1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:07,800 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance. 2 00:00:08,000 --> 00:00:10,217 And Bobby, do we have anybody joining 3 00:00:10,417 --> 00:00:12,140 us to do the invocation for us? 4 00:00:12,340 --> 00:00:15,500 BOBBY: No, there is not. 5 00:00:15,700 --> 00:00:15,900 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: OK. 6 00:00:16,100 --> 00:00:19,042 Then I'm going to ask lean on our sitting Pastor Mixon, 7 00:00:19,242 --> 00:00:21,460 if you don't mind. 8 00:00:21,660 --> 00:00:23,020 Commissioner, if you would open us up. 9 00:00:23,220 --> 00:00:26,340 Then we will follow that up with the Pledge of Allegiance. 10 00:00:26,540 --> 00:00:28,560 And, Commissioner Cox, would you be willing to lead us 11 00:00:28,760 --> 00:00:30,140 in the Pledge after that? 12 00:00:30,340 --> 00:00:30,380 Thank you. 13 00:00:30,580 --> 00:00:36,505 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Please join me in prayer. 14 00:00:36,705 --> 00:00:38,080 Gracious God, thank you for today. 15 00:00:38,280 --> 00:00:40,559 Thank you that your word says this 16 00:00:40,759 --> 00:00:42,620 is the day that you have made. 17 00:00:42,820 --> 00:00:45,040 Let us rejoice and be glad in it. 18 00:00:45,240 --> 00:00:47,520 God, as we come to a day where we 19 00:00:47,720 --> 00:00:49,960 choose the next steps of our leaders, 20 00:00:50,160 --> 00:00:53,680 I pray that you be with the incumbents, the candidates, 21 00:00:53,880 --> 00:00:56,300 as they move throughout the day. 22 00:00:56,500 --> 00:00:57,960 And, Lord, as you've moved hearts 23 00:00:58,160 --> 00:01:01,880 according to the way you channel water, 24 00:01:02,080 --> 00:01:05,280 thank you for leading us the way you do. 25 00:01:05,480 --> 00:01:07,330 Allow this meeting to be pleasing to you. 26 00:01:07,530 --> 00:01:09,770 Allow the things said to be dealt with 27 00:01:09,970 --> 00:01:10,830 according to your will. 28 00:01:11,030 --> 00:01:15,127 And, God, continue to fill us with your peace that 29 00:01:15,327 --> 00:01:15,110 passes understanding. 30 00:01:15,310 --> 00:01:18,490 Continue to surround us with your loving kindness. 31 00:01:18,690 --> 00:01:20,930 Lord, thank you for the opportunity 32 00:01:21,130 --> 00:01:23,310 that we have to live here, to serve here, 33 00:01:23,510 --> 00:01:28,070 and to be able to do your will in these moments. 34 00:01:28,270 --> 00:01:29,890 Lord, thank you. 35 00:01:30,090 --> 00:01:31,170 In Jesus's name, amen. 36 00:01:45,637 --> 00:01:52,837 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 37 00:01:53,037 --> 00:01:55,070 Our first item is recognition of our employees. 38 00:01:55,270 --> 00:01:58,870 And Mr. Hofstad, I will turn it over to you. 39 00:02:07,259 --> 00:02:14,459 JOHN HOFSTAD: Thank you. 40 00:02:14,659 --> 00:02:16,059 And good morning, Mr. Chairman and commissioners. 41 00:02:16,259 --> 00:02:19,000 As you know, at certain times during the year, 42 00:02:19,200 --> 00:02:20,960 we'd like to gather our employees together 43 00:02:21,160 --> 00:02:23,420 for recognition and milestones in their career. 44 00:02:23,620 --> 00:02:25,740 And we have several this morning. 45 00:02:25,940 --> 00:02:28,420 I've got them spanning from two years of service 46 00:02:28,620 --> 00:02:29,520 to 20 years of service. 47 00:02:29,720 --> 00:02:32,060 So when I call your name, if you'll come forward, 48 00:02:32,260 --> 00:02:32,340 accept your award. 49 00:02:32,540 --> 00:02:35,320 Stand here with me and we're going to get a group 50 00:02:35,520 --> 00:02:34,962 photo afterwards. 51 00:02:35,162 --> 00:02:37,140 First, I'd like to recognize Alexander Ryder. 52 00:02:37,340 --> 00:02:40,100 Alexander is the Senior Custodian, 53 00:02:40,300 --> 00:02:41,380 facility maintenance-- 54 00:02:41,580 --> 00:02:43,480 Facilities and Parks Maintenance, and this 55 00:02:43,680 --> 00:02:45,360 is his two-year service award. 56 00:02:45,560 --> 00:02:45,940 [APPLAUSE] 57 00:02:46,140 --> 00:02:52,800 Stand right there. 58 00:02:53,000 --> 00:02:57,680 Next, I'd ask Rachel Cole to come forward. 59 00:02:57,880 --> 00:02:59,820 Rachel is a Human Resources Supervisor 60 00:03:00,020 --> 00:03:01,820 in the human resources department. 61 00:03:02,020 --> 00:03:03,850 This is her five-year service award. 62 00:03:04,050 --> 00:03:04,770 [APPLAUSE] 63 00:03:04,970 --> 00:03:08,978 RACHEL COLE: Thank you. 64 00:03:09,178 --> 00:03:12,385 JOHN HOFSTAD: Have another five-year service award. 65 00:03:12,585 --> 00:03:15,230 I'd like to ask Rudy Raymundo to come forward. 66 00:03:15,430 --> 00:03:17,030 Rudy is a Welder in fleet operations. 67 00:03:17,230 --> 00:03:18,790 Again, five-year service award. 68 00:03:18,990 --> 00:03:19,250 [APPLAUSE] 69 00:03:19,690 --> 00:03:27,190 Have one 10-year service award. 70 00:03:27,390 --> 00:03:30,150 I'd like to ask William Barrow to come forward. 71 00:03:30,350 --> 00:03:32,690 William is a General Equipment Operator in the Road Division 72 00:03:32,890 --> 00:03:33,870 of Public Works. 73 00:03:34,070 --> 00:03:34,250 [APPLAUSE] 74 00:03:34,450 --> 00:03:39,107 WILLIAM BARROW: Thank you. 75 00:03:39,307 --> 00:03:39,290 [APPLAUSE] 76 00:03:39,490 --> 00:03:45,514 JOHN HOFSTAD: Have a 20-year service award, Patrick Jones. 77 00:03:45,714 --> 00:03:48,830 Patrick is a Supply Technician two in the Engineering Division 78 00:03:49,030 --> 00:03:50,190 of Public Works. 79 00:03:50,390 --> 00:03:51,530 And, again, a 20-year service award. 80 00:03:51,730 --> 00:03:52,130 [APPLAUSE] 81 00:03:52,610 --> 00:04:01,010 I have one more 20-year service award, Chuck Larouche. 82 00:04:01,210 --> 00:04:03,880 Chuck is a Systems Development and Operations Coordinator 83 00:04:04,080 --> 00:04:05,800 in the IT department. 84 00:04:06,000 --> 00:04:06,680 [APPLAUSE] 85 00:04:14,326 --> 00:04:22,726 SPEAKER 1: You get back a little closer together. 86 00:04:22,926 --> 00:04:25,748 And if you would turn your certificate so I can see it, 87 00:04:25,948 --> 00:04:25,940 please, that'd be great. 88 00:04:26,140 --> 00:04:27,940 Great. 89 00:04:28,140 --> 00:04:31,060 OK. 90 00:04:31,260 --> 00:04:35,060 There you go. 91 00:04:35,260 --> 00:04:36,580 OK, I can see everybody back there. 92 00:04:36,780 --> 00:04:37,460 Looks great, guys. 93 00:04:37,660 --> 00:04:38,600 OK, here we go. 94 00:04:38,800 --> 00:04:40,360 Give me three pictures, if you would please. 95 00:04:40,560 --> 00:04:40,040 Ready? 96 00:04:40,240 --> 00:04:41,140 1, 2, 3. 97 00:04:41,340 --> 00:04:42,460 Oh, sorry, Shari, Commissioner Hof. 98 00:04:42,660 --> 00:04:44,620 1, 2, 3. 99 00:04:44,820 --> 00:04:45,260 OK. 100 00:04:45,460 --> 00:04:45,760 Again. 101 00:04:45,960 --> 00:04:47,500 1, 2, 3. 102 00:04:47,700 --> 00:04:48,100 OK. 103 00:04:48,300 --> 00:04:49,780 And one last one. 104 00:04:49,980 --> 00:04:52,540 A little happier, thank you. 105 00:04:52,740 --> 00:04:52,760 [LAUGHTER] 106 00:04:52,960 --> 00:04:54,100 1, 2, 3. 107 00:04:54,300 --> 00:04:55,000 Congratulations, everybody. 108 00:04:55,200 --> 00:04:56,080 [APPLAUSE] 109 00:04:56,480 --> 00:05:03,380 JOHN HOFSTAD: Lastly, commissioners, 110 00:05:03,580 --> 00:05:06,380 I just also want to recognize Ms Chelsea Sharon. 111 00:05:06,580 --> 00:05:08,400 Chelsea is commissioner aide for Commissioner Goodwin. 112 00:05:08,600 --> 00:05:12,740 She is left us and has moved on, but we 113 00:05:12,940 --> 00:05:15,120 want to recognize her valuable service to the commissioner 114 00:05:15,320 --> 00:05:16,920 over the last few years. 115 00:05:17,120 --> 00:05:17,020 Thank you. 116 00:05:17,220 --> 00:05:18,170 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Thank you, Mr. Hofstad. 117 00:05:18,370 --> 00:05:19,145 Yes, Chelsea-- 118 00:05:19,345 --> 00:05:19,840 [APPLAUSE] 119 00:05:20,040 --> 00:05:21,840 Thank you. 120 00:05:22,040 --> 00:05:22,340 Yeah. 121 00:05:22,540 --> 00:05:24,480 We will miss Chelsea. 122 00:05:24,680 --> 00:05:26,480 She's done a fantastic job serving the constituents 123 00:05:26,680 --> 00:05:29,820 in Okaloosa County, but she's got other things 124 00:05:30,020 --> 00:05:33,360 that she needs to move on to and we 125 00:05:33,560 --> 00:05:34,360 know she'll do very well there. 126 00:05:34,560 --> 00:05:35,060 So, thank you. 127 00:05:40,800 --> 00:05:49,800 All right, Mr. Hofstad, anything from your office for an update? 128 00:05:50,000 --> 00:05:51,982 JOHN HOFSTAD: Yes, sir. 129 00:05:52,182 --> 00:05:52,940 Just a couple things. 130 00:05:53,140 --> 00:05:55,560 I just want to remind the board, starting next month, 131 00:05:55,760 --> 00:05:58,380 we will-- we'll be having afternoon meetings next month, 132 00:05:58,580 --> 00:06:01,470 or both our meetings for the month of September. 133 00:06:01,670 --> 00:06:04,650 We do that in the month of September 134 00:06:04,850 --> 00:06:06,490 because we also have to approve the budget, 135 00:06:06,690 --> 00:06:08,370 and that's done through two public hearings. 136 00:06:08,570 --> 00:06:11,250 So the first meeting is actually on the third. 137 00:06:11,450 --> 00:06:13,130 That is a Thursday. 138 00:06:13,330 --> 00:06:15,430 That is our first meeting next month. 139 00:06:15,630 --> 00:06:16,350 That's in Crestview. 140 00:06:16,550 --> 00:06:18,470 3 o'clock start time with the BCC, 141 00:06:18,670 --> 00:06:20,650 followed by our budget hearing at 5:01. 142 00:06:20,850 --> 00:06:25,190 So just want to remind the board of that. 143 00:06:25,390 --> 00:06:28,110 Lastly, we've got a change to a public hearing agenda item. 144 00:06:28,310 --> 00:06:31,450 I'd like to-- if the chairman would so approve, 145 00:06:31,650 --> 00:06:33,830 I'd like to recognize Mr. Autrey. 146 00:06:34,030 --> 00:06:37,770 And he will explain the move of item three on the public hearing 147 00:06:37,970 --> 00:06:39,350 to consent. 148 00:06:39,550 --> 00:06:41,360 MR. AUTREY: As we were reviewing the agenda, 149 00:06:41,560 --> 00:06:42,893 we noticed that there is an error. 150 00:06:43,093 --> 00:06:45,210 This is actually a request to schedule the public hearing, 151 00:06:45,410 --> 00:06:46,750 so there has been no notification 152 00:06:46,950 --> 00:06:48,070 or legal advertisement yet. 153 00:06:48,270 --> 00:06:50,330 This should be on consent. 154 00:06:50,530 --> 00:06:52,050 However, as Mr. Hofstad just pointed out, 155 00:06:52,250 --> 00:06:54,970 there's an error in the agenda item as well. 156 00:06:55,170 --> 00:06:57,220 The meeting that this is to be scheduled for, 157 00:06:57,420 --> 00:07:00,120 which is the September 15 meeting, is a 3 o'clock start. 158 00:07:00,320 --> 00:07:01,920 Not an 8:30 start. 159 00:07:02,120 --> 00:07:04,880 So the request is to add this to the consent agenda, 160 00:07:05,080 --> 00:07:07,520 with the request to advertise for the September 15 meeting 161 00:07:07,720 --> 00:07:10,760 at 3:00 o'clock to have to conduct the public hearing. 162 00:07:10,960 --> 00:07:11,867 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 163 00:07:12,067 --> 00:07:14,100 Very good, commissioners, that as I understand it, 164 00:07:14,300 --> 00:07:16,480 it's a public hearing item number three. 165 00:07:16,680 --> 00:07:19,160 The request is that we consider that during consent 166 00:07:19,360 --> 00:07:22,240 with the modification on the time, as Mr. Autrey suggested. 167 00:07:22,440 --> 00:07:26,540 So when we get to consent, if you'll be mindful of that, 168 00:07:26,740 --> 00:07:26,680 please. 169 00:07:26,880 --> 00:07:31,640 All right, Ms Hoshihara, anything from the county 170 00:07:31,840 --> 00:07:34,220 attorney's office? 171 00:07:34,420 --> 00:07:35,920 LYNN HOSHIHARA: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. 172 00:07:36,120 --> 00:07:37,280 Two quick updates. 173 00:07:37,480 --> 00:07:39,560 First being following the board's direction 174 00:07:39,760 --> 00:07:43,700 from the last board meeting on that property located 175 00:07:43,900 --> 00:07:46,600 at 202 Alden Drive, our office has filed a complaint 176 00:07:46,800 --> 00:07:49,480 for temporary and permanent injunctive relief 177 00:07:49,680 --> 00:07:51,780 and a motion for temporary injunction that 178 00:07:51,980 --> 00:07:53,400 was filed Friday, August 7. 179 00:07:53,600 --> 00:07:57,430 The case has been assigned to Judge Stone. 180 00:07:57,630 --> 00:07:59,265 All defendants have been served, and we 181 00:07:59,465 --> 00:08:01,790 are in the process of setting our motion for hearing, 182 00:08:01,990 --> 00:08:02,190 hopefully soon. 183 00:08:02,390 --> 00:08:06,770 I do want to take a moment to thank all the neighbors who 184 00:08:06,970 --> 00:08:09,230 were interviewed from our office and signed affidavits, 185 00:08:09,430 --> 00:08:12,130 as well as the Sheriff's Office, for all 186 00:08:12,330 --> 00:08:13,790 of their help in expediting-- 187 00:08:13,990 --> 00:08:18,170 and a service of the defendants, as well as the clerk's 188 00:08:18,370 --> 00:08:21,050 office, for helping to expedite the signing of all 189 00:08:21,250 --> 00:08:25,430 of the summons. 190 00:08:25,630 --> 00:08:27,390 And, anyways, it was a team effort, 191 00:08:27,590 --> 00:08:30,250 and everybody worked very well to fast track this process. 192 00:08:30,450 --> 00:08:35,430 And I'll keep updating the board at subsequent meetings. 193 00:08:35,630 --> 00:08:39,030 Second matter is that State Park property on Holiday Isle-- 194 00:08:39,230 --> 00:08:41,210 I'll just as a reminder-- 195 00:08:41,410 --> 00:08:43,970 Mr. Hofstad and I will be attending the first conflict 196 00:08:44,170 --> 00:08:46,290 assessment meeting, which is scheduled for tomorrow at 1:00 197 00:08:46,490 --> 00:08:48,830 PM at the Convention Center. 198 00:08:49,030 --> 00:08:52,290 It is open to the public and has been noticed, 199 00:08:52,490 --> 00:08:54,860 so multiple members of the board-- of this board 200 00:08:55,060 --> 00:08:55,680 may attend. 201 00:08:55,880 --> 00:08:58,400 Also the second meeting along that process 202 00:08:58,600 --> 00:09:02,720 is a joint public meeting of the full city 203 00:09:02,920 --> 00:09:04,240 council, the full board of County Commissioners. 204 00:09:04,440 --> 00:09:06,640 And where we're looking at tentative dates 205 00:09:06,840 --> 00:09:09,300 to schedule that, I emailed you all late yesterday evening. 206 00:09:09,500 --> 00:09:15,140 The dates we were looking at are September 2, 3, 9, 10 or 11. 207 00:09:15,340 --> 00:09:21,420 If there are any dates that don't work for any of you, 208 00:09:21,620 --> 00:09:23,580 if you'll let Mr. Hofstad I know, and we'll-- 209 00:09:23,780 --> 00:09:27,845 Kimberly Culp, the City Attorney, 210 00:09:28,045 --> 00:09:29,520 mentioned to their city council yesterday 211 00:09:29,720 --> 00:09:33,268 these dates, and they were good with any of these dates 212 00:09:33,468 --> 00:09:34,660 that our board selects, so we will be 213 00:09:34,860 --> 00:09:37,260 selecting one of these dates. 214 00:09:37,460 --> 00:09:39,720 So if any of them don't work for your schedules, 215 00:09:39,920 --> 00:09:40,820 if you'll let us know know. 216 00:09:41,020 --> 00:09:42,542 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Mr. Chairman, I 217 00:09:42,742 --> 00:09:45,800 believe they said the 8 they have a meeting that day. 218 00:09:46,000 --> 00:09:46,373 Is that correct? 219 00:09:46,573 --> 00:09:47,040 LYNN HOSHIHARA: Yes. 220 00:09:47,240 --> 00:09:48,700 So they were taking off the 8. 221 00:09:48,900 --> 00:09:49,340 Did I say 8? 222 00:09:49,540 --> 00:09:51,760 Sorry, September-- sorry, September 2, 3, 9, 10, and 11. 223 00:09:51,960 --> 00:09:54,250 Yep. 224 00:09:54,450 --> 00:09:57,750 We had the 8 originally, but since they have a city council 225 00:09:57,950 --> 00:09:58,490 meeting, then we figured we don't 226 00:09:58,690 --> 00:10:00,530 need to do it on that date. 227 00:10:00,730 --> 00:10:02,130 So if anyone has scheduling conflicts, if you'll let 228 00:10:02,330 --> 00:10:02,990 us know. 229 00:10:03,190 --> 00:10:05,290 Otherwise, we will move forward, coordinate with your offices 230 00:10:05,490 --> 00:10:07,332 and respond back to the city. 231 00:10:07,532 --> 00:10:07,940 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 232 00:10:08,140 --> 00:10:09,873 Ms Hoshihara, before you leave your update. 233 00:10:10,073 --> 00:10:13,770 On your first item to Alden-- just as a reminder 234 00:10:13,970 --> 00:10:14,650 for the board-- 235 00:10:14,850 --> 00:10:16,470 I think that there have been discussion 236 00:10:16,670 --> 00:10:18,350 about even though it was in parallel 237 00:10:18,550 --> 00:10:21,830 and not in series, this idea of the code enforcement order 238 00:10:22,030 --> 00:10:25,913 that was requiring compliance by date certain, 239 00:10:26,113 --> 00:10:27,230 wasn't that date today? 240 00:10:27,430 --> 00:10:29,290 LYNN HOSHIHARA: Yes, it was today. 241 00:10:29,490 --> 00:10:31,130 I did email code enforcement this morning 242 00:10:31,330 --> 00:10:34,850 to ask for an update. 243 00:10:35,050 --> 00:10:35,830 I don't-- 244 00:10:36,030 --> 00:10:37,010 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And I'll just 245 00:10:37,210 --> 00:10:39,368 represent to you that many of the neighbors 246 00:10:39,568 --> 00:10:41,230 in the neighborhood are keeping me informed, 247 00:10:41,430 --> 00:10:44,850 and the reports I'm getting is that it's not in compliance. 248 00:10:45,050 --> 00:10:47,670 So I'm sure you can check on that. 249 00:10:47,870 --> 00:10:47,927 LYNN HOSHIHARA: Yes. 250 00:10:48,127 --> 00:10:50,860 And we checked last Thursday, and they were not in compliance. 251 00:10:51,060 --> 00:10:52,300 And so, yes. 252 00:10:52,500 --> 00:10:56,440 So, which would mean, based on the code board's previous order, 253 00:10:56,640 --> 00:10:57,400 fines would start accruing. 254 00:10:57,600 --> 00:11:00,980 And so, yes, today was the date of compliance. 255 00:11:01,180 --> 00:11:02,910 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Thank you. 256 00:11:03,110 --> 00:11:05,037 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Sorry. 257 00:11:05,237 --> 00:11:06,720 May I ask a question? 258 00:11:06,920 --> 00:11:08,420 Ms Hoshihara, as to tomorrow's meeting, 259 00:11:08,620 --> 00:11:11,720 that when it was scheduled, it had a prior conflicts, 260 00:11:11,920 --> 00:11:15,820 are you suggesting we're there in the audience, 261 00:11:16,020 --> 00:11:18,720 or is that something that you and Mr. Hofstad 262 00:11:18,920 --> 00:11:22,600 feel confident in your updates and it will be livestreamed 263 00:11:22,800 --> 00:11:24,140 to be able to review later? 264 00:11:24,340 --> 00:11:25,460 LYNN HOSHIHARA: The latter. 265 00:11:25,660 --> 00:11:28,640 You are free to attend if you'd like. 266 00:11:28,840 --> 00:11:30,540 There's no requirement that you attend by law. 267 00:11:30,740 --> 00:11:33,540 Only Mr. Hofstad and Mr. Jones from the city 268 00:11:33,740 --> 00:11:35,420 are required to attend. 269 00:11:35,620 --> 00:11:38,040 They have both agreed to have their respective attorneys, 270 00:11:38,240 --> 00:11:41,940 so Ms Kopp and I will also be in attendance. 271 00:11:42,140 --> 00:11:44,880 But there is no requirement that any commissioner be there. 272 00:11:45,080 --> 00:11:47,337 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 273 00:11:47,537 --> 00:11:48,670 Thank you very much. 274 00:11:48,870 --> 00:11:49,330 All right. 275 00:11:49,530 --> 00:11:51,050 Mr. Embry, anything from the Clerk's Office? 276 00:11:51,250 --> 00:11:53,575 MR. EMBRY: No update from the Clerk's Office. 277 00:11:53,775 --> 00:11:53,950 Thank you. 278 00:11:54,150 --> 00:11:54,820 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 279 00:11:55,020 --> 00:11:55,553 Very good. 280 00:11:55,753 --> 00:11:57,010 All right. 281 00:11:57,210 --> 00:12:00,930 Before we get to the general public comment opportunity 282 00:12:01,130 --> 00:12:05,530 of the meeting, I do understand that there are several people 283 00:12:05,730 --> 00:12:08,390 here related to a proclamation, celebrating legal services 284 00:12:08,590 --> 00:12:13,490 of North Florida and their 50th anniversary. 285 00:12:13,690 --> 00:12:15,430 And I think, Commissioner Ketchel, 286 00:12:15,630 --> 00:12:18,170 you had a proclamation that you were 287 00:12:18,370 --> 00:12:21,610 going to read and move into the record, is that correct? 288 00:12:21,810 --> 00:12:23,015 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: I do. 289 00:12:23,215 --> 00:12:24,740 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: So if there's no objection, 290 00:12:24,940 --> 00:12:26,530 commissioners, what we'll do is we'll 291 00:12:26,730 --> 00:12:28,850 take consent item number two right now 292 00:12:29,050 --> 00:12:32,490 to go ahead and address that. 293 00:12:32,690 --> 00:12:34,690 But because it's something we'll vote on, 294 00:12:34,890 --> 00:12:38,450 I need to make sure there's no public comment directed 295 00:12:38,650 --> 00:12:39,030 to that item. 296 00:12:39,230 --> 00:12:41,190 So I'm going to open public comment right now, 297 00:12:41,390 --> 00:12:44,490 specifically directed to what's agenda as consent item number 298 00:12:44,690 --> 00:12:46,780 two. 299 00:12:46,980 --> 00:12:50,220 Is there anybody wishing to speak as a public comment? 300 00:12:50,420 --> 00:12:54,140 Now, that's not-- those who are here to receive the award, 301 00:12:54,340 --> 00:12:54,762 you'll have a separate opportunity, 302 00:12:54,962 --> 00:12:57,120 but if general public comments on item two. 303 00:12:57,320 --> 00:12:59,237 All right, I see nobody coming forward 304 00:12:59,437 --> 00:13:00,820 so we'll close that public comment opportunity. 305 00:13:01,020 --> 00:13:04,180 That's not the general public comment opportunity, understand. 306 00:13:04,380 --> 00:13:07,448 And Commissioner Ketchel, I'll turn it back over to you 307 00:13:07,648 --> 00:13:08,540 for consent item number two. 308 00:13:08,740 --> 00:13:09,667 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: Thank you. 309 00:13:09,867 --> 00:13:11,900 So I'll read the proclamation and then make 310 00:13:12,100 --> 00:13:14,980 a motion to have it pass, and then it will be presented. 311 00:13:15,180 --> 00:13:17,300 If anybody from legal services wants to say a few words, 312 00:13:17,500 --> 00:13:19,300 that would be the correct time. 313 00:13:19,500 --> 00:13:20,940 Whereas legal services of North Florida 314 00:13:21,140 --> 00:13:23,740 was founded in 1976 and for 50 years 315 00:13:23,940 --> 00:13:26,800 has advanced access to justice by providing 316 00:13:27,000 --> 00:13:29,260 civil legal assistance to eligible residents 317 00:13:29,460 --> 00:13:32,860 across the Florida panhandle, including Okaloosa County who 318 00:13:33,060 --> 00:13:35,640 otherwise could not afford representation, 319 00:13:35,840 --> 00:13:39,640 and works to ensure that justice is not 320 00:13:39,840 --> 00:13:41,560 determined by a person's income, age, disability 321 00:13:41,760 --> 00:13:43,520 or circumstances. 322 00:13:43,720 --> 00:13:45,720 And whereas, throughout its history, 323 00:13:45,920 --> 00:13:47,720 legal services of North Florida has 324 00:13:47,920 --> 00:13:51,200 worked to bridge the gap between the courts and the people 325 00:13:51,400 --> 00:13:53,240 they serve, providing critical legal help in matters involving 326 00:13:53,440 --> 00:13:55,980 housing stability, family safety, public benefits, 327 00:13:56,180 --> 00:13:58,980 consumer protection, health care access 328 00:13:59,180 --> 00:14:01,780 and other essential civil legal needs, 329 00:14:01,980 --> 00:14:05,000 and promoting fairness, stability, and opportunity 330 00:14:05,200 --> 00:14:07,900 through legal advocacy, education, and partnership 331 00:14:08,100 --> 00:14:11,400 with local governments, courts, human services providers, 332 00:14:11,600 --> 00:14:13,880 and the legal community. 333 00:14:14,080 --> 00:14:16,040 And whereas legal services of North Florida 334 00:14:16,240 --> 00:14:19,260 has made a commitment to serve our veterans, 335 00:14:19,460 --> 00:14:21,700 helping them to overcome legal barriers to health safety 336 00:14:21,900 --> 00:14:24,240 and financial stability for their families, 337 00:14:24,440 --> 00:14:27,020 along with ensuring access to critical benefits. 338 00:14:27,220 --> 00:14:30,000 And whereas legal services of North Florida 339 00:14:30,200 --> 00:14:31,640 assist survivors of domestic violence 340 00:14:31,840 --> 00:14:34,200 in seeking legal protection, and provides advocacy 341 00:14:34,400 --> 00:14:38,640 to help children, older adults, and those with disabilities 342 00:14:38,840 --> 00:14:42,320 find fine legal solutions, all of which strengthen communities, 343 00:14:42,520 --> 00:14:45,650 promotes stability, and upholds the promise of equal justice 344 00:14:45,850 --> 00:14:46,950 under law. 345 00:14:47,150 --> 00:14:49,870 And whereas legal services of North Florida 50-year legacy 346 00:14:50,070 --> 00:14:53,210 reflects the dedication of its attorneys, paralegals, staff, 347 00:14:53,410 --> 00:14:56,030 volunteer attorneys, law students, 348 00:14:56,230 --> 00:14:59,550 and community supporters whose service has improved the lives 349 00:14:59,750 --> 00:15:03,130 of countless individuals and families in Okaloosa County 350 00:15:03,330 --> 00:15:05,230 and throughout North Florida. 351 00:15:05,430 --> 00:15:08,450 And whereas the 50th anniversary of legal services of North 352 00:15:08,650 --> 00:15:10,670 Florida marks a significant milestone, 353 00:15:10,870 --> 00:15:13,610 recognizing the organization's long standing commitment 354 00:15:13,810 --> 00:15:17,570 to justice, service, and community impact across North 355 00:15:17,770 --> 00:15:18,610 Florida. 356 00:15:18,810 --> 00:15:21,890 Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Okaloosa County Board 357 00:15:22,090 --> 00:15:24,210 of County Commissioners that we do hereby recognize 358 00:15:24,410 --> 00:15:27,370 and celebrate the 50th anniversary of legal services 359 00:15:27,570 --> 00:15:31,030 of North Florida, and express our appreciation for five 360 00:15:31,230 --> 00:15:33,530 decades of services-- 361 00:15:33,730 --> 00:15:36,330 of service, advocacy, and steadfast commitment 362 00:15:36,530 --> 00:15:40,110 to expanding access to civil justice for the residents 363 00:15:40,310 --> 00:15:43,800 of Okaloosa County. 364 00:15:44,000 --> 00:15:46,020 And encourage residents to recognize and celebrate 365 00:15:46,220 --> 00:15:48,840 the organization's 50 years of service and dedication 366 00:15:49,040 --> 00:15:51,820 to equal access to justice for all. 367 00:15:52,020 --> 00:15:55,680 So with this, we make a motion to pass this, 368 00:15:55,880 --> 00:15:57,880 to recognize 50 years of wonderful service 369 00:15:58,080 --> 00:16:00,600 to those in our community who are least 370 00:16:00,800 --> 00:16:03,640 likely to be able to afford it. 371 00:16:03,840 --> 00:16:04,032 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Very good. 372 00:16:04,232 --> 00:16:05,665 Do we have a second? 373 00:16:05,865 --> 00:16:05,670 All right. 374 00:16:05,870 --> 00:16:06,770 COMMISSIONER MIXON: I do. 375 00:16:06,970 --> 00:16:06,780 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Commissioner Mixon 376 00:16:06,980 --> 00:16:09,047 got the second on that. 377 00:16:09,247 --> 00:16:12,000 Those in favor, please signify by saying, aye. 378 00:16:12,200 --> 00:16:12,450 COMMISSIONERS: Aye. 379 00:16:12,650 --> 00:16:13,490 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And those opposed. 380 00:16:13,690 --> 00:16:14,640 All right, that passes unanimously. 381 00:16:14,840 --> 00:16:17,620 And if we have anybody here to accept this proclamation, 382 00:16:17,820 --> 00:16:19,580 please come forward. 383 00:16:19,780 --> 00:16:22,260 And if you would like to say a few words, 384 00:16:22,460 --> 00:16:23,080 you're certainly welcome to do that. 385 00:16:35,310 --> 00:16:42,210 SPEAKER 2: OK. 386 00:16:42,410 --> 00:16:44,730 We just want to thank you guys for this opportunity 387 00:16:44,930 --> 00:16:45,055 and this recognition. 388 00:16:45,255 --> 00:16:47,890 We could not have gotten to 50 years of service 389 00:16:48,090 --> 00:16:49,848 without the support of you guys and this entire community. 390 00:16:50,048 --> 00:16:52,950 On behalf of our entire staff, we're just really thankful. 391 00:16:53,150 --> 00:16:56,010 And we look forward to 50 more years of serving this area. 392 00:16:56,210 --> 00:16:56,627 So thank you guys again. 393 00:16:56,827 --> 00:16:58,100 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Thank you very much. 394 00:16:58,300 --> 00:17:02,250 And if you guys would stay up here with us, we'll get a photo. 395 00:17:02,450 --> 00:17:03,370 Commissioner Ketchel has got the proclamation. 396 00:18:10,720 --> 00:18:17,320 All right. 397 00:18:17,520 --> 00:18:19,620 That will bring us to our first public comment 398 00:18:19,820 --> 00:18:20,960 opportunity of the meeting. 399 00:18:21,160 --> 00:18:24,180 I do have a handful of speaker cards. 400 00:18:24,380 --> 00:18:27,075 If you're wanting to speak during this opportunity, 401 00:18:27,275 --> 00:18:29,800 I would ask that you, please, fill out a card. 402 00:18:30,000 --> 00:18:31,800 We have them at the back desk, and they 403 00:18:32,000 --> 00:18:35,120 will be brought up to me and I'll call you in order received. 404 00:18:35,320 --> 00:18:41,110 As a reminder, we do ask that you try to keep your comments 405 00:18:41,310 --> 00:18:42,030 concise to three minutes. 406 00:18:42,230 --> 00:18:45,990 If you have more to say, there is a second opportunity, 407 00:18:46,190 --> 00:18:48,790 with additional time at the end of the meeting, 408 00:18:48,990 --> 00:18:50,090 and you'll be recognized then. 409 00:18:50,290 --> 00:18:51,910 The only exception to that-- 410 00:18:52,110 --> 00:18:54,830 those two opportunities is if you're here 411 00:18:55,030 --> 00:18:57,770 to speak on one of the public hearing items, which 412 00:18:57,970 --> 00:18:59,950 are under article eight of the agenda, 413 00:19:00,150 --> 00:19:04,590 you'll be called up during that item. 414 00:19:04,790 --> 00:19:07,050 I only have one card so far that's specifically 415 00:19:07,250 --> 00:19:08,570 for a public hearing item. 416 00:19:08,770 --> 00:19:11,403 So if you're here to speak on a public hearing item, 417 00:19:11,603 --> 00:19:12,370 please indicate that, turn in your card, 418 00:19:12,570 --> 00:19:14,290 you'll be called up during the item. 419 00:19:14,490 --> 00:19:16,090 Otherwise, your opportunity to speak on agenda items 420 00:19:16,290 --> 00:19:19,250 is right now and at the end of the meeting. 421 00:19:19,450 --> 00:19:20,970 And we'll recognize you for three minutes 422 00:19:21,170 --> 00:19:23,730 during each session, but please do turn in a card. 423 00:19:23,930 --> 00:19:24,790 All right. 424 00:19:24,990 --> 00:19:28,250 Our first speaker is Tricia Keffer. 425 00:19:29,780 --> 00:19:37,280 Just hit the button once. 426 00:19:37,480 --> 00:19:37,440 Perfect. 427 00:19:37,640 --> 00:19:38,580 TRICIA KEFFER: Hello. 428 00:19:38,780 --> 00:19:39,060 Hello. 429 00:19:39,260 --> 00:19:40,760 My name is Tricia Keffer. 430 00:19:40,960 --> 00:19:42,660 And I'm a resident of Seminole subdivision, which 431 00:19:42,860 --> 00:19:44,480 is just outside of Niceville. 432 00:19:44,680 --> 00:19:48,720 Today, I am here on an important issue that is affecting Florida. 433 00:19:48,920 --> 00:19:50,640 It's the data centers. 434 00:19:50,840 --> 00:19:54,440 And I'd like to speak to you more about the human aspect 435 00:19:54,640 --> 00:19:56,340 of the data centers. 436 00:19:56,540 --> 00:19:59,360 Just a little history, my father is a Vietnam vet. 437 00:19:59,560 --> 00:20:00,760 He is 100% disabled. 438 00:20:00,960 --> 00:20:03,680 And my mother has health concerns as well. 439 00:20:03,880 --> 00:20:05,320 We've lived on Cedar Street since 1979. 440 00:20:05,520 --> 00:20:10,500 If a data center were to be placed in our area, 441 00:20:10,700 --> 00:20:12,660 it is my understanding from what I 442 00:20:12,860 --> 00:20:14,000 have watched on our local affiliates 443 00:20:14,200 --> 00:20:16,920 in other areas with data centers, 444 00:20:17,120 --> 00:20:19,920 that the noise and the lights can extend out 445 00:20:20,120 --> 00:20:23,280 five miles to the point that we're not 446 00:20:23,480 --> 00:20:26,360 able to-- that those residents are not able to enjoy 447 00:20:26,560 --> 00:20:27,940 their property even outside. 448 00:20:28,140 --> 00:20:30,100 They have to buy blackout curtains, 449 00:20:30,300 --> 00:20:33,450 and many large areas are forced to sell their property. 450 00:20:33,650 --> 00:20:37,670 My street in Seminole, just to give you-- 451 00:20:37,870 --> 00:20:40,558 it's kind of a salt of the Earth community. 452 00:20:40,758 --> 00:20:42,650 A lot of veterans and young military families live there. 453 00:20:42,850 --> 00:20:48,110 And, I mean, to force these elderly people to move 454 00:20:48,310 --> 00:20:51,810 because we wouldn't be able to enjoy 455 00:20:52,010 --> 00:20:53,490 our property outside from the noise generated 456 00:20:53,690 --> 00:20:57,210 and the lights would be a tremendous burden. 457 00:20:57,410 --> 00:21:01,150 The only person we could sell it to 458 00:21:01,350 --> 00:21:02,230 would be probably the data centers, 459 00:21:02,430 --> 00:21:04,150 because our property value would be gone. 460 00:21:04,350 --> 00:21:07,390 Other counties in our panhandle area 461 00:21:07,590 --> 00:21:11,290 are putting language and having conversations about at least 462 00:21:11,490 --> 00:21:13,310 a temporary moratorium. 463 00:21:13,510 --> 00:21:16,450 I understand that Crestview also just did a resolution. 464 00:21:16,650 --> 00:21:19,310 I'm not a legal person. 465 00:21:19,510 --> 00:21:21,090 I don't know how you would address that, 466 00:21:21,290 --> 00:21:23,663 but I'd like for us all to start having conversation 467 00:21:23,863 --> 00:21:25,830 about these data centers before they're proposed in our area 468 00:21:26,030 --> 00:21:30,060 to really consider the human aspect, 469 00:21:30,260 --> 00:21:33,380 because 5 miles out would take out Seminole, Bluewater, 470 00:21:33,580 --> 00:21:37,180 Niceville, Valpy, could take out parts of Eglin 471 00:21:37,380 --> 00:21:42,020 with the noise and heat and everything generated from that. 472 00:21:42,220 --> 00:21:45,660 So I'm here today to hopefully start a conversation 473 00:21:45,860 --> 00:21:48,540 with our county commissioners about at least putting 474 00:21:48,740 --> 00:21:52,860 a moratorium for a year so that we can have public comment 475 00:21:53,060 --> 00:21:57,120 and conversations about how this could really be hugely 476 00:21:57,320 --> 00:21:59,800 detrimental to our community. 477 00:22:00,000 --> 00:22:01,960 Thank you. 478 00:22:02,160 --> 00:22:03,760 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Thank you. 479 00:22:03,960 --> 00:22:07,060 Our next speaker is Kenneth Fuller. 480 00:22:10,369 --> 00:22:18,169 KENNETH FULLER: My name is Kenneth Fuller. 481 00:22:18,369 --> 00:22:20,720 And I'm here to talk about the buses. 482 00:22:20,920 --> 00:22:25,980 And I'm here also here to talk about last week y'all gave 483 00:22:26,180 --> 00:22:32,990 the sheriff for resource officers a lot of money. 484 00:22:33,190 --> 00:22:38,810 And y'all didn't tell the people that local agreement between 485 00:22:39,010 --> 00:22:43,010 the sheriff and the county commissioner is voluntarily. 486 00:22:43,210 --> 00:22:46,570 It is not a law. 487 00:22:46,770 --> 00:22:50,250 And it's like you're giving them free money to get yourself out 488 00:22:50,450 --> 00:22:51,310 of trouble or something. 489 00:22:51,510 --> 00:22:54,270 And Florida statute 106-12 points that the school is 490 00:22:54,470 --> 00:23:01,570 responsible for the resource officer themselves, 491 00:23:01,770 --> 00:23:05,870 and they can use guardian ad litem and still be under 492 00:23:06,070 --> 00:23:08,190 the sheriff. 493 00:23:08,390 --> 00:23:11,590 Also, I want to say I'm the ambassador for the buses. 494 00:23:11,790 --> 00:23:15,750 And Tracy Stage, he actually is doing a good job with the buses, 495 00:23:15,950 --> 00:23:19,310 being on time and all that. 496 00:23:19,510 --> 00:23:22,290 I must say that to just be thrown into his hand 497 00:23:22,490 --> 00:23:24,470 after the one guy he committed fraud 498 00:23:24,670 --> 00:23:29,010 and now we don't have route buses to ride around. 499 00:23:29,210 --> 00:23:34,610 And also the McGinnis guy who's the school board attorney, 500 00:23:34,810 --> 00:23:41,910 he is using his attorney tricks. 501 00:23:42,110 --> 00:23:46,370 He is also-- the school board is supposed 502 00:23:46,570 --> 00:23:51,090 to reimburse the sheriff, but the law statute 503 00:23:51,290 --> 00:23:55,070 said that they don't have to reimburse the sheriff 504 00:23:55,270 --> 00:23:56,230 for the resource officers. 505 00:23:56,430 --> 00:24:00,090 And he could be pocketing that money, and he got friends and-- 506 00:24:00,290 --> 00:24:05,030 he got friends that is part of the agreement, 507 00:24:05,230 --> 00:24:08,470 and all that kind of stuff. 508 00:24:08,670 --> 00:24:10,090 And also-- let me see. 509 00:24:10,290 --> 00:24:14,590 Oh, yeah. 510 00:24:14,790 --> 00:24:16,610 Hey, during the Civil War, all right, 511 00:24:16,810 --> 00:24:20,250 they got a thing called house niggers, 512 00:24:20,450 --> 00:24:24,190 and so it was against the law for Blacks to read and write. 513 00:24:24,390 --> 00:24:27,600 So what the North did, they planted the reason 514 00:24:27,800 --> 00:24:29,445 why they call them house nigger, because they 515 00:24:29,645 --> 00:24:32,220 got the work in house and they thought they were funny. 516 00:24:32,420 --> 00:24:33,400 So they planted them in the houses, 517 00:24:33,600 --> 00:24:35,640 and so the Southern generals didn't 518 00:24:35,840 --> 00:24:39,080 think the Blacks could read the war plans, 519 00:24:39,280 --> 00:24:41,513 and they taught them how to read the war 520 00:24:41,713 --> 00:24:43,480 plan so when the Southern generals was out hanging out, 521 00:24:43,680 --> 00:24:47,520 the Blacks would be able to read the war plans 522 00:24:47,720 --> 00:24:48,920 and go back and tell the North. 523 00:24:49,120 --> 00:24:51,100 And that was one of the tricks that they 524 00:24:51,300 --> 00:24:52,620 used-- that was one of the tricks 525 00:24:52,820 --> 00:24:56,260 that they used on the South, to find out their plans of what 526 00:24:56,460 --> 00:24:58,380 they going to do. 527 00:24:58,580 --> 00:25:00,280 Also, Abraham Lincoln, he would kill five days 528 00:25:00,480 --> 00:25:02,900 after the Civil War. 529 00:25:03,100 --> 00:25:05,200 And that's when the Secret Service was started, 530 00:25:05,400 --> 00:25:08,220 because of Abraham Lincoln. 531 00:25:08,420 --> 00:25:11,680 And I still didn't get them what I was really 532 00:25:11,880 --> 00:25:15,700 trying because I'm not good, but hey, that's enough. 533 00:25:15,900 --> 00:25:18,920 But, anyway, as Tracy says, he doing a pretty good job. 534 00:25:19,120 --> 00:25:20,790 OK. 535 00:25:20,990 --> 00:25:21,690 Thank you. 536 00:25:21,890 --> 00:25:21,970 [LAUGHTER] 537 00:25:22,170 --> 00:25:23,826 [APPLAUSE] 538 00:25:24,026 --> 00:25:27,438 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 539 00:25:27,638 --> 00:25:28,690 Steve Perry. 540 00:25:35,855 --> 00:25:43,055 STEVE PERRY: Good morning, commissioners. 541 00:25:43,255 --> 00:25:45,070 Good morning, Chairman Goodwin, Commissioner Mixon 542 00:25:45,270 --> 00:25:46,870 and Administrator Hofstetter. 543 00:25:47,070 --> 00:25:50,030 A chance to say hello to you earlier today, so. 544 00:25:50,230 --> 00:25:53,910 I know you know why I'm here and what I'm going to speak about, 545 00:25:54,110 --> 00:25:55,002 but what I'm going to speak about today-- 546 00:25:55,202 --> 00:25:57,010 I don't have a prepared speech for this portion, 547 00:25:57,210 --> 00:25:59,998 but I'm going to talk about, again, one of the subjects 548 00:26:00,198 --> 00:26:01,990 I said I'm going to repeat every time I'm here. 549 00:26:02,190 --> 00:26:04,210 And that's diver safety and the safety of your tourism 550 00:26:04,410 --> 00:26:08,770 that you're trying to encourage with the sinking of the SS 551 00:26:08,970 --> 00:26:09,750 United States as an artificial reef. 552 00:26:09,950 --> 00:26:12,690 And, again, we've talked about this briefly. 553 00:26:12,890 --> 00:26:15,610 I don't know if you've actually procured a hyperbolic chamber, 554 00:26:15,810 --> 00:26:19,930 or what you've done to ensure the safety of your divers 555 00:26:20,130 --> 00:26:21,395 and everything. 556 00:26:21,595 --> 00:26:23,520 There's plenty of stuff available at different times, 557 00:26:23,720 --> 00:26:25,340 but, again, it's complicated. 558 00:26:25,540 --> 00:26:28,240 And with this location site being 22 miles offshore, 559 00:26:28,440 --> 00:26:31,270 you're going to require the US Coast guard 560 00:26:31,470 --> 00:26:33,020 to do all the stuff you have. 561 00:26:33,220 --> 00:26:37,140 I haven't done the research to see on every wreck you have 562 00:26:37,340 --> 00:26:41,320 when you say you've sunk large wrecks, but they're all boats. 563 00:26:41,520 --> 00:26:43,140 And I don't think you've had any divers 564 00:26:43,340 --> 00:26:45,240 die on the skipping sue or the manta ray, 565 00:26:45,440 --> 00:26:46,880 or anything like that. 566 00:26:47,080 --> 00:26:49,158 There haven't been divers deaths on the Oriskany. 567 00:26:49,358 --> 00:26:51,800 There have been divers deaths on the Van der Berg 568 00:26:52,000 --> 00:26:52,080 down in Key West. 569 00:26:52,280 --> 00:26:55,120 There have been divers deaths on the Spiegel Grove off Key Largo. 570 00:26:55,320 --> 00:26:58,140 These large ships do encourage and result in divers death 571 00:26:58,340 --> 00:27:02,300 that you will not see on these small boats that you've done, 572 00:27:02,500 --> 00:27:03,680 or the chicken coops, the tetrahedrons, and all 573 00:27:03,880 --> 00:27:06,620 the other things you've sunk, which 574 00:27:06,820 --> 00:27:08,100 are good for artificial reefs. 575 00:27:08,300 --> 00:27:09,180 I'm not against artificial reefs. 576 00:27:09,380 --> 00:27:10,260 It's wonderful. 577 00:27:10,460 --> 00:27:13,100 Unfortunately, mother nature did not create a natural environment 578 00:27:13,300 --> 00:27:16,080 off your shores for the creation of marine life. 579 00:27:16,280 --> 00:27:19,080 It's basically the Sahara Desert under the sea. 580 00:27:19,280 --> 00:27:21,850 So this is a good thing. 581 00:27:22,050 --> 00:27:24,070 However, the SS United States is the wrong asset 582 00:27:24,270 --> 00:27:26,630 to use to encourage that and to increase that. 583 00:27:26,830 --> 00:27:29,610 And I've indicated this to you about other ships 584 00:27:29,810 --> 00:27:31,910 that would be large and open. 585 00:27:32,110 --> 00:27:35,410 But the most serious thing that I want to bring up to you 586 00:27:35,610 --> 00:27:39,010 is the fact that you're sinking this in shallow waters 587 00:27:39,210 --> 00:27:41,770 to encourage people that should never go inside a wreck, 588 00:27:41,970 --> 00:27:46,210 to go inside this reef as a possibility. 589 00:27:46,410 --> 00:27:50,490 I've been, over the last couple of months, 590 00:27:50,690 --> 00:27:53,090 to literally every dive shop from Alabama shores to Pensacola 591 00:27:53,290 --> 00:27:55,850 and Panama City, probably at least a dozen. 592 00:27:56,050 --> 00:27:59,490 And I won't name them, but one of your local dive shops 593 00:27:59,690 --> 00:28:01,510 here is actually advertising $300 to tank dive on the United 594 00:28:01,710 --> 00:28:01,850 States. 595 00:28:02,050 --> 00:28:05,630 And they were the only ones that were completely nasty to me 596 00:28:05,830 --> 00:28:08,030 when I went in to ask their professional opinions. 597 00:28:08,230 --> 00:28:10,110 All the other dive shops were extremely cooperative, 598 00:28:10,310 --> 00:28:11,470 understanding. 599 00:28:11,670 --> 00:28:13,890 Yes, we can't fix stupid. 600 00:28:14,090 --> 00:28:17,190 If people are going to do stupid things on their diving 601 00:28:17,390 --> 00:28:18,960 and go inside something, we can't stop that. 602 00:28:19,160 --> 00:28:21,500 But you don't have anything off your shores 603 00:28:21,700 --> 00:28:25,420 currently that people can go inside and get lost and trapped 604 00:28:25,620 --> 00:28:27,100 and die. 605 00:28:27,300 --> 00:28:29,620 You only have small boats, which is 606 00:28:29,820 --> 00:28:30,960 impossible to get lost inside. 607 00:28:31,160 --> 00:28:33,640 I'm not a wreck diver, but no one 608 00:28:33,840 --> 00:28:34,665 should be going inside this wreck 609 00:28:34,865 --> 00:28:37,240 unless they're certified as a technical diver or a wreck 610 00:28:37,440 --> 00:28:37,360 diver. 611 00:28:37,560 --> 00:28:39,620 And on October 1 when you approved 612 00:28:39,820 --> 00:28:42,540 the purchase back in 2024, you had to dive operator said, 613 00:28:42,740 --> 00:28:47,100 I can have someone dive in on this vessel in four days. 614 00:28:47,300 --> 00:28:48,820 Four days is not the necessary training 615 00:28:49,020 --> 00:28:52,760 for recreational diving, let alone on a reef 616 00:28:52,960 --> 00:28:55,460 the size of the SS United States. 617 00:28:55,660 --> 00:28:56,040 Thank you. 618 00:28:56,240 --> 00:28:57,547 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 619 00:28:57,747 --> 00:28:58,880 Next speaker, Jenny Fields. 620 00:28:59,080 --> 00:29:04,640 OK. 621 00:29:04,840 --> 00:29:06,700 Dave Deitch. 622 00:29:06,900 --> 00:29:10,837 DAVE DEITCH: Good morning. 623 00:29:11,037 --> 00:29:11,920 Dave Deitch, Nashville City Manager. 624 00:29:12,120 --> 00:29:13,540 Mr. Chairman, Commissioners, Mr. Robertson, 625 00:29:13,740 --> 00:29:16,710 I appreciate the time this morning. 626 00:29:16,910 --> 00:29:19,553 I just wanted to come before you and thank you 627 00:29:19,753 --> 00:29:20,570 for the amazing partnership between the county 628 00:29:20,770 --> 00:29:23,010 and the city this year, whether it's 629 00:29:23,210 --> 00:29:28,010 the leadership you displayed and the hard work of the public 630 00:29:28,210 --> 00:29:31,190 works team to install a new multi-use trail. 631 00:29:31,390 --> 00:29:35,350 Chris and Chelle and her team, her co compliance team, 632 00:29:35,550 --> 00:29:37,590 helping us clean up Niceville. 633 00:29:37,790 --> 00:29:40,270 Of course, the wonderful, amazing partnership 634 00:29:40,470 --> 00:29:44,390 that the county and the city has with Megs Park and all 635 00:29:44,590 --> 00:29:48,350 the hard work that Mr. Hofstad and Mr. Bitterman, Michelle 636 00:29:48,550 --> 00:29:52,050 Gartman, and so many others have displayed this year, 637 00:29:52,250 --> 00:29:56,338 those projects are going to enhance the quality of life 638 00:29:56,538 --> 00:29:56,830 of our residents. 639 00:29:57,030 --> 00:30:00,290 And so I just wanted to publicly thank all of you 640 00:30:00,490 --> 00:30:01,740 for your dedication, your leadership, and your service 641 00:30:01,940 --> 00:30:03,990 to the residents of Niceville for your efforts 642 00:30:04,190 --> 00:30:06,490 to enhance the quality of life of our residents, 643 00:30:06,690 --> 00:30:09,897 because there's so many projects that are going on right 644 00:30:10,097 --> 00:30:11,330 now that are due in part-- 645 00:30:11,530 --> 00:30:15,280 or to your leadership, and all the hard work of the staff here. 646 00:30:15,480 --> 00:30:16,240 So I just I'm very appreciative-- 647 00:30:16,440 --> 00:30:19,320 I know the mayor is, the city council is-- 648 00:30:19,520 --> 00:30:21,720 of all the efforts that the county 649 00:30:21,920 --> 00:30:23,160 has demonstrated this year. 650 00:30:23,360 --> 00:30:26,800 The reason I'm here is the Surtax projected project 651 00:30:27,000 --> 00:30:28,760 list for next year. 652 00:30:28,960 --> 00:30:32,040 There are a number of projects in Niceville on that list, 653 00:30:32,240 --> 00:30:35,060 and I'm here to respectfully request that you, 654 00:30:35,260 --> 00:30:37,980 please, give strong consideration to all of them. 655 00:30:38,180 --> 00:30:40,740 They will continue to enhance the quality of life 656 00:30:40,940 --> 00:30:42,200 of our residents, and we look forward 657 00:30:42,400 --> 00:30:45,280 to continuing to partner with the county and the county's team 658 00:30:45,480 --> 00:30:48,580 to bring these projects to fruition. 659 00:30:48,780 --> 00:30:51,400 As a demonstration of my good faith, 660 00:30:51,600 --> 00:30:53,780 we have our budget workshops this week as well, 661 00:30:53,980 --> 00:30:56,080 and one of those projects that is on that list 662 00:30:56,280 --> 00:30:56,797 is already being proposed for funding. 663 00:30:56,997 --> 00:30:59,960 And so we would love to partner-- 664 00:31:00,160 --> 00:31:04,200 to continue to partner with the county on all these projects, 665 00:31:04,400 --> 00:31:07,680 and many other things in the future, I hope. 666 00:31:07,880 --> 00:31:09,540 So, again, I do respectfully request 667 00:31:09,740 --> 00:31:12,087 that you give strong consideration to the projects 668 00:31:12,287 --> 00:31:13,570 that are on that list. 669 00:31:13,770 --> 00:31:13,587 Thank you. 670 00:31:13,787 --> 00:31:14,770 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Thank you. 671 00:31:14,970 --> 00:31:17,350 Trish Rowe. 672 00:31:17,550 --> 00:31:23,294 TRISH ROWE: Good morning. 673 00:31:23,494 --> 00:31:25,630 I'm following behind Tricia Keffer. 674 00:31:25,830 --> 00:31:28,450 My concern is NDAs for data centers. 675 00:31:28,650 --> 00:31:32,390 County commissioners should be very cautious about signing NDAs 676 00:31:32,590 --> 00:31:34,650 with hyperscale data center developers, especially 677 00:31:34,850 --> 00:31:37,010 a broad NDA. 678 00:31:37,210 --> 00:31:39,230 I'm sure your attorney knows all this. 679 00:31:39,430 --> 00:31:41,730 A broad NDA can let a private developer 680 00:31:41,930 --> 00:31:43,170 dictate the level of public transparency 681 00:31:43,370 --> 00:31:46,310 around a project that can have enormous public consequences. 682 00:31:46,510 --> 00:31:49,850 The project can materially affect the public long 683 00:31:50,050 --> 00:31:51,090 before formal vote. 684 00:31:51,290 --> 00:31:53,630 Public officials shouldn't be negotiating away transparency 685 00:31:53,830 --> 00:31:56,410 that belongs to the public. 686 00:31:56,610 --> 00:31:57,910 NDAs can become especially problematic 687 00:31:58,110 --> 00:32:01,290 when they cover things that aren't genuinely proprietary. 688 00:32:01,490 --> 00:32:05,910 The public may bear risks that the developer doesn't have to. 689 00:32:06,110 --> 00:32:07,910 It can undermine public confidence. 690 00:32:08,110 --> 00:32:11,970 A county commission can agree to protest-- to protect narrowly 691 00:32:12,170 --> 00:32:15,050 defined proprietary information while refusing a blanket NDA. 692 00:32:15,250 --> 00:32:19,390 For example, you could say trade secrets 693 00:32:19,590 --> 00:32:20,750 and legitimately protected proprietary information 694 00:32:20,950 --> 00:32:23,790 remain confidential, but the county 695 00:32:23,990 --> 00:32:27,010 will not agree to conceal public policy discussions, 696 00:32:27,210 --> 00:32:29,730 infrastructure impacts, proposed incentives, public expenditures, 697 00:32:29,930 --> 00:32:35,190 or information that must be disclosed under public records 698 00:32:35,390 --> 00:32:37,110 and open meeting laws. 699 00:32:37,310 --> 00:32:39,510 Florida's economic development statute specifically 700 00:32:39,710 --> 00:32:42,990 establishes circumstances in which certain records concerning 701 00:32:43,190 --> 00:32:47,970 a company's plans to locate or expand can be confidential. 702 00:32:48,170 --> 00:32:51,990 The statute provides a defined framework and time limits, 703 00:32:52,190 --> 00:32:55,890 rather than simply saying, sign an NDA and everything is secret. 704 00:32:56,090 --> 00:32:58,430 There's a definite distinction between 705 00:32:58,630 --> 00:33:00,390 statutory confidentiality and contractual confidentiality. 706 00:33:00,590 --> 00:33:05,590 A county can't necessarily transform otherwise public 707 00:33:05,790 --> 00:33:08,340 governmental records into confidential records 708 00:33:08,540 --> 00:33:12,180 merely by signing a private agreement with a developer. 709 00:33:12,380 --> 00:33:14,780 Florida's attorney general has specifically 710 00:33:14,980 --> 00:33:17,360 emphasized that the county must determine 711 00:33:17,560 --> 00:33:19,480 whether a particular record actually falls 712 00:33:19,680 --> 00:33:21,500 within a statutory exemption. 713 00:33:21,700 --> 00:33:24,440 And importantly, an NDA should never 714 00:33:24,640 --> 00:33:27,480 be used as a substitute for the public process required 715 00:33:27,680 --> 00:33:30,880 for zoning, land use decisions, development agreements, tax 716 00:33:31,080 --> 00:33:34,060 incentives, utility commitments, or expenditures 717 00:33:34,260 --> 00:33:37,120 of public resources. 718 00:33:37,320 --> 00:33:40,040 Preliminary conversations can occur, 719 00:33:40,240 --> 00:33:43,300 but final decisions must go through public meetings, 720 00:33:43,500 --> 00:33:45,340 legal review, infrastructure analysis, zoning permitting 721 00:33:45,540 --> 00:33:49,480 requirements, and commission action in an open meeting. 722 00:33:49,680 --> 00:33:53,020 And in my last few seconds, I want 723 00:33:53,220 --> 00:33:55,360 to ask, when is Eglin Parkway going to be finished? 724 00:33:55,560 --> 00:33:59,600 I mean, that's totally off the subject but, I mean, 725 00:33:59,800 --> 00:34:03,568 do you all know or do I have to call the commissioner-- 726 00:34:03,768 --> 00:34:04,060 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: Chairman, may I speak? 727 00:34:04,260 --> 00:34:05,420 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Sure. 728 00:34:05,620 --> 00:34:06,480 TRISH ROWE: Do we know? 729 00:34:06,680 --> 00:34:08,338 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: So it's slated to be finished 2027. 730 00:34:08,538 --> 00:34:09,940 TRISH ROWE: Oh my God. 731 00:34:10,140 --> 00:34:11,060 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: But it's Florida Department 732 00:34:11,260 --> 00:34:11,490 of Transportation. 733 00:34:11,690 --> 00:34:15,470 We do have Scott Bitterman here, if you wanted to add to it. 734 00:34:15,670 --> 00:34:17,170 We have contracted it out to CW Roberts, 735 00:34:17,370 --> 00:34:20,370 and they're doing a great job. 736 00:34:20,570 --> 00:34:21,370 It just takes time. 737 00:34:21,570 --> 00:34:23,168 There's a lot of side work that needs 738 00:34:23,368 --> 00:34:24,710 to be done that you can't see, necessarily, 739 00:34:24,910 --> 00:34:28,789 to make sure that water goes off the roadway and that kind 740 00:34:28,989 --> 00:34:29,450 of thing. 741 00:34:29,650 --> 00:34:31,370 But they are working on it. 742 00:34:31,570 --> 00:34:32,167 It just takes time. 743 00:34:32,367 --> 00:34:33,559 TRISH ROWE: I see the equipment. 744 00:34:33,759 --> 00:34:34,950 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And just to clarify, we 745 00:34:35,150 --> 00:34:36,225 haven't contracted with CW Roberts. 746 00:34:36,425 --> 00:34:38,242 That's the state of Florida. 747 00:34:38,442 --> 00:34:39,409 That's not a county road. 748 00:34:39,609 --> 00:34:40,110 Right. 749 00:34:40,310 --> 00:34:43,469 TRISH ROWE: That's why I was wondering if I should contact 750 00:34:43,669 --> 00:34:44,386 Jason or DOT or somebody. 751 00:34:44,586 --> 00:34:45,421 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Yeah, they probably 752 00:34:45,621 --> 00:34:47,429 have updates on their website too. 753 00:34:47,629 --> 00:34:49,090 They're pretty good about that. 754 00:34:49,290 --> 00:34:51,280 COMMISSIONER COX: Chairman, if I may, before she walks away. 755 00:34:51,480 --> 00:34:51,680 Ms Rowe. 756 00:34:51,880 --> 00:34:52,910 TRISH ROWE: Pardon me. 757 00:34:53,110 --> 00:34:53,827 COMMISSIONER COX: Ms Rowe, sorry. 758 00:34:54,027 --> 00:34:55,890 Just for the public's benefit, because I 759 00:34:56,090 --> 00:34:57,257 didn't hear you specify, I wanted 760 00:34:57,457 --> 00:35:02,150 to make known to the public that what you're discussing when you 761 00:35:02,350 --> 00:35:05,380 say NDA is a non-disclosure agreement, that you 762 00:35:05,580 --> 00:35:08,397 don't want the county to sign a non-disclosure agreement. 763 00:35:08,597 --> 00:35:09,272 TRISH ROWE: Correct. 764 00:35:09,472 --> 00:35:09,536 COMMISSIONER COX: OK. 765 00:35:09,736 --> 00:35:09,500 That's it. 766 00:35:09,700 --> 00:35:11,540 That's all I had about that. 767 00:35:11,740 --> 00:35:12,790 TRISH ROWE: Well, and the developers are coming in 768 00:35:12,990 --> 00:35:15,173 and saying that it's a-- what are they calling it? 769 00:35:15,373 --> 00:35:16,080 An industrial-- I'm trying-- a tenant. 770 00:35:16,280 --> 00:35:21,340 They call them industrial tenant centers. 771 00:35:21,540 --> 00:35:24,440 And it's just a way of getting around people 772 00:35:24,640 --> 00:35:26,000 saying no data centers. 773 00:35:26,200 --> 00:35:27,860 No, it's not a data center. 774 00:35:28,060 --> 00:35:28,620 It's an industrial tenant center. 775 00:35:28,820 --> 00:35:33,080 So, just please take care of us. 776 00:35:33,280 --> 00:35:37,367 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 777 00:35:37,567 --> 00:35:40,500 I have no more speaker cards for this public comment opportunity 778 00:35:40,700 --> 00:35:43,440 so we're going to close the public comment 779 00:35:43,640 --> 00:35:45,240 opportunity of the meeting. 780 00:35:45,440 --> 00:35:48,452 Again, if you want to speak on a public hearing item, 781 00:35:48,652 --> 00:35:49,160 please turn in a card. 782 00:35:49,360 --> 00:35:50,340 You'll be called up during that item. 783 00:35:50,540 --> 00:35:53,100 And if you want to speak during the final public comment 784 00:35:53,300 --> 00:35:55,497 opportunity, please just turn your card at the back and you'll 785 00:35:55,697 --> 00:35:55,980 be called up. 786 00:35:56,180 --> 00:35:58,560 That brings us to our consent agenda. 787 00:35:58,760 --> 00:35:59,900 Commissioners, we have already addressed 788 00:36:00,100 --> 00:36:02,590 consent item number two. 789 00:36:02,790 --> 00:36:04,990 And as you'll recall, Mr. Autrey asked 790 00:36:05,190 --> 00:36:09,190 us to consider agenda item 8.3 related to the local mitigation 791 00:36:09,390 --> 00:36:13,250 strategy, setting up a meeting. 792 00:36:13,450 --> 00:36:17,750 And he clarified there was an 8:30 time reference 793 00:36:17,950 --> 00:36:19,990 in the agenda pack. 794 00:36:20,190 --> 00:36:20,810 It's actually 3:00 PM. 795 00:36:21,010 --> 00:36:24,510 So, commissioners, with that in mind, if anybody is-- 796 00:36:24,710 --> 00:36:28,165 first, does anybody have any other item 797 00:36:28,365 --> 00:36:29,490 they would like to pull? 798 00:36:29,690 --> 00:36:33,150 If not, then I would entertain a motion for the consent-- 799 00:36:33,350 --> 00:36:36,970 consent agenda less item two, but with the add of item 8.3. 800 00:36:37,170 --> 00:36:43,777 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Make a motion to approve the consent 801 00:36:43,977 --> 00:36:44,610 agenda as stated. 802 00:36:44,810 --> 00:36:45,700 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: Second. 803 00:36:45,900 --> 00:36:46,820 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 804 00:36:47,020 --> 00:36:48,550 I have a motion by Commissioner Mixon. 805 00:36:48,750 --> 00:36:50,210 I think Commissioner Ketchel got that second. 806 00:36:50,410 --> 00:36:53,070 Further discussion, those in favor, please signify by saying, 807 00:36:53,270 --> 00:36:54,225 aye. 808 00:36:54,425 --> 00:36:55,025 COMMISSIONERS: Aye. 809 00:36:55,225 --> 00:36:57,070 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And those opposed-- all right, 810 00:36:57,270 --> 00:36:57,470 that passes unanimously. 811 00:36:57,670 --> 00:36:59,370 That completes the consent agenda. 812 00:36:59,570 --> 00:37:03,180 And that brings us to our public hearing items. 813 00:37:03,380 --> 00:37:07,700 The first one is a request to hold a public hearing 814 00:37:07,900 --> 00:37:11,260 and consider amendments to the Blue Water Bay district 815 00:37:11,460 --> 00:37:12,680 ordinance. 816 00:37:12,880 --> 00:37:14,000 Who's presenting that? 817 00:37:14,200 --> 00:37:15,400 Is that Mr. Coffey? 818 00:37:16,565 --> 00:37:23,765 CRAIG COFFEY: Yes, sir. 819 00:37:23,965 --> 00:37:26,040 I'd like to open the public hearing, I guess. 820 00:37:26,240 --> 00:37:28,100 And just briefly describe what's in the ordinance. 821 00:37:28,300 --> 00:37:29,900 The ordinance has very few changes. 822 00:37:30,100 --> 00:37:33,220 One, it delegates some of authority instead of to the MSP 823 00:37:33,420 --> 00:37:35,200 board back to the Board of County Commissioners 824 00:37:35,400 --> 00:37:36,600 for replacing members on the board 825 00:37:36,800 --> 00:37:41,060 that the board feels they want to with or without cause, 826 00:37:41,260 --> 00:37:42,640 and also appointing new members. 827 00:37:42,840 --> 00:37:44,600 And there's an action on today's item 828 00:37:44,800 --> 00:37:47,540 under my director's reports to appoint three new members. 829 00:37:47,740 --> 00:37:50,960 And I'll talk about that in a little bit. 830 00:37:51,160 --> 00:37:53,100 Other than that, it seeks to place some constraints 831 00:37:53,300 --> 00:37:55,920 on the financial spending of the MSP funds. 832 00:37:56,120 --> 00:37:59,200 The bread and butter, the MSP district is the landscaping, 833 00:37:59,400 --> 00:38:01,570 street lighting and irrigation, those kind of things. 834 00:38:01,770 --> 00:38:06,130 Outside of that, they have ventured off 835 00:38:06,330 --> 00:38:07,490 into doing some parks. 836 00:38:07,690 --> 00:38:10,470 They have ventured off into sidewalks at a lower level. 837 00:38:10,670 --> 00:38:11,832 And it still allows that authority, 838 00:38:12,032 --> 00:38:15,090 but it restricts it to 10% in any one of those items, 839 00:38:15,290 --> 00:38:15,470 any particular fiscal year. 840 00:38:15,670 --> 00:38:18,450 And other than that, those are the primary changes 841 00:38:18,650 --> 00:38:19,390 in the ordinance. 842 00:38:19,590 --> 00:38:22,090 And I ask that I seek approval of that today. 843 00:38:22,290 --> 00:38:24,108 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: OK. 844 00:38:24,308 --> 00:38:24,850 Very good. 845 00:38:25,050 --> 00:38:26,850 Any questions before we open the public hearing? 846 00:38:27,050 --> 00:38:27,650 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Yeah. 847 00:38:27,850 --> 00:38:29,892 I'm curious, is there a suggested date certain-- 848 00:38:30,092 --> 00:38:31,910 either District Commissioner or Mr. Coffey, is there-- 849 00:38:32,110 --> 00:38:36,850 as far as the effect of the ordinance in order to have the-- 850 00:38:37,050 --> 00:38:40,390 you're suggesting that we approve a public hearing, 851 00:38:40,590 --> 00:38:43,210 correct? 852 00:38:43,410 --> 00:38:44,370 CRAIG COFFEY: No. 853 00:38:44,570 --> 00:38:46,810 I said you hold a public hearing today. 854 00:38:47,010 --> 00:38:49,292 Request that you hold the public hearing today and approve. 855 00:38:49,492 --> 00:38:51,150 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: It's a little ambiguous the way 856 00:38:51,350 --> 00:38:52,758 it's stated on the item. 857 00:38:52,958 --> 00:38:54,770 This is the public hearing? 858 00:38:54,970 --> 00:38:56,660 CRAIG COFFEY: This is the public hearing. 859 00:38:56,860 --> 00:38:57,540 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And it was properly noticed? 860 00:38:57,740 --> 00:38:57,770 CRAIG COFFEY: Yes. 861 00:38:57,970 --> 00:38:59,566 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And it was as a public hearing? 862 00:38:59,766 --> 00:38:59,250 CRAIG COFFEY: Correct. 863 00:38:59,450 --> 00:38:59,850 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Is that correct? 864 00:39:00,050 --> 00:39:00,280 CRAIG COFFEY: Sorry. 865 00:39:00,480 --> 00:39:00,980 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: OK. 866 00:39:01,180 --> 00:39:03,822 Yeah, no, I saw the same thing that you mentioned. 867 00:39:04,022 --> 00:39:05,320 COMMISSIONER MIXON: It makes sense with the packet 868 00:39:05,520 --> 00:39:06,900 that we hold it today, but the recommendation 869 00:39:07,100 --> 00:39:08,540 seems to be a question. 870 00:39:08,740 --> 00:39:09,000 CRAIG COFFEY: OK. 871 00:39:09,200 --> 00:39:10,260 Sorry. 872 00:39:10,460 --> 00:39:11,400 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: OK. 873 00:39:11,600 --> 00:39:14,242 Any other questions before I open the public comment portion 874 00:39:14,442 --> 00:39:16,520 of the public hearing? 875 00:39:16,720 --> 00:39:18,060 All right, I'll open that. 876 00:39:18,260 --> 00:39:19,020 I have one card. 877 00:39:19,220 --> 00:39:23,660 And just based on the city address, it may be this one. 878 00:39:23,860 --> 00:39:25,340 Tony, hi. 879 00:39:25,540 --> 00:39:27,520 Are you here to speak on this item? 880 00:39:27,720 --> 00:39:28,180 OK. 881 00:39:28,380 --> 00:39:29,320 Thank you. 882 00:39:29,520 --> 00:39:31,972 And just a reminder, if you want to speak 883 00:39:32,172 --> 00:39:34,580 on any of these public hearing items, please turn in a card. 884 00:39:34,780 --> 00:39:36,760 And if you would, when you indicate the agenda article 885 00:39:36,960 --> 00:39:41,160 number, also indicate which particular item, just to make 886 00:39:41,360 --> 00:39:44,300 sure I call you at the right time. 887 00:39:44,500 --> 00:39:45,100 But please come forward. 888 00:39:45,300 --> 00:39:51,324 SPEAKER 3: Thank you, Commissioner-- 889 00:39:51,524 --> 00:39:55,157 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: OK, Craig. 890 00:39:55,357 --> 00:39:56,790 SPEAKER 3: Thank you, Commissioner Palmer, 891 00:39:56,990 --> 00:39:58,550 for answering my email this weekend. 892 00:39:58,750 --> 00:40:01,750 Thank you, Mr. Coffey, for getting back responding 893 00:40:01,950 --> 00:40:04,230 to my email on Monday morning. 894 00:40:04,430 --> 00:40:05,530 That your response was greatly appreciated. 895 00:40:05,730 --> 00:40:08,850 I've read over the proposed ordinances, 896 00:40:09,050 --> 00:40:11,630 and sounds-- everything sounds good to me. 897 00:40:11,830 --> 00:40:14,890 The only thing I request is that if you 898 00:40:15,090 --> 00:40:17,050 do decide that you need to remove somebody or replace 899 00:40:17,250 --> 00:40:20,750 somebody, that they not be somebody who 900 00:40:20,950 --> 00:40:22,330 has resigned past or present. 901 00:40:22,530 --> 00:40:25,690 That you consider somebody new for the position. 902 00:40:25,890 --> 00:40:30,850 And I look forward to serving, hopefully, for the MSBU. 903 00:40:31,050 --> 00:40:33,950 And also I was to the understanding 904 00:40:34,150 --> 00:40:37,330 it was 30% of the budget that that got changed, 905 00:40:37,530 --> 00:40:38,308 that they could do parks. 906 00:40:38,508 --> 00:40:39,350 I didn't reread the proposed changes, 907 00:40:39,550 --> 00:40:43,117 but I thought that was a little bit more that they could 908 00:40:43,317 --> 00:40:45,150 use for that when I read the last iteration of it, 909 00:40:45,350 --> 00:40:48,630 but I could be wrong. 910 00:40:48,830 --> 00:40:50,370 So-- 911 00:40:50,570 --> 00:40:53,975 COMMISSIONER PALMER: I'm sorry, Mr. Chairman. 912 00:40:54,175 --> 00:40:55,550 Can you restate that. 913 00:40:55,750 --> 00:40:57,058 I'm sorry, I didn't hear. 914 00:40:57,258 --> 00:40:59,600 SPEAKER 3: I was thinking it was 30% that they could 915 00:40:59,800 --> 00:41:01,950 use for-- if they were up to 30% of their budgets, 916 00:41:02,150 --> 00:41:03,710 if they were partnering for, like, 917 00:41:03,910 --> 00:41:05,610 a sidewalk or a public park. 918 00:41:05,810 --> 00:41:10,380 COMMISSIONER PALMER: It was a cumulative of 30%, 10% per item. 919 00:41:10,580 --> 00:41:12,750 CRAIG COFFEY: Yes. 920 00:41:12,950 --> 00:41:14,830 It's 10% in each of the categories listed, 921 00:41:15,030 --> 00:41:15,770 30% cumulative. 922 00:41:15,970 --> 00:41:18,490 So you have some other issues. 923 00:41:18,690 --> 00:41:20,090 And that, essentially, will probably allow $40,000 924 00:41:20,290 --> 00:41:22,880 to $50,000 towards one of those items. 925 00:41:23,080 --> 00:41:25,710 And I explained in the staff report, 926 00:41:25,910 --> 00:41:27,770 it becomes a double taxation issues 927 00:41:27,970 --> 00:41:30,770 because you have a park MSBU, so the County, already 928 00:41:30,970 --> 00:41:32,670 collects money for those parks, so it 929 00:41:32,870 --> 00:41:34,330 would be taxing them twice. 930 00:41:34,530 --> 00:41:37,050 So we will try and actually do those out of MSBU 931 00:41:37,250 --> 00:41:39,630 if there's a project to be had but it's-- 932 00:41:39,830 --> 00:41:40,190 SPEAKER 3: OK. 933 00:41:40,390 --> 00:41:41,617 Thank you very much. 934 00:41:41,817 --> 00:41:42,150 I appreciate you. 935 00:41:42,350 --> 00:41:43,750 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Thank you. 936 00:41:43,950 --> 00:41:46,910 And I have no further speaker cards for the public hearing 937 00:41:47,110 --> 00:41:49,550 item one so I'll close that public comment opportunity, 938 00:41:49,750 --> 00:41:54,840 bring it back to the board for action. 939 00:41:55,040 --> 00:41:56,843 Commissioner Palmer, it's your district. 940 00:41:57,043 --> 00:41:58,510 COMMISSIONER PALMER: Move to approve. 941 00:41:58,710 --> 00:41:59,350 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 942 00:41:59,550 --> 00:42:02,020 We have a motion to approve by Commissioner Palmer. 943 00:42:02,220 --> 00:42:03,920 Commissioner Cox, with a second further discussion. 944 00:42:04,120 --> 00:42:06,020 COMMISSIONER PALMER: Mr. Chairman, very quickly. 945 00:42:06,220 --> 00:42:10,120 Mr. Coffey, thank you so much for all of your work on this. 946 00:42:10,320 --> 00:42:11,160 I know it's been a long time coming. 947 00:42:11,360 --> 00:42:14,460 I think this is going to go a long way in helping to improve 948 00:42:14,660 --> 00:42:15,960 things, giving the right sort of parameters for the spending 949 00:42:16,160 --> 00:42:22,940 and making sure that the MSBU well 950 00:42:23,140 --> 00:42:25,260 serves the Bluewater community. 951 00:42:25,460 --> 00:42:28,180 So thank you so much for your work on this. 952 00:42:28,380 --> 00:42:27,260 Ms, hi. 953 00:42:27,460 --> 00:42:29,173 Thank you for your willingness to serve. 954 00:42:29,373 --> 00:42:32,040 It's a tough thing to step up and to subject yourself 955 00:42:32,240 --> 00:42:34,600 to the voters and to serve the public. 956 00:42:34,800 --> 00:42:39,180 And I thank you for your willingness to do so. 957 00:42:39,380 --> 00:42:40,580 And thank you for reaching out to me 958 00:42:40,780 --> 00:42:43,280 and letting me know of our oversight in the agenda as well. 959 00:42:43,480 --> 00:42:45,380 So thank you so much. 960 00:42:45,580 --> 00:42:46,400 And that's all I have. 961 00:42:46,600 --> 00:42:47,400 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 962 00:42:47,600 --> 00:42:47,560 Very good. 963 00:42:47,760 --> 00:42:51,030 Further comment, commissioners? 964 00:42:51,230 --> 00:42:53,825 Otherwise, those in favor, please signify by saying, aye. 965 00:42:54,025 --> 00:42:54,400 COMMISSIONERS: Aye. 966 00:42:54,600 --> 00:42:55,440 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And those opposed. 967 00:42:55,640 --> 00:42:57,407 All right, that item passes unanimously. 968 00:42:57,607 --> 00:43:01,650 That brings us to public hearing item number two, which 969 00:43:01,850 --> 00:43:05,170 is a quasi judicial public hearing related to a small scale 970 00:43:05,370 --> 00:43:07,570 plan amendment. 971 00:43:07,770 --> 00:43:10,330 Yes, please. 972 00:43:10,530 --> 00:43:12,273 LYNN HOSHIHARA: Anybody here who's 973 00:43:12,473 --> 00:43:14,290 going to speak to this item, which 974 00:43:14,490 --> 00:43:17,070 is a request for small scale plan amendment 975 00:43:17,270 --> 00:43:20,810 and rezoning presented by Mark Steiner of Choctaw Engineering 976 00:43:21,010 --> 00:43:24,710 on behalf of John and Susan Lee, the property owners. 977 00:43:24,910 --> 00:43:26,543 If you'll please stand, raise your hand. 978 00:43:26,743 --> 00:43:27,610 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And that includes 979 00:43:27,810 --> 00:43:30,135 anybody who's a turn in a speaker card 980 00:43:30,335 --> 00:43:31,470 to speak on this item. 981 00:43:31,670 --> 00:43:33,670 So I have one that's indicated item number 982 00:43:33,870 --> 00:43:34,770 two for public hearing. 983 00:43:34,970 --> 00:43:37,025 So if you're here for that. 984 00:43:37,225 --> 00:43:36,950 Yes, sir. 985 00:43:37,150 --> 00:43:38,550 LYNN HOSHIHARA: Do you swear or affirm 986 00:43:38,750 --> 00:43:39,110 that the testimony shall give shall 987 00:43:39,310 --> 00:43:41,330 be the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but? 988 00:43:41,530 --> 00:43:41,650 SPEAKER 4: Yes. 989 00:43:41,850 --> 00:43:42,575 LYNN HOSHIHARA: Thank you. 990 00:43:42,775 --> 00:43:44,490 Commissioners, now would be the appropriate time 991 00:43:44,690 --> 00:43:46,790 to disclose any e-parte communications any of you 992 00:43:46,990 --> 00:43:47,790 may have had. 993 00:43:47,990 --> 00:43:48,750 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: I've had none. 994 00:43:48,950 --> 00:43:50,150 LYNN HOSHIHARA: I see you shaking heads. 995 00:43:50,350 --> 00:43:51,280 Thank you very much. 996 00:43:53,820 --> 00:44:01,620 SPEAKER 5: Good morning, Mr. Chairman, Commissioners. 997 00:44:01,820 --> 00:44:05,200 This is a land use change request. 998 00:44:05,400 --> 00:44:08,660 The property is about 2.55 acres. 999 00:44:08,860 --> 00:44:12,100 And the applicant is requesting change 1000 00:44:12,300 --> 00:44:15,920 from suburban residential on the future land use map 1001 00:44:16,120 --> 00:44:18,920 and to mixed use. 1002 00:44:19,120 --> 00:44:23,260 And the primary difference between those two categories 1003 00:44:23,460 --> 00:44:26,580 is that mixed use is a broad development category that 1004 00:44:26,780 --> 00:44:29,060 can accommodate higher density housing, greater 1005 00:44:29,260 --> 00:44:31,760 commercial development, institutional uses, recreation, 1006 00:44:31,960 --> 00:44:35,480 and possibly some light industrial. 1007 00:44:35,680 --> 00:44:38,800 The density change would be 16 units 1008 00:44:39,000 --> 00:44:42,980 per acre to 25 units per acre if this Amendment is approved. 1009 00:44:43,180 --> 00:44:47,970 This is located with inside the urban service-- 1010 00:44:48,170 --> 00:44:51,850 or urban boundary, so that's why you have that density. 1011 00:44:52,050 --> 00:44:56,690 And it's located on Highway 98, as you can see on your map 1012 00:44:56,890 --> 00:44:56,370 there. 1013 00:44:56,570 --> 00:45:00,030 And I'd like to enter the staff report into the record. 1014 00:45:00,230 --> 00:45:03,490 And any questions you may have, I'm available. 1015 00:45:03,690 --> 00:45:07,227 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Commissioners, any questions 1016 00:45:07,427 --> 00:45:10,210 before we open this up for public comment? 1017 00:45:10,410 --> 00:45:12,630 All right. 1018 00:45:12,830 --> 00:45:15,530 I don't have any, so we'll open the public comment opportunity 1019 00:45:15,730 --> 00:45:17,910 of the public hearing. 1020 00:45:18,110 --> 00:45:19,170 I have one card. 1021 00:45:19,370 --> 00:45:21,070 It's Dan. 1022 00:45:21,270 --> 00:45:22,770 Is it Park? 1023 00:45:22,970 --> 00:45:24,030 Don? 1024 00:45:24,230 --> 00:45:25,130 DON PARK: Yes. 1025 00:45:25,330 --> 00:45:26,210 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Yes, sir. 1026 00:45:29,850 --> 00:45:37,050 DON PARK: Good morning. 1027 00:45:37,250 --> 00:45:38,210 I'll just be brief. 1028 00:45:38,410 --> 00:45:41,590 I met my wife, and we live adjacent to this property 1029 00:45:41,790 --> 00:45:44,050 that they're rezoning. 1030 00:45:44,250 --> 00:45:45,940 We live behind Woodhaven Animal Clinic. 1031 00:45:46,140 --> 00:45:48,200 And during the presentation, I think 1032 00:45:48,400 --> 00:45:50,220 Mr. Skinner said this property that they 1033 00:45:50,420 --> 00:45:53,280 want to change multi-use, he wants 1034 00:45:53,480 --> 00:45:57,380 to make it zone the same as Woodhaven Animal 1035 00:45:57,580 --> 00:46:00,460 Clinic and the properties to the East of that. 1036 00:46:00,660 --> 00:46:04,280 Those properties all border 98 and residential housing. 1037 00:46:04,480 --> 00:46:08,800 One of them's my house, our house. 1038 00:46:09,000 --> 00:46:14,060 What we hope to see here is that this other property here is-- 1039 00:46:14,260 --> 00:46:18,160 bought is a residential streets on three sides. 1040 00:46:18,360 --> 00:46:21,620 And it has been developed up to this point 1041 00:46:21,820 --> 00:46:25,040 with commercial properties on the front, cell tower, 1042 00:46:25,240 --> 00:46:29,640 restaurant like a VHF, Veterans of Foreign Wars, 1043 00:46:29,840 --> 00:46:36,140 and then housing all the way on the back side of the properties. 1044 00:46:36,340 --> 00:46:39,380 And what we would like to see is that that continue to happen. 1045 00:46:39,580 --> 00:46:43,820 On the North side of the spruce is complete residential housing. 1046 00:46:44,020 --> 00:46:48,250 On the South side of spruce, it has six residential houses 1047 00:46:48,450 --> 00:46:51,930 and their vacant lot. 1048 00:46:52,130 --> 00:46:55,310 So, just wish to continue with that pattern of residences 1049 00:46:55,510 --> 00:47:00,870 on the North side and then commercial development 1050 00:47:01,070 --> 00:47:06,250 on the South side. 1051 00:47:06,450 --> 00:47:07,850 That's all I had. 1052 00:47:08,050 --> 00:47:09,010 Thank you very much. 1053 00:47:09,210 --> 00:47:10,030 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Thank you. 1054 00:47:10,230 --> 00:47:11,090 All right. 1055 00:47:11,290 --> 00:47:13,690 I don't have any further speaker cards on this item. 1056 00:47:13,890 --> 00:47:17,370 Steiner, did you want to speak? 1057 00:47:17,570 --> 00:47:20,958 MARK STEINER: Mark Steiner, Choctaw Engineering 1058 00:47:21,158 --> 00:47:23,330 with the agent for the applicant. 1059 00:47:23,530 --> 00:47:26,270 And just one thing I just wanted to point out, 1060 00:47:26,470 --> 00:47:28,530 suburban residential is kind of an odd kind of category 1061 00:47:28,730 --> 00:47:30,130 because in theory, it's really mixed use. 1062 00:47:30,330 --> 00:47:34,430 And what I mean by that is you can do C1 and C2 1063 00:47:34,630 --> 00:47:33,990 in suburban residential. 1064 00:47:34,190 --> 00:47:37,230 Even though it doesn't say that you would think mixed use 1065 00:47:37,430 --> 00:47:38,490 would be mixed use on some residential 1066 00:47:38,690 --> 00:47:40,210 would be primarily probably residential. 1067 00:47:40,410 --> 00:47:43,820 So, right now we're allotted to be able to do three-- 1068 00:47:44,020 --> 00:47:46,760 two of the three zoning-- 1069 00:47:46,960 --> 00:47:48,560 commercial zoning categories as well as residential. 1070 00:47:48,760 --> 00:47:52,360 So we're really not changing that much, 1071 00:47:52,560 --> 00:47:55,040 except for the fact that by going to mixed use, 1072 00:47:55,240 --> 00:47:57,960 we'll able-- it'll allow us to be able to utilize the C-3 1073 00:47:58,160 --> 00:47:58,900 zoning category because in mixed use, 1074 00:47:59,100 --> 00:48:02,340 it says if you're adjacent to a arterial roadway, 1075 00:48:02,540 --> 00:48:05,300 that you can do a C-3 uses. 1076 00:48:05,500 --> 00:48:08,020 So that's probably the biggest change of the project. 1077 00:48:08,220 --> 00:48:10,240 And as gentleman just pointed out, 1078 00:48:10,440 --> 00:48:12,920 we're surrounded on four sides by a road, 1079 00:48:13,120 --> 00:48:16,380 so we don't butt any residential development directly next to it. 1080 00:48:16,580 --> 00:48:19,920 And by going to this-- 1081 00:48:20,120 --> 00:48:23,120 and I pointed this out in the last public planning commission 1082 00:48:23,320 --> 00:48:25,520 meeting is that when you're doing like, let's say, 1083 00:48:25,720 --> 00:48:28,020 residential, you're very limited in terms of how much buffering 1084 00:48:28,220 --> 00:48:30,082 requirements there are. 1085 00:48:30,282 --> 00:48:32,840 Whereas if you go to the commercial aspect of it, 1086 00:48:33,040 --> 00:48:34,060 there's a lot of aspects in there 1087 00:48:34,260 --> 00:48:36,035 that you have to buffer underneath the LDC, which 1088 00:48:36,235 --> 00:48:38,880 will help mitigate any kind of compatibility 1089 00:48:39,080 --> 00:48:41,610 there is between the residential units 1090 00:48:41,810 --> 00:48:43,690 behind us and our property. 1091 00:48:43,890 --> 00:48:46,070 Any questions? 1092 00:48:46,270 --> 00:48:46,720 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Commissioners, 1093 00:48:46,920 --> 00:48:49,150 do you have any questions for Mr. Steiner? 1094 00:48:49,350 --> 00:48:51,090 If not, I just got a quick question. 1095 00:48:51,290 --> 00:48:52,970 So just to reiterate-- and this is, I think, 1096 00:48:53,170 --> 00:48:55,190 important for the public to hear-- 1097 00:48:55,390 --> 00:48:58,210 as I understood it, the allowable residential density 1098 00:48:58,410 --> 00:49:02,870 would actually be reduced by going to mixed use. 1099 00:49:03,070 --> 00:49:03,950 Is that correct? 1100 00:49:04,150 --> 00:49:06,590 That's what I thought I heard. 1101 00:49:06,790 --> 00:49:07,540 MARK STEINER: I do not-- 1102 00:49:07,740 --> 00:49:07,340 no. 1103 00:49:07,540 --> 00:49:09,990 I think you go from 16 to 25. 1104 00:49:10,190 --> 00:49:11,315 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: So it's actually going to increase? 1105 00:49:11,515 --> 00:49:12,790 MARK STEINER: The residential density-- 1106 00:49:12,990 --> 00:49:16,530 the available residential density would go from 16 to 25, 1107 00:49:16,730 --> 00:49:17,390 correct. 1108 00:49:17,590 --> 00:49:21,730 But I'll be honest with you, it would be very, very difficult 1109 00:49:21,930 --> 00:49:24,310 to get to 25 units per acre, unless you 1110 00:49:24,510 --> 00:49:27,535 did some sort of tall vertical building or something like that. 1111 00:49:27,735 --> 00:49:28,060 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Yeah. 1112 00:49:28,260 --> 00:49:28,670 And this is probably-- 1113 00:49:28,870 --> 00:49:31,210 I don't know, is this within a height limit area 1114 00:49:31,410 --> 00:49:33,690 based on its proximity to Hobart or no? 1115 00:49:33,890 --> 00:49:34,490 Do we know? 1116 00:49:34,690 --> 00:49:36,090 MARK STEINER: Not that I'm aware of. 1117 00:49:36,290 --> 00:49:37,640 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: It's not within the impact, OK. 1118 00:49:37,840 --> 00:49:38,606 MARK STEINER: And I don't think that's 1119 00:49:38,806 --> 00:49:42,053 going to come into play because we're going to probably-- as you 1120 00:49:42,253 --> 00:49:43,820 can see from the predominant development along Highway 98 1121 00:49:44,020 --> 00:49:46,600 there, it's one or two story buildings, commercial, 1122 00:49:46,800 --> 00:49:48,180 pretty consistent. 1123 00:49:48,380 --> 00:49:51,380 This just happens to be an unusual anomaly 1124 00:49:51,580 --> 00:49:55,720 because it's like one of the few vacant pieces still out there. 1125 00:49:55,920 --> 00:49:56,760 But were developed on either side, 1126 00:49:56,960 --> 00:49:58,220 and it basically is a continuation 1127 00:49:58,420 --> 00:49:59,937 of that mixed use zoning category that's 1128 00:50:00,137 --> 00:50:01,900 already to the East of us. 1129 00:50:02,100 --> 00:50:02,750 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: No, I see that. 1130 00:50:02,950 --> 00:50:05,192 So it doesn't create an enclave, I get that. 1131 00:50:05,392 --> 00:50:07,240 And mixed use is considered a transitional zoning, 1132 00:50:07,440 --> 00:50:09,540 as I understand it. 1133 00:50:09,740 --> 00:50:11,040 Kristen, tell me if I'm wrong. 1134 00:50:11,240 --> 00:50:13,520 So it would-- so a budding mixed use to R-1 1135 00:50:13,720 --> 00:50:15,360 is a reasonable planning strategy, correct? 1136 00:50:15,560 --> 00:50:20,560 Because it's considered a transition zoning. 1137 00:50:20,760 --> 00:50:26,560 One other thing I think would be important to extrapolate on just 1138 00:50:26,760 --> 00:50:30,460 for the public, just so that everybody knows what this means. 1139 00:50:30,660 --> 00:50:33,368 And, again, this-- and, again, what I want to point out 1140 00:50:33,568 --> 00:50:33,560 to the public-- 1141 00:50:33,760 --> 00:50:34,820 I know the commission knows this, 1142 00:50:35,020 --> 00:50:37,395 you know this-- this is not about what are you 1143 00:50:37,595 --> 00:50:39,060 going to build, because that's not the question today. 1144 00:50:39,260 --> 00:50:41,080 The question is, what would it allow 1145 00:50:41,280 --> 00:50:43,780 you to build that's different than what you could build today? 1146 00:50:43,980 --> 00:50:44,840 That's the only question. 1147 00:50:45,040 --> 00:50:47,500 And you mentioned that C3 would be 1148 00:50:47,700 --> 00:50:50,007 the only thing that got added because you're 1149 00:50:50,207 --> 00:50:51,240 next to an arterial road. 1150 00:50:51,440 --> 00:50:52,680 I mean, you're on Highway 98. 1151 00:50:52,880 --> 00:50:55,100 So, what are the differences between what 1152 00:50:55,300 --> 00:51:00,340 could be done under C1, C2 on this property, 1153 00:51:00,540 --> 00:51:03,040 and what does C3 add that's not already there? 1154 00:51:03,240 --> 00:51:06,660 MARK STEINER: Basically C3 is a higher intensity commercial 1155 00:51:06,860 --> 00:51:09,920 if you were-- 1156 00:51:10,120 --> 00:51:13,000 in layman's term, it allows some more higher intensity type 1157 00:51:13,200 --> 00:51:14,040 commercial. 1158 00:51:14,240 --> 00:51:16,400 I think C1 is like-- 1159 00:51:16,600 --> 00:51:19,717 and actually it's interesting because in mixed use 1160 00:51:19,917 --> 00:51:21,200 I think you lose C2. 1161 00:51:21,400 --> 00:51:24,400 And you can do C1 and C3. 1162 00:51:24,600 --> 00:51:30,640 Anyway, but C1, some of them is just a little more neighborhood 1163 00:51:30,840 --> 00:51:32,320 type-- 1164 00:51:32,520 --> 00:51:36,470 I think that's the best way I can describe it, 1165 00:51:36,670 --> 00:51:37,650 neighborhood type commercial and stuff like that. 1166 00:51:37,850 --> 00:51:40,370 And then some office space and stuff like that, 1167 00:51:40,570 --> 00:51:43,642 but this allows you to do something a little bit more 1168 00:51:43,842 --> 00:51:44,350 intense than what you would normally 1169 00:51:44,550 --> 00:51:46,670 see in a C1 or C2 district. 1170 00:51:46,870 --> 00:51:46,668 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: OK. 1171 00:51:46,868 --> 00:51:49,210 And then as far as at the development order 1172 00:51:49,410 --> 00:51:52,070 stage, with a mixed use zone, would that 1173 00:51:52,270 --> 00:51:58,390 give the opportunity for the applicant and staff 1174 00:51:58,590 --> 00:52:03,390 to work through specific buffer plans, and things like that? 1175 00:52:03,590 --> 00:52:05,820 Do we know? 1176 00:52:06,020 --> 00:52:06,620 MARK STEINER: Not necessarily because 1177 00:52:06,820 --> 00:52:08,762 of the size of the project. 1178 00:52:08,962 --> 00:52:11,757 I always say, there is an opportunity always 1179 00:52:11,957 --> 00:52:13,590 for the public to have input and such, 1180 00:52:13,790 --> 00:52:15,510 because there will be a sign that's put up, 1181 00:52:15,710 --> 00:52:17,070 and if they want to contact the staff, and whatever, 1182 00:52:17,270 --> 00:52:18,050 and stuff like that, but doesn't have 1183 00:52:18,250 --> 00:52:20,492 to come back before this board for a final approval. 1184 00:52:20,692 --> 00:52:21,220 But, yeah-- 1185 00:52:21,420 --> 00:52:24,420 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: No, no, I know it would be a staff level 1186 00:52:24,620 --> 00:52:22,870 development. 1187 00:52:23,070 --> 00:52:24,060 MARK STEINER: Yes, yes. 1188 00:52:24,260 --> 00:52:24,110 OK, yeah. 1189 00:52:24,310 --> 00:52:27,250 But as far as-- yeah, they could have input as far as-- 1190 00:52:27,450 --> 00:52:27,730 because there's two opportunities at the time 1191 00:52:27,930 --> 00:52:31,105 in which the development order is applied for and at the time 1192 00:52:31,305 --> 00:52:31,547 the development order is approved. 1193 00:52:31,747 --> 00:52:32,670 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And, Kristen, 1194 00:52:32,870 --> 00:52:35,928 you might need to come up and speak to this. 1195 00:52:36,128 --> 00:52:36,960 I'm fine either way. 1196 00:52:37,160 --> 00:52:38,940 And I'm not against this idea. 1197 00:52:39,140 --> 00:52:40,698 I understand how it fits in the plan. 1198 00:52:40,898 --> 00:52:42,840 But because we do have somebody that's concerned with it, 1199 00:52:43,040 --> 00:52:44,460 I want to flush it out. 1200 00:52:44,660 --> 00:52:44,940 KRISTEN: Of course. 1201 00:52:45,140 --> 00:52:47,540 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: If we go to mixed use 1202 00:52:47,740 --> 00:52:51,280 and using a C1 or C3 use, or even residential use 1203 00:52:51,480 --> 00:52:55,620 and split those out if we need, does 1204 00:52:55,820 --> 00:52:58,560 the LDC have buffering requirements in there? 1205 00:52:58,760 --> 00:53:01,990 MARK STEINER: Yes. 1206 00:53:02,190 --> 00:53:02,740 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: OK. 1207 00:53:02,940 --> 00:53:07,900 MARK STEINER: I mean, it would be 1208 00:53:08,100 --> 00:53:09,340 subject to the same buffering requirements 1209 00:53:09,540 --> 00:53:12,380 that all C3 uses have-- or any use, any mixed 1210 00:53:12,580 --> 00:53:14,240 use has for anything. 1211 00:53:14,440 --> 00:53:17,145 And it really depends on what the type of use 1212 00:53:17,345 --> 00:53:19,020 is it will dictate the level of buffering because there's 1213 00:53:19,220 --> 00:53:21,060 kind of like a chart in there. 1214 00:53:21,260 --> 00:53:22,640 And as you change-- because you can do-- 1215 00:53:22,840 --> 00:53:24,900 mixed use you could do single family residential, 1216 00:53:25,100 --> 00:53:27,380 you could do a town-home, or something like that. 1217 00:53:27,580 --> 00:53:29,060 Those wouldn't require any buffering at all. 1218 00:53:29,260 --> 00:53:31,370 And as the degree increases of the intensity 1219 00:53:31,570 --> 00:53:34,387 of the development, so would the buffering requirements. 1220 00:53:34,587 --> 00:53:35,820 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: OK, yeah. 1221 00:53:36,020 --> 00:53:38,390 And I think Kristen was back there mentioning 1222 00:53:38,590 --> 00:53:40,430 it could be probably walls, could be 1223 00:53:40,630 --> 00:53:42,330 vegetation, some sort of mix between those things. 1224 00:53:42,530 --> 00:53:46,767 All part of a plan that would be dealt with at the development 1225 00:53:46,967 --> 00:53:48,450 order stage and the site plan stage, I would assume. 1226 00:53:48,650 --> 00:53:49,460 MARK STEINER: Yes. 1227 00:53:49,660 --> 00:53:50,810 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: So I just want 1228 00:53:51,010 --> 00:53:54,410 to make sure that's clear, because I'm looking at this-- 1229 00:53:54,610 --> 00:53:57,270 and I know we're still in question, we're not in action 1230 00:53:57,470 --> 00:53:59,562 yet, but I want to make sure we're flushing that out 1231 00:53:59,762 --> 00:54:02,150 because it appears that it is just an extension of what 1232 00:54:02,350 --> 00:54:05,430 is already a mixed use plan. 1233 00:54:05,630 --> 00:54:07,170 And it is on Highway 98. 1234 00:54:07,370 --> 00:54:09,170 But the weird thing about this-- the way 1235 00:54:09,370 --> 00:54:11,270 this place is developed out there, 1236 00:54:11,470 --> 00:54:15,190 you've got R1 all the way up to Highway 98, which is unusual. 1237 00:54:15,390 --> 00:54:18,910 So it's a little bit of a unique characteristic 1238 00:54:19,110 --> 00:54:23,290 out there as we try to navigate that. 1239 00:54:23,490 --> 00:54:25,230 Commissioners, other questions for Mr. Steiner, Mr. Cox? 1240 00:54:25,430 --> 00:54:26,700 COMMISSIONER COX: Yes. 1241 00:54:26,900 --> 00:54:27,617 Thank you, Chairman. 1242 00:54:27,817 --> 00:54:30,851 Can you give us some examples of what the C3 opportunities would 1243 00:54:31,051 --> 00:54:34,460 be there that don't exist now? 1244 00:54:34,660 --> 00:54:38,392 MARK STEINER: Now you're asking me. 1245 00:54:38,592 --> 00:54:41,975 I don't know if staff has-- 1246 00:54:42,175 --> 00:54:42,500 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Appropriate for Kristen. 1247 00:54:42,700 --> 00:54:44,417 You want to Kristen-- 1248 00:54:44,617 --> 00:54:45,780 COMMISSIONER COX: Michelle, would you mind? 1249 00:54:45,980 --> 00:54:52,235 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: If I understand the question, 1250 00:54:52,435 --> 00:54:54,660 you want to know, within that category, what 1251 00:54:54,860 --> 00:54:56,418 are the types of things-- 1252 00:54:56,618 --> 00:54:58,360 MARK STEINER: Maybe let me try to bring this 1253 00:54:58,560 --> 00:55:02,840 into context of just not getting hung up on C3, C2, and C1, OK. 1254 00:55:03,040 --> 00:55:06,258 Because at the end of the day, you're 1255 00:55:06,458 --> 00:55:08,100 going to build something on that piece of property. 1256 00:55:08,300 --> 00:55:11,660 And whether it is C1, C3, or C2, you can basically build out 1257 00:55:11,860 --> 00:55:14,680 the whole entire piece, they'll probably most likely 1258 00:55:14,880 --> 00:55:17,018 have some sort of commercial building 1259 00:55:17,218 --> 00:55:19,160 and a parking lot and a stormwater facility. 1260 00:55:19,360 --> 00:55:21,615 In all the 30 years I've been doing it, 1261 00:55:21,815 --> 00:55:22,340 they're pretty much all generic anyway. 1262 00:55:22,540 --> 00:55:26,320 So I don't think that the specifics of C1, C2, C3 1263 00:55:26,520 --> 00:55:29,910 really has any relevance on the actual look 1264 00:55:30,110 --> 00:55:32,550 and feel of the project. 1265 00:55:32,750 --> 00:55:34,868 It usually has something to do with just the type 1266 00:55:35,068 --> 00:55:35,710 use that they're actually doing there. 1267 00:55:35,910 --> 00:55:39,750 Now, there might be some sort of things that the actual use is 1268 00:55:39,950 --> 00:55:41,290 doing, like maybe say like an automotive repair shop, 1269 00:55:41,490 --> 00:55:45,170 or something like that, that might be a little bit considered 1270 00:55:45,370 --> 00:55:47,510 more intense in terms of the actual what's going on, 1271 00:55:47,710 --> 00:55:48,477 but then the county has regulations 1272 00:55:48,677 --> 00:55:50,190 that regulate use time, impact, noise, 1273 00:55:50,390 --> 00:55:54,815 all those kind of things in other parts of the ordinance. 1274 00:55:55,015 --> 00:55:57,190 So from that standpoint, I don't think if-- depending on how 1275 00:55:57,390 --> 00:55:59,550 it's developed, whether it's a car dealership or a office 1276 00:55:59,750 --> 00:56:05,050 building, really doesn't have that much of an impact 1277 00:56:05,250 --> 00:56:07,347 because we still have to do the same-- 1278 00:56:07,547 --> 00:56:09,230 I'm sorry-- the same type of buffering, same things. 1279 00:56:09,430 --> 00:56:10,210 And you'll basically be seeing usually 1280 00:56:10,410 --> 00:56:12,210 like those common elements to the development. 1281 00:56:12,410 --> 00:56:14,102 COMMISSIONER COX: Understood. 1282 00:56:14,302 --> 00:56:17,110 But if we're talking about a potential increase in density 1283 00:56:17,310 --> 00:56:18,627 from 16 to 25, is that-- 1284 00:56:18,827 --> 00:56:22,050 MARK STEINER: That's strictly residential. 1285 00:56:22,250 --> 00:56:25,030 And I don't think that would affect it either, 1286 00:56:25,230 --> 00:56:27,847 because if you go down the road probably less than a half 1287 00:56:28,047 --> 00:56:29,800 a mile, we did a Skylark townhomes, which basically 1288 00:56:30,000 --> 00:56:33,880 abuts Highway 98 on a similar type of piece of property. 1289 00:56:34,080 --> 00:56:35,300 And it's just, basically-- 1290 00:56:35,500 --> 00:56:38,060 for a generic term-- a wall of townhomes, 1291 00:56:38,260 --> 00:56:41,940 but it seems to fit the context of the neighborhood. 1292 00:56:42,140 --> 00:56:44,980 And, like I said, it would be very 1293 00:56:45,180 --> 00:56:46,900 hard to get 25 units per acre. 1294 00:56:47,100 --> 00:56:49,540 I mean, you just can't build-- like, if you were just 1295 00:56:49,740 --> 00:56:51,460 on a single fixed storey, or two storey single family 1296 00:56:51,660 --> 00:56:54,140 homes or townhomes, you won't even get anywhere 1297 00:56:54,340 --> 00:56:55,820 near 25 units per acre. 1298 00:56:56,020 --> 00:56:56,468 It's mathematically impossible. 1299 00:56:56,668 --> 00:56:57,760 COMMISSIONER COX: Understood. 1300 00:56:57,960 --> 00:57:03,695 MICHELLE: To answer the question about the-- so when you go 1301 00:57:03,895 --> 00:57:07,000 to C3, you're looking at more of your trades being allowed, 1302 00:57:07,200 --> 00:57:09,300 like construction and warehousing, wholesale trades, 1303 00:57:09,500 --> 00:57:13,180 that type of thing, which are-- 1304 00:57:13,380 --> 00:57:16,700 typically can have more outdoor impacts. 1305 00:57:16,900 --> 00:57:20,940 So that's a really big difference 1306 00:57:21,140 --> 00:57:22,800 between C1 and C2 and C3. 1307 00:57:23,000 --> 00:57:24,822 COMMISSIONER COX: So more of an industrial aesthetic. 1308 00:57:25,022 --> 00:57:27,330 MICHELLE: Yeah, it's almost like a light industrial allowance 1309 00:57:27,530 --> 00:57:28,530 there in C3. 1310 00:57:28,730 --> 00:57:31,850 So you could have maybe a construction company or heating 1311 00:57:32,050 --> 00:57:35,850 and air, or some kind of a trade, 1312 00:57:36,050 --> 00:57:38,790 and some light warehousing, which is a little more 1313 00:57:38,990 --> 00:57:40,930 intense than C1 and C2. 1314 00:57:41,130 --> 00:57:43,430 COMMISSIONER COX: Thank you, Michelle. 1315 00:57:43,630 --> 00:57:45,670 Thank you, Mr. Steiner. 1316 00:57:45,870 --> 00:57:48,710 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Other questions on this item? 1317 00:57:48,910 --> 00:57:51,350 All right. 1318 00:57:51,550 --> 00:57:53,170 I have no other speaker cards. 1319 00:57:53,370 --> 00:57:57,825 Anybody else from the applicant wanting 1320 00:57:58,025 --> 00:58:00,350 to speak before we close the public comment opportunity? 1321 00:58:00,550 --> 00:58:06,710 Well, I'll give you one minute. 1322 00:58:06,910 --> 00:58:09,070 I think you only used two of your minutes. 1323 00:58:09,910 --> 00:58:17,110 Hit the button once. 1324 00:58:17,310 --> 00:58:18,810 Perfect. 1325 00:58:19,010 --> 00:58:20,810 SPEAKER 6: It's just about the multi-use. 1326 00:58:21,010 --> 00:58:23,530 I think what I read in y'all's documentation is that 1327 00:58:23,730 --> 00:58:27,760 it's supposed to stay with the predominant type of buildings 1328 00:58:27,960 --> 00:58:33,360 in that area. 1329 00:58:33,560 --> 00:58:35,240 So predominantly in that area is residential. 1330 00:58:35,440 --> 00:58:39,000 The other thing, I don't know if they haven't come forward 1331 00:58:39,200 --> 00:58:41,775 and says what they're going to build in the future. 1332 00:58:41,975 --> 00:58:44,200 I know that doesn't affect today, but when you live there, 1333 00:58:44,400 --> 00:58:47,828 you're like, I wonder what's going on here. 1334 00:58:48,028 --> 00:58:49,620 And that's all I had about that. 1335 00:58:49,820 --> 00:58:49,770 Thank you. 1336 00:58:49,970 --> 00:58:50,870 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Yes, sir. 1337 00:58:51,070 --> 00:58:52,162 I certainly understand that. 1338 00:58:52,362 --> 00:58:52,740 OK. 1339 00:58:52,940 --> 00:58:55,220 Now I'll close the public comment 1340 00:58:55,420 --> 00:58:59,060 opportunity of the meeting and bring it back to the board. 1341 00:58:59,260 --> 00:59:00,750 COMMISSIONER MIXON: For consideration, I'd 1342 00:59:00,950 --> 00:59:03,700 love to hear your thoughts as the District Commissioner, 1343 00:59:03,900 --> 00:59:06,333 and I'd be glad to make a motion following that. 1344 00:59:06,533 --> 00:59:06,620 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: That's what 1345 00:59:06,820 --> 00:59:08,480 I was going to suggest as well. 1346 00:59:08,680 --> 00:59:10,960 Chairman, it's your district, and I do feel for the resident. 1347 00:59:11,160 --> 00:59:14,220 If I had a home there, I'd be concerned about lease buffers 1348 00:59:14,420 --> 00:59:14,680 and the density. 1349 00:59:14,880 --> 00:59:16,035 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Yeah. 1350 00:59:16,235 --> 00:59:18,660 I mean, that's really where I am on it. 1351 00:59:18,860 --> 00:59:20,180 I mean, when you look at the map-- 1352 00:59:20,380 --> 00:59:23,157 and I know we're a little out of order 1353 00:59:23,357 --> 00:59:25,340 because we don't have a motion, but because I'm the chairman-- 1354 00:59:25,540 --> 00:59:27,645 COMMISSIONER MIXON: I'll make a motion. 1355 00:59:27,845 --> 00:59:28,670 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: OK. 1356 00:59:28,870 --> 00:59:30,190 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Sure, a motion to approve. 1357 00:59:30,390 --> 00:59:32,407 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And then a second for discussion. 1358 00:59:32,607 --> 00:59:34,420 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: I'll second this one. 1359 00:59:34,620 --> 00:59:35,652 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: So here's my thoughts on it-- 1360 00:59:35,852 --> 00:59:37,177 and I'll probably support it. 1361 00:59:37,377 --> 00:59:41,420 But my biggest-- the reason I think we should consider it, 1362 00:59:41,620 --> 00:59:45,060 it is an extenuation of mixed use. 1363 00:59:45,260 --> 00:59:47,000 And from a planning perspective, mixed use 1364 00:59:47,200 --> 00:59:50,720 is considered a proper transition zone. 1365 00:59:50,920 --> 00:59:54,925 Now, whether or not we have mixed 1366 00:59:55,125 --> 00:59:56,900 use defined in the very best way that we 1367 00:59:57,100 --> 00:59:58,880 should in our land development code, 1368 00:59:59,080 --> 01:00:00,320 that's a different question. 1369 01:00:00,520 --> 01:00:03,200 Whether or not we should have additional safeguards in there, 1370 01:00:03,400 --> 01:00:05,160 that's a different question, but mixed use 1371 01:00:05,360 --> 01:00:06,080 is considered transitional. 1372 01:00:06,280 --> 01:00:08,560 So I don't think that approving this 1373 01:00:08,760 --> 01:00:11,240 violates any planning standards, but there 1374 01:00:11,440 --> 01:00:18,500 is that concern about it opening up C3 because it's so much more 1375 01:00:18,700 --> 01:00:20,750 intense. 1376 01:00:20,950 --> 01:00:25,630 So if this was abutted by SR instead of R1, 1377 01:00:25,730 --> 01:00:35,030 it would be less of a concern because it would be probably 1378 01:00:35,230 --> 01:00:36,190 apartments or something next to it. 1379 01:00:36,390 --> 01:00:38,290 These are single family houses. 1380 01:00:38,490 --> 01:00:40,450 Some of them are on Highway 98. 1381 01:00:40,650 --> 01:00:44,530 I mean, to some extent, if you live on in a single family 1382 01:00:44,730 --> 01:00:46,090 house on Highway 98, you're already used to noise. 1383 01:00:46,290 --> 01:00:48,110 You just are. 1384 01:00:48,310 --> 01:00:49,970 It just is what it is. 1385 01:00:50,170 --> 01:00:53,250 So in this situation, I hear what the constituents have said. 1386 01:00:53,450 --> 01:00:59,470 I also have to trust the land development code provisions 1387 01:00:59,670 --> 01:01:04,690 that we have that deal with buffering and mitigation 1388 01:01:04,890 --> 01:01:08,750 to be the gatekeeper at the staff level development order 1389 01:01:08,950 --> 01:01:13,470 step. 1390 01:01:13,670 --> 01:01:16,790 And if Michelle can tell me that at the development order 1391 01:01:16,990 --> 01:01:20,160 step at the staff level, that the staff would 1392 01:01:20,360 --> 01:01:23,040 be keenly watching those buffering and mitigation 1393 01:01:23,240 --> 01:01:27,780 elements that are baked in there, 1394 01:01:27,980 --> 01:01:30,280 then I would be comfortable moving forward. 1395 01:01:30,480 --> 01:01:32,840 And I'm getting a yes so, Michelle, 1396 01:01:33,040 --> 01:01:37,720 can I say on the record, you've said, yes, the development order 1397 01:01:37,920 --> 01:01:41,820 level, even though it will be a staff development order, if it's 1398 01:01:42,020 --> 01:01:44,100 dependent on the intensity you use, 1399 01:01:44,300 --> 01:01:46,640 you'll be strongly watching those buffering and mitigation 1400 01:01:46,840 --> 01:01:49,880 elements that are already in the code? 1401 01:01:50,080 --> 01:01:50,310 MICHELLE: Yes. 1402 01:01:50,510 --> 01:01:51,420 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: OK. 1403 01:01:51,620 --> 01:01:53,420 So with that, I would-- 1404 01:01:53,620 --> 01:01:56,360 I'd be in favor of it. 1405 01:01:56,560 --> 01:02:00,160 So, any other comments? 1406 01:02:00,360 --> 01:02:00,898 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Sure. 1407 01:02:01,098 --> 01:02:04,040 The reason I was swift to make a motion without having 1408 01:02:04,240 --> 01:02:06,880 to do any further questions or time is for planning purposes. 1409 01:02:07,080 --> 01:02:12,240 This is Highway 98, it's the major East West connector. 1410 01:02:12,440 --> 01:02:14,840 There's not a secondary yet. 1411 01:02:15,040 --> 01:02:17,650 We're working on that. 1412 01:02:17,850 --> 01:02:19,870 Would this zoning fit on the secondary? 1413 01:02:20,070 --> 01:02:20,750 Probably not. 1414 01:02:20,950 --> 01:02:23,550 Does it fit where it is on 98? 1415 01:02:23,750 --> 01:02:23,710 Sure. 1416 01:02:23,910 --> 01:02:27,370 But we're back in the mix of-- just like the Eglin Parkway 1417 01:02:27,570 --> 01:02:28,590 comment a few minutes ago-- 1418 01:02:28,790 --> 01:02:32,550 it's not our road, but we have to deal with what we have, 1419 01:02:32,750 --> 01:02:33,630 and that's a major thoroughfare. 1420 01:02:33,830 --> 01:02:36,352 Could you imagine if we were faced with someone 1421 01:02:36,552 --> 01:02:38,310 right now wanting to put a nice community there, 1422 01:02:38,510 --> 01:02:42,410 with all of the houses facing outward to the connecting roads, 1423 01:02:42,610 --> 01:02:45,730 we would be pretty emphatic. 1424 01:02:45,930 --> 01:02:47,410 The state would be pretty emphatic, 1425 01:02:47,610 --> 01:02:48,690 denying driveway permit request. 1426 01:02:48,890 --> 01:02:51,870 There would be a different conversation happening. 1427 01:02:52,070 --> 01:02:55,790 This puts it really where it ought to be for future purposes, 1428 01:02:55,990 --> 01:02:58,630 for the purpose of our future planning. 1429 01:02:58,830 --> 01:03:02,930 And then it's comforting to know that we have a great staff that 1430 01:03:03,130 --> 01:03:03,690 works through the development order process, 1431 01:03:03,890 --> 01:03:06,110 and that's why I moved forward. 1432 01:03:06,310 --> 01:03:09,297 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Further discussion, Commissioners? 1433 01:03:09,497 --> 01:03:13,130 All right, those in favor, please signify by saying, aye. 1434 01:03:13,330 --> 01:03:13,170 COMMISSIONERS: Aye. 1435 01:03:13,370 --> 01:03:14,562 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And those opposed. 1436 01:03:14,762 --> 01:03:15,780 All right. 1437 01:03:15,980 --> 01:03:17,560 That passes unanimously, so thank you. 1438 01:03:17,760 --> 01:03:24,420 Well, that was for-- 1439 01:03:24,620 --> 01:03:25,580 it's a small scale. 1440 01:03:25,780 --> 01:03:28,180 It's a future land use map amendment and rezoning. 1441 01:03:28,380 --> 01:03:32,360 I understood, even though I know the future land use 1442 01:03:32,560 --> 01:03:34,000 map is legislative, even though it's on here-- 1443 01:03:34,200 --> 01:03:36,280 what? 1444 01:03:36,480 --> 01:03:39,620 COMMISSIONER MIXON: I'll be glad to make the second motion. 1445 01:03:39,820 --> 01:03:39,990 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Yeah, that's fine. 1446 01:03:40,190 --> 01:03:40,780 We have a-- 1447 01:03:40,980 --> 01:03:42,300 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: And I'll do the corresponding 1448 01:03:42,500 --> 01:03:43,040 if you wish. 1449 01:03:43,240 --> 01:03:44,040 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 1450 01:03:44,240 --> 01:03:45,940 Further discussion. 1451 01:03:46,140 --> 01:03:48,847 All those in favor, please signify by saying, aye. 1452 01:03:49,047 --> 01:03:49,130 COMMISSIONERS: Aye. 1453 01:03:49,330 --> 01:03:50,110 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And those opposed. 1454 01:03:50,310 --> 01:03:51,777 All right, thank you. 1455 01:03:51,977 --> 01:03:55,220 And just as a reminder, I mean-- and unless I'm wrong, 1456 01:03:55,420 --> 01:03:57,720 somebody tell me, I think as long as it-- 1457 01:03:57,920 --> 01:03:59,480 the plan Amendment portion of it, 1458 01:03:59,680 --> 01:04:01,480 it's not Q-J. It's actually legislative. 1459 01:04:01,680 --> 01:04:05,420 The zoning is the only quasi judicial. 1460 01:04:05,620 --> 01:04:08,520 And I think once we have approved legislatively 1461 01:04:08,720 --> 01:04:11,730 the future land use map change, there's 1462 01:04:11,930 --> 01:04:15,190 not a whole lot of leeway to deny the rezoning. 1463 01:04:15,390 --> 01:04:17,230 So, anyway, sometimes we group them 1464 01:04:17,430 --> 01:04:21,650 together like this and call it all quasi judicial, 1465 01:04:21,850 --> 01:04:23,650 but I don't think it really is. 1466 01:04:23,850 --> 01:04:24,170 So, thanks. 1467 01:04:24,370 --> 01:04:29,770 All right. 1468 01:04:29,970 --> 01:04:31,770 We've already dealt with public hearing item number 1469 01:04:31,970 --> 01:04:34,330 three, which is actually not a public hearing item. 1470 01:04:34,530 --> 01:04:37,750 It just is a consent to set a meeting which has been done. 1471 01:04:37,950 --> 01:04:39,350 That brings us to public hearing item 1472 01:04:39,550 --> 01:04:41,490 number four, related to water and sewer 1473 01:04:41,690 --> 01:04:46,050 sell performance of a construction for a lift station. 1474 01:04:46,250 --> 01:04:48,490 So, Mr. Hackett. 1475 01:04:48,690 --> 01:04:49,530 MR. HACKETT: Yes. 1476 01:04:49,730 --> 01:04:50,690 Good morning, Mr. Chairman, Commissioners. 1477 01:04:50,890 --> 01:04:54,230 I'm here to request board approval 1478 01:04:54,430 --> 01:04:57,690 to self-perform construction of the West Sunset Drive lift 1479 01:04:57,890 --> 01:05:01,270 station replacement project. 1480 01:05:01,470 --> 01:05:04,870 We estimate that project to be almost $880,000. 1481 01:05:05,070 --> 01:05:10,690 It's an antiquated, bucket style lift station, one of the many 1482 01:05:10,890 --> 01:05:12,900 that we've been trying to replace. 1483 01:05:13,100 --> 01:05:15,780 The new station will have submersible pumps, increased 1484 01:05:15,980 --> 01:05:19,700 capacity, and meet all of our current lift station standards. 1485 01:05:19,900 --> 01:05:23,620 This particular lift station will actually 1486 01:05:23,820 --> 01:05:28,600 be relocated on the other side of the street where it is now. 1487 01:05:28,800 --> 01:05:31,940 We would provide the majority of the labor 1488 01:05:32,140 --> 01:05:34,260 but do intend to contract for wetwell installation. 1489 01:05:34,460 --> 01:05:39,420 The public hearing notice appeared in Northwest Florida 1490 01:05:39,620 --> 01:05:41,640 Daily News, July 16. 1491 01:05:41,840 --> 01:05:46,520 As of yet, we have not received any comments or inquiries 1492 01:05:46,720 --> 01:05:47,700 from the public. 1493 01:05:47,900 --> 01:05:50,780 I'll be happy to answer any questions you may have. 1494 01:05:50,980 --> 01:05:54,562 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Any questions 1495 01:05:54,762 --> 01:05:57,820 before I open the public comment opportunity of this hearing? 1496 01:05:58,020 --> 01:06:00,840 I don't see any. 1497 01:06:01,040 --> 01:06:01,800 I have no cards. 1498 01:06:02,000 --> 01:06:03,760 Anybody here to speak on this item? 1499 01:06:03,960 --> 01:06:04,800 All right. 1500 01:06:05,000 --> 01:06:06,200 I don't see anybody coming forward. 1501 01:06:06,400 --> 01:06:07,658 We'll close the public comment opportunity. 1502 01:06:07,858 --> 01:06:11,370 We will bring this back to the board. 1503 01:06:11,570 --> 01:06:14,090 This isn't my district. 1504 01:06:14,290 --> 01:06:17,590 This is a project that I would say water 1505 01:06:17,790 --> 01:06:21,550 and sewer staff has been working on for quite a while, 1506 01:06:21,750 --> 01:06:25,050 including obtaining land right of way, and it's been a lot. 1507 01:06:25,250 --> 01:06:30,830 And I think that staff got to a very good place 1508 01:06:31,030 --> 01:06:32,670 with the local residents and figuring out 1509 01:06:32,870 --> 01:06:36,530 how to place this where it goes, how to get the easements 1510 01:06:36,730 --> 01:06:37,810 or property rights that were needed, 1511 01:06:38,010 --> 01:06:39,750 all that's been worked out. 1512 01:06:39,950 --> 01:06:41,468 I understand that's not what this is. 1513 01:06:41,668 --> 01:06:43,610 This is just about letting your staff go ahead 1514 01:06:43,810 --> 01:06:44,290 and self-perform it. 1515 01:06:44,490 --> 01:06:47,090 You guys do a great job, so I'm certainly 1516 01:06:47,290 --> 01:06:51,390 going to vote in favor of it if we have a motion and a second. 1517 01:06:51,590 --> 01:06:50,733 COMMISSIONER PALMER: That's right. 1518 01:06:50,933 --> 01:06:53,050 You're still correct on both counts though. 1519 01:06:53,250 --> 01:06:55,070 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Great. 1520 01:06:55,270 --> 01:06:56,430 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Second. 1521 01:06:56,630 --> 01:06:57,210 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 1522 01:06:57,410 --> 01:06:59,090 I have a motion to approve by Commissioner Palmer, 1523 01:06:59,290 --> 01:06:59,973 second by Commissioner Mixon. 1524 01:07:00,173 --> 01:07:00,690 Further discussion, Commissioners? 1525 01:07:00,890 --> 01:07:04,410 All right, those in favor, please signify by saying, aye. 1526 01:07:04,610 --> 01:07:04,300 COMMISSIONERS: Aye. 1527 01:07:04,500 --> 01:07:05,590 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And those opposed. 1528 01:07:05,790 --> 01:07:07,257 All right, that passes unanimously. 1529 01:07:07,457 --> 01:07:10,100 And you have a second item, public hearing number 1530 01:07:10,300 --> 01:07:13,080 five related to Mariners Lane and Neptune Drive. 1531 01:07:13,280 --> 01:07:17,040 MR. HACKETT: That's correct. 1532 01:07:17,240 --> 01:07:20,080 Round two, I'm here to request board approval 1533 01:07:20,280 --> 01:07:23,340 to self-perform construction of the Mariners Lane and Neptune 1534 01:07:23,540 --> 01:07:27,300 Drive water main upgrade project. 1535 01:07:27,500 --> 01:07:32,560 We maintain 6-inch water mains on both Mariners and Neptune. 1536 01:07:32,760 --> 01:07:37,820 They serve about 45 single family homes. 1537 01:07:38,020 --> 01:07:42,840 These old water mains were inherited from the now dissolved 1538 01:07:43,040 --> 01:07:45,780 seashore village water system, and they're desperately 1539 01:07:45,980 --> 01:07:49,300 in need of replacement. 1540 01:07:49,500 --> 01:07:54,660 This would entail about a half a mile of new 6-inch PVC water 1541 01:07:54,860 --> 01:07:57,460 main installation. 1542 01:07:57,660 --> 01:08:01,960 We estimate the project to be about $450,000. 1543 01:08:02,160 --> 01:08:07,420 We'd like to get started at the end of this year, possibly 1544 01:08:07,620 --> 01:08:09,240 early next year. 1545 01:08:09,440 --> 01:08:12,620 The public hearing notice did appear in Northwest Florida 1546 01:08:12,820 --> 01:08:14,760 Daily News on July 17. 1547 01:08:14,960 --> 01:08:19,400 As of yet, we have not received any comment or any inquiry 1548 01:08:19,600 --> 01:08:21,040 from the public. 1549 01:08:21,240 --> 01:08:24,440 I'd be happy to answer any questions you may have. 1550 01:08:24,640 --> 01:08:26,379 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Commissioners, questions. 1551 01:08:26,579 --> 01:08:30,580 Just one clarification, I think I know the answer. 1552 01:08:30,780 --> 01:08:33,900 I was saying it for the public, so I know. 1553 01:08:34,100 --> 01:08:35,240 6-inch lines, half a million dollars I'm rounding. 1554 01:08:35,440 --> 01:08:38,659 45 houses sounds like a lot. 1555 01:08:38,859 --> 01:08:41,640 The 6-inches is probably overkill for your pressure, 1556 01:08:41,840 --> 01:08:45,460 but don't you have to have 6 inch to meet fire protection? 1557 01:08:45,660 --> 01:08:45,863 MR. HACKETT: That's correct. 1558 01:08:46,063 --> 01:08:48,530 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: So that's why a 6-inch line is going 1559 01:08:48,730 --> 01:08:52,360 in to serve 45 houses, because you've got to meet that fire 1560 01:08:52,560 --> 01:08:53,059 protection standard, it's my understanding? 1561 01:08:53,259 --> 01:08:54,890 MR. HACKETT: You're right. 1562 01:08:55,090 --> 01:08:55,673 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: OK. 1563 01:08:55,873 --> 01:08:58,926 This is also in my district. 1564 01:08:59,126 --> 01:09:01,143 Well, I guess I better open the public comment 1565 01:09:01,343 --> 01:09:01,860 opportunity of the meeting. 1566 01:09:02,060 --> 01:09:04,570 Anybody from the public want to speak on this item? 1567 01:09:04,770 --> 01:09:05,870 I see nobody coming forward. 1568 01:09:06,070 --> 01:09:06,490 We'll close that. 1569 01:09:06,690 --> 01:09:09,250 Bring it back to the board. 1570 01:09:09,450 --> 01:09:09,990 It's in my district. 1571 01:09:10,190 --> 01:09:12,149 I'm in favor of it. 1572 01:09:12,349 --> 01:09:13,730 I think Mr. Hackett spoke well to it. 1573 01:09:13,930 --> 01:09:14,950 So, Commissioner-- 1574 01:09:15,150 --> 01:09:17,260 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: I'll be glad to make 1575 01:09:17,460 --> 01:09:17,610 a motion for approval. 1576 01:09:17,810 --> 01:09:18,360 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: OK. 1577 01:09:18,560 --> 01:09:21,202 So I think I got Commissioner Ketchel with a motion, 1578 01:09:21,402 --> 01:09:23,069 and Commissioner Cox with a second. 1579 01:09:23,269 --> 01:09:23,909 Is that-- 1580 01:09:24,109 --> 01:09:24,709 COMMISSIONER COX: Sure. 1581 01:09:24,909 --> 01:09:25,120 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: OK. 1582 01:09:25,320 --> 01:09:26,162 Any further discussion? 1583 01:09:26,362 --> 01:09:27,750 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Yeah, just briefly. 1584 01:09:27,950 --> 01:09:32,415 I don't think we pointed out in the last one, 1585 01:09:32,615 --> 01:09:33,990 but there are private businesses that do this work. 1586 01:09:34,190 --> 01:09:38,570 You do operate an enterprise, and we 1587 01:09:38,770 --> 01:09:41,370 are fiscally responsible to oversee 1588 01:09:41,570 --> 01:09:44,730 the entirety of the budget and of Louis County. 1589 01:09:44,930 --> 01:09:47,850 The projects like this one is noted to have a 300,000 plus 1590 01:09:48,050 --> 01:09:52,410 savings, and so it's just great to be innovative in such a way 1591 01:09:52,610 --> 01:09:56,310 that you don't say, oh, we don't have the staff for it, 1592 01:09:56,510 --> 01:09:58,390 or it'll be three years before we can get to it. 1593 01:09:58,590 --> 01:09:59,190 But you push forward as an enterprise 1594 01:09:59,390 --> 01:10:01,610 to see that our opportunity to be fiscally responsible 1595 01:10:01,810 --> 01:10:05,720 is achieved, and our staff continues to press forward 1596 01:10:05,920 --> 01:10:07,260 with great work. 1597 01:10:07,460 --> 01:10:08,460 So thanks, Mr. Hackett. 1598 01:10:08,660 --> 01:10:09,120 MR. HACKETT: Absolutely. 1599 01:10:09,320 --> 01:10:09,880 Thank you. 1600 01:10:10,080 --> 01:10:11,300 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Further discussion? 1601 01:10:11,500 --> 01:10:13,280 All right. 1602 01:10:13,480 --> 01:10:15,580 I think that's a great point that it's not 1603 01:10:15,780 --> 01:10:20,180 as much about having your staff competing with private market. 1604 01:10:20,380 --> 01:10:23,860 There's plenty of private jobs out there to do. 1605 01:10:24,060 --> 01:10:26,720 The one thing I think is very good about the fact 1606 01:10:26,920 --> 01:10:28,940 that you basically have a fully staffed and fully equipped 1607 01:10:29,140 --> 01:10:32,320 construction crew is that when something happens, 1608 01:10:32,520 --> 01:10:37,980 you have the equipment, you have the personnel and the expertise 1609 01:10:38,180 --> 01:10:42,080 to address things that come up on, say, a Sunday afternoon 1610 01:10:42,280 --> 01:10:42,920 if needed. 1611 01:10:43,120 --> 01:10:45,420 And you have people that respond. 1612 01:10:45,620 --> 01:10:47,820 That's not the same in private sector 1613 01:10:48,020 --> 01:10:49,600 if you're trying to call a contractor. 1614 01:10:49,800 --> 01:10:51,940 And if you weren't able to self-perform these jobs, 1615 01:10:52,140 --> 01:10:56,000 you wouldn't be able to keep that construction crew in-house. 1616 01:10:56,200 --> 01:11:00,530 You would have to-- you wouldn't be able to maintain 1617 01:11:00,730 --> 01:11:01,650 that part of your department. 1618 01:11:01,850 --> 01:11:04,535 So I think that's very important. 1619 01:11:04,735 --> 01:11:06,510 You've got them, they serve an emergency function, 1620 01:11:06,710 --> 01:11:09,193 but they've got to have something to do every day. 1621 01:11:09,393 --> 01:11:10,677 And that's exactly what you're doing right now, 1622 01:11:10,877 --> 01:11:12,610 is you're giving them everyday work that 1623 01:11:12,810 --> 01:11:15,530 will serve our citizens, and probably a very favorable value. 1624 01:11:15,730 --> 01:11:19,310 MR. HACKETT: Extremely favorable. 1625 01:11:19,510 --> 01:11:22,410 And if I may, it's also been beneficial 1626 01:11:22,610 --> 01:11:26,270 for some of our brothers and sisters, other municipalities, 1627 01:11:26,470 --> 01:11:31,290 whereby they've contracted with us to perform work, 1628 01:11:31,490 --> 01:11:34,790 and we've been able to save those municipal systems 1629 01:11:34,990 --> 01:11:38,470 a lot of money as well and still cover all of our costs. 1630 01:11:38,670 --> 01:11:40,390 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Very good, very good. 1631 01:11:40,590 --> 01:11:41,690 So, commissioners, anything further? 1632 01:11:41,890 --> 01:11:45,425 Otherwise, those in favor, please signify by saying, aye. 1633 01:11:45,625 --> 01:11:46,000 COMMISSIONERS: Aye. 1634 01:11:46,200 --> 01:11:47,600 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And those opposed-- all right. 1635 01:11:47,800 --> 01:11:48,510 That passes unanimously. 1636 01:11:48,710 --> 01:11:49,550 Thank you, sir. 1637 01:11:49,750 --> 01:11:50,475 MR. HACKETT: Thank you. 1638 01:11:50,675 --> 01:11:51,437 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 1639 01:11:51,637 --> 01:11:53,070 That brings us to department business. 1640 01:11:53,270 --> 01:11:56,270 And Mr. Bitterman, Public Works Director, I 1641 01:11:56,470 --> 01:12:00,320 believe you're up with the infrastructure surtax list. 1642 01:12:00,520 --> 01:12:06,532 SCOTT BITTERMAN: Yes, sir. 1643 01:12:06,732 --> 01:12:09,180 Good morning, Chairman and Commissioners. 1644 01:12:09,380 --> 01:12:11,560 Scott Bitterman with the Public Works Department. 1645 01:12:11,760 --> 01:12:15,180 The item today from public works is a request 1646 01:12:15,380 --> 01:12:18,120 to approve the 2026 needs list for the infrastructure surtax 1647 01:12:18,320 --> 01:12:20,520 renewal. 1648 01:12:20,720 --> 01:12:23,720 In 2018, Okaloosa County voters approved a referendum 1649 01:12:23,920 --> 01:12:27,480 establishing a 10-year half cent sales surtax for public safety, 1650 01:12:27,680 --> 01:12:30,280 transportation and stormwater projects. 1651 01:12:30,480 --> 01:12:34,860 To build public trust and clearly define 1652 01:12:35,060 --> 01:12:36,820 how revenues would be invested, the county 1653 01:12:37,020 --> 01:12:40,480 published a surtax project needs list prior to that vote. 1654 01:12:40,680 --> 01:12:43,620 All of the projects proposed in 2018 1655 01:12:43,820 --> 01:12:46,560 have either been completed or in active construction or design. 1656 01:12:46,760 --> 01:12:52,600 The renewal of the surtax will be on the November 2026 ballot. 1657 01:12:52,800 --> 01:12:55,680 The list before you are candidates for projects 1658 01:12:55,880 --> 01:12:58,750 for unincorporated Okaloosa County's portion of the surtax 1659 01:12:58,950 --> 01:13:02,710 if the voters choose to renew the program. 1660 01:13:02,910 --> 01:13:05,750 The Surtax Advisory Committee did meet last month, 1661 01:13:05,950 --> 01:13:07,650 and they approved the list. 1662 01:13:07,850 --> 01:13:11,170 And I would recommend a motion to approve the 2026 needs 1663 01:13:11,370 --> 01:13:12,770 list for infrastructure surtax renewal. 1664 01:13:12,970 --> 01:13:15,810 I'd be glad to answer any questions. 1665 01:13:16,010 --> 01:13:16,870 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 1666 01:13:17,070 --> 01:13:18,970 Commissioners, questions or action on this item. 1667 01:13:19,170 --> 01:13:23,342 COMMISSIONER COX: I just want to thank you guys for the hard work 1668 01:13:23,542 --> 01:13:23,950 that you do on this. 1669 01:13:24,150 --> 01:13:27,020 And to our Surtax Committee who may or may not 1670 01:13:27,220 --> 01:13:30,670 be in the audience today, if you're watching from home, 1671 01:13:30,870 --> 01:13:34,130 just know how much we appreciate the hard work that 1672 01:13:34,330 --> 01:13:35,430 goes into this. 1673 01:13:35,630 --> 01:13:38,190 I'm sure there's quite a bit of time away from families 1674 01:13:38,390 --> 01:13:40,670 spent in this probably under-celebrated positions, 1675 01:13:40,870 --> 01:13:44,130 but we do appreciate it. 1676 01:13:44,330 --> 01:13:46,750 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: I'll make a motion for approval. 1677 01:13:46,950 --> 01:13:50,110 Second, unless you want to, Ms Cox, If you will. 1678 01:13:50,310 --> 01:13:51,842 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: You've already got it seconded. 1679 01:13:52,042 --> 01:13:53,750 So, Commissioner Ketchel move to approve. 1680 01:13:53,950 --> 01:13:55,260 Commissioner Cox seconded it. 1681 01:13:55,460 --> 01:13:56,158 Further discussion? 1682 01:13:56,358 --> 01:13:57,250 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: Yes. 1683 01:13:57,450 --> 01:14:00,733 So, what I wanted to say this is such a timely moment 1684 01:14:00,933 --> 01:14:03,380 because, even with Mr. Hackett before, 1685 01:14:03,580 --> 01:14:08,000 our public has a hard time, and I totally understand it 1686 01:14:08,200 --> 01:14:11,520 because when I first became a commissioner 12 years ago, 1687 01:14:11,720 --> 01:14:14,753 it took me a long time to learn about all the different pots 1688 01:14:14,953 --> 01:14:14,253 of money. 1689 01:14:14,453 --> 01:14:15,820 We have four amazing enterprise funds. 1690 01:14:16,020 --> 01:14:19,220 We're going to hear from one shortly, the airports. 1691 01:14:19,420 --> 01:14:21,040 Then we have the surtax, which is 1692 01:14:21,240 --> 01:14:24,500 on the ballot, which has allowed us to just do phenomenal things. 1693 01:14:24,700 --> 01:14:27,540 I'm so hopeful that the public will approve it 1694 01:14:27,740 --> 01:14:30,240 because without it, I mean, I wouldn't have been 1695 01:14:30,440 --> 01:14:31,340 a commissioner for four years. 1696 01:14:31,540 --> 01:14:33,190 I mean, that would have been it. 1697 01:14:33,390 --> 01:14:35,520 Because people would call and say, would you fix my road? 1698 01:14:35,720 --> 01:14:36,140 Could you do this? 1699 01:14:36,340 --> 01:14:38,100 And I'd have to say, yeah, we'll put you 1700 01:14:38,300 --> 01:14:40,800 on the list as seven years till we can get to that project. 1701 01:14:41,000 --> 01:14:42,480 We're able to do things so quickly now and make 1702 01:14:42,680 --> 01:14:42,520 a difference. 1703 01:14:42,720 --> 01:14:45,000 But as I speak to different audiences, 1704 01:14:45,200 --> 01:14:48,900 they're very confused about the homestead exemption and what 1705 01:14:49,100 --> 01:14:51,180 that will mean. 1706 01:14:51,380 --> 01:14:53,310 Well, why can't you just take the money out 1707 01:14:53,510 --> 01:14:53,902 of tourist development funds? 1708 01:14:54,102 --> 01:14:55,990 Because we can't legally do that. 1709 01:14:56,190 --> 01:14:59,570 So you can't take roads and lifeguards out 1710 01:14:59,770 --> 01:15:03,770 of a different-- we are very limited as to how 1711 01:15:03,970 --> 01:15:05,590 we can use funds. 1712 01:15:05,790 --> 01:15:07,250 So if the homestead exemption would pass, 1713 01:15:07,450 --> 01:15:10,950 heaven help us because we won't have the money 1714 01:15:11,150 --> 01:15:13,350 to do anything to run the systems that we 1715 01:15:13,550 --> 01:15:14,670 have in the county. 1716 01:15:14,870 --> 01:15:17,590 And I know a lot of people don't like to pay taxes. 1717 01:15:17,790 --> 01:15:17,570 Who does? 1718 01:15:17,770 --> 01:15:20,150 Oh yeah, I want to pay taxes-- more taxes. 1719 01:15:20,350 --> 01:15:22,790 But we do a lot with a limited amount. 1720 01:15:22,990 --> 01:15:25,010 And the surtax has been wonderful, 1721 01:15:25,210 --> 01:15:29,170 so I'm hoping that people vote no on homestead and yes 1722 01:15:29,370 --> 01:15:29,390 on surtax. 1723 01:15:29,590 --> 01:15:33,117 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 1724 01:15:33,317 --> 01:15:33,850 Further discussion? 1725 01:15:34,050 --> 01:15:35,130 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Yes, sir. 1726 01:15:35,330 --> 01:15:38,170 I just wanted to point out that this is candidate projects, 1727 01:15:38,370 --> 01:15:41,210 and that really we're not committing future boards, 1728 01:15:41,410 --> 01:15:47,770 but we're making more of an informational acceptance. 1729 01:15:47,970 --> 01:15:49,630 Not approving specific projects. 1730 01:15:49,830 --> 01:15:52,580 Those will all come back at different times 1731 01:15:52,780 --> 01:15:54,300 as we move forward with surtax. 1732 01:15:54,500 --> 01:15:57,500 Some of these may even happen within existing surtax, 1733 01:15:57,700 --> 01:16:00,860 or be able to begin with an existing surtax. 1734 01:16:01,060 --> 01:16:03,400 And there may be other things that pop up. 1735 01:16:03,600 --> 01:16:04,860 We don't know what the future will hold. 1736 01:16:05,060 --> 01:16:08,140 But what it does is it points out that as a county, 1737 01:16:08,340 --> 01:16:10,540 we've seen the benefit to what the surtax did, 1738 01:16:10,740 --> 01:16:12,940 and we see the continuation of needs 1739 01:16:13,140 --> 01:16:16,240 that we can go in to accomplish, which 1740 01:16:16,440 --> 01:16:20,180 is very favorable because public works has been able to multiply 1741 01:16:20,380 --> 01:16:23,180 their productivity and their accomplishments 1742 01:16:23,380 --> 01:16:26,340 because of having money to do that. 1743 01:16:26,540 --> 01:16:27,978 It's always easier when there's funds 1744 01:16:28,178 --> 01:16:30,120 to be able to fix those things. 1745 01:16:30,320 --> 01:16:31,940 And so I know that our municipalities are definitely 1746 01:16:32,140 --> 01:16:34,640 in favor of continuing because it gives them the resources 1747 01:16:34,840 --> 01:16:36,080 to do things. 1748 01:16:36,280 --> 01:16:38,560 And so thank you for the work you're doing, 1749 01:16:38,760 --> 01:16:40,060 but just as we all know, there are 1750 01:16:40,260 --> 01:16:44,660 things from this list that can come and go and be 1751 01:16:44,860 --> 01:16:48,320 enhanced and be not utilized at the same time be added to. 1752 01:16:48,520 --> 01:16:52,202 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Further discussion? 1753 01:16:52,402 --> 01:16:53,610 Mr. Palmer. 1754 01:16:53,810 --> 01:16:55,050 COMMISSIONER PALMER: Mr. Chairman, thank you. 1755 01:16:55,250 --> 01:16:57,825 And I also wanted to echo that thank you 1756 01:16:58,025 --> 01:17:00,373 to you guys for all the work that you've done, 1757 01:17:00,573 --> 01:17:02,290 and thank you to the committee for all the work 1758 01:17:02,490 --> 01:17:02,578 that they're doing. 1759 01:17:02,778 --> 01:17:05,770 I think this surtax has been a game changer for our community. 1760 01:17:05,970 --> 01:17:09,090 And I just-- when it was first voted on, 1761 01:17:09,290 --> 01:17:12,743 it was a list of promises. 1762 01:17:12,943 --> 01:17:15,490 And I think now, based on the stewardship 1763 01:17:15,690 --> 01:17:18,910 that you guys have shown, you and your team and the Surtax 1764 01:17:19,110 --> 01:17:20,890 Committee has shown we have a list of accomplishments. 1765 01:17:21,090 --> 01:17:24,007 And I just want to thank you for that. 1766 01:17:24,207 --> 01:17:26,790 And so now we have proof to show that you guys are going 1767 01:17:26,990 --> 01:17:29,450 to be good stewards and we are going 1768 01:17:29,650 --> 01:17:30,650 to be good stewards of that money. 1769 01:17:30,850 --> 01:17:31,167 So thank you. 1770 01:17:31,367 --> 01:17:31,770 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Commissioners, 1771 01:17:31,970 --> 01:17:33,870 further discussion on this? 1772 01:17:34,070 --> 01:17:36,390 Well, I'll just say, looking at the list, 1773 01:17:36,590 --> 01:17:39,570 page 8.22 in the packet is-- everything 1774 01:17:39,770 --> 01:17:43,970 on there is a very valid and needed project. 1775 01:17:44,170 --> 01:17:48,670 And I think Commissioner Mixon kind of framed it 1776 01:17:48,870 --> 01:17:51,490 as this is not necessarily-- well, maybe 1777 01:17:51,690 --> 01:17:54,290 in a starting or an aspirational list 1778 01:17:54,490 --> 01:17:56,690 and it's still got to go through the process, 1779 01:17:56,890 --> 01:17:58,060 but there's a couple on there. 1780 01:17:58,260 --> 01:17:59,610 I'll go a little bit further and I'll 1781 01:17:59,810 --> 01:18:00,852 say, like that gap creek stormwater improvements 1782 01:18:01,052 --> 01:18:04,570 on there, that one, that's got to go through. 1783 01:18:04,770 --> 01:18:07,930 And we got to stay on that one. 1784 01:18:08,130 --> 01:18:12,910 There is a huge community push in that whole gap creek drainage 1785 01:18:13,110 --> 01:18:17,690 area, which is enormous. 1786 01:18:17,890 --> 01:18:23,510 And I can tell you, part of its partnership with the city 1787 01:18:23,710 --> 01:18:26,530 because it covers multi jurisdictions, 1788 01:18:26,730 --> 01:18:29,450 but that one is a big one. 1789 01:18:29,650 --> 01:18:31,870 And I know Mr. Bitterman's been working on multiple things. 1790 01:18:32,070 --> 01:18:35,010 I think just recently we voted on some grant funding 1791 01:18:35,210 --> 01:18:39,090 for a study, and I don't want to say, 1792 01:18:39,290 --> 01:18:43,070 that probably over generalizes the impact of what it is. 1793 01:18:43,270 --> 01:18:45,090 It's really a comprehensive planning analysis, I think. 1794 01:18:45,290 --> 01:18:49,980 And then this is just another piece of that component. 1795 01:18:50,180 --> 01:18:53,240 And I know this doesn't get down to the project 1796 01:18:53,440 --> 01:18:54,400 level on this list. 1797 01:18:54,600 --> 01:18:56,420 This is more concept titles. 1798 01:18:56,620 --> 01:19:00,380 But there's a few on here that I think 1799 01:19:00,580 --> 01:19:01,840 we've got to stay pretty focused on 1800 01:19:02,040 --> 01:19:05,860 and make sure they get through, but everything on there 1801 01:19:06,060 --> 01:19:07,020 is obviously an important use. 1802 01:19:07,220 --> 01:19:08,980 So, any further comment? 1803 01:19:09,180 --> 01:19:13,280 All those in favor, please signify by saying, aye. 1804 01:19:13,480 --> 01:19:13,680 COMMISSIONERS: Aye. 1805 01:19:13,880 --> 01:19:14,760 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And those opposed. 1806 01:19:14,960 --> 01:19:15,980 All right, that passes unanimously. 1807 01:19:16,180 --> 01:19:17,540 Thank you, Mr. Bitterman. 1808 01:19:17,740 --> 01:19:18,290 SCOTT BITTERMAN: Thank you. 1809 01:19:18,490 --> 01:19:18,815 Tracey Stage. 1810 01:19:19,015 --> 01:19:25,328 TRACEY STAGE: Morning, Chairman, Commissioners. 1811 01:19:25,528 --> 01:19:27,840 Tracey Stage, Airports Transit Director. 1812 01:19:28,040 --> 01:19:33,620 Got a couple slides for you this morning. 1813 01:19:33,820 --> 01:19:37,240 And, really, wanted to start it off 1814 01:19:37,440 --> 01:19:39,480 with a it's a big day for us. 1815 01:19:39,680 --> 01:19:43,300 It's been a number of months and we've held to the schedule, 1816 01:19:43,500 --> 01:19:44,670 and today we're delivering to you. 1817 01:19:44,870 --> 01:19:48,830 So I'll go ahead and start if that's OK with you, sir. 1818 01:19:49,030 --> 01:19:50,970 On February 3, this board directed 1819 01:19:51,170 --> 01:19:56,330 Transit to be realigned under the airports department. 1820 01:19:56,530 --> 01:19:59,750 Since then, our team has worked to stabilize the operation, 1821 01:19:59,950 --> 01:20:02,990 correct efficiencies, establish stronger financial and grant 1822 01:20:03,190 --> 01:20:05,830 controls, and develop and competitively 1823 01:20:06,030 --> 01:20:10,470 procure a new service model, entirely new service model. 1824 01:20:10,670 --> 01:20:16,010 Today we are presenting the results 1825 01:20:16,210 --> 01:20:18,130 of that, a leaner, accountable Okaloosa County transit 1826 01:20:18,330 --> 01:20:22,170 system supported by our state and federal partners, 1827 01:20:22,370 --> 01:20:25,030 and operated through the proposed via agreement 1828 01:20:25,230 --> 01:20:28,110 in your agenda packages. 1829 01:20:28,310 --> 01:20:30,190 I would like to-- 1830 01:20:30,390 --> 01:20:32,850 briefly joining me today, obviously, my Senior Staff, 1831 01:20:33,050 --> 01:20:38,150 Mr. Higdon, our Transit Manager, Chad, my Deputy Director, 1832 01:20:38,350 --> 01:20:40,110 Allison, our CFO. 1833 01:20:40,310 --> 01:20:42,860 And then Alex Lavoie, COO from Via. 1834 01:20:43,060 --> 01:20:47,780 And Kyle Snyder, VP from Via are joining us. 1835 01:20:47,980 --> 01:20:51,480 And they'll be available for any questions. 1836 01:20:51,680 --> 01:20:54,480 But over the months, this team here, 1837 01:20:54,680 --> 01:20:58,160 and a number of other folks back at the Department, 1838 01:20:58,360 --> 01:21:01,920 worked tirelessly to meet the schedule that we were under. 1839 01:21:02,120 --> 01:21:06,480 So kind of getting into the contract here. 1840 01:21:06,680 --> 01:21:09,300 As far as the requirements go, the proposed contract 1841 01:21:09,500 --> 01:21:10,900 creates a very clear division of responsibilities 1842 01:21:11,100 --> 01:21:13,940 versus a blended model with duplicated costs. 1843 01:21:14,140 --> 01:21:17,860 The contractor is responsible for daily operations, staffing, 1844 01:21:18,060 --> 01:21:20,780 vehicle and facility maintenance, insurance, 1845 01:21:20,980 --> 01:21:23,040 utilities, technology, supplies, customer service, 1846 01:21:23,240 --> 01:21:25,820 and required operational reporting. 1847 01:21:26,020 --> 01:21:28,360 The county remains firmly in control 1848 01:21:28,560 --> 01:21:31,920 of public accountability, executive oversight, contract 1849 01:21:32,120 --> 01:21:35,100 performance, financial controls, grant administration, 1850 01:21:35,300 --> 01:21:38,840 regulatory compliance, assets, risk management, and continuity 1851 01:21:39,040 --> 01:21:42,010 of service. 1852 01:21:42,210 --> 01:21:44,730 In short, the contractor operates the system, 1853 01:21:44,930 --> 01:21:47,690 but the county sets the standards, 1854 01:21:47,890 --> 01:21:50,210 monitors performance, and protects the public's interest. 1855 01:21:50,410 --> 01:21:57,490 So a little familiar to the budget 1856 01:21:57,690 --> 01:21:59,550 presentation specific to Transit, but this 1857 01:21:59,750 --> 01:22:03,450 is a snapshot of our fiscal year '27 cost. 1858 01:22:03,650 --> 01:22:07,910 The estimated operating budget is 4.54 million, 1859 01:22:08,110 --> 01:22:11,610 based on 40,000 revenue hours. 1860 01:22:11,810 --> 01:22:14,950 84% represents contract costs, and 16% county costs. 1861 01:22:15,150 --> 01:22:22,130 The plan is fully funded through $2.72 million in federal funds 1862 01:22:22,330 --> 01:22:27,430 and $1.82 million in state funds. 1863 01:22:27,630 --> 01:22:30,490 No anticipated general fund impact. 1864 01:22:30,690 --> 01:22:36,810 The transition also highlighted in the slide 1865 01:22:37,010 --> 01:22:39,360 produces an estimated $1.1 million 1866 01:22:39,560 --> 01:22:43,280 in annual cost reductions from the previous service operation. 1867 01:22:43,480 --> 01:22:47,500 And that goes to the model development. 1868 01:22:47,700 --> 01:22:52,522 Five-year outlook on the right hand 1869 01:22:52,722 --> 01:22:54,880 side of the slide, five-year term of the agreement, 1870 01:22:55,080 --> 01:22:57,160 obviously, projected increases in hourly revenue, hourly costs, 1871 01:22:57,360 --> 01:23:04,260 and, obviously, revenue hours as the system continues to grow. 1872 01:23:04,460 --> 01:23:10,000 For the rider-- or the client, I should say, 1873 01:23:10,200 --> 01:23:11,580 the service becomes simple and focused. 1874 01:23:11,780 --> 01:23:14,600 Eligible customers may apply reserve travel from 24 hours 1875 01:23:14,800 --> 01:23:18,620 to 14 days in advance, and receive on-demand Monday through 1876 01:23:18,820 --> 01:23:21,480 Friday service, 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. 1877 01:23:21,680 --> 01:23:24,700 The purpose is straightforward, connect residents 1878 01:23:24,900 --> 01:23:28,840 to work, education, health care, and essential shopping safely 1879 01:23:29,040 --> 01:23:31,740 and reliably when and where they need it. 1880 01:23:31,940 --> 01:23:35,320 This is more than a contractor change. 1881 01:23:35,520 --> 01:23:37,870 It's a disciplined structure of transit around service, 1882 01:23:38,070 --> 01:23:40,470 compliance, accountability. 1883 01:23:40,670 --> 01:23:44,470 Information as to the staff efforts throughout the IT 1884 01:23:44,670 --> 01:23:47,790 and procurement process are detailed in your agenda package 1885 01:23:47,990 --> 01:23:51,530 on 8.23, from the start to the finish 1886 01:23:51,730 --> 01:23:53,870 of that entire procurement process. 1887 01:23:54,070 --> 01:23:57,890 And before I go into the request, Chairman, 1888 01:23:58,090 --> 01:24:01,890 I have a three-minute video that staff has prepared 1889 01:24:02,090 --> 01:24:04,670 for you and for the public. 1890 01:24:04,870 --> 01:24:07,470 And it's going to be a very helpful tool, 1891 01:24:07,670 --> 01:24:09,110 should this contract be approved, 1892 01:24:09,310 --> 01:24:12,150 to educate the public on the system. 1893 01:24:12,350 --> 01:24:14,293 If it's OK with you, Chairman, I'd 1894 01:24:14,493 --> 01:24:16,010 like to play that video for you all. 1895 01:24:16,210 --> 01:24:16,760 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: That'd be great, please. 1896 01:24:16,960 --> 01:24:17,510 TRACEY STAGE: Thank you. 1897 01:24:17,710 --> 01:24:23,430 SPEAKER 7: Beginning September 1, 2026, 1898 01:24:23,630 --> 01:24:26,730 Okaloosa County Transit will partner with Via 1899 01:24:26,930 --> 01:24:29,570 to use its innovative technology to deliver three 1900 01:24:29,770 --> 01:24:31,950 coordinated transportation services through the Ride OCT 1901 01:24:32,150 --> 01:24:34,160 platform. 1902 01:24:34,360 --> 01:24:36,400 First, we have the ADA Paratransit 1903 01:24:36,600 --> 01:24:38,260 for eligible individuals with disabilities. 1904 01:24:38,460 --> 01:24:40,640 Next, the transportation disadvantaged service 1905 01:24:40,840 --> 01:24:44,720 for eligible residents who lack access to transportation. 1906 01:24:44,920 --> 01:24:47,620 And lastly, our public on-demand service 1907 01:24:47,820 --> 01:24:50,900 for customers who schedule and pay for individual trips. 1908 01:24:51,100 --> 01:24:54,900 While each service addresses a different need, 1909 01:24:55,100 --> 01:24:57,100 the Transportation Disadvantaged, or TD program, 1910 01:24:57,300 --> 01:25:01,220 remains a central part of our public transportation system. 1911 01:25:01,420 --> 01:25:03,760 Through the TD program, eligible riders 1912 01:25:03,960 --> 01:25:06,680 will gain access to employment, medical appointments, education, 1913 01:25:06,880 --> 01:25:09,640 shopping, and other essential destinations. 1914 01:25:09,840 --> 01:25:12,920 The TD program helps residents stay independent, 1915 01:25:13,120 --> 01:25:16,700 connected to their community, and able to access the services 1916 01:25:16,900 --> 01:25:18,600 and opportunities they rely on. 1917 01:25:18,800 --> 01:25:22,040 Ride OCT call center will be staffed by trained customer 1918 01:25:22,240 --> 01:25:24,820 service ambassadors ready to assist riders, including 1919 01:25:25,020 --> 01:25:28,080 those who may be less comfortable with technology. 1920 01:25:28,280 --> 01:25:31,400 Riders can call to ask questions, get help 1921 01:25:31,600 --> 01:25:33,810 with the application process, schedule a trip, 1922 01:25:34,010 --> 01:25:36,790 confirm pick up details, and receive support 1923 01:25:36,990 --> 01:25:38,310 throughout their experience. 1924 01:25:38,510 --> 01:25:40,210 For riders who prefer technology, 1925 01:25:40,410 --> 01:25:42,910 the mobile application offers another convenient way 1926 01:25:43,110 --> 01:25:45,490 to request trips and receive trip updates. 1927 01:25:45,690 --> 01:25:49,530 In the next section, we will discuss how the service works. 1928 01:25:49,730 --> 01:25:52,390 Step one, get the application. 1929 01:25:52,590 --> 01:25:55,550 A prospective rider may obtain an application online 1930 01:25:55,750 --> 01:25:58,010 by telephone or in person. 1931 01:25:58,210 --> 01:25:59,610 Assistance is available for individuals 1932 01:25:59,810 --> 01:26:02,510 who need help accessing or completing the application. 1933 01:26:02,710 --> 01:26:04,870 Step two, apply. 1934 01:26:05,070 --> 01:26:07,750 The applicant submits the completed application 1935 01:26:07,950 --> 01:26:09,850 and all required information. 1936 01:26:10,050 --> 01:26:11,830 Step three, approval. 1937 01:26:12,030 --> 01:26:14,310 Our eligibility coordinator reviews the application, 1938 01:26:14,510 --> 01:26:16,690 determines the rider's eligibility, 1939 01:26:16,890 --> 01:26:19,410 and notifies the applicant of the decision. 1940 01:26:19,610 --> 01:26:21,290 Approved applicants can begin requesting transportation 1941 01:26:21,490 --> 01:26:22,790 immediately. 1942 01:26:22,990 --> 01:26:25,050 Step four, schedule a ride. 1943 01:26:25,250 --> 01:26:28,210 Service is available Monday through Saturday from 6:00 AM 1944 01:26:28,410 --> 01:26:30,310 until 6:00 PM. 1945 01:26:30,510 --> 01:26:33,710 The approved applicant may request a trip using the mobile 1946 01:26:33,910 --> 01:26:36,370 app or by calling 850-833-9168, and speak directly with 1947 01:26:36,570 --> 01:26:40,930 a customer service ambassador. 1948 01:26:41,130 --> 01:26:43,050 Step five, trip confirmed. 1949 01:26:43,250 --> 01:26:46,050 The rider receives the scheduled pickup window 1950 01:26:46,250 --> 01:26:47,730 and other important trip details. 1951 01:26:47,930 --> 01:26:50,210 Step six, driver pickup. 1952 01:26:50,410 --> 01:26:52,910 The driver arrives in an appropriate vehicle 1953 01:26:53,110 --> 01:26:54,410 to transport the rider. 1954 01:26:54,610 --> 01:26:56,690 Accessible vehicles are available to accommodate riders 1955 01:26:56,890 --> 01:26:58,510 with mobility needs. 1956 01:26:58,710 --> 01:27:01,130 Step seven, ride and drop off. 1957 01:27:01,330 --> 01:27:03,790 The rider travels safely to the requested destination. 1958 01:27:03,990 --> 01:27:06,370 Step eight, trip complete. 1959 01:27:06,570 --> 01:27:08,990 The driver notifies dispatch of trip completion 1960 01:27:09,190 --> 01:27:11,450 and continues to the next scheduled pickup 1961 01:27:11,650 --> 01:27:15,190 Ride OCT is partnering with Tidewater Transit, powered 1962 01:27:15,390 --> 01:27:18,110 by Via Software, to connect residents 1963 01:27:18,310 --> 01:27:20,110 with essential people, services, and opportunities. 1964 01:27:20,310 --> 01:27:23,750 With accessible vehicles, responsive customer support, 1965 01:27:23,950 --> 01:27:26,330 and modern scheduling capabilities, 1966 01:27:26,530 --> 01:27:29,170 the new Ride OCT platform is building 1967 01:27:29,370 --> 01:27:31,200 a stronger, more sustainable transportation 1968 01:27:31,400 --> 01:27:33,480 system for our community. 1969 01:27:33,680 --> 01:27:36,780 To learn more, apply for service, or schedule a ride, 1970 01:27:36,980 --> 01:27:38,660 visit www.rideoct.com, or call 850-833-9168. 1971 01:27:39,520 --> 01:27:46,720 Our customer service ambassadors are 1972 01:27:46,920 --> 01:27:49,500 ready to answer your questions and assist you 1973 01:27:49,700 --> 01:27:50,460 throughout the process. 1974 01:27:50,660 --> 01:27:51,680 Welcome aboard. 1975 01:27:51,880 --> 01:27:55,946 TRACEY STAGE: She did it better than I could. 1976 01:27:56,146 --> 01:27:58,700 But, essentially, if the board's happy with this 1977 01:27:58,900 --> 01:28:01,720 and if this contract is approved, 1978 01:28:01,920 --> 01:28:05,220 that's going to go live on the website today. 1979 01:28:05,420 --> 01:28:08,000 We do have a brand new website that Via has put together. 1980 01:28:08,200 --> 01:28:09,880 It's ready to go. 1981 01:28:10,080 --> 01:28:13,060 And this is as simple as it gets. 1982 01:28:13,260 --> 01:28:14,180 It's on-demand service. 1983 01:28:14,380 --> 01:28:16,520 We're there within 30 minutes. 1984 01:28:16,720 --> 01:28:18,560 I appreciate Mr. Fuller's comments this morning. 1985 01:28:18,760 --> 01:28:21,440 He is a happy camper because he used 1986 01:28:21,640 --> 01:28:24,960 to have to walk 30 minutes to go catch a fixed route downtown 1987 01:28:25,160 --> 01:28:27,390 Crestview from his house. 1988 01:28:27,590 --> 01:28:30,990 Now we pick him up at his house. 1989 01:28:31,190 --> 01:28:32,690 So, it's across the board. 1990 01:28:32,890 --> 01:28:37,810 But I can't say enough, working with Via and Tidewater 1991 01:28:38,010 --> 01:28:40,510 and the transparency that they've 1992 01:28:40,710 --> 01:28:42,850 shown through this process, and what 1993 01:28:43,050 --> 01:28:46,950 staff was able to get done for Okaloosa County 1994 01:28:47,150 --> 01:28:51,670 to check off those goals of zero-impact to the general fund, 1995 01:28:51,870 --> 01:28:55,770 saving over $1.1 million, changing the entire model. 1996 01:28:55,970 --> 01:28:59,630 And then turning this service to where 1997 01:28:59,830 --> 01:29:02,650 we have buses that are actually taking people 1998 01:29:02,850 --> 01:29:04,890 where they need to go versus driving around 1999 01:29:05,090 --> 01:29:06,850 and sitting in parking lots. 2000 01:29:07,050 --> 01:29:08,530 So all that's behind us. 2001 01:29:08,730 --> 01:29:11,630 And with that, Chairman, staff requests and recommends approval 2002 01:29:11,830 --> 01:29:16,990 of the contract and related vehicle lease agreement with 2003 01:29:17,190 --> 01:29:19,590 Tidewater Transit LLC for public transportation services for not 2004 01:29:19,790 --> 01:29:22,550 to exceed total $24,656,085. 2005 01:29:22,750 --> 01:29:29,200 And I and my entire team and Via Tidewater 2006 01:29:29,400 --> 01:29:32,580 are here for any questions you have. 2007 01:29:32,780 --> 01:29:33,773 COMMISSIONER COX: All right. 2008 01:29:33,973 --> 01:29:34,940 To approve with discussion. 2009 01:29:35,140 --> 01:29:35,765 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Perfect. 2010 01:29:35,965 --> 01:29:38,540 Motion to approve by Commissioner Cox, and a second 2011 01:29:38,740 --> 01:29:39,720 by Commissioner Palmer. 2012 01:29:39,920 --> 01:29:41,340 Commissioner Cox, you had some comments? 2013 01:29:41,540 --> 01:29:43,355 COMMISSIONER COX: Yes, sir. 2014 01:29:43,555 --> 01:29:44,180 Thank you, Chairman. 2015 01:29:44,380 --> 01:29:47,340 I just want to say thank you to each of you. 2016 01:29:47,540 --> 01:29:49,680 I mean, to you, Mr. Sage, congratulations. 2017 01:29:49,880 --> 01:29:53,180 You have turned one of our toughest 2018 01:29:53,380 --> 01:29:55,760 critics and your toughest critic into a fan. 2019 01:29:55,960 --> 01:30:00,680 And that doesn't come without a lot of hard work. 2020 01:30:00,880 --> 01:30:04,880 So to each of you sitting here, including our two new vendors, 2021 01:30:05,080 --> 01:30:05,520 I hope-- 2022 01:30:05,720 --> 01:30:07,920 you certainly have my vote. 2023 01:30:08,120 --> 01:30:09,820 This is a lot. 2024 01:30:10,020 --> 01:30:11,740 I mean, to have completely overhauled a transportation 2025 01:30:11,940 --> 01:30:15,320 system that was causing a good bit more than it should have, 2026 01:30:15,520 --> 01:30:20,960 it was rife with trouble from COVID problems 2027 01:30:21,160 --> 01:30:25,490 and administrative issues, and what have you. 2028 01:30:25,690 --> 01:30:29,030 They just are unavoidable when something like a pandemic 2029 01:30:29,230 --> 01:30:29,790 happens. 2030 01:30:29,990 --> 01:30:32,190 Really, to have taken that situation 2031 01:30:32,390 --> 01:30:35,370 and flipped it absolutely to the benefit 2032 01:30:35,570 --> 01:30:39,070 of the citizens of Okaloosa County is quite an undertaking. 2033 01:30:39,270 --> 01:30:42,690 I said that back then, and I continue 2034 01:30:42,890 --> 01:30:45,728 to appreciate the hard work that you've done in the meantime. 2035 01:30:45,928 --> 01:30:46,470 This is a lot. 2036 01:30:46,670 --> 01:30:47,970 I mean, it is a lot. 2037 01:30:48,170 --> 01:30:49,430 I used to build hotels and hospitals 2038 01:30:49,630 --> 01:30:51,850 and I can tell you that, those kinds of undertakings 2039 01:30:52,050 --> 01:30:53,110 are very similar. 2040 01:30:53,310 --> 01:30:55,890 Every single time you have something that's an overhaul, 2041 01:30:56,090 --> 01:30:58,210 it changes everything. 2042 01:30:58,410 --> 01:31:02,030 Just adds that much more work to what you've already been doing. 2043 01:31:02,230 --> 01:31:04,250 And we know you work hard already, so thank you. 2044 01:31:04,450 --> 01:31:05,850 I mean, just the tremendous result 2045 01:31:06,050 --> 01:31:10,510 in this being a zero sum cost to the taxpayer 2046 01:31:10,710 --> 01:31:12,550 is quite incredible. 2047 01:31:12,750 --> 01:31:15,523 So thank you for your hard work on this. 2048 01:31:15,723 --> 01:31:16,290 And you have my vote. 2049 01:31:16,490 --> 01:31:17,980 TRACEY STAGE: All right Mr. Chairman, thank you. 2050 01:31:18,180 --> 01:31:20,880 COMMISSIONER PALMER: I wanted to echo that, thank you so much, 2051 01:31:21,080 --> 01:31:21,063 Mr. Sage. 2052 01:31:21,263 --> 01:31:24,100 Thank you to your entire team for all of the work 2053 01:31:24,300 --> 01:31:24,980 that you've done. 2054 01:31:25,180 --> 01:31:28,140 Turning skeptics into believers is a tough thing to do. 2055 01:31:28,340 --> 01:31:30,880 And I remember when this first was handed to you, 2056 01:31:31,080 --> 01:31:34,138 there was a little bit of trepidation 2057 01:31:34,338 --> 01:31:35,080 in your demeanor, anyways. 2058 01:31:35,280 --> 01:31:38,120 And you've done a fantastic job with this. 2059 01:31:38,320 --> 01:31:41,780 It was a tough thing to take, and people 2060 01:31:41,980 --> 01:31:45,620 feel like you're taking something away from them 2061 01:31:45,820 --> 01:31:47,020 that we've been offering for years, 2062 01:31:47,220 --> 01:31:50,028 but you've turned it into something better. 2063 01:31:50,228 --> 01:31:52,720 So I just wanted to say thank you to you 2064 01:31:52,920 --> 01:31:53,487 and thank you to your entire team. 2065 01:31:53,687 --> 01:31:55,120 I love the $1.1 million in savings. 2066 01:31:55,320 --> 01:31:59,300 And I more than that, I love the zero impact to the general fund 2067 01:31:59,500 --> 01:31:59,360 so thank you. 2068 01:31:59,560 --> 01:31:59,940 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Commissioner Ketchel. 2069 01:32:00,140 --> 01:32:04,220 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: I just want to say welcome aboard, Kyle 2070 01:32:04,420 --> 01:32:04,680 and Alex. 2071 01:32:04,880 --> 01:32:06,790 It's nice to have you with us. 2072 01:32:06,990 --> 01:32:08,040 This is a great place to live. 2073 01:32:08,240 --> 01:32:09,320 We can all attest to that. 2074 01:32:09,520 --> 01:32:12,400 New York's fine too but you're going to love it here. 2075 01:32:12,600 --> 01:32:14,920 And thank you so very much, Tracey and your whole team, 2076 01:32:15,120 --> 01:32:16,613 for the work that you've put into this-- 2077 01:32:16,813 --> 01:32:17,980 I should say, Mr. Stage, sorry-- 2078 01:32:18,180 --> 01:32:20,220 for the work that you've put into this. 2079 01:32:20,420 --> 01:32:22,530 And I know that our constituents are looking forward 2080 01:32:22,730 --> 01:32:23,830 to using this convenience. 2081 01:32:24,030 --> 01:32:26,690 And Mr. Fuller was beaming from ear to ear. 2082 01:32:26,890 --> 01:32:29,270 He was so excited about being an ambassador, 2083 01:32:29,470 --> 01:32:30,750 so thank you very much. 2084 01:32:30,950 --> 01:32:32,168 TRACEY STAGE: Yes, ma'am. 2085 01:32:32,368 --> 01:32:32,610 Thank you. 2086 01:32:32,810 --> 01:32:33,710 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Further comments, commissioners? 2087 01:32:33,910 --> 01:32:35,390 All right. 2088 01:32:35,590 --> 01:32:38,890 Then I'll just say, I am excited to vote in favor of this 2089 01:32:39,090 --> 01:32:42,010 and approve this contract moving forward. 2090 01:32:42,210 --> 01:32:46,450 Anybody in the general public looks at it and says, 2091 01:32:46,650 --> 01:32:49,070 gosh, you're approving a $24 million contract 2092 01:32:49,270 --> 01:32:50,690 and you're saving money? 2093 01:32:50,890 --> 01:32:51,690 Well, that's what's happening. 2094 01:32:51,890 --> 01:32:56,070 And what's important here is that this whole program has been 2095 01:32:56,270 --> 01:33:03,350 an elusive issue to wrangle in. 2096 01:33:03,550 --> 01:33:07,610 And I've been trying for years, and we've finally gotten there. 2097 01:33:07,810 --> 01:33:12,970 It's been a challenge for the commission, 2098 01:33:13,170 --> 01:33:15,230 it's been a challenge for-- 2099 01:33:15,430 --> 01:33:18,290 from a staff level to try to get this thing 2100 01:33:18,490 --> 01:33:22,300 managed where it needs to be. 2101 01:33:22,500 --> 01:33:25,320 And I just appreciate the work that Mr. Hofstad's office 2102 01:33:25,520 --> 01:33:30,560 and Mr. Stage and all his team have done to support us 2103 01:33:30,760 --> 01:33:32,980 in getting to where we are. 2104 01:33:33,180 --> 01:33:35,160 It was a fundamental shift in the way 2105 01:33:35,360 --> 01:33:38,040 we look at public transit in Okaloosa County. 2106 01:33:38,240 --> 01:33:42,020 And killing the fixed route, it may 2107 01:33:42,220 --> 01:33:46,700 have been scary to think about it, 2108 01:33:46,900 --> 01:33:48,540 but it was absolutely necessary. 2109 01:33:48,740 --> 01:33:50,340 And you know what? 2110 01:33:50,540 --> 01:33:51,240 The sky didn't fall. 2111 01:33:51,440 --> 01:33:55,540 In fact, the sky got a lot clearer, a lot more clear sky, 2112 01:33:55,740 --> 01:33:57,720 a lot more transparency in this program 2113 01:33:57,920 --> 01:33:59,560 than we've ever had before. 2114 01:33:59,760 --> 01:34:04,180 The first time since I have sat on this board, that we have 2115 01:34:04,380 --> 01:34:09,280 actually been able to get to a point of saying, 2116 01:34:09,480 --> 01:34:11,200 zero General fund dollars into transit. 2117 01:34:11,400 --> 01:34:14,520 And that's huge. 2118 01:34:14,720 --> 01:34:16,920 And that number has crept up. 2119 01:34:17,120 --> 01:34:19,650 It crept up and was heading towards 300, 000, 400,000, 2120 01:34:19,850 --> 01:34:22,490 half a million dollars last fall. 2121 01:34:22,690 --> 01:34:26,450 And we were on the precipice of another five-year renewal 2122 01:34:26,650 --> 01:34:28,590 of the same nightmare that we've been living. 2123 01:34:28,790 --> 01:34:34,490 And I'm just thankful to, like I said, Mr. Hofstad and his team, 2124 01:34:34,690 --> 01:34:38,870 Mr. Stage and his team, and this board for saying, 2125 01:34:39,070 --> 01:34:42,365 you know what, we're just going to bite the bullet. 2126 01:34:42,565 --> 01:34:43,590 We're going to make the hard decision. 2127 01:34:43,790 --> 01:34:46,073 We're going to overhaul this thing from top to bottom. 2128 01:34:46,273 --> 01:34:47,590 And that's what's happened. 2129 01:34:47,790 --> 01:34:50,450 And now look at how this is going to work. 2130 01:34:50,650 --> 01:34:52,450 On-demand services, makes sense. 2131 01:34:52,650 --> 01:34:57,330 Nobody's going to wait on a bus in Okaloosa County for two 2132 01:34:57,530 --> 01:34:59,190 hours, standing out there in August, 2133 01:34:59,390 --> 01:35:02,490 hoping the bus might show up. 2134 01:35:02,690 --> 01:35:04,730 It's just not practical. 2135 01:35:04,930 --> 01:35:06,770 That's why the buses were running around empty. 2136 01:35:06,970 --> 01:35:09,050 We were just wasting dollars, some general fund dollars, 2137 01:35:09,250 --> 01:35:12,370 some grant dollars, but regardless, dollars. 2138 01:35:12,570 --> 01:35:14,630 And now we're not. 2139 01:35:14,830 --> 01:35:15,530 That's the key. 2140 01:35:15,730 --> 01:35:17,270 When government sees a place where 2141 01:35:17,470 --> 01:35:20,870 there is inefficiency or waste and does nothing, that's wrong. 2142 01:35:21,070 --> 01:35:24,670 But when government sees it, identifies it, 2143 01:35:24,870 --> 01:35:29,190 attacks the problem, and comes up with a solution like this, 2144 01:35:29,390 --> 01:35:31,330 that's exactly what we're supposed to be doing. 2145 01:35:31,530 --> 01:35:33,890 That's exactly what we're supposed to accomplish. 2146 01:35:34,090 --> 01:35:37,350 And, look, this program is going to serve, I think, 2147 01:35:37,550 --> 01:35:39,870 those citizens who need this service better than it ever 2148 01:35:40,070 --> 01:35:44,650 has over the past 25 years, in a way that people 2149 01:35:44,850 --> 01:35:48,670 are going to appreciate it and be able to rely on it. 2150 01:35:48,870 --> 01:35:50,930 And look at the leverage of technology, 2151 01:35:51,130 --> 01:35:53,130 those are things that we begged. 2152 01:35:53,330 --> 01:35:54,730 I know many of us-- 2153 01:35:54,930 --> 01:35:58,050 Commissioner Ketchel, you've been up here as long as I have, 2154 01:35:58,250 --> 01:35:59,830 I know we begged for better technology 2155 01:36:00,030 --> 01:36:02,390 integration in that program for so many years. 2156 01:36:02,590 --> 01:36:06,670 Now we can have it, because that's the way that people work. 2157 01:36:06,870 --> 01:36:09,070 And we don't-- it still has the-- call it the analog 2158 01:36:09,270 --> 01:36:10,510 process. 2159 01:36:10,710 --> 01:36:14,110 If people want to call in and get the hard copy paperwork, 2160 01:36:14,310 --> 01:36:17,060 that's still available, but we know that as a reality, 2161 01:36:17,260 --> 01:36:22,340 most of the users are going to leverage that technology, 2162 01:36:22,540 --> 01:36:24,640 be able to use this. 2163 01:36:24,840 --> 01:36:25,500 I love the branding. 2164 01:36:25,700 --> 01:36:27,540 It's clean, it's fresh, it looks good. 2165 01:36:27,740 --> 01:36:32,360 I love the fact that you have gotten rid 2166 01:36:32,560 --> 01:36:33,040 of the dilapidated buses. 2167 01:36:33,240 --> 01:36:36,260 You've reduced our fleet to a tighter, smaller, reliable, 2168 01:36:36,460 --> 01:36:41,120 clean and newer fleet to serve the type of needs 2169 01:36:41,320 --> 01:36:44,580 that our constituents that use this service have. 2170 01:36:44,780 --> 01:36:45,660 Perfect. 2171 01:36:45,860 --> 01:36:48,760 You're taking those grant dollars 2172 01:36:48,960 --> 01:36:52,040 and making them do what they were always supposed to do, 2173 01:36:52,240 --> 01:36:53,060 and I really appreciate that. 2174 01:36:53,260 --> 01:36:55,120 I appreciate that out of your team. 2175 01:36:55,320 --> 01:36:58,220 Mr. Higdon, I know that you got on board with us 2176 01:36:58,420 --> 01:37:00,880 as we were through this transition period. 2177 01:37:01,080 --> 01:37:05,180 And I have all the faith in the world you're 2178 01:37:05,380 --> 01:37:07,020 going to be able to keep us on this track, 2179 01:37:07,220 --> 01:37:09,060 and I'm very excited about it. 2180 01:37:09,260 --> 01:37:10,780 Again, I think this is-- 2181 01:37:10,980 --> 01:37:14,630 all the complaints I've gotten over all these years in office 2182 01:37:14,830 --> 01:37:17,270 about transit, wasn't that people hated the idea transit. 2183 01:37:17,470 --> 01:37:20,430 They just hated the approach that we had. 2184 01:37:20,630 --> 01:37:22,590 And now we've changed it. 2185 01:37:22,790 --> 01:37:24,750 This is what we should be doing. 2186 01:37:24,950 --> 01:37:24,910 So thank you. 2187 01:37:25,110 --> 01:37:25,787 Commissioners. 2188 01:37:25,987 --> 01:37:27,870 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: I have one more thing. 2189 01:37:28,070 --> 01:37:28,803 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Sure. 2190 01:37:29,003 --> 01:37:31,925 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: As I said on the Transportation Committee 2191 01:37:32,125 --> 01:37:34,250 so many years, we didn't have other alternatives. 2192 01:37:34,450 --> 01:37:39,590 You all may have really done something so innovative 2193 01:37:39,790 --> 01:37:44,452 that let me just suggest that you might take it 2194 01:37:44,652 --> 01:37:46,110 to the Florida Association of Counties as best practices. 2195 01:37:46,310 --> 01:37:49,670 Other counties are looking to fix their transportation system. 2196 01:37:49,870 --> 01:37:52,350 You've done it, I think. 2197 01:37:52,550 --> 01:37:54,370 We're about ready to test it to see, 2198 01:37:54,570 --> 01:37:55,870 but it looks like you have had-- 2199 01:37:56,070 --> 01:37:57,803 I haven't had but one complaint, and that was just 2200 01:37:58,003 --> 01:38:00,010 somebody trying to get to Walton County, which was important 2201 01:38:00,210 --> 01:38:01,570 because they work there. 2202 01:38:01,770 --> 01:38:03,470 But what I'm saying is, if this really 2203 01:38:03,670 --> 01:38:05,850 is what I think it's going to be, 2204 01:38:06,050 --> 01:38:08,630 maybe you need to take this on the road-- pun intended-- 2205 01:38:08,830 --> 01:38:10,540 literally to other counties. 2206 01:38:10,740 --> 01:38:14,167 COMMISSIONER MIXON: I believe we're going to be a model, 2207 01:38:14,367 --> 01:38:14,400 truly do. 2208 01:38:14,600 --> 01:38:17,353 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Commissioners, other comments? 2209 01:38:17,553 --> 01:38:21,020 If not, those in favor, please signify by saying, aye. 2210 01:38:21,220 --> 01:38:21,208 COMMISSIONERS: Aye. 2211 01:38:21,408 --> 01:38:22,600 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And those opposed-- 2212 01:38:22,800 --> 01:38:24,008 that passes unanimously. 2213 01:38:24,208 --> 01:38:25,360 It's a good day. 2214 01:38:25,560 --> 01:38:25,820 Thank you, sir. 2215 01:38:26,020 --> 01:38:25,845 [APPLAUSE] 2216 01:38:26,045 --> 01:38:27,560 TRACEY STAGE: Commissioners, thank you. 2217 01:38:27,760 --> 01:38:30,680 Staff right here, a lot of hard work. 2218 01:38:30,880 --> 01:38:32,820 Thank you very, very much. 2219 01:38:33,020 --> 01:38:35,980 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 2220 01:38:36,180 --> 01:38:37,680 Our next item under department business, 2221 01:38:37,880 --> 01:38:40,300 Ms. Ore with Housing and SHIP. 2222 01:38:45,000 --> 01:38:52,500 MS ORE: Good morning, Chairman, Commissioners. 2223 01:38:52,700 --> 01:38:57,960 The item I have before you is a revision to the SHIP first time 2224 01:38:58,160 --> 01:38:59,880 home buyers' purchase assistance program policies and guidelines. 2225 01:39:00,080 --> 01:39:04,040 As you know, last year in July, we implemented it, 2226 01:39:04,240 --> 01:39:08,500 and we made some changes to the program that the CDC was doing. 2227 01:39:08,700 --> 01:39:09,710 And after gaining some knowledge and helping 2228 01:39:09,910 --> 01:39:13,730 quite a few households and spending quite a bit of funds, 2229 01:39:13,930 --> 01:39:16,890 and as well as having our inspector general audit and some 2230 01:39:17,090 --> 01:39:18,650 recommendations that came from them, the training 2231 01:39:18,850 --> 01:39:21,630 as well as what's best for our community, 2232 01:39:21,830 --> 01:39:23,170 there are some amendments that have 2233 01:39:23,370 --> 01:39:26,230 been made that I think would best serve our community. 2234 01:39:26,430 --> 01:39:28,790 Most of them are grammatical changes, 2235 01:39:28,990 --> 01:39:30,995 policies that are in place that aren't really 2236 01:39:31,195 --> 01:39:31,970 applicable to our program. 2237 01:39:32,170 --> 01:39:35,750 One of the major changes is introducing a limit threshold 2238 01:39:35,950 --> 01:39:39,390 of 27%, which means that their housing ratio-- 2239 01:39:39,590 --> 01:39:45,650 so what they are paying monthly-- 2240 01:39:45,850 --> 01:39:48,550 when we award the funds, it will not 2241 01:39:48,750 --> 01:39:51,210 be low-- won't be below 27% of their gross monthly income. 2242 01:39:51,410 --> 01:39:56,150 So, if there are any questions or details 2243 01:39:56,350 --> 01:39:58,842 you would like to know about the program, please ask. 2244 01:39:59,042 --> 01:39:59,250 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Questions. 2245 01:39:59,450 --> 01:40:01,410 I know Commissioner Mixon, I know you probably 2246 01:40:01,610 --> 01:40:03,030 looked at this pretty deeply. 2247 01:40:03,230 --> 01:40:09,400 If not, I have just one quick question before we take it up. 2248 01:40:09,600 --> 01:40:10,560 It just in layman's terms, does this-- 2249 01:40:10,760 --> 01:40:16,240 do the changes you're making better help make sure 2250 01:40:16,440 --> 01:40:18,960 that people are not getting into situations that they 2251 01:40:19,160 --> 01:40:19,760 can't afford? 2252 01:40:19,960 --> 01:40:22,320 In other words, does it better help 2253 01:40:22,520 --> 01:40:25,133 expand the program but at the same time, 2254 01:40:25,333 --> 01:40:27,100 make sure we're not setting people up to fail? 2255 01:40:27,300 --> 01:40:29,160 Because it's always been a big one for me with SHIP. 2256 01:40:29,360 --> 01:40:30,727 I love to help people get into home ownership, 2257 01:40:30,927 --> 01:40:34,020 but I don't want to put them on a path that's not sustainable. 2258 01:40:34,220 --> 01:40:35,280 MS. ORE: Yes, sir. 2259 01:40:35,480 --> 01:40:36,760 I believe the policies that we already 2260 01:40:36,960 --> 01:40:39,380 have in some of our statutory requirements of making sure 2261 01:40:39,580 --> 01:40:41,620 that their housing, monthly payments don't go over 2262 01:40:41,820 --> 01:40:47,340 a certain percentage, those are going to remain the same. 2263 01:40:47,540 --> 01:40:49,140 Those aren't changes that we are making. 2264 01:40:49,340 --> 01:40:52,532 What we are trying to do is limit the amount of funds 2265 01:40:52,732 --> 01:40:53,540 that we are giving out to individuals so 2266 01:40:53,740 --> 01:40:55,020 that we aren't just awarding funds 2267 01:40:55,220 --> 01:40:58,060 that they don't actually need. 2268 01:40:58,260 --> 01:41:00,820 So I wanted to make sure that things are very much 2269 01:41:01,020 --> 01:41:02,003 need-based to reassure you when we are looking 2270 01:41:02,203 --> 01:41:05,910 at the homes and the purchases of our clients, 2271 01:41:06,110 --> 01:41:10,430 we do have, in our policies, that our best practices for them 2272 01:41:10,630 --> 01:41:13,730 not to go over 35% of their gross monthly income. 2273 01:41:13,930 --> 01:41:17,250 If they are to go over that, there is justification 2274 01:41:17,450 --> 01:41:19,170 that it has to be in place. 2275 01:41:19,370 --> 01:41:21,670 And so we are making sure that whatever home they are buying 2276 01:41:21,870 --> 01:41:22,610 is a sustainable purchase for them. 2277 01:41:22,810 --> 01:41:25,050 And not just putting them in the home, 2278 01:41:25,250 --> 01:41:26,110 but looking forward within a year, 2279 01:41:26,310 --> 01:41:29,490 are they going to be able to afford a tax increase, 2280 01:41:29,690 --> 01:41:31,510 are they going to be able to afford insurance changes? 2281 01:41:31,710 --> 01:41:34,510 Making sure that the home-- the quality of the home 2282 01:41:34,710 --> 01:41:36,030 is in its best condition, that things 2283 01:41:36,230 --> 01:41:37,450 aren't going to break down. 2284 01:41:37,650 --> 01:41:39,190 So we're reviewing inspections and we're reviewing, 2285 01:41:39,390 --> 01:41:42,528 making sure that they have insurance, 2286 01:41:42,728 --> 01:41:45,270 whether a warranty is needed before we are even approving 2287 01:41:45,470 --> 01:41:48,450 a purchase to be made, or a closing 2288 01:41:48,650 --> 01:41:49,330 to happen with our funds. 2289 01:41:49,530 --> 01:41:50,310 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Very good. 2290 01:41:50,510 --> 01:41:51,930 Thank you for recapping that, no problem. 2291 01:41:52,130 --> 01:41:53,030 COMMISSIONER MIXON: The tax increase 2292 01:41:53,230 --> 01:41:55,430 would be a change to the assessed value, 2293 01:41:55,630 --> 01:41:57,590 with some of our clients going into new homes. 2294 01:41:57,790 --> 01:42:00,550 But I'll tell you, this does put great perimeters 2295 01:42:00,750 --> 01:42:02,730 because the debt to income ratio is being 2296 01:42:02,930 --> 01:42:03,980 monitored like never before. 2297 01:42:04,180 --> 01:42:06,140 And it gives an opportunity for us 2298 01:42:06,340 --> 01:42:07,920 to help folks not move into a spot 2299 01:42:08,120 --> 01:42:10,460 and get too much upfront so that now they're house rich 2300 01:42:10,660 --> 01:42:11,280 or they're house poor, and they're 2301 01:42:11,480 --> 01:42:13,760 focused on not being able to sustain themselves. 2302 01:42:13,960 --> 01:42:16,960 But it gives a pathway to even deeper partnering with folks. 2303 01:42:17,160 --> 01:42:21,820 I know the desire that I had at first 2304 01:42:22,020 --> 01:42:24,260 was to not be in the housing business as a county. 2305 01:42:24,460 --> 01:42:26,700 Kind of felt like it wasn't really our job. 2306 01:42:26,900 --> 01:42:28,260 But we're doing fantastic, streamlining the process where 2307 01:42:28,460 --> 01:42:32,180 we're able to help folks move from not having 2308 01:42:32,380 --> 01:42:34,340 any place to potentially moving into one 2309 01:42:34,540 --> 01:42:37,520 of our county-owned asset rentals that stay full, 2310 01:42:37,720 --> 01:42:42,420 by the way, and then moving from those 2311 01:42:42,620 --> 01:42:45,660 into something-- partnering with our down payment assistance that 2312 01:42:45,860 --> 01:42:47,660 moves into home ownership. 2313 01:42:47,860 --> 01:42:50,260 And all within the scope of the SHIP program. 2314 01:42:50,460 --> 01:42:52,940 Eventually we're going to have to step up 2315 01:42:53,140 --> 01:42:54,640 our ability of walking beside folks 2316 01:42:54,840 --> 01:42:57,040 in those first few years of home ownership, 2317 01:42:57,240 --> 01:42:59,660 not for the purpose of monetary gain on their part, 2318 01:42:59,860 --> 01:43:01,070 for the purpose of stewardship, stability 2319 01:43:01,270 --> 01:43:04,650 so that they can stay homeowners long term. 2320 01:43:04,850 --> 01:43:09,690 And we don't see them go back through a cycle once they see 2321 01:43:09,890 --> 01:43:12,410 that they have equity, and get one of those 5,000 calls a month 2322 01:43:12,610 --> 01:43:14,292 that tell them how much money they'll give them 2323 01:43:14,492 --> 01:43:16,850 for their equity, and then they find themselves needing to sell 2324 01:43:17,050 --> 01:43:18,790 the house in order to afford something else. 2325 01:43:18,990 --> 01:43:20,770 So, this does put us forward further 2326 01:43:20,970 --> 01:43:24,710 to get to the point of seeing folks more successful. 2327 01:43:24,910 --> 01:43:27,850 We've had tremendous success so far with the down payment 2328 01:43:28,050 --> 01:43:28,710 assistance and tremendous success 2329 01:43:28,910 --> 01:43:31,610 with Ms Ore coming into the program 2330 01:43:31,810 --> 01:43:34,270 and helping have a person mediating with banks 2331 01:43:34,470 --> 01:43:38,390 and assisting and training the banks to partner with us. 2332 01:43:38,590 --> 01:43:40,910 And so it's really moving in a great direction 2333 01:43:41,110 --> 01:43:42,470 with the Affordable Housing Advisory Council. 2334 01:43:42,670 --> 01:43:44,910 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Thank you. 2335 01:43:45,110 --> 01:43:45,930 All right. 2336 01:43:46,130 --> 01:43:47,110 Other discussion, commissioners? 2337 01:43:47,310 --> 01:43:51,310 If not, we do have a motion and a second on this, correct? 2338 01:43:51,510 --> 01:43:53,690 No. 2339 01:43:53,890 --> 01:43:55,990 I remember, did we get a motion? 2340 01:43:56,190 --> 01:43:57,010 No. 2341 01:43:57,210 --> 01:43:58,110 Maybe we didn't. 2342 01:43:58,310 --> 01:43:58,920 Maybe I'm ahead. 2343 01:43:59,120 --> 01:43:59,920 All right. 2344 01:44:00,120 --> 01:44:01,620 We have a motion by Commissioner Mixon, 2345 01:44:01,820 --> 01:44:02,960 second by Commissioner Palmer. 2346 01:44:03,160 --> 01:44:04,040 All right. 2347 01:44:04,240 --> 01:44:05,240 Further discussion. 2348 01:44:05,440 --> 01:44:08,100 Those in favor, please signify by saying, aye. 2349 01:44:08,300 --> 01:44:08,540 COMMISSIONERS: Aye. 2350 01:44:08,740 --> 01:44:09,772 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Those opposed-- that's unanimous. 2351 01:44:09,972 --> 01:44:11,540 Thank you, Ms Ore. 2352 01:44:11,740 --> 01:44:12,290 MS. ORE: Thank you. 2353 01:44:12,490 --> 01:44:14,780 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right, Mr. Coffey, your first item, 2354 01:44:14,980 --> 01:44:21,280 consideration of two new members for the Blue Water Bay MSBU. 2355 01:44:21,480 --> 01:44:24,837 CRAIG COFFEY: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. 2356 01:44:25,037 --> 01:44:27,920 Actually, I'd like to change that item to three new members. 2357 01:44:28,120 --> 01:44:30,680 And what happened was when we put this issue forward, 2358 01:44:30,880 --> 01:44:34,740 we consulted with the website instead of talking with the SOE 2359 01:44:34,940 --> 01:44:35,700 directly. 2360 01:44:35,900 --> 01:44:38,120 And on the website they said there 2361 01:44:38,320 --> 01:44:39,120 was two qualified individuals when 2362 01:44:39,320 --> 01:44:41,880 we had heard there were three, and actually there 2363 01:44:42,080 --> 01:44:44,220 are three when we circled back with them. 2364 01:44:44,420 --> 01:44:46,680 And the third one should be added, Ms Tony High. 2365 01:44:46,880 --> 01:44:49,562 And that would be the third person. 2366 01:44:49,762 --> 01:44:50,720 All three are running for office. 2367 01:44:50,920 --> 01:44:53,640 All three have been verified by the SOE to have qualified. 2368 01:44:53,840 --> 01:44:56,100 And there initially were only two seats up. 2369 01:44:56,300 --> 01:44:59,480 So there are two for one seat and one for another seat, 2370 01:44:59,680 --> 01:45:01,240 but the reality is we have three vacancies 2371 01:45:01,440 --> 01:45:04,280 and we'd like to fill all three vacancies at this time. 2372 01:45:04,480 --> 01:45:05,340 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 2373 01:45:05,540 --> 01:45:07,480 Commissioner Palmer, this is in your district. 2374 01:45:07,680 --> 01:45:12,720 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Here is a second, but I have questions. 2375 01:45:12,920 --> 01:45:13,870 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right, we 2376 01:45:14,070 --> 01:45:15,600 have a motion to approve by Commissioner Palmer, seconded 2377 01:45:15,800 --> 01:45:16,475 by Commissioner Mixon. 2378 01:45:16,675 --> 01:45:18,900 Commissioner Mixon, you have some questions. 2379 01:45:19,100 --> 01:45:20,750 COMMISSIONER MIXON: So there's three approved 2380 01:45:20,950 --> 01:45:22,300 by the supervisor of elections? 2381 01:45:22,500 --> 01:45:23,070 CRAIG COFFEY: Yes. 2382 01:45:23,270 --> 01:45:24,510 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Are there more than three-- 2383 01:45:24,710 --> 01:45:25,080 CRAIG COFFEY: No. 2384 01:45:25,280 --> 01:45:26,440 COMMISSIONER MIXON: --currently seeking this position? 2385 01:45:26,640 --> 01:45:28,990 CRAIG COFFEY: Not that I know of. 2386 01:45:29,190 --> 01:45:31,340 There were candidates that put in for the upcoming election, 2387 01:45:31,540 --> 01:45:33,063 there were only three. 2388 01:45:33,263 --> 01:45:34,280 And all three were qualified. 2389 01:45:34,480 --> 01:45:36,720 But we don't know of any others that 2390 01:45:36,920 --> 01:45:39,340 have contacted me or written us about wanting-- 2391 01:45:39,540 --> 01:45:41,598 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Or qualified with the supervisor. 2392 01:45:41,798 --> 01:45:43,506 CRAIG COFFEY: Or qualified with supervisor. 2393 01:45:43,706 --> 01:45:44,800 COMMISSIONER MIXON: When's the last time 2394 01:45:45,000 --> 01:45:47,360 we confirmed with the SOE that there's no more than three-- 2395 01:45:47,560 --> 01:45:48,420 CRAIG COFFEY: As of yesterday. 2396 01:45:48,620 --> 01:45:50,760 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Early, late? 2397 01:45:50,960 --> 01:45:52,820 Was there a deadline for qualification? 2398 01:45:53,020 --> 01:45:55,643 They just make a decision knowing that-- 2399 01:45:55,843 --> 01:45:57,010 CRAIG COFFEY: The deadline for qualification 2400 01:45:57,210 --> 01:45:58,730 actually had passed because it was 2401 01:45:58,930 --> 01:46:00,447 part of all the normal candidate qualifications, 2402 01:46:00,647 --> 01:46:03,873 and that's why we were surprised it wasn't on the website, 2403 01:46:04,073 --> 01:46:06,290 because we had heard there were three qualifying but we just 2404 01:46:06,490 --> 01:46:07,230 went by the listing. 2405 01:46:07,430 --> 01:46:09,818 COMMISSIONER PALMER: I might be able to add 2406 01:46:10,018 --> 01:46:10,410 a little clarification. 2407 01:46:10,610 --> 01:46:12,868 So Ms High was actually running for-- running unopposed, 2408 01:46:13,068 --> 01:46:16,390 and so that's why the other two would still have been-- 2409 01:46:16,590 --> 01:46:19,690 that would have been an election between the other two. 2410 01:46:19,890 --> 01:46:21,240 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: That helps tremendously. 2411 01:46:21,440 --> 01:46:22,250 COMMISSIONER PALMER: So, yeah. 2412 01:46:22,450 --> 01:46:23,500 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 2413 01:46:23,700 --> 01:46:24,830 All right. 2414 01:46:25,030 --> 01:46:26,230 Further discussion on that item? 2415 01:46:26,430 --> 01:46:29,605 All right, those in favor, please signify by saying, aye. 2416 01:46:29,805 --> 01:46:29,880 COMMISSIONERS: Aye. 2417 01:46:30,080 --> 01:46:31,520 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And those opposed-- all right. 2418 01:46:31,720 --> 01:46:32,787 That passes unanimously. 2419 01:46:32,987 --> 01:46:35,430 And I've got to step out for a moment. 2420 01:46:35,630 --> 01:46:40,452 JOHN HOFSTAD: OK, brings us to the next item. 2421 01:46:40,652 --> 01:46:42,150 Mr. Coffey. 2422 01:46:42,350 --> 01:46:45,630 CRAIG COFFEY: The next item is a contract agreement for DAG-- 2423 01:46:45,830 --> 01:46:47,530 with DAG Architecture. 2424 01:46:47,730 --> 01:46:50,130 And it comes with two different task orders, 2425 01:46:50,330 --> 01:46:53,330 totaling $1,442,986, plus a contingency amount for up 2426 01:46:53,530 --> 01:46:56,940 to $175,000. 2427 01:46:57,140 --> 01:47:00,780 And I'll talk about the contingency here in a second, 2428 01:47:00,980 --> 01:47:03,700 but this is for all the services related to the expansion design 2429 01:47:03,900 --> 01:47:07,380 work related to a 50,000 square foot addition to the Reagan 2430 01:47:07,580 --> 01:47:08,780 Center, plus additional task order-- 2431 01:47:08,980 --> 01:47:12,940 task score two deals with all the parking, 2432 01:47:13,140 --> 01:47:16,060 the drainage on the site, bringing all that up to speed 2433 01:47:16,260 --> 01:47:19,000 and modernizing that for all the different impervious surfaces we 2434 01:47:19,200 --> 01:47:21,820 have, plus pickleball courts. 2435 01:47:22,020 --> 01:47:26,360 All that is in rolled up into this as one item. 2436 01:47:26,560 --> 01:47:29,400 We're happy that it's that, a local firm, 2437 01:47:29,600 --> 01:47:32,220 and a local engineering firm with them. 2438 01:47:32,420 --> 01:47:35,583 Jenkins Engineering is going to be doing the work on this, 2439 01:47:35,783 --> 01:47:37,100 so that's really exciting for us as well. 2440 01:47:37,300 --> 01:47:39,420 It was picked by a special selection committee, which 2441 01:47:39,620 --> 01:47:41,455 we have some private citizens on there, 2442 01:47:41,655 --> 01:47:43,380 as well as some staff, committee of five. 2443 01:47:43,580 --> 01:47:45,140 And it went really smooth. 2444 01:47:45,340 --> 01:47:46,700 And, lastly, the contingency services 2445 01:47:46,900 --> 01:47:50,740 that are in there for two reasons. 2446 01:47:50,940 --> 01:47:52,180 One is up to $100,000. 2447 01:47:52,380 --> 01:47:54,250 If the project comes in higher, it 2448 01:47:54,450 --> 01:47:56,050 does afford a little bit more compensation 2449 01:47:56,250 --> 01:47:58,370 to DAG Architecture, but it limits that. 2450 01:47:58,570 --> 01:48:01,670 So if the contract comes in much, much higher, 2451 01:48:01,870 --> 01:48:04,450 they don't get any more money after that cap. 2452 01:48:04,650 --> 01:48:05,450 The cap of $15 million. 2453 01:48:05,650 --> 01:48:07,770 The second thing is it allows $75,000, 2454 01:48:07,970 --> 01:48:11,330 because there are some services that we're going to encounter 2455 01:48:11,530 --> 01:48:13,390 potentially on the back side of this thing, 2456 01:48:13,590 --> 01:48:14,770 or threshold inspections, or something else. 2457 01:48:14,970 --> 01:48:17,530 It allows us to do some additional things, 2458 01:48:17,730 --> 01:48:20,550 or additional borings if we need to, as part of this process. 2459 01:48:20,750 --> 01:48:23,550 We do plan to hold a charrette at some point. 2460 01:48:23,750 --> 01:48:25,935 When the design gets there, we're 2461 01:48:26,135 --> 01:48:28,210 going to have some renderings and stuff like that. 2462 01:48:28,410 --> 01:48:30,293 So we'll have some additional participation along the way. 2463 01:48:30,493 --> 01:48:32,710 And we're excited to kick off this project 2464 01:48:32,910 --> 01:48:36,290 and get it ready in time for the legislature. 2465 01:48:36,490 --> 01:48:38,350 We hope this is a legislative item for us. 2466 01:48:38,550 --> 01:48:40,172 We have a number of people that are 2467 01:48:40,372 --> 01:48:42,830 willing to lobby on our behalf and help us with this item, 2468 01:48:43,030 --> 01:48:44,070 so we're very excited. 2469 01:48:44,270 --> 01:48:47,350 And this is going to be a game changer for us 2470 01:48:47,550 --> 01:48:48,970 as far as the overall facility, and put us 2471 01:48:49,170 --> 01:48:51,620 in a whole different category in the panhandle 2472 01:48:51,820 --> 01:48:55,840 as far as other facilities that meet this size and scope 2473 01:48:56,040 --> 01:48:56,560 and stuff like that. 2474 01:48:56,760 --> 01:48:57,200 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: OK. 2475 01:48:57,400 --> 01:48:58,700 Thank you, Mr. Coffey. 2476 01:48:58,900 --> 01:49:01,240 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: Be glad to make a motion for approval. 2477 01:49:01,440 --> 01:49:02,840 Very excited about this project moving forward. 2478 01:49:03,040 --> 01:49:06,200 I sure hope we can get on the legislative agenda 2479 01:49:06,400 --> 01:49:07,900 and get additional funds, but the whole community 2480 01:49:08,100 --> 01:49:11,720 is so pleased and excited about the work that 2481 01:49:11,920 --> 01:49:13,878 is being accomplished at this fairground project. 2482 01:49:14,078 --> 01:49:16,220 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: OK, so motion by Commissioner Ketchel, 2483 01:49:16,420 --> 01:49:18,080 second by Commissioner Cox. 2484 01:49:18,280 --> 01:49:19,000 Thank you. 2485 01:49:19,200 --> 01:49:19,800 Any further discussion? 2486 01:49:20,000 --> 01:49:20,660 COMMISSIONER COX: Yes. 2487 01:49:20,860 --> 01:49:21,280 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Commissioner Cox. 2488 01:49:21,480 --> 01:49:22,850 COMMISSIONER COX: I just wanted to say 2489 01:49:23,050 --> 01:49:25,633 that it is such a pleasure to be able to look 2490 01:49:25,833 --> 01:49:28,120 at a contract like this and know that we have somebody like DAG 2491 01:49:28,320 --> 01:49:31,280 Architectural group, founded by Charlie Cleary, a former Florida 2492 01:49:31,480 --> 01:49:34,620 Senator who served our district. 2493 01:49:34,820 --> 01:49:37,740 I mean, nobody more invested in this community than that man. 2494 01:49:37,940 --> 01:49:40,180 And the beautiful projects that he 2495 01:49:40,380 --> 01:49:43,160 has done, both for this county and around the area, certainly 2496 01:49:43,360 --> 01:49:44,860 speak for themselves. 2497 01:49:45,060 --> 01:49:48,460 But it's just so nice to be able to look at an agenda 2498 01:49:48,660 --> 01:49:51,710 and see that we have a local asset here we're able to partner 2499 01:49:51,910 --> 01:49:53,790 with for future development that we know 2500 01:49:53,990 --> 01:49:54,950 will be handled responsibly. 2501 01:49:55,150 --> 01:49:57,342 So, thank you for that. 2502 01:49:57,542 --> 01:49:57,700 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Great. 2503 01:49:57,900 --> 01:49:58,170 OK. 2504 01:49:58,370 --> 01:49:59,010 Thank you. 2505 01:49:59,210 --> 01:50:00,070 Yes, Commissioner Mixon. 2506 01:50:00,270 --> 01:50:01,670 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Thank you, Mr. Chair. 2507 01:50:01,870 --> 01:50:06,290 I appreciate the work they do to continue in the county. 2508 01:50:06,490 --> 01:50:09,090 I'm sure this went through the proper processes. 2509 01:50:09,290 --> 01:50:12,910 Being able to do this, the only thing I miss out 2510 01:50:13,110 --> 01:50:14,790 of the agenda packet is the sharpie and highlight 2511 01:50:14,990 --> 01:50:18,070 rendering that you created. 2512 01:50:18,270 --> 01:50:22,150 CRAIG COFFEY: The copy, that was in the procurement packet that 2513 01:50:22,350 --> 01:50:24,110 went out to the architects and stuff. 2514 01:50:24,310 --> 01:50:25,115 COMMISSIONER MIXON: It definitely 2515 01:50:25,315 --> 01:50:29,190 needs to be page three or so of the packet that comes back 2516 01:50:29,390 --> 01:50:30,130 to us when they finish. 2517 01:50:30,330 --> 01:50:32,290 I would like to suggest that we have 2518 01:50:32,490 --> 01:50:34,890 our sports tourism staff give us some type of overview 2519 01:50:35,090 --> 01:50:39,550 of economic impact of what this future can be 2520 01:50:39,750 --> 01:50:42,910 and how we can see funds recouped. 2521 01:50:43,110 --> 01:50:45,752 I understand we're using tourist development dollars, 2522 01:50:45,952 --> 01:50:48,860 but being able to recoup those funds by bed nights, 2523 01:50:49,060 --> 01:50:51,740 by groups coming in, sports tourism that takes place 2524 01:50:51,940 --> 01:50:54,640 within this new facility, I would 2525 01:50:54,840 --> 01:50:57,560 love to see that in the future given to us 2526 01:50:57,760 --> 01:50:59,740 so that we can continuously be in forward motion. 2527 01:50:59,940 --> 01:51:05,460 This is going to give us a great booklet of paper. 2528 01:51:05,660 --> 01:51:09,280 In order to move that paper into reality, 2529 01:51:09,480 --> 01:51:12,040 we're going to really have to be able to explain ourselves, 2530 01:51:12,240 --> 01:51:14,620 to see what the future would look 2531 01:51:14,820 --> 01:51:16,140 like and some potential projections of numbers, 2532 01:51:16,340 --> 01:51:21,580 and how that would be recouped as an asset owned by the county. 2533 01:51:21,780 --> 01:51:24,790 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Any further discussion? 2534 01:51:24,990 --> 01:51:27,540 All right. 2535 01:51:27,740 --> 01:51:29,760 With that, all those in favor say, aye. 2536 01:51:29,960 --> 01:51:30,058 COMMISSIONERS: Aye. 2537 01:51:30,258 --> 01:51:31,150 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Any opposed? 2538 01:51:31,350 --> 01:51:32,660 All right. 2539 01:51:32,860 --> 01:51:33,440 Passes. 2540 01:51:33,640 --> 01:51:36,480 So that moves us to our next item, 2541 01:51:36,680 --> 01:51:38,260 the animal control interlocal agreement. 2542 01:51:38,460 --> 01:51:40,620 CRAIG COFFEY: The animal control interlocal, I'd 2543 01:51:40,820 --> 01:51:42,620 like to start off with adding-- asking 2544 01:51:42,820 --> 01:51:45,590 to add an item to the agenda. 2545 01:51:45,790 --> 01:51:48,010 And this is related to animal control as well. 2546 01:51:48,210 --> 01:51:49,770 So we're working two things before I 2547 01:51:49,970 --> 01:51:51,210 get into the interlocal. 2548 01:51:51,410 --> 01:51:52,870 We're working the North end animal control, 2549 01:51:53,070 --> 01:51:55,190 but we're working the South end. 2550 01:51:55,390 --> 01:51:59,310 The item we would like to add as an add on item to the agenda is 2551 01:51:59,510 --> 01:52:00,470 for the purchase of two vehicles, 2552 01:52:00,670 --> 01:52:03,390 and not to exceed $44,000. 2553 01:52:03,590 --> 01:52:05,970 And allowing for advance payment. 2554 01:52:06,170 --> 01:52:07,910 Normally, John, County Administrator, 2555 01:52:08,110 --> 01:52:11,310 can approve the emergency item, but advance payment 2556 01:52:11,510 --> 01:52:15,813 can only be approved by the Board of County Commissioners. 2557 01:52:16,013 --> 01:52:17,330 And so that's why we're requesting this. 2558 01:52:17,530 --> 01:52:19,230 The dealerships are at-- they're out 2559 01:52:19,430 --> 01:52:21,432 of-- some of them are out of state, 2560 01:52:21,632 --> 01:52:22,590 and these are complete animal control vehicles. 2561 01:52:22,790 --> 01:52:25,210 And we're buying those to get started 2562 01:52:25,410 --> 01:52:29,790 as a much cheaper alternative for part of our stand up costs. 2563 01:52:29,990 --> 01:52:33,180 But in order to add an item to the agenda, 2564 01:52:33,380 --> 01:52:33,730 it takes a supermajority vote. 2565 01:52:33,930 --> 01:52:35,950 And-- anything that I'm missing, Patrick, on that? 2566 01:52:36,150 --> 01:52:40,230 PATRICK: Good morning. 2567 01:52:40,430 --> 01:52:43,150 Just how we got to that point was we initially 2568 01:52:43,350 --> 01:52:45,180 started with procuring used vehicles, vehicles that we 2569 01:52:45,380 --> 01:52:47,320 were turning for auction. 2570 01:52:47,520 --> 01:52:51,627 And we were able to get three of those that were a lower 2571 01:52:51,827 --> 01:52:51,260 mileage, fantastic F-250. 2572 01:52:51,460 --> 01:52:53,460 However, the animal control slide-in-- 2573 01:52:53,660 --> 01:52:57,400 just the portion that will go into the back of those utility 2574 01:52:57,600 --> 01:52:59,000 beds brand new-- is anywhere between $15,000 and $20,000 2575 01:52:59,200 --> 01:53:03,510 as an add on, just for that piece to add into the back 2576 01:53:03,710 --> 01:53:03,060 of the vehicle. 2577 01:53:03,260 --> 01:53:05,740 So with these procurements, these two vehicles not to exceed 2578 01:53:05,940 --> 01:53:09,040 $44,000, we are getting full assembled vehicles with working 2579 01:53:09,240 --> 01:53:13,320 animal control condition spaces in the rear of the vehicle ready 2580 01:53:13,520 --> 01:53:14,520 to go. 2581 01:53:14,720 --> 01:53:18,268 In the time frame that we need to start up the service, 2582 01:53:18,468 --> 01:53:20,260 those brand new units that we would have to have constructed 2583 01:53:20,460 --> 01:53:21,600 are eight to 10 months out. 2584 01:53:21,800 --> 01:53:22,840 So this particular solution allows 2585 01:53:23,040 --> 01:53:26,820 us to move forward with lower amounts of money in the time 2586 01:53:27,020 --> 01:53:28,307 frame needed to start the service that we're 2587 01:53:28,507 --> 01:53:29,240 required to start, so. 2588 01:53:29,440 --> 01:53:31,120 CRAIG COFFEY: Thank you. 2589 01:53:31,320 --> 01:53:31,520 PATRICK: Yeah. 2590 01:53:31,720 --> 01:53:32,680 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Very good. 2591 01:53:32,880 --> 01:53:33,360 And thank you. 2592 01:53:33,560 --> 01:53:34,730 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: I have a question, Chairman. 2593 01:53:34,930 --> 01:53:35,190 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Yes, go ahead. 2594 01:53:35,390 --> 01:53:38,640 Do we not have anything in fleet old enough 2595 01:53:38,840 --> 01:53:39,660 that we can retrofit with? 2596 01:53:39,860 --> 01:53:40,443 CRAIG COFFEY: Yeah, that's what-- 2597 01:53:40,643 --> 01:53:43,018 I think that's what Patrick was just alluding to. 2598 01:53:43,218 --> 01:53:44,200 We actually identified three different vehicles 2599 01:53:44,400 --> 01:53:46,758 coming out of water, sewer, and a fourth. 2600 01:53:46,958 --> 01:53:48,220 And part of those vehicles-- 2601 01:53:48,420 --> 01:53:50,360 to retrofit those-- they had cargo things 2602 01:53:50,560 --> 01:53:53,040 or they had open normal pickup truck. 2603 01:53:53,240 --> 01:53:55,920 No one had animal control units ready to slide 2604 01:53:56,120 --> 01:53:57,880 in in a timely manner, number one. 2605 01:53:58,080 --> 01:54:01,260 And number two is those units by themselves were almost $20,000 2606 01:54:01,460 --> 01:54:02,800 by themselves. 2607 01:54:03,000 --> 01:54:05,600 When we can buy fully assembled vehicles with air conditioned 2608 01:54:05,800 --> 01:54:08,640 back kennel areas in a timely manner, 2609 01:54:08,840 --> 01:54:12,240 and have them here in essentially two weeks 2610 01:54:12,440 --> 01:54:13,780 that are ready to go. 2611 01:54:13,980 --> 01:54:14,180 OK. 2612 01:54:14,380 --> 01:54:14,900 Yeah. 2613 01:54:15,100 --> 01:54:16,200 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Mr. Chair, I make 2614 01:54:16,400 --> 01:54:18,300 a motion to walk the item on, but I have 2615 01:54:18,500 --> 01:54:19,140 questions if there's a second. 2616 01:54:19,340 --> 01:54:20,660 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 2617 01:54:20,860 --> 01:54:23,498 We have a motion and a second to walk 2618 01:54:23,698 --> 01:54:25,340 on the item regarding the purchase of the two vehicles. 2619 01:54:25,540 --> 01:54:27,040 All right. 2620 01:54:27,240 --> 01:54:29,640 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Prior to the item being presented and voted 2621 01:54:29,840 --> 01:54:32,320 on, I would like to know the funding source. 2622 01:54:32,520 --> 01:54:36,120 And I'd like to know if that's 44 and no greater than, 2623 01:54:36,320 --> 01:54:37,740 or if that's per vehicle, just for clarity. 2624 01:54:37,940 --> 01:54:39,640 PATRICK: So the funding source, sir, 2625 01:54:39,840 --> 01:54:42,630 we went to the Surtax Committee, voter approved Surtax Committee, 2626 01:54:42,830 --> 01:54:45,490 and got approved capital dollars to go ahead and start 2627 01:54:45,690 --> 01:54:46,390 the service. 2628 01:54:46,590 --> 01:54:47,790 This is from those capital dollars. 2629 01:54:47,990 --> 01:54:50,750 And, additionally, as far as the not to exceed, 2630 01:54:50,950 --> 01:54:52,990 that is the total dollar value, including 2631 01:54:53,190 --> 01:54:54,590 shipping for both vehicles. 2632 01:54:54,790 --> 01:54:59,890 One is $17,500 with shipping and the other one is $25,000 flat, 2633 01:55:00,090 --> 01:55:00,648 including shipping. 2634 01:55:00,848 --> 01:55:02,040 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Thank you. 2635 01:55:02,240 --> 01:55:04,190 Mr. Chair, this just walks the item on. 2636 01:55:04,390 --> 01:55:05,850 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right, let's vote 2637 01:55:06,050 --> 01:55:08,950 on that just, I guess, procedurally, then we can 2638 01:55:09,150 --> 01:55:10,930 actually deal with the item. 2639 01:55:11,130 --> 01:55:14,450 Those in favor of walking on the item about the two vehicles, 2640 01:55:14,650 --> 01:55:15,590 please signify by saying, aye. 2641 01:55:15,790 --> 01:55:15,970 COMMISSIONERS: Aye. 2642 01:55:16,170 --> 01:55:16,770 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Those opposed. 2643 01:55:16,970 --> 01:55:17,890 All right, that passes unanimously. 2644 01:55:18,090 --> 01:55:20,890 So we can now address the item in substance. 2645 01:55:21,090 --> 01:55:22,390 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Mr. Chair, make a motion 2646 01:55:22,590 --> 01:55:25,423 that we approve the additional two vehicles to the fleet using 2647 01:55:25,623 --> 01:55:26,592 the funding source mentioned. 2648 01:55:26,792 --> 01:55:27,800 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 2649 01:55:28,000 --> 01:55:29,390 We have a motion to approve the request 2650 01:55:29,590 --> 01:55:30,830 to purchase the two vehicles, Commissioner Mixon. 2651 01:55:31,030 --> 01:55:32,510 Commissioner Palmer seconded that. 2652 01:55:32,710 --> 01:55:35,250 Further discussion on that item? 2653 01:55:35,450 --> 01:55:38,220 All right. 2654 01:55:38,420 --> 01:55:40,640 I'll just add then I did have a chance 2655 01:55:40,840 --> 01:55:43,660 to talk with Pat Maddox about this, and I-- 2656 01:55:43,860 --> 01:55:47,620 it doesn't surprise me. 2657 01:55:47,820 --> 01:55:50,720 It just reminded me how expensive this venture 2658 01:55:50,920 --> 01:55:53,080 is probably going to get. 2659 01:55:53,280 --> 01:55:56,980 And I know people have had concerns about whether or not 2660 01:55:57,180 --> 01:56:02,080 we're doing what was called animal control lite, 2661 01:56:02,280 --> 01:56:04,180 or we're doing animal control comprehensive, 2662 01:56:04,380 --> 01:56:06,480 or just what we're doing. 2663 01:56:06,680 --> 01:56:09,280 I think the answer is we're doing everything we can 2664 01:56:09,480 --> 01:56:10,280 within the means we have. 2665 01:56:10,480 --> 01:56:12,460 And we're meeting the statute and we're 2666 01:56:12,660 --> 01:56:14,300 meeting our requirements, and we're probably going 2667 01:56:14,500 --> 01:56:18,720 above that to some extent. 2668 01:56:18,920 --> 01:56:22,900 And I'll point out to those who are concerned about that, 2669 01:56:23,100 --> 01:56:24,420 buying the conditioned vehicles is not 2670 01:56:24,620 --> 01:56:26,420 a minimum statutory requirement. 2671 01:56:26,620 --> 01:56:28,660 That's an above and beyond. 2672 01:56:28,860 --> 01:56:33,020 And I think Pat Maddox was able to go out and try to find out 2673 01:56:33,220 --> 01:56:35,260 how to do that within the budget we had, 2674 01:56:35,460 --> 01:56:36,630 and that's what we're talking about. 2675 01:56:36,830 --> 01:56:39,630 So we're trying to do the best version of animal control 2676 01:56:39,830 --> 01:56:41,990 like we can with the resources we have. 2677 01:56:42,190 --> 01:56:44,110 And I'm sure it will continue evolving 2678 01:56:44,310 --> 01:56:49,310 until we get our hands wrapped around it because in my tenure, 2679 01:56:49,510 --> 01:56:51,610 we've never had in-house animal control. 2680 01:56:51,810 --> 01:56:55,770 In fact, I'm not sure anybody sitting up here 2681 01:56:55,970 --> 01:56:57,990 has ever worked with Okaloosa County running its own animal 2682 01:56:58,190 --> 01:56:59,190 control. 2683 01:56:59,390 --> 01:57:00,630 So this is new. 2684 01:57:00,830 --> 01:57:01,850 But in any event-- 2685 01:57:02,050 --> 01:57:03,830 any other comments on this? 2686 01:57:04,030 --> 01:57:06,730 If not, those in favor, please signify by saying, aye. 2687 01:57:06,930 --> 01:57:07,058 COMMISSIONERS: Aye. 2688 01:57:07,258 --> 01:57:08,450 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And those opposed. 2689 01:57:08,650 --> 01:57:10,250 All right, that passes unanimously. 2690 01:57:10,450 --> 01:57:13,002 Go buy your two trucks. 2691 01:57:13,202 --> 01:57:13,660 PATRICK: Thank you, sir. 2692 01:57:13,860 --> 01:57:15,727 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 2693 01:57:15,927 --> 01:57:17,060 CRAIG COFFEY: Thank you. 2694 01:57:17,260 --> 01:57:18,660 Let's talk about the main item now. 2695 01:57:18,860 --> 01:57:20,290 This is very exciting agreement, interlocal agreement 2696 01:57:20,490 --> 01:57:23,310 with the city of Crestview. 2697 01:57:23,510 --> 01:57:25,330 It provides for, essentially, full animal control 2698 01:57:25,530 --> 01:57:27,310 and sheltering services. 2699 01:57:27,510 --> 01:57:30,850 And it's a full partnership between the county and the city. 2700 01:57:31,050 --> 01:57:34,760 They've been great to work with. 2701 01:57:34,960 --> 01:57:36,560 And you talk about minimum animal control lite, 2702 01:57:36,760 --> 01:57:39,440 the city provides actually a much more robust service, 2703 01:57:39,640 --> 01:57:42,400 probably somewhere between full accepting everything and animal 2704 01:57:42,600 --> 01:57:47,380 control lite, which-- and I put it in the packet 2705 01:57:47,580 --> 01:57:48,480 there how they recognize. 2706 01:57:48,680 --> 01:57:51,120 Talk about the agreement a little bit. 2707 01:57:51,320 --> 01:57:53,420 The agreement is-- splits everything 50/50 for the animal 2708 01:57:53,620 --> 01:57:56,120 control services and sheltering. 2709 01:57:56,320 --> 01:57:58,200 Provides us to build a new animal 2710 01:57:58,400 --> 01:58:00,020 control sheltering facility, utilizing 2711 01:58:00,220 --> 01:58:03,020 one of the city's buildings. 2712 01:58:03,220 --> 01:58:05,120 The split would be 65% county, 35% city. 2713 01:58:05,320 --> 01:58:08,040 Realizing the city's contributing the building 2714 01:58:08,240 --> 01:58:11,540 and the land in it's 2020 metal building, about 7500ft. 2715 01:58:11,740 --> 01:58:16,020 They have an amazing service they 2716 01:58:16,220 --> 01:58:18,500 provide with the limited resources they do provide. 2717 01:58:18,700 --> 01:58:22,640 And you talk about trying to match budgets and stuff like 2718 01:58:22,840 --> 01:58:25,540 that, our animal control budget was slated this year to go up 2719 01:58:25,740 --> 01:58:26,540 to about 900,000. 2720 01:58:26,740 --> 01:58:30,260 I anticipate this operationally will probably be in the area 2721 01:58:30,460 --> 01:58:32,760 of around 450,000 when all was said and done. 2722 01:58:32,960 --> 01:58:35,850 Currently, the city spends about $600,000 total in animal control 2723 01:58:36,050 --> 01:58:39,370 services per year, so 50% of that would be 300,000. 2724 01:58:39,570 --> 01:58:42,630 They will have to add some more animal control officers 2725 01:58:42,830 --> 01:58:44,930 and vehicles and stuff like that. 2726 01:58:45,130 --> 01:58:48,470 And that will probably cause that number to go up to 900,000, 2727 01:58:48,670 --> 01:58:51,390 but still it's a benefit to them, benefit to us, 2728 01:58:51,590 --> 01:58:53,870 because we should both be saving money by combining resources. 2729 01:58:54,070 --> 01:58:57,250 Initially, we won't have the shelter in place, 2730 01:58:57,450 --> 01:59:00,727 so we will have animal control lite in the unincorporated area 2731 01:59:00,927 --> 01:59:03,310 up there that eventually grows to match the city's own service 2732 01:59:03,510 --> 01:59:07,430 levels over time once we get these other resources in place. 2733 01:59:07,630 --> 01:59:09,770 And that's personnel, equipment, and the facility itself. 2734 01:59:09,970 --> 01:59:15,310 But I will say that you heard a little bit from Niceville today, 2735 01:59:15,510 --> 01:59:18,510 you've heard from other cities as we partnered 2736 01:59:18,710 --> 01:59:22,410 on park projects and stuff like that, and this is just another. 2737 01:59:22,610 --> 01:59:23,673 Crestview has been a great partner 2738 01:59:23,873 --> 01:59:25,690 to work with on so many issues. 2739 01:59:25,890 --> 01:59:27,730 If you recall, they helped us out most recently 2740 01:59:27,930 --> 01:59:29,370 with the fire services in Dorcas, 2741 01:59:29,570 --> 01:59:31,840 covering a portion of that service territory. 2742 01:59:32,040 --> 01:59:33,980 And, of course, the bypass and everything 2743 01:59:34,180 --> 01:59:36,780 else that we partner with on Crestview. 2744 01:59:36,980 --> 01:59:39,560 Anything else I can describe about the interlocal, 2745 01:59:39,760 --> 01:59:41,940 I'm happy to. 2746 01:59:42,140 --> 01:59:44,280 I put a lot of details in our packet, 2747 01:59:44,480 --> 01:59:46,540 and we'll be happy to answer any questions. 2748 01:59:46,740 --> 01:59:49,620 Oh, and Jessica Levens, the City Manager, is here. 2749 01:59:49,820 --> 01:59:54,836 And she'd like to say a few words to you guys as well. 2750 01:59:55,036 --> 01:59:54,386 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: OK. 2751 01:59:54,586 --> 01:59:57,228 And we have a motion to approve by Commissioner Mixon, 2752 01:59:57,428 --> 02:00:00,120 second by Commissioner Cox, just so everyone 2753 02:00:00,320 --> 02:00:02,760 is aware of the procedural standpoint we're in. 2754 02:00:02,960 --> 02:00:04,860 So come on forward. 2755 02:00:05,060 --> 02:00:09,217 And I know how I'm going to vote so I feel very favorable this 2756 02:00:09,417 --> 02:00:09,100 is going to work. 2757 02:00:09,300 --> 02:00:10,500 JESSICA LEVENS: Thank you. 2758 02:00:10,700 --> 02:00:12,640 I just wanted to echo what Craig said, 2759 02:00:12,840 --> 02:00:14,748 it's been so great working with the county. 2760 02:00:14,948 --> 02:00:15,640 These partnerships are so important, 2761 02:00:15,840 --> 02:00:18,040 so we get things done efficiently and effectively. 2762 02:00:18,240 --> 02:00:19,560 Our team is very excited. 2763 02:00:19,760 --> 02:00:22,363 Public safety is one of the things 2764 02:00:22,563 --> 02:00:24,080 that we hear the most from our citizens 2765 02:00:24,280 --> 02:00:25,405 about how important that is, and animals 2766 02:00:25,605 --> 02:00:26,900 don't know jurisdiction lines. 2767 02:00:27,100 --> 02:00:30,120 And our team is so passionate about what they do. 2768 02:00:30,320 --> 02:00:31,870 It's really hard when someone brings in an animal 2769 02:00:32,070 --> 02:00:33,790 to find out where it came from. 2770 02:00:33,990 --> 02:00:35,190 Did it walk across the street? 2771 02:00:35,390 --> 02:00:37,153 The city limits in Crestview and the unincorporated county 2772 02:00:37,353 --> 02:00:38,970 are kind of jagged, so we're really 2773 02:00:39,170 --> 02:00:40,615 excited to move forward with this partnership 2774 02:00:40,815 --> 02:00:42,790 and provide all of our citizens in unincorporated 2775 02:00:42,990 --> 02:00:45,387 or incorporated with the best experience possible. 2776 02:00:45,587 --> 02:00:46,570 So, thank you. 2777 02:00:46,770 --> 02:00:48,017 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Very good. 2778 02:00:48,217 --> 02:00:49,050 Thank you, Commissioners. 2779 02:00:49,250 --> 02:00:49,870 Commissioner Mixon, anything further? 2780 02:00:50,070 --> 02:00:51,380 COMMISSIONER MIXON: Thank you. 2781 02:00:51,580 --> 02:00:51,650 Yes, sir. 2782 02:00:51,850 --> 02:00:53,670 Ms Levens, thanks for the job you're doing. 2783 02:00:53,870 --> 02:00:57,970 Both of our city managers here today, two out of nine, 2784 02:00:58,170 --> 02:01:00,070 y'all are doing fantastic work in the city. 2785 02:01:00,270 --> 02:01:02,330 And you make it easy to partner. 2786 02:01:02,530 --> 02:01:04,550 Some of the things we're being able to do together, 2787 02:01:04,750 --> 02:01:05,495 there's different funding sources 2788 02:01:05,695 --> 02:01:07,470 that are helping that along. 2789 02:01:07,670 --> 02:01:09,070 A lot to do with surtax. 2790 02:01:09,270 --> 02:01:11,730 But it's huge victories to the folks that live here and travel 2791 02:01:11,930 --> 02:01:15,790 through this article that's up, the 2026 trailblazer and animal 2792 02:01:15,990 --> 02:01:20,570 welfare award, Katie Healy. 2793 02:01:20,770 --> 02:01:22,850 What a wonderful opportunity to see 2794 02:01:23,050 --> 02:01:24,470 that we can celebrate together. 2795 02:01:24,670 --> 02:01:27,810 I hope she knows that dog is licking her face, 2796 02:01:28,010 --> 02:01:30,080 but it's great to know that we have folks that 2797 02:01:30,280 --> 02:01:32,720 do have that tender hearted and care and love, 2798 02:01:32,920 --> 02:01:35,020 and that are here and willing to serve. 2799 02:01:35,220 --> 02:01:38,360 I can't wait to see how this continued partnership goes 2800 02:01:38,560 --> 02:01:40,860 with the expansion for the North end of the county. 2801 02:01:41,060 --> 02:01:42,720 I believe the services are going to continue to increase. 2802 02:01:42,920 --> 02:01:43,580 JESSICA LEVENS: Thank you, Commissioner Mixon. 2803 02:01:43,780 --> 02:01:46,697 And just for this group, I did invite Officer Healy 2804 02:01:46,897 --> 02:01:49,780 to come with me today, and she's actually working very 2805 02:01:49,980 --> 02:01:51,480 hard in our shelter right now. 2806 02:01:51,680 --> 02:01:52,740 So she couldn't be with us. 2807 02:01:52,940 --> 02:01:53,340 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Thank you. 2808 02:01:53,540 --> 02:01:54,973 Mr. Cox, anything to add? 2809 02:01:55,173 --> 02:01:56,360 COMMISSIONER COX: I'd love to. 2810 02:01:56,560 --> 02:01:57,400 Thank you, Ms Levens. 2811 02:01:57,600 --> 02:01:59,220 Just from a heartfelt standpoint, I mean, 2812 02:01:59,420 --> 02:02:02,960 Katie Healy was responsible for how our family retrieved 2813 02:02:03,160 --> 02:02:05,000 our rescue. 2814 02:02:05,200 --> 02:02:08,000 And it was no small feat. 2815 02:02:08,200 --> 02:02:11,620 Our particular animal had been a family pet in another household, 2816 02:02:11,820 --> 02:02:16,280 and we had to chase her down a little bit. 2817 02:02:16,480 --> 02:02:18,580 And she was a sweet dog, never would hurt a thing, 2818 02:02:18,780 --> 02:02:22,120 but Katie really went above and beyond to implement that, 2819 02:02:22,320 --> 02:02:26,300 to make that happen. 2820 02:02:26,500 --> 02:02:27,743 And there's no question in my mind 2821 02:02:27,943 --> 02:02:29,460 that she does that on a regular basis. 2822 02:02:29,660 --> 02:02:30,900 So having her involved is exactly, 2823 02:02:31,100 --> 02:02:34,320 Mr. Maddox, what I meant a long time ago 2824 02:02:34,520 --> 02:02:38,260 when I said that I had deep concern and appreciation for all 2825 02:02:38,460 --> 02:02:41,760 the animal welfare people that we currently have utilized 2826 02:02:41,960 --> 02:02:46,180 to graft into the fold as we expand our services 2827 02:02:46,380 --> 02:02:49,740 or move our services to a more unified product, particularly 2828 02:02:49,940 --> 02:02:53,280 on the North end. 2829 02:02:53,480 --> 02:02:54,000 So thank you. 2830 02:02:54,200 --> 02:02:55,230 Thank you for the cooperation. 2831 02:02:55,430 --> 02:02:56,480 Thank you for the collaboration. 2832 02:02:56,680 --> 02:02:58,413 And please extend from Commissioner Cox, an extended-- 2833 02:02:58,613 --> 02:03:00,840 an intensive thank you to Katie Healy. 2834 02:03:01,040 --> 02:03:02,400 Thank you. 2835 02:03:02,600 --> 02:03:04,630 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: To commissioners, anything further? 2836 02:03:04,830 --> 02:03:07,925 CRAIG COFFEY: Two items I might just mention. 2837 02:03:08,125 --> 02:03:10,100 Inmates, was the first time we'll have our inmates 2838 02:03:10,300 --> 02:03:12,020 and their proposed to work at this facility. 2839 02:03:12,220 --> 02:03:14,500 They haven't been out in more than a decade, 2840 02:03:14,700 --> 02:03:16,083 so that we're implementing that program hopefully starting 2841 02:03:16,283 --> 02:03:17,000 September 1. 2842 02:03:17,200 --> 02:03:20,520 And that's a big milestone for us on the jail side, 2843 02:03:20,720 --> 02:03:22,427 thanks to the chief. 2844 02:03:22,627 --> 02:03:24,760 He's been working that hard and that should start soon. 2845 02:03:24,960 --> 02:03:26,950 And we have one pickup where a used pickup 2846 02:03:27,150 --> 02:03:30,170 we're proposing to give to them as well as part of this. 2847 02:03:30,370 --> 02:03:31,450 So I forgot to mention those. 2848 02:03:31,650 --> 02:03:32,390 Forgive me, Mr. Chairman. 2849 02:03:32,590 --> 02:03:33,680 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: Can I just say something? 2850 02:03:33,880 --> 02:03:33,860 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Sure. 2851 02:03:34,060 --> 02:03:36,490 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: I know you can't see my light down here, 2852 02:03:36,690 --> 02:03:37,410 so I always say it as it. 2853 02:03:37,610 --> 02:03:39,390 That's great for the inmates for so many reasons. 2854 02:03:39,590 --> 02:03:42,810 And it's great for the community to have the inmates engaged. 2855 02:03:43,010 --> 02:03:47,070 Years and years ago, we did so many things with inmates. 2856 02:03:47,270 --> 02:03:48,570 They were allowed to work farming areas. 2857 02:03:48,770 --> 02:03:50,710 And it just-- it's a shame that's all 2858 02:03:50,910 --> 02:03:52,050 disappeared because it's good for them 2859 02:03:52,250 --> 02:03:54,490 to get outside and certainly to hold animals. 2860 02:03:54,690 --> 02:03:57,510 Just it will make a huge difference both ways. 2861 02:03:57,710 --> 02:03:58,630 So thank you for that. 2862 02:03:58,830 --> 02:04:00,617 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Very good. 2863 02:04:00,817 --> 02:04:01,650 Anything further, commissioners? 2864 02:04:01,850 --> 02:04:05,030 If not, those in favor, please signify by saying, aye. 2865 02:04:05,230 --> 02:04:05,218 COMMISSIONERS: Aye. 2866 02:04:05,418 --> 02:04:06,610 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And those opposed-- 2867 02:04:06,810 --> 02:04:07,230 that passes unanimously. 2868 02:04:07,430 --> 02:04:08,670 All right. 2869 02:04:08,870 --> 02:04:09,290 Thank you. 2870 02:04:09,490 --> 02:04:10,830 Well, that concludes department business, 2871 02:04:11,030 --> 02:04:14,410 brings us to our one and only old business item, which 2872 02:04:14,610 --> 02:04:16,850 is an informational item regarding the fiscal year 2873 02:04:17,050 --> 02:04:19,850 27 proposed general fund budget. 2874 02:04:20,050 --> 02:04:23,217 Mr. Hofstad, are you going to lead that off? 2875 02:04:23,417 --> 02:04:24,450 JOHN HOFSTAD: I'll take it, yes, sir. 2876 02:04:24,650 --> 02:04:25,092 Mr. Chairman, Commissioners, this 2877 02:04:25,292 --> 02:04:28,060 is, again, a continuation of a discussion 2878 02:04:28,260 --> 02:04:32,740 that the board had here a month before last, I believe. 2879 02:04:32,940 --> 02:04:35,240 It was as it relates to county services 2880 02:04:35,440 --> 02:04:37,980 and how we group those services. 2881 02:04:38,180 --> 02:04:41,080 I know this comes on the heels of a discussion I've 2882 02:04:41,280 --> 02:04:45,520 had with the board, and it's been a center topic for us 2883 02:04:45,720 --> 02:04:47,600 here of late. 2884 02:04:47,800 --> 02:04:49,760 And that's as it relates to amendment 2885 02:04:49,960 --> 02:04:53,480 three and the potential impacts to our budget going forward, 2886 02:04:53,680 --> 02:04:55,360 should that be successful. 2887 02:04:55,560 --> 02:04:58,260 So, we were tasked with segregating out 2888 02:04:58,460 --> 02:05:01,860 the various services that the board provides into three 2889 02:05:02,060 --> 02:05:03,540 different categories. 2890 02:05:03,740 --> 02:05:05,580 And those mandated services are typically 2891 02:05:05,780 --> 02:05:08,580 services that are required by statutory provision or Florida 2892 02:05:08,780 --> 02:05:11,140 Administrative Code. 2893 02:05:11,340 --> 02:05:14,360 And then you have your general government services 2894 02:05:14,560 --> 02:05:17,367 that are lumped in the middle of the-- middle column you 2895 02:05:17,567 --> 02:05:17,300 see there. 2896 02:05:17,500 --> 02:05:18,700 And those are typically essential services 2897 02:05:18,900 --> 02:05:20,750 that we provide. 2898 02:05:20,950 --> 02:05:23,530 And then the far column to the right, we've identified 2899 02:05:23,730 --> 02:05:26,550 what are considered the quality of life services. 2900 02:05:26,750 --> 02:05:28,890 So, as you'll see, if-- 2901 02:05:29,090 --> 02:05:33,430 Nick, can you get all of that on one frame? 2902 02:05:33,630 --> 02:05:36,598 Yeah, there you go. 2903 02:05:36,798 --> 02:05:36,790 Much better. 2904 02:05:36,990 --> 02:05:39,390 And as you see, we have corresponding values 2905 02:05:39,590 --> 02:05:43,210 that go with each of those services 2906 02:05:43,410 --> 02:05:45,910 and the revenue needed to support those level of services 2907 02:05:46,110 --> 02:05:48,850 inside the general fund. 2908 02:05:49,050 --> 02:05:52,010 And as you can see, the mandated services, they 2909 02:05:52,210 --> 02:05:54,510 compile the majority of the expense, 2910 02:05:54,710 --> 02:05:57,370 that we utilize majority of our property tax revenue 2911 02:05:57,570 --> 02:06:02,950 and then we have some state shared revenue and state sales 2912 02:06:03,150 --> 02:06:04,250 tax that go into your general fund. 2913 02:06:04,450 --> 02:06:07,850 But as you might imagine, a lot of the expense associated 2914 02:06:08,050 --> 02:06:10,090 inside that line relates to public safety, 2915 02:06:10,290 --> 02:06:14,550 and what we do in support of the Sheriff's Office, 2916 02:06:14,750 --> 02:06:16,990 our Corrections Department, which is again 2917 02:06:17,190 --> 02:06:19,260 a statutory requirement and burden that's 2918 02:06:19,460 --> 02:06:21,840 placed on the 67 counties to house, 2919 02:06:22,040 --> 02:06:23,620 house inmates predisposition. 2920 02:06:23,820 --> 02:06:27,900 And that's North of 24 million for that service loan. 2921 02:06:28,100 --> 02:06:32,560 And then all the general government services 2922 02:06:32,760 --> 02:06:35,280 that make up county operations as well, 2923 02:06:35,480 --> 02:06:39,000 and then those quality of life services. 2924 02:06:39,200 --> 02:06:41,580 So we wanted to categorize each of those services, 2925 02:06:41,780 --> 02:06:43,660 the corresponding budget figure that 2926 02:06:43,860 --> 02:06:47,260 goes into support of all those various functions, 2927 02:06:47,460 --> 02:06:52,620 and to give you an idea how that break out is cataloged as we 2928 02:06:52,820 --> 02:06:56,300 develop a budget each year. 2929 02:06:56,500 --> 02:06:58,820 So we've talked about potential impacts to amendment three. 2930 02:06:59,020 --> 02:07:04,720 In year one, that's about a $15 million hit to our property tax 2931 02:07:04,920 --> 02:07:06,600 revenue, our general fund revenue. 2932 02:07:06,800 --> 02:07:09,860 Followed in year two by almost $25 million 2933 02:07:10,060 --> 02:07:14,320 hit in our revenues that support all of these various functions. 2934 02:07:14,520 --> 02:07:19,930 So, I wanted to summarize this for you to give you a graphic, 2935 02:07:20,130 --> 02:07:23,790 if that amendment is successful in year two, 2936 02:07:23,990 --> 02:07:27,990 and we've got to cut out $25 million. 2937 02:07:28,190 --> 02:07:30,530 If we just look at your general government 2938 02:07:30,730 --> 02:07:32,590 services and your quality of life services, 2939 02:07:32,790 --> 02:07:36,270 we can't make up that deficit by cutting out 2940 02:07:36,470 --> 02:07:37,890 those levels of service without impacting, 2941 02:07:38,090 --> 02:07:42,870 in some form or fashion, those mandated 2942 02:07:43,070 --> 02:07:46,810 services that we provide as part of our county government. 2943 02:07:47,010 --> 02:07:51,170 So, I wanted to provide this to you for informational purposes. 2944 02:07:51,370 --> 02:07:54,410 Certainly, we welcome any feedback you might have. 2945 02:07:54,610 --> 02:07:57,870 This is a high level view. 2946 02:07:58,070 --> 02:08:00,110 Obviously, we did not go into line item detail 2947 02:08:00,310 --> 02:08:02,950 and break out each line item within your budget. 2948 02:08:03,150 --> 02:08:06,770 We looked at categories of service within the general fund, 2949 02:08:06,970 --> 02:08:10,490 and that is what is provided for you here today. 2950 02:08:10,690 --> 02:08:12,770 So, again, I provided this informational data 2951 02:08:12,970 --> 02:08:17,360 for this board. 2952 02:08:17,560 --> 02:08:19,540 And if you have any further questions, 2953 02:08:19,740 --> 02:08:21,360 we'll do our best to answer those. 2954 02:08:21,560 --> 02:08:22,660 That's all I have, sir. 2955 02:08:22,860 --> 02:08:23,080 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Commissioners, I 2956 02:08:23,280 --> 02:08:24,680 know I have some questions. 2957 02:08:24,880 --> 02:08:26,105 Does anybody else have questions on this? 2958 02:08:26,305 --> 02:08:30,443 Ms. Ketchel, do you have some questions? 2959 02:08:30,643 --> 02:08:32,710 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: I do, but go ahead, go ahead. 2960 02:08:32,910 --> 02:08:35,420 You might say the same thing I was going to say. 2961 02:08:35,620 --> 02:08:35,140 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Oh. 2962 02:08:35,340 --> 02:08:39,240 Well, so what I wanted to ask, so I see at least three things 2963 02:08:39,440 --> 02:08:41,600 on here that I think historically 2964 02:08:41,800 --> 02:08:43,660 I've viewed as not general fund expenditures, 2965 02:08:43,860 --> 02:08:48,400 but it may be just my-- 2966 02:08:48,600 --> 02:08:50,932 so I wanted to bring them up. 2967 02:08:51,132 --> 02:08:52,440 So, beach safety, beach park rangers, and tourism parks-- 2968 02:08:52,640 --> 02:08:59,520 I think those were the three I looked at-- 2969 02:08:59,720 --> 02:09:02,680 are we saying that those numbers that are shown here 2970 02:09:02,880 --> 02:09:04,860 are coming out of general fund dollars? 2971 02:09:05,060 --> 02:09:06,520 JOHN HOFSTAD: No, sir. 2972 02:09:06,720 --> 02:09:06,880 We're not. 2973 02:09:07,080 --> 02:09:10,580 But what I couldn't do is when I look at, say, a parks 2974 02:09:10,780 --> 02:09:13,730 and facility maintenance budget, that's all encompassing. 2975 02:09:13,930 --> 02:09:17,370 So you have a general fund component of that budget, 2976 02:09:17,570 --> 02:09:20,050 you have an MSTU component of that budget, 2977 02:09:20,250 --> 02:09:23,850 and then you have the TDD takeaway for the beach related 2978 02:09:24,050 --> 02:09:25,110 facilities. 2979 02:09:25,310 --> 02:09:28,250 So we wanted to lump it all together because when 2980 02:09:28,450 --> 02:09:31,990 we look at-- if we had to make significant cuts, 2981 02:09:32,190 --> 02:09:35,830 I would have to look inside the parks and facilities budget 2982 02:09:36,030 --> 02:09:37,770 and say, OK, which of these functions 2983 02:09:37,970 --> 02:09:39,490 are totally general fund supported 2984 02:09:39,690 --> 02:09:41,730 and which are necessary? 2985 02:09:41,930 --> 02:09:46,170 I believe you have some maintenance responsibilities 2986 02:09:46,370 --> 02:09:48,570 to maintain all of the structures we 2987 02:09:48,770 --> 02:09:52,370 have here in the county, but to a lesser extent, is it important 2988 02:09:52,570 --> 02:09:56,010 or is it absolutely necessary that we mow grass every two 2989 02:09:56,210 --> 02:09:59,880 or three weeks, or do we have to scale back 2990 02:10:00,080 --> 02:10:01,150 on that type of operation? 2991 02:10:01,350 --> 02:10:05,070 I would say the same thing for our IT budget and Dan's budget. 2992 02:10:05,270 --> 02:10:06,970 You have certain mandatory requirements 2993 02:10:07,170 --> 02:10:10,870 that are built into county government 2994 02:10:11,070 --> 02:10:13,100 as it relates to security and security inside 2995 02:10:13,300 --> 02:10:16,460 of all your IT functions. 2996 02:10:16,660 --> 02:10:18,940 But do we have to continue with a scheduled 2997 02:10:19,140 --> 02:10:21,780 every other year replacement of PCs and laptops? 2998 02:10:21,980 --> 02:10:25,480 No, we don't necessarily have to do that. 2999 02:10:25,680 --> 02:10:27,360 That's something we could push down the road. 3000 02:10:27,560 --> 02:10:29,535 I would say the same thing with software purchases. 3001 02:10:29,735 --> 02:10:32,460 We purchase software to make the job easier, 3002 02:10:32,660 --> 02:10:36,340 to reduce our manpower requirement in a lot of regards. 3003 02:10:36,540 --> 02:10:39,580 But software comes with an expense. 3004 02:10:39,780 --> 02:10:42,940 You have the upfront expense of acquiring the software, 3005 02:10:43,140 --> 02:10:45,220 then you have an annual maintenance cost. 3006 02:10:45,420 --> 02:10:48,640 So there are various functions within a lot of these budgets 3007 02:10:48,840 --> 02:10:52,240 that if we needed to find a significant level of cut, 3008 02:10:52,440 --> 02:10:58,240 that we would look in all areas of those general fund 3009 02:10:58,440 --> 02:11:01,860 supported activities inside of all of these budgets. 3010 02:11:02,060 --> 02:11:04,930 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: So just to clarify-- 3011 02:11:05,130 --> 02:11:07,280 and I think you gave me the answer, 3012 02:11:07,480 --> 02:11:09,638 but I want to make sure because I don't want there 3013 02:11:09,838 --> 02:11:10,910 to be any confusion with our public, 3014 02:11:11,110 --> 02:11:14,330 because the label is proposed general fund budget 3015 02:11:14,530 --> 02:11:17,310 and it's talking about that's the lead. 3016 02:11:17,510 --> 02:11:19,690 So I'm looking specifically like, for instance, 3017 02:11:19,890 --> 02:11:22,230 line item 175, tourist district parks, $3.3 million, 3018 02:11:22,430 --> 02:11:29,150 we're not saying that we're taking $3.3 million 3019 02:11:29,350 --> 02:11:32,830 of property taxes and putting it into tourist parks. 3020 02:11:33,030 --> 02:11:34,970 That's not what this is saying. 3021 02:11:35,170 --> 02:11:37,430 I just don't want anybody to get the wrong idea. 3022 02:11:37,630 --> 02:11:38,470 Same for beach safety. 3023 02:11:38,670 --> 02:11:40,290 That's not what this is saying. 3024 02:11:40,490 --> 02:11:41,140 JOHN HOFSTAD: You're absolutely right. 3025 02:11:41,340 --> 02:11:45,510 And that's why you see that figure carried over to the right 3026 02:11:45,710 --> 02:11:46,930 as a quality of life. 3027 02:11:47,130 --> 02:11:50,010 It is a quality of life service, but it's not a general fund 3028 02:11:50,210 --> 02:11:50,290 impact. 3029 02:11:50,490 --> 02:11:52,710 We're able to offset that with TDD revenue. 3030 02:11:52,910 --> 02:11:56,110 That's one of the few exceptions the state gives us 3031 02:11:56,310 --> 02:11:57,550 with the use of those funds. 3032 02:11:57,750 --> 02:12:00,770 As you well know, they did carve out several years ago and said, 3033 02:12:00,970 --> 02:12:02,590 you can take x amount of percentage, 3034 02:12:02,790 --> 02:12:05,090 and you can fund those activities that support 3035 02:12:05,290 --> 02:12:07,390 tourism inside your community. 3036 02:12:07,590 --> 02:12:09,950 Obviously, beach safety is cornerstone 3037 02:12:10,150 --> 02:12:14,630 to that so that's why we've been able to tap into that funding 3038 02:12:14,830 --> 02:12:15,990 source to offset it. 3039 02:12:16,190 --> 02:12:16,615 You're correct. 3040 02:12:16,815 --> 02:12:17,540 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Perfect. 3041 02:12:17,740 --> 02:12:18,110 Thank you. 3042 02:12:18,310 --> 02:12:19,770 And that's how I understood the information. 3043 02:12:19,970 --> 02:12:22,803 I just didn't want anybody to read it and take away 3044 02:12:23,003 --> 02:12:23,250 the wrong idea. 3045 02:12:23,450 --> 02:12:24,650 JOHN HOFSTAD: That's all right. 3046 02:12:24,850 --> 02:12:28,130 And I would extend that to your reserves. 3047 02:12:28,330 --> 02:12:32,970 There's been some talk, well, you built a healthy reserve, 3048 02:12:33,170 --> 02:12:35,370 we have. 3049 02:12:35,570 --> 02:12:38,970 It's been an effort of this board over the last 10 years 3050 02:12:39,170 --> 02:12:41,630 to build reserves up to the level they are. 3051 02:12:41,830 --> 02:12:44,490 You've come together with an internal management policy 3052 02:12:44,690 --> 02:12:49,450 as it relates to your reserve, and we 3053 02:12:49,650 --> 02:12:51,510 look to meet that each year. 3054 02:12:51,710 --> 02:12:54,500 But as you recall-- and there's some of you sitting up 3055 02:12:54,700 --> 02:12:56,150 here that remember the days back in 2014, 2015, 3056 02:12:56,350 --> 02:12:59,970 we had about a $4 million reserve. 3057 02:13:00,170 --> 02:13:02,330 And that's not sufficient to maintain 3058 02:13:02,530 --> 02:13:07,400 continuity of operations, should we have some type of disaster. 3059 02:13:07,600 --> 02:13:10,100 So, while we have that reserve figure there, 3060 02:13:10,300 --> 02:13:12,640 that's not something I would typically go and continue 3061 02:13:12,840 --> 02:13:16,760 to reduce that reserve and get us back in the same position 3062 02:13:16,960 --> 02:13:17,480 we were 10 years ago. 3063 02:13:17,680 --> 02:13:18,802 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: And that's a great point. 3064 02:13:19,002 --> 02:13:21,660 Unless somebody else has a question on that reserve issue, 3065 02:13:21,860 --> 02:13:23,840 I wanted to tease that out a little bit 3066 02:13:24,040 --> 02:13:24,808 because I think it's important. 3067 02:13:25,008 --> 02:13:26,700 So, I think the way we approach reserves 3068 02:13:26,900 --> 02:13:29,440 is, as I understand it, we've got kind 3069 02:13:29,640 --> 02:13:32,820 of a blend in the reserve fund, a blend between deferred 3070 02:13:33,020 --> 02:13:36,020 maintenance or deferred replacement items 3071 02:13:36,220 --> 02:13:38,840 that we know will be in the future, 3072 02:13:39,040 --> 02:13:40,120 and hedges against unexpected disaster operations. 3073 02:13:40,320 --> 02:13:44,860 So it's these two different purposes. 3074 02:13:45,060 --> 02:13:49,460 And I think what Mr. Hofstad is saying is say, for instance, 3075 02:13:49,660 --> 02:13:53,430 you've been putting away money because you 3076 02:13:53,630 --> 02:13:55,180 know you're going to have to replace 3077 02:13:55,380 --> 02:13:57,280 your roof in a few years, if you start 3078 02:13:57,480 --> 02:13:58,680 using that money to pay your light bill, 3079 02:13:58,880 --> 02:14:00,200 you're going to have a problem. 3080 02:14:00,400 --> 02:14:04,260 And so that's kind of, I think, what he's getting at is, look, 3081 02:14:04,460 --> 02:14:08,170 the reserves aren't just there to look at and feel good about. 3082 02:14:08,370 --> 02:14:11,770 They're there because there's an identified reason to need them. 3083 02:14:11,970 --> 02:14:16,770 Part of which we know because we've planned for these deferred 3084 02:14:16,970 --> 02:14:17,950 maintenance or replacement items, 3085 02:14:18,150 --> 02:14:21,890 we can get a pretty good idea of what those will be. 3086 02:14:22,090 --> 02:14:24,430 And then the others are for the things 3087 02:14:24,630 --> 02:14:27,390 that may never happen, but probably will at some point-- 3088 02:14:27,590 --> 02:14:32,150 the storm event, the other type of disasters that happen. 3089 02:14:32,350 --> 02:14:35,730 And even those, even though you never 3090 02:14:35,930 --> 02:14:38,170 know exactly what they're going to cost. 3091 02:14:38,370 --> 02:14:41,410 We've got some pretty good examples of similar counties 3092 02:14:41,610 --> 02:14:46,490 that went through things not so long ago, like our sister 3093 02:14:46,690 --> 02:14:48,770 County Bay, that Hurricane Michael. 3094 02:14:48,970 --> 02:14:53,810 And we know what their burn down was in a real rapid pace. 3095 02:14:54,010 --> 02:14:57,250 And if we don't have a good reserve, I mean, 3096 02:14:57,450 --> 02:15:00,050 we could be out of money very fast. 3097 02:15:00,250 --> 02:15:02,300 And the FEMA backstop isn't instant. 3098 02:15:02,500 --> 02:15:06,920 So, I mean-- and this is for critical things, 3099 02:15:07,120 --> 02:15:07,980 the critical stuff. 3100 02:15:08,180 --> 02:15:11,440 Not the quality of life, not making sure that the swing set 3101 02:15:11,640 --> 02:15:13,940 at the park is perfect. 3102 02:15:14,140 --> 02:15:16,440 It's making sure that you've got public safety still operating-- 3103 02:15:16,640 --> 02:15:20,280 sheriff, EMS, public works because they're 3104 02:15:20,480 --> 02:15:24,920 having to clear dangerous thoroughfares and streets, 3105 02:15:25,120 --> 02:15:27,080 things like that. 3106 02:15:27,280 --> 02:15:28,700 So, that's the problem with the reserves. 3107 02:15:28,900 --> 02:15:31,260 And, Commissioner Ketchel, I think 3108 02:15:31,460 --> 02:15:34,240 you and I were here when we started out, 3109 02:15:34,440 --> 02:15:36,360 and we were on paper thin reserves. 3110 02:15:36,560 --> 02:15:39,020 We were lucky there wasn't a disaster. 3111 02:15:39,220 --> 02:15:41,238 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: Well, that's exactly right. 3112 02:15:41,438 --> 02:15:43,880 I mean, and we have been fiscally conservative. 3113 02:15:44,080 --> 02:15:46,660 The thing that I want the public to understand 3114 02:15:46,860 --> 02:15:49,460 is we didn't spend the money when we had it. 3115 02:15:49,660 --> 02:15:51,060 We tucked it away because we know 3116 02:15:51,260 --> 02:15:53,000 eventually there will be a storm event 3117 02:15:53,200 --> 02:15:55,780 and we'll need the money to pay FEMA. 3118 02:15:55,980 --> 02:15:57,200 And we understand that. 3119 02:15:57,400 --> 02:15:59,400 And we've been very conservative with our budgeting, 3120 02:15:59,600 --> 02:16:03,370 just as I hope many households in Okaloosa County are. 3121 02:16:03,570 --> 02:16:07,590 And I'd hate to think that this homestead exemption would pass 3122 02:16:07,790 --> 02:16:10,970 and we'd have to decide not to have mosquito control. 3123 02:16:11,170 --> 02:16:13,590 Can you imagine living here without mosquito control? 3124 02:16:13,790 --> 02:16:18,170 Do you know the number one insect that 3125 02:16:18,370 --> 02:16:19,970 kills more people-- although ticks are quickly rising-- 3126 02:16:20,170 --> 02:16:21,870 are mosquitoes. 3127 02:16:22,070 --> 02:16:23,810 I mean, it carries chickamauga dengue, 3128 02:16:24,010 --> 02:16:26,722 I mean, all the things that we don't even 3129 02:16:26,922 --> 02:16:27,830 want to think about here, but we're 3130 02:16:28,030 --> 02:16:29,288 so blessed because we have mosquito control. 3131 02:16:29,488 --> 02:16:33,470 I don't want to have to sit here and try to figure out 3132 02:16:33,670 --> 02:16:36,703 what we're going to pay for and what we're not going to pay for. 3133 02:16:36,903 --> 02:16:37,270 Animal control, we're not going to be 3134 02:16:37,470 --> 02:16:39,530 able to do much more for animal control 3135 02:16:39,730 --> 02:16:41,950 even if we could keep it where we are today 3136 02:16:42,150 --> 02:16:44,010 if this homestead exemption goes through. 3137 02:16:44,210 --> 02:16:46,950 It's very frightening, actually, to be a commissioner 3138 02:16:47,150 --> 02:16:49,370 and to see this proposal. 3139 02:16:49,570 --> 02:16:51,470 I've been everywhere I can talking about it. 3140 02:16:51,670 --> 02:16:53,850 I even wrote a couple of newspapers about it. 3141 02:16:54,050 --> 02:16:55,929 Hopefully that will be published here shortly. 3142 02:16:56,129 --> 02:16:58,890 But, anybody, feel free to call my office if you 3143 02:16:59,090 --> 02:17:00,693 have any questions about it. 3144 02:17:00,893 --> 02:17:01,860 It's very concerning to me, especially 3145 02:17:02,060 --> 02:17:04,900 in a county like Okaloosa, we're different. 3146 02:17:05,100 --> 02:17:07,820 I don't know what the other 66 counties have done, 3147 02:17:08,020 --> 02:17:09,179 but this county has been fiscally conservative 3148 02:17:09,379 --> 02:17:12,000 with your dollars, and will continue to be. 3149 02:17:12,200 --> 02:17:14,353 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Commissioners, other questions, 3150 02:17:14,553 --> 02:17:16,900 thoughts, comments on this informational item? 3151 02:17:17,100 --> 02:17:19,220 All right. 3152 02:17:19,420 --> 02:17:22,120 If not, I just want to say thanks to Mr. Hofstad 3153 02:17:22,320 --> 02:17:22,659 for pulling this together. 3154 02:17:22,859 --> 02:17:24,892 I think it's good information that we all 3155 02:17:25,092 --> 02:17:26,300 keep at the forefront of our minds 3156 02:17:26,500 --> 02:17:28,120 as we're finishing up our budget cycle here. 3157 02:17:28,320 --> 02:17:31,600 And when we condense it down like this, 3158 02:17:31,800 --> 02:17:34,760 I think it makes it easier for our public 3159 02:17:34,960 --> 02:17:37,459 to get a snapshot of what we're looking at 3160 02:17:37,659 --> 02:17:39,812 and be able to see some of those numbers. 3161 02:17:40,012 --> 02:17:40,620 So thanks for doing that. 3162 02:17:40,820 --> 02:17:43,900 That brings us to the close of business on the agenda. 3163 02:17:44,100 --> 02:17:47,780 We do have a final public comment 3164 02:17:47,980 --> 02:17:49,259 opportunity of the meeting. 3165 02:17:49,459 --> 02:17:51,680 I have one card, and that is Steve Perry. 3166 02:17:51,880 --> 02:17:55,840 So, Mr. Perry, if you'll come forward and provide 3167 02:17:56,040 --> 02:17:58,270 your final comments. 3168 02:18:02,117 --> 02:18:10,517 STEVE PERRY: Before the clock starts, I'd kindly ask-- 3169 02:18:10,717 --> 02:18:13,150 I've tried to reduce this down to three minutes, 3170 02:18:13,350 --> 02:18:13,970 and it's about four. 3171 02:18:14,170 --> 02:18:16,450 I drive 1,500 miles every time. 3172 02:18:16,650 --> 02:18:18,450 And last time I wasn't able to hear, 3173 02:18:18,650 --> 02:18:20,850 and I drove from Philadelphia, and that was a 2,000-mile trip. 3174 02:18:21,050 --> 02:18:22,890 So I had to ask for just a little lenience 3175 02:18:23,090 --> 02:18:24,640 to try to get this time in, if it's OK. 3176 02:18:24,840 --> 02:18:25,659 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: I tell you what, 3177 02:18:25,859 --> 02:18:27,849 you can see if any of the buddy on the board 3178 02:18:28,049 --> 02:18:28,309 wants to grant a minute. 3179 02:18:28,509 --> 02:18:30,510 I think they got to do that by motion. 3180 02:18:30,710 --> 02:18:33,690 If not, try to keep it to three. 3181 02:18:33,890 --> 02:18:35,940 STEVE PERRY: I'll try to keep it as quick as I can. 3182 02:18:36,140 --> 02:18:34,980 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Thanks. 3183 02:18:35,180 --> 02:18:35,690 STEVE PERRY: Thank you. 3184 02:18:35,890 --> 02:18:38,350 Again, you know who I am and everything like that. 3185 02:18:38,550 --> 02:18:39,233 First, I want to congratulate you 3186 02:18:39,433 --> 02:18:41,590 for doing your job, and everything like that. 3187 02:18:41,790 --> 02:18:43,949 It's very important to the Board of County Commissioners 3188 02:18:44,149 --> 02:18:47,090 is very important, and the task you do is very important. 3189 02:18:47,290 --> 02:18:49,090 I attended an FWC meeting last week-- 3190 02:18:49,290 --> 02:18:51,830 or sorry, two weeks ago when I wasn't 3191 02:18:52,030 --> 02:18:53,890 able to attend the meeting here two weeks ago. 3192 02:18:54,090 --> 02:18:55,860 And I thought it was a very enlightening 3193 02:18:56,060 --> 02:18:57,900 to speak with the FWC. 3194 02:18:58,100 --> 02:19:02,060 I want to read a little bit related to that speech modified. 3195 02:19:02,260 --> 02:19:04,480 The Florida Fish Wildlife Commission-- 3196 02:19:04,680 --> 02:19:07,500 Conservation Commission is committed 3197 02:19:07,700 --> 02:19:09,520 to protecting Florida's marine resources 3198 02:19:09,720 --> 02:19:12,059 through the coastal corridor initiative, which 3199 02:19:12,259 --> 02:19:15,639 is getting started but it's been going on for some time. 3200 02:19:15,839 --> 02:19:17,253 Florida's earned a reputation as the nation's leader 3201 02:19:17,453 --> 02:19:19,120 in artificial reef development, and the framework 3202 02:19:19,320 --> 02:19:21,899 you are creating today, as well as you, 3203 02:19:22,099 --> 02:19:25,620 help shape the artificial reef policy for decades to come. 3204 02:19:25,820 --> 02:19:28,700 As their presentation at that time, 3205 02:19:28,900 --> 02:19:31,200 the framework was to be developed by scientists, 3206 02:19:31,400 --> 02:19:32,659 managers, including public workshops, guide, 3207 02:19:32,859 --> 02:19:35,200 artificial reef placement throughout Florida 3208 02:19:35,400 --> 02:19:38,620 over the next 15 to 20 years. 3209 02:19:38,820 --> 02:19:41,800 I'm here as a member of our private foundation. 3210 02:19:42,000 --> 02:19:46,659 And I want to say over the past 22 months, 3211 02:19:46,859 --> 02:19:49,520 I alongside about a half a dozen of my colleagues, 3212 02:19:49,720 --> 02:19:52,980 have addressed this board nearly 30 times. 3213 02:19:53,180 --> 02:19:56,430 And we've addressed issues related 3214 02:19:56,630 --> 02:19:58,070 to scientific, environmental, historic preservation, 3215 02:19:58,270 --> 02:20:01,478 regulatory issues surrounding this proposed 3216 02:20:01,678 --> 02:20:04,770 development of the SS United States as an artificial reef. 3217 02:20:04,970 --> 02:20:07,170 We've participated in good faith throughout that process 3218 02:20:07,370 --> 02:20:09,410 because we believe these concerns deserve 3219 02:20:09,610 --> 02:20:11,790 careful consideration before possible irreversible 3220 02:20:11,990 --> 02:20:17,210 actions are taken or harm is done, as we've raised. 3221 02:20:17,410 --> 02:20:21,290 Let me begin by saying, again, we support artificial reefing. 3222 02:20:21,490 --> 02:20:25,130 When developed responsibly and guided by sound science, 3223 02:20:25,330 --> 02:20:27,390 artificial reefs provide a tremendous benefit 3224 02:20:27,590 --> 02:20:29,830 to the marine ecosystem, fisheries, 3225 02:20:30,030 --> 02:20:32,730 recreational opportunities, and Florida's coastal economy. 3226 02:20:32,930 --> 02:20:36,590 However, the SS United States is unlike-- 3227 02:20:36,790 --> 02:20:39,950 and I'm going to repeat this-- is unlike any artificial reef 3228 02:20:40,150 --> 02:20:43,090 program or project this county or any county in Florida 3229 02:20:43,290 --> 02:20:44,710 has done. 3230 02:20:44,910 --> 02:20:46,910 It's on a scale that is unprecedented. 3231 02:20:47,110 --> 02:20:50,910 She was constructed during an era when zinc chromate 3232 02:20:51,110 --> 02:20:52,330 primer and hexavalent chromium were extensively 3233 02:20:52,530 --> 02:20:54,670 used throughout the ships for corrosion protection. 3234 02:20:54,870 --> 02:20:58,150 Independent laboratory testing commissioned by our organization 3235 02:20:58,350 --> 02:21:01,950 has confirmed the presence of significant concentrations 3236 02:21:02,150 --> 02:21:04,010 of hexavalent chromium aboard the vessel. 3237 02:21:04,210 --> 02:21:06,490 Our concerns are not ours alone. 3238 02:21:06,690 --> 02:21:08,790 The Center for Biological Diversity, Healthy Gulf, 3239 02:21:08,990 --> 02:21:11,130 marine scientist, toxicologist, and environmental experts 3240 02:21:11,330 --> 02:21:13,870 have all raised concerns regarding 3241 02:21:14,070 --> 02:21:15,910 the environmental impacts in introduction 3242 02:21:16,110 --> 02:21:17,830 of these legacy industrial materials 3243 02:21:18,030 --> 02:21:19,690 into Florida's coastal environment. 3244 02:21:19,890 --> 02:21:23,890 One of those experts is Dr. Todd Osborn, Professor, Estuary 3245 02:21:24,090 --> 02:21:27,210 and Aquatic Biogeochemistry at the University of Florida. 3246 02:21:27,410 --> 02:21:31,250 Dr. Osborn holds a PhD in soil and water science, 3247 02:21:31,450 --> 02:21:32,890 with specialization in biogeochemistry, 3248 02:21:33,090 --> 02:21:36,350 and aquatic environments. 3249 02:21:36,550 --> 02:21:38,430 In a recorded statement-- 3250 02:21:38,630 --> 02:21:41,367 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right, Steve, you got to wrap it up. 3251 02:21:41,567 --> 02:21:41,850 STEVE PERRY: OK. 3252 02:21:42,050 --> 02:21:45,410 Quote-- I don't know if you even saw the thing." 3253 02:21:45,610 --> 02:21:47,982 We didn't submit it directly to you, but it's online. 3254 02:21:48,182 --> 02:21:50,190 I don't know if you saw Dr. Osborne's video presentation. 3255 02:21:50,390 --> 02:21:52,238 It was very enlightening. 3256 02:21:52,438 --> 02:21:55,080 But I would like to read a couple quotes from it. 3257 02:21:55,280 --> 02:21:56,730 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Well, I know we're out of time for that, 3258 02:21:56,930 --> 02:21:59,013 unless anybody on the commission wants to grant their minute. 3259 02:21:59,213 --> 02:21:59,340 No. 3260 02:21:59,540 --> 02:22:00,140 All right. 3261 02:22:00,340 --> 02:22:02,700 You can email us. 3262 02:22:02,900 --> 02:22:03,200 Thank you. 3263 02:22:03,400 --> 02:22:08,258 I don't have any other speaker cards, 3264 02:22:08,458 --> 02:22:10,400 so I'm going to close the final public comment 3265 02:22:10,600 --> 02:22:11,860 opportunity of the meeting, bring it back 3266 02:22:12,060 --> 02:22:12,820 for the commissioners' minute. 3267 02:22:13,020 --> 02:22:13,470 Commissioner Ketchel. 3268 02:22:13,670 --> 02:22:14,945 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: I just want 3269 02:22:15,145 --> 02:22:17,820 to let you all know that November 11 is coming. 3270 02:22:18,020 --> 02:22:18,940 And thanks to Commissioner Chairman Goodman, 3271 02:22:19,140 --> 02:22:22,380 we have the charters of freedom that 3272 02:22:22,580 --> 02:22:25,220 will be unveiled on that day in the Women's Veterans Park. 3273 02:22:25,420 --> 02:22:27,620 I know we're making good progress out 3274 02:22:27,820 --> 02:22:30,700 there because I stay in touch with Mr. Peters every day 3275 02:22:30,900 --> 02:22:32,820 on this, just about, don't I? 3276 02:22:33,020 --> 02:22:34,260 And it's looking good. 3277 02:22:34,460 --> 02:22:38,160 So I hope you all plan to come at 8:30 in the morning, 3278 02:22:38,360 --> 02:22:37,880 November 11. 3279 02:22:38,080 --> 02:22:40,220 It's going to be a really good event. 3280 02:22:40,420 --> 02:22:42,500 And we have Colonel Garrett from-- 3281 02:22:42,700 --> 02:22:45,140 Derek from the First Sal Retired speaking. 3282 02:22:45,340 --> 02:22:47,377 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Excellent. 3283 02:22:47,577 --> 02:22:49,010 COMMISSIONER KETCHEL: And also there 3284 02:22:49,210 --> 02:22:52,090 will be a Medal of Honor winner that you all know very well. 3285 02:22:52,290 --> 02:22:54,150 But I don't want to say it here because it's 3286 02:22:54,350 --> 02:22:56,410 going to-- they'll reveal it to this person who just happened 3287 02:22:56,610 --> 02:22:59,670 to be a prisoner of war at the Hanoi Hilton. 3288 02:22:59,870 --> 02:23:00,630 Just saying. 3289 02:23:00,830 --> 02:23:03,290 So I hope you all can come for that. 3290 02:23:03,490 --> 02:23:04,250 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: Very good. 3291 02:23:04,450 --> 02:23:05,970 Commissioner Palmer. 3292 02:23:06,170 --> 02:23:07,403 COMMISSIONER PALMER: Thank you. 3293 02:23:07,603 --> 02:23:10,495 I don't really have anything today, but it is election day 3294 02:23:10,695 --> 02:23:12,370 and I encourage everybody, if you have not voted, 3295 02:23:12,570 --> 02:23:13,130 please go vote. 3296 02:23:13,330 --> 02:23:13,550 Thank you. 3297 02:23:13,750 --> 02:23:14,877 COMMISSIONER GOODWIN: All right. 3298 02:23:15,077 --> 02:23:15,610 Commissioner Mixon. 3299 02:23:15,810 --> 02:23:19,330 All right, Commissioner Cox. 3300 02:23:19,530 --> 02:23:21,470 COMMISSIONER COX: Thank you, Chairman. 3301 02:23:21,670 --> 02:23:24,390 Yes, I'm wearing this remarkably patriotic outfit today 3302 02:23:24,590 --> 02:23:29,890 to encourage you to invest yourself today in voting-- 3303 02:23:30,090 --> 02:23:37,110 in celebrating this 250th year of the United States by voting 3304 02:23:37,310 --> 02:23:40,470 in your primaries. 3305 02:23:40,670 --> 02:23:43,710 Those of you who haven't declared a party, that's fine, 3306 02:23:43,910 --> 02:23:48,170 but you're robbed of this day on the ballot a little bit 3307 02:23:48,370 --> 02:23:50,600 in that Florida is a two-party state. 3308 02:23:50,800 --> 02:23:54,400 So everybody who has a clear party 3309 02:23:54,600 --> 02:23:58,040 and has an opportunity to vote today in the elections, please 3310 02:23:58,240 --> 02:24:00,560 do so. 3311 02:24:00,760 --> 02:24:02,680 I mean, these milestones didn't come easily. 3312 02:24:02,880 --> 02:24:06,940 Not everything was achieved in the first part of our 250 years. 3313 02:24:07,140 --> 02:24:12,360 But every milestone that was achieved, 3314 02:24:12,560 --> 02:24:15,540 the 19th amendment as the suffrage amendment that gave 3315 02:24:15,740 --> 02:24:19,680 women the right to vote, our emancipation, 3316 02:24:19,880 --> 02:24:22,960 everything that has happened to date doesn't matter unless you 3317 02:24:23,160 --> 02:24:27,080 get out there and you make your voice heard in the ballot box. 3318 02:24:27,280 --> 02:24:28,400 So please do so. 3319 02:24:28,600 --> 02:24:30,160 That's all I have. 3320 02:24:38,000 --> 02:24:41,900