City Attorney Replacement/Transition

Robert Schwerer, City Attorney, submitted his firms' letter of resignation on October 6, 2015 and provided a recommendation. The City Manager's office has contacted organizations such as Florida League of Cities, Florida Municipal Attorney Association, etc. to assist as needed and is seeking direction from the Commission for the next steps. The City Attorney's recommendation was for a 90 day transition period. Mr. Schwerer is putting together an inventory of claims, though it is ever-changing, for the Commission to review. Mr. Schwerer stated that according to FS 286.011, the resignation needs to be accepted by the Commission at a public meeting as to entertain public comment. In accordance with FS 286.011, the Commission cannot take formal action on any matter such as the hiring or firing of City Attorney without some public comment, and if done, could be guilty of a misdemeanor. Mr. Schwerer suggests hiring a consultant to assist with needs analysis, determining work load and expectations.

Commission discussion included the City's vulnerability and the critical need to develop a transition plan to limit any liability. Commissioner Becht stated his desire to have a 6 month vision and make decision on transitioning once that is identified. He would like to have inside counsel that is business friendly, handling mediation and staff needs, while  working closely with other attorneys that handle litigation. Hiring a consultant, such as Chuck Thompson, would be a benefit as he has worked with us and knows our situation. Commissioner Sessions stated he would like in house counsel with municipal experience but doesn't see the need to spend money hiring a consultant. He has been contacted by attorneys interested in assisting during the transition as well as interested in the position. Commissioner Perona is not as much concerned about the cost, stating that hiring a consultant would assist in setting up a parameter to help guide the Commission to make the proper decision. Commissioner Alexander is seeking a prioritized list of active cases. Mayor Hudson would prefer that the transition period is less than 90 days.

Commission consensus is to have Mr. Schwerer provide an up to 90 day contract with itemized billing and an updated, prioritized summary of active cases before the October 19, 2015 Commission meeting. Mr. Bradshaw is to contact Chuck Thompson for consulting services in an ombudsman-type role.

Preparation of Agenda for Joint Meeting with St. Lucie County

1)  Draft Interlocal Agreements re: Port of Fort Pierce

Mr. Bradshaw presented the interlocal agreement drafts from the County for the global development of Port of Fort Pierce and development of Fisherman's Wharf. This is the first formal step in developing the relationship with the County. It is on the November 4, 2015 workshop agenda and ready for formal adoption after that. Commission consensus was that the drafted agreement looks good.

2)  Annexation

Rebecca Grohall, Planning Manager, and Clarissa Davis, Planner gave a presentation providing  samples, steps and tools to address annexation issues. The ISBA (Interlocal Service Boundary Agreement) allows us annex in lieu of voluntary and involuntary annexation. The ISBA process requires the initiating resolution, and is basically an administrative process between city and county government to adopt the ordinances.
 
Commission discussion included strategically working with the County, making accommodations to handle increase in services due to annexation, potential increase in property values near airport, knowing the taxable values and full implications on citizens, the need to invest in infrastructure and increasing the value of coming into the City. The map provided should be modified prior to the November 4, 2015 Commission meeting.