Mayor Hudson called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Sessions arrived at 9:13 a.m.

Ms. Johnna Morris, Finance Director and Retirement Board Plan Administrator, provided an overview of proposed changes to Section 13 of the City of Fort Pierce Code of Ordinances.  The proposed changes would bring our code in line with Florida statutes and Worker's Compensation statutes.  The changes added definitions for in the line of duty and administrator, clarified conditions for disability retirement and determination procedures of disability.  The proposed changes must be agreed to by our unions; in the event they do not agree, the changes will not move forward.

Mike Reals, Public Works Director, provided an update on the downtown tram operations.   Ridership numbers continue to grow, and they have added the tram routes to Google maps.  They hope to install benches and four locations to be designated as fixed stops, add a mobile app, and have all drivers provide a brief history lesson and city tidbits for riders.  Based upon ridership, they anticipate the need for an additional trolley and may even explore the potential for a small van that can drive on state roads should the need arise.

Jennifer Hofmeister, Planning Director, provided a comparison of super majority rules from neighboring cities.  Only Fort Pierce and St. Lucie County have rules that provide for public objection to trigger a super majority vote; even though they are not required to state a reason for objection.  The rule that was put into place in 1981.  With the new quasi-judicial procedures, the super majority can made reaching a consensus cumbersome and difficult.  Everyone agreed that the planning board should be vetting the projects and their recommendation of denial triggering super majority made sense.  Consensus was that the Sebastian model was preferred, and we should move in that direction.   The Sebastian model provides for super majority for P & Z appeals, land purchases, and text amendments in denial is recommended by the Planning Board.

Nick Mimms, City Manager, provided an update on our Strategic Plan action plan.  He highlighted progress in road resurfacing, King Plant negotiations, internal revisions to our monitoring and inspection of site improvements, and the Building Department's build out of their permitting hub.  Commissioners inquired about code violations in the city not being issued consistently in all areas;  Ms. Arraiz and Mr. Mimms explained that code enforcement is done throughout the city and is primarily complaint driven; they are looking at methods that will serve as educational rather than punitive when looking at properties surrounding a subject of a complaint and violation.  Mr. Mimms also reported that Channel 27 is undergoing updates as well as our network infrastructure.  Commissioners suggested that the city begin discussing and planning now for ways to address police recruitment and retention.

Commissioner Johnson reported that Treasure Coast Council of Local Governments is reviewing its bylaws and adopting revisions as appropriate.  Main Street Fort Pierce is doing well and has set the Sights and Sounds Parade for December 8.  The Regional Planning Council is holding a joint meeting with South Florida Water Management District in West Palm Beach on October 25.
 
Commissioner Alexander indicated that TDC meetings are well attended with lots of interest in Fort Pierce.
 
Commissioner Sessions reported that the Fire District is looking for a new clerk.  The Sunrise Theatre Advisory Board has many new, active vocal members with lots of great ideas.  They are frustrated because there is no follow up with diversification of acts and shows at the theater.  The City Manger is encouraged to attend a meeting.
 
Commissioner Perona shared that the Retirement Board is undergoing a review of their rules and regulations.  The Fire District is also looking at revising the ISO rating which will impact our insurance rates.
 
Mayor Hudson reported that she attended the last Sunrise Theatre meeting and they recommended a suggestion box as well as requested talking points for their use in promoting the theater.  The Treasure Coast Regional League of Cities is hosting the annual lunch in Indiantown and all are welcome to attend.  The Port Advisory committee had its first meeting in a long time; staff provided an update on Port activities.
 

Mario Wilcox
Rob Robertson
Pamela Carrithers
Rick Reed

Mayor Hudson adjourned the meeting at 11:10 a.m.