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, MAY 16, 2016.
1.
CALL TO ORDER - Mayor Hudson called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
2.
OPENING PRAYER - Reverend George Welch of White City United Methodist Church offered the opening prayer.
3.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
4.
ROLL CALL
- Present:
- Mayor Linda Hudson; Commissioner Edward Becht; Commissioner Reginald Sessions
- Absent:
- Commissioner Rufus Alexander; Commissioner Thomas Perona
- Staff Present:
-
- City Clerk Linda Cox
- City Manager Nicholas Mimms
- City Attorney James Messer
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to excuse Commissioner Alexander and Commissioner Perona.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Reginald Sessions, Mayor Linda Hudson
Passed
5.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Approval of minutes from the April 27, 2016 special meeting, May 2, 2016 regular meeting and May 4, 2016 special meeting.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to approve the minutes from the April 27, 2016 special meeting, May 2, 2016 regular meeting, and May 4, 2016 special meeting.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Reginald Sessions, Mayor Linda Hudson
Passed
6.
PROCLAMATIONS
a.
Mayor Hudson issued a proclamation recognizing May 21 - 27, 2016 as National Safe Boating Week.
b.
Mayor Hudson issued a proclamation recognizing May 15 - 21, 2016 as Public Works Week.
c.
Mayor Hudson issued a proclamation recognizing May 15 - 21, 2016 as Emergency Medical Services Week.
d.
Will Armstead, Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County, presented the City Commission with a plaque to express appreciation for the partnership.
7.
LETTERS TO COMMISSION - Copies of the following letters will be kept on file at the City Clerk's office.
a.
Letter from South Beach Friends thanking Officer Elizabeth Louis for her participation in the rescue of a pelican that was entangled in a fishing line.
b.
Letter from Sheila Dobie thanking and complimenting Officer McWilliams for saving her life on March 29, 2016.
c.
Email from Shaniek Maynard, Executive Director, Roundtable of St. Lucie County, thanking Mike Reals and Michelle Kubitschek for their support and contribution to the success of the Kids at Hope Spring Break Camp, which was hosted at the River Walk Center and Historic City Hall from March 22 - 24, 2016.
d.
Letter from Christopher L. Elg, Chief of Police, Tequesta Police Department, commending Officer Nick McWilliams for going above and beyond in providing assistance to his department, which led to the arrest of a serial armed robber.
8.
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON AGENDA ITEMS NOT REQUIRING PUBLIC HEARINGS - There were no comments from the public.
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9.
ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS TO AGENDA AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Mayor Hudson requested to move item 12b ahead of item 12a.
Mayor Hudson requested to move item 12b ahead of item 12a.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to approve the agenda as amended.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Reginald Sessions, Mayor Linda Hudson
Passed
10.
CONSENT AGENDA
a.
Approval of Lease Agreement between the City of Fort Pierce and Jetty View, LLC for a one-year term to create a temporary parking lot along Seaway Drive in the amount of $48,000.00 annually.
b.
Approval of the purchase of CivicHR Human Resources Premium Package Module from CivicPlus in the amount of $13,162.00
c.
Request to waive interest, penalties, and administrative fees in the amount of $363.54 for Lot Clearing Lien against 2805 Serenity Circle, Ft. Pierce, FL, 34979, Property ID #2432-800-0090-000-6 which was previously owned by James Yackley, 55 Via Sonrisa, San Clemente, CA 92673 and currently owned by Jay E. Stewart, PO Box 13138, Ft. Pierce, FL 34979 leaving a balance of $220.78 payable in 60 days.
d.
Request to reduce code enforcement fines in the amount of $1,088,550.00 against 114 Maple Avenue, Ft. Pierce, FL 34982, Parcel ID #2422-504-0027-000-4 which was previously owned by Yves Guerrier, 114 Maple Avenue, Ft. Pierce, FL 34982 and currently owned by Bank of America, 7887 Safeguard Circle, Valley View, OH 44125 to $8,500.00 payable in 60 days.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to approve items 10a, 10b, 10c and 10d.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Reginald Sessions, Mayor Linda Hudson
Passed
11.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
12.
MISCELLANEOUS REPORTS & REQUESTS
a.
Sunrise Theatre Foundation brief presentation by Charles Hayek followed by a request for a brick-sale in front of the Theatre by Michael K. Horowitz.
Charlie Hayek stated that the Sunrise Foundation’s goal is to enrich the lives of children through the performing arts. Current events for are the Missoula Summer Camp and special matinees for students with bus transportation provided.
Michael Horowitz discussed the desire to expand fundraising efforts and start a brick campaign in front of the theater. They would like permission to engrave existing bricks for purchase to raise additional funds for organization. The cost is $25 per brick and they are working on the setting the price around $150 per brick.
Nick Mimms, City Manager, stated that this would cause the least amount of disruption to the pedestrian sidewalk.
James Messer, City Attorney, suggested that we have public works, planning and engineering look at it and bring it back as an agenda item.
The consensus was that it was a good idea.
Charlie Hayek stated that the Sunrise Foundation’s goal is to enrich the lives of children through the performing arts. Current events for are the Missoula Summer Camp and special matinees for students with bus transportation provided.
Michael Horowitz discussed the desire to expand fundraising efforts and start a brick campaign in front of the theater. They would like permission to engrave existing bricks for purchase to raise additional funds for organization. The cost is $25 per brick and they are working on the setting the price around $150 per brick.
Nick Mimms, City Manager, stated that this would cause the least amount of disruption to the pedestrian sidewalk.
James Messer, City Attorney, suggested that we have public works, planning and engineering look at it and bring it back as an agenda item.
The consensus was that it was a good idea.
b.
Special Presentation on Fire District Referendum - Fire Chief Buddy Emerson
Buddy Emerson, Fire Chief, gave a presentation addressing a recent fire board decision to address the increase in the community's needs for service. On August 30, all registered voters will have the ability to vote on an annual fire assessment to begin, if passed, in 2017. Currently the two primary sources of income are ambulance billing and property taxes. The demand for services has steadily increased with no peak in sight. Due to the instability of property tax revenue and the increased demand for service, a stable source of revenue is needed to ensure that we provide effective, high-quality levels of service to our citizens. The goal is to add stability and flexibility back into the financial condition of the district that does not exist today. The money will be used for replacing fire trucks, replacing fire stations, as well as equipment and gear upgrades.
Commission discussion included choosing an assessment rather than a tax increase, using the revenue for capital improvements rather than salaries, and how this option does not allow the state to manipulate the funds received.
Buddy Emerson, Fire Chief, gave a presentation addressing a recent fire board decision to address the increase in the community's needs for service. On August 30, all registered voters will have the ability to vote on an annual fire assessment to begin, if passed, in 2017. Currently the two primary sources of income are ambulance billing and property taxes. The demand for services has steadily increased with no peak in sight. Due to the instability of property tax revenue and the increased demand for service, a stable source of revenue is needed to ensure that we provide effective, high-quality levels of service to our citizens. The goal is to add stability and flexibility back into the financial condition of the district that does not exist today. The money will be used for replacing fire trucks, replacing fire stations, as well as equipment and gear upgrades.
Commission discussion included choosing an assessment rather than a tax increase, using the revenue for capital improvements rather than salaries, and how this option does not allow the state to manipulate the funds received.
c.
Annual Report on the Retirement & Benefit System
Johnna Morris, Retirement Board Secretary / Treasurer, gave a presentation of the financial status of the Retirement Board. We are currently 18th out of 600 pension plans in the country, in the top 97% percentile. Our plan is used as a model by our investment consultant. In relation to our peers, we are labeled “Extraordinarily Resilient." The actuarial report is on the website for review.
Johnna Morris, Retirement Board Secretary / Treasurer, gave a presentation of the financial status of the Retirement Board. We are currently 18th out of 600 pension plans in the country, in the top 97% percentile. Our plan is used as a model by our investment consultant. In relation to our peers, we are labeled “Extraordinarily Resilient." The actuarial report is on the website for review.
d.
Monthly Financial Report for the Month ending April 30, 2016
Johnna Morris, Finance Director, gave a brief presentation of April's monthly financial report. All of our funds including the golf course, have positive operating income.
Johnna Morris, Finance Director, gave a brief presentation of April's monthly financial report. All of our funds including the golf course, have positive operating income.
13.
CITY COMMISSION
a.
Resolution 16-R20 appointing and reappointing members to the City of Fort Pierce Police Officers' Supplemental Pension Fund Board of Trustees.
Linda Cox, City Clerk, read the Resolution, by title only, into the record.
Linda Cox, City Clerk, read the Resolution, by title only, into the record.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to approve item 13a.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Reginald Sessions, Mayor Linda Hudson
Passed
b.
Resolution 16-R21 Adopting Amended Citizen Participation Plan
Linda Cox, City Clerk, read the Resolution, by title only, into the record.
Linda Cox, City Clerk, read the Resolution, by title only, into the record.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to approve item 13b.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Reginald Sessions, Mayor Linda Hudson
Passed
c.
Resolution No. 16-R22 approving the recording of the 13th Street Maintenance Map extending from Moore's Creek to Avenue E.
Linda Cox, City Clerk, read the Resolution, by title only, into the record.
Linda Cox, City Clerk, read the Resolution, by title only, into the record.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to approve item 13c.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Reginald Sessions, Mayor Linda Hudson
Passed
d.
Resolution No. 16-R23 providing limited authorizations for management, the Special Magistrates and the Code Enforcement Board to mitigate lien reduction requests when specific criteria are met.
Linda Cox, City Clerk, read the Resolution, by title only, into the record.
Commissioner Becht requested feedback from staff determining the distinction between single-family and multi-family structures. Peggy Arraiz, Code Compliance Manager, stated that the resolution wording may be changed to reflect single-family. James Messer, City Attorney, stated that making an amendment should be simple. Nicholas Mimms, City Manager, agreed that we can make the change and bring the resolution back before the Commission.
Linda Cox, City Clerk, read the Resolution, by title only, into the record.
Commissioner Becht requested feedback from staff determining the distinction between single-family and multi-family structures. Peggy Arraiz, Code Compliance Manager, stated that the resolution wording may be changed to reflect single-family. James Messer, City Attorney, stated that making an amendment should be simple. Nicholas Mimms, City Manager, agreed that we can make the change and bring the resolution back before the Commission.
e.
Resolution 16-R24 Approving the City's Participation in the Indian River Lagoon Regional Compact.
Linda Cox, City Clerk, read the Resolution, by title only, into the record.
Linda Cox, City Clerk, read the Resolution, by title only, into the record.
Motion was made by Commissioner Edward Becht, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to approve item 13e.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Reginald Sessions, Mayor Linda Hudson
Passed
f.
Consideration of letter of support of Manatee Observation and Education Center (MOEC) to endorse its grant application to the Florida Division of Cultural Affairs for general operation support for 2017-2018.
Motion was made by Commissioner Reginald Sessions, seconded by Commissioner Edward Becht to approve item 13f.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Edward Becht, Commissioner Reginald Sessions, Mayor Linda Hudson
Passed
14.
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Diana Voss
Tiffany Kelly
Charlie Hayek
Diana Voss
Tiffany Kelly
Charlie Hayek
15.
COMMENTS FROM THE CITY MANAGER
Nick Mimms, City Manager, announced that Representative Larry Lee, along with Restoring the Village, will spearhead a great community cleanup event on June 17 - 18, 2016. The City plans to partner with St. Lucie County to discuss the Orange Avenue corridor and entrance to the city; Public Works, Engineering and Keep Fort Pierce Beautiful will assist with the discussion and plans.
James Messer, City Attorney, stated that he has hired the newest addition to his team, Caroline Gardner. He plans to provide notice of termination of interim contract to Robert Schwerer's firm. He is planning to retain Mr. Walker for the retirement board, and there may be a few litigation cases that may require a separate contract. He has been in weekly contact with the Department of Justice in reference to a response from our last request.
Nick Mimms, City Manager, announced that Representative Larry Lee, along with Restoring the Village, will spearhead a great community cleanup event on June 17 - 18, 2016. The City plans to partner with St. Lucie County to discuss the Orange Avenue corridor and entrance to the city; Public Works, Engineering and Keep Fort Pierce Beautiful will assist with the discussion and plans.
James Messer, City Attorney, stated that he has hired the newest addition to his team, Caroline Gardner. He plans to provide notice of termination of interim contract to Robert Schwerer's firm. He is planning to retain Mr. Walker for the retirement board, and there may be a few litigation cases that may require a separate contract. He has been in weekly contact with the Department of Justice in reference to a response from our last request.
16.
COMMENTS FROM THE COMMISSION
Commissioner Sessions inquired into why the second letter to Department of Justice was not posted on website. He does not want to be labeled as divisive. He is committed to being a voice to those who elect him.
Commissioner Becht addressed the public comment stating that he had not heard any rumor about the fishing pier and that we have previously given a report on the bridge lighting. He inquired if the St. Andrew’s / Melody Lane area landscaping allowed for a viable option for restrooms. The long term solution for beach parking and an MSTU should be considered to help solve the problem. Nick Mimms stated that there will be a parking meeting with the business community at the end of June.
Mayor Hudson stated that the Great American Cleanup was a great event this weekend with lots of young people attending. Congratulations on recognition for Old Fort Park enhancements.
Commissioner Sessions inquired into why the second letter to Department of Justice was not posted on website. He does not want to be labeled as divisive. He is committed to being a voice to those who elect him.
Commissioner Becht addressed the public comment stating that he had not heard any rumor about the fishing pier and that we have previously given a report on the bridge lighting. He inquired if the St. Andrew’s / Melody Lane area landscaping allowed for a viable option for restrooms. The long term solution for beach parking and an MSTU should be considered to help solve the problem. Nick Mimms stated that there will be a parking meeting with the business community at the end of June.
Mayor Hudson stated that the Great American Cleanup was a great event this weekend with lots of young people attending. Congratulations on recognition for Old Fort Park enhancements.
17.
ADJOURNMENT - There being no further business, Mayor Hudson declared the meeting adjourned at 8:16 p.m.
ATTEST:
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CITY CLERK
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MAYOR COMMISSIONER
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