HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 01 Approval of Minutes from Regular CC Meeting 08-06-2024 and Budget Workshop from 08-12-2024
OCOEE CITY COMMISSION
Ocoee Commission Chambers
1 N. Bluford Avenue
Ocoee, Florida
August 6, 2024 MINUTES 6:15 PM
REGULAR CITY COMMISSION MEETING
• 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 Ages Hart, Ocoee Resident, followed by the Pledge of
Allegiance to the Flag led by Commissioner Kennedy. City Clerk Sibbitt called the roll and
declared a quorum present.
Present: Mayor Johnson, Commissioner Kennedy, Commissioner Wilsen, Commissioner
Firstner, Commissioner Oliver
Also Present: Assistant City Manager Shadrix, City Attorney Geller, City Clerk Sibbitt
• PRESENTATIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS - None
• STAFF REPORTS AND AGENDA REVIEW 6:17 PM
Assistant City Manager Shadrix informed the City Commission that city staff has received
the traffic study from the City’s consultant, Kinley Horn, regarding the intersections of Adair and
Wurst Road and Montgomery and White Road. Both intersections warrant stop signs. City staff
will present an agenda item at the August 20th City Commission meeting for approval of the
stop sign placements.
• PUBLIC COMMENTS 6:18 PM
The following persons addressed the City Commission:
- Brad Lomneck, Ocoee Resident, expressed that the residents of Admiral Point and
Veronica Circle have requested that landscaping be included in the budget for the upcoming
budget season.
- Dr. Lori Hart, Ocoee Resident, expressed her gratitude and thanks to the commission
and city staff, and her family for the support given as she pursued and graduated with her
Doctoral Degree from the University of Central Florida.
• CONSENT AGENDA 6:21 PM
Consent Agenda Motion
Motion: Move to adopt the Consent Agenda Item #1-16; Moved by Commissioner Wilsen,
seconded by Commissioner Kennedy; Motion carried 5-0.
1. Approval of Minutes from the Regular City Commission Meeting held July 16, 2024.
(City Clerk Sibbitt)
2. Approval of Annual Fire Protection Assessment Tax Roll Resolution for the Fiscal Year
2025. (Acting Support Services Director Gaines)
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3. Approval of Police Department Vehicle Purchase. (Assistant Police Chief McKinstry)
4. Approval of Police Department Vehicle Lease. (Assistant Police Chief McKinstry)
5. Approval of Federal Fiscal Year 2023 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant
(JAG) Program (JAG Countywide-State Solicitation). (Assistant Police Chief
McKinstry)
6. Approval of Educational Affiliation Agreement with Lake Tech College. (Deputy Fire
Chief Van Camp)
7. Approval for the Renewal of a Facility Sublicense Agreement with Valencia College and
the Ocoee Fire Department. (Deputy Fire Chief Van Camp)
8. Approval of Utilities Easement Agreement for Bluford Warehouse & Office aka U.S.
Aluminum. (Development Engineer Keaton)
9. Approval of a Two-Year Warranty Surety and Maintenance, Materials, and Workmanship
Agreement for Magnolia Reserve Townhomes. (Development Engineer Keaton)
10. Approval of Correction on Workshop Date for FY 2024/2025 Budget Process. (Finance
Director Roberts)
11. Approval of School Justice Partnership Agreement with Orange County Public Schools.
(Police Chief Ogburn)
12. Approval to Award Invitation to Bid (ITB) #24-011 Job Order for Construction of Restroom
at Healthy West Orange Wellness Park. (Procurement Manager Tolbert)
13. Approval to Award Request for Proposals (RFP) #24-009 Emergency-Disaster Debris
Removal Term Contract. (Procurement Manager Tolbert)
14. Approval to Extend Existing Contract for Continuing Water Quality Professional Services.
(Public Works Director Krug)
15. Approval of the Certification of Non-Ad Valorem Assessment Roll for Stormwater
Inclusion on the Orange County Tax Roll for FY 2024/2025. (Public Works Director
Krug)
16. Approval of the Certification of Non-Ad Valorem Assessment Roll for Solid Waste
Inclusion on the Orange County Tax Roll for FY 2024/2025. (Public Works Director
Krug)
• FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE - None
• SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE – PUBLIC HEARING 6:22 PM
17. Second Reading of Ordinance for Land Development Code Amendment Implementing
the Live Local Act. (Zoning Manager Whitfield)
City Attorney Geller read the title of the ordinance.
Development Services Director Rumer presented a brief overview of the proposed
ordinance implementing the Live Local Act which was signed into law. The primary purpose of
the Bill is to increase the availability of affordable housing in the State of Florida. He
summarized the preemptions on Counties and Cities, the minimum requirements for qualifying
for affordable housing projects, and what this ordinance means to the City.
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City Attorney Geller provided an overview on the objectives of the ordinance. He summarized
height approval and protection for adjacent properties, density definition, eligible zoning
districts, and local law and regulation compliance requirements.
The public hearing was opened.
The following person(s) addressed the City Commission:
- Nicole MacInnes, Attorney with Sterns Weaver Miller Alhadeff & Sitterson, expressed
concerns with the proposed ordinance and offered recommendations on changes to the
ordinance. City Attorney Geller countered the comments made by Ms. MacInnes, and
provided the City Commission with context, noting that her comments were related to a rejected
application for the Swanson Land Co. project, which she represents.
The public hearing was closed.
Commissioner Oliver asked about the original Lake Lotta PUD ordinance from 1994 and
whether there have been any amendments regarding height, density, or zoning. Development
Services Director Rumer addressed his question. Commissioner Oliver confirmed that the
purpose of the proposed ordinance being considered tonight is to address the gaps not covered
by the recently passed Senate Bill. Development Services Director Rumer answered
affirmatively, and added that the ordinance will also reference the Land Development Code as
the next document to address the requirements.
Motion: Move to adopt Ordinance No. 2024-25, to amend the Land Development Code
relative to Qualifying Affordable Housing Projects under the requirements of Senate Bill
102 (2023), as modified by Senate Bill 328 (2024), also known as the Live Local Act;
moved by Commissioner Wilsen, seconded by Commissioner Oliver; Motion carried 5-
0.
• PUBLIC HEARING 6:54 PM
18. Public Hearing to Adopt the Annual Code Enforcement Abatement Assessment
Resolution to Certify the FY 2025 Non-Ad Valorem Assessment Tax Roll. (Acting
Support Services Director Gaines)
Support Services Director Gaines briefed the City Commission on the collection of
abatement costs utilizing the special assessment process.
City Attorney Geller read the title of the resolution.
The public hearing was opened. As no speaker forms were received, the public hearing was
closed.
Motion: Move to Adopt the Annual Code Enforcement Abatement Assessment
Resolution No. 2024-08 and Certify the Fiscal Year 2025 Non-Ad Valorem Assessment
Tax Roll for Abatement Cost Recovery; Moved by Commissioner Oliver, seconded by
Commissioner Wilsen; Motion carried 5-0.
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• REGULAR AGENDA 6:56 PM
19. Update and Request Direction on Review of the City's Wastewater Permit and
Associated Lease with ZHA Incorporated (Owner's Rep Services RFP#23-005).
Robert Utsey, Representative with ZHA Incorporated explained they were contracted by the
City to provide an anaylsis and conduct a study on the current ground lease and wastewater
permit at Forest Lake Golf Club. Information has been provided to the City Commission on what
has been completed to date and what information is still needed from the lessee. Their request
this evening is to ask the City Commission to request the City Attorney to compel the lessee to
provide the outstanding requested information so they may complete their report.
Assistant City Manager Shadrix provided a background summary on the workshop held in
2020, and explained that the City’s entire wastewater permit is associated with the Forest Lake
Golf Course property. He clarified the purpose of contracting ZHA Incorporated and
recommended that the City Commission allow him, the City Attorney, and the consultant to
proceed with the process in the City's best interest.
Logan Opshal, Attorney with Lowndes Law Firm, stated that Forest Lake Golf Course has
always valued its partnership with the City. However, he noted that, without a letter of intent or
a contractual agreement, they believe it is inappropriate to provide the requested financial
information. He explained that they felt the nature of some of the items requested, should not
be open to the public.
Motion: Move to authorize the City Manager, City Attorney, and Consultants to complete
all actions necessary for the evaluation of the lease, permit, and all other analysis and
correspondence for the Forest Lake Golf Course property; Moved by Commissioner
Firstner, seconded by Commissioner Wilsen; Motion carried 4-1 with Commissioner
Oliver opposing.
20. Update and Request Direction: Kurt Ardaman of the City Attorney's Office (Fishback
Dominick) regarding City-owned property located at 10521 Clarcona Ocoee Road
(Forest Lake Golf Course).
Kurt Ardaman, Attorney with Fishback Dominick, briefed the City Commission on a letter
dated June 26, 2024, received from Attorney Opshal, which notified the City that it has sixty
(60) days to exercise its right of first refusal. He explained that, in addition to the purchase and
sale agreement, the City also needs information from the assignee, JA Hospitality LLC.
Therefore, the City is requesting an additional sixty (60) days to gather the necessary
information for evaluation and to bring a recommendation back to the City Commission.
Logan Opshal, Attorney with Lowndes Law Firm, shared his client is ready to retire and
pass the business to another golf course operator. He mentioned that they are ready to provide
information related to the perimeter that approves the assignment under the ground lease.
However, he noted that he is unable to speak on behalf of the buyer this evening.
Commissioner Wilsen expressed concerns about ensuring that all relevant information is
available before making a decision regarding the Forest Lake Golf Course property.
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Commissioner Oliver echoed Commissioner Wilsen’s concerns, and emphasized the need
for additional time to review and fully understand the requests being made.
Commissioner Wilsen clarified that the City is not selling the land; the sale and purchase
agreement pertains solely to the business, not the property.
Motion: Move to authorize the City Manager, Fishback Dominick (the City’s law firm),
and the City’s consultants to evaluate and respond to the cover letter from Logan Opshal
dated June 26, 2024, and purchase and sales agreement, regarding the lease of City-
owned real property located at 10521 Clarcona Ocoee road (Forest Lake Golf Course);
Moved by Commissioner Kennedy, seconded by Commissioner Wilsen; Motion carried
5-0.
• COMMENTS FROM COMMISSIONERS 7:21 PM
Commissioner Kennedy – No further comments.
Commissioner Wilsen – Commented on the following:
1) Expressed how important the businesses of Ocoee are and urged residents to support
the local businesses.
Commissioner Firstner– No further comments.
Commissioner Oliver – Commented on the following:
1) Inquired on an update for the Clarke Rd widening project. Assistant City Manager
Shadrix informed the City Commission that the project will be starting back up on August 19th.
He explained the reason for the delay and shared the City’s website will be updated to reflect
the updated schedule.
2) Read an inspirational quote.
Mayor Johnson – Commented on the following:
1) Announced that school starts back up on August 12th and urged everyone to be careful
and watchful of the children.
2) Questioned putting sprinklers back on in the right-of-way near Veronica Place.
Commissioner Wilsen stated that she has been in communication with the president of the
HOA on those issues.
• ADJOURNMENT 7:27 PM
APPROVED:
Attest: City of Ocoee
______________________________ ___________________________
Melanie Sibbitt, City Clerk Rusty Johnson, Mayor
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OCOEE CITY COMMISSION
Ocoee Commission Chambers
1 N. Bluford Avenue
Ocoee, Florida
August 12, 2024 MINUTES 6:00 PM
BUDGET WORKSHOP
• CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Johnson called the workshop to order at 6:00 PM in the Commission Chambers of City Hall.
City Clerk Sibbitt called the roll and declared a quorum present.
Present: Mayor Johnson, Commissioner Kennedy, Commissioner Wilsen, Commissioner Firstner,
and Commissioner Oliver
Also Present: Acting City Manager Shadrix, Finance Director Roberts, Assistant Finance Director
Lawitzke, Chief Accountant Meruena, and City Clerk Sibbitt
• FISCAL YEAR 2024/2025 BUDGET OVERVIEW
Finance Director Roberts informed the City Commission on the handouts provided, which outlined
the line items for contractual services and equipment maintenance contracts for each department,
should they have any questions. She also gave a brief summary of the updates to this year's budget
book, highlighting the differences from last year's version. Finally, she announced the millage rate, the
percentage increase over the rollback rate, and provided the ad valorem revenue figures.
• DISCUSSION
Acting City Manager Shadrix informed the City Commission that the landscape is evolving and that
discussions will take place over the next week regarding public safety and other employee expenses.
He mentioned that plans are in place to address these concerns once the City Commission provides
direction. He stated that this year's budget covers the essentials, ensuring the City's finances are
balanced, and noted that he has already spoken with several members of the City Commission on their
requests for FY 24/25.
Mayor Johnson opened the floor for questions from the City Commission.
Commissioner Oliver inquired if future budget books could be printed double-sided. Finance Director
Roberts addressed his request. He mentioned that he met with the Acting City Manager and most of
his questions were addressed, but he still had an inquiry about the Fire Tower Truck 25 listed on page
21. He asked whether the amount listed was for a partial payment on that truck or for a new fire truck,
and whether service and rating were being compromised. Finance Director Roberts and Fire Chief
Smothers addressed his question. Commissioner Oliver referenced a previous discussion at a
Commission Meeting regarding traffic signals at Clarke Road & Hackney Prairie Road and Clarke Road
& Ocoee Vista Parkway. He then asked if the costs listed on page 18 include both the installation and
operation of these traffic lights. Public Works Director Krug addressed his question. Commissioner
Oliver opined that the installation of the Clarke Road & Ocoee Vista Parkway traffic signal should be
considered to be installed first as it is near a fire station. Public Works Director Krug informed him it
would be considered based on the traffic study. Commissioner Oliver asked about sidewalk repairs,
noting that some residents have compiled a list of needed repairs within their subdivision. Public
Works Director Krug addressed his question. Commissioner Oliver inquired about a new line item
under Capital Improvements Projects which referenced street paving projects. Finance Director
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Roberts addressed his question and explained the new line item called General Government Repairs
and Replacement.
Commissioner Firstner commented that he agrees with the Enhancement Service Delivery in the
Budget Message on page CM-3. He further noted that he also supports the statement on page CM-6
which referenced remaining competitive in both Police and Fire Services.
Commissioner Wilsen expressed her support on the budget message and thanked all the
departments for their efforts in maintaining a balanced budget. She emphasized the importance of
being fiscally responsible with the budget presented.
Commissioner Kennedy echoed the sentiments of Commissioner Firstner and Commissioner Wilsen.
He shared that he did not have any questions but thanked staff for including projects in the budget that
he requested in the last year. He commented on the reality of the budget year and challenges that may
arise due to inflation and public safety concerns.
Mayor Johnson expressed the need to prioritize warranted traffic signals. He remarked that sidewalk
repairs could be minimized if the City prevents certain trees from being planted near sidewalks. He
further commented on the need for additional public safety and pay increases for general employees.
Mayor Johnson thanked the Finance Department for the ease with the budget books as it was easy
to follow. He announced that he has requested City staff to consider a different approach for the Ocoee
Music Festival and instead suggested sponsoring several smaller concerts throughout the year. He
recommended funds be placed aside to purchase a stage for these small concert series. Brief
discussion ensued on the Ocoee Music Festival budget and retaining the name of the event as Ocoee
Music Festival. Consensus of the City Commission was to proceed with several small concert
series for the Ocoee Music Festival; and further, have the Parks and Recreation Director provide
them with price estimates.
Mayor Johnson inquired about the cost of living percentage for general employees. Acting City
Manager Shadrix shared there is a 5% increase built into the budget. He briefed the City Commission
on some of the police and public safety issues they will need to tackle in an executive session.
Acting City Manager Shadrix shared that healthcare cost will also be increasing and he has tasked
the City’s consultant to conduct a performance audit of their system to be sure that their cost is in line
with where it should be.
Acting City Manager Shadrix commented that he did receive a request from Commissioner Oliver
regarding a program he wanted to discuss. Commissioner Oliver shared he wanted to propose a
free-swimming program for children with disabilities and children between the ages of 1-10 years old.
He shared it would require about $35,000 to be budgeted. Brief discussion ensued on whether this was
a program the City could undertake at this time. Parks and Recreation Director Johnson addressed
this request and explained the issues they may encounter due to time slot availability for swim lessons
and staffing.
Mayor Johnson shared that the next Budget Workshop is not needed; therefore, the next budget
meeting is the Tentative Budget Public Hearing scheduled for September 11th. He further thanked all
the employees and acknowledged Acting City Manager Shadrix in his new role.
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• ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 6:49 PM.
APPROVED:
Attest: City of Ocoee
______________________________ ___________________________
Melanie Sibbitt, City Clerk Rusty Johnson, Mayor
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