First readings advanced a firefighters' pension 13th check ordinance (2020-2181) and repeal of eCarve LLC's old conditional use at 5780 Main Street (2020-2180).
22 items on the agenda · 13 decisions recorded
On the agenda
- 1Call to Order – Roll Call▶ 0:00
- 2
Pledge of Allegiance
Pledge of Allegiance recited followed by a moment of silence in honor of servicemen and women.
▶ Jump to 0:26 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors
[00:00:30] And I would ask if you would all stand and remain standing for a moment of silence afterwards [00:00:35] in honor of our servicemen and women at home and abroad. [00:00:40] I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for [00:00:55] which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
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.
- 3
Moment of Silence
The Mayor thanked the Scouts for leading the pledge and noted his own role as a volunteer scout leader and unit commissioner with the Tampa Bay Area District Council.
▶ Jump to 1:08 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors
[00:01:10] Thank you. [00:01:11] You may be seated. [00:01:12] I'd like to thank the Scouts for coming up and doing that. [00:01:17] For those of you who may or may not know, I am a volunteer scout leader as well. [00:01:26] I'm a unit commissioner with the Tampa Bay Area District Council.
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.
- 4
Approval of February 4, 2020 Regular Meeting Minutes
approvedCouncil approved the minutes from the February 4, 2020 regular meeting.
- motion:Approve the February 4, 2020 regular meeting minutes. (passed)
▶ Jump to 1:32 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors
[00:01:33] Next is the approval of the February 4th regular meeting minutes. [00:01:37] Move for approval. [00:01:38] Second? [00:01:39] I'll second it. [00:01:40] Okay. [00:01:41] Thank you. [00:01:42] We have a motion to second. [00:01:43] Hearing no discussion, all those in favor, please signify by saying aye. [00:01:51] Aye. [00:01:52] Opposed? [00:01:53] Like? [00:01:54] Signed? [00:01:55] Motion passes.
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.
- 5
Introduction of New Police Officers: Joaquin Gonzalez-Burgos and Brian Corrales
Lieutenant Lauren Latona, on behalf of Chief Bogart, formally introduced two new police officers to the council: Officer Joaquin Gonzalez-Burgos, who started in November 2019, and Officer Brian Corrales, who started in January 2020. Both graduated from the Pasco-Hernando State College police academy in April 2019.
Pasco-Hernando State CollegeBogartBrian CorralesDel DeschampsJoaquin Gonzalez-BurgosLauren LatonaNew Port Richey Police Department▶ Jump to 1:56 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors
[00:01:56] Next, we have introduction of new police officers. [00:01:57] Thank you, Mr. Mayor. [00:01:58] We have some seasoned officers in attendance this evening as well as some mid-career officers [00:02:05] all here to welcome into their ranks two new police officers. [00:02:12] I will ask Lieutenant Latona to come up for a formal introduction of Joaquin Gonzalez-Burgos [00:02:20] and Brian Corrales. [00:02:29] Good evening. [00:02:30] For those of you that don't know me, I'm Lieutenant Lauren Latona and I'm here on behalf of Chief [00:02:33] Bogart. [00:02:34] Unfortunately, Chief Bogart is unable to attend. [00:02:37] I know he takes great pride in introducing his newest officers to the council and the [00:02:42] citizens of New Port Richey. [00:02:44] Both of these officers are new to law enforcement and graduated the same police academy class [00:02:48] out of Pasco-Hernando State College in April of 2019. [00:02:52] Both of these officers have previously been sworn in so they could hit the ground running [00:02:56] with their training. [00:02:58] Officer Joaquin Gonzalez-Burgos started with the department in November of 2019 and Officer [00:03:04] Brian Corrales started in January of 2020. [00:03:08] We're really excited to have them come aboard and it's my honor to welcome them to our family. [00:03:15] Lieutenant, did we get some pictures with the officers? [00:03:25] Not yet. [00:03:26] Okay, we should probably do that. [00:03:27] Just turn around. [00:03:28] Who's out there taking pictures? [00:03:29] Come on up, Sergeant. [00:03:39] Thank you. [00:03:41] They wouldn't put their arms around Kim. [00:03:48] Thank you. [00:03:53] Thank you. [00:03:55] It was good, though. [00:03:58] Maybe we could have the other officers join everybody up front. [00:04:01] Thank you. [00:04:02] Herb Schott. [00:04:03] Congratulations. [00:04:04] Congratulations. [00:04:05] Congratulations. [00:04:06] Good. [00:04:07] Good to see you. [00:04:08] Congratulations. [00:04:09] Congratulations. [00:04:10] Good. [00:04:11] Congratulations. [00:04:12] Good to see you. [00:04:19] Good. [00:04:21] Congratulations. [00:04:23] Good. [00:04:25] Good to see you. [00:04:31] Congratulations. [00:04:33] Good. [00:04:35] Congratulations. [00:04:37] Good. [00:04:39] Good to see you. [00:04:41] Congratulations. [00:04:44] Thank you. [00:04:49] Next, I'd like to ask our Environmental Committee Chairman, Mr. Del Deschamps, to come up and
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.
- 6
You arrived here from a search for “Okra Occasion” — transcript expanded below
Presentation of Environmental Committee Annual Report
discussedDel Deschamps presented the Environmental Committee's Annual Report covering 2018-2019 activities, including Arbor Day, seasonal festivals, Boy Scout bat houses at Gray Preserve, and fertilizer guidance. The committee presented 11 recommendations for Council consideration including 100% renewable energy by 2030, a part-time garden facilitator, certified arborist, non-toxic community designation, King Tide Traveling Exhibit, allowing apiaries, discouraging single-use plastics, recycling containers downtown, opposition to Ridge Road extension, a Grand Boulevard bike trail, and 50th Earth Day programming. No formal action was taken; the report was received and discussed.
5914 Central AvenueGrand BoulevardGray PreserveNebraska and Main StreetSims ParkBoy ScoutsAltmanBarbara SuloBarrett DoeChopperDavisDel DeschampsJohn KaneJohn TietzJudyLinda BlakeMurphyPenelope AndersonRex PhelpsRose Moore100% Renewable Energy by 2030 proposalAlleys recommendationApiaries proposalArbor DayCertified arborist proposalCollards FestivalEarth Day 50th anniversaryEnvironmental Committee Annual Report 2018-2019Fruit Tree PeninsulaGrand Boulevard bike trail to Port RicheyKing Tide Traveling ExhibitLoquat FestivalNon-toxic community proposalOkra OccasionPart-time garden facilitator proposalRidge Road Extension oppositionSingle-use plastic and styrofoam discouragementTasty TuesdayUrban Agriculture Ordinance▶ Jump to 4:53 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors
[00:04:54] make a presentation on the Environmental Committee Annual Report. [00:04:57] Thank you, Mayor. [00:04:59] Thank you so much. [00:05:03] John Tietz, who has our PowerPoint for us. [00:05:07] I don't see him here. [00:05:08] He actually loaded it, but I don't see Mr. Tietz yet. [00:05:11] John was going to run it. [00:05:13] Okay. [00:05:14] Nathan can help. [00:05:16] We'll see what we can do with it. [00:05:18] We'll kind of do it ad hoc. [00:05:20] I just want to ask the Mayor, if he would, I'm going to take one minute out of my time. [00:05:24] Don't start the clock. [00:05:26] I've got a certificate that I was going to try to get you before the meeting today. [00:05:30] You'll see where he signed it for. [00:05:32] I will take care of that. [00:05:34] Okay. [00:05:35] Great. [00:05:38] Welcome, everyone, to our presentation. [00:05:42] This is the Annual Report of the City of New Port Richey Environmental Committee, [00:05:47] a chartered committee of the city. [00:05:51] This report covers all of 2019 and a little bit of 2018. [00:05:57] I appreciate the time being given us by the Mayor, City Council, our City Manager, staff, [00:06:04] and certainly recognize those in the audience that are here for our report tonight. [00:06:09] Let me begin by noting what we do. [00:06:12] I guess this would be the next slide. [00:06:14] There you go. [00:06:15] The Environmental Committee of the City of New Port Richey seeks to develop ecological understanding [00:06:21] and advance sustainability for the benefit of the city and its residents. [00:06:24] The committee is an advisory committee. [00:06:27] We make recommendations. [00:06:28] We make no decisions on our own. [00:06:30] We simply bring forward material for the city council to deliberate on and hopefully to take action on. [00:06:36] The committee relies chiefly on volunteer support and contributions from members and friends of the committee. [00:06:42] Meetings of the committee occur monthly. [00:06:44] They are open to the public with special meetings called from time to time. [00:06:48] I think there's another slide that may come up with some of this narrative. [00:06:51] The committee works closely with the city staff on projects and planning related to ecological health of New Port Richey, [00:06:58] advancing sustainability, and improving resilience within the city. [00:07:02] The committee serves as the arbor board of the city and oversees [00:07:06] and administers the city's urban agriculture ordinance. [00:07:10] It endorses and supports various events consistent with its mission. [00:07:14] It advises the city council on ecological issues and recommends policies [00:07:19] and programs to restore the city's ecological health and perhaps even to advance it. [00:07:26] This report covers activities for the second half of 2018-2019. [00:07:31] I believe the slide before had the names of the members of the committee. [00:07:36] We want to recognize them. [00:07:37] A number of them are here. [00:07:38] I'm Del Deschamps. [00:07:39] You all know who I am. [00:07:40] Rose Moore is the vice chair. [00:07:42] Our acting secretary right now is Linda Blake. [00:07:45] I don't know if Linda is here tonight. [00:07:47] I don't see her. [00:07:48] Barbara Sulo is a member. [00:07:50] I want to recognize Barbara Sulo who is here. [00:07:52] I also want to recognize Rex Phelps who is here. [00:07:55] I want to recognize Penelope Anderson who is here. [00:07:57] I want to recognize John Kane who is here. [00:08:00] These are the members of our committee. [00:08:02] At the present time, we have no alternate, although we would like to have one. [00:08:07] We do want to note that John Tietz, who I was affirming was going to run the PowerPoint for us tonight [00:08:13] and has for so many years, served as secretary during 2018-2019. [00:08:20] He also has served on the committee beginning in 2013. [00:08:25] He has a long tenure on the committee and has been so helpful as our secretary [00:08:30] and so instrumental in leadership on the committee advancing our proposals. [00:08:35] I do want to note the committee has requested that non-city residents be allowed to serve on this committee, [00:08:42] which is now the case with Mr. Tietz, who has moved outside of the city limits. [00:08:46] We do note that there are two other city committees or boards that allow for non-city residents to serve. [00:08:56] We have made a request that that also be the case for our committee. [00:08:59] Of course, it's the pleasure of the council. [00:09:02] Looking at our events and projects, I want to very briefly go over. [00:09:06] Let me ask, did you all get the longer form of the report or just the executive summary? [00:09:12] They received the longer form of the report. [00:09:14] Okay, great. [00:09:15] So did you get a chance to look at it, Matt? [00:09:18] Yes. [00:09:19] You guys had a chance to read it over so you have the details. [00:09:21] I just want to be sure because I know a lot of time and material. [00:09:23] Are you a professor or a teacher? [00:09:25] Yes, I am serving in that capacity today, this evening, Mr. Altman, so you'll be graded on this later. [00:09:32] There will be a quiz with a written part as well, written response part. [00:09:37] I want to highlight a few of these events. [00:09:40] I'm not going to go through the whole list since you have carefully read it [00:09:43] and many of you are probably already aware of it, Mr. Davis. [00:09:46] We have hosted the 30th annual Arbor Day celebration. [00:09:50] That was in 2019 and already we've done the one for 2020. [00:09:57] This makes us a city with, yes? [00:10:00] Mr. Teets has joined the group. [00:10:02] Wow, he's here. [00:10:03] Well, good, Mr. Teets. [00:10:05] Grand entrance there, brother. [00:10:08] I would like to take just a moment and present Mr. Teets with that document if we could, Mayor, just for a moment. [00:10:22] Sorry for the theatrics involved in this, everyone, but it's a nice little touch, I think. [00:10:30] Thank you, Mayor. [00:10:31] Jonathan Teets, we want to present you with this certificate of appreciation [00:10:35] for your many years of service to the Environmental Committee, both as our secretary [00:10:41] but also as really our master of the PowerPoint and great aid in doing our annual report. [00:10:51] So, John, here's a certificate of appreciation for your work so everyone can see it. [00:10:55] Perhaps you can see it here at home. [00:10:57] And also greatly treasured, your actual card that we have at the Environmental Committee meeting. [00:11:04] So, Mr. Teets, if you want to acknowledge that, that would be great. [00:11:07] Thank you. [00:11:08] You get to work with the PowerPoint presentation. [00:11:16] We did okay without you, but it will be a little bit better now. [00:11:19] Thank you, City Manager. [00:11:21] We host a lot of seasonal events here. [00:11:25] We have the Loquat Festival, the Okra Occasion, the Collards Festival. [00:11:29] There's no other city of this size or even larger that does as much as we do [00:11:34] in terms of recognizing seasonal agriculture. [00:11:37] There is no other city large or small in this state that does nearly as much as what we do, [00:11:41] and that's because of the support of the Environmental Committee. [00:11:44] A couple of the other points, we noticed the Boy Scouts are here tonight. [00:11:47] That's great. [00:11:48] We supported the Boy Scout Merit Badge Project to establish bat houses at Gray Preserve, [00:11:52] and I've heard that there are bats in some of the houses now, so that's a tremendous achievement. [00:11:57] We drafted language clarifying the application of fertilizer, [00:12:00] which is going to be published in The Bridge, I think, coming up in one of the next issues soon. [00:12:06] Not in the next issue. [00:12:07] Not in the next issue, but soon, soon, coming up for application. [00:12:10] And in addition to that, we've offered advisory opinions on a number of projects [00:12:15] that have been brought to us by the City Council itself. [00:12:18] That being said, we want to look ahead, so we're going to take a look at our recommendations. [00:12:23] We have 11 proposals. [00:12:24] I'm not going to go through all of them in detail. [00:12:26] You have the report that you've carefully read, [00:12:28] and we'll note that these proposals tie in with economic, ecological, cultural, public safety, [00:12:36] quality of life, points of pride, and regional leadership. [00:12:41] And I would dare say that every one of them actually engages those topics. [00:12:47] A case can be made for each and every one of these proposals going forward. [00:12:51] So we'll look at our first one, which is a commitment to pursue 100% renewable energy by 2030. [00:12:57] The document that you have has more detail on it as well as an explanation for it. [00:13:02] The committee does recommend this as both a public policy issue, [00:13:07] but also clearly a tremendous environmental benefit for the city [00:13:11] and also a point of pride and great press for the city as well. [00:13:15] So we strongly recommend pursuing this, and you'll also notice in your packet, [00:13:19] I don't think it's up on the screen, a number of links, [00:13:24] hot links to various articles that support the way that this can be done. [00:13:29] We encourage the city council to take a look at it and perhaps take action on it. [00:13:32] Number two is a proposal that we've brought forth for several years now, [00:13:37] which is to have a position of a part-time garden facilitator. [00:13:42] As you know, we have an urban agriculture ordinance in the city, [00:13:45] which has proven to be quite successful. [00:13:48] We think that it can be even more successful if we are able to have a staff member [00:13:53] or perhaps a contract position that would facilitate the growth of urban agriculture [00:13:59] as well as assist folks that want to grow fruits and vegetables in their own yards. [00:14:04] And as you know, this is one of the points of pride for the city as well. [00:14:07] So we strongly recommend that and strongly encourage the city taking action on it. [00:14:12] A third item is the proposal for a certified arborist, [00:14:16] and the good news is we just heard at our recent meeting that our own Barrett Doe, [00:14:21] our staff liaison who does such an excellent job, [00:14:23] is actually going to be pursuing that position according to the report that he gave to us. [00:14:28] So that's a point of pride, and you can check that one off. [00:14:30] That won't be on the quiz. [00:14:33] Number four, we proposed this before we want to bring it back again, [00:14:38] that the city become a non-toxic community. [00:14:41] I'll let you read the details on that. [00:14:43] I presented it last year in perhaps too much detail. [00:14:46] The narrative is in the text. [00:14:48] It's a strong point. [00:14:49] It's a good point. [00:14:50] It's something that will improve the environment, [00:14:52] but it will also improve the profile of the city both in the Tampa Bay area as well as statewide. [00:15:00] Number five is the King Tide Traveling Exhibit. [00:15:04] This ties in with the resiliency efforts that are occurring around the Tampa Bay area, [00:15:09] and we've taken leadership in actually bringing the King Tide Traveling Exhibit in to the area. [00:15:15] You may look at the narrative in your packet that tells about it, [00:15:20] but we've already taken action on this, and the King Tide Exhibit will be part of our Earth Day [00:15:27] celebration. So we'll have the King Tide Exhibit here, and I believe we're going to have it at [00:15:32] City Hall, it'll be at the library, and there'll actually be a couple of local businesses that [00:15:36] will have the King Tide Exhibit as well. This is what the city can do when the city takes [00:15:41] initiative and then engages other members of the community, especially businesses, then it [00:15:47] amplifies the work that's being done. This is what the committee does, this is what we encourage [00:15:51] the council to do as well. Sixth point is to allow apiaries in appropriate locations in the city. [00:15:57] This creates an opportunity for beekeepers to use public land and gardens to create hives at [00:16:02] certain times of the year when different plants are blooming, such as mangroves and fruit trees. [00:16:08] Now, there may well be some concerns that are raised about the idea of having apiaries in the [00:16:14] city. Just as a note, the placement of apiaries, the placement of beehives, is under the guidance [00:16:22] of the state of Florida. There could be no hives placed anywhere in the city or elsewhere without [00:16:28] the approval of the state of Florida. That would be a project that would work in conjunction with [00:16:33] the state of Florida as well as local beekeepers. I'm sure it need not be noted that bee populations [00:16:40] around the world are in precipitous decline. This is a way of helping them. Number seven, [00:16:46] often discussed and often publicized, number seven is the discourage of single-use plastic [00:16:54] and styrofoam. I thought those were marshmallows at first, but I think we all can readily identify [00:16:59] them as the styrofoam, I think, what are they called? Peanuts. Not edible. We want to continue [00:17:07] to stay on this issue to the best of our ability, and I want to thank the city council and the city [00:17:12] manager for the letter that was sent to the state regarding opposition to the preemption of home [00:17:19] rule on plastic usage here in the city of New Port Richey, but around the state as well. So, good [00:17:25] job council on that. We want to stay on it, and rather than proposing an outright ban, we want to [00:17:32] perhaps suggest a way of discouraging the use of plastic and perhaps offering incentives [00:17:37] to move away from them, and we'd be happy to offer suggestions on how that could be done. [00:17:45] We want to suggest recycling containers in the downtown area, at least 10, and I do want to [00:17:52] note that there are recycling containers already there, but we're suggesting a higher quality [00:17:58] multi-use recycling container that would be not just for plastic, but also for cans, also for [00:18:08] also for waste product as well, so that you have one site where each recyclable item can be placed [00:18:15] rather than a single-use recycling container, which ends up becoming a garbage can for everything. So, [00:18:21] this is our suggestion number eight. Number nine, we suggest the adoption of a resolution in [00:18:27] opposition to the Ridge Road extension. I realize the controversy that may be associated with this, [00:18:32] but the committee thought that this was an important stand that we should take, [00:18:36] and I do realize that this one probably of all the proposals may not have much support on the [00:18:40] council, but in the interest of the environment and the work of the committee, we do think that [00:18:44] it's responsible to do so, and we suggest that the intrusion of mechanized transportation, cars, [00:18:50] trucks, buses, on a continual and routine basis will expose this pristine sector of true Florida [00:18:57] to fossil fuel exhausts, other chemical wastes, industrial food waste products, [00:19:02] plastics, styrofoams, beverage cans, bottles, packaging materials, and so on, [00:19:08] and various other manufactured products that persons throw from vehicles. [00:19:12] The loss of resident animals in this wilderness preserve will be significant and tragic. [00:19:18] All these elements damage not only this fragile and once pristine ecosystem, [00:19:22] but also the reputation and cultural profile surrounding communities of which New Port Richey is the largest, most well-known city, and our research reveals that references to the [00:19:33] Ridge Road extension typically carries a New Port Richey reference source, and we believe that this [00:19:38] is not a point of pride for the city. So this is brought forward despite the recognition that there [00:19:43] may be very little support for it, but nonetheless, it is brought forward as what we believe is a [00:19:48] strong, responsible action on behalf of the environment. Finally, number, or rather number [00:19:52] 10, to establish a bike trail from Grand Boulevard from Sims Park to the New Port Richey [00:19:59] line. This would be another very positive environmental step. It also would be a point [00:20:04] of pride for the city. It would reduce vehicular traffic and also be a great way for folks to get [00:20:09] exercise in a beautiful environmental area. Finally, number 11, you can check this one off [00:20:15] too, because we've already begun taking action on this, which is programming for the fifth [00:20:21] anniversary of Earth Day. Earth Day has, in recent years, I believe, surprisingly been overlooked [00:20:30] despite the rise of the challenges related to global heating. This is a way for not just our [00:20:35] city, but other cities to recognize it, and I do want to call attention to a number of events that [00:20:39] we already have built into programming that will begin at the end of March and run through April [00:20:45] with films, readings, lectures, and presentations by environmental groups, so stay tuned for that. [00:20:52] That completes our presentation. Thank you for bearing with me. I hope it was not too uninteresting [00:20:59] to you, and I welcome any questions that you may have either now or in the future. Mayor, I'll turn [00:21:05] to you first. Thank you. Any questions? I don't really have a question, so I just want to thank [00:21:09] your team or your committee. I mean, that's a lot of work, and you've looked at the [00:21:14] city in a total way, in very, you know, thorough way of environmentally, and I appreciate that very much. [00:21:25] Thank you, Chopper, and also thank you for the years of service here on city council, and thank [00:21:33] you to all the council members that serve here. It's hard work. It's tough doing this, and I, for one, [00:21:39] appreciate it very much. I think I speak for the committee as well, and that's also to kind of [00:21:43] butter you up so that you may take action on some of these proposals that we brought forward, okay? [00:21:49] Thank you. Mr. Murphy, anything? Yeah, no, thank you for everything you do, all the hard work on this, and [00:21:54] especially appreciate the fine vegetables and things you grow in the garden. You've sampled [00:21:59] some of those, I believe, have you not, Mr. Murphy? Two of them. He got them in the middle of the night, too. [00:22:05] So he's the one. All these years. Appreciate that, definitely. [00:22:14] Two things. One, I noticed that the loquats are growing at the apex there of Nebraska and [00:22:21] Main Street. The Fruit Tree Peninsula, yeah. They are, there's quite a bunch of them, and they're only ripe [00:22:28] for a week or two weeks or however long, at least my recollection. That's right. [00:22:32] What are the chances, what happens to that ripe fruit, and what are the chances you can turn [00:22:37] that into a fruit giveaway at one of your Tasty Tuesdays or something and actually see some [00:22:43] attention to it? I think the loquats, I don't know for sure, but I think the loquats are showing up [00:22:49] at Tasty Tuesday right now. Now, I don't know if we have an active plan to harvest the loquats [00:22:54] and get them to Tasty Tuesday, but the person that's most responsible for that is Penelope, [00:23:00] and Penelope, you heard what Councilman Altman said, so maybe we can get some of those loquats. [00:23:06] Penelope is responsible for maintaining the Fruit Tree Peninsula along with the help of Barrett Doe [00:23:12] and Public Works. Thank you. Well, you'd have to come up here to speak if you care to, right? [00:23:21] Yeah, we need you at a mic if you're going to say something. I'll just have to say that in my [00:23:26] backyard is a loquat tree that can be raided. You'll go home with more than you'll ever need. [00:23:32] Chopper, I'll get the address. Give us the word. Oh, I know where it is. You're still on the river, [00:23:36] right? No. All right, well, get me your address and we'll do that because we have a long list of [00:23:40] trees that we harvest, and if we don't get them for Tasty Tuesday, we'll get them for the festival [00:23:45] itself. Here's Penelope Anderson. Step on up. Yes. I'm Penelope Anderson, 5914 Central Avenue, [00:23:53] and yes, if we don't get it to Tasty Tuesday, we'll get it for the people making jellies at [00:23:59] the loquat festival, and also there's peaches there. There's two of them on one of the trees [00:24:05] that are nice peach colors. They should be ready in a week or so, but you're welcome to those too, [00:24:14] but anyone's welcome to any of the fruits on the trees. Thank you. I'm sorry I put it on the TV. [00:24:23] I know. It's great that it's on the TV because that is a public area. It's quite a fight over [00:24:29] those two peaches. There's two trees with peaches on them. Oh, okay. You got the advantage. You're [00:24:34] tall. You can get further up in the tree. I do have one other issue for the... I understand [00:24:41] from all of your report that you had a recommendation on alleys. Yeah, we sent that [00:24:47] through earlier. Yeah, well, but I think my question for the alleys is we had a staff [00:24:54] recommendation on alleys. We have some alleys that are impassable, and to a lot of the folks [00:25:00] that are talking about the economic development of our city, they reference alleys as being a very [00:25:05] big asset for us, and so I was... I'm not sure. Maybe you need to listen to the tape, but my [00:25:12] understanding was that we wouldn't be doing anything with our alleys, and I think our [00:25:16] alleys are an asset that ought to be looked at carefully, utilized to their fullest potential [00:25:21] to support the economic development of our city. The Environmental Committee did send [00:25:26] through a recommendation on the alleys, and I don't remember the details on them, and I don't [00:25:32] want to go through that right now, but that's what we do. I mean, this is what our service is [00:25:38] as an advisory board, is to offer input on whatever comes to us, and we thank the Council for [00:25:44] sending material to us for our review, so that report's available. It's been disseminated to the [00:25:52] Council. It's been disseminated to the Council. That is coming up in a workshop on March the 10th. [00:25:58] I believe that's correct, Mr. Mayor. So the report will be there. Great. Okay, very good. [00:26:05] I still haven't killed the two loquats in my front yard, and it appears... Is there fruit on it? [00:26:10] It appears I've got fruit on both of them, so... We'll be over. For the first time... No, no, no, I'm [00:26:15] going to get those. I've been babying those two trees from when I bought them a couple years ago [00:26:22] at the Loquat Festival, which is a great place if you want to buy a loquat tree. And just as a note, [00:26:28] that's on March 21st, and I'll be getting with Judy to give you the proclamation, which we'll [00:26:33] read, and we'll have a little ceremony here at the Council to kick things off. The bike trail between [00:26:38] here and New Port Richey is still very much alive. Part of the issue is getting over, under, or around [00:26:47] US-19, and we have a request in for state funding to help make that happen. Once that [00:26:57] materializes, I think New Port Richey and New Port Richey both will be ready to try to [00:27:02] put that together, and there's ways of making it happen. It'll be a gift. It'll be a gift to the [00:27:07] whole area if we can get that in there. And last but not least, I am supportive of the idea [00:27:12] of trying to get the city of New Port Richey to be 100% renewable by 2030 or 2035. I'll [00:27:22] leave dickering on the exact date up to my colleagues, but it needs to happen. [00:27:27] Well, I know that your leadership on that has been so helpful, Mayor, and I know the rest of the [00:27:31] Council. I sense the rest of the Council is with you on that. We're certainly supportive of it, [00:27:35] and we'll work hand in glove with you to make it happen. Very good. Anything else? [00:27:41] Thank you very much, John. Thank you. Thank you very much. Thank you all.
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.
- 7
Proclamation - Problem Gambling Awareness Month (By Title Only)
approvedThe Council issued a proclamation designating March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month in the City of New Port Richey. The proclamation will be forwarded by the city clerk to the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling.
- direction:Proclamation designating March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month was issued and directed to be forwarded to the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling. (passed)
▶ Jump to 27:54 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors
[00:27:54] The next thing we have on the agenda is a proclamation designating March as Problem [00:28:02] Gambling Awareness Month in the City of New Port Richey, and our city clerk will be forwarding [00:28:09] this on to the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling. So if you would pass that down to [00:28:15] the clerk. Next item we have is Fox Pop. This is for any items that are either not
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.
- 8Vox Pop for Items Not Listed on the Agenda or Listed on Consent Agenda▶ 28:20
- 9.a
Library Advisory Board Minutes - November 2019
approvedon consentCouncil approved the Library Advisory Board minutes from November 2019 as part of routine business.
- motion:Motion to approve the Library Advisory Board minutes from November 2019. (passed)
▶ Jump to 34:47 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors
[00:34:47] Move for approval. [00:34:49] Second. [00:34:50] We have a motion and a second. Discussion? Hearing none, all those in favor, please signify by saying aye.
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.b
Environmental Committee Minutes - January 2020
approvedon consentCouncil approved the Environmental Committee minutes from January 2020 as part of the consent agenda.
- motion:Approve the January 2020 Environmental Committee minutes. (passed)
▶ Jump to 34:47 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors
[00:34:47] Move for approval. [00:34:49] Second. [00:34:50] We have a motion and a second. Discussion? Hearing none, all those in favor, please signify by saying aye.
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.c
Police Pension Fiscal Year-End Performance Report
approvedon consentCouncil moved and approved the Police Pension Fiscal Year-End Performance Report with no discussion.
- motion:Motion to approve the Police Pension Fiscal Year-End Performance Report. (passed)
▶ Jump to 34:47 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors
[00:34:47] Move for approval. [00:34:49] Second. [00:34:50] We have a motion and a second. Discussion? Hearing none, all those in favor, please signify by saying aye.
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.d
Purchases/Payments for City Council Approval
approvedon consentCouncil approved purchases/payments without discussion.
- motion:Motion to approve purchases/payments for City Council approval. (passed)
▶ Jump to 34:47 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors
[00:34:47] Move for approval. [00:34:49] Second. [00:34:50] We have a motion and a second. Discussion? Hearing none, all those in favor, please signify by saying aye.
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.
- 10.a
First Reading, Ordinance No. 2020-2181: Amendments to Firefighters' Pension Ordinance RE: 13th Check
approvedCouncil held first reading of Ordinance 2020-2181, which amends the Firefighters' Retirement System to provide a one-time supplemental benefit payment (13th check) acting as a cost-of-living adjustment for retirees receiving benefits as of October 1, 2009. The cost to the City is $6,187, with remaining funds from the pension system. Motion to approve passed.
Ord. Ordinance No. 2020-2181
- motion:Motion to approve first reading of Ordinance 2020-2181 providing a one-time 13th check supplemental benefit for Firefighters' Pension retirees. (passed)
Mr. FerentinoMr. MurphyMs. Mams13th checkArticle 3 of Chapter 17Firefighters Retirement SystemOrdinance 2020-2181Section 17-41▶ Jump to 34:55 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors
[00:34:55] Aye. [00:34:56] Opposed, like sign. Motion passes. Next is first reading ordinance 2020-2181. [00:35:03] This is ordinance number 2020-2181, an ordinance of the City of New Port Richey, Florida, providing for [00:35:08] amendment of Article 3 of Chapter 17 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of New Port Richey [00:35:13] pertaining to the Firefighters Retirement System, providing for amendment of Section 17-41, [00:35:19] benefit amounts and eligibility to provide for a supplemental benefit, 13th check, providing for [00:35:25] severability of provisions, providing for codification, repealing all ordinances in conflict here [00:35:31] with, and providing an effective date. [00:35:33] Ms. Mams. [00:35:34] Yes, sir, Mr. Mayor. As the City Attorney indicated, the purpose of this ordinance is to effectuate a [00:35:41] one-time benefit change. It is in the form of a supplemental benefit payment for retirees of the [00:35:49] Firefighters Retirement System who are receiving a benefit from the plan on October 1, 2009. [00:36:00] This is, in short, a cost-of-living adjustment. These retirees have not received a cost-of-living [00:36:08] adjustment during the term of their retirement from the City. The cost to the City to fund the benefit [00:36:16] improvement is $6,187. The remaining funds will be taken from the pension system. [00:36:27] With that being said, the recommendation before you is to approve the one-time supplemental benefit [00:36:35] payment under the New Port Richey Firefighters Pension System. [00:36:40] Thank you. We'll open it up for public comment. Seeing no one coming forward, bring it back to Council. [00:36:47] I think Mr. Ferentino. [00:36:48] Oh, Mr. Ferentino. [00:36:49] We're about to have a motion to approve, I think, but if he wants to come. [00:36:52] May I make that motion to approve? [00:36:55] Please. [00:36:56] Motion to approve. [00:36:57] Second. [00:36:58] To the maker. [00:37:00] Yeah, I think firemen do a good job and they deserve to get a chance to pick up some lost cost-of-living [00:37:11] improvements over the payments over the years. [00:37:14] Second. [00:37:15] I just know when we did this for the Police Department, it was very well accepted. [00:37:23] They even invited me to their Christmas party. [00:37:25] No, just kidding. [00:37:26] They didn't. [00:37:29] But anyhow, no, this is long overdue. [00:37:35] You should invite them to your birthday party to blow the candles out. [00:37:39] Mr. Murphy, well deserved. [00:37:42] I have no argument with this. [00:37:44] If there is no further discussion, all those in favor, please signify by saying aye. [00:37:48] Aye. [00:37:49] Aye. [00:37:50] Opposed, like, sign. [00:37:51] Motion passes. [00:37:52] Next, First Reading Ordinance 2020-2180.
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.
- 10.b
First Reading, Ordinance No. 2020-2180: Repealing Ordinance No. 2019-2055 RE: Conditional Use Application for 5780 Main Street (eCarve LLC)
approvedCouncil approved on first reading Ordinance 2020-2180, which repeals the prior conditional use ordinance (2019-2155) for 5780 Main Street. The business, eCarve LLC (a scooter rental and sales operation), had relocated to 5707 Main Street and received a new conditional use permit there, making the original ordinance obsolete.
Ord. Ordinance No. 2020-2180
- motion:Motion to approve first reading of Ordinance 2020-2180 repealing Ordinance 2019-2155 regarding the conditional use application at 5780 Main Street. (passed)
▶ Jump to 37:55 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors
[00:37:55] This is Ordinance 2020-2180, an ordinance of the City of New Port Richey, Florida, providing [00:38:00] for repeal of Ordinance Number 2019-2155 and providing for an effective date. [00:38:07] As I'm sure you'll recall, Mr. Mayor, members of the City Council, a conditional use application [00:38:16] was approved for 5780 Main Street for the purpose of the operation of a scooter rental [00:38:24] and sales operation. [00:38:27] Since that time, they moved to 5707 Main Street and received a conditional use permit for [00:38:36] that application. [00:38:37] The purpose of this agenda item is to repeal the first ordinance, which is Number 219-255 [00:38:46] regarding the conditional use application for the operation of the business at 5780 [00:38:53] Main Street. [00:38:54] Thank you. [00:38:55] Open it up for public comment. [00:38:58] Seeing no one come forward, bring it back to Council. [00:39:01] Move for approval. [00:39:02] Second. [00:39:03] To the maker. [00:39:04] No, nothing. [00:39:05] To the second. [00:39:06] No, it's cleaning it up. [00:39:08] Mr. Altman. [00:39:09] Mr. Davis. [00:39:10] No, nothing. [00:39:12] In that case, all those in favor, please signify by saying aye. [00:39:16] Aye. [00:39:17] Opposed? [00:39:18] Like sign. [00:39:19] Motion passes. [00:39:20] Next, First Reading Ordinance 2020-2183.
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.
- 10.c
First Reading, Ordinance No. 2020-2183: Amendments to Chapter 4 Animal Control RE: Prohibiting Chickens
approvedCouncil considered Ordinance 2020-2183 on first reading, which would prohibit chickens within city limits after staff discovered a 2014 omission when animal control was relinquished to Pasco County. After public comment and discussion, council passed the first reading with direction for staff to bring back options allowing limited chicken-keeping (e.g., hens only, capped numbers) and to consult the Environmental Committee.
Ord. Ordinance No. 2020-2183
- motion:Move to approve Ordinance 2020-2183 on first reading and direct staff to provide options consistent with allowing limited chicken-keeping, including consultation with the Environmental Committee. (passed)
5914 Central Avenue6041 Florida AvenueRegency ParkWyoming AvenueLeadership PascoPasco County Animal ControlDon BlakeHeather FiorentinoJohn CainMr. AllmanMr. MurphyMs. MannsMs. TroutmanPenelope AndersonChapter 4 Animal ControlEnvironmental CommitteeOrdinance No. 2020-2183▶ Jump to 39:23 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors
[00:39:23] Ordinance Number 2020-2183, an ordinance of the City of New Port Richey, Florida, providing [00:39:28] for amendment of Chapter 4 of the New Port Richey Code of Ordinances pertaining to animal [00:39:33] control, providing for prohibition of chickens within the city, providing for enforcement, [00:39:38] providing for conflict, severability, and an effective date. [00:39:41] Ms. Manns. [00:39:42] Yes, sir. [00:39:43] Mr. Mayor. [00:39:44] This item came to the attention of the staff recently, and what we found out was that in [00:39:52] 2014, when the city relinquished their animal control services to Pasco County, a portion [00:39:59] of the ordinance related to livestock was inadvertently eliminated, and the section [00:40:10] of the ordinance that was eliminated relates to the keeping of chickens in the city. [00:40:15] The reason that it was brought to our attention relates to the fact that some of the neighbors [00:40:24] that have experienced chickens in their neighborhood are not embracing the opportunity. [00:40:32] Certainly, they are a sustainable source of food, but the neighbors are complaining about [00:40:42] some nuisance-related factors, and so we are asking you to consider whether or not we should [00:40:50] amend Chapter 4 and prohibit chickens within the city limits, as submitted. [00:40:56] Thank you. [00:40:57] I'll open this up for public comment. [00:41:04] I couldn't pass this one up. [00:41:06] John Cain, 6041 Florida Avenue. [00:41:09] Chickens. [00:41:10] So, I don't know if there's a way to tweet this so that the ordinance could address people [00:41:16] that have lots of chickens or have lots of cages in their backyard or whatever. [00:41:22] I don't see chickens as a problem, to be honest, within this city. [00:41:29] I've been here a long time. [00:41:30] I knew people that had a few. [00:41:32] They ran around. [00:41:33] They didn't propose. [00:41:34] I do see we do have a dog problem. [00:41:37] It's funny. [00:41:38] If my memory were better, I was going to address that at Vox Pop, but I couldn't remember what [00:41:43] it was I wanted to talk to you about. [00:41:45] But we have vicious dogs, and thank you, Mr. Mayor. [00:41:52] And we don't have a way to deal with it anymore, since, as you pointed out, 2014, we don't [00:41:57] really have an animal program for that. [00:42:00] Cats, feline cats are a problem. [00:42:03] So, I don't know what you're asking for with chickens, what the limitation is. [00:42:07] No chickens or maybe just one pet chicken? [00:42:10] I don't know. [00:42:11] But I think, to me, it sounds rather restrictive. [00:42:14] I would rather start dealing with some of the vicious dogs that we have that jump fences [00:42:19] in the area, and they do, and they chase down walkers early in the morning, or they attack [00:42:24] other people's dogs. [00:42:25] That's a real issue, and I meant to bring it up, and we don't deal with it. [00:42:29] But the chickens are fine. [00:42:32] Thank you. [00:42:33] Anyone else? [00:42:35] Thank you. [00:42:45] Penelope Anderson, Central Avenue, 5914. [00:42:49] I was wondering if we could have a few chickens, because a lot of people want to raise chickens [00:42:59] and if they keep them in their coops in the backyard, not more than three, just to get [00:43:06] the eggs. [00:43:07] Now, I had ducks laying eggs up by my fire chimney. [00:43:15] Those ducks that were down, they came up and they spent a lot of time, and the eggs hatched [00:43:21] and everything. [00:43:22] So, if we're allowing ducks to wander around, at least maybe we can keep chickens in a coop [00:43:28] and that would give us at least eggs. [00:43:32] So, that's why I would like to be able to have that opportunity. [00:43:36] Okay? [00:43:37] Thank you. [00:43:47] Heather Fiorentino, Wyoming Avenue. [00:43:50] Ms. Troutman, I'm sure you can remember back in the early 80s, that was a big issue because [00:43:56] there were some homes that had a few chickens and then they ended up having a lot of chickens. [00:44:01] And the ordinance was written at that time because of the problems that it was causing [00:44:06] in the neighborhoods. [00:44:07] It wasn't just the noise, it was leftovers that was also affecting. [00:44:16] And I can appreciate that we have wild ducks, but that is part of our ambiance of our city. [00:44:20] Chickens are wildlife and usually used for food. [00:44:23] And I can appreciate people who are using those for the reason of food or eggs. [00:44:28] I can appreciate that. [00:44:29] But in the city environment, I do think there is a problem. [00:44:32] And I would suggest that we go back in our history and look at why the ordinance was written back in the 80s. [00:44:37] Because that really was a big issue, which started off with a couple of chickens [00:44:42] and ended up being a chicken farm in some places. [00:44:45] So, I just bring that up. [00:44:47] Thank you. [00:44:48] Anyone else? [00:44:49] Seeing no one else come forward, bring it back to council. [00:45:00] I'll kick off. I did get a letter from a fellow by the name of Don Blake who wrote very eloquently [00:45:09] about chickens and eggs. He recommended the city put a limit on how many chickens in a [00:45:16] single residence, should not allow the chickens to roam into neighboring yards and streets, [00:45:22] and would be justified in banning roosters that crow at daybreak, which editorially I'll [00:45:29] say I thought was what our most recent ordinance said, which was you couldn't have roosters [00:45:34] but you could have hens. And then he said finally the city should not, however, ban [00:45:39] well-controlled hens that provide fresh eggs for a family. And I bring this comment up [00:45:48] fully aware that there's a platter of fresh eggs in my refrigerator at home that came [00:45:56] from my daughter's chickens. She lives up in Regency Park. A few chickens that are well-maintained [00:46:04] and kept in the backyard in their coops aren't a problem, but obviously if you have a chicken [00:46:09] farm that's a whole other matter. Discussion? Well, I kind of feel there should be a happy [00:46:17] medium somewhere. I understand what Ms. Ferrantino is saying about being overrun with chickens. [00:46:24] On the other hand, I think having one or two shouldn't be that big of an issue. I honestly [00:46:31] have heard no complaints, really for or against. This is the first time I've really heard some [00:46:35] people talk out about it. So I know we probably have probably more impressive things to work [00:46:42] on and set up rules and regulations for chickens, but I think that we could probably meet a [00:46:47] happy medium somewhere. Mr. Allman? It says medium. I think we should go over-easy with [00:46:58] this one. I'm glad I finished swallowing that water before you said that. Back when I went [00:47:19] through Leadership Pasco, they took us to a hen farm, chicken farm, and there's an odor [00:47:26] to having chickens in any large quantity. So that's going to affect the neighbors. Also, [00:47:32] I go along with your idea about the roosters. The roosters is a factor, too. I'll prove it [00:47:40] today to some degree, but I'd like to know more about how many chickens people are looking at. [00:47:48] The people that have them here aren't here to tell us what it's all about. I'm lost. I don't [00:47:54] know. It's the first reading, so maybe we can find out more by the second reading. Mr. Mayor, [00:48:02] this is the first day that you're actually a lame duck, so I guess you could lead the road [00:48:08] on that one as well. We're going to have bird jokes all night. I would move for approval on [00:48:19] the first reading, but ask that the staff give us some options that would be in line with the [00:48:24] Mayor's leadership on this. We have a second? I'll second it. Very good. To the maker, [00:48:30] any further discussion? I'd better not. Mr. Murphy? No, I'm good with that. You guys just [00:48:37] quack me up. All right, if there's no further discussion on this, all in favor, please signify [00:48:45] by saying aye. Aye. Opposed, like sign. Motion passes. Ms. Manns, could you take this to staff? [00:48:53] You might want to bounce it off the Environmental Committee under some time deadlines and get their [00:48:58] input as well. Sure, Mr. Mayor. Okay, thank you. Next item is Fitzgerald's St. Patrick's Day
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.
- 11.a
Fitzgerald's St. Patricks Day Celebration - Alcoholic Beverage Special Event
approvedCouncil approved Fitzgerald's annual St. Patrick's Day celebration alcoholic beverage special event permit for March 15th (1-10 PM) and March 17th (12 PM-12 AM), to be held in Railroad Square. Staff reported no past issues with the event.
- motion:Motion to approve Fitzgerald's St. Patrick's Day Celebration alcoholic beverage special event permit. (passed)
Railroad SquareFitzgerald'sWright's NutritionAllmanJeffAlcoholic Beverage OrdinanceFitzgerald's St. Patrick's Day Celebration▶ Jump to 49:05 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors
[00:49:05] celebration alcoholic beverage special event permit. Yes, the Fitzgerald's establishment is [00:49:15] proposing again their annual event in celebration of St. Patrick's Day. They are proposing to have [00:49:25] the event on March 15th and again on March 17th. The alcoholic beverage ordinance allows them to [00:49:35] sell beer and wine on Sundays, which is March 15th from 1 to 9. They are requesting permission to [00:49:43] sell alcohol between the hours of 1 p.m. and 10 p.m. The alcoholic beverage ordinance also states [00:49:53] that on Tuesdays they would be allowed to sell liquor from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. They are asking [00:50:04] for an additional hour that day so that they may serve till 12 a.m. The event will be held in [00:50:10] Railroad Square. The staff has not had any problems with this event in the past and we [00:50:18] recommend that you consider their application favorably. I can open it up for public comment. [00:50:25] Seeing no one come forward, bring it back to council. Move for approval. Second with comment. [00:50:31] To the maker. No, it's always a good event, never any issues, so. The second. Are they are still [00:50:38] working hand-in-hand with Jeff at Wright's Nutrition and lining up their tent? I don't [00:50:46] know that, but I will affirm that. Because there is some modification right there with the driveway [00:50:52] and their door on that side and stuff, so as long as Wright's is happy, I'm happy. Mr. Allman? No, sir. In that case, all [00:51:01] those in favor, please signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed, like sign. Motion passes. Next is
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.
- 11.b
Recommendation of Firms for Continuing Services Agreements RE: Architectural Consulting Services
approvedCouncil approved the selection of nine architect firms and authorized staff to enter into continuing service agreements with them following an RFQ process. The continuing service agreements will streamline bidding for future capital projects.
- motion:Motion to approve selection of the nine architect firms and authorize staff to enter into continuing service agreements. (passed)
AIC ArchitectureFlushman-GarciaFur and Wegman ArchitectsG2 DesignHoffman ArchitectsKimmish-Smith ArchitectsRGA DesignWatermaker-Jensen ArchitectsWilliams ArchitectsMr. AltmanMr. RiveraMs. ManceContinuing Service AgreementsRFQ for Architectural Consulting Services▶ Jump to 51:07 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors
[00:51:07] recommendation for firms for continuing service agreements regarding architectural consulting. [00:51:11] Mr. Rivera? Thank you. The purpose of this item for City Council is to consider for approval the [00:51:18] selection of nine architect firms and authorize staff to enter into continuing service agreements [00:51:24] with those firms. There were nine of them that responded to our RFQ. All of them were evaluated [00:51:31] and met the standards of the RFQ. The firms were identified as AIC Architecture, Flushman-Garcia, [00:51:39] Hoffman Architects, Fur and Wegman Architects, G2 Design, Kimmish-Smith Architects, RGA Design, [00:51:48] Watermaker-Jensen Architects, and Williams Architects. And the rankings were, they weren't [00:51:56] ranked for any order as much as they were evaluated to see if they were qualified. During that review, [00:52:04] it was determined that all of these firms have extensive experience to perform any of the [00:52:11] council's capital projects that are proposed. By doing this type of RFQ, continuing service [00:52:18] agreement, it streamlines the bidding process to where we can save time and be more efficient when [00:52:24] it comes to doing these projects. So, in the end, we would recommend that you approve the [00:52:32] selection of these architect firms and that you allow staff to go into continuing service [00:52:37] agreements. Thank you. Open up for public comment. Seeing no one come forward, bring it back to [00:52:44] council. Move for approval. Second. The maker. Step ahead, that's what I like to see. Second. [00:52:51] No, nothing. Mr. Altman? No, sir. In that case, all those in favor, please signify by saying aye. Aye. [00:52:58] Opposed, like sign. Motion passes. Ms. Mance, it's my understanding that item 11C has been pulled. Yes, sir,
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.
- 11.c
2020 Orangewood Lakes (OWL) Water System Improvements - Engineering Task Order No. 43
tabledItem was deferred; staff indicated they would bring it back at the first meeting in March.
- direction:Item to be brought back at the first council meeting in March. (tabled)
▶ Jump to 53:04 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors
[00:53:04] Mr. Mayor, we will bring that back to you at your first meeting in March. In which case, let's go [00:53:10] to 11D, quarterly cash and investment performance report. Mrs. Feast will be presenting the report.
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.
- 11.d
Quarterly Cash & Investment Performance Report
discussedStaff presented the Q1 FY2020 cash and investment performance report as of December 31, 2019, showing $31.4 million in total cash and investments across the checking account, SBA Florida Prime, Florida Municipal Investment Trust, and U.S. Treasury obligations, with investment earnings of $114,566. A councilmember requested a future review of the city's investment policy to ensure it reflects current best practices and maximizes returns.
- direction:Council requested staff bring back a review of the city's investment policy with options or recommendations to potentially improve returns. (none)
Florida Municipal Investment Trust FundState Board of Administration - Florida Prime Investment Trust FundChief BogartCity Investment PolicyQ1 FY2020 Cash and Investment Performance ReportU.S. Treasury obligations▶ Jump to 53:16 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors
[00:53:16] Good evening, council. Tonight, I am presenting to you the cash and investment performance summary [00:53:27] for quarter number one of the fiscal year, ending December 31st, 2019. As of December 31st, the city [00:53:39] had a total of $31,408,706 in cash and investments. That total consisted of $6.2 million in the checking [00:53:51] account, $15.4 million in the State Board of Administration, our Florida Prime Investment Trust [00:54:00] Fund, $4.2 million or $4.3 million in Florida Municipal Investment Trust Fund, and $5.4 million in a U.S. Treasury [00:54:11] obligation account. Part of this slide is cut off. That's perfect. Thank you. Of the three investment [00:54:29] accounts that the city has, it earned a total of $114,566. You'll see that the rate of return on each of those ranged from [00:54:42] 1.89 percent, I'm sorry, 1.63 percent to 1.92 percent. The makeup of our cash and investments for the quarter, 49 percent of all [00:54:58] the city's cash and investments were housed in that SBA, our Florida Prime Investment Portfolio, 20 percent was housed in the [00:55:07] checking account, 17 percent was invested in U.S. Treasury obligations, and 14 percent was put into the Florida Municipal [00:55:17] Investment Trust Fund. From last quarter, you'll see that there was an increase of about a million dollars in cash and investments. You'll see that [00:55:30] the amount in checking increased about $985,000, and that was primarily a result of property taxes being collected during that quarter. [00:55:43] Our investment accounts, the increase there was primarily related to the interest earned during the quarter. In our U.S. Treasury obligations, [00:55:53] you'll notice that there was a decrease, and that was mainly due to, at 9-30-2019, this U.S. Treasury obligation that we invested in matured, so we [00:56:04] earned our entire amount of $5.5 million. During this last quarter, we reinvested into that same Treasury bill at a discounted rate, so you'll see that that's why the [00:56:16] value is less than last quarter here. If you have any other questions or any questions, I'm ready, prepared to answer them. [00:56:26] Questions, anyone? Yes, sir. Thank you very much. The report that you're showing is following the city's investment policy. I would like to have us look at that [00:56:47] investment policy and update it to current times. This policy has been in effect for a long time. The average rate of return for the bulk of the money is under 2%, which is fine. [00:57:01] Six million dollars are generating no percentage increase that's in that checking, and maybe that's appropriate, but I think it would be helpful to have someone who [00:57:14] has had some expertise in investment to tell us if we're staying with best practices in terms of that. You're adhering to rules that you have to adhere to, what you can invest in. [00:57:30] I'm wondering if we could get a report at some point on any options or any recommendation you might have, whether we change our investment policy to get a better return for our residents. [00:57:44] Thank you, Ms. Feast. Three-minute report from the police department. Do we have one, or are we going to? Mr. Mayor, Chief Bogart asked me today if we could defer it until our next meeting.
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.
- 11.e
Three Minute Report: Police Department
Brief procedural transition to communications/department reports; no substantive discussion captured in the transcript excerpt for the Police Department three-minute report.
▶ Jump to 57:50 in the videoShow transcriptHide transcript
Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors
[00:57:55] Very good. I was suspecting that that might be the case. So we are to communications.
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.
- 12Communications▶ 58:04
- 13Adjournment