[4:03] - This call to order.

[4:04] (Mayor hits gavel)

[4:05] As a courtesy to others,

[4:06] please silence all electronic devices during this meeting.

[4:10] Citizens desiring to speak under here the audience

[4:12] shall submit a request form

[4:14] to the city clerk prior to the meeting.

[4:17] Forms are available at the door or from the city clerk.

[4:21] At this time, we'll have a moment of silence

[4:23] on the Pledge of Allegiance led by Commissioner Alvarez.

[4:39] - Will you please join me in the Pledge of Allegiance

[4:41] to the flag of the United States of America.

[4:44] - I pledge allegiance to the flag

[4:47] of the United States of America

[4:49] and to republic for which it stands,

[4:51] one nation under God, indivisible with liberty

[4:55] and justice for all.

[5:01] - Thank you, commissioner.

[5:02] We now continue with proclamations

[5:04] and special presentations.

[5:07] Item 3A, proclamations to the Juneteenth Day.

[5:10] Mike.

[5:11] - Thank you, Madam Mayor.

[5:12] Commissioners, if you would join Ms. Nina Hill

[5:15] from the NAACP on the floor of the chambers.

[5:19] Ms. Hill, if you would approach the commission.

[5:27] Okay.

[5:28] Okay. Oh, you guys are coming in, please.

[5:30] Okay.

[5:34] Oh my gosh.

[5:36] I know you.

[5:49] All right, this is a proclamation in honor

[5:51] of Juneteenth Day.

[5:53] Whereas Juneteenth or Juneteenth Independence Day

[5:56] commemorates the traditional observance

[5:57] of the end of slavery in the United States

[5:59] and is observed annually on June 19th,

[6:02] and whereas President Abraham Lincoln declared

[6:05] that in giving freedom to the slave, we assured freedom

[6:08] to the free, honorable alike in what we give

[6:11] and what we preserve, we shall nobly save or meanly lose

[6:14] the last best hope of Earth.

[6:17] And whereas on January 1st, 1863,

[6:19] President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation

[6:22] declaring that all persons held the slaves within any state

[6:25] or designated part of the State,

[6:27] the people whereof shall be in rebellion

[6:29] against the United States,

[6:30] shall be then fenced forward and forever free.

[6:33] And whereas President Lincoln correctly believes slavery

[6:36] to be in violation of the principles

[6:37] of the Declaration of Independence, and that its abolishment

[6:40] represented a new birth of freedom for the United States,

[6:43] and whereas more than two years would pass

[6:45] before the news reached African Americans living in Texas,

[6:48] when on June 19th, 1865, Union Major General Gordon Granger

[6:52] and his regiment arrived in Galveston

[6:54] and spread the word that slavery had been abolished.

[6:57] And whereas the following year,

[6:58] the first official Juneteenth celebrations took place

[7:00] in Texas and have continued

[7:02] across the United States throughout the years.

[7:05] And whereas emancipation in Florida was proclaimed

[7:07] in Tallahassee on May 20th, 1865,

[7:10] and for this reason, Floridians traditionally celebrate

[7:13] Emancipation Day on May 20.

[7:15] Now, therefore, Juneteenth

[7:17] is the oldest national celebrated commemoration

[7:21] of ending of slavery and is important opportunity to honor

[7:24] the principles, declaration of the independence

[7:27] and celebration of the achievements

[7:29] and contributions Africans Americans have made

[7:31] and continue to make in Florida across our nation.

[7:34] Hereby declared by the City Commission on this day,

[7:37] the 17th day of June, 2025.

[7:41] (participants clap)

[7:55] - Okay, on behalf of the NAACP of Osceola County,

[7:59] we wanna thank you

[8:00] or being here to witness this with us today.

[8:03] It is a special time for us.

[8:05] It is about community and us growing together

[8:07] and staying positive and being united as one.

[8:11] And so we wanna thank everyone here, our officials,

[8:16] the city for always being there for us.

[8:19] On behalf of the NAACP of Osceola, we thank you.

[8:23] (participants clap)

[9:08] - Thank you, commissioners.

[9:15] We now move on to swearing in ceremony

[9:16] for Assistant Chief of Police and four new police officers.

[9:21] Chief Broadway.

[9:24] - Well, good evening, Madam Mayor, Commissioners.

[9:26] It is my honor to swear in

[9:28] our newest Assistant Chief of Police, Kevin McGinley,

[9:31] if you can come forward with your family.

[9:34] (participants clap)

[9:44] Our new assistant chief brings extensive amount

[9:47] of law enforcement experience, leadership experience, worked

[9:50] for several years at Osceola County Sheriff's Office

[9:53] for Sheriff Hansel, as well as former Sheriff Gibson,

[9:56] and also spent several years

[9:59] at the Florida Department of Law Enforcement

[10:01] within the Public Integrity Unit.

[10:02] It is my honor to swear him.

[10:04] He's going to be a great addition to this leadership team,

[10:07] to this agency, and to this community.

[10:09] And he is the consummate professional.

[10:12] Again, it is my honor to swear I'm in today.

[10:16] (participants clap)

[10:22] Repeat after me.

[10:24] I, state your name.

[10:25] - I Kevin McGinley.

[10:25] - Do solemnly swear or affirm.

[10:27] - Do solemnly swear affirm.

[10:28] - I will support, protect, and defend.

[10:30] - I will support, protect and defend.

[10:32] - The constitution and government.

[10:34] - The constitution and government.

[10:35] - Of the United States.

[10:36] - Of the United States.

[10:37] - And the State of Florida.

[10:38] - And the State of Florida.

[10:39] - I'm duly qualified.

[10:40] - I'm duly qualified.

[10:41] - To hold office.

[10:42] - To hold office.

[10:43] - Under the Constitution.

[10:44] - Under the Constitution.

[10:45] - And I will well.

[10:46] - And I will well.

[10:47] - And faithfully perform.

[10:48] - And faithfully perform.

[10:48] - My duties.

[10:49] - My duties.

[10:50] - Of Assistant chief of Police.

[10:51] - Of Assistant Chief of Police.

[10:53] - For the Kissimmee Police Department.

[10:54] - For the Kissimmee Police Department.

[10:55] - So help me God.

[10:56] - So help me God.

[10:57] - Congratulations.

[10:58] (participants clap)

[11:48] - Three, two.

[12:01] (participants clap)

[12:09] - It is now my honor and privilege

[12:10] to swear in our new police officers who are ready to go

[12:15] through their training and work in our community to serve

[12:19] and protect our residents.

[12:20] If you all can come forward with your families.

[12:29] I also want to recognize our recruiting division.

[12:32] They proactively do a really good job in recruiting

[12:36] the top candidates and the best of the best

[12:38] to represent this city and this community.

[12:40] So a special thanks to our recruiting division.

[12:42] Thank you guys.

[12:43] (participants clap)

[12:55] Raise your right hand and repeat after me.

[12:57] Hand on the Bible.

[12:58] I, state your name.

[12:59] - I (indistinct) Perez.

[13:00] - I, Luis Las Lugo.

[13:02] - Justin (indistinct)

[13:04] - Do solemnly swear or affirm.

[13:06] - Do solemnly swear or affirm.

[13:07] - I will support, protect and defend.

[13:09] - I'll support, protect and defend.

[13:11] - The constitution and government.

[13:12] - The constitution and government.

[13:14] - Of the United States.

[13:15] Of the United States.

[13:16] - And the State of Florida.

[13:17] - And the State of Florida.

[13:18] - I'm duly qualified.

[13:19] - I'm duly qualified.

[13:20] - To hold office.

[13:21] - To hold office.

[13:21] - Under the Constitution.

[13:22] - Under the constitution.

[13:23] - And I will well.

[13:25] - And I will well.

[13:25] - And faithfully perform.

[13:26] - And faithfully perform.

[13:27] - My duties.

[13:28] - My duties.

[13:29] - Of police officer.

[13:30] - Of police officer.

[13:31] - For the Kissimmee Police Department.

[13:32] - For the Kissimmee Police Department.

[13:33] - So help me God.

[13:34] - So help me God.

[13:35] - Congratulations.

[13:36] (participants clap)

[14:11] Awesome.

[14:12] Three, two.

[14:16] One more.

[14:19] We go three, two.

[14:22] Thank you.

[14:23] Thank you so much.

[14:37] (participants clap)

[14:52] - We now move on to item 3C,

[14:54] promotion ceremony of police sergeants.

[14:57] Chief Broadway.

[14:58] - Thank you, Madam Mayor.

[15:00] At this time, we can call up Sergeant Brandon (indistinct)

[15:03] and Jerry Garrett as they're being promoted

[15:05] to sergeant this evening.

[15:08] As you know, our sergeants,

[15:09] (participants clap)

[15:18] are the first line supervisors

[15:19] and play a critical role in shaping

[15:21] the day-to-day operations and the functioning

[15:23] of the department.

[15:24] And it's my honor to swear in, to promote both of you.

[15:32] Raise your right hand and repeat after me.

[15:33] I, state your name.

[15:35] - I, Jerry Garrett.

[15:36] - I, Brandon (indistinct)

[15:36] - Do solemnly swear or affirm.

[15:38] - Do solemnly swear or affirm.

[15:39] - I'll support, protect and defend.

[15:41] I'll support, protect and defend.

[15:43] - Constitution and government.

[15:44] - Constitution and government.

[15:46] - Of the United States.

[15:47] - Of the United States.

[15:48] - And the State of Florida.

[15:49] - And the State of Florida.

[15:50] - I'm duly qualified.

[15:51] - I'm duly qualified.

[15:52] - To hold office.

[15:53] - Under the constitution.

[15:54] - Under the constitution.

[15:55] - And I will well.

[15:56] - And I will well.

[15:57] - And faithfully perform.

[15:58] - And faithfully perform.

[15:59] - My duties.

[16:00] - My duties.

[16:01] - Of police sergeant.

[16:02] - For which I'm about to enter.

[16:03] - For which I'm about to enter.

[16:04] - So help me God.

[16:05] - So help me God.

[16:06] - Congratulations.

[16:07] (participants clap)

[17:03] - Congratulations.

[17:05] - Congratulations.

[17:06] - Congratulations.

[17:09] - Congratulations.

[17:10] - Congratulations.

[17:15] - What a great day for our city?

[17:18] This fills my heart.

[17:19] Thank you all for all you do at our KPD Department.

[17:22] We are very proud of all of you.

[17:25] Now we move on to employee of the month for June.

[17:27] City Manager.

[17:30] - Thank you, Madam Mayor.

[17:31] Commissioners, ladies and gentlemen,

[17:32] keeping with today's theme of the police department,

[17:35] I'd like to introduce to you today our employee the month

[17:38] for June from the police department, Cameron Turner.

[17:42] Cameron.

[17:42] (participants clap)

[18:00] - Just kidding.

[18:01] (participants laugh)

[18:04] - So Cameron has been with us, three years?

[18:06] - Just about, yeah.

[18:07] - Just about three years.

[18:09] She is a tele-communicator with the police department,

[18:12] and often, you know, during emergencies, our men

[18:15] and women in blue are the ones that we think of.

[18:18] But it's the tele-communicators

[18:20] and our operators at the communication center

[18:23] that are often the first line of communication

[18:27] with anybody in an emergency situation.

[18:29] And Cameron has a reputation of being polite, courteous,

[18:33] efficient, she's well respected by her coworkers.

[18:37] She has a positive attitude

[18:39] that's infectious within the division

[18:41] and you know, really exemplifies the type of individual

[18:46] that represents the term employee the month Very, very well.

[18:49] So on behalf of the employees of the City of Kissimmee,

[18:53] I'd like to thank you and congratulate you

[18:55] for everything that you do.

[18:56] Congratulate you for winning

[18:58] our Employee of the Month for June.

[19:00] And I wanna remind our audience here

[19:04] that the employee of the month is not chosen by me

[19:07] or the leadership of the department or the commissioners,

[19:09] but our employee of the month are, they're nominated

[19:11] by fellow coworkers

[19:14] and then those coworkers' applications

[19:16] for the with the nominations are reviewed

[19:18] by committee representing the 12 different departments

[19:21] of the city and over almost 900 employees.

[19:23] So again, there's no better honor

[19:26] than to be recognized by your peers.

[19:27] So thank you so much for everything that you do, Cameron,

[19:30] and we're gonna.

[19:32] - Yeah.

[19:34] Oh, okay, yeah, perfect.

[19:36] (participants clap)

[19:43] - A backpack.

[19:49] - Thank you for service.

[19:50] - Thank you.

[19:51] Thank you.

[19:58] - You'd like to say a few words?

[20:00] - Yeah.

[20:02] Just wanna say thank you guys for the recognition.

[20:04] I appreciate it.

[20:06] Also give a shout out to the Communications Center.

[20:08] Definitely not a solo job by any means.

[20:10] A whole team working together.

[20:11] And then shout out to the officers.

[20:14] You guys make our job easier as well.

[20:16] So thank you.

[20:17] (participants clap)

[20:30] - We now move on to item 3E,

[20:32] presentation of Retrolight System solution

[20:34] for high priority pedestrian zones.

[20:37] City manager.

[20:39] - Thank you, Madam Mayor.

[20:40] Mr. Jorge Figueroa, the CEO of Sky Novva Solutions

[20:43] has requested to make presentation to the commission

[20:45] regarding a product

[20:47] that they would like to showcase to the commission

[20:49] regarding pedestrian safety.

[20:51] So with that, I'll turn it over to Mr. Figueroa.

[20:55] - Your name and address for the record.

[20:56] And please just note you have five minutes.

[20:59] - Yes, Jorge Figueroa,

[21:01] 2918 Sera Bella Way, Kissimmee, 34744.

[21:07] Excellent.

[21:08] Good afternoon, commissioners and city staff.

[21:11] Thank you for the opportunity to speak with you today.

[21:14] As we continue building a more connected,

[21:16] safe and forward-thinking Kissimmee,

[21:19] I'd like to introduce a solution

[21:21] that directly supports your vision, the Retrolight system,

[21:24] a smart award-winning pedestrian safety platform designed

[21:28] to reduce accidents and modernize intersections.

[21:32] Let's begin with the reality.

[21:34] Central Florida remains one

[21:35] of the most dangerous regions

[21:37] in the country for pedestrians.

[21:39] According to Smart Growth America's Dangerous

[21:41] by Design Report, the Orlando Kissimmee Sanford metro area

[21:45] consistently ranks amongst the top five most deadly areas

[21:48] for pedestrians in the United States.

[21:51] In recent years, we've seen rising fatalities,

[21:54] many involved in vulnerable populations,

[21:56] near high speed corridors or poorly marked crosses.

[22:00] This is a pressing public safety issue tied

[22:03] to the fast growing urban areas and legacy road designs.

[22:07] The Retrolight system isn't just a concept,

[22:10] it is internationally recognized being implemented

[22:13] in six countries and over 70 intersections.

[22:16] Retrolight is an award-winning smart crosswalk

[22:20] and signaling platform that received the third price

[22:23] for best innovation in road safety

[22:25] at the Global Ministerial Conference.

[22:27] The Retrolight System is a proven innovative solution

[22:31] designed to modernize intersections

[22:33] and dramatically reduce pedestrians injuries and fatalities.

[22:37] So what is the Retrolight system?

[22:39] Retrolight is a modular, smart crosswalk system

[22:42] that illuminates crosswalks and signage within ground

[22:46] within ground LED panels, activates only when a pedestrian

[22:50] is present, reducing unnecessary energy usage,

[22:55] uses intelligence sensors to provide real time alerts

[22:58] to approaching vehicles

[22:59] and collects traffic and safety data.

[23:02] Moreover, its integration with solar panels

[23:05] and IoT platforms supports both our resilience

[23:09] and sustainability goals,

[23:11] key pillars of our comprehensive plan.

[23:14] It adapts to environmental conditions like rain,

[23:17] low visibility, snow,

[23:19] supports data-driven planning for future infrastructure

[23:22] and mobility decisions

[23:23] and can be integrated with city management platforms

[23:27] and security cameras.

[23:29] It is powered by solar energy

[23:32] and uses low consumption LEDs.

[23:35] It is manufactured

[23:36] with recyclable materials

[23:38] including repurposed wind turbine blades,

[23:41] a practical fit in Kissimmee's sustainability

[23:45] and resilience objectives.

[23:47] In studies by the University of Rome

[23:49] and the European Union's EIT Urban Mobility Program,

[23:53] the system reduced pedestrians accidents by up to 69%

[23:58] and vehicle speeds by nearly 20%

[24:01] while increasing pedestrian use by over 190%.

[24:06] With the Connect Kissimmee Road Project aiming

[24:09] to improve multimodal access

[24:11] and pedestrian infrastructure,

[24:12] Retrolight complements this vision by enhancing visibility

[24:17] and workability without compromising the design's integrity,

[24:21] providing a scalable solution

[24:23] that can be implemented incrementally.

[24:26] Integrate...

[24:28] I'm sorry, recent changes

[24:29] on the Broadway Street design created right conditions

[24:33] to integrate retro lighting

[24:35] into newly transformed pedestrian corridors,

[24:37] helping to future proof the area.

[24:41] It can be installed crosswalks, bike lanes, school zones,

[24:45] shared use paths, tunnels and train hubs.

[24:50] Ideal for high speed intersections, areas

[24:52] with vulnerable users

[24:54] and tourists-heavy locations like Downtown Kissimmee.

[24:58] The Retrolight system helps Kissimmee take a bold step

[25:01] towards becoming a forward-thinking leader in urban safety

[25:05] and smart infrastructure in central Florida.

[25:09] This aligns with the commission's ongoing efforts

[25:12] to position Kissimmee as a model city for innovation,

[25:15] mobility and resilience.

[25:17] The Retrolight System has a track record of results,

[25:21] recognition and real world performance.

[25:24] Retrolight system is backed

[25:25] by the highest industry certifications

[25:27] and comply with the most demanding technical requirements.

[25:31] We guarantee long-term performance

[25:33] even under the most extremes temperature conditions.

[25:37] It's been tested 55 degrees below zero

[25:41] up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit

[25:44] and heavy vehicle traffic over 132,000 pounds.

[25:48] The Retrolight Systems modular installation, low maintenance

[25:52] and measurable safety outcomes make it an effective

[25:55] and potential cost-neutral addition,

[25:57] especially when factored into current

[26:00] and future roadway redesigns and grant opportunities.

[26:11] We would like to set up a demonstration

[26:14] with the developers for this system if given the chance.

[26:19] - Thank you.

[26:20] - Thank you very much. - Thank you for your time

[26:21] and for the presentation

[26:22] and if we have any further comments, we'll contact you.

[26:26] Thank you, Mr. Figueroa.

[26:27] Appreciate it.

[26:31] We move on to public hearings.

[26:33] 4A, first reading, proposed ordinance number 25-06,

[26:38] establishment of Civilian Police Oversight Board.

[26:42] - In ordinance amending the code of ordinances

[26:44] of the City of Kissimmee, Florida,

[26:46] Chapter two, administration, article three

[26:47] boards and commissions establishing

[26:50] a civilian police oversight board

[26:52] amending section 2-3-3, city attorney as legal counsel,

[26:55] repealing all ordinances and conflict here

[26:57] with and providing an effective date.

[26:59] - And commissioners, this is a first reading of an ordinance

[27:01] that would establish a civilian police oversight board

[27:03] in accordance with chapter 166.0486 of the Florida Statutes.

[27:08] This ordinance sets up the size of the board,

[27:12] which will be between five and seven members.

[27:15] In accordance with the statutes,

[27:17] those members will be appointed by the chief of police.

[27:20] They would be set up for two-year terms with a maximum

[27:23] of three two-year terms that could be served

[27:25] by any board member.

[27:28] Each board member can either live, work

[27:31] or own property within the city limits.

[27:32] So it's not limited to just city residents.

[27:35] And then one

[27:36] of the members per the statutes

[27:38] must be retired law enforcement officers.

[27:40] And there's also prohibitions for members

[27:43] either to be in elected office

[27:45] or to be a qualified candidate for elected office.

[27:48] So after holding the public hearing,

[27:50] staff recommends approval of this first reading.

[27:53] - Thank you, City Manager.

[27:54] This is a public hearing.

[27:55] Do any of the members of the public wish

[27:58] to speak on this specific item?

[28:02] Ma'am, are you asking to speak on this specific item?

[28:06] - Yes.

[28:07] (inaudible)

[28:10] - Thank you then.

[28:12] Absolutely.

[28:13] Please walk up to the microphone, and your name

[28:15] and address for the record, please.

[28:20] - Okay then, no problem.

[28:23] Give me a minute.

[28:24] (Claudia laughs)

[28:26] Whoo!

[28:27] 10D Andres, I'm sorry.

[28:29] (Claudia laughs)

[28:30] - Name and address, please. - My name is Claudia Zuko.

[28:31] I live at 1342 Stallone Court.

[28:33] And for those who are doing the closed captioning, it's Z.

[28:38] Z-O.

[28:39] Thank you.

[28:41] Stallone Court, Kissimmee, Florida 34744.

[28:45] For those of you who don't know me, I really,

[28:48] really strongly encourage this board

[28:50] to be created in the first place by, you know,

[28:52] hounding the crap.

[28:55] None are those people right back there.

[28:56] - [Mayor] Ma'am, can you direct yourself

[28:58] to the commission, please? - Oh, my apologies.

[29:00] - Thank you.

[29:02] - And it galls me

[29:04] that we're engaging in this farce, this pretense,

[29:08] that this board is going to have any power.

[29:10] If you really want police oversight, it's you

[29:15] who are tasked with that, not us.

[29:17] It is your responsibility to govern him

[29:22] so that he can govern them.

[29:24] Isn't that the way this of-- - I'm gonna ask you...

[29:26] Ma'am, I'm gonna ask you not to direct yourself

[29:29] to anyone in specific.

[29:30] You speak to us as a body

[29:32] and we are more than happy to listen to you.

[29:34] Thank you.

[29:35] - Hmm.

[29:36] So you want transparency.

[29:42] What does that really mean?

[29:45] It means something that can let the light shine through,

[29:48] but you're not being transparent in any way, shape,

[29:51] or form, that I'm referring to the commission as a whole,

[29:54] not an individual.

[29:56] - [Mayor] Thank you.

[29:57] - Because we all know

[29:58] that you have over 6,000 pieces of damaged evidence.

[30:01] We all know, well, I know,

[30:04] that you have over 1,000 pieces of evidence missing.

[30:07] We now know collectively as a community

[30:09] that you did not report 26 officers as required by law.

[30:15] How will this board accomplish anything in regards

[30:20] to any of those items?

[30:22] I see nothing that will change.

[30:25] We had a previous board who could have affected change

[30:29] and instead they remained stagnant and silent.

[30:34] I don't see a way forward by taking several steps backwards.

[30:40] And what you're asking people to believe

[30:42] is that you're going to change anything when it comes

[30:46] to that environment, and it would seem that your actions

[30:50] speak louder than your words.

[30:52] So I would recommend the commission

[30:55] and that the community demand

[30:57] of the commission real transparency.

[31:00] Let's talk about the evidence vault floods (chuckles)

[31:03] now that we know you literally had to go back in

[31:07] and knock holes in exterior walls when we spent $70,000

[31:11] trying to repair the issue.

[31:15] So thank you for your time.

[31:19] I'll adjourn and come back for a later commentary.

[31:21] Thank you. - Thank you.

[31:24] Any other person wants to speak on this specific item?

[31:29] Mr. Fetzer?

[31:30] - Jeremy Fetzer, 3532 Bay Court, St. Cloud,

[31:33] but I own a business in downtown Kissimmee.

[31:36] First off, I applaud this board for taking this action,

[31:40] and based upon what the last speaker said,

[31:43] your hands are tied because of the state,

[31:45] not what this local board is doing.

[31:48] And I think this is one step forward just to try

[31:51] and rebuild that trust.

[31:53] And I think hiring the new police chief, I think

[31:56] with this new commission, I think the commission

[32:00] along with the new police chief and the administration

[32:02] are doing a wonderful job.

[32:04] I think, again, the state is tying the hands

[32:07] of this commission when it comes to transparency

[32:10] in that aspect of this board and what they can do.

[32:13] So it's really not up to you guys.

[32:14] The governor and the legislature created obstacles.

[32:19] But based upon what happened with the state attorney

[32:22] and the whole investigation, the hiring

[32:24] of the new police chief,

[32:26] we now just sworn in the new assistant deputy chief

[32:29] and the action that the administration

[32:32] and this commission has taken.

[32:33] I actually applaud you guys.

[32:34] And then taking one step further

[32:36] with this Citizens Board is just another step forward

[32:39] to engage the community, to be a part of the process

[32:42] where they're allowed to.

[32:43] Again, if you have an issue with this, I would go

[32:45] to Tallahassee and lobby your state legislatures,

[32:49] both the state senator

[32:50] and the state representatives and the governor

[32:52] because they're the ones responsible for the issues at hand

[32:56] that you see with this board.

[32:57] But again, I appreciate everything you guys are doing,

[32:59] KPD is doing and city managers doing.

[33:01] Thank you.

[33:03] - Thank you, Mr. Fetzer.

[33:04] Any other comments on this specific item?

[33:09] Hearing none, do I have a motion?

[33:11] - Motion to approve.

[33:12] - Second.

[33:13] Motion by Vice Mayor Eady, second by Commissioner Alvarez.

[33:18] Any discussion?

[33:20] Hearing none, all in favor?

[33:22] - Aye.

[33:23] - Motion carries.

[33:24] Thank you.

[33:26] (Mayor clears throat)

[33:27] 4B, first reading, proposed ordinance number 25-08.

[33:31] Updated building fee ordinance.

[33:33] - Madam Mayor, commissioners, at this time, staff

[33:36] would request that this item be pulled from tonight's agenda

[33:38] and we'll re advertise at a later date.

[33:42] - Thank you, City Manager.

[33:44] We'll move right along to 5A, public hearing.

[33:48] Kissimmee Gateway Airport Commerce Park mixed use

[33:52] planned unit development.

[33:55] - Good Evening, Commission.

[33:56] Douglas Etheridge, Development Services Assistant Director.

[33:59] Tonight we have a putt amendment

[34:01] before you is the (clears throat) excuse me.

[34:04] It's the Airport Gateway,

[34:05] Gateway airport Commerce Park Pod.

[34:08] It was established back in 2010,

[34:12] basically north of MLK

[34:15] and the southwest corner of MLK and Thacker.

[34:19] It was established multiple office types uses,

[34:22] and it was time to update the pod to allow

[34:25] for other uses, particularly like a hotel

[34:29] that it could be associated with the airport

[34:31] or dormitories for the airport services.

[34:34] Staff recommends approval of this request is find

[34:37] and compliant and plaintiff Advisory Board also recommends

[34:39] approval of this request.

[34:43] - Thank you.

[34:44] - Thank you.

[34:45] - This is a public hearing.

[34:46] Do any members of the public wish

[34:47] to speak on this specific item?

[34:51] Hearing none, do I have a motion?

[34:53] - Motion to approve.

[34:55] - Second.

[34:56] - Motion by Vice Mayor Eady.

[34:57] Second by Commissioner Martinez.

[35:00] Any discussion?

[35:03] All in favor?

[35:04] - Aye.

[35:05] - Motion carries.

[35:06] We're gonna now move on to hear the audience.

[35:08] Do any the members wish to speak?

[35:11] Please be sure to sign in with our clerk.

[35:15] We are going to start now

[35:17] with Ray Parsons.

[35:21] Mr. Parsons.

[35:26] - Thank you.

[35:27] Ray Parsons, 117B Broadway.

[35:30] Just came tonight just to tell y'all

[35:32] that I've met, recently had the opportunity to meet

[35:35] with several your department heads

[35:39] and met with the new police chief

[35:42] and he was very welcoming.

[35:44] I think he made a great hire with him.

[35:48] Had the opportunity

[35:49] to meet with your new public Works direct.

[35:51] I guess he's not new, he is been here a while,

[35:52] but he is kind of new to me.

[35:54] Ashley with Public Works.

[35:56] He was extremely helpful.

[35:57] Police chief, I met with him a couple times.

[36:01] Really nice guy.

[36:02] Extremely helpful.

[36:03] And I think y'all have made some really fantastic hires.

[36:07] And just from a citizen's point of view

[36:10] and somebody that works with the staff a lot,

[36:12] it's refreshing to see (clears throat) that kind

[36:16] of approach and attitude from the staff.

[36:22] I'm just so excited about our opportunities for downtown.

[36:26] Y'all are doing a great job getting downtown under control.

[36:31] The sound ordinance.

[36:33] Some of the things are a little out of control.

[36:36] There's a lot of businesses downtown that want

[36:39] to get involved and want to do the right thing.

[36:43] And just appreciate

[36:47] your efforts and look forward to opportunities

[36:50] for downtown working with your staff.

[36:53] Thank you.

[36:54] - Thank you, Mr. Parsons.

[36:56] I also have Diana Marrero Pinto.

[37:01] - Thank you.

[37:08] - Madam Mayor, my comments are in reference to item eight.

[37:11] Would you like me to hold off

[37:12] till they do their presentation?

[37:14] - [Mayor] Pardon me, I can't--

[37:15] - The city's incentives.

[37:16] - [Mayor] Okay.

[37:17] - Would you like me to hold off?

[37:18] - So yeah,

[37:19] we'll hold off on that. - Okay.

[37:20] - Thank you, I'm sorry.

[37:23] All right.

[37:24] Any other person wants to speak at this moment?

[37:28] Ms. Zuko, please.

[37:43] - Thank you.

[37:46] Today I'm gonna talk about-- I'm sorry.

[37:47] I need your name and address again

[37:48] for the record. - Oh, again, my apologies.

[37:51] Claudia Zuko.

[37:52] Thank you again for getting that right,

[37:55] at 1342 for now, still on Court Kissimmee 434744.

[38:01] My topic is transparency,

[38:05] and it begins with telling you what happened on the date

[38:07] of August 22nd, 2014

[38:11] when police ignored a protective order

[38:15] that had been legally issued

[38:17] to me by the Ninth Judicial Circuit to prevent harm.

[38:27] Instead,

[38:33] my stalker

[38:37] and the little angry mob that she had formed

[38:42] called police who arrived, ignored that order,

[38:50] ignored the cameras, the microphones

[38:55] with which they were well aware and familiar with.

[39:00] Drug me from my home

[39:03] after breaking my door,

[39:06] placed me in a squad car, and based on her testimony,

[39:12] they corrected me.

[39:22] For a decade, I have been abused,

[39:28] scoffed, harangued

[39:30] and harassed with verbiage so appalling.

[39:37] It has to stop.

[39:43] So we need to be transparent, don't we?

[39:48] And it starts by saying,

[39:50] where's the talk about aliens?

[39:52] Where's the death threat?

[39:54] Where's the human barricade?

[39:56] They're nowhere to be found.

[40:00] We know that you withheld evidence on both sides,

[40:05] police and prosecutors,

[40:10] to protect a lie.

[40:14] And we know it's a lie because it got yanked off of WFTV

[40:17] and off of the website for Kat and Phillips,

[40:21] and got booted out of court.

[40:24] Over and over

[40:25] they were declared unreliable and untruthful.

[40:33] And the evidence was withheld

[40:36] because the culture of coverup, ladies

[40:40] and gentlemen, of the commission and audience,

[40:44] and it sickens me.

[40:47] That's me being transparent.

[40:51] Good enough.

[40:52] - Thank you, Ms. Zuko.

[40:56] Consent agenda, item number seven, to I have a motion

[40:59] to approve the consent agenda with the exception of 7Q.

[41:03] - Motion to approve.

[41:04] - Second.

[41:06] - All in favor?

[41:07] - Aye.

[41:10] - Motion carries.

[41:12] Discussion items.

[41:13] We'll move right on.

[41:14] I'm sorry.

[41:14] - Madam Mayor, can we hear 7Q now?

[41:17] - I'm sorry, did I?

[41:19] Oh (clears throat) 7Q I'm sorry.

[41:21] We're gonna pull 7Q so we talk about that--

[41:22] - Thank you, yes, yes.

[41:24] So, Madam Mayor, commissioners, 7Q is a resolution

[41:27] authorizing the city manager to execute documents related

[41:30] to applications for hazard mitigation grant programs.

[41:35] And the intent behind this resolution was to allow us

[41:38] to submit these applications in time

[41:40] for what sometimes are very tight timelines

[41:43] that we don't have time to go

[41:45] to commission to get approval for

[41:46] in advance of submitting the grant.

[41:48] We are in the process

[41:50] of applying for a COPS grant to help pay

[41:53] for new police officers with the upcoming budget as well

[41:56] as a safer grant for new firefighters in the upcoming

[41:59] or in a future budget.

[42:00] And so what we'd like to do

[42:03] and before you think each of you have a copy

[42:06] of a revised resolution

[42:07] that would add those two grant programs to this resolution.

[42:11] So staff is requesting approval for, to add this

[42:14] or to approve this new resolution.

[42:16] - Perfect.

[42:17] So.

[42:19] - Make a motion to approve

[42:21] the adamant to resolution to 7Q.

[42:26] - I second it.

[42:29] All righty, motion by Commissioner Alvarez,

[42:31] second by Commissioner Martinez.

[42:32] All in favor?

[42:34] - Aye.

[42:34] - Motion carries.

[42:36] All right.

[42:40] Now we'll move on to discussion items.

[42:44] City Commission will recess

[42:46] and convenes as the Community Redevelopment Agency Board?

[42:51] - David, do we need to do that for 8A?

[42:55] Not for 8A but for 8B.

[42:57] - 8B, okay. - Yes, my apologies.

[42:59] So we just proceed with 8A.

[43:00] - So we can remain

[43:01] as the City Commission for 8A. - So we reconvene

[43:03] at this point and we'll recess at the next one.

[43:07] So we'll go into 8A,

[43:09] Downtown Kissimmee Activation Incentive.

[43:13] Mr. Rodriguez.

[43:14] - Good evening.

[43:15] David Rodriguez, Economic Development Director.

[43:18] The item before you for consideration

[43:20] is the Downtown Business Activation Initiative.

[43:23] The objective of this initiative is attracting

[43:26] new quality tenants to vacant

[43:28] or underutilized storefronts in the downtown core,

[43:31] focusing on types

[43:33] of businesses not currently present in downtown,

[43:35] or that residents

[43:36] and visitors want to see more of,

[43:39] like experiential businesses,

[43:41] entertainment innovative astronomy, et cetera.

[43:44] The goal is activating downtown to add vibrancy

[43:48] and increase food traffic.

[43:50] Just like our tool bag

[43:52] of incentives to attract target industries

[43:54] to the city at large, this is a tool in our tool bag

[43:58] to recruit businesses specifically to downtown.

[44:01] Now, under this initiative,

[44:03] the city would offer reimburse 25%

[44:06] of the cost incurred in interior tenant improvements,

[44:09] build out or renovations up to 50,000,

[44:13] waive development fees up to 5,000, reimburse the cost

[44:18] of the BTR and reimburse 50% of rent costs

[44:22] for the first six months up to 10,000.

[44:25] Again, this incentive is part of a recruitment initiative

[44:29] aimed to make downtown a more competitive retail destination

[44:34] and have a more robust downtown to residents

[44:37] and visitors to enjoy.

[44:39] Now, happy to answer any questions you may have.

[44:44] - Thank you.

[44:48] Commissioners, are you okay with this?

[44:51] Any questions?

[44:52] Are you okay?

[44:53] Yeah.

[44:54] Good.

[44:55] All right.

[44:56] So do I have a motion?

[44:57] - Motion to approve.

[44:58] - Second.

[44:59] - Motion by Commissioner Martinez,

[45:01] second by Vice Mayor Eady.

[45:03] All in favor?

[45:04] - Aye.

[45:05] - Motion carries.

[45:06] Thank you.

[45:07] Thank you, Mr. Rodriguez, for that.

[45:08] Now we will recess and convene

[45:12] as a Community Redevelopment Agency Board

[45:15] for item 8B, amendments

[45:19] to Community Redevelopment Agency Incentives Policy.

[45:23] Mr. Rodriguez.

[45:25] - The item before you are changes

[45:26] to the CRA Incentive Programs.

[45:29] These programs, as you know,

[45:31] are directed towards developing new projects,

[45:33] redeveloping blighted properties

[45:35] and repurposing vacant structures within the CRA.

[45:39] In addition to incorporating some definitions

[45:41] to add clarity, the changes in front

[45:44] of you include the following,

[45:46] adjusting the Pioneer grant amount to 10%

[45:50] of the tangible project costs,

[45:52] costs that add value to the property,

[45:55] up to 1.5 million program maximum, whichever is lower.

[46:00] By doing this,

[46:01] this ensures a 10 to one ratio on all projects.

[46:05] That means $10 of private capital for each dollar

[46:09] of CRA funds.

[46:11] Also, in order to be fiscally prudent in dispersing,

[46:14] the funds staff recommends to adjust the payout schedule

[46:19] up to five years, depending on the amount of the grant.

[46:22] The larger the grant, the longer the payout.

[46:25] So funds are dispersed slowly.

[46:28] These are really adjustments to the mechanics,

[46:30] internal mechanics within the program,

[46:32] but the goals and the grant maximums are the same as today.

[46:36] Happy to answer any questions you may have.

[46:40] - Thank you.

[46:43] This just applies to the Pioneer Project.

[46:45] Am I correct, Grant?

[46:46] Just that one?

[46:47] - Yes.

[46:48] - No, just Pioneer or is it also--

[46:50] - Yes, just Pioneer.

[46:51] - Okay.

[46:52] - Okay.

[46:53] Just to be clear on that.

[46:55] Okay.

[46:56] So any questions, Commission?

[47:00] If not, do I have a motion?

[47:02] - Motion to approve.

[47:04] - Second.

[47:07] - Motion by Vice Mayor Eady.

[47:09] Second by Commissioner Martinez.

[47:11] All in favor?

[47:12] - Aye.

[47:13] - Motion carries.

[47:15] - Thank you.

[47:15] - The Community Redevelopment Agency Board now adjourns

[47:18] and Reconvenes as the City Commission.

[47:21] Move right on.

[47:25] All right.

[47:26] 8C, 2025 Policy Agenda Review,

[47:28] Building and Fire Prevention Division Operations.

[47:37] Mr. Holland to present.

[47:39] Thank you.

[47:40] - Sorry.

[47:41] - No, it's okay.

[47:42] (commissioners laugh)

[47:44] It's all good.

[47:45] - Being a cookie monster.

[47:48] Proof of technology.

[48:07] Good evening, commissioners.

[48:08] Craig Holland, Development Services Director.

[48:11] So a few weeks ago we did the same exact type

[48:13] presentation for code enforcement.

[48:15] Tonight it's gonna be about the building division

[48:18] and then in probably in a few weeks

[48:21] or a month, we'll be doing the planning division.

[48:23] So you'll hit all three.

[48:25] So the City Commission, can I get the first slide?

[48:30] Oh, I'm sorry.

[48:32] - You're good.

[48:32] - So the City Commission and their policy agenda

[48:34] for 2025 made a high priority of permitting

[48:38] and licensing process, streamlining with goals, objectives,

[48:41] performance audits, reports with findings

[48:44] and recommendations, directions and implementation.

[48:46] So this discussion,

[48:48] again is divided up into two parts, development review,

[48:52] which will be in about a month, and building review tonight.

[48:55] So what we're gonna do is Samantha Bridle,

[48:57] our Building Manager, is gonna get up

[48:59] and go over details about the building division, a lot

[49:03] of things about the process, things

[49:05] that we've done since you heard from us about two years ago

[49:09] when we gave the same presentation

[49:11] to the previous commission.

[49:12] We have two new commissioners on board

[49:13] that weren't here before.

[49:15] And then I'll come back at the end

[49:17] and we can have a discussion on what you all are hearing

[49:20] or feel are the issues

[49:23] and how you would like to see us address these issues

[49:29] much like we did with Code Enforcement.

[49:31] So I'm gonna introduce Samantha Bridle, the Building Manager

[49:35] for the Building Division.

[49:52] - Good evening, Madam Mayor, commissioners,

[49:53] City Manager Steigerwald and city staff.

[49:56] My name is Samantha Bridle,

[49:57] and I serve as the Building Division Manager

[49:59] for the City of Kissimmee.

[50:00] Today I'll be providing a brief overview

[50:02] of the city's permitting and licensing processes.

[50:10] Thank you.

[50:15] Technical difficulties.

[50:17] (Samantha laughs)

[50:19] Okay.

[50:21] We'll begin with our building division's staffing

[50:23] and certifications to highlight the professional expertise

[50:26] behind our work.

[50:28] We'll give a high level look at our workflow to show

[50:31] how applications move through the system.

[50:33] We'll review overall permitting and licensing statistics

[50:36] and compare both our performance

[50:37] and processes with neighboring jurisdictions

[50:39] to provide regional context.

[50:42] And I'll also outline the steps we're taking

[50:44] to streamline operations and boost efficiency

[50:47] and highlight recent improvements aimed at delivering

[50:49] a clearer, more timely

[50:50] and customer friendly experience for our applicants.

[50:56] Now I'd like to give you a quick overview

[50:58] of what our team does on a day-to-day basis.

[51:00] We manage and oversee the entire permitting

[51:02] and licensing process from start to finish.

[51:05] Throughout the process, we guide applicants step

[51:07] by step from the initial submission all the way

[51:10] through to final inspection,

[51:11] helping them navigate requirements and timelines.

[51:14] That includes reviewing and issuing permits

[51:16] for construction projects across the city.

[51:19] Once permits are issued, we conduct inspections

[51:21] to ensure everything complies with building codes,

[51:24] fire codes, and general safety standards.

[51:27] We also handle contractor registrations

[51:29] and business tax receipts, making sure that businesses

[51:32] and contractors are properly vetted and licensed.

[51:35] However, it's important to note

[51:36] that the building division does not handle the enforcement

[51:39] of business tax receipts issues.

[51:41] The responsibility lies with a different department.

[51:45] And when buildings become unsafe

[51:46] or hazardous, we process unsafe abatements

[51:49] to protect public safety

[51:50] and get those properties addressed quickly.

[51:53] Our goal is to ensure development in our community is safe

[51:55] and efficient while making the permitting

[51:57] and licensing process straightforward, timely

[52:00] and centered on the needs of all of our applicants.

[52:07] In fiscal year 2024, the building division,

[52:10] which also includes fire prevention, had 24 personnel.

[52:14] For the current fiscal year,

[52:15] we have increased to 29 positions

[52:17] with 27 currently filled,

[52:19] and we do have two vacancies

[52:21] we are actively working to fill.

[52:24] Importantly, to accommodate our diverse community,

[52:26] 13 of these 29 positions, which is nearly 45%

[52:29] of our staff, are bilingual with proficiency in Spanish,

[52:33] Portuguese, German and French.

[52:36] This significantly enhances our ability to provide clear

[52:39] and effective communication with our residents,

[52:41] business owners and our customers.

[52:47] The building division takes great pride in maintaining

[52:50] and continually expanding the number of licenses

[52:52] and certifications held by our staff.

[52:55] Among the 27 employees currently in the building division,

[52:58] we collectively hold 116 unique licenses and certifications.

[53:03] These credentials come from four key regulatory bodies,

[53:06] the Department of Business and Professional Regulation,

[53:09] the International Code Council,

[53:11] the division of the State Fire Marshal

[53:13] within the Florida Department of Financial Services,

[53:15] and then also the Florida Association

[53:17] of Business Tax Officials.

[53:20] A notable achievement within our team

[53:22] is that our deputy building official has earned

[53:24] the Master code professional certification,

[53:26] which is the highest level

[53:27] of certification offered by the International Code Council.

[53:31] This certification reflects an exceptional level

[53:33] of expertise, commitment, and leadership in building safety

[53:37] and code compliance.

[53:39] Fewer than 1% of code professionals worldwide

[53:41] hold this certification

[53:43] with just over 1,000 individuals globally.

[53:46] Since 2021, only 26 new master code professionals

[53:49] have been certified in the State of Florida.

[53:52] A highly certified team keeps our staff current with codes,

[53:55] safety standards and best practices resulting

[53:58] in thorough reviews,

[53:59] fewer errors and enhanced public safety.

[54:03] The variety of certifications also allow us

[54:05] to handle diverse projects efficiently,

[54:08] streamlining the permitting process,

[54:10] and then delivering better service.

[54:12] In the end, it helps us build safer structures

[54:15] and stronger trust with our community.

[54:20] When we look at the staffing

[54:21] and operating costs per 1,000 residents,

[54:24] the City of Kissimmee sits right in the mid-range position

[54:27] compared to neighboring jurisdictions.

[54:29] In fiscal year 2024,

[54:31] our building division operated at a cost

[54:33] of approximately $4.49 million

[54:36] or about $52,700 per 1,000 residents,

[54:42] with a staff of 24, which equates

[54:44] to about 0.28 employees per 1,000 citizens.

[54:49] By comparison, City of St. Cloud had a similar total cost,

[54:52] but a higher per capita cost of nearly 67,800

[54:56] with slightly fewer residents and 23 staff,

[54:59] and Osceola County operated at a higher total cost

[55:02] of $12.7 million,

[55:03] but a lower per capita cost of around 42,300

[55:08] and about 55 employees.

[55:11] So while we're not the highest

[55:14] or lowest in terms of staffing

[55:15] or operational costs,

[55:17] Kissimmee demonstrates a balanced approach

[55:19] to both budget management and resource allocation.

[55:22] Our strength lies in managing costs effectively relative

[55:26] to our population size, which supports our ability

[55:29] to deliver consistent customer-focused service

[55:32] to our community.

[55:36] So now we're gonna take a quick look

[55:37] at some key statistics for the building division.

[55:41] In fiscal year 2023, we processed 13,312 applications.

[55:46] That number increased slightly

[55:48] to 13,489 in fiscal year '24,

[55:52] and we project approximately 13,400

[55:55] or so in fiscal year 2025.

[55:58] These figures do include permits, contractor registrations

[56:01] and business tax receipts,

[56:03] and reflect a stable consistent workload over the year.

[56:08] When it comes to customer interactions,

[56:10] which includes phone calls, emails

[56:12] and walk-ins, we do see a steady decline

[56:16] from nearly 80,000 contacts in fiscal year 2023 down

[56:20] to about 63,000 in 2024,

[56:23] and an estimated 57,450

[56:27] and about in fiscal year 2025.

[56:30] We believe that this projected reduction

[56:33] is primarily due to the continued adoption

[56:35] and increased comfort with our self-service portal,

[56:38] allowing more users

[56:39] to complete their tasks independently online.

[56:42] We've also introduced a range of helpful resources,

[56:45] which are including video tutorials, lunch

[56:47] and learn sessions,

[56:49] and downloadable how-to guides,

[56:51] all aimed at making the application process

[56:53] a bit more user-friendly and accessible for our customers

[56:56] at all times.

[56:58] This shift not only enhances convenience for our customers,

[57:01] but also allows our staff to dedicate more time

[57:03] to processing and reviewing applications

[57:06] and improving our overall efficiency.

[57:12] So to provide clarity on how our permitting system operates,

[57:15] I'd like to walk you through the key steps involved

[57:17] from application to final approval.

[57:20] The permitting process begins when an applicant submits

[57:23] a permit application.

[57:25] At that point, the application undergoes

[57:27] a sufficiency review to ensure all required information

[57:30] is included, and any applicable fees must be paid.

[57:34] It is important to note

[57:35] that the formal permit review process only commences

[57:38] after payment has been received.

[57:41] Following this, the application enters

[57:43] the plan review phase, which involves coordination

[57:46] among multiple departments,

[57:48] which includes the building division,

[57:49] fire Prevention, planning, Engineering Department,

[57:52] Sanitation Division, and also Toho Water Authority.

[57:57] Should any department disapprove the submitted plans,

[58:00] the applicant is required to make the necessary revisions

[58:03] and resubmit before moving forward.

[58:07] Once the plans received the approval and all the documents

[58:09] and fees are waived, are verified, the permit is issued.

[58:14] Should the scope of work change at any point

[58:16] during that project, the applicant must submit a revision

[58:18] for additional review.

[58:21] Post-issuance inspections are conducted

[58:23] by the relevant departments based on the project scope.

[58:27] Any disapproved inspections must be corrected

[58:29] and reinspected until all requirements are met.

[58:33] Finally, after all the inspections

[58:34] are successfully completed

[58:36] and departmental clearance obtained,

[58:38] the permit is finalized.

[58:40] If applicable, a certificate of occupancy

[58:42] or certificate of completion is issued

[58:45] to confirm the project's compliance with all regulations.

[58:48] While this overview covers the standard process,

[58:51] more complex projects may require additional steps.

[58:58] So I'd like to provide a quick breakdown

[59:00] of our building permits and contractor registrations

[59:03] for fiscal year 2024.

[59:05] We process 6,025 Building permit applications,

[59:09] completed 12,812 reviews and issued 5,786 permits.

[59:16] Our inspectors conducted a total of 17,974 inspections,

[59:21] which led to the issuance of 343 certificates of occupancy.

[59:27] In addition, we issued 2,735 contractor registrations.

[59:32] It's important to note

[59:33] that an active contractor registration is required

[59:36] to obtain a permit, ensuring qualified professionals handle

[59:40] construction projects in our city.

[59:42] Looking ahead based on the current fiscal year data,

[59:45] we anticipate maintaining similar activity levels

[59:48] with slight decreases in reviews completed

[59:50] and inspections conducted primarily due to the growing use

[59:54] of private provider services that are permitted

[59:56] by state law.

[1:00:01] For fiscal year 2024,

[1:00:03] when comparing the number of permit applications submitted

[1:00:05] and issued per 1,000 citizens,

[1:00:08] the City of Kissimmee ranks the lowest

[1:00:09] among the three jurisdictions compared.

[1:00:12] On average, Kissimmee is showing

[1:00:13] a 96.03% issuance percentage when comparing number

[1:00:19] of applications submitted to number of permits issued,

[1:00:23] while the City of St. Cloud is showing a percentage

[1:00:25] of about 87.73%

[1:00:28] and Osceola County is showing a percentage of about 85.96%.

[1:00:34] While this chart reflects a lower volume

[1:00:36] of permit-related activity relative to the population size,

[1:00:39] it also highlights a key benefit.

[1:00:42] Our staff can provide more focused attention

[1:00:44] and responsive service to each applicant.

[1:00:47] This ensures that our citizens receive a more efficient

[1:00:50] and accessible permitting process,

[1:00:52] ultimately enhancing the experience for everyone involved.

[1:01:00] Let me now highlight the timeframes

[1:01:02] for permit review in the City of Kissimmee

[1:01:04] and compare these with neighboring jurisdictions focusing

[1:01:07] on our key areas.

[1:01:09] For the city of Kissimmee,

[1:01:10] the sufficiency review takes about one business day.

[1:01:13] After that, residential reviews take between one

[1:01:16] to three business days depending on the permit site,

[1:01:18] while commercial reviews range anywhere from one

[1:01:21] to 10 business days, resulting in a total review time

[1:01:25] of anywhere from three to 11 business days.

[1:01:28] In the city of St. Cloud,

[1:01:29] the sufficiency review takes two business days

[1:01:32] with residential reviews taking around 10 business days

[1:01:35] and commercial reviews also taking about 10 business days.

[1:01:39] This brings their total review time to 12 business days.

[1:01:43] For Osceola County,

[1:01:44] the sufficiency review also takes one business day.

[1:01:48] The residential reviews range anywhere from five

[1:01:50] to seven business days,

[1:01:52] and commercial reviews can take anywhere from 10

[1:01:54] to 15 business days resulting in a total review time

[1:01:58] between six to about 23 days.

[1:02:01] It's important to note that all these timeframes

[1:02:03] are measured in business days

[1:02:05] and the timeframes listed are self-imposed

[1:02:07] by each jurisdiction based on their resources

[1:02:10] and their processes.

[1:02:12] Each timeframe reflects one review cycle per permit.

[1:02:17] All review timeframes are within maximum limits set

[1:02:20] by the Florida State Statute

[1:02:21] and by the Florida Building Code.

[1:02:24] A crucial aspect of our review process

[1:02:26] is that permit review cannot begin until fees are paid

[1:02:29] after the sufficiency review.

[1:02:31] This payment delay can sometimes push

[1:02:33] the overall review process back by several days, weeks

[1:02:36] or even months depending on the applicant's response time.

[1:02:41] Additionally, the timeframe for reviews not only apply

[1:02:43] to our internal development services staff,

[1:02:46] which includes Building, Planning and Fire Prevention,

[1:02:50] but also extends to external departments

[1:02:52] and agencies like Toho Water Authority,

[1:02:54] the Engineering Department, which includes Floodplain Review

[1:02:57] and the Sanitation Division.

[1:02:59] While we request that all parties adhere

[1:03:01] to the established timeframes, it's important to acknowledge

[1:03:04] that reviews completed by external departments

[1:03:07] are not directly under our enforcement authority.

[1:03:10] As facilitators of the overall process,

[1:03:14] we depend on their timely responses to keep things on track

[1:03:16] and of course meet project deadlines.

[1:03:19] We strive to maintain an efficient

[1:03:20] and responsive review process, but the speed

[1:03:23] and efficiency of these processes also depend

[1:03:25] on timely inputs from all involved parties,

[1:03:28] both internal and external.

[1:03:33] There are several common reasons

[1:03:35] that can slow down the building permit process.

[1:03:38] One of the primary causes is when work begins

[1:03:40] before obtaining the necessary permits.

[1:03:43] This can result in stop work orders, additional inspections,

[1:03:46] and in some cases, penalties

[1:03:48] that can significantly delay a project.

[1:03:51] Another frequent issue is when contractors are unfamiliar

[1:03:54] with our local codes or our permitting procedures.

[1:03:57] This can lead to errors

[1:03:58] or missing documentation, requiring revisions,

[1:04:00] and also slowing down the process.

[1:04:04] We strongly encourage the use

[1:04:05] of our self-service portal.

[1:04:06] When these tools are not used,

[1:04:08] applications are often incomplete or missing key information

[1:04:11] resulting in delays.

[1:04:15] Incomplete or inaccurate applications remain

[1:04:17] a leading contributor to slower timelines.

[1:04:20] Our staff must pause the review process

[1:04:23] to request corrections before moving forward.

[1:04:26] It's also important to note that reviews cannot begin

[1:04:28] until all applicable fees are paid,

[1:04:30] so delays in payment can stall a permit

[1:04:32] for extended periods of time.

[1:04:35] Plan quality of course matters as well.

[1:04:37] If submitted plans are unclear

[1:04:38] or lack sufficient detail, they are returned for revisions,

[1:04:42] adding time to the overall process.

[1:04:45] Attempts to bypass permitting requirements

[1:04:47] not only cause delays

[1:04:49] but can result in corrective enforcement actions.

[1:04:52] Expedited review requests, while well intentioned,

[1:04:55] they can slow down other reviews

[1:04:57] due to limited staff resources.

[1:05:00] Clear and timely communication is critical.

[1:05:03] Delays frequently occur when applicants

[1:05:05] don't respond promptly to staff inquiries

[1:05:07] or requests for additional information.

[1:05:10] While our staff strive for accuracy

[1:05:12] and efficiency, we do acknowledge

[1:05:13] that occasional technical issues

[1:05:15] or internal errors can occur.

[1:05:18] We are committed to identifying those, resolving those

[1:05:20] as quickly as possible

[1:05:21] and learning from them to, of course,

[1:05:22] strengthen our process.

[1:05:25] It's also important to recognize

[1:05:26] that some delays originate

[1:05:28] from outside agencies involved in the review process

[1:05:30] such as Toho Water Authority,

[1:05:32] the City of Kissimmee Engineering Department,

[1:05:35] Osceola County 911 addressing

[1:05:37] and Kissimmee Utility Authority.

[1:05:39] We depend on their input

[1:05:40] and coordination to move permits forward.

[1:05:43] Lastly, failure to schedule

[1:05:45] or pass required inspections

[1:05:46] can prevent finalizing the permit

[1:05:48] and they may also significantly extend project timelines.

[1:05:54] So I'd now like to walk you

[1:05:56] through the business tax receipt workflow.

[1:05:58] The process begins with the submission

[1:06:01] of the BTR application,

[1:06:02] which first undergoes the sufficiency review

[1:06:04] to ensure all required information is provided.

[1:06:08] Following this, the applicant must complete payment

[1:06:10] of the applicable fees before the BTR review can commence.

[1:06:14] It's important to emphasize

[1:06:15] that the review process does not start

[1:06:17] until all fees are paid

[1:06:19] and all required documents are submitted and approved.

[1:06:23] The BTR review involves coordination

[1:06:24] between the Planning Division

[1:06:26] and the Building Division to ensure compliance

[1:06:28] with all relevant regulations.

[1:06:30] Inspections also play a critical role in this process

[1:06:33] and are conducted by our fire prevention inspectors

[1:06:35] within the Building Division.

[1:06:38] For certain business types such as nail salons,

[1:06:41] additional inspections including ventilation checks

[1:06:43] by a building inspector are required to confirm

[1:06:46] that safety standards are met.

[1:06:49] Once all inspections are successfully completed

[1:06:51] and approved, the business tax receipt is issued authorizing

[1:06:54] the business to legally operate within the city.

[1:07:00] So I'm gonna provide a quick overview

[1:07:02] of the Building Division's business tax receipt activities

[1:07:04] for fiscal year 2024.

[1:07:06] We process 3049 BTR applications

[1:07:10] including both new submissions and renewals.

[1:07:13] Of those 1,680 reviews were completed

[1:07:17] and we successfully issued 3,970 BTRs that year.

[1:07:22] It's important to highlight

[1:07:23] that unlike many other jurisdictions where BTRs are managed

[1:07:26] by separate departments such as the Zoning Department

[1:07:29] in St. Cloud or the Tax Collector's Office

[1:07:32] in Osceola County, the City of Kissimmee Building Division

[1:07:35] handles both new and renewed BTRs.

[1:07:38] This expanded responsibility highlights our commitment

[1:07:40] to supporting local businesses through streamlined processes

[1:07:43] and coordinated services.

[1:07:49] I'd like to provide an overview

[1:07:50] of the business tax receipt review timeframes

[1:07:53] across the City of Kissimmee,

[1:07:54] City of St. Cloud and Osceola County.

[1:07:57] In Kissimmee, the sufficiency review typically takes one

[1:07:59] to two business days, followed by a BTR review

[1:08:02] that lasts one to three business days,

[1:08:05] which results in a total review time of approximately two

[1:08:07] to five business days.

[1:08:09] By comparison, St. Cloud sufficiency review ranges from one

[1:08:13] to seven business days with a BTR review period

[1:08:16] of seven business days totaling anywhere from eight

[1:08:18] to 14 business days.

[1:08:21] Osceola County sufficiency review takes between one

[1:08:23] to three business days while their BTR review can range

[1:08:27] from seven to 21 business days if they do have to send it

[1:08:29] to their zoning department, which can lead to a total

[1:08:32] of eight to 24 business days.

[1:08:35] It's important to note that these timeframes

[1:08:37] are measured in business days

[1:08:38] and are self-imposed by each jurisdiction,

[1:08:41] meaning actual times may vary depending

[1:08:43] on resources and processes.

[1:08:45] Additionally, after sufficiency review,

[1:08:47] applicants cannot proceed to full review

[1:08:50] until all required documents are submitted

[1:08:52] and the applicable fees are paid.

[1:08:55] This step can add days, weeks

[1:08:56] or even months to the overall process depending

[1:08:58] on the applicant's responsiveness.

[1:09:01] A key distinction to highlight is that both St. Cloud

[1:09:04] and Osceola County require landlord

[1:09:06] and property management business tax receipts.

[1:09:09] The City of Kissimmee currently does not.

[1:09:12] Also, those jurisdictions require

[1:09:14] more extensive documentation at the time of submittal.

[1:09:17] In contrast, Kissimmee has streamlined the process

[1:09:20] by reducing minimum documentation requirements

[1:09:22] to only what is necessary to comply with state statutes

[1:09:25] and land development code regulations.

[1:09:29] Please keep in mind that the stated timeframes

[1:09:31] do not include scheduling and completing inspections,

[1:09:33] which are coordinated separately between fire prevention

[1:09:36] and the business owner.

[1:09:38] After planning and building reviews are approved,

[1:09:42] and automated email prompts the business owner

[1:09:44] to contact fire prevention

[1:09:45] to schedule those necessary inspections.

[1:09:48] Failure to schedule these inspections in a timely manner

[1:09:51] can cause significant delays,

[1:09:52] potentially extending the process

[1:09:55] by days, weeks, or months,

[1:09:56] and may ultimately prevent the issuance of their BTR.

[1:10:00] These differences in timelines

[1:10:02] and procedural requirements reflect the unique ways

[1:10:04] of each jurisdiction and how they manage their BTR process.

[1:10:11] Just like permits, there's several different reasons

[1:10:14] that can slow down a BTR process.

[1:10:16] One of the primary causes is incomplete

[1:10:18] or inaccurate applications.

[1:10:20] So when key information is missing

[1:10:21] or incorrect, staff must pause the review

[1:10:24] to request clarification, which would extend

[1:10:26] that processing time.

[1:10:28] It's also important to note

[1:10:30] that the review process cannot begin

[1:10:32] until all required fees are paid in full.

[1:10:35] Another frequent issue is missing or invalid documentation.

[1:10:39] Without proper supporting materials,

[1:10:40] the application cannot advance to that next stage.

[1:10:44] We also see delays when applicants do not communicate

[1:10:47] or fail to seek assistance early in the process.

[1:10:50] A lack of clarity or misunderstanding

[1:10:52] could be resolved quickly with a phone call, an email,

[1:10:55] or an office visit,

[1:10:56] but instead they may result in unnecessary delays.

[1:11:00] We strongly encourage the use

[1:11:01] of our self-service portal.

[1:11:03] When these tools are not used,

[1:11:04] applications are often incomplete

[1:11:06] or missing key information,

[1:11:07] which could also result in possible delays.

[1:11:10] Also, delayed responses

[1:11:12] and staff requests, clarification documents

[1:11:14] or additional information further add time to that process.

[1:11:18] In some cases, there are zoning address

[1:11:20] or land use issues that must be resolved

[1:11:23] before a BTR can be issued.

[1:11:25] These typically require a coordination

[1:11:27] with other departments or agencies,

[1:11:29] and that can lengthen the timeline.

[1:11:31] Pending inspections such as those required

[1:11:33] by fire prevention or building also impact

[1:11:36] the overall processing time.

[1:11:38] If inspections are not scheduled

[1:11:40] or completed promptly, final approval

[1:11:41] is delayed for their issuance.

[1:11:44] Occasionally, applicants working with consultants

[1:11:47] or representatives who are unfamiliar

[1:11:49] with local requirements can lead to missteps

[1:11:51] and also added time.

[1:11:53] In some instances,

[1:11:54] we've also seen attempts to bypass necessary steps,

[1:11:56] which unfortunately do cause more delays

[1:11:58] and frustrations with the applicants.

[1:12:03] And while it is rare, we do acknowledge that technical

[1:12:05] or internal errors can occur.

[1:12:07] When that happens, we work quickly to try

[1:12:09] to resolve those issues

[1:12:10] and use it as an opportunity to improve

[1:12:12] that process moving forward.

[1:12:15] In summary, these are the most common factors

[1:12:17] that can impact the timelines of the BTR process.

[1:12:21] We continue to encourage all applicants to be proactive,

[1:12:23] take full advantage of all the available tools,

[1:12:26] and maintain open communication with our team.

[1:12:29] These steps help ensure a smooth transition

[1:12:31] and efficient review process for everyone involved.

[1:12:38] Over the past two years,

[1:12:39] we've made significant strides in enhancing

[1:12:42] both our permitting and our BTR processes.

[1:12:45] These improvements are rooted in our commitment

[1:12:47] to providing more efficient, transparent,

[1:12:49] and user-friendly services to our residents

[1:12:51] and business community.

[1:12:53] First, we increased our staffing

[1:12:55] to expand our service capacity, which has led

[1:12:57] to quicker response times and more streamlined processing.

[1:13:01] Recognizing the importance of accessibility,

[1:13:03] we launched the Development Services Center

[1:13:05] with extended hours beginning at 7:30 a.m. now,

[1:13:08] which offer earlier walk-in access

[1:13:10] and phone support.

[1:13:12] To further assist our community,

[1:13:14] we introduced our monthly lunch and learns.

[1:13:17] These educational events have been very well received.

[1:13:19] Our first session drew nearly 40 attendees,

[1:13:22] and our next session is scheduled for next week,

[1:13:24] which has currently filled up.

[1:13:26] We record and post these sessions on our website

[1:13:28] to make sure that there's broad accessibility to everybody.

[1:13:32] We've also enhanced the clarity of the business tax receipts

[1:13:35] by including maximum occupancy information,

[1:13:38] giving business owners a clear understanding

[1:13:40] of how to utilize their space safe and legally.

[1:13:42] Whenever they print their BTR

[1:13:44] from this point forward, they will have

[1:13:45] that maximum occupancy written on that BTR for them.

[1:13:50] One of our key streamlining efforts involved integrating

[1:13:53] the emergency contact form

[1:13:54] into both new BTR applications and renewals.

[1:13:58] This integration eliminates redundancy

[1:14:00] and allows real-time data sharing

[1:14:02] with our communication team,

[1:14:03] which is crucial in emergency situations.

[1:14:07] Our self-service portal has been upgraded significantly.

[1:14:10] We offer step-by-step video tutorials,

[1:14:13] downloadable PDF guidelines

[1:14:16] and have installed two self-service kiosks

[1:14:18] in the Development Services Center lobby,

[1:14:20] which offer a more independent

[1:14:21] and accessible experience when they do come visit.

[1:14:24] And finally, we've prioritized quick turnaround permits

[1:14:26] for routine projects.

[1:14:28] Thanks to the addition

[1:14:29] of a dedicated quick turnaround plan reviewer,

[1:14:31] most of these permit types such as like for like window

[1:14:34] and door replacements, mechanical change outs,

[1:14:37] reroofs, water heater installations in addition

[1:14:40] to many other ones are completed in less than two days.

[1:14:44] These improvements reflect our ongoing efforts

[1:14:46] to increase efficiency, enhance customer service,

[1:14:50] and streamline the permitting process

[1:14:52] for our residents and our businesses.

[1:14:56] Looking ahead, we have a strong lineup

[1:14:58] of upcoming initiatives designed

[1:15:00] to further improve our service delivery, ensure fairness

[1:15:04] and strengthen our community safety.

[1:15:07] First, we'll be completing a comprehensive fee study.

[1:15:10] This will help us ensure our pricing is both fair

[1:15:12] and sustainable as the city continues

[1:15:15] to grow while supporting long-term service delivery.

[1:15:19] We're also focused on improving our ISO rating,

[1:15:21] which evaluates our risk management practices,

[1:15:24] especially related to fire safety and natural disasters.

[1:15:28] For reference, the city currently holds an ISO rating

[1:15:30] of three for commercial properties and four for residential,

[1:15:34] and improving those ratings can help reduce insurance costs

[1:15:37] and promote safer development.

[1:15:40] Another long-term goal under consideration

[1:15:42] is the IAS accreditation,

[1:15:44] which would strengthen our alignment with national standards

[1:15:47] and reinforce the integrity of our operations.

[1:15:51] To meet the needs of our growing community,

[1:15:53] we plan to fill critical staffing positions

[1:15:55] and invest in our team to increase capacity

[1:15:58] and reduce response times.

[1:16:01] On the technology front,

[1:16:02] we're implementing something called a Decision Engine,

[1:16:04] which is to help streamline workflows across permitting

[1:16:07] and business tax receipt processing,

[1:16:09] and we hope that improves the speed

[1:16:11] and consistency of decision making for our customers.

[1:16:15] We'll also launch a new phone queuing system designed

[1:16:17] to ensure every customer call is answered

[1:16:20] or returned within the same business day.

[1:16:22] Features like real-time call routing

[1:16:24] and potential callback options will enhance communications

[1:16:28] and possibly eliminate voicemail delays.

[1:16:32] We're enhancing our electronic plan review system

[1:16:34] to a new program that we feel

[1:16:35] will make it more user-friendly.

[1:16:38] Applicants will be able to more easily view

[1:16:40] and respond to comments, improving that overall experience.

[1:16:44] We're also expanding automated notifications

[1:16:46] to keep our applicants informed

[1:16:47] throughout the entire permitting and building process,

[1:16:50] which will reduce the need

[1:16:51] for follow-up calls and improve our transparency.

[1:16:55] To further support customers, we're creating new resources,

[1:16:58] including an owner builder brochure,

[1:17:00] the Business Startup Guide in collaboration with Planning

[1:17:03] and detailed application checklist to reduce errors

[1:17:06] and confusion at the time of the applicants' submission.

[1:17:10] We'll continue our monthly lunch and learn sessions,

[1:17:12] which have been a huge success

[1:17:14] with some upcoming topics relating specifically

[1:17:16] to learning our permit process, inspections,

[1:17:19] BTR process and many more.

[1:17:22] Staff training always remains a top priority,

[1:17:24] ensuring our team continues to deliver accurate

[1:17:27] and high quality service.

[1:17:30] We're also strengthening collaboration

[1:17:31] with other jurisdictions.

[1:17:33] Even though we are separate entities,

[1:17:35] we feel it is important to work together

[1:17:37] with both the City of St. Cloud and Osceola County,

[1:17:39] including 911 addressing,

[1:17:41] especially when secondary addresses are needed

[1:17:44] to streamline processes for our customers.

[1:17:47] Altogether, we feel that these efforts reflect

[1:17:49] our commitment to continuous improvement, customer service

[1:17:53] and building a safe, efficient,

[1:17:54] and business friendly environment for all.

[1:18:00] I'd like to briefly share some feedback gathered

[1:18:02] over the past few years from our regular customers

[1:18:05] and representatives from our neighboring jurisdictions.

[1:18:10] It's clear that Kissimmee's permitting process

[1:18:12] and review times have shown noticeable improvement,

[1:18:14] and we're proud of the progress we have made.

[1:18:17] While permitting software can often be seen

[1:18:19] as a, quote, necessary evil in all jurisdictions,

[1:18:23] what truly stands out is the feedback

[1:18:24] we consistently receive about our staff.

[1:18:27] Whether interacting in person or over the phone,

[1:18:30] our team is regularly praised as the most helpful

[1:18:32] and pleasant to work with.

[1:18:34] Of course, every jurisdiction has its own strengths

[1:18:37] and challenges when it comes

[1:18:38] to permit review and inspections.

[1:18:41] We've had discussion with peers

[1:18:42] from neighboring jurisdictions

[1:18:44] and they've showed similar feedback.

[1:18:46] Their customers often tell them that, quote,

[1:18:48] other jurisdictions do it better.

[1:18:51] And I'll be honest, we hear this as well.

[1:18:54] That being said, we're committed to continuing our efforts

[1:18:56] to improve, grow and adapt to provide

[1:18:59] the best possible service to our citizens and businesses.

[1:19:05] So commissioners, I do wanna thank you

[1:19:07] for your continued support of the Building Division

[1:19:09] and the services we do provide to our community.

[1:19:12] One meaningful way you can contribute to help

[1:19:15] is by connecting residents, business owners,

[1:19:17] or other community members who reach out to you

[1:19:19] with the right staff contacts in our department.

[1:19:22] We're fortunate to have a strong leadership team,

[1:19:25] including our Development Services Director, Craig Holland,

[1:19:28] our Assistant Development Services Director, Doug Etheridge,

[1:19:31] our Building Official Juan F. Hernandez,

[1:19:33] our Deputy Building Official, Albert Rocco and myself.

[1:19:38] When making a referral,

[1:19:39] having just a few key details like a person's name,

[1:19:42] contact information, the permit

[1:19:44] or the BTR number if applicable, the address of the project

[1:19:48] and a short summary of the concern helps us

[1:19:50] respond more efficiently and accurately.

[1:19:53] We truly do appreciate your support

[1:19:54] and helping us serve our community as well.

[1:19:57] With that, I'll hand it back over

[1:19:59] to Development Services Director Craig Holland

[1:20:01] to continue the discussion

[1:20:02] and then address any questions that you guys may have.

[1:20:05] - Thank you.

[1:20:10] - Thank you, Samantha.

[1:20:12] So just to wrap this up for discussion,

[1:20:16] this will be a lot very similar

[1:20:17] to the code enforcement discussion,

[1:20:20] and also if we do have questions,

[1:20:22] almost the entire Building Division supervisory staff

[1:20:24] is here to answer any questions that I'm unable to answer.

[1:20:27] But we're looking for the commission

[1:20:29] to give us your expectations of the building process.

[1:20:33] Now that you have a better understanding

[1:20:34] of what that process is,

[1:20:36] the City Commission should define an issue,

[1:20:39] define what the problems and issues are

[1:20:41] with the building process.

[1:20:42] I hear a lot of times I meet

[1:20:44] with all the commissioners when they first get on,

[1:20:46] sometimes I meet with you as candidates,

[1:20:48] and I hear, it's hard to get a permit,

[1:20:50] but when I say, what about it is hard?

[1:20:53] Nobody knows because that's all they've heard,

[1:20:56] and nobody thinks to ask,

[1:20:57] well, what's your experience like?

[1:20:59] Because make, when I go out

[1:21:01] and say, what do you need from us?

[1:21:03] They're like, oh, you guys are great.

[1:21:04] So anything you, any details that you could share

[1:21:08] with us about what you feel the problems

[1:21:10] and issues are would be very helpful.

[1:21:12] Next steps, possible next steps are define enhancements

[1:21:16] desired by the City Commission.

[1:21:18] The City Commission provide direction to our staff

[1:21:20] on where you would like to see us go with the process

[1:21:23] and solutions based on commission expectations, problems

[1:21:28] and issues will be then determined

[1:21:30] and we'll proceed with those solutions.

[1:21:34] So if you have any questions

[1:21:35] or any comments, be happy to take those.

[1:21:42] - Well, thank you.

[1:21:43] - You're welcome.

[1:21:46] - Yeah.

[1:21:47] Commissioners, do you have any comments or questions?

[1:21:51] - Well, so far, I experienced myself,

[1:21:57] I want to congratulate your department

[1:21:58] because as a commissioner, you know I have some constituent

[1:22:02] with issues with problem

[1:22:05] who been for many years already

[1:22:07] and we have good results.

[1:22:09] Thank you.

[1:22:10] - Thank you.

[1:22:12] - So with all the technology

[1:22:17] that we just invested in in your department, I think

[1:22:21] that your process should flow almost to perfection now.

[1:22:29] I know you're not perfect, I'm not saying that,

[1:22:31] but I mean, I don't see the turnaround decreasing

[1:22:37] with all the technology that you have.

[1:22:39] You have the adequate staffing that you need.

[1:22:42] So everything is there.

[1:22:45] It just needs to be basically implemented.

[1:22:48] Am I right?

[1:22:50] - I would actually argue that our turnaround time,

[1:22:54] it's, based on what you've seen,

[1:22:56] it's better than the other two jurisdictions

[1:22:58] in the county.

[1:22:58] - So what I'm saying, it could only be better.

[1:23:00] - It could, yes.

[1:23:02] - Yeah, it could only get better

[1:23:02] because of the resources that is available

[1:23:06] to you right now. - Right.

[1:23:07] - That's all I'm saying. - And there's a flip side

[1:23:08] to that, that the applicants need to do better also.

[1:23:12] - Absolutely, it's a two-way street, I agree.

[1:23:14] - I often joke that a lot of plans come in

[1:23:16] that are basically crayons on napkins.

[1:23:18] I am not kidding.

[1:23:20] I am serious.

[1:23:21] They come in and they're a mess.

[1:23:22] And there's something called review by design,

[1:23:25] or design by review, where they'll turn in absolute minimums

[1:23:29] and then we basically design the project with our comments.

[1:23:32] So it's a two-sided thing.

[1:23:34] - Yes, absolutely, I agree. - We will always strive

[1:23:37] to improve, but there's only so much we can do

[1:23:40] if the permit applicants don't want

[1:23:43] to improve also. - Right.

[1:23:44] I'm a true believer that knowledge is power,

[1:23:48] and the more you know, the better you'll be.

[1:23:51] - Yes.

[1:23:52] - And with that being said, with those lunch

[1:23:55] and learnings that you're doing,

[1:23:56] those initiatives, that's perfect.

[1:24:00] Perfect, perfect. - It was super well received.

[1:24:03] The second month is sold out already again.

[1:24:06] Not sold out, but filled up.

[1:24:08] We're not selling tickets.

[1:24:09] (participants laugh)

[1:24:10] It's actually free, and we give free lunch,

[1:24:11] so there's no selling out. - I was gonna say,

[1:24:12] you must be got a concert going on up in there.

[1:24:15] But I think you're doing a wonderful job.

[1:24:18] I'm not trying to put you down, I'm just saying--

[1:24:20] - Oh, I get it. - It's only gonna get better

[1:24:22] because of the resources that has been provided to you.

[1:24:26] - Yes. - That's what I'm saying.

[1:24:27] - Oh, okay. - So thank you.

[1:24:29] - Thank you. - Yeah, no, no,

[1:24:29] you're doing great.

[1:24:30] You're doing great. - Thank you.

[1:24:31] - I just want to repeat, like for my short time

[1:24:35] as a commissioner, I have a very good experience

[1:24:38] with your department, and we resolve a lot of problems

[1:24:42] because sometimes people, they don't know

[1:24:46] how it is the process.

[1:24:47] Sometimes it's lack of education.

[1:24:50] - Absolutely.

[1:24:52] - And we have to guide them to the right process.

[1:24:54] But myself, since I start as a commissioner,

[1:25:00] I have to say they've being very active

[1:25:04] with the issues and we resolve a lot of issues already.

[1:25:07] Yes, I repeat again, thank you.

[1:25:09] - Thank you.

[1:25:12] - Thank you.

[1:25:13] Commissioner Alvarez.

[1:25:15] - I have no, I have no remarks.

[1:25:17] They pretty much checked off all the boxes.

[1:25:19] Every question I was gonna bring about, your presentation

[1:25:22] pretty much clarified all that,

[1:25:24] but thank you so much for your work.

[1:25:26] - Thank you.

[1:25:27] That was all Samantha. - Good job.

[1:25:28] - Thank you.

[1:25:29] Commissioner Martinez.

[1:25:30] - I have a question, but my question

[1:25:31] would basically be more referred to Kissimmee Main Street

[1:25:34] since they do the participation with the businesses.

[1:25:38] I get a lot of people that reach out to me

[1:25:40] and say, the fire inspectors came out

[1:25:44] and they didn't tell me about the fire extinguisher

[1:25:47] and I gotta wait for them to come back again.

[1:25:50] And the whole situation,

[1:25:51] like Craig was saying about the turnaround on the time,

[1:25:54] 'cause sometimes it's the lack of education,

[1:25:56] that they don't know how to deal with the portal.

[1:25:58] They don't know where to find the comments.

[1:26:00] Like there's several tabs that they have to click on.

[1:26:02] So from your perspective,

[1:26:04] what feedback have you gotten

[1:26:05] from the businesses in the area?

[1:26:09] - Please.

[1:26:11] And I'm sorry I skipped you over

[1:26:13] after we closed out that CRM, but I was gonna come back

[1:26:16] after this and have you come. - I could email it.

[1:26:17] It was just in favor of the item eight.

[1:26:20] - Thank you.

[1:26:21] - So I think a lot of what Craig says that we see also.

[1:26:24] So sometimes as we're going through the process

[1:26:27] and working with them, we realize

[1:26:29] that sometimes it's something that they've neglected.

[1:26:31] But I will say that not as of late,

[1:26:34] but in the past, we've had many, many complaints,

[1:26:39] tears, frustration in reference to the time that it took.

[1:26:43] We, and again, I'm not in the trenches

[1:26:46] to see this file, so I can only tell you

[1:26:47] what you've asked me.

[1:26:49] We had one individual that came to us in tears

[1:26:53] that if it didn't open, she'd been doing this for a year,

[1:26:55] and if she didn't get opened by this month, then her whole,

[1:26:58] you know, dream of being a home, of being a business owner,

[1:27:00] you know, she'd have to give it up.

[1:27:02] So we've seen that a couple times,

[1:27:04] but then again, we talked to Craig

[1:27:06] and we find out, well they, you know, they were supposed

[1:27:08] to call back and tell us that this was done

[1:27:11] so that we can go to the next step.

[1:27:12] So, you know, again, this isn't as of late.

[1:27:15] This was, you know, in previous businesses

[1:27:17] that start up.

[1:27:18] I think first of all, the trainings

[1:27:21] that they're doing are incredible.

[1:27:23] I went to the first one, I'm scheduled

[1:27:24] to go to the one tomorrow.

[1:27:26] It helps us be able to help them.

[1:27:29] If I could give any advice

[1:27:32] or, you know, a way to make it better, I don't know

[1:27:36] how Main Street can help more by being in the process.

[1:27:40] That's where kind of like we lose it

[1:27:41] because we have to go by what they said.

[1:27:43] We're not able to read the actual notes or what's going on.

[1:27:46] So it makes it difficult for us to be able to truly help.

[1:27:49] And sometimes that requires us to call Craig

[1:27:51] or to call somebody at the city to kind

[1:27:53] of bogle them down more by needing more information.

[1:27:57] So that's what we see.

[1:28:00] - All right.

[1:28:01] So you've seen a decline

[1:28:02] in all the issues versus what we have right now in place

[1:28:08] with all the technology, the update of the website,

[1:28:11] the videos, the luncheons and all that?

[1:28:13] - How much of that is, you know, the actual decrease

[1:28:16] in that work and the fact that we're full downtown too?

[1:28:19] You know, we don't have as many businesses coming in.

[1:28:20] I think the majority of the problems happen

[1:28:23] with the restaurants though.

[1:28:24] You know, the hood suppression, you know,

[1:28:26] the fire suppression system, all of these things

[1:28:27] that come into play that they're not aware of.

[1:28:29] One of the things that we discussed at Main Street

[1:28:33] that we thought would be wonderful

[1:28:34] is if there was an inspection prior

[1:28:36] to, almost like when you purchase a home

[1:28:38] and there's a home inspection, something like that.

[1:28:41] When there's a business that's purchased

[1:28:43] because a lot of times, the previous owner

[1:28:45] of that business does not tell you

[1:28:47] that they've unplugged the exit signs

[1:28:49] or that they're no longer using, you know,

[1:28:51] the oven the way to its full capacity.

[1:28:53] So these people buy these businesses without having any

[1:28:56] of that information.

[1:28:57] So, and then, you know, I realized,

[1:29:00] caveat entered, buyer beware, yes, of course.

[1:29:03] But if there was some type of inspection in place,

[1:29:06] and I don't know if that's possible,

[1:29:08] but I think that that would make a huge difference

[1:29:10] in some of the individuals who try to open a business

[1:29:13] and then it takes them a year or two just to get it ready.

[1:29:18] - I think one of the issues,

[1:29:19] and part of me is that we have to define

[1:29:21] where does the responsibility lie?

[1:29:24] Right?

[1:29:24] Sometimes we think it's the Permitting Department,

[1:29:28] but it really, where does the new business owner...

[1:29:33] I mean, as much as I'd love to say

[1:29:35] that it's always the Building Department,

[1:29:37] it's not always that.

[1:29:38] And sometimes our new business owners don't understand,

[1:29:43] especially if they're brand new.

[1:29:45] And we've seen that today.

[1:29:46] We actually had a conversation about that,

[1:29:47] so, it's 50-50, right?

[1:29:50] And--

[1:29:51] - Sometimes when they come from other countries,

[1:29:52] that's an added, you know, obstacle

[1:29:54] because the way they do, right.

[1:29:56] The way they did it somewhere else,

[1:29:58] they're trying to do it here.

[1:29:59] Right, right.

[1:29:59] So I think

[1:30:01] it's the hamster wheel.

[1:30:04] This is gonna happen over and over and over

[1:30:06] and we would just hope to get better.

[1:30:09] So yeah, that's kind of a challenge, I guess.

[1:30:13] I'm sorry, I didn't mean to cut you off.

[1:30:14] Do you have any other questions or comments?

[1:30:15] - I just wanted to get an outside perspective

[1:30:17] because I've seen the great work that they're doing,

[1:30:21] the videos that are being uploaded and being shared

[1:30:23] and are having the community being able

[1:30:25] to participate in it.

[1:30:26] So I just wanted to see if there was something

[1:30:28] that I wasn't seeing from a different perspective.

[1:30:30] So thank you Diana, appreciate.

[1:30:32] - Yeah, no, I don't think so.

[1:30:33] And I really think that with time we're gonna see

[1:30:35] the positive impact that these changes have made, so.

[1:30:38] - And anytime there's an issue, you know, they always help

[1:30:41] and they make sure that everybody gets

[1:30:42] their concerns addressed, so.

[1:30:45] All right, thank you.

[1:30:46] - I understand you're having a sign code meeting

[1:30:50] coming up June 25th.

[1:30:53] - At what meeting?

[1:30:54] - Sign Code.

[1:30:55] - Sign code meeting. - Oh, sign code, yes.

[1:30:56] - So that-- - On the fifth.

[1:30:57] So can you elaborate a little bit on that?

[1:30:59] - So we are redoing our sign code, which is part

[1:31:03] of the City Code of Ordinance.

[1:31:04] And we're modernizing it, kind of streamlining it.

[1:31:09] And there's certain things that we're not going

[1:31:13] to permit anymore.

[1:31:14] It's just gonna be kind of like, like window signage.

[1:31:18] Window signage is the main

[1:31:20] of everybody's existence and development services

[1:31:23] because you pay a company to slap up,

[1:31:26] cling wrap on your window

[1:31:28] and then you go, well, you're in violation

[1:31:30] of the sign code.

[1:31:31] They go back to the sign company

[1:31:33] and it's like, well that's your responsibility.

[1:31:34] We just sold you the stuff and put it up.

[1:31:36] So we're actually going to recommend to the commission

[1:31:39] that you no longer regulate window signage,

[1:31:43] and except for downtown where it's important

[1:31:46] to have open windows and things like that.

[1:31:48] So that's one of the bigger things.

[1:31:51] But it's a lot of just streamlining it, make it very easy

[1:31:55] for somebody to pick it up and use for a sign company

[1:31:59] for it to pick it up and use.

[1:32:01] And that meeting is really just to have business owners,

[1:32:05] sign code people, everything come in.

[1:32:07] There's also some antiquated parts of the sign code.

[1:32:11] The references to political signs will all be removed

[1:32:14] because of the Supreme Court decision.

[1:32:17] It'll be changed up

[1:32:18] so that we meet Supreme court decisions, things like that.

[1:32:22] First amendment rights. - That also pertains also

[1:32:23] to awnings as well?

[1:32:26] Awnings, the littering size?

[1:32:28] - Right, that's considered

[1:32:29] a sign. - That's pretty much

[1:32:30] what you're gonna--

[1:32:31] - Right.

[1:32:32] - All right, so I just recommend folks to go out there

[1:32:33] and do, make this meeting, you know, voice your opinions

[1:32:36] and you know, be part of the community

[1:32:38] and you know, we look for your inputs.

[1:32:40] So June 25th at 5:00--

[1:32:43] - Yes.

[1:32:44] - Do come out.

[1:32:45] All right.

[1:32:46] Thank you.

[1:32:47] - Thank you.

[1:32:48] Craig-- - Good job.

[1:32:49] - This presentation that you just put up,

[1:32:50] is this on your website?

[1:32:52] I feel like we went over the entire website on here.

[1:32:54] (commissioners laugh)

[1:32:55] - We don't have it on the website.

[1:32:57] We can put it on the website.

[1:32:58] - It's probably everything that we shouldn't do is on there.

[1:33:01] It's probably a good tool.

[1:33:02] I mean we, you know, thank you for the detail.

[1:33:05] It was very, very detailed.

[1:33:07] My direction would be never to do that again,

[1:33:09] but that's just maybe.

[1:33:11] (commissioners laugh)

[1:33:12] - I've already got a couple text messages.

[1:33:13] - Because like put it on the website.

[1:33:14] We'll have to read it.

[1:33:15] - Yeah.

[1:33:16] (Mayor laughs)

[1:33:17] And translate it in Spanish, everyone's happy.

[1:33:18] - Yeah, I think-- - Because reality

[1:33:19] is it's a lot to process.

[1:33:20] - Right.

[1:33:21] - Even for us up here and you know,

[1:33:23] it's, but it's a great presentation, don't get me wrong.

[1:33:26] I just think that sometimes it's so much information,

[1:33:30] it's TMI, and then at some point you lose me,

[1:33:33] and if people have it, it's almost a reference point.

[1:33:35] I like the ones that, for instance,

[1:33:38] what can delay a building permit?

[1:33:40] What can delay?

[1:33:41] Those are key.

[1:33:42] So even if you don't put the whole presentation,

[1:33:44] it's almost like, that's almost a Q&A.

[1:33:47] Put it on the website

[1:33:48] and make sure everybody can refer to it

[1:33:50] and I think it's just gonna simplify it

[1:33:52] because if someone asked me right now what could delay it,

[1:33:56] I wouldn't have a clue.

[1:33:57] I would have to say hold up, let me go to page 122,

[1:34:00] and then, well, I'm sorry.

[1:34:02] (Mayor laughs)

[1:34:03] I'm sorry.

[1:34:04] But I appreciate you.

[1:34:05] I want you to know, I appreciate you, it's just--

[1:34:06] - I do apologize for the length and the detail,

[1:34:08] but I, well, first I thought I was going to a workshop

[1:34:11] so I'd have a whole hour.

[1:34:12] - Okay, yeah. - And I think

[1:34:13] we probably took a whole hour, but--

[1:34:15] - Yes (laughs)

[1:34:16] It felt like a workshop,

[1:34:17] so thank you. - And again, I was having

[1:34:18] a hard time

[1:34:20] with the policy

[1:34:24] that you all had in 2025 to figure out

[1:34:26] what the issue really was.

[1:34:28] And again, all I hear is it's hard to get a permit

[1:34:31] and it takes too long when all the data I have says

[1:34:35] we're quicker than everybody else.

[1:34:36] - [Mayor] Yeah.

[1:34:37] - So this, I just wanted

[1:34:39] to make sure you all had all the information to make

[1:34:41] the best decisions

[1:34:42] and recommendations possible. - I like that we're quicker

[1:34:44] than anybody else.

[1:34:45] That was probably my favorite page on there.

[1:34:47] And, but I am gonna ask you,

[1:34:53] I don't ever want us to lose the human touch, right?

[1:34:55] So I think that's part of the challenge,

[1:34:57] as I know we have all this computer stuff

[1:34:58] and not everyone understands the computers.

[1:35:00] And some people come to us and say, we don't get it.

[1:35:03] So I think sometimes a simple phone call fixes things,

[1:35:08] but by the time we get a decline

[1:35:10] and then we try to figure out who do we need to call

[1:35:12] and you know, it's just so much.

[1:35:14] I think sometimes we just are so automated,

[1:35:17] and there's nothing wrong with that sometimes.

[1:35:20] You know, and I think that simple phone call,

[1:35:22] and it shouldn't just be from the applicant.

[1:35:24] It could also be,

[1:35:25] and and I'm not saying that you don't do it all the time.

[1:35:27] I'm just saying

[1:35:28] that sometimes, you know. - No, I mean, I agree with you

[1:35:31] and we will walk somebody through and handle.

[1:35:35] - I know you. - That's what we do.

[1:35:36] So if somebody doesn't want to go online,

[1:35:38] they could come in, we'll take them in the back.

[1:35:41] We'll, that sounds bad,

[1:35:42] but yeah, we'll take them

[1:35:43] to a computer in the back (commissioners laugh)

[1:35:44] and help them go through the process.

[1:35:46] - For the record, that was a good thing.

[1:35:48] (Mayor laughs) - And one of the big things

[1:35:48] that we're doing is because we keep saying,

[1:35:50] nobody picks up the phone.

[1:35:52] Well, that's because 7:30, the calls start

[1:35:55] and don't stop till 4:00.

[1:35:56] And if you leave a voicemail,

[1:35:59] and you'd be surprised people don't leave voicemails,

[1:36:02] and then they wonder they can't get

[1:36:04] anybody to answer the phone.

[1:36:05] So this will be--

[1:36:07] - And you would think they're trying to open a business

[1:36:08] and they'd answer their phone.

[1:36:09] - Right.

[1:36:10] - That doesn't always happen.

[1:36:11] - You'll be able to call

[1:36:12] and then they'll say, we'll call you back

[1:36:15] when it's your turn in line,

[1:36:16] so you can hang up and go about your day

[1:36:18] and then we'll call you back.

[1:36:20] - [Mayor] Sure.

[1:36:21] - So that's gonna be a real plus.

[1:36:22] You don't have to leave a voicemail,

[1:36:23] and you know, I think that'll help a lot,

[1:36:27] 'cause it shocks me that people will not leave voicemails.

[1:36:32] And we return all voicemails within 24 hours.

[1:36:35] Most of the time it's by the end of the day,

[1:36:36] but within 24 hours.

[1:36:39] - Well, thank you.

[1:36:39] We thank you all.

[1:36:41] - And also I would like to recommend

[1:36:42] that you create a bridge with Osceola Board of Realtors

[1:36:48] because some of this headache is created

[1:36:51] because when people they buy

[1:36:52] and they sell, especially they deal

[1:36:55] with a real estate agent.

[1:36:56] I received a lot of phone call from real estate agent,

[1:36:59] mortgage loan officer where they have some issues.

[1:37:02] I believe this large land, they should be extended to them.

[1:37:06] The same way they get involved

[1:37:07] in other issues with the city,

[1:37:09] this is something very important.

[1:37:12] - Okay.

[1:37:13] - Thank you.

[1:37:14] All right.

[1:37:15] - Madam Mayor, before you close this out, I just wanna say

[1:37:18] that I've sent already like about six

[1:37:20] or seven people that have been literally held by their hand.

[1:37:24] - Oh yeah.

[1:37:24] - From the beginning of the process to understand how,

[1:37:27] because I've tried to help them, staff's tried

[1:37:30] to help them and they just didn't get it.

[1:37:31] So when they went into the Building Department,

[1:37:33] they took them in and took them to the back and helped them.

[1:37:37] (commissioners laugh)

[1:37:37] I like that, so thank you for that.

[1:37:39] I just wanted to acknowledge you guys on that.

[1:37:40] - Thank you.

[1:37:41] Thank you for all you're doing.

[1:37:43] All right, so city managers,

[1:37:46] is that all you need on that one?

[1:37:47] Direction to staff?

[1:37:48] That's pretty much it on that.

[1:37:49] Do you need anything?

[1:37:50] - One more presentation we have, no, I'm just kidding.

[1:37:52] (commissioners laugh)

[1:37:54] - Is that 123 pages?

[1:37:55] Sorry.

[1:37:58] - No, ma'am, I think we've got a good direction.

[1:38:00] - Thank you.

[1:38:01] So if you heard my stomach growling, it's your fault,

[1:38:02] Craig, thank you very much.

[1:38:04] (participants laugh)

[1:38:05] It's all good.

[1:38:07] We should have eaten those cookies.

[1:38:08] That's right.

[1:38:09] All right, so we're gonna move on

[1:38:11] to 8D Advisory Board vacancy, Board of Adjustments.

[1:38:14] City Manager.

[1:38:16] - Madam Mayor, Commissioner Martinez

[1:38:19] has this appointment.

[1:38:20] If she does not make the appointment tonight,

[1:38:22] we'll have to do an extension.

[1:38:25] - Hi, Madam Mayor.

[1:38:27] For the Advisory Board, I'd like

[1:38:29] to appoint Raymond Sanchez.

[1:38:33] - I second motion.

[1:38:35] I second that.

[1:38:38] - Motion by Commissioner Martinez,

[1:38:41] second by Commissioner Alvarez.

[1:38:43] All in favor?

[1:38:44] - Aye.

[1:38:45] - Motion carries.

[1:38:47] All right.

[1:38:49] I think we've reached the end of our journey here.

[1:38:50] So now we're gonna hear from city officials.

[1:38:52] City Manager.

[1:38:54] - Thank you, Madam Mayor, commissioners,

[1:38:55] I have nothing tonight.

[1:38:56] Thank you.

[1:38:58] - You don't.

[1:38:59] (commissioners laugh)

[1:39:00] Thank you.

[1:39:02] City Attorney.

[1:39:03] - Wanna get further? - I'll make this quick

[1:39:05] since it's late, but I just wanted to give y'all an update

[1:39:08] that I will be advertising the noise, alcohol

[1:39:11] and lien ordinances for first reading for July 1st.

[1:39:15] I will have a draft circulated to you individually

[1:39:19] so that you can study it before the meeting.

[1:39:21] And then the second reading

[1:39:23] would be at the following meeting,

[1:39:26] which is July 15th.

[1:39:30] So first and second readings of those.

[1:39:32] - Oh, Madam Mayor, I had something else too.

[1:39:34] - Sure.

[1:39:35] - She just prompted me.

[1:39:36] (commissioners laugh)

[1:39:37] - He just remembered.

[1:39:38] - No presentation, no.

[1:39:40] So July 1st, we'll also have the proposals

[1:39:44] that were resubmitted from the four hotel developments.

[1:39:48] We'll be scheduling it for that date as well.

[1:39:50] - So I understand it's gonna be a busy July 1st.

[1:39:52] Everyone here, please come

[1:39:54] and join the party, it's important.

[1:39:56] (commissioners laugh)

[1:39:56] - And we also have a workshop at 3:00

[1:39:57] before that meeting on the CRA Master Plan for--

[1:40:00] - So when getting July 4th started.

[1:40:02] - That's right.

[1:40:03] That's the month

[1:40:04] of July fireworks. - Fireworks.

[1:40:05] - Please make sure to invite everyone.

[1:40:08] (commissioners laugh)

[1:40:09] Sorry, as we should.

[1:40:11] City Commission, let's see if you have any comments

[1:40:14] at this point.

[1:40:15] We'll start with Commissioner Martinez.

[1:40:19] - It's been a long night.

[1:40:20] Thank you guys for showing up and being here.

[1:40:22] (Martinez laughing)

[1:40:25] - That's it?

[1:40:26] - Yes ma'am.

[1:40:27] - Okay.

[1:40:28] Commissioner Alvarez.

[1:40:28] - I have no comment.

[1:40:30] - Thank you. - I have no comment.

[1:40:31] - Commissioner Ortiz.

[1:40:33] - I just want to remind (indistinct)

[1:40:36] to extend my deepest condolence to the Indian community

[1:40:39] in Kissimmee for all of them who lost

[1:40:41] in the tragic accident last week, families and members,

[1:40:45] so my deep condolence for that.

[1:40:48] - Thank you.

[1:40:48] Thank you, that's accurate.

[1:40:50] Vice Mayor Eady.

[1:40:51] - Sure, I do have a comment.

[1:40:53] Actually, I have a slide I want you guys to see.

[1:40:55] - Are you for real? - Not a presentation.

[1:40:56] - Not Angela, are you for real?

[1:40:58] (commissioners laughing)

[1:40:59] - I seen this online yesterday.

[1:41:03] And what the City of Tampa is doing is they're implementing

[1:41:07] a program where they're putting in drinking fountains

[1:41:11] in the areas where the homeless population

[1:41:14] are congregating at.

[1:41:15] And I think that it would be a good idea if we would partner

[1:41:19] with Toho to try to do some of the same thing,

[1:41:23] considering it is so hot right now,

[1:41:27] and they're just out there.

[1:41:31] What do you guys think?

[1:41:34] - City Manager.

[1:41:36] - Commissioners, if you guys are interested,

[1:41:38] it's something I could reach out to Toho Water Authority,

[1:41:40] see if they have a desire to assist perhaps

[1:41:44] and that may be something we can look at

[1:41:46] through our CDBG Program as well.

[1:41:48] - Thank you.

[1:41:49] Thank you for bringing that.

[1:41:50] That's actually very innovative.

[1:41:53] I think that's, especially at our parks,

[1:41:56] not just for the homeless,

[1:41:57] but for the kids

[1:41:58] and everyone out there. - Exactly.

[1:41:59] - That's a great...

[1:42:00] That's a great opportunity to research.

[1:42:03] Thank you.

[1:42:04] That's it?

[1:42:05] - Yes, and that's it.

[1:42:07] - Okay.

[1:42:10] I wanna say, happy birthday, Mr. Tom Kapp.

[1:42:12] You're here with us today,

[1:42:13] so I wanna wish you a happy birthday.

[1:42:15] You spent your whole evening with us here.

[1:42:16] Thank you.

[1:42:17] (participants laughing)

[1:42:19] That's a warrior right there.

[1:42:21] So I wanted to congratulate you publicly.

[1:42:26] Juneteenth was a great success.

[1:42:27] I thank everyone that came out

[1:42:29] and absolutely enjoyed that celebration.

[1:42:32] I had a great time.

[1:42:33] And as usual, we danced a lot.

[1:42:35] We had a good time

[1:42:37] and we fellowshiped with many residents in our community.

[1:42:41] Same was with Pride Fest,

[1:42:43] and I was excited to go out to those events.

[1:42:46] I just ask everyone to share those events online

[1:42:50] so that we can continue to create community.

[1:42:53] I think it's very important

[1:42:54] that we continue doing that.

[1:42:57] Tomorrow, City Manager and Vice Mayor,

[1:43:00] we're going to Tampa to...

[1:43:02] I'm sorry, I keep saying tomorrow.

[1:43:04] I think I'm ahead of myself.

[1:43:05] Thursday.

[1:43:06] Thursday.

[1:43:07] We're gonna go and connect with other mayors

[1:43:10] and other elected officials.

[1:43:11] And we won't be staying there that evening,

[1:43:13] but we are very excited to go out there

[1:43:16] and represent Kissimmee, City of Kissimmee

[1:43:18] as best as we can.

[1:43:20] So it'll be a fun time.

[1:43:24] And I also wanna ask everyone,

[1:43:28] if you would share every time you know

[1:43:30] that we have a commission meeting

[1:43:32] and encourage your fellow neighbors to come up and speak.

[1:43:36] We wanna allow grandstanding,

[1:43:38] but we certainly wanna hear you speak.

[1:43:41] We wanna hear your concerns.

[1:43:44] One suggestion I'm always gonna make is please bring

[1:43:46] your suggestions also, how can we fix it?

[1:43:50] And that is the point

[1:43:51] that I wanna talk about really quickly.

[1:43:54] KPD is doing an amazing job keeping us updated every weekend

[1:43:58] with the incidents that happen in our local town

[1:44:01] and our local city area.

[1:44:03] And once again, City Manager,

[1:44:06] we did have, and we stopped two trucks.

[1:44:09] And I bring this up

[1:44:10] because I know there's concerns

[1:44:12] and I just want you to kind of, and he's looking it up.

[1:44:14] I know he always looks it up.

[1:44:15] He should have been ready for me.

[1:44:17] You know that's coming.

[1:44:18] But we are stopping people for noise ordinance,

[1:44:21] not just on the businesses, but cars, and Chief Broadway,

[1:44:25] thank you for your leadership on that.

[1:44:27] I think it's important we're starting to see a change.

[1:44:29] Some people are starting...

[1:44:30] You see, once you do it once

[1:44:31] or twice and people get stopped

[1:44:33] and they get cited, it starts spreading.

[1:44:35] So make sure we are the advocates for our city

[1:44:39] and we tell people, if you ride downtown

[1:44:41] with that music blaring, most likely you'll get a ticket.

[1:44:44] And if we start putting that message out there,

[1:44:46] I think people will start hearing it.

[1:44:48] It's gonna take a minute,

[1:44:50] but it's definitely, it needs to be said.

[1:44:52] So City Manager, do you have a report?

[1:44:54] I, we should report everything every time

[1:44:56] we do one of these things.

[1:44:57] - Yeah, we pulled nine people over

[1:44:59] in the downtown area this weekend.

[1:45:02] 18, two 18 wheelers driving downtown.

[1:45:05] Four with loud music, one with headlights out, one

[1:45:07] with red headlights

[1:45:09] and one with bright lights like the brights on.

[1:45:12] So they're definitely,

[1:45:14] I mean, the amount is decreasing that they're catching,

[1:45:17] but they are definitely making it

[1:45:18] a point to be present down there.

[1:45:20] - So it's important that we also note those things

[1:45:23] because you have to understand every time

[1:45:24] the cops pull someone over,

[1:45:26] you never know who's on the other side.

[1:45:27] So that is also a risk.

[1:45:30] And so we all have to be cognizant of that.

[1:45:32] And I just wanna thank KPD.

[1:45:33] Every time I can possibly have an opportunity to thank them

[1:45:37] because these are the little things

[1:45:38] that change that environment.

[1:45:40] But Mr. Kapp, I want you to keep calling me

[1:45:42] and letting me know when they're not doing

[1:45:43] because it's important that we know (laughs)

[1:45:46] including waste management and everyone else.

[1:45:47] I know, I brought that up to City Manager

[1:45:50] and he was gonna look into this, the--

[1:45:51] - We're looking it up

[1:45:52] 'cause if it was, if it was

[1:45:53] like the county waste management trucks,

[1:45:55] then they probably shouldn't be going through downtown.

[1:45:57] But if it's like a dumpster truck,

[1:45:58] then that would be an exception that would be allowed.

[1:46:01] - But we love that you get involved and you tell us.

[1:46:03] That's how we start creating

[1:46:04] a different vibe in our community.

[1:46:06] And some of you know

[1:46:08] that some businesses have violated certain things

[1:46:11] and we are not gonna call them out here publicly

[1:46:14] 'cause we know what the issues are.

[1:46:15] But we will continue calling businesses out as we should.

[1:46:18] And so just, if you wanna...

[1:46:22] We get so many emails

[1:46:23] of things of that shouldn't be happening

[1:46:25] and we appreciate it because it's the only way

[1:46:28] that we can keep an eye out

[1:46:30] and, you know, food trucks shouldn't be selling on the side

[1:46:33] of the road without, I mean, just these little things.

[1:46:36] And we get emails and pictures all the time.

[1:46:38] So, you know, I think it's a great thing.

[1:46:40] So I wanna thank the community for doing that.

[1:46:42] Don't stop.

[1:46:43] Say so, what is it?

[1:46:44] See something, say something.

[1:46:45] It doesn't matter what it is.

[1:46:47] Commissioners, thank you.

[1:46:48] I was trying to get to right at 8:00,

[1:46:49] but you know, we're a little early, so thank you all.

[1:46:52] I think (laughs) this meeting is adjourned.

[1:46:54] (Mayor hits gavel)

City Commission

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