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, DECEMBER 15, 2014.
1.
CALL TO ORDER - Mayor Hudson called the meeting to order at 6:24 p.m for a special holiday presentation by LPA Chorus.
2.
OPENING PRAYER - Pastor Bryan Wenger of Indian River Presbyterian Church 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
a.
Approval of Minutes from December 1, 2014 meeting.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve the Minutes of the Regular Meeting on December 1, 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 declaring January, 2015 as National Mentoring Month. It was received by Sabrina Seme, Volunteer Recruiter, Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Lucie, Indian River and Okeechobee Counties.
b.
Mayor Hudson presented certificates to the 2nd Graduating Class of the Citizens Academy.
7.
LETTERS TO COMMISSION
8.
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mr. Roy Darby, 619 South 6th Street
Mr. Rick Reed
Capt. Donald Voss
Mr. Mark Bryant III
Ms. Dodi Spence
Mr. Roy Darby, 619 South 6th Street
Mr. Rick Reed
Capt. Donald Voss
Mr. Mark Bryant III
Ms. Dodi Spence
9.
CONSENT AGENDA
a.
Request approval of FDEP Agreement No. S0696 Amendment No. 1 providing construction funding for stormwater improvements to Veterans Memorial Park with grant funding for both grants remaining unchanged.
b.
Approval of contribution from Law Enforcement Trust Fund to Zion's Daughters of Distinction Ministries, Inc. in the amount of $500.00.
c.
Partial Release of Code Enforcement Lien in the amount of $58,200 against 1414 Avenue J, Ft. Pierce, FL, owned by Phillip Brutus, upon payment of $1500.00 payable within 60 days.
d.
Approval of the FY15 Humane Society Contract in the amount of $125,000.00.
e.
Approval to provide a $35 holiday bonus to each employee.
Motion was made by Commissioner Rufus Alexander, seconded by Commissioner Thomas Perona that the following items on the Consent Agenda be approved - 9a, 9b, 9c, 9e. Commissioner Perona and Commissioner Alexander pulled item 9d.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
As to Item 9d, Commissioner Perona requested more information and numbers for 2013-2014 for comparison purposes.
Ms. Arraiz responded with a brief presentation and an assurance there will be an accurate monthly total available to track the trends for the future. Keeping in mind the grant the Humane Society received from another organization for $125,000 is for spay and neutering only and not to be used for impounds and operating costs. The agenda item here tonight in the amount of $125,000 is for operating costs for impounding Fort Pierce animals at an amount that has not increased over the last four years.
Ms. Arraiz responded with a brief presentation and an assurance there will be an accurate monthly total available to track the trends for the future. Keeping in mind the grant the Humane Society received from another organization for $125,000 is for spay and neutering only and not to be used for impounds and operating costs. The agenda item here tonight in the amount of $125,000 is for operating costs for impounding Fort Pierce animals at an amount that has not increased over the last four years.
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Edward Becht to approve Consent Agenda item 9d for discussion.
Ms. Arraiz clarified United for Animals is an organization with a core purpose to go into the community and find animals that are at risk and get them spayed and neutered to reduce the number of unwanted animals. She stated they do this very well and have contributed to the numbers being discussed. The costs for the Humane Society is to pay for impounds, along with the costs of food, shelter and medical treatments. Basically, to cover the cost of impounded animals. Ms. Arraiz will provide to the Commission additional documentation and fees concerning impounds and spay and neuters within the City.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona
- NAY:
- Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
10.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
a.
Application for Site Plan approval and Waiver of Distance submitted by Stan Oginz, the property owner, and Jim Burg, the applicant, for construction of a Restaurant and Tiki Bar, which serves Beer, Wine, and Spirits for on-premise consumption, at 1918 Seaway Drive subject to a lighting condition.
Mr. Kori Benton, Historic Preservation Officer, appeared with a presentation and staff recommendation that the City Commission approve the request with the condition the lighting plan meets the minimum average of 3 foot candles as required by the City of Fort Pierce building code prior to the issuance of building permits for the construction of the site.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Mr. Daniel Sorrow of Cotleur and Hearing appeared with a presentation and stated they are excited about the project and excited to be here. He identified that they will be looking to start with about 44 employees, taking on hiring more during the season and this location was chosen because it is very similar to their Jupiter location along the inlet waterway. He responded there have been protective measures put into place to insure the surrounding residences will not be disturbed. The project has a sound wall to project all of the noise into the inlet with none crossing over Seaway Drive.
Mr. Jim Berg stated when the Square Grouper was founded 14 years ago they started out small and grew. The location in Fort Pierce appealed to him because it is very similar to Jupiter and once he visited he realized he wanted to be a part of the improvements that were underway and help the area to continue to grow. He stated his intent for both locations is to remain similar in design, including his belief to not allow anyone under the age of 21 into the establishment, even though the state permits it. He will continue with functions that will help and assist the community. He concluded by informing the Commission there are plans that have been submitted recently for site plan review to build a high end hotel nearby on the island.
Mr. Blades Robinson stated he thinks this is wonderful project for Fort Pierce, but is concerned there may be parking issues. He suggested the Commission consider purchasing some vacant land for parking purposes.
Seeing no one further, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
Mr. Kori Benton, Historic Preservation Officer, appeared with a presentation and staff recommendation that the City Commission approve the request with the condition the lighting plan meets the minimum average of 3 foot candles as required by the City of Fort Pierce building code prior to the issuance of building permits for the construction of the site.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Mr. Daniel Sorrow of Cotleur and Hearing appeared with a presentation and stated they are excited about the project and excited to be here. He identified that they will be looking to start with about 44 employees, taking on hiring more during the season and this location was chosen because it is very similar to their Jupiter location along the inlet waterway. He responded there have been protective measures put into place to insure the surrounding residences will not be disturbed. The project has a sound wall to project all of the noise into the inlet with none crossing over Seaway Drive.
Mr. Jim Berg stated when the Square Grouper was founded 14 years ago they started out small and grew. The location in Fort Pierce appealed to him because it is very similar to Jupiter and once he visited he realized he wanted to be a part of the improvements that were underway and help the area to continue to grow. He stated his intent for both locations is to remain similar in design, including his belief to not allow anyone under the age of 21 into the establishment, even though the state permits it. He will continue with functions that will help and assist the community. He concluded by informing the Commission there are plans that have been submitted recently for site plan review to build a high end hotel nearby on the island.
Mr. Blades Robinson stated he thinks this is wonderful project for Fort Pierce, but is concerned there may be parking issues. He suggested the Commission consider purchasing some vacant land for parking purposes.
Seeing no one further, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve application for Site Plan approval and Waiver of Distance with staff conditions.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
b.
Ordinance No. 14-035 - Zoning Atlas Amendment for Eight Parcels on Seaway Drive from C-5 Tourist Commercial to R-4A Hutchinson Island Medium Density Residential Zone. SECOND READING
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Ms. Davis appeared and was available for questions. She responded to Commissioner Perona and clarified a parking garage cannot be built in the R-4A zone.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Ms. Davis appeared and was available for questions. She responded to Commissioner Perona and clarified a parking garage cannot be built in the R-4A zone.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve Ordinance No. 14-035 on second and final reading.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
- NAY:
- Commissioner Thomas Perona
Passed
c.
Ordinance No. 14-036 - Future Land Use Amendment for Eight Parcels on Seaway Drive to change the designation of properties from GC, General Commercial to HIR, Hutchinson Island Residential. SECOND READING
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve Ordinance No. 14-036 on second and final reading.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
d.
Ordinance No. 14-023, Extending the territorial limits of the City to include 3006 Lost Tree. (Owned by: Sterling Olsen) SECOND READING
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Thomas Perona to approve Ordinance No. 14-023 on second and final reading.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
e.
Ordinance No. 14-024, Extending the territorial limits of the City to include 530 S Market Avenue. (Owned by: Lantis Mfg Co) SECOND READING
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve Ordinance No. 14-024 on second and final reading.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
f.
Ordinance No. 14-025, Extending the territorial limits of the City to include 811 Edwards Road. (Owned by: McGee Professional Properties) SECOND READING
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to approve Ordinance No. 14-025 on second and final reading.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
g.
Ordinance 14-026, Extending the territorial limits of the City to include 903 S Market Avenue. (Owned by: William Sax) SECOND READING
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to approve Ordinance No. 14-026 on second and final reading.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
h.
Ordinance No. 14-027, Extending the territorial limits of the City to include 991-995 Edwards Road. (Owned by: Alexander Johnson ) SECOND READING
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Thomas Perona to approve Ordinance No. 14-027 on second and final reading.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
i.
Ordinance No. 14-028, Extending the territorial limits of the City to include 3794 Oleander Avenue (Owned by: Faith Baptist Church of FP) SECOND READING
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to approve Ordinance No. 14-028 on second and final reading.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
j.
Ordinance No. 14-029, Extending the territorial limits of the City to include 4306 S US Hwy 1. (Owned by: Cartom Inc) SECOND READING
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Thomas Perona to approve Ordinance No. 14-029 on second and final reading.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
k.
Ordinance No. 14-030, Extending the territorial limits of the City to include Briargate Subdivision, excluding 5728 Briargate Lane. (Owned by: Alyssa J Maloy, Emile W Thomas, Daniel F Ochse, David McIntire, Damodar Bodhoo, Jack L Bridges, Scott J O`Keefe, Mark A Wade, Michael L Landon, Hector Luna, Augustine M Gonzales, William Marinko, Eva I Garcia, Robert B Ogle, ) SECOND READING
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
City Clerk Linda Cox introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Thomas Perona to approve Ordinance No. 14-030 on second and final reading.
- 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.
Authorize the Mayor to issue a Letter of Intent outlining an Economic Development Incentive Package to Dawn Foods to include ad valorem tax exemptions on a sliding scale and impact fee waivers in coordination with the Economic Development Council and St. Lucie County.
Mr. Nick Mimms appeared and introduced Mr. Pete Tesch and commended staff on their economic development efforts.
Mr. Pete Tesch, President of the EDC of St. Lucie County Inc., appeared and stated they have a project that is being referred to as Project Marie, which is Dawn Foods. He stated they are seeking to relocate their facilities to Fort Pierce, specifically at the Crossroads Business Center. They are requesting a letter of intent for an incentive package that will include impact fee mitigation as well as a five year sliding schedule of tax abatements.
Mr. Nick Mimms appeared and introduced Mr. Pete Tesch and commended staff on their economic development efforts.
Mr. Pete Tesch, President of the EDC of St. Lucie County Inc., appeared and stated they have a project that is being referred to as Project Marie, which is Dawn Foods. He stated they are seeking to relocate their facilities to Fort Pierce, specifically at the Crossroads Business Center. They are requesting a letter of intent for an incentive package that will include impact fee mitigation as well as a five year sliding schedule of tax abatements.
Motion was made by Commissioner Reginald Sessions, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve the authorization and issuance of a Letter of Intent to Dawn Foods.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
b.
Approval of Resolution 14-R37 reappointing William Nunn and Sheila Bradley to the Fort Pierce Housing Authority.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to approve Resolution No. 14-R37.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
c.
Resolution No. 14-R38 - Reappointing members to the Keep Fort Pierce Beautiful Advisory Board.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve Resolution No. 14-R38.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
d.
Resolution No. 14-R39 appointing Mike Dahan as a regular member of the City Planning Board.
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Edward Becht to approve Resolution No. 14-R39.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
e.
Discussion requested by Mayor Hudson regarding the City's response to remarks made by a Palm Beach County Commissioner about the City of Fort Pierce.
Mayor Hudson is requesting to draft a letter to communicate to the Palm Beach County Commissioners some of the changes that have been done in the City of Fort Pierce and the changes that have occurred over the last 20 years and offer an open invitation to come and visit the City.
It was the consensus of the Commission to proceed with a letter of invitation to the Commission of Palm Beach County.
Mayor Hudson is requesting to draft a letter to communicate to the Palm Beach County Commissioners some of the changes that have been done in the City of Fort Pierce and the changes that have occurred over the last 20 years and offer an open invitation to come and visit the City.
It was the consensus of the Commission to proceed with a letter of invitation to the Commission of Palm Beach County.
13.
COMMENTS FROM THE CITY MANAGER
a.
City Manager's Departmental Activity Report
Mr. Bradshaw was pleased to say the search for the Police Chief has begun and the initial feedback from the Consultant is very positive. The next step will be a summary of their site visit and revision of the job description. He is requesting the Commission direct staff to schedule a joint workshop to discuss the development of the Port and the future annexation strategy for the City. It was the consensus of the Commission to proceed with scheduling this with St. Lucie County. Mr. Bradshaw stated in response to inviting the Harbor Advisory Committee that this meeting needs to be as simple as possible between the deciding elected officials. You as the policy makers have the ultimate decision making authority.
Mr. Bradshaw was pleased to say the search for the Police Chief has begun and the initial feedback from the Consultant is very positive. The next step will be a summary of their site visit and revision of the job description. He is requesting the Commission direct staff to schedule a joint workshop to discuss the development of the Port and the future annexation strategy for the City. It was the consensus of the Commission to proceed with scheduling this with St. Lucie County. Mr. Bradshaw stated in response to inviting the Harbor Advisory Committee that this meeting needs to be as simple as possible between the deciding elected officials. You as the policy makers have the ultimate decision making authority.
14.
COMMENTS FROM THE COMMISSION
Commissioner Sessions had no comment.
Commissioner Becht started with the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council’s report and summary evaluation; he stated the response of TCRPC was vanilla. He felt that All Aboard Florida was vulnerable from an environmental attack and sent out an email to members from the County that will be going down to the TCRPC. The Environmental Impact Study stated there would be no significant impact in adding an additional rail because there is no significant increase in fragmentation and noise impacts that do not already exist. He stated the logic is there will be no additional impact because it is already bad and this will not make it significantly worse. There is mention for some mitigation and include designs to allow for wildlife passages under bridges and through culverts in critical areas. He stated his intent to point out the good and the positive things that are happening in happening in Fort Pierce over the next two years. The Square Grouper and Dawn Foods are great things that appear to be moving forward. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and shop local.
Commissioner Alexander wanted to give a shout out to his grandson; he is a member of the pee wee football team in Port St. Lucie that won the nationals for the second year in a row. Merry Christmas to the City and County and Happy New Years. He ended by stating his wish to support the growth in the City of Fort Pierce.
Commissioner Perona stated if you want the TCRPC’s summary of recommendations it is posted on their website with a lot of details. It was interesting to watch, they made some really strong points especially with the Coast Guard being involved with the study. He was not involved with the decision making for the process in the hiring of the Utilities Authority Director, he was there as an advisor. There are 4 very viable candidates, the last interview was today. It is going to be a difficult decision for the Utilities Board on Wednesday. Mr. Thiess will be retiring in March and he was pleased to be able to be a part of the process. Happy Holiday Season.
Mayor Hudson stated the City of Fort Pierce submitted its own All Aboard Florida comments. She wanted to let everyone know the Department of Health is going to have a children’s holiday festival on the 19th of December at North 7th Street and Avenue D. As a Merry Christmas to everyone she hopes the Fort Pierce Utilities Board is going to reduce the PCA down to zero. She stated that is before the Board on December 16, 2014. She would like to wish the citizens and staff a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Commissioner Sessions had no comment.
Commissioner Becht started with the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council’s report and summary evaluation; he stated the response of TCRPC was vanilla. He felt that All Aboard Florida was vulnerable from an environmental attack and sent out an email to members from the County that will be going down to the TCRPC. The Environmental Impact Study stated there would be no significant impact in adding an additional rail because there is no significant increase in fragmentation and noise impacts that do not already exist. He stated the logic is there will be no additional impact because it is already bad and this will not make it significantly worse. There is mention for some mitigation and include designs to allow for wildlife passages under bridges and through culverts in critical areas. He stated his intent to point out the good and the positive things that are happening in happening in Fort Pierce over the next two years. The Square Grouper and Dawn Foods are great things that appear to be moving forward. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and shop local.
Commissioner Alexander wanted to give a shout out to his grandson; he is a member of the pee wee football team in Port St. Lucie that won the nationals for the second year in a row. Merry Christmas to the City and County and Happy New Years. He ended by stating his wish to support the growth in the City of Fort Pierce.
Commissioner Perona stated if you want the TCRPC’s summary of recommendations it is posted on their website with a lot of details. It was interesting to watch, they made some really strong points especially with the Coast Guard being involved with the study. He was not involved with the decision making for the process in the hiring of the Utilities Authority Director, he was there as an advisor. There are 4 very viable candidates, the last interview was today. It is going to be a difficult decision for the Utilities Board on Wednesday. Mr. Thiess will be retiring in March and he was pleased to be able to be a part of the process. Happy Holiday Season.
Mayor Hudson stated the City of Fort Pierce submitted its own All Aboard Florida comments. She wanted to let everyone know the Department of Health is going to have a children’s holiday festival on the 19th of December at North 7th Street and Avenue D. As a Merry Christmas to everyone she hopes the Fort Pierce Utilities Board is going to reduce the PCA down to zero. She stated that is before the Board on December 16, 2014. She would like to wish the citizens and staff a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
15.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor Hudson declared the meeting adjourned at 8:57 p.m.
There being no further business, Mayor Hudson declared the meeting adjourned at 8:57 p.m.
ATTEST:
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CITY CLERK
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MAYOR COMMISSIONER
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