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, FEBRUARY 5, 2018.
1.
CALL TO ORDER
2.
OPENING PRAYER - New Covenant Prayer Center, Bishop Fisher
3.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
4.
ROLL CALL
- Present:
- Mayor Linda Hudson; Commissioner Rufus Alexander; Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson; Commissioner Thomas Perona; Commissioner Reginald Sessions
- Staff Present:
-
- City Attorney James Messer
- City Clerk Linda Cox
- City Manager Nicholas Mimms
5.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
a.
Approval of minutes from the January 16, 2018 regular meeting.
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson to approve item 5 a.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
6.
PROCLAMATIONS
a.
Mayor Hudson presented a Proclamation recognizing Charles and Hassie Russ.
7.
LETTERS TO COMMISSION
There were no letters.
There were no letters.
8.
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON AGENDA ITEMS NOT REQUIRING PUBLIC HEARINGS
There were no comments from the public.
There were no comments from the public.
9.
ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS TO AGENDA AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Motion was made by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve the agenda with the postponement of item 12 a to the Tuesday, February 20, 2018 meeting.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
10.
MISCELLANEOUS REPORTS
a.
St Lucie County UF/IFAS & City of Fort Pierce Watershed and Lagoon Life Education Program Update.
Debbie McManus, the St. Lucie County’s extension of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) Program, concentrates on youth development services. In 2017, Ms. McManus gave over 1500 presentations around the county educating youth, and more recently, adults helping them to observe the importance of watershed and how we can keep it clean, culminating with a field trip to Indian Hills Recreation Area to which 584 people have attended in the last year. Drone videos with an aerial view are shown to capture the public’s attention and keep it there. Ms. McManus feels using the drone is a good way to show our youth how technology can help our future. An aerial view of this presentation was shown to the City Commission. Commissioner Perona asked if it were possible to add this presentation to a website that could be accessed by the public and Commissioner Alexander mentioned the Tourist Development Council (TDC) is working on that.
Debbie McManus, the St. Lucie County’s extension of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) Program, concentrates on youth development services. In 2017, Ms. McManus gave over 1500 presentations around the county educating youth, and more recently, adults helping them to observe the importance of watershed and how we can keep it clean, culminating with a field trip to Indian Hills Recreation Area to which 584 people have attended in the last year. Drone videos with an aerial view are shown to capture the public’s attention and keep it there. Ms. McManus feels using the drone is a good way to show our youth how technology can help our future. An aerial view of this presentation was shown to the City Commission. Commissioner Perona asked if it were possible to add this presentation to a website that could be accessed by the public and Commissioner Alexander mentioned the Tourist Development Council (TDC) is working on that.
b.
First Quarter Financial Report
Ms. Johnna Morris, Finance Director, presented the First Quarter Financial Report. With the exception of the Golf Course, all departments are on target with revenue projections, expense budgets, operating income; the fund cash balance is positive and the current financial position is stable.
With the General Fund, Ms. Morris stated there is a $38,000 excess relating to more business in the Occupational Licenses & Permits division and an excess with Alarm Permit Violations. Commissioner Alexander was concerned about the violations and asked what could be done in order to minimize the cost to the citizens in this respect. Police Chief, Diane Hobley-Burney, answered by saying that when police go out because of these violations they ask the citizen to inquire with their alarm company to see if there is something that they can do on their end and, while the Police Department are doing their part in educating the citizens on how to keep these costs down, they will continue to do so in hopes to have less citizens receiving fewer violations. Commissioner Alexander requested to review this three to six months from now again to see how these violations have improved.
Ms. Morris continued to speak about the City expenditures and there are no shortage projections during this First Quarter, therefore, the projected overage stands at $53,000. As we look at all funds, they are positive and have available net resources, these being available, with the exception of the Golf Course. Ms. Morris will transfer to offset some costs of the Golf Course. Regarding the grants, the funds are also positive.
Ms. Johnna Morris, Finance Director, presented the First Quarter Financial Report. With the exception of the Golf Course, all departments are on target with revenue projections, expense budgets, operating income; the fund cash balance is positive and the current financial position is stable.
With the General Fund, Ms. Morris stated there is a $38,000 excess relating to more business in the Occupational Licenses & Permits division and an excess with Alarm Permit Violations. Commissioner Alexander was concerned about the violations and asked what could be done in order to minimize the cost to the citizens in this respect. Police Chief, Diane Hobley-Burney, answered by saying that when police go out because of these violations they ask the citizen to inquire with their alarm company to see if there is something that they can do on their end and, while the Police Department are doing their part in educating the citizens on how to keep these costs down, they will continue to do so in hopes to have less citizens receiving fewer violations. Commissioner Alexander requested to review this three to six months from now again to see how these violations have improved.
Ms. Morris continued to speak about the City expenditures and there are no shortage projections during this First Quarter, therefore, the projected overage stands at $53,000. As we look at all funds, they are positive and have available net resources, these being available, with the exception of the Golf Course. Ms. Morris will transfer to offset some costs of the Golf Course. Regarding the grants, the funds are also positive.
c.
Indian Hills Golf Course update
Mr. Danny Visconti, Indian Hills Golf Course Manager, began in late October 2017. Mr. Visconti’s first goal was to generate rounds and recapture the members and guests who had left the facility for various reasons over the last couple of years. Another goal was to continue providing a warm, friendly environment to all guests, regardless of age and ability. New membership fees were established in October 2017, charging $40 for City of Fort Pierce resident, $60 for a Florida resident, and $75 for a non-resident. With the previous fees of 2017, only 97 memberships were sold, whereas since October 1, 2017 with the new membership categories, 385 memberships have been sold. From a revenue stand point, there was a 20% rack rate reduction, however, this created a huge round base. There were only 13,000 rounds last year and as of February 5, 2018 the golf course is already up 4,400 rounds for a total of 17,400 rounds. Not only have rounds gone up, but merchandise, food, snacks and alcohol sales are also up providing a total revenue of approximately $25,000 since last quarter. For the first quarter of 2018, Mr. Visconti mentioned their emphasis will remain on providing a warm, friendly environment for all players and other programs that may increase revenue. Among these, the Indian Hills Savings Card has been a huge success, already selling in excess of 300 memberships. The golf course will continue to improve on a daily basis through better maintenance practices and modifications to aid with cost effectiveness. One of the things that has already been done was switching to a more cost-friendly food provider saving almost 50% on most items. Daily specials have been increased for more variety and the lunch area has also been reorganized for efficiency. Additionally, Mr. Visconti intends to continue reinforcing relationships to seek and solidify events to supplement revenue. Several leagues have returned to the golf course as well. The golf inventory will also be a good revenue stream for the golf course’s bottom line. Agronomy has also improved for the beautification of the golf course. Advertising has increased by maintaining a daily social media presence and utilizing other methods and avenues, thereby creating a positive impact on the course’s revenue and rounds.
Commissioner Alexander offered a few areas of advertising that could be explored, while Commissioner Perona asked Mr. Visconti if he thought the sport would fizzle out in a few years. Mr. Visconti replied with a resounding no. Mayor Hudson asked if there was support from the female community and Mr. Visconti mentioned a Ladies’ Day has been incorporated and about 40-60 ladies always show up, aside from the regular days where there is also female support. Commissioner Johnson inquired about one negative and one positive aspect Mr. Visconti could identify and Mr. Visconti believes the lack of a clubhouse is a negative, however, on a positive note, he believes the people are also seeing all the positive changes being implemented and thus have come back to Indian Hills despite this.
Mr. Danny Visconti, Indian Hills Golf Course Manager, began in late October 2017. Mr. Visconti’s first goal was to generate rounds and recapture the members and guests who had left the facility for various reasons over the last couple of years. Another goal was to continue providing a warm, friendly environment to all guests, regardless of age and ability. New membership fees were established in October 2017, charging $40 for City of Fort Pierce resident, $60 for a Florida resident, and $75 for a non-resident. With the previous fees of 2017, only 97 memberships were sold, whereas since October 1, 2017 with the new membership categories, 385 memberships have been sold. From a revenue stand point, there was a 20% rack rate reduction, however, this created a huge round base. There were only 13,000 rounds last year and as of February 5, 2018 the golf course is already up 4,400 rounds for a total of 17,400 rounds. Not only have rounds gone up, but merchandise, food, snacks and alcohol sales are also up providing a total revenue of approximately $25,000 since last quarter. For the first quarter of 2018, Mr. Visconti mentioned their emphasis will remain on providing a warm, friendly environment for all players and other programs that may increase revenue. Among these, the Indian Hills Savings Card has been a huge success, already selling in excess of 300 memberships. The golf course will continue to improve on a daily basis through better maintenance practices and modifications to aid with cost effectiveness. One of the things that has already been done was switching to a more cost-friendly food provider saving almost 50% on most items. Daily specials have been increased for more variety and the lunch area has also been reorganized for efficiency. Additionally, Mr. Visconti intends to continue reinforcing relationships to seek and solidify events to supplement revenue. Several leagues have returned to the golf course as well. The golf inventory will also be a good revenue stream for the golf course’s bottom line. Agronomy has also improved for the beautification of the golf course. Advertising has increased by maintaining a daily social media presence and utilizing other methods and avenues, thereby creating a positive impact on the course’s revenue and rounds.
Commissioner Alexander offered a few areas of advertising that could be explored, while Commissioner Perona asked Mr. Visconti if he thought the sport would fizzle out in a few years. Mr. Visconti replied with a resounding no. Mayor Hudson asked if there was support from the female community and Mr. Visconti mentioned a Ladies’ Day has been incorporated and about 40-60 ladies always show up, aside from the regular days where there is also female support. Commissioner Johnson inquired about one negative and one positive aspect Mr. Visconti could identify and Mr. Visconti believes the lack of a clubhouse is a negative, however, on a positive note, he believes the people are also seeing all the positive changes being implemented and thus have come back to Indian Hills despite this.
11.
CONSENT AGENDA
a.
Approve 3 year contract with St. Lucie County Tourism for the installation of Fort Pierce City Web Cams in an amount not to exceed $2,820.00.
b.
Approve transfer of $358,000 to address the Golf Course funding shortage.
Commissioner Sessions wanted to go on record to say that he thought it was not the best use of money to invest in something that has not generated money in the past. He is happy that there are current changes being implemented and he hopes that this time it will not only maintain the Indian Hills Golf Club but actually generate revenue.
Commissioner Sessions wanted to go on record to say that he thought it was not the best use of money to invest in something that has not generated money in the past. He is happy that there are current changes being implemented and he hopes that this time it will not only maintain the Indian Hills Golf Club but actually generate revenue.
Motion was made by Commissioner Reginald Sessions, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve item 11 b.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
c.
Approve award of the Canal Right-of-Way Mowing and Debris Removal Services (Bid) maintenance contract to the low bidder, Dunn's Tractor Services, LLC., Fort Pierce, FL, in an amount not to exceed $246,700.00.
Commissioner Sessions wanted to know if the maintenance of the canal was something that was originally contracted out or if it was something contracted out recently. Mr. Nicholas Mimms, City Manager, mentioned this is something that has just recently been contracted out due to the reduction in personnel and level of maintenance the canal requires. He stated these are funds coming from the City’s Storm Water Management Fund. While Commissioner Sessions believes we should hire internally to get this taken care of, Commissioner Perona stated Dunn’s Tractor Services has specialized equipment and the costs of this equipment is also very costly and he feels better knowing a professional is taking care of this task. Commissioner Johnson was also comfortable with these costs because of Dunn’s being local, hiring local employees and also the many licenses Dunn’s Tractor Services carries.
Commissioner Sessions wanted to know if the maintenance of the canal was something that was originally contracted out or if it was something contracted out recently. Mr. Nicholas Mimms, City Manager, mentioned this is something that has just recently been contracted out due to the reduction in personnel and level of maintenance the canal requires. He stated these are funds coming from the City’s Storm Water Management Fund. While Commissioner Sessions believes we should hire internally to get this taken care of, Commissioner Perona stated Dunn’s Tractor Services has specialized equipment and the costs of this equipment is also very costly and he feels better knowing a professional is taking care of this task. Commissioner Johnson was also comfortable with these costs because of Dunn’s being local, hiring local employees and also the many licenses Dunn’s Tractor Services carries.
Motion was made by Commissioner Reginald Sessions, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve item 11 c.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
d.
Approval of additional amount $220,800.00, in accordance with the attached proposals from Beemats, LLC., New Smyrna Beach, FL, for the replacement of floating vegetative islands at the Indian Hills Recreation Area damaged by Hurricane Irma.
Commissioner Sessions questioned if this was something that was possibly insured. Mr. Jack Andrews, City Engineer, replied these were not insured and, while the City has waited on reimbursement from FEMA, we cannot wait for them any longer and need to replace these. However, Mr. Andrews said they’d continue to follow-up with FEMA to see if reimbursement was a possibility.
Commissioner Alexander questioned if these were the same items that were supposed to be placed in Moore’s Creek. Mr. Andrews mentioned there were three islands and there was not much success with them because of the rate of the elevations raised with the severe storm water and these just washed down the creek. Therefore, he does not recommend these get put back and instead, he recommends going in when the vegetation is evident and manually clean it up instead of adding the floating mats.
Commissioner Sessions questioned if this was something that was possibly insured. Mr. Jack Andrews, City Engineer, replied these were not insured and, while the City has waited on reimbursement from FEMA, we cannot wait for them any longer and need to replace these. However, Mr. Andrews said they’d continue to follow-up with FEMA to see if reimbursement was a possibility.
Commissioner Alexander questioned if these were the same items that were supposed to be placed in Moore’s Creek. Mr. Andrews mentioned there were three islands and there was not much success with them because of the rate of the elevations raised with the severe storm water and these just washed down the creek. Therefore, he does not recommend these get put back and instead, he recommends going in when the vegetation is evident and manually clean it up instead of adding the floating mats.
Motion was made by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to approve item 11 d.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
e.
Request approval to piggyback Martin County's Contract for Marine Contracting Services, RFB #2017-2935, as awarded to Brothers' Construction, Inc. along with the subsequent approval of a $28,500 construction contract for the temporary repair of the Melody Lane seawall and sidewalk.
f.
Approve contract with Lyle Sumek Associates, Inc. for consultation services for the update of the Leadership and Strategic Plan for an amount not to exceed $23,000 in professional fees.
g.
Approve Gentile Corporation as the lowest responsive bidder to Bid #2018-006 for an amount not to exceed $25,710 for rehabilitation of 206 North 18th Court, funded through the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) Program.
h.
Approve to replace two (2) inoperable Apogee Control Panels by Siemens Industry, Inc., Fort Pierce, FL, at the Sunrise Theatre in an amount not to exceed $12,245.00.
i.
Approval of Communitywide Council recommendations for three (3) Commercial Facade Grant awards.
j.
Request to reduce code enforcement lien in the amount of $66,840.00 against 808 S 12th Street, Ft. Pierce, FL 34950 - Parcel ID # 2416-501-0038-000-6 - owned by Mario Douge', 808 S 12th Street, Ft. Pierce, FL 34950 to $300.00 payable in 60 days and to waive the $250.00 administration fee that may be imposed by the City Commission.
k.
Approval of a one (1) year extension of a Conditional Use & Design Review Approval for the Mandel/Perkins Residence located at 324 S. Ocean Drive until February 6, 2019.
l.
Approval of the purchase of twenty-eight (28) decorative street sign assemblies in an amount not to exceed $22,588.00 from Capital Streetscapes, Austin, TX, for the Lincoln Park Neighborhood Improvement Project.
Commissioner Sessions inquired if applicants were required to show evidence of their finances. Ms. Elizabeth Woodruff, Grant Writer Administrator, replied financial need is not required with a Commercial Façade Grant. It is a one-to-one match, so in order for them to acquire $5,000 they need to spend $10,000 and then they’d get reimbursed $5,000.
Commissioner Sessions inquired if applicants were required to show evidence of their finances. Ms. Elizabeth Woodruff, Grant Writer Administrator, replied financial need is not required with a Commercial Façade Grant. It is a one-to-one match, so in order for them to acquire $5,000 they need to spend $10,000 and then they’d get reimbursed $5,000.
Motion was made by Commissioner Reginald Sessions, seconded by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson to approve item 11 i.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
Motion was made by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Thomas Perona to approve Consent Agenda items 11a, 11 e, 11f, 11g, 11h, 11j, 11k, 11l, while pulling items 11 b, c, d and i for discussion per Commissioner Sessions request.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
12.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
a.
Quasi-Judicial Hearing - Review and approval of an application for a Conditional Use with No New Construction, submitted by Property Owner, Raul Arenas and Applicant, Andrew Drucker to operate a Dwelling Rental, offering lodging for less than six (6) months with a minimum rental period of one (1) month, at 1218 S. 11th Street, Fort Pierce, FL. The property is zoned R-1, Single-Family Low Density Zone (Parcel ID 2415-703-0063-000-7). Please postpone to February 20, 2018.
This Quai-Judicial Hearing has been postponed to Tuesday, February 20, 2018.
This Quai-Judicial Hearing has been postponed to Tuesday, February 20, 2018.
b.
Quasi-Judicial Hearing (Waived) - Review and approval of an application for Conditional Use with No New Construction, submitted by Property Owner, Colonnades IV LLC, Representative Charles Hayek, and Applicant Angel French to operate Sunrise City Spa located at 305 S. 7th Street, Fort Pierce, FL. The property is zoned Office Commercial Commercial (C-1), Parcel ID: 2410-705-0011-000-9.
Ms. Linda Cox, City Clerk, stated the applicant waived their right to a Quasi-Judicial Hearing.
Brandon Creagan, Planning Analyst, mentioned this structure was previously used for an advertisement company and has been vacant since 2012. Colonnades IV, LLC and Mr. Charles Hayek recently purchased and renovated this location. Ms. Angel French, business owner, was formally operating her business from the Arcade building and is moving to the 305 S. 7th Street location to grow her business. The parcel is 0.24 acres in size and has a zoning designation of C-1 Office Commercial and a Future Land Use of OP-Offices Professional and Business Services. The business will provide two offices, two treatment rooms, two lobby areas, a yoga studio, a public restroom, and kitchen open to employees only. There will be entrances and exits in the front and back of the building. Business will be conducted only from the first floor. There will be a handicap ramp in the back, as well as, parking spaces and all sessions will be conducted by appointment only. The Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend approval of the request as presented, therefore, staff recommends that the City Commission approve the Conditional Use with No New Construction.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
The applicant, Ms. Angel French, approached the Commission and stated she was moving from the Arcade building to this location because she could foresee the growth and she wanted to be a part of that. Additionally, she looked forward to being able to work closely with other business owners in the community.
Mr. Charles Hayek also spoke to the City Commission and predicted 7th Street is going to go under a renaissance and it will be a border between the east and west, more than US1 currently is.
Seeing no one else, the Mayor closed the Public Hearing.
Ms. Linda Cox, City Clerk, stated the applicant waived their right to a Quasi-Judicial Hearing.
Brandon Creagan, Planning Analyst, mentioned this structure was previously used for an advertisement company and has been vacant since 2012. Colonnades IV, LLC and Mr. Charles Hayek recently purchased and renovated this location. Ms. Angel French, business owner, was formally operating her business from the Arcade building and is moving to the 305 S. 7th Street location to grow her business. The parcel is 0.24 acres in size and has a zoning designation of C-1 Office Commercial and a Future Land Use of OP-Offices Professional and Business Services. The business will provide two offices, two treatment rooms, two lobby areas, a yoga studio, a public restroom, and kitchen open to employees only. There will be entrances and exits in the front and back of the building. Business will be conducted only from the first floor. There will be a handicap ramp in the back, as well as, parking spaces and all sessions will be conducted by appointment only. The Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend approval of the request as presented, therefore, staff recommends that the City Commission approve the Conditional Use with No New Construction.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
The applicant, Ms. Angel French, approached the Commission and stated she was moving from the Arcade building to this location because she could foresee the growth and she wanted to be a part of that. Additionally, she looked forward to being able to work closely with other business owners in the community.
Mr. Charles Hayek also spoke to the City Commission and predicted 7th Street is going to go under a renaissance and it will be a border between the east and west, more than US1 currently is.
Seeing no one else, the Mayor closed the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to approve item 12 b with no conditions.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
c.
Quasi-Judicial Hearing (Waived): Review and approval of an application for Site Plan, Design Review, and Conditional Use, submitted by Property Owner(s), Lawnwood Medical Center, Inc. and Representative, Adam Crunk, PE to complete an 11,150 SF addition to the existing Lawnwood Pavilion Facility, in order to provide for an additional twelve (12) beds within the psychiatric extension of the facility which is located at 1860 N Lawnwood Circle, Fort Pierce, FL. The property is zoned Office Commercial (C-1) Parcel IDs: 2416-504-0199-030-0 & 2416-504-0207-000-1
Ms. Linda Cox, City Clerk, stated the applicant waived their right to a Quasi-Judicial Hearing.
Mr. Kori Benton, Senior Planner, mentioned Lawnwood Medical Center is seeking to expand the Lawnwood Pavilion. They currently have 74 beds. In 2016, Lawnwood completed an expansion of this facility and is seeking the additional expansion to add 12 new beds. In summary, the addition would be 11,150 square feet and would have access from North Lawnwood Circle and S. 21st Street. There would be 39 parking spaces added and a loading zone. Additionally, there would be sidewalk improvements, interior parking lot, tree preservation and tree mitigation. The elevations are in congruence with the rest of the Lawnwood Pavilion façade.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Michael Patterson, Chief Operating Officer at Lawnwood Medical Center, presented himself to answer any questions from the City Commission or the public. There were no questions.
Commissioner Perona and Commissioner Sessions stated they were appreciative of Mr. Patterson coming in and they thanked him for his efforts. Mayor Hudson said they were very proud of Lawnwood.
Seeing no one else, the Mayor closed the Public Hearing.
Ms. Linda Cox, City Clerk, stated the applicant waived their right to a Quasi-Judicial Hearing.
Mr. Kori Benton, Senior Planner, mentioned Lawnwood Medical Center is seeking to expand the Lawnwood Pavilion. They currently have 74 beds. In 2016, Lawnwood completed an expansion of this facility and is seeking the additional expansion to add 12 new beds. In summary, the addition would be 11,150 square feet and would have access from North Lawnwood Circle and S. 21st Street. There would be 39 parking spaces added and a loading zone. Additionally, there would be sidewalk improvements, interior parking lot, tree preservation and tree mitigation. The elevations are in congruence with the rest of the Lawnwood Pavilion façade.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Michael Patterson, Chief Operating Officer at Lawnwood Medical Center, presented himself to answer any questions from the City Commission or the public. There were no questions.
Commissioner Perona and Commissioner Sessions stated they were appreciative of Mr. Patterson coming in and they thanked him for his efforts. Mayor Hudson said they were very proud of Lawnwood.
Seeing no one else, the Mayor closed the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to approve item 12 c with no conditions.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
d.
Legislative Hearing - Ordinance 18-001 Eliminating the Time of City Commission Meetings from the Code of Ordinances. SECOND READING
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
ORDINANCE NO. 18-001 - AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE PROVISIONS OF FORT PIERCE CODE OF ORDINANCES CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE II, DIVISION 2, SECTIONS 2-27, ELIMINATING THE TIME OF CITY COMMISSION MEETINGS; PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, the Mayor closed the Public Hearing.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
ORDINANCE NO. 18-001 - AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE PROVISIONS OF FORT PIERCE CODE OF ORDINANCES CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE II, DIVISION 2, SECTIONS 2-27, ELIMINATING THE TIME OF CITY COMMISSION MEETINGS; PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, the Mayor closed the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson to approve item 12 d.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
e.
Legislative Hearing - Ordinance 18-002 Eliminating the Alternate Position on the Planning Board. SECOND READING
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
ORDINANCE NO. 18-002 - AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE PROVISIONS OF FORT PIERCE CODE OF ORDINANCES CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE XII, SECTIONS 2-221, ELIMINATING THE ALTERNATE MEMBER OF THE PLANNING BOARD; PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, the Mayor closed the Public Hearing.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, the Mayor closed the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson to approve item 12 e.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
f.
Legislative Hearing - Ordinance 18-003 Amending Chapter 18 to provide for the acceptance of letters of credit to secure site improvements. SECOND READING
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
ORDINANCE NO. 18-003 - AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA CHAPTER 18, SECTIONS 18-12(a)(2)(b) and 18-13, PROVIDING FOR ACCEPTANCE OF A LETTER OF CREDIT TO SECURE ESTIMATED COSTS OF IMPROVEMENTS TO A SITE; PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, the Mayor closed the Public Hearing.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
ORDINANCE NO. 18-003 - AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA CHAPTER 18, SECTIONS 18-12(a)(2)(b) and 18-13, PROVIDING FOR ACCEPTANCE OF A LETTER OF CREDIT TO SECURE ESTIMATED COSTS OF IMPROVEMENTS TO A SITE; PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, the Mayor closed the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to approve item 12 f.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
g.
Legislative Hearing - Ordinance No. 18-004: An Ordinance Amending the Effective Date of City Ordinance 16-018. FIRST READING
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
ORDINANCE NO. 18-004 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF CITY ORDINANCE 16-018; PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, the Mayor closed the Public Hearing.
Mr. James Messer, City Attorney, mentioned this was a minor technical amendment to an ordinance that was enacted prior to his tenure that our outside counsel handling the case feels is necessary for them to be successful in filing a Motion for Summary Judgment instead of proceeding to a full trial.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
ORDINANCE NO. 18-004 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF CITY ORDINANCE 16-018; PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, the Mayor closed the Public Hearing.
Mr. James Messer, City Attorney, mentioned this was a minor technical amendment to an ordinance that was enacted prior to his tenure that our outside counsel handling the case feels is necessary for them to be successful in filing a Motion for Summary Judgment instead of proceeding to a full trial.
Motion was made by Commissioner Rufus Alexander, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to approve item 12 g.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
13.
CITY COMMISSION
a.
Submittal of applications for appointment or reappointment to the Board of Examiners of Contractors.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, stated she’d submitted applications to the City Commission for their review and at the next meeting they would be able to vote.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, stated she’d submitted applications to the City Commission for their review and at the next meeting they would be able to vote.
b.
Submittal of applications for appointments or reappointments to the Construction Board of Adjustments and Appeals.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, stated she’d submitted applications to the City Commission for their review and at the next meeting they would be able to vote.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, stated she’d submitted applications to the City Commission for their review and at the next meeting they would be able to vote.
c.
Resolution 18-R03 authorizing the execution of FDOT's Joint Participation Agreement (JPA) providing partial funding for the construction costs associated with the proposed intersection improvements within the intersection of Ohio Avenue and US Highway One (SR 5).
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the resolution, read by title only, into the record.
RESOLUTION 18-R03 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF THE JOINT PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT (JPA) BETWEEN THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE AND THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR THE INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS OF OHIO AVENUE AND U.S. HIGHWAY ONE (SR 5) AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR, CITY CLERK, AND CITY ATTORNEY TO EXECUTE SAID AGREEMENT ON THE PART OF THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Nicholas Mimms, City Manager, mentioned this was a long-awaited and desired partnership with the FDOT to move forward with the reconfiguration of the signalized intersection of Ohio Avenue and US Highway 1. The FDOT has expressed an interest in contributing to this reconstruction and realignment of both east and west sides of the roads with a dollar amount to be established. Jack Andrews, City Engineer, stated this would allow us to proceed with bids for an actual construction cost.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the resolution, read by title only, into the record.
RESOLUTION 18-R03 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF THE JOINT PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT (JPA) BETWEEN THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE AND THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR THE INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS OF OHIO AVENUE AND U.S. HIGHWAY ONE (SR 5) AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR, CITY CLERK, AND CITY ATTORNEY TO EXECUTE SAID AGREEMENT ON THE PART OF THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Nicholas Mimms, City Manager, mentioned this was a long-awaited and desired partnership with the FDOT to move forward with the reconfiguration of the signalized intersection of Ohio Avenue and US Highway 1. The FDOT has expressed an interest in contributing to this reconstruction and realignment of both east and west sides of the roads with a dollar amount to be established. Jack Andrews, City Engineer, stated this would allow us to proceed with bids for an actual construction cost.
Motion was made by Commissioner Rufus Alexander, seconded by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson to approve item 13 c.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
d.
Resolution 18-R04 - Setting the time of City Commission Meetings; such resolution does not change the day or times of city commission meetings.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the resolution, read by title only, into the record.
RESOLUTION 18-R04 - A RESOLUTION BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA; SETTING THE TIME OF CITY COMMISSION MEETINGS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Ms. Cox indicated this resolution simply establishes the meeting dates and times exactly as they are now with the ability to move them should that be necessary.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the resolution, read by title only, into the record.
RESOLUTION 18-R04 - A RESOLUTION BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA; SETTING THE TIME OF CITY COMMISSION MEETINGS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Ms. Cox indicated this resolution simply establishes the meeting dates and times exactly as they are now with the ability to move them should that be necessary.
Motion was made by Commissioner Rufus Alexander, seconded by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson to approve item 13 d with discussion.
Commissioner Johnson said he was not ready to make a change in the dates and times of the meetings, but he was happy that this was being recognized in a resolution and should they need to change the dates in the future, they could be adjusted. Commissioner Alexander clarified this meant if there was a holiday on Monday, the meeting would then roll over to a Tuesday.
Motion was made by Commissioner Rufus Alexander, seconded by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson to approve item 13 d.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
14.
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Joyce Jackson
Mike Simone
Joyce Jackson
Mike Simone
15.
COMMENTS FROM THE CITY MANAGER
a.
City Manager's Report
Nicholas Mimms, City Manager, recognized the newest Vice Chair of the Fort Pierce Youth Council, La-Lana. She is from Fort Pierce Westwood High School. The Fort Pierce Youth Council will have a report for the City Commission with how they were elected, the issues and challenges the youth is confronted with and recommendations of how they believe the City Commission could help them solve these issues, as well as, their curriculum for the year. Additional web cams have been approved for our City Marina and Jetty Park. The City will continue to accentuate our natural amenities and tourism points for which we are working closely with our City Marina Manager and the Tourism Development Council (TDC) to highlight the beauty of Fort Pierce. On Melody Lane, the seawall suffered severe damage with Hurricane Irma and our staff is looking for a long-term solution to replace and reconstruct the seawall along the entire stretch of Melody Lane. There will be a Strategic Planning Session for City Department Heads which will take place on February 12, 2018 and the Strategic Planning Session for the City Commission will be on February 13, 2018. The Fort Pierce Job Fair was a total success. There will be a new and enhanced website launching on Thursday, February 8, 2018. The Florida Highwaymen Art Festival will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2018.
James Messer, City Attorney, reported the City Attorney’s office is doing relatively well and he had nothing significant to report.
Nicholas Mimms, City Manager, recognized the newest Vice Chair of the Fort Pierce Youth Council, La-Lana. She is from Fort Pierce Westwood High School. The Fort Pierce Youth Council will have a report for the City Commission with how they were elected, the issues and challenges the youth is confronted with and recommendations of how they believe the City Commission could help them solve these issues, as well as, their curriculum for the year. Additional web cams have been approved for our City Marina and Jetty Park. The City will continue to accentuate our natural amenities and tourism points for which we are working closely with our City Marina Manager and the Tourism Development Council (TDC) to highlight the beauty of Fort Pierce. On Melody Lane, the seawall suffered severe damage with Hurricane Irma and our staff is looking for a long-term solution to replace and reconstruct the seawall along the entire stretch of Melody Lane. There will be a Strategic Planning Session for City Department Heads which will take place on February 12, 2018 and the Strategic Planning Session for the City Commission will be on February 13, 2018. The Fort Pierce Job Fair was a total success. There will be a new and enhanced website launching on Thursday, February 8, 2018. The Florida Highwaymen Art Festival will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2018.
James Messer, City Attorney, reported the City Attorney’s office is doing relatively well and he had nothing significant to report.
16.
COMMENTS FROM THE COMMISSION
Commissioner Alexander feels he should be able to speak to people that come in to give public comments. The job fair was filled wall to wall. There is a volunteer Moore’s Creek Clean-up on Saturday, February 10, 2018.
Commissioner Perona was very excited about the job fair and he understands there were several people that left the fair employed. He has been contacted by several people that have experienced robberies on the beach. They believe the access point of the robbers has been via the beach section of the home. He’s spoken to several HOAs and they are aware they need to spread the word to their residents that the back of the homes need to be secured, have accurate lighting and consciously make an effort to secure their properties. Lighting on the beach has been out of whack and he’s spoken to Mr. Mimms about this. He feels this needs to be coordinated to allow those traveling home late at night to do so safely. Lastly, Commissioner Perona commended the staff for their efforts in cleaning up the streets after the Pirate Festival.
Commissioner Sessions is looking forward to King Plant RFP. He’s received input from one CRA member who was discouraged because they were told they’d be eliminated from the process with giving a recommendation and, while the Commissioner did not wish to go into details, he mentioned this was something that needed to be resolved since he believes we need all the input we can get. We had one of the largest job fairs in history with over 170 vendors that saw the potential we have as a people in our City and the event was indeed a success. Thirty individuals left the fair having been hired on the spot, and that’s not speaking of the ones that left with interviews in place with the possibility of employment. He was very proud to see the result.
Commissioner Johnson feels the Department Heads need to take a leadership role with regards to the trash per Mr. Robert Hall’s comments. He spoke of his positive learning experience at the Florida League of Cities Legislative Action Days Conference and how he was able to share ideas with others. He stated many representatives he spoke to are supporting and fighting for Fort Pierce. He encouraged all that could to support the February 17, 2018 Moore’s Creek Clean-Up, either monetarily or lending a hand physically. The Annual South Beach Association meeting will take place February 15, 2018.
Mayor Hudson spoke of the Florida League of Cities Legislative Action Days Conference mentioning the entire Florida State is recovering from Hurricane Irma and it will take a while to be able to financially recover. She attended the Bike Share Station at Marina Square. She encouraged all the City Commission to go have their pictures taken. This program is in conjunction with St. Lucie County. Mayor Hudson participated in the Young Floridian Scholarship interviews and she is very happy to see all the seniors that are trying to get an education while still trying to have a life and she considers them to be very inspiring.
Commissioner Alexander feels he should be able to speak to people that come in to give public comments. The job fair was filled wall to wall. There is a volunteer Moore’s Creek Clean-up on Saturday, February 10, 2018.
Commissioner Perona was very excited about the job fair and he understands there were several people that left the fair employed. He has been contacted by several people that have experienced robberies on the beach. They believe the access point of the robbers has been via the beach section of the home. He’s spoken to several HOAs and they are aware they need to spread the word to their residents that the back of the homes need to be secured, have accurate lighting and consciously make an effort to secure their properties. Lighting on the beach has been out of whack and he’s spoken to Mr. Mimms about this. He feels this needs to be coordinated to allow those traveling home late at night to do so safely. Lastly, Commissioner Perona commended the staff for their efforts in cleaning up the streets after the Pirate Festival.
Commissioner Sessions is looking forward to King Plant RFP. He’s received input from one CRA member who was discouraged because they were told they’d be eliminated from the process with giving a recommendation and, while the Commissioner did not wish to go into details, he mentioned this was something that needed to be resolved since he believes we need all the input we can get. We had one of the largest job fairs in history with over 170 vendors that saw the potential we have as a people in our City and the event was indeed a success. Thirty individuals left the fair having been hired on the spot, and that’s not speaking of the ones that left with interviews in place with the possibility of employment. He was very proud to see the result.
Commissioner Johnson feels the Department Heads need to take a leadership role with regards to the trash per Mr. Robert Hall’s comments. He spoke of his positive learning experience at the Florida League of Cities Legislative Action Days Conference and how he was able to share ideas with others. He stated many representatives he spoke to are supporting and fighting for Fort Pierce. He encouraged all that could to support the February 17, 2018 Moore’s Creek Clean-Up, either monetarily or lending a hand physically. The Annual South Beach Association meeting will take place February 15, 2018.
Mayor Hudson spoke of the Florida League of Cities Legislative Action Days Conference mentioning the entire Florida State is recovering from Hurricane Irma and it will take a while to be able to financially recover. She attended the Bike Share Station at Marina Square. She encouraged all the City Commission to go have their pictures taken. This program is in conjunction with St. Lucie County. Mayor Hudson participated in the Young Floridian Scholarship interviews and she is very happy to see all the seniors that are trying to get an education while still trying to have a life and she considers them to be very inspiring.
17.
ADJOURNMENT
ATTEST:
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CITY CLERK
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MAYOR COMMISSIONER
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