a dwelling rental located at 1002 Windward Drive #3101 in Ocean Village. This property is located in the section Ocean House Condos. All affected City Department have reviewed the proposed Conditional Use and have provided approval with conditions based on compliance with requirements of the City Code. The Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend approval to the City Commission. Staff recommends that the City Commission approve the request with the following conditions:
1) The maximum occupancy ensures compliance with City Code Section 8.5-43. - Required space in dwelling units, based upon the size of each unit;
2) Registration of the property manager accessible at all times, to resolve complaints or violations of City Code;
3) Issuance of guide booklets (available from Code Enforcement) for renters regarding local rules and public service resources to minimize conflicts; and
4) The applicant files for and obtains St. Lucie County & City of Fort Pierce Business Tax Licenses within thirty (30) days of Conditional Use approval.
5) Limit no more than two (2) vehicles.
6) Include the City of Fort Pierce Business Tax License number on all advertising.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Melissa Allison, Property Manager, confirmed she was sworn-in and presented herself to answer any questions.
Seeing no one else, the mayor closed the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson to approve with staff conditions.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, SUPPORTING REPRESENTATIVE BRIAN J. MAST'S STOP HARMFUL DISCHARGES ACT (H.R. 6700); PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Commissioner Johnson indicated he’d spoken to the Congressman about the house bill and he needs to resubmit it. He’s looking for the city’s support to find a better way and solutions.
Motion was made by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve item 13 a.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, CERTIFYING THE MAYOR'S REAPPOINTMENT OF SHEILA BRADLEY AND WILLIAM NUNN AS COMMISSIONERS OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Motion was made by Commissioner Rufus Alexander, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to approve item 13 b.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to appoint Commissioner Alexander as Mayor Pro Tem.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
There were no comments from the public.
Commissioner Perona is excited about 2019 and with the past successes and accomplishments he’s eager to get to work to make 2019 a better year. He welcomed new City Attorney, Pete Sweeney.
Commissioner Sessions echoed Commissioner Perona’s words in welcoming the new City Attorney. He feels very confident in Mr. Sweeney’s ability and greatly appreciates his enthusiasm. He urged citizens with any information about recent shootings in the area to please come forward.
Commissioner Johnson welcomed Mr. Sweeney and looks forward to paving new ways and trails alongside him. He wished everyone a very happy new year. He is excited to continue to put his best foot forward this year.
Mayor Hudson also welcomed Mr. Sweeney and indicated the past few years have been very successful planning sessions and she feels this year will be no exception. She was happy kids can participate in the various movies with Movies in The Fort. There is a Job Fair on January 30, 2019 in the Fenn Center. The History Fest is taking place on Saturday, January 12, 2019.
Commissioner Perona is excited about 2019 and with the past successes and accomplishments he’s eager to get to work to make 2019 a better year. He welcomed new City Attorney, Pete Sweeney.
Commissioner Sessions echoed Commissioner Perona’s words in welcoming the new City Attorney. He feels very confident in Mr. Sweeney’s ability and greatly appreciates his enthusiasm. He urged citizens with any information about recent shootings in the area to please come forward.
Commissioner Johnson welcomed Mr. Sweeney and looks forward to paving new ways and trails alongside him. He wished everyone a very happy new year. He is excited to continue to put his best foot forward this year.
Mayor Hudson also welcomed Mr. Sweeney and indicated the past few years have been very successful planning sessions and she feels this year will be no exception. She was happy kids can participate in the various movies with Movies in The Fort. There is a Job Fair on January 30, 2019 in the Fenn Center. The History Fest is taking place on Saturday, January 12, 2019.
The meeting adjourned at 8:01 p.m.
| ____________________________ | _________________________________ |
|
CITY CLERK
|
MAYOR COMMISSIONER
|