HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem #01 Approval of Minutes
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CITY COMMISSION WORSHOP
RFQ FOR CHARTER SCHOOL CONSULTANT
Ocoee Commission Chambers
150 North Lakeshore Drive
Ocoee, Florida
May 15, 2007
Minutes
6:00 p.m.
I I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Vandergrift called the special session to order at 10: 14 a.m. in the Commission Chambers of
City Hall. City Clerk Eikenberry called roll and declared a quorum present.
Roll Call: Commissioner Hood (absent), Commissioner Anderson, Mayor Vandergrift,
Commissioner Keller (absent), and Commissioner Johnson.
Also present: City Manager Frank, Finance Director Horton, and City Clerk Eikenberry
Mayor Vandergrift opened the Workshop at 5:06 p.m.
Purchasing Agent Tolbert stated that two companies responded to our RFQ and those
companies will be making a presentation before the Commission tonight.
I II. PRESENTATIONS OF RFQ RESPONDENTS BY CITY COMMISSION
5:08 p.m. - 5:17 p.m. In Rem Solutions
Lisa Mulhall and Kathleen Rhodes, of In Rem Solutions, gave a PowerPoint presentation
summarizing the firm's history and experience. She advised that her firm does not operate
Charter Schools, they specialize in collaborating with all parties (leadership team, community
stakeholders, education experts) to put together the first draft of Charter School application that
reflects this communities specific goals, priorities, and objectives for a Charter School.
5:18 p.m. - 5:44 p.m. Charter Schools USA
John Haig and Richard Page, of Charter Schools USA, distributed a hard copy of the PowerPoint
presentation. Mr. Haig advised they run Charter Schools throughout the state and said it is
rewarding to see more and more cities examining the possibility of starting Charter Schools. He
summarized the firm's history and experience. Mr. Page discussed the critical phase of the
process that is required by Charter Schools USA, which is the Demand Analysis and Feasibility
Study which determines if the market is there and if the community is behind it. He advised his
company has done over 30 Demand Analysis and Feasibility Studies, and submitted over 75
applications for Charter School applications. They don't have much experience in the appeals
process for denied applications; he said they are proud to say that they have never been denied a
Charter School application. He said after the application process, then the phases of school
design from construction/architectural design, to putting together various financing models for
different situations such as opening a new school vs. refurbishing an existing facility. He
reviewed the various aspects of Marketing & Enrollment, Strategic Solutions - Growth, School
Operations, Information Technology, Facilities, Strategic Solutions- Operations, Corporate
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Finance and School Finance. Mr. Page introduced Phil Genot of PNG Associates, who they will
be partnering with during the feasibility study part of the process. Mr. Genot said his company's
job is to look at the demand for Charter School stations. The City needs to make sure the seats
will be filled before you consider building a school. They have worked with Charter Schools
USA before, as well as with many other companies. Mr. Page then reviewed the scope of
servIces.
I III. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS FROM COMMISSION
Commissioner Anderson said he thinks we have two different applicants, but only one can help
us through the entire process. He asked In Rem Solutions if they participate in the feasibility
study or just begin at the application phase. Ms. Mulhall said they can help with fact gathering
to determine feasibility, but they do not generally handle the feasibility study.
Commissioner Anderson asked if the timeline was feasible, since the application needs to be
completed by August 1,2007. Mr. Haig said it is aggressive, but it is feasible.
Commissioner Keller asked what would happen if the County turns us down for a conversion.
Ms. Mulhall said that you go to the County armed with the vote from the parents and students. If
they turn you down you go through the appeal process. Mr. Haig said the Florida Schools of
Excellence is in early formation phase and does not even have bylaws yet, but under current
legislation you would have to go the School Board first, and then through the appeal process,
which would allow either the state board or the Florida Schools of Excellence to hear the appeal.
This new agency was meant to hear cases where applications were turned down because the
school district was not open to innovation, but not necessarily to review bad applications.
Commissioner Keller said what drives the City of Ocoee as different in order to qualify for a
Charter School. Ms. Mulhall said that you only have to be committed to education, the
curriculum, the facility, etc.; you don't have to be different from your local district. Mr. Haig
said he agrees that if the demand is there from the community, there is no need to prove that you
will be different from the district schools. You are responding as Commissioners to your
constituents feeling that they are not satisfied with current public schools. There will be some
things that will naturally be different, but that does not need to be the driving force behind
opening a Charter School. He said he does not feel that Orange County School Board will
necessarily turn them down outright. If they do turn you down, and the application was well
done, you will win in the appeal process. Mayor Vandergrift said it is hard to prove we could
be better than the current district, but we can be just as good, and we can build a school that is
not even on their radar screen yet.
Commissioner Anderson asked if we can create a district of just community schools. Mr. Haig
said many cities do that, but you need to consider that the problem has to be defined first and
then the solution needs to be determined. You may want to covert schools, build one new
school, etc. There are new ideas that come up on a regular basis every time a City considers
Charter Schools.
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Commissioner Johnson asked what it would cost to build the schools and where will the money
come from. Mr. Haig said there are two models; Pembroke Pines owns their schools via debt
service. The second model was designed for Palm Bay last year; they owned land and donated it
on 50 year/1 dollar per year lease which provided some equity in the financing; they donated
utilities (water, sewer, and electric) up to the properties so it was "ready for building"; and
provided themselves as a conduit issuer. They allowed themselves to be an issuer but they are
not financially at risk for the debt service from the school. It went to Wall Street and they set up
the bond so debt service has what is called moral obligation; for example the school could be
paying for its debt service by borrowing 22 million on a 30 year fixed at 6% financing rate under
a tax exempt bond debt. That money is being paid for out of the schools revenues per-student
revenue. If, in 10 years, there are not enough students still attending the school to pay that debt,
the City has the first right to review it and to consider taking over the school themselves. If the
city does not want to do that, the debt holders have the right to turn it into something else such as
a medical office building or something that would keep the debt service being paid. This type of
arrangement was possible in Palm Bay because they had the demand, certifiable and verifiable,
so that the investors felt confident that there would be enough students attending to service the
debt service. The investors also look at the management and operation of the school to
determine a level of confidence they had that the school will be there 20+ years from now. If the
demand analysis determines that there will be enough kids in the school to carry the debt service,
Charter Schools USA will bring in the Wall Street money.
Ms. Mulhull said that Pembroke Pines built the buildings and the Charter Schools lease from the
City and that is how they payoff their debt service. They have a campus with three Charter
schools serving 5200 children out of the 25,000 students in Broward County, which is
approximately 25% of the kids. They have a waiting list of about 9,000 kids waiting to get it.
Mayor Vandergrift asked if Pembroke Pines had done any conversion schools. Ms. Mulhull
advised they came up with an innovative solution and opened up a lab school in partnership with
Florida State University, to avoid going to the County to request another charter. They are also
considering opening a technical high school. Mayor Vandergrift said he was there for the
opening oftheir high school and they have a huge campus with 1400 students, library, Olympic-
sized swimming pool, and community college. She said they established an 80-acre Academic
Village and received a grant from the Broward County Cultural Division to help build their
theatre which is shared with Florida International University; they also have a regional library
and Broward Community College has a building on site that serve the kids in the high school.
Mayor Vandergrift said we are looking strongly at the conversions similar to what Lake Wales
has done. Ms. Mulhull said In Rem has not done a full conversion, but they have studied and
analyzed the process through to election preparations in both Leesburg and Pembroke Pines.
Mr. Haig said that Charter Schools USA has not done a conversion; they are familiar with it
from a legislative, political and financial basis, but they have not recommended a conversion to
any cities; they see that as a last resort because of its significant political impact, although there
are reasons for it in some cases. Mr. Page added that they had the experience of taking over a
Charter School (Four comers in Osceola County) from a previous management organization, and
dealt with all of the issues of transitioning an already established school.
Commissioner Hood asked about the methods for doing the Feasibility Study among the
residents and what the time line would be.
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Ms. Mulhull said that working with the client to formulate the survey and conducting the poll
would take approximately one month. That would be an aggressive, but possible, time frame.
The cost for that would be borne by the City, unless there is an organization such as the Chamber
who would like to fund that. The cost varies depending on how many people need to be
contacted.
Mr. Haig said that it generally takes about three weeks. They have a library of surveying
questions already and the City would pick out the questions they would like to use and then they
talk to the City to determine what else needs to be added. They reach the residents by telephone
to get a cross section of the community; they obtain the phone numbers of households with
students so they don't spend time making dead calls. They ask questions that the City needs and
other questions they need such as curriculum, marketing and other issues.
Commissioner Hood asked what the number would be to make it feasible to have a Charter
School. Mr. Haig said whatever number it takes to fill up the type of Charter School being
considered. Commissioner Hood said the residents are going to want to know how much it will
cost them. Mr. Haig said there has to be considerations of what size of school will be created
based on the demand; if the demand is only for 400 students, the City would have to carry a
certain amount of that cost.
Commissioner Anderson said that we have been told that a Charter School would get 90% of
the funds that a normal school would get, how would we fund the other 10%
Ms. Mulhull said the money follows the student; there is a set number from the state that the
City would get on a per-student basis, which is the same as a regular student.
Mr. Haig said on the operating side, it is 95% of the funding on the first 500 students; the rest
would get 100% of the funding. On the capital side, there is a separate formula saying schools
will only get money in its fourth school year from a pool of capital called Charter School Capital
Outlay fund, which is currently at about $63,000,000. That is allocated on an annual basis; this
year it was approximately $750 per student. Then you calculate into your budget models, certain
expended amounts based on cost increases; we have typically calculated 3% - 3.5% cost increase
models that have been correct over the past ten years. How much the residents should expect to
pay depends on many factors: size of school, grades of the school, if land was contributed, type
of financing, etc. At the end of the Feasibility Study, when you have an understanding of your
demand, you should have the answers to the cost questions.
Commissioner Johnson asked how much is it to build the schools, because we won't receive
money for students until the schools are built. For instance, what is the cost for an 800 student
school? Mr. Haig said to build a school that meets commercial standards, not school board
standards, it cost approximately $10,000 per student station. For the building only, it would be
in the range of $8,000,000, which does not include operating cost. He added that if you look at
the way the models of non-for-profit agencies run Charter Schools, which is how the majority of
Charters are run, they are not contributing anything; they are running off of the revenues that are
derived from operating the school. If it is a viable model, it funds itself. We have to wait until
the analysis is done to determine the model that would suit the City. Even though Charters
receive a reduced set of funding, by running more efficiently than the School District does, they
are generally able to pay the debts.
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Mayor Vandergrift said the Ocoee School Advisory Board had a conference call with the Lake
Wales Charter School District superintendent. They are in their third year and it is the first year
they are showing a profit. They converted three schools, but the schools remained in the name of
the School District. They did not pay that bonding for that school because the money was there.
With a conversion, you are not talking about a capital expense. One of the things we need to be
aware of is that we are a supporter of the rest of the school district out of the City of Ocoee to the
tune of about 30% more than what is being spent back here in the City. We won't get that
money, but we can probably better utilize what we do get.
Commissioner Keller said he thinks part of what we are looking to do is bring in a high school
with all four grades. What does that do to the model, if we start with all four grades, rather than
building it up. Mr. Haig said if the school is already filled and you make assumptions that it is
going to stay filled, the school would remain as owned by the Orange County School District and
paid for out of the Orange County system, but the City would have to carry expenses for facility
maintenance. If you build a new school then you would have to carry the debt service. It really
comes down to whether or not you have over-crowded schools or you are reallocating existing
student stations.
Commissioner Anderson said if we have over-crowding and we want to build a school; if they
already have funds allocated to build another school they should build the school and let us
operate it. How much more money does the School District get than the City would get for a
charter school. Mr. Haig said substantially more based on their 2 mil funding, which Charter
Schools are not entitled to under current law. He said he feels, in the future, as Charter Schools
become a more powerful political force, the laws will change.
I III. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS FROM PUBLIC
Sheila Grammar, Ocoee School Advisory Board, asked why it is better to build a new school
than to do a conversion. Mr. Haig said the analysis will drive which way is the best way to go,
but conversion is more difficult because it requires majority support from teachers and parents,
and approval from the School District. This can be very difficult to accomplish. Mayor
Vandergrift spoke about an elementary school near Pine Hills that was trying to convert from a
K through 5 to a K through 8 Charter, and the County fought them on it, and the teachers voted it
down. The next year the County converted that school into a K through 8.
Commissioner Hood asked if Charter Schools USA and In Rem had spoken to the Ocoee
School Advisory Board. Mayor Vandergrift said they had only spoken to the superintendent in
Lake Wales.
Jim McCarthy, 316 Carisbrooke Street, asked what the risk is to the City for a new construction
or a conversion. Mr. Haig said you can reduce the cost to city based on 1) property and 2)
ability to provide conduit financing. The City of Palm Bay carries no debt service liability.
Commissioner Johnson said we need to make a decision so that the Feasibility Study can be
done and we can determine what our needs and costs would be.
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Commissioner Anderson asked since Orange County has become a Charter County, does that
make the rules different for us trying to start a Charter School? Representatives from In Rem
and Charter USA said no the rules are not different.
Commissioner Keller asked if we go with a School district, can we elect a school board to run it
or does the Commission have to run it? Ms. Mulhull said it may depend on the financing that
supports it, but her experience is usually seeing the City Commission governing or turning it
over to a private operator, not a board operating under the Commission. Mr. Haig said they did
that in Palm Bay where they retain ultimate authority, however through ordinance, each member
of commission appoints a resident to be on the board that operates the school. It has worked
very well. The City must retain some authority under state law.
Both companies thanked the city for considering their application.
Mayor Vandergrift asked members of the audience who were here for the entire presentation to
fill out their survey and give it to Ms. Tolbert. He said the Commission will be voting on this in
the Regular Commission Meeting tonight.
The meeting adjourned at 6:46 p.m.
Attest:
APPROVED:
City of Ocoee
Beth Eikenberry, City Clerk
S. Scott Vandergrift, Mayor
MINUTES
CITY OF OCOEE
WORKSHOP ON HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN
May 30, 2007, at 6:00 P.M.
I A. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Vandergrift called the workshop session to order at 6:00 p.m. in the Commission Chambers
of City Hall. City Clerk Eikenberry called roll and declared a quorum present.
Roll Call: Commissioner Hood (absent), Commissioner Anderson, Mayor Vandergrift,
Commissioner Keller, and Commissioner Johnson.
Also Present: City Attorney Rosenthal, City Manager Frank, City Clerk Eikenberry, Human
Resources Director Camicella; Mackie Branham and Ray Tomlinson from Crown Consulting;
and several interested employees.
I B. DISCUSSION REGARDING THE CITY'S HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN.
Human Resources Director Carnicella opened by updating on what has occurred since the last
Insurance Workshop. He said he was asked to work with Crown Consulting on a hybrid option
of the insurance plan. He said they also created a website and email address for employees to
ask questions and approximately 15 employees responded. He noted that a letter had been sent
to the elected officials and the retirees from a prior HR person which was full of incorrect
information. He said he would like the Commission to allow them to come back in four to six
weeks, through the budget process, with hard quotes from the insurance companies on this new
option. He said that Crown has been having discussions with various insurance companies and it
looks very positive that the 18% increase that was originally proposed may be on its way down
to 12-13%. He said he and the City Manager still do not feel that is acceptable. The question
now is do we want to just go ahead and pay the best rate we can negotiate with insurance carriers
or do we want to try to tweak the plan similar to the three options presented here tonight? Are
we in a position to absorb a $300,000 - $500,000 increase for insurance, in conjunction with all
of the other increasing benefits, and with the possibility of lost revenue once state legislators
make their decisions?
Mr. Carnicella distributed and reviewed a table (attached) showing the current plan and three
options for the upcoming year as they would work under United Health Care. Some scenarios
were discussed in order to compare the difference under the various options.
Mayor Vandergrift confirmed with Human Resources Director Camicella and Crown
Consulting that these plans and costs are in conjunction with United Health Care and we are
going to allow other carriers to see this information and try to do better. Mr. Carnicella said we
are now challenging other carriers to compete for our business. Mr. Branham said to keep in
mind that other carriers do not have the same information on our claims as United and would
have to give us an immature quote as opposed to a mature quote. He said you would have to add
12-15 points to the numbers from other carriers to make it "apples to apples." He said a new
carrier may live with their lower quotes for a year, but next year at renewal time they will come
after their "pound of flesh." Human Resources Director Carnicella said we want to try to
figure out how to take the money out of the insurance carriers pocket and keep it in our pocket
and it can be done through funding mechanisms, etc.
Commissioner Anderson said that we left Blue Cross, in part, because of the problems with
Florida Hospital, which have now been resolved. It seems that they would see us as a friendly
customer because of our past long-term relationship. Crown Consulting advised that Blue Cross
is eager to have us back.
Commissioner Anderson asked if the clinic is really being funded by the $681,000. Mr.
Carnicella said we are going to have to ask you to budget for what we think you will spend. If
we recommend the clinic, we would have to fund whatever amount necessary to open the clinic
for 1 - 2 days per week, and then look at the numbers in a year.
Commissioner Anderson asked if the 13% savings shown under Option 3 could be used to fund
the clinic. Mr. Carnicella advised that could absolutely be done that way, but even if we left it
the way it is and funded $250,000 - $300,000 for a clinic it would be cheaper than the 18%
increase being proposed by United at this time to continue the same plan.
Commissioner Keller asked if we had the clinic would that be the "in network" fee schedule
and everything else would be "out of network." Mr. Carnicella said that the clinic would be
totally optional and would be a free service as opposed to going to a regular network or out of
network doctor. Employees may have reasons not to use the clinic but it would be free service
and free prescriptions if they did use it. He added that the quality of doctors that would be there
are certified occupational specialists and some of the best physicians going.
Commissioner Johnson said he would like to wait until July and get the increase down as low
as possible to keep the plan the way it is. We can keep talking about it but we have to look at the
budget this year and what we can do for the employees. Mr. Carnicella said we have been
trying to keep everyone informed and thinks the employees have had a difficult time
understanding because it is a lot of information. It comes down to the City Manager proposing a
balanced budget.
Commissioner Anderson asked Crown Consulting what we see for the future as far as the
transitions from Health Insurance to HMO to Wellness. Can we create a five-year plan that
considers preparing us for the rising cost of health care? Mr. Branham said we can't continue
on plans like Option # 1 where employees are totally insulated from participating in the exposure
of the claims experience. It also involves how the City wants to pay for that risk tolerance and
there are different types of funding mechanisms that you can enter into where you have more
control. The contract options that you enter into are paramount; with fully insured the carrier is
in control of the pooling level and their manuals to the blended rates. The clinic option is a
whole different paradigm shift in the medical community. We are giving free benefits and
control costs at the same time; rather charging more all the time and decreasing benefits. Mr.
Tomlinson said he is glad to hear you talking about a long term plan. You have to find
something that works. What is happening is the medical professionals are the experts in the
clinical side of health care and the insurance companies are experts in the financial side; but the
two are never meeting. A clinic allows the clinical side to be controlled more by the employer.
Weare replicating misery if we continue to do what we have been doing and that is why we are
proposing these options. Mr. Tomlinson said in this election year there is discussion about a
national health care plan and they are watching the trends, but those are not without flaws and
will not come to fruition in the near future.
Nancy Cox, employee, asked why the table shows a 10% savings between Option 1 and Option
2, yet her deductible would be higher. Mayor Vandergrift said the 10% savings shown on the
table is for the City, not the employee. She also asked how she will know how much she is
going to have to pay when she goes to the doctor because people on a budget need to know these
things. She thinks they should consider a co-pay within the HRA plan so that they will not be hit
with unexpected high bills. Mr. Branham said if we include co-pays in HRA the premium
break that we get from the carrier would not be as significant and the City would also have to
reimburse the co-pays inside the HRA component which would be $120,000 in co-pay
reimbursement which defeats the purpose of trying to control the costs. Mr. Carnicella said
Nancy's situation goes to the heart of the difference between the options in the HRA where those
who have a lot of usage will get closer to the out-of-pocket max. Mayor Vandergrift said that
is why he thinks we should look at a smorgasbord where she could choose Option # 1 and other
employees could choose other options. Mr. Carnicella said we could come back with two HRA
plans, one with the deductibles and one without. Ms. Cox also asked what the $1,000 from the
City will cover and what it will not cover. Her doctor is allowed to charge $70, how much of
that is covered. Mr. Branham said, in office visit environment, the first $1,000 will be covered
by the City for to cover the maximum allowable fees previously negotiated with United Health
Care.
Betty Decker, employee, asked what if the employees who are not paying anything paid $10 per
month. Mr. Carnicella said that wouldn't make a dent in the increases being proposed. Mayor
Vandergrift said that is something that can be voted on, whether or not there should be an
employee contribution. She also asked about a plan previously shown at the Employee Meeting,
there was another option for $87,000. Mr. Carnicella said to throwaway those old copies
because they were illustrative and not intended to be relied upon.
Commissioner Anderson asked if we could get the questions on the website arranged so that
everyone could have access to all of the questions and answers. Mr. Carnicella said he had
Frank revise the format so it was easier to find questions and answers and he will send out an
email telling all employees how to find the information.
Police Chief Reffett said at his staff meeting the non-union long-term employees said they came
to work here because the benefits made up for the lower salaries and they are now concerned
because health care costs are increasing so rapidly as well as fuel, cost of living, and other
financial factors.
Mayor Vandergrift closed by saying they are trying to deal with 12% - 18% increased health
insurance cost, as well as revenue cuts from the proposed laws on property taxes, etc. He said
the Commission is here to try to make the best decision for the employees and residents of the
City. At this time we are exploring all avenues available, we will be making a decision in July
during the budget process.
I C. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 7:01 p.m.
Attest:
APPROVED:
City of Ocoee
Beth Eikenberry, City Clerk
S. Scott Vandergrift, Mayor
MINUTES
OCOEE CITY COMMISSION
June 5, 2007 at 7:15 P.M.
6:00 P.M. JOINT WORKSHOP WITH CITY OF OCOEE PENSION BOARDS
REGULAR CITY COMMISSION MEETING
I A. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Vandergrift called the regular session to order at 7:15 p.m. in the Commission Chambers of
City Hall. Commissioner Keller gave the Invocation and Commissioner Hood led the Pledge of
Allegiance to the Flag. City Clerk Eikenberry called roll and declared a quorum present.
Roll Call: Commissioner Hood, Commissioner Anderson, Mayor Vandergrift, Commissioner
Keller, and Commissioner Johnson.
Also Present:
City Attorney Rosenthal, City Manager Frank, City Clerk Eikenberry
I B. PRESENTATIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS
Presentation of Engraved Chair to retiring employee Carolyn Alexander.
Presentation- Congratulations to Ocoee Rookie Braves for their Winning Season.- Coach
Kirkoff
Presentation- by Slade Dukes of Government Services Group, Inc. (GSG) regarding Fire
Assessment Fees
Mayor Vandergrift moved Item #18 up on the agenda to be voted on after the presentation.
18. Contract for Government Services Group, Inc. (GSG) for Implementation of a Fire
Assessment Fee. (Assistant City Manager Croteau)
Slade Dukes of GSG gave a presentation summarizing the process of starting up non-ad valorem
fire assessment fees.
Tom Fleming, 511 Orange Avenue, said this money could be used to help fund the ALS
program by using tax money to start up ALS and use the Fire Assessment to refund the tax base.
RP Monacky, 1820 Prairie Lake Blvd.,
Mayor VanderQrift, seconded by Commissioner Keller, moved to piQQY back with
Alachua County and contract with GSG, to proceed with the fire service
assessment prOQram at a cost of no more than $50,000, to be taken out of funds
as noted in staff report. Motion carried 5-0
I C. COMMENTS FROM CITIZENS/PUBLIC
James Fleming, 511 Orange Avenue, gave an update on the Veteran's Memorial being planned
for the Ison Center and showed various options. He said he is presenting this to the Parks and
Recreation Advisory Board on June 16, 2007, and then he will bring their recommendation back
to the Commission.
I D. COMMISSIONERS ANNOUNCEMENTS
City Commission Regular
June 5, 2007
Commissioner Hood - gave update on Ocoee Little League events. He said he will send
information regarding times and places to Joy Wright.
Commissioner Anderson - asked if we are looking at any of those properties listed on the back
page of the business section, they look like they are doing it through the Transportation
Authority. City Manager Frank said he had not seen those.
Commissioner Johnson - noted that an Ocoee High School student (Smith) won a spot on the
All-American soccer team countrywide. He would like to send a letter to this student
congratulating him.
Commissioner Keller - reminder that June 12,2007, is the vote on the School Rezoning, there
will be a Public Hearing for anyone who wants to add requests or information.
Mayor Vandergrift- 1) said sacs is having a car wash to pay for the Attorney; it will be this
Saturday at Donato's Pizza, beginning at 9:00 a.m., 2) reminded people that State Rep. Nelson
will be here at the Commission Chambers tomorrow night at 6:00 p.m. for a meeting to update
everyone on the property tax reform issues, 3) said he had a letter from the Mayor of Miami
asking us to participate in a US Mayor's Climate Protection Agreement to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions in our city. He added that he would like to see us "think green" on many things. 4)
read an email from resident Henry Morgan, referring to an accident that occurred last night in a
high speed pursuit, in which Ocoee assisted another agency. The resident said these pursuits are
absolutely necessary in order to catch the criminals who have no regard for others property or
safety; he asked the City to urge the legislators to increase penalties for crimes. Mr. Morgan
also noted that now that the handicapped penalty is being increased to the allowable $250, the
City should adamantly enforce those violators.
I E. CONSENT AGENDA
1. Approval and Acceptance of the Regular City Commission Minutes of May 15, 2007
and Special Session Minutes of May 24, 2007. (City Clerk Eikenberry)
Approved on Consent. Motion carried 4-0. with Commissioner Johnson away
from the dais.
2. Appointment to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. (City Clerk Eikenberry)
Members of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board serve two-year terms. The Parks and Recreation
Advisory board currently has nine (9) members and their ordinance allows no more than thirteen (13) members.
One application was received from James Fleming with an interest in serving on the board. There are no
additional applications on file.
Approved on Consent. Motion carried 4-0. with Commissioner Johnson away
from the dais.
3. Appointment to the Ocoee Board of Adjustment. (City Clerk Eikenberry)
Members of the Board of Adjustment serve three-year terms. The Board of Adjustment currently has four (4)
members and allows no more than five (5) regular members and two (2) alternate members. Member Jeffrey
Cox term expires the month of May. He has expressed interest in reappointment for another term. One
application was received from Shahzad Ahmad with an interest in serving on the board. There are no additional
applications on file.
Page 2 of 13
City Commission Regular
June 5, 2007
Approved on Consent. Motion carried 4-0. with Commissioner Johnson away
from the dais.
4. Approval of the Funding Recommendations made by the Community Merit Awards
Review Board. (Community Relations Manager Wright)
The Community Merit Awards (CMA) Board met on May 15,2007 to discuss the 17 applications received
during the April 2007 grant application cycle. The CMA Board expressed that they would like to award various
amounts to 16 organizations. One organization was denied grant funds. The amounts total the $5,000 allocated
for the Community Merit Awards.
Approved on Consent. Motion carried 4-0. with Commissioner Johnson away
from the dais.
5. Approval to Award RFP #07-001 Banking, Treasury Management, and Purchasing
Card Services. (Purchasing Agent Tolbert)
Proposals were solicited from qualifying banks to submit a response to the City of Ocoee Request for Proposals
(RFP) to provide Banking Services for the City of Ocoee. The city will enter into a contract for services including
depository, account maintenance, investment, and capital financing, and purchasing card services.
Approved on Consent. Motion carried 4-0. with Commissioner Johnson away
from the dais.
6. Approval to Award Bid #B07-06 Pioneer Key Regional Stormwater Pond. (Purchasing
Agent Tolbert)
The Engineering Department and Finance Department have reviewed all bids. Staff recommends awarding the
bid to Southern Site Works, Inc. as the most responsive and responsible bidder for the amount of $794,545.65.
The Engineer's estimate for this project was $1,200,000.00, and the budget for this project is $987,500.00 of
which $750,000.00 is from an FDEP grant for construction only. The remaining $44,545.65 for the construction
portion is available from the Stormwater Capital account #6302.
Approved on Consent. Motion carried 4-0. with Commissioner Johnson away
from the dais.
7. Approval of Plat for Prairie Lakes Reserve. (Engineer Howard)
This plat is for the Prairie Lake Reserve development which is 15.87 acres and located on the northeast comer
of Clarke Rd. and A.D. Mims Rd., which consists of 168 townhomes and associated amenities. With all new
developments, the City is requiring the traffic enforcement agreement to be placed into effect at the time of
platting or prior to the construction of homes. Additionally, an agreement is required for upgraded streetlights.
a. Approval of the Plat
b. Approval of the Traffic Enforcement Agreement
c. Approval of the Upgraded Street Lights Agreement
Approved on Consent. Motion carried 4-0. with Commissioner Johnson away
from the dais.
8. Engineering Services for City Hall Stormwater Pond and Starke Lake Improvements.
(Engineer Howard)
Four projects are part of the current fiscal year's production schedule for improvements around the City
Hall/Starke Lake area with total funding of almost $2.2 million. Two Stormwater Management budget projects
will directly affect Starke Lake. The largest of these is the City Hall Regional Stormwater Pond ($1,760,000),
which has received $1,080,000 in grant assistance. The other is stabilization of the lake shoreline ($100,000).
Lakeshore Drive is proposed for relocation and reconstruction as Phase 2 of an overall program of revitalization
for this facility. The Starke Lake Beautification Program, which is part of the Parks & Recreation budget
($125,000), will provide enhancements to the western shoreline facilities used by residents and visitors. These
four projects are tightly interrelated through their impacts on a common area of the city, the need for some
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City Commission Regular
June 5, 2007
components to be done before others, and the need for strong coordination of activities. City engineering staff
recommends approval of Engineering Services in the amount of $120,851.68 to the PEC fIrm in order to
provide timely production of design documents for all four City Hall Campus project components.
Approved on Consent. Motion carried 4-0, with Commissioner Johnson away
from the dais.
Mayor Vandergrift complimented staff for getting $1,080,000 in grant assistance for the
City Hall Regional Stormwater Pond.
9. Change Order #1 with Miller Legg Engineering Services related to the Reserve and
Reflections Reclaimed Water Dist. System Retrofit Projects. (Engineer Howard)
Miller Legg was hired by the City to complete previously begun work to design the reclaimed water distribution
system retrofIts in the Reflections and Reserve subdivisions on Clarke Road. The original authorization
reallocated the $15,453.59 remaining from a 1999 design effort and authorized an additional $11,097.41 to
encumber the total funding required of $26,551. That amount did not include funding for incidental expenses,
which are directly reimbursable charges related to such things as printing, mailing, and travel. Although direct
charges covered by the original purchase order were below budget, the amount of funds remaining is
insufficient to cover all reimbursable costs incurred by Miller Legg. The Engineering Department recommends
that the City Commission approve Change Order No. 1 to close out the project and increase the design
engineering contract by $851.28, with no adjustment in contract time, and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk
to execute the change order. This change order will reallocate previously allocated funds in the amount of
$476.27 and provide a supplement appropriation of $851.28 from the Reclaimed Water System expansion
program.
Approved on Consent. Motion carried 4-0, with Commissioner Johnson away
from the dais.
10. FDOT Memorandum of Agreement, Contract #AM-626, Project ID #413615-6-72-03.
(Deputy Public Works Director Elliott)
The existing contract between FDOT and City of Ocoee for the routine maintenance of the State Lighting,
Maintenance, and Compensation will expire on June 30, 2007. FDOT is requesting renewal of this contract at
$24,259.05. This amount represents a 3% increase from the previous contract period. The term ofthis contract
is from July 1,2007 to June 30, 2008.
Approved on Consent. Motion carried 4-0, with Commissioner Johnson away
from the dais.
11. 10-Year Water Facilities Work Plan - Wekiva Parkway and Protection Act. (Utilities
Director Smith).
Per the Wekiva Parkway and Protection Act, Chapter 368, Part III, Florida Statutes, each effected local
government within the Wekiva Study Area is required to undertake and accept a "IO-Year Water Supply
Facility Work Plan" and amend its comprehensive plan accordingly. SMW GeoSciences, Inc., the City's
geological consultant, and City staff have worked to complete the plan. The plan reviews existing and
alternative water sources and make recommendation for development of future water supply. The
recommendation is to expand the reclaimed water system, develop a goal based conservation plan, continue
with the expansion of raw water wells, participate with the area's preliminary design report for a system area
water supply and incorporate these recommendations into the City's Comprehensive Plan.
Approved on Consent. Motion carried 4-0, with Commissioner Johnson away
from the dais.
12. Construct 18" Raw Water Supply to Lower Floridan Aquifer Well at South Water
Treatment Plant. (Utilities Director Smith). This item was pulled for discussion, and
then voted on with the Consent Agenda as a whole.
The decommissioning of the Jamela Water Treatment Plant included the abandoning of its raw water supply
well. This well's capacity was planned to be recaptured by constructing a new well at either the Forest Oaks or
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City Commission Regular
June 5, 2007
South Water Treatment Plant. Staff is recommending that the new well be constructed at the South Water
Treatment Plant due to its greater future for high-service pumping capacity. The well is proposed to be drilled
to a depth of 1600 ft. and will have a withdrawal rate of 1200 gallons per minute. The City's geotechnical
consultant, SMW GeoSciences, Inc., has recommended that the City employ Diversified Drilling, Inc. for the
well construction; and piggy backing from Diversified Drilling's contract with Collier County. The
construction of the well does not include the motor or pump, nor the associated piping and electrical controls.
Commissioner Anderson asked what the capacity at each plant is right now. Utilities
Director Smith said the combined raw capacity (with two pumps) at each site is
approximately 2200-2400 gallons per minute. Commissioner Anderson asked if it would be
more prudent to put this well on the north side since we have more growth there. Utilities
Director Smith said in our current C.D.P. is a well that is already approved for the south
plant; it also has one small high service pump and two additional pumping pedestals that we
can increase the capacity on. In the new C.D.P. we have requested a new well for the Forest
Oaks Plant. At this time 60-70% of the water comes out of the south plant. The northwest
sector study a few years ago suggested a new treatment plant up there, but they have done
some hydraulic modeling and they are.on recommending that. We are recommending a new
ground storage tanks and a high service pumps on the north side rather than developing well
fields. During the day, when the usage is low, both plants will fill into that tank, and it can
handle the high demands times in the evening or early morning. Commissioner Hood asked
if we should use that money now and get started. Utilities Director Smith said we don't
have the infrastructure there yet, most of that infrastructure will be networks constructed by
development coming in. Mayor Vandergrift said a lot of that development on the north side
of town belongs to Orange County. Utilities Director Smith said there is a big push now to
go to alternative water supply for a regional area. This has been approved in our C.D.P., we
have the money and capability to drill the well; we don't want to lose the capacity that we
had with the J amela. Weare transferring that withdraw capacity to the south plant under
approved permit. We are not sure if we don't drill this well, they won't come back with a
new C.D.P. saying that we can't have any wells. He added that the south plant is also
equipped to handle a lot more thorough treatment capacity. Mayor Vandergrift noted that
Ocoee does not provide service to a large percentage of the north end.
Approved on Consent after discussion. Motion carried 4-0. with
Commissioner Johnson away from the dais.
Consent Aaenda Vote
Commissioner Keller. seconded by Commissioner Johnson. moved to
approve Items #1 throuah #12 on the Consent Aaenda as presented. After
discussion on Item #12. motion carried 4-0. with Commissioner Johnson away
from the dais.
I F. PUBLIC HEARINGS
Ordinance First Readine:
13.0coee Pines (flkla Whispering Pines). (Principal Planner Fabre) (Advertised as Public
Hearing in the Orlando Sentinel on Thursday May 24, 2007, and Thursday June 7, 2007).
a. Land Use Plan / PUD Rezoning Ordinance
Page 5 of 13
City Commission Regular
June 5, 2007
The Ocoee Pines PUD property includes approximately 101 acres of land and is generally located northwest of
Clarcona-Ocoee Road and southeast of Forest Lake Golf Course. The property is currently vacant, wooded and
undeveloped. Based on the recommendation of the DRC and Planning & Zoning Commission, Staff
recommends that the Mayor and City Commissioners approve the rezoning ordinance from Orange County
Agricultural "A-I" to City ofOcoee "PUD" based on the Land Use Plan as date stamped received by the City
on May 25, 2007 and will further recommend approval of the Preliminary Subdivision Plan and Development
Agreement at the Public Hearing for the Second Reading of the Rezoning Ordinance.
City Attorney Rosenthal read the title of the Ordinance.
City Attorney Rosenthal stated that this is not a public hearing, the advertising was
incorrect. The 2nd reading of the Ordinance and Public Hearing will be held on June 19,
2007, at 7:15 p.m. or as soon thereafter as may be heard.
14. Thornebrooke Relief Elementary School. (Advertised as Public Hearing in the Orlando Sentinel on
Thursday, May 24,2007). (principal Planner Rumer)
a. Special Exception
The proposed Thomebrooke Relief Elementary School is located on the east terminus of Tomyn Boulevard,
north of the Cross Creek Subdivision, and west of the Florida Turnpike. The subject property is approximately
13.51 acres in size, zoned C-3 (General Commercial), and is currently vacant. Based on the recommendations of
the DRC and Planning & Zoning Commission, staff recommends that Honorable Mayor and City
Commissioners approve the Special Exception for Thomebrooke Relief School, subject to the attached "Special
Exception Conditions of Approval".
Principal Planner Rumer gave a presentation summarizing the Special Exception and
summarized the five waivers being requested and the Special Exception Conditions of
Approval.
Mayor Pro Tem Johnson opened the Public Hearing.
James Fleming, 511 Orange Avenue, spoke in favor of approval of this item.
Mayor Pro Tem Johnson opened the Public Hearing
Commissioner Hood asked if the additional parking is going to be all grass. Principal
Planner Rumer advised that it will be grass, but it will be stabilized. Commissioner Hood
said he thinks it will be used daily and it should be paved to keep it from looking bad. Mr.
Klima, of Klima Weeks Engineering, representing the School District, said the intention was
an open play area and to serve as possible overflow parking on occasion, not daily use. Mr.
Klima also confirmed that they have met the ADA requirements for handicapped parking
spaces.
Commissioner Hood asked why the city would want the pond, can't we turn it over to the
School District? Mr. Rumer said we have the ownership on the south side so it made sense
to have one fenced area and easy maintenance. He added that the Commission could
recommend it be turned over to the School District.
Commissioner Johnson asked if the School Board is aware that townhomes will be coming
in at the rear of the school and there may be a bus traffic issue. Potential residents should be
made aware. Community Development Director Wagner said they have an agreement
with that developer for emergency access on the south side of the school and a pedestrian
access, so presumably the developer will be disclosing that. The school construction will be
starting soon, so potential townhome buyers will know it is there. City Attorney Rosenthal
said there is no legal requirement for us to provide notice of a school.
Commissioner Hood said he does not want to incur cost on maintaining the retention pond
area and he would still like to see the overflow parking area in the comer paved.
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City Commission Regular
June 5, 2007
Commissioner Keller asked about the fence line; Mr. Klima demonstrated on the overhead
projector where the fence and walls were going to be placed.
Commissioner Anderson asked to see the traffic flow pattern again; Mr. Klima
demonstrated on the overhead projector where vehicles would enter, travel, stack, and exit.
There was discussion regarding the pond which is owned mostly by the City with the
exception of a pie shaped area that is the School District. Mr. Klima said it is on the
southeast comer, it is a wetland feature, not a Stormwater pond, and it does not require
mowing. Community Development Director Wagner said it is a natural area and can be
added to the inventory in the City. Commissioner Hood noted that it is deceiving to show it
as a parks area. Mr. Wagner said parks are not exclusively recreational areas; we have
many natural areas in the city. He said it is probably not needed any more for the recreation
requirement because of the parks recently purchased by the City, but it does add to the
greenspace requirement. He noted that this issue will come back for further discussion later.
Mavor Vanderarift. seconded bv Commissioner Johnson. moved to approve
the Special Exception for Thornebrooke Elementary per staff
recommendations. Motion carried 5-0
15. Meadow Ridge Commercial. (Advertised as Public Hearing in the Orlando Sentinel on Thursday, May
24, 2007). (Senior Planner Howell)
a. Final Subdivision Plan
b. Preliminary / Final Site Plan
Meadow Ridge Commercial is approximately 8.52 acres in size and is located at the southeast comer of the
intersection of Maguire Road and Moore Road; it is the commercial component of the Meadow Ridge PUD.
The Final Subdivision Plan and Preliminary/Final Site Plan proposes the construction of infrastructure for this
development. The proposed site plan is comprised of 7 buildings totaling approximately 91,051 square feet in
area, and consists of uses ranging from a bank, retail, restaurant, and offices. Staff recommends that the
Honorable Mayor and City Commissioners approve the Final Subdivision Plan and Preliminary/Final Site Plan
for Meadow Ridge Commercial, including all five waiver requests with the future requirement that the
developer incorporate provisions in the Covenants which ensure shared parking between parcels.
Senior Planner Howell advised that Pulte Homes submitted a letter today, which has been
distributed on the dais, in support of the project; they are the property to the east.
Senior Planner Howell gave a presentation on the Meadow Ridge Commercial Development.
Commissioner Anderson asked if the restriction of operational hours between 7:00 a.m. to
11 :00 p.m. applies to this PUD. Community Development Director Wagner said that
restriction applies, but it specifies certain types of businesses, it does not include offices, etc.
Commissioner Hood asked about keeping all of the parking spaces. Community
Development Wagner said we reduced the spaces based on use which allowed us to have
more green space. Commissioner Hood said we don't have to sacrifice green space for
parking, we can reduce building space for more green space and parking. Community
Development Wagner said they received feedback from Commission several months back
because we knew there was going to be many waivers on this project; they moved forward in
good faith based on that favorable attitude of the Commission at that time.
Commissioner Keller said we need to make sure handicapped stays the same, even if we
allow the reduction in regular parking spaces.
Mayor Vandergrift opened the Public Hearing
Page 7 of 13
City Commission Regular
June 5, 2007
James Fleming, 511, Orange Avenue, said that with 325 spaces, the handicapped requirement
would be 11 spaces.
Mayor Vandergrift closed the Public Hearing.
City Attorney Rosenthal noted that the plan calls for 13 handicapped spaces. He also noted
the documents we reviewed are not as a condominium project, the plat will be coming back to
them later and there is fee ownership; any individual fee lot could do a condominium for the lot
but the documents are as fee simple.
Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Hood, moved to approve
the Meadow Ridae Commercial Final Subdivision Plan and Preliminary/Final Site
Plan per staff recommendations. Motion carried 5-0.
Commissioner Johnson asked if we had any restaurants going in. Paul Batt, Director of
Construction for Unicorp, said there are two executed leases at this time for a sushi restaurant
and an authentic Italian deli.
I G. REGULAR AGENDA
16. Police Department Reorganization to Include an Additional Deputy Chief's Position.
(Police Chief Reffett)
The police department is asking that an additional deputy chief position be added to the department's rank
structure. An additional deputy chief would enable the police department to be split into two main sections
answerable directly to the chief of police for increased efficiency. Transfer of a maximum of $10,000 from
Communications Salaries (529-1200) to Police Salaries (521-1200) to supplement the increase in salary for the
additional deputy chiefs position.
Chief Reffett summarized the reorganization of positions being requested in the Police
Department.
Mayor Vanderarift, seconded bY Commissioner Johnson, moved to approve the
Police Department reoraanization to include an additional Deputy Chiefs
position. Motion carried 5-0.
17. Discussion and Direction regarding the new Police Station Building. (City Manager
Frank)
Police Chief Reffett stated that the Commission was looking at Police Feasibility Study of the
comparison of two buildings that they have looked at for a future Police Station site. They are
looking at specific variables such as: square footage, land parcel, cost of two parcels,
construction types, restrooms, parking, furniture, shapes of structure, ability to expand, etc. The
two sites that they are comparing are the Haynes Furniture site and the State Farm site. The
Haynes Furniture site is 16,225 sq. ft and 1.8 acres ofland. The State Farm site is 17,800 sq. ft.
and 2.75 acres of land. The Haynes Furniture site is more than likely not large enough for any
future modifications. The cost ofthe Haynes Furniture site is 2.75 million and State Farm is 3.6
million. The Haynes Furniture building has 3 pre-existing offices and State Farm has 11.
Haynes Furniture has 2 restrooms and State Farm has 4. The Haynes Furniture site has 69 spaces
Page 8 of 13
City Commission Regular
June 5, 2007
available and State farm has 160 spaces which is sufficient to support 25% additional staff. The
Haynes Furniture building is completely empty and State Farm is fully furnished.
Police Chief Reffett stated that they recommend looking into the State Farm building for a
viable option for a new police station for immediate occupancy which could accommodate them
for 5-15 years. He said some of the modifications could be made through grants. He further
stated that it allows the space needed to work efficiently and provides enough space for everyone
to work under one roof as opposed to all over the City. With the future growth projections, in
approximately 15 years, the City will more than likely be in the same position they are in now
and need a new building at that time. He added that moving into this building would provide the
City additional time to work out the plans for building a new site.
Mayor Vandergrift stated that he went out and looked at the property. The land across the
street is state-owned. The land and parking of 2.75 acres could be built and add a two-story
parking building. There is also the possibility for a lease on that property. That is very
appealing under the current circumstances. He also stated that he would be in favor of moving to
the next step and have staff work on negotiating the lease. Commissioner Keller stated that the
Commission has been promising a new building for 7 years. It is frustrating that they are still
working with an empty lot. He added that they do need showers and additional bathroom space.
He inquired if they were to lease it would they be able to put in the necessary water/sewer to add
on the additional bathroom space. In regards to site pardoning, they will do that with a new
building or an existing building. He stated that he would like to see planning for the future, since
this is a hurricane site and Police have to be on site 24 hours per day during a hurricane, there
should be additional room for an emergency center. He also inquired how quickly could they
move in to the building. Mayor Vandergrift stated we should look into entering into a lease for
the building where we could set up a price for the lease option and receive a bundle of rights to
that property. Commissioner Keller stated that based on the way the building looks, most of the
water and sewer is on one side. If they wanted to add bathrooms or showers on the other side of
the building, the pipes would have to be extended. He stated that this needs to be done right for
the Police Department. Commissioner Hood stated that he supports a two-year lease for the
property and then they can go from there. Commissioner Keller inquired how long they were
looking at doing this study. Commissioner Hood stated that this study only took two weeks.
Commissioner Anderson inquired about the bond issue for the Police Station that they are
currently in. City Manager Frank stated that this would be a similar situation as Fire Station
One. The way he understands the situation is that they would not have to go back to what impact
fees were used for in the past. It could be funded out of the impact fees. Mayor Vandergrift
stated that should be part of the study that they bring back at the next meeting. There may be
grants out there that would help fund it. City Manager Frank stated that he is not sure how
much grant information they could have back by the next meeting. Police Chief Reffett stated
at this point he can't quickly give a commitment of how much grant money they can get, but he
will look into what is available for this project.
Mayor Vandergrift said they are in agreement that staff should move forward expeditiously
with this project.
Page 9 of 13
City Commission Regular
June 5, 2007
City Manager Frank requested clarification as to what staff should be researching in regards to
a lease or a lease purchase. Mayor Vandergrift stated that they would need a market analysis.
If it came back a little more than market, they could give us a lease/option and then in a few
years it could be at the right price. City Manager Frank stated that if they were doing a straight
lease, they would like to know the start up costs. Mayor Vandergrift stated that bringing back
information on both a lease and a lease purchase. City Attorney Rosenthal stated that according
to the Charter, it would need to be advertised as a public hearing because the amount is in excess
of $1 million. City Attorney Rosenthal said Charter requires a finding by the Commission that
the market does not exceed fair market value, it does not require an appraisal, but we have
always done that.
The consensus of the Commission was to have staff brina back more information
for a Public Hearina in the second meetina in July reaardina options for a
lease/purchase or straiaht purchase and include start UP costs.
18. Contract for Government Services Group, Inc. (GSG) for Implementation of a Fire
Assessment Fee. (Assistant City Manager Croteau)
This item was heard and voted on earlier under Presentations
19. Discussion and Direction regarding Residential Front Yard Regulations (Community
Development Director Wagner)
a. Presentation and Discussion
Staff has drafted an ordinance proposing amendments to the Land Development Code and the Code of
Ordinances per the direction of the City Commission regarding issues of concern in residential areas. On
August 8, 2006, the Planning & Zoning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of the
proposed amendments to the Land Development Code and City Code of Ordinances.
Community Development Director Wagner said he has made two presentations on this in the
past, and has been asked to bring it back after the public hearing. Many residents had concerns
about some of the issues and staff was asked to look into the issue more, whereas it has been
sitting for four or five months. Commissioner Keller was happy with the previous
presentations, but just wanted them to look again at a few issues such as the older community
roads being too narrow and needing some exemptions. If those areas did need some exemptions,
he recommended they be made and this issue move on.
Commissioner Hood, seconded by Commissioner Keller, moved to remove this
item from the table. Motion carried 4-0 with Mayor Vanderarift out of the room.
City Attorney Rosenthal stated this will now start with a new first reading. Community
Development Director Wagner said because it is a change to the Land Development Code, it
requires readings and two public hearings.
Commissioner Johnson said the main problem is in the older areas where they do not have
adequate space for parking. Commissioner Keller said we have to look out for everybody and
there are going to be some needs for exemptions. He said a vote needs to be made though
because it has been sitting for too long. Community Development Director Wagner said the
provision of the roads was parking on the boulevard. Some residents are for front yard parking,
Page 10 of 13
City Commission Regular
June 5, 2007
and some are against it and it causes a lot of calls to Code Enforcement. He said it would be
difficult to make exemptions because the areas needing exemptions range all over the City. City
Attorney Rosenthal cautioned them in a Land Development regulation that is of citywide
application; they don't have general regulations that apply to the entire city except certain areas.
It could have some grandfathering in according to date that would apply citywide, rather than a
certain geographical area. Community Development Director Wagner said that would be
politically difficult, because there are people on both sides of the issue in the same neighborhood
and he does not know how that would be regulated.
Commissioner Anderson stated his concerns with his new residence on Lafayette, whereas they
do not have enough room to drive down the road when residents park along the street. He
inquired if that was allowable since it seemed to cause a hazard. Community Development
Director Wagner said the new provision would allow them to cover 50% of their front yard
with parking. Commissioner Anderson said another issue he has is that if people park on the
road, that they become inaccessible to drivers and asked if that is a police issue. Police Chief
Reffett said ordinance restricts two cars parked on the road adjacent to each other; however, they
can be parked stagnant from each other. He added that there are also provisions as to how many
feet must be left available on the street.
City Attorney Rosenthal suggested that if there is a section they wish to change, that they let
staff know in advance so that they can review the ordinance and be prepared.
Consensus of the Commission was to brina this back for the public hearina and
first readina and to move forward with this item as is or Commissioners can
individually review it and suaaest revisions to staff before it is brouaht back
before them.
20. Consideration of Canceling the Regular City Commission Meeting on July 3, 2007,
directly preceding the Forth of July Holiday.
Commissioner Hood. seconded by Commissioner Johnson. moved to cancel the
Reaular City Commission Meetina on July 3. 2007. Motion carried 5-0.
I H. STAFF REPORTS
City Manager Frank stated they have gone out for the Legislative Consulting Services RFQ,
i.e. lobbyist, and asked that they form a selection committee made up of the Finance Director,
Community Development Director, a representative of the City Manager's office, and a member
of the City Commission, to take the full responses and call them down to 2-3 to bring
presentations before Commission.
Commissioner Anderson. seconded by Commissioner Hood. moved to put Mayor
Vanderarift on the committee. Motion carried 5-0. Mayor Vanderarift aladly
accepted.
Page 11 of 13
City Commission Regular
June 5, 2007
I I. COMMENTS FROM COMMISSIONERS
Commissioner Hood - 1) inquired about the two subdivisions going up on Ingram Road. He
stated that they need to do their landscaping because it looks horrible. Community
Development Director Wagner said that went in for a substantial completion, which policy
means they do not have to put the landscaping and irrigation in right now. He stated that this
was a concession to the builders. They were dealing with plants being stolen and recreation
facilities being damaged. The concession gave them a period of 3-4 months to get that in once
they had houses. 2) asked why the area outside of City Hall has been sodded when it was
supposed to be a parking lot. City Manager Frank stated that was a temporary measure until
they have the money to do something with it. Dirt was being blown all over so they laid down
sod in the interim. They will have a plan when they find a funding source. Commissioner
Hood stated that he thought that once they decided to take down the building, they already had
the money to finish the lot. City Manager Frank stated that the money allotted was only for
demolition. 3) asked Parks & Recreation Hayes about the status of Central Park. Parks &
Recreation Director Hayes stated that he is looking into prices for replacing the bleachers,
fencing and playground area. He is hoping to have more information to bring back to
Commission soon. 4) stated that the staff did a great job getting the fields ready. 5) asked when
the street paving will be started. Public Works Director Krug stated that they are waiting for
the contractor to work us into the schedule. They have the PO and they are just waiting on him
to come in and get started. Commissioner Hood stated that about a year ago Adair Street was
resurfaced and the road is already in bad shape again. He added that trucks that are not allowed
on Clarke Road are running Adair Street. He would like to see a weight limit places on the road.
Commissioner Hood requested having Public Works Director Krug look into that.
Commissioner Anderson suggested having the State look into the issues.
Commissioner Keller - stated that there is a School Board meeting on June 12th and we need
citizens out there to show support. Mayor Vandergrift suggested starting a petition. He also
stated that there was an article in the Orlando Sentinel.
Commissioner Anderson - asked Chief Firstner about a study on the defibrillators around the
City. Chief Firstner stated that he met with Parks & Recreation Director Hayes and they came to
the conclusion that the best way to make AED's available for team sports was to request two for
the Beech Center and that would maintain the security of them. A policy would be created and
they would be available and checked out for each event. Commissioner Anderson suggested
having the Park Ranger drop them off and be responsible as opposed to the volunteers. Chief
Firstner stated that the Fire Department would provide training for all responsible people on the
teams.
Commissioner Johnson -1) stated that a few months ago, he requested a speed limit survey to
be done on Palm Drive. Public Works Director Krug stated that the traffic department has
been assigned to collect data on that location. He does not have the status yet, but it should be
done this week. Commissioner Johnson stated that the speed limit should be changed to 35
mph because it is too slow. 2) asked if it would be possible to have the school bus lettering done
by the time school starts. Parks & Recreation Director Hayes stated that they are working on a
proposal very quickly for that. Commission Anderson asked if we are picking up kids for
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City Commission Regular
June 5, 2007
schools, can other people be picked up as well? Parks & Recreation Director Hayes stated
that they would have to look into the demand and liability issues. 3) stated that the bathrooms at
Sorenson Park need to be fixed at the fields. Commissioner Hood stated that they are not
handicapped accessible. Commissioner Johnson suggested getting a cost estimate to build a
handicapped restroom next to the old building. City Manager Frank stated that this was looked
at during the budget last year. These items were discussed, but money was allotted to Central
Park because that was deemed most necessary at the time. 4) Commission Johnson stated that
the road looks great on Lakeshore Drive.
Mayor Vandergrift - thanked the Staff and Commission for moving things along.
I ADJOURNMENT
A The meeting adjourned at 10:40 p.m.
Attest:
APPROVED:
City of Ocoee
S. Scott Vandergrift, Mayor
Beth Eikenberry, City Clerk
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