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, OCTOBER 19, 2015.
1.
CALL TO ORDER - Mayor Hudson called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
2.
OPENING PRAYER - Rev. Howard D. Coleman of Mount Olive Missionary Baptist 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 - No minutes were approved.
6.
PROCLAMATIONS
a.
Mayor Hudson issued a Proclamation declaring the week of October 18 - 24, 2015, Florida City Government Week.
b.
Mayor Hudson issued a Proclamation declaring October 2015 Pilot International Founders Day Month.
7.
LETTERS TO COMMISSION - There were no letters to the Commission.
8.
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON AGENDA ITEMS NOT REQUIRING PUBLIC HEARINGS
Gary Cox - Item 12A
Stephanie Morgan - Item 12A
David Morgan - Item 12A
Stephen Enns - Item 12A
Gary Cox - Item 12A
Stephanie Morgan - Item 12A
David Morgan - Item 12A
Stephen Enns - Item 12A
9.
CONSENT AGENDA
a.
Approval and Acceptance of Recommended Award of Bid No. 2015-055/Approval of Purchase for Two Off-Road Vehicles
b.
Approve request for blanket Purchase Order approval in an amount not to exceed $225,000.00 for the purchase of used vehicles for Police Department use.
c.
Approve award of the Veterans Memorial Park Stormwater Improvements (Base Bid) construction contract to the low bidder, Brothers' Construction, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $1,648,040.00.
d.
Approve renewal of I-95 Billboard Contract for Fort Pierce Authentic Tours Program in an amount not to exceed $14,300.00.
e.
Approve renewal of Rack Card Distribution Contract for Fort Pierce Authentic Tours (FPAT) Program in an amount not to exceed $8,728.50.
f.
Approve request by A.E. Backus Museum and Gallery to replace ground sign on City Property at their cost on leased property at 500 North Indian River Drive.
g.
Approve request for permission to begin development of an Interlocal Agreement with St. Lucie County for the rehabilitation of the Melody Lane Parking Area.
Commissioner Sessions pulled item 9b.
Commissioner Becht pulled item 9g.
Commissioner Sessions pulled item 9b.
Commissioner Becht pulled item 9g.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Thomas Perona that the following items on the Consent Agenda be approved, 9a, 9c, 9d, 9e, 9f.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions, Mayor Linda Hudson
Passed
As to item 9b, Commissioner Sessions wanted to confirm that were looking at replacing fleet with newer or leased vehicles. Chief Hobley-Burney stated that these vehicles will be used for undercover work and that her department will coordinate with Public Works to ensure they are quality vehicles.
Motion was made by Commissioner Reginald Sessions, seconded by Commissioner Thomas Perona to approve Consent Agenda item 9b.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions, Mayor Linda Hudson
Passed
As to Item 9g, Commissioner Becht wanted to explain to the public that this is a redesign between the County and the City for the Melody Lane parking area. The number of spaces will go from 87 to 91. He questioned the ability to add bike paths. Jack Andrews, City Engineer, stated that the space is tight and that he would look into it. Commissioner Becht continued that we could possibly funnel the bike traffic along Melody Lane and they can see the waterfront park. The County insists on having bike paths, and the City should have one downtown. Along with the fishing pier that opens up in December, and the St. Andrew's public park that is coming, these are public amenities.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve Consent Agenda item 9g.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions, Mayor Linda Hudson
Passed
10.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
a.
Ordinance 15-055 the Annexation of 5550 S US Hwy 1 and Smallwood Avenue.
Linda Cox, City Clerk, introduced the Ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Clarissa Davis, Planner, made a brief presentation and was available for questions.
Mayor Hudson opened the public hearing.
Seeing no one, Mayor Hudson closed the public hearing.
Linda Cox, City Clerk, introduced the Ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
Clarissa Davis, Planner, made a brief presentation and was available for questions.
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 Edward Becht to approve ordinance on first reading.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions, Mayor Linda Hudson
Passed
11.
MISCELLANEOUS REPORTS & REQUESTS
a.
4th Quarter Financial Report - Preliminary
Johnna Morris, Interim Finance Director, presented the 4th Quarter Financial Report, month ending September 30, 2015. This is a preliminary report until the audit is completed. All funds are in a stable position with the exception of the Golf Course and Sunrise Theatre. The discussion clarified that though the report shows "no", the funds are in better shape than they were before.
Johnna Morris, Interim Finance Director, presented the 4th Quarter Financial Report, month ending September 30, 2015. This is a preliminary report until the audit is completed. All funds are in a stable position with the exception of the Golf Course and Sunrise Theatre. The discussion clarified that though the report shows "no", the funds are in better shape than they were before.
b.
Presentation of Fort Pierce Parking Committee Recommendations by Nick Mimms, Deputy City Manager.
Nick Mimms, Deputy City Manager, presented the Parking Committee recommendations.
Fort Pierce is now a tourism destination, and we need to continue to prepare. The committee is comprised of members of City Commission, City Manager's office, Engineering, Planning, Public Works, Main Street Fort Pierce, Code Enforcement, as well as members of the business community. The main objective was to look at the two areas impacted most by vehicular and pedestrian traffic; the beach and downtown parking area.
One of the recommendations includes investigating the possibility of acquiring land that can be used for parking. If we are going to invest in land, an easy solution would be a simple service parking plan. We may consider a public / private partnership, resembling the Deerfield Beach Place example provided. The beach is at a critical point as parking and traffic has not slowed down. The area should be improved if we are going to move forward with any type of parking solution. A developer is needed to facilitate the parking and infrastructural improvements that are desired.
Other recommendations include increasing the payment in lieu of parking fees from the present values of $2,000 per space to a more significant amount, examining capital and maintenance improvements by looking at business improvement district fees, identifying the users who benefit. A third party study would be needed to determine the best funding structure to offset upfront costs.
Also recommended is placing paid parking along the street, whether it is a meter or kiosk, along with enforcement. Consideration of a vertical expansion of the garage on North 2nd Street and Boston Avenue, which can add at least 100 spaces to help with congestion. We should also look at supporting privatized efforts for localized transportation through a trolley or shuttle option. Other recommendations include improving the lighting and security of the City Hall parking garage, and requiring downtown employees and City Hall employees to park on the upper levels of the garage to allow easier access for visitors. The final recommendation is to improve the parking configuration beneath South Bridge to incorporate additional lighting and painted murals to generate a comfortable, and secure parking area.
Commission discussion included appreciation for the parking committee's research, partnering with private property owners, police visibility and enforcement, as well as other viable options such as pedi-cabs and water-taxi's. We will need some temporary fixes and the current recommendations taken to the next level. The consensus is to move forward with the investigation of each recommendation to determine feasibility, narrow and prioritize the list, and look at a consultant to assist as needed.
Nick Mimms, Deputy City Manager, presented the Parking Committee recommendations.
Fort Pierce is now a tourism destination, and we need to continue to prepare. The committee is comprised of members of City Commission, City Manager's office, Engineering, Planning, Public Works, Main Street Fort Pierce, Code Enforcement, as well as members of the business community. The main objective was to look at the two areas impacted most by vehicular and pedestrian traffic; the beach and downtown parking area.
One of the recommendations includes investigating the possibility of acquiring land that can be used for parking. If we are going to invest in land, an easy solution would be a simple service parking plan. We may consider a public / private partnership, resembling the Deerfield Beach Place example provided. The beach is at a critical point as parking and traffic has not slowed down. The area should be improved if we are going to move forward with any type of parking solution. A developer is needed to facilitate the parking and infrastructural improvements that are desired.
Other recommendations include increasing the payment in lieu of parking fees from the present values of $2,000 per space to a more significant amount, examining capital and maintenance improvements by looking at business improvement district fees, identifying the users who benefit. A third party study would be needed to determine the best funding structure to offset upfront costs.
Also recommended is placing paid parking along the street, whether it is a meter or kiosk, along with enforcement. Consideration of a vertical expansion of the garage on North 2nd Street and Boston Avenue, which can add at least 100 spaces to help with congestion. We should also look at supporting privatized efforts for localized transportation through a trolley or shuttle option. Other recommendations include improving the lighting and security of the City Hall parking garage, and requiring downtown employees and City Hall employees to park on the upper levels of the garage to allow easier access for visitors. The final recommendation is to improve the parking configuration beneath South Bridge to incorporate additional lighting and painted murals to generate a comfortable, and secure parking area.
Commission discussion included appreciation for the parking committee's research, partnering with private property owners, police visibility and enforcement, as well as other viable options such as pedi-cabs and water-taxi's. We will need some temporary fixes and the current recommendations taken to the next level. The consensus is to move forward with the investigation of each recommendation to determine feasibility, narrow and prioritize the list, and look at a consultant to assist as needed.
12.
CITY COMMISSION
a.
(1) Request to affirm vote of October 5, 2015 to discontinue the services of Robert V. Schwerer and Associates.
Mayor Hudson stated that since the time the Commission indicated they wanted a change, Mr. Schwerer has offered the resignation of his firm's services. Out of respect for his many years of service, the Commission should agree to accept his resignation and that of his firm. The Commission discussed wanting the transition to be as amicable and fair as possible, and for the City Manager's office to manage the transition process.
Mayor Hudson stated that since the time the Commission indicated they wanted a change, Mr. Schwerer has offered the resignation of his firm's services. Out of respect for his many years of service, the Commission should agree to accept his resignation and that of his firm. The Commission discussed wanting the transition to be as amicable and fair as possible, and for the City Manager's office to manage the transition process.
Motion was made by Commissioner Reginald Sessions, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to accept the resignation of City Attorney, Robert Schwerer and staff.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions, Mayor Linda Hudson
Passed
(2) Draft agreement for interim legal services
Mayor Hudson stated she was not ready to accept the agreement as proposed. We should discuss the terms, the increase in the hourly rate for all attorneys, and a proposal for an invoice. We would like interim city legal services as soon as possible. The terms for the agreement are up to 90 days, can be sooner, or be extended. There is current discussion with the County Attorney to act as ombudsman, pro bono, if approved by the Board of County Commissioners.
Mayor Hudson stated she was not ready to accept the agreement as proposed. We should discuss the terms, the increase in the hourly rate for all attorneys, and a proposal for an invoice. We would like interim city legal services as soon as possible. The terms for the agreement are up to 90 days, can be sooner, or be extended. There is current discussion with the County Attorney to act as ombudsman, pro bono, if approved by the Board of County Commissioners.
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Edward Becht to approve the agreement with the amendment to reflect remaining at current rate of $135 per hour.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions, Mayor Linda Hudson
Passed
b.
Submittal of application for Reappointment to Fort Pierce Authentic Tours (FPAT) Advisory Board. - This item will come back in the form of a resolution.
c.
Submittal of application of Mrs. Charlene Adair for appointment to the Fort Pierce Tree Board - This item will come back in the form of a resolution.
d.
Discussion at the request of Commissioner Sessions of the implementation of City Commission policies by management and staff to provide services.
Commissioner Sessions stated there is a disconnect, and department heads need to implement the policies even if they are outside of their personal objectives. A topic in the strategic plan was to deal with threats to Fort Pierce's future and handling the economic boom. It is critical for our City Manager to get a hold of things, and to make sure that staff is more business-friendly, as we do not want to miss any opportunities to improve the community.
Robert Bradshaw, City Manager, stated that the strategic plan has just been finalized, and starting in 2016 his office will provide quarterly updates. The commission discussed the importance of the strategic plan and tasking staff to come up with creative ways to improve public interaction and service delivery.
Commissioner Sessions stated there is a disconnect, and department heads need to implement the policies even if they are outside of their personal objectives. A topic in the strategic plan was to deal with threats to Fort Pierce's future and handling the economic boom. It is critical for our City Manager to get a hold of things, and to make sure that staff is more business-friendly, as we do not want to miss any opportunities to improve the community.
Robert Bradshaw, City Manager, stated that the strategic plan has just been finalized, and starting in 2016 his office will provide quarterly updates. The commission discussed the importance of the strategic plan and tasking staff to come up with creative ways to improve public interaction and service delivery.
13.
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Harold Smith
Dodi Spence
Harold Smith
Dodi Spence
14.
COMMENTS FROM THE CITY MANAGER
a.
City Manager's Departmental Activity Report
Robert Bradshaw, City Manager, gave reminder of a joint workshop with the County on November 2, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. in the City Commission Chambers. There is no need for special meeting on Monday, October 26, as previously discussed.
Robert Bradshaw, City Manager, gave reminder of a joint workshop with the County on November 2, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. in the City Commission Chambers. There is no need for special meeting on Monday, October 26, as previously discussed.
15.
COMMENTS FROM THE COMMISSION
Commissioner Perona wanted to thank the parking committee for the recommendations on solving a real problem. He also thanked Robert Schwerer for all of his unheralded achievements over his many years of service.
Commissioner Sessions, on the next agenda, would like to discuss a policy to ensure all of the City is represented on the FPUA Board. He appreciates Robert Schwerer for his service.
Commissioner Becht thanked the entire Schwerer and Associates legal staff for its service to the City, questioned when to take the next steps to appoint a committee to relocate the sewer plant, and the possibility of segways for the police department.
Commissioner Alexander thanked Robert Schwerer for his years of service, and questioned the act of adding or deleting items from the agenda at the beginning of meetings.
Mayor Hudson stated that we should review the ordinances for meetings at a Conference Agenda. The public is invited to PAL's Center program, Lights On Afterschool, in Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie on October 22, 2015. Main Street Fort Pierce is accepting reservations for Ghost Walk being held on October 28, 2015.
Commissioner Perona wanted to thank the parking committee for the recommendations on solving a real problem. He also thanked Robert Schwerer for all of his unheralded achievements over his many years of service.
Commissioner Sessions, on the next agenda, would like to discuss a policy to ensure all of the City is represented on the FPUA Board. He appreciates Robert Schwerer for his service.
Commissioner Becht thanked the entire Schwerer and Associates legal staff for its service to the City, questioned when to take the next steps to appoint a committee to relocate the sewer plant, and the possibility of segways for the police department.
Commissioner Alexander thanked Robert Schwerer for his years of service, and questioned the act of adding or deleting items from the agenda at the beginning of meetings.
Mayor Hudson stated that we should review the ordinances for meetings at a Conference Agenda. The public is invited to PAL's Center program, Lights On Afterschool, in Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie on October 22, 2015. Main Street Fort Pierce is accepting reservations for Ghost Walk being held on October 28, 2015.
16.
ADJOURNMENT - There being no further business, Mayor Hudson declared the meeting adjourned at 9:38 p.m.
ATTEST:
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CITY CLERK
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MAYOR COMMISSIONER
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