MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, HELD IN THE CITY HALL COMMISSION CHAMBERS, 100 NORTH U.S. #1, FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, AT 6:30 P.M. ON MONDAY, JANUARY 5, 2015.
1.
CALL TO ORDER - Mayor Hudson called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
2.
OPENING PRAYER - Terrance Beauford of Sword Outreach Ministries offered the opening prayer.
3.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
4.
ROLL CALL
- Present:
- Mayor Linda Hudson; Commissioner Rufus Alexander; Commissioner Edward Becht; Commissioner Thomas Perona; Commissioner Reginald Sessions
- Staff Present:
-
- City Clerk Linda Cox
- City Manager Robert Bradshaw
- City Attorney Robert Schwerer
5.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Approval of minutes from the December 15, 2014 meeting.
Motion was made by Commissioner Rufus Alexander, seconded by Commissioner Thomas Perona to approve the Minutes of the Regular Meeting on December 15, 2014.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
6.
PROCLAMATIONS
a.
Mayor Hudson issued a Proclamation recognizing the retirement of Officer James Tedder. It was received by Officer James Tedder.
7.
LETTERS TO COMMISSION - The following letter will be kept on file in the City Clerk's Office.
a.
Letter from Roy Whitehead thanking Libby Woodruff for her help with a CDBG grant awarded to the Treasure Coast Youth Sailing Foundation.
8.
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mr. George Gibson, 1401 Reynolds Court
Mr. Chris Gosse, 1172 Commodore Court, Unit 201
Capt. Don Voss with Elder Terrance Beauford
Ms. Lisa Fasnacht
Ms. Jaylah Hanna with Mr. Tarrell Gilmore
Mr. George Gibson, 1401 Reynolds Court
Mr. Chris Gosse, 1172 Commodore Court, Unit 201
Capt. Don Voss with Elder Terrance Beauford
Ms. Lisa Fasnacht
Ms. Jaylah Hanna with Mr. Tarrell Gilmore
9.
CONSENT AGENDA
a.
Approval to enter into a contract with Kimley-Horn & Associates, Inc. in which said consultant shall provide professional engineering services in an amount not to exceed $75,370 for Phase II of the Indian Hills Recreation Area Stormwater Improvements project FKA Heathcote Botanical Park and Gardens Stormwater project.
b.
Request award of the Lincoln Park Neighborhood Improvements construction contract to the low bidder, Timothy Rose Contracting, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $500,341.55.
c.
Acceptance of Culpepper & Terpening, Inc. Specific Authorization No. 8, in the amount of $465,135.00, providing construction engineering services and project management as required for the North 2nd Street Roadway Improvement project.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander that the following items on the Consent Agenda be approved - 9a, 9b. Commissioner Sessions pulled item 9c.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
As to item 9c, Commissioner Session questioned the expense of services and the ability of in-house staff to oversee the project.
Assistant City Engineer, Tracy Telle, responded the initial expectation was to handle the services in-house. However, during the design process numerous obstacles became apparent and with the many complexities it was determined that it would be better suited to have an outside consultant to devote 100% inspection services onsite. The City is currently in discussions with FDOT to obtain funding for the CEI services and they should know something on the funding the beginning of February.
Assistant City Engineer, Tracy Telle, responded the initial expectation was to handle the services in-house. However, during the design process numerous obstacles became apparent and with the many complexities it was determined that it would be better suited to have an outside consultant to devote 100% inspection services onsite. The City is currently in discussions with FDOT to obtain funding for the CEI services and they should know something on the funding the beginning of February.
Motion was made by Commissioner Reginald Sessions, seconded by Commissioner Thomas Perona to approve Consent Agenda item 9c.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
10.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
a.
Conditional Use application submitted by Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to construct a 2,409 sq. ft. metal, pre-engineered structure at 3503 S US Hwy 1 - State Farmer's Market.
Planning Manager, Rebecca Grohall, asked for a continuance to the January 20th meeting to give the applicant more time to gather their information. She stated they asked for a little more time because they are also going for a variance.
Planning Manager, Rebecca Grohall, asked for a continuance to the January 20th meeting to give the applicant more time to gather their information. She stated they asked for a little more time because they are also going for a variance.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to postpone to January 20, 2015.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
11.
MISCELLANEOUS REPORTS & REQUESTS
12.
CITY COMMISSION
a.
Resolution No. 15-R01, authorizing the execution of a City Deed providing for the donation of 315 SF of land, situated at the northeast corner of US Highway One and Orange Avenue, to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).
Assistant City Engineer, Tracy Telle, appeared and stated the piece of land in question is needed to create a right turn lane which will be funded by FDOT.
Assistant City Engineer, Tracy Telle, appeared and stated the piece of land in question is needed to create a right turn lane which will be funded by FDOT.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Thomas Perona to approve Resolution No. 15-R01.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
b.
Resolution No. 15-R02, authorizing the execution of a City Deed providing for the donation of a tract of land currently designated as City road right-of-way, identified as Tract "B" on the St. Lucie Crossroads plat to the State for use in the widening of Kings Highway (SR 713).
Assistant City Engineer, Tracy Telle, appeared and stated that FDOT, as a trade off for the road right-of-way, agreed to improve 600 feet of unimproved Crossroads from Kings Highway to the establishment of LaQuinta. The roadway is currently millings and unimproved, she stated this is a bonus for the City.
Assistant City Engineer, Tracy Telle, appeared and stated that FDOT, as a trade off for the road right-of-way, agreed to improve 600 feet of unimproved Crossroads from Kings Highway to the establishment of LaQuinta. The roadway is currently millings and unimproved, she stated this is a bonus for the City.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve Resolution No. 15-R02.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
c.
Selection of Mayor Pro Tem
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Edward Becht to elect Commissioner Rufus Alexander as Mayor Pro Tem.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
d.
Discussion on Mayor and Commissioner appointments to existing Boards and Committees for 2015 and invitation to appoint a representative to the Advisory Committee of the Spay/Neuter Alliance of the Treasure Coast.
It was the consensus of the Commission to continue with the appointed Boards as currently in place.
It was the consensus of the Commission to continue with the appointed Boards as currently in place.
Motion was made by Commissioner Reginald Sessions, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to appoint Commissioner Thomas Perona to the Advisory Committee of the Spay/Neuter Alliance of the Treasure Coast.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
13.
COMMENTS FROM THE CITY MANAGER
a.
City Manager's Departmental Activity Report
Mr. Robert Bradshaw stated the City has completed Phase 1 of the Police Chief search, the interview process and the site visit with the consultant is done. The Commission will be provided a draft of the job description; Mr. Bradshaw requested they review and provide staff with their comments. This will start the next process of advertising for the position. As a reminder of the Strategic Planning Session for 2015 in late April, Mr. Bradshaw stated their thoughts and comments are needed to get them incorporated into the process. He responded that he had a very productive meeting with the County and they support a joint workshop; they initially spoke of the port and annexations and decided to narrow it down to just the port issues. Staff will be back with the dates for the workshop.
Mr. Robert Bradshaw stated the City has completed Phase 1 of the Police Chief search, the interview process and the site visit with the consultant is done. The Commission will be provided a draft of the job description; Mr. Bradshaw requested they review and provide staff with their comments. This will start the next process of advertising for the position. As a reminder of the Strategic Planning Session for 2015 in late April, Mr. Bradshaw stated their thoughts and comments are needed to get them incorporated into the process. He responded that he had a very productive meeting with the County and they support a joint workshop; they initially spoke of the port and annexations and decided to narrow it down to just the port issues. Staff will be back with the dates for the workshop.
b.
Please note that the next meeting of the Fort Pierce City Commission will be held on Tuesday, January 20, 2015 at 6:30 p.m.
14.
COMMENTS FROM THE COMMISSION
Commissioner Alexander wanted to share that he had a happy, healthy holiday season.
Commissioner Perona is excited that the state of Florida has become the third most populous state in the Union. It seems the visitors we are seeing now are filling up our streets, stores and beaches and he wants to welcome everyone to Fort Pierce. There are many treasures to be found here and he stated the City is working very hard to provide a safe environment for the residents, investors and families. There is an excellent opportunity to do everything you may want here; especially the play part of live, work and play. He is excited about all of the possible opportunities to be found in Fort Pierce.
Commissioner Sessions wanted to congratulate Lieutenant Tedder and to throw out his appreciation of his service with the City. He appreciates his 43 years of dedication, especially the many night calls he responded to.
Commissioner Becht stated he echoes Commissioner Sessions’ comment on Lieutenant Tedder and commended him on his key skills of communication. He questioned if the County voted on the hotel on North Beach. Ms. Grohall responded the vote was scheduled for January 6, 2015. Commissioner Becht inquired of Mr. Bradshaw if any direction from the Commission was needed to allow the group who spoke earlier to move forward and take over the responsibilities of the park and suggested that Public Works install signs that indicate the park is maintained by them then they can have the pride of the good looking park. Lastly, Commissioner Becht stated there are opportunities here in the City of Fort Pierce and there are opportunities every day when you wake up and if you have the right attitude you can take advantage of them, they aren’t just on New Year’s Day.
Mayor Hudson wanted to comment on the Police Chief search, the consultants were in Fort Pierce for two days and met with a number of groups. She wanted the public to know the city and individuals provided the consultants the necessary information to enable them to know what kind of police chief will be best for Fort Pierce. She applauds the staff for all their efforts and organization of this process. Also, she received a letter from Governor Scott stating this week is Florida First Responder’s Appreciation Week and he is asking they all be thanked for their service. She stated there was some good press received that stated 2015 was going to be a good year for the City of Fort Pierce, the columnist pointed out a number of positive signs. We need to get up every day and think positive thoughts and cheer our beautiful city.
Commissioner Alexander wanted to share that he had a happy, healthy holiday season.
Commissioner Perona is excited that the state of Florida has become the third most populous state in the Union. It seems the visitors we are seeing now are filling up our streets, stores and beaches and he wants to welcome everyone to Fort Pierce. There are many treasures to be found here and he stated the City is working very hard to provide a safe environment for the residents, investors and families. There is an excellent opportunity to do everything you may want here; especially the play part of live, work and play. He is excited about all of the possible opportunities to be found in Fort Pierce.
Commissioner Sessions wanted to congratulate Lieutenant Tedder and to throw out his appreciation of his service with the City. He appreciates his 43 years of dedication, especially the many night calls he responded to.
Commissioner Becht stated he echoes Commissioner Sessions’ comment on Lieutenant Tedder and commended him on his key skills of communication. He questioned if the County voted on the hotel on North Beach. Ms. Grohall responded the vote was scheduled for January 6, 2015. Commissioner Becht inquired of Mr. Bradshaw if any direction from the Commission was needed to allow the group who spoke earlier to move forward and take over the responsibilities of the park and suggested that Public Works install signs that indicate the park is maintained by them then they can have the pride of the good looking park. Lastly, Commissioner Becht stated there are opportunities here in the City of Fort Pierce and there are opportunities every day when you wake up and if you have the right attitude you can take advantage of them, they aren’t just on New Year’s Day.
Mayor Hudson wanted to comment on the Police Chief search, the consultants were in Fort Pierce for two days and met with a number of groups. She wanted the public to know the city and individuals provided the consultants the necessary information to enable them to know what kind of police chief will be best for Fort Pierce. She applauds the staff for all their efforts and organization of this process. Also, she received a letter from Governor Scott stating this week is Florida First Responder’s Appreciation Week and he is asking they all be thanked for their service. She stated there was some good press received that stated 2015 was going to be a good year for the City of Fort Pierce, the columnist pointed out a number of positive signs. We need to get up every day and think positive thoughts and cheer our beautiful city.
15.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor Hudson declared the meeting adjourned at 7:29 p.m.
There being no further business, Mayor Hudson declared the meeting adjourned at 7:29 p.m.
ATTEST:
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CITY CLERK
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MAYOR COMMISSIONER
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