First reading passed for Ordinance 2018-2139 memorializing firefighter pension changes; council also OK'd a U.S. 19 adopt-a-median maintenance deal and directed staff to revisit Bike Fest liquor rules.
17 items on the agenda · 12 decisions recorded
On the agenda
- 1Call to Order – Roll Call▶ 0:00
- 2
Pledge of Allegiance
Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence in honor of servicemen and women.
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[00:00:22] I ask that you all stand, join me in the Pledge of Allegiance and remain standing for a moment [00:00:26] of silence in honor of our servicemen and women at home and abroad. [00:00:31] I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for [00:00:37] which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
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- 3
Moment of Silence
Procedural moment of silence honoring servicemen and women, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
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[00:00:26] of silence in honor of our servicemen and women at home and abroad. [00:00:31] I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for [00:00:37] which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. [00:00:49] Thank you. [00:00:50] You may be seated.
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- 4
Approval of May 15, 2018 Regular Meeting Minutes
approvedCouncil approved the May 15, 2018 regular meeting minutes by unanimous voice vote.
- motion:Motion to approve the May 15, 2018 regular meeting minutes. (passed)
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[00:00:53] Next item on the agenda is the approval of the May 15th regular meeting minutes. [00:00:56] Move for approval. [00:00:57] Second. [00:00:58] We have a motion and a second. [00:00:59] Any discussion? [00:01:00] Hearing none, all those in favor, please signify by saying aye. [00:01:04] Aye. [00:01:05] Opposed? [00:01:06] Like sign. [00:01:07] Motion passes.
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- 5
Proclamation - World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (By Title Only)
approvedThe Council issued a proclamation by title only declaring June 15th as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in the City of New Port Richey.
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[00:01:09] Next item is a proclamation on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in the City of New Port Richey, which will be June 15th, and this is by title only, so I'll pass this on to [00:01:22] the clerk.
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- 6Vox Pop for Items Not Listed on the Agenda or Listed on Consent Agenda▶ 1:25
- 7.a
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Minutes - April 2018
approvedon consentCouncil approved the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board minutes from April 2018 by voice vote.
- motion:Approve the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board minutes for April 2018. (passed)
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[00:03:35] Move for approval. [00:03:36] Second. [00:03:37] We have a motion and a second. [00:03:40] All those in favor, please signify by saying aye. [00:03:43] Aye. [00:03:44] Opposed, like sign. [00:03:45] Motion passes.
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- 7.b
Cultural Affairs Committee Minutes - April 2018
approvedon consentCouncil approved the Cultural Affairs Committee minutes from April 2018 on the consent agenda.
- motion:Motion to approve the Cultural Affairs Committee Minutes from April 2018. (passed)
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[00:03:35] Move for approval. [00:03:36] Second. [00:03:37] We have a motion and a second. [00:03:40] All those in favor, please signify by saying aye. [00:03:43] Aye. [00:03:44] Opposed, like sign. [00:03:45] Motion passes.
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- 7.c
Purchase/Payments for City Council Approval
approvedon consentCouncil approved purchases/payments as presented on the consent-style item with a motion, second, and unanimous voice vote.
- motion:Motion to approve purchases/payments for City Council approval. (passed)
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[00:03:35] Move for approval. [00:03:36] Second. [00:03:37] We have a motion and a second. [00:03:40] All those in favor, please signify by saying aye. [00:03:43] Aye. [00:03:44] Opposed, like sign. [00:03:45] Motion passes.
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- 8.a
First Reading - Ordinance No. 2018-2139: Amendments to Fire Pension Ordinance (Memorializing Contract Changes)
approvedCouncil held the first reading of Ordinance No. 2018-2139, which memorializes pension-related changes from the contract ratified April 3, 2018 with the International Association of Firefighters. The amendments update definitions, contributions, benefit amounts, eligibility, the DROP program, and replace the backdrop with a supplemental benefit component, plus Chapter 175 share accounts. Motion to approve passed.
Ord. Ordinance No. 2018-2139
- motion:Motion to approve first reading of Ordinance No. 2018-2139 amending the firefighters pension ordinance. (passed)
International Association of FirefightersAltmanArticle 3 Firefighters Retirement SystemChapter 17 Pensions and RetirementChapter 175 share accountsOrdinance No. 2018-2139Section 17-36Section 17-40Section 17-41Section 17-50.17 Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP)Section 17-50.18▶ Jump to 3:47 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
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[00:03:47] Next is public reading of ordinances. [00:03:49] First reading ordinance 2018-2139, amendment to the fire pension ordinance. [00:03:55] An ordinance of the City of New Port Richey amending chapter 17, pensions and retirement, [00:03:59] article 3, firefighters retirement system of the code of ordinances of the City of New Port Richey. [00:04:04] Amending section 17-36, definitions. [00:04:08] Amending section 17-40, contributions. [00:04:11] Amending section 17-41, benefit amounts and eligibility. [00:04:15] Amending section 17-50.17, deferred retirement option plan. [00:04:21] Deleting section 17-50.18, backdrop and replacing it with supplemental benefit component for [00:04:28] special benefits. [00:04:29] Chapter 175, share accounts. [00:04:32] Providing for severability of provisions, providing for codification, repealing all [00:04:35] the ordinances in conflict herewith, and providing an effective date. [00:04:40] Thank you. [00:04:41] This is a public reading of this ordinance. [00:04:42] Public comment on the ordinance proposal would be appropriate at this time. [00:04:46] If anyone wishes to address counsel on this, please come on down. [00:04:53] Seeing no one come forward, bring it back to counsel. [00:04:59] Could we get a brief overview for the record of what this does? [00:05:07] In response to Councilman Altman's question, the purpose of this agenda item is to memorialize [00:05:14] the changes that were made in the contract with the International Association with Firefighters [00:05:24] in the agreement that you ratified on April 3rd, 2018, and relating specifically to pension [00:05:30] changes. [00:05:32] The pension changes are outlined in your agenda packet and include a new definition for salary, [00:05:42] for member contribution, for normal retirement eligibility, for a normal retirement benefit, [00:05:48] for early retirement eligibility, for early retirement benefit, for participation in the [00:05:54] drop program, for a drop program account, and additionally for a share account related [00:06:00] to the Chapter 175 premium tax monies. [00:06:05] And if you have questions on any of those contract terms, I'm prepared to respond to [00:06:09] them. [00:06:10] Questions, Mr. Altman? [00:06:12] This basically is housekeeping, it's my understanding, to match the ordinance with the contract. [00:06:17] Is that correct, Mr. Mayor? [00:06:20] Further discussion? [00:06:21] Move for approval. [00:06:22] Second. [00:06:23] To the maker. [00:06:24] Nothing. [00:06:25] To the second. [00:06:26] No comments, thank you. [00:06:27] Councilman? [00:06:28] In that case, all those in favor, please signify by saying aye. [00:06:31] Aye. [00:06:32] Opposed, like sign. [00:06:34] Motion passes.
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- 9.a
Board Appointments: Marcia Mihall and Bonnie Martin, Library Advisory Board
approvedCouncil appointed Marcia Mihall to fill a vacancy and Bonnie Martin as first alternate on the Library Advisory Board, with terms running through June 5, 2021. Council briefly discussed residency requirements, noting the Library Board and Cultural Affairs Committee allow some non-city-resident members.
- motion:Motion to approve the appointment of Marcia Mihall as member and Bonnie Martin as first alternate to the Library Advisory Board with terms through June 5, 2021. (passed)
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[00:06:36] Next is a business item, board appointments. [00:06:39] Ms. Manson. [00:06:40] Very exciting night for the library board, Mr. Mayor. [00:06:45] For some time now they have been short a couple of members, and they have identified two very [00:06:52] qualified candidates that submitted their application seeking appointment to serve as [00:06:57] members of the library advisory board, and that is up for your consideration this evening. [00:07:04] There is one member and one alternate position open on the board. [00:07:09] Ms. Mahal is being recommended to fill the vacancy position, and Ms. Martin as a first [00:07:17] alternative. [00:07:19] If you approve these appointments, the terms will span through June 5th, 2021, and we are [00:07:28] recommending that you consider approval of their applications. [00:07:32] I'll open this up for public comment. [00:07:36] Seeing no one come forward, bring it back to council. [00:07:38] Just a quick question. [00:07:39] They don't have to live in the city limits to be on the library board, or do they? [00:07:44] I believe they do not. [00:07:46] Is that with all of our committees, or just the library board? [00:07:51] No. [00:07:52] Two. [00:07:53] Sorry? [00:07:54] Two positions can live outside of the city. [00:07:57] With all of our committees, or just the library board? [00:07:59] With the library board. [00:08:00] Okay. [00:08:01] Do any of our other advisory boards allow people that live outside the city to be members? [00:08:05] Yes, the cultural affairs committee. [00:08:08] Also allows one. [00:08:09] One. [00:08:10] Okay. [00:08:15] I move for approval. [00:08:16] Second. [00:08:17] Yeah, I'd like to, first of all, I recognize that they're here tonight, and not only they're [00:08:23] here, which I really appreciate, because it's rare that we see somebody here that's being [00:08:28] nominated or re-nominated. [00:08:30] And then also to have the support of the rest of the board here, I think that's phenomenal, [00:08:34] and I congratulate you and your leadership, Andy. [00:08:38] Second. [00:08:39] Well said, Councilman. [00:08:42] No, nothing further. [00:08:44] Councilman? [00:08:45] Good. [00:08:46] I'd like to thank you for your willingness to serve the city of Newport-Riching. [00:08:50] There's no further discussion. [00:08:51] All those in favor, please signify by saying aye. [00:08:53] Aye. [00:08:54] Opposed, like sign. [00:08:55] Motion passes.
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- 9.b
Board Re-Appointment: Edward Beckman, Police Pension Board
approvedCouncil reappointed Edward Beckman to the Police Pension Board for the remainder of his term through November 10, 2019. Beckman had originally been appointed in November 2015, resigned in January due to a conflict that no longer exists, and indicated continued interest in serving.
- motion:Reappoint Edward Beckman to the Police Pension Board for the remainder of his term through November 10, 2019. (passed)
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[00:08:56] Next is board reappointment. [00:08:58] Mr. Edward Beckman to the Police Pension Board. [00:09:00] Ms. Manns. [00:09:01] Yes, sir, Mr. Mayor. [00:09:03] Mr. Beckman was originally appointed to the Pension Board in November of 2015. [00:09:10] Earlier this year, in fact, in January, Mr. Beckman submitted his resignation as a result [00:09:19] of the fact that he had a conflict. [00:09:21] That conflict no longer exists, and Mr. Beckman has indicated that he's still interested in [00:09:27] serving. [00:09:28] Therefore, we are asking you to consider his appointment to the Police Pension Board for [00:09:34] the remainder of his term, which is through November 10th of 2019. [00:09:39] Move approval. [00:09:41] Do we have any public comment? [00:09:44] Seeing no one, we've got a motion. [00:09:46] Second. [00:09:47] Second to the maker. [00:09:48] I think that's a well-run board, and they all seem to be very locked into watching the [00:09:56] shop of the pension retirement funds. [00:09:59] Councilman Davis. [00:10:00] Nothing. [00:10:01] Deputy Mayor. [00:10:02] No, it's a good guy, and it's a great choice for that position. [00:10:07] Mr. Beckman, if you're watching, congratulations, and thank you for being willing to serve. [00:10:12] If there's no further discussion, all those in favor, please signify by saying aye. [00:10:16] Aye. [00:10:17] Opposed, like sign. [00:10:18] Motion passes. [00:10:19] Next is the U.S. Highway 19 Landscape Maintenance Agreement.
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- 9.c
US Hwy 19 Landscape Maintenance Agreement
approvedCouncil approved a Landscape Maintenance Agreement between the City and the Gulf Coast Highway Road Maintenance Organization (RMO) for the 22 medians along U.S. 19 from the New Port Richey Bridge south to Trouble Creek Road. Under the adopt-a-median concept, businesses sponsor medians (with 'Landscape Maintained By' signs per FDOT specifications) at no cost to the City, and the RMO contracts maintenance collecting 120% of contract value to fund replacements. All 22 medians already have business sponsors.
- motion:Motion to approve the Landscape Maintenance Agreement between the City and the Gulf Coast Highway Road Maintenance Organization. (passed)
U.S. 19 from the Port Ritchie Bridge south to Trouble Creek RoadChamber of CommerceFlorida Department of TransportationGulf Coast Highway Road Maintenance OrganizationWest Pasco Board of RealtorsCouncilman DavisDebbie MannsGreg ArmstrongJeffRobert RiveraAdopt-a-Median programGulf Coast Highway beautification contestU.S. 19 Landscape Improvements Phase 1 and 2Wayfinding signage design▶ Jump to 10:22 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
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[00:10:22] Ms. Manns. [00:10:23] Thank you, Mr. Mayor. [00:10:24] Mr. Rivera is prepared to present this agenda item to you, and we have Mr. Greg Armstrong [00:10:29] in attendance this evening as the Director of the Gulf Coast Highway Road Maintenance [00:10:36] Organization. [00:10:37] Mr. Rivera. [00:10:38] Thank you. [00:10:39] This item for your review and consider for approval is the Attached Landscape Maintenance [00:10:45] Agreement between the City and Gulf Coast Highway Maintenance Organization, or the RMO. [00:10:52] As you are aware, the Public Works Department has completed Phase 1 and 2 of the landscape [00:10:58] improvements along U.S. 19 from the New Port Richey Bridge south to Trouble Creek Road. [00:11:06] A few weeks ago, Mr. Armstrong presented before you the idea of an adopt-immediate concept [00:11:14] that would be administered by an RMO. [00:11:16] He is the president of that RMO. [00:11:19] Basically, this concept has that a business would adopt a median and maintain it according [00:11:27] to the attached Exhibit B that you have in your packet. [00:11:31] That Exhibit B is the same requirements that the City had to execute between FDOT to be [00:11:37] able to be eligible for the funding for the improvements. [00:11:42] With this, the services of the businesses for the landscape maintenance of those medians [00:11:49] would be of no cost to the City and the businesses would be able to have a sign posted on the [00:11:58] front side of the island and the back side of the island. [00:12:02] Can you change that? [00:12:07] That would identify them as sponsors of each median. [00:12:11] What we have tried to do, it should be on the other slide. [00:12:15] It is item 2. [00:12:17] Thank you. [00:12:19] These types of signs would be put at each end of the medians that the business is taking [00:12:26] care of. [00:12:27] We are working with Mr. Armstrong. [00:12:29] As you can tell, we are trying to correlate them with the wayfinding signage design that [00:12:35] the Council had approved a few months back. [00:12:38] With that, there is no budget impact to the City if you approve this. [00:12:45] We would recommend that you do. [00:12:47] I talked with Greg last week and he said out of the 22 medians that we have out there, [00:12:53] he already has 16 businesses that have volunteered to maintain the islands. [00:13:00] With that, Greg is here and he is available to answer any questions or to speak on behalf [00:13:05] of anything that I have left out. [00:13:08] Mr. Armstrong? [00:13:17] Good evening. [00:13:18] We actually have all 22 now since I said that to him last week. [00:13:26] We had a pecking order we had to go in of those that signed up and those that said they [00:13:30] wanted to be in the City. [00:13:32] You just have to remember, some businesses will, what I consider, make a smart business [00:13:37] decision and want their sign in a different part of the County than where their business [00:13:41] is located. [00:13:42] Some are just taking pride in being in New Port Richey and want it right in front of their business. [00:13:46] Whatever works for them, it works. [00:13:49] The way we will work is we will collect 120% of what we contract. [00:13:54] We are trying to contract right now with the same vendor that the City is using right now [00:13:58] to maintain it. [00:14:01] We will collect 120% so we have extra money sitting there for replacement planning, which [00:14:07] we all know is going to happen, whether it be weather or rain. [00:14:13] We believe it is going to be very simple but very good for the City because it takes the [00:14:18] burden of the every week and every month maintenance of that off of the City of New Port Richey. [00:14:25] Thank you very much. [00:14:26] Any questions for Mr. Armstrong? [00:14:28] The only question I had, Greg, was the use of the word sponsored. [00:14:32] But because they are paying the fee for someone else to maintain it, I guess it is not like [00:14:37] the typical signs you see where volunteer groups actually go out and clean up. [00:14:43] The first part of the question is there is no physical involvement in any of these businesses [00:14:47] in getting out in the middle of the highway. [00:14:49] We have to go by U.S. DOT guidelines. [00:14:52] The trucks have to be signed in a certain way, lighted in a certain way. [00:14:56] I am trying to fit a story onto a small screen. [00:15:00] sign where you just really want the name of the sponsor or the person is difficult, but [00:15:05] in effect they're sponsoring the maintenance, not the purchase or they didn't put it in, [00:15:10] but I'm just meddling with words there. It's probably difficult to add any additional words [00:15:16] to the signage already. [00:15:18] In response, you raise a very good point, and the depictions that Robert provided in [00:15:25] the PowerPoint were just general layouts. The actual language would be landscape maintained [00:15:31] by. [00:15:33] That's pretty well dictated to us by FDOT. [00:15:36] Okay, so that's already been defined. [00:15:41] I think I had the same initial concern if we were going to have volunteers out there [00:15:44] in the middle of a six-lane highway, which would not be good. [00:15:49] Mr. Armstrong, you're going to be using the same concept for the additional medians that [00:15:52] are going to be landscaped all throughout the county, correct? Not just in the city [00:15:55] of New Parish? [00:15:56] The county signs will be much plainer than yours. The city manager is taking care of [00:16:03] getting FDOT approval of the sign before I actually manufacture them. I learned I don't [00:16:11] trust them until I have a signature. [00:16:13] But same concept, correct? You're going to have sponsorships for all the medians throughout [00:16:17] the county? [00:16:18] It'll be the same wording. They'll just look plainer. [00:16:21] Thank you very much. I don't know if the public really realizes that it was you and the West [00:16:24] Pasco Board of Realtors that came up with this concept, put the plan together, lobbied [00:16:28] in Tallahassee, were instrumental in getting the county funding. I'm not sure about the [00:16:33] city funding or not, but you just did an incredible job. I remember when you first started working [00:16:37] on this, you had your press release. It's come to fruition. It's an awesome concept. [00:16:41] You guys have worked so, so hard. I just really appreciate it. It's going to be great. [00:16:46] Thank you. The county bid is getting ready to go out as well as New Port Richey. When it's [00:16:51] all said and done, the total a year from now will be $5 million spent. We also have a grant [00:16:58] to put welcome signs at the ends of the county and solar light them. It's going to be a nice [00:17:04] plus. [00:17:05] It's a great concept. My biggest pet peeve with landscaping in our city, as Robert can [00:17:10] tell you, is putting plants in, making it look pretty, and then forgetting about it [00:17:14] a year later, they're gone. It's the biggest waste of money, in my opinion. We're going [00:17:18] to stay on top of the landscaping that we just put in ourselves or other city, I'm sure. [00:17:23] It's a great concept that prevents that from happening. Thank you, once again. [00:17:27] I just wish there was a way we could landscape to keep people from crossing. [00:17:30] So do I. [00:17:31] That's a battle for another day. Thank you. [00:17:34] Councilman Davis. [00:17:35] I'd just like to say thank you, too. I decided to do a little, in the last day or so, do [00:17:41] a little ride around town. I went down Marine Parkway first. It kind of sparked this, and [00:17:47] I was like, wow, is this beautiful. Then I decided to come in on Main Street from the [00:17:52] west, and that was beautiful. Even from the east, it was beautiful. Then drive down the [00:17:56] river was beautiful. [00:17:57] Now, if you're coming down 19, we've done a lot compared to what's south of us and what's [00:18:02] north of us, but I think having 22 businesses wanting to keep an eye on their piece of territory [00:18:09] that they can call, instead of calling us, they'll call the people that are taking care [00:18:13] of it, and I think it'll look really nice because it's coming along a lot now because [00:18:18] of the rain and stuff, but it's a long ways to go, too, and to make it look like the other [00:18:23] streets that I mentioned. [00:18:24] Well, I will tell you the Chamber of Commerce is going to work on a Gulf Coast Highway, [00:18:29] not a US-19, a Gulf Coast Highway beautification contest with the businesses, and we're looking [00:18:37] to make some significant prize for the winner so we can get people to buy in and start fixing [00:18:43] up the facades and fixing up their business because it is a tremendous economic driver [00:18:51] for New Port Richey and for Pasco County. [00:18:53] And Jeff's been interested in cleaning this up and getting it going right, and I think [00:18:58] with these sponsors that we'll get it going like what he wants and what I want. [00:19:02] They will take pride. When they see their signs out there, they're going to take pride, [00:19:05] and hopefully that reflects back in their businesses as well. [00:19:08] Thank you. [00:19:09] Thank you. [00:19:10] And thank you. [00:19:11] Any other comments from the public? [00:19:12] If not, I'll bring it back to Council. [00:19:13] Move for approval. [00:19:14] Second. [00:19:15] We have a motion and a second. [00:19:16] To the maker? [00:19:17] Nothing further. [00:19:18] Thank you. [00:19:19] To the second? [00:19:20] Councilman? [00:19:21] I think we all want it. [00:19:22] Please let your entire group know you've got a heartfelt thank you from all of us up here,
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- 9.d
You arrived here from a search for “Wrap River Run” — transcript expanded below
Special Event Guidelines
discussedParks & Recreation Director Ms. Smith presented draft Special Event Guidelines developed with staff, the special event team, residents, and event organizers to protect the park, ensure public safety, and improve event quality. Council discussed at length tent classification/inspection wording, fire-safety spacing between vendor tents, park-and-ride requirements for large events, golf cart use, and whether to remove 'no adult entertainment businesses' language in favor of 'family friendly.' Council agreed KFS Main Street Blast and Wrap River Run would not be subject to the new guidelines this fiscal year and directed staff to refine the language and bring it back.
- direction:Council directed staff to revise the special event guidelines language (tent classifications, vendor spacing, golf carts, adult entertainment / family-friendly wording) and to delay implementation so KFS Main Street Blast and Wrap River Run are not subject to the new rules this fiscal year. (none)
4003 Rutter Way, New Port Richey, FloridaChasco FiestaMain StreetPasco PussycatRotaryWrap River RunAdamChrisMs. MannsMs. SmithSteve SchudelChasco FiestaKFS Main Street BlastPark and RideParks and Recreation Advisory BoardSimon and Garfunkel concertSpecial Event GuidelinesSpecial Event Policy ManualTent permit and inspectionWrap River Run▶ Jump to 19:23 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
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[00:19:34] and with that, all those in favor, please signify by saying aye. [00:19:38] Aye. [00:19:39] Opposed? [00:19:40] Like sign. [00:19:41] Motion passes. [00:19:42] Next, special event guidelines. [00:19:44] Ms. Manns. [00:19:45] Thank you, Mr. Mayor. [00:19:46] For some time now, Ms. Smith has been working with the staff along with the organizers of [00:19:54] special events to come up with some guidelines that protect the park as a natural resource [00:20:06] and additionally provide community enrichment through programming. [00:20:12] In that regard, she's prepared this evening to introduce to you the recommendations that [00:20:22] she has advanced in your Council packet for consideration for future events. [00:20:31] You're up, Ms. Smith. [00:20:34] Thank you so much. [00:20:35] Yes, as the City Manager indicated, the special event guidelines has been a very good exercise. [00:20:42] It started with the work session from City Council where we had our marching orders to [00:20:47] ensure that our natural resource of the park was protected, ensure public safety as they [00:20:53] participate in the events, as well as improving the quality of the events. [00:20:57] And then we went through a series of meetings to where residents around the park were invited, [00:21:04] meeting with our Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, the special event team, which is made [00:21:08] up of City staff that directly work with the events, and then the event organizers. [00:21:14] As I said, it's been a very good, a lengthy, but a very good process. [00:21:18] Part of the process also, too, started with investigating what other area parks and recreation [00:21:24] departments that are similar to our situation, getting their information about what their [00:21:30] guidelines are and how they implement and manage events in the city to make sure that [00:21:35] the parks are maintained and that the event organizers are still able to have a quality event. [00:21:43] So, tonight you did receive an update on the DAS, and the only revision was on the [00:21:49] tent permit and inspection. [00:21:51] I'd be glad to go through each of these items if you'd like, or if you have questions on those. [00:21:56] And then whatever decisions are made tonight, staff is prepared to, whatever is approved [00:22:04] tonight, staff is prepared to add this to the special event policy manual. [00:22:09] Very good. [00:22:10] I'll open it up for public comment. [00:22:12] Anyone wish to address Council on this? [00:22:25] Good evening. [00:22:26] My name is Steve Schudel. [00:22:27] I live at 4003 Rutter Way in New Port Richey, Florida, and representing Main Street on the [00:22:33] upcoming KFS Main Street Blast. [00:22:35] One of the things that we wanted to ask the Council to consider this evening is, you know, [00:22:39] over time we've always discussed that you wanted to treat all the event organizers and the [00:22:43] events fairly and equitably. [00:22:45] We wanted to point out that Wrap River Run and our event would be the only two events [00:22:49] affected in this fiscal year by these new guidelines. [00:22:53] So, we would, we think, have an undue burden in that others were able to plan their events [00:22:57] under the previous guidelines as we all understood them and implement them. [00:23:01] Now, we're in a position where the rules would change within 30 days of our event. [00:23:06] So, the thing that we would ask is if you institute the new guidelines, if you would [00:23:10] institute them in the new fiscal year, they would be fair and equitable for everyone. [00:23:15] The other thing, I did have a question about the restriction of tents on the inside [00:23:19] circle, and I know, I understand a restriction against staking tents on the inside circle. [00:23:25] I'm aware that there's water lines and things like that there, but I guess I'm confused [00:23:30] that if someone rents the park, if I understand it correctly, they would be able to put a [00:23:35] tent in there and be able to use the shelters individually. [00:23:38] But when a special event that's doing an event for the city uses it, they aren't [00:23:42] afforded the same privilege. [00:23:44] And I may not understand that correctly, but I was hoping to get some clarification [00:23:48] on that. [00:23:50] You know, my feeling would be that if you're able to rent it as a private citizen and [00:23:54] access all the facilities, that if you're an event coordinator that benefits the city, [00:23:58] that works in partnership with the city, especially at a group like Main Street, [00:24:02] that it might be fair and acceptable to allow those tents and things to be in there. [00:24:07] And I do understand that you don't want a clutter of tents on the inside and all those [00:24:11] other things, but sometimes from a major sponsor standpoint or from a VIP area for [00:24:17] sponsors that spend money to support these events, if you could imagine if your own [00:24:22] company, if you sponsored an event and you were behind the stage as opposed to in front [00:24:27] of the stage, there's a large difference for the sponsors that come to an event. [00:24:31] We sponsor numerous events and usually one of the things is a premier viewing [00:24:34] opportunity, premier seating. [00:24:36] So it just, I believe, could place another burden on event organizers that will have [00:24:41] a harder time attracting sponsor dollars. [00:24:45] So I can sit down and if I'm allowed to ask a question again if it's unclear, but [00:24:50] again, I just wanted clarification and again, ask you to potentially consider [00:24:54] implementing the new guidelines in the fiscal year going forward. [00:24:58] Thank you. [00:24:59] Thank you. [00:25:00] Let's hear any, well. [00:25:01] Could I ask just to touch base with what he's saying on the inner circle? [00:25:06] I don't, I personally have never seen someone rent a pavilion for a birthday party [00:25:10] and put a tent on the inner circle. [00:25:12] I have not either. [00:25:13] Okay, so I'm not sure where that reference came from. [00:25:16] And nobody really rents the park. [00:25:19] When we have a special event, they rent areas of the park. [00:25:24] Mostly they rent the stage and that's the only rental fee that we charge unless [00:25:28] they want to rent, you know, Peace Hall or something like that. [00:25:32] But we allow use of the park and then we tell them different areas where they can [00:25:38] set up, but the park is still open for the public. [00:25:41] Of course. [00:25:42] And we're not renting out the pavilions during events anymore, right? [00:25:45] We've made that clear. [00:25:46] It's a large event. [00:25:48] We are not. [00:25:49] We are blocking those out and we're absorbing that. [00:25:51] We're not assessing a fee to the event organizers for that. [00:25:55] And also, too, Wrap River Run would not have to adhere to anything tonight [00:26:00] because their event is Friday and Saturday. [00:26:04] And then I quite agree with Mr. Sherdell that possibly KIA Fest we would want to [00:26:10] start, you know, after that or give some notice because their event is the end [00:26:14] of this month. [00:26:15] I agree with that as well. [00:26:17] Anyone else wish to address council on this? [00:26:22] Seeing no one else come forward, bring it back to council. [00:26:25] I'd like to talk about some wording here. [00:26:28] Very good. [00:26:29] And me also. [00:26:30] So would I. [00:26:31] Go ahead, Councilman. [00:26:33] My knowledge of tents and I just want to get the wording straightened out. [00:26:37] Inspections will be conducted on all tents. [00:26:40] That's fine. [00:26:41] Whether they're pop-up, framed tents or staked tents. [00:26:45] Not weighted. [00:26:46] Weighted doesn't belong there because a weighted tent can be a pop-up tent or it [00:26:51] can be a framed tent. [00:26:53] But there's really just three categories of tents. [00:26:56] You know, there's the, like I said, there's the pop-up tent, the framed tent, [00:27:00] and the staked tent. [00:27:02] I believe the weighting is included because tents that if there was to be a [00:27:09] tent in the inside circle, then it would have to be weighted. [00:27:13] Correct. [00:27:14] I agree with that. [00:27:15] We're weighting either a pop-up tent or we're weighting a framed tent. [00:27:19] Correct. [00:27:20] So weighted tent is not a factor. [00:27:22] So actually staked should be removed. [00:27:25] No, no. [00:27:26] No, it says inspections will be conducted on all tents, whether they are [00:27:30] pop-up, framed tents, or staked tents. [00:27:34] Okay. [00:27:35] You know, how they're set up is a different story. [00:27:37] That's what the weighted part is. [00:27:38] That's a different story. [00:27:39] But what you are expecting are three types of tents. [00:27:42] Pop-up tent, a framed tent, or a staked tent. [00:27:45] You're not inspecting a weighted tent. [00:27:47] I'll have to get clarification from the fire department, but I believe they [00:27:52] would. [00:27:53] And it would be Adam. [00:27:54] I don't know if Chris is. [00:27:56] Adam is the representative on this event committee. [00:27:58] I can speak on the weighted part. [00:28:00] We ask that all tents be weighted. [00:28:03] There are certain parts of the park where they don't want stakes used. [00:28:07] And in that part of the park, we ask for weights. [00:28:10] Correct. [00:28:11] That's a type of way. [00:28:12] That's a way of putting up a tent. [00:28:14] It's not a type of tent. [00:28:15] Right. [00:28:16] The weights are an additional. [00:28:18] Yeah. [00:28:19] See, that's what I'm saying. [00:28:20] It's not a type of tent. [00:28:21] It's a way it's been erected. [00:28:23] That's why I'm saying. [00:28:25] I see what you're saying. [00:28:26] Yeah. [00:28:27] It's not a weighted tent. [00:28:28] It's a way that they put the tent up. [00:28:30] So even in here referring to staked, that's not how the tent is secured. [00:28:34] That's the type of tent. [00:28:35] Right. [00:28:36] It's a staked tent. [00:28:37] I understand. [00:28:38] So really weighted doesn't belong in this sentence. [00:28:40] I understand. [00:28:41] So that's the number one. [00:28:43] And then there's no fee charged for a pop-up tent. [00:28:47] But a pop-up tent is a type of tent. [00:28:50] Now there are 11-foot tents and there are 12-foot tents. [00:28:54] They're still pop-up tents. [00:28:55] And I don't really think that the fire department needs to go down and measure this one and say this one's, you know, 10 feet, you know, 11 inches or 10, 12 feet. [00:29:04] So I think just releasing that, that it's a pop-up tent. [00:29:07] We know what those are. [00:29:08] It's a category of tent. [00:29:10] It's not a staked tent or a framed tent. [00:29:13] It's a pop-up tent. [00:29:14] So we really don't need to say 10 by 10. [00:29:16] Okay. [00:29:17] We need to just eliminate that portion. [00:29:19] If it's a pop-up tent, you know, all pop-up tents have to be weighted. [00:29:23] We know that. [00:29:24] That's the 15-pound. [00:29:26] Per leg. [00:29:27] Per leg, yeah. [00:29:28] So just not to eliminate, just to make it, the people in the tent business, you know, it's more understandable. [00:29:36] Right. [00:29:37] Okay. [00:29:38] Councilman, are there 10 by 10 or smaller framed tents? [00:29:41] No. [00:29:42] No. [00:29:43] I mean, they're all pop-ups at that point. [00:29:47] You know a lot about tents. [00:29:50] Yeah, I know. [00:29:51] Deputy Mayor, I believe you're next. [00:29:53] Some dive bar on Main Street taught me. [00:29:55] The two words that stick out to me, and I've been pushing this ever since, [00:30:00] And so I've been on councils, family friendly. [00:30:02] This is not a fairground. [00:30:04] It's a city park that we're allowing vendors [00:30:06] to use for fundraising opportunities [00:30:08] and put on events, which hopefully [00:30:10] bring a community together. [00:30:12] So any vendor looking to put on an event in the park [00:30:16] should be aware that I want my nine-year-old [00:30:18] to feel as comfortable walking through that park [00:30:20] during an event as a 49-year-old. [00:30:23] So let's keep that in mind with everybody. [00:30:25] And I think for the most part, every event [00:30:27] that I can think of for the most part [00:30:29] has been family friendly. [00:30:30] I've seen some things during one of the events. [00:30:32] I won't mention any names. [00:30:33] But that I didn't really see as family friendly. [00:30:37] On that note, I don't see why we really [00:30:39] have to put no adult entertainment [00:30:41] businesses in these guidelines. [00:30:43] I mean, that's a given. [00:30:44] If you want to keep it in there, you can. [00:30:46] But just say family friendly events. [00:30:49] We did have one inquiry already. [00:30:52] And recently for an upcoming event this year, [00:30:55] I've already been asked from an event organizer [00:30:57] about having that type of establishment there. [00:31:01] Well, it's a silly thing to ask. [00:31:02] I mean, if you want to keep it in there, you can. [00:31:03] But I mean, it's a city park. [00:31:05] If you just want to have the audacity that [00:31:06] owns an adult entertainment, any kind of adult entertainment [00:31:09] business, to have anything going on in our park [00:31:11] is an asinine question, in my opinion. [00:31:14] I just don't think that verbiage needs to be in there. [00:31:17] If you put family friendly events or family events [00:31:20] geared towards family, whatever verbiage you want to use. [00:31:24] The reason the event that I thought of that [00:31:26] was an adult event was when one of the Rotaries, [00:31:30] was it the Rotary that had the wine tasting? [00:31:33] I mean, that's an adult event. [00:31:35] I mean, in my sense, no adult entertainment businesses. [00:31:39] I mean, that was an adult entertainment thing. [00:31:41] And they all have to come in front of us [00:31:43] anyhow to be approved. [00:31:45] Ever you want to leave it, I just don't think that verbiage [00:31:47] is needed. [00:31:47] I don't think it belongs there either. [00:31:49] I have some concerns about pulling it out, [00:31:51] because I am positive that at least one of our groups [00:31:55] that plans will wind up with the Pasco Pussycat [00:32:00] or some similar adult business displaying there. [00:32:04] And that I would not be in favor of that at all. [00:32:11] Councilman? [00:32:12] Yeah, I think a lot of times when [00:32:14] you have any kind of policy, you end up [00:32:17] having a section for definitions. [00:32:19] And so my first question is, what [00:32:21] is the definition of large? [00:32:22] Because as an example, when I went to the Simon and Garfunkel [00:32:32] city-sponsored event, man, it was a large event. [00:32:35] Everybody got there, and they brought their own chairs. [00:32:38] You really had no idea how many people were going to come. [00:32:43] But we didn't have to set up a park and ride. [00:32:45] And of course, that's a city recreation thing. [00:32:48] But it would seem large is a relative term, [00:32:52] depending on who you're talking to. [00:32:54] And if it's a large event, and I'll go to the Chasco Fiesta [00:32:58] and I'll full disclosure, I'm on the board of the Chasco Fiesta. [00:33:01] It's a volunteer board. [00:33:02] I don't get paid a dime to do it, but it's a great thing. [00:33:07] It's a large event. [00:33:09] And the discussion among that group [00:33:11] has been when they have the for sale tickets, [00:33:14] and they expect to sell out or have a large crowd, [00:33:18] that they want to be able to have a park and ride [00:33:21] so that those paying customers can be brought in [00:33:23] and feel comfortable. [00:33:24] And it helps to support the cause. [00:33:27] But I think that there are some nights [00:33:29] during the middle of the week when [00:33:31] they have free entertainment that also [00:33:34] create and have a large crowd. [00:33:37] So I don't know if it's crowd anticipation, [00:33:40] if it's a look after look after it after each event, [00:33:44] and say next year you're going to have to have park and ride [00:33:46] at this. [00:33:47] But I know that there's preparations being [00:33:49] made to do park and ride, because there's [00:33:51] an anticipation that this would be approved for, [00:33:55] and just to share it with you all, for the two big events, [00:34:00] the country concert and the rock concert. [00:34:03] And I think that's something that's probably [00:34:06] beneficial to everybody to do that. [00:34:10] So when I read it, there wasn't an anticipation [00:34:14] that park and ride would be run every day, [00:34:16] and you'd be running buses around the clock for days [00:34:19] that weren't particularly crowded. [00:34:21] And so is large a sufficient word, [00:34:24] or do we try to say events that incorporate a paid? [00:34:30] You can't do that, because some are free. [00:34:33] And then you got to 4th of July. [00:34:34] So I'm guessing in next year, you're [00:34:36] going to have to have a park and ride for that, too. [00:34:39] That's a great question. [00:34:40] Really, this was put in here, and it says requested. [00:34:44] It doesn't say that the event organizer [00:34:46] is required to provide that. [00:34:48] And it was really put in so that when [00:34:51] we're with the special event team, [00:34:53] that we can have that conversation [00:34:55] and talk to them about if your event surpasses [00:35:00] the parking capacity in the park and around the park, [00:35:03] then let's start talking about what are your options, what [00:35:06] are some solutions. [00:35:08] So it's just really to engage with the event organizers, [00:35:11] with city staff, of how we can better assist them [00:35:14] in having an event that people are easily or more easily [00:35:19] able to assess the park or be able to arrive at the park. [00:35:25] But you're absolutely correct. [00:35:26] Chasco Fiesta, for example, would not [00:35:29] be requested to provide that for every night, [00:35:32] but the couple nights, it's something [00:35:34] that we want to just start that dialogue with them. [00:35:38] I have one other thing. [00:35:39] Yeah. [00:35:40] Go ahead. [00:35:43] You've got this new line in here, [00:35:45] and I don't have any problem with 10-foot space [00:35:48] on either side of a food tent. [00:35:51] But I do have a problem when you're [00:35:53] talking about a 10-foot space with every three vendors. [00:35:57] And what really sticks in my mind [00:35:59] is coming in from the parking lot, [00:36:03] and you're coming down that, get in the park that one sidewalk. [00:36:06] They pack them in there. [00:36:07] That's like the main selling point. [00:36:09] And now you're taking away one quarter of their revenue [00:36:12] by saying, OK, every 30 feet, you've got to have a gap. [00:36:16] And I don't really see a reason. [00:36:18] I understand when you've got gas, [00:36:19] and you may be whatever way they're cooking the food, [00:36:22] I understand the space on either side of a food tent. [00:36:24] But I don't understand the space for every three anyhow. [00:36:28] Why not five? [00:36:29] Why not six? [00:36:30] Thank you very much. [00:36:31] I'm going to defer that one to the fire chief also. [00:36:33] I believe that is a fire department regulation. [00:36:35] I know that Adam had implemented that. [00:36:38] Not trying to pass it off, but. [00:36:42] That's a safety requirement that we put into place. [00:36:44] Mainly, if there's an emergency, and you [00:36:48] have tents stacked one after another, [00:36:52] there needs to be a space in between the third tent [00:36:56] to allow the flow of people to evacuate an area. [00:37:00] So in today's world, if a bomb goes off [00:37:03] or a shooting incident occurs in the middle of the park, [00:37:09] and you don't have room for people to evacuate, [00:37:12] that's a safety issue. [00:37:15] So there needs to be a flow path for people to get out. [00:37:18] Can it be four tents instead of three? [00:37:23] I mean, we're giving them back a little bit more of their revenue. [00:37:26] I'll have to get back with you on if it can be four or five. [00:37:29] I don't know. [00:37:30] But I know that we wanted to put, you know. [00:37:33] I'd like to maximize the space that these event planners are [00:37:38] trying to rent these spaces out. [00:37:40] And that sidewalk has always been packed, [00:37:43] you know, coming into the circle. [00:37:45] So I'd like to at least get it to four or five, [00:37:49] some other number besides three, because it [00:37:51] seems like you just took away a quarter of their revenue. [00:37:55] Councilman? [00:37:56] Well, I want to get to the golf carts, too. [00:37:58] But on the tail end of that, an evacuation plan, [00:38:02] it wouldn't make sense to have the space after the third vendor [00:38:05] that leads back to a bunch of wires and gas pumps, either. [00:38:08] So a practical evacuation plan is what [00:38:11] sounds like would be in order, what would make sense, [00:38:15] versus every two or three. [00:38:16] You might find that after the fourth one or the fifth one [00:38:18] is a more reliable corridor. [00:38:21] So maybe there is a little more wiggle room [00:38:24] than actually stating the number. [00:38:26] Excellent point. [00:38:27] Maybe you need to look at the park [00:38:30] and say, these places need to be open. [00:38:33] And just say, here's our corridors. [00:38:34] We need to keep them open. [00:38:36] Yeah. [00:38:36] Yeah, that's probably a better way of looking at it [00:38:39] than dictating tents and tent sizes. [00:38:44] Onto the golf carts, and back to the event of so much jealousy, [00:38:50] the Simon and Garfunkel concert that [00:38:52] was held with great success. [00:38:54] And congratulations to that. [00:38:55] It was a wonderful event. [00:38:57] It was just a week before the Chasco Fiesta. [00:39:01] And I was happy, because of the time of year [00:39:05] it was before the election, to wander around there [00:39:08] a little bit and to visit with many of our city residents [00:39:13] in our golf cart friendly community who [00:39:15] had created a virtual wall of golf carts in the back end, [00:39:19] turning that into a bit of a deal. [00:39:23] So in here, it talks about not having golf carts [00:39:26] by the organizers. [00:39:27] I tend to agree with you. [00:39:28] Golf carts are just an example for people [00:39:30] not to work and drive around, look like they're busy. [00:39:33] If you're not Al, who's got picking up chairs and running [00:39:38] wires around, there's a lot of misuse of golf carts, [00:39:42] I think, that has happened in the past. [00:39:44] And it tears up the ground. [00:39:46] But thinking about the public access [00:39:50] and whether or not, when, if ever, [00:39:53] golf carts are allowed in there, I [00:39:56] think there's a prohibition against golf carts in the park. [00:39:59] I'm not sure. [00:40:00] But if there isn't, maybe it does [00:40:04] make sense during these events to allow for a golf cart [00:40:08] parking area or something. [00:40:09] They made it themselves. [00:40:11] And it seemed to work to help to block off the back end. [00:40:14] I'm not sure. [00:40:15] It's a thought. [00:40:15] There is a prohibition against golf carts [00:40:20] being taken into the park. [00:40:21] And that particular prohibition is [00:40:23] honored more in the breach than the observance. [00:40:27] We have anywhere from 8 to 10 to 12 [00:40:31] or more golf carts that will routinely show up [00:40:36] at movies, concerts, et cetera. [00:40:40] They invariably park on the backside of the shade [00:40:47] structures. [00:40:48] They don't create any problem. [00:40:50] They don't bother anybody. [00:40:53] We probably ought to talk about that. [00:40:56] And here's the difference, is that there's [00:40:58] room in the park during our concerts. [00:41:00] We don't have to have vendors. [00:41:02] Our Parks and Recreation Department [00:41:04] can put on free movies, concert series, summer or winter [00:41:08] concert series. [00:41:09] Our residents love these things. [00:41:11] And we don't have to have the park packed with tents [00:41:14] and vendors to make money to afford [00:41:16] to be able to put the event on and create money [00:41:20] for the nonprofit. [00:41:20] So the people taking their golf carts [00:41:23] to watch movies in the park and to watch our concert series [00:41:27] are our city residents that pay city taxes [00:41:29] to maintain that park that went into the revitalization [00:41:33] and the revamping of the entire park. [00:41:35] So I personally am 100% for allowing our residents [00:41:39] to take their golf cart in Sims Park [00:41:41] and watch a movie sitting on the golf cart or watch a concert. [00:41:45] Now, once you have an event put on by an outside party [00:41:48] there's tents everywhere. [00:41:51] Sometimes you have to be careful just walking. [00:41:53] It's so busy. [00:41:54] Of course, we don't want, I don't [00:41:55] think our city residents just going through there [00:41:58] and taking up space. [00:41:59] But in my opinion, there's two totally, totally different [00:42:02] aspects we have to look at here. [00:42:04] Our events, we have room in the park. [00:42:06] There's no vendors, except maybe some people selling coffee [00:42:09] and ice cream and Dippin' Dots. [00:42:11] And it's our city residents that are taking the golf carts [00:42:14] there. [00:42:14] So I am personally 100% in favor. [00:42:17] I know you want to speak, Chief Hatchiman. [00:42:18] I'm very eager to hear what you have [00:42:20] to say of allowing our residents that are moving here, [00:42:23] some of them, because we have a cool golf cart ordinance [00:42:26] and we're creating this bridge to the waterfront in New Port Richey. [00:42:32] We're working diligently on the NPO board [00:42:33] and the county commissioners and the city of New Port Richey [00:42:36] in the park. [00:42:36] I think there's a time and a place for it. [00:42:38] If someone's out there ripping up grass and one thing, [00:42:40] that's a different story. [00:42:42] But I just think when we look at these events, [00:42:44] our city events are just totally different than the events [00:42:47] put on by vendors. [00:42:48] And like you said, I'm all for being [00:42:50] able to grab a bag of popcorn if you're on a golf cart [00:42:52] and pull up and watch a movie. [00:42:54] I think it's cool. [00:42:54] So what are your thoughts on that? [00:42:57] Councilman, I agree with you with 90% of what you're saying. [00:43:00] I bet. [00:43:02] I'll take it. [00:43:04] But there are those people, as Peter, [00:43:09] you were talking about, that are very courteous to other folks [00:43:14] in the park. [00:43:14] And they park in a group. [00:43:16] And I've witnessed that. [00:43:19] I wish everyone would do that. [00:43:21] But they don't. [00:43:22] We've responded to some instances [00:43:24] where someone has pulled in with a golf cart, [00:43:27] parked in front of a bunch of people [00:43:29] that were already there, set up on chairs or on blankets, [00:43:32] and then rudely just stayed in front of them, [00:43:36] blocked their view. [00:43:37] And that would lead to an altercation. [00:43:40] So maybe if there's a way to designate some areas [00:43:43] during that. [00:43:45] I think the group of the golf cart owners [00:43:48] have pretty well designated an area. [00:43:50] Maybe we just need to formally say, yeah, [00:43:52] this is a good spot for you guys to be. [00:43:54] Yeah. [00:43:55] But I agree with what you're saying. [00:43:55] And someone's set up there sitting on the ground. [00:43:57] Someone pulls up in a golf cart and parks. [00:43:58] I mean, that's ignorant. [00:43:59] I mean, I guess there's people out there that do that. [00:44:01] We got them. [00:44:02] I'm glad you got them. [00:44:03] But if I may follow up on your comment, [00:44:06] Councilman, this idea of parking spaces or parking area, [00:44:12] I think that circle was kind of claimed, so to speak, [00:44:15] by our city residents. [00:44:18] And these are recreation-sponsored events. [00:44:21] We could consider either giving folks [00:44:24] who are members of the recreation department [00:44:27] have recreation membership. [00:44:28] We could use membership as a way in order [00:44:33] to give them their sticker so that they [00:44:35] are able to use those spaces. [00:44:36] It gives them something beneficial [00:44:38] that, since they don't like to walk [00:44:41] and they like to ride in their golf carts, [00:44:42] it might be a good way to get some non-recreational folks [00:44:46] to join us. [00:44:47] But they got a permit already. [00:44:49] Yeah. [00:44:50] They already have a city permit. [00:44:51] Everyone that uses a golf cart has to have it registered. [00:44:55] Or they're in violation of the ordinance. [00:44:56] So much for making more money for the rec center. [00:44:58] But anyhow. [00:45:00] To the special event side of things, my thought was simply that you continue your ban on golf [00:45:08] carts throughout the park during special events and you're minimizing the use of them by the [00:45:14] event themselves, but that you do allow for those designated parking spaces to somehow [00:45:20] be utilized. [00:45:21] They kind of serve a little purpose, too. [00:45:23] They've created a bit of, with the police, with the fire chiefs, again, evacuation thing. [00:45:29] We might have to make sure there are corridors because you can't just ring the back of the [00:45:33] park with all that crowd there with golf carts. [00:45:36] But I think if it was well designed and the city participated, we'd get ahead of the complaints [00:45:42] that we're going to get because we'll chase people off when they're at an event in the [00:45:46] same place they've always been allowed to use when maybe we could even charge them for [00:45:51] the parking space when we have a paid event or just as a beneficial thing and it's another [00:45:59] way for the non-profit community to make a few bucks. [00:46:03] But I think making it regulated, having it in a specific area is more important than [00:46:08] separating whether it's a movie or, because we have free concerts every night during Chasco [00:46:14] that are free, you know, and that's when they come out. [00:46:17] No, my point being, though, the events that we put on the free concert, we don't have [00:46:22] the vendor tents. [00:46:23] So there's a lot more room in the park for golf carts. [00:46:25] Well, these golf carts are on the inside of that whole, the vendor tents all have to be [00:46:30] on the outside of the ring. [00:46:31] So there's no interference of the vendor tents with that. [00:46:34] Well, there may be. [00:46:35] I wouldn't agree with that. [00:46:36] But I think we're on the same page where we want golf carts when there's room for them. [00:46:40] But yeah. [00:46:41] Or in a reasonable way. [00:46:44] Yeah. [00:46:46] It's a, it's not really part of the special event policies, but I think if Public Works [00:46:54] and Parks and Rec can ID where we could put up some golf carts, park here, signs on the [00:47:04] back of a couple of those shade structures, that might solve the problem. [00:47:08] Actually, I think it's just the one that they tend to park behind. [00:47:12] The one on the southwest corner of the concert circle. [00:47:17] As a final comment, though, I think it is important that they know they can come down [00:47:20] the sidewalk, go to their parking space, and leave the park. [00:47:24] They're not for them to be driving around in the park. [00:47:26] So it's only a parking space. [00:47:28] It's not rights to ride your cart through the park. [00:47:33] I've got a few items that I want to bring up. [00:47:37] I did get an email from Kelly Hackman, who has not made it here tonight, pointing out [00:47:48] the issue that she has now had with multiple special events. [00:47:52] Not necessarily in the park, but in fact in front of her business. [00:47:58] And where she had access to her business basically blocked off and eliminated when [00:48:10] an event closes down that section of Grand Boulevard. [00:48:14] As I replied to Ms. Hackman, if somebody wants to have an event where they put tents up in [00:48:21] front of my business on a Saturday, knock yourself out. [00:48:26] We're not open then. [00:48:27] But the stretch of Grand between Main Street and I believe it's Missouri, two blocks to [00:48:33] the south, absolutely positively should not have tents put up on the sides, either on [00:48:43] the sidewalks or in the parking places there. [00:48:46] If an organizer is going to have a street party and they want to put tents down the [00:48:50] middle, knock yourself out. [00:48:53] But we've got to keep access. [00:48:55] If we want to have our retail businesses and our restaurants survive, they have got to [00:49:01] be able to have access when somebody's got a special event. [00:49:06] To use the Deputy Mayor's expression, it's a pet peeve of mine. [00:49:09] I think it is absolutely wrong when an event goes in and basically puts the local businesses [00:49:17] out of business for the weekend. [00:49:20] It is absolutely positively wrong. [00:49:22] It's not just been one special event that has done that over the years. [00:49:28] I say if they want to do it in front of my place, we're not open on Saturdays, so I don't [00:49:32] care. [00:49:33] I've talked to some of my neighbors. [00:49:35] They feel the same way, with the exception of Little Corona's, I don't think any of them [00:49:39] are open on Saturdays or Sundays, so it's like knock yourself out. [00:49:43] If they want to do something up on our end of Grand, go for it. [00:49:49] The other, and this addresses to what Mr. Sherdell was commenting about, the issue that [00:49:57] this came up was last Main Street Blast, or the one before, I don't recall, but the sponsor [00:50:11] area that was reserved took up almost a quarter of the concert circle. [00:50:17] It had multiple tents between the shade structure nearest to the stage and actually had stuff [00:50:26] that was extending out under the shade structures. [00:50:31] When this discussion came up at a work session, the comment was made by Mr. Gillis that he [00:50:39] should have the right to do that because it's a private party for his employees. [00:50:44] My initial reaction, quite frankly, was if it's a private party for his employees, why [00:50:49] is the city of New Port Richey spending thousands of dollars sponsoring it? [00:50:53] I don't think that's what Main Street would want us to adopt a policy on. [00:50:58] I think that's absolutely a mistake. [00:51:03] I have no problem with a small tent for the primary sponsor if they want to have a party [00:51:10] on one corner of the concert circle. [00:51:13] That's fine, but I think they've got to use a little bit of judgment and not take up essentially [00:51:19] a quarter of the entire concert circle for the sponsor. [00:51:25] That's just not, it doesn't make sense. [00:51:31] That's where I stand on it. [00:51:36] Definitely we don't want to have, I don't believe they should be under the shade structures. [00:51:43] I can't think of any good reason why they should be. [00:51:45] If you allow them to put a couple tents, even large size tents up on the perimeter of the [00:51:52] inside of the concert circle, there's plenty of room for any reasonable number of VIPs [00:52:01] to be sitting there. [00:52:03] Plus you've got VIP seating, I think at Chasco, at all of the Main Street events I can think [00:52:10] of, I can't speak for Bike Fest, but I think maybe they did too, had some special seating [00:52:17] right up front. [00:52:18] Now she's shaking her head no. [00:52:21] But at least Chasco and the Main Street events, I know they've had VIP seating in the front [00:52:25] few rows. [00:52:27] That's not a problem either, because it's not blocking the view and it's not taking [00:52:30] up space for the folks that, at least reportedly, they're trying to get to come in to watch [00:52:37] the concert. [00:52:40] I'd like to propose that we gave some ideas to fix this up and can see it in two weeks [00:52:47] and give the two events left in the rest of this calendar year the freedom that they've [00:52:55] had before. [00:52:56] Yeah, I'm with you on that. [00:52:58] There's one other paragraph I'd like to touch on briefly before we move on, which is the [00:53:02] supply trailers and vehicles for vendors. [00:53:05] Thank you. [00:53:06] I don't know if it might be appropriate to try to get the logistics, I see Al is here [00:53:11] from the Chasco, he's willing to talk about it, but I know it's been an issue of some [00:53:15] discussion. [00:53:16] I would agree, we don't need a whole bunch of trailers and heavy things sitting around [00:53:21] and junking up the place, but there are some, maybe we can just have, Al, if it's okay with [00:53:29] you, could we get some commentary or are you ready, do you think you've got it? [00:53:34] I think I'm on the same wave with you. [00:53:40] There are a couple of specific, generally, you don't need to have the supply trailers [00:53:45] strewn all over the park. [00:53:47] There are a couple of specific exceptions I can think of where it makes incredible sense [00:53:53] to have the supply equipment there. [00:53:57] One is during Chasco when you've got the Sertoma barbecue, I can't imagine them doing that [00:54:04] without having a supply truck pretty doggone close. [00:54:09] The other one, and Mr. Chaudel will probably correct me if I screw up the one, but I think [00:54:15] it was the Shark Bites vendor, it was the biggest of the seafood vendors, and there [00:54:21] was an issue at SeaFest this last time because they were told they had to move the trailer [00:54:27] out and they really did need to, because of the volume of food they were putting out, [00:54:32] they really did need to have the trailer right in where they could get to it. [00:54:37] So with those type exceptions, I think, fine, the general concept should be, yeah, don't [00:54:41] do it, but. [00:54:42] And Publix comes with their big ice trailer, you know, I mean, that's basically the system. [00:54:47] Yeah, but the beer truck, we need the beer truck. [00:54:51] We didn't say anything about the beer trucks, so. [00:54:54] So I don't know about the language of it, but maybe, as Mr. Davis, I just wanted to [00:54:58] raise the issue and perhaps in two weeks there's some plan to talk with some of the event sponsors [00:55:04] again and see if there's any language that needs to be tweaked on that. [00:55:10] I agree with the concept, you know. [00:55:12] Could we do that and bring it back in, too? [00:55:14] Yes, sir, Mr. Mayor. [00:55:16] That would be helpful. [00:55:17] And also, can we address the, whether it's event to event, as far as the alcohol versus [00:55:24] just beer, and to event, or do we have to change the ordinance? [00:55:30] If we have to change the ordinance, it would relate to all special events. [00:55:36] We can't give an exception to an ordinance. [00:55:40] Bring back a suggestion on how we deal with that. [00:55:43] If you want to. [00:55:44] I'll make it clear, though. [00:55:45] I am not in favor of liquor in the park, any event. [00:55:49] Not in favor of it. [00:55:50] Would never vote for it. [00:55:51] I appreciate you not holding a work session over that one item and bringing it to just [00:55:56] an agenda item, but 100% up front, not in favor of it. [00:56:00] Will not vote for it. [00:56:01] Any event. [00:56:02] Doesn't belong there. [00:56:03] And I absolutely concur. [00:56:06] There's enough places downtown if somebody wants hard liquor, they can go and buy a drink. [00:56:11] We do not need that in the park. [00:56:14] Quite frankly, I was one of the people who, back in the day, supported allowing the sale [00:56:20] of the alcohol for the non-profits. [00:56:24] I think that may, in hindsight, have been one of the worst decisions we ever made. [00:56:30] I don't believe it has improved anything. [00:56:37] So absolutely not in favor of allowing hard liquor in the park. [00:56:41] I think that goes totally against the family-friendly atmosphere that we're trying to promote in [00:56:48] the parks. [00:56:54] Anything else? [00:56:55] In that case, I'll move to table this for two weeks. [00:57:02] Thank you. [00:57:03] Thank you.
This text was generated automatically from the meeting video. It is not a verbatim or official record. For exact wording, consult the video or the city clerk.
- 9.e
Three Minute Report: Fire Department
The Fire Chief delivered a three-minute report covering department activity since the last report, including 2,800+ incidents, 135 fire inspections, 53 plan reviews, 3,900+ training hours, a new pre-plan program with IT, hiring of new firefighters, community events participation, and recognition of Firefighter of the Year Evan DeVore. The Chief also noted hurricane season preparedness updates following lessons learned from Hurricane Irma.
Gulf High SchoolGulf Middle SchoolRichey ElementaryBill BilirakisEvan DeVore12th Congressional District First Responder of the YearChasco FiestaCounty EOC coordinationHurricane IrmaHurricane season preparednessISO facility training compliancePre-plan programProm PromiseResidential Rental Inspection ProgramThree Minute Report: Fire Department▶ Jump to 57:04 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors
[00:57:04] Next, a three-minute report. [00:57:06] Fire Department. [00:57:07] Chief. [00:57:08] Thank you, Mayor and Council. [00:57:11] Since my last report, the Fire Department has had the following activity. [00:57:15] We've responded to over 2,800 incidents, performed 135 fire inspections, including [00:57:21] state inspections of all ALFs, schools, and daycares in the city. [00:57:26] We've also provided fire extinguisher training for some of the facility staff as well. [00:57:31] We've conducted 53 plan reviews, completed over 3,900 hours of training, including phase [00:57:38] one of level three hands-on training with surrounding fire departments, which gives [00:57:44] us compliance with one of the ISO requirements for facility training that we lacked previously. [00:57:51] We're actively building a pre-plan program with IT that stores vital information, as [00:57:57] well as Google Earth pictures of special hazard occupancies in the city that's accessible [00:58:04] to the incident commander on their MDT. [00:58:06] So literally, at the incident commander's fingertips, they will have vital information [00:58:11] that they can access on their computer while they're commanding a scene that will give [00:58:17] them pictures of the outside of the structure, sketches of the inside of the structure, and [00:58:22] locations of hazards and occupancies. [00:58:27] We hired one new full-time firefighter and four part-time firefighters. [00:58:33] The residential rental inspection program overall has had good compliance with only [00:58:37] a small number of repeat violators that have been turned over to code enforcement. [00:58:44] We have been involved in numerous community events, including Chasco Fiesta, Gulf Middle [00:58:50] Schools Job Shadow Day, Ritchie Elementary County Fair, and the Gulf High Schools Prom [00:58:56] Promise. [00:58:58] We partnered with numerous other public safety agencies. [00:59:01] If you're not familiar with this event, it's a mock auto accident that they put on right [00:59:07] during prom time. [00:59:10] It was a mock accident on the football field and all the student body observed the fire [00:59:15] department cutting apart the cars with the jaws alive. [00:59:18] They observed the police department doing a field sobriety test of one of the student [00:59:23] drivers that was obviously impaired. [00:59:27] There was a helicopter that landed and packaged a critically injured patient for air transport. [00:59:37] And then at the end, a funeral home hearse showed up for a fatality. [00:59:44] So these kind of events hopefully leave a lasting impact on our students and it sends [00:59:50] a clear message that making good choices is important and can have a lifelong impact. [00:59:57] Our own Firefighter of the Year, Evan DeVore, was [01:00:00] recently recognized at the 12th Congressional District's First Responder of the Year event [01:00:04] hosted by Congressman Bill Arrakis, along with other neighboring agency award recipients. [01:00:11] And in closing, June 1st starts hurricane season, which reminds us all to be weather [01:00:16] aware and prepare our homes and families appropriately and have a plan. Keep an eye on the numerous [01:00:22] messaging outlets from the City and the Fire Department for updates throughout the season. [01:00:28] City staff has met with the County EOC staff and discussed lessons learned from Hurricane [01:00:32] Irma, and the current city disaster plan is being combed through and updated accordingly. [01:00:38] That concludes my report. [01:00:40] Thank you. Any questions for the Chief?
This text was generated automatically from the meeting video. It is not a verbatim or official record. For exact wording, consult the video or the city clerk.
- 10Communications▶ 1:00:42
- 11Adjournment▶ 1:19:21