HomeMy WebLinkAboutIII(A) Approval And Acceptance Of Minutes Of Commission Regular Session Of October 2, 2001 And Budget Special Session Of September 24, 2001 DnAF7Agenda 10-16-2001
Item III A
MINUTES OF THE OCOEE CITY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING
HELD OCTOBER 2, 2001
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Vandergrift called the regular meeting to order at 7:15 p.m. in the Commission
Chambers located at 150 N. Lakeshore Drive. David Hartbarger, Minister Ocoee Church of
Christ and member of the Police Department Chaplain Team, led in prayer followed by Reverend
Ricardo Orsini, First Spanish Assembly of God Church, leading a prayer in Spanish. Reverend
Orsini also led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. The roll was called and a quorum
declared present.
PRESENT: Mayor Vandergrift, Commissioners Anderson, Howell, Johnson, and Parker. Also
present were City Manager Gleason, City Attorney Rosenthal, City Clerk Grafton, Building/
Zoning Official Velie, City Engineer/Utilities Director Shira, Assistant City Engineer Wheeler,
Communications Manager Ek-Collins, Community Relations/Projects Director Shira, Finance
Director Horton, Fire Chief Strosnider, Human Resources Director Psaledakis, Information "
Systems Manager Ross, Acting Recreation Department Director Prettyman, Principal Planner
Lewis, Police Chief Mark, and Deputy City Clerk Whitford.
ALSO PRESENT: Developer and Contract Purchaser Allan Keen, Developer and Partner Jay
Folk and Project Engineer David Evans.
PRESENTATIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS
Water Shortage Update. Assistant City Engineer Wheeler
Assistant City Engineer Wheeler gave a brief update on the water shortage and advised while
Ocoee was still within the required range set forth by SJWMD, Ocoee had slipped in their
conservation efforts and needed to try harder.
Tree Conservation at Cambridge Village. Building/Zoning Official Velie
Building/Zoning Official Velie reported in his update all tree barriers in Cambridge Village, the
PUD bordering the Mall and Rose Hill, have been erected and inspected, and the drainage
retention areas, roads, and storm drain lines are being constructed. Mr. Velie went on to say that
as the project progresses, it will continue to be inspected and tree conservation monitored.
Currently inspections are on a weekly basis. Mr. Velie stated before the project is issued a
Certificate of Completion a complete and accurate final survey would be done and any trees not
authorized to be removed will be addressed by penalties provided for in the Land Development
Code. Mr. Velie said the developer and the City were working together to save as many trees as
possible with the figure of total saved trees being about 475. Commissioner Anderson arrived at
7:42 p.m. and apologized for being late. He asked Mr. Velie to return to the lectern and answer
a few questions and concerns he had. Commissioner Anderson asked what occurred when a
required drainage box had to be placed in an area where specific trees were to be saved. Mr.
Velie explained that sometimes the two-dimensional plan the Commission votes for is not always
feasible when you actually get on site. He said sometimes the building can be positioned on the lot
differently, but not always, and if that cannot be accomplished, then the developer/builder may
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Ocoee City Commission Regular Meeting
October 2, 2001
need to remove a tree that was marked to save, but may save another tree that was previously
going to be removed. In response to Mayor Vandergrift's inquiry about tree removal from the
buffer zone, Mr. Velie stated an engineering drainage box was required in the area that borders
the buffer zone, but only 3 trees needed to be removed. City Manager Gleason stated the City
would enforce any Ordinance that allows for fines and enforce the tree replacement regulations.
Mr. Gleason said he has asked for an internal policy that would allow our Arborist to make a
determination if there is an issue, and then report back to both Engineering and Planning and both
sign off. That would provide checks and balances should this type of question arise again. Staff
can then show that all the necessary departments were aware of the issue.
Proclamation: Fire Prevention Week, October 7-13, 2001
Mayor Vandergrift read the Fire Prevention Week Proclamation and presented it to Fire Chief
Strosnider. Chief Strosnider thanked the Mayor and said every year during Fire Prevention
Week the Fire Department presents a Fire Prevention Program in the schools. He stated last year
the program was presented to over 4,000 students in grades 1-3. Chief Strosnider then thanked
all the citizens in and around the Ocoee area who had contributed to the September 11t fund. He
said over $ 2,200,000.00 had been collected and would be sent to New York.
CONSENT AGENDA
The consent agenda consisted of items A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, and I.
Commissioner Parker moved to approve the consent agenda, then withdrew her motion and
pulled item H. for separate consideration.
Commissioner Parker, seconded by Commissioner Johnson, moved to approve items A, B, C,
D, E, F, G, and I of the consent agenda. Motion carried 4-0. Commissioner Anderson was not
present.
A. Approval and Acceptance of Minutes of Commission Regular Session of
September 18, 2001. (City Clerk Grafton)
B. Approval and Authorization for Temporary Closing of Windergrove Court,
Plantation Grove West Subdivision (AKA Windermere Groves) (Building
/Zoning Official Velie)
• The Plantation Grove West Homeowners Association has applied for a Special Events Permit to
close Windergrove Court for a Neighborhood Halloween Party on October 27, 2001 from 4 p.m. to
7 p.m. The Association has agreed to the following requirements: 1) All residents that will be
affected by the road blockage must be notified in advance; 2)Health Central Ambulance must be
notified of the road closure in advance; 3) Roads must be blocked with proper barricades; 4)An
emergency lane must be maintained during the event.
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D AEFT
Ocoee City Commission Regular Meeting
October 2, 2001
C. Approval and Authorization for Lochrane to Perform Post-Design Services as
Required, for a Not-to-Exceed Fee of$25,399.00 in Accordance with Their
Estimate of Work Effort Dated July 10, 2001.(City Engineer Shira)
• This proposal from Lochrane Engineering is for services related to the utility relocation work
that will be a part of the Silver Star Road widening project.
D. Approval and Authorization to Award Bid # B01-07 to Provide and Install a
Standby Power System Consisting of a Standby Diesel Generator Set and
Automatic Transfer Switch. (Buyer Tolbert)
• This item will be installed at the Public Works facility and will be funded by an Emergency
Management Preparedness and Assistance Grant in the Amount of $28,00.00 that will be
reimbursed upon completion. There were 5 bids received with CJ's Sales and Service being the low
bidder at$25,567.00. Staff recommends awarding the base bid only to CJ's Sales and Service as the
most responsive and responsible bidder, and authorizing staff to proceed with the procurement of
the standby power system, including obtaining all necessary bonds and insurance for this project.
E. Approval and Authorization for Mayor and City Clerk to Execute Florida
Power Utility Easement for the Modular Office Building, 302 Maguire Road.
(Public Works Director Smith)
• A notice to proceed has been issued to relocate the modular buildings for the Police Department
and Building Department and the move is expected to commence shortly. There is no power source
on site and Florida Power is requesting a ten foot easement to provide power to the area.
F. Approval and Authorization for Change Order No. 2 with Maxwell
Contracting, Inc. in the Amount of$30,000.00 for the Ocoee/Reclaimed Water
Main Interconnect Project to Include the Force Main Project at Best Buy/Toys-
R-Us. (Assistant City Engineer Wheeler)
• This will be paid for in accordance with the transfer of the$36,000 to wastewater capital
projects as approval given by the City Commission's action on June 19, 2001, and authorize the
Mayor and City Clerk to execute Change Order No. 2
G. Approval and Authorization for Change Order #1 in the Amount of$4,054.00
to the Contract with Weller Pools for the Family Aquatic Center. (Public
Works Director Smith)
• There are nine (9) small changes necessary for the completion of the pool, (some additions and
some subtractions) and funds are available in the Capital Projects Fund.
H. This item was moved to be considered as a separate item.
I. Approval of Reappointments to Boards. (City Clerk Grafton)
1. Code Enforcement Board - John Linebarier's 3 year term ends November
2001.
2. Citizens Advisory Council to the Police Department - John Cooper and
Frank Venturella's 3 year terms end November 2001.
• Mr. Linebarier, Mr. Cooper and Mr. Venturella are all willing to serve another term ending
November 2004 on their respective boards.
3. Police Officers'/Firefighters' Retirement Trust Fund - Appointment of
Fifth Trustee.
• Trustee James Coschignano's term as trustee of the Police Officers'/Firefighters' Retirement
Trust Fund ended September 30, 2001, and the Board of Trustees has requested that he be
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Ocoee City Commission Regular Meeting
October 2, 2001
reappointed for another two year term. According to the Pension Board Operating Rules and
Procedures this is done as a ministerial act by this Commission.
Commissioner Anderson arrived at 7:42 p.m.
Mayor Vandergrift asked for a progress report on his request in the last meeting to get flags for
Clarke Road. Commissioner Parker said the homeowners in Reflections were willing to help in
the purchase of flags that would fly on that portion of Clarke Road leading to their subdivision
and directed Mr. Smith to contact Mr. Campanella for a check. Public Works Director Smith
said fmding flags available to be purchased was a major problem at this time, and that he would
contact Mr. Campanella.
Consent Agenda Item H. Authorization to Transfer Over 65 Accounts in the
Amount of$107,130.00 from Contingency (City Manager Gleason)
• As in the past, the funding of the Senior Program was placed in General Fund Contingency
account so that this issue would not hold up the City Commission budgetary approval process for
this year. Transfer amounts: Water Fees -$44,500. (Acct. #001-516-00-4906), Water Tax-
$4,450. (Acct. #001-516-00-4905), and Solid Waste Fees -$58,180. (Acct. #001-513-00-4907).
Mayor Vandergrift, seconded by Commissioner Howell, moved to approve item H.
Motion carried 4-1. Commissioner Parker voted no.
Mayor Vandergrift asked that the ordinance requested at an earlier meeting regarding the
additional homestead exemption for senior citizens be prepared and presented for
consideration.
ITEM WITHDRAWN FROM AGENDA
Mayor Vandergrift announced that Item VII B regarding City Manager Salary has been
removed from the agenda by Commissioner Anderson to be discussed at another Commission
Meeting.
COMMENTS FROM CITIZENS/PUBLIC
There were no citizens wishing to speak at this time.
Page 4 of 11
DAFT
Ocoee City Commission Regular Meeting
October 2, 2001
COMMISSIONERS ANNOUNCEMENTS/CORRESPONDENCE
Commissioner Anderson
1) Announced the need for someone from District #1, although that is not a necessary
requirement, to fill a vacancy on the Education Commission.
2) Announced the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the Family Aquatic Center would be at 10 a.m.
October 6, 2001. Mayor Vandergrift said the pool would be open through October and there
would be no fees during that time. The Grand Opening will take place in April when the pool
opens for the season.
Commissioner Johnson
1) Announced the Ocoee High School Reunion Committee is planning a school reunion October
19, 2001, 7:00 p.m. at the Beech Center. He said they would like to make this an annual
event to coincide with Founders Day and anyone is welcome to come.
2) He said he would give an update as to what the menu would be at a later date.
3) Said a letter would be going out to the downtown residents and business owners to inform
them of a meeting to be held in the City Commission Chambers October 17, 2001, at 7:00
p.m. to discuss some of the issues relating to the downtown renovation. Commissioner
Johnson said there would be brochures and pamphlets there for the public to see. He also said
information had been given to State Representative Randy Johnson along with a request for
some financial assistance with this project.
Commissioner Parker said October 13"'(a week from Saturday) is the first Founders Day event,
a 5k run, and that anyone who wants to sign-up can call City Hall and ask for Community
Relations. She encouraged everyone to participate and to at least come out and cheer others on.
City Manager Gleason said letters had been sent out as well as signs placed to let the citizens
know in advance which roads will be closed for this event and said the Police would be on hand
to let emergency vehicles through.
Mayor Vandergrift
1) Reiterated the date of the pool opening and added that the pool was wheel-chair accessible.
2) Announced the Ground Breaking Ceremony for the Super Wal-Mart would be October 5th, at
10:00 a.m. and said they hope to have a June opening.
3) Addressed a child safety complaint in Peach Lake Park from Kim Sammons, 1264 Russell
Drive. City Manager Gleason stated he would follow up on the complaint and make sure it
got to the right department.
4) Read a message from Nick Pagano, who suggested in light of the tragedies which occurred in
New York and Washington D. C. on September 11th, Ocoee should paint all the fire hydrants
red, white, and blue as a lasting memorial. City Manager Gleason said he would check into
the regulations as to colors allowed and would get back to the Commission with an update as
to when and if it could be done.
5) On behalf of his wife Beth, presented Community Relations/Projects Director Janet Shira with
a check for $850.00 for the sale of "United We Stand" T-shirts.
Page 5 of 11
DRAFT
Ocoee City Commission Regular Meeting
October 2, 2001
Commissioner Howell announced the Founders Day Golf Tournament to be held October 19th at
Forest Lake Golf Club and said those interested in playing should contact David Wheeler at City
Hall.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
First Spanish Assembly of God Church Special Exception (Case No. 1-1SE-2001)(Principal
Planner Lewis) (Continued from September 18, 2001)
Principal Planner Lewis gave the staff report, advising the subject property is zoned C-2, is 2.35
acres in size and is located on the east side of Ocoee Apopka Road just north of Palm Drive. He
explained a waiver was being requested for a steeple 55 feet in height which would be 20 feet on
the top of the building. He advised this height of steeple has been approved in the past and staff
recommends approval. Mr. Lewis stated there was an unusual aspect in the fact this church is in
a C-2 zoning district and there is an existing establishment within 1,000 feet serving alcoholic
beverages. He continued, advising while this would not affect the existing establishment it could
be the basis for denying any future alcoholic beverage permits for nearby properties. Mr. Lewis
stated the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended consideration for granting a waiver
from the Code provision which prohibits restaurants from locating within 1,000 be given to future
applicants. Principal Planner Lewis also stated the Development Review Committee (DRC)
recommended approval of the Special Exception with the condition that the entrance driveway be
located directly adjacent to the north property line, a condition to which the applicant agreed.
The public hearing was reopened, and as no one wished to speak, was closed.
Commissioner Anderson, seconded by Commissioner Parker, moved to approve First Spanish
Assembly of God Church Special Exception (Case No. 1-1SE-2001) request to be located in a C-2
zoning district, including the proposed waiver regarding the height of the steeple. Motion carried
5-0.
ForestBrooke Subdivision. (Principal Planner Lewis)
Second Reading of Ordinance No. 2001-27, ForestBrooke Rezoning from A-1 to R-1A.
City Attorney Rosenthal read the title only of the Ordinance.
Principal Planner Lewis presented the staff report advising the subject property is a 70 acre
parcel currently zoned A-1, and is located south of McCormick Road, between Ocoee Apopka
Road (CR 437) and the Western Beltway (SR 419). The rezoning from A-1 to R-1A of this
property is being requested to accommodate a new subdivision of single family homes known as
ForestBrooke. Mr. Lewis stated the subject property is designated on the City Future Land Use
Map and the Joint Planning Area Map as Low Density Residential and the proposed rezoning to
R-1A is consistent with the Ocoee Future Land Use Map and the Joint Planning Area Map as
amended. Mr. Lewis pointed out it is also consistent with Ocoee's Comprehensive Plan and with
the surrounding land uses and zoning. Mr. Lewis added, based on the previous information and
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Ocoee City Commission Regular Meeting
October 2, 2001
the recommendation of Planning and Zoning, Staff recommended the adoption of Ordinance No.
2001-27.
The public hearing was opened.
Allan Keen, 1031 W. Morris Blvd., Winter Park, FL, Developer and Contract Purchaser of the
subject property, stated the intended use of the land parcel and said he would answer any
questions. Mr. Keen responded to the inquiry made by R.P. Mohnacky, of 1820 Prairie Lake
Blvd., regarding the flood zones shown on the Preliminary Site Plan, explaining the X on the map
indicated it is outside of the flood zone. Project Engineer David Evans, of Peck Evans
Engineering, 501 E. Jackson, responded to a topography question posed by Mr. Mohnacky.
The public hearing was closed.
Commissioner Anderson inquired as to whether a tree waiver was being sought and questioned
why a sidewalk was to be constructed on one side of the road only. Mr. Keen said they were no
longer seeking a tree waiver. David Evans explained the reason for an 8 foot sidewalk on one
side only as opposed to a 5 foot sidewalk on both sides. Planning Director Wagner stated the
safest way to proceed would be to install the 5 foot sidewalks on each side.
Thelma Blunt, 3751 Rollin "0" Lane, Apopka, FL, asked about the city limits of Ocoee and
where it would end. City Attorney Rosenthal addressed the question.
Commissioner Howell, seconded by Commissioner Johnson, moved to adopt Ordinance No.
2001-27 as presented, rezoning the subject property from A-1 to R-1A. Motion carried 5-0.
Preliminary Subdivision Plan.
Mr. Lewis presented the staff report for ForestBrooke Preliminary Subdivision Plan, advising it
covers approximately 169 acres, will have a total of 362 single family residential lots, and is
located on both sides of Ocoee-Apopka Road (CR 437), just south of McCormick Road. Some of
the lots in the western portion of the property are on the shore of Lake Apopka. The lots will be
constructed in multiple phases and prior to the Final Subdivision Plan the Developer will decide if
it will be a private gated community. Mr. Lewis stated there are a significant amount of wetlands
in the southwestern portion of the property. He said all the subject property west of CR 437
currently is zoned R-1-AA. The property east of CR 437 currently has R-1A zoning and part of it
currently has A-i zoning. The request submitted with the Preliminary Subdivision Plan requested
the portion of the property which is currently zoned A-1 be rezoned to R-1A. Mr. Lewis advised
no waivers were now being requested due to discussions held during the previous rezoning public
hearing. Mr. Lewis stated, based on the recommendations of the DRC and the Planning and
Zoning Commission, Staff recommended approval of the Preliminary Subdivision Plan of
ForestBrooke subject to the conditions on the Plan and the deletion of the 3 requested waivers.
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Ocoee City Commission Regular Meeting
October 2, 2001
Attorney Rosenthal addressed his memo to the Commission relating to this particular project
entitled Condition of Approval No. 61 which repeats certain of the obligations which are in the
Avanti Developer Agreement for road improvements. He said between the approval of the
Preliminary Subdivision Plan and the Final Plan the City Staff would review further and meet
with the Developer to decide whether there are additional requirements with respect to road
improvements which should be a part of this project.
The public hearing was opened.
Mr. Keen, Developer, went through the site plan explaining in detail all the amenities that will be
available and pointed out the 9 acre dry retention pond that is going to be graded, irrigated, and
planted with St. Augustine grass so that it can be used, except in a storm event, as a play field.
Mayor Vandergrift stated how much he appreciated the amenities and very livable type of
community that was being offered.
David Bryant, 601 Banderas, inquired about the size of sidewalks. Mr. Keen responded.
The public hearing was closed.
Commissioner Howell, seconded by Commissioner Johnson, moved to approve the Preliminary
Subdivision Plan as date stamped received by the City on September 6, 2001, subject to the
conditions listed in the Staff memos as recommended by the Development Review Committee
with the deletion of the waivers and the addition of the City Attorney's Condition of Approval
No. 61. Motion carried 5-0.
Recess 8:55 - 9:13 p.m.
This item taken out of agenda order
Discussion/Authorization to Implement a Citizens Police Academy. (Chief Robert Mark.)
Chief Mark gave a brief statement of how the program suggestion came into being and then
introduced Officer Tom Maroney who suggested and developed the program. Officer Maroney
explained where and how he researched and developed the program and how it would be funded.
He further explained who would be eligible, the subjects to be covered in the program, the
benefits, and the goals. Officer Maroney responded to inquiries from the Commission about the
cost which is $300.00 to $500.00 for the entire program and the date it is to begin (which is
October 25th through December 18t). The Commission made some suggestions as to who might
be approached as a sponsor. Office Maroney gave information about whom to contact if
interested.
Mr. Tom Hendrix, 608 Jay St., volunteered to be a sponsor for the program.
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DRAFT
Ocoee City Commission Regular Meeting
October 2, 2001
Mayor Vandergrift, seconded by Commissioner Parker, moved to move forward with the
Citizens' Police Academy program as presented. Motion carried 5-0.
Second Reading of Ordinance No. 2001-28, Relating to Water and Sewer Rates. (City
Engineer/Utilities Director Shira)
City Attorney Rosenthal read title only of the Ordinance.
City Engineer/Utilities Director Shira gave a brief overview explaining the increasing costs of
operation and the proposed implementation of a reclaimed water rate. Mr. Shira stated the
proposed rate does not change the base rate for either water or wastewater, only the consumption
rate. He pointed out that Orange County today is higher in all their rate categories than Ocoee's
proposed rate will be 5 years from now.
The public hearing was opened.
Martha Lopez-Anderson, 2438 Alclobe Cr. asked how the revenue from the increase is to be
utilized. Mr. Shira responded that the revenue would be used for a variety of purposes,
primarily to maintain the current system and replace galvanized lines and small diameter lines in
older neighborhoods. He said moving meters from backyard easements into the right-of-way was
also a project.
Mr. Shira and City Manager Gleason responded to numerous questions asked by Mayor and
Commissioners.
Mayor Vandergrift, seconded by Commissioner Parker, moved to adopt Ordinance No. 2001-
28 with the request that staff provide the following information by the end of the year: (1) A
specific list of needs and a plan for servicing older neighborhoods, downtown, and lake areas. (2)
The possibility of a Utilities Commission and the use of "Radio Read" meters. (3) A report
determining revenue received, revenue spent, so that priorities and continuation or adjustment of
rate can be determined. Motion carried 4-1 with Commissioner Howell voting no.
Second Reading of Ordinance No. 2001-29, Relating to Revisions to Chapter 174 on Water
Reuse. (City Engineer/Utilities Director Shira)
City Attorney Rosenthal read the title only of the Ordinance.
The public hearing was opened, and as no one wished to speak, was closed.
Mr. Shira responded to Commissioner Anderson's inquiry about the 3 basic rates.
Commissioner Anderson requested indexing of Reclaimed Water to be the same as Ocoee's
Potable Water and Sewer rates. Mayor Vandergrift suggested waiting until the end of the year.
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DRAFT
Ocoee City Commission Regular Meeting
October 2, 2001
Mayor Vandergrift, seconded by Commissioner Parker, moved to adopt Ordinance No. 2001-
29, relating to revisions to Chapter 174 on Water Reuse. Motion carried 5-0.
Resolution No. 2001-11, Relating to Setting Rates for Reclaimed Water System. (City
Engineer/Utilities Director Shira) Not a Public Hearing.
City Attorney Rosenthal read title only of the Resolution.
Commissioner Anderson, seconded by Commissioner Johnson, moved to amend Resolution
No. 2001-11 and add 3% to the rate for the next 5 years with the same provisions as in
Ordinance No. 2001-28, to tier in 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2005, October 1St of each year. Motion
carried 4-1 with Mayor Vandergrift voting no.
Commissioner Anderson, seconded by Commissioner Parker, moved to adopt Resolution No.
2001-11 as amended. Motion carried 3-2 with Mayor Vandergrift and Commissioner Johnson
voting no.
OTHER BUSINESS
Discussion/Action regarding the City Manager's Salary. (Commissioner Anderson)
This item was pulled from agenda by Commissioner Anderson, to be discussed at a later
date.
STAFF REPORTS
City Manager Gleason explained to the Commission about the deadline of 2 weeks for any
amendments to the charter school application.
Mayor Vandergrift declared this to be an emergency item.
There was a lengthy discussion with concerns expressed and questions answered by City
Manager Gleason and City Attorney Rosenthal.
Mayor Vandergrift, seconded by Commissioner Anderson, moved to move forward with the
charter school application. Motion died 2-2 with Commissioners Howell and Parker voting no.
Commissioner Johnson was away from the dais.
There were no other staff reports.
COMMENTS FROM COMMISSIONERS
Commissioner Parker - No comments at this time.
Commissioner Johnson - No comments at this time.
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AFT
Ocoee City Commission Regular Meeting
October 2, 2001
Commissioner Anderson gave the correct number for dispatch for those interested in the
Citizen's Police Academy and reminded everyone about the pool opening.
Mayor Vandergrift mentioned the ditch in front of the Library is not draining properly. City
Engineer/Utilities Director Shira said he would take a look at it.
Commissioner Howell
1) Inquired about item VII B, which had been pulled from the agenda, and wanted to know if
there was a specific time set for a future meeting. City Manager Gleason said Ms. Cowan
would get with each of them and set a time that was acceptable to all parties.
2) Asked about the easement Ordinance that would allow carports/car covers inside the
easement. Commissioner Parker responded she had received calls urging against it and
suggested those interested should take a look at the Hempel Road and Old Winter Garden
Road area. City Attorney Rosenthal said they should consider that as a separate ordinance
issue. City Manager Gleason advised he was still gathering information and would bring it
back to the Commission as soon as he could.
3) Inquired about the lack of lighting at the Water Treatment Plants and said, considering the
recent events of September 11th , we should have more lighting. City Engineer/Utilities
Director Shira said they would be addressing that issue. City Manager Gleason advised
there would also be increased Police protection.
4) Requested the boxing program be placed back under the direction of the Recreation
Department as opposed to the Police Department where it is currently. City Manager
Gleason asked for some patience in this matter until the Recreation Department Director's
position has been filled. Commissioner Parker said she would like it to remain under the
direction of the Police Department. She said the program was started for "kids at risk" and
the Police Department seemed to be a better place for it.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 10:55 p.m.
APPROVED
Attest: City of Ocoee
Sally Whitford, Deputy City Clerk S. Scott Vandergrift, Mayor
Page 11 of 11
Agenda 10-16-2001
Item III A
/1)4MINUTES OF THE OCOEE CITY COMMISSION
SPECIAL SESSION FOR FINAL BUDGET
HELD SEPTEMBER 24, 2001 '✓
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Vandergrift called the Special Session to order at 7:02 p.m. in the Commission
Chambers. The roll was called and a quorum declared present. Mayor Vandergrift
announced this was a public hearing to finalize the budget and adopt a final mileage rate for the
City of Ocoee. The City Commission has previously approved a tentative millage rate of
4.7214 mills which represents a 4.2899% increase in millage over the rolled-back rate of
4.5272 mills.
PRESENT: Mayor Vandergrift, Commissioners Howell, Johnson, Parker, and Anderson
(arrived at 7:12 p.m.). Also present were City Manager Gleason, City Attorney Rosenthal,
Public Works Director Smith, Human Resources Director Psaledakis, Finance Director
Horton, Police Chief Mark, Information Systems Manager Ross, Communications Manager
Ek-Collins, Acting Recreation Director Prettyman, Acting Planning Director Lewis, City
Engineer/Utilities Director Shira, Assistant City Engineer Wheeler, Building & Zoning Official
Velie, Director of Community Relations/Projects Shira (arrived at 7:36 p.m.), Finance
Supervisor Carter, Budget Analyst Brosonski, City Clerk Grafton, and Administrative
Assistant II Maxwell.
Finance Director Horton announced the percentage rate increase in the tentative millage over
the rollback rate necessary to fund the budget is 4.2899%. Ad Valorem Tax revenues are
being increased by $200,000.00 to provide funding for projects to be determined at a future
date by the City Commission.
The public hearing was opened, and Mayor Vandergrift asked for comments from citizens.
Mr. Max Jacobs, 2247 Mt. Spruce St., spoke regarding the increase in the millage rate and
other concerns regarding the budget. Commissioner Johnson advised Mr. Jacobs that the
millage rate was going down from the current millage rate of 4.7387 to the proposed millage
rate of 4.7214.
The public hearing was closed.
COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS _
Commissioner Parker said she would like to adopt a rate that would incorporate $23,000.00
for the Pension Fund supplement, $85,000.00 for the re-paving of Prima Vista Subdivision,
and $25,000.00 for the rainy day fund added to the roll-back rate.
MOTIONS BY COMMISSIONERS FOR AMENDMENTS TO THE PROPOSED TENTATIVE BUDGET
Commissioner Parker, seconded by Commissioner Johnson, moved to adopt the rollback
rate but add $23,000 for the Pension Fund supplement, $85,000 for the re-paving of Prima
Vista Subdivision, and $25,000 for the rainy day fund.
Final Budget Special Session
g
September 24,2001
This motion was declared out of order.
Commissioner Parker, seconded by Commissioner Johnson, moved to amend the adopted
tentative budget by reducing the proposed contingency amount by $67,000. Motion carried 3-
2 with Mayor Vandergrift and Commissioner Howell voting no.
RECESS to re-compute the proposed millage rate and rolled-back percentage increase
was not necessary.
ANNOUNCEMENT BY DIRECTOR OF FINANCE OF THE RECOMPUTED
PROPESED FINAL MILLAGE RATE AND THE PERCENT BY WHICH THE
RECOMPUTED PROPOSED MILLAGE RATE EXCEEDS THE ROLLED-BACK
RATE. THIS PERCENTAGE IS THE PROPOSED FINAL PERCENTAFGE
INCREASE IN PROPERTY TAXES.
Finance Director Horton announced the re-computed proposed final millage rate was 4.6564
mills, which represents a 2.8528% increase over the rollback rate of 4.5272 mills. This is the
proposed percentage increase in property taxes.
MOTION TO ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 2001-25, SETTING THE FINAL MILLAGE RATE
City Attorney Rosenthal read the title only of Ordinance No. 2001-25 setting the final millage
rate.
Commissioner Parker, seconded by Commissioner Anderson, moved to adopt Ordinance
No. 2001-25, setting a final millage rate of 4.6564 mills for the fiscal year 2001-2002. Motion
carried 4-1 with Mayor Vandergrift voting no.
City Attorney Rosenthal read into the record the taxing authority is the City of Ocoee and the
rolled back millage rate is 4.5272 mills. The percentage by which the proposed millage
exceeds the rolled back rate is 2.8528%. The millage rate proposed by the Ordinance is
4.6564 mills.
COMMENTS BY CITIZENS
Mr. Max Jacobs, 2247 Mountain Spruce Street, stated he meant no malice towards any city
employee in previous comments.
MOTION TO ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 2001-26, ADOPTING THE FINAL BUDGET
City Attorney Rosenthal read the title only of Ordinance No. 2001-26, adopting the final
budget.
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Final Budget Special Session 2?
September 24,2001
Commissioner Parker, seconded by Commissioner Anderson, moved to adopt Ordinance
No. 2001-26, adopting a Final Budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2001, and
ending September 30, 2002. Motion carried 4-1 with Mayor Vandergrift voting no.
ANNOUNCEMENT OF END OF BUDGET PUBLIC HEARING
Mayor Vandergrift declared the end of the budget public hearing.
Mayor Vandergrift declared Emergency Items to be acted upon in this meeting.
Commissioner Anderson, seconded by Commissioner Johnson, moved to adopt Emergency
Items D, E 1&2, and F. Motion carried 5-0
TRAVEL CONTINGENCY
City Manager Gleason stated $1,500.00 needed to be transferred from contingency account to
commission travel/training account to cover outstanding invoices.
Commissioner Anderson, seconded by Commissioner Howell, moved to transfer $1,500.00
from contingency to commission travel/training. Motion carried 5-0.
GRANTS
Community Relations/Projects Director Shira stated that the West Orange YMCA, Ocoee
Jr./Sr. Football League, West Orange High School Choir, and Sleepy Harbour Homeowners
Association have made for grant requests from the City of Ocoee.
YMCA
Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Anderson, moved to approve grant of
$1,000.00 to The West Orange YMCA . Motion carried 5-0.
SLEEPY HOUROUR HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
Commissioner Parker stated she feared if the city donates money towards a homeowners
association wall, other homeowners associations will come before the city next year for
donations. Discussion ensued.
Tom Slimmick, treasurer Sleepy Harbour Homeowners Association, stated residents have
donated approximately $27,000.00 towards the wall in the subdivision. Discussion ensued.
Norma Bell, address unknown, asked what part the builder played regarding building the wall
in the subdivision. Discussion ensued.
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Final Budget Special Session
September 24,2001 vv
Commissioner Anderson, seconded by, Mayor Vandergrift, moved to approve grant of
$1,261.25 to Sleepy Harbour Homeowners Subdivision. Motion Carried 3-2 with
Commissioners Parker and Howell voting no.
Smitty Branch, 428 East Lakeshore Drive, thanked the Mayor and Commissioners for
granting Sleepy Harbour Homeowners the money towards the wall. Mr. Branch further
stated his is very proud of Ocoee and he is proud to see the flags flying on Bluford Avenue.
Mayor Vandergrift stated he would like to see flags flying on Clarke Road. Public Works
Director Smith stated not only are flags not available but there is also the cost of the brackets
to take into consideration. Community Relations/Projects Director Shira stated that once
Founders' Day is over, flags or banners can be used in the same brackets that were used for
Founders' Day. Discussion ensued.
Mayor Vandergrift, seconded by Commissioner Parker, moved to purchase $2,000.00
worth of flags/banners from contingency in Fiscal Year 2001-2002. Motion carried 5-0.
OCOEE JR./SR. FOOTBALL LEAGUE
Max Jacobs, 2247 Mt. Spruce Street, stated when the Ocoee City Commission takes each
grant into consideration there should not be any issues with approving community projects
while also balancing the budget.
Commissioner Anderson stated that in the past he has requested that groups requesting monies
should volunteer to assistant with Founders' Day. City Manager Gleason stated that most
school sports are played on Saturdays, so they would be unavailable to assist with Founders'
Day. Commissioner Parker stated they should help clean up trash Sunday after Founders'
Day. Commissioner Anderson stated he would make the motion if the motion included
cleaning up Sunday after Founders' Day.
Commissioner Anderson, seconded by Commissioner Parker, moved to approve the
$500.00 grant to Ocoee Jr./Sr. Football League with the provision that they volunteer to clean
up Sunday after Founders' Day. Motion carried 5-0.
Michael Miller, 1305 Ridgefield Drive, stated he would like to better understand the
"emergency items" that are being discussed tonight and last thing he would like to see is the
city spend money to end the year when there could be a money shortage next year. He asked
if the city is spending money to spend money or are these true "emergency items?" City
Manager Gleason stated that these items had to be called "emergency items" due to the fact
that they were not on the original agenda when posted and the commission would not meet
again until the next fiscal year.
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Final Budget Special Session
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September 24,2001
WEST ORANGE HIGH SCHOOL CHOIR
Commissioner Parker, seconded by Commissioner Anderson, moved to approve the
250.00 grant to the West Orange Choral Program with the provision they volunteer to help
before, during or after Founders' Day. Motion carried 5-0.
COMMISSION COMMENTS
Commissioner Anderson thanked staff for the best budget year yet and said it went smoother
than any budget he has been involved in.
Commissioner Parker stated the City of Ocoee has run at the world class level.
Commissioner Anderson stated this would be Peggy Psaledakis's last budget and wished her
the best.
Public Works Director Smith, on behalf of the General Employees Pension Board, thanked
the mayor and commissioners for funding the $100.00 supplement. He further stated during
the last budget hearing, he asked a question and others took his comment as insulting and that
was not his intent. He apologized for any misunderstanding.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 8:41 p.m.
APPROVED:
Attest: City of Ocoee
Brenda Maxwell, Administrative Assistant II S. Scott Vandergrift, Mayor
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