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 21, 2018.
1.
CALL TO ORDER
2.
OPENING PRAYER - Bishop Stafford Fisher, New Covenant Prayer Center
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 the minutes from the May 7, 2018 Regular Meeting.
Motion was made by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Thomas Perona to approve item 5 a.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
6.
PROCLAMATIONS
Mayor Hudson issued the Proclamations below.
a.
Proclamation recognizing Myositis Awareness
b.
Proclamation recognizing National Public Works Week
c.
Proclamation recognizing National Safe Boating Week
7.
LETTERS TO COMMISSION
The following letter will be kept on file in the City Clerk's Office.
a.
Letter from Jason D. Maron, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, commending the City of Fort Pierce for the staggering number of volunteer participation and waste collected during the annual Great American Cleanup event.
8.
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON AGENDA ITEMS NOT REQUIRING PUBLIC HEARINGS
The following individuals spoke: Brad Culverhouse spoke on items 11 h and 13 d; Joseph Young spoke on item 11 h; Colin Lloyd and Ian Lloyd spoke on item 11 h; Mike Phillips spoke on item 11 h; David Gould spoke on item 11 h; Kurt Holden spoke on item 11 h; Kara Young spoke on item 11 h; Kristian Silva spoke on item 11 h; Al Chacka spoke on item 11 h.
9.
ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS TO AGENDA AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Mr. Nicholas Mimms, City Manager, indicated there was a letter of support the Economic Development Council was requesting regarding a Florida Job Growth Grant for our collaboration with FPUA. The City Commission designated this as item 13 h.
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson to approve the agenda as amended.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
10.
MISCELLANEOUS REPORTS
a.
Legislative Wrap-Up Presentation - State Representative Larry Lee, Jr.
This item was moved prior to item 6 a so that State Representative, Larry Lee, Jr. would be able to attend a previously scheduled meeting.
Mr. Lee indicated this year was a tough year for the Florida Legislature due mainly to the hurricane and the Parkland shooting. Despite this, Early Learning received $15.1 million dollars to fund its program. IRSC acquired $48 million in funding. Additionally, $780,000 was provided for water projects and research, this despite the Parkland situation and budgets being cut. Additionally, $62.3 million for resurfacing projects along the main line of the Turnpike were granted. The State Capital was built with slaves, thus a slave memorial will be built on the grounds of the Capital. A bill was passed in support of providing former inmates the opportunity to secure employment, thereby reducing their chances of regressing into criminal activity. Restoring the Village has expanded its reach this year and he feels the sense of pride is steadily growing amongst the community. Representative Lee believes we need to do a better job in telling our story and not allow people from the outside to tell us we do not measure up. On June 9th the Annual Restoring the Village event will take place. Restoring the Village has begun a college fund in an effort to change the mindset of our community and not just focus on city aesthetics.
Mr. Lee indicated this year was a tough year for the Florida Legislature due mainly to the hurricane and the Parkland shooting. Despite this, Early Learning received $15.1 million dollars to fund its program. IRSC acquired $48 million in funding. Additionally, $780,000 was provided for water projects and research, this despite the Parkland situation and budgets being cut. Additionally, $62.3 million for resurfacing projects along the main line of the Turnpike were granted. The State Capital was built with slaves, thus a slave memorial will be built on the grounds of the Capital. A bill was passed in support of providing former inmates the opportunity to secure employment, thereby reducing their chances of regressing into criminal activity. Restoring the Village has expanded its reach this year and he feels the sense of pride is steadily growing amongst the community. Representative Lee believes we need to do a better job in telling our story and not allow people from the outside to tell us we do not measure up. On June 9th the Annual Restoring the Village event will take place. Restoring the Village has begun a college fund in an effort to change the mindset of our community and not just focus on city aesthetics.
b.
Presentation of the 2017 Impact from the Florida Small Business Development Center at Indian River State College by Tom Kindred, Jr., Regional Director.
Mr. Tom Kindred, Jr., Regional Director with the Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Indian River State College, went over the benefits of this federally-funded program for new business owners, helping existing-businesses, as well as their efforts within our community. This assistance is free of charge.
c.
Second Quarter Financial Report
Ms. Johnna Morris, Director of Finance, indicated all department funds are positive with the exception of the Sunrise Theatre and the Indian Hills Golf Course. However, in the case of the golf course the funds are stable because it has a positive net operating fund, especially in comparison to that of the end of the March 2018 quarter. The grants and special revenue funds all have positive net resources.
11.
CONSENT AGENDA
a.
Approve an execution of a Project Agreement between the City of Fort Pierce and NRCS in the amount of $4,265,778.00 for canal bank stabilization of the Virginia Avenue Outfall Canal and the Mayflower Canal.
b.
Approval to Submit Grant Application to Florida Division of Cultural Affairs for Sunrise Theatre for General Operating Support Grant in the amount of $150,000.
c.
Waive interest and penalties in the amount of $152.58 associated with the Lot Clearing Lien against 321 N 15th Street, Ft. Pierce, FL. Property ID #2409-510-0032-000-0 owned by Marcos Calderon, % E. Clayton Yates, 426 Avenue A, Ft. Pierce, FL contingent upon payment of $231.97 payable within 30 days.
d.
Waive interest and penalties in the amount of $3783.52 associated with the Demolition Lien against 321 N 15th Street, Ft. Pierce, FL. Property ID #2409-510-0032-000-0 owned by Marcos Calderon, % E. Clayton Yates, 426 Avenue A, Ft. Pierce, FL contingent upon payment of $3032.00 payable within 30 days.
e.
Approve the refunding of fees paid for the Paradise Park Streetlights MSTU to property owners that were annexed into the City.
f.
Approve an extension of the City Attorney Employment Agreement with a new expiration date of April 22, 2023 with the same terms and conditions.
g.
Approval of the technical specifications in preparation of the issuance of an RFP for the operation of Little Jim Bait and Tackle.
h.
Approval to authorize staff to enter into negotiations with Beachside Hospitality Group, the highest rank responder for Waterfront Restaurant RFP Bid #2018-010, for the redevelopment of the waterfront restaurant and bar at the city marina.
Commissioner Perona pulled item 11 h. Commissioner Johnson pulled 11 g in order to ask questions.
Motion was made by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Thomas Perona to approve items 11 a, 11 b, 11 c, 11 d, 11 e, and 11 f.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
Regarding item 11 g, Commissioner Johnson wanted to confirm that there would be a third party agreement separate from the City. Attorney Messer confirmed the city would not be a party to that contract and the proposed vendor would have to sign an acknowledgement and waiver to that effect.
Motion was made by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Reginald Sessions to approve item 11 g.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
Regarding item 11 h, Commissioner Perona requested staff present their findings regarding the RFPs in order for the City Commission to make a sound decision and to allow transparency for the public. Ms. Linda Cox, City Clerk, explained staff evaluated each RFP using an evaluation criteria which considered business plan, site improvement plan, list of physical improvements, qualifications and experience, past contracts with government, timeline, proposed monthly fee/revenue share, related Fort Pierce experience and references.
Using this criteria the Beachside Hospitality Group received a rating of 481, Mulligan’s Beach House Bar received a score of 466 and the Original Tiki Bar & Restaurant received a ranking of 405.
Using this criteria the Beachside Hospitality Group received a rating of 481, Mulligan’s Beach House Bar received a score of 466 and the Original Tiki Bar & Restaurant received a ranking of 405.
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson to approve staff recommendation and approve item 11 h.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona
- NAY:
- Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
12.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
a.
Legislative Hearing - Ordinance 18-011 Rezoning the property generally located at 3798 Selvitz Road, from IH, Industrial Heavy (St. Lucie County Zoning) to I-3, Heavy Industrial (City of Fort Pierce Zoning). SECOND READING
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
ORDINANCE NO. 18-011 - AN ORDINANCE BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA; REZONING THE PROPERTY GENERALLY LOCATED AT 3798 SELVITZ ROAD, FROM IH, INDUSTRIAL HEAVY (ST. LUCIE COUNTY ZONING), TO I-3, HEAVY INDUSTRIAL (CITY OF FORT PIERCE); PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF IN CONFLICT; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Dennis Murphy with Culpepper & Terpening, the applicant's representative, presented himself to answer any questions.
Rob O'Neal spoke in opposition.
Bud Wild spoke in opposition.
Stephanie Wild spoke in opposition.
Seeing no one else, the Mayor closed the Public Hearing.
Rebecca Grohall, Planning Director, explained this property has enjoyed a Heavy Industrial zoning designation for many years and while Cargill is still technically the owner, they are in the process of selling this defunct property. Even though there are code violations, a new owner will allow this site to be improved and get cleaned up. St. Lucie County is part of this Technical Review aspect and there was no mention of anything changing in the designation. As a result, staff is recommending approval of this zoning designation.
ORDINANCE NO. 18-011 - AN ORDINANCE BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA; REZONING THE PROPERTY GENERALLY LOCATED AT 3798 SELVITZ ROAD, FROM IH, INDUSTRIAL HEAVY (ST. LUCIE COUNTY ZONING), TO I-3, HEAVY INDUSTRIAL (CITY OF FORT PIERCE); PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF IN CONFLICT; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Dennis Murphy with Culpepper & Terpening, the applicant's representative, presented himself to answer any questions.
Rob O'Neal spoke in opposition.
Bud Wild spoke in opposition.
Stephanie Wild spoke in opposition.
Seeing no one else, the Mayor closed the Public Hearing.
Rebecca Grohall, Planning Director, explained this property has enjoyed a Heavy Industrial zoning designation for many years and while Cargill is still technically the owner, they are in the process of selling this defunct property. Even though there are code violations, a new owner will allow this site to be improved and get cleaned up. St. Lucie County is part of this Technical Review aspect and there was no mention of anything changing in the designation. As a result, staff is recommending approval of this zoning designation.
Motion was made by Commissioner Rufus Alexander, seconded by Commissioner Thomas Perona to approve item 12 a.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
b.
Legislative Hearing - Ordinance 18-012 A voluntary annexation submitted by Okeechobee Properties LLC, and property owner Karen Gelety to annex property located at 2605, 2607, & 2609 Rolyat Street. Two properties are zoned CO, Commercial Office, and one property is zoned CG, General Commercial. The Future Land-Use of all three properties is COM, Commercial. Parcel IDs 2419-601-0040-000-9, 2419-601-0041-000-6, 2419-601-0042-000-3. SECOND READING
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
ORDINANCE NO. 18-012 - AN ORDINANCE EXTENDING THE TERRITORIAL LIMITS OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, TO INCLUDE 2605, 2607, & 2609 ROLYAT STREET IN FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA AND SHOWN ON EXHIBIT A; DIRECTING THE ST. LUCIE COUNTY PROPERTY APPRAISER TO ASSESS SAID PROPERTY AND PLACE IT ON THE CITY TAX ROLLS AS OF JANUARY 1, 2018; DIRECTING THE ST. LUCIE COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR TO COLLECT TAXES ON THE HEREIN DESCRIBED PROPERTY; ESTABLISHING THE ZONING DESIGNATION; ESTABLISHING THE LAND USE DESIGNATION; DIRECTING FILING OF THE ORDINANCE WITH THE CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT AND CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER OF ST. LUCIE COUNTY; DIRECTING REVISION OF THE CHARTER BOUNDARY ARTICLE TO BE FILED WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE AND SUBMITTED TO THE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC AND DEMOGRAPHIC RESEARCH; PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Karen Gelety, applicant, presented herself to answer any questions.
Seeing no one else, the Mayor closed the Public Hearing.
ORDINANCE NO. 18-012 - AN ORDINANCE EXTENDING THE TERRITORIAL LIMITS OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, TO INCLUDE 2605, 2607, & 2609 ROLYAT STREET IN FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA AND SHOWN ON EXHIBIT A; DIRECTING THE ST. LUCIE COUNTY PROPERTY APPRAISER TO ASSESS SAID PROPERTY AND PLACE IT ON THE CITY TAX ROLLS AS OF JANUARY 1, 2018; DIRECTING THE ST. LUCIE COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR TO COLLECT TAXES ON THE HEREIN DESCRIBED PROPERTY; ESTABLISHING THE ZONING DESIGNATION; ESTABLISHING THE LAND USE DESIGNATION; DIRECTING FILING OF THE ORDINANCE WITH THE CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT AND CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER OF ST. LUCIE COUNTY; DIRECTING REVISION OF THE CHARTER BOUNDARY ARTICLE TO BE FILED WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE AND SUBMITTED TO THE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC AND DEMOGRAPHIC RESEARCH; PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Karen Gelety, applicant, presented herself to answer any questions.
Seeing no one else, the Mayor closed the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve item 12 b.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
c.
Legislative Hearing - Ordinance 18-013 Increasing Business Tax Receipt Rates by 5 percent. FIRST READING
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
ORDINANCE NO. 18-013 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER 9, ARTICLE II, BUSINESS TAX, SECTION 9-23 TO REMOVE THE COPY AND FILING REQUIREMENTS; AND SECTION 9-30, FEES, TO PROVIDE FOR A 5% INCREASE IN BUSINESS TAX FEES FOR BUSINESSES, PROFESSIONS, OR OCCUPATIONS; PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; REPEALING ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, the Mayor closed the Public Hearing.
ORDINANCE NO. 18-013 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER 9, ARTICLE II, BUSINESS TAX, SECTION 9-23 TO REMOVE THE COPY AND FILING REQUIREMENTS; AND SECTION 9-30, FEES, TO PROVIDE FOR A 5% INCREASE IN BUSINESS TAX FEES FOR BUSINESSES, PROFESSIONS, OR OCCUPATIONS; PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; REPEALING ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; AND 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 Rufus Alexander, seconded by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson to approve item 12 c.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
d.
Legislative Hearing - Ordinance 18-014 amending Chapter 2, Article IV, Sections 2-63a, 2-63(c)(10), and 2-65(c) "Increasing the Purchasing Threshold of City Manager." FIRST READING
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the ordinance, read by title only, into the record.
ORDINANCE NO. 18-014 - AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE PROVISIONS OF FORT PIERCE CODE OF ORDINANCES CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE IV, SECTION 2-63, TO REVISE THE NUMBERING OF SAID SECTION, SEPARATE THE PURCHASING PROCEDURES OF SAID SECTION INTO A NEW SECTION NUMBERED 2-63.1, AND INCREASE THE PURCHASING THRESHOLD REQUIRING COMMISSION APPROVAL, AMENDING CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE IV, SECTIONS 2-63(c)(10) AND 2-65(c) TO INCREASE THE CITY MANAGER’S AMENDMENT THRESHOLD; PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. FIRST READING
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, the Mayor closed the Public Hearing.
Commissioner Perona stated he believed this is a good business move. He believes, however, that any item $25K or more has to be communicated to the City Commission, thereby allowing the Commission to be informed and have a say in large ticket purchases. Similar text specifying this will be added to the ordinance.
ORDINANCE NO. 18-014 - AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE PROVISIONS OF FORT PIERCE CODE OF ORDINANCES CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE IV, SECTION 2-63, TO REVISE THE NUMBERING OF SAID SECTION, SEPARATE THE PURCHASING PROCEDURES OF SAID SECTION INTO A NEW SECTION NUMBERED 2-63.1, AND INCREASE THE PURCHASING THRESHOLD REQUIRING COMMISSION APPROVAL, AMENDING CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE IV, SECTIONS 2-63(c)(10) AND 2-65(c) TO INCREASE THE CITY MANAGER’S AMENDMENT THRESHOLD; PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. FIRST READING
Mayor Hudson opened the Public Hearing.
Seeing no one, the Mayor closed the Public Hearing.
Commissioner Perona stated he believed this is a good business move. He believes, however, that any item $25K or more has to be communicated to the City Commission, thereby allowing the Commission to be informed and have a say in large ticket purchases. Similar text specifying this will be added to the ordinance.
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve item 12 d with an amendment stating staff will inform the City Commission of any purchases with a price-tag of $25 thousand dollars or more.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
13.
CITY COMMISSION
a.
Resolution 18-R23 adopting the recommendations of the Charter Review Commission regarding Fort Pierce Utilities Authority.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the resolution, read by title only, into the record.
RESOLUTION NO. 18-R23 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA; ADOPTING THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE CHARTER REVIEW COMMISSION; AGREEING TO MEET ANNUALLY WITH THE FPUA IN A JOINT PLANNING SESSION; AGREEING TO ESTABLISH A FORMAL COMPLAINT RESOLUTION PROCESS; ADOPTING A REVISED APPOINTMENT PROCESS TO THE FPUA BOARD; PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; REPEALING ALL RESOLUTIONS IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Commissioner Perona thanked all members of the Charter Review Committee for their time and efforts.
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson to approve item 13 a.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
b.
Resolution 18-R24 appointing KeAndrea Davis and Rebecca Isaac to the Communitywide Council.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the resolution, read by title only, into the record.
RESOLUTION NO. 18-R24 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, CERTIFYING THE APPOINTMENT OF MEMBERS TO THE COMMUNITYWIDE COUNCIL; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Ms. Cox indicated there had only been two applications submitted and, therefore, this resolution would appoint KeAndrea Davis and Rebecca Isaac to the Communitywide Council should the City Commission approve.
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson to approve item 13b.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
c.
Resolution 18-R25 Appointing members to the Arts and Culture Advisory Board.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the resolution, read by title only, into the record.
RESOLUTION NO. 18-R25 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, CERTIFYING THE APPOINTMENT OF MEMBERS TO THE ARTS AND CULTURE ADVISORY BOARD; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Commissioner Alexander voted to appoint Doretha Hair Truesdell.
Commissioner Johnson voted to appoint Jon Neprud.
Commissioner Perona voted to appoint Jeanne Johansen.
Commissioner Sessions voted to appoint Luke Crogan.
Mayor Hudson voted to appoint Julie Pouliotte.
Motion was made by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve 13 c.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
d.
Resolution No. 18-R26 determining that the structure located at 1635 Thumb Point Drive is a nuisance that constitutes a menace to the business, health and safety of the community and abatement by demolition is necessary to remedy this nuisance and setting a hearing to determine this matter before the City Commission on June 18, 2018.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the resolution, read by title only, into the record.
RESOLUTION NO. 18-R26 - A RESOLUTION DETERMINING THAT A CERTAIN BUILDING OR STRUCTURE LOCATED AT 1635 THUMB POINT DR IN FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA IS A NUISANCE THAT CONSTITUTES A MENACE TO THE BUSINESS, HEALTH AND SAFETY OF THE COMMUNITY; AND THAT ALL PARTIES OF INTEREST MUST SHOW CAUSE WHY THE STRUCTURE SHOULD NOT CONDEMNED AND DEMOLISHED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CHARTER OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE; AND NOTIFYING ALL PARTIES OF POTENTIAL ACTION BY THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE FOR FAILURE TO ACT; AND THAT A PUBLIC HEARING BE HELD AT THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED CITY COMMISSION MEETING ON JUNE 18, 2018 AT 6:30 PM, IN THE CITY COMMISSION CHAMBERS LOCATED AT 100 N US HWY 1, FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA; AND PROVIDING FOR NOTICE TO ALL PARTIES; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Commissioner Alexander questioned why the City Commission was being asked to schedule a hearing to declare the property a nuisance if a building permit was still open for this property, indicating work is expected to be done. Building Official, Paul Thomas, indicated this building permit has been open for years. Each time the expiration date drew near, Mr. Culverhouse would extend it. Legally, the Florida State Building Code gives the Building Official authority to extend the permit if all is in order and nothing has changed. The issue of the property being a nuisance is not a Building Code issue and thus, Mr. Thomas explained he could not arbitrarily look at other issues not pertaining to the permit itself or anything else not having to do with the Building Code.
Commissioner Alexander asked to see photos of the property. Peggy Arraiz, Code Enforcement Manager, indicated she could not answer any questions nor provide any documentation at this meeting. She will present the case at the City Commission Hearing on June 18.
RESOLUTION NO. 18-R26 - A RESOLUTION DETERMINING THAT A CERTAIN BUILDING OR STRUCTURE LOCATED AT 1635 THUMB POINT DR IN FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA IS A NUISANCE THAT CONSTITUTES A MENACE TO THE BUSINESS, HEALTH AND SAFETY OF THE COMMUNITY; AND THAT ALL PARTIES OF INTEREST MUST SHOW CAUSE WHY THE STRUCTURE SHOULD NOT CONDEMNED AND DEMOLISHED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CHARTER OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE; AND NOTIFYING ALL PARTIES OF POTENTIAL ACTION BY THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE FOR FAILURE TO ACT; AND THAT A PUBLIC HEARING BE HELD AT THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED CITY COMMISSION MEETING ON JUNE 18, 2018 AT 6:30 PM, IN THE CITY COMMISSION CHAMBERS LOCATED AT 100 N US HWY 1, FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA; AND PROVIDING FOR NOTICE TO ALL PARTIES; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Commissioner Alexander questioned why the City Commission was being asked to schedule a hearing to declare the property a nuisance if a building permit was still open for this property, indicating work is expected to be done. Building Official, Paul Thomas, indicated this building permit has been open for years. Each time the expiration date drew near, Mr. Culverhouse would extend it. Legally, the Florida State Building Code gives the Building Official authority to extend the permit if all is in order and nothing has changed. The issue of the property being a nuisance is not a Building Code issue and thus, Mr. Thomas explained he could not arbitrarily look at other issues not pertaining to the permit itself or anything else not having to do with the Building Code.
Commissioner Alexander asked to see photos of the property. Peggy Arraiz, Code Enforcement Manager, indicated she could not answer any questions nor provide any documentation at this meeting. She will present the case at the City Commission Hearing on June 18.
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson to approve item 13 d.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona
- NAY:
- Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
e.
Resolution 18-R27 - accepting the proposal of SunTrust Bank to purchase the Capital Improvement Revenue Refunding Note and authorizing the execution and delivery of a Loan Agreement.
City Clerk, Linda Cox, introduced the resolution, read by title only, into the record.
RESOLUTION NO. 18-R27 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA ACCEPTING THE PROPOSAL OF SUNTRUST BANK, TO PURCHASE THE CITY'S NOT TO EXCEED $6,895,000 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT REVENUE REFUNDING NOTE, SERIES 2018; THE PROCEEDS OF WHICH WILL BE APPLIED TO CURRENTLY REFUND ALL OF THE CITY'S OUTSTANDING CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT REVENUE BONDS, SERIES 2010A MATURING SEPTEMBER 1, 2030 AND THEREAFTER; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF A LOAN AGREEMENT WITH SAID LENDER TO SECURE THE REPAYMENT OF SAID LOAN; PROVIDING FOR THE PAYMENT OF SUCH NOTE FROM THE CITY'S COVENANT TO BUDGET AND APPROPRIATE NON A VALOREM REVENUES ALL AS PROVIDED IN THE LOAN AGREEMENT; AUTHORIZING THE PROPER OFFICIALS OF THE CITY TO DO ANY OTHER ADDITIONAL THINGS DEEMED NECESSARY OR ADVISABLE IN CONNECTION WITH THE EXECUTION OF THE LOAN AGREEMENT, THE NOTE, AND THE SECURITY THEREFOR; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF OTHER DOCUMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH SAID LOAN; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
At the request of Commissioner Alexander, Mr. Nicholas Mimms, City Manager, elaborated that the city stands to save $476K over a 12-year period with this refunding opportunity. Current bonds will be refunded without changing their maturation dates, thereby, the city will be able to take these General Fund dollars and have them reallocated to another operational expense.
RESOLUTION NO. 18-R27 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA ACCEPTING THE PROPOSAL OF SUNTRUST BANK, TO PURCHASE THE CITY'S NOT TO EXCEED $6,895,000 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT REVENUE REFUNDING NOTE, SERIES 2018; THE PROCEEDS OF WHICH WILL BE APPLIED TO CURRENTLY REFUND ALL OF THE CITY'S OUTSTANDING CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT REVENUE BONDS, SERIES 2010A MATURING SEPTEMBER 1, 2030 AND THEREAFTER; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF A LOAN AGREEMENT WITH SAID LENDER TO SECURE THE REPAYMENT OF SAID LOAN; PROVIDING FOR THE PAYMENT OF SUCH NOTE FROM THE CITY'S COVENANT TO BUDGET AND APPROPRIATE NON A VALOREM REVENUES ALL AS PROVIDED IN THE LOAN AGREEMENT; AUTHORIZING THE PROPER OFFICIALS OF THE CITY TO DO ANY OTHER ADDITIONAL THINGS DEEMED NECESSARY OR ADVISABLE IN CONNECTION WITH THE EXECUTION OF THE LOAN AGREEMENT, THE NOTE, AND THE SECURITY THEREFOR; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF OTHER DOCUMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH SAID LOAN; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
At the request of Commissioner Alexander, Mr. Nicholas Mimms, City Manager, elaborated that the city stands to save $476K over a 12-year period with this refunding opportunity. Current bonds will be refunded without changing their maturation dates, thereby, the city will be able to take these General Fund dollars and have them reallocated to another operational expense.
Motion was made by Commissioner Thomas Perona, seconded by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson to approve item 13 e.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
f.
Approval letter of support for Manatee Observation and Education Center for their grant application to Florida Department of State Division of Cultural Affairs.
Motion was made by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve item 13 f.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
g.
Approval of letter of support for the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Expanded Re-Entry Services Grant.
Motion was made by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve item 13 g.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
h.
ADD ON: Letter of Support for the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund application for a sewer project on DiGiorgio Road requested by St. Lucie County Economic Development Council.
Linda Cox, City Clerk, indicated this is a letter requested by the Economic Development Council seeking support for a project that will be beneficial for the City of Fort Pierce.
Motion was made by Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Rufus Alexander to approve added-on item 13 h.
- AYE:
- Mayor Linda Hudson, Commissioner Rufus Alexander, Commissioner Jeremiah Johnson, Commissioner Thomas Perona, Commissioner Reginald Sessions
Passed
14.
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
There were no comments from the public.
15.
COMMENTS FROM THE CITY MANAGER
Nicholas Mimms, City Manager, indicated there is a joint workshop that will take place with the FPUA in order to discuss capital improvement budgets of each, as well as, strategic goals and prospective growth of the city and FPUA. Joint participation of projects will also be discussed. Mayor Hudson mentioned the FPUA Board isalready working on this.
James Messer, City Attorney, had no comments to add.
James Messer, City Attorney, had no comments to add.
16.
COMMENTS FROM THE COMMISSION
Commissioner Alexander thanked the City Commission, city staff and the Police Department through the difficult time he experienced during the loss of his daughter.
Commissioner Perona had no comments.
Commissioner Sessions encouraged everyone to participate in Restoring The Village on June 9th.
Commissioner Johnson stated we were all praying for Commissioner Alexander and his family, as well as, the young students graduating and going off to college to make a career decision for their future.
Mayor Hudson attended the Law Enforcement Memorial Service at St. Bernadette Catholic Church on May 17th and encouraged others to attend next year. On May 28th there will be a ceremony honoring veterans at the Veteran’s Memorial Park at the Riverwalk Center.
Commissioner Perona had no comments.
Commissioner Sessions encouraged everyone to participate in Restoring The Village on June 9th.
Commissioner Johnson stated we were all praying for Commissioner Alexander and his family, as well as, the young students graduating and going off to college to make a career decision for their future.
Mayor Hudson attended the Law Enforcement Memorial Service at St. Bernadette Catholic Church on May 17th and encouraged others to attend next year. On May 28th there will be a ceremony honoring veterans at the Veteran’s Memorial Park at the Riverwalk Center.
17.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 9:16 p.m.
ATTEST:
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CITY CLERK
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MAYOR COMMISSIONER
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