On the agenda

1. 1Call to Order – Roll Call▶ 0:00
2. 2

   Pledge of Allegiance

   Pledge of Allegiance and moment of silence in honor of servicemen and women.

   ▶ Jump to 0:14 in the video

   ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

   Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

   [00:00:14] Thank you. I'd like to ask you all to please stand, join me in the Pledge of Allegiance, and remain standing for a moment of silence in honor of our servicemen and women at home and abroad.

   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. 3

   Moment of Silence

   The council observed a moment of silence and recited the Pledge of Allegiance.

   ▶ Jump to 0:23 in the video

   ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

   Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

   [00:00:23] I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. [00:00:41] Thank you. You may be seated.

   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. 4

   Approval of February 23, 2021 Work Session Minutes

   approved

   Council approved the minutes from the February 23, 2021 work session without discussion.

   • motion:Motion to approve the February 23, 2021 work session minutes. (passed)

   ▶ Jump to 0:45 in the video

   ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

   Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

   [00:00:45] The first item on the agenda is the approval of the February 23rd, 2021 work session minutes. [00:00:53] Move for approval. Second. [00:00:56] Discussion? Hearing none, all those in favor, please signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed, like sign. 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. 5

   Approval of March 2, 2021 Work Session and Regular Meeting Minutes

   approved

   Council approved the minutes from the March 2, 2021 work session and regular meeting.

   • motion:Approve the March 2, 2021 work session and regular meeting minutes. (passed)

   ▶ Jump to 1:03 in the video

   ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

   Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

   [00:01:04] Next is approval of the March 2nd, 2021 work session and regular meeting minutes. [00:01:12] Move for approval. Second. [00:01:14] Discussion? Hearing none, all those in favor, please signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed, like sign. 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.

6. 6

   Proclamation - Florida Loquat Festival

   approved

   Mayor Rob Marlow read a proclamation declaring March 20, 2021 as Florida Loquat Day in New Port Richey, recognizing the 7th annual Florida Loquat Festival hosted by Ecology Florida. Del accepted the proclamation and outlined festival events spread across multiple venues due to COVID-19 precautions.

   • direction:Mayor proclaimed March 20, 2021 as Florida Loquat Day in New Port Richey. (passed)

   📍Francis Avenue Park🏢Cody River Brewery🏢Ecology Florida🏢Rose's Bistro🏢Wright's Market👤Andy👤Del👤Jim👤Rob Marlow#7th Annual Florida Loquat Festival#Florida Loquat Day#Tasty Tuesday

   ▶ Jump to 1:23 in the video

   ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

   Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

   [00:01:23] In deference to the fact that you guys brought something in there that's probably blooming, we had a discussion before the meeting. [00:01:34] I'm going to keep wearing a mask because it's helping with my allergies. [00:01:39] Del, if you could meet me at the podium, please. [00:01:57] Whereas the loquat tree is an attractive tree that produces luscious fruit that is nutritious and delicious, at least to the birds in my yard. [00:02:07] Whereas the loquat tree is a member of the rose family, akin to plums and pears, and not related to the kumquat, a member of the citrus family, with which it should not be confused. [00:02:18] And whereas the loquat tree makes a valuable contribution to a local sustainable food system, needing no fertilizer and little water to thrive, and being tolerant of the extremes of Florida's winter cold and summer heat. [00:02:32] And whereas a single loquat tree can produce 100 pounds or more fruit in a given season. [00:02:38] And whereas Ecology Florida will host the 7th annual Loquat Festival in New Port Richey, an educational event featuring freshly harvested, locally grown loquat, cottage industry preserves, jams and jellies, pastries, and loquat saplings, and loquat cookies, I might add. [00:03:00] My favorite. [00:03:01] Whereas due to the overwhelming popularity of previous loquat festivals, this festival is being the only loquat festival in the United States, and due to the commitment of Ecology Florida, the 7th annual Florida Loquat Festival will occur during the last two weeks of March 2021. [00:03:19] Now, therefore, I, Rob Marlow, Mayor of the City of New Port Richey, do hereby proclaim March 20th, 2021 as Florida Loquat Day in New Port Richey, and urge residents of our community to participate in the 7th annual Loquat Festival and discover the great value of our tiniest fruit. [00:03:37] And I understand that's kicking off at Rose's on Saturday, and I will let you tell everybody about the rest of them. [00:03:46] Thank you, Mayor Marlow, and thank you, City Council, again, for supporting, recognizing, and being part of this great celebration, the only one in the United States. [00:03:56] I want to also very briefly, since this is being broadcast, note that the festival is greatly reduced from previous years. [00:04:04] In previous years, we've been at Francis Avenue Park, and there's been hundreds and hundreds of people there. [00:04:09] Because of our concern with public health and observing the CDC guidelines, we're kind of spreading the event out over a variety of days, starting on the 20th, this Saturday, at Rose's Bistro, and then at Tasty Tuesday, correct, Andy, on this coming Tuesday. [00:04:25] Then at Wright's Market on the 28th, and then finally, last but not least, I know of great interest to many of us, is April 3rd will be the release of the Loquat beer. [00:04:36] I said, yes, I was waiting for it. [00:04:38] Yes, I'm acknowledging it. [00:04:39] The release of the Loquat beer at the Cody River Brewery, and it's made from our own local Loquats. [00:04:46] I'm just going to ask for a moment if a couple of members of the Environmental Committee can show folks what we're going to have at the festival. [00:04:52] Yeah, you can make your way up to the front. [00:04:56] There's some fruit, by the way. [00:04:58] I just wanted to get an image of the fruit that's available. [00:05:06] We have some really nice large ones there. [00:05:08] We also have the Loquat shirts. [00:05:11] You can see beautiful, beautiful shirts. [00:05:17] Beautiful, Jim, I don't know if you've got yours or not yet, but there's one for you. [00:05:22] Finally, we're going to have some saplings, some small Loquat trees that you can grow in your own yard. [00:05:27] In previous years, folks like our own mayor, the mayor of the city of New Port Richey, has actually planted some of these Loquats, and this is what the trees look like. [00:05:34] If you don't know about Loquats, now's the time to learn, starting on the 20th at Rose's Bistro. [00:05:39] I do, again, thank you all for being part of this. [00:05:42] I will attest they are very difficult to kill. [00:05:44] That's very harsh. [00:05:48] And I have a Loquat tree that has 100 pounds of fruit on it right now. [00:05:53] Excellent, excellent. [00:05:54] 20 feet high, 20 feet in diameter. [00:05:56] 20 feet high? [00:05:57] 20 feet high, 20 feet in diameter. [00:05:59] That's a beautiful tree, and they get that large and they keep producing. [00:06:02] They just keep producing, so we're going to have plenty of fresh fruit. [00:06:05] Again, this is part of a sustainable culture, to find out what grows in an area and then grow it substantially and make it available to others. [00:06:14] So thank you all, and I hope to see all of you at the Loquat festivals throughout the next two weeks. [00:06:19] Thank you so much. [00:06:20] 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.

7. 7

   Presentation - Environmental Committee Annual Report

   discussed

   Dale Deschamps, chair of the Environmental Committee, presented the committee's 10th annual report covering achievements (Monarch City certification, near-complete Green City certification, Urban Agriculture Project, food festivals) and eight proposals for the coming year, including hiring a garden facilitator, food waste reduction with Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger, 100% renewable power by 2030, becoming a non-toxic community, glass recycling, and a bike trail from Grand to Sims Park. The Council thanked the committee and discussed providing input at the upcoming mulch workshop; no formal vote was taken.

   🏢New Port Richey Library🏢Strategic Materials🏢Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger🏢Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council🏢The Guardian🏢United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change👤Altman👤Amber Blaze👤Dale Deschamps👤John Cain👤Judy👤Lauren👤Lexi Lombardi👤Linda Blake👤Matt👤Patty Jackson👤Peters👤Rose Moore#100% renewable power by 2030#Bike trail from Grand to Sims Park#Collard Greens Festival#Environmental Committee Annual Report#Florida Food Forum#Food waste reduction proposal#Garden facilitator position proposal#Glass recycling proposal#Green City certification#Loquat Festival#Monarch City certification#Non-toxic community initiative#Okra Occasion#Sweet Potato Roundup#Tampa Bay Collards Festival#Tasty Tuesday#Urban Agriculture Project#Yard debris to mulch recycling

   ▶ Jump to 6:22 in the video

   ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

   Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

   [00:06:22] And you might as well stay up there. [00:06:24] I understand we have a presentation on the Environmental Committee Annual Report. [00:06:27] I do. [00:06:28] I do. [00:06:41] What do you want me to go up now? [00:06:42] Yes. [00:06:43] You're next on the agenda. [00:06:44] I didn't have an agenda with me, so I didn't know. [00:06:47] Yeah, no, it wasn't for the sake of drama. [00:06:50] He's back there eating Loquats. [00:06:52] Yeah, I had too much of the Loquat beer. [00:06:54] Actually, I don't drink the beer. [00:06:56] All right. [00:06:57] Well, hello, everyone. [00:07:00] It took me by surprise. [00:07:02] Usually there's a little bit of lead-in before we get up again. [00:07:05] So it does look like we have the material up on the slide, and I think most of us recognize the bird that's in that image. [00:07:10] It's a Sandhill Crane, which is a resident of our area, just like we are. [00:07:15] And I have to note on my way over to Tampa today, I saw the first of the Sandhill Crane chicks that were so tiny. [00:07:25] They must have been hatchlings. [00:07:27] They just have come out recently, and I have the benefit of seeing them on Highway 54 when I come over. [00:07:33] So I felt good. [00:07:35] I felt that was a demonstration of the way in which nature continues to give despite our best efforts to limit it. [00:07:43] Well, good evening, council members, and I thank you for the opportunity to do a brief presentation on the work of the Environmental Committee. [00:07:51] I want to begin just with a brief observation about an article that I read again in the Guardian newspaper that came out on October 8, 2018. [00:08:05] And it was a report on the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. [00:08:11] And some of you may be familiar with the work of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. [00:08:16] But the report that came out in 2018 was the famous one that said we had 12 years left to fix the challenges with the environment before the damage became irreparable. [00:08:31] And so now, by this October, we'll have only nine years left. [00:08:36] And the key things are to reduce carbon and also to reduce the amount of ecological devastation, the destruction of ecosystems around the planet. [00:08:48] And as has been observed by many scholars as well as government officials as well as just everyday people is since the report came out, we haven't done very much. [00:09:01] As a matter of fact, we've continued to do damage, including continuing to increase the amount of carbon that goes into the atmosphere [00:09:08] and continuing the destruction of ecosystems around the planet from the Amazon Basin, as you may know about, to even along Highway 54 in our own beloved Pasco County. [00:09:20] So, so many folks say, well, what can we do? There's nothing that can be done. [00:09:24] They wave their hands. They say it's impossible. It's too much for one person. [00:09:28] Well, it may be too much for one person, but it's not too much for the concerted effort of many persons. [00:09:35] And that's the context in which I want to do our brief presentation tonight. [00:09:40] This government, our municipality, represents a community, a community of people that are interested in doing what can be done, [00:09:49] whatever is within our power to make a difference in terms of preserving the environment. [00:09:54] And fortunately, even though we are a small city, years ago, the wisdom of the council saw it of benefit to have an environmental committee [00:10:03] that would advise the city on issues of relevance to the environment, issues of relevance to nature, [00:10:10] issues of relevance to what we can do as a community to make our part of the world better and perhaps contribute in no small way to making a better world. [00:10:21] I come to you tonight in that spirit. My name is Dale Deschamps, city resident, former city council member, [00:10:27] chair of the environmental committee, and I thank you all for letting us present. [00:10:32] The committee itself was established in 1989 and then reestablished or reactivated in 2011. [00:10:42] And this is our 10th annual report to the council since the regeneration of the committee. [00:10:49] In the interest of time, my overview and my summary will be brief, although it's important to note that we have accomplished much [00:10:56] and have several initiatives and a number of recommendations to bring to you tonight. [00:11:01] Our presentation will follow the formal report, which I think you have, correct? [00:11:04] Did you have that in your packet? [00:11:06] And there's much more detail in that formal report, and I do ask humbly that you take a look at what's in the report [00:11:12] rather than just listening to my 10 minutes or so of presentation and looking at the slides. [00:11:17] There's actual content and substance in the material that we presented to you. [00:11:22] And so I want to go to slide number two, and then we'll go on to number three in a moment too. [00:11:26] The environmental committee seeks to develop an ecological understanding and advance sustainability on behalf of the city and its residents. [00:11:34] The committee relies, it says solely, but we should say largely on volunteer support [00:11:39] and donations from members and friends of the committee. [00:11:42] Next slide. [00:11:43] I do want to recognize members that are here with us tonight. [00:11:47] I'm going to ask the members just to stand up so we can acknowledge them. [00:11:50] That's you guys here. [00:11:53] So we want to recognize I'm the chair. [00:11:55] Rose Moore is not here. [00:11:56] I think we all know Rose. [00:11:58] Secretary Linda Blake is not here. [00:11:59] She usually attends the meetings, by the way, via the Zoom or by the Internet connection. [00:12:04] John Cain is with us tonight, although he's stepping down at the end of this term, [00:12:08] so we acknowledge the great work that he's done over the years. [00:12:11] Thank you, John. [00:12:12] Patty Jackson, a member of the committee. [00:12:15] Amber Blaze, who's not here tonight, member of the committee. [00:12:19] And I miss – oh, Lexi Lombardi is here, although she's not technically on the committee yet. [00:12:25] I think we have to get a driver's license or something to Judy. [00:12:28] And then alternate Lauren is here, and I don't know if he got the driver's license in or not yet. [00:12:34] Okay, so these two are pending acknowledgement by the council for their participation. [00:12:39] So – oh, there is Amber. [00:12:41] There's Amber. [00:12:42] That's Amber Blaze. [00:12:44] Welcome, everyone. [00:12:46] And just, if you could, just acknowledge. [00:12:48] Again, all of our committees in the city, they're volunteer. [00:12:52] Nobody's getting paid for this. [00:12:54] They're giving time, energy, parts out of their life, parts out of their day to be with us. [00:12:59] So thank you all on my behalf. [00:13:01] I apologize. [00:13:03] There she is. [00:13:04] Okay, so number four. [00:13:06] Next slide. [00:13:08] So – oh, wait a minute. [00:13:09] We went too far. [00:13:10] We have to go back. [00:13:11] There you go. [00:13:12] See, it's a good thing I'm not doing the clicker. [00:13:13] These are some of the projects and events that the Environmental Committee is active in, [00:13:17] and it's only a portion of them. [00:13:19] Your official report has many more projects and initiatives that we've been involved in. [00:13:24] So if you do take a look at the hard copy, you're going to see that. [00:13:27] I want to pull a couple out real quick just to note that we are very close to finally receiving Green City certification [00:13:36] and we have received Monarch City certification. [00:13:39] So we're recognized nationally as a city that's working to promote [00:13:42] and continue the success of the restoration of the monarch communities. [00:13:48] We're very close to being a Green City. [00:13:50] I do want to also pull out the idea of the Urban Agriculture Project [00:13:54] and the various seasonal food festivals of which the Loquat is one. [00:13:58] We have other food festivals, including – some of you may know these, I know the mayor does – [00:14:02] the ochre occasion that occurs in the summer, then in the early fall the sweet potato roundup, [00:14:07] and finally, wrapping things up in January or late December, is the collard greens festival. [00:14:12] So these are all part of the work of the Environmental Committee, [00:14:15] and we give thanks to the city for supporting those. [00:14:17] So now we can go to the next slide. [00:14:19] And again, I encourage you to take a look at the detailed formal report. [00:14:24] The Environmental Committee supports these city projects, [00:14:28] Tasty Tuesday, the yard debris to mulch recycling, [00:14:31] development of the local food system in a general sense, [00:14:34] the new Fort Ritchie Library Seed Exchange, and the Urban Agriculture Project. [00:14:39] I do want to give a special note and kind of underscore the mulch project, [00:14:44] which I understand you'll be having a workshop on next week. [00:14:48] I'm not going to speak about the mulch project at this time [00:14:52] the importance of the mulch project to so many of the other environmental initiatives that are going on. [00:15:00] Won't belabor the fact, but it's probably [00:15:01] the key to the success of our urban agriculture project. [00:15:05] And it's also key to us reducing carbon and our commitment [00:15:09] to reducing carbon in the broader environment. [00:15:12] I can talk more about that, and we'll [00:15:13] be happy to do so at another time. [00:15:15] So together, these events, these achievements, [00:15:18] are witness to what the Environmental Committee can do. [00:15:21] We recognize that professionally structured, well-organized, [00:15:26] and efficiently marketed environmental initiatives [00:15:29] will restore and revitalize the image of the city [00:15:32] and attract both millennials and their parents. [00:15:36] Such initiatives tend to be much less costly than projects [00:15:39] requiring outside professional consultants [00:15:42] and requiring significant infrastructure investments. [00:15:46] As we've demonstrated, much can be done with very, very little. [00:15:50] And so we ask for continued support, [00:15:52] and perhaps to seriously consider [00:15:54] the recommendations that we'll bring to you tonight. [00:15:56] So let's go, next slide, to looking ahead. [00:16:01] Looking ahead, we have worked hard, and we have done much. [00:16:07] But there's more to do and more that we can do. [00:16:09] We're also enthusiastic to do more with your support. [00:16:14] We will ask in advance and remind at the close [00:16:17] that the council gives direction to the city manager [00:16:21] and to the staff, and we ask that the council consider [00:16:24] giving such direction to pursue the proposals that we're [00:16:27] about to bring forward and to meet with the committee [00:16:30] to determine the best way forward. [00:16:32] We stand ready for those meetings. [00:16:35] As our previous achievements have demonstrated, [00:16:37] we have been successful in our work [00:16:40] with minimal cost to the city. [00:16:42] Our project promised to continue our success [00:16:44] and continue benefit to the city and its residents [00:16:47] with specific benefits, including [00:16:49] economic benefit, ecologic benefit, cultural benefit, [00:16:53] public safety, crime prevention, quality of life, [00:16:56] points of pride, and regional leadership. [00:16:59] There are few cities in our region, [00:17:01] including the big cities to the south, St. Petersburg, Tampa, [00:17:05] that are doing what we're doing in this little city. [00:17:09] And that's something for us all to be proud of. [00:17:11] We're already doing work in all of these areas, [00:17:14] and we ask for further support. [00:17:15] So I want to go to the next slide, our proposals [00:17:17] for the coming year. [00:17:19] I'm not going to go through all of them. [00:17:21] You have them in your booklet with rationale [00:17:24] for them, the reason for them from both an economic [00:17:26] standpoint, but also from an ecological standpoint, [00:17:29] and also from a cultural standpoint. [00:17:31] So we're hitting a lot of notes on these. [00:17:33] We do want to suggest promoting the city's [00:17:34] environmental programs and initiatives. [00:17:38] There is, at this point, no single source [00:17:41] where folks can go to find information [00:17:43] about all of those items that were listed [00:17:45] earlier in our presentation. [00:17:47] There's no one place where folks can go. [00:17:49] We're asking that we consider either having a place [00:17:52] on the city's website, or perhaps a Facebook page [00:17:56] of some sort, where all of the initiatives [00:17:58] could be put into one place, where someone could go [00:18:01] to find out about all of the projects that we're working on. [00:18:05] Second slide, proposal number two. [00:18:07] This is the fifth year we've made this proposal, [00:18:09] or something very much like it. [00:18:11] It's a request to have a garden facilitator. [00:18:14] I want to do the best I can to try to sell this tonight, [00:18:17] although I have very little time. [00:18:18] Thank you, Mayor, for not starting the clock. [00:18:21] I want to do the very best I can [00:18:22] to try to sell you on this idea. [00:18:25] If we think about all of our wonderful city departments, [00:18:27] all of our administrators, all of our staff people, [00:18:30] as you go down the list, you will not find [00:18:33] an agriculture director or an environmental director. [00:18:37] I would argue, and I argue on behalf of the committee [00:18:39] and many in the city, that such a position [00:18:42] is called for at this time, especially at this time [00:18:46] as our time literally is running out [00:18:49] to do something to improve the environment. [00:18:51] And probably the best thing that we could do [00:18:53] would actually be to push hard in an area [00:18:56] that we already have success in, [00:18:57] and that's the urban agriculture project. [00:18:59] So I encourage you to think about that as we go forward, [00:19:01] especially as you think about the budget. [00:19:03] Next slide. [00:19:05] Food waste reduction. [00:19:07] We're advocating that in cooperation [00:19:09] with the Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger, [00:19:11] that we work to reduce food waste by working with them [00:19:16] to implement a program for food waste reduction [00:19:19] in our city. [00:19:20] This could be through direct work [00:19:21] with Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger, [00:19:23] or the creation of information sharing sites [00:19:26] to bring businesses together. [00:19:28] We can give more detail on that, [00:19:29] and there is further information in your sheet. [00:19:33] We'll go through the other slides briefly, [00:19:34] those first three I'm really asking you [00:19:36] to give attention to and think about. [00:19:38] Number four is the second year that we've made a proposal [00:19:41] to go to make the city 100% renewable power by 2030. [00:19:46] I just heard today that the state legislature [00:19:49] is trying to preempt that. [00:19:50] Mayor, I don't know if you saw that. [00:19:51] Altman, I don't know if you saw that. [00:19:52] Again, the state's trying to preempt local action on this. [00:19:55] They haven't done it yet, but it looks like they will. [00:19:58] But there's no reason why we can't make a pledge, [00:19:59] even if we don't seek to implement anything on it. [00:20:02] Number five, third year to become a non-toxic community. [00:20:07] If you remember last year when we presented Mr. Altman [00:20:09] what you said about that, he said, nobody likes poisons. [00:20:11] And we sure don't like poisons either, [00:20:14] but we sure use them a lot. [00:20:16] So what we're advocating for is ways [00:20:17] in which the city can take action [00:20:19] to reduce the use of toxins in the city, [00:20:22] and specifically poisons. [00:20:25] Next slide. [00:20:27] Glass recycling. [00:20:28] As you may know, Pasco County [00:20:29] does not recycle glass any longer, [00:20:31] but remarkably Pinellas County has figured out [00:20:34] a way to recycle glass. [00:20:35] I know that there's many residents [00:20:37] that go to Pinellas County with their glass [00:20:40] to recycle it because it's recycled there. [00:20:43] We're curious about why that's not being done here. [00:20:45] We think it could be done. [00:20:47] We also want to note that Sarasota, [00:20:49] in the city of Sarasota, is one of the largest [00:20:52] glass recycling centers in the entire United States. [00:20:55] It's called Strategic Materials, [00:20:56] and they recycle glass there. [00:20:58] Why is it? [00:20:59] How could it possibly be that here in Pasco County, [00:21:02] just a short drive from that great center, [00:21:04] we're not recycling glass? [00:21:05] I'm just inviting the city to think about ways [00:21:07] to maybe partner with the county, [00:21:09] or maybe even take direct action of some sort. [00:21:11] Number seven, a bike trail from Grand to Sims Park. [00:21:15] I believe this has been discussed [00:21:17] at council level before at some level. [00:21:19] We are advocating for that again, [00:21:21] and encouraging the city consider that bike trail [00:21:24] and doing what can be done to perhaps implement it [00:21:27] even on a small scale, even on a trial basis. [00:21:30] And then finally, what do we got? [00:21:32] So we ask the council's support for these proposals. [00:21:37] They've been thought out carefully. [00:21:38] There's been a lot of editing done on it. [00:21:40] We believe that these are not only reasonable, [00:21:43] but they are achievable goals for the city, [00:21:46] but it can't be done by the environmental committee alone. [00:21:48] It must be done through our partners on council. [00:21:51] Please consider these proposals. [00:21:53] And we ask, if possible, to have sessions, [00:21:56] work sessions, or an item on the agenda [00:21:59] to look at these items in more detail. [00:22:02] I stand ready to answer any questions you want. [00:22:06] I just want to say that my mom passed [00:22:08] when I was 19 years old, and she's laughing right now [00:22:11] that there's a collard greens event in this town, [00:22:14] because she knew I hated them, [00:22:15] and she still made me eat them. [00:22:17] Mr. Mayor, may I? [00:22:19] Oh. [00:22:19] And we love, you know, there's now a collard greens festival [00:22:22] in the Tampa Bay region. [00:22:24] It's called the Tampa Bay Collards Festival. [00:22:26] I did, I host a program each month [00:22:28] called the Florida Food Forum, [00:22:30] and we had a guest on who does [00:22:33] the Tampa Bay Collards Festival. [00:22:35] And he says, yeah, we're very proud of the festival. [00:22:37] We've been doing it for the last two years. [00:22:39] I said, well, come on up to New Port Richey, [00:22:41] where we've been doing it for five years. [00:22:43] So we're, again, and this is another point of pride for us. [00:22:45] We're ahead of other counties. [00:22:46] We're ahead of other areas. [00:22:48] And I'm thinking about your mother right now. [00:22:50] Yeah, she's still laughing. [00:22:51] And I'm happy that you're thinking of her, too. [00:22:53] Matt? [00:22:54] Yes, sir. [00:22:55] I just want to thank the committee [00:22:56] for all the hard work they do. [00:22:58] There's so many events and projects [00:23:00] that you guys keep up with. [00:23:02] It's like a full-time job. [00:23:03] I know Dale works tirelessly in that garden, [00:23:07] growing vegetables, and I can tell you, [00:23:09] I've had many meals with those vegetables, [00:23:11] and they're outstanding. [00:23:13] So thank you all very much for that. [00:23:15] We appreciate what you do. [00:23:17] You brought up the point about mulching [00:23:20] from our debris pickup. [00:23:21] Now, we're having that workshop next week. [00:23:23] I know. [00:23:24] So I would love to hear your input there. [00:23:27] That might be a good time for you to speak [00:23:28] and talk about how you feel. [00:23:30] Okay, we're happy to do that, Councilman. [00:23:32] There's other people here tonight, actually, [00:23:34] that I think want to say something about that tonight. [00:23:38] I'm happy. [00:23:39] I kind of held off on saying much tonight [00:23:41] because I knew the work session was coming up, [00:23:43] but to the degree that the Council would want [00:23:44] direct input from the Environmental Committee, [00:23:47] we're happy to share that, Councilman. [00:23:48] That would be great. [00:23:49] I think we'd all benefit from that. [00:23:50] Okay, great. [00:23:51] Great, thanks. [00:23:52] And we appreciate the pat on the back. [00:23:54] We always get the pat on the back, and it's great. [00:23:56] And we really do appreciate the pat on the back. [00:23:58] But what we really, really like, [00:24:00] and what we really thrive on is action. [00:24:02] If you can take some action on these, [00:24:04] it'll make a huge difference, [00:24:05] and we can really move forward in ways. [00:24:08] Councilman Peters. [00:24:09] Yes, Dale. [00:24:10] Again, thank you and your committee. [00:24:12] You know, I've had opportunity to attend [00:24:14] a couple of your committee meetings [00:24:15] here in the past few months. [00:24:17] And I'd like to point out that your committee [00:24:20] is one that operates in a fashion [00:24:22] that I'd like to see all our committees operate in. [00:24:25] You're robust. [00:24:26] You bring things to the Council. [00:24:28] You push leadership, the city leadership, [00:24:32] and the Council on your ideas. [00:24:34] Doesn't mean they always get implemented. [00:24:35] They're not always accepted. [00:24:37] But the fact is, we've got a group like you [00:24:39] that keep pushing that towards us, [00:24:41] have more ideas for consideration. [00:24:43] And for that, I thank you. [00:24:45] And I cite your committee as an example [00:24:47] of how I'd like all our committees to operate. [00:24:50] Well, thank you, Mr. Peters. [00:24:51] And I do appreciate that. [00:24:52] And now I know who that mysterious guy was [00:24:55] that was sitting at the back of the Council chambers [00:24:57] when we were having our meeting. [00:24:58] It was you. [00:24:59] It was you before you were appointed to this post, [00:25:02] coming to see what we were doing on the committee. [00:25:03] So good for you for showing up [00:25:05] and taking an interest at that level. [00:25:06] But I'll tell you, brother, we will keep pushing. [00:25:08] I mean, we will keep pushing. [00:25:10] This is an active group that's deeply committed [00:25:13] to making a difference in terms of our ecological health. [00:25:16] And we're doing so in the context [00:25:18] with full awareness of the short time that we have. [00:25:20] We don't have a lot of time as a planet, [00:25:23] as a country, as a state, as a region, as a municipality. [00:25:26] There is just not a lot of time. [00:25:28] Check with the people in Dallas, Texas, [00:25:30] or Houston, Texas, where my sister lives. [00:25:32] That's a result of the ecological challenges [00:25:34] that we're having. [00:25:35] So, but thank you, Mr. Peters. [00:25:36] You're welcome. [00:25:37] Mr. Allman. [00:25:39] A few things. [00:25:40] First of all, one of the slides indicated your efforts [00:25:44] with the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council's resiliency. [00:25:48] Which I- [00:25:49] And with respect to the food item on there. [00:25:52] And I would report back to you [00:25:54] that in our meeting a few weeks ago, [00:25:57] that there was some confirmation and general discussion [00:25:59] by the entire, what was the executive committee, [00:26:03] but all of our members were there, [00:26:06] because we didn't have a quorum. [00:26:07] But nevertheless, food has become a, [00:26:12] you know, accepted part of the whole resiliency effort. [00:26:15] And so thank you for the efforts that you make on that. [00:26:19] I would like to say, though, [00:26:20] that as I see some members of the [00:26:23] New Port Richey Main Street in the back, [00:26:25] which is a private and separate organization, [00:26:28] and some discussion we've had about committees [00:26:30] and how they should function, [00:26:31] that we really do need to have a discussion as a board, [00:26:34] because committees are in our, [00:26:37] the way we've identified them, [00:26:39] to provide advice to the city council. [00:26:43] And you're, I mean, you've done a phenomenal job. [00:26:48] You really are more akin to a non-profit organization. [00:26:54] So I think we should have a discussion [00:26:55] about whether you become your own separate organization, [00:26:58] because, you know, I don't know if you've thought of it [00:27:01] or not, but the bottom line is, [00:27:03] there's no provision in our city's ordinances [00:27:06] for our committees to be out collecting donations [00:27:10] and doing operational-type activities. [00:27:13] We come to the council for our donations, Mr. Allman. [00:27:16] Well, one of your comments said that you survive [00:27:19] thanks to the donations of folks. [00:27:21] Bottom line is, you are an independently operating. [00:27:26] Yeah. [00:27:26] All of your work, I support. [00:27:28] I know. [00:27:29] All of what you're doing, I support. [00:27:30] But I am gonna suggest that we probably, [00:27:33] if we're going to try to activate all the other committees [00:27:36] to the level that you are, [00:27:38] then we really need to talk about how we're going to do it, [00:27:41] because, you know, the way that the government structure [00:27:44] works here, as you well know, [00:27:47] you've gone well beyond consent to being proactive, [00:27:51] which is wonderful. [00:27:52] So congratulations to you. [00:27:54] And another pat on the back, [00:27:56] but I think we really do need to have a sort of [00:27:58] structural discussion about committees [00:28:01] and how we can better participate in the policy [00:28:08] that you've brought to us and what works best for you [00:28:12] and your group, because it's really great [00:28:14] what you're doing. [00:28:15] Mr. Altman, yeah, those are kind words. [00:28:19] And again, I just want to reiterate, [00:28:21] action is what we're looking forward to. [00:28:23] And the good work of this committee, [00:28:25] take a little bit of credit for it, [00:28:26] but the good work of the committee are the people [00:28:28] that have committed to it. [00:28:28] And that's what I talk about in terms of the volunteer [00:28:31] and the commitment, the donations, the donation of time. [00:28:34] That's what, more than anything else, [00:28:36] everyone on this committee is engaged in life [00:28:40] in vital ways, either professionally [00:28:42] or in terms of their commitment to the culture. [00:28:44] And it takes time to do these things. [00:28:46] It takes a lot of time and a lot of hard work. [00:28:48] And that's why sometimes, and some of you may know this, [00:28:52] that over the course of many years of doing this, [00:28:54] some of our members get frustrated [00:28:56] because they're given time and energy and love to this. [00:28:59] And then our proposals often don't go any further [00:29:02] than the pat on the back that we get at these events. [00:29:04] So I just kind of want to express appreciation [00:29:07] for that recognition, but also to observe that [00:29:09] I think the time has come for a more serious action [00:29:12] than just the positive rhetoric. [00:29:15] So back to the regular. [00:29:16] Marilyn, by the way, my spouse said not to be harsh tonight. [00:29:19] So I'm not being harsh when I say these things. [00:29:23] But the time has come. [00:29:25] Nor will I be. [00:29:26] But I think the point is, you've made my point, [00:29:28] which is the New Port Richey Main Street organization [00:29:32] meets, comes up with plans, brings a proposal, [00:29:36] brings a budget to the city of what they want to do. [00:29:39] You're asking us to give you money to do what you want to do [00:29:43] and what we need to do is make sure [00:29:44] that either our staff is fully on board [00:29:47] and saying this is, you're helping us, [00:29:50] or if it's your organization to, [00:29:52] your request for money is not something [00:29:54] I'm dancing away from. [00:29:56] I mean, if you put some organizations, [00:29:59] because this is. [00:30:00] big project you're on to save the planet, you know. I mean, it's not just a small thing here. [00:30:04] We only want a tiny fraction of the amount of money that's being spent on another project. [00:30:08] But point being, you are a deliberative body coming up with policy or, you know, [00:30:14] objectives and trying to implement them. That's a little different than what a committee normally is, [00:30:19] which is to respond to actions and provide advice to us. Maybe it sounds like a nuance, [00:30:25] but we've got our festival committees and our main street committees and other organizations [00:30:31] that we need to support. Just think about it. And to my colleagues, I think maybe it's something that [00:30:38] we need to think about because the library can start going and doing their things. [00:30:42] They have a separate Friends of the Library organization that raises money, [00:30:46] holds events, and does those sorts of things. So what model are we going to follow? Thank you. [00:30:52] Chucker? I'd just like to thank the whole board. You keep referring to them, [00:30:57] but I'd like to thank them from sitting here. You know, the job you've well done, [00:31:01] and I know we're going to see John a lot more, but I want to thank you for your participation [00:31:05] in this board. Whether we see you back, we'll see you again, but whether we see you back with [00:31:09] this board again, I'd like to thank you for recognizing that. Thank you. Some of the things [00:31:14] that the city is taking credit for and has done, the garden on Grand, the front yard [00:31:25] urban agriculture ordinance, which was way out ahead of the entire rest of the state, [00:31:31] those are things the city of New Port Richey implemented that came directly from this [00:31:35] committee. So thank you. And there's more recommendations. Thank you all. And Mr. Altman, [00:31:42] I think the committee is always ready, willing, and able to meet in a work session or with the [00:31:48] council members or city staff on any of these projects. We are ready. I mean, tomorrow if you [00:31:52] want to do it, we can do it. We stand ready to do it. So that's really, you know, we're at the [00:31:57] mercy of the council. You know, if the council wants to take action on these things and do [00:32:00] something, then we can move forward. If the council doesn't want to do it, a vote of three, [00:32:06] right? If the council doesn't want to do it, then we just come back next year with the sixth year [00:32:10] of some proposal or the 10th year of some proposal. All right, I've taken up enough of

   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.

8. 8Vox Pop for Items Not Listed on the Agenda or Listed on Consent Agenda▶ 32:14
9. 9.a

   Cultural Affairs Committee Meeting Minutes - January 2021

   approvedon consent

   Council approved the Cultural Affairs Committee meeting minutes from January 2021 by voice vote.

   • motion:Approve the Cultural Affairs Committee meeting minutes from January 2021. (passed)

   #Cultural Affairs Committee Meeting Minutes - January 2021

   ▶ Jump to 51:32 in the video

   ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

   Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

   [00:51:37] Approval. Second. All those in favor, please signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed, flag sign.

   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. 9.b

    Environmental Committee Minutes - January and February 2021

    approvedon consent

    Council approved the Environmental Committee Minutes for January and February 2021.

    • motion:Approve the Environmental Committee Minutes for January and February 2021. (passed)

    #Environmental Committee Minutes - February 2021#Environmental Committee Minutes - January 2021

    ▶ Jump to 51:32 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [00:51:37] Approval. Second. All those in favor, please signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed, flag sign.

    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. 9.c

    Police Pension Board Minutes - January 2021

    approvedon consent

    Council approved the Police Pension Board minutes from January 2021.

    • motion:Approve the Police Pension Board minutes from January 2021. (passed)

    #Police Pension Board Minutes - January 2021

    ▶ Jump to 51:32 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [00:51:37] Approval. Second. All those in favor, please signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed, flag sign.

    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.

12. 9.d

    Purchases/Payments for City Council Approval

    approvedon consent

    Council approved purchases/payments as presented.

    • motion:Approve purchases/payments for City Council approval. (passed)

    ▶ Jump to 51:32 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [00:51:37] Approval. Second. All those in favor, please signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed, flag sign.

    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.

13. 10.a

    Second Reading, Ordinance No. 2021-2226: Conditional Use for 5707 Main Street (eCarve, LLC)

    approved

    Council held the second reading and approved Ordinance 2021-2226, granting a conditional use for eCarve, LLC to operate a scooter and one-wheel vehicle sales, retail, and rental store at 5707 Main Street, with four safety conditions and a 10 p.m. return time for rental vehicles. Council members discussed safety, the prohibition of rental scooters in Sims Park (suggesting it be revisited), and expansion of multi-use trails.

    Ord. Ordinance No. 2021-2226

    • motion:Move for approval of Ordinance 2021-2226 granting conditional use for eCarve at 5707 Main Street with safety conditions and 10 p.m. return time. (passed)

    📍5707 Main Street🏢eCarve, LLC👤Altman👤Ms. Carbone#Ordinance 2021-2226#Sims Park#Sims Park to Port Richey multi-use trail

    ▶ Jump to 51:44 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [00:51:44] Motion passes. Next, public reading. Second reading, Ordinance 2021-2226. [00:51:53] This is Ordinance number 2021-2226, an ordinance of the City of New Port Richey, Florida, providing for approval of an amendment to the condition used [00:52:00] for a scooter and one-wheel vehicle sales, retail, and rental store in the [00:52:03] downtown zoning district for the property located at 5707 Main Street as [00:52:07] legally ascribed herein, providing for an accessory necessary conditions on said [00:52:11] use and providing an effective date. Mr. Mayor, this is the second reading. I do [00:52:17] not see the applicant in attendance this evening for this second and final [00:52:24] reading of the ordinance for the conditional use for 5707 Main Street. It [00:52:30] is to operate a scooter and one-wheel vehicle sales, retail, and rental store [00:52:42] and when you considered this matter at your last meeting, you kept in place four [00:52:51] conditions which were included in the original ordinance and they were no [00:52:57] vehicles shall be rented or let to minors unaccompanied by an adult, no test [00:53:02] drives or training on vehicles shall be conducted or allowed on Main Street or [00:53:07] public right-of-way or sidewalk on Main Street, no test drives or training on [00:53:13] vehicles shall be conducted on city-owned property unless there's an [00:53:19] indemnity agreement and general liability insurance, and property [00:53:24] liability insurance shall be maintained on all rental vehicles. The final [00:53:30] conditions that were imposed at your meeting on March 2nd related to the [00:53:37] return time for the vehicles and you established a return time of 10 p.m. [00:53:43] seven days per week. The City Attorney has made the approved changes to the [00:53:49] proposed ordinance and it is attached to the agenda item for your consideration. [00:53:55] Very good. We'll open it up for public comment. Seeing no one come forward, bring [00:54:01] it back to Council. Move for approval. Second. To the maker. Yes, I mean I kind of [00:54:08] hope Ms. Carbone was here, but I have stopped by and checked out the shop and [00:54:11] one of the things I just wanted to, you know, make sure is that the forefront is [00:54:15] the safety and making sure he's keeping those safety protocols and you know the [00:54:20] the tutorials on it and making sure everybody knows the rules. I mean that's [00:54:24] probably the most important thing, make sure they're wearing the proper stuff. So [00:54:28] I have talked to him about that and I feel confident that that stuff will be [00:54:33] taken care of and I'm actually gonna go try it and and see what I can [00:54:39] not break on my body. So I brought up all the safety, you know, concerns I had [00:54:48] at the last meeting and I know it won't go 18 miles an hour whether you want it [00:54:52] or not. I made the motion last week to advance the hours. You know, with Matt, I agree [00:55:12] also with the operator is very much concerned about safety and doing things [00:55:16] the right way. Talked to him more than once about that over the past few months [00:55:21] and we talk about his particular business but, you know, the last time I [00:55:28] ran into a bunch of scooters, they're privately owned and we don't we won't be [00:55:32] able to control what hours they operate and they're at price points now. We'll see [00:55:37] more and more the privately owned ones, whether they're purchased from eCarve or [00:55:41] somewhere else. We'll have a coming, we've got a coming wave of eBikes that's going [00:55:48] to be competing for space as the scooters do and the golf carts do and [00:55:53] our pedestrians do and our sidewalk. I love the fact that our city is close [00:55:57] enough a lot of people can, you know, get in and out of the city and commute [00:56:03] on those type of devices and as well as walking. So we're just gonna have to all [00:56:09] be careful and watch out for one another and it's gonna be left up a lot to the [00:56:13] operators to be common sense, just like we have to have common sense golf cart [00:56:18] drivers and motor vehicle drivers. So I still think it's a vibrant part of the [00:56:25] city and I'm all for it. Mr. Altman. Yeah, I'm gonna support the motion. I think one [00:56:31] thing that came out during the discussion at the first reading was a [00:56:36] policy by the city to not allow the scooters in Sims Park, which I was not [00:56:42] aware of, and a number of people who heard it, particularly on the one hand [00:56:46] thinking safety and the other young folks trying to ride the scooters, had [00:56:52] suggested that that didn't make a lot of sense to them. So I think it would be [00:56:56] worth revisiting. I know that the overweight man, as described with his [00:57:03] two young children, who almost got bumped into by a scooter in some kind of [00:57:08] conflict, was brought up. But, you know, we have an incredible network of [00:57:13] sidewalks over there and I think we allow bicycles, dogs, and other things in [00:57:18] there. So I'm interested in understanding how we can properly provide safety for [00:57:24] pedestrians and the scooters and whether or not my colleagues would agree with [00:57:29] the prohibition of the rental scooters in the park. There's no traffic in that [00:57:36] whole zone for them to wander around in. On the other hand, vandalism is occurring [00:57:41] and we've had a problem with that, both with the less fortunate [00:57:48] population in our city, as well as, you know, maybe not as much as even [00:57:53] vandalism been around as long as I can remember. But, you know, those [00:57:59] things happen. I think that that's not related to this motion, but so I'll go [00:58:06] no further with that. Thank you. I'm going to hold off renting one until [00:58:12] ECARB gets one of the ones I've seen that has the seat on them. I figure if I [00:58:16] try to stand up on one of those things, you will be having me zooming in [00:58:21] because I'll be in traction in the hospital. That just doesn't strike me [00:58:27] as something that's a good idea, but they are certainly very popular. One of [00:58:34] the things that might help is we increase the network of multi-use [00:58:43] trails to make them available for that. Maybe not necessarily in the park where [00:58:49] it's tight quarters, but as was suggested, doing the multi-use trail [00:58:59] between Sims Park and New Port Richey, which is one of the things we've been talking [00:59:03] about and hopefully trying to coordinate with New Port Richey to make it [00:59:08] happen. There's some opportunities there, so [00:59:12] definitely keep those in mind. I support this. I wish the folks at ECARB [00:59:17] the best of luck and continued success. Any further discussion? Hearing none, all [00:59:24] those in favor, please signify by saying aye. Opposed, like sign. 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.

14. 10.b

    ↳You arrived here from a search for “Matt Murphy” — transcript expanded below

    Second Reading, Ordinance No. 2021-2228: Authorizing the Sale of Surplus Property

    approved

    Council adopted on second reading Ordinance 2021-2228, authorizing the sale of surplus city property located at South Road and Nellie's Way to Pasco County for $818,289.64. No public comment was offered and the motion passed unanimously.

    Ord. Ordinance No. 2021-2228

    • motion:Motion to approve second reading of Ordinance 2021-2228 authorizing sale of surplus property at South Road and Nellie's Way to Pasco County for $818,289.64. (passed)

    📍South Road and Nellie's Way🏢Pasco County👤Murphy👤Peters#Ordinance 2021-2228

    ▶ Jump to 59:30 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [00:59:30] Next is second reading ordinance 2021-2228. This is ordinance number [00:59:35] 2021-2228, an ordinance of the City of New Port Richey, Florida, providing for [00:59:40] the sale of surplus city property, providing for the sale of the property [00:59:43] generally located at South Road and Nellie's Way, as legally described herein [00:59:47] for the purchase price of $818,289.64 to Pasco County, providing authorization to [00:59:53] the city manager to execute all documents in accordance herewith and [00:59:56] providing for an effective date. [01:00:00] Open it up for public comment. [01:00:02] Seeing no one coming forward, I'll bring it back to council. [01:00:06] Move for approval. [01:00:07] Second. [01:00:08] To the maker. [01:00:08] Nothing. [01:00:09] To second. [01:00:10] Nope. [01:00:11] Mr. Murphy? [01:00:12] Nope, I'm good. [01:00:13] Mr. Peters? [01:00:15] No, Mayor. [01:00:15] Nothing. [01:00:16] In that case, all those in favor, please signify by saying aye. [01:00:19] Aye. [01:00:19] Opposed, like sign. [01:00:21] Motion passes. [01:00:22] Next, first reading ordinance 2021-2223.

    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.

15. 10.c

    First Reading, Ordinance No. 2021-2223: Amendments to Fire Prevention Codes Adopted

    approved

    Council held first reading of Ordinance 2021-2223, amending Chapter 8, Section 8-1 of the city code to adopt updated fire prevention codes (NFPA 101, NFPA 1, Florida Fire Prevention Code, and Florida Building Code) and remove antiquated provisions. The motion passed on a voice vote.

    Ord. Ordinance No. 2021-2223

    • motion:Approve first reading of Ordinance No. 2021-2223 amending Chapter 8, Section 8-1 to adopt updated fire prevention codes. (passed)

    👤Mr. Allman👤Mr. Peters👤Ms. Manns#Chapter 8, Section 8-1#Florida Building Code#Florida Fire Prevention Code#NFPA 1 Fire Prevention Code#NFPA 101 Life Safety Code#Ordinance No. 2021-2223

    ▶ Jump to 1:00:23 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [01:00:26] This is ordinance number 2021-2223, [01:00:28] an ordinance of the city of New Port Richey, Florida, [01:00:31] providing for amendment of chapter 8, section 8-1 [01:00:33] of the New Port Richey Code of Ordinances pertaining [01:00:35] to adoption of fire prevention codes, [01:00:37] providing for adoption of fire prevention codes [01:00:39] as amended and updated, providing for enforcement, [01:00:42] providing for conflict, severability, and effective [01:00:44] date. [01:00:45] Ms. Manns? [01:00:47] This agenda item relates to the enforcement of fire prevention [01:00:52] standards specifically set forth by the state of Florida. [01:00:58] And it is NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, NFPA 1 Fire Prevention [01:01:05] Code, the Florida Fire Prevention Code, [01:01:07] and the Florida Building Code. [01:01:10] And the chief can respond to any questions [01:01:12] that you might have related to any of those codes, [01:01:15] but they are the ones that we rely on in fire protection. [01:01:21] We are asking that they be adopted. [01:01:24] Very good. [01:01:25] Open it up for public comment. [01:01:28] Seeing none, I'll bring it back to council. [01:01:32] To the maker? [01:01:32] Nothing. [01:01:33] Second? [01:01:35] I'll just say that NFPA affects everybody's life a lot. [01:01:39] You probably don't notice it, but all the rules and regulations [01:01:43] from smoke detectors to even, in my line of work, generators, [01:01:47] I have several regulations and orders [01:01:50] I have to follow for doing that work for fire prevention. [01:01:53] So it's involved, and it's important. [01:01:56] So I appreciate the hard work. [01:01:59] Mr. Allman? [01:02:01] Good. [01:02:02] Mr. Peters? [01:02:03] This just brings us in line with state recommendations [01:02:06] and guidelines, right? [01:02:09] Yes, sir, it does. [01:02:10] And it also eliminated some codes [01:02:12] that were antiquated in our codes of ordinances [01:02:15] that no longer exist. [01:02:18] Appreciate that. [01:02:18] Always keep an eye on the file cabinet. [01:02:20] Keep it cleaned up. [01:02:21] Thank you. [01:02:22] Very good. [01:02:23] If there's no further discussion, [01:02:24] all those in favor, please signify by saying aye. [01:02:27] Aye. [01:02:27] Opposed, like sign. [01:02:29] Motion passes. [01:02:30] Next, we have a board reappointment.

    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.

16. 11.a

    Board Re-Appointment: Alfred Renedo, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

    approved

    Council reappointed Alfred Renedo to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for a three-year term expiring April 3, 2024. Council members praised his active service and background, including his recent appointment to the police pension board.

    • motion:Reappoint Alfred Renedo to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for a three-year term through April 3, 2024. (passed)

    👤Alfred Renedo👤Ms. Manns#Parks and Recreation Advisory Board#Police Pension Board

    ▶ Jump to 1:02:31 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [01:02:31] Ms. Manns? [01:02:32] Yes, very good news. [01:02:34] We have Mr. Al Renato interested in continuing his service [01:02:39] on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, [01:02:41] where he has been a member since 2018. [01:02:45] His term is due to expire on April 3rd of 2021. [01:02:52] Therefore, if you reappoint Mr. Renato, [01:02:57] his term will be for a three-year period of time, [01:03:01] and it will span through April 3rd of 2024. [01:03:07] And he is in attendance this evening. [01:03:10] Approval. [01:03:11] Second. [01:03:12] This is his last opportunity to run screaming out of the building [01:03:16] if he doesn't want it. [01:03:18] We have a motion and a second on the floor. [01:03:21] To the maker. [01:03:22] Just another very active committee, [01:03:25] and I know I keep seeing stuff about pickleball. [01:03:28] I'm understanding he's playing pickleball one day. [01:03:31] Maybe he'll show me how to play, because it [01:03:33] seems to be catching on more than some other what [01:03:41] would be emerging hobby horses as big in Finland, [01:03:44] but that hasn't really hit here yet. [01:03:47] To the second. [01:03:49] Yeah, this community is very fortunate to have Al Renato [01:03:52] participate in not only this committee, [01:03:55] but he also was recently appointed to the police pension [01:03:59] board. [01:04:01] You know, Al is, many of you may or may not know, [01:04:05] but he used to really, he was in charge [01:04:09] of maintenance of the power plant, [01:04:10] both at Anclode and once up at Crystal River. [01:04:13] And he was in charge of the mess up up there, by the way. [01:04:16] He was taking care of it afterwards. [01:04:18] But just an example of the type of individuals [01:04:24] I'd like to see serve on our committees. [01:04:26] They're active. [01:04:27] They know what they're doing. [01:04:28] They come up with ideas, and they push. [01:04:30] We're very fortunate to have Al serve another three years [01:04:32] on the recreation committee. [01:04:34] Have you met him? [01:04:35] No, I've just known Al for quite a few years. [01:04:38] And he throws some things in my ears every once in a while, [01:04:41] and I let it go out the other ear. [01:04:43] Just kidding. [01:04:44] No, I appreciate having you aboard. [01:04:46] And you can recruit more people out of your neighborhood [01:04:49] if you want. [01:04:52] Thanks for being involved, and thanks [01:04:53] for all the hard work you do do. [01:04:54] I know you're involved in many things, [01:04:56] and I think you have an event you're heading up, [01:04:59] coming up here soon, too, on the American festival. [01:05:02] So thank you. [01:05:04] Thank you very much for your service. [01:05:06] If there's no further discussion, all those in favor, [01:05:08] please signify by saying aye. [01:05:09] Aye. [01:05:10] Aye. [01:05:10] Opposed, like sign. [01:05:12] 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.

17. 11.b

    Request to Purchase Replacement Laptops for Police and Fire Departments

    approved

    Council approved the purchase of 32 replacement laptops for the police and fire departments through a piggyback on US General Services Administration contract 47QTCA19D00MM, for an amount not to exceed $89,998. This continues a replacement project begun in 2020.

    • motion:Approve the purchase of 32 replacement laptops for police and fire departments via GSA contract piggyback, not to exceed $89,998. (passed)

    🏢US General Services Administration👤Mr. Allman👤Mr. Murphy👤Mr. Weed#GSA Contract 47QTCA19D00MM#Police/Fire laptop replacement project

    ▶ Jump to 1:05:13 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [01:05:13] Next, request to purchase replacement laptops [01:05:15] for the police and fire departments. [01:05:17] Yes, Mr. Weed has advanced an agenda item [01:05:20] to purchase 32 laptops for use in our police and fire [01:05:24] departments. [01:05:26] He is proposing to purchase those through the US General [01:05:30] Service Administration as a piggyback to contract number [01:05:35] 47QTCA19D00MM for an amount not to exceed $89,998. [01:05:49] And he's prepared to respond to any questions [01:05:52] that you might have related to the purchase [01:05:54] of those computer laptops. [01:05:57] Very good. [01:05:57] We'll open up first for public comment. [01:06:01] Seeing no one coming forward, bring it back to council. [01:06:05] I move we approve. [01:06:06] Second. [01:06:07] To the maker. [01:06:08] So I noticed that this is for a total of 32 laptops. [01:06:15] Yes, sir. [01:06:16] And does that replace all laptops [01:06:17] for both fire and police? [01:06:19] So we started in 2020. [01:06:21] We replaced a substantial amount in the police department. [01:06:24] This is continuing that project and was [01:06:26] budgeted in this fiscal year. [01:06:28] And we'll replace the remaining laptops in the police cruisers [01:06:31] and in the fire department. [01:06:33] In this budget year, I think we had budgeted for, [01:06:37] was it 41 maybe, and a budget amount of $128,000. [01:06:42] So as you anticipate, is that something that we don't need? [01:06:45] Or do you think that we're just pushing that money back [01:06:47] to the next year? [01:06:48] At the end of the year last year, [01:06:49] we brought a series of laptops to you [01:06:52] that was purchased out of forfeiture funds. [01:06:54] So that's where your numbers are. [01:06:56] Offset the debt balance. [01:06:57] OK. [01:06:58] Thank you. [01:06:59] Second. [01:07:00] No, we just keep our police and fire up to date. [01:07:04] Mr. Allman? [01:07:06] Mr. Murphy? [01:07:08] What is the average lifespan of using a laptop? [01:07:11] What I know says over seven years, these have been out. [01:07:13] But I mean, what's really the life of them? [01:07:17] Our average industry standard would be about five years. [01:07:20] We've exceeded that in the past by several years. [01:07:24] So this is its time. [01:07:27] I would put that number more like three. [01:07:30] Yeah. [01:07:31] Well, we get their value out of them. [01:07:35] The technology changes quickly, and these units [01:07:38] lead a hard life. [01:07:39] So I don't have a problem with this at all. [01:07:43] Any further discussion? [01:07:45] Hearing none, all those in favor, [01:07:46] please signify by saying aye. [01:07:48] Aye. [01:07:48] Opposed, like sign. [01:07:50] 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.

18. 11.c

    Classification and Compensation Study by Cody & Associates, Inc.

    approved

    Council accepted the Classification and Compensation Study completed by Cody & Associates, which reviewed 167 non-union city positions against 15 comparable Florida cities and found 38 positions to be under market. The study recommended adjustments costing approximately $49,000 to bring positions up to minimum ranges; police and fire positions will be addressed next fiscal year. Council also discussed the upcoming Florida minimum wage increase to $10/hour on September 1 and the need to revisit pay grade 101, and Councilman Sullivan raised the separate issue of low city council compensation ($300/month).

    • motion:Move to approve/accept the completed Classification and Compensation Study by Cody & Associates. (passed)

    📍5443 Main Street📍6026 Tennessee🏢Cody & Associates, Inc.👤Debbie Manns👤Drummond👤Murphy👤Rachel Hagenbaugh👤Sullivan👤Tim McLean👤Wendy Brenner#CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency)#City council compensation#Classification and Compensation Study#Florida minimum wage increase to $10/hour#Pay grade 101

    ▶ Jump to 1:07:51 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [01:07:51] Next is the classification and compensation [01:07:53] study by Cody and Associates. [01:07:56] Thank you, Mr. Mayor. [01:07:58] As I indicated to you at our last meeting, [01:08:02] the city entered into an agreement [01:08:05] with Cody and Associates, who is a management consulting [01:08:10] company who specializes in public employment [01:08:15] in the state of Florida for salary and classification [01:08:19] and wage studies. [01:08:22] They conducted a study which included [01:08:29] 15 cities in the state of Florida, which are considered [01:08:34] to be comp cities. [01:08:37] And what they looked at specifically [01:08:39] were our classifications, our salary ranges, [01:08:45] and equitable relationships between positions [01:08:49] to determine minimums and maximums for salary [01:08:55] ranges or positions. [01:08:58] And what they found was that we were out of skew [01:09:06] as it related to the non-union positions of the city. [01:09:11] And we did not evaluate the union positions of the city [01:09:18] at this time. [01:09:20] And the reason that we didn't is because we [01:09:23] felt that the largest disparity that would exist [01:09:26] would be within the non-union positions of the city. [01:09:32] We had gone on to make, or you had instituted a COLA [01:09:42] adjustment, pardon me, consistent [01:09:47] with the fiscal year, which made some of the adjustments [01:09:53] come into line. [01:09:54] But still, 38 positions out of 167 positions [01:10:00] were determined to be under market [01:10:03] based on the data that was provided to Cody and Associates [01:10:10] based on their evaluations of the positions. [01:10:15] And the recommendation to you this evening [01:10:21] is to accept the completed work by Cody and Associates [01:10:29] on the classification and compensation study [01:10:35] so that we can go forward and implement the adjustments [01:10:39] as a result of the fact that in your strategic plan, [01:10:43] you conveyed to me your interest in attracting and retaining [01:10:49] the best possible talent that we can in the city. [01:10:54] And I believe that paying the appropriate wage [01:10:59] goes a long way in terms of making sure [01:11:02] that that is the case. [01:11:06] And it'll be next fiscal year that we [01:11:08] address the police and fire positions of the city. [01:11:13] Thank you. [01:11:14] Open up for public comment. [01:11:24] Tim McLean, 5443 Main Street. [01:11:31] You didn't think I wouldn't speak tonight, right? [01:11:33] Mr. Mayor, City Council, Ms. Manns. [01:11:37] Some of you may know or may not know, [01:11:38] I have owned a professional staffing company [01:11:40] in Pasco County for 14 years and 11 months, almost 15 years. [01:11:46] One of the frustrating things is when people do salary surveys [01:11:50] because they sort of think we're Tampa Bay [01:11:53] and the numbers are ridiculous. [01:11:54] Usually when I see those, this is actually a decent report. [01:11:58] I will tell you the minimums for the fields of interest [01:12:01] and some obviously are not in my wheelhouse, [01:12:03] but for the ones that are normal, [01:12:05] especially in the clerical world and other stuff, [01:12:08] the minimum is pretty fair for this county. [01:12:10] Maximum is a little high by a couple of dollars, [01:12:12] but the minimum is actually very good. [01:12:14] This company, I noticed, had been around since the 60s. [01:12:17] Did a good job. [01:12:18] I have to say that. [01:12:20] My concern is one thing, not that you shouldn't [01:12:23] accept the $49,000 increase to bump everybody to the minimum. [01:12:27] My concern is I worked for four years. [01:12:30] I'm making $2 more. [01:12:32] They say the minimum is $15. [01:12:34] I'm making $15. [01:12:35] This person's making $13. [01:12:37] They get a $2 bump. [01:12:39] I spent three to four years earning that $2 more pay, [01:12:43] and now we're equal again. [01:12:46] That's not fair. [01:12:47] The report does nothing to do that, which is frustrating [01:12:50] because as good as Cody is, they missed that part. [01:12:54] You have to go one step deeper. [01:12:56] The $49,000, no-brainer. [01:12:59] You probably got another $50,000 there [01:13:01] where you have to keep that gap where it was. [01:13:04] So that person that was making $15 needs to make $16.50, $17. [01:13:09] That's not in that report, so I think [01:13:11] you've got to go a step further. [01:13:13] Again, it is a very good report. [01:13:15] 15 years I've done this. [01:13:16] The numbers are really good. [01:13:18] The negative to it is it's this, oh, bump somebody up, [01:13:22] and somebody has worked so hard to earn above, [01:13:25] and now we're back to a level playing field, which [01:13:27] isn't level for the person that's worked for you [01:13:29] for three or four years. [01:13:30] So that's the only thing. [01:13:32] It's not an easy answer. [01:13:33] I would suggest take your $49,000 move. [01:13:36] Keep looking at it. [01:13:37] You've got time. [01:13:38] See what the other number is to get everybody equitable, [01:13:41] if that makes sense. [01:13:42] Thank you. [01:13:43] Thank you. [01:13:44] I think I do understand the point [01:13:46] that Mr. McClain is making, and we [01:13:48] did look at equitable relationships [01:13:51] between positions and classifications [01:13:55] as part of the study. [01:13:57] Thank you. [01:13:57] Anyone else? [01:14:11] Wendy Brenner. [01:14:14] Pull the mic down. [01:14:16] Sorry, Wendy Brenner. [01:14:19] First of all, the last time I was here, [01:14:21] I asked for the attachments. [01:14:23] The only attachment that is in this week's [01:14:26] that wasn't in the last one was the salary ranges. [01:14:29] The rest of the report is not there. [01:14:31] Are you guys seeing it? [01:14:33] Did you get the data summary? [01:14:35] Did you get the pay plan, the recommended reclassifications? [01:14:39] It's not in the packet. [01:14:41] How can you make a decision without the proper information? [01:14:45] It's not in there. [01:14:47] I don't understand. [01:14:49] And the other thing is my understanding [01:14:51] by reading the charter that there [01:14:54] should be an ordinance that comes after you approve this, [01:14:57] because it's supposed to be approved by ordinance. [01:15:00] not just by saying, okay, we like this study, put it in. [01:15:04] It says in the charter that all, [01:15:08] that the city council shall provide by ordinance [01:15:11] for the establishment, regulation, and maintenance [01:15:14] of the merit system and the personnel information, [01:15:17] which this is. [01:15:18] This is a major change and it's supposed to be done [01:15:21] once every five years. [01:15:23] The last one was in 2014. [01:15:27] Thank you. [01:15:28] Anyone else? [01:15:47] Hi, good evening. [01:15:49] Rachel Hagenbaugh, 6026 Tennessee. [01:15:52] Yeah, since we would like a current pay scale [01:16:01] for a lot of the employees so that we are able to determine [01:16:05] and we want to also go above the minimum. [01:16:10] 15 is still rather low. [01:16:13] Even $20 is low for a city employee. [01:16:18] So I would like to also reevaluate that [01:16:22] because the pay to scale ratio has changed over the years [01:16:28] and the information that they're going on [01:16:31] is also off of other cities, [01:16:36] but I think we could also be better than that as well. [01:16:39] Thank you. [01:16:40] Thank you. [01:16:42] Anyone else? [01:16:43] Seeing no one else come forward, bring it back to council. [01:16:47] Move for approval. [01:16:52] Second. [01:16:53] The maker. [01:16:54] I know it's going to be a lot more work on this. [01:16:57] Second. [01:16:58] Yeah, let's have a look at this. [01:17:01] It's interesting, what I found about it [01:17:04] is comparison this obviously with other municipalities [01:17:08] and I looked at the cities that they were comparing with [01:17:11] and there are some I'd say in different areas than ours [01:17:16] and different markets and different economies. [01:17:20] And I look at it and compare it to my own situation [01:17:24] of my employees and what the right pay scale for them. [01:17:30] And we always will like compare ourselves to others [01:17:37] in our same situation, [01:17:38] but we really have to look and compare ourselves [01:17:41] to the general market. [01:17:44] Our city employees don't just have an opportunity [01:17:47] to work for the city, they can work for private enterprise, [01:17:50] they can work for the state, [01:17:51] they can work for large corporations, for small businesses. [01:17:55] And I think that this is tough, [01:18:02] but I certainly, it's a starting point [01:18:04] in trying to get equitable pay [01:18:08] and I agree with you, Ms. Manns, [01:18:11] that we do and with our other council members [01:18:14] do we want to attract the most talented [01:18:17] and gifted people to work for our city. [01:18:20] And that doesn't always mean that we have to pay them [01:18:22] the most because sometimes it's just a point [01:18:24] that they like their job and they get their enrichment [01:18:28] in what they do and who they do it for. [01:18:31] So, and I think working with the city [01:18:34] and have a sense of pride here [01:18:37] helps that sense of belonging for employees [01:18:40] and yeah, we need to pay them well, [01:18:43] we need to pay them what they're worth, [01:18:44] but I know some of them don't do it all for just the money. [01:18:47] So, good luck with this. [01:18:51] Mr. Murphy. [01:18:52] Yeah, I guess I want to just bring up the point, [01:18:55] I think about what Mr. McLean was talking about [01:18:58] and you said you've addressed that where, [01:19:01] that gap in between when it goes to $15 now, [01:19:04] and how the other employees will be [01:19:05] getting that buffer further up. [01:19:07] I just want to make sure that's a part of it. [01:19:13] Ms. Drummond. [01:19:14] Say it again, because I didn't hear you, I'm sorry. [01:19:18] About the $15 an hour. [01:19:20] All right, so. [01:19:21] And so, when other people are bumped up, [01:19:25] the people that were making $15 an hour, [01:19:28] they need to be bumped up too. [01:19:31] Not necessarily, it depends on what classification [01:19:35] you're in. [01:19:36] Right. [01:19:37] Just because if you're in the same classification [01:19:41] or are you in a different classification. [01:19:43] I get that, but I just mean, my question is, [01:19:45] has that been looked at, has that been addressed? [01:19:47] That's my question. [01:19:48] It has been as part of the review of the study, yes. [01:19:50] Okay, that was, thank you. [01:19:52] Yes, thank you. [01:19:53] Mr. Sullivan. [01:19:54] Yeah, I think, you know, skill sets are key [01:19:57] to employment and pay, you know, [01:20:00] how much you pay somebody. [01:20:02] Skill sets that my sister in marketing used to have [01:20:06] in print media are no longer, you know, [01:20:10] as relevant in advertising business as they are now. [01:20:13] So, it's always important to have new energy. [01:20:18] At the same token, the, you know, [01:20:22] the example I recall from working [01:20:24] at my father's law office many years ago [01:20:26] was listening to bank tellers, [01:20:29] because a lot of our work was to go speak [01:20:31] and become friendly with bank folks. [01:20:34] And I think that's an example where folks work, [01:20:40] get very little pay increases, [01:20:42] and find someone coming in fresh, [01:20:44] probably not knowing as much of the way around as them, [01:20:47] and you're making the same pay. [01:20:49] So, I think it's a relevant point. [01:20:52] And I take you at your word, Ms. Manns, [01:20:56] that you have evaluated all of the staff [01:20:58] based on their skill sets, their value to the city, [01:21:02] and given them a compensation that would not, [01:21:06] that would not cause them to have a reason [01:21:12] to bring that point up. [01:21:15] I am, however, also concerned about the comments [01:21:21] made on the pink collar workers, [01:21:23] and some of the, you know, the fact that for many years, [01:21:28] there's been pay equity issues [01:21:33] as it relates to women in the workplace. [01:21:36] The COVID has had a much more damaging effect [01:21:40] on the female population of our country [01:21:42] than the male population. [01:21:45] Many women have left the workforce [01:21:46] because they've been forced to take care of their children [01:21:49] and do many of the other things [01:21:50] that have traditionally been in that role. [01:21:54] So, when, you know, when evaluating the pay scales, [01:22:00] you look at what everybody else pays, [01:22:03] and I understand the process you've gone through, [01:22:07] and must rely as a council member on our charter, [01:22:11] which gives you the, you know, [01:22:13] the job of advising us what to do, [01:22:15] and you've gotten a study and brought it to us. [01:22:19] All that being said, [01:22:20] the ranges, the information that we as a council act on, [01:22:29] we don't act on every raise you give. [01:22:31] I don't believe you give us a scale and a range, [01:22:33] and you work within that, [01:22:36] but it has been brought up about the need for an ordinance. [01:22:40] So, could I have some clarification on the motion? [01:22:42] Are we approving this so that you would move forward [01:22:46] to allay the issues related to the charter, [01:22:50] or are there no issues, [01:22:52] and you believe that you're not subject [01:22:54] to that provision that's been pointed out? [01:22:56] No, this is your final approval. [01:22:57] There is no requirement for an ordinance for this. [01:23:01] So, you've looked at that element [01:23:03] and determined when it says [01:23:06] the city council shall establish the pay, [01:23:09] that it doesn't say by ordinance or doesn't mean that? [01:23:12] No, what it says is that the merit system [01:23:15] is established by ordinance, [01:23:16] which has been done in the past, [01:23:18] and there is an ordinance establishing the merit system. [01:23:20] This is just a classification study, [01:23:22] so you can approve this study. [01:23:23] It's an administrative action. [01:23:29] I would share the concerns about the pink-collar jobs. [01:23:34] I think we need to make sure [01:23:35] that they are appropriately compensated [01:23:40] based on the requirements of the job [01:23:44] and the number of people they're supervising [01:23:47] and all of that. [01:23:48] Yeah, the study was done without any deference to sex [01:23:52] of who holds the position. [01:23:55] The study was done based on your level of responsibility [01:23:58] and your span of control and your skill set. [01:24:02] And Ms. Hagenbaum made a valid point [01:24:04] about the minimum wage. [01:24:08] I just looked it up, [01:24:10] because I wasn't positive, [01:24:12] but the minimum wage in Florida [01:24:13] goes to $10 an hour on September 1st. [01:24:16] And so pay grade 101 is below minimum wage [01:24:21] before it even goes into place, [01:24:23] so that's a good point that was brought up. [01:24:26] We probably need to look at at least [01:24:31] the first several of these proposed pay grades, [01:24:35] because if they're going to go up, [01:24:37] my understanding is a dollar an hour each year [01:24:42] for the next several until it gets up to 15. [01:24:46] And we definitely don't want to start off [01:24:51] with our minimum pay grade below minimum wage [01:24:55] before it even goes into place. [01:24:57] And we probably ought to be looking [01:24:59] in terms of making sure that it's at or above minimum wage [01:25:06] before the end of the fiscal year [01:25:07] that we're getting ready to approve the things for, [01:25:10] because it'll be $11 an hour [01:25:12] before that wage goes into place. [01:25:20] And so we need to look probably several years out [01:25:22] just to make sure that we're doing that right. [01:25:27] Excellent points for both of the ladies [01:25:30] in the back of the room, thank you. [01:25:34] That's the biggest thing that I saw. [01:25:37] We just need to make sure we stay competitive. [01:25:41] It's important. [01:25:42] We have lost people in the past [01:25:44] to other government agencies [01:25:47] because we weren't paying enough to do it. [01:25:50] And so it's absolutely, [01:25:53] we ought to be doing this on a regular basis [01:25:55] just to make sure that we stay competitive. [01:25:59] Any further discussion? [01:26:01] Just one, just one, well, go ahead. [01:26:03] I just want to say, just bringing up about the disparities [01:26:05] you pay between men and women. [01:26:07] Obviously, what your skill set is, [01:26:10] what your level is, that's what you should be paid [01:26:12] regardless of sex. [01:26:15] And I would say that I would think in this situation, [01:26:17] especially since Ms. Maine is a woman, [01:26:19] she may have been subjected to that in the past possibly, [01:26:21] but I think she would really be extra vigilant [01:26:23] in making sure that kind of stuff [01:26:25] doesn't happen here in the city. [01:26:26] I mean, I would find it odd [01:26:28] that that would take place with her position. [01:26:33] So I just want to point that out. [01:26:34] One other thing is, nine times out of 10, [01:26:38] I'm not saying always, [01:26:39] but for a government job, a federal job, [01:26:42] the benefits are a lot better than in the private sector. [01:26:46] So when someone's making $15 an hour [01:26:51] in the government or a federal job, [01:26:53] those benefits are a number you have to add in also. [01:26:58] So I mean, when you compare it to the private sector, [01:27:01] you're probably making more [01:27:02] than someone maybe making a couple of dollars more. [01:27:05] You're still making more just because of the benefits. [01:27:08] And that's why people go to those jobs [01:27:10] and they know they're not going to get the hourly rate, [01:27:13] but they're going to get those benefits [01:27:14] and that attracts them also. [01:27:16] That's a huge thing that attracts people to these jobs. [01:27:18] So you really can't compare it from private [01:27:21] to a lot of times. [01:27:24] I can tell you, I was in the military. [01:27:28] I had everything provided for me. [01:27:30] I had a place to live, food, [01:27:32] and I don't, I think I maybe had a couple hundred bucks [01:27:35] or something to spend for the month after, you know, [01:27:38] but it was, I didn't hurt for anything. [01:27:41] And then I had healthcare. [01:27:42] And I mean, so it's just not a good comparison [01:27:45] between private and government. [01:27:48] So you have to take that into consideration too. [01:27:52] Sean, you had something else? [01:27:53] Yeah, just one thing. [01:27:54] I mean, this is the time to raise it in my view [01:27:57] as we have an election coming. [01:28:01] The city council pay of $300 a month is pathetic. [01:28:04] It hasn't changed in 20, 30 years. [01:28:07] Dell, when you and I were on the council together [01:28:09] in the 80s, it was the same. [01:28:12] And it never goes up because 100 bucks on 300 [01:28:16] is a 33% raise and back when the newspapers [01:28:20] were more active, that would have been disaster for anyone [01:28:24] because it was percentage wise impossible [01:28:26] to do anything meaningful without making it look [01:28:29] like people putting it in their pockets. [01:28:31] Our city requires that any increase in the pay [01:28:35] of the city council doesn't apply to the seated council. [01:28:40] And so I would like to suggest that for those of us [01:28:44] that are going out and mercifully to those [01:28:47] that might come in in the future, [01:28:49] that, you know, we're not only city council members, [01:28:52] but we also have a CRA in which we have a separate entity [01:28:56] that we're the directors of. [01:28:58] The city does divide up some of its efforts [01:29:01] and allocate funds to the CRA. [01:29:04] So not only did we haven't seen a raise [01:29:08] because I'm making less than I did when I was mayor, [01:29:10] I took a $50 a month pay cut in order to get this job. [01:29:15] But of course you were already there mayor, [01:29:18] so you had me blocked at that point. [01:29:20] But point being, we could and should make [01:29:25] a reasonable pay for people that want to serve this city [01:29:30] in a capacity so that we can do our homework [01:29:33] and spend the time and attend these other events [01:29:36] and meetings that we have to do. [01:29:38] And so I think, I don't know if it's possible, [01:29:41] if you could, or if my colleagues would agree, [01:29:44] but taking a look around for the size of our budgets [01:29:48] and the responsibilities of this board, [01:29:52] community development districts that I managed [01:29:56] across Pasco County make as much money [01:29:59] as a city council member. [01:30:00] do around the state, and it really is ridiculous. [01:30:06] It's always, well, we're volunteers, [01:30:07] and we do it out of the kindness of our heart. [01:30:09] We do it because we love the city, which is true. [01:30:12] But I think it's time that we got [01:30:14] to maybe make it possible for folks who do work [01:30:19] or want to do this job to aspire to it. [01:30:25] Well, I'm going to be termed out, so it doesn't matter to me. [01:30:30] One way or the other, I would suggest [01:30:32] that we probably ought to look and see what [01:30:34] other communities are doing, Ms. Mance. [01:30:36] Hi. [01:30:39] I mean, mosquito control makes more than I do. [01:30:42] Just to be a board member on mosquito, [01:30:44] and they meet once a month. [01:30:45] And the most controversial thing they discuss [01:30:50] is where to spray for mosquitoes. [01:30:52] So yeah, we probably ought to take a look at that. [01:30:58] If there's any further discussion, hearing none, [01:31:02] all those in favor, please signify by saying aye. [01:31:04] Aye. [01:31:05] Opposed, like sign. [01:31:07] Motion passes. [01:31:08] Next is the city manager performance evaluation.

    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.

19. 11.d

    City Manager Performance Evaluation

    approved

    Council conducted the annual performance evaluation of City Manager Debbie Manns. Members praised her communication, leadership, and handling of COVID-19, while Councilman Allman urged more regular CRA meetings and public discussions of priorities. Council approved a 3% salary raise and increased severance from approximately three/four months to five months, effective on her June 2 anniversary date.

    • motion:Approve a 3% salary raise for City Manager Debbie Manns and increase severance pay to five months, effective June 2 anniversary date. (passed)

    🏢Tyler👤Allman👤Brian👤Debbie Manns👤Deputy Mayor Davis👤Mayor👤Murphy👤Peters#Annexation agreement with the county#COVID-19 funding#City Manager Performance Evaluation#Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA)

    ▶ Jump to 1:31:11 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [01:31:12] Yes, sir, Mr. Mayor. [01:31:14] As you're all aware, under the terms of my employment [01:31:18] agreement, I ask that you conduct [01:31:22] an annual review of my performance [01:31:26] as your city manager during the month of March. [01:31:30] The purpose of the evaluation is twofold. [01:31:35] First of all, I like to always have [01:31:40] open and productive discussion with you about my performance. [01:31:45] Most of you are kind enough to let [01:31:47] me know how I'm doing with regularity, [01:31:51] and I appreciate the feedback. [01:31:53] It's helpful to me in knowing how to serve you better. [01:31:58] But I like to, in a more formal way, [01:32:02] have an opportunity to have the annual review [01:32:07] to identify any items that I need to change or improvement [01:32:14] identified by you. [01:32:16] Secondly, the review process is an opportunity for you [01:32:20] if you collectively determine it to be appropriate to effectuate [01:32:26] any changes in my salary or benefit structure. [01:32:32] And I'm prepared to respond to any questions [01:32:38] that you may have of me. [01:32:39] I did pass along to you some information [01:32:43] so that you're aware of some of the salary and benefits [01:32:48] afforded to some of my peers. [01:32:51] And as a reminder to you, although you [01:32:56] may determine it to be appropriate to make [01:33:00] some type of an adjustment, it does not [01:33:03] become effective until my anniversary [01:33:05] date, which is June 2nd. [01:33:09] I'll start it off if you want. [01:33:12] Deputy Mayor, please. [01:33:15] With the situation that we've been dealing [01:33:18] with last year, the COVID, I want [01:33:20] to congratulate you for stepping up to the plate. [01:33:23] You were very concerned about the budget and the cost [01:33:26] that we might entail because of this COVID thing. [01:33:30] But I don't think we really had any major debt brought [01:33:35] to us in any of the departments. [01:33:38] I mean, there's been some changes in the way [01:33:40] we deal with the fire and the police department. [01:33:43] But I think that you did a great job at implementing the things [01:33:51] that you know, even though I can't smack my buddies anymore. [01:33:55] But I think you did a great job with the whole COVID situation. [01:33:59] I think there's some, I've had discussions with you. [01:34:03] I think there's some strong departments, [01:34:05] and I think there's some weak departments. [01:34:07] There's, you know, we have an opening in one [01:34:09] of the departments right now. [01:34:11] And I also liked your idea of bringing in a, finally [01:34:14] finding the right person for the deputy city manager, [01:34:19] assistant to the city manager, what their title is. [01:34:22] But I want to propose, and we'll discuss it [01:34:26] after everybody else does theirs, but I'd [01:34:28] like to see a 3% raise for Ms. Manns. [01:34:32] And also, I did a little research myself. [01:34:36] There's a severance pay. [01:34:40] Not that we want her to go anywhere. [01:34:42] But right now, I think it sets at three or four months. [01:34:46] And that's usually what it is if you've been with a city [01:34:50] for like four or five years. [01:34:52] And she's been, you think you'd be your seventh year now? [01:34:55] Coming up on your seventh year. [01:34:57] So I'd like to increase that severance pay to five months. [01:35:02] Do we have a motion? [01:35:03] Do we have a second? [01:35:04] Second. [01:35:05] OK. [01:35:07] Mr. Peters, do you want to go next? [01:35:09] So a couple of things. [01:35:13] I'm obviously the newest person on the council, [01:35:17] and having come on board in November. [01:35:21] And so one of the things that I found remarkable, [01:35:28] as I did a pretty broad tour throughout all [01:35:31] the different city departments, and talked [01:35:33] with not only department heads, but some rank and file [01:35:37] employees as well, was that the, for lack of a better term, [01:35:45] just the admiration that the city employees [01:35:50] had for our city manager. [01:35:53] And how they spoke very highly of her and her leadership [01:35:57] in advancing the city and making [01:36:02] them have a sense of pride of being [01:36:04] part of this organization. [01:36:07] And so that's, to me, I just found that really remarkable [01:36:13] on that initial tour throughout the city [01:36:17] and the different departments. [01:36:18] And I thought that was just a really good endorsement [01:36:22] on leadership qualities that Debbie has. [01:36:27] And secondly, as you coming in on a new job, [01:36:34] new responsibilities, I made a lot of efforts [01:36:39] to try to learn as much as I could, as quickly as I could, [01:36:41] so that it could be effective. [01:36:43] And Debbie was always there, any questions [01:36:48] I had, and allowing me where to find the answers, [01:36:52] and lining them up for me, and being really [01:36:55] open for the communications, and that she's [01:36:58] continued that to this day. [01:36:59] So her communication skills, at least in my views [01:37:04] and my experience, is excellent. [01:37:07] And as I looked at other cities, and their managers, [01:37:12] and the size of their cities, I think [01:37:17] we're getting a bargain in comparison. [01:37:20] So I would be in support of the motion. [01:37:23] Mr. Murphy. [01:37:24] Yeah, I'd also like to support the motion on this 3% [01:37:28] and the five weeks of severance. [01:37:30] And looking at other areas and other city managers, [01:37:36] that's not an outrageous number or anything [01:37:41] where she'll be compared to other places. [01:37:46] And for the amount of work that I know she does, [01:37:48] I think it's well-deserved. [01:37:50] As far as the severance, I can tell you from the private [01:37:53] sector, that's pretty standard, based on your years. [01:37:57] That's not out of the way either. [01:38:01] That's pretty close. [01:38:03] So I'm for that. [01:38:05] I can tell you, just from the past three years [01:38:09] in work with Debbie, I probably don't bother her as much, [01:38:16] probably, as maybe others. [01:38:17] Not that that's a bad thing. [01:38:19] But any time I need her, text her, call her. [01:38:23] I mean, I don't care what time it is, weekends. [01:38:26] I can't tell you how many times I've called her on vacation. [01:38:29] I'm just forgetting she's on vacation [01:38:31] and she's always there to help. [01:38:32] So in that respect, I can't ask for any more from that. [01:38:36] Because communication is a big thing. [01:38:38] There's nothing worse than trying to find out [01:38:40] information or do something, and you can't get a call back [01:38:44] or someone's not getting back with you. [01:38:46] That's the worst. [01:38:48] It's one of my pet peeves. [01:38:50] So she's sailed through that just awesomely. [01:38:52] So I'm fine with what Mr. Davis is proposing. [01:38:56] Mr. Allman. [01:38:58] Yeah, I think I'll play off the communication theme here. [01:39:02] And I think there's no doubt that communication is [01:39:05] good with all of us individually. [01:39:08] I think the importance, when we have a evaluation [01:39:11] and a process like this, is to try to make ourselves better [01:39:15] altogether. [01:39:16] As I've spoken with Debbie privately, [01:39:18] and I share my thoughts as the rest of you do, [01:39:23] I think the important issue here is [01:39:24] communication with the public and communication [01:39:28] with us related to what's going on on a regular basis publicly. [01:39:33] And so all of the efforts that are made for all of us [01:39:40] privately to have our questions answered [01:39:43] certainly are a strong suit. [01:39:46] What I am hoping for is that the communication among the five [01:39:51] of us is better occurring between us [01:39:57] about the policies that are coming before us. [01:40:00] Oftentimes up here, it's like, well, I trust that opinion. [01:40:05] There are opinions and things and decisions [01:40:07] that we're going to be making up here [01:40:08] that we have to make as a group, and we do. [01:40:11] It's important that we meet regularly. [01:40:13] And so the main request I've had is [01:40:16] that we have regular CRA meetings. [01:40:19] And in fact, the Community Redevelopment Agency [01:40:23] has a separate mission. [01:40:25] And oftentimes, we know we're the same people, [01:40:27] but we have a whole other body, a board that we sit on, [01:40:31] that needs to have the attention to the economic development [01:40:36] segregated because the funds are segregated [01:40:40] and the use of the funds are segregated. [01:40:42] So mine is a little more wonky within how [01:40:47] things I believe should work. [01:40:49] And I can't really blame the city manager [01:40:52] if we aren't, as a body, saying, let's [01:40:54] have regular meetings of the CRA. [01:40:57] And so I've asked Debbie if we could try to increase those. [01:41:00] So if you hear that privately, that's my discussion, [01:41:04] is I would like to other $3.5 million [01:41:07] operations with substantial capital improvements pending. [01:41:13] And maybe this is just the time for it [01:41:15] because we've been planning and having plans [01:41:19] and waiting for them. [01:41:20] Now they're out. [01:41:21] So my real comment is, yes, let's [01:41:24] approve the raises, the severance, [01:41:26] and give the good credit for the work that's been done. [01:41:30] But now we really are in the ballgame [01:41:35] because now we've got funds coming in. [01:41:37] We have to decide what to do with many capital projects [01:41:40] from bike paths to road crossings to entry signs [01:41:44] to other things that we haven't even really had a chance [01:41:48] to talk with each other about. [01:41:49] And I really want them to be coming from us, [01:41:53] me talking to you guys and saying, these are our priority. [01:41:56] So that's been, just to share my hope, [01:42:01] is that we together can really knuckle down and do our work [01:42:06] and earn our $300 a month because this is the time. [01:42:13] It really, once every 100 years, I've said it before, [01:42:17] I've been here for many years and sat with many councils [01:42:19] and been involved in much of the stuff we've talked about. [01:42:24] Never has an opportunity been here. [01:42:27] A problem is an invitation for a solution. [01:42:29] And this COVID problem now is providing us [01:42:32] with an invitation with funding opportunities [01:42:35] to right the ship or look at whatever [01:42:39] hasn't been done this year, make sure we get it on track. [01:42:42] We have a lot of resources that are coming our way. [01:42:45] I don't want those to be private discussions. [01:42:48] I think it's the best use of the city manager's [01:42:51] time for these discussions to be public with us right [01:42:54] here in front of everybody. [01:42:56] So, Mr. Mayor, so just wanting more meetings, [01:43:01] some more information on things we can work on. [01:43:03] Right, I mean, the CRA. [01:43:04] I'm not against that. [01:43:06] I don't know. [01:43:07] From a city council standpoint, I [01:43:09] think we're having plenty of meetings. [01:43:11] From a CRA standpoint, we find that there [01:43:15] are things we want to do, and we really [01:43:17] should have regular meetings. [01:43:18] And I think we've got staff. [01:43:20] We've got marketing now. [01:43:21] We should be getting information that we can share. [01:43:26] The excitement is about to happen. [01:43:28] And it's just like you've practiced all your life, [01:43:31] and now you're in the game. [01:43:33] And so that's my message, is like we're in the game now, [01:43:37] and we need everybody to be on their toes. [01:43:39] And that means city manager's got to hold session [01:43:44] over her staff, and we have to do our part. [01:43:48] I would not disagree with that, and particularly [01:43:51] for some of the development opportunities, [01:43:53] having some more probably work sessions [01:43:58] that tend to be a little more freewheeling [01:43:59] would be a good thing. [01:44:02] On the city manager evaluation, it [01:44:04] has been my pleasure to have had her as city manager [01:44:09] essentially the entire time that I've been mayor. [01:44:13] And she works hard at it. [01:44:18] There are occasions when things have [01:44:22] fallen through the cracks. [01:44:24] And I suspect now having an assistant [01:44:28] is going to go a long way towards keeping that [01:44:30] from occurring in the future. [01:44:35] One of the items that I brought up fairly recently to her, [01:44:41] because it was a discussion at least four years ago, [01:44:45] and maybe longer than that, was the discussion of annexation. [01:44:50] And we've been going back and forth with the county. [01:44:54] And for this immediate [01:45:00] future, I would love to see that as a priority item to try to get that annexation agreement [01:45:08] inked so we can get those parcels and do something with them. And I've got some comments for [01:45:17] communications about that as well. But I agree with the suggestion on the salary increase [01:45:27] and the additional termination time. Any further discussion? Hearing none, all those in favor [01:45:38] please signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed, like sign. Motion passes. We have a three [01:45:45] minute report from technology. Sir, good evening Mayor and Council. Over the past several months [01:45:51] Technology Solutions has advanced a number of projects. We deployed 40 body cameras to [01:45:56] our police officers, including online training sessions and a kiosk set up in the station [01:46:02] for them to check out cameras. They can also do that from the in-car vehicles or from within [01:46:08] the vehicles. We spoke earlier about the laptops. This would be a photo demonstrating how those [01:46:15] laptops can be used at the workstation when they're docked so they double up as their [01:46:21] office computer as well as their in-car computer. And we deployed those for the sergeants, corporals, [01:46:26] as well as the code enforcement and detectives. We worked with the fire department on the MSAG-1 [01:46:35] breathing apparatus. We completed a hardware and software install that allows fire to monitor the [01:46:42] air supply while they're on-site. We added the launch of the reporting a problem within the [01:46:56] city app. This is mainly being used for reporting code enforcement issues and public work issues [01:47:03] such as potholes and water breaks. It allows you to take a picture of whatever the issue may be as [01:47:09] well as put a pin on the map and then that workflow moves it to the appropriate departments where they [01:47:15] can address it. In public works, we installed a new access control system allowing for a call box [01:47:25] to control public entry and entry for staff by key code or by FOB. And then we had a significant [01:47:33] Tyler software migration from 11.3 to their 2019 version. This included several weeks of staff [01:47:43] training along with some servers that needed to be deployed for the application and it's provided [01:47:49] new feature sets now that we are in the 2019 version. So moving forward, we're going to be [01:47:56] working on deploying citizen employee self-service, our online building and zoning, our business taxes, [01:48:05] being online, our GIS integration with Tyler which will also allow for work orders to be completed [01:48:12] from iPad devices within the field. We're going to be working with the fire department on [01:48:19] completing their fireworks reporting software which is scheduled to be launched at the beginning of [01:48:24] April. This software has several feature advantages to it with respect to the current software. [01:48:32] When getting data back out, when utilizing data with respect to reports and reporting and showing [01:48:38] things that are going on within the city limits, a lot more analytical tools based in this software [01:48:45] version. We also are working with the recreation center. Their staff is currently evaluating and [01:48:53] training through their test environment for their point of sale system. We expect that to launch at [01:49:01] the end of April as they go through and just confirm that the data is in the right order and [01:49:07] they finish getting staff up to snuff with respect to training. And then finally, we're moving forward [01:49:13] with a new camera solution, camera truck, for public works utilities so that they use this to [01:49:21] conduct maintenance of the utility and track things within the pipes. [01:49:26] And that's my report for you this evening. Any questions? [01:49:29] Hearing none, thank you, Brian. I'm going to kick off the communications. We got notified that [01:49:37] the city is likely to pick up something in the neighborhood of $7 million from the American

    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.

20. 11.e

    Three Minute Report: Technology Solutions

    discussed

    Council member three-minute reports covering ARPA recovery funding priorities (annexation/sewer for Leisure Lane-Vandoren area, infrastructure grants), golf cart street routing, the mulch and debris pickup program (to be discussed next week), a Reading Across America Zoom reading, and a Tampa Bay Water meeting presentation. A council member also requested restructuring the agenda so council can respond shortly after Vox Pop public comments.

    • direction:Direction to staff to investigate ARPA and other infrastructure grant opportunities, particularly to fund sewer extension for the Leisure Lane-Vandoren annexation area. (none)

    📍Leisure Lane-Vandoren area🏢Reading Across America🏢Tampa Bay Water👤Aaron Eck👤Andy👤Barrett Doe👤John👤Murphy#American Rescue Plan / recovery plan funding ($7 million)#Golf cart streets#Mulch / yard debris pickup program#PPP program#Reading Across America - 'The Thirsty Moose'#Vox Pop public comment format

    ▶ Jump to 1:49:45 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [01:49:45] recovery plan funding. There are a number of items that it can be used for, providing [01:49:54] assistance to low-income individuals being one of them. And heaven knows we've got plenty of those [01:50:02] in New Port Richey. Providing assistance for businesses that have been impacted by COVID. [01:50:10] I think through the PPP program, they've already gotten a lot of [01:50:14] coverage. And also for doing infrastructure projects. And as I mentioned, one of the things [01:50:23] that I would like to see us do is get these annexations done. And as a prime example, [01:50:32] the Leisure Lane-Vandoren area. If that is annexed and we've got money that we can use to help [01:50:42] provide some or most or even all of the funding necessary to get the sewer lines put into there, [01:50:51] that would be money very well spent. If we can come up with some other places, and there are [01:50:58] apparently at least one or two other pots of money, that we may have some grant opportunities [01:51:04] for doing that. And I would like staff to take a real hard look at those opportunities. Not just [01:51:12] out of the $7 million, but some of the other things that are going to be available specifically [01:51:17] for infrastructure type improvements. We could go a long way into making that neighborhood [01:51:24] a lot better. And it may also help us with some of the other neighborhoods where we've still got [01:51:30] people on septic. The gentleman had talked about the golf cart streets. Chief, do you know that [01:51:38] gentleman? Yes. Aaron Eck. He knows him really well. He's a Tarpon police officer. I'm going to [01:51:46] connect with him because I don't think he realizes that he can do some parallel streets. He can [01:51:51] cross over. So I tried to catch him. He's right there in the back. There he is in the back. You [01:51:57] moved on me. If we can make sure that he knows where the right streets are. And certainly, [01:52:04] if there are streets that need to be reconsidered as far as where we don't want to have [01:52:12] conflicts with the golf carts and the vehicles. That's up for discussion on a regular basis. [01:52:20] We're only a couple years into this, so it's not set in stone. Debris pickup. And I hope [01:52:29] John was referring to me since I had debris pickup in my driveway today [01:52:35] for yard debris. But we are going to have a discussion on that next week. I would encourage [01:52:41] anybody that is interested in it to come. My concern is we want to keep the mulch going out. [01:52:50] I just would like to clean up the way we're getting it in. That's where I'm coming from anyway. [01:52:57] I had the opportunity as part of the Reading Across America program to do a Zoom reading of a [01:53:08] book. And thank you, Andy, for your staff finding me a book to read to a bunch of first graders. [01:53:16] It was a hoot. And if any of you, either my colleagues or anybody in the audience [01:53:21] or watching this ever gets a chance to read to a bunch of first graders, go for it. It was [01:53:31] The Thirsty Moose. I don't know if you're familiar with the book or not, but it was cute. [01:53:37] And they were just adorable. They were having a blast. They were all sitting there [01:53:41] properly distanced, all wearing their masks. And I made sure to hold up mine so they could [01:53:45] see it on the camera to know that I had a mask too. But it was great. [01:53:51] And last but not least, we had a Tampa Bay water meeting on Monday. And the board has been getting [01:54:01] presentations from each of the six member governments one a month. And this month was [01:54:09] New Port Richey's term. And Barrett Doe went down there and he did a phenomenal job representing [01:54:17] the City of New Port Richey and the Public Works Department. So I wanted to just give a big shout [01:54:22] out, make sure that his boss knows that he did a really, really superb job. So, Mr. Murphy. [01:54:32] Yes, I have a few items. With respect to the mulch program, I haven't met anybody that doesn't like [01:54:39] the program. I can't imagine us doing away with it. And I never thought that that was something [01:54:44] that might happen. But as far as I'm concerned, I think it's a great program. The debris pickup, [01:54:54] we're going to talk about it next week, so I'll leave it till then. But I'm 100% for it. [01:55:00] As far as the Vox Pop, I mean, I know we've talked a little bit about it, but I just feel [01:55:06] that disconnected because now it's, you know, an hour later and now we're addressing the things [01:55:11] that people talked about at Vox Pop. I'd really like to at least, you know, maybe get a minute [01:55:16] each from the council right after Vox Pop. So just to address so it doesn't drag on for, you know, [01:55:23] 15, 20 minutes, but just so we can have some kind of dialogue and, you know, rebuttal about it

    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.

21. 12Communications▶ 1:55:28
22. 13Adjournment▶ 2:13:13