HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 01 Approval of Minutes
OCOEE CITY COMMISSION
Ocoee Commission Chambers
1 N. Bluford Avenue
Ocoee, Florida
July 15, 2025 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 Mayor Johnson. City Clerk Sibbitt called the roll and declared
a quorum present.
Present: Mayor Johnson, Commissioner Kennedy, Commissioner Wilsen, Commissioner
Oliver
Also Present: City Manager Shadrix, City Attorney Geller, and City Clerk Sibbitt
Absent: Commissioner Firstner
• PRESENTATIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS 6:17 PM
Legislative Session Recap - Florida State House District 45 Representative Leonard
Spencer provided the City Commission with an update on the recently concluded 105-day
legislative session and the State budget. He highlighted $3 million in funding secured for District
45 to support water infrastructure improvements, future growth, and environmental protection,
as well as $150,000 allocated to the Central Florida Mothers’ Milk Bank. Representative
Spencer noted continued funding for the Live Local Act and reported that while the State budget
includes $2 billion in tax relief, no definitive solutions have been established for property tax or
property insurance reform.
Commissioner Wilsen emphasized her belief in Home Rule, and requested Representative
Spencer keep that in mind when making decisions on behalf of the City of Ocoee.
Commissioner Oliver and Mayor Johnson expressed their gratitude to Representative
Spencer for taking the time to provide valuable information on the legislative session and
budget.
AED Stations Presentation - Fire Chief Smothers provided an update on the project to install
Automated External Defibrillator (AED) stations at several local parks. He thanked
Commissioners Kennedy and Wilsen for their discretionary funding, multiple City departments
for their support, and Ms. Martha Lopez-Anderson, Parent Heart Watch, for her donations. Fire
Chief Smothers explained what an AED is and how it is used.
Mayor Johnson recognized Ms. Lopez-Anderson for her contributions.
Fire Chief Smothers provided an overview of all the AED stations throughout the City. He
expressed gratitude to the elected officials for their continued support.
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Martha Lopez-Anderson explained that she lived in Ocoee for 25 years, and that Ocoee is
where her son was born and passed away. She expressed her pride in the AED project and
announced that she plans to use it as an example throughout the country [through Parent Heart
Watch]. She will be presenting the project to the National League of Cities (NLC) and
commended the City and elected officials for their efforts. She advised that sudden cardiac arrest
is the leading cause of death in the US; performing CPR and utilizing an AED before EMS
personnel arrive gives patients a greater chance of survival and can reduce the risk of brain
injury.
• STAFF REPORTS AND AGENDA REVIEW - None
• PUBLIC COMMENTS 6:39 PM
The following persons addressed the City Commission:
- Susan Adams, Ocoee Resident, spoke about the agreement between the City of Ocoee
and D.R. Horton upon the construction of the Wynwood subdivision, wherein D.R. Horton
paid $200,000 toward the installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of E. McCormick
Road and Apopka-Vineland Road. She referenced a letter that had been posted online from
Brett Blackadar of Orange County Public Works Department, stating that in 2019 a traffic
signal was warranted at the intersection, but a 2021 study suggested a roundabout. Ms.
Adams implored the City to voice support to the County for the original plan for a traffic
signal and explained her reasoning. City Manager Shadrix and Assistant City Manager
Rumer addressed her concerns. Discussion ensued regarding the Wynwood property
annexation and traffic signal agreement with Orange County.
- Dr. Jim Moyer, Orange Soil and Water District 2 Supervisor, explained Orange County’s
Soil and Water Conservation program and its purpose.
- Chris Adkins, Ocoee Resident, inquired about how the City Charter relates to City
Management accountability, and how that is put into practice through the City Commission.
Commissioner Wilsen addressed his inquiry. Commissioner Kennedy requested the City
Attorney address the inquiry; City Attorney Geller responded accordingly. Mayor Johnson
and Commissioner Oliver further addressed Mr. Adkins’ inquiry.
• CONSENT AGENDA 7:01 PM
Consent Agenda Motion
Motion: Move to adopt Consent Agenda Items #1-9; Moved by Commissioner Wilsen,
seconded by Commissioner Oliver; Motion carried 3-1 with Commissioner Kennedy
opposing and Commissioner Firstner absent.
1. Approval of Minutes from the Regular City Commission Meeting held June 17, 2025.
(City Clerk Sibbitt)
2. Approval of New Appointment to the Code Enforcement Board. (City Clerk Sibbitt)
3. Approval of the Design & Engineering Services for the Lake Apopka Nature Park with
Kimley-Horn & Associates in the Amount of $202,800. (Concurrency and Commitment
Coordinator McFarlane)
4. Approval of Resolution Designating Administrative Official Authorized to Approve Plats
and Replats. (Deputy Development Services Director Whitfield)
5. Approval of a Two-Year Warranty Surety and Maintenance, Materials, and Workmanship
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Agreement with Blue Castle Development, LLC for the Wawa - SR 50 & Clarke.
(Development Engineer Keaton)
6. Approval of Proposed Tentative Millage Rate for Fiscal Year 2025–2026 Budget.
(Acting Finance Director Lawitzke)
7. Approval of Federal Fiscal Year 2024 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant
(JAG) Program. (Police Chief Ogburn)
8. Approval of the One (1) Year Optional Contract Renewal with Cepra Landscape, LLC for
RFP 20-005 Landscaping, Landscape Maintenance, and Mowing Services.
(Procurement Manager Tolbert)
9. Approval of Award for RFP #25-007 Emergency-Disaster Debris Monitoring Services -
Term Contract. (Procurement Manager Tolbert)
• FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE 7:02 PM
10. First Reading of Ordinance for 703 Center Street - Mazariegos Property Annexation &
Rezoning; Project No. AX-05-25-05 & RZ-25-05-05. (Planner I Belizaire)
City Attorney Geller read the titles of the ordinances, and it was announced that this will be
presented as a second reading and public hearing at the City Commission meeting scheduled
for August 5, 2025, at 6:15 PM or soon thereafter.
• SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE – PUBLIC HEARING 7:03 PM
11. Second Reading and Public Hearing of an Ordinance for Envision 2045 Ocoee
Comprehensive Plan - Large Scale Plan Amendment to Replace Ocoee's
Comprehensive Plan in its Entirety. (Development Services Deputy Director
Whitfield)
Development Services Deputy Director Whitfield presented an overview of Envision 2045,
the updated Ocoee Comprehensive Plan, which shall be the governing policy framework to
direct growth and development in the City over the next twenty years. Envision 2045 shall
establish Goals, Objectives, and Policies to achieve its vision for the future of Ocoee. The
proposed Ordinance will repeal the current 2002 Comprehensive Plan in its entirety and replace
it with an updated comprehensive plan, entitled Envision 2045; and further, will include an option
to opt-out of Envision 2045, if needed. Development Services Deputy Director Whitfield
gave a brief overview of the plan elements' goals, policies, and objectives. She noted that while
the City awaited feedback from state reviewing agencies, they used the time to connect with
the community by holding a Community Outreach Meeting on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. She
provided a brief summary of the public’s comments and questions from that meeting. The
deadline for state agency comments was June 9, 2025 (45 days after the plan was electronically
submitted to all agencies). No objections were received; however, technical assistance
comments were submitted and have since been addressed.
City Attorney Geller read the title of the ordinance. He further summarized the new Senate Bill
(SB) 180 which is the purpose of the opt-out provision in the ordinance. He also noted that a
scrivener’s error had been identified and corrected in the ordinance.
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The public hearing was opened.
The following persons addressed the City Commission:
- Doug Gomber, Ocoee Resident, expressed his support for Envision 2045 and praised
staff for the cost savings achieved by conducting the study in-house. He also urged the City
Commission to approve the ordinance.
The public hearing was closed.
Commissioner Kennedy asked that the City Attorney clarify any limitations associated with
the opt-out provision and inquired about the procedures to review such requests. City Attorney
Geller responded to his inquiry.
Commissioner Wilsen expressed appreciation to Mr. Gomber for his comment and extended
thanks to staff for their efforts.
Commissioner Oliver commented that his political platform has consistently emphasized the
City's lack of a defined vision and mission, and he believes that Envision 2045 now provides
the foundational framework the City needs to move forward. He also commended staff for their
work on the initiative. Commissioner Kennedy emphasized the importance of clear specifics,
ongoing follow-ups, collaboration with City Management, and accountability in order to
successfully realize the vision. He further shared the importance of voting to make residents’
voices heard so elected officials can advocate for what their constituents want when working
with City Management.
Motion: Move to approve Ordinance 2025-14 for Envision 2045 Ocoee Comprehensive
Plan - Large Scale Plan Amendment to Replace Ocoee's Comprehensive Plan in its
Entirety; and authorize the transmittal of the adopted Envision 2045 Comprehensive Plan
to the reviewing agencies in accordance Section 163.3184(3)(c), Florida Statutes; Moved
by Commissioner Wilsen, seconded by Commissioner Kennedy; Motion carried 4-0 with
Commissioner Firstner absent.
Recess 7:23 PM - 7:31 PM
• PUBLIC HEARING 7:31 PM
12. Adoption of the Amended and Restated Final Resolution Pertaining to Fire Protection
Assessments for Fiscal Year 2025–2026. (Assistant City Manager Rumer)
Assistant City Manager Rumer provided an overview of the Fire Assessment Services
Program and the Resolution proposing a new initial assessment. He outlined the completed
steps, which included conducting a fire assessment study, adopting an initial assessment
resolution, sending notices to all property owners, and publishing legal advertisements. His
presentation covered several key areas: general government revenue, millage rate breakdown,
general fund expenditures, proposed property tax reform, types of fire assessments, current
costs under the existing rate, and projected costs under the proposed rate.
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Fire Chief Smothers followed with a summary of fire incident types, the proposed 2026 fire
budget, and both existing and recurring fire service costs.
Assistant City Manager Rumer concluded the presentation by highlighting average public
safety salaries, personnel-to-population ratios, and recommended adopting the Amended and
Restated Final Assessment Resolution for FY 2025–2026. The proposal includes a rate
increase from $69.50 to $139.23 per fire protection unit. He also briefly introduced the
consultants assisting with the program.
Sandi Neubarth, Anser Advisory, provided an overview of the purpose and objectives of the
fire assessment. She further explained the concept of non-ad valorem assessments, the
demand-availability apportionment methodology, the proposed maximum rate, and the total
assessable revenue.
City Attorney Geller read the title of the resolution.
The public hearing was opened.
The following persons addressed the City Commission with inquiries related to the fire
assessment:
- Amelia Ambrosio, Ocoee Resident, inquired about the calculations used to determine
her factored fire protection units to establish her fire assessment fee. Assistant City
Manager Rumer addressed her inquiry.
- Keith Butts, Ocoee Resident, inquired about collecting revenue from EMS calls and
auto accidents where non-residents are involved, and why a fire engine and rescue respond
to calls at nursing homes. Fire Chief Smothers addressed his inquiries.
- Kelly, Ocoee Resident, commented on accountability with respect to the budget and the
vision related to the Comprehensive Plan, and pondered why the fee is such a big hit at one
time as opposed to a smaller fee each year for the past several years. City Manager
Shadrix responded to his comments.
- Manuel Delgado, Ocoee Resident, inquired how long the fire fees will be in effect. City
Manager Shadrix responded to his inquiry.
- Betty Haas, Ocoee Resident, inquired about the difference between raising the fire
assessment fee and raising the millage rate, and if all the upcoming development has been
considered as a part of the assessment. Assistant City Manager Rumer responded to her
inquiries.
- Margaretta McKenzie, Ocoee Resident, inquired about people living in apartments
paying their share of the fire assessment fees, and if the golf club purchase was related to
the fees. City Manager Shadrix addressed her inquiries.
- Herbert Whitter, Ocoee Resident, inquired about businesses who have benefitted from
Ocoee’s population increase, such as Walmart and Publix, as well as the toll authorities and
local hospitals, paying portions of the assessment. City Manager Shadrix responded to his
inquiries. Brief discussion ensued.
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The following persons spoke in opposition to the Fire Assessment Resolution:
- Michael Rogers, Ocoee Resident
- David Denmark, Ocoee Resident
- Kim Denmark, Ocoee Resident
- John Wilkison, Ocoee Resident
- Rembert Edwards, Ocoee Resident
- Ralph Jones, Ocoee Resident
- Joe Bandur, Ocoee Resident
- Daniel Plate, Ocoee Resident
- Angela Williams, Ocoee Resident
- Gray, Ocoee Resident
The public hearing was closed.
Assistant City Manager Rumer briefly addressed a question from one of the residents.
City Manager Shadrix informed the City Commission that, if the proposed fire assessment fee
increase is not approved, an increase in the millage rate will be necessary to keep up with the
rising costs of police and fire services. He also noted the intention to implement budget cuts in
light of recent legislative changes that may affect local government funding and agreed with
earlier comments that small, incremental increases should have been adopted in previous fiscal
years.
Commissioner Kennedy thanked all the residents for speaking and sharing their opinions. He
expressed support for adopting a zero-based budgeting approach, noting that it is not currently
in use. He also voiced his confidence in City Manager Shadrix’s leadership, recognizing that he
is moving in that direction. Additionally, he highlighted several voter-approved legislative
changes that are now impacting municipal revenue. He expressed his support for establishing
a dedicated Fire Fund, with all related fees allocated directly and entirely to the Fire Department
and discussed the current fiscal challenges the City is facing.
Commissioner Wilsen commented on the millage rate and the importance to set it in
compliance with TRIM notice requirements. She spoke about the need for continued
attentiveness to City issues, encouraged residents to voice their concerns and come together
on legislative matters, and explained the necessity of securing adequate funding to address the
services and needs requested by the community.
Commissioner Oliver remarked that the issue at hand is complex and does not lend itself to a
simple solution. He expressed his discomfort with having to inform residents of a proposed
100% increase. He also raised concerns about the funds used for the golf course purchase,
suggesting that those resources might have been better used to support the Fire Department’s
budget needs. While acknowledging the importance of the Fire Department and the benefits of
its ISO rating for residents’ taxes, he asked what the projected millage rate would be if the
assessment does not pass. City Manager Shadrix addressed his question and explained his
rationale for proposing the current rate at 5.5 mills.
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Mayor Johnson addressed the comment regarding the golf course, explaining that it generates
revenue and is a City-owned asset that required the City to assume the lease in order to properly
manage its operations. He noted that eliminating services such as parks, recreational activities,
and community events would also lead to public dissatisfaction. He explained that impact fees
collected by Orange County do not return to the City, which limits the local funding options, and
emphasized that he does not want to raise the millage rate. He informed the residents that they
have the option to pay the assessments quarterly. Additionally, he noted that municipalities
across the board are facing the need to increase budget funding for public safety services due
to collective bargaining pressures and a competitive labor market.
Motion: Move to approve Resolution 2025-08 adopting the Amended and Restated Final
Assessment Resolution for the FY 25-26 Fire Protection Assessments; Moved by
Commissioner Wilsen; Motion died for lack of a second.
Motion: Move to recalculate the Fire Fee as a separate fund to pay for 100% of the Fire
Department, create a Fire Fund through the budget process, reduce the ad valorem by
the amount of the Fire Fund, and lower the millage rate accordingly;
Mayor Johnson inquired what the total amount would come to for the fire fee. City Manager
Shadrix addressed his inquiry. Discussion ensued.
Moved by Commissioner Kennedy; Motion died for a lack of a second.
Mayor Johnson inquired if the Commission could vote to approve the Amended and Restated
Final Resolution Pertaining to Fire Protection Assessments for one (1) year, allowing for staff
and the City Commission to work through a solution for the future.
Mayor Johnson handed the gavel to Mayor Pro Tem Wilsen.
Motion: Move to approve Resolution 2025-08 adopting the Amended and Restated Final
Assessment Resolution for the FY 25-26 Fire Protection Assessments for one (1) year
and then work through a solution for the future; Moved by Mayor Johnson, seconded by
Commissioner Kennedy;
Commissioner Kennedy commented that the notice states that the assessment is an ongoing
fee and inquired if that would be an issue. Assistant City Manager Rumer addressed his
question.
Commissioner Oliver asked how long it would take to come up with a proposal for the fire fee
for next year, based on the Mayor’s motion. Discussion ensued; City Manager Shadrix
addressed his question.
Following the discussion, Motion carried 4-0 with Commissioner Firstner absent.
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• REGULAR AGENDA – None
• COMMENTS FROM COMMISSIONERS 10:08 PM
Commissioner Wilsen – Commented on the following: 10:08 PM
1) Advised that she will be hosting a community meeting for the Pickleball facility and
requested to utilize the Commission Chambers for the meeting. Consensus of the City
Commission was to approve the use of the Commission Chambers for the community
meeting.
• ADJOURNMENT 10:09 PM
APPROVED:
Attest: City of Ocoee
______________________________ ___________________________
Melanie Sibbitt, City Clerk Rusty Johnson, Mayor