HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 01 Approval of MinutesOCOEE CITY COMMISSION
Ocoee Commission Chambers
1 N. Bluford, Avenue
Ocoee, Florida
October 21, 2025 MINUTES
REGULAR CITY COMMISSION MEETING
• CALL TO ORDER 6, 16 PM
6:15 PM
Mayor Johnson called the regular session to order at 6:16 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, and Commissioner
Firstner
Absent: Commissioner Oliver
Also Present: City Manager Shadrix, City Attorney Geller, and City Clerk Sibbitt
• PRESENTATIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS 6.1 18 F'M
Week of the Family Proclamation — read and proclaimed by Mayor Johnson, and accepted by
Victoria Laney, Southwest Orange County Representative.
Florida City Week Proclamation— read and proclaimed by Mayor Johnson.
City Manager Shadrix announced that, with the groundbreaking of the Law Enforcement
Training Facility, installation of water and force mains will take place along Fullers Cross Road.
This work will require a road closure on Fullers Cross Road for the week. Detour information will
be available on the City's website and social media pages. He further announced that the Rewis
Street waterline and sidewalk replacement project is complete. Mayor Johnson asked whether
the paving on Rewis Street had been completed and if the speed bumps could be reinstalled.
Public Works Director Krug responded to his inquiry.
-PUBLIC COMMENTS 6: 25 s.jM
The following persons addressed the City Commission:
- Dr. Jim Moyer, Ocoee Resident, commented on the ongoing research regarding the
clean-up of Starke Lake and Lake Prima Vista, as well as the impact of recent extreme
weather conditions. He also discussed the various agencies involved in these clean-up
efforts and noted that the City, along with the neighboring blueberry farm, is working
diligently to address and resolve any clean-up needs for these lakes.
- Kellie Beck, HRDB Board Chair, shared a brief video initiative from the Human
Relations Diversity Board (HRDB) that is seeking approval from the City Commission. She
explained that throughout 2025, the Board has focused on community education through
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October 21, 2025
guest speakers, primarily in partnership with UCF. She further noted that the HRDB aims to
conclude the year by celebrating the diversity of countries and individuals who have chosen
to make Ocoee their home. She informed the City Commission about the proposed process
for collecting the video submissions. A brief discussion followed regarding the use of a
Google form and whether a disclaimer would be necessary. Consensus of the City
Commission was that the HRDB could move forward with their video initiative.
- Andrea Jones, Ocoee Resident, asked the City Commission to reconsider keeping the
Pickleball Court at Tiger Minor Park open at 7:00 AM, as previously discussed at the last
meeting, instead of changing the opening time to 8:00 AM. She also requested that the City
Commission review a cost comparison for permanently switching the locations of the
Pickleball and Tennis Courts, noting that such a change would provide a long-term solution.
Commissioner Wilsen commented on the request for reconsideration, noting that residents in
the surrounding area are being affected, and stated that she is not in favor of reinstating the
7:00 AM opening time.
Commissioner Kennedy reiterated his remarks from the previous meeting, emphasizing that
reaching a fair compromise and balance would require placing the issue on a future agenda to
allow other City residents the opportunity to provide input.
Mayor Johnson stated that he is not in favor of changing the opening time back, noting that
there will always be residents who express concerns about the noise.
Commissioner Frrstner stated that the park is a public facility intended for community use and
expressed that addressing the noise concerns would be the appropriate solution. City Manager
Shadrix noted that the PowerPoint presented at the previous meeting highlighted several
mitigation measures that could be considered. He further shared that he has directed staff to
explore grant funding opportunities for a potential permanent solution. A brief discussion
ensued on park hours and pickleball court hours of operation.
-CONSENT AGENDA 6 A 5 PM
Consent Agenda Motion
Motion: Move to adopt Consent Agenda Items #1-18; Moved by Commissioner Wilsen,
seconded by Commissioner Fristner; Motion carried 4-0 with Commissioner Oliver
absent.
1. Approval of Minutes from the Regular City Commission Meeting held October 7, 2025.
(City Clerk Sibbitt)
2. Authorization to Accept FDLE Drone Replacement Program Grant Funding and
Authorize the Purchase of a New Drone. (Deputy Fire Chief Van Camp)
3. Approval of FY 2025-2026 Budgeted Fire Engine Purchase. (Deputy Fire Chief Van
Camp)
4. Approval to Award RFQ #25-009 Construction Manager at Risk for the New Ocoee Fire
Station #38 Facility. (Procurement Manager Tolbert)
5. Approval to Piggyback Omnia's Contract for the Freedom Park Playground Project.
(Parks and Leisure Services Director Johnson)
Regular City Commission
October 21, 2025
6. Approval to Piggyback the Clay County Contract for the Bob Sorenson Park Ballfield
Lights. (Parks and Leisure Services Director Johnson)
7. Approval of FY 2025-2026 Budgeted Mower and Vacuum Equipment Purchases. (Parks
and Leisure Services Director Johnson)
8. Approval of Victims of Crimes Act Agreement for FY 2025-2026. (Police Chief Ogburn)
9. Approval of FY 2025-2026 Traffic Signal Repair and Replacement Projects with Control
Specialists. (Assistant Public Works Director Gajadhar)
10. Approval of FY 2025-2026 Budgeted Vehicle and Equipment Purchases. (Assistant
Public Works Director Gajadhar)
11. Approval to Contract Core and Main to Provide the VertexOne Customer Portal. (Utilities
Director Bolling)
12. Approval to Rebuild Bar Screen #2 at the City of Ocoee Wastewater Treatment Plant.
(Utilities Director Bolling)
13. Approval to Replace the 3 Chlorine Tanks and Pumping System at the City of Ocoee
Wastewater Treatment Plant. (Utilities Director Bolling)
14. Approval for the Purchase of a New Pump Lift Station #63 Pump 1. (Utilities Director
Bolling)
15. Approval of Red Zone Robotics to Complete the First Stage of Gravity System Condition
Assessment. (Utilities Director Bolling)
16. Approval to Rehabilitate Ocoee Lift Stations 42,49,50,52, and 53 and Piggyback RCM
City of Zephyrhills Contract. (Utilities Director Bolling)
17. Approval of Intent to Annex Agreement with MPJ Realty USA, LLC. (Utilities Director
Bolling)
18. Approval of Amendment 1 for Hazen & Sawyer to Provide Additional Design Services for
the Forest Oaks Above Ground Injection Assembly. (Utilities Director Bolling)
• FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE
19. First Reading of Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2025 Year -End Budget Amendment.
(Assistant Finance Director Lawitzke)
City Attorney Geller read the title of the ordinance, and it was announced this will be presented
as a second reading and public hearing at the City Commission meeting scheduled for
November 18, 2025, at 6:15 PM or soon thereafter.
20. First Reading of Ordinance Amending Section 124-8 through Section 124-11 of the Code
of Ordinances for Smoking Prohibited in Portions of Recreational Property. (Parks and
Leisure Services Deputy Director Gaines)
City Attorney Geller read the title of the ordinance, and it was announced this will be presented
as a second reading and public hearing at the City Commission meeting scheduled for
November 18, 2025, at 6:15 PM or soon thereafter.
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October 21, 2025
-SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE - PUBLIC HEARING - None
3:2 11 -.101 [ON 0 14-11 N I ki [cm 6N
- REGULAR AGENDA - None
-COMMENTS FROM COMMISSIONERS 6',47 PM
Commissioner Wilsen - Commented on the following:
1) Commented on the Angel Tree request discussed at the previous meeting, noting that
the City of Ocoee already has its own programs and believes that participating could create
competition with these existing initiatives. Commissioner Kennedy voiced his support for
this comment.
Mayor Johnson - Commented on the following: 6:49 PM - 11"'M
1) Announced the upcoming City Events for the months of October and November.
7_3 RO W if 0 k1 16 14 k1 k
Attest:
City of Ocoee
Melanie Sibbitt, City Clerk Rusty Johnson, Mayor
OCOEE CITY COMMISSION
Ocoee Commission Chambers
1 N. Bluford Avenue
Ocoee, Florida
October 21, 2025 MINUTES 7:15 PM
SPECIAL SESSION MEETING
-CALL TO ORDER °°16 =,. err
Mayor Johnson called the special session to order at 7:16 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, and Commissioner
Firstner
Absent: Commissioner Oliver
Also Present: City Manager Shadrix, City Attorney Geller, and City Clerk Sibbitt
• REGULAR AGENDA 7 16 f t}„`£
RFP #25-006 Lease and Operation of the Forest Lake Golf Club Firm Presentations
(Firms interview order will be randomly selected by holding a drawing).
Mayor Johnson briefed the City Commission on the interview and presentation process for
the three shortlisted firms approved at the September 16, 2025, City Commission meeting. He
summarized the additional information requested by the Commission at that meeting, which
was included in the agenda packet. He also announced that public comments will be accepted
following the conclusion of the interviews.
Mayor Johnson requested each firm to send one representative to randomly draw a golf ball
to determine their place in the order of interviews; and further, requested that each firm extend
professional courtesy by remaining in the designated holding room while other firms are being
interviewed. The following order was randomly drawn: 1) Hampton Golf, 2) Tamarack Golf
Management, and 3) Ocoee Holdings, LLC.
Hampton Golf (7:21 PM — 8:03 PM) - Presented their partnership summary which outlined
their capital improvements phased approach, proposed renovations, and initiatives aimed at
expanding their audience and enhancing their vision.
Questions from the City Commission were addressed by the firm's representative, who
confirmed that Hampton Golf has not previously worked with any members of the selection
committee. City Manager Shadrix further noted that he received letters from both review
committee members disclosing that neither has had any prior affiliation with Hampton Golf.
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Special Session Meeting
October 21, 2025
Tamarack Golf Management (8:10 PM — 8:47 PM) - Presented an overview of their
partnership with the City of Ocoee, highlighting a five-year capital improvement plan that
includes renovation and modernization efforts, marketing and pre -development activities, hotel
and retail site completion, as well as optimization and expansion initiatives.
Questions from the City Commission were addressed by the firm's representative.
Ocoee Golf Holdings, LLC (8:57 PM — 9:32 PM) - Introduced their team and presented their
proposal summary which highlighted their innovative vision and leadership, capital
improvement plan, and future enhancements and projects.
Questions from the City Commission were addressed by the firm's representative.
• PUBLIC COMMENTS 99 PM
The following persons addressed the City Commission:
Doug Gomber, Ocoee Resident, thanked the City for holding the meeting publicly and
expressed that residents are not seeking a destination venue but rather a facility for the
community to enjoy golf. He commented on each presentation and suggested that the City
consider managing the golf course internally.
Brad Lomneck, Ocoee Resident, expressed that he envisions a facility that combines the
atmosphere of Dubsdread Golf Course with the former West Orange Golf Club, offering a
membership option. He stated that he is seeking club membership that provides access to
the restaurant and amenities. He also noted that a lease manager will be needed for a
period of time before the City can evaluate the feasibility of assuming management.
Angel de la Portilla, Ocoee Resident, commented that he believes the lease and operation
of the golf course, as presented this evening, represents a significant economic opportunity
for the City that deserves national recognition. He referenced several cities in Orange
County that are thriving as a result of their destination amenities. He agreed that residents
should receive benefits such as discounted rates but emphasized that the golf course should
serve as more than just a community golf course.
RANKED FIRM FOR LEASE NEGOTIATIONS 9�52 P),2r
Mayor Johnson called upon the City Commission for any further comments or questions and
requested that the selection be considered at the November 181h City Commission Meeting.
Commissioner Kennedy objected, noting that a quorum was present and that they should
proceed with a motion. Commissioner Wilsen shared she is not in favor of making a motion
this evening but would like to take time to review what was presented and to wait for
Commissioner Oliver to be present for the decision. Mayor Johnson noted that a statement
from Commissioner Oliver could be read into the record but would not count as a vote and
added that postponing the decision until November 18th would allow all commissioners to have
Special Session Meeting
October 21, 2025
the ability to vote. Commissioner Firstner commented that he would also like to put more
thought into the information that was presented and agreed to wait until Commissioner Oliver
is present.
City Attorney Geller advised that, since no deliberation would take place that evening, he
would not read Commissioner Oliver's submitted statement into the record.
Motion: Move to continue the discussion on selection of top ranked firm and second
ranked firm for lease negotiations to November 18, 2025, Regular City Commission
Meeting; Moved by Commissioner Wilsen, seconded by Commissioner Firstner; Motion
carried 3-1 with Commissioner Kennedy opposing and Commissioner Oliver absent.
• ADJOURNMENT 9 1 5 6 PM
Attest:
City of Ocoee
Melanie Sibbitt, City Clerk Rusty Johnson, Mayor
M. •s