HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-21-2025 Special Session MinutesOCOEE CITY COMMISSION
Ocoee Commission Chambers
1 N. Bluford Avenue
Ocoee, Florida
October 21, 2025 MINUTES 7:15 PM
-CALL TO ORDER
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 Commission
Firstner I
Also Present: City Manager Shadrix, City Attorney Geller, and City Clerk Sibbitt
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.
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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 Pli - 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.
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 PIVI) - 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 FW
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.
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Mayor Johnson called upon the City Commission for any further comments or questions and
requested that the selection be considered at the November 18th 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
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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.
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INTNIPSITNIZE
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Melanie ibbitt, City Cterl�
Rusty Joh s n, Mayor
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