Good evening. Today's. Today's date. July 3,
2025. Town of the process 07:12 p.m. we'll call the
Hayne City commission meeting to order at this. Time. We'll
have our invocation. I see Pastor baby back there to
you. Minister invocation. And remain standing for our pledge of
allegiance. You can come up to the front, too. He
doesn't find us.
Father God, we do come before you, and we thank
you for tonight. We thank you for life. Health and
strength. Thank you for just waking up up this morning.
As we come before you, we do ask for your
wisdom. Or guidance. Knowledge and understanding and all that we
do. We pray for our city. Pray for our city
leaders. You endow them with your knowledge, wisdom and understanding.
Do you be all the praise and all the glory
in Jesus name every heart. Say, man. Standing for the
pleasure.
Thank you so much, pastor. Before we start this meeting,
I want to yield over to our city attorney, who
want to make a couple of comments and then I'll
reconvene to me. I made a couple of comments before
the CRA meeting, and I'm going to say the same
thing, and I'm going to say it very as quickly
as I possibly can. Just for the folks in the
audience. The commissioners and city manager and clerk and I
all have hard jobs up here. It's hard to say
who has the toughest job. City commission supposed to be
making. The policy decisions. And that is very challenging. If
you saw the CRA meeting, there's a lot that goes
into setting the policy. I at times feel like I
have a very difficult job because. My job at times
requires me to tell the city commissioners no. It's always
for a structured. Ethical reason. But.
I do that? They get mad at me, and I
understand why. But there's times I still have to say
no. That's the first point. Second point is. It's important
that. The city commissioners and the city staff and myself
and everybody else in the organization. Stay in their respective
lanes because. That is what our charter requires. And if
people get out of their lanes, then. It really falls
to me to say something about. It. And the third
thing is. Just a reciprocal request, and that is that
if there's an issue that comes up, I would appreciate
it if the staff or the city commissioners call me
and discuss it with me. Because. I see an issue
that I think they need to be aware of, I
do call them so. Those were the points I made
earlier, and I wanted to make them again now. We
have a very long meeting ahead of us. And quite
a few very important things. To get accomplished. And Mayor
west has always talked in terms of, this is a
business meeting, and we need to conduct it as a
business meeting. I know one of the first items. I
want to make a few more comments. When that comes
up, but. I will yield back to the mayor. Thank
you, council. Exactly right for the state. For our council
member. That's on the day as. Remember, this is a
business meeting, so. If there's any comments question that you
need to answer, we probably should have reached out. To
the city manager or city attorney or the city clerk.
Let's try to keep this meeting as business as possible
and get out of here in a reasonable time. Maybe
like 830, but we can. Love. Stream. He loves streaming.
So at this time, we're going to continue with this.
We got a presentation in front. Of us, boys and
girls for proclamation week for proclamation. So thank you, Mr.
Mayor. The next proclamations that I'm going to read. For
our June meeting, but as you know, it was canceled.
Due to some scheduling conflicts, but we still want to
make sure that we honor these so the first one
is. Whereas the Boys and Girls Club of Pope county
is at the forefront of youth development and serves as
a haven and opportunity hub for all young people, especially
those who need us. Most. And whereas the Boys and
Girls Club of Pope county recognizes that the health, well
being and future success of our children. Is a shared
community responsibility, and whereas children's abilities, confidence and aspirations can
be nurtured through supportive programs and positive environments that. Prepare
them to thrive physically, emotionally and professionally. And whereas the
boys and girls Club of Poke county helps ensure that
our young people have access to resources, offering them a
safe and supportive place to go and providing them with
quality programs. And whereas the boys and Girls Club of
Pope county will celebrate national Boys and Girls Club a
week 2000 and. 25, along with some 3000 other clubs
and more than 4 million young people worldwide. In an
effort to promote great futures for our youth. So now,
therefore, I, Morrison west, mayor of the city of Haynes
City do proclaim the week of June 23 through the
27th. That was boys and girls. Club week in the
city of Hayden city, and we call on all our
c. Citizens to join in recognizing and commending the Boys
and Girls Club of Pope county for providing comprehensive, high
quality services to the young people of this community. And
we have here to set our hand and cost the
seal of the city of Hayne City to be affixed
this day, and I just want to say that the
boys and girls club did come and make a visit
to city hall and. They had made some lovely bags
to give to a lot of directors. That were here
in city hall. I took them on a tour and
went throughout the whole building. And it was really nice
to see them, along with the director, Curtis Reddick, and
a couple of interns and stuff like that. And so
Curtis was unable to be here because he's with the
boys and girls club. On a trip, so they're out
doing something. But I understand that there's supposed to be
someone here to accept this proclamation.
No, we just really appreciate this. Thank you for your
support. Thank you. I think we have just right around
100 kids for the summer program. Hot and heavy in
it. They're off this. Week for the fourth July weekend.
But you guys are truly making an impact on the
kids here. In Hayne City, and we definitely appreciate it.
Thank you. Thank you. The next one that I'll be
reading is for Juneteen th freedom day and I want
to specifically state here that we're doing something special this
year where we will acknowledge Juneteenth, which we know is
on June 19. And then I have a special acknowledgment
that I will read in a separate proclamation, but this
one. Is. Whereas for 158 years, June 10 day continues
to be the most recognized african american holiday observance in
the United States, also known as Emancipation Day, Emancipation celebration,
Freedom Day. June, June, Juneteen th Independence Day and juneteen
th juneteen th national Freedom Day commemorates the survival due
to God. Given strength and determination of African Americans, whereas
approximately eleven and a half million African Americans survived the
voyage to the new world. The number that died is
likely greater only to be subjected to the tearing part
of families and forced to submit to slavery for more
than over 200 years after arrival. In the United States
and. Whereas Juneteenth commemorates the day freedom was proclaimed to
all enslaved in the south by major Emery and the
United States Colored Troops posted general order number three on
June 19, 1865 on Reed Chapel AME Church in Galveston,
Texas, more than two and a half years after the
signing of the emancip. Emancipation proclamation by President Abraham Lincoln.
And whereas, until we are free, all are free, none
are free. Is an off repeated maxim that can be
used to highlight the significance of the end of the
era of slavery in the United States. And whereas in
1991, Representative also J. Reddick senior of Orlando authored the.
Legislation for the state of Florida's Juneteenth observance, which was
signed into law by Florida governor Lawton child in May
1991. And whereas in 1973, as an undergraduate student in
Texas, Doris Moore Bailey, was first introduced to Juneteenth during
a horseback trail. Ride in June 1992. The Juneteenth committee,
founded by Mrs. Moore Bailey, organized the first Juneteenth observance
in Florida. And whereas the 19 June along with the
4 July completes the cycle of freedom for America's Independence
Day observances. And whereas on July 2, 2022 the city
commission approved. Resolution number 201479, naming June 19 as Juneteenth
Independence Day in the city. Of Hayne city and then
later renamed the date of celebration from Juneteenth independence. Day
to Juneteenth Freedom Day. So now, therefore, I, Morris L.
West, the mayor of the city of Hayne city do
proclaim Jun. June 19, 2025, as Juneteenth Freedom Day in
the city of Haynes city and we urge all public
officials, educators, librarians and all the residents in Hayne City
to observe the month with appropriate programs and ceremonies and
activities, and we set our hand in seal to the
city of Hayne City. And for those of you that
might remember, we had an amazing. Gala event I attended.
I know a lot of our elected officials and probably
some people out here. In the audience. And that's what
this proclamation is for. We have a great committee that
puts together a wonderful program. And hopefully it will just
continue to grow bigger and bigger each year. She's going
to accept.
Thank you so much. In order for us to have
an amazing gala in order for us to have an
amazing June team festival. It takes a collaborative effort. And
that's a yes from the commissioners. That's. A yes from
the mayor. I told the sound engineer that we had
for the festival that. We couldn't do it without your.
Yes. And so again, thank you, city of Hayne. City.
Thank you. Parks and recreation. Terrell and his team, anything
that we needed, they did not. Say no. They graciously
did it for us, and we thank you. This is
only the fourth year, so we hopefully, definitely get better.
On behalf of my Aunt Cynthia Downing, who's the president
of our Handson June 10 coalition. We will have to
accept this proclamation and thank you so much for acknowledging
us. Thank you. So the last one, Mr. Mayor, this
one is a little bit special. So this is, we
have never done this before, but this is important. So
whereas Juneteenth, which is observed annually, on June 19 to
commemorates the day in 1865 when Union troops arrived in
Galveston. Texas to enforce the emancipation Proclamation, ensure the freedom
of enslaved African Americans, marking a defining moment in american
history. And whereas in 2019, the city of Haynes city
began posting major Juneteen th celebrations led by community leader
Betty White, along with the northeast community. Revitalization group with
strong support of Commissioner Kim Downing, the Northeast Rattlers and
the King's Lodge 48. These vibrant events, known as. Be
out day were embraced by the community as a celebration
of freedom, unity and empowerment. And whereas the Haynes City
Commission and our very own mayor, Morris west enthusiastically supported
these celebrations, recognizing the importance of Juneteenth as part of
the city's cultural identity and historical awareness and whereas in
2020, under the. Leadership of Mayor Morris West, Haynes City
became the first municipality in Polk county to officially designate
Juneteenth as a paid holiday for the city employees setting
that example, and that has since been followed by other
cities in the region. And whereas the city of Haynes
city remains committed to recogn. Recognizing and uplifting the values
of freedom, inclusion, and community pride that Juneteenth represents. So
now, therefore, I, Morris west, mayor of the city of
Haynes city, along with the city commission, we are also
proclaiming June 19, 2025, as juneteenth, a celebration of freedom.
And we want to acknowledge these. Key residents and other
people who have had. A really great hand in making
sure that this holiday is not forgotten, that the lessons
are learned. That the history is restored. The mayor didn't
want any attention, but tag your it here. Is the
attention. And Commissioner Downing is going to accept this proclamation
as she was part of. The Northeast revitalization group, if
I have that correctly, so that we can put this
into the record, so. Let's all give a rounding applause
to our mayor, because I, as an employee as well.
As all the other employees who are able to get
this because he led the charge in making sure it
was a paid holiday. Thank you so much, but I
don't take credit for this because it was five commissioners.
At the time. So. I brought it to this commission,
to the. And they follow suit and believed in me
and what I had to say to get this a
holiday. So I just want to thank to all the
commissioners at the time that some fit that this was
a very important day to celebrate. And now each and
every city employee gets every year. So thank you to
the city staff and all the commissions that served beside
me when I was a mayor in that year to
make this a holiday. And I just want to go
on record. She's not here tonight. But I would find
it robbery if I do not mention her name because.
The Juneteen th celebration came all about through Shamitia Streeter.
She first introduced it to northeast revitalization. As an idea.
As for us to start celebrating. And she added me
to be her co chair person, so. I wanted to
just give her her accolades to say if it was
not. For her forward thinking back in 2019. To be
the first one to actually bring this as a thought
to Hayne City. And since 19. We have carried the
torch, and Mayor west made it official in 2020 for
the employees to have it as a paid holiday. A
year before. President Joe Biden made an official federal holiday.
So I just wanted to give her her accolades. And
thank her for her forward thinking to even start this
celebration here in our city. Thank you so
much. Back to business. The next item on the agenda.
Side item number five. Sorry. The Anderson versus Philippines in
the settlement. I'll turn it over to our city attorney
for some comments on this particular item. Mayor and commissioners.
Item number five is related to the proposed settlement with
Erica Anderson in the case which is pending. In federal
district court for the Middle district. Of Florida. Earlier this
afternoon, we had a shade meeting. Where? The city. Commission
met and discussed this case and. Were briefed on the
case by their legal counsel. The city and Anderson had
previously filed a joint stipulation of settlement in the case.
The proposed settlement is contingent on the city commission formally
approving the settlement. The basic terms of the settlement. I
want to read to the audience so you know exactly
what is on the table. The basic terms of the
settlement are. A the city's insurer would pay a settlement
and the amount of $550,000 to Anderson. The city would
be responsible for paying. A deductible of $2,500 to the
insurer. The parties would pay their own attorney fees. So.
The plaintiff will pay her attorney and the insurance company.
That the city has. Will pay the attorneys that litigated
the case. The only attorney. That isn't getting paid. In
that manner is me. I get paid for doing my
normal city attorney. Work. The city. In. Does not admit
liability. And. When this is finalized. The plaintiff will be
asked to sign a release concerning all claims against the
city. In briefing the city commissioners this afternoon, I made
it clear that until there's been a final disposition of
the case. I respectfully requested the city commissioners and staff
refrain from commenting on the pending litigation. And this litigation
will not be complete until the. Judge. Approves the orders
of dismissal or an order dismissing the case, which is
likely to be two to three weeks from now. And
I know there may be people in the audience that
want to comment on this case. The narrow issue before.
The board this evening is whether to approve the settlement
or not. That's the issue that should be addressed. The
running through the merits of the case and trying to
discuss them is not within the scope of what should
be addressed this evening. So I'm forewarning people that. Is
to me the ground rules. Citizens may want to comment.
But please understand. I have is the city attorney have
advised my client, the five commissioners up here, that I
highly recommend them not make any comments. And that's me
being a prudent attorney. And that's me being a disciplined
attorney and advising my clients. So. I really hope. That.
Recommendation is understandable to people. I'm sure there will come
a time where, when the case has been completed where
the city commissioners may or may not want to make
a comment, but for tonight. They really shouldn't, and there's
good legal reason for them not to that's. Where we
are this evening. And mayor, I will answer any questions.
That the commission may have. Thank you, Attorney Riley. Just
a clarification that you do have a right to address
your government as under the comments. But you direct them
to the entire body of the commission. Not to one
individual, commissioner. On the day. So you make sure that
when you come and you do address us, you address.
Us entirely. We've been instructed, and you heard from our
council not to rebuttal. Or say anything, but we will
take your comments. But at this time, we're going to
continue with this item. We had shade meeting earlier today,
and you all heard the comments from the attorneys. From
our attorney and our adjuster, so we have a right
to either accept or reject that. Amount that the attorney
just said to you guys. Ladies and gentlemen. I'm going
to ask for a motion either to accept or deny
at this time, then. We'll open it up for public
comments. Or you want to open, you want to do
a public comment first. Well, there's a resolution. The request
would be to ask me to read the. Title, and
then you would have comments from the board. And then
you. Do that. With normal. Okay? Yeah. No different. Okay.
At this time. We're going to ask for introduction of
this resolution there. Mr. Mayor introduced Anderson versus city of
Hayne city settlement. Okay. This is resolution number 25 1881.
A resolution of the city of Hayne city, Florida, providing
authority to approve the proposed settlement in the litigation case
of Erica Anderson versus city of Haynes City Florida. And
providing for an administrative authority, providing for an effective date.
There was a scribner's. Error in the title and it
should not reference Anne Huffman. Ann Huffman was dropped from
the case prior to the trial. Starting. Okay, Dana, comments
from this? Any comments? Any questions? I have one for
attorney Ron only. Thank you for that clarification. If you
would. Explain the fact that there were two cases so
that they're not combined together. Because most people. That read
what the plaintiff's attorney had to say. It appeared it
was one case and not two. Well. I'll say this
in a legal. Legally scholarly way, which is the way
I always talk. There was only one case. There were
multiple counts to the case. There were counts against the
city. There were counts against you individually. The counts against
Anne Huffman were disposed of or dismissed prior to the
case going to trial. So prior to the trial beginning,
Anne Huffman was no longer a defendant. That's as clear
as I can make it. Thank you. Any other question?
Comment from the death. We're going to open it up
for public comment. Before we catch our votes, anyone from
the public wishes address the government. Please state your name
and address for the record. My name is Rebecca Rubio,
and my address is 1012 series three. In city, Florida.
33, four floors now. Is it illegal or is it
against the rules to repost the Facebook post about the
case? From Fox News because I got a threatening comment
that said that if I repost it and I keep
on reposting it to bring awareness to it that I
was going to get. Legal action against me, so I'm
just saying. I'm not pointing anybody out. Like you said,
I gave it to the council, to everybody. Here. But
I just want to say, is it bad or are
we not supposed to repost it? Or not bring awareness
to it. It's that. Trying to silence it, to keep
it from coming out from the public. We're your attorney.
Well. That's a different issue than what we're here to
discuss this evening. The issue that we discussed this evening
is whether the city commission should approve the settlement or
not. So you raise an interesting question. I am not
going to respond to it. Go ahead. Thank you. Anyone
else from the audience who wish to speak. We're going
to close it and ask for a motion for approval
denial. Mr. Mayor, I make a motion to approve the
settlement for Anderson versus City of Haynes City. We have
a motion on the floor. Do we have a second?
I second. We have a motion now. We have a
second? All in favor? We'll do a rule. Call commission
Downey. Yay, Mr. Royal. Yeah. Commissioner Huffman.
Nay, Mr. Smith. And this J for me. So the
consensus of it here is a yes to what. The
amount that was settled by the attorney. Do you have
any other comments? Yes, sir. All right. Thank you so
much. At this time, we're going to continue with this
agenda. Next item is public comment. Public comments our city
clerk should have a list of individuals that actually sign
the public. Well, this is a first. No one. Jared
is now here, signed up. So maybe we will get
out of here early. That's good. Hey, I'm actually worried
about sharing. Nope. Okay. Thank you for that. Now we'll
move right along with the consent agenda. Consent agenda? Any
comments? Questions? Concern about our consent agenda from the day.
Does anyone have questions? I just had just a request
for clarification. The 7D. Is that about? The
dispatchers that we utilize the share department after hours. Okay,
then I don't have any questions, just for clarification. That's
been continued. So when we approve the consent agenda, we
make the motion. We're going to do everything except 70.
That'll be continued. Yes, sir. Okay, so. At this time,
I'm going to open it up for public comments. Anyone
wish to speak? Step fourth to the podium. State your
name and address for the record in reference to the
senate. Agenda. I'm going to close it and I. For.
I make a must approve the consent agenda. With the
removal. Of seven e resolution number two five. There's 1877.
We have a motion. Do we have. A second motion.
And second. All in favor? Aye. All opposed, like sign
motion, period. Thank you so. Much. Next item. We're going
to table items, so I need someone to make a
motion. To table. Continue item eight e until. I don't
think we have a later date. Insulin. I'm sorry.
The petitioner has requested, and they continue through July 17.
Okay? Can we get a motion? May you make a
motion to remove. Continue item a. Ordinance number 25 210.
Five. To afford the day or next meeting July 17
to the July 17 commission. Do we have a second?
All in favor? Aye. Opposed to? Move our lump from
the ACB Ordinance number 25 20 114, land development regulation.
Who's presenting this? Land development recognition. I have old business.
On the math. There's new business. Yeah. We don't have
all business. I don't. Have an old business on the
mine, okay? With this old business here. Should it be
old business? Yes. Okay. Any changes? Anything? No changes the
second reading. Okay. All right. Thank you for that. Any
comments? Question, reference to this item? We're going to open
up a comment. Anyone wish to speak in reference to
this item? Please come forth to the podium. State your
name and address for the record. See you now. Well?
Introduction. May I enter this order? 25 2114. Ordinance number
25. Two one 1114. An ordinance of. The city of
Hane City, Florida, amending the land development regulations of the
city of Hayne. City, Florida adopting tax amendments to the
land development regulations of the city by adopting revision. Revisions.
To chapter five. Zoning, providing for severability, providing for codification,
repealing ordinances in conflict herewith. And providing for an effective
date. Move for adoption. Second travel motion and a second
for adoption. All in favor? Aye. All opposed, like? Them.
And I'm assuming this now. New business, Richard, for you.
Yes. Okay. Resolution 20 518. 74 condition of use of
myth. That's the one you have? Yes. Conditional use amendment.
If this is a request. To have a conditional use.
Of beer and wine at 950, Lily. And it was
requested that I read into the record the conditions of
approval, and with your permission. I would like to do
that. One, the approval of the conditioner used does not
release the applicant from meeting the requirements of all other
applicable sections of the Hayne City land development regulations, including
section 22 D regarding conditional uses quota ordinance and growth
management plan number two. Violations of any conditions of approval
shall be deemed a violation of the land development regulations
and shall give rise to the city's right to cancel
the conditional use on 30 days. Advanced written notice number
three. The applicant shall be required to comply with all
applicable Han city sign regulations. Specifically, section 7.4.10. Central business
district permitted sign. Number four. The signage must comply with
the 2023 Florida Building code, 8th edition. For the current
code at the time of permitting. Five. This conditional use
permit shall expire in three years from the date of
the resolution. Six. The city shall have the right to
review and consider the conditional. Permit annually to determine if
there's been any issues with compatibility or violations. Seven. Beer
and wine shall only be sold during the hours of
06:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. monday through Friday and 02:00
p.m. 11:00 p.m. on Saturday and from 02:00 p.m. To
09:00 p.m. on Sunday. Eight. No offspring parking required for
nonresidential uses for start to chapter five, section 5611. Or
eleven l of the land development regulations. Nine dysconditional use,
which I'll allow the sail and serving of beer and
wine from the duly licensed business. Within the building located
at 950 Lily Avenue, Hayne City, Florida and the conditional
you shall not allow. The stell of serving beer or
wine from any mobile vehicle on the property located at
950 William Avenue City, Florida. And that's all of the
conditions that apply to that is recommending a question for
Richard in reference this item. Yes, I do. When we
had our conversation with your staff earlier, Mr. Greenwood. It
was stated that. They have to go inside of the
building, actual building there, and that's where they purchase. The
beer and wine, but they could come out and sit
in, I guess you will call it. A courtyard and
drink this beer or wine? Is that the case? Okay,
but there is nothing in this resolution that says. That
they can come outside. In that courtyard and drink the
beer and wine because we have no way of knowing
whether that beer and wine came from a mobile food
truck, or if it came from the inside. I think
this city staff will have to monitor that to make
sure that doesn't, but. Number nine is the one that
I'm really concerned about. And. My other question is, who
actually owns this property? Because. I know it changed a
couple of times there, so I just want to know
who actually owns it. As far as I'm aware. I
think we have a representative here, Richard. My name is
Jonathan Rodriguez. My wife and I are. The. State your
name and address for Jonathan. Rodriguez. Florida. 338444. Me, my
wife and I are the owners of NYP Lilly. We
purchased the property, I believe in 2017, with all the
times. Okay. And the name that's in the original resolution
is not Rodriguez Maritza. That's. My wife's name. She doesn't
have my last name.
Marissa. Lily avenue, florida. So, Mr. Greenwood, who's going to
be signing because her name is the one that signing.
Off on this conditional use agreement. But they both own
it. I just want to make sure that the city
is going to be well protected. And what you all
are trying to do. I remember several months back when
you were trying to make it the Hayne City distillery.
And. You were going to, I believe, some type of
infusion of alcohol. Into ice cream. Well, we were trying
to, but we did get all our licensing for the
distillery through the state. And PTV, but unfortunately, the partnership
fell apart before. We got approval through zoning through the
state. Right. Going through a process with the health department.
Well, let me finish, sir. The point that I'm making
is that. Serving alcohol in any type of form next
to a daycare. Pre K school. I just frown on
that. I don't think that. That's the ideal location. And
I know about. The land development regulation change that we
made, but we did a certain footage away from it.
So. Those are my question that you can certainly email
to me. I want to know who signing the conditional
use agreement so that if we have an issue. Or
will you have that with my wife? But I also
own it too. Thank you. In regards to. I'm done,
sir. Thank you. In regards to the daycare, I actually
had a meeting. With each, okay? I also had a
meeting with Edisbie, one of the daycare owners. And she
addressed some concerns, and I addressed those concerns on the
conditional youth. So that's why we're opening after their operational
hours, so it doesn't conflict with the date. Right. And
thank you for that. Thank you all for your comments.
From looking at the back of the hours of operation.
It's when the hours of operation is after the closing
of the daycare only, and. That's what I'm looking at
as well. And then it appears to be, according to
my backup here, it says Ms. Brasscon. Is requesting. That
will be your wife. That's my wife. It's a requesting
the condition of. You. So she is the one that
requires. She is on the deed of the property, I
say. Me and my wife on the owners because I'm
married to her legally, but. Her name is on the
deed alone she would be signing. Yes, and I would
have an issue. If it was being sold during the
same hours while operation as a daycare center sitting next
to you, but it appears that there's a sale of
alcoholic beer and wine is going to be after hours
and after the day. And can I make one more
comment on that aspect? Now this. Is not per se.
It's not going to be a bar. I don't know
if you ever seen those tap rooms where you serve
your own beer. They give you a card, there's led
screens, and those cards are limited to customers on how
many ounces they can be served. So once a customer
serves a certain amount of outs, they'll cut them off.
Okay, so it's a self tap that allows. The owner
to control how much consumption, and it's craft beer. It's
just the complement to food. It's not like someone's going
to go out there and get drop off of these
beers, they're a little more expensive in price. But it's
just kind of like just to complement the food. And
our location is a family friendly environment. Okay, well, thank
you for your comments coming from the dance here. Got
a quick one. In reference to adequate being close to
it, I don't think. That's for what we have done
before. I don't think. That's. Valid. Way of not to
approve it. I mean, we have one right down the
street. Is right next to a special needs school. And
then there is another daycare across the street. On the
big building. So I think that shouldn't be an issue
because we have done it before. All right. Thank you.
Anyone else? No question. This time we're going to open
it up. Public comments. Anyone from the public wish to
speak in reference to this item, please step forward. State
your name and address. For the record. Then I'm going
to close it. And ask for introduction of this resolution.
Mr. Mayor, introduce resolution number 251874, resolution number 251874, a
resolution of the city of Haynes City, Florida, granting a
conditional use to permit the sale and serving of beer
and wine at the. Hayne City Food Park, 950 Lily
Avenue in Ain City, Florida. Setting forth conditions, providing for
findings providing for recording in the public records and providing
for an effective date to approve. Second, we have a
motion. Now we have a second. All in favor? Aye.
All opposed? Nay. Motion carries. Next item is going to
be. Resolution 20 518 76. Legal service contract.
On the p file. I'll yield back to our attorney.
Give me just a second. Let me get to the
right. Okay. This
is resolution number 25. 1876. Last fall, the city commission
approved. A contract with the Napoleon firm to do. The
help us with the litigation. Claim related to the. PFAS
is the forever chemical. The attorney. That I was working
with primarily and have been working with ever since, is
named David Grossman. And Napole is one of the firms
he was working with. Napoleon was not as receptive or
responsive as David would have liked. And over time. We
really didn't make any progress. And we have since started.
The testing procedure. James Keane has been very helpful in
the process. I've kept city manage. Manager Linsky up to
date on it. James and I have. And deputy city
manager Stewart is also aware of what is going on
with the testing process. Having said all that. The purpose
of this agenda item is. To simply do house cleaning
or housekeeping. Item to make sure that the farm that.
Is authorized to represent Hayne City. And pursuing this claim
is. The correct. Form. So the correct form would be.
Grossman and kelly llp. And this is a very simple,
straightforward. Resolution in that respect. All the terms of the
contract remain the same. And as I've said, they've already
started the process of getting. The testing data and starting
to get the information so that. We can submit a
claim on behalf of the city. All right. Thank you.
Turner. Riley, any question? In reference to p five. Yeah.
Quick one. So there is no cost for us. They
only get money if they recoup some money. Tony Riley
or how. That's correct. It's a mass tort case. These
type of cases are all in federal court, and we
don't have to litigate. It. We're just being part of
it. So there's a claim fund. Funds set up and
if we are eligible. Based on? What you have to
submit for a claim. Then Payne City will receive a
payout, and then. The attorney gets pay out of debt.
That's incorrect. Thank you, Hayne. City does not. Owe Napoleon
anything. At this point. And nor will there ever be
a bill. Unless they get some. No Napoleon. The previous
one, the company that didn't really follow up with us.
Just for the record, I just want to put it
on record that our water is safe to drink. And
I know you understand. We said pfos. He mentioned James
King in the water. But I ordered the drink is
treated pfoson found not only in the water system, they
all send your clothes in your hair. But it is
safe to drink, and I want to make sure that
the citizens understand that. Pfas is like, forever plastic. Laid
out the questions, comments to the attorney. Okay. At this
time, please try to introduce this resolution. Let me open
it up for public comment. Sorry. Anyone from the public
which speaks forth to the podium, state your name and
address. For the record. Mr. Mayor introduced resolution number 251876,
resolution number 251876, a resolution of the city of Hayne
City, Florida, providing for a legal service contract. With Grossman
and Kelly LLP concerning PFAS litigation, providing for findings, providing
authority to ratify, execute and delivery of the legal services
contract, providing for certain authority and providing an effective. Date.
Do I have a second? All in favor? Aye. All
the opposed? All right, motion pass. Are we going to
move right along to. Eight e. It's going to be
resolution number 25 1878. Legal services contract for insulin price.
Fixing litigation claim. That's going to be our attorney, Mr.
Riley. Thank you, vice mayor. This is a completely new
situation. Although it's parallel to the PFAS situation, this is
a master claim and. Over time. Has been insulin price
fixing. That litigation that's been ongoing. If the city has
a claim, we will go through these steps necessary to
determine if the city is eligible. To pursue a claim.
If so, we will go forward. Attorney David Grossman. His
home is the one that would pursue it. And. If
we don't have a claim, then there's absolutely nothing the
city doesn't. Owe anybody anything. If there is a claim
that it's a typical mass tort, He gets a third
of what the recovery is and. This is one. I
don't know. Whether the city. This one. I'm not assured.
That city may have a claim, but it's one that,
in talking through city manager with city manager Alinsky, this
was one that. I felt strongly enough in that. There
is the prospect of us getting a recovery, because out
of every 100 people, there's four or five that have
get insulin, and over a 20 year period that. Is
a lot of money. If you were paying a higher
amount than it should out the money. Would not go
to the individual, it would go to. The city. And.
The people using it would have been city employees, so.
If there was. Today, there's 400 employees. There's probably. 15
to 20 people that get insulin, and that's who we're
pursuing this for. Okay. So do you have any questions,
any question for the attorney? Yes. Attorney Riley. Am I?
Exempt. Is all in my name. Well. You would not
be. The one. You're not going to be a plaintiff
in this. I'm not a city employee. No, I didn't
say that, okay. I said you aren't going to be
a plaintiff. The city pays insurance, and that's where the
city got. Short. If the city does indeed have a
claim. Well, thank you. That exempts me because I don't
use the city's insurance. Any other question? Open it up
for comments. Anyone from the public wish to speak in
reference to this item, come. To the podium. State your
name and address. For introduction. May I introduce resolution number
25 1878. Resolution number 25 1878, a resolution of the
city of Hayne City, Florida, providing for illegal services contract
with Grossman and Kelly LLP concerting insulin price fixing litigation,
providing for findings, providing authority to ratify and delivery of
the legal services contract provid. Providing for general authority and
providing an effective date. Hope to approve second motion. Second.
All in favor? Aye. All opposed? Same time. Next item
is resolution 25 83. Good evening, mayor. Vice mayor, commissioners
is Omart Hayes, who's finance director the next two resolutions
are for our non abalome assessments, the first one being
the fire assessment fee. Again, staff has worked with attorney
Riley as well as attorney Mark Lawson. City administration the
proposed resolution in front of you is to maintain. The
fire assessment as. Is again, there's a two tier structure
to the current assessment. Eighty five cents per thousand. Dollars.
Of value improvements and then a 139 point. 93 cent
tier two, plus a $5 collection b. That's on there.
The estimated revenue? Coming from this fire assessment this year
is estimated to be around $5.5 million. Mark Lawson is
here to answer any questions that may you guys may
have pertaining to the non affirmative assessment. Question from this
debt in reference to this item. No. Here. Yes, Mr.
Mayor. Thank you. In reference to. The fire assessment fee.
In our last budget meeting, we discussed as far as.
Finally reducing. This amount. We've been collecting this amount from
the residents about maybe twelve plus years now. And. I
am still adamant about reducing this fee and giving our
residents tax cut, if you will. And a break. Because.
We have collected a substantial amount. From this tax. The
fire assessment fee. We have since built the new fire
station. Well, currently in the process of that. And. We
have over, I believe. $4 million currently in there, or
even more. So I want to know as far as,
and I think we did your survey. And it was
ranked at 83%. That the board was in agreeance to
reduce the fire assessment fee, so. I'm definitely looking to
have that portion. Reduce for our residents. Going forward. So
that's my comment as well as my questions. Director Dejesus,
can you tell us as far as what is the
total amount that we have collected to date. With this
fire assessment fee. Mr. Mayor and madam, this is a
public hearing and. The order of the public hearing is
typically. To present the items and then have the public
hearing and close the public hearing and then have deliberations.
We've gotten a little out of order here. I would
recommend that we go ahead and let those who've come
that one speak. Open the public hearing and close it
and combine the public hearing for both stormwater and fire.
There's a degree of similarity. Being close to public hearing
and then the discussion we just had for the last
three or four. Minutes is a form of deliberation and
discussion on policy and what to do. That would be
the way. I would recommend that you do that, and
I would ask the commission to do it that way.
Well, these are two separate items, so I do not
agree to combine those, too. Yeah, I think because the
way it is, In front of us is two items
is a stormwater assessment, and it's a fire. Assessment. So
normally, the way we do business in Haynes City, we
take care of one item and then we go to
the next item. We don't combine them like that. We
have for 13 years, and I don't do it any
way you want to do it. I want. To help
you get. Normally, then we get the comments from the
dance, and then we'll open it up to cure the
public, and then we'll come back with a final fold.
Mayor west, may I? Speak. Yeah, sure. Let me make
sure. Yes. You recognize? This is Mayor west. Fifth term
as mayor. I think he's experienced enough to know how
he wants to facilitate the agenda. Not you, Mr. Lawson.
I will defer to you. Need to follow his lead
and not treat us and the mayor as if we're
first. Timers and we don't know how. To facilitate an
agenda. I take exception to that. Really? You should apologize.
I apologize right now. Thank you. And I try my
best to help my clients invest my ability. I'm pleased
to do as you wish. Okay, no problem. So we
have no other comments? From the day I said this
time. It seems to me. Omar that.
We should have had this discussion. When. We were talking.
At our budget meeting. Because. As commissioner, downing said. The
survey and the discussion that we had. Was the fact
of reducing. The amount of the fire assessment fee. We
had a lengthy discussion about that in the budget meeting.
And then to see that. You are requesting. Approval of
this based. On what we discussed in the budget. But
we never discussed this. I agree. I'm not going to
put words on anybody else's mouth, but I agree that
we have been requesting this for a while, and this
started in 2016. And the purpose of the fire assessment
fee was. To subsidize the fire department payroll, and the
city was supposed to buy land at Patterson. And orchid
drive, and they end up selling it to a developer.
There's no fire station. There. So the residents have been
paying for something that was promised to them that never
happened. And, of course, the public safety. Is. The optimum.
Thing that everybody wants to get, but the city needs
to figure it out. How to. Either. The city needs
to figure out. How to reduce the amount of the
fire assessment fee or eliminate the fire assessment fee and
you find other grants, funding, whatever. Because public trust. Those
two words is what's expected from the residents, and we
failed in that area. We just continually. Assume that we're
going to just use this money. So I agree with
you. Commissioner. Down. And we have been discussing this for
years and nothing has taken place. Mr. Mayor, if I
can. Just make one additional comment and commissioner husband, you're
correct. Back in 2016. It was actually then put on
the tax role, but we started collecting all the way
back to 2013. So it started in 13, and then
it became part of. Their taxes, if you will, back
in 2016. So I am still. All for reducing this
amount. Back when we initially started paying, city was very
small. We did not have many homes, so we used
this fire assessment fee to help offset the cost. Of
public safety. We are now growing. By leaps and bounds.
We have more larger homes now in Hayne City. We're
collecting. More revenue from those homes. That could help also
offset. Some of the cost. Not even mentioning what we've
already collected from the residents. And with this assessment, We
can only use it. For that particular item for fire.
We can't use it for mixed use fire, police it.
Can only be forefire because it is an assessment. So
I am still all for a reduction. I'm not stating
to completely eliminate right now. But I'm definitely for a
reduction for the residents. Thank you, Mr. Donald. I hear
you and I hear Commissioner Huffman as well. As far
as the reduction. But I want you to also keep
in mind that. I texted manager, I think this morning
because there was some concern that was raised. In my
eyes that. We got two items that were vetoed by
the governor this year and that we didn't. Collect any
money. And one of the items that was Veto was
on the new EEoc. Building that. Now we're going to
have to put all that in debt service because we
won't get a dime. And we can use for assessment
to try to help build our EEOC. But I do
agree that at some point in time, this firm assessment
should be lower. They're absolutely right. We're continuing to grow
in the fire assessment, continue to stay the same. At
what point in time that we'll be able to give
some type of. Rebate, I would say back to our
citizen. We got fire sets and we got stormwater fees.
Every time we can get out of someone, we try
to get it out of them, and I. Think that
if we can reduce this, and I understand if we
eliminate fire assessment, our military will. Probably be almost 10%.
It's going to cost us six point some million dollars,
but I think that that's. If we eliminate it, but
I think if we can find a way to reduce
this, give them a tax break somewhere. A lot of
people say it's not a tax. It is. Another tax.
It's on your tax road. So it is a tax.
I would just like. To see at some point in
time can we reduce it like the commissioners? Are saying?
To help our citizen. Our job here is to try
to get the best bang for our butt. By our
citizen fiduciary responsibility of taxpayers dollars. And that's what we
sit up here to do to try to help these
taxpayers, not saying that we try to stick it. To
them every chance we get. And it's not fair. Mayor,
can I be recognized? Last meeting. I think I spoke
before, too, about reducing. Some of the millage or something
to give the residents. A tax break or discount, but
on this one. On the fire assessment. For this one,
I think. The way I see it, I think we
should go with it. And then it feels like there
is a need to discuss it. I think for the
next. Fiscal year, not this. Coming up, the next one.
I think we should have a meeting and talk. More
about our assessments in our mileage and see if we
can do something. Allow the experts to bring those numbers
on how it's going to affect, because as we saw
in the last one. Just reducing the millage by, I
don't know, half a point, I think. It was like
three. Million. Four millions lost. So the city is growing.
Yes, we're getting more money, but still with that, we
don't have enough because we don't have the facilities built
after we have a build. It might be more easier
because then you just got expenses of keeping up with
it. But to build it. We have the new Elc.
There was some discussions about getting another station on power
line, I think somewhere there, so we're going to need
money for it. I hate that we cannot reduce to
a residence. But there are necessities that we need. To
get to it. And the mayors say, unfortunately, we didn't
get nothing basically from the state this year. There was
a few millions that would help. So for now, I
will stick with the program. The way it is. Ms.
Mayor, may I be recognized? Really quick? Thank you. So
as of today, the year to date, we have collected
$4.8 million strictly from the residents. And you're stating tonight
that we did not receive anything this year. In grant
funding, however. In 2023, we received $2 million for the
fire truck grant, and we received $15 million for the
fire and EOC, which gives us a total of $16.3
million. In additional funding, and that was grant funding. On
top of the $4.8 million that we've already collected from
the residents. I think the residents has paid enough and.
They are due at least some type of break. I
sat in that audience for many years. Fiscal year, after
fiscal year after fiscal year. Here in the commission board
discusses. So this is not the first time that it's
come up for discussion as far as. A possible reduction.
A possible deletion of that particular fire assessment. I think
the time is now. Let's. Give our residents this break,
even if it's a minimum amount. Half or whatever we
need to do. They deserve a break. They've paid their
dues. And we need to give them what we promised
them years ago, and that's my final. Thought. Thank you.
All right, but if you're talking a percentage or amount
of a tax, break. I mean, you want to lower
the buyer assessment. What amount? What percentage? You're going to
lower about 50%. You're going to lower. About 5%. 1%.
Commissioners, if I may again, I think. The context is
perfectly noted. I think the goal is we have a
meeting July 14. We talked about you guys potentially having
to make these decisions on July 3 as well as
July 17 for the trim again. Some of these public
hearings are required in order to get it on the
tax roll. I just want to set some context. And
again, we're vigilant and we're cognizant. Of the fact that
you guys want to reduce. Our goal at the next
budget meeting is give you those options. In that first
budget workshop, we said if we kept everything status quo
and we didn't try to collect any extra revenue. We
don't have about $4 million. Available. To spend on capital
as well as that did not include any new positions
that did not include any merit increases for staff that
did not include any operating increases. So we could be
potentially looking at a budget with no increases that you
would not be able to fund any capital projects at
all. So we are constrained. In that sense, that doesn't
mean we can't get creative and give you options. But
I want to be able to give you real numbers
so you guys can make educated decisions. In that process.
One thing that I will say as well is the
city has grown. It leaps. And bounds, which is amazing.
But with that said. We also have increased service. Right.
So since 2013 to 2024, consistently we've been at a
million dollar shortfall between what the fire assessment brings in
and what the fire department budget is. So it's never
covered 100% of the fire department budget. We're still subsidizing
that. And that's still happening today, even at the $4.8
million number. This year's budget was $6.6 million, which means
we're still at a deficit of 1.8 million. You are
correct in the fact that we did get a $2
million grant for the fire trucks and the apparatus grants.
The 15 million was not a grant that is actually
a self funded project that we're using these funds from
general fund. To pick up the full 15 million. We
did receive a 750. Thousand dollars grant for the design
portion of that. So again, I say all that just
to give you guys context. So you understand. It's not
like we're charging excess. We're not putting away money for
fire, but we are making sure we're moving forward. Our
fire department. We're expanding. We only had two stations. Now
we have a third. We still need a fourth. So
we need to be realistic is if we want a
reduction. That may mean foregoing a forestation. And I want
to present you guys all that data. So when you
make that decision, you understand how hard you want to
tailor it, how fast you want to cut or how
slow you want to cut and what that looks like
in terms of the impact. You guys will also have
the option of how soon maybe you want to tweak.
The millage instead of the fire sustenment because they both
give. Relief to the residents from a tax burden perspective.
So that is the goal for the July 14 budget
workshop. I know we try to unravel a lot at
that first one, but again, we need to be having
these conversations where you guys have all the data in
front of you. To make a decision on that. Mr.
Mayor, if I can just answer one question. Where does
the trim notice? Because I know the fire assessment and
stormwater being with the trim. Note the trim notice. We
are required by the trim statute to have a response
to the property appraiser by August 4, which is why.
We're having the millies on the July. Requirement. That's a
mandatory requirement. So that's the last meeting we have in
July. To get back to them. So between now and
July 17, While eleven is a property appraiser's requirement to
submit a trim roll. For non edworm. That is not
mandatory. But the problem you run into if you don't
do it when it comes out is blank, and it
misleads a lot of people because there's nothing there. So
the law requires the property, Fraser, to make it available.
This data venom on June 1, he turns around in
40 days. It says, give me a complete role. We
can get that done for you. But you all need
to understand. He needs that on the 11th, and then
by law, mandatory, you got to pick a millage. And
give it to him. And once you give that to
him on the fourth, you really can't change it. We
can lower it, but we can't change, right? The state
law says once you give that information, To the property,
Fraser, then you've got to live with that for that
fiscal year. Unless. There are some criteria, like an emergency
or they had a breakdown in their systems and misappraised
everything. But that's the way the law works. It's 200.0.
But I'll wait. I want to wait until you ask
me. I'll help you. But I will wait. Yes. I
just had one quick question. We discussed this at our
budget meeting. And then we were due to discuss it
again on the 14th, so I'm trying to. Figure out
with you stating that? You plan to give us numbers.
So why are we not receiving those items before? This
comes before us. And wanting us to vote on it.
I cannot stress it enough that. We need to stop.
Working backwards. You present us something and you say, hey,
just vote on it, and then you come back with.
Want to produce us with numbers and facts. After the
facts I would like to see us get. That first
because. I was really taken back when we just discussed
this, and then at the very next meeting, you have
it on here for an approval when it was already
scheduled for our July 14 meeting budget. Meeting. So just
to recap, too, is we did have the June 24
meeting, the proposed meeting. Was for us to meet. Before
this meeting today to talk about these same items before
you vote on. Unfortunately, there were commitments. There were constraints.
We could not schedule that meeting, which then got postponed
to the July 14 and even picking the July 14
meeting date was a hassle. Right. So again, we're trying
to be proactive. We set a calendar to make sure
that we're getting out in. Front of you with sufficient
time to give you the time to prepare. But unfortunately,
again, that July. 3 budget workshop meeting did not occur,
but that was the intent and the mindset behind it.
We also were trying to coordinate with Mark and his
team, which is the ones who prepared the resolution of
the trim. So some of that got involved, but our
goal was to try and get you the information. Beforehand.
Thank you. All right. Any questions? I like to contribute
when I can. Yes, I'm going to yield. To you.
I allow you to speak to Mark. We're going to
give you an opportunity. Ms. Lawson. I just say one
thing to Umar? Yeah. Okay. Thank you. Omar.
I think that a suggestion to you. Is to share
some of what's in your head. As far as why
this particular date. We need to get things done. You
know what? We don't know. And then when you bring
it to us, we feel. Rushed at that point and
have more questions. So. If the July 14. I'm sure
we'll have a meeting maybe in August to then let
us know about. Those September dates, explain to us why,
and it may help some of us to say, well,
if we have it at this time versus that I
think that I can make it now. I understand. Better.
What? The importance is because I didn't know what the
deadlines were, and like we discussed, at the last meeting,
too. The assumption going into was educate, but also set
that standard knowing that we could talk through it. And
continue to have budget meetings throughout that process. And if
we need to tailor it down, cut it. But again,
we're making decisions without having to violate the trim process.
So it's, not a rush. And you're stuck in that
decision. It's just making sure we're buying compliant, and then
we'll continue to work through the budget process. Going through
that information. All right, Mort. Yes, sir. I'd like to
make an observation. First of all. I want everybody understand
that I'm here to help you. You don't want to
do the assessment, it's okay with me. And I really.
Mean that. But the one thing. That occurs is what
occurred back in 213. Is that what you typically do
with a fire department budget? It's up there in your
high priority items, and it sops up a lot of
your money. So at that time, you had about 9000
parcels in the city. And I have listened to the
process. That the staff and the management went through. They
had people come in and make presentations on how they
can cut and how they can reduce because. The entirety
of your budget is impacted by the assessment. The assessment
was designed as a means. To assist you from having
to go up well above nine mils of constitutional caps
at ten. The design was to create. Equity by diversity
of charge. Now, I'm not criticizing anybody here, so take
no offense to this. I'm a purist and expert. There's
a fee. There's a special assessment and there's a task.
All have different legal characteristics. I'm not going to call
anybody out. But this is not a fee. This is
not a tax. It's an assessment. It has certain rules
that you have to follow. Taxes have certain rules that
to follow, and so do fees. So the key here
is. You have a desire to lower the assessment, but
it's like a water balloon if you lower the assessment.
It'll bulge one of two places. You'll either. Cause your
adorn taxes to go up. There's a whole other crowd
of people who will come and talk to you about
that. Or you'll have to cut things. That's what happened
at 213 and here's. The issue? When you cut, it's
hard to do. It can't be done. In a four
to six week period. I've never seen a community be
able to do it because there are so many competing.
Desires for the limited dollars in the budget. Though the
first thing I'm going to suggest to you is. I
watch. Financial directors around the state work. This man has
worked hard. He has limited. Resources to figure out how
to manipulate a budget to fit the needs. So the
first thing I would say to you is, I think
it's going to be really hard to lower the assessment
without. Raising the millage. Now, here's the key issue. Your
city is grown from about 9000 tax parcels build up
16,000. 500. That's substantial growth. Those properties are predominantly above
average properties. That help pay taxes, so. Whatever you decide
to do. If you do it by August 4, then.
I would tell you you would need to do is
likely adopt these today to keep your options. Open. And
on August 4, if you're going to raise your village,
do that. So your trim. Build is going to look
wild and you'll have a lot of people showing up
renting about taxes. We're Americans. We do that. The desire
that I hear tonight and I hear the desire. Okay
is if you want to lower the assessment. I can
share with you, but the real issue is. It's a
process. In a perfect world. It's a process that ought
to start the day after Thanksgiving and. You have those
staff is told come prepared to tell us what you
can take out of your budget, because there's three ways
to solve the problem. Raise the abnormal taxes, lower what
you spend the money on, and figure out how to
get the assessment lowered. It is a very difficult public
administration chore. And everybody's used to being funded in a
budget. So if the parks and Rec is used to
getting. A million one, and they're told it's 500,000. Okay.
And that's where you all come in. Because once you
get your staff to look critically, I would tell you,
you should engage a facilitator so you all can sit
down. With a big white sheet of paper and decide
what to cut because just saying, lower it. Places the
burden. On the manager or the finance director to unitly
start to slash. And when that happens, the people that
are the recipients of those services or capital. Like I
said, it's the Florida comes up. You can go ahead
and cut right now. But when you cut, you're going
to be doing it in some degree blindly, because you
don't know what you're cutting. I can tell you, but
you will cut. You will cut. Lower priority items, because
at some point you'll hear from people saying, oops, if
you cut the fire department. Are. ISO. Rating might go
up. ISO stands for insurance services organization. And they rate.
Do I got a fireman in here that knows what's
your ISO? RatIng, Jim, do you what your ISO rating
is? I don't know. Four. Let me tell you what
a four means. Ten is you're out in the country
and there's no water and you have. A bucket. Be
great brigade, okay? One is the city of Kissimmee. They're
a one. Their insurance rates are. Run down because insurance
service organization drives what your insurers in your community charge
everybody for. Insurance. If you're an entry level homeowner, I
guarantee you have insurance because the mortgage lender won't let
you borrow money without insurance. Four. Is. Not. I'm going
to tell you. It's a higher insurance you're paying. More
insurance rates in the city because of that. If you
could get down one, it'll. Be a huge jump. Get
to a two is a huge jump. Beyond that, here's
the point. If you reduce the funding for your fire
department, I don't care what you do. I want you
all to understand I'm just trying to help academically teach.
Your insurance rates will go up because ISO will ultimately
figure that out. And when people apply for insurance, it
just goes up. That's one ramification. The other one is.
I understand that everybody in the budget there's a proponent
for everything in your budget. You all know that. So
when you go look at lower priority items, The proponents
will also show up. And we'll discuss this with you.
Because of the timing, the way the state law works,
where you have to tell the property appraiser. What your
trim is. You only have the option right now is
adopt this. Because it's not mandatory. But if you want
to get it on the trim, you got to get
it to them by the eleven. I would always advise
you to put it on trim because you'll be criticized
if it's a blank. And then. If you fill a
tent on lowering it. Your primary way to lower it
is going to be. A little more millage and some
cuts, but it's going to be mostly millage. I'm not
saying kick can. I'm saying plan to kick the can.
Start in November. Have a calendar if you bring in
a facilitator to help you. You all will. Drive. What's
going to be cut? Because. No offense to Omar. If
you rely on him to cut for you, you'll get
what Omar cuts. It's your. I can see in all
of you you'd like to lower the assessment. The key
is, how do we get there as a group? And
every city faces this issue. I just happen to know
this stuff. I sound impassioned. I want to help you.
So. I think. You're regrettably ill prepared. And I understand
your frustration, commissioner. But the decisions on how big is
your tool budget for the general fund? About 57 million.
That's a lot of money. And if you start. To.
Cut and slash without thinking about it. You'll get a
lot of spanner back. Now, if you work through it,
where you have a series of sessions where people say,
we could cut this, no more. This. This is a
result of that. And you see your budget. Work as
you go along. Then it's your budget. And you're knowledgeable
about it. But here's the beautiful part. You can do
millage and you can do assessment, and these assessments that
you have can be altered. And still retain their judicially
approved validity. That's a whole other bag of worms. Thank
you. Appreciate that. Explanation. On the assessment. The water balloons.
But at this time, we have this resolution. For. Assessment.
I need someone to introduce that resolution, and then we'll
take some action on this. Item, but please have the
public hearing. You can read it. Read it and then
have the law. Requires the public hearing. We advertise. Just
say one comment before we get into that? To the
fire chief and the city manager. I want you to
know that I fully support the fire department. I'm hoping
that. With. This next. Fiscal year budget. That.
We take better care of them. Meaning? We don't want
them riding around in old, old. Vehicles, because timing is
everything. So when it comes to that budget, We're not
going to rob from. Police and fire to pay utility.
Okay. Because, you know, I will go to bat. Over
that. Thank you, Michelle. At this time, we're going to
open it up for public comments anyone from the public
wish to speak in reference to this item, please step
forward to the poll. You can state your name and
address for the record. Recording. Induction is resolution. Mr. Mayor,
I introduce resolution number 251879. Resolution number 251879. A resolution
of the city of Hayne city, Florida, approving the fiscal
year 20 25 26 non ad valorum assessment role for
fire protection services, facilities and programs, providing for authority, providing
for definitions. Providing for findings, providing for direction concerning interim
assessments, providing for ratification and confirmation of apportionment methods. Directing
certification of the assessment role. And collection pursuant to the
Uniform Assessment Collection act, confirming required notice and imposing. Levying
fire service assessments, providing for additional notice. Under section 200.6.
Nine Florida statutes. Ongoing work order. Direction and severability and
providing. For. An effective date. All right, before we vote
on this, I. Say? And I understand we're in the
12th hour, but. We should work in the next coming
year. Like you said on white paper. We really need
to start looking at like Commissioner Don and St commissioner
husband said they need to start soon as November soon
as this budget season. We need to look at, try
to lower these assessments, but we can't do it by
doing it tonight. We don't have time to do it
tonight. Because of the trim notice and. Because of all
the other things by law, that we have to be
within, but we know this. Is coming up every year
at this time. We shouldn't wait till this time of
year. To start saying we should be working on this.
Our finance. Hey, come back to the commission throughout the
year and say, if you want to lower your fire
assessment, here's what you got. To cut. Here's what you're
going to have to happen. I think we're. Under. The
gun with this in here, and my vote would be
leave it as is. But I'm. Telling you, next year
we should, because our citizen has the right to get
a break somewhere. And it should be in that assessment.
They've been paying that for a long time. On the
fire assessment, so casting my vote will be leave it
as is, don't raise or anything. I think that was
one of the options. In there. We didn't make any
changes, but I do see a change in next year.
Whether we get a finance. Ma'am, we got a question.
I liked. I want to make sure that I am
clear with you in how your staff has behaved and
what you currently do. Normally. Say unbudget. That looks a
lot. Similar year for year, right? Your assessment, particularly your
fire assessment. Digest the annual budget. We do look at
that budget. The preliminary one to make sure you're. Not
out of kilter legally and economically. And so with that,
I have given to the clerk the two reports that
are mentioned. In. Your agenda, and I like they've been
added to the record. Dated July 2 for both stormwater
and fire. Want the record to reflect that in there,
that can help Omar and others as they go forward,
but that's the evidentiary part of what we do because.
It's not just the budgeting and the money. There's. A
whole protect you from. Challenge aspect, you are protected, and
your attorney can talk to you about that. How that's
done. Then back to the timing issue. What I said,
by November, most communities. Don't dark chopping on the budget
until. February. Am I right? Correct. So by getting started
earlier and having a plan, Where you decision makers are.
Involved so that. When. Numbers come to you, there's not
disagreement because there's no end to I'd. Rather have this
funded and not that funded, and you need to figure
a way to speak. In unison as early as you
can. Your management and your staff need to help you
do that. What I can do. Is share with. Your.
Finance department. Some technology that we use for other customers.
To keep it. In simple terms, based upon our knowledge
of what you have, we can develop what I call
a one f calculator. If our rates are instead of
$139. They're $95. What does that do to the rate?
And what is the revenue result? And that's the what
if issue. We did not have that available to us.
In 2013. We have progressed. And I will continue to
work with you on that. There are other issues that
I have to resolve with you with that regard. But
the whole point is, I want to emphasize. What Omar
has come here with is the. Oh, my God. If
we have to do that, I got to go up
to 93 on the millage. On the trim. Notice that
be protected or put this in place. Okay. Ms. Hoffman,
I apologize to you early. I'm going to apologize to
all you. I don't want you to think that I
didn't do something right here. But I'm happy to share
with you what's going on. Yeah, we appreciate your expertise.
It means a lot and we appreciate that. So we
had a resolutionary and I need. A motion for that
resolution to leave it as is. Mayor was I moved
that we leave the fire assessment as is? Do we
have a motion to leave it as is. Do I
have a second? 1st you have a second. All right,
we have a motion. Now we have a second. All
in favor, signify. All opposed? Nay. Thank you. Motion carry.
Are you leaving? Go back to Tallahassee tonight. I am
4 July tomorrow. Okay. I just wanted to make sure
because I wanted to move some. Things around because we
had some. Can we get the stormwater? Yeah, we're going
to. Do it. That's why. Actually, I thought you were.
Stand over. So we're going. To move around. Next item
is resolution 1880. Stormwater says. So this is the stormwater
assessment period for the city. We account for all the
stormwater. Revenues within its own fund. The projection for this
next year, based on the increases. In parcels is about
1.1 million, again dedicated. Strictly for the stormwater fund. Again,
no proposed changes, leaving it as status quo. And we
are recommending to approve it, as is. Any question for
our finance director? None. Here. I have one. Comment on
the resolution. There's a scripture's error. It refers to a
report of June 23. I brought it to the clerk.
Did you have desire's ability? It should be. July 2.
If I want to make that for the record, that
shouldn't affect any. Okay. All right, no problem. Do we
have to breed that into the record? I'm scribbling. It
there. Okay, no problem. All right, this time we're going
to open it up for public comments. Anyone from the
public wish to speak and reference this stormwater item, please
step forward to the podium, state's name and address. Then
we're going to close it and ask for introduction, resolution.
Mayor. I'll introduce resolution number 251880. Resolution number 25
1880. A resolution of the city. Of Haynes City, Florida,
approving the fiscal year 20 25 26 non avalorum assessment
role or stormwater management services. Facilities and programs, providing for
authority, providing for definitions, providing for findings, providing for direction
concerning interim assessments providing for ratification and confirmation of abortion
methods, directing certification. Of the assessment rule and collection pursuant
to the uniform Assessment Collection act. Conforming required notice in
imposing and levying stormwater management assessments, providing for additional notice
under section 200.69 Board of statutes. Ongoing. Work order,
direction and severability and providing an effective date move for
adoption. Sir, we have a motion. And second. All in
favor? Aye. All opposed? Thank you so much. Thank you
a heartfelt thank you to you all. I want to
be a resource to you. Thank you. At this time,
Brian. I know we always throw in your ride, Brian,
but I want to move. Something around. I want to
go to. AI and the request to enter into agreement
with Tim Co. That way, because I know they've been
sitting here from the historical society for some time and
we'll come back. Are you okay with that, Brian? So
if we're going to do that agreement, I think for
real. Good evening, mayor. Vice mayor. The attune of this
item is to seek approval to enter. Into an agreement
with Simcoe Construction, Inc. Or the old train depot building
Parish, you may recall the city commission provided a consensus
at the June 5, 2025 regular city. Commission meeting at
the old train depot building will serve as a new
location for the Haynes City Historical Museum. The agreement with
Simcoe Construction equip will address the need of repairs to
make the facility habitable and functional. That cost would be
$137,907 additional renovations. Have been requested by the. Haynes City
Historical Museum representatives and staff as secured a quote or
the desired renovations. The additional renovations would be an additional
$145,000, bringing the grand total to $283,000. Approximately $283,000.
The budget impact again would be that 283,852 26. This
is an unbudgeted request and staff request guidance from the
commission to enter into an agreement with Simcoe construction, so
it just needs some direction on how the commission would
like for us to proceed with this item. A question
reference to this item. Yes. I know I missed the
last meeting. When this item came before us. This quote
that we're receiving. This is for a portion of that
building. Be utilized. So. No, sir. This is for. Well,
the initial quote was for a portion of it, but
based off the last commission meeting, it was not necessarily
decided it was just going to be a certain portion
of the building. Throughout the building. There is a lot
of work that has to be done. So that first
initial quote is to bring that building up. To some
of the code and different things, and to make it
habitable would be the biggest. Part of it, but the
total amount would be for the entire. Interior of that
building and a few items on the exterior as well.
At this time. The decision was made to this entire
building is not going to the historical. At the last
meeting. There wasn't a consensus. It was actually correct. I
think they was going to share it and half of
was going to be. Like a gift shop with their
staff, and then they was going to share it with.
The gifts because they said that they can use half
of it and the other half can be a gift
shop. That's my understanding. But we have some representative here.
If it was different than I like. To hear from
them if that was different. But I think that's what
we talked about. But the whole building has to be
renovated, though. You can't just go in and just. Say
that's why the price is going to redo the whole
building and the historical society will be in that building.
With a coffee gift shop. We want to do the
whole building, not just part. And thank you for that.
My concern was. With the price that we paid for.
The builder to that building in itself. And now with
these renovations. I don't think this is necessarily. Being while
it is something that needs. Well, it was not a
good deal from the beginning. We cannot look at the
1 million that's got. Profitable. Decision for the city, but
we own it now. Our responsibility to make sure. We
don't want a building that. It's a code enforcement violation
zone, and we own a building, so we don't. Have
a choice. But we own it now. We got repair.
It's our ability. I have no issues with the repair
part. I mean, that's what something we bought and. Everything.
But once again, And for people looking, I do have
expertise. I'm a certified builder contractor, so I do work
in construction. So I do know what I'm talking about
when it comes to numbers. And I keep saying it
since I've been here. These numbers to me are just
crazy, ridiculous. The first section. Where I guess is what
the city wanted on the beginning, the 100 and something
thousand. What is it? 138,000, basically. Is really just to
remove little stuff and install. Two toilets in the restroom,
remove tables, paint. Electric switches. I mean, all that is
very simple, economical to me, what I see on this
scope. Where it doesn't even amount to maybe $50,000. And
I mean, we're talking about more than double what I
think this is worth the whole project to me shouldn't
be worth mainly the 100,000. It's all repairs. Like stock
or repair. Just a repair. It's not a whole. Building.
Even if you do, the whole building is probably less
than 20 grand. I just don't like these numbers. I
really don't like these numbers. And I know we are
known CRa, but there was something in CRA. Where. I
forgot. How much for installing windows? Something is not right.
We spending money. It's just ridiculous amount. I mean, we
have the dog part. 600. 700,000 for. What we got.
And I think at some point we need to really
start looking. Into other contractors. To get better prices, but
contractors are more. In the lower spectrum of, instead of
going to a bigger company, because those bigger companies, they
have a ridiculous amount of overhead, and a little contractor,
not little decent sized contractor, can do it for a
lot less than what those companies. I think it's time
to go out and start. Looking for others. I'm not
a big favor of. How do you call this? Continue
or whatever. If there were good numbers, I'll be fine.
But these numbers, I'm not fine. With it. Same thing
with the miles and wires. When we repair that field
that charges like $380. Just to install. A head sprinkle
head. They only cost them, like, $40. I thought they
were going. To replace the pipes and. No, it was
just replacing the head. Yeah. So anyways, I'm in favor
of fixing. Some of this. Maybe not the whole thing,
but some of this stuff. But the numbers are just.
Not. Sitting well with me. So obviously we've been doing
RFP and it will delay the project just like the
dog park. Understand that was not in continuing services project
that bidding our project. We presented. The proposals that was
from the companies that be, and again with Timco Construction,
this is their fees. But if there's direction to create
the scope being it out to see. What companies out
there want to put in the bed and see when
the cars come by that's correct. We're more than happy
to do that. We need to figure how to. Get
the word out to other contractors because we just put
it on those one or two websites. The main start
or whatever we use. Honestly, out of everybody that I
know, nobody knows the main. Stories exist, and I know
a lot of people. In the construction business. And whenever
I tell them, hey, go and beat on Haynes series,
like how? I'm like, well, there is this website, and
they don't know, so I think we got to find
out some of the other resource. There are other websites.
They're not. Tailored to municipalities, they're more to contractors. But
you get a pool. A ridiculous pool of contractors. They
cost a little bit, maybe cost you about $1500 to
$2,000 a year. To have that membership, but we need
to do something about our contractors. I think we wasted
a lot of money. In that. Yes. Might be recognized.
Thank you. Okay, so going back to the original vote.
I was under the impression that we voted on $138,000.
Now we have an additional $145,000 added to give us
that total of 283. And I wanted to know who
added all of this additional worth under new work added
if you noticed it here. Asking. For stucco and pavers
replacement. Removing the chain link fence and replacing it with
the rock iron stance. With a basic design and a
gate. There's nothing wrong with the fence. That's. There. So
this is where a lot of the money is coming
in, which is a bunch of cosmetic stuff. So who
approved this? To come up to a total of 283.
When we originally voted. For the 138 already, and now
we are being presented with an additional $145,000. I'm definitely
not in agreeance to spend an additional $145,000. With it.
So I don't know if we bid it out again
or if we take out this new work that's been
added since our last meeting. So can you tell me
who approved this additional work to be done? Because at
the last meeting, we received all of. The scope of
work that was going to be done. That gave us
that total of 138 and. That's what we voted and
we agreed to, and now. We're getting an additional $145,000
worth of work being done. So the last meeting. The
vote was not taking to spend $130,000. Well, it was
presented to us. As far as what the quote was
correct and what has happened through discussions with the historical
museum there were some requests. And again, instead of staff
making that decision, that. We're going to do this. That's
exactly why it's being bought before. The commission tonight for
the commission to make a determination on. Are we wanting
to stick with the original scope of work or we
wanting to do the additional work? Because my understanding is
or not. My understanding, staff has met. From representatives from
the historical museum, and this is their request. So again,
At the pleasure of the commission. Rather it's the 138
or if it's the total 283 again if we want.
To do an RFP to solicit additional quotes from contractors.
We stand for direction from the commission as far as
what you would like to see. Coming from the historical
society, from the old building that we utilize for this
building as well. So I do believe there are some
insurance funds that would be coming, if I recall correctly.
I believe it was 20 some thousand dollars, if I
recall. 24. But didn't they say at the last meeting
they had to verify if they can actually turn that
over to us because they're not going back into their
original building. Besides this. Okay, what about the insurance piece
of it? There's two different parts of the stadium. State
your name and address. Stacy stokes 91 45 lake cash
in the hall road, hayne city, florida. There's two different
portions of the insurance. One you've already received, right? The
24 we've already received. But. If you were. Going back
to the building, and there was. More work to be
done. It had to be pre approved. It wasn't money
that the insurance company was just paying out. They paid
out the 24. But if they got back and started
working on the building. And so larger scopes of work
or things that weren't part of the originals then. It
had to be the insurance have to upgrade going back
to your original building, not to the train depot, correct?
Yeah, because that insurance is for that building. So basically.
They got an assessment of 24,000. They got that. So
whenever they start working on that, building. If it goes
over 2000, 400,000, then they can go back to the
insurance and. Say, hey, we found this and you can
get additional, but it just would help you. And. The
night that the meeting. That I stood up here spoken.
We did the vote and all. I mean. What I
understood was. That you had approved. Voted for them to
go over there. They were to meet with Terrell and
his staff. Get out of scope of work. I don't
remember a dollar figure being put on that night. There
wasn't a dollar figure put on it that night. And
you guys. Told me them up there that the funds
were there. And that to meet with them. And make
that place right. We did agree that we would share
the building with the city for gift shop, coffee shop,
whatever comes in the future. That was part of that
agreement, so, yes, but. There was no dollar figure put
on the work. We were told the money was there
and to get it. Done. Correct, Mr. Mayor might be
with my husband, I think. Commission has commented. Thank you.
I was the one that made that motion. And. It
was not a dollar amount, but in that motion. In
the motion that I made. You are not responsible for
any repairs now. This is still the city building. It's
been our building for a while, and this is our
history that is going inside. Of that building. And our
history is something that. We definitely want to preserve and
take care of it. I've been to the old building.
Many a times, and it was really. Cramped in there.
So whatever they're asking for to bring that building up
to part it's. Our building, and I think that we
should do everything possible to make sure that. When people
come into downtown to look. At the history museum when
we get. The high speed rail in it gives something
for them to do, but they don't need to come
into. A building. Like the one across from the fire
station where you got to turn sideways to walk in
there. Because. There are so much things that people have
donated, so whatever they're asking for, I'm. Sure, is to
be able to put things on display. And at the
end of the day, It's still our building. So whatever
we decide to do to the building, it is going.
To be an improvement of a building that belongs to
the city of Haynes city. So I'm in favor. Of
that. Whatever it is going to be to bring that
building. Up to where is usable for our history. Okay.
Ms. Mayor might be recognized. I'll come back to you.
1 second. Okay? Thank you. Director Griffin. I know we
did not vote on a number, but prior to that
meeting, did we? Or did we not have those quotes
for 138,000? That is correct. So that meeting, the initial
scope of work that's on here is what staff had
received. Okay. And can you. Tell me when all the
additional work was. Added. The additional work was added after
the last meeting when the discussion was had. That basically
it was not free reign, but obviously. We got chastised.
For not allowing them to move in there. So based
off those conversations after that we met, had a list
of exactly what. The representatives from the historical. In essence,
this additional work was added after the fact because commissioner
Huffman stated that. We had the funds available. And then
they decided to add. Additional work that increased the price
from the 138. That wasn't just Commissioner Huffman statement. Well,
she just stated that she made the motion. She made
the motion. That's what she stated. Get us in the
building. Okay, Ms. Stacey. Give me 1 second. Thank you.
So I'm just trying to figure out. From Simcoe based
on them going in. In their proposal. And what needed
to bring this building up to code so the historical
society could take possession of this building. Based on that
$138,000 figure. But this additional work was just in addition.
To what the historical members would like to have, like
the pavers and things of that nature. But that was
not in the original quote that we received for the
$138,000. No. Ma'am. It was not. And I think part
of that, too, is based off the previous discussion that
the museum would take over the entire building while. Sharing
space with the coffee shop and all that, I think,
is what led to some of. The additional work under
the new work addict. Van Dyer for a second. But
I guess the option would be either you stay at
the original quote of the city or do you go
to the second quote? That's what you asked him from
this? Yes. Because either way, the amount exceeds city manager.
Lensky. That's right. Exactly. So it has to be our
approval. Either stay with the first or go with the
increase after meeting with the historical society. So at this
time I'm. Going to yield to meet Ms. Van Dyber.
Yes. State your name and address. Francis van dar 90
111 like Sel wrote. I don't think. In the hunt
first. I think they came up with. We did a
walk through with them. But the handicap. Availability to the
fire level. That wasn't in the original 138. Was it?
Yes, ma'am. It was installed in 88 Ram. Okay to
put an Ada ramp. In there would take up the
first room. Most of it, at least half of it.
So you're cutting down on the size of the building?
Of the usable space in the building. The two air
conditioners. I don't think we had anything to do with
that. We? Didn't know it, so that was not a
part of the initial scope. We knew nothing about the
air conditioners. I haven't looked at this list of what
was added. But that was our biggest concern was. The
endicap availability. To get up there. To make that area
usable to us for gift shop, coffee shop, or music,
whatever it was originally. At ground level. The whole building
was. The same level. This was added years later. The.
Bloating ramp. And that. Filled in. Originally there was a
cafeteria. Cafe. In that part.
I think what she's trying to allude to, and to
answer your question about the fence and things like that.
They went back in history. They looked at how the
building. Was prior to all the different things that have
been there, and their goal was to bring it. Back.
To what it looked like. Which would be if you
look at the additions taken out. That. Higher part where
they have blocked it out, filled in with or concreted
to make it higher. They wanted to bring it back
down to ground level, the way the original building was.
Because then you don't need the Ada ramp taken up
with the entry when you go. In. You'll be able
to access. This ground level just like it was originally.
The fence. They looked back at what the fence was
like when it was like that, and it was probably
then rolled iron where now it would probably be aluminum.
I'm not sure what that book was for aluminum. Those
are some of the things that, when they met with
Terrell and Darryl, that they looked at was bringing it
back. To the way that it was, which would help
eliminate some of the ADA requirements. The reason for the
road iron fence is. If you're traveling on the train
of passenger train in the same way, if sunrail comes
in. When you're going down. The track. We'll take one
part or just about anything. The first thing you see.
Is their deep buff. And that one looks awful. If
you're a pastor on the train. And it was like
one of our members said, she rides the train a
lot, and she was going up north. And. She went
past a couple of towns and they looked so neat
from the train that she would want to visit them.
So the next time. When she drove. She did visit
those towns. And. Toured them up because. When you're on
the train, and the same way when you put sunrail
in there. That's the first thing you're going to see.
All we asked for was. Just the length of the
depot. Not. The whole. Thing that fits now.
I think. A railroad requires you to have a bin.
Up there. To stop people from walking. Around that section
of the railroad. But all we ask for is just
section right behind. If it was aesthetic and to bring
it back to what it looked like. I don't think
anyone up here disagree with maybe. We bringing that building
up? Today's code and standard? I think the biggest question
is the amount the 280. I think that. What I
direct will probably be, and I can't speak for them,
is that this should go back out for RFP because
I think that we should probably rebid this to see
can we get a lower mouth? We have an expert
here that works in this field every day. Telling us.
Hey. You don't think that those numbers are right? We
agree with you. I agree that 138. We're not disagreeing
that. We want to get that feeling. It's our building.
Like commission. Huffman said we wanted to be presentable. We
don't want to look. Like a code enforcement violation, but
we also don't want to spend. I'm just looking here
at one part of it. I don't want 79 it's.
The central air condition system. At only a 3.5 ton,
which is. About a four bedroom house. They want $23,000
for that ac. When I know I can get the
AC for way less than ten grand. With new dogs
and everything. I can tell you, we replace acs all
the time. And we thought that price is very reasonable.
I can tell you the AC unit we put in.
The Oakland auditorium was upwards to almost $50,000. So some
of these units. Really seriously, we need to get. Let's
try to do this because time. I agree. Let's take
some action on this. Here's. Two things we can. Act
out the parks director. Take this back out. Our new
RFP. I know you all want to get into the
building, but we want to. Make sure we've done it
right. And bring it back with us. Maybe some proposals
may be our best proposal. So just to clarify, am
I getting an RFP for the scope for the initial
scope of work, or am I getting no for everything.
So whatever they act and whatever you have there, let's
do apples to apple and see. If this is because
I think that, and I'm going to agree with them,
I think that's probably too much. And I think we
put through another RFP. You should probably get a better
or lower rate, someone. That was what I wanted to
say. You have a lot of contractors in Hayne City?
I mean, Spacey's built a house, I've built a house.
You haven't heard of this company? We use local. Builders.
I know that you all have your boob ones. Do
you have a list of? Approved contractors that you'll use.
There is some, but. I don't know. The way I
say. The bigger companies. And we're just not getting the
best deal out of it. At least that's where I
see. I'm going to get really close into these numbers.
Personally this time. Item by item, I'm going to see
what numbers I can get myself to really see. But
just looking at this. Like I said, the AC for
sure. I just did a house and actually had a
four ton unit, and I think I paid like 8000.
Almost $9,000 for it. Three years ago. I replaced one.
It was $5,000. And the guy told me because I
was having problems with it, they come out, there was
nothing. Wrong with it, turns out. But he said to
replace that now it cost me $8,000. Yeah. Let's do
this. We're going to have to close this public comment
and then we're going to have to take some action
on this here. Also, let's also just keep in mind.
With these renovations and upgrades. We need to look to
make sure that we don't lose the status of that
building. Depending on what we're doing over there, because that
is. A historical site. And there's guidelines that we need
to follow, so we need to ensure that we are
following those guidelines before we look up, and now we've
lost that status. Of the builders. Yeah, I'm quite sure
staff understand, in a historical building, that they know. Mayor
was I want to ask. Is Van Dyer question. And
Stacey's looking, and she know always referenced her as Van
Diaper. He should have changed his name to Van Diver.
So to your mom, Mrs. Van Diver. Was that? Your
husband and father. That was the first fire chief that
we have that old fire engine in. Our fire department.
He wasn't a fire chief. He was the captain. The
captain? And he also became a city commissioner and mayor.
Of Haynes City after he was at the fire department.
Now you got to see our passion. Yeah. And he
also did. Bill Drummond, who was city manager, was also
an engineer. My husband was a land surveyor, and we
had a land survey in business for 35 years here.
In Hang city. He worked out of the building that's
on fifth. That's a house. Like a two story house
there. That was all. Okay, well, thank you. Such a
history buff. Him and Tommy Barlow. Started a fundraiser.
To restore that fire truck. And then. When the new.
I'm trying to remember if he was still on the
commission. I don't think he was. When they knew when
it was built. This one was built, but he was
in favor of that. Glass petition. And put in the
park in there. Looks good. And we even talked about
adding on to the Bermuse building. And putting the fire
truck there. But thought he would be best where it
is now. Well, thank you. Just know that me and
the fire chief will have to rustle you to move
that fire truck now. No. There's a room in the
outfit. That is dedicated. It was dedicated. To my husband.
Into myself. Okay. Thank you. Thank you so much. For
being a pioneer. So at this time. If I could
just address Ms. Stokes or something. Could I get a
copy of the pictures? That you gave to the commission.
For the record, please. Go. Okay, just so
I have one. So at this time. In reference to
the request for the grievance of Simcoe construction. What's your
pleasure? Ladies and gentlemen. Mr mayor. If I may. I
do think that we do need to take this back
out. I'm very familiar with the exact same program. I've
used it for several years. Some of these numbers are
definitely. Abnormal, especially the ones which is overhead and profit
on a lot of these items. I also agree that.
We do need. I guess the estimate for the entire.
Scope of work, and I guess we can go from
there. I don't agree that we should just necessarily make
a decision to move forward with it tonight. But I
think if we go ahead and just at least get
that estimate back then from there. With a couple. Take
it back for RFP and bring it back. Lower rate
than what we get. That'll be correct. Correctly. Griffin wanted
to know if you wanted to just do the scope
of work or with the. Apples. That way we'll know
everything. Like I said, you emphasize everything. Don't change. What
we have. We just want to see what the rate.
So we have a motion and a second to send
it back out for an rfps here. We get a
better rate, we may. Or may not. If not, we
come back with that. So, all in favor, signify Sen.
Aye. All opposed? Thank you so much. We'll go back
to Brian. It's a state fund. State grant. Funding for
fight. Man, I thought that was the last. One. You
all could save on your electric bill is reasoning. We'll
do something about that. All right, Brian, is your show
all right? Good evening. The purpose of this agenda item
is to contract with the city's vendor to install. Fiber
optic cabling to help support the city and its endeavors
to have redundant fiber optic network. Great question for Brian.
None here, no. Is this from? Grant or just something
that we doing. The state is funding the whole portion
that we are doing. With this particular project is being
funded totally by the state. Perfect. Thank you. Okay, that's.
Good. Big fund. Oh, yeah? This time we're going to
open it up for public comments. Anyone from the public?
From the public. From the public. Address, then I'm going
to close it. Motion to approve.
Motion? Second. All in favor? Cisco equipment and enterprise. That's
you again. Yes, sir. Purpose of this item is to
get. Approval to continue the maintenance contract for the city's
secure networking equipment. This is a three year term, which.
Should be at least the network that we have now
should last at least three more years, so. We need
to keep that under maintenance so we can make sure
we always get the latest updates. And patches to keep
the city secure. Any question for Brian river today? No
question. Is this on budget, right? I want this. Something
you're requesting out about. Part of it was budgeted, but
not the whole amount. We worked a deal out with
the vendor. So the 18,000 is in this year's? Budget,
and then we'll budget accordingly in the subsequent years to
cover the expenses. May I be recognized? Okay. Thank you.
So, can you tell me what the 594, the total?
Amount financed. Because. Is that over the next two years.
Two years? Or three years. Next three and a half
years. So we'll spend almost $600,000, correct? And this is
the first year or we are in it. We've been
in it for three years already. Okay. Any more questions.
At this time, we're going to open it up. Public
comments. Anyone wish to speak comfort? State your name and
address. Correct. Then I'm going to close this. Mayor was
I moved that we approve. Item eight, J for the
three year term. Do we have a second? 2nd motion
now we have a second. All in favor? Aye. All
right, let's move on. Item eight K has been dropped,
and we'll bring that back at a later date. I
don't think we even had a date yet, just. Been
removed. Andrew riley. Vacate. AK has been relocational bible for
Andrew Riley. That's correct. Yes. We don't need to bring
that. Okay. Because my question would have been, what do
you mean? Relocational? You dug it up somewhere or. You,
couldn't it? The new buildings. It's in the way of
the new building. Okay, well. They've been taking. The next
item. Extension provider to fire station number three. Purpose of
this one is just to extend the city's fiber optic
network into the new fire station. When we did the
initial, we stopped short of the property line because we
didn't know where the building was going to be, driveways
and everything else. We didn't. Want to have to pay
to put something in and then pay to rip it
out and move. It. So we kind of stopped short,
and now we're finishing. That line so we can bring
that new station on. Any question for Brian reference. We're
going to open it up. Anyone wants to speak step
four, states name, then we're going to close it. Motion
to approve second. Motion and a second. All in favor?
Aye. Next item is general employee pension board application. That's
you. City clerk. Sort of. So we have some vacancies
on both. The General Employee Pension Board and the police
pension board. So we have applications submitted for your consideration.
If you have any specific questions to the pension itself,
we can forward that onto the consultant we did not
have them come out here. As he's in Largo. I
just feel that. Would be cost effective. But the general
terms of the pension agreement. Is. That the candidate should
live within the city limits of Haynes City. Am I
saying that correctly? That's basically it. So you can look
at the application. We only have, I think, two for
the suspension and. One. For the general employee. One. Two
for the police and one for general. Okay. And these
are opening. Right? Yes. These are vacant positions. Okay, so
yes, all we need, just need approval from this diaspora.
Correct. Yes. All right. Any question, reference? Yes, Mr. Mayor.
Good. Thank you. On these applications, Sharon. Where is.
Their address? Because how do we know they live in
the city of Hayne city? Because none of them. Have
listed. Their address. In the city. There was a question.
Right. Are they? Law officers. The clerk's office did look
at the employees, the names, and then confirmed. With guitars
to where they live. Thank you. So. Is a little.
Police that has two people or two. No. We just
need approval to say yes. The applications we've presented. You're
okay with that? We did the back part to make
sure that they live within the city. So there were
two openings? I believe there was two for the police
and one for general employee. But you have four names,
right? Okay, so break it down. Who's for what I
believe. Correct. General employee pension board. And she was the
only one. Well, then that was that. And then another
one came that I wasn't aware yet, but. There's only
one. Position. One space for that board. So you have
four names, but you have three spots. Correct. So. We
approving four names or three, but you got to pick.
That? Oh, days two. Okay. All right. What's your place?
But on the pension board, there was another application that.
We didn't receive. Yeah, but that's a different item, right?
No, the general employee. The general employee received two. That's
for Thomas Dempsey and Lasandro Rivera. Correct. I don't know
either, so. They both meet it. I'll say whoever is
a Lostonder Riviera, that's my vote. Who else? Anyone else?
I don't know either one either, but I would say
Lasania. Okay. All right, so we need somebody to make
a motion because we. 're need a form of emotion
to slate the Sonia Riviera. As our general pension. I
make a motion to select Lisandra Rivera? Hold on a
second. Let's back up. I'm opening up the public comments
in reference to this item. Anyone wish to speak? Name.
Make a motion to select Lisandra and Rivera. We have
a motion? Do we have a second? I'll say. All
right, now we have a second. Do. All in favor?
Aye. Okay? She will be on the general pension. Now
we're going to move to the police. Pension board out.
How many openings is there for that? Two, I believe.
Omar believes you got four. Names four people. And there
was three, and I don't know if you want us
to come up with. A different way of how to
do that. It's very hard. Like, how do you pick?
This one over this because it's just employees that are
interested in serving. Well. I think we should ask, why
do they want to serve on the board? What experience
do they bring? That's what would help me. Just why
do you want to be a representative? And have him
redo the application. I don't know if. He's a former
police officer, right? They all, officer? All of them. This
one is Hayne, City Police Department officer. This is Mr.
Steven John. Mr. Brittany. Same thing. Hence the police department.
Police officer. Bridge. Rodriguez. Same thing. Police officer in Hang
City and Mr. Brown. Is a retire. Let me ask
you this question. You got a chief? I'm quite sure
all these police officer or former police officer. You've been
there for a while, right, Steve? You should be able
to give us a background about some of them, right?
All four of them? Yeah. To me. It will be
the best person to tell us about them will be
him, you say? You want to know about them, so
we don't really know. I know Ron brown and. I
ain't in favor with Ron Brown. I stand on the
mic and said off the mic. Are you in favor
of him? I. Called Richard Rodriguez. I didn't know he
was an officer. Yeah, he was the community service. Officer.
But about two years ago, he became a full time
police officer. Sent him to the police academy. I must
be thinking about someone else. I know he. I'm thinking
of the Richard Rodriguez. That does the police chronicles. On.
Facebook. He does. He does. Those two. Okay, so we
think of the same person. I didn't. Know it worked
for these semi famous there. What about Steven? Mr. Evans.
Evans? Yeah, he's been at the agency. For about. Eight
or nine. He's still there? Yeah, he's still there. So
Mr. Steven has been there about eight years. Eight years?
How about. Ms Brittany Tara has been there about. Two
and three years. Two and three and. Mr. Rodriguez. He's
been an officer for two years, and he's a code
officer for us. For a couple of years before that,
and he has about 25, 27 years previous law enforcement
experience. I'm tired from up north and I guess the
mayor's favor, he's. Been retired for a while. I love
the experience in Richard Rodriguez that because. Of being around
that long. You should understand pensions and stuff. He's very
dedicated for you. Yeah. That many years. I'll tell you.
I can pick my spin. I don't really know. I
don't. Want no one that's on this list. I think
Steven Evans based what you said in Richard Rodriguez. And
I will follow the mayor. With the same two options.
That's based on what the teachers that I. Too, would
be Richard. Packen? I hope not.
Be ready. Almost him. Ron Brown. I think I'm going
to go with. The mayor's recommendation based off of the
information. All right, Mr. Dan. Born with the mayor's suggestion.
All right, we have those two. We need someone now.
We're going to open it up. Thank you. Open it
up for public comments. Anyone we can speak? Your name
and address, then. Now we're going to close it, and
then we're. Going to have someone make a motion for
those two names. May you make a motion that we
approve. Richard rodriguez. And Steve John Evans for the police
pension board. That we should vote separately because
I agree with one of your people. But I still
have someone. That you all didn't list. Yeah, I'm understanding,
but those two names is the. Majority, then it will
be. Yeah, but. We can do a roll call. I
think it should be. Separate name. Exactly. Oh, you want
to separate? No problem. You can make change in the
state you most. I make a motion to approve. First
Richard Rodriguez for the police pension board. We have a
motion? Do we have a second for resort? Thank you.
All in favor? Okay, now we need the second person
who need to make a motion for that. I'm a
commotion. For Ron Brown. Okay, we have a motion for
Ron Brown. Do we have a second for Ron? Brown.
No seconds for a die from 11 seconds. So there
are other names on anybody will make another. Motion. I
make a motion. To. Get a Steve John Evans for
the police pension board. We have a motion for Steven
Devins. We have second. All in favor? Aye. Move her
along. State of manager report. Sir. Mayor, due to. I'll
make it very short. The governor didn't give us a
reason why he cut us. He had a very clean
budget, but betoed us on those two items, and we
don't know why, but it's very frustrating. That's my. Wish
you had some more. This dias worked hard to get.
To James King and I think because he gave 10
million to Pope state paint city camping Hayne City 10
million and they already said I just gave him 10
million for hanging to the public, state, campus or whatever.
Then it comes to something else. I think that's what
really hurt. That's just my opinion. I think that. Thankful
for Pope State College being able to get. Oh, yeah,
because. All the front walls are done. I'll make this
quick. First. I need.
A consensus on who you'd like to nominate to be
the. Voting. Delegate at the annual conference announcement. I have
to send that up to them. I think it's. Time
for someone else to get some experience doing the voting.
Delegate for the FLC. I agree, Mr. Man. You want
me to do. I would take that on. So we
have a consistent vice chance being the voter delegates. Yes.
And. There was some conversation and I wanted to bring
it publicly. With. Getting our group picture done properly. There
was a conversation about costs. There was conversation about possibly
looking for another photographer. Different opinions right now. I have
scheduled a photographer that we use the sheriff's office uses.
And most of the municipalities here on the ridge uses,
which is the current one that we have. He's been
doing it. We have worked with him on his cost
to bring it down. And I have that scheduled for
the next meeting, the 7th meeting for him to be
here, but. Everybody to be in their Sunday best prior.
Jesus, what kind of meetings we have? We have a
workshop with Melanie Bell. No, I'm sorry. We have a
July. We have a workshop with Cindy Jenimasa. What time
is that? I could schedule him for five. Minutes.
Cynthia should. Cindy shouldn't be. 530. I'll have him come
at five, set up. Correct. And if she can send
us something which she's going to be talking to, that
way. He does it very. Minute. So
530, the pictures. We can do her at six. Okay.
Beginning to not feel. I forgot we screaming.
Anything else? No. I don't have anything this evening. Yes,
thank you. I just want to say this for the
purpose of those that are watching on stream. That I'm
very happy at the fact that I have been vindicated.
For not being the sole cost of the $550,000 that
we voted on. Earlier this evening, and I'd like to
get back to regular. Business at hand. The case against
me was. Dismissed April 24, 2025. So there should be
no. Further discussion. And as for the young lady. Mirwest
that came up to the podium talking about sharing. The
Fox News Channel or whatever. She would. Request to post
on my page. At least four or five times a
day. Mr. Huffman, I think that's a mistake. Okay, well.
What I'm doing is identifying the person and why she
wanted to say that you can. Do it. After they
found the conclusion, you can then come at yourself. This
is not about the case. This is about this lady
that is constantly doing the appropriate way. Okay, well, let's
hope there's no more. Moving forward, but I wanted to
make sure that. Everybody on this board understood who this
person was. Thank you. All I have to say tonight
is. We need to listen to our attorney. More and
more and more. I have seen. Us. Some of us
say, I don't care what the authorities say, and that's
trouble. So that's all I have to say. Thank you.
Listen, I had a few things, but in the essence
of time, I am going to say them. Until next
meeting, because this has already been. A. Come on, we
still got another hour. No. So. Nothing. Tonight I would
bring them. I would add them to the next meeting.
With the time that we're entering right now, and it
is my youngest son's. Birthday. I'm so good. All right.
That's how we're going to join. Well, happy birthday to
your son. Happy 4 July. I didn't set the date.
Don't forget the fireworks at 915, right? Oh, yeah. We
got fireworks tomorrow. The best. One. The biggest one in
the whole county. And go and tell that to Davenport.
Thank you. Yes.