On the agenda

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

   Pledge of Allegiance

   Pledge of Allegiance and moment of silence honoring servicemen and women.

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   [00:00:17] We do have a quorum. I ask everybody please stand, join me in the Pledge of [00:00:20] Allegiance and remain standing for a moment of silence in honor of our [00:00:23] servicemen and women at home and abroad. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the

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3. 3

   Moment of Silence

   Conclusion of the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence at the start of the meeting.

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   [00:00:28] United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation [00:00:33] under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Thank you. You may be seated.

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4. 4.a

   Citizens Academy Graduation

   The City Council recognized the 2023 Spring Citizens Academy graduating class, the third and largest class to date with 18 graduates plus one honorary returnee. City Manager Manz and City Clerk Judy Myers presented certificates and coffee mugs, and several graduates spoke about their experience. Council members thanked participants and encouraged them to serve as community ambassadors.

   👤Angel Cook👤Bertell Butler IV👤Bobby Bush👤Cliff Crooks👤Crystal👤Dale👤Daniela Bernal👤David Eschick👤Debbie Manz👤Emanuel Garcia👤Greg Williams👤Jackie Eden👤Janine Finch👤Jean Lefebvre👤Jennifer Black👤Jennifer Eichenberger👤Jennifer LaRue👤Judy Myers👤Kenny Huber-Richards👤Michael LaRue👤Michael Sultry👤Pam Perry👤Patricia Sultry👤Peters👤Raquel Theeds👤Rich Melton👤Robyn Matthews👤Wayne Scott#2023 Spring Citizens Academy#Cultural Affairs Committee

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   [00:00:44] On the agenda, Ms. Manz, is the Citizens Academy graduation? I can tell you that every class of the Academy has a [00:01:02] personality all of its own and this class has a lot of personality. I have to credit Mayor Pro Tem [00:01:13] Peters for the prominent role that he has played in the development of this [00:01:18] program. It was intended to be an opportunity to introduce citizens to [00:01:26] the various departments of the city and to provide a really in-depth look at the [00:01:32] government functions and services. What we found though is that it really [00:01:39] fosters an environment that invites citizen participation and we're really [00:01:43] grateful for that because through citizen participation we really find [00:01:49] that the input provides much more value to the decision that we're making and [00:01:56] for that we're grateful. It also helps us, I think, by giving you a deeper [00:02:05] understanding of the inner workings of city government to be able to [00:02:12] transcend to you the understanding of the current and the future plans of the [00:02:19] city and for you to feel vested in it as a resident or a member of the business [00:02:24] community of the city of New Port Richey. I hope that you've enjoyed the [00:02:29] program as much as we've enjoyed providing it to you and I can't conclude [00:02:35] my comments without thanking our city clerk Judy Myers who has been invaluable [00:02:43] to us. [00:02:49] The support and helping me to plan your weekly agenda and making sure that we [00:02:59] give you all the best of exposures as we introduce the various departments of [00:03:03] the city and I hope that your faces won't be foreign to us now that your [00:03:10] program has formally concluded as we've grown to gain great respect for each and [00:03:16] every one of you. So thank you for your participation in the program. [00:03:21] And we'll commence with the formal ceremony. [00:03:51] Okay, thank you City Manager Manz. Good evening, Mayor and Council. It is my [00:03:56] privilege to present to you the graduating class of the 2023 Spring [00:04:00] Citizens Academy. As you are aware, this is our third Academy and our largest [00:04:06] class to date by one with a total of 19, 18 students and one honorary returnee, [00:04:16] Jean Lefebvre, who was our graduate from our Fall Academy. And I'm pleased to say [00:04:20] that all 18 other graduates are here this evening to receive their [00:04:24] certificates. When City Manager Manz and I sat down to discuss this curriculum for [00:04:29] this Academy, we came to the conclusion that there needed to be more class [00:04:33] involvement in this session. We gave this task to each of the department heads and [00:04:38] they really stepped up to the challenge. Not only did our participants conduct a [00:04:44] mock City Council meeting, they were also witnesses to a mock robbery and [00:04:50] arrest on our law enforcement night, where a few of our participants also had [00:04:55] the chance to process for fingerprints on the suspect's vehicle. I have to [00:05:01] say that Greg Williams deserves an Oscar for his outstanding performance as our [00:05:05] suspect. At our Fire Department and Emergency Management class, our [00:05:11] participants got to witness a full vehicle extrication by the amazing B- [00:05:16] Shift crew. Our participants got an up-close-and-personal demonstration of [00:05:21] equipment by our fabulous Public Works crew. Emanuel Garcia [00:05:27] performed a camera inspection of the pipe, and to the surprise of our class, [00:05:32] they had put a sign that said, Welcome Citizens Academy at the end of the pipe. [00:05:38] There were also a few department heads, who shall remain nameless, who ignited [00:05:43] our participants' competitive side by hosting games shows, style games, and [00:05:49] trivia contests. Overall, I think this is our best group of participants [00:05:56] that we have had. It was amazing to watch 19 people who gathered nine weeks ago as [00:06:02] strangers morph into a little family union as the weeks went by. The [00:06:07] camaraderie this group exhibited was the best by far. And on that note, I'd now [00:06:12] like to call each of the participants up to receive their certificate and their [00:06:16] coffee mug. And we're going to do this in alphabetical order, and the first one we [00:06:20] have is Daniela Bernal. [00:06:27] And then once I call your name, if you guys will just stay up here at the dais. [00:06:38] Next, we have Jennifer Black. [00:06:42] Y'all can line up alphabetically if you want. [00:06:56] Bobby Bush. Bertell Butler the fourth. [00:07:16] Angel Cook. [00:07:31] Cliff Crooks. [00:07:46] Jackie Eden. [00:07:55] Pretty nifty coffee mug. Don't leave it there. [00:08:02] Jennifer Eichenberger. [00:08:14] Janine Finch. [00:08:17] Kenny Huber-Richards. [00:08:33] David Eschick. [00:08:37] Michael LaRue. We had not one, but we had two husband and wife, so Michael and [00:08:53] Jennifer was team number one. Robyn Matthews. [00:09:03] Voted most likely to be class clown, Rich Melton. [00:09:26] Pam Perry. [00:09:33] Okay. Michael Sultry. Patricia Sultry. [00:10:04] Wayne Scott. [00:10:15] And last but not least, Raquel Theeds. [00:10:26] So I'd like to present the 2023 Spring Citizens Academy graduates, and they are [00:10:31] prepared to speak if you would like them to say anything on behalf of the program. [00:10:46] Yeah, we'd love to hear from one or two of you if we can possible. Go to the mic, please. [00:10:54] All right. So on behalf of myself, and I would say for the class, we just want to give a huge thank you to [00:11:00] everybody, you know, with Mayor, Deputy Mayor, the City Council, City Manager. [00:11:08] Judy, first and foremost, I think the glue that keeps this thing together. Thank you for all the meals and all the [00:11:13] stuff that you've prepared. You know, I enrolled for this to hopefully be a part of it. I thought, what a great way to find [00:11:19] out a little more about our city, which is growing to be a big city. Love it. And find out how things work behind the [00:11:25] scenes. You know, the grants, the community redevelopment, the fiscal part, which touched my heart a little bit, the land [00:11:31] development, just everything, the hands-on experience that we had that you've mentioned, Judy. Never thought that we would get [00:11:39] that much involvement and that engaged with everything that was there. You know, I plan on taking the knowledge that I have, so [00:11:45] when you get out in the community and people start asking questions, or why is this, why is that, number one, you need to take the [00:11:51] class. Number two, have a better understanding and knowledge of how to help them be better, understand why things happen the way [00:11:59] they do, and here's some ways that you can go and try to be a part to change those things. And so, I just want to say again, thank [00:12:05] you all. It's been a pleasure, and who knows, I may be here again next year just because. Thank you all. [00:12:11] Oh, come on now, come on now. We had a great class. Probably the best class you'll ever have. You know this. I hope that this class has [00:12:27] inspired all of these candidates here to come forward and be part of the Cultural Affairs Committee. Well, a committee that matters. So, thank [00:12:34] you all. We appreciate what you've done for us. We think this is a great thing, and I'm going to be signing up to take the county class next, and [00:12:48] that's a $1,200 that we're definitely going to do. Michael's going to go with me. [00:12:54] So, the gentleman said everything right, except I do want to just reiterate how wonderful it was. All the department heads blew it out of the [00:13:06] water. You all, it was amazing. The police department was not expecting the robbery. It was so, it was really great. Had no idea it was Greg [00:13:14] Williams behind there. It was wonderful. The fire department had no idea all the things that you all do. Crystal, I don't know how you did [00:13:24] it, but I even paid attention in your class with the numbers, and it's not my thing. Dale, the trivia, loved. You all blew it out of the [00:13:32] water. So, anybody who hasn't done it, there should be a long wait list, because as one of the newer city residents, I think it's so important that you [00:13:40] do something like this so that you know where you fit in and how you can help your community grow. So, thank you to all the department heads who [00:13:46] really put a lot of effort into us learning what we thought we already knew. So, thank you. [00:13:55] So, I'd like to say thank you to everyone that did everything, but now I want to acknowledge the class. It was the best class ever. This group, we [00:14:08] hung out after the thing. We were talking about making an alumni class. So, we're going to do so much and spread the word, because I think the [00:14:15] foundation that we all got here makes us better citizens and residents, because we share our knowledge. We go out to the community and talk to [00:14:27] people, and this is the purpose of the class. So, we really want to keep doing that, and I appreciate all of you, and we've got two great spots to fill [00:14:37] those mugs, right? [00:14:44] Thank you. [00:15:00] the 100% foreigner here. I took this class because I got my citizenship last November, [00:15:10] and I decided I wanted to, you know, find out how an American city, American community [00:15:16] spirit, et cetera, works, what, you know, goes behind everything. And this really, I [00:15:23] think everybody said it, it blew it out of the water. I've come from a very big, impersonal [00:15:27] city, and this is by far and by way the best place to live, it really is. Thank you so [00:15:33] much to everyone. We had an absolute blast, but most importantly, we learned an awful [00:15:39] lot. Thank you. [00:15:50] So we'd like to, just a comment. Thank you guys. You were a unique class, and a lot of [00:16:02] fun. So, you know, with this, and it sounds to me like you've already accepted the responsibilities [00:16:07] that you've, now that you've graduated, it's like you're not done, right? Now you're starting. [00:16:14] But I'll challenge you to become an ambassador of the cities, a resident ambassador, so that [00:16:20] you can talk with visitors, talk with other residents, talk among each other. But you [00:16:28] learn what goes in, what's required, and the complexity of things that happen within the [00:16:34] city. And the mass variety of things that you don't even realize and think about that [00:16:42] has to be dealt with from day to day. And sure, we always are trying and striving to [00:16:46] improve in every way. I think you got that from all the departments, right? And so we're [00:16:51] always looking for better ways and better ideas and to make the city better. And your [00:16:56] input will be valuable from what you learn and your feedback. So go out there and get [00:17:03] us some recruits for the next class, okay? [00:17:05] That'd be cool, huh? We'll have to work on that.

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5. 4.b

   Proclamation - Water Conservation Month (By Title Only)

   approved

   The Mayor introduced a proclamation declaring April as Water Conservation Month, presented by title only and passed to the city clerk.

   • direction:Proclamation declaring April as Water Conservation Month, read by title only. (passed)

   👤Judy#Water Conservation Month

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   [00:17:17] Thank you. Thank you so much. [00:17:22] And Judy will be happy to hand you applications to be on one or more of the advisory groups [00:17:28] in the city. [00:17:33] Next item on the agenda is a proclamation of April as Water Conservation Month. It should [00:17:40] be no surprise given how dry it's been, but we do need to conserve water so that when [00:17:46] we turn on the taps, the water flows. So, water conservation, and this is by title only, [00:17:51] so I'll pass that on to the city clerk.

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6. 5.aVox Pop for Items Not Listed on the Agenda▶ 18:07
7. 6.a

   Purchases/Payments for City Council Approval

   approvedon consent

   Council moved and approved the consent agenda containing purchases/payments for City Council approval.

   • motion:Motion to approve the consent agenda. (passed)

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   [00:42:03] Fox Pop, go to the consent agenda. Move for approval. [00:42:07] Second. All those in favor, please signify by saying [00:42:12] aye. Aye. [00:42:14] Opposed? Motion passes. Next is first reading of ordinance 2023-2267.

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8. 7.a

   First Reading, Ordinance No. 2023-2267: Regulating Smoking in City Parks

   approved

   Council held first reading of Ordinance 2023-2267, which would prohibit smoking in city parks with an exception for special events where alcohol is sold (specifically Sims Park). The motion to approve passed unanimously, with Councilman Altman suggesting that on second reading the ordinance be amended to require designated smoking areas at special events rather than allowing smoking anywhere.

   Ord. Ordinance No. 2023-2267

   • motion:Motion to approve first reading of Ordinance 2023-2267 prohibiting smoking in city parks with exceptions for special events. (passed)

   📍1628 Summit Way, Dunedin, Florida📍5335 Bellevue Avenue, New Port Richey, Florida, 34652📍Sims Park🏢Newport Richey Parks and Recreation Department🏢St. Petersburg College👤Berto Butler👤Mr. Altman👤Mr. Murphy👤Ms. Moore👤Ms. Myers👤Ms. Vance👤Tiffany Nozicka#2022 Florida legislative session smoking law#Article 1 of Chapter 16 of Newport Richey Code of Ordinances#Ordinance No. 2023-2267#Section 16-7

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   [00:42:22] This is ordinance number 2023-2267, an ordinance of the city of New Port Richey, Florida, [00:42:29] providing for amendment of Article 1 of Chapter 16 of the New Port Richey Code of Ordinances [00:42:34] pertaining to general regulation of city parks, providing for a new section 16-7, providing [00:42:40] for prohibition of smoking in city parks, providing exceptions for special events, providing [00:42:46] for definitions of terms, providing for enforcement, providing for conflicts, severability, and [00:42:51] an effective date. Thank you. Ms. Vance? [00:42:55] Certainly, Mr. Mayor. During the 2022 Florida legislative session, a bill was passed and [00:43:04] therefore effectuated into law which allowed counties and municipalities to restrict smoking [00:43:12] in public places to include city parks. The purpose of this agenda item is to declare [00:43:21] our parks tobacco-free in alignment with many community norms, and there would be an [00:43:29] exception to that standard for special events where alcohol sales and consumptions are permitted [00:43:43] by you, and that would relate specifically to Sims Park. Other than that, the thinking [00:43:51] behind this agenda item is that we want to promote individual wellness, and city parks [00:44:00] are intended for the healthy enjoyment of all citizens, and therefore we think it is [00:44:05] appropriate to ban smoking. Thank you. I'll open it up for public comment. [00:44:11] Berto Butler, 5335 Bellevue Avenue, New Port Richey, Florida, 34652. I just wanted to pose [00:44:22] two questions that I hope someone on the City Council will take up, or maybe they already [00:44:26] have the same questions. In relationship to the exemption, I think it's Section 16-7, [00:44:32] Part E. It says, like you said, there's an exemption for special events. Is that state [00:44:39] required? Why is that there? And how would that affect the vendor process for, say, marijuana [00:44:44] or a smoking-based company to become a vendor during an event? And then to that end, how [00:44:49] does that affect our ability to remain family-friendly? Thank you. [00:45:00] Hello, City Council, thank you so much for allowing me to be here. [00:45:07] My name is Tiffany Nozicka and my address is 1628 Summit Way, Dunedin, Florida. [00:45:13] I am a public policy and administration student at St. Petersburg College and I have been [00:45:18] tasked to speak on a first read agenda item and offer my recommendation. [00:45:23] Obviously you all have been very thorough in your recommendation. [00:45:27] Lucky for me, New Port Richey hired some of the best employees. [00:45:31] I had an opportunity to speak with Ms. Myers and also Ms. Moore with the Parks and Rec [00:45:35] Department. [00:45:36] And really, I'm really not opposed to anything, I think it's wonderful. [00:45:41] I think the smoking ban definitely aligns with several of the initiatives for health [00:45:45] and wellness in the community. [00:45:48] I also really like the exception to special events, I think that's wonderful. [00:45:53] I had the opportunity to also look up what other municipalities are doing and many of [00:45:57] them are looking into banning smoking as well. [00:46:01] Several have already started in the beachfront communities and I'm excited that New Port Richey [00:46:05] is considering this. [00:46:07] And that's pretty much it, I mean, you all did such a great job with your presentation [00:46:12] and all the information provided, so you made my job easy. [00:46:15] Thank you so much. [00:46:18] Anyone else? [00:46:25] Seeing no one else coming forward, we'll close the public comment and bring it back to council. [00:46:31] I move to approve. [00:46:32] Second. [00:46:33] To the maker. [00:46:36] I think with our health initiatives that we have going on, it's horrible to see smoking [00:46:41] around a bunch of little kids playing in the park and I think if we're going to maintain [00:46:44] our family friendliness, this is the next step, I mean, that's the way we're going is [00:46:50] more health and wellness in our communities. [00:46:52] Second. [00:46:53] Yeah, the state ordinance that was passed to allow us to do this basically was generated [00:47:00] by beachfront communities particularly and many of them are taking initiatives to ban [00:47:08] smoking in their particular areas. [00:47:12] You know, it's for the most part, smoking is becoming less and less and, you know, those [00:47:24] who do choose to smoke seem to have their particular areas that they find and enjoy [00:47:30] it and that's obviously their right. [00:47:34] So I just think it's a good, it's a good look for the city to propose this ordinance [00:47:42] for the health and well-being and most all our parks are enjoyed by children and kids, [00:47:51] maybe with the exception of some of our special events. [00:47:53] So I think having that caveat in there to have that exception makes sense. [00:47:58] Mr. Altman. [00:48:02] Certainly recollection of days gone by when there were smoking areas. [00:48:07] So if there is a special event and there is smoking allowed, it ought to be in a smoking [00:48:11] area. [00:48:12] There ought to be still the ability for folks to be smoke-free, particularly in like the [00:48:17] concert area and so, you know, I don't think it should be interpreted as a free for all [00:48:23] the special events to be able to smoke wherever they want to. [00:48:29] Obviously that would be sufficient control to meet the letter of the ordinance. [00:48:36] Mr. Murphy. [00:48:37] Yeah, it's kind of my concern too is, you know, if we're talking about health and that, [00:48:40] I mean, when we have special events, that's when most people are most, you know, compacted [00:48:45] in there and it's smoking around children and other things for events. [00:48:48] So it almost seems like, you know, that would be the logical time to not have smoking. [00:48:53] But I'll still vote for it. [00:48:55] It's still a good first step, but I just think it's kind of a little bit backwards. [00:48:59] But if we have smoking areas, I guess that'll help that. [00:49:08] For clarification purposes, Mr. Mayor, Councilman Altman, are you making an amendment to the [00:49:13] ordinance to the motion? [00:49:16] If we could just, and this is the first reading, correct? [00:49:19] So, I mean, I would like to see maybe on the second reading that you could have some qualifier [00:49:23] in there on the special events that would address that. [00:49:34] And I would have a question, and Mr. Butler is the one that brought it up, I believe. [00:49:39] The question specifically, if you've got an event potentially with a vendor of cannabis [00:49:51] products, and that may be a question for our city attorney to address, I don't know [00:49:58] that those are legal under the other ordinances in the city right now, but I would like clarification. [00:50:06] Currently, our policy is that we do not allow cannabis to be sold or any type of cannabis [00:50:15] product to be sold in the park. [00:50:18] And that is your policy, and you can change that policy if you wish, but our current policy [00:50:25] is that we do not allow that at all. [00:50:30] Any further discussion? [00:50:31] Hearing none, all those in favor, please signify by saying aye. [00:50:35] Aye. [00:50:36] Opposed, like sign. [00:50:39] Motion passes. [00:50:40] We'll go to business items. [00:50:41] The first of these is the 2023 Environmental Protection Agency Lead and Copper Rule Program [00:50:48] Implementation Task Order.

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9. 8.a

   2023 EPA Lead & Copper Rule Program Implementation – Task Order No. 2023-01

   approved

   Council approved Task Order No. 2023-01 with Juturna Consultants for $33,000 in professional services to implement the EPA's revised Lead and Copper Rule, which requires a service line inventory by October 2024, expanded sampling at residences and schools, public notification, and a service line replacement program. Susanna Folsom of Juturna presented the requirements and answered questions on funding, customer responsibilities, and code enforcement implications.

   • motion:Move approval of the task order with Juturna Consultants for $33,000 for EPA Lead & Copper Rule program implementation. (passed)

   📍5335 Bellevue Avenue, New Port Richey, Florida, 34652📍Marine Parkway🏢Environmental Protection Agency🏢Juturna Consultants🏢Tampa Bay Water👤Burtill Butler👤Janine Finch👤Mike Peters👤Mr. Alderman👤Mr. Murphy👤Mr. Rivera👤Renee Tyner👤Susanna Folsom#EPA Lead and Copper Rule Revisions#Library Advisory Board (next item)#October 16, 2024 compliance deadline#Service Line Inventory requirement#Task Order No. 2023-01

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   [00:50:52] The request before you is to consider approval of a task order with Juterna Consultants for [00:51:00] professional services in the amount of $33,000 for program implementation related to the [00:51:10] Environmental Protection Agency's Lead and Copper Rule mandate. [00:51:14] Mr. Rivera? [00:51:16] Yeah, I'd just like to introduce to you Mrs. Susanna Folsom. [00:51:20] She is the owner of Juterna. [00:51:23] She took in, founded her company in 2018. [00:51:27] We worked together for a very long length of time, our utility staff did, when she worked [00:51:35] for Tampa Bay Water for many years. [00:51:38] Since she started her consulting services, her and her staff specialize in this type [00:51:43] of analysis and plan implementation. [00:51:46] With that, she's prepared a PowerPoint presentation to present to you. [00:51:53] Well, good evening. [00:51:57] Thank you very much for having me here. [00:52:00] I hope to give you an enlightening presentation on the updates to the Lead and Copper Rule [00:52:05] by the Environmental Protection Agency. [00:52:07] Again, I'm Susanna Folsom from Juterna Consulting, and I just wanted to give you this presentation [00:52:13] this evening. [00:52:14] Thank you for your time. [00:52:17] The Lead and Copper Rule revisions by the EPA are in response to an environmental health [00:52:22] crisis across the United States with elevated lead levels. [00:52:27] You may have seen this in the news in places like Baltimore, Maryland, Flint, Michigan, [00:52:33] Chicago, Illinois. [00:52:35] This is something that across the United States has been a problem. [00:52:39] Lead exposure causes problems with development of cognitive abilities in children and many [00:52:46] other health problems. [00:52:48] There's already a Lead and Copper Rule that the city is in compliance with. [00:52:54] This new rule was published back in January 2021, and the city has until October 16, 2024 [00:53:03] to get ready to be in compliance with these rule revisions. [00:53:06] The rule revisions include a new requirement to complete an inventory of your service lines. [00:53:13] There's new sampling requirements, both for residential properties and schools and daycare [00:53:17] facilities. [00:53:18] There are new public notification requirements, and there's also a requirement to have a service [00:53:24] line replacement program. [00:53:30] The service line inventory requirement is based around finding out the pipe material [00:53:36] in the service lines upstream and downstream of the water meters at each utility water [00:53:42] service location. [00:53:44] You have to identify this pipe upstream and downstream of the meter as either lead, non-lead, [00:53:49] galvanized, pipe requiring replacement, or unknown pipe material. [00:53:54] They also want to know how you identified that pipe and where it's located. [00:53:58] Again, that's all going to be due as a requirement that you have to present to the state in October [00:54:04] 2024. [00:54:07] This is a diagram of what that service line looks like, just in case you're not familiar [00:54:11] with that. [00:54:12] The service line is the pipe that runs between your water mains and a residence. [00:54:18] The utility is the owner of the pipeline that is upstream of the meter, so between the water [00:54:24] main and the meter. [00:54:26] The customer owns the pipe that's between that meter and that home. [00:54:32] This is an example of what that inventory would look like. [00:54:35] This is from the city of Cincinnati. [00:54:37] Each of the gray boxes there are a residence, and they have two markers there that are color-coordinated [00:54:44] showing what the pipe material is. [00:54:47] There are lots of different versions of how this could look. [00:54:50] This is a GIS product of what it may look like when you collect this information and [00:54:55] gather it all together. [00:54:57] This is not just a one-time thing. [00:54:59] This has to be updated at least annually with any new information that you have about your [00:55:04] distribution system. [00:55:08] Another new requirement, there are new sampling requirements. [00:55:11] They are greatly increasing the number of samples for lead and copper that you have [00:55:15] to take in your distribution system. [00:55:17] A utility your size currently has to take 30 samples every three years. [00:55:22] That's increasing to 60 samples every single year, so that's 12 times as many samples as [00:55:27] you've had to take in the past. [00:55:28] We're also changing where you have to take those samples based on your inventory. [00:55:33] If you identify any lead pipes in your system, you will have to take those samples at those [00:55:39] locations. [00:55:40] Then there's a hierarchy of where you would take those if you don't have any identified [00:55:44] locations. [00:55:46] There's also new requirements for how you take that sample. [00:55:49] You have to take it first thing in the morning. [00:55:51] You have to sample the first liter that comes out of that faucet and the fifth liter. [00:55:57] There's all kinds of special reasons for that. [00:55:59] They've done an analysis of when you would actually see lead and copper in the samples, [00:56:03] and that's why those requirements exist. [00:56:07] There's also new requirements to sample at schools and daycare facilities. [00:56:12] The schools are any eighth grade and lower facilities, daycare facilities, or any licensed [00:56:17] facilities within the city distribution system. [00:56:21] You'll have five years after that 2024 date to complete all that sampling, and you have [00:56:26] to complete 20% of those locations each year. [00:56:29] You have to focus on anywhere where water may be ingested. [00:56:33] That would be water fountains, sinks in a food prep area, those types of locations. [00:56:38] You have to report those results to the schools and to the state within 30 days. [00:56:45] If it's a newer facility, if it's been built after 2014, you don't have to complete the [00:56:49] sampling, or if the piping has been replaced since 2014, you are also exempt from that [00:56:54] requirement. [00:56:55] Good news is, if you have low levels of lead, you can apply to have your sampling reduced [00:57:02] in the future after this first round of sampling. [00:57:05] If all of your samples are below 10 parts per billion, you can get it reduced back to [00:57:10] what it is now every three years. [00:57:12] If you're between 10 and 15 parts, you have to continue to do it annually. [00:57:17] If it's higher than 15 parts per billion, which is the action level, that means you [00:57:21] have to go to at least every six month monitoring. [00:57:25] If you have a sample that is higher than that 15 parts per billion, you have to notify that [00:57:29] customer. [00:57:30] That's a new requirement. [00:57:31] You have five days to sample upstream to see if that's at the customer location or a problem [00:57:36] in your distribution system. [00:57:38] Then you have 30 days to re-sample at that location, and if you do find lead at that [00:57:44] location again, you have to do more to investigate what that source might be. [00:57:49] Then you have six months to report to the state how you're going to recommend getting [00:57:53] rid of that lead problem. [00:57:56] There are a whole bunch of new public information requirements in this rule. [00:58:00] You have to interface with the public, this inventory that you're creating. [00:58:05] You have to have a way for the public to access that, either online or at some kind of a portal, [00:58:10] maybe at the library, maybe here at City Hall, somewhere where the public can come and see [00:58:15] what the pipe material is at their residence or at somewhere else in the city. [00:58:20] There's new requirements for schools and daycares. [00:58:23] You have the table shown here is what's in your consumer competence report and shows [00:58:28] the existing sampling that you're doing and reporting to the public. [00:58:33] There's new requirements for how this is going to have to change in the future. [00:58:36] There's also notifications for homeowners if you're doing construction that might disturb [00:58:40] a service line. [00:58:41] There's requirements for that. [00:58:43] So there's all kinds of new public information requirements, and we'll help you create those [00:58:47] templates so that you can be ready for that. [00:58:53] You also have to have a plan to replace service lines. [00:58:56] This is a new requirement. [00:58:58] If all your samples are below that 10 parts per billion, it's a voluntary replacement [00:59:03] plan. [00:59:04] If you're between that 10 and 15 part per billion range, you have to have a plan to [00:59:09] replace lines. [00:59:11] If you're above that 15 parts per billion threshold, then you have to replace 3% of [00:59:16] any non-lead lines, service lines, in your service distribution system every year. [00:59:23] So that's a big deal. [00:59:26] And again, those service line replacements, that service line runs all the way from your [00:59:30] utility main into the house. [00:59:32] The utility is responsible for that cost for their piping upstream of the meter. [00:59:38] The rule also says that the utility has to offer to replace the customer's portion at [00:59:43] their cost. [00:59:44] Now, the customer can decline, or they can decide to do it on their own, but you have [00:59:48] to offer to do that. [00:59:49] So that's all in the rule. [00:59:53] Lastly, there's a potential, depending on what those sample results are, that you may [00:59:58] have to change the treatment item. [01:00:00] water plant, and this is how that would be implemented. [01:00:05] So again, if you're under 10, you don't have to do anything. [01:00:08] If you're between 10 and 15, you'll have to do a study, [01:00:11] and if you're greater than 15, you're going to have [01:00:13] to change the treatment at your water plant [01:00:15] and probably add some kind of a corrosion inhibitor. [01:00:19] So that's my presentation. [01:00:20] I'll be happy to take any questions that you may have. [01:00:22] I know that's a lot to take in. [01:00:27] Questions? [01:00:28] So the, so what length of time do we have [01:00:33] to inspect the service lines, all the service lines? [01:00:37] You're supposed to complete your inventory [01:00:39] within the next 19 months. [01:00:42] Now you have a meter replacement program [01:00:44] where you can gather a lot of that information [01:00:46] while you're replacing meters, [01:00:47] which, so that's a really good thing. [01:00:50] There's also the ability to indicate that you don't know, [01:00:54] that it's an unknown pipe material [01:00:56] because you haven't had a chance to get to it. [01:00:59] Mr. Alderman. [01:01:00] And then, pardon me, Mayor. [01:01:02] Then, you mentioned that the downstream, [01:01:07] that's from the meter to the house, right? [01:01:09] So that's the consumer's, or the resident's responsibility. [01:01:14] And you mentioned that we would offer [01:01:19] to replace it at our cost. [01:01:22] At their cost. [01:01:23] We would replace it at our cost for them, [01:01:27] they would pay our cost to replace it, number one. [01:01:29] Or they could hire their own contractor to do it, right? [01:01:32] And could they all just decline to do nothing? [01:01:36] They can decline. [01:01:37] To do nothing. [01:01:39] And then, okay. [01:01:41] Mr. Alderman. [01:01:42] Yes, I think it was only a few days ago [01:01:45] when I heard the National Head [01:01:47] of the Environmental Protection Agency [01:01:50] or someone announcing 250, $300 million program grants. [01:01:57] So two things. [01:01:58] One, this was introduced that we would be paying you [01:02:01] in the neighborhood of $30,000. [01:02:03] I'm assuming that's to manage the program [01:02:06] or to help to provide some, [01:02:09] what would you do, first of all, with that? [01:02:11] And secondly, do you also get involved [01:02:14] in helping us to identify revenue sources [01:02:18] that can pay for this additional requirement? [01:02:22] Yes, there are funding sources. [01:02:23] That'll be part of what we're helping with [01:02:25] is to identify if there's any funding sources. [01:02:27] There are many funding sources. [01:02:29] I'm not sure at this point how much funding is left over. [01:02:32] But there were a good amount of funding sources [01:02:35] that were identified to help with this issue. [01:02:38] As far as what we're doing, [01:02:40] we'll be helping to come up with a plan [01:02:41] to collect the information, [01:02:43] to work with your meter replacement contractor [01:02:47] to make sure they're collecting the correct information, [01:02:49] to work with your GIS folks to create this new inventory [01:02:54] and to come up with a way to publicly make that available. [01:02:58] We'll be creating the templates [01:02:59] for all of the new public information requirements. [01:03:04] We'll be helping to come up with a plan [01:03:06] to identify all of these new sampling locations [01:03:09] once that inventory is in place. [01:03:11] There's all kinds of requirements [01:03:13] related to the schools and daycare facilities [01:03:15] that will help to prepare a plan [01:03:18] with the utility folks for that. [01:03:21] And lastly, to come up with a utility replacement plan. [01:03:24] This is a whole new requirement [01:03:26] that the city has not had to deal with before. [01:03:28] And there's many things that probably [01:03:31] your legal department is going to want to weigh in on, [01:03:34] as well as your budget department [01:03:36] on how you'll be able to plan for this in the future. [01:03:38] Okay, it was only a few days ago when this was announced. [01:03:41] So if that money's already gone, it's going quick. [01:03:44] I hope it's not all gone [01:03:46] because it would be great if you guys [01:03:47] could get a part of that. [01:03:48] Thank you. [01:03:49] Mr. Murphy, any questions? [01:03:50] No, I'm good. [01:03:52] No, I'm good. [01:03:53] A proper public comment? [01:03:55] Mayor, I've got one other question. [01:03:56] Go ahead. [01:04:00] I read, I think it was a newspaper, [01:04:03] just in the last few days, [01:04:05] that Florida, the state of Florida [01:04:07] had a higher percentage of lead pipes [01:04:11] than almost any other state in the country. [01:04:14] And that kind of caught me by surprise [01:04:17] because I guess I'm thinking lead pipes [01:04:21] are as old plumbing technology, right? [01:04:24] And considering the construction in Florida, [01:04:28] most of Florida is more recent [01:04:30] than other parts of the country. [01:04:32] Is there any explanation to why that's it? [01:04:36] And I... [01:04:39] I read that article as well, [01:04:41] and I was also very surprised. [01:04:43] I was under the impression [01:04:44] that Florida was much newer as well. [01:04:46] I think there are parts of the city [01:04:47] in New Port Richey that are very old. [01:04:49] Yeah, there is. [01:04:50] So there's certainly a potential [01:04:52] to find things within the city. [01:04:56] Any public comment? [01:04:59] Seeing none, I'll... [01:05:00] Come on up. [01:05:02] Thank you, I couldn't see her behind the speaker. [01:05:07] Actually, Janine Finch, [01:05:09] I'm not within the city limits. [01:05:13] Marine Parkway. [01:05:15] I have one question just to ask the lady. [01:05:18] Could you clarify for me [01:05:22] what the public actually does [01:05:24] to find out and to get involved [01:05:28] and to maybe start the process as a homeowner [01:05:31] or if you were concerned [01:05:32] or if you wanted to find out for your community? [01:05:41] So there are a couple of ways [01:05:43] the public are gonna be instrumental in doing this. [01:05:46] If the public has knowledge of their piping materials, [01:05:49] that would be a great help to the city [01:05:51] if they were to give that information [01:05:53] and put that information forward. [01:05:57] The city's also gonna have to find 60 locations [01:05:59] to take these samples. [01:06:00] And you're not gonna be able to do that [01:06:02] without some support from the public. [01:06:05] So certainly if you're within [01:06:07] the city's distribution system area [01:06:09] and you wanna volunteer to be a sample location, [01:06:12] I'm sure that would be much appreciated [01:06:13] by the Public Works and Utilities Department. [01:06:18] Any other comments? [01:06:22] Sorry. [01:06:23] Sorry about that. [01:06:25] Burtill Butler, 5335 Bellevue Avenue, [01:06:28] New Port Richey, Florida, 34652. [01:06:31] Just to piggyback off of what Mr. Mike Peters was saying [01:06:35] or when it came up on the slide [01:06:38] about the customer versus the utility company, [01:06:42] I'm curious how you guys will explore [01:06:45] as this progresses, how you explore incentivizing landlords [01:06:51] where renters don't have a say in the process [01:06:53] of whether or not their lead piping is replaced, [01:06:57] whether you have the ability to, [01:06:59] perhaps those federal grants incentivize landlords [01:07:03] to make those replacements [01:07:04] so that the renters are not cut out [01:07:06] of being able to negotiate with their landlord. [01:07:09] Thank you. [01:07:11] Another one. [01:07:12] I think what we're looking at for the future [01:07:15] is once we get the plan implemented, [01:07:17] there is talk about federal grants for homeowners. [01:07:21] And so as part of the outreach that Susie's talking about, [01:07:25] one of the things that we will do [01:07:26] is we'll have several plumbing contractors under contract. [01:07:31] We'll go out to bid, we'll have fixed pricing. [01:07:35] And so once we identify if that resident [01:07:38] or homeowner has a lead service line, [01:07:41] then that's part of the information [01:07:42] that we will bring to the homeowner at that time [01:07:45] and to where they can make that decision [01:07:49] on whether or not they wanna proceed with our price [01:07:52] and work with our contractor. [01:07:54] We'll give them the grant information [01:07:56] if it's available at that time [01:07:58] and hopefully be able to facilitate it that way. [01:08:01] I think the federal government understands [01:08:02] that while municipalities might be able [01:08:05] to incur a lot of these mandate costs, [01:08:09] it's a different story when it comes to homeowners [01:08:12] and demographics and their ability [01:08:14] to be able to upgrade and replace some of these pipes. [01:08:17] And so with that, that's when they start shifting over [01:08:20] towards making those monies more available [01:08:24] towards the residents. [01:08:33] So am I to understand that we're gonna do an inventory [01:08:38] of all the pipes in the city with this process? [01:08:43] Service lines. [01:08:44] The service lines. [01:08:45] Okay, good. [01:08:46] Because maybe they'll find the one on my street [01:08:49] that we just found out about after 20 years. [01:08:53] Also, if you identify that there is lead [01:08:57] in a homeowner's house, [01:09:01] is this gonna cause a problem with code enforcement? [01:09:05] Because if you identify it [01:09:07] and the homeowner is not able to replace it, [01:09:10] even though you've given us the information [01:09:13] about monies that are available and everything, [01:09:16] are we gonna run into a code enforcement problem? [01:09:22] You wanna answer that? [01:09:23] Go ahead. [01:09:24] Okay, thank you. [01:09:25] So it's not against the law to have it. [01:09:28] It wouldn't be against the code to have the pipe, [01:09:32] but the utility will also have [01:09:35] one of the public information requirements [01:09:38] is once you know that there's a lead service line, [01:09:40] you have to send a letter every single year [01:09:43] to notify the public at that resident [01:09:46] that they have a known lead service line at that location. [01:09:51] Anyone else? [01:09:53] Seeing no one else come forward, bring it back to council. [01:09:57] I'll move approval of the requested contract. [01:10:00] Second. [01:10:01] The maker? [01:10:02] No, sir, we've talked about it. [01:10:04] To the second? [01:10:05] No, I'm good with it. [01:10:06] Deputy Mayor? [01:10:08] Yeah, the last comment answered my question [01:10:10] because I wondered if it's gonna be on the city [01:10:13] to post on that building or somehow notify [01:10:16] that there's people about lead pipes, [01:10:18] and that letter does it. [01:10:19] Thank you. [01:10:21] Nothing to add. [01:10:23] Between the lead and the pipes [01:10:25] and the lead and the paint, [01:10:27] the asbestos and the tiles and other stuff, [01:10:30] there are a lot of environmental issues, [01:10:32] particularly with older buildings, [01:10:33] people need to be aware of. [01:10:37] There's no further discussion. [01:10:38] All those in favor, please signify by saying aye. [01:10:41] Aye. Aye. [01:10:42] Opposed, like sign. [01:10:44] Motion passes. [01:10:45] Next is board appointment of Renee Tyner [01:10:47] to the Library Advisory Board. [01:10:49] Yes, I have not had the benefit of meeting Renee Tyner, [01:10:52] but I believe she is in attendance this evening. [01:10:56] And the term of office for a seat [01:11:00] on the Library Advisory Board is three years. [01:11:04] She does meet the requirements to serve on the board,

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10. 8.b

    Board Appointment: Renee Tyner, Library Advisory Board

    approved

    Council appointed Renee Tyner to the Library Advisory Board for a term ending April 6, 2026. The motion passed unanimously by voice vote.

    • motion:Motion to appoint Renee Tyner to the Library Advisory Board with a term through April 6, 2026. (passed)

    👤Renee Tyner#Library Advisory Board

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    [01:11:10] and therefore we're recommending [01:11:12] that you consider appointing her [01:11:14] to this very important board. [01:11:16] If you determine to go forward with the appointment, [01:11:22] her term of office would span through April 6th of 2026. [01:11:31] Hello. [01:11:32] This is your opportunity to run screaming at no [01:11:35] as you run out the door. [01:11:37] No, they've already got the net on me. [01:11:40] They've already roped me in. [01:11:42] Thank you for your willingness to serve. [01:11:43] Any other comments? [01:11:45] I would move we would accept an appoint her as board [01:11:49] as long as she understands she's working, [01:11:51] and she's going to be serving [01:11:52] on one of the hardest working boards we have. [01:11:55] Absolutely. [01:11:56] I was a teacher for 36 years, [01:11:58] so I know what hard work is. [01:12:00] Great. [01:12:01] Thank you. [01:12:02] Any discussion? [01:12:04] Hearing none, all those in favor, [01:12:06] please signify by saying aye. [01:12:07] Aye. [01:12:08] Opposed, like to sign. [01:12:10] Motion passes. [01:12:11] Next.

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11. 8.c

    Board Appointment: Launi Schmutz-Harden, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

    approved

    Council appointed Launi Schmutz-Harden, a graduate of the Inaugural Citizens Academy, to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for a three-year term running through April 6, 2026.

    • motion:Motion to approve the appointment of Launi Schmutz-Harden to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for a three-year term ending April 6, 2026. (passed)

    👤Launi Schmutz-Harden#Inaugural Citizens Academy#Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

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    [01:12:12] Thank you. [01:12:13] Thank you. [01:12:14] Thank you. [01:12:15] Thank you. [01:12:16] Thank you. [01:12:16] Thank you. [01:12:17] Thank you. [01:12:18] Thank you. [01:12:19] Thank you. [01:12:20] Thank you. [01:12:21] Is there a board appointment for Lonnie Smuts-Hardin [01:12:23] to the Parks and Rec Advisory Board? [01:12:25] Yes. [01:12:28] Lonnie is in attendance this evening, [01:12:31] and she is a graduate of the Citizens [01:12:33] Inaugural Citizens Academy. [01:12:37] Her term of office also will be [01:12:39] for a three year period of time. [01:12:42] The staff has verified that she meets the requirements [01:12:45] set forth in the city's code to serve on this board, [01:12:50] and if you see fit to go forward with an appointment, [01:12:56] her term would span through April 6th of 2026. [01:13:02] We're recommending you consider her appointment. [01:13:06] I'm speechless, but this is the Citizens Academy [01:13:09] that got me here. [01:13:10] So, thank you guys for all you do. [01:13:13] I would move we approve. [01:13:14] I'll second. [01:13:15] Any public comment? [01:13:18] Hearing none, all those in favor, [01:13:20] please signify by saying aye. [01:13:22] Aye. [01:13:23] Aye. [01:13:23] Opposed, like sign. [01:13:24] Thank you for your willingness to serve. [01:13:26] Good spot for you, Lonnie.

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12. 8.d

    Board Re-Appointment: Dr. Donald Cadle, Jr., Land Development Review Board

    Council considered the reappointment of Dr. Donald Cadle, Jr. to the Land Development Review Board for a three-year term ending April 6, 2026. Dr. Cadle was not present at the meeting.

    👤Dr. Donald Cadle, Jr.#Land Development Review Board

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    [01:13:27] Next is Board of Reappointment of Dr. Donald Cato Jr. [01:13:31] to the Land Development Review Board. [01:13:34] See him. [01:13:35] Dr. Cato has served on the Land Development Review Board [01:13:39] for many years, and he is a valued member. [01:13:42] His term elapsed earlier this year, [01:13:45] and he has submitted his application [01:13:48] for reappointment to the board also for a three-year term. [01:13:53] If you determine to reappoint Dr. Cato to the board, [01:13:58] his term of office also will span through April 6th of 2026. [01:14:04] Thank you. [01:14:06] I do not see Donna in attendance. [01:14:07] I don't see Dr. Cato here.

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13. 8.e

    ITB23-009 Bid Award – WWTP Tank No.2 Clarifier Cleaning and Thermoplastic Powder Coating

    approved

    Council awarded ITB23-009 to Titan Construction Management, LLC in an amount not to exceed $57,350 for cleaning and thermoplastic powder coating of Clarifier Tank No. 2 at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. Pasco County, as 49% owner of the plant, will cover roughly half the cost. The proactive rehab occurs about every 10 years.

    • motion:Approve award of ITB23-009 to Titan Construction Management, LLC in an amount not to exceed $57,350 for WWTP Tank No. 2 clarifier cleaning and thermoplastic powder coating. (passed)

    🏢Pasco County🏢Titan Construction Management, LLC👤Rivera#ITB23-009#Wastewater Treatment Plant Tank No. 2

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    [01:14:10] And any public comment? [01:14:12] I'll move approval. [01:14:14] We have a motion to approve and a second discussion. [01:14:19] All in favor, please signify by saying aye. [01:14:20] Aye. [01:14:21] Opposed, like sign. [01:14:22] Please give Don our thanks for willingness [01:14:25] to continue serving. [01:14:27] Next is ITB 23-009, [01:14:29] Bid Award for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Number Two, [01:14:33] Clarifier Cleaning and Thermoplastic Powder Coating. [01:14:39] Rivera, can you present the item? [01:14:41] Sure. [01:14:42] So this is for your consideration for approval [01:14:46] as the low bid, and this is in the amount [01:14:48] not to exceed $57,350 [01:14:52] and award the ITB to Titan Construction Management, LLC. [01:14:58] This is for. [01:15:00] and powder coating the clarifier tank too. We have four of these tanks at our [01:15:04] wastewater treatment plant. This is what we would consider a proactive program [01:15:09] that occurs about every 10 years. Those tanks have internal moving parts in [01:15:14] them once they're inspected and we staff determines that it's time to go ahead [01:15:20] and upgrade or to rehab the tanks. That's when we get in there before we have [01:15:25] failures. And so just wanted to also remind you that because Pasco County is [01:15:30] part owner of the plant, they're a 49% owner and therefore they'd be [01:15:36] responsible for basically half of the amount that we're requesting. And so that [01:15:40] we would recommend approval. Thank you. Open up for public comment. Seeing no one [01:15:45] coming forward, bring back to council. Move approval. Second. [01:15:50] Maker. No sir. Second. No comment. Councilwoman. Needs to be done. Councilman. Good. In that case all [01:15:58] those in favor please signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed like sign. Motion passes.

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14. 8.f

    ITB23-003 Bid Award - Meadows Dog Park

    approved

    Council awarded ITB23-003 for the Meadows Park (formerly Meadows Dog Park) renovation to SC Signature Construction Corporation for $1,491,100, funded by Penny for Pasco dollars. The project includes new playground equipment, regraded trail, improved large/small dog parks with wash-down and agility areas, rehabbed restrooms, picnic and shade structures, three new pickleball courts replacing the basketball court, and a new 6-foot vinyl perimeter fence.

    • motion:Approve award of ITB23-003 Meadows Park bid to SC Signature Construction Corporation in the amount of $1,491,100. (passed)

    📍Francis Avenue📍Meadows Park🏢SC Signature Construction Corporation👤Mr. Murphy👤Mr. Rivera👤Ms. Manson#ITB23-003#Penny for Pasco

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    [01:16:04] Next is ITB 23-003 bid award for the Meadows Dog Park. Which we are now referring to as [01:16:10] Meadows Park. And the recommendation is to award the bid to SC Signature [01:16:20] Construction Corporation in the amount of $1,491,100. [01:16:27] And Mr. Rivera has prepared a PowerPoint presentation in that respect. Thank you [01:16:33] Ms. Manson. So part of this project will redo that sign there so that it [01:16:40] does state Meadows Park. The existing photos that you see here were all [01:16:46] constructed in 2001. So when we look at the restroom, the restroom is still [01:16:54] structurally sound. So we're talking about rehabbing the restroom. But you can [01:16:59] see the existing conditions with the basketball court. There's a trail that [01:17:04] goes around the perimeter that in some places is non-existent. And then we have [01:17:09] the existing playground equipment. A couple shelters that are very simplistic. [01:17:15] And then we have a large dog area as well as a small dog area. Now the scope [01:17:22] of work that we're proposing to do in this project is to remove and replace [01:17:28] the existing playground equipment and outfit it to fit ages three and three [01:17:35] plus. The existing trail is a 0.24 mile loop. We will go ahead and regrade and [01:17:42] shell that. The small dog park and the large dog park will be improved and will [01:17:48] include some agility elements for the canines. It also includes two [01:17:55] separate wash down areas. I'm trying, let's see here, right right here. We will [01:18:03] have seating areas that we'll add here and extended sidewalk that kind of [01:18:10] dissects the park in the center. We will construct a picnic area that will [01:18:16] include shade structures to where you could spend the day at the park if you [01:18:21] wanted to. And again like I said the restrooms we will rehab those. The [01:18:26] interior of them make some exterior improvements. When we come down to this [01:18:31] point you'll notice that we have pickleball courts. There's three of them. [01:18:36] The need for pickleball courts have far outweighs the need for [01:18:42] basketball courts and the requests from from everyone now. So we'll be [01:18:48] constructing pickleball courts there and then we will install a new fence [01:18:55] line that will separate the park from the existing neighborhood. And with that [01:19:01] we would recommend that you do approve the the low bid amount as well as award [01:19:07] the project to Signature Construction. We have worked with them before. We've done [01:19:12] projects with them on, they did Francis Avenue improvements, the seawall [01:19:18] improvements. They've done several smaller projects, interior projects with [01:19:24] the Public Works building as well as City Hall. So we're very familiar with [01:19:28] their work and the funding is identified as Penny for Pasco dollars. With that I'll [01:19:35] answer any questions you may have. [01:19:39] Open up for public comment. Seeing no one come forward, bring it back to council. [01:19:45] Did you have a question? Yeah, the question, the fencing that separates the park [01:19:50] from the residence, is that going to be a solid perimeter wall fencing? [01:19:54] Six foot high? Proposing a six foot vinyl. Okay, all right. And the entrance to the [01:20:01] dog parks, you know, will this one also have like an entrance, you know, like a [01:20:09] staging area and then an entrance on in? Most, a lot of dog parks I've seen is [01:20:14] where you take the dog in to an area that's fenced in where you can then [01:20:18] remove the leash and so forth and then let them enter on into the other part. [01:20:21] Okay. And you said it's a two and a half perimeter, a two and a half mile [01:20:26] perimeter? No, 0.24. Okay, I would say that's a lot bigger than I thought it was. Okay, all right, thank you. [01:20:33] It's not that big. And does it include a path down to the river? There's an [01:20:41] existing path and very minimal improvements. We go into a whole [01:20:46] different ballgame with the wetlands and permitting. Okay, thank you. Entertain a [01:20:53] motion? I'll move we approve. I'll second. The maker? I've been, you know, I guess I've [01:21:02] been quoted a couple times saying that we're very, very park rich in this city [01:21:06] for a size city we have and the variety and the number of parks we have is [01:21:10] outstanding. This is one little not-so-shiny spot of our parks and [01:21:19] this will bring it up to standards of our others, so I'd like to see it done. [01:21:25] Redone as well and then the pickleball, I don't know how many people have asked me [01:21:29] why don't we have more pickleball? Mr. Murphy? Yeah, I agree. It looks like a [01:21:36] really good layout and project and yeah, with the pickleball, it seems like a [01:21:41] couple other projects we've talked about, we're like maybe we can fit a pickleball [01:21:44] court in, you know, so I got to try the pickleball I guess. Yes, I remember it's [01:21:51] been a number of years visiting it and seeing that the water source for the [01:21:56] dogs was less than acceptable and so I'm sure getting proper hydration and having [01:22:07] this wash-off area, I'm not sure. Are we going to give the dogs baths there? Is [01:22:12] that the idea? Will they cool them down? Is that the idea? So I'm not familiar with all [01:22:17] this new dog park technology, but certainly the canines have become [01:22:25] king in our city and certainly the ability for dogs to have the run of our [01:22:31] town pretty much has attracted the new generation that's moving into it and so [01:22:37] I think it's needed. I think they're additionally, you know, we'll have to [01:22:41] continue to take the citywide doggy bags and dog patrol and dog parks are [01:22:50] going to become a part of our fabric here, so this will give, this will be the [01:22:55] prime spot for the dogs to meet, I guess. So I'll vote for it. My wife and I have [01:23:02] an 18 year old toothless cat, so this really doesn't do much for us one way or the [01:23:07] other, but I will take your word for it. Any further discussion? Hearing none, all [01:23:14] 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.

15. 8.g

    ↳You arrived here from a search for “Pasco County” — transcript expanded below

    Interlocal Agreement between City of New Port Richey and Pasco County for Annexation of an Enclave and Transfer of Public Roads Jurisdiction

    approved

    Council approved an interlocal agreement with Pasco County to annex the Leisure Lane/Vandoren Avenue enclave west of US-19 adjacent to Southgate Shopping Center. The County will contribute $2 million toward sanitary sewer installation, and the City committed to spending $1,538,990.50 on neighborhood improvements (park, roads, street lights, stormwater) by adding the area to the Community Redevelopment District. The 128-parcel area has been a source of nuisance and blight; annexation via interlocal agreement does not require property owner vote.

    • motion:Motion to approve the interlocal agreement between the City and Pasco County for annexation of the Leisure Lane/Vandoren Avenue enclave and transfer of public roads jurisdiction. (passed)

    📍5305 Bellevue Avenue, Newport Richey, FL 34652📍7224 Grand Boulevard📍Leisure Lane / Vandoren Avenue🏢City of Dade City🏢Habitat for Humanity🏢Pasco County🏢Southgate Shopping Center👤Bertel Butler👤Debbie Manns👤Mr. Hanson👤Mr. O'Malley👤Wendy Brenner#Brown Acres#Community Redevelopment District (CRA)#Holiday Hill#Lacoochee#Leisure Lane/Vandoren Avenue Enclave#Penny for Pasco#Tommytown#Town and Country Villas

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    [01:23:20] Next, interlocal agreement between City and New Port Richey and Pasco County. [01:23:27] Mr. Mayor, members of the Council, the interlocal agreement before you this [01:23:35] evening is actually represented in two attachments which were sent to you [01:23:39] yesterday. They were not included as an attachment to the agenda item. The [01:23:45] purpose of the attachments are to memorialize the terms of a proposed [01:23:53] agreement between Pasco County and the City of New Port Richey as it relates to [01:23:58] an area commonly referred to as Leisure Lane-Vandoren Avenue. And that area is [01:24:06] considered to be an enclave because it is located in an area that is bounded by [01:24:14] the City on four sides. It is located on the west side of US Highway 19, adjacent [01:24:23] to the Southgate Shopping Center. There have recently been constructed a number [01:24:30] of Habitat for Humanity houses and it was contemplated at one point to be town [01:24:38] and country villas, but Habitat for Humanity has abandoned their project [01:24:44] there. The reason that the City and the County became embroiled in discussions [01:24:51] about the development there and the future of that property relates to the [01:24:57] fact that the County just wasn't being as responsible of a steward of the [01:25:06] property as what they might be if the property were located closer to Pasco [01:25:13] County's jurisdiction. And some of the problems that the City was experiencing [01:25:26] is that some nuisance-related activities were emanating from that area and they [01:25:38] were becoming an economic detractor to our principal taxpayer in the City, the [01:25:48] Southgate Shopping Center. And so we really needed to do a better job of [01:25:56] addressing some of the issues that were occurring there. So discussions commenced [01:26:06] with the County about how we could work together and stabilize a neighborhood. [01:26:12] And in the end, the County agreed to donate two million dollars to a project [01:26:21] that would allow the City to install sanitary sewer in the subdivision because [01:26:30] majority of the lots in that subdivision are on septic fields and there's a very [01:26:37] high water table in that subdivision. And if new structures, new residential [01:26:46] structures are to be built there, it's in a floodplain so it has to be built with [01:26:55] no living space on the first floor. So it became important that the sanitary sewer [01:27:04] be part of the project. As part of their commitment, they agreed that if the City [01:27:16] were to annex it into the City through an interlocal agreement, that they would [01:27:25] allow the City to add it to our Community Redevelopment District, which [01:27:36] would mean that we would have a source of funding to reinvest in that [01:27:42] neighborhood and that the growth of the value there could be reinvested. And so [01:27:52] in turn, a commitment was made that we would spend $1,538,990.50 [01:28:05] on improvements in the district on such things as a neighborhood park, road [01:28:14] improvements, street lights, and stormwater improvements, and various [01:28:21] other necessary neighborhood improvements to bring that up to an [01:28:26] appropriate living standard, which doesn't currently exist there. So the [01:28:35] county and the city are at a point that if this agreement is to come to fruition, [01:28:43] we need you to approve entering into the interlocal agreements. And the county in [01:28:53] turn will consider the interlocal agreements at their next meeting, which [01:28:59] if approved by them, will allow us to officially start an annexation process [01:29:10] of the properties. And that's the short version, and I'm prepared to respond to [01:29:19] any questions that you may have of me. Thank you. I'll open it up for public comment. [01:29:27] Bertel Butler, 5305 Bellevue Avenue, New Port Richey, Florida, 34652. I just [01:29:33] wanted to say, back when I was in seventh grade, so it may not seem like a long [01:29:38] time ago, but it was about six or seven years ago, me and Ms. Manns had the [01:29:42] chance to sit in her office and she actually spoke of having her eye on [01:29:45] Leisure Lane and working on that project. So it's great to see that she's kept her [01:29:49] eye on that and that she's working through it. I'm sure it's been a very [01:29:52] long and tough process, so thank you for that. My question is just a technical one. [01:29:57] In the document that was provided... [01:30:00] The attachment is not there. It said it would be on there by the special city council meeting. [01:30:06] Will it be put on after the fact for us to be able to view it online, the attachment for the agenda item? Thank you. [01:30:14] Mr. O'Malley. [01:30:20] Congratulations, Mr. Hanson. I know you've been working on this for a while and finally it's coming. [01:30:26] I know this is the biggest, I think we have seven enclaves or six enclaves. This is the biggest with the most people and the most distressed. [01:30:34] One thing, I'm going to say boo on the county because the county had the ability to make this a target area. [01:30:46] And other areas of the county, Tommytown, Lacoochee, Brown Acres, Holiday Hill, there's one on Trouble Creek which I forgot the name of. [01:31:00] They never did this one. They would have suggested over and over and over again. And the county isn't doing neighborhood projects anymore, unfortunately. [01:31:07] So I'm glad we're doing something. Something to consider is an experience we, the county, when I worked for the county in the Tommytown neighborhood, [01:31:18] we expanded the sewer lines there. There was a City of Dade City sewer utility system. And even though we were paying for the connections, [01:31:27] a lot of people didn't want to connect. So I would recommend that we be aggressive on that. [01:31:33] If maybe we can use some of the CRA funds that we generate from the area to pay for the connection fees. [01:31:39] And in fact, I think as a utility system, you can force people to connect or at least leave the properties to do that. [01:31:46] Because again, it's on the other side of 19, as Ms. Vann said, it's a high water table, needs a lot of attention. [01:31:53] The other thing we need to look at is try to get habitat back. [01:31:57] They stopped, the last house they built is at the end of the current sewer line that comes from Southgate Plaza. [01:32:05] So we need to see what we can do to get habitat back. They're starting a new subdivision, I think off Little Road. [01:32:12] But one great thing about our habitat, we have one of the best funded habitats in the South. [01:32:18] They have tons of money. They're very well organized. [01:32:21] We could do again, maybe some of the CRA, maybe give some incentives to them, bridge financing or something. [01:32:27] Encourage them to come back to Leisure Lane or Town and Country as they call it. [01:32:31] Maybe they'll come back because as we all know, the housing in that neighborhood is not decent. [01:32:39] And we want to make sure, and it's mainly rental, and there's a lot of bad landlords out there. [01:32:46] So we need to do something about that. So congratulations, and hopefully one day we can get the other enclaves. [01:32:52] We have an enclave that's a junkyard. We have an enclave that's one of the largest vacant pieces of land on Congress. [01:32:59] So we need to look and see if we can get that enclave agreement that I know you've been working on for a long time. [01:33:05] Thank you. [01:33:06] Thank you. Anyone else? [01:33:17] Wendy Brenner, 7224 Grand Boulevard. [01:33:21] The agreement has to be approved by the county also. [01:33:28] Then you have to go through the annexation process. [01:33:31] How many properties are there? [01:33:34] And how many people have to be convinced to annex? [01:33:39] I'm sorry, I don't recall specifically how many properties there are involved. [01:33:43] But through an interlocal agreement, the property owners are not required to vote on an annexation. [01:33:52] Okay. [01:33:53] 128 parcels. [01:33:56] Okay, so you already have an agreement that they don't have to vote on it, the annexation? [01:34:02] No. [01:34:04] Okay, thank you. [01:34:06] And how much is it going to cost in addition? [01:34:14] Well, I see that you're going for some grant funds, which is good because there are more grant funds out there. [01:34:21] And Penny for Pasco, they ought to be paying a lot more than $2 million. [01:34:25] So I hope that we're aggressive on that front because it's really their problem that we're taking over. [01:34:32] But for the business community and the aesthetics and the production of income in this city, it's a great thing. [01:34:40] Thank you. [01:34:41] Anyone else? [01:34:43] Seeing no one else come forward, bring it back to council. [01:34:48] I'll move approval. [01:34:50] Second. [01:34:51] A motion to second to the maker. [01:34:53] Yes, I know this one question about this is one agreement and one enclave. [01:34:59] And it is admittedly one of the most difficult problems that we're agreeing to accept from the county. [01:35:08] And I'm hopeful that their recognition of our role in helping to do this can overcome some of our traditional anxiety about getting the tax increment. [01:35:21] So as it's been explained, I appreciate it. [01:35:24] Number one, the environmental impact is important to the Gulf and to our environment. [01:35:29] Number two, this area has served the lower income community, and we have opportunity now as a result of that. [01:35:38] Of all of the things that are in the news about what's happening in the state right now, [01:35:42] there are some legislative actions which I think are going to pass, [01:35:46] which are going to increase the ability for workforce housing, low-income housing, [01:35:55] as a component of a community that makes people feel like they're not in low-income housing. [01:36:04] And so the idea of having some improvement of the environment, the housing that could go in there could be mixed under the law. [01:36:14] You don't have to have 100% low income. [01:36:17] And so I really like the idea of us trying to look to that community to, if we get it, [01:36:23] to look to it to develop through, again, grants and outreach improvements to that that would elevate the community [01:36:33] and yet still serve the folks that are in the housing crisis right now. [01:36:38] Thank you. [01:36:39] To the second. [01:36:40] Yeah, it's really a big area. [01:36:43] It's not quite on the U.S. 19, but it's really part of it. [01:36:48] And it's a real huge area that we'll be able to hopefully clean up. [01:36:52] Hopefully the county will honor their agreement and do their part. [01:36:57] But it's a huge area of blight, and once getting that section rehabbed and looking better, [01:37:05] it's going to just benefit the whole community. [01:37:08] Just the sewer, having the drain fields and the sewer alone, getting rid of that on a sewer is just huge for that area. [01:37:17] Thank you. [01:37:18] We started this process in my first term as mayor. [01:37:23] I'm finishing up my third term, so this has taken quite a while. [01:37:27] But I think it's very definitely worthwhile, [01:37:30] and it is providing a place where people can actually afford to have houses,

    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. 8.h

    City Manager Performance Evaluation

    discussed

    Council conducted the annual performance evaluation of City Manager Debbie Manns. Most councilmembers praised her performance highly, citing accomplishments in economic development, grants, taxable value increases, and managing departments without an assistant city manager. Deputy Mayor Bradford moved to increase her salary by 9%, which was seconded. Public comment was contentious, with at least one citizen sharply criticizing the city manager and council. Councilman Altman and the Mayor suggested extending the contract by six months to align future evaluations with the post-budget cycle.

    • motion:Motion to increase the City Manager's salary by 9%. (none)
    • direction:Suggestion to extend the City Manager's contract by an additional six months to shift the evaluation cycle to occur after the budget process. (none)

    🏢Habitat for Humanity🏢Hacienda🏢Publix👤Councilman Altman👤Debbie Manns👤Deputy Mayor Bradford👤George👤Mr. Murphy👤Wendy#Annual City Manager Performance Evaluation#CDBG funds#Capital Improvement Plans#Citizen's Academy#Main Street Landing#Penny for Pasco#The Circle

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    [01:37:37] and it has the potential to be a really nice neighborhood once we get it annexed [01:37:43] and water and sewer and the other improvements in there. [01:37:47] It will be a nice place, and we'll have homeowners that move into affordable housing that are able to build equity [01:37:58] and personal wealth by owning those houses in there. [01:38:01] So it's a really big deal. [01:38:04] Deputy Mayor? [01:38:06] Yeah, Mayor. [01:38:07] Moving at the speed of government, right? [01:38:09] Yes, sir. [01:38:10] So I would support this, encourage my colleagues to support as well. [01:38:17] There's still maybe a couple speed bumps ahead. [01:38:23] Recently, the county chairman was having second thoughts about the $2 million for this project. [01:38:32] So he thinks he has better ideas for that money. [01:38:38] And I'd like to just do a slight correction for Wendy in that it's not the county's problem. [01:38:48] It's the county's responsibility, but it's our problem. [01:38:51] Because, you know, our property owners surround that enclave, [01:38:57] and the county has attempted to do some things. [01:39:04] They've gone in and cleaned up brush, and they've tried to keep the lots mowed and so forth. [01:39:11] But a lot of the law enforcement that takes place in there is kind of our guys are there. [01:39:19] I was down there the other day driving through back from Publix, [01:39:23] and it was our patrol car sitting there in the highway making some kind of observation or something. [01:39:30] So it is we're kind of been babysitting it. [01:39:34] And I get it. [01:39:35] You know, two streets, and there's a call for service, and the county, you know, [01:39:41] they're limited west side people to kind of drive to the city to get there to it. [01:39:45] So I kind of get it. [01:39:47] It's something that just needs to happen. [01:39:50] And, George, you know, I appreciate what you said for the Habitat folks, [01:39:57] but unfortunately maybe another little speed bump is that they've sold their lots. [01:40:03] They had bought a number of lots. [01:40:06] I think it was just 60 or so lots that they had, and they've sold it off to someone else. [01:40:12] So there's a lot of mechanical stuff going on to make all this project work. [01:40:19] It sounds to me like those folks have given up and moved on, [01:40:23] and so we may look for help for other developers there. [01:40:28] But, needless, you know, we really need to enlist the county's support [01:40:35] and their financial support to improve this neighborhood. [01:40:40] And the first step is, and one of the more expensive steps, by the way, [01:40:44] is getting the wastewater lines put in, [01:40:48] and then we can follow the street lights, roads, sidewalks, you know, [01:40:52] the other neighborhood to make it really desirable for folks. [01:40:58] So I'm in support of it. [01:41:00] Thank you. Councilwoman? [01:41:01] Yeah, I definitely support it, too. [01:41:02] I think it's a large area. [01:41:03] It's been a long time coming. [01:41:05] I'm happy to see us stepping in to do what's right with that area [01:41:09] and looking forward to the opportunities we have to improve it [01:41:12] and to really make it a nice community, [01:41:15] especially for some of our lower-income folks [01:41:17] who will be able to have nice housing and a great community. [01:41:20] So I think that it's the right thing for us to do as a city. [01:41:24] Thank you. [01:41:25] Any further discussion? [01:41:27] Hearing none, all those in favor, please signify by saying aye. [01:41:30] Aye. [01:41:31] Opposed, like sign. [01:41:32] Motion passes. [01:41:34] Next item on the agenda is the city manager's performance evaluation. [01:41:40] Anybody want to kick that off? [01:41:50] Okay, everybody wants to be bashful, I'll kick it off. [01:41:57] Once a year we do this, as you all know, [01:42:01] and it gives us an opportunity. [01:42:06] My iPad's talking to me. [01:42:07] Excuse me, I'm sorry. [01:42:13] And so we have an opportunity to review the performance of our city manager. [01:42:25] We have some tools we can utilize to look at individual traits, skills, [01:42:32] and abilities and performance. [01:42:37] And I don't know if others have used that, [01:42:42] but I think it's a great tool in evaluation of activities. [01:42:49] And as I go through it, all the different performance factors, [01:42:54] there's a page here, 17, 18 different factors. [01:42:59] You know, I've sat on this city council now for a little over two years, [01:43:04] and there's not many weeks that go by that I'm still become somewhat amazed [01:43:14] about just the complexity and the sheer number of things that has to be managed in the city. [01:43:27] And, you know, as I look at it and analyze each characteristic, you know, [01:43:33] I can't find many that I would rate less than outstanding by our current city manager. [01:43:43] You think about this city and what's transpired over the past eight, nine, ten years, [01:43:52] and we've had some great council members and mayors during that time. [01:43:56] Mayor, you've served nine of those, and who have contributed a lot of direction towards the city. [01:44:05] And I can think of no time where, as I've sat on the council, [01:44:09] or other times where the council has given direction to the city manager, [01:44:12] that she has not stepped up and performed that as directed. [01:44:17] And many times she's a driving force on improvements in the city, very goal-driven. [01:44:28] And she's there to many times take the heat, [01:44:34] and saying the no's that need to be said no to that we don't have to. [01:44:40] If it needs to come to us, we'll come to it. [01:44:43] But from my perspective, this city manager is performing at a very high level. [01:44:54] She does not have an assistant city manager. [01:44:57] Many city managers do. [01:44:59] So she's taking the heat. [01:45:00] role. She's had a step in on as some department heads have changed and left during this past [01:45:09] year. She's done a successful transformation of our police department to what appears to [01:45:14] be an excellent hire with our new police chief. Other department heads she has replaced. We [01:45:22] have a new economic development director that's with us tonight for the very first time that's [01:45:27] going to be a great asset. And any pause in those, any pause in those, our abnesses we're [01:45:37] still looking for, personnel director, human resources, I think has been handcuffed somewhat [01:45:46] from some of our payroll and budget limitations. We've gone through recently a review of our [01:45:59] fire department and our police department on salary views according to market levels [01:46:06] and we had to adjust those all up. We've got to maintain and keep our talent and we've [01:46:11] got to pay for it. We can't let other people steal things away from us. We lost our number [01:46:17] two person in public works that we were grooming as maybe a future department head but was [01:46:22] hired out to another municipality because of the pay schedules. Very talented individual [01:46:29] will miss them. We miss them already. So I think the city manager has been maneuvering [01:46:35] through that and the direction of the city as well as possible could be considered. And [01:46:42] therefore, you know, I want to let you know that my feeling is that she has done an outstanding [01:46:52] job and I appreciate her dedication because it goes beyond the eight to five type job. [01:47:02] I mean, you take the time and effort she's put in for small things like the Citizen's [01:47:08] Academy, her speaking to outside groups, and that's part of her job, right, is to go outside [01:47:15] her normal work hours and directives to communicate things that goes on to the city. She keeps [01:47:29] council well informed of things, you know, makes it a point to make herself available [01:47:36] to meet at least on a weekly basis and phone calls in between. So if there's any question [01:47:41] I have about what's going on, if she hasn't already related to me, she's very available [01:47:47] to let me know about how things are going or what's going on. So with that, I'll pass [01:47:57] the gavel to somebody else. [01:47:58] All right. So in my short time here, I have to say that our city manager has done an amazing [01:48:06] job. I mean, I'm impressed at the accountability that she has, the awareness of the community [01:48:14] and of our city. She's active in the community and active in things outside of her job here. [01:48:22] She's increased our taxable values up from 8.5 to 16% this year. I think she's brought [01:48:29] in over $3 million in grants herself, which is a big deal for us as well. And she's had [01:48:36] to do all of this while she's had to be our human services director and our economic development [01:48:43] director at the same time. So I will say that I think that she's extremely committed and [01:48:48] dedicated to our city and puts in a lot of extra hours that many of us are not aware [01:48:53] of. And I think that she's got a really tough job here in the city. And I think that she's [01:48:58] doing a great job. I mean, I look to her for advice. She keeps us well informed. She voices [01:49:06] her opinion, but she also takes it when we give her our opinion. And I think that that's [01:49:11] another good quality to have. [01:49:15] Mr. Murphy. [01:49:16] I have to say, and I've told Debbie this numerous times, city manager's job is a tough job. [01:49:26] There's so much going on, so many moving parts. And if anything I had to falter for is that [01:49:33] she does too much. And I joke with her because she's able to have her hands into everything, [01:49:42] every part, and manage them effectively. And it's probably just because I'm jealous because [01:49:48] I couldn't handle that level of being involved. And she's able to do that. And I applaud her [01:49:53] for that. She keeps us well informed. Never a question that I ask her that doesn't get [01:50:00] answered. One of the things that I think is probably her highlight or what she does best, [01:50:09] and part of it all, is economic development. I've sat and talked with her many times and [01:50:15] listened to what she has plans for this and that and vice versa. And she's able to put [01:50:20] together things that is just, it's with experience. It's the only way you can know it is with [01:50:26] experience. Things that just amaze me. I'm like, wow, I never thought you could do that [01:50:30] or this. And she's able to do that. And I think that's been a huge, huge plus for our [01:50:37] city and get our economic development. We've had some good people working with her along [01:50:41] the way in that department for sure. But she definitely has a knack for that. And I think [01:50:46] that's really been her highlight in making all the changes and moving the city forward [01:50:51] like we have. So I really can't complain at all about anything. Like I said, she's got [01:50:59] a tough job. Sometimes it's a very thankless job. But overall, I think she's doing a fantastic [01:51:05] job. And hopefully she'll want to stay with us for a long time. [01:51:09] Mr. Ullman. [01:51:11] Yeah. I think I'm probably in the same position I have been for the last number of years, [01:51:18] having worked for the city and then having the city manager come and join in that respect [01:51:26] and sat through department head meetings and served as an assistant to the city manager [01:51:32] as well. I do feel a working relationship that I've had over the time period both up [01:51:39] here and from within the city. It's my personal preference that I share my criticisms directly [01:51:50] and not publicly when it comes to things that we could do to improve ourselves. So one of [01:51:56] the things that I think that the city manager will agree with me on is that these annual [01:52:02] reviews aren't just for all of the positive things that the city sees and that they're [01:52:08] done by all, but also a chance to improve that situation. And I have said also many [01:52:16] times before that our city is not a city of 17,000 people, even though that's how many [01:52:22] residents or 18,000 we have, but we're the main city for 150,000, for 200,000 people. [01:52:29] And so it's always important that our mindset recognizes that while many people feel sometimes [01:52:37] that we take on too big projects that are bigger than our city, I think the proof has [01:52:43] been in the pudding over the last number of years that the projects that we have taken [01:52:48] on and, you know, it started, I think, with Main Street Landing. It ended up also with [01:52:54] the Circle. And now this past year, we've seen the people on the street, the businesses [01:53:01] that are actually having customers, the Hacienda that's open, that's bringing tourism. So there's [01:53:07] a great need for work. So I think my point really is that we all have to work harder [01:53:15] and so we don't sit on our laurels and say that we've gotten there, because as a city [01:53:19] council, we still have a lot of work to do as well. And so I look to my colleagues on [01:53:24] the council to continue to have that same courage and commitment that you have expressed [01:53:30] with your city manager, because without our vote, without our budget, and without our [01:53:34] participation, these things wouldn't happen. Mr. Mayor, as you get ready to have your final [01:53:40] year in this particular go-round, you will recall some of the best times when we have [01:53:48] worked collaboratively. And so my request continues to be to have, as we did today, [01:53:55] to learn about lead paint, or as we have before with consultants that have talked to us about [01:54:00] our CDBG funds and the grants, that these are the things that excite the residents, [01:54:08] that cause them to invest here and to stay here. And we need to continue to become more [01:54:15] open in that respect. And so those are the kinds of things that I'm encouraging that [01:54:21] we get involved. The things that I've hoped for that haven't happened, haven't happened [01:54:27] because of some of the personnel demands, but I'm hopeful that after this next election [01:54:35] and it's been promised that we can have some strong talk about the capital improvement [01:54:39] plans, these dollars that we have, have come from federal programs, have come from state [01:54:46] grants, and they're now coming from Penny for Pasco, which was voted on by the public. [01:54:52] And our ability to partner with the county, which was a good first step today with this [01:54:56] one situation, and our ability to have the county and other citizens outside of our city [01:55:04] support us as we go forward towards more lofty goals of tourism and ecotourism and [01:55:13] connections of trails and all the things that are falling into our city's lap right now. [01:55:19] It's a great time for us, and it is not a time for us to put things on pause and try [01:55:26] to reconsider who we're working with. So I look forward to working together to make that [01:55:33] happen. I have one request, which is that this annual contract be increased by another [01:55:40] six months, because it would really be my preference for an evaluation to occur after [01:55:46] the budget process and after we get through the financial statements so that we can actually [01:55:51] see the results. So effectively, we're meeting to have this renewal at a time period when [01:55:58] a few years from now there may be new council members coming on to play, and I think it [01:56:04] helps for us to maybe have this decision during and this review occur after the bulk of the [01:56:15] work that's done is complete, because the only time that a city gets to relax at all [01:56:22] is once it sends its final tax roll and makes its final budget and everybody knows what [01:56:28] they are charged enough to do, and that process is so critical. It would be my suggestion [01:56:35] to extend the contract by an extra six months and change the time of it. But you all do [01:56:41] what you'd like. I'm looking forward to working with all of you. [01:56:48] I had the benefit of having Ms. Manns come to work for the city within a week or two [01:56:56] of the time that I was sworn in as mayor. Like Councilman Altman, I had the opportunity [01:57:05] to serve on council with other city managers in here, and while Ms. Manns may not be perfect [01:57:10] and she does not walk on water, she's a sight better than some of the others that I've dealt [01:57:18] with over the years. She has not been the least bit shy about telling me when I was [01:57:26] wrong and that I needed to do something differently. I take that criticism in the spirit that it [01:57:40] was intended. She's worked very well under pressure, and she has been under an enormous [01:57:45] amount of pressure the last year or two. She's had to work with some very difficult people, [01:57:52] and she's probably done better than I would have on a day-to-day basis in that job. One [01:58:01] of the benefits of having a strong city manager form of government is that the city manager [01:58:07] is the one that has to keep tabs on all of the departments and not the mayor. As Mr. [01:58:14] Altman has repeatedly reminded me over the years, I can't fix a parking ticket, much [01:58:20] less do anything else on my own. Decisions are made here on the dais, and it is the mayor, [01:58:30] while he may run the meeting, is one of five votes, and yes, I have been on the wrong end [01:58:35] of four-to-one votes. As my colleagues wind up from time to time as well, I have been [01:58:44] on the wrong end of four-to-one votes. I think under the circumstances, she's done a pretty [01:58:49] good job. The point Mr. Altman makes about extending the contract discussions, I think [01:59:02] bears some consideration by my colleagues. The evaluation is just one part of a two-part [01:59:10] process. The second part is actually negotiating a contract extension. At the moment, I believe [01:59:20] that extension runs through May or somewhere in there. [01:59:25] Oh, my contract is good for another year. [01:59:29] Okay, one more. Then what we probably should think about, or what I would suggest is that [01:59:39] you should think about, is doing an extension that would put it out six months beyond that [01:59:50] so that you get through that budget process and you can actually, in addition just to [01:59:54] the annual evaluation on the anniversary of the hire date, look at the budget process [02:00:00] at the contract in the total of what has happened going through the budget process and all the [02:00:09] other stuff. And it would give the new council members, in this year's case, a new mayor [02:00:21] an opportunity to get settled in a little bit before that discussion comes up regarding [02:00:28] contract. And I think that would be a good thing. So I concur with you. I don't believe [02:00:37] there's any action that's absolutely necessary tonight other than to transmit to Ms. Manns [02:00:46] our performance evaluation. And then I would encourage my colleagues, like I say, to look [02:00:55] in about a six-month time frame to looking to do a six-month extension to the existing [02:01:02] contract that has another year to toll. And then get it on that off-cycle, if you will, [02:01:10] as Councilman Altman has recommended. Because I think that would be a good idea. And like [02:01:18] I say, it'll give new council members a chance to settle in before they're asked to do an [02:01:22] evaluation and make salary discussions. And it wouldn't put whoever the outgoing people [02:01:29] are in the position of having to make those same decisions as they're going out the door. [02:01:35] Any further? [02:01:36] Yeah, Mayor. I appreciate your opinions and Councilman Altman's, but I have to really [02:01:45] disagree with you at this point. You know, we have this evaluation at this time of year. [02:01:54] It's been this way for a number of years, and it's for a very purposeful reason. Typically, [02:02:01] this time of year, we're about to change positions on this diocese. In this case, it's going [02:02:07] to be your position. In other years, it's maybe two members. Some get re-elected, some [02:02:15] don't. And I think it's contrary to say, allow new people to come in and evaluate in their [02:02:24] short period of time being here. I don't see how there can be anybody that would be better [02:02:30] to evaluate and make judgments than those that have spent numerous months and years [02:02:38] working rather than someone who recently came on. As not the newest, but newer compared [02:02:45] to you three, member of Council, I know that there's a learning curve that we all have [02:02:52] to go through. Some go through it quicker than others. And you can get started and you [02:02:58] think you know, but you really don't know until you know that you know. And that takes [02:03:05] time to get to that point. And as I look at her evaluation, and I look at other city managers [02:03:14] who I've had an opportunity to meet personally through various meetings, and make some evaluations [02:03:24] and look at our city managers' responsibilities compared to those other city managers that [02:03:32] work in similar sized cities, maybe in our general area and even out throughout the state, [02:03:40] you know, I've tried to do some little analysis here because while Ms. Manns has taken on [02:03:49] the project every three years to review our entire city employee base, whether fire department, [02:03:57] police department, upcoming, we're working on the general employees and bringing them [02:04:04] up to marketplace, we need to do that as well. Now you understand our contract goes to a [02:04:12] certain period of time and we can renew that or not. And if she's offered, she can accept [02:04:23] it or not. And I got to tell you, just as, you know, we hired, I think our last economic [02:04:35] director lasted like four weeks before she got a better offer and flew off the coop for [02:04:42] that, right? I think that, I know that this particular city manager cares deeply for this [02:04:50] community and for this city, or else she wouldn't be driven as hard to do the things she does. [02:04:59] And I know there's been people that have expressed dissatisfaction with some of her decisions, [02:05:05] but I can tell you every time one of those was made was for the greater good of this [02:05:09] city, even though it was not that particular individual's want. And so therefore, you know, [02:05:18] I would make a motion to go ahead and increase... [02:05:23] You hear from the people first before you make that motion. You haven't let the public come in, sir. [02:05:28] Go ahead, Deputy Mayor. [02:05:31] So I'd make a motion that the salary be increased by nine percent. [02:05:36] Do we have a second? [02:05:43] I'll second. [02:05:45] We have a motion and a second. I'll open it up for public comment. [02:05:50] I can't do that. [02:05:57] What an absolute hypocrisy for you all to sit up there and say the scripts that you were obviously given. [02:06:04] I can't sit back here and listen to this anymore. I have the review. I've read it. [02:06:11] And you just gloat, gloat, gloat, saying her praises. [02:06:15] What about the issues that some of us have faced here where our lives could have been ended? [02:06:20] And you keep talking about the facts, the facts, the facts. We have brought the facts for three years, [02:06:25] and all of you have sat in those chairs and did absolutely nothing. [02:06:30] Almost went to prison because of your last chief of police and your city manager. [02:06:35] And I have text messages that can prove it. [02:06:39] So you sit up here and you play with the people, not once did you talk about the people. [02:06:43] You're talking about yourselves, because we know what your interests are. [02:06:48] We know you don't care, and you made fun of me because I have a disability and I have seeing glasses on. [02:06:53] And you want to make fun of me. Shame on you, little Mike. [02:06:58] I am sick and tired of the disrespect for you all to sit up here and not hold the city manager accountable is a shame. [02:07:05] You all hire the city manager, so you all are compliant to everything that's gone on. [02:07:12] You made comments about some things that she's done that we've not agreed with. [02:07:16] Well, when you have proud boys coming out here talking about killing us, [02:07:19] when you have your former chief of police saying it's okay for them to pray with the proud boys, [02:07:23] when you have a former police officer who was fired for giving out a protest location to the proud boys, [02:07:29] you don't have to worry about it. You live in your rich little fancy house, [02:07:32] and you don't have to worry about any of us or what we go through. We're going through hell. [02:07:37] You don't have to go to the grocery store and worry about being shot or killed. [02:07:41] You don't have Ku Klux Klan members or hate groups sending you hate mail, do you, Mike? [02:07:47] Now, I had to call him out because he disrespected me, and you didn't say one thing, Peter. [02:07:51] Why he disrespected me? Well, I have seeing glasses on and a disability with light, and you didn't say a word. [02:07:57] So if I do all respect, I'm reclaiming my time. [02:07:59] I am telling you all today that you are not doing right by the people. [02:08:04] You keep your city manager. Do what you want. Spend all the people's money. Do what you want. [02:08:09] But at the end of the day, we are going to change this corrupt city government. [02:08:17] And I'm saying corrupt because let's call it what it is. [02:08:20] We're not going to sit here and play like all these articles didn't come out in Creative Loafing, [02:08:23] Tampa Bay Times, other news outlets, talking about some of the seriousness, [02:08:28] conflicts of interest that sit right here on this board, that are in these departments. [02:08:34] Now, there are some great people that work for this city. I love this city. [02:08:38] My family has been a part of this city since 1924, since it was founded. [02:08:43] My ancestors built this city, and I'll be damned if I continuously get disrespected by you all. [02:08:49] And I'll be damned if the people get disrespected. [02:08:52] You can shake your head all you want, Peter, but you've said many times of your dissatisfaction with the city manager. [02:08:57] But not once did you say anything about it tonight. [02:09:00] Thank you. Anyone else? [02:09:07] Nathan Pollack, 6153 Massachusetts Avenue. [02:09:11] I think Debbie Manz is a very capable person. I think she's smart. [02:09:14] I think the job that she has is very difficult. [02:09:17] I will say my own personal interaction where she sent code enforcement to cite me for something that I didn't do wrong. [02:09:23] There's no apology from the city or code enforcement. [02:09:27] And then, of course, this last week where they called me up and harassed me and hung up on me. [02:09:32] I feel like that's a reflection of your attitude to your subordinate organizations within the city. [02:09:42] Kelly, you sat in a meeting where Debbie said some things that I'm not going to repeat that she accused me of saying. [02:09:51] And she mentioned the code enforcement, whoever's in charge of code enforcement, made these statements that I had said these things. [02:09:59] I never even spoke to that man. I couldn't pick him out in a lineup. I don't know what he looks like. [02:10:03] And yes, I know his name, though. But you heard it. [02:10:06] I hope you had a conversation with her professionally because I don't think that was fair. [02:10:14] But at the same time, I was low-balled in a grant that I felt I should have been fully funded. [02:10:19] I know that you said she did it for the greater good. [02:10:22] I would argue that she doesn't like me, and that's that simple. [02:10:28] And I prefer not to be part of the city as a business because I don't feel like the attitude that Debbie brings to the table is good for businesses here. [02:10:39] I've heard many people complain about the difficulties within the city with their businesses, whether it's sandwich board signs or poll signs or misidentifying my sign once. [02:10:49] And I feel like that is a reflection as far as what she deserves to be paid. I care less. [02:10:58] At the end of the day, I think Newport, she has a higher cost for permits. [02:11:03] I don't know why their permits are more special, but maybe it suggests that 9% go to lessening the cost of the permits for the community that pays the taxes that pay her salary. [02:11:14] Maybe we could do that and then reevaluate in a year to raise her salary. [02:11:18] So thank you for your time. [02:11:30] Did you want to put your sunglasses on, or is it only black men that you disrespect in that way? [02:11:36] Ms. Cox, say what you need to say, please. [02:11:40] I have a copy, which everybody at home, you can get a copy of the performance appraisal for the city manager. [02:11:48] You go to the city council page and then you go to tonight's agenda. [02:11:53] And at the very bottom, there's a link. [02:11:55] Since they don't make it super easy, I thought I'd walk you through it. [02:11:59] Mr. Altman, I'm going to disagree with you. [02:12:01] I'm going to say that we should openly criticize employees that are especially ones that hold this much power. [02:12:08] We shouldn't do it behind doors. [02:12:10] We should openly hold them accountable. [02:12:13] I'm also going to say that what's better, man, I am so frustrated right now. [02:12:20] Let's just start with this. [02:12:22] The performance factors under administration, your supervision of employees, your employee surveys, very clear that that's failing. [02:12:31] The monitoring of department operations. [02:12:35] You have so much turnover, it's failing. [02:12:38] Let's move along to leadership. [02:12:41] Leadership under E maintains high standards. [02:12:44] The text messages that we got in the FOIA prove that that's a failure. [02:12:49] How about projects a strong sense of self-confidence? [02:12:52] Your city employee survey says that's a failure. [02:12:56] How about the recognition of future needs, problems, and opportunities? [02:13:00] Our houseless community proves that's a failure. [02:13:04] How about conducts effective meetings? [02:13:06] You allow for nonsense like what Mr. Peters just did without saying a word. [02:13:12] That's a failure. [02:13:14] Let's move along. [02:13:16] Let's see. [02:13:17] We can go to initiative and commitment. [02:13:19] Your sincere interest and devotion to your job. [02:13:22] I think the only sincere interest that you have is lining the pockets of the richest community members that we have. [02:13:28] Let's talk about under problem solving and judgment. [02:13:31] The ability to define and identify alternatives. [02:13:35] Code enforcement shows that's a failure. [02:13:37] Implements appropriate and prudent responses to problems. [02:13:42] Fail. [02:13:44] Makes decisions based on a mixture of analysis, wisdom, experience, and judgment. [02:13:49] Fail. [02:13:51] Let's move along to planning and organization. [02:13:54] Meeting your deadlines. [02:13:56] We've requested FOIA requests. [02:13:59] Your untimely, ridiculous response time? [02:14:02] Failure. [02:14:04] How about your utilization of resources? [02:14:06] Failure. [02:14:07] You can't even pay attention when somebody's talking up here. [02:14:10] These people were up here reading their evaluation of you, [02:14:14] and you're just reading right along with whatever it is that you're doing over there. [02:14:18] Failure. [02:14:20] How about, let's see, under responsiveness and accountability. [02:14:24] Establishes an appropriate sense of urgency. [02:14:26] The FOIA request. [02:14:28] Failure. [02:14:29] How about code enforcement complaints from the citizens that go unanswered? [02:14:33] Failure. [02:14:35] How about conveyance of friendliness? [02:14:37] I'm going to just keep going because you guys, your public relations. [02:14:41] Failure. [02:14:43] Your interpersonal. [02:14:45] Failure. [02:14:46] Don't fucking touch me. [02:14:47] Don't you do it. [02:14:50] Anyone else? [02:14:53] I'll stay right here and watch this. [02:14:55] Ms. Cox, leave the room. [02:15:00] Put your hands on me. This is a public city. This is a public place. Don't put your hands on me. Don't put your hands on me. This is a public place. [02:15:15] ACAP. [02:15:18] Anyone else? [02:15:22] Bertell 5335 Bellevue Avenue, New Port Richey, Florida 34652. I want to put on my voter hat here. My time's not started. [02:15:33] I want to put on my voter hat here and just basically say I have the utmost respect for you and for the work that you're doing for this city. [02:15:43] And I understand the very difficult and political decision you are in to have to evaluate someone with an enormous amount of power, rightfully so, for checks and balances purposes. [02:15:54] But at the same time, as a voter, I am extremely disappointed that we are not offering the same fair treatment that we do our employees. [02:16:03] As a city employee at one point in time, I sat in on a lot of city evaluations where we had to do the same thing. [02:16:09] We had indicators of performance for our employees and if they did not meet certain indications, they didn't get that part of their raise. [02:16:17] And we were talking a 3% raise, not a 9% raise. I had someone fight for a dollar more, a dollar more per hour and they didn't get it and they left the city. [02:16:28] So with due respect to the Deputy Mayor, when we say, you know, we give credit for their work with economic development and we say that's their active role, [02:16:39] they took an active role in that, but then we say there's forces beyond our control that are leading the department heads leaving that it's so unfortunate, that's just simply not true. [02:16:48] Three out of four of the last department heads that left said they left because of their boss's micromanagement. [02:16:54] That was the reason, not salary. Yes, the fourth one, the economic development director, they left because they found a better job. [02:16:59] But three out of the four of them said it was directly the cause of their direct boss. [02:17:03] So please, I'm asking you, you have an election coming up next year. I want to be able to knock on doors for you. [02:17:09] But you're not giving the incentive to your voters, to the people that want to support you because you're sitting up here and you're not willing to at least be balanced in your perspective. [02:17:18] So I'm asking you to take the time after public comment to reconsider and offer a fair balanced perspective and reconsider, no offense, a 9% raise because that's a slap in the face to your workers. [02:17:32] That fought hard to get a 5% raise and most of them only got 3%. So please, please take the time to offer a balanced perspective so stuff like that doesn't happen. [02:17:42] People are mad because you're not giving both sides. Take the time to just be critical. That's why this is here. [02:17:49] So we have a chance to vote you in based on your honesty and your openness. [02:17:54] You can't sit here and say you support home rule. You can't sit here and say you support transparency. [02:17:59] You can't sit here and yell at the state saying that they put so many control barriers on you to be transparent and then not be transparent when you're asked to be. [02:18:07] You all know that she did not hit every single indicator on there, yet I did not hear one of you be critical. [02:18:14] I have to be critical of employees. My boss has to be critical of me. [02:18:18] This is a public session. Sunshine Law. Offer both sides, please. And thank you. [02:18:24] Thank you. Anyone else? [02:18:38] Wendy Brenner, 7224 Grand Boulevard. I'm appalled. I am totally appalled. [02:18:45] I've sat on that dais. I've been in your shoes. [02:18:49] And I'm telling you what, if you don't have the guts to stand up and say something, you shouldn't be up there. [02:18:55] All this stuff that's been going on for years now, at least three years, nothing's been disseminated. [02:19:03] I'm hearing it from the business people downtown. They are upset. [02:19:08] They've been harassed by code enforcement on a continuous basis. [02:19:13] People have been harassed by the police department and code enforcement. [02:19:18] I'm very happy and I welcome the chief. I'm sorry I haven't met him yet. [02:19:23] But this is too much. Come on. Her job is to do these things. [02:19:29] All this praise that you're leveling on her is her job. [02:19:34] It's not above and beyond. It's her job. [02:19:39] I've gotten emails tonight while we're talking, people saying to me, [02:19:43] well, do you know why so and so left? Do you know why? [02:19:46] Because they couldn't get the dollar raise. They couldn't get 50 cents. [02:19:50] And you want to give her a raise? I'm sorry. [02:19:54] I, in the beginning, was all for her. In fact, I'm one of the people responsible for putting her here. [02:20:01] So I have the knowledge. And it's just not going well. [02:20:06] What about all the lawsuits the city has endured? [02:20:10] Where's the list of the lawsuits? Ordinances. [02:20:14] There's ordinances that haven't been codified yet and they're listed. [02:20:18] What's wrong with that? They've been on the books for a long time, but they haven't been codified. [02:20:23] The city attorney has lied in public what's been done there. [02:20:32] Code enforcement has harassed on a regular basis and on the other end of it hasn't done anything on some things. [02:20:40] The employees are terribly dissatisfied. That's why we have no employees. [02:20:45] You can't keep them. They won't stay here. [02:20:48] Between the harassment they get from their management, no money, sure, they're going to go somewhere else. [02:20:55] Combining departments without any authorization. [02:20:59] Some things she did when she first got here. She wasn't allowed to do that. [02:21:04] The cronyism. A lot of it's gone because some of those people have left because they had enough. [02:21:11] I think she needs accountability and you need to do your jobs. [02:21:18] I know it's a part-time job, but by God, you have to listen to what your residents are saying. [02:21:24] They are upset when they're contacting me who hasn't even been around in a long time. [02:21:29] It's very upsetting to me and I wish you'd reconsider. [02:21:34] Well, here I am, Judith Allen, as Rob Marlocas, the voice of moderation. [02:21:57] Only today I can't be that moderate. [02:22:02] This morning I got off the conversation. [02:22:05] It seems that the last article was the first time a law office was identified. [02:22:10] So, unfortunately, it was the only place for our residents to go. [02:22:15] I was told this morning that numerous, and I'm quoting this, [02:22:19] numerous inquiries were made to the law firm that was mentioned in the last article. [02:22:25] In recent news articles regarding deliberate retaliation, quote-unquote, [02:22:30] to residents that questioned the city manager's authority and to use the code enforcement department [02:22:36] to harass residents and businesses for monetary benefit. [02:22:41] When we reviewed the city charter, or tried to, instead, which has always been a citizens committee, [02:22:49] our city manager decided she wanted control, [02:22:52] so she made a committee that was of her choice to review our charter. [02:22:58] The city manager also failed to retain qualified employees. [02:23:02] We've had three human resources directors in a year. [02:23:06] The last one only lasted a month. [02:23:08] The city manager failed to provide the financial reports. [02:23:12] The fiscal year reports are still not here from the first quarter that ended in December. [02:23:20] How do you make judgments on what you're going to pay for when you don't know what's in the accounts?

    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. 9Communications▶ 2:23:22
18. 10Adjournment▶ 2:46:46