HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 01 Approval of the Minutes for the Budget Workshop Meeting held August 12, 2020 and the Regular City Commission Meeting held August 18, 2020
Budget Workshop
OCOEE CITY COMMISSION
Ocoee Commission Chambers
150 North Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee, FL
August 12, 2020 MINUTES 6:00 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER - 5:59 PM
Mayor Johnson announced the following, “Due to COVID-19 this meeting is closed to the public
and is subject to change based on the Governor’s Executive Order. Public comments are not heard
at the Budget Workshops. Residents are encouraged to watch the workshops on Spectrum Channel
493 with a live stream at www.ocoee.org/197/Ocoee-TV. Information on the City’s budget can be
found on the City’s website at www.ocoee.org.”
Mayor Johnson opened the workshop meeting.
Present: Mayor Johnson, Commissioner Brinson, Commissioner Wilsen, Commissioner Firstner,
Commissioner Oliver
Also Present: City Manager Frank and City Clerk Sibbitt
FY 20/21 Budget Overview - Finance Director Roberts - 6:01 PM
Finance Director Roberts provided a PowerPoint presentation summarizing the Proposed Budget
for FY 2020-2021. Budget Highlights in the presentation covered:
Fiscal Sustainability
Economic Highlights
Proposed Budget
Millage Calculation
Revenue/Expenditure Summary
General Fund Revenues/Expenditures
New Positions and Personnel Changes
Capital Projects, Vehicles & Equipment
During her PowerPoint presentation, Finance Director Roberts addressed and clarified questions
regarding the $13 million bond revenue reflected in the 2020 fiscal year.
Discussion - 6:15 PM
Mayor Johnson inquired if there were any questions pertaining to any area of the budget, then he
would like to begin with those questions. He opened the discussion in the order of the seating
arrangement, and began with Commissioner Brinson.
Commissioner Brinson shared questions he had under the Staffing Plans for FY 2020/2021 on
pages 2-6 and 8 with regard to position classifications. All questions were addressed by City staff.
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Ocoee City Commission Budget Workshop
August 12, 2020
Commissioner Wilsen inquired in which line item was the Contingency Fund budgeted. Finance
Director Roberts shared it is under Operating Expenses - Account 4900 on page 83.
Commissioner Firstner shared a question he had on page 17 under the Capital Request for
Support Services Department regarding the New City Hall tech-based training facility. Support
Services Director Butler addressed his question. He further confirmed with Police Chief Brown
that the boat with trailer budgeted on page 19 was a replacement. Public Works Director Krug
provided clarification on his question regarding the $1 million for Master Plan Project
Improvements located on page 28. Further clarification was provided by staff on Commissioner
Firstner’s questions regarding the CIP Annual Museum Exhibit Display (page 39), Revenues from
Parks (page 40), and Police Impact Fees (page 48).
Commissioner Oliver shared concerns with regard to the salaries, not to include benefits, of the
Elected Officials as they do not have a job description or structure to determine their salary. City
Manager Frank shared staff is not able to provide a matrix; however, an experienced consultant
can be hired to do the type of matrix he is requesting, but he is not aware of the cost. Mayor
Johnson briefly explained the history of their current salary. Commissioner Oliver inquired on
the process to add a line item to hire a consultant. City Manager Frank advised this is the
opportunity for discussion, but at the hearing they may take action on how to proceed.
Commissioner Oliver shared concerns with regard to reclaim water being budgeted for
installation at Wellington Place. Assistant Utilities Director Croteau shared that Wellington
Place is on the reclaim water schedule for installation in 2024 and can be found on page 44. She
explained the AD Mims/Johio Shores Road transmission extension that is needed prior to
installation at Wellington Place.
Commissioner Oliver inquired if the sidewalks for Ingram Road made it into the budget. City
Manager Frank shared that the two requests for Ingram Road were the street lights and sidewalks.
There is not enough in the budget to do both, but the Commission can choose which they would
like to start this upcoming budget and which requests can wait until the following budget cycle.
Discussion ensued regarding temporary lighting. Commissioner Oliver requested that City staff
add sidewalks, with reflectors, to Ingram Road to this year’s budget, and that street lights can be
added in the following budget.
Commissioner Oliver inquired about funding for speed tables. City Manager Frank explained
there is funding, and once the subdivision is approved based on the traffic study with the required
60% signatures, the Commission can move forward with providing approval for installation.
Commissioner Oliver shared he has heard from Brynmar, Prairie Lake, and Waterside requesting
speed tables.
Commissioner Oliver confirmed the $60,000 on page 18 was for the recording studio roof.
Discussion ensued regarding the current lease on the building, and if an alternate roof option could
be considered.
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Ocoee City Commission Budget Workshop
August 12, 2020
Commissioner Oliver shared on page 24 under Street Operations there is funding for re-paving
of Waterside, and inquired if the speed tables could be added at the same time. Public Works
Director Krug explained why it is unfavorable to place speed tables when re-paving a road.
Commissioner Oliver inquired about the $50,000 Miscellaneous Project not defined on page 29
under CRA. Finance Director Roberts advised that the CRA budget has not been approved yet,
so it is difficult to answer the specifics of that budget.
Finance Director Roberts addressed Commissioner Oliver’s question about the clean-up of the
old gun range which is currently unfunded.
Commissioner Oliver inquired what the Rogers Property was on page 40. City Manager Frank
answered. He further inquired about the two line items for Clarke Road listed on page 41.
Development Services Director Rumer answered.
Commissioner Oliver shared he is looking for a budget line item for annual infrastructure mailers
as was done this past year. City Manager Frank answered that money can be found to budget
this request as it was supported by the City Commission. Commissioner Wilsen confirmed it was
a mailer that encompassed all districts. It was answered in the affirmative.
Mayor Johnson shared he feels the City’s budget is great, and all the employees have worked
hard to get the City to its current financial state. He further addressed the comment with regard to
the salary of Commissioners advising there is documentation on how that was presented and voted
on. He advised research has already been conducted to show how much neighboring Cities are
paying their Elected Officials. He further shared his feelings on the request for a salary increase.
Mayor Johnson briefly commented on Rogers Park, Ingram Road Improvements, and the City’s
positive outlook for this upcoming fiscal year.
Commissioner Wilsen commented on the City’s unemployment rate, and shared it is the
responsibility of the Elected Officials to be sure the City is fiscally responsible. Therefore, they
should be looking at what is needed versus what is wanted. She shared she has no intentions of
changing the salaries for the Elected Officials, and stated her reasons why.
Commissioner Brinson shared that he agrees that the residents feel strongly about the salaries
they are paid, but he also had residents who are astonished by the amount they are paid for all the
work they do and the budget they oversee. He commented on the salary increase for the City staff
on page 63. Discussion ensued regarding the 3% increase across the board for all general
personnel. Finance Director Roberts confirmed the 3% increase, and provided clarification on
the personnel leave pay out that is allowed for some long term employees. General discussion
ensued regarding the benefits and salaries of the Elected Officials.
Commissioner Brinson inquired on the status of the new City Hall. Assistant Utilities Director
Croteau answered his question. Brief discussion ensued regarding cost of construction.
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Ocoee City Commission Budget Workshop
August 12, 2020
Mayor Johnson inquired if the next budget workshop was needed, a consensus of the City
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Commission was to cancel the August 19 Budget Workshop. It was announced the
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Tentative Budget Public Hearing is scheduled for September 9 at 6:00 PM, and will be hosted
virtually, but is subject to change based on the Governor’s Executive Order.
Prior to adjournment a brief discussion ensued regarding Blue Jay Way.
IV. ADJOURNMENT - 7:51 PM
APPROVED:
Attest: City of Ocoee
_______________________________ _____________________________
Melanie Sibbitt, City Clerk Rusty Johnson, Mayor
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MINUTES
REGULAR CITY COMMISSION MEETING
AUGUST 18, 2020
CALL TO ORDER - 6:15 PM
Mayor Johnson called the regular session to order at 6:15 PM in the Commission Chambers of
City Hall. The invocation was led by Mayor Johnson, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to
the Flag led by Commissioner Firstner. City Clerk Sibbitt called the roll and declared a quorum
present.
Present: Mayor Johnson, Commissioner Brinson, Commissioner Wilsen, Commissioner
Firstner, Commissioner Oliver
Also Present: City Manager Frank, City Attorney Crosby-Collier, City Clerk Sibbitt
PRESENTATIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS - 6:16 PM
Proclamation ~ West Orange Healthy Selfie Day, proclaimed by Mayor Johnson and provided
to a representative from Healthy West Orange prior to the meeting.
Financial Presentation - Don Sproat, Representative from Robert Half, addressed the City
Commission with regard to providing services of operational audit. At the conclusion of his
presentation he addressed questions from the Commission with regards to the credentials of his
agency; and further, explained the differences and benefits of an operational audit versus a
financial audit.
STAFF REPORTS AND AGENDA REVIEW - None
COMMISSIONERS ANNOUNCEMENTS - 6:28 PM
Commissioner Firstner – None
Commissioner Wilsen – None
Commissioner Brinson – None
Commissioner Oliver – None
Mayor Johnson – Announced the following:
1) All interested parties are invited to be heard during the public comments and public hearing
portion of the meeting. Due to the current State of Emergency regarding COVID-19, City Hall is
closed to the public and is subject to change based on the Governor’s Executive Order; however,
the City requests the public to call or email comments and/or questions to 407-554-7118 or
citizens@ocoee.org.
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2) The Tentative Budget Public Hearing is Wednesday, September 9 at 6:00 PM and the Final
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Budget Public Hearing is Wednesday, September 23 at 6:00 PM. Both meetings will be
broadcast live on Spectrum Channel 493 with a Livestream on the City’s website at Ocoee.org,
and all interested parties are invited to be heard during the public comments and public hearing
portion of that meeting.
Regular City Commission Meeting
August 18, 2020
COMMENTS FROM CITIZENS/PUBLIC
No speaker reservation forms, telephone calls or emails were received.
CONSENT AGENDA - 6:30 PM
Consent Agenda Motion
Motion: Move to adopt the Consent Agenda Items #1 - #7 with Items #3 and #4
being pulled for discussion and separate consideration.
Moved by Commissioner Wilsen, seconded by Commissioner Firstner; Motion
carried 5-0.
1. Approval of the Minutes for the Regular City Commission Meeting held July 21, 2020.
(City Clerk Sibbitt)
Approved on Consent. Motion carried 5-0.
2. Ratification of Appointment of Fifth Trustee to the Police Officers’ and Firefighters’
Retirement Trust Fund Board of Trustees. (City Clerk Sibbitt)
Trustees for the Pension Board serve four-year terms. Two (2) of the trustees are appointed by the City
Commission, two (2) are elected from the employee body, and the fifth trustee is chosen by those four (4)
trustees and presented to the City Commission to ratify the appointment as a ministerial act. At their meeting
dated August 5, 2020, the Pension Board appointed Joe Moy to complete a term, formerly held by Trey
Littlefield, as fifth trustee to expire on September 30, 2021.
Approved on Consent. Motion carried 5-0.
3. Approval of New Appointment to the Code Enforcement Board. (City Clerk Sibbitt)
The Code Enforcement Board was created by Ordinance No. 741 on June 16, 1981. The purpose of this Board
is to review infractions of the City Technical Codes, negotiate compliance and impose fines for failure to
comply. The Code Enforcement Board is to have seven (7) regular members and two (2) alternate members
with a three-year term. Currently, the Board has six (6) regular members and zero (0) alternate members. An
application has been received by Michael Stewart who has shown an interest in being appointed to the Code
Enforcement Board as a regular member for a term ending June 2023. At this time there are no other
applications on file for this board.
Commissioner Wilsen shared that there is no representation from District #3, and felt
representation from all the districts should be encouraged when considering appointment to
advisory boards. Commissioner Firstner commented that he did not have any residents in his
district interested, but he would try to encourage residents in his district to volunteer.
Commissioner Wilsen noted there are two (2) alternate member vacancies and hopes the
positions can be filled by a District #3 resident.
Motion: Move to Approve Item #3. Moved by Commissioner Wilsen, seconded by
Commissioner Firstner; Motion carried 5-0.
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Regular City Commission Meeting
August 18, 2020
4. Approval for Declaration of Surplus Property for Fiscal Year 2019/2020. (Purchasing
Manager Tolbert)
The City is currently under contract with George Gideon Auctioneers (Gideon), Zellwood, Florida, for the
public sale of the City’s surplus property, which piggybacks Lake County’s terms and conditions. These items
are identified on the surplus list as ID Code “G”. The surplus items will be delivered to the Gideon property
located at 2753 N. Hwy. 441, Zellwood, FL 32798. The public inspection of items at the auction site is during
business hours from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. A link to the City’s surplus auctions on Gideon’s auction site will
be placed on the City’s website. The notice of auction will be advertised in the Orlando Sentinel, the West
Orange Times, and the City’s website.
Mayor Johnson inquired if this could be pulled so he may speak with City staff. After brief
discussion to confirm there would be no issues to pull this item, it was shared that this could be
brought back in two weeks as the auctioneers are hosting their auctions online.
Commissioner Oliver inquired if the reason for pulling this item could be disclosed. Mayor
Johnson advised he would speak with City staff, and staff could then inform the Elected Officials
individually.
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Motion: Move to pull Item #4 but have it brought back to the September 1 Regular
City Commission Meeting. Moved by Commissioner Wilsen, seconded by
Commissioner Firstner; Motion carried 4-1 with Commissioner Oliver opposing.
5. Approval of the Certification of Non-Ad Valorem Assessment Roll for Solid Waste
Inclusion on the Orange County Tax Roll for Fiscal Year 2020/2021. (Public Works
Director Krug)
The City commission approved Resolution No. 2006-003 to provide for collection of Solid Waste fees through
the annual Orange County tax roll. The agreement between City of Ocoee and Orange County Tax Collector
requires the City to annually certify the non-ad valorem assessment roll by September 15th. The fiscal year
2020/2021 tax roll for Solid Waste calculates revenue to be $3,633,759.80. This is based upon the residential
Solid Waste fee which has been increased 1.4% per adopted Resolution No. 2019-013 from $264.00 to
$267.70 annually. This is an increase of $177,471.80 from the current year and is attributed to the rate increase,
annexations and new homes.
Approved on Consent. Motion carried 5-0.
6. Approval of the Certification of Non-Ad Valorem Assessment Roll for Stormwater
Inclusion on the Orange County Tax Roll for Fiscal Year 2020/2021. (Public Works
Director Krug)
The City commission approved Resolution No. 2006-003 to provide for collection of stormwater fees through
the annual Orange County tax roll. The agreement between City of Ocoee and Orange County Tax Collector
requires the City to annually certify the non-ad valorem assessment roll by September 15th. The fiscal year
2020/2021 tax roll for Stormwater calculates revenue to be $3,580,010.86. This is an increase of $132,703.32
from the current year and is attributed to annexations, new homes and commercial development.
Approved on Consent. Motion carried 5-0.
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Regular City Commission Meeting
August 18, 2020
7. Approval of the Annual Fire Protection Special Assessment Resolution and
Certification of Non-Ad Valorem Assessment Tax Roll for Fire Protection Assessment
for Fiscal Year 2020/2021. (Support Services Director Butler)
The City Commission approved Ordinance 2013-010 to provide for collection of fire protection assessments
as a special non-ad valorem assessment on the annual Orange County tax bill. The assessment is based on
building occupancy hazard factors and the area under roof to determine the number of Fire Protection Units
(FPUs) for each property. The number of FPUs is then multiplied by the Applied Assessment Rate to get the
amount of the special assessment. Section 197.3632, Florida Statutes, requires the City to certify the Tax Roll
for the fire protection assessments by September 15th. A resolution to certify the tax roll is the only mandatory
element of the annual fire protection special assessment implementation process.
Approved on Consent. Motion carried 5-0.
PUBLIC HEARING - 6:40 PM
8. Public Hearing to Adopt the Annual Code Enforcement Abatement Special
Assessment Resolution and Certification of Non-Ad Valorem Assessment Tax Roll for
Abatement Costs Recovery for Fiscal Year 2020/2021. (Advertised in the West Orange Times
on Thursday, August 6, 2020.) (Support Services Director Butler)
Section 115-1 of the City Code of Ordinances established the geographic limits of the City of Ocoee as a
special assessment district in which the City Commission is authorized to levy a non-ad valorem assessment
against properties within that limit where the City of Ocoee has taken action related to abating nuisances and
where the City has not been reimbursed for such abatements. Resolution No. 2017-003 requires the City
Commission to annually adopt a resolution certifying a non-ad valorem assessment tax roll to recover the
unpaid costs of code enforcement abatements following a public hearing to be held on the issue prior to
September 15 of each year. There are presently eight (8) properties that will be assessed to recover the costs
of abatements performed by the City. The owners of each of these properties were notified by first-class mail
of the non-ad valorem assessment to be levied against the property and of the scheduled public hearing at
which the City Commission would consider the issue.
Support Services Director Butler briefed the City Commission on the collection of abatement
costs utilizing the special assessment process. He shared that two of the eight properties have
already paid their abatement costs.
Assistant City Attorney Crosby-Collier read the title of the resolution.
The public hearing was opened. No speaker reservation forms, telephone calls, or emails were
received, the public hearing was closed.
Motion: Move to adopt Resolution No. 2020-007, the Annual Code Enforcement
Abatement Special Assessment Resolution and Certification of Non-Ad Valorem
Assessment Tax Roll for Abatement Costs Recovery for Fiscal Year 2020/2021;
Moved by Commissioner Oliver, seconded by Commissioner Wilsen; Motion
carried unanimously.
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Regular City Commission Meeting
August 18, 2020
9. Public Hearing for Comfort Inn/Mainstay Suites, 11409 West Colonial Drive -
Preliminary/Final Site Plan (PSP/FSP); Project No.: LS-2020-007. (Advertised in the West
Orange Times on Thursday, August 6, 2020.) (Zoning Manager Gajadhar)
The subject property is approximately 3.17 acres and located on the north side of West Colonial Drive (SR
50), on the southeast side of Marshall Farms Road. The Preliminary/Final Site Plan is a joint project consisting
of a six-story, 75,000 square foot, 120-room Comfort Inn and Mainstay Suites hotel, and a one-story restaurant
to be developed in phase two of the project at a future time. The facility will have two access points, one on
West Colonial Drive, and the other off Marshall Farms Road. Consistent with City policy, the wetlands/flood
zones and associated upland buffers will not be developed to the northeast and east of the property. Water,
sanitary sewer, reclaimed water, solid waste, and police & fire protection will all be provided by the City of
Ocoee. Stormwater retention will be provided on-site and constructed by the applicant as part of the project.
The Applicant has requested waivers from the Land Development Code for the maximum building height,
front building setback, minimum parking space requirement, maximum pond side slope, and drive aisle width.
Zoning Manager Gajadhar presented an overview of the Preliminary/Final Site Plan for the
Comfort Inn/Mainstay Suites. The Applicant has requested waivers from the Land Development
Code for the maximum building height, front building setback, minimum parking space
requirement, maximum pond side slope, and drive aisle width. Stormwater retention will be
provided on-site, and constructed by the applicant as part of the project.
The public hearing was opened. No speaker reservation forms, telephone calls, or emails were
received, the public hearing was closed.
City Staff addressed questions from the Commission with regard to building height and access
points onto the property.
Motion: Move to approve the Comfort Inn/Mainstay Suites, 11409 West Colonial
Drive - Preliminary/Final Site Plan (PSP/FSP); Project No.: LS-2020-007 as
presented by City staff; Moved by Commissioner Firstner, seconded by
Commissioner Brinson; Motion carried 4-0 with Mayor Johnson abstaining. (Form
8B is filed with the City Clerk’s Department.)
10. Public Hearing for CLRM Planned Unit Development (PUD), McCormick Road
Property - Preliminary Subdivision Plan (PSP); Project No.: LS-2020-005. (Advertised in
the Orlando Sentinel on Sunday, August 9, 2020) (Development Services Director Rumer)
The subject site is approximately 212.3 acres in size and is located south of E. McCormick Road and west of
N. Apopka Vineland Road. This PUD is a planned residential subdivision that proposes a total of 377 single-
family residential lots with a requested density of 2.21 units per acre. There are three (3) lot sizes proposed
within the Preliminary Subdivision Plan and approved by the PUD: 40’ x 120’, 50’ x 120’, and 60’ x 120’.
The PUD has a minimum living area set at 1,200 square feet. The development is proposed to be developed
in four (4) phases. The subject subdivision will have two (2) access points on McCormick Road, which is an
Orange County Maintained Road. A 30-foot-wide strip of land adjacent to McCormick Road will be dedicated
to Orange County for a future trail extension. The Plan provides for significant buffering along McCormick
Road with a decorative three (3) rail fence.
Development Services Director Rumer presented an overview of the Preliminary Subdivision
Plan for CLRM Planned Unit Development (PUD).
The public hearing was opened.
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Regular City Commission Meeting
August 18, 2020
The following person(s) addressed the City Commission by telephone or email:
Jeanne Sweazy, resident, called to inquire if fencing would be placed between her property and
the CLRM property. She further inquired how much property would be left undisturbed between
her property and the CLRM property. The applicant addressed her comments.
The public hearing was closed.
City staff and the applicant addressed questions from the Commission with regard to
transportation study, school capacity, and proposed single-family lots.
Motion: Move to approve CLRM Planned Unit Development (PUD), McCormick
Road Property - Preliminary Subdivision Plan (PSP); Project No.: LS-2020-005 as
presented by City staff; Moved by Commissioner Wilsen, seconded by
Commissioner Brinson; Motion carried 4-1 with Commissioner Oliver opposing.
FIRST READING OF ORDINANCES – PUBLIC HEARING - 7:29 PM
11. First Reading of Ordinance to Consider the Public-School Facilities Element Large
Scale Comprehensive Plan Amendment; Project No: CPA-2020-002. (Advertised in the
West Orange Times on Thursday, August 6, 2020. Date of Second Reading Contingent on Approval of DEO.)
(Development Services Director Rumer)
Public Schools Facilities Element Objective 1.3, of the City of Ocoee Comprehensive Plan, establishes that
the City and Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) shall develop and maintain throughout the planning period
a joint process for the implementation of School Concurrency. Presently, any requested Comprehensive Plan
amendment and/or rezoning within the City that entails a proposed increase in residential density must undergo
a capacity review by OCPS. If there is insufficient capacity at an impacted elementary, middle, and/or high
school, the prospective developer and OCPS must enter into a Capacity Enhancement Agreement (CEA).
House Bill 7103, signed into law on June 28, 2019, and effective as of July 1, 2019, now requires a credit
against school impact fees on a dollar-for-dollar basis for any such contribution. This means OCPS would not
receive any additional monies to mitigate the impacts of additional students generated by the increased
residential density. At the June 23, 2020, School Board meeting, OCPS issued a Declaration Relating to the
HB 7103 Impact on School Overcrowding Mitigation. That Declaration declares that OCPS will no longer
enter into CEAs, but will only certify whether school capacity exists. Therefore, any project which was
required to apply for a CEA on or after July 1, 2019, is on hold. Currently, there are a total of 18 projects,
countywide, and one (1) within the City of Ocoee (Ocoee Village Center) that have been placed on hold since
July 1, 2019. To resolve the present impasse, staff from Orange County and other municipalities within Orange
County are proposing amendments to Public Schools Facilities Elements to help rectify the situation. If the
proposed text amendment is approved, the amended policy will require City staff, in its review of any
developer-initiated Comprehensive Plan amendment or rezoning petition that would increase residential
density, to seek input from OCPS regarding the existence of sufficient school capacity at the public schools
that would serve the development.
Development Services Director Rumer presented an overview of the proposed text amendment
to the Public-School Facilities Element Large Scale Comprehensive Plan Amendment.
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Regular City Commission Meeting
August 18, 2020
City staff addressed questions from the Commission with regard to school capacity threshold and
how it is calculated.
Assistant City Attorney Crosby-Collier read the title of the Ordinance.
The public hearing was opened. No speaker reservation forms, telephone calls, or emails were
received, the public hearing was closed.
Motion: Move for Transmittal of Ordinance No. 2020-019 for the Public-School
Facilities Element Large Scale Comprehensive Plan Amendment; Project No: CPA-
2020-002 to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity and other reviewing
agencies, if applicable, for review and comment; Moved by Commissioner Wilsen,
seconded by Commissioner Brinson; Motion carried unanimously.
SECOND READING OF ORDINANCES – PUBLIC HEARINGS - None
REGULAR AGENDA - 7:47 PM
12. Approval of the Seventh Amendment to the Development and Economic Incentive
Agreement for City Center West Orange – Phase 1. (Development Services
Director Rumer)
A request for a Seventh Amendment to the Agreement is being requested as the Developer has made
significant progress in constructing the infrastructure of the site and has submitted Building Plans for the
Parking Garages, and is finishing the foundation work. The requested amendment will facilitate the following:
i) adjust the time frame for which the City’s responsible for providing the cost share payment for public
stormwater from the Maine Street Pond. The Owner has completed and received a certificate of completion
from the City for completion of the Maine Street Retention Pond. The parties agree that the City shall pay to
Owner a cash payment of $417,002.00 as identified and agreed to in the Agreement and shall be paid out of
the City’s Stormwater Fund within thirty (30) days of the Effective Date of this Amendment; and ii) extend
from October 2022 to October 2023, deferral and payment dates for Sewer and Water Capital Charges,
Deferral of Transportation Impact fees, and the provisions for Building Plan Review fees.
Development Services Director Rumer explained the Seventh Amendment to the Agreement is
being requested as the Developer has made significant progress in constructing the infrastructure
of the site, has submitted Building Plans for the Parking Garages, and is finishing the foundation
work.
John Amm, City Center West Orange (CCWO), provided a brief presentation overview of the
foundation work for the building pads, and the completed infrastructure for the site.
Commissioner Oliver thanked Mr. Amm and City staff for the completion of the infrastructure.
Motion: Move to Approve the Seventh Amendment to the Development and
Economic Incentive Agreement for City Center West Orange – Phase 1. Moved by
Commissioner Oliver, second by Commissioner Wilsen. Motion carried
unanimously.
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Regular City Commission Meeting
August 18, 2020
13. Discussion of an Unsolicited Offer from GPK Investments to Develop a Two-Story
Commercial Building on City-Owned Property Located at 2 North Bluford. (Assistant
City Manager Shadrix)
During recent weeks, another unsolicited proposal has presented an opportunity for the City Commission to
consider by GPK investments who have made a similar offer, agreeing to design to the City’s downtown
guidelines and constructing an even more aggressive plan than the original. Staff has met with the GPK team
and feels that their plans align with the City’s. The City attorney has prepared a letter agreement that
memorializes that GPK would receive title to the property upon issuance of a certificate of occupancy. The
City would reserve the right to maintain any necessary easements on the property as part of this transaction.
Assistant City Manager Shadrix provided the background summary of the city-owned property
located at 2 North Bluford Avenue, and the unsolicited proposal to build a commercial building
that would include restaurant and office space, and would cost a developer approximately $4 to
$5 million to construct. Earlier this Spring, VMG representatives reached out to the City and
informed of their intention to terminate the agreement with the City. Since that time, the City has
been approached by GPK Investments who have made a similar offer, agree to design per the
City’s downtown guidelines, and to construct an even more aggressive plan than the original.
Staff has met with the GPK team and feels that their plans align with the City’s and merit a similar
agreement with the City. The City attorney has prepared a letter of agreement that memorializes
that GPK would receive title to the property upon issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
Commissioner Wilsen shared that she has spoken with the developer and is very pleased with
the proposed development. Commissioner Brinson inquired about the renderings. Charlie
Vickers, GPK Investments, explained their vision of a live, work, and play development, and
shared they are proposing a three-story commercial building to include restaurants, retail, and
offices. Mr. Vickers further addressed questions from the Commission regarding parking,
retail/restaurant commitments, and additional developments being proposed.
Motion: Move to Accept the Offer from GPK Investments to Develop a Commercial
Building on City-Owned Property Located at 2 North Bluford. Moved by
Commissioner Brinson, second by Commissioner Wilsen. Motion carried
unanimously.
14. Discussion of an Unsolicited Offer from Forges Realty Group to Purchase City-Owned
Property Located at 112 South Bluford Avenue. (Assistant City Manager Shadrix)
In late 2018, the City received an unsolicited offer from Forges Realty Group to purchase the property and the
City held off due to consideration of purchase of adjacent properties. The adjacent parcels under consideration
at the time are no longer available, and Forges Realty Group recently reaffirmed their interest in purchasing
the property at the current appraised value of $195,000. Forges Realty Group, upon purchase, intends to move
the real estate office to the location, including short term renovations and future re-development of the office.
Assistant City Manager Shadrix provided the background summary of the city-owned property
located at 112 South Bluford Avenue. The City purchased these two parcels for a total of $225,000
in 2016. In late 2018, the City received an unsolicited offer from Forges Realty Group to purchase
the property and the City held off due to consideration of purchase of adjacent properties. The
adjacent parcels, which were under consideration at the time, are no longer available and Forges
Realty Group recently reaffirmed their interest in purchasing the property at the current appraised
value of $195,000.
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Regular City Commission Meeting
August 18, 2020
If the City Commission wishes to proceed with this offer, the appropriate step is for the City to
negotiate a contract. Once the contract is negotiated but before execution by the City, the City
would hold an advertised public hearing on the matter. Assuming the City Commission elected
to proceed following such hearing, the City Commission would approve execution of the contract.
The existing appraisal, obtained in 2019, has been deemed legally sufficient by the City Attorney.
Forges Realty Group, upon purchase, intends to move the real estate office to the location, and is
planning short term renovations, and future re-development of the office.
General discussion ensued regarding the appraisal of this property and the parcels for
consideration.
Motion: Move to Accept the Offer from Forges Realty Group to Purchase City-
Owned Property Located at 112 South Bluford Avenue. Moved by Commissioner
Wilsen, second by Commissioner Firstner. Motion carried unanimously.
STAFF ACTION ITEMS - None
COMMENTS FROM CITIZENS/PUBLIC - 8:29 PM
The following person(s) addressed the City Commission by telephone or email:
- Jim Moyer, resident, emailed regarding the Lennar Homes complaints in the Arden Park
subdivision.
Assistant City Manager Shadrix briefed the Commission on the site issues that City staff
worked with Lennar Homes to bring into compliance. Along with Development Services Director
Rumer and Commissioner Oliver, he recently met with residents of Arden Park to listen to their
concerns. There were a number of issues identified which City staff will be looking into, and it
was shared that, as allowed by ordinance, a sign will be placed in Lennar Homes sales center
informing potential buyers that a Builder’s Complaint Log is being held at City Hall for public
viewing. City staff is also reaching out to upper management of the Lennar Homes Central Florida
Office to try and bring about a resolution. Commissioner Oliver confirmed that several solutions
were discussed with regard to the scope in which the City can assist and he is hoping some
resolution will occur with Lennar Homes and the residents of Arden Park North.
COMMENTS FROM COMMISSIONERS - 8:42 PM
Commissioner Oliver – Commented on the following:
1) Shared that he recently spoke with the residents from Wellington Place Subdivision, and
informed them that their reclaimed water pipelines are budgeted for completion during the
2023/2024 FY. He then further shared that this subdivision paid impacts fees for reclaimed water
in 2004 when the homes were built, and requested adding this work into the upcoming budget.
He maintained that they have waited long enough.
2) Shared he recently spoke to unincorporated Orange County property owners about the lake
along Lake Meadows Road, as it is rising again. He verified their concerns, by personally visiting
the locations, and indicated that four farms along the road are indeed flooded. He asked if the
City Engineer could take a trip out to Arden Park North to examine the situation and offer a
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Regular City Commission Meeting
August 18, 2020
solution. He further requested City staff to reach out to Orange County about the different options
available to keep the lake level down.
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3) Requested the Commission’s approval to hold a Virtual Town Hall Meeting on October 8.
Mayor Johnson directed City staff to work with Commissioner Oliver on the logistics.
4) Informed the Orange County Public School Board recently had an emergency meeting
regarding the opening of the school district. He urged parents and students to adhere to the OCPS
procedures to help ensure everyone's safety. He requested City staff to place the OCPS guidelines
and any other information available on the City’s website to help inform the public on how to
keep students safe.
Commissioner Brinson – Commented on the following:
1) Encouraged residents to continue following the CDC guidelines regarding Covid-19, and urged
residents to help each other, in a safe capacity whenever possible.
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2) Acknowledge that today, August 18, was voting day in Central Florida.
3) Urged residents to make sure they are staying hydrated during this time, sharing that the heat
index for the past several days has been over 100°.
4)Disclosed several communities on the northside of town are having water quality issues, and
encouraged those residents to boil water when necessary and use water filters when possible. He
shared he is working with Orange County to address these issues.
5) Conveyed that earlier in the day a tornado touched down in DeLand, and strongly urged
residents to prepare for Hurricane season. He further shared Orange County has Hurricane
preparedness guides available if needed. He offered the few that he had to any resident in need,
asking that they contact him by e-mail.
6) Requested an update from the Human Relations Diversity Board on the 100-year Ceremony of
the Ocoee Massacre.
Commissioner Wilsen – Commented on the following:
1) Reminded residents of the upcoming Budget Hearing dates and times, and encouraged residents
to be involved. She shared Orange County recently sent out the TRIM bill notices, and
acknowledged that currently the Commission has balanced the budget at 5.15 mills, which is less
than what the trim bill currently states. She further shared the City has a very healthy reserve
which is extremely vital during emergency situations. She encouraged comments and questions
from the public starting now.
Commissioner Firstner – Commented on the following:
1) Reiterated the comments shared by Commissioner Wilsen regarding the Budget, and added
that the Commission is working hard with City staff to keep taxes as low as possible while
maintaining the best service possible.
2) Asked that all residents continue taking precautions regarding Covid-19, and shared that
numbers are going down, which is an indication that we are headed in the right direction.
3) Noted that Hurricane season is about to reach its peak in mid-September. He asked everyone
prepare to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours, which will help emergency services in the event
you cannot be reached immediately.
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Regular City Commission Meeting
August 18, 2020
ADJOURNMENT – 8:56 PM
APPROVED:
Attest: City of Ocoee
_______________________________ _____________________________
Melanie Sibbitt, City Clerk Rusty Johnson, Mayor
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