On the agenda

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

   Pledge of Allegiance

   The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, followed by the National Anthem and an extended moment of silence in memory of Gary Greger, a public works employee who passed away a couple of weeks prior.

   👤Gary Greger

   ▶ Jump to 0:21 in the video

   ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

   Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

   [00:00:21] for the National Anthem, and the moment of silence is going to be for Gary Greger. He's [00:00:26] a public works guy that we lost a couple weeks ago, so it'll be a little longer, so don't [00:00:30] just quickly sit down. To the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic [00:00:41] for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

   This text was generated automatically from the meeting video. It is not a verbatim or official record. For exact wording, consult the video or the city clerk.

3. 3

   Moment of Silence

   The council observed a moment of silence.

   ▶ Jump to 0:48 in the video

   ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

   Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

   [00:00:48] Thank you. Prayers are nice.

   This text was generated automatically from the meeting video. It is not a verbatim or official record. For exact wording, consult the video or the city clerk.

4. 4

   Presentation by Tania Gorman w/Pasco County RE: MPO Three County Merger

   discussed

   Tania Gorman of the Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization presented background and an update on the potential merger of the Pasco, Pinellas, and Hillsborough MPOs into a single Tampa Bay MPO targeted for July 1, 2027. She described the consultant-led feasibility process, peer workshops, governance and board composition considerations, and invited council to an upcoming principles workshop. Council asked clarifying questions about representation, FDOT districts, and whether the workshop would be streamed.

   🏢FDOT🏢FHWA🏢FTA🏢Hampton Roads MPO🏢Hillsborough MPO🏢MetroPlan Orlando🏢Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization🏢Pinellas MPO🏢Rio Grande MPO🏢River to Cog MPO🏢Tampa Downtown Partnership🏢White House Group👤Chopper Davis👤Debbie👤Justin Holl👤Matt Murphy👤Sarah Caper👤Tania Gorman#2020 Census board apportionment#FDOT District 7#July 1, 2027 merger target#LRTP (Long Range Transportation Plan)#Principles Workshop#Regional MPO Merger (Pasco/Pinellas/Hillsborough)#SR 54#Tampa Bay MPO#US 19#Veterans Expressway

   ▶ Jump to 0:59 in the video

   ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

   Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

   [00:00:59] Good evening, everyone. My name is Tenia Gorman. I'm with the Metropolitan Planning Organization [00:01:25] of Pasco County. Today, I wanted to come before you and have a slight conversation [00:01:29] about our regional merger that's coming up, a potential merger between Pasco, Pinellas, [00:01:36] and Hillsborough. Currently, on your dais, you have here that we're having a regional [00:01:41] NPO principles workshop, but before I get to that, I wanted to give some background [00:01:47] and context for those that are new to the regional NPO merger discussion. So, for quite [00:01:53] some time in the Tampa Bay area, probably over the last 40 years, there's been discussions [00:01:59] about Pinellas, Pasco, and Hillsborough NPO merging together to become one entity. Finally, [00:02:05] around and early about 2024, we received a legislative request, voluntold particularly, [00:02:14] to explore the idea of Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco merging into one Tampa Bay NPO. [00:02:22] The goal was to make a unified regional voice, and it was guided by FDOT, FHWA, and FTA and [00:02:29] local board direction really kind of supported this with a targeted date of July 2027 to [00:02:36] ultimately merge. Why do we want to merge? We talk about this all the time. What are [00:02:43] the pros and cons? We want to merge because we're growing fast. We all know this. Right [00:02:48] now we're at about almost 700,000 residents here in just Pasco alone. Per our LRTP and [00:02:55] the comprehensive plan, we'll be almost at a million residents in 2035, which is before [00:03:01] the expected 25-year timeline that we were originally looking at. Consolidation means [00:03:08] efficiency, stronger advocacy, and funding position, and this aligns with our goals, [00:03:13] mobility, safety, and resilience. When it comes to some of our storms, we want to be [00:03:19] able to come back stronger than ever with our transportation networks. So that is some [00:03:24] of the ideas we're looking around surrounding the merger. Of course, we know that nothing [00:03:29] is in a vacuum. It is not perfect, but those are just some of the standing points that [00:03:33] we've been discussing. Right now, we've moved into our consultant piece of this regional [00:03:39] merger. We have the White House group that is working with us to support our efforts [00:03:45] in an objective fashion. Of course, there's three MPOs. We have a lot of similarities, [00:03:51] but yet we have a lot of difference geographically, staff, elected officials, our political alignments. [00:03:59] So we needed an objective third party to come in and have the conversation with all three [00:04:05] entities. So right now, the White House group is really engaged, leading the efforts of [00:04:12] feasibility of this merged MPO, and creating a roadmap for us to really kind of go after [00:04:18] what we're seeking, if this is even able to be done. We're reviewing governance models. [00:04:25] We're looking at interlocal agreements, staffing, and legal structure. And of course, more than [00:04:31] anything, we're ensuring federal compliance and state compliance with MPO legislation. [00:04:39] In addition to this consultants being here, we also have peer workshops that we've been [00:04:44] working with, with FHWA, with several different MPOs across the country. Currently, there's [00:04:51] 411. I'm going to geek out here for a minute. 411 MTOs across the country. There's 27 MPOs [00:04:58] in Florida alone, and therefore, at least Florida with the most amount of MPOs in the [00:05:03] entire nation. So as you can imagine, the state of California has less MPOs, and they're [00:05:08] larger than us. So does Texas, they have less than us. Just to give you an idea of how many [00:05:13] MPOs are in a region. So far, we have talked to River to Cog MPO in Connecticut, Hampton [00:05:21] Rose MPO in Virginia, and the Rio Grande MPO in Texas. And every MPO is unique, but [00:05:28] what we have found is that we have commonality in this process across the board. Is that [00:05:35] merging is not always easy, but they see a lot of light at the end of the tunnel. We've [00:05:40] had a lot of great discussions, and we're going to follow up with a peer group in exchange [00:05:46] at the end of October to further finalize this dialogue, meet in person, and really [00:05:51] have those really candid conversations. Not to be, oh, this is going to be great, and [00:05:57] it's going to be amazing, but really get down to those nitty gritty details. Next, we have [00:06:02] our Metro Planned Orlando visit, which Councilman Matt Murphy, our chair on the MPO board here [00:06:07] in Pasco will be attending in Orlando to actually go meet with Metro Planned Orlando as they [00:06:13] are a merged MPO of the three counties, Osceola, Orange, and Seminole counties. We'll be meeting [00:06:19] with their MPO executive director and their actual MPO board and how they function along [00:06:25] with their staff. And then to move on, we talk about MPOs with the benefits. We all [00:06:32] know that we're garnering more discretionary grants. We'll be looked at as a larger region, [00:06:39] instead of Pasco only having less than one million and Pinellas having 1.5, we'll be [00:06:45] looking at a region of almost three to four million when it comes down to how the federal [00:06:50] government looks at handing out those discretionary funds. But ultimately, we're talking in one [00:06:56] voice regionally. I know I can speak for myself on the weekends or during the weekday. I'm [00:07:01] all over this region. It could be from Orlando to Sarasota to Tampa to St. Pete. We just [00:07:09] don't live in a vacuum. We're all over. So we want to all drive down 5441. We want to [00:07:16] get through that light cycle there. We want to drive down 19 with ease. So we want to [00:07:23] also cross that veterans and not be backed up until 6, 7 o'clock. We want to get home [00:07:28] to our families and enjoy that time, but we have to work regionally because we're so [00:07:33] close together. But of course, with all of these benefits, there are challenges and we [00:07:38] know this. And so with an emerged MPO board, there is board composition to take into account. [00:07:45] What does that look like? How many board members do we have? The max capacity on a governing [00:07:52] board when you're merged is about 25, unless you want to go to the governor's office and [00:07:56] petition to get a larger board, which can be done. Of course, funding and host agency [00:08:02] rules. Now we're melding three cultures together that are very different, right? And then of [00:08:08] course, staff transition and communication efforts to build a brand new MPO. So we know [00:08:13] going into this, there are challenges. So the path forward is to do a, we're doing the [00:08:20] WWA learning experiences. We are doing a principal's workshop with a board briefing, [00:08:27] some public outreach, and we want to launch this MPO by July 1st, 2027. And in front of [00:08:33] you, you have the principal's workshop invitation. We urge all of you to come out, sign up, register, [00:08:40] learn more about the regional MPO merger. It is going to impact our region if it does [00:08:46] happen very greatly. And learn more about what we're trying to do as an MPO board and [00:08:54] trying to bring into this region. Downtown Partnerships is also a part of this. Tampa [00:08:59] Downtown Partnerships, they are very much involved, helping to get the word so that [00:09:04] we can bring even better candidates to the Tampa Bay region to support these efforts. [00:09:11] So with that, I will end there. And if you have any questions for me, I will take them. [00:09:16] The three counties in Orlando, how do they represent? Do they represent by square mileage? [00:09:23] Do they represent by population? Do you know what... [00:09:26] It's by population. So with the MPOs, we look at the population size, and that is the urbanized [00:09:32] boundary area of the MPOs and how they serve. So that is how they are representative, and [00:09:38] that also creates the board makeup. [00:09:41] Just one. You said there are three MPOs, but there are two DOT districts. Is that still [00:09:51] the case? The Pinellas and Pasco, or... [00:09:54] No. District 7 is comprised of Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Hernando Citrus. But Hernando [00:10:01] Citrus is already merged. So it just leaves Pasco, Pinellas, and Hillsborough. [00:10:07] So the districts have been merging on their own then? Because back in the day, there must [00:10:13] have been more districts because we... [00:10:15] There is. There's seven districts, including the Turnpike. In our Tampa Bay area region, [00:10:21] if you want to go across the region, we do have three districts. We have District 1, [00:10:25] District 5, and District 7. We are currently underneath District 7. [00:10:30] Pinellas, Pasco, and Hillsborough are all in District 7. [00:10:36] With Secretary Justin Holl. [00:10:38] Thank you. [00:10:42] Just say thank you, Mrs. Gorman, for taking the time to come out and make this presentation [00:10:47] to us. I look forward to hearing more through the... Is it called a workshop? Is that the [00:10:54] word we're using? Yeah, the principles workshop. And to just highlight what Ms. Gorman touched [00:11:01] on and what Councilman Murphy has, I know, led some discussions on during the MPO meetings [00:11:08] is that board composition piece. I think I recall almost probably a year ago, there was [00:11:14] a lot of conversation on whether to do a small, mid, or large MPO. I don't know if that's [00:11:19] the right terminology. And to Councilman Murphy's praise, he really pushed on that and asked [00:11:26] a lot of questions and it helped me educate myself on the position we're in being kind [00:11:31] of the smaller dog in the fight, how we make sure that we stay relevant in those MPO conversations. [00:11:36] So looking forward to seeing him continue to represent us in that process and bring [00:11:40] that information back to us. Thank you. [00:11:43] I just want to say that Congress is made up of each state represented by two for the Senate [00:11:51] and then by population as far as the House. So just consider that when you decide to put [00:11:56] this three-pack together. [00:11:57] I didn't catch the end. At the end? [00:12:02] Consider that, you know, like a Senate and a House, that idea that we could be all represented [00:12:07] equally in some points and then represented by population in other points. [00:12:13] Yes, so the MPO, just so you guys, I don't want to bore you to death, but the MPO has [00:12:20] a, by legislative statute and by federal and state, we have to look at the census every [00:12:27] ten years. That's how we get a board apportionment, right? So right now we're basing the current [00:12:33] board apportionment for PASCO off the 2020 census. And 2030 is fastly approaching and [00:12:38] also if this merger does happen, we'll be in 2027. So we'll be like right on the cusp [00:12:44] of all of those apportionments. So we do have to go by the actual size of the counties [00:12:52] and the areas that we serve. However, when it comes to sub-allocating committees underneath [00:12:58] that board, that is totally up to the discretion of the governing body. So like you said, House [00:13:04] and Senate, that's something that we can look at and say, hey, we can have this type of [00:13:10] committee here so that way the cities can be heard if we want to make, you know, augment [00:13:16] the city's voice. Or we can look at different ideas. Again, every MPO does this differently. [00:13:22] We're not like stronghold into exactly what it looks like. The only thing that we must [00:13:28] follow is the legislative or the laws that direct the MPO. [00:13:33] I just have one quick follow-up question. [00:13:38] You might not know this because it looks like it says Sarah Caper is the contact, but [00:13:42] do you know if this is going to be streamed, this principals' workshop? Because it says [00:13:46] it's open to all. Is there a way to like see it online? [00:13:50] I will have to follow up. I don't believe so, but I can follow up. [00:14:01] Get that answer to Debbie and she'll put it on a weekly note. [00:14:04] Okay, will do. [00:14:05] I appreciate it. [00:14:06] Thank you. [00:14:07] Thank you. [00:14:37] This is a proclamation of the Office of the Mayor of the City of New Port Richey, whereas [00:14:49] the mission of the Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind is to provide people who [00:14:53] are visually impaired and blind with the skills needed to achieve their maximum independence. [00:15:00] The White Lighthouse works with people of all ages, from children to seniors, who experience [00:15:04] vision impairment, blindness, and low vision and live in Pasco, Hernando, and Citrus counties. [00:15:10] And whereas the white cane is the universal symbol for blindness or visual impairment, [00:15:15] every day millions of Americans who are blind or visually impaired use a white cane or dog [00:15:20] guide to get to work, school, shop, and travel. [00:15:23] And whereas every blind citizen in our country has the right to carry a white cane, the white [00:15:29] cane demonstrates and symbolizes the ability to achieve a full and independent life by [00:15:34] allowing individuals who are visually impaired and blind to move freely and safely from place [00:15:38] to place. [00:15:40] And whereas the white cane makes it possible for people who are visually impaired and blind [00:15:44] to fully participate and contribute to our society and provides the capacity to work [00:15:49] productively in competitive employment. [00:15:52] And whereas the work of Lighthouse includes the distribution of information about the [00:15:56] white cane law because every citizen should be aware of the law's requirements. [00:16:00] The white cane law requires that motorists exercise appropriate caution when approaching [00:16:05] a person carrying an official white cane or a dog guide that identifies the individual [00:16:11] as a person who is visually impaired and blind. [00:16:14] And whereas Florida law also calls upon employers, both public and private, to be aware of and [00:16:20] to utilize the employment skills of our citizens who are visually impaired and blind by recognizing [00:16:25] their worth as individuals. [00:16:28] And whereas the state of Florida, through its public agencies and with the cooperative [00:16:32] assistance of Lighthouse, can look forward to a continued expansion of employment opportunities [00:16:37] and greater acceptance of people who are visually impaired and blind in the labor market. [00:16:43] Now therefore, I, Mayor Chopper Davis, do hereby proclaim October 15, 2025 as White [00:16:48] Cane Awareness Day in the City of New Port Richey and call upon all citizens to recognize the [00:16:53] white cane as an instrument of orientation and mobility, self-efficacy, and safety for [00:16:58] pedestrians who are visually impaired and blind on our streets and highways. [00:17:03] Well, I just want to, my name is Becky Bennett, I'm with Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired [00:17:22] and Blind and I've been CEO for six months this month and I just have to say I've been [00:17:29] a donor and a volunteer for many, many years and it's been a true honor and opportunity [00:17:35] to be able to be within the team and really see the impact that the Lighthouse is making [00:17:41] from the youngest babies and teaching them milestones to work readiness with the teens [00:17:46] and then of course our adults. [00:17:48] But the real hero here is McKee, he's the one that steals the show, but our board member [00:17:56] Rhonda Warren, I just wanted her to say a little bit about the White Cane Awareness [00:17:59] Day. [00:18:09] Thank you for having us, I'm Rhonda Warren, I'm not only a board member but I'm also a [00:18:15] client from the Lighthouse as well. I've been legally blind for 15 years and had about [00:18:21] another 10 years before that before everybody figured out what was going on. The white cane [00:18:28] is kind of like your Fred Flintstone mobile, it's a sweeping motion side to side. I've [00:18:36] almost been run over in the Walmart parking lot and crossing roads with a white cane. [00:18:44] It's pretty dangerous, I can't see you but I pray that you can see me and that's the [00:18:50] whole purpose of the white cane with the reflection on the bottom and the red. But people don't [00:18:57] always stop, they don't look and some mostly don't care. So it's dangerous out there for [00:19:05] us who are blind to be mobile and independent and so Lighthouse tries to teach you to be [00:19:12] independent but when society is not working with you it's hard. I have to say you have [00:19:19] to be very proficient with a white cane and navigating and figuring out where you're at [00:19:25] and using echolocation to figure out what's around you before they even consider you for [00:19:31] a guide dog and then once that happens it's about a two year wait to get matched up to [00:19:36] the dog that's perfect for you and your needs. So we have challenges but I have to say our [00:19:44] biggest challenge is navigating roads and sidewalks and intersections and it doesn't [00:19:50] matter if it's in the city, the county or on a state road, they're all horrible. There's [00:19:57] two intersections that have audible crossings for us that when you push the button it has [00:20:06] an audible tone so I know where to push it. It counts down and tells me when to cross. [00:20:12] Every other road that we cross, for example, Little Road and Ridge, that's seven, eight [00:20:20] lanes of traffic, there's no audibles on any of those and we cross that a lot and luckily [00:20:29] I found an app that looks for the lady on the other side through the camera but the [00:20:36] limitations are it was designed for roads in Germany and they only go across two lanes. [00:20:41] That's nine to ten lanes so it don't always pick up that image. He figured out to look [00:20:47] for the lady in the window on the other side and when she came we could cross. So I'm [00:20:54] lucky to have a guide dog but as a county, as a state, we need to be more accessible [00:21:01] for us and I hope that you can be our advocates. I'm on the regional board for transportation [00:21:09] through Pasco County. I just went to the state meeting in June but there's still a lot of [00:21:14] work that we need your help with. We don't want to get killed crossing the road. Thank you so much. [00:21:24] We have a few events that are happening to raise awareness and we again thank you all so much for [00:21:36] helping us raise awareness but we have a bowling tournament. It's bowling in the dark so you'll be [00:21:41] bowling in three different frames blindfolded. That's next Tuesday night at Langlow South and [00:21:47] the other is we're inviting all of our dignitaries elected officials so please join us on Friday [00:21:52] right out front of the West Pasco Government Center. It's going we're going to have October 17th [00:21:58] Friday October 17th thank you at 1130 right there at Citizens and Little Road and we're going to be [00:22:05] having a street crossing, a blindfolded street crossing. We're going to have some media there [00:22:09] to help raise awareness and some of our clients will be holding signs explaining [00:22:14] about white cane as well. So thank you so much we appreciate it. [00:22:39] That's why you guys are here tonight, the restrictions. [00:23:09] This is a proclamation of the Office of the Mayor of the City of New Port Richey whereas the digital [00:23:25] age has brought unprecedented benefits to our society transforming the way we communicate, [00:23:30] work, learn, and play while also introducing challenges to our security and whereas the [00:23:35] City of New Port Richey recognizes the vital role that cybersecurity plays in the continued [00:23:39] prosperity and growth of our community and whereas maintaining the security of cyberspace [00:23:44] is a shared responsibility for which every individual and organization has a crucial [00:23:49] role to play and whereas the frequency scale and sophistication of cyber threats continues [00:23:54] to rise targeting our infrastructure, businesses, schools, and homes, and whereas promoting [00:23:59] education and awareness about cyber threats and the steps to protect our information and [00:24:03] digital assets is of utmost importance and whereas the United States Department of Homeland [00:24:08] Security and the National Cybersecurity Alliance have designated October as National Cybersecurity [00:24:14] Awareness Month. Now therefore, I, Mayor Chopper Davis, do hereby proclaim the month of October

   This text was generated automatically from the meeting video. It is not a verbatim or official record. For exact wording, consult the video or the city clerk.

5. 5.a

   White Cane Awareness Day

   approved

   Although labeled as White Cane Awareness Day, the transcript captures a Cybersecurity Awareness Month proclamation acknowledgment, approval of prior meeting minutes, and public comment from three citizens regarding traffic safety on Madison Street, sidewalk concerns on Illinois Avenue, and code enforcement liens. The consent agenda was approved 5-0.

   • motion:Approve September 4, 2025 special meeting minutes. (passed)
   • motion:Approve September 18 special meeting minutes. (passed)
   • motion:Approve the consent agenda. (passed)5–0

   📍2104 Beach Trail📍4814 Madison Street📍5751 Rio Drive📍north side of Main Street, east of Bank Street📍west side of Illinois between Rio and Lafayette🏢Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency🏢Florida Highway Patrol🏢National Cybersecurity Alliance🏢Newport Richey Police Department🏢Ottoway's Parkside Ice Cream and Melted LLC🏢Pasco County Sheriff's Office👤Brittany Ogden👤Carla Cash👤Corporal Hazim👤Debbie👤Don House👤Eli Bastian👤Lt. Melker👤Mike Ottoway👤Ms. Mahadia👤Ms. Manns#Building a Cyber-Strong America#Cybersecurity Awareness Month proclamation#Gloria Swanson parking lot dumpster lease#MUTCD speed study#NIST cybersecurity standards#Ordinance 2025-2333

   ▶ Jump to 24:17 in the video

   ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

   Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

   [00:24:19] 2025 as Cybersecurity Awareness Month in the City of New Port Richey. I encourage all citizens, [00:24:26] businesses, and institutions to engage in activities that promote a safer and more secure [00:24:31] cyber environment. Thank you, Mayor, City Council, and City Manager for recognizing [00:24:45] October as Cybersecurity Awareness Month and for your continued commitment to prioritizing [00:24:50] cybersecurity across our city systems and operations. As you may know, since 2004, the [00:24:56] President and Congress have designated October as Cybersecurity Awareness Month. This national [00:25:02] initiative led by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the National Cybersecurity [00:25:08] Alliance brings together public and private sector organizations to raise awareness and [00:25:14] promote best practices in cybersecurity both nationally and globally. This year's theme [00:25:20] is Building a Cyber-Strong America. It underscores the importance of strengthening our nation's [00:25:27] infrastructure to withstand and recover from cyber threats, ensuring long-term security [00:25:32] and resilience. Over the past year, the city has taken meaningful steps to enhance its [00:25:38] cybersecurity posture. I'd like to just highlight two key initiatives. One, we established a [00:25:43] dedicated security solutions specialist role now held by Brittany Ogden. Brittany holds [00:25:50] a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity and has a strong commitment to building a secure digital [00:25:55] environment. Brittany has led the implementation of a year-round cybersecurity awareness program, [00:26:01] developed a comprehensive security incident response plan, and updated the city's security [00:26:05] policies and helped align our practices with NIST cybersecurity standards. Our entire technology [00:26:12] solutions team continues to work diligently to protect the confidentiality, integrity, [00:26:19] and availability of city's data. Cybersecurity remains a foundational principle of everything [00:26:25] that we do. It's important to remember that cybersecurity is not just a technical issue, [00:26:31] it's a shared responsibility. Employees and citizens alike play a vital role in protecting [00:26:37] our systems. As we like to say, cybersecurity is a culture, it's not just a checklist. The [00:26:43] human firewall is often the first line of defense, so all of us. So again, I'm incredibly [00:26:49] proud of this team and the work we've done over the last year, and I thank the city for [00:26:53] your support in promoting cybersecurity awareness. [00:26:56] Well, Ms. Mahadia, we thank you and your full team because you all play a vital role in [00:27:02] protecting the city and additionally protecting the employees, both at work and at home. So [00:27:09] thank you for all you do. [00:27:11] Thank you. [00:27:13] Steve? [00:27:21] Approval of minutes of September 4th, 2025, special meeting minutes. [00:27:26] Second. [00:27:27] All those in favor, signify by saying aye. [00:27:29] Aye. [00:27:31] Second. [00:27:33] All those in favor, signify by saying aye. [00:27:35] Aye. [00:27:37] That's five. Is it September 18th special meeting minutes? [00:27:44] Move to approve. [00:27:46] I'll second. [00:27:48] All those in favor, signify by saying aye. [00:27:50] Aye. [00:27:52] That's four. Five. Okay, I didn't hear you, I'm sorry. [00:27:54] Okay, Box Pop. [00:27:56] All those in attendance must be respectful of others' opinions and refrain from making personal attacks. [00:28:01] Any person who becomes disorderly or who fails to confine remarks to the identified subject [00:28:06] or business at hand shall be cautioned by the presiding officer and given the opportunity [00:28:10] to conclude remarks on the subject in a decorous manner and within the designated time limit. [00:28:15] Any person found to comply as caution may be barred from making any additional comments [00:28:19] during the meeting by the presiding officer unless permission to continue or again address [00:28:24] the Council or Board is granted by the majority of the Council or Board members present. [00:28:30] We have a list? [00:28:32] We have one. Eli Bastian. [00:28:44] Good evening, Council Members. My name is Eli Bastian. [00:28:46] I live at 4814 Madison Street between Trouble Creek Road and Cecilia Drive. [00:28:51] I'm here tonight to speak about the dangerous traffic conditions on our street [00:28:55] and the urgent need for action. [00:28:57] The posted speed limit on Madison Street is 30 miles per hour, but many drivers consistently exceed it. [00:29:02] I have personally witnessed car accidents at the corner as well as both damage to public and private property. [00:29:08] I've seen drivers cross double yellow lines to pass other cars or race through Madison Street [00:29:12] without regard for safety. [00:29:15] This year alone, on my block, reckless driving has destroyed multiple mailboxes and city signs. [00:29:20] In April, May, September combined, incidents caused the destruction of seven mailboxes, [00:29:26] a New Port Richey Police Department traffic trailer, a Welcome to New Port Richey sign, [00:29:30] and public bus stops. [00:29:32] I've reached out to the New Port Richey Police Department and the Pasco County Sheriff's Office and the City. [00:29:37] Lt. Melker confirmed the New Port Richey Department has jurisdiction on their northbound [00:29:42] from 6th Avenue to Cecilia, while the southbound of 6th is under Pasco County Sheriff's Office [00:29:48] and Florida Highway Patrol. [00:29:50] He assured me the Department is developing an action plan and I appreciate his commitment. [00:29:54] On October 5th, I met in person with Corporal Hazim at the New Port Richey Police Department. [00:30:00] He took time to show me how the department tracks traffic data and explain that traffic [00:30:04] engineering solutions will likely be needed for long-term safety improvements. [00:30:09] Corporal Hazim also acknowledged that the number of crashes and property damage incidents [00:30:13] along Madison Street is abnormal and concerning, but that the sustained police presence alone [00:30:18] cannot resolve the issue. [00:30:20] A MUTCD speed study has been requested for this area. [00:30:26] Because of the jurisdiction split, we need coordinated enforcement and long-term planning. [00:30:30] I respectfully ask the City Council to, number one, support the New Port Richey Police Department [00:30:35] in staffing for consistent enforcement. [00:30:37] Number two, ask for coordination with the Pasco County Sheriff's Office, or FHP, for [00:30:41] full coverage and assistance. [00:30:43] And number three, prioritize the findings of the upcoming MUTCD speed study to determine [00:30:48] appropriate long-term safety measures and explore traffic engineering options for Madison [00:30:53] Street. [00:30:54] I speak not only for my family, but for every resident, pedestrian, and student who uses [00:30:59] Madison Street. [00:31:00] Madison Street is an essential roadway for both the City and the County, but continued [00:31:05] speeding and crashes have brought fear and worry to those who live along it. [00:31:08] Thank you for your time, and I want to thank Lieutenant Melker and Corporal Hazim for their [00:31:12] time and continued partnership, and thank you all for your service to our community. [00:31:18] Do we have anybody else who would like to speak? [00:31:33] I forgot to sign in. [00:31:34] My name is Carla Cash, and I live on 5751 Rio Drive, and I just wanted to thank the [00:31:42] Council, and I wanted to thank Ms. Manns and everybody who was involved in researching [00:31:48] and looking at our concerns about Rio Drive and understanding that the sidewalks weren't [00:31:54] necessary. [00:31:55] I just wanted to comment, there are two homeowners here who live on the west side of Illinois [00:32:04] who might be of, would appreciate not having the sidewalks be put there as well. [00:32:10] It's on the north, it's on the west side between Rio and Lafayette. [00:32:15] It's a little bit of a two houses there, so if you could consider that, I'd really appreciate [00:32:22] it. [00:32:23] Thanks. [00:32:24] Don House, 2104 Beach Trail, New York's Beach. [00:32:37] A little background, about probably 12, 15 years ago, I came to the City Council and [00:32:45] I said, hey, you need to franchise the garbage and put it on the tax bills, and y'all finally [00:32:51] did that. [00:32:52] A couple of hiccups, but you did a good job. [00:32:55] I've also probably been the only one in the city that's ever come up to this podium and [00:32:59] said don't lower the property taxes. [00:33:01] I don't know if y'all can ever think of another one, but I did say that. [00:33:06] I just say that to think, I'm probably not the worst guy in this city. [00:33:11] Right now, I'm going through some stuff with some liens or whatever from the city. [00:33:21] This has been going on for, I don't know, a couple of years ago. [00:33:24] I met with our city attorney and I said, you know, let's just solve all this, and it turned [00:33:30] out that was the wrong person to meet with. [00:33:32] The city attorney was not the right person to meet with. [00:33:34] Debbie called me and she says, they're getting ready to do this, but she says, you're one [00:33:39] of the good guys, let's not do this. [00:33:41] I truly believe I am one of the good guys. [00:33:45] I spent this morning at court trying to help one of my tenants' children, child, let's [00:33:52] not go there, but I truly believe I am one of the good guys in town. [00:34:00] There's two liens right now, one's $32,000 and one's, I don't know, they're both about [00:34:04] $25,000 each. [00:34:06] One of them actually occurred before I bought the property, and it seems like what I'm finding [00:34:12] is it occurred afterwards, after I bought the property, the liens were actually recorded. [00:34:18] Not sure, can't testify to that, but it seems like that. [00:34:21] The bottom line is I've spent about, in my little neighborhood, I've spent about $300,000 [00:34:28] in the last 18 months improving the houses in the neighborhood, and I don't see any reason [00:34:35] to stop doing that, because I believe in New Port Richey, I believe in that neighborhood, and [00:34:41] this is not buying, I bought another house, okay, but that's not buying houses, that's [00:34:45] improving the ones I have. [00:34:47] I truly believe in doing that, and I would just like to work with the city, I had an [00:34:53] idea of, I was going to bring this to your attention, Debbie, I have an idea, y'all put [00:34:59] in some sidewalks, and people in that neighborhood, let's not even go there, but I have an idea [00:35:06] that can work for the sidewalks, and the gutters, and all that other stuff, and I'll commit [00:35:12] to two years of making them look good, you know, we'll make it look good, because it [00:35:18] makes it, I want the neighborhood to look good, it helps my pocketbook, okay, so paying [00:35:24] $50,000 in fines doesn't help, but let's do something else, alrighty, thanks guys. [00:35:30] Do we have anybody else who would like to speak? [00:35:38] Seeing no one else come forward, we'll move it back to the consent agenda, move for approval. [00:35:42] Move for approval. [00:35:43] I second. [00:35:44] Seeing none, all those in favor, signify by saying aye. [00:35:51] Aye. [00:35:52] That's five nothing. [00:35:53] Thank you. [00:35:54] Public reading of ordinance, first reading of ordinance number 2025-2333, public lease [00:35:59] agreement on Ottoway Parkside ice cream and melted LLC. [00:36:04] Ordinance 2025-2333, an ordinance of the city of New Port Richey, Florida, authorizing the [00:36:10] lease of a portion of a certain property owned by the city and located on the north side [00:36:15] of Main Street, east of Bank Street, providing authorization for execution of the lease agreement [00:36:19] and providing for an effective date. [00:36:22] The purpose of this agenda item relates to a city-owned dumpster pad enclosure that exists [00:36:30] in the southwest corner of the Gloria Swanson parking lot. [00:36:36] It currently houses some dumpsters that are owned by Ottoway's Parkside Ice Cream and [00:36:44] Melted, and the owner, Mr. Mike Ottoway, is interested in entering into a lease agreement [00:36:54] with the city for the use of that dumpster enclosure for a three-year period of time, [00:37:01] which is a common practice of the city when we do have dumpster enclosures in municipal [00:37:08] parking lots. [00:37:10] The fee typically associated with that arrangement is $374.40 per year.

   This text was generated automatically from the meeting video. It is not a verbatim or official record. For exact wording, consult the video or the city clerk.

6. 5.b

   Cyber Security Awareness Month

   approved

   Despite the agenda title referencing Cyber Security Awareness Month, this segment covered two items: approval of a property lease agreement with Ottoway's Parkside Ice Cream for the Gloria Swanson parking lot dumpster enclosure (3-year term), and the reappointment of Nicholas Puccini to the Library Advisory Board for a three-year term expiring October 18, 2028. Both items were approved unanimously.

   • motion:Approve the property lease agreement with Ottoway's Parkside Ice Cream for the Gloria Swanson parking lot dumpster enclosure (3-year term). (passed)5–0
   • motion:Approve the reappointment of Nicholas Puccini to the Library Advisory Board for a term expiring October 18, 2028. (passed)

   📍Gloria Swanson parking lot🏢Newport Richie Public Library🏢Ottoway's Parkside Ice Cream🏢University of South Florida👤Nicholas Puccini👤Ron#County Library Board#Elroy (library mobile branch / bookmobile)#Legislative Days in Tallahassee#Library Advisory Board

   ▶ Jump to 37:19 in the video

   ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

   Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

   [00:37:22] The term associated with the lease agreement is three years, and we are recommending that [00:37:31] you consider favorably the recommendation to enter into the property lease agreement [00:37:37] with Ottoway's Parkside Ice Cream related to the Gloria Swanson parking lot dumpster [00:37:43] enclosure. [00:37:44] Do we have any public comment? [00:37:48] Seeing none, we'll come forward, bring it back for discussion, and vote. [00:37:52] I move to approve. [00:37:54] Second. [00:37:55] I'm just happy we can take care of Ottoway's, some good ice cream. [00:38:01] To the second. [00:38:05] Our city should be looking at ways to be cooperative with our downtown businesses and be supportive [00:38:08] of them. [00:38:09] Ottoway's took a shot on this city when we were coming up and up in the downtown area [00:38:15] near there, and this is a way for us to continue that cooperation. [00:38:20] I'm happy to vote in favor of that. [00:38:24] It makes sense. [00:38:25] I don't know why we wouldn't. [00:38:27] All I know is that some of these dumpster enclosures house homeless at night, so you're [00:38:32] not welcome in this one. [00:38:34] All those in favor signify by aye. [00:38:36] Aye. [00:38:37] Aye. [00:38:38] That's five nothing. [00:38:39] Business items, reappointment of Nicholas C., Library Advisory Board. [00:38:45] He was in attendance early, there he is, he is still in attendance at our meeting, and [00:38:52] he serves as the Vice Chair of the Library Advisory Board. [00:38:56] His term is due to expire on October 18th of 2025. [00:39:03] He has indicated a willingness to continue to serve. [00:39:06] The terms of office on the Library Advisory Board are for a three-year period of time, [00:39:12] and we are recommending in favor of his renewal as a member of the Library Advisory Board, [00:39:24] and if you determine that it is appropriate to renew Mr. Puccini, his term of office would [00:39:31] expand through October 18th of 2028. [00:39:34] We're hopeful that you'll do so, but we do want to advise that we do still have three [00:39:42] remaining seats open as residents on the Library Advisory Board, should anyone be interested [00:39:48] in serving. [00:39:50] Any public comment? [00:39:53] Probably could come down here and say no. [00:39:57] As Chair of the Library Board, I would just like to say a few words about our colleague [00:40:08] Nicholas Puccini. [00:40:10] We met Nicholas just a few years, maybe a year or so before he became a member of the [00:40:14] Board, and he gives you an example of what a concerned citizen can do. [00:40:19] He came to the meetings that we held, the public meetings, as we were preparing our [00:40:25] long-range planning process, and had great ideas, and we encouraged him to build on those [00:40:31] ideas and join our Board, and since then, he has added not only youth, but an incredible [00:40:36] amount of vitality, great ideas. [00:40:39] Many of the programs that we do, he has a big hand in. [00:40:45] Certainly, our gathering of statistics and just making us available to the world has [00:40:51] made such a big difference with him here. [00:40:55] He also represents us very much so in our activities in the state and in the county. [00:41:02] He goes to Tallahassee each year during legislative days to meet with our legislators, and has [00:41:10] filled in for me on the County Library Board when I'm not able to make those meetings, [00:41:15] and has just been a really strong presence. [00:41:18] In this day where libraries are being challenged in many, many ways with book bans and all [00:41:23] sorts of things, it's really important that we have an advocate such as Nick to continue [00:41:30] to represent us. [00:41:32] All the while, he's been on the Board. [00:41:35] He went to graduate school at the University of South Florida, got a degree, and using [00:41:39] his management skills, we were guinea pigs, and that many of us, and it's actually been [00:41:45] really to our benefit in many, many ways. [00:41:48] So hopefully, he'll be with us for a very long time, and he's just a great example to [00:41:53] a really great library. [00:41:55] Thank you. [00:41:56] You're going to come down and say something? [00:42:09] Well, hello, City Council, and thank you, Ron, for the kind words. [00:42:12] It was three years ago I stood in front of some of you. [00:42:16] Some of you were different here, and I was able to sit in my first City Council meeting [00:42:21] at a meeting right post the Bike Fest to a previous mayor who heard a lot through that [00:42:26] Vox Pop that day. [00:42:27] It was my first experience with Vox Pop. [00:42:29] It was my first experience with City Council as a whole, and with New Port Richey, I fell [00:42:32] in love. [00:42:33] For me, my way to get into New Port Richey was with Andy and with our library, and as [00:42:37] Ron has told you, so I won't hold you long, I've been working really hard for our New Port Richey [00:42:41] library to keep it to the top of it can be. [00:42:43] As you see now, I'll get excited about one thing. [00:42:45] Elroy, our new library mobile branch, is out in front, and that's a big thanks to you guys [00:42:51] too. [00:42:52] So continued support from the City Council, continued support from my advisory board, [00:42:56] our friends at the library, and I'm just excited to hopefully do another three years for our [00:42:59] city. [00:43:00] And I will sit back and listen for the rest. [00:43:02] Thank you, guys. [00:43:03] Anybody else like to contribute? [00:43:10] I see no one else come back for discussion. [00:43:13] Move approval. [00:43:14] Second. [00:43:15] Yeah, it was exciting. [00:43:18] I saw the bookmobile, the Elroy, this past weekend, and it's all wrapped nicely. [00:43:28] I can't wait to find out if there's some books inside that thing. [00:43:32] I'll bet there are. [00:43:35] Any seconds? [00:43:37] Yeah, just to say that under our library advisory board, some of the duties listed here are [00:43:42] to advise and assist the library director with long-term planning. [00:43:45] I think it's Puccini, right? [00:43:48] Mr. Puccini came in at just the right time during his first term to contribute to that [00:43:54] in an active manner. [00:43:55] The second policy calls for to assist the library director in preparations, policies, [00:43:59] and procedures. [00:44:00] I think Mr. Rob hit on that very well during his comments. [00:44:05] To submit reports to the library director and help with data and his contributions there [00:44:09] cannot be understated as well. [00:44:11] I actually sat in the audience during his first appointment and was a great admirer [00:44:17] not only of what he said that night, but also his contributions to the downtown in general, [00:44:23] too. [00:44:24] His volunteerism is unmatched, and he's a lively presence on the board. [00:44:28] He's definitely representative of the up-and-coming generations. [00:44:32] And I don't just say that because I hope to be a part of that generation, too. [00:44:36] Very happy to vote on you next term, and thank you for serving. [00:44:41] Yeah, I'll just utter the same sentiment. [00:44:43] Appreciate you being there. [00:44:45] And like I always say, we've got to keep the young going so we can keep this city moving. [00:44:50] Thank you. [00:44:51] I just want to add, everybody kept saying member, but I want to say an asset. [00:44:55] You're an asset. [00:44:56] And by the way, that's not... [00:45:00] Elroy on the back of that truck not me. Just want people to know that. I've

   This text was generated automatically from the meeting video. It is not a verbatim or official record. For exact wording, consult the video or the city clerk.

7. 10.a

   Board Re-Appointment: Nicholas Pacini, Library Advisory Board

   approved

   Council unanimously reappointed Nicholas Pacini (Puccini) to a second three-year term on the Library Advisory Board, expiring October 18, 2028. Library Board Chair Ron spoke in support, highlighting Pacini's contributions to long-range planning, statistics, legislative advocacy in Tallahassee, and library programs. Three resident seats remain open on the board.

   • motion:Reappoint Nicholas Pacini to the Library Advisory Board for a three-year term expiring October 18, 2028. (passed)5–0

   🏢Library Advisory Board🏢New Port Richey Public Library🏢University of South Florida👤Nicholas Pacini👤Ron#Elroy mobile library branch#Legislative Days in Tallahassee#Library Advisory Board reappointment#Library long-range planning#Pasco County Library Board

   ▶ Jump to 37:58 in the video

   ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

   Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

   [00:38:01] To the second. [00:38:05] Our city should be looking at ways to be cooperative with our downtown businesses and be supportive [00:38:08] of them. [00:38:09] Ottoway's took a shot on this city when we were coming up and up in the downtown area [00:38:15] near there, and this is a way for us to continue that cooperation. [00:38:20] I'm happy to vote in favor of that. [00:38:24] It makes sense. [00:38:25] I don't know why we wouldn't. [00:38:27] All I know is that some of these dumpster enclosures house homeless at night, so you're [00:38:32] not welcome in this one. [00:38:34] All those in favor signify by aye. [00:38:36] Aye. [00:38:37] Aye. [00:38:38] That's five nothing. [00:38:39] Business items, reappointment of Nicholas C., Library Advisory Board. [00:38:45] He was in attendance early, there he is, he is still in attendance at our meeting, and [00:38:52] he serves as the Vice Chair of the Library Advisory Board. [00:38:56] His term is due to expire on October 18th of 2025. [00:39:03] He has indicated a willingness to continue to serve. [00:39:06] The terms of office on the Library Advisory Board are for a three-year period of time, [00:39:12] and we are recommending in favor of his renewal as a member of the Library Advisory Board, [00:39:24] and if you determine that it is appropriate to renew Mr. Puccini, his term of office would [00:39:31] expand through October 18th of 2028. [00:39:34] We're hopeful that you'll do so, but we do want to advise that we do still have three [00:39:42] remaining seats open as residents on the Library Advisory Board, should anyone be interested [00:39:48] in serving. [00:39:50] Any public comment? [00:39:53] Probably could come down here and say no. [00:39:57] As Chair of the Library Board, I would just like to say a few words about our colleague [00:40:08] Nicholas Puccini. [00:40:10] We met Nicholas just a few years, maybe a year or so before he became a member of the [00:40:14] Board, and he gives you an example of what a concerned citizen can do. [00:40:19] He came to the meetings that we held, the public meetings, as we were preparing our [00:40:25] long-range planning process, and had great ideas, and we encouraged him to build on those [00:40:31] ideas and join our Board, and since then, he has added not only youth, but an incredible [00:40:36] amount of vitality, great ideas. [00:40:39] Many of the programs that we do, he has a big hand in. [00:40:45] Certainly, our gathering of statistics and just making us available to the world has [00:40:51] made such a big difference with him here. [00:40:55] He also represents us very much so in our activities in the state and in the county. [00:41:02] He goes to Tallahassee each year during legislative days to meet with our legislators, and has [00:41:10] filled in for me on the County Library Board when I'm not able to make those meetings, [00:41:15] and has just been a really strong presence. [00:41:18] In this day where libraries are being challenged in many, many ways with book bans and all [00:41:23] sorts of things, it's really important that we have an advocate such as Nick to continue [00:41:30] to represent us. [00:41:32] All the while, he's been on the Board. [00:41:35] He went to graduate school at the University of South Florida, got a degree, and using [00:41:39] his management skills, we were guinea pigs, and that many of us, and it's actually been [00:41:45] really to our benefit in many, many ways. [00:41:48] So hopefully, he'll be with us for a very long time, and he's just a great example to [00:41:53] a really great library. [00:41:55] Thank you. [00:41:56] You're going to come down and say something? [00:42:09] Well, hello, City Council, and thank you, Ron, for the kind words. [00:42:12] It was three years ago I stood in front of some of you. [00:42:16] Some of you were different here, and I was able to sit in my first City Council meeting [00:42:21] at a meeting right post the Bike Fest to a previous mayor who heard a lot through that [00:42:26] Vox Pop that day. [00:42:27] It was my first experience with Vox Pop. [00:42:29] It was my first experience with City Council as a whole, and with New Port Richey, I fell [00:42:32] in love. [00:42:33] For me, my way to get into New Port Richey was with Andy and with our library, and as [00:42:37] Ron has told you, so I won't hold you long, I've been working really hard for our New Port Richey [00:42:41] library to keep it to the top of it can be. [00:42:43] As you see now, I'll get excited about one thing. [00:42:45] Elroy, our new library mobile branch, is out in front, and that's a big thanks to you guys [00:42:51] too. [00:42:52] So continued support from the City Council, continued support from my advisory board, [00:42:56] our friends at the library, and I'm just excited to hopefully do another three years for our [00:42:59] city. [00:43:00] And I will sit back and listen for the rest. [00:43:02] Thank you, guys. [00:43:03] Anybody else like to contribute? [00:43:10] I see no one else come back for discussion. [00:43:13] Move approval. [00:43:14] Second. [00:43:15] Yeah, it was exciting. [00:43:18] I saw the bookmobile, the Elroy, this past weekend, and it's all wrapped nicely. [00:43:28] I can't wait to find out if there's some books inside that thing. [00:43:32] I'll bet there are. [00:43:35] Any seconds? [00:43:37] Yeah, just to say that under our library advisory board, some of the duties listed here are [00:43:42] to advise and assist the library director with long-term planning. [00:43:45] I think it's Puccini, right? [00:43:48] Mr. Puccini came in at just the right time during his first term to contribute to that [00:43:54] in an active manner. [00:43:55] The second policy calls for to assist the library director in preparations, policies, [00:43:59] and procedures. [00:44:00] I think Mr. Rob hit on that very well during his comments. [00:44:05] To submit reports to the library director and help with data and his contributions there [00:44:09] cannot be understated as well. [00:44:11] I actually sat in the audience during his first appointment and was a great admirer [00:44:17] not only of what he said that night, but also his contributions to the downtown in general, [00:44:23] too. [00:44:24] His volunteerism is unmatched, and he's a lively presence on the board. [00:44:28] He's definitely representative of the up-and-coming generations. [00:44:32] And I don't just say that because I hope to be a part of that generation, too. [00:44:36] Very happy to vote on you next term, and thank you for serving. [00:44:41] Yeah, I'll just utter the same sentiment. [00:44:43] Appreciate you being there. [00:44:45] And like I always say, we've got to keep the young going so we can keep this city moving. [00:44:50] Thank you. [00:44:51] I just want to add, everybody kept saying member, but I want to say an asset. [00:44:55] You're an asset. [00:44:56] And by the way, that's not... [00:45:00] Elroy on the back of that truck not me. Just want people to know that. I've [00:45:04] already been asked about it. So all those in favor signify by aye. Aye. That's five [00:45:12] nothing. Okay moving on to one community now special event fee waiver requests

   This text was generated automatically from the meeting video. It is not a verbatim or official record. For exact wording, consult the video or the city clerk.

8. 6.a

   September 4, 2025 Special Meeting Minutes

   approved

   Council voted on the September 4, 2025 Special Meeting Minutes.

   • vote:Approve the September 4, 2025 Special Meeting Minutes. (passed)5–0

   #September 4, 2025 Special Meeting Minutes

   ▶ Jump to 45:01 in the video

   ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

   Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

   [00:45:04] already been asked about it. So all those in favor signify by aye. Aye. That's five [00:45:12] nothing. Okay moving on to one community now special event fee waiver requests [00:45:18] packed apart for the pack a sec on behalf of one community now community [00:45:30] organization that is a 501 c3 not-for-profit organization who focuses

   This text was generated automatically from the meeting video. It is not a verbatim or official record. For exact wording, consult the video or the city clerk.

9. 10.b

   One Community Now Special Event Fee Waiver Request - Pack the Park for Pack a Sack

   approved

   Council approved a request from One Community Now, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, to waive approximately $1,800 in fees for their annual Pack the Park for Pack a Sack fundraiser at Sims Park on Saturday October 25, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The motion was amended to also refund the $150 application fee already paid. Council members noted the need to establish a formal grant program and annual budget for nonprofit fee waivers.

   • motion:Approve waiver of approximately $1,800 in event fees for One Community Now's Pack the Park event at Sims Park on October 25, 2025, and refund the $150 application fee already paid. (passed)

   📍Sims Park🏢Gulf Middle School🏢Main Street🏢One Community Now👤Brian#CDBG sidewalk improvements project#Pack a Sack program#Pack the Park for Pack a Sack#Veteran Stand Down#nonprofit grant program workshop

   ▶ Jump to 45:18 in the video

   ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

   Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

   [00:45:18] packed apart for the pack a sec on behalf of one community now community [00:45:30] organization that is a 501 c3 not-for-profit organization who focuses [00:45:40] issues of food insecurity homelessness and any barrier to stability for peoples [00:45:49] of Pasco County the pack the park event is an annual event for them it is their [00:45:58] principal fundraiser for the year it is not the first time that they have held [00:46:10] the event in Sims Park it is become an annual event for them at the event which [00:46:18] is free to the public other than they do sell food and drink and tickets for a [00:46:25] raffle they and which is scheduled for Saturday October 25th from 10 o'clock in [00:46:34] the morning till 3 o'clock in the afternoon they have youth activities and [00:46:40] vendors and they do touch-a-truck events and and such other entertainment items [00:46:46] for the public but the reason they put this on is to support the pack pack a [00:46:57] sack program which a is a very big program through our our school district [00:47:07] and beyond in in the county what their request is is to waive the fees [00:47:15] associated with the event and use of Sims Park which aggregate to about [00:47:20] $1,800 in in fees and the a number of those aren't aren't hard costs to the [00:47:35] city and based on the amount of good organization does for the community [00:47:47] they have submitted a letter in which they request that that benefit should be [00:47:54] taken into consideration in respect to your thinking in regard to waiving the [00:48:03] fee associated with the event and with that I'll allow you to deliberate and [00:48:10] make your decision as to whether or not you determine it to be appropriate to [00:48:14] waive the fee associated with the event which again will take place on Saturday [00:48:20] October 25th from 10 o'clock a.m. to 3 o'clock in the afternoon in Sims Park [00:48:25] no any public comment come forward bring back for discussion vote move to [00:48:32] approve yeah just to say that the pack a sack program directly benefits our [00:48:40] schools right here in the city limits and it's it I know for a golf middle [00:48:45] school it benefits 50 families every weekend to make sure they have food when [00:48:50] I went to golf middle school I was a I read me and my sister received the [00:48:54] pack-a-sack it's definitely worthwhile it makes sure kids aren't going hungry [00:48:58] over the weekend but more than just the school impact there are also over 28 [00:49:05] different partnerships that pack-a-sack or choosing one community now makes [00:49:10] behind the scenes with different church groups and different not-for-profit [00:49:13] organizations who not only attend the pack-a-park event once a year but they [00:49:18] are present at the office they're present at the schools getting the word [00:49:22] out about the city of New Port Richey and about our strong strong partnership [00:49:27] with the program and with our local schools and so I think this is an [00:49:31] opportunity for us to continue that partnership strong to continue to [00:49:35] benefit families here though the only thing I would add is that application [00:49:40] fee I don't know if that's refundable with the damage deposit I would like to [00:49:45] see us fully commit to just the whole amount it's a hundred fifty dollar [00:49:50] difference but I don't know if I can work that in since I already have a [00:49:54] second if I could move to add the 150 so it's reflecting the total amount so the [00:49:59] refund the application fee at the time the deposit is refunded if that's unless [00:50:04] staff has anything to advise or if the second wants to change anything is the [00:50:09] second okay with that case that's the motion is if I to approve and then add [00:50:16] the return the the amount they already paid to second that wait your turn all [00:50:25] right yeah they really are a great organization they're involved in you [00:50:29] know many different things one of the things that stands out for me that [00:50:32] they're involved with is the veteran stand down they do I used to do it in [00:50:36] in Hudson there but they offer services to veterans and homeless veterans and [00:50:41] trying to help them they they offer some of the examples 100 143 veterans [00:50:47] with dental services 92 veterans receiving medical screenings vision [00:50:53] screenings just there's all kinds of services for them so they're just an [00:50:58] amazing group I want to say that I want to say it was their first first one that [00:51:02] I was able to participate in and work with them on and they've been doing it [00:51:06] ever since and just just a great group right yeah I mean I agree with doing [00:51:12] this but you know like I've uttered before we have to be careful because we [00:51:17] keep doing these and now every not-for-profit group is gonna want to [00:51:22] come up here and expect us to waive all their fees so I know we've discussed it [00:51:26] before but I just want to make it known that we do need to have a sit-down of a [00:51:33] grant program and have a dollar amount set for the year because we're gonna get [00:51:39] ourselves into a little bit of trouble if we don't so but I agree you know we [00:51:43] need to help the community especially you know kids who don't have food you [00:51:46] know my mom is a schoolteacher title one school you know she lived that for 35 [00:51:51] years so I understand that so I agree with it but like I said we need to [00:51:55] consider you know how much we're giving away because we obviously work within a [00:52:00] budget so yeah I think we certainly need to understand the parameters [00:52:07] because there are a lot of nonprofits that help a wide variety of folks I know [00:52:13] one of the things that was at the last weekend plan and I haven't heard what [00:52:18] the Main Street group netted was that they were going to give money to the [00:52:23] education for the purpose of having the money come back into a school inside the [00:52:28] city limits and so when it comes to the things that we're trying to do to help [00:52:31] because we are title one schools we are D level grade schools that we really [00:52:37] need to that are improving hopefully and being committed to that that when we [00:52:43] have that discussion I think we really need to look at whether or not they're [00:52:46] doing the work of the city to the benefit of the city and so by it's not [00:52:52] too big a stretch I'm sure a lot of what is raised here will go to the schools [00:52:56] here but those are the kind of questions we have events that serve a [00:53:01] much broader nonprofit what no matter what it is and I think we want to look [00:53:09] at those that are focused on our own fitting to our own plan and I think this [00:53:14] one does I'd like to go along with you Brian I think we need to have a [00:53:18] workshop and figure this out on a yearly basis number one and then I want to say [00:53:23] to this group that something my parents always told me and that is leave it [00:53:28] better leave in better condition than what you were given to use so I hope [00:53:32] that they leave it in better condition than they and then when they start [00:53:36] putting their event together all those in favor signify by aye aye or we'll [00:53:44] low release purchase for CDBG sidewalk improvements project deductive or

   This text was generated automatically from the meeting video. It is not a verbatim or official record. For exact wording, consult the video or the city clerk.

10. 6.c

    September 18, 2025 Special Meeting Minutes

    Approval of the September 18, 2025 Special Meeting Minutes.

    #September 18, 2025 Special Meeting Minutes

    ▶ Jump to 45:37 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [00:45:40] issues of food insecurity homelessness and any barrier to stability for peoples [00:45:49] of Pasco County the pack the park event is an annual event for them it is their

    This text was generated automatically from the meeting video. It is not a verbatim or official record. For exact wording, consult the video or the city clerk.

11. 7Vox Pop for Items Not Listed on the Agenda or Listed on Consent Agenda▶ 45:54
12. 10.c

    2023/2024 CDBG Sidewalk Improvements Project Deductive Change Order #1

    approved

    Council approved a deductive change order #1 to the 2023/2024 CDBG-CV Sidewalk Improvements Project, removing 1,350 linear feet of sidewalk along Rio Drive at the request of property owners, reducing the grant/contract by $78,808.34. Staff noted the funds cannot be diverted elsewhere and that drainage issues in the area are being separately addressed.

    • motion:Move to approve deductive change order #1 removing Rio Drive sidewalks from the 2023/2024 CDBG-CV Sidewalk Improvements Project, reducing the contract by $78,808.34. (passed)5–0

    📍East Grand neighborhood📍Grand Boulevard📍Rio Drive📍West Grand neighborhood🏢Formax Construction LLC👤Robert Rivera#2023/2024 CDBG Sidewalk Improvements Project#Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus (CDBG-CV) Program#Deductive Change Order #1#Grant award $973,986

    ▶ Jump to 53:59 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [00:53:59] change order number one as you are all aware the city was a recipient of a [00:54:05] grant award in the amount of nine hundred and seventy three thousand nine [00:54:11] hundred and eighty six dollars through the community development block grant [00:54:18] coronavirus grant program and we entered into a contract with Formax [00:54:26] construction LLC for sidewalk improvement installation in the West [00:54:39] and East Grand neighborhoods where six-foot wide sidewalks were to be [00:54:47] established and in the course of neighborhood meetings it became certain [00:55:02] that there was a large representation of property owners on Rio Drive who are not [00:55:11] interested in having sidewalk established within the public right-of- [00:55:17] way which was adjacent to their property for a myriad of reasons some related to [00:55:24] drainage others related to the characteristics of their property some [00:55:32] related to some public improvements or some private improvements that have been [00:55:36] constructed within the public right-of-way all of which were valid [00:55:42] and all of which the staff felt needed to be acknowledged and therefore we went [00:55:55] back to the grantor and asked for consideration to remove Rio Drive from [00:56:05] the grant and with their permission they have agreed to remove Rio Drive [00:56:16] from the grant award if you would approve a deductive change order to that [00:56:24] effect and so that is what we are presenting to you this evening a [00:56:28] deductive change order which removes 1,350 linear feet which is basically the [00:56:37] drop the property along Rio Drive and and it would represent a negative change [00:56:46] order as prepared by Robert Rivera of seventy eight thousand eight hundred [00:56:53] and eight dollars and thirty four cents from the project budget which is the [00:56:59] twenty three twenty four CDBG CV sidewalk improvement project and that's [00:57:07] our recommendation you have any public comment I can respond see no one come [00:57:12] forward bring it back for discussion vote move to approve I think this is an [00:57:19] example of our city staff taking the time to hold several listening sessions [00:57:25] taking the feedback from that specific community impacted using their expertise [00:57:30] to make the adjustments that were necessary and bring those [00:57:34] recommendations back to us to make a policy decision is not always the easy [00:57:39] thing to do but they did it and I appreciate that I did hear some comments [00:57:44] about another couple residents why I do know is that the the the there was an [00:57:52] extensive opportunity to receive feedback and that those adjustments were [00:57:55] made and so I think this fulfills the community sentiment while also being [00:58:01] mindful of our our one of our strategic goals as the city which is management of [00:58:06] infrastructure and continuously improving and making sure our safety is [00:58:10] is kept in mind so I think the change order is appropriate I'm glad they were [00:58:15] able to make that adjustment without it jeopardizing the grant I'm sure that [00:58:19] took some moving around on the staff's part so thank you for that and for those [00:58:23] reasons that's why I moved to approve the second figured out there's a bigger [00:58:29] issue over there you know they have some drainage problems so I'm hoping that [00:58:33] with us you know not doing the sidewalks there we can address their drainage [00:58:37] problems get those resolved and then you know made a little bit better for [00:58:43] them over there generally I am NOT a proponent of taking away public [00:58:51] sidewalks I understand the arguments were made I was not at that meeting so [00:58:56] refer to your all's judgment and I'll vote with you but it reminds me of the [00:59:00] time in which there was a lot of effort to try to put some other modes of [00:59:07] transportation on to Grand Boulevard heading into New Port Richey and the [00:59:13] neighbors came out because they didn't want to have people walking in front of [00:59:17] them and their properties were kind of bifurcated by Grand Boulevard to the [00:59:21] river so you understand it and we have a very walkable town so it's a difficult [00:59:28] thing to for me to accept an argument of not having sidewalks which should be [00:59:35] safety related and encourage walkability however you know just a [00:59:42] democracy and folk people spoke and so you all were at that meeting I was not [00:59:48] so I'm going to defer to you on and vote along with you yeah yeah the homeowners [00:59:54] in that area didn't didn't want it so why would we want to you know force it [00:59:57] on them there's plenty of their areas in [01:00:00] city that need it and if we could we were able to divert the money to another [01:00:04] area so not not a not a big deal. All those in favor signify by aye. Aye. [01:00:11] If you'd allow me just to make the point we actually have to reduce the amount of [01:00:16] the grant that we received we cannot divert the 78,000 to another part of the [01:00:22] city and I also want to bring up the point that Mr. Rivera has been very busy [01:00:29] since learning of the drainage problems and has initiated several efforts to [01:00:36] address the drainage problems that exist within this within the area. [01:00:42] Anybody change your vote? Oh still five nothing then. Okay

    This text was generated automatically from the meeting video. It is not a verbatim or official record. For exact wording, consult the video or the city clerk.

13. 9.a

    First Reading, Ordinance No. 2025-2333: Property Lease Agreement w/Ottaway's Parkside Ice Cream and Melt'd LLC

    approved

    Council discussed a sidewalk grant project where neighborhood residents opposed the sidewalks. The motion passed 5-0; staff noted the $78,000 grant amount must be reduced rather than diverted elsewhere, and that Mr. Rivera has been addressing drainage issues in the area. Note: the transcript content does not appear to match the agenda item title regarding the Ottaway's Parkside Ice Cream and Melt'd LLC lease ordinance.

    Ord. Ordinance No. 2025-2333

    • vote:Motion related to the sidewalk grant / item under discussion. (passed)5–0

    📍Grand Boulevard👤Rivera#Ordinance No. 2025-2333#drainage problems#sidewalk grant ($78,000)

    ▶ Jump to 59:12 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [00:59:13] neighbors came out because they didn't want to have people walking in front of [00:59:17] them and their properties were kind of bifurcated by Grand Boulevard to the [00:59:21] river so you understand it and we have a very walkable town so it's a difficult [00:59:28] thing to for me to accept an argument of not having sidewalks which should be [00:59:35] safety related and encourage walkability however you know just a [00:59:42] democracy and folk people spoke and so you all were at that meeting I was not [00:59:48] so I'm going to defer to you on and vote along with you yeah yeah the homeowners [00:59:54] in that area didn't didn't want it so why would we want to you know force it [00:59:57] on them there's plenty of their areas in [01:00:00] city that need it and if we could we were able to divert the money to another [01:00:04] area so not not a not a big deal. All those in favor signify by aye. Aye. [01:00:11] If you'd allow me just to make the point we actually have to reduce the amount of [01:00:16] the grant that we received we cannot divert the 78,000 to another part of the [01:00:22] city and I also want to bring up the point that Mr. Rivera has been very busy [01:00:29] since learning of the drainage problems and has initiated several efforts to [01:00:36] address the drainage problems that exist within this within the area. [01:00:42] Anybody change your vote? Oh still five nothing then. Okay

    This text was generated automatically from the meeting video. It is not a verbatim or official record. For exact wording, consult the video or the city clerk.

14. 10.d

    Caterpillar Wheel Loader Lease/Purchase

    approved

    Council approved purchase of a Caterpillar wheel loader from Ring Power Corporation for $215,001 via Florida Sheriff's contract, replacing a 30-year-old 1994 John Deere loader, and declared the existing loader surplus property to be auctioned through Public Surplus LLC.

    • motion:Approve purchase of Caterpillar wheel loader from Ring Power Corporation for $215,001 and declare existing wheel loader surplus property for auction. (passed)5–0

    🏢Caterpillar🏢John Deere🏢Public Surplus LLC🏢Ring Power Corporation👤Mr. Rivera👤Ms. Manns👤Robert👤Tim#1994 John Deere wheel loader#Florida Sheriff's contract#Water utilities capital line item 46416

    ▶ Jump to 1:00:45 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [01:00:48] caterpillar wheel loader and leaf purchase. The agenda item is actually [01:00:55] twofold. One is related to the purchase of a wheel loader and the second is [01:01:01] related to dedication of surplus property and Mr. Rivera will present the [01:01:07] agenda item. Thank you Ms. Manns. As you had stated the first item is to approve [01:01:12] the attached proposal from Ring Powered Corporation. This is in the amount of [01:01:18] $215,001. This is for a caterpillar wheel loader. The Ring [01:01:24] Powered Corporation is the vendor contract holder for the city's region [01:01:28] under the current Florida Sheriff's contract which we are proposing to [01:01:34] purchase through. The second request and recommendation from staff to councils to [01:01:40] declare the city's existing wheel loader as declared surplus property and allow [01:01:45] staff to process the loader for auction using the services of the public group [01:01:51] LLC. The unit is replacing the city's existing 30-year-old 1994 John Deere [01:01:58] wheel loader. The equipment is used by the utility to perform maintenance tasks [01:02:03] associated with water and sewer breaks, hydrant removal, replacement, concrete [01:02:08] structure removal, as well as several maintenance types of activities and also [01:02:14] during storm events where we have high water and we've had to evacuate some [01:02:19] residents that have been trapped inside their homes we've used these types of [01:02:23] equipment for that as well. Prior to the attached proposal being [01:02:28] submitted to City Council our fleet maintenance and utility staff undertook [01:02:32] a review of the different types of loaders that were out on the market. They [01:02:36] came back and recommended that the caterpillar equipment performed at the [01:02:40] highest level and represents the best value for acquisition by the city. Staff's [01:02:46] second request and recommendation to City Council like it stated before is [01:02:50] to declare the existing loader surplus property. The city has been using the [01:02:55] public auction surplus online services since 2016. We did review all their terms [01:03:01] and conditions. They do remain the same. There is no cost to the city as the [01:03:06] auction house charges the buyers 7% based on the purchase cost of the [01:03:13] vehicle. So it's a direct transaction between the auction house and the [01:03:17] purchaser. The purchasing of the wheel loader is identified. It is allocated in [01:03:23] the water utilities capital line item 46416 under the heavy equipment section [01:03:31] and then funding of course received from the auction of the existing wheel [01:03:35] loader would be considered revenue funds back into the general fund. [01:03:39] Tim do we need two votes? No it can be one motion. Seeing no one come forward [01:03:48] bring it back for discussion vote for surplus and the purchase. Move to approve [01:03:53] both. I'll second. Nope just to say thanks to the 30 years service of the former [01:04:00] caterpillar and looking forward to bringing on a new caterpillar. I appreciate [01:04:07] Robert's due diligence on this. I'm good. [01:04:12] Let's do it. All those in favor say aye. Aye. That's 5-0.

    This text was generated automatically from the meeting video. It is not a verbatim or official record. For exact wording, consult the video or the city clerk.

15. 10.e

    Recreation Center Skate Park Project - Design Build Task Order

    Council considered a design-build task order with The Platform Group LLC for a new skate park at the Recreation and Aquatic Center, not to exceed $475,000, using a piggyback contract from City of Ocala RFP 3-engineering 240466. Four members of the public spoke in support, and a motion to approve was made and seconded.

    • motion:Motion to approve the design-build task order with The Platform Group LLC for the Recreation Center skate park project, not to exceed $475,000, via piggyback of City of Ocala RFP. (none)

    📍1290 Spring Avenue, Hudson, Florida📍5922 Wyoming Avenue📍9100 Debbie Lane, Hudson, Florida🏢The Platform Group LLC👤Anthony Biggs Cataldo👤Ayush Kumar👤Collin Eichenmiller👤Donna Jensen👤Mr. Trapp👤Ray Martin#Capital Improvement Budget FY current#City of Ocala Skate Park Design Build RFP 3-engineering 240466#Recreation and Aquatic Center skate park project

    ▶ Jump to 1:04:18 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [01:04:18] Recreation Center skate park project design building task order. Mr. Collin, [01:04:28] Eichenmiller, and Mr. Trapp have been working with a consultant on a task order related to [01:04:39] some design build services on a proposed new skate park for the Recreation and [01:04:46] Aquatic Center. You have in front of you this evening a proposal from the [01:04:52] platform group LLC who is a Tampa based skate park projects designer and builder [01:05:02] who have presented a proposal to the city for an amount not to exceed four [01:05:10] hundred and seventy five thousand dollars which includes the design and [01:05:15] the construction of skate park improvements at the Recreation and [01:05:21] Aquatic Center. It includes both the base bed and the alternate construction [01:05:28] which includes not only the existing pad but the construction of a bowl that [01:05:36] which would be adjoining the existing pad for use by skateboarders and bikers [01:05:49] and the proposed method by which we would like to enter into a contract with [01:05:57] them is through a piggyback contract with the city of Ocala skate park design [01:06:04] build RFP 3-engineering 240466 which is attached to the agenda item that the [01:06:18] consultant has been interviewed along with others and determined to be well [01:06:24] qualified to perform the design and build services and our skateboard park [01:06:34] is very much in need as it has deteriorated to a point that although it [01:06:41] gets use it isn't getting the type of abuse we would like to see from [01:06:48] skateboarders bikers and scooter users and therefore we're asking you to [01:06:56] consider this as it has been a budgeted item in our capital improvement budget [01:07:05] for the current fiscal year. Any public comment? [01:07:13] One down. You got three of them. [01:07:22] Anthony Biggs Cataldo I am born and raised here in Pasco County. That's true. [01:07:28] An address? Hudson Florida. Is that okay? 9100 Debbie Lane Hudson Florida. I've [01:07:37] been a user of the skate park here since the beginning. I went to the grand [01:07:42] opening. The company that has actually placed the bid for the skate park build [01:07:48] is a very recordable company. They've built all the modern-day skate parks [01:07:53] that are in the state of Florida currently. They built the biggest skate [01:07:57] park in Miami. So please consider building the park. There's a lot of kids [01:08:03] around here that have to travel to Tampa, Clearwater, St. Pete just to skate. So [01:08:09] please consider building the park. We really appreciate it. Thank you. [01:08:14] Coming down. Come on down. [01:08:18] How's it going you guys? I'm Ray Martin. I live in Hudson, Florida. 1290 Spring [01:08:32] Avenue. And I lived in a whole bunch of different sub cities and cities [01:08:36] throughout my life. Skateboarding is a huge part of not only community, how you [01:08:41] guys keep talking about, but also just the friendship that you gain. And also a [01:08:46] big thing that I heard today is building up the downtown area. Man, from visiting [01:08:51] skate parks, it just forms this whole community base of just visiting the [01:08:55] local businesses, supplying towards the grocery stores there or the [01:08:59] food restaurants or anything of that nature. It just forms such a big [01:09:03] community base. And the skate park can be such a good, like a big deal for kids [01:09:08] just like me. You know what I mean? Like I've lived in so many different [01:09:11] communities and always have had friends from any different nationalities, [01:09:14] backgrounds, age, genders, and it's just been such a huge impactful thing. I would [01:09:20] just love your consideration for something like this. Thank you. Come on [01:09:25] down. [01:09:36] Hi, my name is Ayush Kumar. Firstly, I'd like to apologize for my address. [01:09:43] I live with my friend Ray Martin, 1290 Spring Avenue. Again, I'd like to [01:09:50] apologize for my disheveled appearance. He let me know that the skate park was a [01:09:54] topic on the docket and kind of just dropped what I had going on and came [01:09:57] through. I've been skating for a very long time and honestly I could [01:10:02] really say that it changed the trajectory of my life. It teaches me a [01:10:06] lot about discipline and resilience. I met some of the best people in my life [01:10:13] from skateboarding and you know I've watched the New Port Richey Rec Center [01:10:18] kind of like almost like fall apart in front of my eyes. Like I remember when it [01:10:22] was you had like a metal hip, you had almost like a mini ramp. There were so [01:10:26] many more obstacles, so much more things for people to bond over over there and [01:10:30] just kind of watching how things would get used and then get a little bit [01:10:34] destroyed and then get taken out and then you never see it again and then you [01:10:38] know you kind of force yourself to just find a new way to make use of the space. [01:10:42] It would be very very awesome to see any type of love at all. I mean I know before [01:10:48] the lights would be on and then they would turn off and my good friend Ray [01:10:51] Martin he had to go up to the recreation center themselves and advocate for all [01:10:56] of us. You know he had to be like you know we're always here like we need the [01:11:00] lights on. They ended up skating at the tennis courts kind of made a nuisance and [01:11:03] then they listened you know. They turned the lights on and we had a place to be [01:11:06] and you know I think any type of support would just be amazing. It would be [01:11:12] incredible. We see that the basketball courts are getting done up and you know [01:11:16] being right next to that you can't help but feel a little bit under the weather [01:11:19] sometimes. You know you see so much is going on around you and then you look at [01:11:23] where you are you're like man I wish someone would throw me like a little [01:11:26] helping hand. Yeah I mean it would be it would be great. Yeah I love it so much. [01:11:34] Thank you guys so much for your time. I appreciate it. [01:11:46] Donna Jensen 5922 Wyoming Avenue. I am totally in support of the skate park. My [01:11:55] son skated there. My daughter skated there. My grandson skated there and what [01:12:02] I would get back from my grandson who is naturally much younger than my children [01:12:06] is that it was deteriorating. There was nothing no place for them to really go. [01:12:11] This park keeps this these kids off the street. It keeps them from hanging out [01:12:18] where they shouldn't be hanging out. So please do something for our children. [01:12:23] Support the park skate park. Thank you. [01:12:29] Anybody else like to speak? I see no one else. Bring it back for discussion and vote. [01:12:35] Move to approve. Second. To make it. Just just to say it was quite literally last [01:12:41] week that one of my students from the year prior came up to me and held me [01:12:46] accountable to the fact that I had told them that we were working on the skate [01:12:49] park and they said well no you're not you told me that last year and so I'm [01:12:53] glad I can finally report back to that student that the ball is rolling and [01:12:57] just to say that I know our rec center has been working very hard on this and I [01:13:02] know our public works department has been as well and that I am I'm glad it [01:13:09] has been delayed because I didn't want to see it done in a way where we were [01:13:13] just saying we were doing it. I wanted to I'm glad that our city management made [01:13:17] sure that the right people were in the right place to that we had a consistent [01:13:22] leadership in our rec center and already have a consistent leadership in our [01:13:26] public works to make sure this is done with the right expertise. This is by far [01:13:31] no offense to the professionals with the master's degrees but this is by far the [01:13:36] coolest professional services proposal I've seen. It's probably the most [01:13:39] engaging 43 page document I had the pleasure to read over. I know that's [01:13:44] it's connected to the city of Ocala and that's my only technical question other [01:13:49] than to say how proud I am to see the people that have spoke with so much [01:13:53] substance and personal experience. Mr. Anthony, Mr. Ray and Mr. E whose name I'm [01:13:59] not going to try to butcher I apologize and of course for coming down to share [01:14:03] your experiences generationally. I do have one technical question which is if [01:14:09] this is a I don't understand what a we haven't had a chance to meet so I [01:14:13] apologize for bringing up the technical question here but if this is a piggyback [01:14:16] agreement how does that work I'm just not familiar with how what does it mean [01:14:20] that we're piggybacking off of there was a use of that word with the city of [01:14:25] Ocala how does that change things? Piggybacking in large part means that we [01:14:36] can go off their competitive bidding and it relieves us from some of the [01:14:42] competitive bidding that we may have had to do to get with the con to get to [01:14:49] enter into the professional services agreement with the platform group. And [01:14:57] this is probably my only follow-up. [01:15:00] Does that leave us less wiggle room in terms of autonomy over design, or do we still have [01:15:06] some ability? [01:15:07] Because you may recall, it was back in quite some time now, I think I was in eighth grade, [01:15:14] but you invited out some middle schoolers and high schoolers to give some design suggestions. [01:15:19] I know that there's probably plenty of people in the community now that would love to give [01:15:22] design suggestions too. [01:15:24] How are those going to be taken into consideration? [01:15:27] I just hope this doesn't prevent us from making sure our community is represented in the design [01:15:31] process. [01:15:32] We will be having public presentations of design, and that's a very important part of [01:15:40] the work that they'll be doing for us.

    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. 10.f

    Approval to accept FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant award

    This transcript segment does not pertain to the FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant; it appears to be tail-end discussion of a prior design/public-input project, with brief favorable comments about the designers and expected community draw.

    ▶ Jump to 1:15:41 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [01:15:43] In fact, our design costs are a little bit higher than what they'd typically be on this [01:15:47] type of a project, because we did want public input and presentation to council to be a [01:15:53] large component of this project, in large part because it's going to, I think it's [01:16:00] important to drive it and to make sure that it suits our community. [01:16:08] It's going to require our participation in design, and they're going to have to do some [01:16:12] things on the fly, and based on my experience with the designers so far, they're perfectly [01:16:19] suited for it. [01:16:21] Great. [01:16:23] Who seconded? [01:16:24] Yeah, looking at some of the designs and concepts they have here, it looks really amazing, and [01:16:31] I think he's right. [01:16:32] It's going to be a big draw to the area for us, so I'm really excited about that.

    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. 10.g

    ↳You arrived here from a search for “Peter Altman” — transcript expanded below

    Approval of FDLE Mutual Aid Agreement Extension

    discussed

    Transcript content does not match the agenda item title; discussion is actually about a skate park design/build proposal, with council expressing desire for input throughout the design process, consideration of space constraints, and integration with adjacent basketball court plans.

    • direction:Council directed staff to brief the city council along the way during skate park design development rather than presenting only a finished product, and to consider adjacent green space east of the basketball courts when designing. (none)

    🏢Area Agency on Aging👤Altman👤Rivera#$400,000 design ask#Basketball courts project#Master plan#Skate park design build

    ▶ Jump to 1:16:36 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [01:16:36] I know my younger brother, he's in his late 20s, and he still skates. [01:16:40] He skated when he was younger, professionally, and he still skates to this day, so he was [01:16:45] in the Wesley Chapel area, so it'll be an excuse for him to come and visit me now. [01:16:51] No, I'm just glad this is moving along. [01:16:54] I mentioned this to a few friends of mine from high school, and he wanted to be here, [01:16:59] but he couldn't, but he's 50 plus, and he still skates, so he definitely would like [01:17:05] to give some input on what the design should be. [01:17:08] I just want to make sure that if we're going to go for it, we go for it, because these [01:17:15] guys love it. [01:17:16] It's passion for them. [01:17:18] Obviously, I'm not built to skate. [01:17:20] I'd love to, but I'm not, but I like to keep them here, and like he said, they're going [01:17:25] to be here, the camaraderie, they're going to participate in our events, they're going [01:17:31] to use our restaurants, those type of things, so I think it's just a great community building, [01:17:36] so thank you. [01:17:37] Yeah, I think the comment that I'd heard when we talked about the design that I made was [01:17:43] a bit of frustration in that I wasn't really aware of the development of the parts of the [01:17:51] master plan, and we had a competing interest there with the Area Agency on Aging and their [01:17:58] desire and big check coming and more people moving into town. [01:18:05] At the time, I had looked at the site and heard from you, Councilman, that it wasn't [01:18:16] up to snuff, so I'm following up on your commentary to say if we have something that's such a [01:18:23] nice product that we would hold a sports event there, then will there be stands? [01:18:31] Will it be designed in a fashion where there can be the public watching it, and is there [01:18:37] enough space where it's designed? [01:18:39] So I know what it's like to try to draw something up off the back of a piece of paper. [01:18:45] Now that we have that firm there, I hope not only that we look for the public input, but [01:18:51] also that we experience their respectful commentary as to its location and to the appropriateness [01:19:03] and the use of additional space if it's needed. [01:19:05] So we had space we were trying to make room for. [01:19:09] We had a piece of property that we were looking to acquire that we had even reached to the [01:19:14] point of a contract, I think, or close to it. [01:19:18] So if we're going to do something, to your point, and we're going to do it right, then [01:19:23] let's not be squeezed by the footprint that we give the designers and ask them, if we're [01:19:28] going to have a skateboard park that's going to make our tourism advisory board member [01:19:33] proud, it doesn't have to be the Safety Harbor X-Factor, you know, game. [01:19:42] But it should be one where if there are going to be folks that elevate themselves to a level [01:19:46] where there could be a competition or there could be activities that it could make that [01:19:51] work without just having to bring some aluminum, you know, things, but to have it fit. [01:19:57] So I look forward to the design, and on the design build, you've got a $400,000 ask now. [01:20:05] When we look at what the completed cost of this thing is going to be, I really want to [01:20:11] try to get briefed as a city council along the way as to how this develops, rather than [01:20:18] coming at the end of the product and saying, here it is. [01:20:22] So we could have a little input, too. [01:20:24] Thank you. [01:20:25] If I can, he brought up a real important point I want to circle back to, and it's on the [01:20:32] topic of design, if you don't mind, Mr. Altman. [01:20:37] I noticed the utilities field map here, and they kind of lay them out within the measurements [01:20:42] for that skate park piece. [01:20:45] But as you're considering that design, it's my understanding that we're doing the basketball [01:20:49] courts next door as well. [01:20:52] And there is that land, I don't know what it's for, if there's utilities under it or [01:20:56] why it's plotted out the way it is, but there is, to the east, some more green space there. [01:21:03] I don't know what the whole consideration for this whole space of land is, but if part [01:21:07] of the design problems is we can't fit bleachers, we can't fit certain higher scale things because [01:21:14] of the limited space, now's the time to have the conversation about if stuff needs to be [01:21:19] shifted over, or if it can be shifted over into that, because I hate to say we have to [01:21:23] limit things, and there is that piece of land to the east of the basketball courts that [01:21:28] could, and it looks like Rivera has a possible rebuttal, but, or he has comments, so. [01:21:34] Thank you. [01:21:35] If I may, the only thing that I would respond to you is if it is approved, then the first [01:21:42] meetings that we have are going to be those types of meetings where we're going to get [01:21:46] input, they're going to request information from us, we're going to supply it, and then [01:21:51] we have built into the proposal public meetings to where we get the input from the public. [01:21:57] We have meetings here, get input from council, so those things will start to proceed, but [01:22:02] I think the first things that we're going to take a look at is exactly what you're saying [01:22:05] is the space, where, what can we accommodate, what do we want, and then once we get that [01:22:11] approval, then we'll start moving forward. [01:22:14] I just want to hit home one final emphasis, I don't want the construction at basketball [01:22:19] courts to be something we have to reply to in a public meeting saying, sorry, we can't [01:22:24] expand it to the east because we just redid our basketball courts.

    This text was generated automatically from the meeting video. It is not a verbatim or official record. For exact wording, consult the video or the city clerk.

18. 10.h

    Approve FDLE Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Drone Replacement Program Financial Assistance Agreement

    This appears to be a transcript segment that does not actually cover the FDLE Drone Replacement Program agenda item; instead it contains discussion and approval of a FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant ($90,000) for exhaust capture systems at Fire Station 1, and the beginning of discussion on an FDLE Mutual Aid Agreement for the SAFE fentanyl eradication grant. No discussion of a drone replacement program is present in this excerpt.

    • motion:Motion to approve acceptance of the FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant award of $90,000 and associated budget amendment of $94,500. (passed)5–0

    📍Fire Station 1📍Fire Station 2🏢FEMA Department of Homeland Security Assistance to Firefighters Grant🏢Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)🏢Pasco County Sheriff's Department👤Baker👤Brian👤Chief Wilkton👤Chris Fitch👤Matt👤Ms. Manns#Budget amendment account 073-46399#FDLE Mutual Aid Agreement through June 30, 2026#FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant FY2024#NFPA exhaust compliance standards#Prior SAFE grants: $99,364 (2023), $33,365 (Dec 2024), $22,000 current#SAFE (State Assistance for Fentanyl Eradication) grant

    ▶ Jump to 1:22:26 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [01:22:28] That's my only point that I really want to emphasize, is I don't want to be sitting in [01:22:31] a design meeting for this where we're telling the public, we just did a project to the east, [01:22:36] so we're limited to this space. [01:22:38] I don't want that to be potentially a handicap. [01:22:40] I just wanted to stress that. [01:22:43] We got it three times. [01:22:46] I just want to say, I appreciate you guys coming from Hudson down here, and that means [01:22:52] that there's a lot of people, especially on the west side of Pasco County, meaning [01:22:57] 41 this way, that are actually paying attention to it now, so they're definitely going to [01:23:01] pay attention to it in the future. [01:23:03] And you brought up the word generation here, and I just want to say that in the early 70s, [01:23:09] I built my first skateboard with metal wheels and a piece of wood, and so it's pretty interesting [01:23:16] to watch all this grow. [01:23:18] I've been in town when they built the park, and I've just watched the kids there and just [01:23:22] enjoyed it. [01:23:23] But I traded all those wheels in for two wheels, and I ride two wheels now. [01:23:28] All those in favor, signify by aye. [01:23:30] Aye. [01:23:31] Aye. [01:23:32] Aye. [01:23:33] It's 5-0. [01:23:34] The approval to accept the FEMA assistance to the Firefighters Grant Award. [01:23:44] The request is two-fold. [01:23:46] First it's to accept the grant award in the amount of $90,000 from FEMA, Department of [01:23:53] Homeland Security Assistance to Firefighters Grant, and additionally to request a budget [01:24:00] amendment in the amount of $94,500, and why don't we ask Chris Fitch to tell us a little [01:24:07] bit about this great grant that he's receiving. [01:24:11] Thank you, Ms. Manza. [01:24:12] We're excited. [01:24:13] This will outfit Fire Station 1 with a critical equipment direct source capture exhaust system, [01:24:22] which is NFPA compliant, to match the exhaust system that's been installed at Fire Station [01:24:29] 2. [01:24:33] This compliant system directly captures the exhaust from the trucks after starting them [01:24:37] in the apparatus bays, which helps eliminate harmful exhaust from entering the breathing [01:24:42] air, resulting in a safer environment for firefighters. [01:24:46] Again, this will bring both fire stations in compliance with NFPA standards as it pertains [01:24:52] to preventing exposure to exhaust emissions. [01:24:56] Staff requests City Council approval to accept Fiscal Year 2024 Assistance to Firefighters [01:25:01] Grant award in the amount of $90,000, as well as the associated budget amendment. [01:25:08] This project is not included in the City's current capital improvement program. [01:25:13] Funding in the amount of $94,500 will be identified through a budget amendment to account 073-46399. [01:25:19] And I'm available to answer any questions that you may have. [01:25:24] Do we have any public comment? [01:25:26] Seeing no one, come forward, bring it back for discussion and vote. [01:25:30] I'll make a motion to approve the acceptance of the grant and the direction to the budget [01:25:37] amendment. [01:25:38] Second. [01:25:39] Chair Baker? [01:25:40] No, sir. [01:25:41] Just a second. [01:25:42] No, sir. [01:25:43] Matt? [01:25:44] I'm good. [01:25:45] Brian? [01:25:46] I'm good. [01:25:47] All those approve? [01:25:48] Signify by aye. [01:25:49] Aye. [01:25:50] Aye. [01:25:51] Aye. [01:25:52] Aye. [01:25:53] Aye. [01:25:54] Aye. [01:25:55] Aye. [01:25:56] Aye. [01:25:57] Aye. [01:25:58] Aye. [01:25:59] Aye. [01:26:01] I'm with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and it relates to state assistance for fentanyl [01:26:06] erudition. [01:26:11] And this is the third year in a row that we have received the grant, and Chief Wilkton [01:26:17] will tell you about the grant. [01:26:20] Thank you, Ms. Manns. [01:26:22] Mayor, Council Members. [01:26:23] So, the request before you is to approve the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Mutual [01:26:26] Aid Agreement, or MAA, through June 30, 2026, in accordance with the terms of the agreement. [01:26:33] Council is being asked to extend the MAA with FDLE until June 30, 2026, so the New Port Richey Police Department can continue to work state assistance for fentanyl eradication, [01:26:42] otherwise known as SAFE, grant operations with FDLE. [01:26:47] As the City Manager mentioned, we approved two grants from FDLE, one in 2023 for $99,364, [01:26:57] and another one in December 3, 2024 for $33,365. [01:27:02] Currently, we have another $22,000 of SAFE grant funding from FDLE. [01:27:08] So I really want to publicly state, it's so important, and we have excellent working relationships [01:27:13] with FDLE and the Pasco County Sheriff's Departments, and all of our law enforcement partners in

    This text was generated automatically from the meeting video. It is not a verbatim or official record. For exact wording, consult the video or the city clerk.

19. 10.i

    Accept FDLE Donated High Water/Multi-Use Vehicles

    approved

    Council accepted donation of two high-water, multi-use vehicles from FDLE to the city. The vehicles are in good condition but need to be outfitted to enhance the police department's/city's capacity to use them.

    🏢Florida Department of Law Enforcement👤Cochin#FDLE donation of high-water/multi-use vehicles

    ▶ Jump to 1:27:15 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [01:27:18] the area. [01:27:20] When you have the philosophy that we're all in it together, this is the kind of stuff [01:27:23] that comes forward. [01:27:24] FDLE has been an awesome partner of ours. [01:27:28] So since 2003, our total funding for SAFE grant operations has been $154,729. [01:27:37] That is an awesome amount of money for us to conduct these SAFE operations with FDLE [01:27:42] and our local partners to enhance public safety. [01:27:46] The extension of this MAA with FDLE will give the New Port Richey Police Department the [01:27:50] authority to operate outside of our jurisdiction during SAFE grant operations with FDLE. [01:27:57] The SAFE grants, along with the MAA agreements, have greatly benefited our community by targeting [01:28:02] fentanyl dealers, that's who we're going after, with the goal of eliminating them from our [01:28:07] jurisdiction. [01:28:08] City Attorney Tim Driscoll has reviewed the MAA agreement and approved it as the form. [01:28:13] Staff recommends that the City Council approve the FDLE Mutual Aid Agreement through June [01:28:17] 30, 2026 in accordance with the terms of the agreement, and there is no budget impact. [01:28:22] I'm here to answer any questions you may have. [01:28:24] Do you have any public comment? [01:28:28] Seeing no one come forward, bring back for discussion and vote. [01:28:33] I move to approve. [01:28:35] Second. [01:28:36] Maker. [01:28:37] I just appreciate the Chief's work and all his people under him, and get rid of the drugs [01:28:45] on the street. [01:28:46] Second. [01:28:47] Yeah, just to say this is one example of cross-agency partnerships that we like to see. [01:28:54] I think partnerships between the FDLE, the City of New Port Richey, Pasco County Sheriff's [01:28:59] Office, and even our federal agencies are important when they are pertaining to crime [01:29:04] prevention, and I think the Chief hit it on the nail on the head when he said this targets [01:29:09] the source, this targets some of those drug dealers, this isn't, this is about breaking [01:29:13] up that entire process, and three years in a row now, that's what's been happening, and [01:29:19] underneath our current police department, I just believe that we continue to use these [01:29:24] funds and these resources in a way that hits home that fentanyl has no place in New Port Richey [01:29:30] and Pasco County and the state of Florida. [01:29:32] Illegal fentanyl. [01:29:33] I'm in favor of the extension of this. [01:29:39] Keeps us safe. [01:29:42] All those in favor signify by saying aye. [01:29:45] Aye. [01:29:46] That's 5-0. [01:29:47] Approval of FDLE fiscal year 2025-2026 drone replacement program financial assistance agreement. [01:29:57] Thank you Ms. Manns. [01:29:58] Mayor, Council Members. [01:30:00] So again, FDLE, our partners, the request for the City Council is to authorize the New Port Richey Police Department to apply for the FDLE fiscal year 25-26 financial assistance [01:30:11] subsidy in the amount of $100,000 to purchase up to four drones by entering into the Drone [01:30:17] Replacement Program Financial Assistance Grant, otherwise known as DRPFAA. [01:30:24] FDLE has made available funding under the FY 25-26 Drone Replacement Program. [01:30:31] This program is authorized by the Florida Legislature through various appropriations [01:30:35] acts and amendments for governmental agencies to purchase drones that comply with security [01:30:41] and operational standards outlined in Section 934.50 Florida Statutes. [01:30:46] The City of New Port Richey Police Department seeks council approval to apply for this funding [01:30:51] by signing the DRPFAA agreement to purchase four drones that meet the requirement minimum [01:30:58] security standards. [01:30:59] These drones will enhance public safety operations, support law enforcement activities, enhance [01:31:04] our emergency management operations, support city special event operations, and ensure [01:31:09] compliance with state drone regulations. [01:31:12] If the grant is approved, the New Port Richey Police Department will have sophisticated [01:31:16] and enhanced aerial technology that will be of great benefit to our community. [01:31:20] City Attorney Tim Driscoll has reviewed the DRPFAA agreement and approved it as the form. [01:31:26] Staff recommends City Council authorize the New Port Richey Police Department to apply [01:31:29] for the FDLE Fiscal Year 25-26 Financial Assistance Subsidy in the amount of $100,000 to purchase [01:31:36] up to four drones by entering into the Drone Replacement Program Financial Assistance Agreement. [01:31:42] Budget impact, the drone purchase will be paid for by the FDLE subsidy as outlined in [01:31:47] the agreement. [01:31:48] I'm here to answer any questions you may have. [01:31:50] Any public comment? [01:31:51] Seeing no one come forward, bring it back for discussion and vote. [01:31:55] Move to approve. [01:31:56] I'll second. [01:31:57] Thank you. [01:31:58] Just a quick technical question. [01:32:01] It's up to four, so there is a potential to purchase less, but of greater technology, [01:32:06] I'm assuming, or is the plan to try to purchase four? [01:32:10] It would be upgraded technology, but we have to comply. [01:32:12] We cannot have any Chinese parts in these drones. [01:32:14] They all have to be state compliant by law, so they are definitely upgraded technology. [01:32:19] As you remember, again, one of our partners, Pasco County Sheriff's Department, we signed [01:32:24] an agreement with their drone unit, so we are connected at the hip with them, and they [01:32:28] operate these sophisticated drones. [01:32:30] We want these drones to be able to have synergies, at least more synergies with that unit, and [01:32:35] they are extremely enhanced technology. [01:32:37] It is my hope to eventually have a larger conversation with the police department about [01:32:42] this, maybe through the city manager, but I know drones have been coming up a lot now [01:32:46] as a conversation piece, both just in general in our community when we talk about Amazon [01:32:52] and Walmart, but also with police departments. [01:32:54] I'd love to be able to translate to the public some of those benefits. [01:32:59] Some are obvious, but more nuanced, like I know it's costly to fly a helicopter in terms [01:33:07] of budgetary constraints, so how much this is truly saving us, because I'm sure these [01:33:11] innovations at Pasco County Sheriff's has been big with their innovation programs. [01:33:15] I'd love, like we're seeing the bits and pieces, and we're seeing all the financial benefits, [01:33:19] but maybe it's worth it one of these times to do a presentation on just some of the technologies [01:33:24] we have and how we're above the curve, I would say, as a city in terms of use of some of [01:33:30] those technologies, because you keep bringing them up, and they're great programs, and we're [01:33:34] getting a lot of money from them, and we're putting them to use, and so I think it might [01:33:37] be worth it to get a summary out of it. [01:33:40] Do you have a second? [01:33:41] No, I agree. [01:33:42] Just keep up the good work, and keep working with the FDLE. [01:33:45] Thank you. [01:33:50] I'm happy I saw drones being used last weekend in the park. [01:33:55] Yeah, I just think that sometimes a drone has more eyes than two or three or four police [01:34:02] officers, or even half a dozen sometimes, depending on where they are and what they're doing. [01:34:06] All those in favor, signify by aye. [01:34:08] Aye. [01:34:09] That's a five-yarder. [01:34:11] Accept FDLE donation, high-water, multi-use vehicles. [01:34:15] The Florida Department of Law Enforcement has donated two high-water, multi-use vehicles, [01:34:23] as identified in the October 7th communication from Chief Cochin, as contained in your packet. [01:34:34] Those vehicles will be an asset to the city in many respects, but they need to be outfitted [01:34:42] so that they can enhance the police department's or the city's capacity to use them. [01:34:50] The vehicles are both in good condition, and the chief did contain pictures of the vehicles

    This text was generated automatically from the meeting video. It is not a verbatim or official record. For exact wording, consult the video or the city clerk.

20. 10.j

    Request Approval of Police Equitable Sharing Expenditures

    approved

    Council approved the use of police federal equitable sharing funds not to exceed $60,000, with $30,000 to outfit two FDLE-donated high-water/multi-use vehicles (a 1996 and 2002 Stewart and Stevenson) and $30,000 to upgrade the police marine unit's lighting, decals, and ancillary equipment, along with the corresponding budget amendment.

    • motion:Approve police federal equitable sharing expenditures not to exceed $60,000 ($30,000 for outfitting FDLE-donated vehicles and $30,000 for police boat/marine unit upgrades) and the corresponding budget amendment. (passed)5–0

    🏢Florida Department of Law Enforcement🏢Newport Richey Police Department🏢Stewart and Stevenson👤Chief Cochin👤Ms. Vance👤Tim Aker#FY25-26 police department budget amendment#Federal Equitable Sharing Program#Police marine unit upgrades

    ▶ Jump to 1:34:57 in the video

    ▸Show transcriptHide transcript

    Auto-transcript · machine-generated, may contain errors

    [01:35:00] as backup material to your communication. [01:35:05] He is requesting to use equitable sharing funding to outfit them so that they'll be prepared [01:35:16] and have operational capabilities should they need to be put to use in any situation related [01:35:26] to weather, special events, or any special need that may present itself. [01:35:36] And what we're specifically asking you for in this agenda item is just to officially [01:35:42] accept the two donated high-water, multi-use vehicles that are listed in the agenda item [01:35:49] from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. [01:35:55] Do we have any public comment? [01:35:57] Seeing no one come forward, bring it back for discussion. [01:36:01] Tim Aker? [01:36:03] Yeah, I think anything that we can acquire for free or next to free to help our citizens, [01:36:09] whether it's through the fire department, the police department, is absolutely the rarest. [01:36:13] And it's a win-win for our citizens, so I'm all for it. [01:36:19] May I second? [01:36:20] Yeah, I second. [01:36:21] Just to say that I know during one of our disaster relief debriefs that the staff did internally [01:36:30] and summarized to us, the conversation of high-water vehicles came up. [01:36:34] And I think this is a great example of how our chief of police and the police department [01:36:38] and our city manager and our fire department and everyone is working intentionally to address [01:36:44] some of the prior year in making those improvements. [01:36:47] So it's not like we're just accepting vehicles at random. [01:36:50] We're doing the intentionality to make sure we are ready, continuing to improve in our readiness [01:36:55] for hurricanes and various other aspects of which these vehicles will serve. [01:37:00] And so I just wanted to thank the city manager and our chief of police and staff [01:37:05] for being intentional, not just getting us a debrief, [01:37:09] but now saying this is how we're addressing some of the problems we saw last year. [01:37:13] So thank you. [01:37:16] So I'm looking forward to seeing it parked right next to our automobile. [01:37:23] I'm good, thank you. [01:37:26] Yeah, I just hope we don't use it this year. [01:37:29] All those in favor, signify by aye. [01:37:31] Aye. [01:37:32] That's five-none. [01:37:35] Police equitable sharing expenditures. [01:37:39] Chief Cochin has requested the use of police federal equitable sharing expenditures [01:37:46] not to exceed $60,000, which is a corresponding budget item [01:37:56] to the acquisition of our two vehicles, [01:38:04] the 1996 Stewart and Stevenson vehicle and the 2002 Stewart and Stevenson vehicle. [01:38:10] And I'll allow him to fully present. [01:38:15] Thank you, Ms. Vance. [01:38:16] Honorable mayor, council members, [01:38:18] the request of the city council is to approve police federal equitable sharing expenditures [01:38:21] not to exceed $60,000. [01:38:23] Additionally, council is being asked to approve the corresponding budget amendment [01:38:26] from the finance division, which allocates these equitable sharing funds [01:38:30] to the police department's FY25-26 budget. [01:38:34] The above-mentioned equitable sharing funds exist to support police operations [01:38:38] with dollars legally obtained from illegal activities. [01:38:41] That's the key. [01:38:42] We're taking illegal funds and putting them to good use. [01:38:44] I love these funds. [01:38:46] The funds in our federal equitable sharing accounts are meant to be utilized [01:38:49] by the New Port Richey Police Department to support the agency's mission [01:38:52] to safeguard our community. [01:38:55] It should be noted that oversight of these funds and use thereof [01:38:57] is accomplished through audits by state and federal officials [01:39:00] and mandatory spending approved by the New Port Richey City Council. [01:39:04] The strategic expenditure list below in number one supports the outfitting [01:39:09] and equipping FDOE-donated high-water and multi-use vehicles [01:39:13] to expand our emergency operations, [01:39:16] to expand our department's ability to deploy these assets where needed [01:39:19] for public safety purposes. [01:39:21] The expenditures listed in item two below [01:39:24] supports the upgrade of our police boat's design lighting [01:39:27] and unnecessary upgrade. [01:39:28] The key is upgrade equipment and supplies. [01:39:31] We have the expenditures listed not to exceed $60,000. [01:39:35] Number one is expenditure approval up to $30,000 for the FDOE-donated vehicles, [01:39:40] and number two is expenditure approval up to $30,000 for upgrading our police boat, [01:39:44] marine unit with new lighting, decals, and other ancillary upgrade equipment. [01:39:49] There is a budget amendment, again, that approves this money [01:39:53] and we're looking to go 4-0 on these agenda items, [01:39:56] so I'm here to answer any questions you may have. [01:40:02] Seeing none, bring it back for discussion and vote. [01:40:04] Move to approve. [01:40:05] I'll second. [01:40:06] So to the 4-0 comment, this was the one where I was reading to them [01:40:10] and I thought, oh shoot, the vehicle request came with a budget amendment, [01:40:15] we're going to have to pay for these, [01:40:16] but then I saw it was the police equitable sharing expenditures, [01:40:20] so way to do a little bit of a suspense there, put it right at the end. [01:40:25] But yeah, definitely in support of that. [01:40:28] It's a creative and purposeful use of those funds. [01:40:31] So nothing else to say. [01:40:32] I'll second. [01:40:33] I'm just happy to put the money to use. [01:40:36] I think it's going to be a great asset [01:40:38] and I think it will be a nice piece for the police department to show off. [01:40:45] I'm all in. [01:40:46] Thank you. [01:40:48] All those in favor, signify by aye. [01:40:50] Aye. [01:40:51] I think that's 4-0. [01:40:52] No, it's 5-0. [01:40:53] It was 4-0 on the sheet. [01:40:56] You forgot to vote.

    This text was generated automatically from the meeting video. It is not a verbatim or official record. For exact wording, consult the video or the city clerk.

21. 11Communications▶ 1:41:02
22. 12Adjournment▶ 2:14:22
23. 6.b

    September 16, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes

    Approval of the September 16, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes.
24. 8.a

    Library Advisory Board Minutes - August 2025

    on consent

    Acceptance of August 2025 Library Advisory Board minutes.

    #Library Advisory Board
25. 8.b

    Cultural Affairs Committee Meeting Minutes - August 2025

    on consent

    Acceptance of August 2025 Cultural Affairs Committee meeting minutes.

    #Cultural Affairs Committee
26. 8.c

    Purchases/Payments for City Council Approval

    on consent

    Approval of purchases/payments requiring City Council approval.
27. 8.d

    Consideration of Year-End Amendment to the FY2024-2025 Adopted Budget

    on consent

    Consideration of a year-end amendment to the adopted FY2024-2025 budget.

    #FY2024-2025 Budget
28. 8.e

    Consideration of Amendment to the FY26 Adopted Budget

    on consent

    Consideration of an amendment to the FY26 adopted budget.

    #FY26 Budget