10-15-2019 Minutes MINUTES
REGULAR CITY COMMISSION MEETING
OCTOBER 15, 2019
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 Bishop Steven Grudzinski followed by the Pledge of
Allegiance to the Flag led by Commissioner Firstner. City Clerk Sibbitt called the roll and
declared a quorum present.
Present: Commissioner Brinson, Commissioner Wilsen, Mayor Johnson, Commissioner
Firstner, Commissioner Oliver
Also Present: City Manager Frank, City Attorney Cookson, City Clerk Sibbitt
PRESENTATIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS - 6:17 PM
Proclamations for October& November 2019 (Mayor Johnson)
➢ Community Planning Month — October, read by Commissioner Firstner and
proclaimed by Mayor Johnson and accepted by Development Services Director Rumer
and Deputy Development Services Director/CRA Administrator Corless.
➢ Week of the Family — November 2-9, read by Commissioner Wilsen and proclaimed
by Mayor Johnson and accepted by the Grudzinski Family, Alfred Family, Claiborne
Family, and Victoria Laney.
COMMENTS FROM CITIZENS/PUBLIC - None
STAFF REPORTS AND AGENDA REVIEW -None
COMMISSIONERS ANNOUNCEMENTS - 6:24 PM
Commissioner Brinson—None
Commissioner Wilsen—None
Commissioner Firstner—None
Commissioner Oliver—None
Mayor Johnson — 1) Announced the West Oaks Mall is hosting Mall-O-Ween on Thursday,
October 31st, from 4:00 PM—6:00 PM. This is a free, safe, and fun event for the kids to interact
with the Ocoee Police Department. There will also be Trick-or-Treating at participating
retailers. 2) Announced this Friday and Saturday, October 18th and 19th is the last weekend to
enjoy the City of Ocoee's Annual Haunted House located at 951 Ocoee Apopka Road.
Admission is $5.00. Also, with Thanksgiving just around the corner, attendees are encouraged
to bring "treats" in the form of non-perishable food items. The "treats" will be donated to the
West Orange Christian Service Center. 3) Announced the Annual Ocoee Founders' Day Golf
Tournament will be held this Friday, October 18th hosted at the Forest Lake Golf Club in
Ocoee. Additional Founders' Day activities are also scheduled for Saturday, October 26th
which include the Poker Tourney, Chick-fil-A 5K Run, Classic Car Show, and Fishing Tourney.
Times and locations for these events can be found on ocoeefoundersfestival.org.
Regular City Commission Meeting
October 15,2019
CONSENT AGENDA- 6:25 PM
Consent Agenda Motion
Motion: Move to adopt the Consent Agenda Items #3 - #5, with Items #1 and #2
being pulled for discussion and separate consideration.
Moved by Commissioner Wilsen, seconded by Commissioner Oliver; Motion
carried 5-0.
1. Approval of the Minutes for the Tentative Budget Hearing and Special Session held
on September 11, 2019, Final Budget Hearing Held on September 25, 2019 and the
Regular City Commission Meeting held October 1,2019. (City Clerk Sibbitt)
Commissioner Oliver announced he pulled this item to put on the record that he cannot
approve the budget minutes when there were no funds earmarked for an external audit of the
City.
Motion: Move to approve Consent Agenda Item #1; Moved by Commissioner
Wilsen, seconded by Commissioner Firstner; Motion carried 4-1 with
Commissioner Oliver opposing.
2. Approval of New Appointments to the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board. (City
Clerk Sibbitt)
Members of the Parks& Recreation Advisory Board serve two-year terms. The Ordinance provides that the
Parks & Recreation Advisory Board shall consist of nine (9) members; and, whenever possible,
appointments to the Board may include a member from one of the independent youth league organizations
affiliated with the City of Ocoee Parks and Recreation Department. Currently the board has five (5)
members. Two(2)applications have been received by Jason Carroll and Michelle Bergstein-Fontanez whom
have shown an interest in being appointed to the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board for a term ending
October 2021.
This item was pulled and not heard for consideration.
*NOTE: Mayor Johnson brought Item #2 back before the City Commission for the
appointment of Jason Carroll onto the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, after Item#9.
3. Approval of New Appointment to the Community Redevelopment Agency Board
(CRA). (Deputy Development Services Director/CRA Administrator Corless)
As authorized by Ordinance 2006-007 and Section 163.357(1)(c), Florida Statutes and as provided by the
interlocal agreement with Orange County,the governing board of the CRA shall consist of the five members
of the City Commission plus two individuals appointed by the City Commission. One of the appointed
members shall be nominated by Orange County and appointed by the City Commission. The term of office
of the appointed members shall be for four (4) years. Todd Duncan, who is the appointed City nominated
Board Member, resigned from the appointment in August of 2019. The CRA has received an application
from Mark Marsh,President, Orlando Health,Health Central Hospital.
Approved on Consent. Motion carried 5-0.
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4. Approval of the Arden Park North Phase 4 Plat. (Development Engineer Womack)
The subject property is located immediately east of Ingram Road between the Ingram Trails Subdivision and
the Brynmar Subdivision. The total area of the parcel amounts to approximately 173.1 acres. This plat is
required in order to create the 210 lots for the residential subdivision, associated street right-of-way and
tracts for open space, recreation, and retention facilities. The plat also includes easements for emergency
vehicle access, reclaim water lines, drainage, the stormwater retention pond, and easements for other public
utilities. In total, Phase 4 of the Arden Park Subdivision will take up 62.87 acers of the remaining 173.1
acers covered in the Arden Park PUD. This plat also dedicates right-of-way to the City for North Clarke
Road. This right-of-way will allow North Clarke Road to be completed between Clarcona Ocoee and W.
McCormick Road. The Arden Park Phase 4 subdivision is platting prior to receiving a Certificate of
Completion; therefore, the developer is required to provide a Surety covering the outstanding proposed
improvements as approved in the Preliminary/Final Subdivision Plans for Arden Park North Phase 4A and
4B. The Developer, Lennar Homes, LLC has provided the City with a Letter of Credit in the amount of
$8,968,833.67.
Approved on Consent. Motion carried 5-0.
5. Approval of Proposed Text for the State Historic Marker Recognizing the Events of
November 1920. (Support Services Director Butler)
In August,the city submitted an application for a State of Florida historic marker to officially recognize and
memorialize the tragic election-day related events of November 1920, when the local African-American
population was forcibly driven out, with multiple deaths occurring, at the hands of an armed mob numbering
more than 100 white citizens. The application included marker language developed in concert with the
City's Human Relations Diversity Board(HRDB) and approved by the City Commission. The proposal was
to use the same text on both sides of the marker. During the application review process, the coordinator of
the State historic marker program, Mr. Michael Hart, contacted staff to recommend that the text be modified
to provide different language on each side of the marker in order to provide additional details. He also
encouraged the City to add language describing what happened in Ocoee since 1920. During the course of
this discussion, it was determined that the best approach would be to use each side to address separate
aspects of the events. Draft wording was subsequently developed by staff and reviewed with the HRDB at
its October 3rd meeting. One side focuses on the events occurring on election day,November 2, 1920,which
ends with the lynching of Julius Perry in Orlando. The other side describes the events related to the murder
and eviction of the community's African-American population over the following days. This side also
includes information regarding the present diversity of the City's population and steps taken by the City to
deal with and move beyond its tragic past.
Approved on Consent. Motion carried 5-0.
PUBLIC HEARING - 6:30 PM
6. Request for Variance — Jassani/Hyder Property, 401 Calliope Court;
Project No: VR-19-03. (Advertised in the West Orange Times on Thursday, October 3, 2019)
(Zoning Manager Gajadhar)
The subject property is Lot 98 of the Windsor Landing Subdivision, which is within the City of Ocoee
Single-Family Dwelling (R-IAA) zoning. The Parcel Identification Number is 32-22-28-9285-00-980. This
property is part of Phase 2 of the Windsor Landing Subdivision,which consists of 214 single family homes.
It was approved for construction by the City in February 2000. No special conditions and circumstances
exist which are peculiar to the land or existing structure. The applicants, Salima Jassani and Ghulam Hyder,
are requesting approval for a maximum allowed impervious coverage area variance from 50%to 54.8%for a
884 square foot screen enclosed patio with brick pavers. Impervious surface coverage is referred to as the
percentage of the lot land area that is covered with impervious materials such as buildings, swimming pool
decks, decks,patios,driveways,etc.
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Zoning Manager Gajadhar presented a brief PowerPoint on this variance request. He
explained that an impervious surface area is an area such as pavement, or a driveway, that does
not allow water drainage into the soil. The subject property is Lot 98 of the Windsor Landing
Subdivision, which is within the City of Ocoee Single-Family Dwelling (R-1AA) zoning. The
Parcel Identification Number is 32-22-28-9285-00-980. This property is part of Phase 2 of the
Windsor Landing Subdivision, which consists of 214 single-family homes. No special
conditions and circumstances exist which are peculiar to the land, or existing structure, as
indicated on the aerial and location map. He explained a lot of the surrounding homes have
pools, and the City does not consider a swimming pool as impervious; however, pool decks are
considered impervious. Adjacent to the left of this property is an open space, which is an
impervious surface area. The applicants, Salima Jassani and Ghulam Hyder, are requesting
approval for a maximum allowed impervious coverage area variance from 50% to 54.8% for an
884 square foot screen enclosed patio with brick pavers. He stated the Planning and Zoning
Commission voted 4-1 to approve the variance.
The public hearing was opened. As no one wished to speak, the public hearing was closed.
Commissioner Wilsen asked why a pool is not considered an impervious surface.
Development Services Director Rumer explained the pool water area is not calculated in the
impervious area because the potential for overflow is minimal; however, the pool deck surface
is considered an impervious area.
Commissioner Brinson inquired about the drainage that will be required. Zoning Manager
Gajadhar answered the required drainage will be per engineering standards. Development
Services Director Rumer further explained the drainage on the lot drains from back to front
and indicated where the water runoff goes per the drainage plan.
Commissioner Wilsen said it is her assumption that the HOA already approved this.
Development Services Director Rumer explained the City's permitting process does not
require HOA approval; however, the Building Permit does state the applicant should seek HOA
approval.
Commissioner Oliver inquired if the HOA does not approve, would that be an issue with the
City, or rather an issue between the homeowner and the HOA; to which Development Services
Director Rumer answered it would be between the homeowner and the HOA.
Salima Jassani, Applicant, 401 Calliope Street, Ocoee, explained they hired an engineering
company that will install a drainage system. She said they are the only home on the street
without a pool or lanai. She explained that the extra square footage is necessary because they
want the lanai to start at one end of the home and end where the current patio ends for
cohesiveness.
Motion: Move to approve the variance for Jassani/Hyder Property — 401Calliope
Court, Project No: VR-19-03; Moved by Commissioner Firstner, seconded by
Commissioner Brinson; Motion carried unanimously.
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7. Request for Variance — Sakala Property/Ladybird Academy, 2060 West Road;
Project No: VR-19-04. (Advertised in the West Orange Times on Thursday, October 3, 2019)
(Zoning Manager Gajadhar)
The subject property is located at 2060 West Road. The applicant is requesting approval for a maximum
wall sign height variance from 3.5 feet to 5.2 feet for a wall sign intended to be placed on the building above
the entryway of the Ladybird Academy. The building on the property is approximately 13,361 square feet in
size. The proposed wall sign is 1.7 feet above the allowed maximum height for a commercial building up to
25,000 square feet in size.The Ocoee LDC Article 6-14, Subsection C5 states that a commercial building up
to 25,000 square feet must have a maximum sign area of 75 square feet and a maximum height of 3.5 square
feet. This proposed wall sign is 1.7 feet above the allowed maximum height for a commercial building up to
25,000 square feet in size.
Zoning Manager Gajadhar presented a brief PowerPoint on this variance request, which is for
Ladybird Academy located at 2060 West Road. The applicant is requesting approval for a
maximum wall sign height variance from 3.5 feet to 5.2 feet for a wall sign intended to be
placed on the building above the entryway of the Ladybird Academy. The building on the
property is approximately 13,361 square feet in size. He explained the right-of-way in front of
the building is quite larger than the adjacent neighbors. The proposed wall sign is 1.7 feet above
the allowed maximum height for a commercial building up to 25,000 square feet in size. The
Ocoee LDC Article 6-14 Subsection C5 states that a commercial building up to 25,000 square
feet must have a maximum sign area of 75 square feet and a maximum height of 3.5 square feet.
He announced the Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously approved this variance and
stated the applicant is present.
The public hearing was opened. As no one wished to speak, the public hearing was closed.
Derek Sakala,Applicant, 118 Osprey Hammock Trail, Sanford, thanked the board for listening
to their request, and they are excited to be a part of the Ocoee community. He showed pictures
of the property, which is approximately 90 feet off the road, and the portico sign, which is
roughly 200 feet back. He showed pictures of the property as you approach it off of West Road.
He highlighted the beautiful trees, which are obstructing the view of the property. He pointed
out the large right-of-way, which is much greater than any surrounding property. He described
the marketing and safety challenges. He expressed concerns about motorists who do not see the
sign and then attempt a sharp deceleration into the property, or make a fast lane change to make
a U-turn. He further showed pictures of both sized signs for the Commission to compare.
Mayor Johnson commented that all businesses in that area have the same sized signs; and
further, if he is allowed to obtain a bigger sign, then the other businesses may request for their
signs to be bigger. Mr. Sakala said that the Dunkin Donuts has a much larger sign. Mayor
Johnson reiterated that the City has sign requirements and an ordinance; and further, if this
variance is granted, he is concerned about the surrounding businesses requesting their signage to
be bigger.
Commissioner Brinson commented that he is concerned about the sign obstructing the view
for drivers and asked where the sign will be facing. He said he is not concerned about the sign
on the building and commented it is a little small. He is concerned about the size of the
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monument sign. Mr. Sakala explained the monument sign is well within the required
specifications, which has been approved and permitted. He commented this variance is only
regarding the portico sign on the building.
Motion: Move to approve the variance for Sakala Property/Ladybird Academy —
2060 West Road, Project No: VR-19-04; Moved by Commissioner Brinson,
seconded by Commissioner Wilsen; Motion carried unanimously.
FIRST READING OF ORDINANCES—None
SECOND READING OF ORDINANCES—PUBLIC HEARINGS - 6:49 PM
8. Second Reading of Ordinance for VMG Estates/Ocoee Townhomes — 815 Clarcona
Ocoee Road Small Scale Land Use Amendment & Rezoning to Planned Unit
Development (PUD); Project No(s): CPA-2019-004 & RZ-19-08-10. (Advertised in the
West Orange Times on Thursday, October 3, 2019 and Thursday, October 9, 2019.)
(Development Services Director Rumer)
The subject site is approximately 3.89 acres in size and is located at 815 Clarcona Ocoee Road, on the east
side of N. Lakewood Avenue. The subject site is currently undeveloped. The Parcel ID Number is 08-22-28-
0000-00-028. The parcel is currently zoned R-1 and has a Low Density Residential Land Use designation.
The subject property was annexed on December 4, 2019. At the time of annexation, the applicant did not
know what type of development density they needed to facilitate their plan for development. Staff decided to
move the project forward by annexing with the zoning and land use change at a later date. The applicant is
proposing to rezone the 3.89 acres from "Orange County" R-1 to "City of Ocoee" PUD in order to develop
26 townhome units. The proposed density is seven (7) dwelling units per acre which is allowed under the
Medium-Density Land Use designation. The Small Scale Comprehensive Plan Land Use Amendment
consists of classifying all 3.89 acres of the subject property from "Low-Density Residential" to "Medium
Density Residential" in order to accommodate the density of seven (7) dwelling units per acre in the PUD.
All townhome units will contain two-car garages and provide an open space and recreation tract, stormwater
retention, and a lift station tract.The internal roadway will be public and meet minimum roadway standards.
A Preliminary and Final Subdivision Plan will be provided in the next step of the process.
a) Second Reading of Small Scale Comprehensive Plan Amendment
b) Second Reading of Rezoning Ordinance
Development Services Director Rumer presented a PowerPoint explaining this proposed
Small Scale Land Use Amendment and Rezoning is for a parcel located at 815 Clarcona Ocoee
Road, on the east side of North Lakewood Avenue (aka Clarcona Ocoee Road). The subject
property is 3.89 acres, highly vegetative and vacant. The Parcel Identification Number is 08-22-
28-00-00-028. This property was annexed into the city at the beginning of this year. The
applicant is proposing to rezone the 3.89 acres from R-1 to PUD in order to develop 26
townhome units. The rezoning passed school concurrency. The proposed density is seven (7)
dwelling units per acre. The Small Scale Comprehensive Plan Land Use Amendment consists of
classifying all 3.89 acres of the subject property from "Low-Density Residential" to "Medium
Density Residential" in order to accommodate the density of seven (7) dwelling units per acre in
the PUD. The townhome units will contain a mixture of one (1) and two (2) car garages and
provide an open space and recreation tract, stormwater retention, and a lift station tract. The
internal roadway will be public and meet minimum roadway standards.
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The public hearing was opened.
City Attorney Cookson read the titles of the ordinances.
As no one wished to speak, the public hearing was closed.
Commissioner Wilsen inquired how this property received a Clarcona Ocoee Road address.
Development Services Director Rumer explained that properties that are in Ocoee have the
Lakewood address, and properties that are in the County have the Clarcona Ocoee Road
address.
Commissioner Oliver asked about the easements and property access. Development Services
Director Rumer said the single entrance will be off of Lakewood Avenue. The roadway is a
standard public road, 50 feet, with a cul-de-sac. Commissioner Oliver inquired whether cars
will be able to get through if cars are parked on the side. Development Services Director
Rumer indicated one of the comments from the Planning and Zoning Commission was
providing guest parking. He described the four guest parking spaces and said an open-space
tract may be able to provide more parking spaces.
a) Second Reading of Small Scale Comp Plan Amendment Ordinance
Motion: Move to adopt Ordinance No. 2019-033, VMG Estates/Ocoee
Townhomes Small Scale Comp Plan Amendment — 815 Clarcona Ocoee Road,
Project No: CPA-2019-004; Moved by Commissioner Oliver, seconded by
Commissioner Brinson; Motion carried unanimously.
b) Second Reading of Rezoning Ordinance
Motion: Move to adopt Ordinance No. 2019-034, VMG Estates/Ocoee
Townhomes Rezoning — 815 Clarcona Ocoee Road, Project No: RZ-19-08-10;
Moved by Commissioner Oliver, seconded by Commissioner Brinson; Motion
carried unanimously.
REGULAR AGENDA- 6:57 PM
9. Update on New City Hall Project - Approval of Exterior Design Concepts and
Process Moving Forward. (Assistant Utilities Director Croteau)
On August 6th the City Commission approved an Amendment to the Wharton-Smith Design-Build Services
Agreement for the New City Hall. The Amendment addressed how to incorporate civil design and
development into the contract, added geotechnical testing/evaluation, and included changes to the design
team. Although conceptual designs were previously presented to the City, none were felt to be consistent
with the character of the City;nor did the designs or the space program fit with the long-term expectations of
Staff or the Commission. With the approval of Amendment 1, Wharton-Smith brought HKS Architects, Inc.
(HKS) onto the City Hall Design Team. HKS has prepared three exterior concepts for the Commission to
review and approve. The three designs relate to three possible types of construction methods for the
building: tilt-up, brick veneer, and pre-cast. Each method of construction has pros and cons and provides a
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different aesthetic. HKS and Wharton-Smith will present each design and present the anticipated floor plan
for the Commission Chambers and Legislative Area. Once the design concept has been chosen by
Commission, HKS will begin to fully develop floor plans for the building and interior design for the
building will begin. For expediency, staff is requesting once the design concept has been established by the
Commission that the specifics of the internal floor plan, and interior furnishings for the building fall to the
City Manager, or his designee, for approval. Staff is still anticipating breaking ground in the April/May
timeframe, spending approximately 15 months in the bidding/construction phase and allocating 1-2 months
for the closeout and move-in functions.
Assistant Utilities Director Croteau shared a brief background surrounding the new City Hall
project and stated Wharton-Smith and HKS Architects, Inc., were present for this update on the
three (3) proposed exterior design concepts for the new city hall.
Nathan Butler, HKS Architects, Inc., provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the
overview of the project, the proposed site plan, and three (3) design options: tilt-up concrete,
brick masonry with precast, and precast concrete.
fi
Commissioner Wilsen shared she likes option #2, brick masonry and does not care for the
modern look of option#3, the precast concrete.
Commissioner Brinson shared he does not care for option #1, but is concerned about the
interior buildout. Assistant Utilities Director Croteau explained the layout of the interior, and
stated the exterior will not make a great difference in what the interior will be. She further
explained the interior buildout will be flexible with modular furniture and fewer offices.
Discussion ensued regarding the various costs of each option. Option #1 is the least expensive
with Option#3 being the most expensive.
Commissioner Firstner shared he likes the footprint a lot better than the previous concept. He
likes option#3, and asked if some neoclassical elements could be introduced into the elevation.
Mr. Butler said those elements can be possible for options #2, and#3. Commissioner Firstner
expressed option#2 was fine as well.
Mayor Johnson shared he likes all of the options, but really wants staff to be happy with the
interior as they are there every day. He asked Assistant Utilities Director Croteau what the next
steps are. Assistant Utilities Director Croteau indicated the Commission needs to select the
exterior design to move forward.
Motion: Move to approve Option #2 Design Concept with Brick Masonry and
Precast; Moved by Commissioner Wilsen, seconded by Commissioner Oliver;
Motion carried unanimously.
Assistant Utilities Director Croteau announced they will be showing them the interior first
floor with the chambers. Mr. Butler provided plans and described the interior first floor.
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Assistant Utilities Director Croteau said to expedite the process, staff is asking for the city
manager to have approval on everything that pertains to the interior floor plan, where
departments will go, and furnishings within the building.
Motion: Move to allow the City Manaqer the authorization to make decisions on
the specifics of the interior buildout; Moved by Commissioner Firstner,
seconded by Commissioner Wilsen; Motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Brinson clarified if this should state "the city manager, or his designee."
Assistant Utilities Director Croteau replied affirmatively.
Amended Motion: Move to allow the City Manager or his Designee the
authorization to make decisions on the specifics of the interior buildout; Moved
by Commissioner Firstner, seconded by Commissioner Wilsen.
Commissioner Oliver asked whether any budgetary items regarding additions, or the like,
would come back to the commission. Assistant Utilities Director Croteau said budgetary
items do come back. When the design is concluded, this project will come back to the
commission to discuss construction costs. She explained statistics on construction increases, and
how the increases may impact this project.
After a brief discussion, motion carried unanimously.
Mayor Johnson shared that he may have misspoken earlier, and a motion is needed for Item #2
- Approval of New Appointments to the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board as the applicant
Jason Carroll can be considered for appointment.
Motion: Move to approve the appointment of Jason Carroll to the Parks and
Recreation Advisory Board for a term ending October 2021; Moved by
Commissioner Wilsen, seconded by Commissioner Firstner; Motion carried
unanimously.
10. New Appointment to the Human Relations Diversity Board. (City Clerk Sibbitt)
The Human Relations Diversity Board was created by Resolution in 2003. The purpose of this board is to
promote understanding, respect, goodwill, and equality among all citizens and businesses of the City of
Ocoee. Members of the Human Relations Diversity Board serve three-year terms. Currently, the Human
Relations Diversity Board has twelve (12) members, and their resolution allows no less than seven (7)
members and no more than thirteen (13) members. Two (2) applications have been received from Ocoee
residents Gregory Meeks (District 1) and Lu Fontanez (District 2) who have both indicated an interest in
being appointed to the Human Relations Diversity Board for a term ending May 2022. Should the Honorable
Mayor and Commissioners appoint Mr. Meeks (District 1) or Mr. Fontanez (District 2) to the one (1)
remaining open seat on the Human Relations Diversity Board?
Commissioner Wilsen commented that during her review of the applications and the HRDB
board list, she took notice of the representation of each district. She found it to be wonderful
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that this board is close to capacity as the commission encourages citizen involvement with all
their boards. She continued by explaining that currently District 1 has three (3) representatives,
District 2 has two (2) representatives, District 3 has one representative, and District 4 has four
(4) representatives; therefore, she felt in order to have a fair representation of all the districts
that the applicant from District 2 should be the person appointed to the HRDB Board.
Mayor Johnson also shared that as the liaison to the board he believes there is not a Hispanic
representation.
Motion: Move to appoint Mr. Fontanez from District 2 to the HRDB for a three-
Year term ending May of 2022; Moved by Commissioner Wilsen, seconded by
Commissioner Oliver; Motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner Wilsen shared that she hopes the applicant, Mr. Meeks, who was not chosen
will consider being a member of one of the other advisory boards for the City as there are
opening on several of the advisory boards.
11. Request for Authorization to Proceed with Implementation of Criteria for
Administration of a Neighborhood Small Grants Program. (Community Relations
Manager Wright)
The City of Ocoee City Commission appropriated $12,000 into the 2019-2020 budget for a small
neighborhood matching grants program for assistance to neighborhoods seeking to make improvements.
Considerable discussion occurred during the budget workshops amongst the City Commission resulting in
staff being directed to bring back criteria, or guidelines consistent with Commission direction. Under a
similar program administered by the City in the past, the maximum award was $2,000 and it was a
reimbursement-based program. Staff has met internally and included in the staff report are recommendations
for the programming of the "Ocoee's Neighborhood Matching Grants Program". The grant program should
also be revised to include category types for which funds may be applied for such as Entry Beautification&
Identification, Open Space and Common Area Enhancements and Security and Safety Improvements. Staff
requests that the commission authorize implementation of this Neighborhood Matching Grants program per
the guidelines with completion and update of information and forms to allow the grant program to be
advertised in January 2020.
Community Relations Manager Wright explained that during the budget workshop the City
Commission directed staff to develop criteria for a new and improved Neighborhood Grants
Program. The Development Services Team and Support Services Team members met and
developed the criteria that are before them this evening. Some of the revisions recommended for
the grant program include: Simplify the application process, and allow both HOAs and
neighborhoods without an HOA to apply; and, limit the number of times an HOA, or
neighborhoods without an HOA, can be awarded funding to once every other year. Staff
requests that the commission authorize implementation of this Neighborhood Matching Grants
program per the guidelines provided and commencing in January 2020.
Motion: Move to implement criteria for the administration of a Neighborhood
Small Grants Program as presented by staff; Moved by Commissioner Wilsen,
seconded by Commissioner Oliver; Motion carried unanimously.
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7:50—7:57 PM—RECESS
STAFF ACTION ITEMS -None
COMMENTS FROM CITIZENS/PUBLIC - 7:58 1'M
Jason Lietz, Public Information and Events Manager for CareerSource Central Florida,
addressed the City Commission as he was asked by Commissioner Oliver to come and speak to
them regarding their Summer Youth Internship Program. He briefly gave an update on the
Summer Job Program they completed this past summer which assisted 16 young adults. He
thanked the City and Elected Officials for allowing the opportunity for these young adults to
give back to the community and hopes to continue this partnership with the City. Mayor
Johnson briefly commented that for future events he is asking that the program be more
diversified, and that all young applicants have the opportunity to participate. Commissioner
Oliver agreed with the Mayor further stating there is a lot of diversity in the City. He further
clarified for this past Summer Job Program, he only interviewed the applicants that showed up.
Brad Lomneck, 957 Veronica Circle, inquired from City staff about the Comprehensive
Financial Report (CAFR) and what it entails to get it completed. City Manager Frank
explained that Florida State Law requires that all governments publish a complete set of
financial statements presented in conformity with the accounting principles generally accepted
in the United States, and audited by a firm of licensed certified public accountants in accordance
with generally accepted government auditing standards. It is required to be conducted every
year, and to be sent to the State Office of Financial Services. Mr. Lomneck inquired if the
CAFR was audited by an outside firm as well. City Manager Frank explained the CAFR is not
audited but the financial documents that are provided to the Department of Financial Services
are.
Mr. Lomneck further commented on the Founders' Day event and shared that in 2017 the City
received approximately $73,000 more in sponsorships than what it cost the City in expenses. He
explained that total expenditures were $557,000 but the City collected $631,000 in sponsorship;
he further asked if anyone on the Commission would like to comment.
Chris Adkins, 606 Ridgefield Avenue, commented that he appreciated the comments made by
Mr. Lomneck in regards to the CAFR. He further added that is the base and most simple form
that the State requires. He further shared when he makes his comments in regard to an audit of
the City it is more of an intensive audit of overall practices he is seeking. He continued by
stating that the information Mr. Lomneck shared about the 2017 Founders' Day is not in the
City's budget. He further shared the page numbers within the current budget book which show
an expense line item for Founders' Day, stating there is no other place where income is shown.
Accountability and transparency are what he is seeking. Mr. Adkins concluded by voicing his
dissent on the interior design of the new City Hall being passed onto the City Manager, or his
designee, who is not elected by the taxpayers. He further asked that the elected officials make
the final city hall project decision, that the city hall budget stays under $20 million, and that the
work be completed.
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Regular City Commission Meeting
October 15,2019
Mayor Johnson briefly explained that the Founders' Day budget is broken down by revenues
and expenses every year, and can be requested from the Finance Department. He shared this is
an event that is conducted every year, and if the City Commission decides to not host this event
in the future they can do so; however, there are many residents who live in the City who look
forward to this event.
Brad Lomneck, 957 Veronica Circle, commented that he had one more inquiry from the City
Manager. He inquired if all department directors were required to give budget information to
complete the CAFR. City Manager Frank explained the CAFR is a summary of what
happened in the previous year. The Finance Department will gather all the information for the
financial reports, and auditors come to the City and review everything which can take weeks.
Once the auditors have completed their review the final documents are completed and sent to
the State. Mr. Lomneck inquired if that is a true financial statement of the health of the City.
City Manager Frank answered in the affirmative.
COMMENTS FROM COMMISSIONERS - 8:14 PM
Commissioner Oliver — 1) Shared there are a lot of statements made regarding the audit. His
perspective is that the CAFR does not give a full-cycle summary of the City's financial and
operational health. He is looking for a forensic audit to be performed, and that it could provide
opportunities that could be capitalized on. 2) Received communication from former Winter
Garden Commissioner Wilder regarding their Veteran's Day Ceremony on Saturday, November
2, 2019. She has requested the City Council attend and participate; and further, that the City
purchases and ad to be placed in the ceremony program, as they had the year prior.
Motion: Move to approve $125 from Contingency Funds for placement of ad in
Winter Garden's November 2nd Veterans Day ceremony program on behalf of
Golden Angels of Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church. Moved by
Commissioner Oliver, seconded by Commissioner Wilsen; Motion carried
unanimously.
Commissioner Firstner — Reminded Ocoee citizens that Halloween is approaching and
reminded residents to be mindful of the young children in all the neighborhoods, and to please
supervise the activities.
Commissioner Wilsen — 1) Announced that the Ocoee Lions Club is hosting a Halloween
Haunted House. 2) When traveling down Clarke Road, the medians being redone are a project
under the direction of the CRA within its boundaries. Please be mindful of the workers. 3)
Shared that an event was held last weekend, and port-o-lets were placed on Oakland in front of
resident's homes and asked for consensus that for future events we should be mindful of their
placement. City Manager Rob Frank confirmed they should not be along the right-of-way,
and at least 100 feet away, or more, from the homes as a general rule. Consensus of the
Commission was to make departments aware of placement, and to make a rule as to the
placement and timing of port-o-let pick-ups.
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Regular City Commission Meeting
October 15, 2019
Commissioner Brinson — 1) Commented that residents need to be notified of the cycles for
pick-up of recycling and trash bins. Public Works Director Krug explained that they have (2)
two trucks out of service, but should have one back running on Wednesday. They have been
running as late as possible before the cutoff at the Transfer Station. Sleepy Harbor and Harbor
Islands will be taken care of on Wednesday, October 16th. He stated he has appreciated the
patience of the citizens, as those that are informed of the issues have been understanding. The
projected date for the contractor to take over the service for the city will be on January 6, 2020.
2) Announced the Haitian Chambers is hosting an event, and they are inquiring if the City
would purchase a table at a price of$800.00, for (8) seats, to be taken out of contingency, and
would like to open up the table to City Commission members or city staff Mayor Johnson
asked how much each seat costs, for which the reply was $100. Commissioner Oliver inquired
if the chambers has any businesses in Ocoee. Commissioner Brinson informed the Board that
there is a Haitian council member that currently sits on the HRDB board.
Motion: Move to approve $400 from Contingency Funds to purchase four (4)
seats for the Haitian Chambers event on November 16th. Moved by
Commissioner Wilsen, seconded by Commissioner Oliver; Motion carried
unanimously.
3) Inquired from Police Chief Brown if he has received any feedback regarding the Ocoee High
School parking issues of double parking near Crown Point. Chief Brown had not heard any
complaints. 4) Announced the GOAA event which will be held this Thursday, October 17th'
from 8 AM — 11 AM at the Lakeshore Center. He encouraged all small business owners
interested in doing work with GOAA and/or the City of Ocoee to attend. The event will be free
and breakfast will be provided by GOAA, which has partnered with the City for this seminar.
Assistant City Manager Shadrix will also be speaking at the Doing Business with GOAA
seminar.
Mayor Johnson — 1) Shared that the County approved a shooting range off of N Lakewood
Avenue, and further asked our Police Chief to please look into this. 2) Announced this Friday,
October 18th is the Golf Tournament for Founders' Day. Sign up will begin at 11:30 AM at
Forest Lake Golf course, with tee time beginning at 12:30 PM. Tickets for a foursome will be
$400. 3) Announced that Shepherd's Hope in Winter Garden is requesting assistance. City
Manager Frank responded that for 2018 they requested monetary support from $2000-$5000.
Also, that stats from 2018 showed roughly 2,100 residents from Ocoee were attended to in their
facility. Commissioner Oliver suggested that a line item be committed for the next fiscal year.
Motion: Move to approve $2500 from Contingency Funds to support Shepherd's
Hope. Moved by Commissioner Wilsen, seconded by Commissioner Brinson;
Motion carried unanimously.
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Regular City Commission Meeting
October 15, 2019
ADJOURNMENT—5:43 PM
APPROVED:
Attest: City of Ocoee
.1"./(14e- —wool
Melanie Sibbitt,City Clerk Rusty Johi n, Mayer
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