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 9 A.M. ON MONDAY, JUNE 09, 2025.
1.
Call to Order
Mayor Hudson called the June 09, 2025, Day Meeting to order at 9 a.m.
2.
Pledge of Allegiance
3.
Roll Call
- Present:
- Commissioner Michael Broderick; Commissioner Curtis Johnson, Jr.; Mayor Linda Hudson; Commissioner James Taylor
- Absent:
- Commissioner Arnold Gaines
- Staff Present:
-
- City Manager Richard Chess
- City Attorney Sara Hedges
- City Clerk Linda Cox
Commissioner Gaines arrived at 9:02 a.m.
4.
Approval of Minutes
A.
Approval of the minutes of the April 14, 2025 Day Meeting.
Motion was made by Commissioner Michael Broderick, seconded by Commissioner Curtis Johnson, Jr. to approve the minutes of the April 14, 2025 Day Meeting.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Michael Broderick, Commissioner Curtis Johnson, Jr., Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner James Taylor
- Other:
- Commissioner Arnold Gaines (ABSENT)
Passed
B.
Approval of the Minutes of the May 12, 2025 Day Meeting.
Motion was made by Commissioner James Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Michael Broderick to approve the minutes of the May 12, 2025 Day Meeting.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Michael Broderick, Commissioner Curtis Johnson, Jr., Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner James Taylor
- Other:
- Commissioner Arnold Gaines (ABSENT)
Passed
5.
Proclamations & Special Recognition
A.
Recognition of Our Mothers' Village, Inc. for Exceptional Cleanup Efforts in the Adopt-A-Road Program
Marsha Commond, Special Projects Coordinator, recognized Our Mothers' Village, Inc. for Exceptional Cleanup Efforts in the Adopt-A-Road Program.
Lacandria Washington, President and Co-Founder, Our Mothers Village, accepted the certificate of acknowledgment and gift on behalf of the organization.
Lacandria Washington, President and Co-Founder, Our Mothers Village, accepted the certificate of acknowledgment and gift on behalf of the organization.
6.
Additions or deletions to agenda and approval of the agenda.
Motion was made by Commissioner Michael Broderick, seconded by Commissioner Arnold Gaines to approve the agenda as set.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Michael Broderick, Commissioner Arnold Gaines, Commissioner Curtis Johnson, Jr., Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner James Taylor
Passed
7.
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Any person who wishes to comment on any subject may be heard at this time. Please limit your comments to three (3) minutes or less, as directed by the Mayor, as this section of the Agenda is limited to thirty minutes. The City Commission will not be able to take any official actions under Comments from the Public. Speakers will address the Mayor, Commissioners, and the Public with respect. Inappropriate language will not be tolerated.
Any person who wishes to comment on any subject may be heard at this time. Please limit your comments to three (3) minutes or less, as directed by the Mayor, as this section of the Agenda is limited to thirty minutes. The City Commission will not be able to take any official actions under Comments from the Public. Speakers will address the Mayor, Commissioners, and the Public with respect. Inappropriate language will not be tolerated.
Marjorie Harrell
Jennifer Frey
Christa Stone
Charlie Wilson
Jennifer Frey
Christa Stone
Charlie Wilson
8.
Miscellaneous Reports and Presentations
A.
Strategic Plan Presentation on City Beautification Action Plan by Public Works Director
Jason Atkinson, Public Works Director, presented the City Beautification Action Plan.
The Commission inquired about investment in various types of equipment, the dissemination of information in multiple languages, marketing to the community about upcoming changes, trash receptacles and recycling, landscape maintenance, funding, and volunteer cleanup opportunities.
Mr. Atkinson commented on shortages due to employment openings, specifically mechanics, operational changes, landscape maintenance, transfer from the see-click fix system to the Tyler platform and how citizens can access them, and penalties for illegal dumping.
City Manager, Richard Chess addressed messaging and fee structure, including services that are not charged.
Marsha Commond, Special Projects Coordinator, commented that both platforms are still being utilized and explained how citizens can contact the department.
City Attorney, Sara Hedges, commented on the Florida Litter Law and how it is regulated and investigated.
Commissioner Gaines commented on ways to attract employees to fill vacancies in the department.
Mr. Chess commented on partnering with Public Works and local programs for interns and apprenticeships.
The Commission inquired about investment in various types of equipment, the dissemination of information in multiple languages, marketing to the community about upcoming changes, trash receptacles and recycling, landscape maintenance, funding, and volunteer cleanup opportunities.
Mr. Atkinson commented on shortages due to employment openings, specifically mechanics, operational changes, landscape maintenance, transfer from the see-click fix system to the Tyler platform and how citizens can access them, and penalties for illegal dumping.
City Manager, Richard Chess addressed messaging and fee structure, including services that are not charged.
Marsha Commond, Special Projects Coordinator, commented that both platforms are still being utilized and explained how citizens can contact the department.
City Attorney, Sara Hedges, commented on the Florida Litter Law and how it is regulated and investigated.
Commissioner Gaines commented on ways to attract employees to fill vacancies in the department.
Mr. Chess commented on partnering with Public Works and local programs for interns and apprenticeships.
B.
Annual Report on the Retirement & Benefit System
Johnna Morris, Finance Director, presented the Retirement & Benefit System annual report based on the 2024 actuarial report.
The Commission commented on the Board's involvement in the process as it pertains to investments, the current amount funded, and inquired if the system is by charter or ordinance.
Ms. Morris confirmed that the system is established by charter and by ordinance.
The Commission commented on the Board's involvement in the process as it pertains to investments, the current amount funded, and inquired if the system is by charter or ordinance.
Ms. Morris confirmed that the system is established by charter and by ordinance.
C.
Presentation of the Comprehensive Safety Action Plan developed with a US Department of Transportation seeking guidance and direction.
Selena Griffett, Project Engineer, introduced Brad Davis, Kimley-Horn, who presented the Comprehensive Safety Action Plan developed with the US Department of Transportation, requiring guidance and direction from the Commission.
The Commission inquired on the twenty projects, expressed concerns about mini bikes in traffic, the number of City traffic incidents, and specific recommendations.
Ms. Griffett commented that the properties had been attached, the TPO's involvement, and the types of grants available to the City.
Mr. Davis commented on the most frequent traffic incidents and bikes, local traffic, road designs, and referenced that specifics are listed as a starting point.
The Commission inquired on the twenty projects, expressed concerns about mini bikes in traffic, the number of City traffic incidents, and specific recommendations.
Ms. Griffett commented that the properties had been attached, the TPO's involvement, and the types of grants available to the City.
Mr. Davis commented on the most frequent traffic incidents and bikes, local traffic, road designs, and referenced that specifics are listed as a starting point.
9.
Consent Agenda
A.
PULLED AT REQUEST OF STAFF - Approval of increase of Purchase Order No.250521 - Complete Production Resources from $50,000 to $100,000 for monthly lighting equipment rental at the Sunrise Theatre.
B.
Approval of small business grant award to Amandla Wellness Center, LLC in the amount not to exceed $5000.00.
Motion was made by Commissioner Michael Broderick, seconded by Commissioner Curtis Johnson, Jr. to approve the Consent Agenda.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Michael Broderick, Commissioner Arnold Gaines, Commissioner Curtis Johnson, Jr., Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner James Taylor
Passed
10.
City Commission - Resolutions
A.
Resolution 25-R45 - Approving SUN Trail Agreement - Highwayman Trail Gap FDOT 440034-2-54-01 to be executed by the City for the construction of the SUN Trail from Indian Hills Drive to Georgia Avenue.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the Resolution, read by title only, into the record.
RESOLUTION NO. 25-R45
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, STATING THE CITY AND THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (FDOT) ARE DESIROUS OF ENTERING INTO A FLORIDA SHARED-USE NONMOTORIZED TRAIL GRANT AGREEMENT TO PROVIDE FOR THE DEPARTMENT’S PARTICIPATION IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE SHARED USE PATH ALONG THE SUN TRAIL NETWORK FROM INDIAN HILLS DRIVE TO GEORGIA AVENUE PER THE HISTORIC HIGHWAYMAN TRAIL GAP FINAL FEASIBILITY STUDY/DESIGN AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR, CITY CLERK, AND CITY ATTORNEY TO EXECUTE SAID AGREEMENT ON THE PART OF THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
RESOLUTION NO. 25-R45
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, STATING THE CITY AND THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (FDOT) ARE DESIROUS OF ENTERING INTO A FLORIDA SHARED-USE NONMOTORIZED TRAIL GRANT AGREEMENT TO PROVIDE FOR THE DEPARTMENT’S PARTICIPATION IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE SHARED USE PATH ALONG THE SUN TRAIL NETWORK FROM INDIAN HILLS DRIVE TO GEORGIA AVENUE PER THE HISTORIC HIGHWAYMAN TRAIL GAP FINAL FEASIBILITY STUDY/DESIGN AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR, CITY CLERK, AND CITY ATTORNEY TO EXECUTE SAID AGREEMENT ON THE PART OF THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Motion was made by Commissioner Curtis Johnson, Jr., seconded by Commissioner Arnold Gaines to approve Resolution No. 25-R45.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Michael Broderick, Commissioner Arnold Gaines, Commissioner Curtis Johnson, Jr., Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner James Taylor
Passed
B.
Resolution 25-R46 approving SUN Trail Agreement - Historic Downtown Retrofit FDOT 440033-3 to be executed by the City for the design of the SUN Trail from Georgia Avenue to A1A/N Causeway Drive.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the Resolution, read by title only, into the record.
RESOLUTION NO. 25-R46
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, STATING THE CITY AND THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (FDOT) ARE DESIROUS OF ENTERING INTO A FLORIDA SHARED-USE NONMOTORIZED TRAIL GRANT AGREEMENT TO PROVIDE FOR THE DEPARTMENT’S PARTICIPATION IN THE DESIGN OF THE RECOMMENDED ALTERNATIVE SHARED USE PATH ALONG THE SUN TRAIL NETWORK FROM GEORGIA AVENUE TO A1A/N. CAUSEWAY DRIVE PER THE HISTORIC DOWNTOWN FORT PIERCE RETROFIT FINAL FEASIBILITY STUDY AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR, CITY CLERK, AND CITY ATTORNEY TO EXECUTE SAID AGREEMENT ON THE PART OF THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
RESOLUTION NO. 25-R46
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, STATING THE CITY AND THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (FDOT) ARE DESIROUS OF ENTERING INTO A FLORIDA SHARED-USE NONMOTORIZED TRAIL GRANT AGREEMENT TO PROVIDE FOR THE DEPARTMENT’S PARTICIPATION IN THE DESIGN OF THE RECOMMENDED ALTERNATIVE SHARED USE PATH ALONG THE SUN TRAIL NETWORK FROM GEORGIA AVENUE TO A1A/N. CAUSEWAY DRIVE PER THE HISTORIC DOWNTOWN FORT PIERCE RETROFIT FINAL FEASIBILITY STUDY AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR, CITY CLERK, AND CITY ATTORNEY TO EXECUTE SAID AGREEMENT ON THE PART OF THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Motion was made by Commissioner Michael Broderick, seconded by Commissioner Curtis Johnson, Jr. to approve Resolution No. 25-R46.
- AYE:
- Commissioner Michael Broderick, Commissioner Arnold Gaines, Commissioner Curtis Johnson, Jr., Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner James Taylor
Passed
11.
New Business - City Commission Discussion Items
12.
City Commission Boards and Committees Updates
Commissioner Gaines provided an update on the Treasure Coast Council of Local Government, Affordable Housing Advisory coming before the Commission on July 7th, Homeless Coalition meets July 18th, Council on Aging meeting July 18th, St Lucie County Chamber of Commerce, and is attending the FPPTA's 41st Annual Conference this month.
Commissioner Johnson provided an update on the Fire Board, TPO, and the Downtown Business Alliance.
Commissioner Broderick expressed his concerns with Causeway Cove Marina and South Beach development and the need for additional discussion by way of a special meeting on its impact.
The Commission discussed the need for additional information on the Live Local Act and how it will impact the City.
City Attorney, Sara Hedges, commented that the Live Local Act was not created by the City, preempts the City, and explained that the law requires it be approved by staff if it meets the standard and expounded on density requirements. They are separate but interplay. And that an update can be provided as requested.
City Manager, Richard Chess, commented that he would meet with the City Attorney and Planning Director regarding submerged land language and requirements.
Commissioner Gaines briefly addressed the sign concern presented regarding Lincoln Park and would bring Mr. Chess up to speed on the ask.
Mayor Hudson commented on the meeting regarding property taxes and becoming educated at the local level.
Commissioner Johnson provided an update on the Fire Board, TPO, and the Downtown Business Alliance.
Commissioner Broderick expressed his concerns with Causeway Cove Marina and South Beach development and the need for additional discussion by way of a special meeting on its impact.
The Commission discussed the need for additional information on the Live Local Act and how it will impact the City.
City Attorney, Sara Hedges, commented that the Live Local Act was not created by the City, preempts the City, and explained that the law requires it be approved by staff if it meets the standard and expounded on density requirements. They are separate but interplay. And that an update can be provided as requested.
City Manager, Richard Chess, commented that he would meet with the City Attorney and Planning Director regarding submerged land language and requirements.
Commissioner Gaines briefly addressed the sign concern presented regarding Lincoln Park and would bring Mr. Chess up to speed on the ask.
Mayor Hudson commented on the meeting regarding property taxes and becoming educated at the local level.
13.
Adjournment
Immediately following adjournment, please move toward the doors and exit the chambers. This allows for the safe and courteous exit of all persons, and those on the dais. Conversations after the meeting should be held outside of chambers, in the foyer or elsewhere, but not in the commission chambers where lights will be out as soon as the chambers are empty.
Immediately following adjournment, please move toward the doors and exit the chambers. This allows for the safe and courteous exit of all persons, and those on the dais. Conversations after the meeting should be held outside of chambers, in the foyer or elsewhere, but not in the commission chambers where lights will be out as soon as the chambers are empty.
Mayor Hudson adjourned the meeting at 11:45 a.m.
ATTEST:
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CITY CLERK
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MAYOR COMMISSIONER
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