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Thank you, everybody. It is 302 on Wednesday, September 9th. I'd like to call this meeting of Tallahassee City Commission to order. We have full chambers today. It's great to see everybody. We have a full meeting. And then we have the first of two public hearings on the budget, along with other issues that will begin at 6 o'clock tonight. So we have a full agenda today. Without further ado, let's go ahead and get started. It is my honor and privilege to introduce and to invite to the well.

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Well, the Reverend Dr. Gerald Mandrell, the pastor of Life Changers Church of God in Christ.

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Dr. Mandrell, it's good to see you.

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Ladies and gentlemen, please stand for the invocation.

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Father, in the name of Jesus, the Lord, we come before you with unbearable hearts and with

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humble minds, knowing that without you, we can do nothing, even as it said in Psalm 127 and

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one, that if you don't keep the city, the watchers wake in vain.

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So God, we seek you today.

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We seek your presence, we seek your adnointing to rest with us.

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We ask that you bless our leaders, that you bring them into unity and a harmony so

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that they can effectively manage this city, this community of believers.

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So God, we ask that your glory will rest upon us, even as we do the business of the city

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of Tallahassee, that favor come upon these young people so that we will serve them in righteousness

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justice and in truth and that your will will be done.

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And it's in Jesus name, we pray, amen.

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Amen.

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Ladies and gentlemen, if you will join me in the Pledge of Allegiance,

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I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America

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and to the Republic for which it stands,

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one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

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Special shout out, I see my dear friend former school board member,

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for Joey Bowen has joined us today.

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It's great to see you, Joey.

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I hope you're doing well.

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Thanks for joining us in Chambers.

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I hope I haven't missed any current or former elected

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that might have joined us as well.

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All right, Mr. Manager, do we have any agenda modifications

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or today?

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Yes, sir, Mr. Mayor.

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Item 8.01 has been pulled the request of Commissioner Porter.

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That is your approval of the 2027 City Commission

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meeting schedule. Okay. And then item 1001, which is the approval of the city manager

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employment agreement, the materials were added to that item.

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All right. Any questions, colleagues? To the manager, just simply on the modifications

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that are before us today. All right. If you all would care to join me down at the well for

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some presentations, I would love to have you.

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Well, as we like to start all of our meetings

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means off with some recognition.

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It is my honor and privilege to invite Cague Nation, Big Ben 211 and all of our friends

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that are here, please come join us as well, for a special recognition.

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And as you all are coming forward, let me just tell you, I think the work that you do is

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absolutely amazing, so vital to this community, so proud to have you and Chambers and allowing

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us to recognize you on this all-important issue today.

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Ladies and gentlemen, from the governing body of the city of Tallahassee, a proclamation,

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whereas September is recognized nationally as suicide awareness and prevention month,

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raise awareness about mental health, reduce the stigma surrounding suicide, encourage

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you to open conversations, and connect individuals and families with life-saving resources and

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support.

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And, whereas millions of Americans experience suicidal thoughts, make suicide plans, or attempt suicide each year,

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demonstrating the ongoing need for prevention, intervention, compassionate care, and access to mental health services.

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And, whereas suicide remains a significant public health concern,

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underscoring the importance of expanding access to behavioral health services,

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crisis intervention, suicide prevention, early intervention, and community education.

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And whereas suicide affects individuals and families throughout the city of Tallahassee,

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leaving a lasting impact on loved ones, friends, co-workers, classmates, neighbors, and the entire community.

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And whereas 2-1-1 big Ben, the designated regional provider of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline,

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provides 24-hour crisis intervention, emotional support, suicide prevention services,

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and connections to behavioral health, and community resources throughout North Florida.

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And whereas the City of Tallahassee proudly recognizes the dedicated crisis counselors at 211 Big Ben,

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we answer some of life's most difficult calls 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

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Alongside volunteers, educators, health care providers, first responders, peer specialists,

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and community organizations working to prevent suicide, promote hope,

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reduce stigma, and connect individuals to life-saving support and resources.

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And whereas every person can make a difference by reaching out,

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listening with compassion, recognizing the warning signs of emotional distress and reminding

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those who are struggling that they are not alone that help is available and that recovery is possible.

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Now, therefore, I, John Evans-Daley by the authority vested in me as the Mayor of the City of

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Tallahassee, do hereby recognize September as National Suicide Prevention Month and encourage

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all residents to promote hope, increase awareness of mental health resources, reduce stigma,

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And support those affected by suicide and remember that one conversation can save a life.

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Readin' to the record in front of each and every one of you here today, signed with my signature, John E.

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Daley dated September 9th, 2026, okay?

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It is an honor to have you in Chambers and Presidents Park to make sure.

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Good afternoon, everyone.

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I will make this brief.

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I know you all are here for all the other goodies on the agenda today, but I just want to say thank you to the City of

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I don't know if you guys know that are not, but it's nationwide.

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You don't have to be in mental health crisis to call.

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You can call for a friend, a family member, a child, anyone that you don't really know how to approach them or talk to them about it.

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You can call 9-8-8. It's here 24-7-365 days a year for you, your neighbors, and we are honored to answer the call.

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last fiscal year we received about 5,098 calls, and on 211 helpline we received about 38,000 calls.

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So it's important we all talk about it, we get the word out and make sure that no one faces a crisis alone just to reach out and call 98.

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I

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would now love to invite my friend, Leslie Powell-Budrow, to please come forward to accept a proclamation on behalf

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half of legal services of North Florida?

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Leslie, how you doing?

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Come join me, come join me.

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Ladies and gentlemen, from the governing body of the city of Tallahassee, a proclamation,

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whereas legal services of North Florida was founded in Tallahassee on August 25th, 1976, advancing

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access to justice for 50 years by providing civil legal assistance to low income and vulnerable

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residents who otherwise could not afford representation.

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And whereas from its beginning in Florida's capital city, legal services in North Florida

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has grown to serve residents across the Florida panhandle, working to ensure that justice

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is not determined by a person's income, age, disability, or circumstance, and whereas

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throughout its history, legal services in North Florida has helped bridge the gap between

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the courts and the people they serve by providing critical legal help and matters involving

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housing stability, family safety, public benefits, consumer protection, health care

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access, veterans issues, and other essential civil legal needs.

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And whereas through legal advocacy, education, and partnerships with local governments, courts, human service providers, the legal community, volunteers and supporters,

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legal services of North Florida has promoted fairness, stability, and opportunity for individuals and families.

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And whereas by serving children, older adults, veterans, survivors of abuse, people with disabilities, and families facing crisis.

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legal services of North Florida has strengthened communities and upheld the promise of equal justice under the law.

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And whereas the 50th anniversary of legal services of North Florida marks a significant milestone

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recognizing the organization's longstanding commitment to justice, service, and community impact.

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Now therefore, I, John Evans-Daley, by the authority vested in me as the mayor of the city of Tallahassee,

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Do hereby recognize the 50th anniversary of legal services of North Florida and commends

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its enduring dedication to expanding access to civil justice for the residents of Tallahassee

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and communities across North Florida, rather than to the record in front of each and every

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one of you here today, signed with my signature John E. Daley dated September 9th, 2026,

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Leslie, congratulations on the 50th anniversary.

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Thank

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you, Mayor, and thanks commissioners.

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We started here in Tallahassee, and while we cover 16 counties now, this is home.

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We are woven into the history of Tallahassee having been started in partnership with First

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Presbyterian Church with a little bit of money that we've been able to really grow and flourish

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in order to support the most vulnerable people in our community.

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No one should be worse off just because they get pulled into the court system and don't have a lawyer to help them.

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And that's what we're here to do, and we are grateful for the partnership with the city.

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Always love working with the staff as we find ways to make sure that all of its citizens are served.

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I want to thank some of our team here, Charlotte, our Director of Communications, and Rochelle, our Director of Pro Bono.

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So it takes a team of us to do this work and I'm just grateful for this opportunity to

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celebrate this anniversary with y'all.

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So thank you so much.

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Excellent.

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May we get a picture?

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Absolutely.

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Ladies and gentlemen, it is my honor and privilege to invite all members.

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How has he fired a department that is here in Chambers or in the sound of my voice to please

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come join me and my colleagues at the wealth?

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But

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as a German, we have the best fire department in the nation right here in Tallahassee.

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It is not an privilege to work with the chief and your dynamic award-winning team each

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and every day.

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I also want you to know how appreciative, not only of the best services in the nation that

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you all provide, I know that we will be spending time together on September 11th.

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You always do an incredible ceremony honoring the tragedy that took place on September 11th.

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And thank you so much for the invitation to participate,

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and I would like to invite the public to come join us

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also at station one and chief,

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if you wouldn't mind in your remarks,

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reminding everybody of the time.

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And once again, stay in station one for the location,

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so that everyone that is watching and listening knows.

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Join us.

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Ladies and gentlemen, from the governing body

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of the city of Tallahassee, a proclamation,

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whereas the Tallahassee Fire Department

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is fully committed to ensuring the safety and security

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of all those living in and visiting Tallahassee, and whereas fire remains a serious public safety

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concern but locally and nationally, in the presence of lithium ion batteries and many household

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devices introduced fire risks. And whereas most of the rechargeable electronics used in homes daily,

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including smartphones, tablets, laptops, power tools, e-bikes, e-scooters, and toys, are powered by

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lithium-ion batteries, which if misused, damaged or improperly charged, can overheat,

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start a fire or explode and whereas the national fire

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Election Association reports an increase in battery-related fires, underscoring the need for public education

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on the safe use of lithium ion batteries and devices, and whereas the way lithium ion batteries

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devices are charged can make a difference in helping prevent home fires, and whereas

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safe charging includes using the cord and charger that came with your device or want to prove

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by the manufacturer, and whereas residents are encouraged to understand that safe charging

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means making smart choices every time they plug in, and whereas Tallahassee Fire Department

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remains fully committed to reducing the occurrence of fires through prevention, safety education,

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and community outreach, and whereas the 2026 Fire Prevention Week theme, charge into fire safety,

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safe charging is a superpower, serves to remind all residents that safe charging can help reduce

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the risk of fires and homes and communities. Now, therefore, I, John Evans-Daily by the authority

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It invested in me as the mayor of the city of Tallahassee to hereby proclaim October 4th through the 10th,

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2026 as fire prevention week and urge all residents of Tallahassee to practice safe charging habits and

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support the many public safety activities and efforts of the Tallahassee Fire Department and emergency services.

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Read into the record in front of each and every one of you here today, signed with my signature,

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John E. Daley dated today, September 9th, 2026.

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Chief, it is truly an honor to present to you in the Towsified Department this proclamation.

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Thank you, Fally.

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So thank you, Mayor, commissioners.

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Following up on your remarks, 9-11, this is the 25th year since 9-11.

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And let us not forget the great sacrifice that the men and women made on that day.

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And we ask the public to come out and celebrate their efforts with us this Friday at 3-27 North Adams Street,

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which is our fire station 1 at 830.

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It would be a short presentation, a very short walk as well,

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but we would love for the public to come and be a part of it.

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I also, before I turn the podium over to division chief Anthony Espinosa,

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in 1871 was the great Chicago fire, and it was,

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became very present that the importance of uniform fire safety standards

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in this country was necessary.

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So fire departments and cities across the country

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developed uniform standards to enhance fire safety

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in our facilities, in our businesses, and also in our homes.

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So NFEA started a theme in 1922,

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and each year they identified a theme

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and fire departments all across this country,

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they designed campaigns in line with that theme.

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So now I would like to ask Anthony a Spinoza newly promoted division chief of fire prevention

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and fire marshal to come forward to talk about the history this year's theme and the events

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we have planned.

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Thank you, ma'am.

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Thank you, chief.

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Thank you, mayor, commission and manager.

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Thank you all for recognizing fire prevention week.

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I'd like to recognize our team, fire prevention team, Captain Toronto Cloud and our inspectors

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and Captain Robert Clary and our public education team.

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I work beside these folks every day, and it's an honor, so thank y'all.

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Like Chief had said, since 1922, the NFPA has sponsored the public observance of Fire Prevention Week.

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Three years later, President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed Fire Prevention Week a national observance.

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It makes it the longest-running public health campaign in our country's history.

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Fire Prevention Week has observed each year during the week of October 9th because of the great Chicago fire.

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That fire resulted in more than 250 people losing their lives.

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100,000 people will be coming homeless

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in about 2,000 acres of land that have been burned.

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Like Chief said, each year the NFPA focuses

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on a new campaign.

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This year is charging a fire safety,

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which focuses on charging habits

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that can reduce the risk of lithium ion battery fires.

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Some of the helpful tips that we can focus on

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is making sure that you use a quarter charger

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that comes with your device.

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device when your device is fully charged on plug it and if you can charge these devices

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outside as a father of a 14 and 10 year old son we've got plenty of these devices at

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the house and it is hard to do outside and if you can't make sure you don't block an

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exit when you're charging. More helpful tips can be found at NFPA.org so please visit

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that site. I'd also like to invite everybody besides the 9-11 ceremony we are going to have

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a touch-a-truck event on October 4th at a Bass Pro for it during Fire Prevention Week.

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So please visit us out there, and we're also going to be visiting numerous schools

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during that week to educate the public and the youth out there.

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So some of the stuff we're going on.

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Again, the Talos Fire Department Prevention Division is fully committed to educating the public

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on life safety measures and partnering with the community through our Fire Prevention Practices.

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Thank you all for allowing us to be here today in recognizing Fire Prevention.

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Ladies

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and gentlemen, it is my honor and privilege to recognize former school board member

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Maggie Lewis Butler, who is here with us today, and for the next presentation, I would

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like to invite Ms. Helaj Pucina to please come join me, the principal of Riley Elementary

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School.

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Ms. Pucina, it's great to see you.

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All members of your team that are here, please come join us, bring it all your members

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that are here that would like to come up.

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That would be great.

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Oh, it was dismissal time in school, okay, got it, very important, very important.

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Don't want to make the principal mad, that's for sure.

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Great to see you, thanks for being here with us.

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Ladies and gentlemen, from the governing body of the city of Tallahassee, a proclamation,

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whereas John Gilmore Riley, born into slavery in Leon County on September 24, 1857, rose

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to become a respected educator, entrepreneur and civic leader whose dedication to education

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and service, helped shape the telehassy community, and we're asked through his leadership

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and unwavering belief in the power of education.

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John G. Riley inspired generations of students and left a legacy that continues to influence

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our community today.

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And whereas in 1951, John G. Riley Elementary School was established in his honor, ensuring

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that his lifelong commitment to learning, leadership and opportunity would continue to inspire future

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generations and whereas for 75 years John G. Riley Elementary School has served as a cornerstone

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of the community, shaping the lives of students while fostering academic excellence, perseverance,

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and resilience, and whereas generations of students, educators, families, and community members

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have contributed to the proud legacy of John G. Riley Elementary School, making it a place where history,

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tradition and opportunity come together. Now, therefore, I, John Evans-Daley, by the

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authority vested in me as the mayor of the city of Tallahassee, do hereby celebrate

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and recognize the 75th anniversary of John G. Riley Elementary School and honor the enduring

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legacy of John Gilmore-Reilly, whose vision and commitment to education continues to inspire

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and empower future generations, signed with my signature, John E. Daley, read into the record

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in front of each and every one of you here today.

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David, September 9th, 2026.

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About a principal, congratulations.

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And thank you, Joel.

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Good afternoon, everyone.

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As I serve as the proud new principal of John G.

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Elementary School, I want to say thank you

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to the city of Tallahassee and as well

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as our Mayor, Daley and Mayor Richardson.

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Okay, so again, as I began this journey in July, my first task given to me by our teacher,

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Ms. Sheila Barnes Williams, who's been at Riley for many years.

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She grew up in the, she went to Riley Elementary School and she gave me a call and said,

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your first task is to celebrate the 75th year, it was her dream to do so and I gladly made

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this dream come true. So we will be celebrating with our district on September 24th at 1 p.m.

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and then with the children on the 25th in a festival form on the 24th and then the 25th with

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the children. So if you want to be part of making history at Riley Elementary, I welcome you to

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volunteer, you know, let's do the forms first through the Leon County Schools.net. So we can make

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I'm sure that our children are safe, but we welcome each and every one of you to be part of history and to make dreams come true at John G. Riley Elementary. So, thank you.

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Ladies

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and gentlemen, for our final presentation today, it is a distinct honor and privilege to welcome representatives of the Latter-day Saints Church here in Tallahassee.

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Please come forward, President Ben Smith, President Mark Lewellan, President Landon Muller,

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Sister Brookbeeser, Sister Sarah Zern, Bishop Matt McClillus, if he was able to join us,

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Brother Robert Ivey, Brother Greg Oaks, Brother Charlie Bowen, and Sister Claire Bowen as well.

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And any other members of the church that are here.

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And as they're coming forward, I have to tell you that I had the opportunity to host them in my office prior to the Commission meeting.

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You know the church is internationally famous for their strong foundation based on family

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and love and their genealogical assistance that they can provide.

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And as they surprised to me, they surprised me with the research of my family history.

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And it is absolutely amazing.

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And I'm still speechless.

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And before I even begin with the proclamation of why we're here, I personally just want

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I'm going to say thank you again from the bottom of my heart, it is very, very, thank you.

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Ladies and gentlemen, from the governing body of the city of Tallahassee, a proclamation,

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whereas we firmly believe that the values of compassion, empathy, and community support

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are the foundation of the United, harmonious society, and fosters connections that transcend differences.

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And whereas the strength and prosperity of our cities, towns, and villages are based in

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the selflessness of its residents to serve and uplift one another. And whereas we acknowledge

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the profound impact that can be achieved when we extend the hope and hand to our neighbors,

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especially those of diverse backgrounds and lifting them up and collectively working to

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improve lives. And whereas we nurture a culture of giving within our cities, emphasizing that

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volunteerism is not just a duty, but a source of personal fulfillment and community strength.

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And as we work side-by-side with and learn from each other, mutual understandings increases,

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misconceptions can be corrected, and new friendships are built.

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And whereas we urge all citizens to care for one another, volunteer and engage in acts

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of service and kindness that contribute to our city's betterment and its inhabitants well

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being, regardless of background or belief, and whereas the city of Tallahassee has joined

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to growing list of supporters, including the President of the National League of Cities

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and hundreds of leaders to date, and making a commitment to volunteerism.

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And now, therefore, I, John Evans-Daley, by the authority vested in me as the Mayor of

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the City of Tallahassee, do hereby recognize, just serve in the City of Tallahassee and

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commits to promoting volunteerism, leveraging, just serve.org to make it easier for residents

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to find and engage in involuntary activities, and will regularly acknowledge and celebrate the contribution of volunteers.

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Ladies and gentlemen, read into the record in front of each and every one of you here today.

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Signed with my signature, John E. Daley, dated September 9th, 2026.

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Please join me in recognizing the church.

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Mayor Daley, commissioners, neighbors and friends, it's a distinct privilege to be with you today and

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And recognize all the good that happens in telehassy.

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We are grateful for this distinction of telehassy being recognized, they just serve city.

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A place where we can come, we can serve-

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We can lift up one another. We can bring our talents, our means, our skills, our time, help lift others and make others better in what we do. So, Mayor Daley, we're grateful for this. We're grateful for the opportunity to recognize, just serve until I have seen, just serve.org contains many opportunities to go forth in the community, serve, and to lift others. Thank you so much. Thank you. Thank you. Absolutely, Lord.

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Ladies and gentlemen, I was telling my colleagues while we were taking the

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a picture of what an honor it is to be named a just served community out of roughly 19,500

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communities just in the United States alone, there are only a couple of hundred cities

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and only a handful in the state of Florida that are recognized as just served communities

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and we are one of them. So it is a distinct honor and a privilege to be recognized and we

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appreciate everyone for coming today to help us celebrate.

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All right. Mr. Manager, do we have any announcements to come before the City Commission at this time?

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No, sir.

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We have any appearances by other governing boards or agencies or governments?

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No, sir.

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All right, we are on the consent agenda.

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Mr. Clerk, do we have any public comment on any of the consent items?

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No, sir, only on item that was pulled.

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Okay, item that was pulled was previously 8.01.

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We will take it up as 9.01 in just a second.

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Colleagues, is there a direction on the rest of consent?

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Move forward.

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Second.

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Mayor Pro Tem has properly moved the consent agenda,

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seconded by Commissioner Williams Cox, any further discussion?

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Seeing none, all those in favor signify by saying aye.

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All those opposed?

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Passes unanimously 5-0.

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We are on item number 9.01, previously 8.01, Mr. Manager.

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Mr. Mayor, this seeks the commission's approval for the calendar year 2027 City Commission meeting schedule.

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The schedule as proposed and attached to your agenda includes one annual retreat as typical 12 regular meetings and three workshops for a total 16 meetings in 2027.

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All right. Commissioner Porter, I'll hold on just a second. Mr. Clerk, do we have public comment on the side of the?

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We do have one speaker on the item mayor.

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Commissioner Porter, do you want to do a quick introduction of why you pulled it, and then we'll go to public comment, or do you want to just go straight to public comment?

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I'll be quick.

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Okay.

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I pulled it because I want to vote against it.

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I don't think that one meeting a month, 12 meetings is enough.

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I think we've suffered as a result, especially with the fact that we have limited public comment during non-agenda items.

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So that's why I pulled it.

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I know the city manager said as typical, but it's not what has been typical.

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We have slowly cut meetings over the years, and we took this action a couple years ago, but I would just want the public to know it's not necessarily what's typical for the city of telehassy.

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Okay, so commission important, we will take public comment, when we're done with public comment, I will come back to you for a motion.

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00:34:16,500 --> 00:34:20,400
Why don't you give it some thought of what you think is appropriate and we'll go from there.

357
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Public comment, Mr. Clerk.

358
00:34:23,040 --> 00:34:23,520
Thank you, Mayor.

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00:34:23,920 --> 00:34:26,020
We have one speaker on the item, Stanley Sims.

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As our first speaker, he already knows, but for everybody else in the audience, he'll have three minutes for remarks, and he'll have a light that turns yellow in front of the mayor at 30 seconds, as well as a reminder from me. Thank you.

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My name is Stanley Sims. I'm a 1320 Barack Obama way.

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The ability, the opportunity to communicate with your local government is indeed a treasure.

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Now,

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some in America was born with this treasure,

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some in America are in certain positions

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that they don't even need an appointment to meet with their elected officials.

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But I thank God today that there is something called the Constitution,

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we, we,

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the people,

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that affords us

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white, black, rich, or even full like me,

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a chance and an opportunity to

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communicate with their government.

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And so what we have done today, or about to do today, is limit those opportunities.

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And we ask ourselves, why people don't vote?

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We

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ask ourselves, why people walk away with negative outlooks of government.

378
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I heard something from you, Commissioner Cox, that just robbed my spirit doing the debate

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at the NEBA.

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The question was, and I'm summarizing in case Steve Stewart is in the audience in May Suvie,

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The question was, what is the greatest calamity that you think is at City Hall?

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Your response to that question was, you didn't think your local government understood,

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you didn't think people understood how local government worked.

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So,

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imminent, their opportunity to converse is not a productive step in the right direction.

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No other speakers on the other.

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No speaker.

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So, Commissioner Porter, I will come to you.

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I actually agree that with a new commission, the need to meet and

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to educate and to familiarize is a very important thing.

391
00:37:50,300 --> 00:37:57,440
So, would you here to make a motion to amend this proposed schedule?

392
00:37:58,120 --> 00:37:59,360
Sure. Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

393
00:37:59,900 --> 00:38:09,680
I would like, I would move that we adopt the 2027 City Commission meeting schedule, but with two meetings a month.

394
00:38:10,120 --> 00:38:10,220
Yes.

395
00:38:10,840 --> 00:38:19,580
With two meetings a month, including our July break, but with the frequency we met before we made these changes.

396
00:38:19,580 --> 00:38:24,980
Does the schedule need to come back in a formal manner, or are you just comfortable with having

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it, you know, letting staff figure out the two meetings a month and then email in the schedule back out?

398
00:38:30,560 --> 00:38:32,920
I think it can just come back to us on consent.

399
00:38:33,860 --> 00:38:34,000
Okay.

400
00:38:34,320 --> 00:38:34,620
The next meeting.

401
00:38:35,080 --> 00:38:39,000
All right, so the motion on the table is to move from one meeting a month, the two meetings

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a month, still observing the summer recess, and for it to come back on consent for next meeting.

403
00:38:47,340 --> 00:38:52,500
second to the motion. All right, seconded by Commissioner Mallow, any further comment?

404
00:38:53,500 --> 00:38:55,460
They none, all those in favor, second five by saying aye.

405
00:38:55,800 --> 00:38:56,000
Aye.

406
00:38:56,300 --> 00:38:58,060
All those pose passes unanimously.

407
00:38:58,720 --> 00:39:05,920
All right, we are on item number 10.01, the approval of the City Manager Employment Agreement

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00:39:05,920 --> 00:39:07,800
with the Mayor and City Commission.

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Colleagues, I will be presenting this item, and then we will have public comment, then

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And we will enter in the discussion, and we will see where it goes from there.

411
00:39:20,720 --> 00:39:22,780
Give me two seconds to get set up.

412
00:39:33,040 --> 00:39:38,980
Okay, let me provide some background on April 28th as you recall, our city manager rescued,

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announced his retirement as the city manager for the city of Tallahassee,

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which started the process of a national search for a new city manager.

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We hired an incredible consulting company that went through the process of advertising nationally,

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bringing in all the applications, doing the first vet of applications, and bringing us three potential candidates for full interview, we then each individually had the opportunity to sit down with those candidates and then the next day, last Wednesday, we had the opportunity to do a full interview and listen to the presentations of the top three candidates.

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All three candidates, I think, did a wonderful job.

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And I think once again, you will agree that we congratulate them all on putting their best foot forward on why they wanted to serve the City of Tallahassee as City Manager.

419
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As a commission, though, we decided to move forward to make an offer to Dr. Karen Jummanville to be the next City Manager of the City of Tallahassee.

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Where then I was given the direction as the mayor of Tallahassee to negotiate the contract.

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From there, let me tell you that as soon as we left the meeting, I immediately went and sat down with the director of human resources for the city of Tallahassee to discuss the contract negotiation, to discuss what are the terms that we need to discuss moving forward to agree upon and what are some of the guidelines from leaving the director of HR.

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I went directly to Lou Norville, who was the acting city attorney,

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and asked them the same questions to provide his professional guidance and to provide his input on how the process should work, and I greatly appreciate both of them.

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Of the course of the past week, I had been working with Dr. Jummelville to come to an agreement on the proposed contract.

425
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As of yesterday, we had a verbal agreement that I will walk through in just a second.

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Once I had that verbal agreement, I immediately went back to the director of human resources,

427
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told her of the verbal agreement that we have and outlined the bullet points that were to be placed into the contract.

428
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I also had a chance to sit down with the city attorney, Amy Tomin.

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Allow her to know where we were with the agreement between Dr.

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Jummanville and myself.

431
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And then once, then I believe the director of HR also got with Amy Tomin the city attorney.

432
00:41:56,360 --> 00:42:02,500
once they signed off on it in which is the city manager who then placed it on the agenda for public notice.

433
00:42:03,040 --> 00:42:08,540
As we know, I do not have the power to hire and fire myself, but I bring it back for full ratification.

434
00:42:09,180 --> 00:42:12,260
I will walk you through the contract, but let me explain the process.

435
00:42:12,860 --> 00:42:20,660
The contract is a verbal agreement between Dr. Jummanville and myself as mayor, but myself I do not carry the weight, it's the ratification of the board.

436
00:42:20,660 --> 00:42:27,100
If we do not like the contract and reject the contract as presented, then we can do one of two things.

437
00:42:27,460 --> 00:42:32,020
Normally, as it was explained to me, as we go back to the drawing board, you provide direction

438
00:42:32,800 --> 00:42:37,040
of negotiation points, whether it's salary or whatever it may be.

439
00:42:37,420 --> 00:42:40,880
And then we see if we can come to an agreement, and then I bring it back for ratification.

440
00:42:41,280 --> 00:42:45,560
But do we not necessarily take a vote to amend the contract?

441
00:42:45,580 --> 00:42:50,320
Or I guess we could, and then go back and negotiate as well, correct?

442
00:42:50,320 --> 00:42:53,840
I think we could do that, but it would, then it would have to go back to Dr.

443
00:42:54,000 --> 00:42:55,520
Jummanville for approval, of course.

444
00:42:55,580 --> 00:42:56,160
Sure, of course.

445
00:42:56,780 --> 00:43:02,860
So the contract that was used is our standard contract for appointed officials.

446
00:43:02,860 --> 00:43:06,820
And again, I want to thank the Director of Human Resources and the City Attorney's Office

447
00:43:06,820 --> 00:43:07,980
for walking me through.

448
00:43:08,360 --> 00:43:12,340
The major points that I want to cover is number one, the start date.

449
00:43:13,220 --> 00:43:18,060
Reese, I want to publicly thank you once again for agreeing to stay on as the city manager

450
00:43:18,060 --> 00:43:23,060
through September 30th, and serving as a city manager to get us through this budget cycle.

451
00:43:23,420 --> 00:43:29,640
The proposed start date that was agreed upon is October 1st, which also happens to be the beginning of the fiscal year.

452
00:43:29,860 --> 00:43:31,000
It is a clean start.

453
00:43:31,480 --> 00:43:33,600
Reese will take us through this budget cycle.

454
00:43:34,140 --> 00:43:38,100
Karen will start a city manager on October 1, that has been agreed upon.

455
00:43:38,760 --> 00:43:47,560
The starting salary is posted at $317,000, and where $317,000 comes from is

456
00:43:47,560 --> 00:43:53,820
is exactly where the position of city manager of what rescued would be making on October 1.

457
00:43:54,380 --> 00:43:58,240
Not a penny more, not a penny less, is the exact same amount.

458
00:43:58,840 --> 00:44:02,940
Now, I'm sure there's questions on why, how much, the whole line yards.

459
00:44:03,360 --> 00:44:16,420
And I know that director of human resources is here and fully prepared to talk about where that falls within the professional standard of a city or size of a manager that runs all of the utilities.

460
00:44:16,420 --> 00:44:19,280
So I know that you're prepared of those questions come up.

461
00:44:19,540 --> 00:44:25,300
But is it fair to say that we are nowhere near the top of that professional standard?

462
00:44:25,520 --> 00:44:31,020
In fact, we are still in the lower tier, but it is the salary that has been agreed upon with Dr.

463
00:44:31,200 --> 00:44:34,680
Jummanville and myself to bring forward before the City Commission.

464
00:44:35,800 --> 00:44:42,940
Obviously, pretty standard 20 weeks of severance pay as authorized by Section 215.425 of Florida statutes.

465
00:44:42,940 --> 00:44:49,800
She has a 4, 5, 7 retirement account with the City of Tallahassee.

466
00:44:49,980 --> 00:44:58,960
There was the question of whether she wanted a car allowance or to be able to drive one of the fleet cars of her choice.

467
00:44:58,960 --> 00:44:59,620
Thank you.

468
00:45:00,000 --> 00:45:29,660
Appreciate the fact that she has chosen the route to go with a car allowance. If she went the route with the fleet, the city would be on the hook for car insurance or fuel for maintenance of that vehicle by going the route of a car allowance at $1,000 a month, then that is her responsibility or insurance for fuel and for maintenance. But she gets to choose what vehicle she would want to drive versus what is in fleet. Finally, I want to discuss the termination

469
00:45:29,660 --> 00:45:39,360
provision in the City Manager's contract, it requires an affirmative vote of two-thirds majority of the City Commission, not a simple majority of the City Commission.

470
00:45:39,700 --> 00:45:44,980
This is something that I personally will take full ownership of, and I strongly believe in.

471
00:45:45,200 --> 00:45:51,080
I think it depoliticizes the position of the City Manager, I think it is needed.

472
00:45:51,520 --> 00:45:54,520
I have stood on this position for many, many, many years.

473
00:45:54,520 --> 00:46:23,000
When I served as the chairman of the county commission, when Vince Long was hired, I led the charge then to change the county charter to make sure that it was included, and to this day, the term nation procedure for the county administrator of Leon County is a super majority provision as well, even to the point to where a couple of years ago, when we changed the position, and there is precedent here at the city commission, when we changed the position of inspector general.

474
00:46:23,000 --> 00:46:34,440
So, we put the termination language into the contract requiring a two-thirds termination if we decided to separate with Dennis Sutton or whoever holds that position.

475
00:46:34,960 --> 00:46:38,600
It was then later added into the city charter.

476
00:46:38,960 --> 00:46:52,740
If you recall, I voted against that measure because I stated for the record at the time and I still believe so today that all four appointed officials should have a two-thirds majority.

477
00:46:52,740 --> 00:46:57,260
in their contract for termination, and I still feel strongly about that.

478
00:46:57,860 --> 00:47:06,020
So, annual salary of $317,000, 20 weeks of severance pay, $1,000 monthly automobile allowance,

479
00:47:06,700 --> 00:47:13,300
the city contribution to a $457 retirement account, the termination provision language of a super majority,

480
00:47:13,900 --> 00:47:18,620
and the contract date starting on October 1, in ending on September 30th,

481
00:47:18,620 --> 00:47:21,180
2031 to be ratified by the next commission.

482
00:47:21,380 --> 00:47:25,740
It is a five year contract that is pretty standard of what we provide as well.

483
00:47:26,280 --> 00:47:28,020
Those are the major bullet provisions.

484
00:47:28,580 --> 00:47:30,320
If I missed anything, I apologize.

485
00:47:30,680 --> 00:47:35,320
I am available for any questions on the points of the contract as proposed.

486
00:47:36,040 --> 00:47:39,940
Ultimately, it is the decision of this body to ratify it and

487
00:47:39,940 --> 00:47:43,320
whether we move forward in signature with Dr. Jummanville.

488
00:47:43,780 --> 00:47:45,580
I know we have public comment on this item.

489
00:47:45,580 --> 00:47:50,820
Are there any quick just questions of clarification before I get a public comment?

490
00:47:51,620 --> 00:47:53,220
All right, let's go to public comment.

491
00:47:53,480 --> 00:47:54,880
How many speakers do we have, Mr. Clerk?

492
00:47:55,200 --> 00:47:56,960
May we get about 10 or 11 speakers on the item?

493
00:47:57,260 --> 00:47:57,680
Sounds great.

494
00:47:58,100 --> 00:48:02,800
The first speaker is Marsha Rule, followed by Ernie Payne.

495
00:48:03,100 --> 00:48:06,880
As with Mr. Simpson, in our earlier comments, you'll have three minutes for your remarks.

496
00:48:07,440 --> 00:48:08,740
Your name and address for the record, please.

497
00:48:09,020 --> 00:48:12,840
Marsha Rule, Levin Myers-Park, three things.

498
00:48:13,040 --> 00:48:13,980
First, this is premature.

499
00:48:13,980 --> 00:48:16,620
There's no reason this has to be filled right away.

500
00:48:17,320 --> 00:48:20,300
Mary, you said you wanted to depot it a size this process.

501
00:48:20,420 --> 00:48:22,620
The way to do that is wait until I have to be election.

502
00:48:23,400 --> 00:48:24,460
Second, the expense.

503
00:48:25,640 --> 00:48:27,460
Outline for cities of our size.

504
00:48:27,820 --> 00:48:28,600
We're not Tampa.

505
00:48:29,320 --> 00:48:34,980
And this is exactly the reason why so many of my neighbors are planning to vote three on vote.

506
00:48:35,640 --> 00:48:36,580
Yes, on amendment three.

507
00:48:37,120 --> 00:48:42,380
I think it's misguided to do so, but this is exactly what people are rebelling against.

508
00:48:42,380 --> 00:48:47,400
And finally, regarding the two-thirds majority, not only should the commission reject it, but

509
00:48:47,400 --> 00:48:53,000
so should the candidate, if the candidate cannot manage to keep free out of five commissioners

510
00:48:53,000 --> 00:48:58,100
satisfied that he or she is doing a good job, they should resign, they shouldn't wait to be fired.

511
00:48:58,420 --> 00:48:58,760
Thank you.

512
00:48:59,180 --> 00:48:59,520
Thank you.

513
00:48:59,760 --> 00:49:00,580
Our next speaker, please.

514
00:49:01,200 --> 00:49:04,240
Ernie Payne is next, followed by Cotton Taylor.

515
00:49:05,560 --> 00:49:07,900
All right, your name and address for the record, please.

516
00:49:08,840 --> 00:49:18,080
are any pain 2006 East Indian head drive. Two years ago, this body considered a proposal for

517
00:49:18,080 --> 00:49:22,380
submitting a charter amendment to the ballot for the creation of the Office of Inspector General.

518
00:49:23,340 --> 00:49:27,660
The most significant part of that amendment, according to the Inspector General himself,

519
00:49:28,180 --> 00:49:33,000
in response to a question by Commissioner Williams Cox, was in order to strengthen

520
00:49:33,000 --> 00:49:40,660
It was the requirement for a supermajority vote for removal from office in order to strengthen the necessary independence of that office.

521
00:49:41,500 --> 00:49:54,560
It was stated very clearly at that time that a charter amendment was required in order to change the charter language of serving at the pleasure of the City Commission to serve to requiring a two-thirds vote for removal.

522
00:49:55,380 --> 00:50:01,720
This was the same language that the charter used at that time for the City Auditor, the Treasurer Clerk, and the City Manager

523
00:50:01,720 --> 00:50:04,820
to define the employment terms of their offices.

524
00:50:05,820 --> 00:50:10,860
The proposal to send the charter amendment to the ballot was passed by an unusual four-to-one vote.

525
00:50:11,520 --> 00:50:15,540
And the charter amendment was passed overwhelmingly by the voters.

526
00:50:16,560 --> 00:50:26,480
The sole dissent among you was the mayor, who stated that he opposed the ballot initiative because it was a massive change that should not be done as such a rushed manner.

527
00:50:27,200 --> 00:50:30,160
And there wasn't time to consider such a proposal before it went to the ballot.

528
00:50:30,160 --> 00:50:36,660
These words were spoken on April 24th, 2024, six months prior to the election.

529
00:50:38,540 --> 00:50:44,340
Now, just one week after the new City Manager was appointed, the mayor made clear that

530
00:50:44,340 --> 00:50:46,700
he would be negotiating the employment contract.

531
00:50:47,540 --> 00:50:54,060
This contract was posted for public viewing just 24 hours ago, providing for removal by a

532
00:50:54,060 --> 00:50:54,780
two-thirds vote.

533
00:50:55,800 --> 00:51:10,720
Also, following the links to the City Charter posted on the Talgo website, the language that was in the charter two years ago that the City Manager serves at the pleasure of the City Commission has been removed, although there has been no intervening charter amendment.

534
00:51:11,680 --> 00:51:22,920
The legality of this is at best questionable, although having been given less than 24 hours to research this, even a qualified attorney, which I am not, would be hard pressed to answer.

535
00:51:24,280 --> 00:51:27,200
Please delay approval of the employment contract.

536
00:51:27,800 --> 00:51:32,800
If this moves forward today in this form, you are not only degrading the public trust

537
00:51:32,800 --> 00:51:33,920
of the people of Telehassy.

538
00:51:34,540 --> 00:51:39,260
You would also be doing a disservice to your new city manager who will be entering her

539
00:51:39,260 --> 00:51:48,120
new office under a cloud, your own creation, for no conceivable purpose other than to politicize

540
00:51:48,120 --> 00:51:52,520
in office, but the charter explicitly defines as non-political.

541
00:51:53,220 --> 00:51:54,260
Thank you.

542
00:51:54,520 --> 00:51:55,300
Our next speaker, please.

543
00:51:56,380 --> 00:52:02,600
Next speaker is Cutton Taylor, Cutton Taylor, and then Yuri Gutschall.

544
00:52:03,420 --> 00:52:05,240
Your name and address for the record, please.

545
00:52:07,060 --> 00:52:08,980
Yeah, my name is actually Colton Taylor.

546
00:52:09,220 --> 00:52:10,960
I live at 63, one of these calls to you.

547
00:52:11,060 --> 00:52:11,340
Colleagues?

548
00:52:11,660 --> 00:52:12,040
I guess.

549
00:52:12,720 --> 00:52:13,000
Yeah.

550
00:52:13,520 --> 00:52:13,740
Okay.

551
00:52:14,260 --> 00:52:19,320
So, like you said, I think you said that it's going to be non-political, that the photo

552
00:52:19,320 --> 00:52:21,100
the one vote that that's why you put it in there.

553
00:52:21,220 --> 00:52:24,160
I actually think it's very bad faith and actually very political on your part.

554
00:52:26,320 --> 00:52:31,520
I think that the charter says, or at least from what I read, is that the city managers

555
00:52:31,520 --> 00:52:35,780
to serve the pleasure of the city commission, and it seems like to me that that house that

556
00:52:35,780 --> 00:52:37,020
implies a simple majority.

557
00:52:38,300 --> 00:52:43,120
So I'd like to see it kept that way as a show of good faith to the city of Tallahassee to

558
00:52:43,120 --> 00:52:44,060
the rest of the commissioners.

559
00:52:44,740 --> 00:52:45,840
So yeah, thank you very much.

560
00:53:01,140 --> 00:53:14,100
I'd like to first start by addressing you, Mr. Mayor, in your discuss of the time that it took to pursue this candidate at no point, did you mention when you were taking input from the public?

561
00:53:14,100 --> 00:53:43,900
As somebody who was a member of Tallahassee's Society or a population, I feel very rushed and I felt like I did not get the opportunity to voice my opinion to say what I felt like the direction of the city and to make sure that that was going to be represented by the candidates that includes showing up to the event that happened last week, which was posted one day before it seems to be there's a long history of that now I wanted to come on and talk to this. I was going to ask you, first of all whether or not you felt like you

562
00:53:43,900 --> 00:53:49,480
are not representing, or you no longer need to represent the citizens of the public,

563
00:53:49,680 --> 00:53:53,420
or the opinions of the public, whether or not you felt like you needed to listen to them

564
00:53:53,420 --> 00:53:59,260
and gather their inputs that you were not running for re-election, I would ask your co-councillors

565
00:53:59,260 --> 00:54:07,080
if they would be able to stand on approving a contract with fewer votes than it would

566
00:54:07,080 --> 00:54:11,960
to eliminate that. That is, I think, the crux and the most important thing is that the

567
00:54:11,960 --> 00:54:17,400
reality is that given from what has happened from previous meetings, this, if passes,

568
00:54:17,400 --> 00:54:19,400
is going to pass with a two-three majority.

569
00:54:20,160 --> 00:54:26,380
And the reality is that it is a terrible policy to allow a lower burden of proof,

570
00:54:26,620 --> 00:54:30,480
a burden of consent, to approve a contract, and then to reject it.

571
00:54:30,660 --> 00:54:38,580
And that handicaps my ability as well as my fellow citizens' ability to speak and see some

572
00:54:38,580 --> 00:54:43,540
some level of repercussion if you guys make a decision that we don't agree with.

573
00:54:43,680 --> 00:54:48,760
So I ask very specifically about the requirement for the two-thirds majority,

574
00:54:49,000 --> 00:54:54,640
that you do not approve any contract that has that level of barrier.

575
00:54:54,780 --> 00:54:59,180
Where the barrier to approve it is lower than the barrier to undo it later on.

576
00:54:59,280 --> 00:55:05,720
Because you have handicapped the ability for myself as well as possible future commission,

577
00:55:05,720 --> 00:55:11,360
one that you will not be a member of, and their ability to speak and rule on that.

578
00:55:11,560 --> 00:55:18,060
And because of that, I ask that you, if nothing else, strike that, but preferably take longer

579
00:55:18,060 --> 00:55:24,140
and provide opportunity for myself to show up to a meeting and actually meet the candidates.

580
00:55:24,180 --> 00:55:27,900
Because the reality is when I showed up to that meeting last week, I was in a situation

581
00:55:27,900 --> 00:55:32,500
where I felt like I was competing for the time when I was having a conversation with your candidate.

582
00:55:32,500 --> 00:55:44,100
I was actually interrupted and told I had enough time by Mr. Sims, because we were all trying to get some time in with the possible chief executive of our city.

583
00:55:44,400 --> 00:55:44,940
Thank you for your time.

584
00:55:45,340 --> 00:55:45,560
Thank you.

585
00:55:45,960 --> 00:55:46,820
Next speaker, please.

586
00:55:47,640 --> 00:55:48,120
Go on Thomas.

587
00:55:49,280 --> 00:55:50,940
And then Mark Chandler.

588
00:55:59,590 --> 00:56:00,990
Your name and address for the record, please.

589
00:56:00,990 --> 00:56:06,230
John Thomas, 2-1-1-3, Joyner Drive, good evening, mayor and commissioners.

590
00:56:06,630 --> 00:56:14,570
I'm here to urge you to reconsider the proposed 317,000 annual salary and contract terms for the city manager.

591
00:56:15,210 --> 00:56:18,590
Let's be clear, this is not just a personal decision made by the mayor.

592
00:56:18,850 --> 00:56:25,230
It's a major financial and governance decision that could blind and bind Tallahassee for years.

593
00:56:25,230 --> 00:56:39,870
Residents deserve more than a last-minute presentation of a contract with a five-year term severance, extra allowance, automatic renewals and a provision requiring four or five, four out of five commissioners to remove the city manager.

594
00:56:40,590 --> 00:56:53,550
Mayor Daley, if this proposal is truly the best interest of Tallahassee, then it should have been able to withstand full public scrutiny, not be rushed through under the radar or presented as if the public should simply accept it.

595
00:56:53,550 --> 00:56:58,610
But you would have done it your first term, not while you were not running for re-election if it was that important.

596
00:56:59,210 --> 00:57:01,950
The question is not whether the city manager's job matters.

597
00:57:02,450 --> 00:57:06,050
It does, the question is whether her pay should be that high.

598
00:57:06,690 --> 00:57:14,790
More than 1.5 million in base pay over five years is the right priority when working families are concerned about affordability.

599
00:57:15,130 --> 00:57:18,510
When residents expect safe streets and reliable infrastructure.

600
00:57:18,510 --> 00:57:25,290
And when city employees serving the public every day needs support and competitive wages.

601
00:57:25,870 --> 00:57:29,390
This is not about only salary, it's about accountability.

602
00:57:30,030 --> 00:57:34,430
Then, under this proposed agreement, a future commission could have a three to majority,

603
00:57:34,810 --> 00:57:40,290
an ordinary majority of an elected body, and still be unable to remove the city manager.

604
00:57:40,830 --> 00:57:42,810
Four commissioners would have to agree.

605
00:57:43,290 --> 00:57:47,710
This is a serious restriction on the authority voters give their elected representatives.

606
00:57:47,710 --> 00:57:58,510
Mayer daily in this commission should not use the final months of an outgoing political era to make it harder for future elected leaders to respond to the people of Tallahassee.

607
00:57:59,250 --> 00:58:08,210
If this contract is fair and necessary, as it supports claims, then remove the four, sorry, four vote firing requirement,

608
00:58:08,730 --> 00:58:16,470
shorten the initial term, publish meaningful performance benchmarks, and let a majority elected commission retain the authority to make leadership changes.

609
00:58:17,070 --> 00:58:27,350
I'll ask you deserves to transparency, accountability, and leadership that is not treat public trust like a procedure, like an obstacle, obstacle.

610
00:58:27,790 --> 00:58:28,210
Thank you.

611
00:58:28,690 --> 00:58:29,270
Thank you.

612
00:58:29,530 --> 00:58:30,290
Our next speaker, please.

613
00:58:30,930 --> 00:58:34,670
Mark Chandler is our next speaker, followed by Dr. Inman Johnson.

614
00:58:41,020 --> 00:58:42,440
Your name and address for the record, please.

615
00:58:43,140 --> 00:58:45,700
My name is Mark Chandler, I live at 214 West Fourth Avenue.

616
00:58:47,560 --> 00:58:53,660
So, one of the things that jumped out at me was the $1,000 month automobile allowance.

617
00:58:54,680 --> 00:59:07,800
According to the contract, the automobile allowance is, quote, intended to compensate the employee for use of her personal vehicle in connection with the performance of the employee's work and other related employment duties.

618
00:59:09,560 --> 00:59:16,720
So, I'm not actually here to tell you that this needs to change or be stripped out of the contract, but I am here to ask you to just take a moment to consider.

619
00:59:18,830 --> 00:59:21,670
that what this says about our built environment.

620
00:59:22,710 --> 00:59:24,930
Look, I think it's important for our city manager

621
00:59:24,930 --> 00:59:26,690
to get around town quickly and efficiently.

622
00:59:27,350 --> 00:59:30,510
Consider a scenario where she's got a meeting on campus

623
00:59:30,510 --> 00:59:32,890
and then a ribbon cutting ceremony across town

624
00:59:32,890 --> 00:59:35,750
and it's got to get back to downtown to the office.

625
00:59:36,250 --> 00:59:37,030
How's she going to do that?

626
00:59:38,510 --> 00:59:39,370
Well, she's going to drive.

627
00:59:39,770 --> 00:59:40,770
It's the obvious answer.

628
00:59:41,930 --> 00:59:44,890
It's obvious that she's not going to rent a scooter.

629
00:59:45,950 --> 00:59:47,450
Scooters aren't allowed on campus.

630
00:59:47,450 --> 00:59:51,710
clean and plaza or anywhere outside of a select centralized boundary.

631
00:59:52,290 --> 00:59:59,570
It's obvious to me that she's not going to take a bike while there may be painted bike lanes between all those destinations.

632
01:00:00,980 --> 01:00:29,990
She probably wouldn't feel comfortable riding that close to traffic. I doubt she would take star metro, because the next bus doesn't come for almost an hour. And the city commission meeting that night, what if it last past seven o'clock? I don't think the night bus takes her anywhere near her house. So I would ask you to consider that we've effectively already made the decisions where $1,000 a month automobile allowance, the city manager,

633
01:00:29,990 --> 01:00:32,610
here, sadly, the only obvious choice.

634
01:00:35,540 --> 01:00:35,860
Thank you.

635
01:00:36,460 --> 01:00:37,260
Our next speaker, please.

636
01:00:38,580 --> 01:00:40,380
Our next speaker is Dodon Mjonssen,

637
01:00:40,640 --> 01:00:41,880
who will be followed by Tiffany Hill.

638
01:00:45,830 --> 01:00:47,330
Your name and address for the record, please.

639
01:00:51,070 --> 01:00:54,430
Dodon Mjonssen, 21-21 Trest Scott Drive.

640
01:00:56,030 --> 01:00:59,850
I congratulate the newly appointed city manager

641
01:01:00,230 --> 01:01:03,050
for her many years of excellent service

642
01:01:03,550 --> 01:01:05,610
to the city of Tallahassee.

643
01:01:05,610 --> 01:01:15,930
However, I strongly disagree with the rushed and flawed process that resulted in her appointment.

644
01:01:16,590 --> 01:01:29,450
I further oppose the language in her contract requiring a supermajority vote to hold her accountable to her contract.

645
01:01:29,450 --> 01:01:39,870
The only appointed official to date with that distinction is the Inspector General,

646
01:01:40,770 --> 01:01:49,670
and it required a ballot initiative and a vote by the public to make that possible.

647
01:01:50,670 --> 01:01:59,030
To date, there has been no change in the city charter that would allow that to be

648
01:01:59,030 --> 01:02:04,290
extended to the other three appointed officials.

649
01:02:05,570 --> 01:02:23,170
Further, the city manager's contracts throughout Florida are at will employees requiring only a majority vote to hire and terminate.

650
01:02:23,170 --> 01:02:31,610
I question whether the contract complies with the Tallahassee City Charter.

651
01:02:32,070 --> 01:02:50,410
This city has voted on numerous important issues facing the public and it only required to this date a majority vote of the City Commission.

652
01:02:50,410 --> 01:03:07,050
It required only a majority vote to put her in office, and it should require only a majority vote if there is a reason for a termination.

653
01:03:07,530 --> 01:03:08,090
Thank you.

654
01:03:08,090 --> 01:03:12,990
Next speaker, please, if Nehill is next, and then Stanley Sims.

655
01:03:23,270 --> 01:03:25,090
Your name and address for the Reckon Police.

656
01:03:25,330 --> 01:03:30,010
Hi, I am Dr. Tiffany Hill, 1401 Lola Drive.

657
01:03:30,910 --> 01:03:40,050
I'm standing before you today to voice my strong opposition to the proposed employment agreement for our new city manager.

658
01:03:41,550 --> 01:03:45,230
While I'm going to respect your selection process,

659
01:03:45,230 --> 01:03:50,110
The contract before us is physically irresponsible and

660
01:03:50,110 --> 01:03:54,950
lacks the necessary safeguards to protect taxpayers of the city.

661
01:03:55,630 --> 01:03:57,270
First, let's talk about the salary.

662
01:03:57,850 --> 01:04:03,330
A base of 317,000 incident credibly high starting point.

663
01:04:03,670 --> 01:04:08,650
When we look at this figure, we have to ask, does it include adjustments for

664
01:04:08,650 --> 01:04:18,190
the rising costs of living and that our residents are struggling and that our own residents are struggling with.

665
01:04:18,570 --> 01:04:25,310
If this salary is being set in a vacuum without a clear transparent link to current economic realities and

666
01:04:25,310 --> 01:04:29,490
the performance benchmarks, we are doing a disservice to the public.

667
01:04:30,370 --> 01:04:38,570
So furthermore, I am deeply concerned by the inclusion of the thousand monthly automobile allowance.

668
01:04:38,570 --> 01:04:48,150
If you have a fleet on your property, and I'm sure, you know, with me being an outreach specialist that worked for the federal government,

669
01:04:48,490 --> 01:04:53,770
whether I drove that car or not, insurance is actually going to get paid regardless.

670
01:04:54,370 --> 01:05:02,350
So I don't see why $1,000 monthly allowance is going to be allowed for somebody to drive their own vehicle.

671
01:05:02,350 --> 01:05:16,350
That is a lot considering that this person is already making more than what the current city manager and a lot of other city managers in the state of Florida are making.

672
01:05:17,190 --> 01:05:22,210
Perhaps most alarming, however, is the structure of this contract regarding accountability.

673
01:05:23,010 --> 01:05:31,350
We've been asked to approve, you are being asked to approve a five year term that requires a two third supermajority vote

674
01:05:31,350 --> 01:05:33,990
just to dismiss the city manager.

675
01:05:34,510 --> 01:05:37,470
By setting such a high bar for termination,

676
01:05:37,970 --> 01:05:42,070
we are effectively stripping that commission,

677
01:05:42,230 --> 01:05:44,850
your commission of its ability to hold

678
01:05:44,850 --> 01:05:46,510
the city manager accountable.

679
01:05:47,410 --> 01:05:51,070
Finally, there's no mention of a probationary period.

680
01:05:51,630 --> 01:05:55,930
As a previous federal employee, we've always had,

681
01:05:55,930 --> 01:05:59,250
at least a year, probationary period

682
01:05:59,250 --> 01:06:06,150
because it's just because someone worked in the city does not mean that they are capable of

683
01:06:06,150 --> 01:06:13,610
doing the job. So you don't want to lock yourselves into a contract that you cannot get out if

684
01:06:13,610 --> 01:06:21,050
this person is not performing. So therefore I really would appreciate you all listening to the

685
01:06:21,050 --> 01:06:29,410
public at this time, and tabling it and taking it back to HR to reorganize this contract.

686
01:06:29,790 --> 01:06:30,510
You're at three minutes.

687
01:06:30,630 --> 01:06:30,970
Thank you.

688
01:06:31,290 --> 01:06:31,590
Thank you.

689
01:06:32,090 --> 01:06:33,190
Our next speaker, please.

690
01:06:33,830 --> 01:06:37,930
Stanley Sims, and then Jordan Strickland, and we have two more speakers following that.

691
01:06:37,990 --> 01:06:38,690
We've had a couple of added.

692
01:06:38,850 --> 01:06:40,510
Okay, your name and address for the record please.

693
01:06:40,650 --> 01:06:43,730
Stanley Sims, still hanging out at Barack Obama way.

694
01:06:49,580 --> 01:06:52,500
First off, let me say, you know, this.

695
01:06:55,040 --> 01:06:57,040
Well, this won't be our last time.

696
01:06:57,300 --> 01:07:00,820
Well, I'll see you October 5th down at Federal Building.

697
01:07:02,900 --> 01:07:03,860
But I

698
01:07:07,060 --> 01:07:09,440
had a conversation with two of your colleagues

699
01:07:09,860 --> 01:07:14,400
during the meeting, Greek and I'm not going to give their names.

700
01:07:14,420 --> 01:07:18,720
I walked up to him and I said, I'm actually really surprised

701
01:07:18,720 --> 01:07:22,940
you when I supported the pick of Karen.

702
01:07:24,400 --> 01:07:33,360
other stuff was said but keep it there. He told me he said in ten years I have expected

703
01:07:33,360 --> 01:07:35,240
the unexpected from me.

704
01:07:38,580 --> 01:07:44,220
Whatever I do I stand on it publicly. I signed my name to it.

705
01:07:46,660 --> 01:07:52,880
I got calls. First, Mr. Madeline, I had to let Miss Ernestine know that you weren't a mayor

706
01:07:52,880 --> 01:07:58,420
Yeah, she was upset because you told me change this ain't no change, but

707
01:08:01,330 --> 01:08:02,470
I just don't understand

708
01:08:02,470 --> 01:08:09,910
Mr. Mayor was after we all speak and if you'll write a note, how come the city manager gets the

709
01:08:09,910 --> 01:08:15,890
entitlement of the base salary of the person that she's feeling because my wife didn't get that

710
01:08:15,890 --> 01:08:24,170
when she was hired. I didn't get that. I didn't find out who was before me and how much they were

711
01:08:24,170 --> 01:08:32,010
the city actually told me we can, even though you overqualified, we can only give you 10%.

712
01:08:32,010 --> 01:08:32,310
I've

713
01:08:36,880 --> 01:08:41,140
got to withdraw my support for Karen because I don't think we can afford her.

714
01:08:44,050 --> 01:08:51,430
We just gave 171 city employees a paradise vacation.

715
01:08:56,840 --> 01:09:01,980
I don't even think Google give out $61,000 pay raises.

716
01:09:01,980 --> 01:09:02,980
other

717
01:09:07,880 --> 01:09:13,680
thing, you have really raised her in a very peculiar spot.

718
01:09:14,340 --> 01:09:14,860
Thirty seconds.

719
01:09:15,600 --> 01:09:20,720
And the reason I chose Karen because I thought that the least damage would be done with her,

720
01:09:23,350 --> 01:09:27,230
because it would be unfair for you to pick a new city manager.

721
01:09:28,370 --> 01:09:32,850
And in the event they would have to undo it, it would be great a harm for people

722
01:09:32,850 --> 01:09:36,990
that live far away than someone here.

723
01:09:38,270 --> 01:09:44,290
You did a very disservice to Karen since you want to own negotiating this contract.

724
01:09:44,850 --> 01:09:46,410
You said her a three minute death.

725
01:09:46,490 --> 01:09:47,090
Thank you.

726
01:09:47,190 --> 01:09:48,330
I'd like to speak to your police.

727
01:09:49,430 --> 01:09:52,470
Jordan Strickland followed by Cheryl Collier Brown.

728
01:09:57,320 --> 01:10:02,560
Your name and address for the record for Jordan Strickland, 2204 out soon to drive 323 on 9.

729
01:10:03,500 --> 01:10:04,540
So my name is Jordan Strickland.

730
01:10:04,540 --> 01:10:08,700
I was born and raised here in Tallahassee and in 2016 I enlisted in the United States Air Force.

731
01:10:08,700 --> 01:10:12,860
And during that time, they instilled three different core values in me.

732
01:10:13,160 --> 01:10:16,140
Integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do.

733
01:10:17,300 --> 01:10:21,900
I came back to home to tell I see expecting to find those same values in the people who lead the city.

734
01:10:22,280 --> 01:10:28,040
But instead, I'm looking at a contract that would allow the city manager to only be removed on a super majority vote.

735
01:10:32,040 --> 01:10:33,480
Let's be honest about the timing of this.

736
01:10:33,760 --> 01:10:39,620
The city is roughly two months away from an election that is probably going to reshape the look of this commission.

737
01:10:40,740 --> 01:10:50,200
And instead, I'm looking, sorry, sorry, let's, voters are about to have their say on who leads this city going forward.

738
01:10:50,500 --> 01:10:57,600
And instead of letting that election run its course, the majority of this commission is racing to lock in a decision that ties the hands of whoever comes next.

739
01:10:58,060 --> 01:11:01,020
That's not service before self, that's self before service.

740
01:11:01,980 --> 01:11:07,160
If this city manager is doing a good job, a future commission would have no reason to remove her.

741
01:11:08,420 --> 01:11:14,400
But if she isn't, and if there's a real problem that comes forth, it would take four out

742
01:11:14,400 --> 01:11:16,620
of five of you to remove that individual.

743
01:11:17,040 --> 01:11:19,820
I don't believe that that's protecting stability.

744
01:11:20,320 --> 01:11:23,340
I think that's protecting a bad decision from accountability.

745
01:11:24,420 --> 01:11:26,080
You were elected to do a job.

746
01:11:26,440 --> 01:11:30,780
Part of that job is trusting the voters and trusting the people who come after you to make

747
01:11:30,780 --> 01:11:31,500
their own decisions.

748
01:11:32,140 --> 01:11:36,320
Tying their hands, because you're worried about, they might not make the same decision

749
01:11:36,320 --> 01:11:41,640
that you would, is the opposite of integrity, is the opposite of service, and it is the opposite

750
01:11:41,640 --> 01:11:42,400
of excellence.

751
01:11:42,980 --> 01:11:48,240
I ask for you to remove that clause, vote no, whatever you've got to do to it, and let

752
01:11:48,240 --> 01:11:53,760
the people of Tallahassee elect a commission that they want to lead this city.

753
01:11:53,960 --> 01:11:54,260
Thank you.

754
01:11:54,420 --> 01:11:54,860
I yield my time.

755
01:11:55,280 --> 01:11:55,520
Thank you.

756
01:11:56,000 --> 01:11:57,060
All right, next speaker, please.

757
01:11:57,680 --> 01:12:02,920
Cheryl, call your brown, and she will be followed by Delilah Pierre.

758
01:12:02,920 --> 01:12:03,040
here.

759
01:12:07,960 --> 01:12:09,820
Name an address for the record please.

760
01:12:10,300 --> 01:12:13,880
That one was for Bar Street. I think you all can hear my teacher voice as I approach

761
01:12:13,880 --> 01:12:20,580
the bar. I've sat here and listened through all of this and ran to there's some pros

762
01:12:20,580 --> 01:12:28,960
and cons, whatever. But it's time personally for me to say it's time to move on. The selection

763
01:12:28,960 --> 01:12:35,900
has been done. We need to move on. Yes, the election is coming. It may change the diet,

764
01:12:35,900 --> 01:12:39,580
that the look of the commission are well and good.

765
01:12:39,980 --> 01:12:41,600
I think Karen will be a great choice

766
01:12:42,140 --> 01:12:43,420
being in full of the climate

767
01:12:43,420 --> 01:12:46,480
that has been going on regarding the commission meetings,

768
01:12:46,860 --> 01:12:48,280
commission elections,

769
01:12:48,960 --> 01:12:50,460
the selection of the city manager.

770
01:12:50,940 --> 01:12:51,920
So let's move on.

771
01:12:52,360 --> 01:12:55,880
We got other things in the front pan need to be fried

772
01:12:55,880 --> 01:12:58,620
and I'm waiting for us to get started with a new diet.

773
01:12:59,400 --> 01:13:02,160
If it is, and we'll deal with it then.

774
01:13:02,700 --> 01:13:03,840
I didn't have come up here to say,

775
01:13:03,840 --> 01:13:07,280
And yeah, your name, I just come to add that I am happy.

776
01:13:07,640 --> 01:13:09,100
I'm ready for us to move on.

777
01:13:09,240 --> 01:13:10,880
It's time for other things to occur.

778
01:13:11,300 --> 01:13:11,660
Thank you.

779
01:13:12,040 --> 01:13:12,320
Thank you.

780
01:13:12,820 --> 01:13:13,700
Next speaker, please.

781
01:13:14,420 --> 01:13:15,620
Next speaker is Delilah Pierre.

782
01:13:24,180 --> 01:13:25,640
Your name and address for the record, please.

783
01:13:26,760 --> 01:13:27,700
Hi, my name is Delilah.

784
01:13:28,140 --> 01:13:30,960
I am a member of the Tasi Alliance Against Races

785
01:13:30,960 --> 01:13:33,620
in Political Repression, and my address is exempt.

786
01:13:34,260 --> 01:13:36,620
I'm here to talk about the new city manager, Candid,

787
01:13:36,700 --> 01:13:38,540
and I think I should just be forthright and straightforward.

788
01:13:38,540 --> 01:13:43,120
forward. Let's think about the most cynical way to view this, and I think the most cynical

789
01:13:43,120 --> 01:13:47,860
way to view this is that the reason why they're pushing through Karen Jumanville, who I really

790
01:13:47,860 --> 01:13:51,180
don't know anything about, I can't say much about her, but the reason why they're pushing her

791
01:13:51,180 --> 01:13:55,780
and a process that's unprecedented is because instead of allowing the people of Tallahassee to have

792
01:13:55,780 --> 01:14:00,820
the time to think about a city manager candidate that's best for everyone, city commissioner John

793
01:14:00,820 --> 01:14:05,800
daily wants to appoint a city manager who's best for him before he leaves office.

794
01:14:07,580 --> 01:14:13,600
Now, unfortunately, due to the constant actions you've done, whether that's limiting public comment

795
01:14:13,600 --> 01:14:17,320
or making it more and more difficult for people to speak of the city commission meetings,

796
01:14:17,620 --> 01:14:21,740
or using your power as mayor and at the dias to silence your fellow commissioners,

797
01:14:22,060 --> 01:14:26,420
I believe the most cynical option because your behavior shows the most cynical option is true.

798
01:14:26,420 --> 01:14:31,240
The city manager position is supposed to be a position that answers to the city commissioners,

799
01:14:31,320 --> 01:14:37,520
but city manager risk owed during his entire appointment has only answered to himself and the rich in the city of Tallahassee.

800
01:14:37,660 --> 01:14:42,960
I can't think of one good thing he's done for the city except maybe he helped put up a few signs, I guess.

801
01:14:43,740 --> 01:14:49,300
The city manager should not be a position that supersedes the rights and needs of the majority of people in Tallahassee.

802
01:14:49,300 --> 01:14:52,740
It should be a position that answers to the needs of people in Tallahassee.

803
01:14:52,740 --> 01:14:57,700
I want a city manager who's not getting a vote of one point, something by two members of the City Commission.

804
01:14:58,160 --> 01:14:59,980
The only members of the City Commission, by the way,

805
01:15:00,000 --> 01:15:29,740
Aye, who are the ones who stand against the city manager's constant alliance with the worst sectors of Tallahassee, that prohibit and inhibits development, and stop our city from having everything that we need. This process needs to be more comprehensive. When we choose a city manager, there should be more public options for people to speak to them, and the public should have a chance to question the city manager candidate. I don't want to just see a park meeting greet from 4 to 6 p.m.

806
01:15:29,740 --> 01:15:37,360
I'm on a Tuesday, I want to see a real process that gives people power that lets people have to say over who the city manager is.

807
01:15:37,660 --> 01:15:42,700
And if Karen is so great, then awesome, let's have her hear with everyone else.

808
01:15:42,900 --> 01:15:47,520
So people can ask her questions and talk to her and see her approach and development for the city.

809
01:15:47,900 --> 01:15:52,120
But I feel that City Commissioner John Daly, City Commissioner Curtis Richardson, and

810
01:15:52,120 --> 01:15:56,860
City Commissioner Dinewam's Cox, who will most likely be the three yes votes for this position.

811
01:15:56,860 --> 01:15:58,860
don't really care that much about that.

812
01:15:59,440 --> 01:16:01,300
They care more about playing politics.

813
01:16:01,940 --> 01:16:06,760
They care more about submitting their power, and they care more about having whatever dangers

814
01:16:06,760 --> 01:16:11,260
affect on their city they can before inevitably some of them are pushed out of office.

815
01:16:11,840 --> 01:16:12,340
Thank you.

816
01:16:13,100 --> 01:16:14,240
Next speaker please.

817
01:16:14,780 --> 01:16:16,260
Mayor, that was the last speaker on this item.

818
01:16:16,500 --> 01:16:19,520
Is there anybody else here in Chambers that would like to speak on this item?

819
01:16:20,460 --> 01:16:24,000
Anybody else has not had the opportunity to speak, that would like to speak on this item.

820
01:16:24,000 --> 01:16:28,300
All right, we've had 11 public, sorry?

821
01:16:28,980 --> 01:16:36,020
Oh, sure, please come join us and if you wouldn't mind just fill out a card after the fact and you name an address for the record, please.

822
01:16:36,240 --> 01:16:48,220
Doug Han, I live on Florida Avenue here, just a quick note of federal mileage for business is 76 cents a mile.

823
01:16:48,220 --> 01:16:56,860
Now, at $1,000 a month, you're expecting your city in a true drive of $15,789 miles into

824
01:16:56,860 --> 01:16:59,760
the performance of her duties, rather than to be in the office.

825
01:17:00,240 --> 01:17:00,480
Thank you.

826
01:17:00,860 --> 01:17:01,100
Thank you.

827
01:17:07,630 --> 01:17:09,010
Any other public comment?

828
01:17:09,290 --> 01:17:11,010
Anybody else here that would like to speak?

829
01:17:12,210 --> 01:17:12,970
All right.

830
01:17:13,530 --> 01:17:17,870
To begin the conversation, I will go ahead and make the motion for option number one is

831
01:17:17,870 --> 01:17:20,970
very second to the motion on the table for discussion.

832
01:17:21,590 --> 01:17:21,870
Second.

833
01:17:21,870 --> 01:17:24,610
Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem, so I've been up for discussion.

834
01:17:24,830 --> 01:17:25,350
Commissioner Porter.

835
01:17:25,970 --> 01:17:26,830
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

836
01:17:27,690 --> 01:17:32,190
I'd like to start, first of all just by saying, as far as I'm concerned,

837
01:17:32,370 --> 01:17:34,930
this is absolutely nothing to do with Dr. Trumanville.

838
01:17:35,250 --> 01:17:39,550
I wouldn't support this for any candidate, even if it was one who I had

839
01:17:39,550 --> 01:17:45,370
supported in the process that we enacted last week.

840
01:17:45,370 --> 01:18:02,830
I do want to ask the city attorney to weigh in on some of, I spoke to her this morning with questions and concerns about the city charter and the contract and I wanted to hear, I wanted to give her an opportunity to address that.

841
01:18:03,350 --> 01:18:04,010
Madam attorney.

842
01:18:04,550 --> 01:18:05,810
Thank you commissioner.

843
01:18:06,570 --> 01:18:14,150
So as I mentioned, the legal issue that is raised here, the guidance that we have is somewhat limited.

844
01:18:14,150 --> 01:18:20,270
I'm unable to bring any opinions or case law that are exactly on point.

845
01:18:20,770 --> 01:18:25,030
So, what I need to do is to sort of rely on general government concepts and precedent.

846
01:18:25,370 --> 01:18:30,850
So, I think the issue is, is it, I think the question that you're asking commissioners,

847
01:18:30,990 --> 01:18:36,830
is it legal to require a supermajority in this context, in this contract?

848
01:18:37,530 --> 01:18:42,750
And I think, you know, I'll start by saying our charter is silent on that issue.

849
01:18:42,750 --> 01:18:53,590
There is nothing in the charter that specifies when the City Commission has to have a simple majority versus a super, it's just not addressed.

850
01:18:54,690 --> 01:19:01,070
And as you know, the city manager serves at the pleasure of the City Commission.

851
01:19:01,470 --> 01:19:11,910
So I will say that the default interpretation of a charter provision that is silent is likely to be a simple majority.

852
01:19:11,910 --> 01:19:22,530
And the years of practice here at the city would also suggest that the actions of the city commission are by city by simple majority.

853
01:19:24,030 --> 01:19:32,550
So if that were true, then the charter would prohibit by implication a supermajority.

854
01:19:33,150 --> 01:19:40,430
But, again, the charter is silent, so, and there is no guidance, I was unable to locate

855
01:19:40,430 --> 01:19:47,170
any guidance that says, with absolute certainty, that at the pleasure means a simple

856
01:19:47,170 --> 01:19:47,690
majority.

857
01:19:48,230 --> 01:19:54,430
So I can't speak with certainty that there is not some room for other interpretation.

858
01:19:54,970 --> 01:19:59,650
The other way, of course, of looking at it is that, because there is no explicit prohibition,

859
01:19:59,650 --> 01:20:07,990
prohibition, then it's not prohibited as a function of home rule and that the contract

860
01:20:07,990 --> 01:20:15,130
term for a supermajority for removal is simply that. It's a term of employment.

861
01:20:15,890 --> 01:20:26,170
So I think that argument may rely on the idea that the charter is sort of the minimum and

862
01:20:26,170 --> 01:20:35,690
And that the city commission itself acting as a body has the authority to impose different requirements on itself.

863
01:20:36,910 --> 01:20:44,510
I will say that as to the second point, there have been recent examples of city commissions.

864
01:20:44,990 --> 01:20:56,050
Fernandina Beach is one and actually just last night, Marathon, Florida, both past their city councils past executive contracts.

865
01:20:57,510 --> 01:21:00,070
with the supermajority for removal.

866
01:21:00,390 --> 01:21:04,270
So that suggests to me not necessarily that that's right,

867
01:21:04,630 --> 01:21:06,350
those have not been tested yet.

868
01:21:07,150 --> 01:21:09,310
So we don't have, I don't have a case,

869
01:21:09,690 --> 01:21:11,610
I don't have a Supreme Court decision that says

870
01:21:12,030 --> 01:21:15,770
that those were tested and the court decided one way or the other.

871
01:21:16,150 --> 01:21:18,650
But they are precedent and they are out there.

872
01:21:18,750 --> 01:21:20,790
And I think it's, I thought it was important to bring that

873
01:21:20,790 --> 01:21:21,410
to the commission.

874
01:21:38,630 --> 01:21:42,050
I don't know if I could say that in every case since the inception.

875
01:21:42,410 --> 01:21:42,590
Okay.

876
01:21:42,730 --> 01:21:43,330
When have we not?

877
01:21:44,110 --> 01:21:46,970
I can't identify over the course of history.

878
01:21:47,310 --> 01:21:47,650
I don't know.

879
01:21:47,650 --> 01:21:55,270
In the past, in the city of Tennessee, have we ever interpreted that to mean anything but a simple majority?

880
01:21:55,950 --> 01:21:59,750
I don't think we've ever been faced with this specific question, but probably not.

881
01:21:59,990 --> 01:22:07,790
On point two years ago, when we changed the contract of the Inspector General to a supermajority,

882
01:22:08,050 --> 01:22:11,530
based on your legal opinion, that we could do it.

883
01:22:11,590 --> 01:22:14,690
And I wasn't a little long to sending vote, because I thought we should do all of that.

884
01:22:14,690 --> 01:22:16,210
Is it not also a legal opinion?

885
01:22:16,590 --> 01:22:17,850
I've got more commission to put a hold on just a second.

886
01:22:17,910 --> 01:22:18,410
It's not on point.

887
01:22:18,630 --> 01:22:19,030
It's not on point.

888
01:22:19,390 --> 01:22:26,350
So, yes, we can point to a specific example in recent history as of two years ago, based

889
01:22:26,350 --> 01:22:32,150
on your legal opinion, that we could do it and did do it, and then the Citizens Advisory

890
01:22:32,150 --> 01:22:37,790
Council for the Charter Review Commission then said, we need to take this language and put

891
01:22:37,790 --> 01:22:41,550
it before the citizens to vote upon, put it in the charter, and it passed.

892
01:22:42,610 --> 01:22:55,710
And I'm hoping that a future commission will follow the exact same steps and take the language of the city manager and a future charter review commission will put it in the charter as well.

893
01:22:56,130 --> 01:23:06,370
But to answer your question, yes, we do have a very specific example in recent history based on your legal opinion of the action that we took in regards to inspector general.

894
01:23:06,370 --> 01:23:07,850
May I respond, Mr. Chair?

895
01:23:08,610 --> 01:23:14,490
I don't recall, I'm not saying that we didn't have a conversation about this particular

896
01:23:15,190 --> 01:23:22,870
legal issue, but the city inspector general's contract was not amended until after

897
01:23:22,870 --> 01:23:25,790
the charter was passed.

898
01:23:26,030 --> 01:23:32,190
There was discussion about his, about the two-thirds and how he considered that to be

899
01:23:32,190 --> 01:23:35,390
the sort of best practice for Inspector Generals.

900
01:23:35,730 --> 01:23:39,330
But I do not believe that the contract was actually amended until after the charter.

901
01:23:39,830 --> 01:23:44,050
Well, Madam Attorney, then we've got a conflicting opinion and I appreciate Commissioner

902
01:23:44,050 --> 01:23:47,930
Porter's position and I appreciate the advice that you gave her.

903
01:23:48,290 --> 01:23:53,270
The advice that the Acting City Attorney, Ludor Vell, gave me a week ago when we met.

904
01:23:53,450 --> 01:24:00,050
And the advice that you gave me yesterday, when we met, is contrary to the advice that

905
01:24:00,050 --> 01:24:06,530
you gave Commissioner Porter. Now, I am still of, I am still of the opinion that we can

906
01:24:06,530 --> 01:24:11,690
and we should and I support motion on the table. Under humoral authority in the Florida

907
01:24:11,690 --> 01:24:17,530
Constitution, anything that is not legislatively prohibited is allowed for local governments

908
01:24:17,530 --> 01:24:23,650
to establish their principles. And under the same theory of our charter, unless legislatively

909
01:24:23,650 --> 01:24:29,370
prohibited in the city charter, we are allowed to move forward. And so again, the reason why

910
01:24:29,370 --> 01:24:32,010
we took action with the Inspector General the way we did.

911
01:24:32,450 --> 01:24:36,890
The reason why there is no case law instead of Florida that you could find in point two.

912
01:24:37,410 --> 01:24:42,310
Another example, for Dana Beach recently with their city attorney putting in supermajority

913
01:24:42,310 --> 01:24:48,410
language, as recently as last night with the city of marathon putting in supermajority

914
01:24:48,410 --> 01:24:53,010
language with the hiring of their city manager contract as well.

915
01:24:53,450 --> 01:24:59,250
There is precedent, there is precedent here, I believe our charter speaks to it.

916
01:24:59,250 --> 01:25:04,130
because it doesn't prohibit it, under home rule authority, and I'm prepared to move forward.

917
01:25:04,390 --> 01:25:07,110
Commissioner Porta, you have been generous with your time, you have the floor.

918
01:25:07,550 --> 01:25:08,470
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

919
01:25:11,380 --> 01:25:22,480
I want to clarify for the public as well, and for the record, the reason that we move forward with a supermajority requirement for termination for the Inspector General.

920
01:25:22,860 --> 01:25:28,160
The Inspector General has the authority to investigate elected officials.

921
01:25:28,160 --> 01:25:32,660
Can you imagine being in the position of investigating your bosses?

922
01:25:33,440 --> 01:25:34,980
That's got to be really tough, right?

923
01:25:35,060 --> 01:25:39,460
You're probably not going to want to do it if you know how easily your bosses can fire you.

924
01:25:39,860 --> 01:25:45,620
So the best practice, as recommended by the associations that represent inspectors general,

925
01:25:46,060 --> 01:25:53,040
is not only that their termination be a supermajority, but also that there be a cause.

926
01:25:53,400 --> 01:25:54,800
They have to be terminated with cause.

927
01:25:54,800 --> 01:25:57,060
and there has to be an appeal process.

928
01:25:57,820 --> 01:26:01,360
The city manager is not designed to be independent.

929
01:26:02,080 --> 01:26:04,800
The inspector general is, the city manager,

930
01:26:05,220 --> 01:26:06,860
the role is administrative.

931
01:26:07,860 --> 01:26:10,820
It is to serve at the pleasure of the city commission

932
01:26:10,820 --> 01:26:13,380
who the voters of Tallahassee elect.

933
01:26:16,120 --> 01:26:17,680
This is not a best practice.

934
01:26:18,300 --> 01:26:20,920
It is not recommended by the International City

935
01:26:20,920 --> 01:26:22,260
Managers Association.

936
01:26:22,740 --> 01:26:25,920
It is not recommended by the National Civic League

937
01:26:25,920 --> 01:26:29,140
who awarded us the All-America City Award.

938
01:26:29,860 --> 01:26:33,100
I recognize that managers need protection.

939
01:26:33,480 --> 01:26:36,360
They need employment protection, as does the ICMA,

940
01:26:36,900 --> 01:26:38,560
as does this National Civic League.

941
01:26:38,900 --> 01:26:41,980
That is why they are awarded very generous

942
01:26:41,980 --> 01:26:43,000
severance packages.

943
01:26:43,960 --> 01:26:49,640
20 weeks, do the math, $317,000, starting salary,

944
01:26:49,920 --> 01:26:51,540
20 weeks, severance.

945
01:26:52,580 --> 01:26:54,440
This is a government.

946
01:26:54,440 --> 01:27:00,420
this is not a country club. We don't just do favors for people like this.

947
01:27:01,160 --> 01:27:04,800
No, and I'm not talking about anyone in particular. I'm genuinely not.

948
01:27:06,100 --> 01:27:11,720
No one's job is more important than the well-being and the voice of this community.

949
01:27:12,740 --> 01:27:12,960
Okay?

950
01:27:18,950 --> 01:27:26,090
I also genuinely believe, you know, we talk a lot about our council manager form of government that we have.

951
01:27:26,090 --> 01:27:30,230
When I was in graduate school, I thought I wanted to be a city manager.

952
01:27:30,830 --> 01:27:44,790
And I was given the Beherald Farmer Scholarship Award by the Florida City County Managers Association in recognition of my interest in city management and my academic career up to that point.

953
01:27:44,790 --> 01:27:55,910
I really feel like this violates the spirit of the Council Manager form of government that is intended to be responsive.

954
01:27:56,370 --> 01:28:08,610
Everything about our government, our system of government, Robert's rules of order is to ensure that the minority are heard but that the will of the majority prevails.

955
01:28:08,610 --> 01:28:16,930
rules. This does not change that. No one in here probably will come as a surprise that

956
01:28:16,930 --> 01:28:25,910
I have rated our current city manager with poor scores and his evaluations. He's been my

957
01:28:25,910 --> 01:28:34,430
city manager for the past six years. We already have a system that works. So for this to come

958
01:28:34,430 --> 01:28:40,010
on the agenda, and I would like, I apologize, but I mean, I feel like I need clarity from

959
01:28:40,010 --> 01:28:46,490
the City Attorney because when I spoke to her this morning, you know, it was, what she

960
01:28:46,490 --> 01:28:51,490
relayed to me was that she was not part of this specific conversation, and that she spent

961
01:28:51,490 --> 01:28:56,990
the evening researching this herself. I'd also like to say to the governments, it is extremely

962
01:28:56,990 --> 01:29:04,110
rare to require supermajority, and the city that I saw, the cities, at least one of them,

963
01:29:04,110 --> 01:29:08,350
that I researched that has that, that recently passed it, they did that because they were

964
01:29:08,350 --> 01:29:13,290
having trouble keeping city managers, attracting city managers.

965
01:29:13,950 --> 01:29:19,410
So in all of this discussion, whether it's salary, whether it's the supermajority, you

966
01:29:19,410 --> 01:29:22,250
want, of course, to hire the best, to retain the best.

967
01:29:22,990 --> 01:29:28,230
But the question needs to also be like, what purpose does this serve?

968
01:29:29,090 --> 01:29:32,170
Is there a problem that we're trying to fix here?

969
01:29:32,170 --> 01:29:36,730
There's a lot of talk about depoliticizing this process.

970
01:29:37,230 --> 01:29:40,550
On the one hand, I agree, on the other hand, this is politics.

971
01:29:41,170 --> 01:29:42,230
This is what we do.

972
01:29:42,730 --> 01:29:50,190
There will always be elections, and I do think it's entirely inappropriate to tie the hands of future commissioners.

973
01:29:50,830 --> 01:29:55,010
And I'm not even talking about in two months, I'm talking about in five or ten years.

974
01:29:55,010 --> 01:29:59,970
There is no justification that I have heard that convinces

975
01:30:00,000 --> 01:30:31,320
It's me that decades of precedent, that the professional associations that govern city managers across this entire country, there's no, gives me no reason to think that this is a best practice, that this is standard. And on top of all of that, we have to reckon with the fact that our city attorney doesn't really know because there is no precedent for this. It hasn't been legally tested. That opens us up.

976
01:30:31,320 --> 01:30:43,040
up to litigation and all kinds of other, I don't even know why we would go down this direction with that level of uncertainty, especially given the other concerns.

977
01:30:44,100 --> 01:30:53,240
So I would like to make a substitute motion and I'm willing to compromise on everything else.

978
01:30:53,620 --> 01:30:58,560
I have said from the beginning, I don't believe this process should have taken place before the election.

979
01:30:58,560 --> 01:31:13,000
I do not believe that that salary is appropriate, but I'm willing to support a contract today with a simple majority for termination.

980
01:31:13,640 --> 01:31:24,240
So that would be my motion, that we move forward with this contract agreement with the change that the termination does not require a supermajority vote.

981
01:31:24,240 --> 01:31:28,420
Well, there is a substitute motion on the table made by Commissioner Porter.

982
01:31:29,540 --> 01:31:34,520
Simply, let me make sure I get this correctly, maintaining all points of the contract and

983
01:31:34,520 --> 01:31:39,060
changing the termination language to a simple majority from a supermajority.

984
01:31:39,140 --> 01:31:39,400
Yes.

985
01:31:39,800 --> 01:31:40,960
Okay, I'll start second to the motion.

986
01:31:41,520 --> 01:31:42,760
Second by Commissioner Mallow.

987
01:31:43,220 --> 01:31:45,600
Comment, Mr. Mallow.

988
01:31:45,980 --> 01:31:50,060
Thank you, Mr. Mayor, and thank you for bringing the motion, Commissioner Porter.

989
01:31:50,960 --> 01:32:00,380
to me, this entire process has been intentionally designed by the mayor to divide this commission every step of the way.

990
01:32:01,240 --> 01:32:06,000
The community spoke loud and clear they wanted this decision to wait until after the elections.

991
01:32:06,680 --> 01:32:13,780
Five of the six candidates for office on the November ballot asked for the City Commission to wait until after the election.

992
01:32:14,560 --> 01:32:18,080
Nevertheless, the majority wanted to move forward with this election process.

993
01:32:18,080 --> 01:32:24,240
A simple majority, three two, I respect the will of the majority of this board.

994
01:32:24,820 --> 01:32:30,080
When this came back, I requested that we give a one year contract to Dr. Jimenville,

995
01:32:30,360 --> 01:32:36,500
so the next commission could have an opportunity to get to know her, work with her for an entire year,

996
01:32:36,900 --> 01:32:42,500
and then make a decision if they would like to move forward, or if they'd like to go back to a search process.

997
01:32:42,500 --> 01:32:47,660
This provide continuity and stability for this government that is desperately needed.

998
01:32:48,340 --> 01:32:54,300
That compromise was rejected by a simple majority, a three-two vote of this board.

999
01:32:55,580 --> 01:33:08,860
For 200 years, city commission precedent, local code, and state law have shown that a simple majority is how a city commission expresses its will.

1000
01:33:08,860 --> 01:33:16,160
So a contract can't not alter what's in the city charter.

1001
01:33:16,680 --> 01:33:20,200
The city charter is the constitution of the city of Tallahassee.

1002
01:33:20,200 --> 01:33:26,880
Just like a law that the governor passes can't change what's in the constitution and they get challenged and struck down, this is no different.

1003
01:33:27,920 --> 01:33:35,440
A contract inserting this into the contract can't change what's expressly laid out in the city charter and it is not silent.

1004
01:33:35,440 --> 01:33:42,280
The City Charter says the City Manager serves at the pleasure of the City Commission.

1005
01:33:43,040 --> 01:33:45,340
The pleasure of the City Commission is a three to vote.

1006
01:33:46,060 --> 01:33:51,820
We have 200 years of history knowing what the pleasure of the City Commission is on every item we've ever discussed.

1007
01:33:52,940 --> 01:34:02,640
The City Commission has fired previous City managers on a three to two vote exercising the pleasure of the City Commission.

1008
01:34:02,640 --> 01:34:06,100
There's a long history in this government of how this operates.

1009
01:34:06,520 --> 01:34:10,500
What this attempt to do is circumvent the charter review process.

1010
01:34:11,060 --> 01:34:13,300
Mayor Daly called for a charter review process.

1011
01:34:13,600 --> 01:34:15,820
There was a committee that brought forward recommendations.

1012
01:34:16,500 --> 01:34:19,900
Commissioners brought forward individual recommendations as well.

1013
01:34:21,300 --> 01:34:23,600
Silent on whether we should change this rule.

1014
01:34:24,060 --> 01:34:25,460
It was never brought forward for discussion.

1015
01:34:25,720 --> 01:34:31,280
It was never put to the boarders, which is required by the city charter to have change.

1016
01:34:31,280 --> 01:34:33,000
That is the power of the people.

1017
01:34:33,440 --> 01:34:38,320
This is not our government, it's the people's government, and that's dictated by the City Charter.

1018
01:34:38,480 --> 01:34:43,600
So no matter what the vote is today, it's invalid.

1019
01:34:44,200 --> 01:34:49,280
You can't take away powers of the City Commission by way of contract language.

1020
01:34:49,840 --> 01:34:51,020
It wouldn't stand up.

1021
01:34:51,600 --> 01:34:58,640
So the question would be, and Madam Attorney, a year from now, if they pass this contract language,

1022
01:34:59,200 --> 01:35:02,740
And three commissioners move to terminate a city manager.

1023
01:35:03,560 --> 01:35:06,120
Where does that leave the city of Salahassee?

1024
01:35:06,160 --> 01:35:06,640
Well, I'm adjourned.

1025
01:35:07,020 --> 01:35:07,720
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1026
01:35:07,920 --> 01:35:17,120
I believe that, again, I don't have, these are questions that are not, you know, answered in current law.

1027
01:35:18,000 --> 01:35:25,860
But I believe that in that circumstance that the city commission could, could, like they could any contract, well, not any contract.

1028
01:35:25,860 --> 01:35:33,880
But they could act with a 3-2 majority to end the contract, but that would be a breach

1029
01:35:33,880 --> 01:35:34,780
of the contract.

1030
01:35:35,000 --> 01:35:39,060
That would be a breach of the provision of the contract that requires a supermajority

1031
01:35:39,060 --> 01:35:39,580
to do so.

1032
01:35:39,860 --> 01:35:46,140
That would mean that the appointed, the official who is the subject of the contract would

1033
01:35:46,140 --> 01:35:47,860
have breach of contract rights.

1034
01:35:48,600 --> 01:35:54,860
Primarily, they would be the severance pay which the contract provides to the appointed

1035
01:35:54,860 --> 01:36:01,540
an official upon a termination without cause, but it is possible that there could be some other contract

1036
01:36:02,280 --> 01:36:11,600
damages that might be recoverable. I can't, with the short notice, I can't really give you an example of what that might be,

1037
01:36:11,640 --> 01:36:15,740
but it could cost the city more, as I guess my point, if there's a breach of contract.

1038
01:36:15,740 --> 01:36:27,040
Okay. Okay. And the point I'm making and confirmed by your opinion is this contract cannot change the authority expressly given to the City Commission in the charter.

1039
01:36:27,640 --> 01:36:33,960
When we, if that decision were made in the future, the authority comes from the charter, it does not come from the contract.

1040
01:36:34,140 --> 01:36:39,860
And since that authority cannot be changed in the contract, this is invalid language.

1041
01:36:39,980 --> 01:36:42,900
And it's not just the city that would have to uphold to this.

1042
01:36:42,900 --> 01:36:51,520
It would be up to anybody who enters a contract with a municipality needs to know the limitations of the city's contracting authority.

1043
01:36:51,800 --> 01:36:57,020
We don't have the ability to put this into a contract because it's counter to our city's charter.

1044
01:36:57,980 --> 01:37:11,680
So all that to say, this commission will express its will, but I believe this has been wholly politicized by the mayor has never been about an individual for 200 years.

1045
01:37:12,340 --> 01:37:19,860
This city has maintained the way it hires and fires its city manager in 60 days before an outgoing mayor goes out.

1046
01:37:19,860 --> 01:37:22,320
He wants to throw a monkey wrench in that whole process.

1047
01:37:22,680 --> 01:37:23,940
It doesn't make any sense.

1048
01:37:24,560 --> 01:37:29,640
The inspector general knew the limitations of a contract in the city charter.

1049
01:37:31,440 --> 01:37:35,920
The city charter brought it forward, brought it to the voters and it was approved.

1050
01:37:36,340 --> 01:37:40,800
If this is a change, this board would like to proceed, put it on the ballot, let the voters decide.

1051
01:37:40,800 --> 01:37:41,960
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1052
01:37:42,300 --> 01:37:46,260
There is a substitute motion on the table made by Commissioner Porter, seconded by Commissioner

1053
01:37:46,260 --> 01:37:51,220
Matlow, changing the termination language from a supermajority to a simple majority.

1054
01:37:51,800 --> 01:37:52,500
Any other comments?

1055
01:37:54,660 --> 01:37:55,360
Are we ready to vote?

1056
01:37:56,980 --> 01:37:57,280
Okay.

1057
01:37:57,500 --> 01:38:02,800
For the substitute amendment on the table, all those in favor signify by saying aye.

1058
01:38:03,180 --> 01:38:03,360
Aye.

1059
01:38:03,880 --> 01:38:04,500
All those opposed?

1060
01:38:05,320 --> 01:38:05,560
Naye.

1061
01:38:06,000 --> 01:38:06,160
Naye.

1062
01:38:06,720 --> 01:38:10,060
In the substitute motion fails, three to two.

1063
01:38:14,900 --> 01:38:19,780
We can, if we can have order, please that would be great, thank you, I appreciate it.

1064
01:38:20,300 --> 01:38:23,300
And we are back on to the original motion, Commissioner Williams.

1065
01:38:23,300 --> 01:38:24,500
Cox, you are recognized.

1066
01:38:24,860 --> 01:38:25,560
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1067
01:38:25,980 --> 01:38:34,360
Let me just be very clear, this is about here, it's her contract, it's a contract between-

1068
01:38:34,360 --> 01:38:35,580
Who do you represent?

1069
01:38:35,840 --> 01:38:41,380
Okay, I'm going to ask one more time that if we could please have some order, we allowed the public to speak.

1070
01:38:41,380 --> 01:38:42,600
Can we listen to everyone?

1071
01:38:42,940 --> 01:38:48,440
And we're under commission discussion, and please, if you would let us continue with the discussion

1072
01:38:48,440 --> 01:38:53,500
and continue with the vote without the interruption from the audience, I'd appreciate that.

1073
01:38:54,000 --> 01:38:57,420
I do not want to have to clear the chambers, Mr. Williams-Cox.

1074
01:38:57,920 --> 01:38:58,900
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1075
01:38:59,760 --> 01:39:03,760
This is about here, and this is a contract that we have her name on it.

1076
01:39:04,540 --> 01:39:10,180
This is a 27 year, City of Tallahassee employee currently serving as Deputy City Manager.

1077
01:39:10,180 --> 01:39:22,900
the terms of the contract excluding the supermajority, the money would be the same money that if Reese was going to continue to be here would be the money that he would earn, court blame.

1078
01:39:23,700 --> 01:39:30,480
There is a savings because Reese actually drives a fleet truck, okay?

1079
01:39:31,400 --> 01:39:38,520
Karen will be driving her own car with $1,000 a month allowance.

1080
01:39:38,520 --> 01:39:51,120
But the supermajority, unfortunately, is where we seem to be headed in this state and

1081
01:39:51,120 --> 01:39:54,360
in this country because of the political climate.

1082
01:39:55,160 --> 01:40:01,540
Now let's just be clear, Commissioner Matlow, you have been very vocal on social media

1083
01:40:01,540 --> 01:40:07,520
you about what you would do if you become mayor through the city manager that we were select.

1084
01:40:09,340 --> 01:40:13,440
So you have put that out there, you said what you would do.

1085
01:40:14,120 --> 01:40:18,820
So that doesn't sound like someone who is looking to move in this-

1086
01:40:18,820 --> 01:40:24,740
That doesn't look like someone who is trying to bring this city together.

1087
01:40:25,380 --> 01:40:30,920
We're trying to stabilize this city by making sure we have some folks in place who know

1088
01:40:30,920 --> 01:40:37,180
how to run this city because they've worked their way up through the city and know the different parts of the city.

1089
01:40:37,820 --> 01:40:44,080
That to me is worth more than any amount of money.

1090
01:40:45,200 --> 01:40:49,140
Unfortunately, it is during a campaign season.

1091
01:40:49,840 --> 01:40:53,560
But we cannot govern our community by campaigns.

1092
01:40:54,260 --> 01:40:59,240
We've got to govern them by the stability of what residents expect us to have.

1093
01:40:59,240 --> 01:41:04,760
This is a well-run city, whatever you think about it, it is a well-run city.

1094
01:41:04,960 --> 01:41:11,220
I work with the 411 city towns and villages, and folks want to know how are we doing what we're doing in Tallahassee.

1095
01:41:11,340 --> 01:41:17,820
It is a great place to live working play, and I want to be a part of making sure that it continues in that way.

1096
01:41:18,420 --> 01:41:27,920
And to de-politicize this for our appointed officials, all of them, I believe this is the way to go.

1097
01:41:27,920 --> 01:41:33,840
It's just said at this moment in time, because someone said to me the timing, the timing is contract time.

1098
01:41:34,240 --> 01:41:36,340
It's not election time, it's contract.

1099
01:41:36,920 --> 01:41:39,660
It is time for a contract for a city manager.

1100
01:41:40,520 --> 01:41:46,700
So you're going in, anybody, I'm not an attorney, but I've done some contracts before.

1101
01:41:46,800 --> 01:41:50,980
And if you're going to do a contract, the terms of the contract are done at the time of negotiation.

1102
01:41:51,800 --> 01:41:53,280
And the negotiation has occurred.

1103
01:41:53,820 --> 01:41:56,360
And these are the terms that she has agreed to.

1104
01:41:56,360 --> 01:42:04,880
Now, the other candidates may have found themselves in the same way, because we heard from them that they've been watching and watching our commission meetings.

1105
01:42:04,960 --> 01:42:09,460
They've been watching what's happening in the city, and some of them, some folks decided not to apply.

1106
01:42:10,040 --> 01:42:17,280
So, you're right, Commissioner Porter, cities are having trouble attracting and keeping last night.

1107
01:42:17,300 --> 01:42:22,720
Someone got fired last night, I've seen the manager got fired last night, and then they decided to do this.

1108
01:42:22,720 --> 01:42:34,300
So I don't have a problem supporting the supermajority to keep our city moving forward together and to be a stable city.

1109
01:42:34,560 --> 01:42:36,540
We're the capital city to the third largest state.

1110
01:42:36,940 --> 01:42:38,460
We cannot fumble the ball on this.

1111
01:42:38,840 --> 01:42:40,280
We cannot move backwards.

1112
01:42:40,620 --> 01:42:43,900
We've got to go forward, forward, ever, backwards, never.

1113
01:42:44,720 --> 01:42:48,300
And I just believe that this is the direction that we need to be going.

1114
01:42:48,300 --> 01:42:57,700
It also not only stabilizes the city, it stabilizes the workforce because people are working for these individuals.

1115
01:42:58,260 --> 01:43:04,640
And they need to know that their job is safe and secure, no matter who gets to become mayor or gets to become whatever.

1116
01:43:05,180 --> 01:43:11,220
They need to know that their jobs are going to be in a safe place, all they got to do is do the job and be held accountable.

1117
01:43:11,720 --> 01:43:16,260
And no, I don't think anyone here has a problem being held accountable to their job.

1118
01:43:17,040 --> 01:43:23,020
Unfortunately, we have to now look at safeguards to protect people in their jobs so

1119
01:43:23,020 --> 01:43:27,260
that they don't feel intimidated or harassed because I've heard that from some of them.

1120
01:43:27,960 --> 01:43:29,920
So that's where I stand.

1121
01:43:30,340 --> 01:43:34,940
I support the motion on the table, whatever happens happens, but

1122
01:43:34,940 --> 01:43:41,000
I just believe that in my heart of hearts and in the research that I've done with around this state,

1123
01:43:41,040 --> 01:43:43,940
with people that I work with, mayors and commissioners from other cities.

1124
01:43:43,940 --> 01:43:46,020
This is the direction that we're headed.

1125
01:43:46,400 --> 01:43:49,300
It's unfortunate, but that's where we're headed.

1126
01:43:49,940 --> 01:43:53,440
And we can stop it by doing what we need to do and

1127
01:43:53,440 --> 01:43:59,120
not making these positions so the campaigns that are currently going on,

1128
01:43:59,660 --> 01:44:03,000
the politicization of what we're doing here in our city.

1129
01:44:03,420 --> 01:44:06,620
Elections and campaigns cannot run a city well.

1130
01:44:07,040 --> 01:44:09,660
We've got to run this city professionally,

1131
01:44:09,660 --> 01:44:14,820
And so that people get what they need regardless of who sits in the mayor's seat or who sits in the commission's seat.

1132
01:44:15,100 --> 01:44:16,000
And that's where I stand.

1133
01:44:16,440 --> 01:44:18,000
Commissioner Mallow, I'm sorry.

1134
01:44:18,420 --> 01:44:19,280
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1135
01:44:19,860 --> 01:44:25,580
Traditionally, a point of order is when another speaker is out of order and it gives you the opportunity to rule on that.

1136
01:44:26,020 --> 01:44:29,880
We should not be directing individual comments that other commissioners should be directed to the mayor.

1137
01:44:30,120 --> 01:44:30,480
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1138
01:44:30,700 --> 01:44:33,840
That's great advice for the past eight years, but we haven't held that either.

1139
01:44:34,040 --> 01:44:34,760
Commissioner Porter.

1140
01:44:37,180 --> 01:44:37,700
You're the mayor, sir.

1141
01:44:39,220 --> 01:44:40,540
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1142
01:44:42,480 --> 01:44:48,640
I don't know, I don't see Dr. Jummanville, but I want to speak directly to you.

1143
01:44:48,860 --> 01:44:51,920
This is your contract, as Commissioner Williams-Cox just said.

1144
01:44:52,920 --> 01:44:59,780
I am asking you as a professional in your field and as the next city manager who reports to us.

1145
01:45:00,000 --> 01:45:27,840
To reject this contract with a supermajority vote. So, I can't see you, but that is a direct question to Dr. Jummanville. I would like a response. Dr. Jummanville is not in chambers right now. But I'm sure she is probably watching out of chambers and we'll get back to you. Mayor Pro Tem, I would just suggest that

1146
01:45:29,260 --> 01:45:39,900
If the Commissioner Porter if that's the direction that you would want to go, then the negotiations I would think, because that's what Mr.

1147
01:45:40,080 --> 01:45:53,540
Jim and Dr. Jim and Ville has agreed to, that it would have to go back to the negotiations and see at that point, would have to say I can go forward without this provision in the contract.

1148
01:45:53,540 --> 01:45:57,560
We can't sit here today and make that determination.

1149
01:45:58,380 --> 01:46:03,760
The contract was agreed to in negotiations with the mayor.

1150
01:46:04,220 --> 01:46:04,600
On point?

1151
01:46:05,200 --> 01:46:07,020
On point, Mr. Board?

1152
01:46:07,140 --> 01:46:07,820
Why can't we?

1153
01:46:08,120 --> 01:46:11,720
Why can't she just say, I mean, we could have voted on my motion.

1154
01:46:12,000 --> 01:46:15,420
If that motion had passed, that would have just been what it is.

1155
01:46:15,560 --> 01:46:17,740
And then she still has to sign it.

1156
01:46:18,400 --> 01:46:22,520
We can do whatever we, I mean doesn't, Madam City Attorney.

1157
01:46:22,520 --> 01:46:30,440
Could we not, if Dr. Jimenville were here right now, and she said, I reject the supermajority

1158
01:46:30,440 --> 01:46:35,140
contract, and I would like to ask that that be changed? Why couldn't we honor that?

1159
01:46:35,560 --> 01:46:37,740
Oh, we could, but she doesn't agree to that.

1160
01:46:37,740 --> 01:46:41,940
I understand, but my point is, if she were here, we could ask her that.

1161
01:46:43,830 --> 01:46:48,250
But she's not here, so we can't ask her that and make that decision.

1162
01:46:48,370 --> 01:46:49,690
But it's the contract before us.

1163
01:46:49,810 --> 01:46:50,310
For her.

1164
01:46:50,470 --> 01:46:51,390
That she has agreed upon.

1165
01:46:51,710 --> 01:46:51,870
Right.

1166
01:46:52,210 --> 01:46:53,730
Mayor Prattam, you still have the floor?

1167
01:46:53,730 --> 01:47:19,050
Yeah, you know, it's just amazing to me that this is the sticking point in a contract for the city commission for the city of Tallahassee and the city manager, the selection of the city manager, the super majority to hire or fire, I just find it unbelievable that that's the sticking point.

1168
01:47:19,050 --> 01:47:26,570
It's not the use of an automobile, it's not the salary, it's not the severance pay.

1169
01:47:27,070 --> 01:47:30,590
It is a supermajority.

1170
01:47:32,480 --> 01:47:40,940
I would feel comfortable if a supermajority were required because it suggests to this

1171
01:47:40,940 --> 01:47:48,940
community that four people, four people out of the five agree that this person needs

1172
01:47:48,940 --> 01:47:56,120
to be removed from office. I don't think it's unreasonable. It says to this community

1173
01:47:56,120 --> 01:48:03,240
that four individuals that we have elected agree that this person needs to be removed

1174
01:48:03,240 --> 01:48:11,980
from office. One person different than a simple majority. I just found it unbelievable

1175
01:48:11,980 --> 01:48:18,640
that this is the argument that we're having and can't move forward on that one issue.

1176
01:48:18,640 --> 01:48:27,560
I'm going to support the motion, and if a commission in the future wants to change it, then we can do that.

1177
01:48:28,440 --> 01:48:36,280
But I think for right now, we move forward with the contract that has been negotiated and agreed upon.

1178
01:48:37,180 --> 01:48:47,800
And that we don't sit here as a commission when we gave the mayor the authority to negotiate the contract.

1179
01:48:47,800 --> 01:48:58,160
With the person that we selected out of this process to be our next City Commissioner or City Manager,

1180
01:48:58,340 --> 01:49:06,480
I'm sorry, I just don't feel like we're in a position to do that, and I'd like to say I'm going to support motion on the floor.

1181
01:49:06,840 --> 01:49:17,060
Motion on the table drops, number one, made by the mayor, seconded by, remind me, was it Mayor Pro Tem or Mayor Pro Tem for the contract that's presented Commissioner Matlow, you have the floor.

1182
01:49:17,060 --> 01:49:28,040
Before, thank you, Mr. Mayor, interesting debate today, I would say, would it be unbelievable to require four votes of five to sell the community hospital?

1183
01:49:29,040 --> 01:49:38,500
Would it be unbelievable to require four votes of five to sell the municipal golf course that are the burial grounds of former slaves from the plantation?

1184
01:49:38,500 --> 01:49:46,480
Would it be unbelievable to require four votes to increase taxes year after year?

1185
01:49:47,380 --> 01:49:54,460
Would it be unbelievable to require four votes to hire a city manager?

1186
01:50:00,110 --> 01:50:03,710
This city has long been divided on a 32 vote.

1187
01:50:04,150 --> 01:50:06,990
There has never been an attempt for compromise.

1188
01:50:07,790 --> 01:50:11,770
That's why the public is lashing out the way that it is today.

1189
01:50:11,770 --> 01:50:19,130
Now, I want you to imagine a different scenario where decisions made by the City Commission were not implemented.

1190
01:50:19,710 --> 01:50:24,530
If three votes sold the hospital, but the City Manager wouldn't move forward with that sale.

1191
01:50:25,210 --> 01:50:30,450
If three votes sold the golf course, and the City Manager would not move forward with that sale.

1192
01:50:31,650 --> 01:50:40,770
If three votes decided to terminate the agreement with the county to provide fire services, but the City Manager refused to move forward.

1193
01:50:40,770 --> 01:50:46,550
with that action, what then does the recourse of three votes on the City Commission have?

1194
01:50:47,270 --> 01:50:57,750
You would have a completely unaccountable city management that would require four votes to terminate for not following the direction of the majority of the body.

1195
01:50:58,270 --> 01:50:59,730
That is wrong and cannot stand.

1196
01:51:00,890 --> 01:51:01,350
We already

1197
01:51:04,230 --> 01:51:13,630
see this action play out today as Commissioner Porter has made several motions that have passed his body that have never been brought forward by the city manager.

1198
01:51:13,630 --> 01:51:22,790
We're still waiting to this day, but she has no recourse because there's not a majority of this body that has been willing to hold the City Manager accountable.

1199
01:51:23,050 --> 01:51:37,590
So I'm not going to support the motion on the table because I can't support a contract that has an invalid language that is contrary to our City Charter, but I will listen to the pleasure of the City Commission.

1200
01:51:38,270 --> 01:51:38,670
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1201
01:51:38,670 --> 01:51:42,950
Motion on table for option number one made by the mayor second by the mayor pro Tim

1202
01:51:42,950 --> 01:51:47,630
all those in favor of the motion on table signify by saying aye aye all those opposed

1203
01:51:47,630 --> 01:51:51,930
nay in the motion passes three to two with the mayor mayor pro Tim and

1204
01:51:51,930 --> 01:51:56,070
Commissioner Williams Cox and the affirmative with Commissioner Matlow and

1205
01:51:56,070 --> 01:52:01,490
Commissioner Porter in the negative motion passes I will execute the contract

1206
01:52:01,490 --> 01:52:08,650
In fact, in writing with Dr. Jumman, as soon as we can get together after this meeting.

1207
01:52:09,290 --> 01:52:10,570
Commissioner Porter, for a question.

1208
01:52:11,210 --> 01:52:12,090
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1209
01:52:12,490 --> 01:52:14,470
I meant to do this at the beginning of the meeting.

1210
01:52:14,670 --> 01:52:23,030
I wanted to request that we move item 1201 to the end of policy formation and direction.

1211
01:52:23,330 --> 01:52:28,550
It seems like 1201 might take more time and I don't want to keep 1202 and 1203 waiting.

1212
01:52:28,550 --> 01:52:29,490
second.

1213
01:52:30,370 --> 01:52:31,930
I said that one more time, I'm sorry.

1214
01:52:32,270 --> 01:52:34,350
If we could move 1201?

1215
01:52:34,410 --> 01:52:34,730
Oh, sure.

1216
01:52:34,970 --> 01:52:35,350
Yes, yes.

1217
01:52:35,630 --> 01:52:35,990
And?

1218
01:52:36,410 --> 01:52:37,230
Take it up at the end.

1219
01:52:37,370 --> 01:52:37,490
Sure.

1220
01:52:37,850 --> 01:52:38,330
Absolutely.

1221
01:52:39,030 --> 01:52:39,910
With that objection.

1222
01:52:40,410 --> 01:52:40,670
Okay.

1223
01:52:41,030 --> 01:52:45,250
We are now on the introduction of ordinance number 11.01, Madam Attorney.

1224
01:52:45,610 --> 01:52:46,290
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1225
01:52:47,490 --> 01:52:55,450
Item number 11.01 is the introduction of ordinance number 26-Z-12, an ordinance of the city of Tallahassee, Florida,

1226
01:52:55,450 --> 01:53:04,090
the official zoning map of the city of Tallahassee, located on 3.75 acres located on the west side of Paul Russell Road,

1227
01:53:04,210 --> 01:53:13,630
approximately 150 feet north of the interception with Paul Russell Road and Orange Avenue east on the official zoning map of the city of Tallahassee,

1228
01:53:13,750 --> 01:53:22,630
changing the zoning classification of land from critical planning area to Paul Russell Road right of way abandonment planned unit development,

1229
01:53:23,250 --> 01:53:26,410
providing for conflicts, severability, and an affected date.

1230
01:53:26,650 --> 01:53:33,130
The recommended action is option one, introduce ordinance number 26-12, and set the first

1231
01:53:33,130 --> 01:53:39,450
in only public hearing for October 21 at 6 p.m. in the City of Tallahassee City Commission

1232
01:53:39,450 --> 01:53:40,790
Chambers at City Hall.

1233
01:53:41,190 --> 01:53:42,750
All right, so there's no question here.

1234
01:53:42,770 --> 01:53:45,850
I'm sorry, excuse me, if I could just make sure I comment that any exparte

1235
01:53:45,850 --> 01:53:50,470
disclosures concerning this item are available via the hyperlink included in the agenda

1236
01:53:50,470 --> 01:53:52,070
item as published in Board Docs.

1237
01:53:52,070 --> 01:53:55,230
Excellent. There's no action that needs to be taken. We always take a ceremony.

1238
01:53:55,370 --> 01:54:00,150
You'll vote just to add it into the record. Do we have any public comment on this item?

1239
01:54:00,690 --> 01:54:02,870
Richard Robbie here is to answer questions, so no.

1240
01:54:03,530 --> 01:54:05,710
I'll make a motion for the introduction. Is there a second?

1241
01:54:05,990 --> 01:54:08,890
Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem. All those in favor signify by saying aye.

1242
01:54:09,010 --> 01:54:09,210
Aye.

1243
01:54:09,550 --> 01:54:14,810
All those opposed. Passes unanimously, five, zero. We are on item number 11.02, Madam Attorney.

1244
01:54:15,510 --> 01:54:21,350
Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Item number 11.02 is the introduction of ordinance number 26-0-15.

1245
01:54:21,350 --> 01:54:45,550
In ordinance of the city of Tallahassee, Florida, amending sections 21-66, 21-284, 21-402, and 21-403 of the code of general ordinances of the city of Tallahassee, relating to water and sewer service, including applicable fees, charges and rates, providing for conflicts, providing for severability, and providing an effective date.

1246
01:54:45,550 --> 01:54:47,870
The recommended action is option one.

1247
01:54:48,030 --> 01:54:54,790
Introduce ordinance number 26-0-15 that reflects changes to water and waste water rates,

1248
01:54:55,210 --> 01:55:00,910
fees, and charges, and set the first and only public hearing for the City Commission meeting on September

1249
01:55:00,910 --> 01:55:06,930
23, 2026 at 6 p.m. in the City of Tallahassee City Commission Chambers at City Hall.

1250
01:55:07,470 --> 01:55:10,930
Excellent. One more time, no formal action needs to be taken.

1251
01:55:10,990 --> 01:55:14,670
We take ceremonial vote, just added into the record any public comment on this item?

1252
01:55:14,670 --> 01:55:15,370
No, sir.

1253
01:55:15,630 --> 01:55:16,850
I'll make the motion to accept.

1254
01:55:17,490 --> 01:55:20,070
Seconded by the Mayor for a Tim, Commissioner Mattlet for comment.

1255
01:55:20,410 --> 01:55:25,990
Thank you, Mr. Mayor, and I recognize this is the introduction, so I'll say my comments to the public hearing.

1256
01:55:26,170 --> 01:55:32,750
But I did want to request, if not already, that the rate study be part of the agenda item,

1257
01:55:33,070 --> 01:55:38,870
as well as an information on the sewer expansion cost associated with abandonment,

1258
01:55:38,870 --> 01:55:48,350
and Meridian that we approved at our last meeting, that the single largest thing I hear about utility bills is the sewer fees continue to increase.

1259
01:55:48,550 --> 01:55:55,350
People are super concerned about this, and I want to make sure we're looking to find savings and fees before increasing their bills yet again.

1260
01:55:55,550 --> 01:55:55,910
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1261
01:55:55,910 --> 01:56:04,350
So, now that Mayor Pratimfe, thank you Mayor, what I want the public that's here today

1262
01:56:04,350 --> 01:56:12,370
to understand that we, as a commission, did not make those decisions on the increases.

1263
01:56:12,750 --> 01:56:18,490
They were based on rate studies that were done by independent organizations.

1264
01:56:18,490 --> 01:56:27,990
They have recommended just so that we have the funds so that we don't have to go back to the

1265
01:56:29,430 --> 01:56:38,810
residents who are using those services to increase the fees, that it is an objective rating decision.

1266
01:56:39,490 --> 01:56:46,370
And the recommendation is made to us in order to make sure that we can still provide quality services

1267
01:56:46,370 --> 01:56:55,290
to our be paying public, and so that's how those decisions or what those decisions are

1268
01:56:55,290 --> 01:57:03,010
being based on, not what I think or feel, but an actual objective rating assessment

1269
01:57:03,010 --> 01:57:10,190
by objective organizations that we use for that purpose. Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1270
01:57:10,190 --> 01:57:15,270
Excellent. Okay, ceremonial vote. All those in favor of the motion on table signify by saying aye

1271
01:57:15,270 --> 01:57:21,350
Aye. All those opposed passes unanimously five zero any other introduction of ordinances come before us today. No, Mr

1272
01:57:21,350 --> 01:57:29,850
Mayor. We are on item number 12.02, Mr. Manager. Mr. Mayor, our growth management director John Reddick will introduce this item.

1273
01:57:35,380 --> 01:57:43,000
Thank you. Good evening, Mayor and commissioners. Your direction, we brought for you this item requesting your approval to permanently rename

1274
01:57:43,000 --> 01:57:47,840
portion of West Virginia Street to recognize Reverend Dr. Arby Holmes Jr.

1275
01:57:48,180 --> 01:57:49,720
and his wife, Dr. Gloria P. Holmes.

1276
01:57:50,500 --> 01:57:55,620
Reverend Holmes has served for decades as pastor of the historic Bethel Missionary Baptist Church.

1277
01:57:56,280 --> 01:58:00,340
Under his leadership, Bethel has expanded its role beyond the church through initiatives

1278
01:58:00,340 --> 01:58:06,720
focused on education, housing, economic development, financial opportunity, and community services.

1279
01:58:06,720 --> 01:58:11,560
It includes the establishment and development of numerous community institutions and

1280
01:58:11,560 --> 01:58:18,580
initiatives, including Bethel Christian Academy, Steel Collins Charter Middle School, Steel Collins All Male Charter Academy,

1281
01:58:19,080 --> 01:58:24,660
Bethel Family Restaurant, Bethel Family Counseling Center, Housing for Senior Citizens of Bethel Towers,

1282
01:58:25,260 --> 01:58:27,880
and Carolina Oak's Subdivision for First-Time Homeowners.

1283
01:58:28,980 --> 01:58:32,040
Reverend Holmes's work has also supported economic development and

1284
01:58:32,040 --> 01:58:36,000
financial opportunity in French town, including the establishment of the French town

1285
01:58:36,000 --> 01:58:41,360
financial opportunity center through a partnership between Bethel, Missionary Baptist Church, and local credit unions.

1286
01:58:42,840 --> 01:58:55,080
The service has extended beyond telehastic through leadership in faith-based and civic organizations and appointments, university boards, and statewide policy-making bodies by multiple Florida governors.

1287
01:58:55,640 --> 01:59:03,620
His work has focused on strengthening families, expanding educational and economic opportunities, supporting the revitalization of the French town community.

1288
01:59:05,100 --> 01:59:10,540
Dr. Gloria P. Holmes is devoted decades to education and community service and telehassy

1289
01:59:10,540 --> 01:59:14,460
and throughout Florida after receiving a doctorate in the library and information studies

1290
01:59:14,460 --> 01:59:15,660
from Florida State University.

1291
01:59:16,180 --> 01:59:20,880
Her career has included service as an English teacher, library media specialist, director

1292
01:59:20,880 --> 01:59:25,960
of educational media for DuVal and Leon County Public Schools, and assistant dean in the College

1293
01:59:25,960 --> 01:59:27,820
of Education at Florida A&M University.

1294
01:59:28,800 --> 01:59:33,440
Dr. Holmes has also played an integral role at Bethel Christian Academy established in 1992

1295
01:59:33,440 --> 01:59:36,760
to as an educational outreach of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church

1296
01:59:37,120 --> 01:59:39,400
and located along West Virginia Street.

1297
01:59:39,880 --> 01:59:42,640
She served in administrative capacity of the Academy

1298
01:59:42,640 --> 01:59:44,460
for more than two decades and contributed

1299
01:59:44,460 --> 01:59:46,980
to its administration, curriculum development

1300
01:59:46,980 --> 01:59:48,180
and educational mission.

1301
01:59:48,520 --> 01:59:51,280
And in 2021, the Academy named its library,

1302
01:59:51,900 --> 01:59:53,800
the Dr. Gloria P. Holmes Media Center

1303
01:59:53,800 --> 01:59:55,940
in recognition of her longstanding commitment

1304
01:59:55,940 --> 01:59:58,280
to education, leadership, and service.

1305
01:59:59,600 --> 01:59:59,920
Together.

1306
02:00:00,000 --> 02:00:29,880
The Reverend Dr. Arby Holmes, Jr., and Dr. Gloria P. Holmes have made significant contributions to the French town community in Tallahassee at large through education, faith-based leadership, community and economic development, housing, and service to families. The recommendation before he's to rename West Virginia Street between North Adams Street to the east and North Copeland Street to the west to be doctors, Arby, and Gloria P. Holmes Street. This segment is approximately 2,777 feet in length. The total of 17 property owners are

1307
02:00:29,880 --> 02:00:34,000
are adjacent to the proposed segment, and 282 addresses would be updated to reflect the rename.

1308
02:00:34,560 --> 02:00:39,200
With your approval, the renaming would officially go into effect starting October 24th this year.

1309
02:00:40,020 --> 02:00:41,000
I'm available if you have any questions.

1310
02:00:41,660 --> 02:00:45,640
Thank you, this is an exciting agenda item for us.

1311
02:00:46,140 --> 02:00:48,640
Mr. Clerk, do we have any public comments?

1312
02:00:49,360 --> 02:00:49,760
Yes, sir.

1313
02:00:50,260 --> 02:00:51,420
Or probably about a half dozen.

1314
02:00:51,760 --> 02:00:58,180
Let me just start off by saying if you are here in strong support of this agenda item, will you please stand to be recognized?

1315
02:01:04,220 --> 02:01:04,720
I

1316
02:01:09,080 --> 02:01:15,880
have a feeling this will probably be one of the quickest votes that we will take, but we will move forward with the public comment.

1317
02:01:16,660 --> 02:01:22,540
Thank you, Mayor. Our first speaker is Liz Marbury, and then James Matthews will follow.

1318
02:01:22,940 --> 02:01:24,400
Your name and address for the record, please.

1319
02:01:25,100 --> 02:01:28,700
I'm Liz Marbury, 1363 East Tennessee Street.

1320
02:01:29,280 --> 02:01:31,960
Good afternoon, Mayor Commissioners and local citizens.

1321
02:01:32,340 --> 02:01:37,820
On behalf of Live Communications Inc, I'm honored to offer our wholehearted support for Reverend Dr.

1322
02:01:38,000 --> 02:01:40,240
Arby Holmes, Jr., and Dr. Gloria P. Holmes.

1323
02:01:40,620 --> 02:01:44,960
Two extraordinary servant leaders devoted to faith, family, community, and empowering others.

1324
02:01:45,400 --> 02:01:48,420
For more than 50 years, the Capitol Outlook has been more than a newspaper.

1325
02:01:48,840 --> 02:01:53,480
It has been a voice for our community, a platform that has informed, encouraged, and inspired generations.

1326
02:01:53,480 --> 02:01:55,960
It's pages have told the stories that matter.

1327
02:01:56,380 --> 02:01:59,800
We celebrated many accomplishments, addressed important issues,

1328
02:02:00,020 --> 02:02:02,660
and have given people a place to be seen, heard, and valued.

1329
02:02:03,100 --> 02:02:07,740
That same spirit of service is heard on our Howell-U-95.3 FM radio station

1330
02:02:07,740 --> 02:02:10,660
through outstanding programming and our amazing guests,

1331
02:02:10,860 --> 02:02:13,020
along with Reverend Holmes, himself,

1332
02:02:13,340 --> 02:02:15,640
our airways have provided meaningful conversations,

1333
02:02:16,040 --> 02:02:17,760
information, encouragement, and connection.

1334
02:02:18,680 --> 02:02:22,740
That is the very essence of Reverend and Dr. Holmes,

1335
02:02:22,740 --> 02:02:29,660
herself. God placed them, placed in their hands, to help somebody. God placed using what

1336
02:02:29,660 --> 02:02:34,420
God has placed in their hands to help somebody else. That, their service reaches far beyond

1337
02:02:34,420 --> 02:02:39,600
the newspaper pages and radio microphones. Through Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, Christian

1338
02:02:39,600 --> 02:02:44,020
Education, Community Initiatives, Advocacy, and their unwavering commitment to people,

1339
02:02:44,160 --> 02:02:48,080
they have spent decades opening doors, building bridges, speaking to those who needed a voice

1340
02:02:48,080 --> 02:02:52,520
and creating opportunities for others. Their legacy is the people they helped, the last

1341
02:02:52,520 --> 02:02:54,440
as they've touched in the community they inspired.

1342
02:02:55,040 --> 02:02:58,000
Reverend Dr. Arby Holmes, Jr., and Dr. Gloria P. Holmes

1343
02:02:58,000 --> 02:02:59,580
more than deserve this recognition.

1344
02:03:00,140 --> 02:03:01,840
We are truly grateful for this moment.

1345
02:03:02,100 --> 02:03:03,540
We admire and respect them both.

1346
02:03:04,180 --> 02:03:07,100
Live Communications Inc. proudly offers its full support.

1347
02:03:07,600 --> 02:03:09,260
Thank you, Mayor and City Commissioners

1348
02:03:09,260 --> 02:03:10,100
for this opportunity.

1349
02:03:10,820 --> 02:03:11,420
Thank you.

1350
02:03:11,700 --> 02:03:12,420
Our next speaker, please.

1351
02:03:13,140 --> 02:03:16,320
James Matthews is next, followed by Sabrina Allen.

1352
02:03:16,700 --> 02:03:18,060
Your name and address for the record, please.

1353
02:03:18,060 --> 02:03:22,020
I'm James Matthews, 988, very old circle.

1354
02:03:22,700 --> 02:03:24,480
I'll ask you 3, 2, 3, 1, 2.

1355
02:03:26,680 --> 02:03:29,540
Good afternoon, Mr. Mayor and members of the commission.

1356
02:03:29,980 --> 02:03:35,000
It is my distinct privilege and honor to read this statement on behalf of Reverend Dr.

1357
02:03:35,300 --> 02:03:43,400
Arby Holmes, Jr. and Dr. Gloria P. Holmes, as they express their humble gratitude for this extraordinary recognition.

1358
02:03:44,300 --> 02:03:50,240
On behalf of our family and ourselves, we give our deepest and most sincere appreciation

1359
02:03:50,240 --> 02:03:57,160
for this incredible honor having a street named and honor is something we never imagine

1360
02:03:57,460 --> 02:03:59,360
and we do not take it lightly.

1361
02:03:59,880 --> 02:04:03,420
We receive this recognition with gratitude and humility.

1362
02:04:04,060 --> 02:04:06,760
A street is more than a name on a sign.

1363
02:04:07,100 --> 02:04:10,160
It provides a pathway that connects people.

1364
02:04:10,160 --> 02:04:17,180
It is our prayer that our lives and service have helped create a pathway for others.

1365
02:04:17,740 --> 02:04:24,280
With encouragement to a young person, a strengthen family, a lifted community, an open

1366
02:04:24,280 --> 02:04:30,280
door, our help for someone to believe tomorrow could be better than today.

1367
02:04:30,820 --> 02:04:33,600
We thank God for the privilege of serving.

1368
02:04:33,600 --> 02:04:42,120
God's gifts were never intended for us alone, but so that we might use them to bless and serve others.

1369
02:04:43,160 --> 02:04:48,440
While our names may appear on this street, this honor does not belong to us alone.

1370
02:04:48,860 --> 02:04:54,280
It belongs to our family, our beloved Bethel, missionary about this church family,

1371
02:04:54,920 --> 02:05:00,260
our friends and colleagues and this wonderful community that has loved, supported,

1372
02:05:00,260 --> 02:05:05,540
it, pray for us, and travel alongside us doing this journey.

1373
02:05:06,240 --> 02:05:11,660
We are extremely grateful to everyone who have made this recognition possible.

1374
02:05:12,320 --> 02:05:18,520
Thank you for believing that our years of service were worth such an amazing tribute.

1375
02:05:19,200 --> 02:05:26,060
Our prayers is that when people travel this street, they will see more than our names.

1376
02:05:26,060 --> 02:05:29,580
We hope it inspires others to make a difference.

1377
02:05:30,400 --> 02:05:38,320
Scripture reminds us, on to whomever much is given, of him shall be much required.

1378
02:05:38,800 --> 02:05:40,700
We have been blessed beyond measure.

1379
02:05:41,140 --> 02:05:48,420
We desire to continue serving, giving, building, and helping others as long as God gives us strength.

1380
02:05:49,020 --> 02:05:55,460
Thank you, City Commissioners, for your consideration and above all, the God be the glory.

1381
02:05:55,460 --> 02:05:58,440
for the great things he has done.

1382
02:05:58,940 --> 02:06:05,160
God bless Reverend Dr. R. B. Holmes Jr. and Dr. Gloria Price Holmes.

1383
02:06:05,840 --> 02:06:06,520
Thank you, Commissioner.

1384
02:06:06,920 --> 02:06:07,300
Thank you.

1385
02:06:07,800 --> 02:06:08,900
For next speaker please.

1386
02:06:09,560 --> 02:06:16,360
Sabrina Allen is our next speaker and then, uh, what a hero.

1387
02:06:17,520 --> 02:06:19,340
Your name and address for the record please.

1388
02:06:19,680 --> 02:06:23,220
My name is Ms. Sabrina M. Allen.

1389
02:06:23,700 --> 02:06:25,660
Do you see the M on that paper that I signed?

1390
02:06:27,080 --> 02:06:34,000
You see it he did not I always use my middle initial. I am Sabrina M. Allen

1391
02:06:35,200 --> 02:06:43,480
Q. Mardrive, Tallahassee, Florida. I was born and raised in the French town area

1392
02:06:44,040 --> 02:06:49,780
when that entire side of town was black owned and operated.

1393
02:06:52,000 --> 02:06:54,500
Let us not lose our roots.

1394
02:06:56,580 --> 02:06:57,060
Let the

1395
02:06:57,060 --> 02:07:07,360
record show that I oppose renaming any more streets in French town, that area.

1396
02:07:08,940 --> 02:07:18,040
The French town community is too important to the history of Leon County for you all to

1397
02:07:18,040 --> 02:07:21,960
a tamper with, renaming its streets.

1398
02:07:26,120 --> 02:07:29,080
Let us not lose our roots.

1399
02:07:31,340 --> 02:07:31,700
Thank you.

1400
02:07:31,920 --> 02:07:32,680
Our next speaker, please.

1401
02:07:33,560 --> 02:07:37,440
Next speaker is Claudette Herald, and then Terence Henson.

1402
02:07:44,360 --> 02:07:45,880
Your name and address for the record, please.

1403
02:07:47,790 --> 02:07:51,030
Dr. Claudette Herald, 1017, Eping Forest Drive.

1404
02:07:51,930 --> 02:07:52,650
Good afternoon.

1405
02:07:53,290 --> 02:08:00,010
Given honor to God, Mayor Daley, Mayor Proton, members of the City Commission,

1406
02:08:00,010 --> 02:08:10,490
City officials, the absence of pastor homes and sister homes, the extinguished guests and members of our community.

1407
02:08:11,150 --> 02:08:23,030
I stand before you today with tremendous pride to support the renaming of a portion of West Virginia Street in honor of the Reverend Dr.

1408
02:08:23,030 --> 02:08:27,210
to Arby Holmes, Jr., and Dr. Gloria Price Holmes.

1409
02:08:27,710 --> 02:08:32,390
For approximately 40 years, Dr. and Mrs. Holmes

1410
02:08:32,390 --> 02:08:36,770
have devoted themselves to Bethel Missionary Baptist Church

1411
02:08:37,330 --> 02:08:40,450
and this community, not simply through words,

1412
02:08:40,830 --> 02:08:45,290
but through service, sacrifice, compassion, and action.

1413
02:08:46,290 --> 02:08:49,530
One of the clearest examples of that commitment

1414
02:08:49,530 --> 02:08:58,790
came doing one of the most frightening periods. Our community has faced the COVID-19 pandemic.

1415
02:08:59,670 --> 02:09:06,670
While churches and communities have faced the COVID-19 pandemic, while churches and communities

1416
02:09:06,670 --> 02:09:14,430
were determining how best to respond, Dr. Holmes recognized that many of our most vulnerable

1417
02:09:14,430 --> 02:09:19,530
citizen needed health care, brought directly to them.

1418
02:09:19,870 --> 02:09:24,730
He helped lead the effort to purchase Bethel's mobile medical unit,

1419
02:09:24,890 --> 02:09:30,130
which was launched into undiserved communities doing the pandemic.

1420
02:09:31,090 --> 02:09:33,910
The unit went where the people were.

1421
02:09:34,950 --> 02:09:40,230
Through partnerships with physicians, nurses, universities,

1422
02:09:40,230 --> 02:09:45,210
health care organizations and community volunteers.

1423
02:09:45,710 --> 02:09:51,010
Bethel brought screenings, vaccinations, health education,

1424
02:09:51,410 --> 02:09:56,870
referrals, and other essential service directly to individuals

1425
02:09:56,870 --> 02:10:02,990
and families who too often face barriers to health care.

1426
02:10:04,090 --> 02:10:09,530
Recognizing the growing mental and emotional needs of our community,

1427
02:10:09,530 --> 02:10:23,470
Bethel helped establish a mental health clinic, and strengthen its partnerships with Appalachia Center, mental health professionals, and other community partners.

1428
02:10:24,750 --> 02:10:38,910
This commitment created another doorway through which individuals and families could seek help, hope, and healing without shame and

1429
02:10:38,910 --> 02:10:40,130
without judged men.

1430
02:10:40,230 --> 02:10:41,330
You're at about 15 seconds.

1431
02:10:41,550 --> 02:10:43,950
Through these 40 years of ministry,

1432
02:10:44,570 --> 02:10:48,750
Dr. Gloria Holmes has faithfully stood beside him,

1433
02:10:48,990 --> 02:10:51,270
serving, encouraging, educating,

1434
02:10:51,890 --> 02:10:56,210
merging, and helping build a legacy centered on faith,

1435
02:10:56,610 --> 02:10:59,130
family, children, and community.

1436
02:10:59,270 --> 02:10:59,670
You're three minutes.

1437
02:10:59,870 --> 02:11:04,670
That is why we are not simply honoring two people

1438
02:11:04,670 --> 02:11:07,950
because they have service for 40 years.

1439
02:11:07,950 --> 02:11:10,210
We are on your time, though.

1440
02:11:10,750 --> 02:11:11,590
I'm afraid you're on your time, though.

1441
02:11:11,590 --> 02:11:12,090
Thank you.

1442
02:11:12,850 --> 02:11:13,410
Thank you.

1443
02:11:13,470 --> 02:11:16,310
Commissionals, I ask that you consider renaming the street.

1444
02:11:16,590 --> 02:11:16,930
Thank you.

1445
02:11:16,990 --> 02:11:17,350
Thank you.

1446
02:11:17,630 --> 02:11:18,570
The next speaker, please.

1447
02:11:18,690 --> 02:11:19,910
Next is Terence Henson.

1448
02:11:20,750 --> 02:11:23,410
Terence Henson will be followed by Maesha Mitchell.

1449
02:11:30,820 --> 02:11:32,240
Your name and address for the record, please.

1450
02:11:32,640 --> 02:11:36,140
Terence Henson, one old seven young street.

1451
02:11:37,300 --> 02:11:40,580
I could have taken a couple of my minutes, so not going to be that long.

1452
02:11:40,580 --> 02:11:48,680
I just want to thank you all commissioners for your past, continued partnership with Bethel Baptist Church,

1453
02:11:49,580 --> 02:11:56,220
particularly in creating ways to reduce the affordable housing gap here in Tallahassee.

1454
02:11:56,960 --> 02:12:08,460
Most of you are aware that Bethel's efforts to build 44 town homes and 10 single family homes on the Tharp Street site.

1455
02:12:09,400 --> 02:12:14,400
City has made a huge financial commitment to this project.

1456
02:12:15,040 --> 02:12:23,620
For Bethel's part, they have committed to designate it at a minimum 10% of this project for affordable housing.

1457
02:12:24,220 --> 02:12:29,840
Not rentals, but homeownership, that's an important distinction.

1458
02:12:30,780 --> 02:12:36,700
We're in a good place where we are now, we're coming close to securing the site.

1459
02:12:37,340 --> 02:12:40,820
the permits from the city, so this project can move forward.

1460
02:12:44,560 --> 02:12:52,320
A heavier lift is coming and as we shift from our planning portion of this to the construction.

1461
02:12:53,180 --> 02:13:00,740
Bethel's going to seek to re-engage with you as commissioners, so we can discuss ways to get the infrastructure completed on this project.

1462
02:13:01,620 --> 02:13:13,140
If we're successful, excuse me, if we're successful in the completion of this endeavor, as I expect, we will be an even larger project is on the boards.

1463
02:13:13,600 --> 02:13:13,680
Yes.

1464
02:13:14,380 --> 02:13:15,480
Pause the time for a second.

1465
02:13:15,640 --> 02:13:17,260
You know we're talking about the street renaming.

1466
02:13:17,440 --> 02:13:17,960
I am.

1467
02:13:18,100 --> 02:13:20,520
Yeah, but I want to share just some of the thoughts.

1468
02:13:21,000 --> 02:13:21,380
Okay.

1469
02:13:21,500 --> 02:13:21,860
Okay.

1470
02:13:22,080 --> 02:13:23,260
I just want to make sure we don't track.

1471
02:13:23,460 --> 02:13:23,760
Yes, sir.

1472
02:13:24,000 --> 02:13:24,240
Okay.

1473
02:13:24,240 --> 02:13:38,000
I apologize for if it sounds like a moth track, but this is about Dr. Holmes, this is about his legacy, this is about affordable housing, this is about the church's energy to get the affordable housing projects completed.

1474
02:13:39,160 --> 02:13:50,340
So if we're able to complete this starp street project, we are going to seek to build even more homes and they all are affordable homes.

1475
02:13:50,940 --> 02:13:59,420
up to 90 to 100 homes are planned as well, so again, thank you for your support in the past.

1476
02:14:00,220 --> 02:14:10,220
We will seek your support in the future for Bethel's Missionary Baptist Home Affordable Projects.

1477
02:14:10,660 --> 02:14:11,180
Thank you.

1478
02:14:11,820 --> 02:14:12,560
Thank you.

1479
02:14:12,820 --> 02:14:13,600
Our next speaker, please.

1480
02:14:14,340 --> 02:14:18,400
Next speaker is Maesha Mitchell, you'll be followed by Darrell Alfred.

1481
02:14:18,400 --> 02:14:19,400
your

1482
02:14:25,030 --> 02:14:26,310
name and address for the record police.

1483
02:14:26,670 --> 02:14:27,410
Yeah, good afternoon.

1484
02:14:27,530 --> 02:14:29,690
My name is Mitchell, 1-0-0-9.

1485
02:14:29,870 --> 02:14:32,190
Elrington Court, that was your Florida.

1486
02:14:32,950 --> 02:14:37,870
And a long-term native resident of Frisch Town community.

1487
02:14:39,210 --> 02:14:42,290
I am not here today to argue the point

1488
02:14:42,290 --> 02:14:48,710
about whether this should be named for Dr. Holmes or anyone else.

1489
02:14:49,710 --> 02:14:52,110
What I say today is that it should not

1490
02:14:52,110 --> 02:14:59,110
be named for anyone. You should remain as it is. Why would I say that? Because this

1491
02:15:00,000 --> 02:15:08,480
Street has more history than any of us living in this room. It has been designated historically

1492
02:15:09,130 --> 02:15:16,920
since the 1900s. Many of you have heard of the Green Book. The Green Book was designed

1493
02:15:16,920 --> 02:15:24,200
as a motorist guide to African-American people traveling throughout the South. And why was

1494
02:15:24,200 --> 02:15:29,080
a design that way because there was about 20 places where we could go to rest, to get

1495
02:15:29,080 --> 02:15:37,180
food, to have entertainment, even to have programs and services and extinguish people coming

1496
02:15:37,180 --> 02:15:39,240
into our community or guess what?

1497
02:15:39,420 --> 02:15:43,000
It was a ginger street that was named in that historic book.

1498
02:15:43,960 --> 02:15:48,140
So when we start talking about naming, why should we?

1499
02:15:48,140 --> 02:15:54,780
Why should we change the name for an individual, no matter how much esteem we have for that person?

1500
02:15:55,540 --> 02:16:00,340
When we should keep it as it is. Now, I realize that Commissioner Cox has,

1501
02:16:00,480 --> 02:16:05,240
Williams Cox has been very active in renaming our streets and our community.

1502
02:16:06,060 --> 02:16:07,720
Some of us don't even know where we are now.

1503
02:16:09,040 --> 02:16:13,740
I'm telling you, is this orienting? When you're trying to find your place, some people came to the game,

1504
02:16:13,740 --> 02:16:15,680
and could not even find where their families lived,

1505
02:16:15,960 --> 02:16:17,820
because the names have changed so much.

1506
02:16:18,420 --> 02:16:20,160
We've had three name changes in French town

1507
02:16:20,160 --> 02:16:21,600
over the past three months.

1508
02:16:22,780 --> 02:16:24,600
To the reverence, ERO,

1509
02:16:25,480 --> 02:16:27,340
it was formerly known as Central Street,

1510
02:16:28,380 --> 02:16:28,960
Reverend Shepherd,

1511
02:16:29,560 --> 02:16:31,180
formerly known as Duet Street,

1512
02:16:32,520 --> 02:16:35,540
Reverend Jackson, Jesse Jackson,

1513
02:16:36,260 --> 02:16:37,620
formerly known as Carolina Street,

1514
02:16:38,200 --> 02:16:41,040
which now, the work that Reverend Holmes did

1515
02:16:41,040 --> 02:16:42,300
for Carolina Oaks,

1516
02:16:42,300 --> 02:16:47,660
doesn't exist. The history will be written away because of that change of that name.

1517
02:16:49,360 --> 02:16:54,040
And the other aspect now is we do another naming. It's going to wipe out the

1518
02:16:54,040 --> 02:16:59,080
industry's history. And all the things that were on the street you can't even imagine.

1519
02:16:59,380 --> 02:17:03,840
You're at 30 seconds remaining. Okay, but I say no to the changing. It's nothing personal.

1520
02:17:04,440 --> 02:17:09,740
It's about this is home and it's historic. Thank you. Thank you.

1521
02:17:09,740 --> 02:17:11,340
Our next speaker, please.

1522
02:17:11,800 --> 02:17:15,020
Next speaker is Darrell Alfred, and then Kim McConaugher.

1523
02:17:18,950 --> 02:17:20,710
Your name and address for the record, please.

1524
02:17:21,870 --> 02:17:23,830
Hey guys, my name is Darrell Alfred.

1525
02:17:24,150 --> 02:17:29,250
I live at 814 West Tharp Street, and I stand here today in opposition.

1526
02:17:31,710 --> 02:17:36,850
I stand before you today in solidarity with the residents in opposition to the renaming of these streets.

1527
02:17:37,670 --> 02:17:41,010
Virginia Street isn't just another street name, it's part of Tallahassee's history.

1528
02:17:41,010 --> 02:17:45,870
During segregation, the Negro Motorists' Green Book helped black travelers find places

1529
02:17:45,870 --> 02:17:50,210
where they could safely eat, sleep, and travel without being turned away or putting themselves

1530
02:17:50,210 --> 02:17:50,770
in danger.

1531
02:17:51,670 --> 02:17:54,730
The Tux Hotel on Virginia Street was part of that history.

1532
02:17:55,390 --> 02:18:00,570
It gave black travelers a safe place to stay when something as basic as lodging wasn't guaranteed

1533
02:18:00,570 --> 02:18:01,290
to a elsewhere.

1534
02:18:02,030 --> 02:18:05,730
For that reason, it became a point of access with historical recognition in our city for

1535
02:18:05,730 --> 02:18:07,130
black residents and visitors alike.

1536
02:18:07,810 --> 02:18:08,590
That matters.

1537
02:18:08,590 --> 02:18:11,970
And I think there's a connection between access then and access now.

1538
02:18:12,710 --> 02:18:14,650
Back then, the issue was access to a hotel.

1539
02:18:15,410 --> 02:18:17,890
Today, it's access to the decisions that shape community.

1540
02:18:18,990 --> 02:18:25,510
People who live in French town grew up in French town and carry its history should know about a change like this before it's already headed toward a vote.

1541
02:18:26,250 --> 02:18:29,230
They should have a meaningful opportunity to say whether they want it.

1542
02:18:29,930 --> 02:18:35,870
This doesn't have to be an argument against honoring Reverend Arby and Gloria Holmes.

1543
02:18:36,390 --> 02:18:37,430
We should honor them.

1544
02:18:37,430 --> 02:18:40,210
I think we can all appreciate the many contributions

1545
02:18:40,210 --> 02:18:42,310
that Reverend and First Lady have brought to our community.

1546
02:18:42,750 --> 02:18:45,090
It just seems we can honor people without erasing

1547
02:18:45,090 --> 02:18:47,330
or replacing another piece of black history to do it.

1548
02:18:48,310 --> 02:18:50,570
Prince Chown has already experienced enormous changes

1549
02:18:50,570 --> 02:18:52,150
in erasure in the past 20 years,

1550
02:18:52,490 --> 02:18:54,730
and too often the people most connected to the neighborhood

1551
02:18:54,730 --> 02:18:56,930
are brought into the conversation after decisions

1552
02:18:56,930 --> 02:18:57,670
are already moving.

1553
02:18:58,630 --> 02:18:59,790
That shouldn't happen here.

1554
02:19:00,450 --> 02:19:02,870
If we're considering changing the name of historic street,

1555
02:19:03,190 --> 02:19:04,910
the community should be involved from the beginning,

1556
02:19:04,910 --> 02:19:10,270
As with any decision, not informed at the end of a short runway for change.

1557
02:19:10,830 --> 02:19:17,750
Preservation and recognition don't have to compete, but on something this connected to French town's history, community consent should come first.

1558
02:19:18,390 --> 02:19:18,690
Thanks.

1559
02:19:19,990 --> 02:19:21,270
And next speaker please.

1560
02:19:21,930 --> 02:19:26,570
Next speaker is Kim O'Connor, and mayor this is the last speaker I have on the item.

1561
02:19:26,890 --> 02:19:27,110
Okay,

1562
02:19:39,440 --> 02:19:41,160
your name and address for the record please.

1563
02:19:51,400 --> 02:20:10,080
I can't sign up for public comments with the end address to nothing, but I just, you all know, I love Reverend Holmes, and I just had to speak, but then when I heard, before those ladies talked, when I heard

1564
02:20:10,680 --> 02:20:21,020
part of Virginia Street. I just said, why not all of Duvall's street? You know, he came here from Duvall and that's a big long street. That's not Virginia Street.

1565
02:20:21,500 --> 02:20:26,960
But I just, any street, any recognition for Reverend Holmes. And he remembers me.

1566
02:20:26,960 --> 02:20:35,460
I visited the church and then Michael Bacon was talking and he remembers me from 1983 when

1567
02:20:35,460 --> 02:20:41,160
I was a death penalty actor and he came with Jesse Jackson and they went to Gov.

1568
02:20:41,180 --> 02:20:49,120
When Jackson was 84 when he was a runner from president, the campaign, but they brought a letter

1569
02:20:49,120 --> 02:20:58,580
from Greta Scott King to the governor asking him to spare the life of a convicted civil rights

1570
02:20:59,200 --> 02:21:05,780
or murder over civil rights activists, so just I couldn't miss this opportunity to just say

1571
02:21:05,780 --> 02:21:09,260
how much we're going to have to do all I can do.

1572
02:21:16,030 --> 02:21:18,130
Mayor, I have been given one additional speaker.

1573
02:21:18,470 --> 02:21:19,610
Okay, our next speaker, please.

1574
02:21:19,990 --> 02:21:20,770
Zachary Bell.

1575
02:21:20,770 --> 02:21:21,750
Well, my

1576
02:21:29,300 --> 02:21:30,000
name is Zachary Bell.

1577
02:21:30,340 --> 02:21:33,340
I believe my address is exempt, because I'm a first responder.

1578
02:21:34,180 --> 02:21:39,360
But one consideration I had, I'm not really pro or against this particular topic,

1579
02:21:39,520 --> 02:21:41,960
but is this going to affect late October?

1580
02:21:42,240 --> 02:21:46,020
Is this going to potentially affect anyone's voter registration right before November?

1581
02:21:47,720 --> 02:21:52,820
That could be a problem for a number of residents, especially with their growing scrutiny on mail ballots.

1582
02:21:53,180 --> 02:21:53,360
Thank you.

1583
02:21:54,760 --> 02:21:55,820
Next speaker, please.

1584
02:21:56,520 --> 02:21:57,720
Mayor, that's the last speaker I have.

1585
02:21:57,720 --> 02:22:02,600
All right. Is there a motion to begin discussion, Commissioner Williams-Cox?

1586
02:22:02,880 --> 02:22:19,080
Yes, sir. Mr. Mayor, I move very proudly that we move forward with the renaming of the portion of Virginia Street Describes for Reverend, but for Dr. Arby Holmes, Jr. and his wife, Gloria Price-Holms.

1587
02:22:19,220 --> 02:22:25,020
I was thinking that with Commissioner Mayor Pro Tem, or comment, Commissioner Porter.

1588
02:22:25,020 --> 02:22:26,480
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1589
02:22:27,920 --> 02:22:34,700
We all may have received the email from Delay Tree Hollinger, who made, I think, a great

1590
02:22:34,700 --> 02:22:41,780
suggestion, which was that we rename instead a portion of North Bruno Street, I think because

1591
02:22:41,780 --> 02:22:48,660
of the concerns, and not just because of concerns from residents, but because of the historic significance.

1592
02:22:49,640 --> 02:22:56,240
I just wonder if we would consider moving forward with a change to Vernau Street instead.

1593
02:22:58,640 --> 02:23:03,440
And I want to just say very quick, I want to thank, I mean, I won't repeat what's been said.

1594
02:23:03,560 --> 02:23:08,860
This is nothing to do with doctors or being Gloria Holmes.

1595
02:23:09,460 --> 02:23:17,620
But I really think it would be a shame to rename West Virginia Street, given that special history.

1596
02:23:26,390 --> 02:23:31,710
We're not trying to erase history, history is history and it is well documented.

1597
02:23:32,430 --> 02:23:37,050
But I think what we're doing is we're trying to honor some folks who've done tremendous

1598
02:23:37,050 --> 02:23:44,710
work in that commuting in that area that brought great value and even more history honor to

1599
02:23:44,710 --> 02:24:14,690
that area. So not trying to, you know, eliminate history. I'm a, you know, big supporter of history, in love history, but this is the center here is the portion of Virginia Street is the southern portion around the Family Life Center on the north end of the Family Life Center.

1600
02:24:14,690 --> 02:24:29,590
and a built by Bethel under the leadership of Reverend Holmes and his wife on the north end is Reverend Jesse Jackson Street and to the west end of it is Martin Luther King before it goes on to the other.

1601
02:24:29,750 --> 02:24:37,350
So it's the synergy of folks who have made tremendous impact in our community in the world.

1602
02:24:37,750 --> 02:24:43,750
And I think that the children who will continue to grow and grow through the family that I've sent.

1603
02:24:43,750 --> 02:24:48,330
and others that are taking place there will know that history as well.

1604
02:24:48,490 --> 02:24:53,790
But there's nothing to prevent us from teaching them the history of French town and

1605
02:24:53,790 --> 02:24:57,250
other communities around our city.

1606
02:24:57,710 --> 02:25:02,450
So, to that point, I did get Deletri's email as well.

1607
02:25:03,830 --> 02:25:08,550
But that is not something that I would support.

1608
02:25:09,450 --> 02:25:10,410
Mayor Prattip.

1609
02:25:10,730 --> 02:25:11,050
Thank you.

1610
02:25:11,150 --> 02:25:12,290
I wasn't done, Mr. Mayor.

1611
02:25:14,130 --> 02:25:18,250
She wasn't speaking on point, she was reckoned as a speak, you have had a chance.

1612
02:25:18,310 --> 02:25:21,730
I asked a question, she answered, I still have a question.

1613
02:25:21,730 --> 02:25:24,270
I apologize, you are correct, it is your time, I'm sorry.

1614
02:25:24,710 --> 02:25:25,630
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1615
02:25:27,310 --> 02:25:34,530
And I understand, I just think that especially given that Bruno Street is named after

1616
02:25:35,170 --> 02:25:39,950
a close confidant of Andrew Jackson, the first president of the territorial legislation,

1617
02:25:40,850 --> 02:25:46,710
There's a pretty shameful racist history there, so I think it would be just that much more befitting to re-name that tree.

1618
02:25:46,970 --> 02:25:57,090
I understand, I take your point, but, regretfully, I just don't think that I can support it today given what I have learned.

1619
02:25:57,550 --> 02:26:01,490
And also just as a bigger message, I don't want to be put in this position again.

1620
02:26:02,510 --> 02:26:07,010
This has happened in the past where direction was given to re-name Warnish Way.

1621
02:26:07,010 --> 02:26:16,170
This, if there is historical significance, that should be a part of this item that comes back to us so that we are not in this position.

1622
02:26:16,590 --> 02:26:27,110
I later found out that that street was incredibly significant to members of our Jewish community because Mayor Warnish was the first Jewish mayor of Tallahassee.

1623
02:26:27,530 --> 02:26:35,950
So I didn't want to make these comments during this discussion, but since I don't want to take away from the significance of this,

1624
02:26:35,950 --> 02:26:57,810
of this honor. But I do not want to be in this position again. If there is historical significance that the commission needs to know about when making a decision like this, including West Virginia Street, it should be part of our agenda materials, not only for the commission, but for the public so that we're not in this position again. Thank you.

1625
02:26:57,810 --> 02:27:01,590
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1626
02:27:01,790 --> 02:27:10,370
I fully support the motion on the dias before the dias at this point.

1627
02:27:10,770 --> 02:27:19,210
I fully support it, apparently based on the comments that were presented to us by Mr.

1628
02:27:19,350 --> 02:27:22,630
Matthews on behalf of Drs.

1629
02:27:22,630 --> 02:27:30,270
R.B. and Gloria Holmes. They have agreed to this and feel comfortable with it. And I think

1630
02:27:30,270 --> 02:27:38,850
we should move forward with it to put forth a recommendation at the last minute like this

1631
02:27:38,850 --> 02:27:44,890
that came from one person. I don't think it's appropriate. When you've got almost half

1632
02:27:44,890 --> 02:27:51,730
of room here at the City Commission chambers in support of what's being proposed here today,

1633
02:27:51,730 --> 02:27:54,010
I feel like we should move forward with it.

1634
02:27:54,510 --> 02:28:01,370
I understand your concerns, Commissioner Porter, but to come with this at the last minute,

1635
02:28:01,610 --> 02:28:07,830
when Commissioner Williams-Cox has made the motion, there is tremendous support for it.

1636
02:28:08,190 --> 02:28:13,390
I think we need to move forward with what's been brought before us here today.

1637
02:28:14,290 --> 02:28:14,730
Mr. Porter.

1638
02:28:15,730 --> 02:28:20,370
Thank you, Mr. Mayor, and I just want to say I fully intended to come here supporting this item.

1639
02:28:20,370 --> 02:28:24,190
I was not aware of the historical significance of that street.

1640
02:28:24,790 --> 02:28:28,090
So it was last minute information to me as well.

1641
02:28:28,710 --> 02:28:33,630
So I want to make that clear, it was, it was never my intent to vote against this.

1642
02:28:34,090 --> 02:28:44,710
And respectfully Commissioner Richardson, I mean, we just heard, we just heard not a single person speak in favor of a super majority for the city manager's contract.

1643
02:28:44,710 --> 02:29:08,610
So I think it's important, and I'm sure, and I cannot speak for the members here in the audience who are here to support this item, but I would guess that their interest is that these outstanding community leaders are recognized and honored and not that it be necessarily in one street.

1644
02:29:08,610 --> 02:29:17,690
I understand the historical significance of that area to the ministry as well, but, you know, that's just where I'm at, and I apologize, thank you.

1645
02:29:18,010 --> 02:29:27,530
All right. There is a motion on the table to accept option number one made by Commissioner Williams-Cox, seconded by the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem.

1646
02:29:28,290 --> 02:29:29,750
Commissioner Matlow, you are recognized.

1647
02:29:30,430 --> 02:29:31,810
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1648
02:29:32,570 --> 02:29:35,950
I don't have strong feelings about which road gets renamed.

1649
02:29:36,410 --> 02:29:41,270
I do have strong feelings that we rename a road in honor of Dr.

1650
02:29:41,430 --> 02:29:42,410
Galleria and RB Holmes.

1651
02:29:43,890 --> 02:29:46,050
To me, I think Bruno does need to be renamed.

1652
02:29:46,250 --> 02:29:47,370
I think Call Street needs to be renamed.

1653
02:29:47,570 --> 02:29:53,030
I think there's a lot of roads in our community that have shameful history that we should be looking at.

1654
02:29:53,410 --> 02:29:56,750
And I understand what's being presented today is the will of the majority.

1655
02:29:56,750 --> 02:29:59,970
And I'm happy to support that because I do think we do need to.

1656
02:30:00,000 --> 02:30:20,300
To make sure we continue to honor the people who have invested their lives in improving the city of Tallahasseh. Thank you, Mr. Mayor. All those in favor of the motion on the table? Signify by saying aye. Aye. All those opposed? No. It passes for one with Commissioner Porter in dissent. We look forward to celebrating with you very soon.

1657
02:30:25,010 --> 02:30:30,490
Colleagues, we have a long meeting ahead of us. We're going to go ahead and recess. We will come back at six o'clock for the public hearing.

1658
02:30:30,490 --> 02:30:31,170
I'm

1659
02:30:43,010 --> 02:30:45,390
out of the lab called this public hearing to order.

1660
02:30:45,630 --> 02:30:47,370
It is 6.03 in the evening.

1661
02:30:47,990 --> 02:30:54,410
There are four of us in chambers and no Commissioner Williams-Cox is in route as we speak.

1662
02:30:54,890 --> 02:31:02,670
Folks, we will take up 16.01 of the public hearing, 16.02, 16.03, 16.04.

1663
02:31:03,390 --> 02:31:10,530
Once we are done with the public hearing, we will resort back to 12.03, 12.01.

1664
02:31:10,530 --> 02:31:14,710
One, then we will take on agenda speakers, then we will have the sharing of ideas.

1665
02:31:15,250 --> 02:31:18,050
Just so that everybody is clear on the schedule for this evening.

1666
02:31:18,490 --> 02:31:24,850
Right now we are on 16.01, the first of two public hearings on the fiscal year 27 budget plan.

1667
02:31:24,850 --> 02:31:28,390
Mr. Manager, I will turn it over to you for the budget presentation.

1668
02:31:28,570 --> 02:31:29,230
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1669
02:31:29,670 --> 02:31:32,070
I'd like to recognize Robert Wigan.

1670
02:31:32,070 --> 02:31:34,610
He is our director of resource management.

1671
02:31:35,170 --> 02:31:39,030
He's here to provide a presentation and overview of this year's budget.

1672
02:31:39,030 --> 02:31:40,690
that he's joined by his staff.

1673
02:31:41,210 --> 02:31:43,170
They've done a good job putting this together.

1674
02:31:43,930 --> 02:31:46,610
I'm very pleased with the budget as a challenging year.

1675
02:31:46,710 --> 02:31:47,590
We've talked about that.

1676
02:31:47,690 --> 02:31:49,950
You've given us good direction over the course of the year.

1677
02:31:50,750 --> 02:31:54,590
And this starts to bring in the final steps,

1678
02:31:54,590 --> 02:31:56,750
as you mentioned, the first of two public hearings

1679
02:31:57,350 --> 02:31:58,130
that'll occur tonight.

1680
02:31:58,270 --> 02:32:00,090
So with that, Mr. Mayor, I'll ask Robert

1681
02:32:00,090 --> 02:32:01,510
to begin with his presentation.

1682
02:32:01,890 --> 02:32:05,290
Robert, before we begin, for eight years now,

1683
02:32:05,410 --> 02:32:07,030
I've had the opportunity to work with you

1684
02:32:07,030 --> 02:32:10,910
in the budget office on our budget cycles.

1685
02:32:11,350 --> 02:32:20,230
Every year, I am absolutely amazed and impressed by the level of professionalism and quite honestly expertise of you and your team.

1686
02:32:20,750 --> 02:32:24,030
This will be our last budget that we have the opportunity to work with on a personal level.

1687
02:32:24,430 --> 02:32:28,990
I want you to know how much I appreciate the hard work that you and your team does.

1688
02:32:29,310 --> 02:32:33,790
You all are a nationally award-winning and recognized budget office.

1689
02:32:33,790 --> 02:32:40,430
This you do incredible work during some very difficult times, and I just want you to know how much I appreciate.

1690
02:32:40,950 --> 02:32:43,630
Go ahead with the presentation, and we'll go from there.

1691
02:32:44,150 --> 02:32:45,390
Thank you very much, Mayor.

1692
02:32:46,010 --> 02:32:49,470
Thank you for the introduction, Mayor, City Manager Goad.

1693
02:32:50,590 --> 02:32:53,990
Commissioner is appointed officials and members of the public who are here.

1694
02:32:54,210 --> 02:32:59,790
We are here to talk about the City of Tallahassee fiscal year 27 budget adoption.

1695
02:32:59,790 --> 02:33:09,330
This is our first public hearing, we'll have a second public hearing on September 23rd to go through the final steps of adopting that fiscal year 27 budget.

1696
02:33:09,770 --> 02:33:18,610
We've gotten here through your strategic planning workshop, through three workshops of our own, as well as these two public hearings.

1697
02:33:19,290 --> 02:33:24,510
We have some very specific goals tonight that we're conducting the first of the two public hearings.

1698
02:33:24,510 --> 02:33:42,930
The operating budget is $983 million, that's across 14 major funds, the general fund we pay the most attention to because it's the most constrained with property taxes only making 94% of what our police budget requires.

1699
02:33:43,630 --> 02:33:48,030
The other 13 funds are independent and stand alone among themselves.

1700
02:33:48,030 --> 02:33:51,210
This budget we're bringing to is balanced.

1701
02:33:51,890 --> 02:33:55,650
Some of the steps that will go through as goals will adopt the current

1702
02:33:55,650 --> 02:33:58,110
military of 4.4072.

1703
02:33:59,210 --> 02:34:03,990
That will ensure us a surplus of $2.5 million ahead of the November

1704
02:34:03,990 --> 02:34:08,950
property tax amendment vote, and I'll get into more little more details of that in the presentation.

1705
02:34:09,410 --> 02:34:12,030
We'll ask you to approve new health care rates for

1706
02:34:12,030 --> 02:34:18,670
calendar year of 2007, we're very comfortable where this position's employees within the city.

1707
02:34:18,990 --> 02:34:23,850
As your remember, your direction was to mitigate the cost impacts over time.

1708
02:34:24,090 --> 02:34:31,090
And we've maintained that 20% paid by employees, 80% paid by the city.

1709
02:34:31,790 --> 02:34:36,350
And there was just a minimal change in what the healthcare rates were from what we assumed.

1710
02:34:36,350 --> 02:34:39,050
And so no need to adjust for the budget.

1711
02:34:39,050 --> 02:34:43,390
We will ask you to adopt rate resolutions for solid waste and parking rates.

1712
02:34:44,110 --> 02:34:56,970
And that's based on the financing of the government policy where we want to ensure that those who are receiving the services are paying for those services rather than laying it on the feet of the residential and commercial property owners.

1713
02:34:57,650 --> 02:35:04,550
And then, as you all know, we introduced the water and waste water ordinance for rates, fees and charges, commission or matlow.

1714
02:35:04,550 --> 02:35:18,370
So, we will bring those documents back that you asked for in the September 23rd hearing and appreciate that comment and thank you Commissioner Richardson for similar comments.

1715
02:35:20,730 --> 02:35:27,310
As you well know, the fiscal year 27 budget highlights are strategic investments in high level services.

1716
02:35:27,310 --> 02:35:33,130
We fund city services, staff and resources in accordance with the strategic plan priorities.

1717
02:35:33,470 --> 02:35:39,690
Public safety is a significant priority, and this budget includes additional police officers.

1718
02:35:40,130 --> 02:35:44,470
And it continues your public safety wraparound services that support those officers.

1719
02:35:45,110 --> 02:35:56,810
We also are recognizing and celebrating this budget because it'll be the first time in 10 years that we're entering a fiscal year with a fully funded,

1720
02:35:56,810 --> 02:36:02,430
deficiencies fund. We, as you well know, we went through the housing crisis, we went

1721
02:36:02,430 --> 02:36:08,630
through the pandemic, we've been through many storms. This has been built up over time

1722
02:36:08,630 --> 02:36:14,750
as we've recovered from those storms and gotten reimbursed by FEMA. This has been restored

1723
02:36:14,750 --> 02:36:21,150
as we've gone through certain land sales that are by policy go back to that deficiencies fund.

1724
02:36:21,150 --> 02:36:27,210
And so, it's very, you know, that direction that you've given us in multiple different agenda

1725
02:36:27,210 --> 02:36:32,990
items where we've brought back that plan of how to restore the deficiencies fund was intentional.

1726
02:36:33,670 --> 02:36:41,470
And, you know, very fiscally sound, and we appreciate that direction, and we'll also want to

1727
02:36:41,470 --> 02:36:44,810
recognize that we're entering this fiscal year in that capacity.

1728
02:36:45,450 --> 02:36:51,070
I'll mention also that one of the reasons that we're recommending to maintain the

1729
02:36:51,070 --> 02:36:58,730
Millage at 4.072 is that then gives us a head start on fiscal year 28 because of the

1730
02:36:58,730 --> 02:37:03,370
cost savings that we're realizing from VSI, because of the efficiencies and

1731
02:37:03,370 --> 02:37:07,450
effectiveness that you've demanded of us on a regular basis that are sharpening

1732
02:37:07,450 --> 02:37:12,890
of the pencil, we're able to identify a surplus in fiscal year 27.

1733
02:37:13,290 --> 02:37:19,110
Because of the expenditures being reduced, that additional increment of $2.8 million

1734
02:37:19,110 --> 02:37:29,270
$30 between the rollback rate on a supermajority vote versus a supermajority vote of the 4.4072 military

1735
02:37:29,270 --> 02:37:38,890
and enables us to get a head start ahead of the, you know, what we may see in the homestead exemption vote in November.

1736
02:37:40,150 --> 02:37:45,530
As part of that recognition of what we do to be financially sound and responsible,

1737
02:37:45,530 --> 02:37:51,810
Fitch writing says reaffirmed our city's AA credit rating and stable outlook.

1738
02:37:52,010 --> 02:37:56,030
They also cited the highest possible assessment for financial resilience.

1739
02:37:56,490 --> 02:38:02,670
That takes the team of the 14 funds working together, but the Treasury clerk's office with your direction.

1740
02:38:03,290 --> 02:38:06,970
And part of that has to be the deficiencies fund being in a good state.

1741
02:38:08,810 --> 02:38:15,050
As you have directed in the strategic plan, we continue investing in electric vehicle infrastructure.

1742
02:38:15,530 --> 02:38:21,750
fast-charging technology and also across the organization energy efficient operations.

1743
02:38:26,300 --> 02:38:30,780
Based on financial, based on the financing of the government policy,

1744
02:38:31,710 --> 02:38:37,780
commission policy 224, we also strive to fully recover the costs from programs and services,

1745
02:38:38,360 --> 02:38:43,920
from those who benefit from the services. A lot of our utilities are volume-based,

1746
02:38:43,920 --> 02:38:53,360
There are frequency-based, there are means to conserve and reduce your utility bills.

1747
02:38:53,800 --> 02:39:01,280
But there are specific rates and fees and charges that are only for certain entities within the community.

1748
02:39:01,780 --> 02:39:09,100
And so we want to make sure that those specialized services are not subsidized by either residential or small commercial customers.

1749
02:39:09,100 --> 02:39:19,160
So what we're bringing forward in this fiscal year 27 budget to balance it is solid waste rates that are set to fully recover the cost of services.

1750
02:39:19,980 --> 02:39:26,500
Primarily, those costs of service increases are higher disposal fees charged by Leon County.

1751
02:39:26,820 --> 02:39:32,200
They're addressing that increase cost in their agenda item, their upcoming budget agenda item, and

1752
02:39:32,200 --> 02:39:35,760
acknowledge that that's the shared cost between the two entities.

1753
02:39:35,760 --> 02:39:42,100
We're also making recommendations to adjust fees to align with the rising costs of providing parking services.

1754
02:39:42,460 --> 02:39:46,840
It's a very valuable commodity, and we want to make sure that we're representing the market well.

1755
02:39:47,340 --> 02:39:52,060
And that applies to city-operated grudges, including claim and plaza and the east side grudge.

1756
02:39:52,660 --> 02:39:58,220
And then lastly, based on the independent rate study from our consultant, Lighthouse Engineering,

1757
02:39:58,780 --> 02:40:04,600
we looked at fiscal year 26 as the baseline evaluated fiscal year 27, 28, and 29.

1758
02:40:04,600 --> 02:40:11,140
The cost of operations, the cost of maintaining our system, and then any improvements in that infrastructure.

1759
02:40:11,860 --> 02:40:34,240
As such, we're bringing forward nominal increases in the water fund, about 25 cents per month, in the waste water fund about $2.58, and as you'll well remember, we're ahead of the game with our advanced wastewater treatment because we know how much of a valuable commodity our water system is and the aquifer that we use.

1760
02:40:34,240 --> 02:40:42,180
To give you assurance on a regular basis, we look at our municipal cost across this basket of goods.

1761
02:40:42,660 --> 02:40:45,360
We compare ourselves then to similar communities.

1762
02:40:45,960 --> 02:40:51,380
And we see that we would remain within the third lowest among those 12 peer cities,

1763
02:40:51,380 --> 02:40:53,940
even with implementing these rate changes.

1764
02:40:54,300 --> 02:40:56,120
And so we're comfortable bringing those forward.

1765
02:40:59,180 --> 02:41:04,920
With that, I'll bring forward that with that as background.

1766
02:41:04,920 --> 02:41:34,900
I'll bring forward that we'll ask you to take the actions that are listed under the public hearing steps to approve the tentative millage rate of 4.4072, the tentative DIA millage rate of 1 mil and then both of those by super majority will ask you to adopt the fiscal year to fiscal year 27 proposed operating capital budgets as presented approved the calendar year 27 health plan rates and then adopt the resolutions for solid waste and parking rate.

1767
02:41:34,900 --> 02:41:43,660
And again, just to repeat, the final public hearing to consider these items is in September 23rd at 6 p.m.

1768
02:41:45,060 --> 02:41:52,420
Unless there's initial questions, as we proceed, there's a statutorily direct order to ensure the budget is adopted and

1769
02:41:52,420 --> 02:41:55,780
read into the record as the legislature has directed.

1770
02:41:56,160 --> 02:42:03,460
The process is conducted by the city attorney, and we can proceed to open the public hearing at your agreement.

1771
02:42:03,460 --> 02:42:09,360
That sounds great. Before we get into the formalities, are there any questions of simply

1772
02:42:09,360 --> 02:42:14,390
clarification or problem about a maternity?

1773
02:42:14,910 --> 02:42:16,150
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1774
02:42:17,110 --> 02:42:23,470
Florida Statute Section 200.065 requires two public hearings to adopt the Millage

1775
02:42:23,470 --> 02:42:29,070
and Budget. These hearings scheduled for today, September 9 and September 23, 2026,

1776
02:42:29,450 --> 02:42:32,970
do not conflict with the county or school board public hearing dates.

1777
02:42:32,970 --> 02:42:39,130
Specific actions required at this first public hearing in the required order of execution are delineated as follows.

1778
02:42:39,770 --> 02:42:51,730
The proposed millage rate for fiscal year 27 is 4.4072 for the city of Tallahassee and 1.0000 for the downtown improvement authority.

1779
02:42:52,010 --> 02:43:00,170
Which is more than the aggregate rolled back rate of 4.2782 by 3.47%.

1780
02:43:00,170 --> 02:43:08,690
Resolution number 26-R-31, which is provided to state the percentage and the tentative

1781
02:43:08,690 --> 02:43:13,730
military is above the rolled-back rate is in attachment A. The title to the

1782
02:43:13,730 --> 02:43:18,150
resolution, setting forth the City Commission's approvals, are as follows.

1783
02:43:18,630 --> 02:43:23,330
Resolution number 26-R-31, a resolution establishing the

1784
02:43:23,330 --> 02:43:30,250
for the fiscal year, beginning October 1, 2026, and ending September 30, 2027.

1785
02:43:30,570 --> 02:43:39,570
As 4.4072 mills for the City of Tallahassee, and 1.0000 mill for the downtown improvement authority.

1786
02:43:39,930 --> 02:43:50,450
Providing that the resulting aggregate millage rate of 4.4267 mills exceeds the aggregate rolled back rate of 4.2782

1787
02:43:50,450 --> 02:43:55,630
two mills by 3.47% and providing an effective date.

1788
02:43:56,130 --> 02:44:00,790
This city commission will also consider resolution number 26R-32,

1789
02:44:01,430 --> 02:44:05,850
a resolution adopting the operating and capital budgets for the city of Tallahassee,

1790
02:44:06,070 --> 02:44:09,870
and the operating budget for the downtown improvement authority for the fiscal year,

1791
02:44:09,990 --> 02:44:15,030
beginning October 1, 2026, and ending September 30, 2027.

1792
02:44:15,450 --> 02:44:19,050
Designating the sources of revenue and set appropriations and

1793
02:44:19,050 --> 02:44:20,570
providing an effective date.

1794
02:44:22,920 --> 02:44:25,920
The next steps are to allow public input on the city's

1795
02:44:25,920 --> 02:44:30,480
proposed millage and the city's proposed budget. If anyone has signed up to give public

1796
02:44:30,480 --> 02:44:34,840
comment, they can speak on either the proposed millage or the proposed budget for the

1797
02:44:34,840 --> 02:44:41,460
city at this time. In compliance with Florida Statute Section 200.065, the date of this

1798
02:44:41,460 --> 02:44:45,920
hearing was included in the trim notice, which was mailed to all property owners in August

1799
02:44:45,920 --> 02:44:49,360
by the Leon County property appraiser to advertise this hearing.

1800
02:44:50,080 --> 02:44:53,040
Mr. Clerk, do we have any public input on the city's proposed

1801
02:44:53,040 --> 02:44:56,580
millage of 4.4072 in proposed budget?

1802
02:44:57,260 --> 02:44:59,780
Mayor, we have two speakers on 1601.

1803
02:45:00,000 --> 02:45:12,640
I think we should go ahead and call them now. They may comment on the budget as well as the millage, but those two are Douglas Hahn and Brandon McIntyre. Excellent. Your name and address for the record? You have three minutes.

1804
02:45:14,940 --> 02:45:29,520
My name is Douglas Hahn. I live at 1772 Florida Avenue here in Calla Hasse. I've been in this here for nine years. I've even commissioned a member's unviolence in Calla Hasse in the end county. I'm only has a human cost, but it has an economic cost.

1805
02:45:30,360 --> 02:45:35,320
Fund violence in the first nine months of this year is pending downwards, notably with

1806
02:45:35,320 --> 02:45:40,320
only one death since early June, although gun injuries and shootings are at a more modest

1807
02:45:40,320 --> 02:45:40,840
decline.

1808
02:45:41,400 --> 02:45:44,300
A good trend, but remember, we were looking at small numbers.

1809
02:45:45,000 --> 02:45:47,420
We do seem to be in line with pre-pandemic numbers,

1810
02:45:50,650 --> 02:45:52,990
based on algorithms for Florida from

1811
02:45:52,990 --> 02:45:55,770
the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation.

1812
02:45:55,770 --> 02:46:05,130
done violence to date this year has cost our community, families, businesses, and governments nearly $190 million.

1813
02:46:07,250 --> 02:46:19,150
Of that, almost $9.5 million from taxpayers, this includes six and a half millions for the criminal justice system and $2 million for police.

1814
02:46:19,150 --> 02:46:30,010
What does this cost not include? 7 of 10 deaths by gun violence and by suicide as it's not included in these figures.

1815
02:46:31,230 --> 02:46:40,090
Shootings without death are injuries. Like the shooting at the mall this weekend involved the police and the courts. Those costs are not included in these figures.

1816
02:46:40,090 --> 02:46:47,470
A 15-year-old is to be tried as an adult, and this could easily have been another mass

1817
02:46:47,470 --> 02:46:54,870
shooting in Tallahassee, who was young persons with no impulse control in a crowded mall.

1818
02:46:57,000 --> 02:47:04,620
The cost of protecting you commissioners with metal detectors and guard downstairs protects

1819
02:47:04,620 --> 02:47:06,120
you, but it's not in the car.

1820
02:47:06,120 --> 02:47:13,080
When you go home tonight, you may stop at publics, pick up a gallon of milk and will not

1821
02:47:13,080 --> 02:47:13,680
be protected.

1822
02:47:15,360 --> 02:47:20,120
When your children return a book to the library, it will not be protected.

1823
02:47:21,140 --> 02:47:28,140
When your wife or your husband goes to vote in the elections in November, it will not be

1824
02:47:28,140 --> 02:47:28,660
protected.

1825
02:47:28,660 --> 02:47:41,570
the community-based violence intervention and prevention funds that we've had for the last five years have been eliminated by the Trump administration in April.

1826
02:47:42,730 --> 02:47:52,610
We had almost 150, one and a half million dollars grants from the federal government over five years.

1827
02:47:53,010 --> 02:47:54,030
You're at 30 seconds remaining.

1828
02:47:54,030 --> 02:48:00,410
any? Please. This was for local law enforcement. This was for the council for the status of

1829
02:48:00,410 --> 02:48:09,690
men and boys and for the FSU study. Go to the FSU department of terminology and ask

1830
02:48:09,690 --> 02:48:13,810
them what we can do. They have some answers. Thank you.

1831
02:48:14,470 --> 02:48:17,890
Thank you. A nice speaker, please. Next speaker is Brandon McIntyre.

1832
02:48:24,720 --> 02:48:26,340
Your name and address for the record, please.

1833
02:48:27,160 --> 02:48:29,040
I feel about 511 Sneeze Florida.

1834
02:48:29,120 --> 02:48:31,320
My name is Brandon McIntyre and I'm a civil rights advocate.

1835
02:48:32,520 --> 02:48:37,300
Also, Canada for Governor for Florida for 2028, also a presidential candidate as well.

1836
02:48:37,920 --> 02:48:40,060
So I'm here to talk about property taxes today, guys.

1837
02:48:40,740 --> 02:48:41,660
Good evening, council.

1838
02:48:41,740 --> 02:48:44,420
My name is Brandon McIntyre, a citizen and a Canada for Governor.

1839
02:48:44,880 --> 02:48:48,280
I'm here tonight to put this on the record for the record for Ronda Sanchez.

1840
02:48:48,680 --> 02:48:52,180
Nobody wants to talk to let's go, Brandon, I guess what I'm here today to talk to you guys.

1841
02:48:52,180 --> 02:48:55,820
All right, the proposal to abolish property taxes is unconstitutional,

1842
02:48:56,340 --> 02:49:00,900
except if and boards both the Florida Constitution and the United States Constitution.

1843
02:49:01,480 --> 02:49:06,300
Article 7 and Section 9 of the Florida Constitution requires local government to lever property taxes.

1844
02:49:06,940 --> 02:49:11,940
But funds, counties, municipalities, and schools abolishing them without the Constitutional

1845
02:49:11,940 --> 02:49:12,900
amendment is unlawful.

1846
02:49:13,500 --> 02:49:17,540
Under the United States Constitution, Article 1, Section 10, the contract clause,

1847
02:49:17,540 --> 02:49:23,420
are bars and property taxes will impair the country of local government that rely on the revenue.

1848
02:49:23,860 --> 02:49:33,020
And the 14th Amendment, the Equal Protection Clause, makes it unconstitutional to shift a burden on two working families through our redressive taxes.

1849
02:49:33,560 --> 02:49:40,720
The Supreme Court has already ruled this as already with Marbury versus Madison, that any law repudiate to the Constitution is void.

1850
02:49:40,720 --> 02:49:48,000
That's the citizens to vote on something that is already void is a direct violation of public trust, okay?

1851
02:49:48,260 --> 02:49:53,040
I am submitting this notice for the record, on the record, so it can continue to be ignored.

1852
02:49:53,200 --> 02:49:54,840
So it cannot continue to be ignored.

1853
02:49:55,160 --> 02:49:59,960
You as a public officials are now on notice that this measure is unconstitutional.

1854
02:50:00,380 --> 02:50:05,700
If people of Florida will not be deceived and we will not tolerate leaders who breaks the law.

1855
02:50:06,480 --> 02:50:09,420
And to uphold it as a constitutional oath.

1856
02:50:09,420 --> 02:50:13,220
So I'm here to submit this Constitution of Notice for the record.

1857
02:50:13,680 --> 02:50:18,520
I came here once upon a time a while back and submitted some Constitution of Notice as well.

1858
02:50:19,200 --> 02:50:21,000
And that also pertained about our flock cameras.

1859
02:50:21,560 --> 02:50:23,960
Let's go, Brandon actually brought notice about the flock cameras.

1860
02:50:24,280 --> 02:50:26,540
Try to serve our governor, run the San Tez.

1861
02:50:26,780 --> 02:50:28,980
I have a Constitution of Notice, no one wanted to listen.

1862
02:50:29,500 --> 02:50:31,240
Now we hear today standing in front of you.

1863
02:50:31,920 --> 02:50:33,320
My administration will not be ignored.

1864
02:50:33,680 --> 02:50:34,300
I'm let's go, Brandon.

1865
02:50:40,810 --> 02:50:42,430
Our relief for our Floridians.

1866
02:50:43,070 --> 02:50:43,930
And we deserve a relief.

1867
02:50:44,730 --> 02:50:51,290
But property taxes is not in, who's going to fund our schools, who's going to fund the pot holes in our roles,

1868
02:50:51,950 --> 02:50:55,050
who's going to take care of our police officers, public safety.

1869
02:50:55,850 --> 02:50:59,850
Who's going to pay their salaries and their wages, if we get rid of property taxes?

1870
02:51:01,310 --> 02:51:05,070
See, it's hidden in the genus in this whole motive, even with the $250,000.

1871
02:51:07,130 --> 02:51:08,430
You're at 30 seconds remaining.

1872
02:51:08,970 --> 02:51:11,070
I accidentally reset the clock, but you're at two and a half minutes.

1873
02:51:11,070 --> 02:51:13,870
I love you, Broly, have a very, have a very blessed day.

1874
02:51:14,310 --> 02:51:14,610
Thank you.

1875
02:51:17,800 --> 02:51:18,640
The next speaker.

1876
02:51:18,980 --> 02:51:20,300
I don't have any other speakers on this item.

1877
02:51:20,740 --> 02:51:23,280
All right, at this time, I will close the public input on C's proposed

1878
02:51:23,280 --> 02:51:25,400
millage and proposed budget, Madam Attorney.

1879
02:51:25,680 --> 02:51:26,240
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1880
02:51:26,360 --> 02:51:29,920
The next steps are to allow public input and commission discussion on the downtown

1881
02:51:29,920 --> 02:51:35,860
improvement authorities proposed millage of 1.00000 mill and the downtown improvement

1882
02:51:35,860 --> 02:51:37,260
authorities proposed budget.

1883
02:51:37,400 --> 02:51:41,980
If anyone has signed up to give public comment, they can speak on either the DIA's

1884
02:51:41,980 --> 02:51:46,400
proposed millage or the proposed budget for the downtown improvement authority at this

1885
02:51:46,400 --> 02:51:51,620
time. In compliance with Florida's statute, section 200.065, the date of this hearing

1886
02:51:51,620 --> 02:51:55,560
was also included in the trim notice, which was mailed to all property owners in August

1887
02:51:55,560 --> 02:51:58,880
by the Leon County property appraiser to advertise this hearing.

1888
02:52:00,060 --> 02:52:04,780
Okay. This time, Mr. Clark, do we have any public input on the downtown improvement

1889
02:52:04,780 --> 02:52:08,040
authorities, the IA, proposed millage of 1.00.

1890
02:52:08,040 --> 02:52:14,080
zero zero zero. No sir. Anyone here that would like to speak on the DIA's proposed

1891
02:52:14,080 --> 02:52:21,440
millage rate of 1.0000. In none I will close the public input on the downtown improvement

1892
02:52:21,440 --> 02:52:26,960
authorities proposed millage and proposed budget missioners. It is time for discussion on

1893
02:52:26,960 --> 02:52:29,740
the city's proposed millage and proposed budget.

1894
02:52:36,470 --> 02:52:39,730
Sorry. I would move staff recommendation.

1895
02:52:42,330 --> 02:52:47,550
Okay, option number one has been properly moved by the Mayor of Pro-10, Missouri, second to the motion on the table.

1896
02:52:47,670 --> 02:52:47,850
Second.

1897
02:52:48,170 --> 02:52:49,450
Seconded by Commissioner Williams.

1898
02:52:49,670 --> 02:52:52,210
Cox, Commissioner Porter, you recognize for discussion.

1899
02:52:52,890 --> 02:52:53,690
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1900
02:52:53,930 --> 02:52:55,070
I have a couple of questions.

1901
02:52:55,490 --> 02:52:55,650
Sure.

1902
02:52:58,330 --> 02:52:59,470
To you, Mr. McKee.

1903
02:52:59,470 --> 02:53:00,110
Yeah, thank you.

1904
02:53:06,330 --> 02:53:09,570
And thank you for all your work and your staff's work on this budget.

1905
02:53:10,410 --> 02:53:15,710
So, as we've discussed at previous meetings, we know that the federal government

1906
02:53:15,710 --> 02:53:20,610
has provided notice to the city that over a million dollars in grant funds must be reimbursed

1907
02:53:21,390 --> 02:53:26,950
related to the HUD, the lead of payment grant. Is this something that we have budgeted for

1908
02:53:27,950 --> 02:53:31,450
or not? How do we handle that in the budget?

1909
02:53:32,790 --> 02:53:36,350
Because I know that we're appealing, you know, how do we manage that?

1910
02:53:36,950 --> 02:53:45,010
Yes. When we budget, we want some certainty in what we're budgeting because we are so

1911
02:53:45,010 --> 02:53:49,690
go constrained in what funding that we have, we don't want to be in a position of setting side

1912
02:53:49,690 --> 02:53:57,490
monies that, that when, when we go through a process that's, that's a, that we can accomplish and

1913
02:53:57,490 --> 02:54:00,050
be successful in, that we have that money tied up.

1914
02:54:00,150 --> 02:54:06,490
So, that is not reflected in the budget at this time, but whenever new priorities come along,

1915
02:54:07,110 --> 02:54:10,770
we work with the departments to make sure that we, and we can accomplish those priorities.

1916
02:54:11,150 --> 02:54:12,790
So, we're, we'll be fine with.

1917
02:54:12,790 --> 02:54:18,110
Okay, so it's not currently in the budget, but we are planning for it.

1918
02:54:18,850 --> 02:54:19,190
Okay.

1919
02:54:19,410 --> 02:54:24,170
Again, we want to understand the outcome or we take action.

1920
02:54:24,750 --> 02:54:26,170
Okay, thank you.

1921
02:54:28,130 --> 02:54:34,890
The city made the decision to terminate or not renew our fire services agreement with the county.

1922
02:54:34,890 --> 02:54:42,990
And is where would I see the financial implications of that in our capital plan?

1923
02:54:45,390 --> 02:54:52,570
So the interlocal agreement expires September 30th of 2028.

1924
02:54:53,370 --> 02:54:59,630
As we've worked through this process, we've identified 26 new positions that we're focusing

1925
02:54:59,630 --> 02:55:11,390
on the busiest stations in the department, those eventually then with the expiration will be focused on city facilities.

1926
02:55:12,570 --> 02:55:21,210
As we experience the placement of those positions, then we're also evaluating what resources are needed from a station perspective,

1927
02:55:21,210 --> 02:55:31,770
what resources are needed from a, from a vehicle perspective, you know, the focus of those positions was to increase safety in the fire department,

1928
02:55:32,690 --> 02:55:38,710
reducing response times, and as you all know, eventually accomplish an ISO improvement.

1929
02:55:39,850 --> 02:55:48,770
You'll also recall that when the rates were implemented in fiscal year 26, we participated, the City of Tallahassee residents

1930
02:55:48,770 --> 02:55:50,290
participated in that rate increase.

1931
02:55:51,370 --> 02:55:56,210
We know that as we approach fiscal year 27, that will be a balanced budget.

1932
02:55:56,550 --> 02:56:02,090
You would see that in the five-year pro forma, where we are using the last of our reserves

1933
02:56:02,090 --> 02:56:04,370
to balance that fiscal year 27 budget.

1934
02:56:04,810 --> 02:56:11,690
As we enter fiscal year 28 and the adoption of that budget, we'll bring to you at the strategic planning

1935
02:56:11,690 --> 02:56:17,430
meeting at workshops our recommendation on how to close any gap that's there, and then also

1936
02:56:17,430 --> 02:56:20,110
also how to close out that expiration of that contract.

1937
02:56:20,830 --> 02:56:21,790
Okay, thank you.

1938
02:56:26,180 --> 02:56:27,950
I meant to actually ask this question.

1939
02:56:28,110 --> 02:56:30,450
This would probably not be a question for you

1940
02:56:30,450 --> 02:56:32,790
about the city manager contract.

1941
02:56:33,610 --> 02:56:39,670
Does the $1,000 a month vehicle allowance,

1942
02:56:40,360 --> 02:56:46,170
is that in addition to the city purchasing a car

1943
02:56:46,170 --> 02:56:50,730
for the city manager? The incoming city manager? Does anyone know? No. Okay.

1944
02:56:51,410 --> 02:56:57,390
And the reason for the question is there was some reported about the cost of vehicles provided to city officials.

1945
02:56:57,630 --> 02:57:00,570
Where is that in the budget? Where would I find that?

1946
02:57:00,830 --> 02:57:02,690
That's contained in each of the departments.

1947
02:57:02,770 --> 02:57:03,810
In each of the departments budget.

1948
02:57:04,010 --> 02:57:11,550
So when we think two days ago, when we, within two days of publishing the agenda,

1949
02:57:11,550 --> 02:57:18,310
that we uploaded into our online budgetary system, the details of this fiscal year 27 budget.

1950
02:57:18,910 --> 02:57:21,470
As we enter the adoption of this, we'll do that again.

1951
02:57:21,690 --> 02:57:27,670
And then by January, I'm sorry, by December, we're obligated by State statute,

1952
02:57:27,890 --> 02:57:30,930
but also by GFOA standards to publish the entirety of the budget.

1953
02:57:31,550 --> 02:57:34,070
And that's the talgov.com site that you see.

1954
02:57:34,070 --> 02:57:35,790
Okay. Okay. Thank you.

1955
02:57:38,830 --> 02:57:41,570
That's all the questions I have for now. Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1956
02:57:42,230 --> 02:57:51,510
Okay. The current layer is a motion on the table for the approval of the city's millage rate of 4.4072 mills as stated in Resolution No. 26-R-31.

1957
02:57:52,090 --> 02:58:00,790
Attachment A, recognizing that the proposed aggregate millage rate is more than the rollback rate of 4.2782 by 3.47%.

1958
02:58:00,790 --> 02:58:05,170
The motion was made by the Vice Mayor, Curtis Richardson, Mayor Pro-Tim, Curtis Richardson,

1959
02:58:05,350 --> 02:58:09,450
seconded by Commissioner Diane Williams-Cox, or comment, Commissioner Matlow.

1960
02:58:09,850 --> 02:58:10,670
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

1961
02:58:11,650 --> 02:58:12,790
Robert, have a few questions as well.

1962
02:58:14,590 --> 02:58:20,310
Where in the budget is the revenue received from the sale of the hospital allocated?

1963
02:58:21,810 --> 02:58:24,130
It's represented in the general fund.

1964
02:58:25,250 --> 02:58:30,430
So in addition to the tax increase, there's also $3 million represented in the general fund.

1965
02:58:30,790 --> 02:58:31,870
over what we had last year.

1966
02:58:32,350 --> 02:58:37,410
As you recall, when we began this process, we were estimating a $8 to $10 million budget.

1967
02:58:38,150 --> 02:58:46,010
So yes, that is part of what has enabled us to be at the point where we can bring a balanced budget to you.

1968
02:58:46,610 --> 02:58:49,810
The additional military enables us to provide a surplus.

1969
02:58:50,330 --> 02:58:50,470
Okay.

1970
02:58:50,830 --> 02:58:57,730
So the hospital payments are in excess of $3 million and what we're putting into the deficiency fund, I believe, is $2.5.

1971
02:58:57,730 --> 02:59:05,050
So, we're actually spending $500,000 in excess of the military increase, just to balance the budget with the hospital payment?

1972
02:59:07,750 --> 02:59:14,770
I don't necessarily, it's not as easy as that inflow and that outflow, there are.

1973
02:59:15,650 --> 02:59:25,530
The increase in the military based on where we were in June was an increase of $2.8 million.

1974
02:59:26,930 --> 02:59:35,350
So we have identified then where we could trim the budget so that we could use that S or plus for the future.

1975
02:59:35,870 --> 02:59:40,690
Sure. So we're using the hospital revenues to shore up existing expenditures in the budget.

1976
02:59:41,170 --> 02:59:46,910
We're using that to balance the general fund. Yes, it's part of the revenue sources that we use.

1977
02:59:47,810 --> 02:59:50,690
Okay. Can you walk us through the buyout program?

1978
02:59:51,930 --> 02:59:55,830
My understanding was 170 some odd employees to get, is that correct?

1979
02:59:56,750 --> 02:59:57,630
171 took the pro-

1980
02:59:57,630 --> 02:59:59,370
171 took the bio program, okay.

1981
02:59:59,830 --> 02:59:59,970
And that was.

1982
03:00:00,110 --> 03:00:30,090
I just meant to say of three point, or the cost of that was $3.9 million. The initial cost was savings of $14 million, as we applied it to the budget, we discussed that we, that services could not be impacted. That was your direction that we were not reduced services, or take short cuts on services. And so we've gone through the process of evaluating, or the departments have gone through the process of evaluating where those positions need to be replaced. As we entered the Jews,

1983
03:00:30,090 --> 03:00:36,930
agenda item, I think we quoted a 8.45 million dollar number of what we expected,

1984
03:00:37,130 --> 03:00:40,270
the real savings to be, so that we wouldn't impact services.

1985
03:00:41,570 --> 03:00:45,790
We are continuing, the departments are continuing to undergo, and it was intended

1986
03:00:45,790 --> 03:00:50,330
that they would undergo that evaluation, that management of how to operate with those

1987
03:00:50,330 --> 03:00:53,490
positions that have left during all of fiscal year 27.

1988
03:00:53,490 --> 03:01:01,670
So, we have represented a reduction in the general fund of the $4.45 million that you mentioned.

1989
03:01:02,430 --> 03:01:07,010
And that's, that also has created the surplus that we're seeing in fiscal year 27,

1990
03:01:07,610 --> 03:01:13,570
and part of the recommendation of why then taking that knowledge rate to balance the budget in fiscal year 28.

1991
03:01:14,150 --> 03:01:19,490
So, what was the total cost paid out to the employees that were bought out in addition

1992
03:01:19,490 --> 03:01:22,590
to any expenses of covering health care for them as well?

1993
03:01:22,590 --> 03:01:28,350
Well, the total expenses were $25,000 per employee.

1994
03:01:28,890 --> 03:01:36,050
Their salaries that they would have earned in that period of time, offset that amount.

1995
03:01:36,430 --> 03:01:38,550
The same was true for their health care.

1996
03:01:38,930 --> 03:01:44,290
Their health care would have been paid up through October, you know, first week of October

1997
03:01:44,290 --> 03:01:46,710
based on how the fiscal years closed out.

1998
03:01:46,710 --> 03:01:53,950
And so that healthcare coverage was, you know, then matched what we would have paid out to them.

1999
03:01:54,630 --> 03:01:58,350
Okay, so you don't have a total dollar amount that the bioprogram cost us including health care?

2000
03:01:58,370 --> 03:02:00,510
That was the $14 million, what did I mention?

2001
03:02:01,450 --> 03:02:03,630
14 million is what it cost the city?

2002
03:02:04,490 --> 03:02:05,290
That's the question.

2003
03:02:05,510 --> 03:02:16,510
No, the biopper employee, yes, the total cost of the bioplus, the cost was neutral because we would have paid those employees over the last six to 12 weeks of their employment.

2004
03:02:16,510 --> 03:02:22,950
which matched the $25,000 payment that we gave them and the health care coverage that we covered.

2005
03:02:23,330 --> 03:02:24,730
Okay, then let's start there.

2006
03:02:25,290 --> 03:02:29,530
So I knew some of the buyout positions probably had to be filled immediately.

2007
03:02:30,190 --> 03:02:32,670
We look at the entire command staff of TPD.

2008
03:02:33,210 --> 03:02:35,330
I assume those had to be filled immediately.

2009
03:02:35,830 --> 03:02:39,570
So we wanted to realize savings on those individual positions.

2010
03:02:39,870 --> 03:02:44,710
So out of the total 171 positions, how many remain vacant?

2011
03:02:44,710 --> 03:02:51,390
I don't have that number because it's a number that's still in flux, still a number that's changing.

2012
03:02:51,870 --> 03:02:57,270
As we identified the budget, we made certain assumptions of what we would represent in the general

2013
03:02:57,270 --> 03:03:02,410
fund as a reduction in personnel services, and that's what you see in that budget.

2014
03:03:03,110 --> 03:03:08,490
That $4.45 million that's less in personnel services.

2015
03:03:08,970 --> 03:03:10,950
As far as positions, we have not.

2016
03:03:10,950 --> 03:03:15,390
There's a personnel services schedule that shows the changes over time.

2017
03:03:15,810 --> 03:03:21,270
We haven't fixed that at an absolute point in time, and so we'll do that during fiscal year 27.

2018
03:03:22,030 --> 03:03:28,730
And that was the intention as we proposed this program, as we wanted to work through that process during the upcoming fiscal year.

2019
03:03:29,290 --> 03:03:32,730
So of the vacant positions, are they funded in this budget?

2020
03:03:33,530 --> 03:03:38,310
The general fund positions are not, and so we would have to work with those.

2021
03:03:38,310 --> 03:03:42,630
And again, let me, let me go back, the original buyout was $14 million.

2022
03:03:43,050 --> 03:03:50,150
We assumed $8 million accounting for some being rehired, and then as we filled them,

2023
03:03:50,270 --> 03:03:56,330
then we, we're working with departments to make sure that we can accommodate those budgetary requests.

2024
03:03:57,190 --> 03:04:00,470
So how many of the positions have been refilled since the buyout?

2025
03:04:00,470 --> 03:04:08,410
I'd have to turn to our H.R. Director, I'm aware of a double handful that were immediately filled.

2026
03:04:09,390 --> 03:04:10,830
I would like to do that, please.

2027
03:04:11,930 --> 03:04:12,290
Mr. Mayor.

2028
03:04:13,990 --> 03:04:15,590
John, you welcome joining us.

2029
03:04:17,680 --> 03:04:19,920
Those requests are coming through H.R.

2030
03:04:20,140 --> 03:04:26,760
They're working with the departments and we're getting the results, but I've not reflected the position changes in the budget.

2031
03:04:28,990 --> 03:04:35,810
Make sure at this time, as Robert said, the numbers fluctuating, but as we feel positions, we feel them at a lower rate.

2032
03:04:36,370 --> 03:04:41,230
We also reorganize the departments that they don't feel the same amount of positions that left.

2033
03:04:41,510 --> 03:04:44,830
So we don't have a number at this time that is a permanent number for you.

2034
03:04:45,550 --> 03:04:50,050
We don't know the number of positions that were made vacant that haven't been filled.

2035
03:04:50,690 --> 03:04:52,790
I don't have that number at this time.

2036
03:04:52,790 --> 03:04:58,750
I can get you the number of how many have been vacated and how many know how many we have to look at this.

2037
03:04:59,510 --> 03:05:01,810
Okay, can we get that information at this budget hearing?

2038
03:05:02,750 --> 03:05:03,150
Okay.

2039
03:05:03,670 --> 03:05:12,230
Yeah, well, we'll come with a inflow number and as a HR director said, those numbers change.

2040
03:05:12,770 --> 03:05:17,730
A department will come to HR and say we want to refill this critical position and

2041
03:05:17,730 --> 03:05:22,130
they'll talk through the process of is there another position that can be used to fill that at a lower rate?

2042
03:05:22,130 --> 03:05:26,190
Right. And that's the question. How many have been refilled whether they're at a lower rate or not?

2043
03:05:26,330 --> 03:05:32,350
Yeah, I know there's a double handful based on the first month of the request that have come from the,

2044
03:05:32,530 --> 03:05:34,270
from the few departments that I'm aware of.

2045
03:05:34,470 --> 03:05:38,330
Can you understand how it's difficult to understand if this buy-out makes financial sense?

2046
03:05:38,490 --> 03:05:41,730
If we can't really understand the real life savings and positions that have been backfilled?

2047
03:05:42,350 --> 03:05:48,070
Yeah, there, I will say this was an initial action and effort to get ahead of the,

2048
03:05:48,070 --> 03:05:52,390
of where we may be in cutting programs and people.

2049
03:05:53,490 --> 03:05:57,950
I'm confident that as we go through this process, and we also get the feedback

2050
03:05:57,950 --> 03:06:03,110
in November of what really will happen, we'll work towards an absolute number.

2051
03:06:03,350 --> 03:06:05,130
Robert, let me jump in real quick, Mr. Major.

2052
03:06:05,470 --> 03:06:06,730
Thank you, Mr. Mayor Robert.

2053
03:06:08,110 --> 03:06:14,270
I think it probably should be said, so you're in the process of approving a budget.

2054
03:06:14,270 --> 03:06:19,210
it, that budget then cascades down into the variety of departments.

2055
03:06:19,790 --> 03:06:26,610
Robert and his team, the directors, HR, the vast majority of the positions that were

2056
03:06:26,610 --> 03:06:31,030
vacated have not been filled, and they've been zeroed out from budget purpose.

2057
03:06:31,650 --> 03:06:36,850
They have not eliminated the FTE yet, that's what Robert's talking about, but the departments

2058
03:06:36,850 --> 03:06:39,310
will not have the budget for those positions.

2059
03:06:40,010 --> 03:06:45,870
If they, we're going through that process of saying which ones are absolutely necessary.

2060
03:06:46,610 --> 03:06:52,910
We're pretty much at that point, we know that where we need to be and so if the budget

2061
03:06:52,910 --> 03:06:56,450
is not available to the department they won't be able to hire those positions.

2062
03:06:57,070 --> 03:07:01,010
It won't be that they just continue to hire and overspend, they can't work that way.

2063
03:07:01,450 --> 03:07:06,110
So that's what you're really firming up, commission, you mentioned the police department.

2064
03:07:07,150 --> 03:07:12,530
That's maybe arguably the most critical department that makes sure you have full staffing.

2065
03:07:13,070 --> 03:07:22,490
Even with those positions that we move to immediately refill, it still resulted in a net vacancy in the department

2066
03:07:22,490 --> 03:07:27,370
because that's one of the unique departments that hires almost exclusively from within.

2067
03:07:27,610 --> 03:07:35,830
So a promotion results in a vacancy as it cascades and so their net vacancies that now exist in the police department.

2068
03:07:35,830 --> 03:07:42,930
And so the positions, as Roberts describing, are somewhat fluid, but the budget is not.

2069
03:07:43,250 --> 03:07:48,170
The budget will be absolute, and the positions that haven't been filled have been zeroed.

2070
03:07:48,570 --> 03:07:55,250
So the budget will control and constrain what positions are available to the departments.

2071
03:07:55,490 --> 03:07:59,010
And so that's why you're getting the answers that you're getting.

2072
03:07:59,470 --> 03:08:02,190
We've not taken an absolute hard approach.

2073
03:08:02,190 --> 03:08:12,530
It never was a program that said any position vacated will be deleted because we understand the expectation of the commission to maintain the levels of service.

2074
03:08:13,290 --> 03:08:22,110
The fact is we've done that because you've not heard any reduction in service and Robert and his team and all the department directors and HR director have done a good job.

2075
03:08:22,290 --> 03:08:29,910
But we're about to farm a budget and that budget will be absolute and will apply to every single department.

2076
03:08:31,350 --> 03:08:34,390
And truth be told, credit goes to the department directors.

2077
03:08:34,390 --> 03:08:39,050
It goes to these individuals that are sitting in the audience, because they're having

2078
03:08:39,050 --> 03:08:41,250
to make sure they maximize these resources.

2079
03:08:41,590 --> 03:08:45,870
And so that's kind of the art of the personnel management and the budget management.

2080
03:08:46,070 --> 03:08:47,650
But the budget ultimately passed.

2081
03:08:47,650 --> 03:08:50,810
We'll constrain how much dollars we had to spend on personnel.

2082
03:08:50,810 --> 03:08:52,570
I hope that helps a little bit.

2083
03:08:52,870 --> 03:08:53,410
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

2084
03:08:53,590 --> 03:08:54,050
Mr. Mayor.

2085
03:08:54,310 --> 03:08:55,150
Thank you, Mr. Manager.

2086
03:08:55,530 --> 03:08:59,030
Yeah, there's no confusion on vacancies in the budget expenditures.

2087
03:08:59,030 --> 03:09:04,630
the question is of the money that we've already spent for this buyout program.

2088
03:09:04,650 --> 03:09:07,050
How many of those positions had to be back filled?

2089
03:09:07,190 --> 03:09:14,710
I recognize the budget before us also asked for a tax increase and is larger than the budget that we had previously.

2090
03:09:15,010 --> 03:09:17,930
So I'm trying to ascertain as did it make sense to do that buyout program.

2091
03:09:18,130 --> 03:09:22,290
And I'm not really receiving enough information to be able to determine that.

2092
03:09:22,570 --> 03:09:27,870
If you have a list of all the vacant positions that will be unfunded in this budget, that would be helpful.

2093
03:09:29,190 --> 03:09:33,490
As well, and I do want to ask a couple more questions while I have you, Robert.

2094
03:09:34,610 --> 03:09:36,910
Commissioner Porter mentioned the HUD reimbursement.

2095
03:09:37,130 --> 03:09:42,790
I know the letter we received from HUD said this money would be required to be reimbursed.

2096
03:09:43,510 --> 03:09:46,630
So but we're not budgeting to reimburse the federal government at this time.

2097
03:09:47,210 --> 03:09:47,470
No.

2098
03:09:48,230 --> 03:09:48,530
Okay.

2099
03:09:49,070 --> 03:09:53,810
And so when we get a definitive declaration to pay that, where will that money come from?

2100
03:09:54,630 --> 03:09:58,130
We'll talk through that issue at that time.

2101
03:09:59,230 --> 03:10:06,370
But we have a budgetary authority across multiple departments.

2102
03:10:07,750 --> 03:10:13,070
Imagine we'll look at where we are in the budget at that time to see what's been spent,

2103
03:10:13,270 --> 03:10:18,230
what remains, and then what funds can be dedicated to that, whatever that amount is.

2104
03:10:18,230 --> 03:10:22,830
So you believe at that time we would be able to identify mid fiscal year,

2105
03:10:23,210 --> 03:10:24,890
million dollars the ring for federal government?

2106
03:10:25,110 --> 03:10:33,530
It's one of the strengths of the budget process is we come back on a quarterly basis in workshops to talk about where we are after the first quarter, the second, third quarter.

2107
03:10:33,970 --> 03:10:34,450
Okay, thank you.

2108
03:10:34,850 --> 03:10:41,950
It sounds like to me that there's rooms for their reduction in this budget based on the information provided today.

2109
03:10:41,950 --> 03:10:52,710
I know a lot of people had mentioned amendment three, and this is kind of shoring up the accounts in case that that passes, but it feels like a bit of a self-fulfilling prophecy.

2110
03:10:53,450 --> 03:11:04,510
Whether people are asking us to do is get our fiscal house in order stop increasing taxes at the rates we've seen year after year after year to where they think they're at a breaking point.

2111
03:11:04,910 --> 03:11:10,650
And I think the way we do that is a good faith effort by local government to reduce expenditures.

2112
03:11:11,190 --> 03:11:19,170
And to not continue to increase taxes, again, after, again, so I did not support this military when it was proposed.

2113
03:11:19,430 --> 03:11:23,650
I do support of the rollback military of 4.2782.

2114
03:11:23,950 --> 03:11:31,730
And so what I would propose is that we bring back a budget that continues to tighten sharpen the pencil.

2115
03:11:32,030 --> 03:11:38,010
I mean, look at half percent across the board, one percent across the board by department to bring this align and

2116
03:11:38,010 --> 03:11:46,670
and continue to show our deficiencies, so I'd make a substitute motion to adopt the rollback rate of 4.2782.

2117
03:11:47,470 --> 03:11:52,790
That motion is not recognized. There's a very specific formula by Florida Statute that we have to follow,

2118
03:11:52,970 --> 03:11:57,410
so we need to deal with the motion on the table. First, Commissioner Matlow and we will move through the process from there.

2119
03:11:58,610 --> 03:11:59,090
Commissioner Porter.

2120
03:11:59,790 --> 03:12:00,490
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

2121
03:12:01,910 --> 03:12:04,970
I understand this is a specific process. We have to follow.

2122
03:12:04,970 --> 03:12:07,290
So my question is,

2123
03:12:15,000 --> 03:12:17,060
and I know that it takes forward a pass.

2124
03:12:17,280 --> 03:12:26,800
My question is whether, I guess what I'm getting at, frankly, is, I don't support this budget, but

2125
03:12:26,800 --> 03:12:36,180
I am concerned about amendment three, and frankly, wish that we have made motions in the past asking for

2126
03:12:36,180 --> 03:12:40,400
budget options, and those motions have never been successful.

2127
03:12:40,400 --> 03:12:46,620
So my question is whether there is an option to do that at this point?

2128
03:12:47,000 --> 03:12:53,340
If this motion does not pass by a supermajority, either 4-1 or a 5-0, then we will move to the

2129
03:12:53,340 --> 03:12:58,440
rollback rate and there is a formula for that and I will entertain a motion on that particular

2130
03:13:00,240 --> 03:13:01,240
milledrate in budget.

2131
03:13:02,120 --> 03:13:02,880
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

2132
03:13:03,100 --> 03:13:08,660
My question was actually, well, I guess I would like to hear the city attorney's opinion.

2133
03:13:08,660 --> 03:13:10,700
And is my question clear?

2134
03:13:11,040 --> 03:13:11,600
It is not.

2135
03:13:12,140 --> 03:13:15,240
Okay, so my question is, I'm

2136
03:13:19,400 --> 03:13:21,380
sorry, did you have something to say, Commissioner Richardson?

2137
03:13:21,840 --> 03:13:22,320
No, ma'am.

2138
03:13:22,680 --> 03:13:22,880
Okay.

2139
03:13:24,060 --> 03:13:24,960
We got the floor.

2140
03:13:25,420 --> 03:13:31,320
So my question was, in the past, we have asked for basically budget options.

2141
03:13:31,940 --> 03:13:37,020
Commissioner Matlow has just said, I'd like to, you know, we could see a 5% reduction across the board.

2142
03:13:37,360 --> 03:13:42,020
My question is, if those two things can come back to us at once for

2143
03:13:42,020 --> 03:13:44,440
consideration at the next public hearing.

2144
03:13:44,860 --> 03:13:47,200
Is that at this point, if I'm correct, right, Madam Mayor?

2145
03:13:47,700 --> 03:13:48,640
I mean, no, Madam Attorney.

2146
03:13:50,540 --> 03:13:59,940
So we have to go through this process of adopting the millage and the budget, so there's separate

2147
03:13:59,940 --> 03:14:02,420
motions, the budget is separate.

2148
03:14:04,180 --> 03:14:09,860
I think the budget has to be adopted or not at this meeting.

2149
03:14:09,860 --> 03:14:16,240
I think I might rather refer to Robert Thoreg or just confer with Robert to make sure that I'm correct on that.

2150
03:14:16,920 --> 03:14:25,140
I think Commissioner Porter's question is, could they come back, could we come back at the next meeting with any amendments to the budget?

2151
03:14:25,420 --> 03:14:26,400
Is that what you're asking?

2152
03:14:29,570 --> 03:14:35,430
My question is, I mean, sort of, my question is, we have in the past, it's never been successful.

2153
03:14:35,430 --> 03:14:42,930
It's always been a three to vote, asked for options to review as it relates to the budget.

2154
03:14:43,530 --> 03:14:50,190
So my question is, at this point, is that possible at the next hearing to accommodate Commissioner

2155
03:14:50,190 --> 03:14:51,190
Matlow's request?

2156
03:14:51,190 --> 03:14:59,880
No, the two options, there are opportunities for us to discuss programs and services.

2157
03:15:01,080 --> 03:15:12,920
And make changes to those programs and service levels, recognizing that there have been requests to cut executive salaries or certain departments,

2158
03:15:13,280 --> 03:15:21,140
those departments being allocated, don't even come close to what we need in order to balance a budget.

2159
03:15:21,260 --> 03:15:29,200
And so what we're bringing to you is a balanced budget with the best options possible for the military that are dictated by

2160
03:15:29,200 --> 03:15:35,900
by the new State statute, and those voting motions that the City Attorney is walking through.

2161
03:15:36,420 --> 03:15:45,060
So Commissioner, if I could just follow up, I think at this point in the process we're very bound by the statutory steps.

2162
03:15:45,620 --> 03:15:58,240
The budgetary options to the extent I'm understanding what you're asking is probably something that has to have been done prior to today, and we did try to understand.

2163
03:15:58,240 --> 03:15:59,360
On point, Mr. Mayor.

2164
03:16:00,120 --> 03:16:00,980
Mr. Matlow, on point.

2165
03:16:02,220 --> 03:16:05,940
Madam Attorney, if this budget gets rejected today, what is the next step?

2166
03:16:07,080 --> 03:16:09,260
The budget or the millage rate?

2167
03:16:09,380 --> 03:16:11,300
The millage and the budget get rejected today.

2168
03:16:11,440 --> 03:16:15,860
What is the next step and what is the timeline to adopt a budget for the fiscal year?

2169
03:16:16,280 --> 03:16:16,800
I'll jump in.

2170
03:16:17,380 --> 03:16:23,320
If this motion fails, I will hardly plan on entertaining a motion for the rollback rate, which I think will have a majority.

2171
03:16:23,600 --> 03:16:25,900
You've already stated you're in favor of the rollback rate.

2172
03:16:25,900 --> 03:16:32,520
So we will go through the legal process and the mayor of the attorney will walk me through that.

2173
03:16:32,760 --> 03:16:34,540
We have the script, we are fully prepared.

2174
03:16:35,120 --> 03:16:39,760
So to answer Commissioner Porter's question, I understand the millage rate.

2175
03:16:40,040 --> 03:16:44,800
Her question is, can the specifics of the budget be amended at this point?

2176
03:16:44,880 --> 03:16:48,300
And that answer should be, yes, we have not adopted a final budget yet.

2177
03:16:48,800 --> 03:16:55,360
What we advertised for the budget and for the millage rate has to be the exact same of what passes tonight.

2178
03:16:55,360 --> 03:16:57,100
correct versus what comes back.

2179
03:16:57,260 --> 03:17:02,700
What I think to answer your question is, remember, we begin our budget process in January.

2180
03:17:03,160 --> 03:17:12,480
The next commission will have plenty of opportunity to propose budget amendments throughout the fiscal year to address the needs as they come up, whether amendment three passes or does not pass.

2181
03:17:12,900 --> 03:17:19,160
I believe that is the appropriate time to amend the budget because we're at this point in the cycle.

2182
03:17:19,160 --> 03:17:27,260
So, you know, I intend to take a motion and hopefully get some type of consensus whether it's on the proposed

2183
03:17:27,260 --> 03:17:35,360
milledrate as is or on the rollback rate so that we can advertise it and have a fully balanced budget

2184
03:17:35,360 --> 03:17:39,480
passed by September 30th at the end of the fiscal year.

2185
03:17:39,620 --> 03:17:40,120
Commissioner Mellon.

2186
03:17:40,200 --> 03:17:41,100
And thank you, Mr. Mayor.

2187
03:17:41,300 --> 03:17:45,480
And that starts to clarify what I'm trying to say and answer Commissioner Porter's question.

2188
03:17:45,480 --> 03:17:54,140
If we adopt a rollback rate, this city commission will still have to decide what that budget looks like, what gets removed, or what gets refunded.

2189
03:17:54,320 --> 03:18:00,720
There's still an opportunity to have that conversation or put it in part of a motion today, what budget would come back at the next point.

2190
03:18:01,060 --> 03:18:12,780
I think that those individual, whatever those changes are would have to be made tonight because we are under the deadline of advertising an amend.

2191
03:18:12,780 --> 03:18:17,800
And we will have an amended budget if we adopt the, if you adopt the rollback.

2192
03:18:18,380 --> 03:18:24,220
And so then we will bring back an amended budget, but it has to come back at the 23rd.

2193
03:18:24,240 --> 03:18:26,940
It has to be advertised and then it has to come back at the 23rd.

2194
03:18:27,120 --> 03:18:34,560
So I guess the answer is we don't have another opportunity at the 23rd is when it has to be decided.

2195
03:18:34,780 --> 03:18:37,500
So any amendments would have to be done tonight.

2196
03:18:37,500 --> 03:18:43,360
I understand that it makes perfect sense, and what what Commissioner Porter asked for this could have been predicted

2197
03:18:43,360 --> 03:18:46,920
because it was always going to require four votes to pass.

2198
03:18:47,140 --> 03:18:52,000
She asked for a workshop to take place so we could hash out those details and make sure we had a balanced

2199
03:18:52,000 --> 03:18:57,120
budget with a rollback rate because that was rejected, city staff didn't even do the work.

2200
03:18:57,300 --> 03:19:02,620
She proposed an alternative budget that fits the rollback rate, and that's causing the confusion today.

2201
03:19:02,860 --> 03:19:03,240
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

2202
03:19:03,240 --> 03:19:09,260
Mr. Mayor, now I need Robert to clarify this, I just want to make sure we're on the right page.

2203
03:19:10,440 --> 03:19:18,420
Paired with the adoption of the military, you will also have to pass a total budget that will be balanced.

2204
03:19:18,700 --> 03:19:18,760
Right.

2205
03:19:19,440 --> 03:19:22,340
So we don't have to go back to the drawing board.

2206
03:19:22,880 --> 03:19:28,200
Robert and team will be prepared tonight to present that total budget to coincide with the military.

2207
03:19:28,200 --> 03:19:38,120
So, the military, we won't go back and re-tool, as the rollback rate, Robert has a budget to present, and you would adopt that tonight.

2208
03:19:39,380 --> 03:19:47,980
Currently, as a motion for approval of the city's military to 4.4072 mills, that's stated in resolution number 26-R-31.

2209
03:19:48,480 --> 03:19:55,020
The motion was made by the Mayor Pro Tem, Curtis Richardson, seconded by Commissioner Diane Williams, Cox, Commissioner Porter.

2210
03:19:57,420 --> 03:20:10,780
I do plan to support the proposed military because I am concerned about the implications of amendment 3 if it passes, but I do want to reiterate again that I really don't support this budget.

2211
03:20:10,900 --> 03:20:24,360
I appreciate all the work that went into it, but I have said the same thing every year, every budget hearing, basically every budget workshop that I really think we need to re-evaluate many of our spending priorities.

2212
03:20:24,360 --> 03:20:34,260
We talk about sharpening our pencils, but somehow that effort still includes spending nearly $100,000 on an employee's personal vehicle.

2213
03:20:34,660 --> 03:20:40,540
That's the kind of thing that makes working people, many of whom are working multiple jobs to make a meet and

2214
03:20:40,540 --> 03:20:45,220
to meet wonder if this government is really working to meet their needs.

2215
03:20:45,740 --> 03:20:50,680
It pushes people to support amendments like amendment three.

2216
03:20:51,600 --> 03:20:55,040
You know, and I could go on, but that's just the start.

2217
03:20:55,300 --> 03:20:59,100
I think there's a lot of good in this budget, but we continue to miss the mark.

2218
03:20:59,600 --> 03:21:05,280
Just as an example, we gave unanimous direction years ago about implementing a municipal child

2219
03:21:05,280 --> 03:21:07,060
care system years ago.

2220
03:21:07,420 --> 03:21:08,580
Where is that in this budget?

2221
03:21:08,900 --> 03:21:10,800
That never even came back to us.

2222
03:21:11,280 --> 03:21:16,120
Nearly one in four residents is living in poverty in Tallahassee, and we all know this.

2223
03:21:16,120 --> 03:21:20,400
We've never even had a serious discussion about how to address that.

2224
03:21:20,740 --> 03:21:24,840
We have the impact on poverty category in our strategic plan.

2225
03:21:25,460 --> 03:21:28,300
Our stated goal isn't even to reduce poverty.

2226
03:21:28,960 --> 03:21:34,640
It's to be a community partner that connects residents to resources that remove economic and

2227
03:21:34,640 --> 03:21:35,360
social barriers.

2228
03:21:35,820 --> 03:21:42,140
You know a resource that can remove economic and social barriers, the city of Tallahassee.

2229
03:21:42,140 --> 03:21:50,940
So, I wish that I were not in this position, I wish that there was a greater openness to

2230
03:21:51,720 --> 03:21:55,560
compromise, to receiving input, to having a budget workshop.

2231
03:21:56,040 --> 03:21:57,540
The implications here are huge.

2232
03:21:57,760 --> 03:22:00,840
There are still so many questions about this budget.

2233
03:22:01,320 --> 03:22:05,920
I feel very uncomfortable moving forward, which is why I will not be supporting the budget.

2234
03:22:05,920 --> 03:22:14,720
But I will, I will support the proposed military because I'm concerned about the implications moving forward and feel that the

2235
03:22:15,620 --> 03:22:21,500
residents of Tallahassee will want those services to continue and will, will need to be there to do that.

2236
03:22:21,880 --> 03:22:25,860
I think it's possible if we sharpen our pencils as well, but that's where I'm at.

2237
03:22:26,620 --> 03:22:31,180
All right, it takes supermajority to pass the resolution on table according to the new state law.

2238
03:22:31,180 --> 03:22:38,380
While there is a motion for approval, the city's milled rate of 4.4072 mills has stayed in resolution number 26-R-31.

2239
03:22:38,940 --> 03:22:43,540
The motion was made by the Mayor of Pro-Tim Curtis Richardson, second by Commissioner Diane Williams-Tox.

2240
03:22:44,120 --> 03:22:48,640
All those in favor of the motion on the table signify by saying aye.

2241
03:22:49,020 --> 03:22:49,140
Aye.

2242
03:22:49,760 --> 03:22:50,620
And those opposed?

2243
03:22:51,060 --> 03:22:51,280
No.

2244
03:22:51,780 --> 03:22:57,680
And it passes four to one with a supermajority with Commissioner Matlow in dissent.

2245
03:22:57,680 --> 03:23:05,240
I would now like to request a motion for the approval of the city's budget appropriation as set fourth in resolution number 26-R-32.

2246
03:23:05,720 --> 03:23:06,180
So moved.

2247
03:23:06,500 --> 03:23:08,680
Probably moved by the Mayor Pro Tem as their second.

2248
03:23:09,500 --> 03:23:11,400
Seconded by the Commissioner Williams Cox.

2249
03:23:12,480 --> 03:23:14,900
All right, all those in favor, second five by saying aye.

2250
03:23:15,140 --> 03:23:15,400
Aye.

2251
03:23:15,760 --> 03:23:16,340
All those opposed.

2252
03:23:17,800 --> 03:23:19,800
That says 5-0 unanimously.

2253
03:23:20,220 --> 03:23:26,880
I would now like to request a motion for the approval of the Downtown Improvement Authority's tentative Millage Rate of 1.000.

2254
03:23:26,880 --> 03:23:32,720
Zero, zero, mill, assay in a resolution number 26-R-31, attachment A in your package,

2255
03:23:33,200 --> 03:23:37,300
recognizing that the proposed aggregate millage rate is more than the rollback rate

2256
03:23:37,300 --> 03:23:43,060
of 4.2782 by 3.47 percent. Is there a motion?

2257
03:23:43,660 --> 03:23:44,640
The moons, the mayor.

2258
03:23:44,800 --> 03:23:46,860
Probably moved by the mayor of Pro-Tim, is there a second?

2259
03:23:46,920 --> 03:23:47,200
Second.

2260
03:23:47,540 --> 03:23:51,140
Seconded by Commissioner Williams-Cox, all those in favor signify by saying aye.

2261
03:23:51,300 --> 03:23:51,540
Aye.

2262
03:23:51,960 --> 03:23:52,640
All those opposed?

2263
03:23:55,760 --> 03:24:07,320
I would now like to request a motion for the approval of the Downtown Improvement Authority's budget as stated in Resolution No. 26-R-32 attachment B of your packet. Is there a motion?

2264
03:24:07,660 --> 03:24:08,540
So moved, Mayor.

2265
03:24:08,740 --> 03:24:08,980
Second.

2266
03:24:09,240 --> 03:24:13,220
Been properly moved by the Mayor Pro Tem, seconded by Commission Weems Cox, in discussion.

2267
03:24:14,240 --> 03:24:16,580
All those in favor, signify by saying aye.

2268
03:24:17,340 --> 03:24:17,960
All those opposed?

2269
03:24:19,160 --> 03:24:23,700
As says unanimously, 5-0, I would now like to request a motion for the approval of the

2270
03:24:23,700 --> 03:24:26,720
Health Care Rape's option one as proposed.

2271
03:24:28,040 --> 03:24:28,520
Second.

2272
03:24:29,560 --> 03:24:33,260
Been probably moved by the Mayor of Pro Tem, seconded by Commissioner Williams Cox, any further

2273
03:24:33,260 --> 03:24:33,660
comment?

2274
03:24:34,420 --> 03:24:36,720
The none, all those in favor, signify by saying aye.

2275
03:24:36,920 --> 03:24:37,100
Aye.

2276
03:24:37,460 --> 03:24:38,080
All those opposed?

2277
03:24:38,800 --> 03:24:41,640
Passes unanimously, 5-0, Madam Attorney.

2278
03:24:41,640 --> 03:24:42,640
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

2279
03:24:42,720 --> 03:25:00,460
To summarize, the City Commission has tentatively approved the millage rate for both the city and the DIA and the expenditures and obligations of the City of Tallahassee and the DIA for the fiscal year, beginning October 1, 2026, and ending September 30, 2027, designating the sources of revenue and appropriations.

2280
03:25:01,060 --> 03:25:09,960
A public hearing on the final budget will be held on Wednesday, September 23, 2026 at 6 p.m., in the City of Tallahassee City Commission Chambers at City Hall.

2281
03:25:09,960 --> 03:25:21,280
At which time, Resolution No. 26-R-31, setting the milled rate, and Resolution No. 26-R-32, setting the budget, will be presented for approval.

2282
03:25:21,820 --> 03:25:29,940
contingent upon commission action, the resolutions and required budget summary advertisement would be, it will be adjusted for all issues resolved as part of this agenda item.

2283
03:25:30,680 --> 03:25:37,200
At this time, Mr. Mayor, the City Commission is scheduled as part of this agenda item to consider two proposed

2284
03:25:37,200 --> 03:25:41,020
resolution regarding solid waste rates and parking rates.

2285
03:25:41,360 --> 03:25:46,720
So, if I may, the first of these two resolutions, resolution number 26R-29,

2286
03:25:47,080 --> 03:25:50,180
adopting updated solid waste rates reads.

2287
03:25:50,920 --> 03:25:54,420
A resolution of the City Commission of the City of Tallahassee, Florida,

2288
03:25:54,760 --> 03:25:58,900
establishing the schedule of residential and commercial rates for solid waste services,

2289
03:25:59,240 --> 03:26:06,140
pursuant to the code of general ordinances, section 21-51-2, and providing an effective date.

2290
03:26:06,140 --> 03:26:09,920
Mr. Clark, do we have any public speakers on this item?

2291
03:26:10,460 --> 03:26:11,280
No, sir.

2292
03:26:13,140 --> 03:26:16,780
Okay, let's move into commission discussion.

2293
03:26:17,140 --> 03:26:21,880
I am looking for a motion to approve resolution number 26-R-29,

2294
03:26:22,140 --> 03:26:24,740
adopting updated solid waste rates.

2295
03:26:25,060 --> 03:26:26,580
Is there a motion on the table?

2296
03:26:26,800 --> 03:26:27,160
So moved.

2297
03:26:27,620 --> 03:26:29,620
Probably moved by the Mayor of Pro-10,

2298
03:26:29,620 --> 03:26:31,840
Seconded by Commissioner Williams-Cox, discussion.

2299
03:26:33,480 --> 03:26:36,420
Seeing none, all those in favor, signify by saying aye.

2300
03:26:36,640 --> 03:26:36,880
All right.

2301
03:26:37,340 --> 03:26:41,400
All those posed, passes unanimously, 5-0, Madam Attorney.

2302
03:26:41,740 --> 03:26:45,520
The second resolution is resolution number 26-R-30,

2303
03:26:45,660 --> 03:26:47,400
adopting updated parking rates.

2304
03:26:47,980 --> 03:26:52,000
The title of the resolution is a resolution authorizing public parking rates.

2305
03:26:53,320 --> 03:26:55,880
Are there any public speakers on this item, Mr. Clerk?

2306
03:26:56,380 --> 03:26:56,700
No, sir.

2307
03:26:57,300 --> 03:27:01,740
Colleagues, I am looking for a motion to approve resolution number 26-R-30,

2308
03:27:01,820 --> 03:27:06,200
adopting updated parking rates, probably moved by the Mayor of Pro-Tim,

2309
03:27:06,400 --> 03:27:08,900
seconded by Commissioner Williams, Cox, any further discussion?

2310
03:27:09,320 --> 03:27:11,800
Seeing none, all those in favor, seconded by saying aye.

2311
03:27:12,800 --> 03:27:13,600
All those opposed.

2312
03:27:14,840 --> 03:27:18,260
Passes for one with Commissioner Matlow in dissent.

2313
03:27:18,980 --> 03:27:23,620
Do we have any other business to come before us under the budget amount of

2314
03:27:23,620 --> 03:27:35,100
We do not. This closes the public hearing on this item. And once again, the final public hearing on the budget is scheduled for September 23rd, 2000, in 26th.

2315
03:27:35,100 --> 03:27:36,720
We are now trying to-

2316
03:27:36,720 --> 03:27:37,220
Mr. Mayor.

2317
03:27:38,580 --> 03:27:49,080
I didn't want interrupt, but I would like to vote. I meant to vote against the budget. I thought we were voting on the DIA Milidrate. I thought we were doing the Milidrates first. So can the record reflect that?

2318
03:27:52,320 --> 03:28:06,720
I intended to vote no on the budget. I thought when we voted on the budget, that I was voting yes on the DIA's military. So I would like to ask that the record reflects a no vote on the budget which was my intention.

2319
03:28:07,580 --> 03:28:11,380
Supermajority required simply for the military or for the budget as well.

2320
03:28:12,440 --> 03:28:19,880
Not for the budget, just for the millage rate, and Commissioner Porter would be entitled to change

2321
03:28:19,880 --> 03:28:22,300
her vote with the consent of the body.

2322
03:28:22,560 --> 03:28:23,880
Do we need a motion to reconsider?

2323
03:28:24,280 --> 03:28:27,880
It's not really a motion to reconsider, it's just a motion to allow her to change her vote.

2324
03:28:27,880 --> 03:28:28,080
The motion.

2325
03:28:28,480 --> 03:28:31,800
Okay, without objection, unanimously approved.

2326
03:28:32,100 --> 03:28:32,800
Thank you, Mr. Chair.

2327
03:28:32,800 --> 03:28:36,580
We will change Commissioner Porter's vote to a nay vote on the budget.

2328
03:28:36,580 --> 03:28:46,100
It passes 3-2 with Commissioner Matlow and Commissioner Porter in dissent the mayor, the mayor, pro-10, and Commissioner Williams-Cox in favor.

2329
03:28:46,320 --> 03:28:47,060
I voted for the budget.

2330
03:28:47,400 --> 03:28:48,220
You did vote in favor.

2331
03:28:48,380 --> 03:28:49,460
I'm sorry, Commissioner Matlow.

2332
03:28:49,840 --> 03:28:50,820
Okay, let me restate.

2333
03:28:51,480 --> 03:28:58,640
Commissioner Porter has voted against Commissioner Matlow, Commissioner Williams-Cox, the mayor pro-10, and the mayor voted in favor.

2334
03:28:58,880 --> 03:29:00,200
It passes 4-1.

2335
03:29:00,740 --> 03:29:01,320
I'll give that correct.

2336
03:29:01,860 --> 03:29:02,000
Yes.

2337
03:29:02,580 --> 03:29:02,920
Excellent.

2338
03:29:03,100 --> 03:29:05,640
Well, on item number 16.02, Madam Attorney.

2339
03:29:05,640 --> 03:29:06,640
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

2340
03:29:07,140 --> 03:29:13,180
Item number 16.02 is the public hearing on ordinance number 26-0-11.

2341
03:29:13,560 --> 03:29:18,480
An ordinance of the City of Tallahassee, Florida, amending section 6 of the charter

2342
03:29:18,480 --> 03:29:23,080
of the City of Tallahassee to annex within the corporate area of the City of Tallahassee,

2343
03:29:23,200 --> 03:29:27,320
Florida, upon adoption of set ordinance, property being situated in Leon County,

2344
03:29:27,320 --> 03:29:33,500
Florida, in accordance with the voluntary annexation provisions of section 171.044,

2345
03:29:33,500 --> 03:29:37,240
Florida Statutes, providing for severability, conflicts, and an effective date.

2346
03:29:37,860 --> 03:29:48,000
The recommended option is option one, conduct the first and only public hearing and accept staff recommendation to adopt ordinance number 26-0-11.

2347
03:29:48,220 --> 03:29:50,680
Excellent, do we have any public comment on this item, Mr. Clerk?

2348
03:29:51,280 --> 03:29:54,240
Mayor, we have one speaker, Gary Hunter, presumably two answer questions.

2349
03:29:54,620 --> 03:29:56,120
Okay, colleagues, direction.

2350
03:29:56,540 --> 03:29:58,800
Moves, staff recommendation, option number one.

2351
03:29:58,800 --> 03:29:59,880
It was probably moved by the mayor.

2352
03:30:00,000 --> 03:30:03,240
Or a ten second by Commissioner Williams-Cox, any further discussion?

2353
03:30:06,080 --> 03:30:09,260
The none. All those in favor, second five, by saying aye.

2354
03:30:09,940 --> 03:30:16,640
All those opposed? Passes unanimously for zero with Commissioner Porter out of Chambers, 16.03 Madame Attorney.

2355
03:30:17,040 --> 03:30:25,160
Thank you. Item number 16.03 is the second and final public hearing on the development agreement with DR Horton for portions of property within Southwood.

2356
03:30:25,640 --> 03:30:31,160
The recommended action is option one, conduct the second and final public hearing on the development agreement and approve the agreement.

2357
03:30:31,160 --> 03:30:36,180
I understand John Radick, Growth Management Director, is here on this item this afternoon.

2358
03:30:36,660 --> 03:30:38,600
Excellent. Do we have any public comment on this item?

2359
03:30:39,280 --> 03:30:42,560
When we speak from this item, is Aaron Tilton, again, presumably to answer questions?

2360
03:30:42,960 --> 03:30:44,860
All right. Colleagues, direction.

2361
03:30:45,480 --> 03:30:47,740
Move staff recommendation on option number one.

2362
03:30:47,880 --> 03:30:51,920
Probably moved by option number one by the Mayor Pro Tem, seconded by Commissioner Williams Cox,

2363
03:30:52,460 --> 03:30:54,020
any further discussion? Commissioner Matlow?

2364
03:30:54,380 --> 03:30:55,300
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

2365
03:30:56,420 --> 03:31:01,140
So I noticed on the attachment that says that this was written by the mayor.

2366
03:31:01,140 --> 03:31:02,020
the developer's attorney?

2367
03:31:02,400 --> 03:31:05,600
Did the city's attorney's office write any part of this order?

2368
03:31:06,500 --> 03:31:07,060
No, I'm attorney.

2369
03:31:07,920 --> 03:31:09,620
The DR Horton order?

2370
03:31:10,000 --> 03:31:10,700
Yeah, are they agreement?

2371
03:31:11,940 --> 03:31:13,900
Did we write any part of it?

2372
03:31:16,640 --> 03:31:20,500
No, it was, the draft was written by Aaron Tilton.

2373
03:31:24,120 --> 03:31:26,740
I'm not sure on this one at what point

2374
03:31:26,740 --> 03:31:28,900
our office was involved in reviewing it.

2375
03:31:29,400 --> 03:31:30,400
Okay, and what?

2376
03:31:32,220 --> 03:31:35,560
I'd have to ask Deputy City Attorney Lewin or Val at what point he was.

2377
03:31:37,170 --> 03:31:38,590
All right, Mr. Matlow.

2378
03:31:40,610 --> 03:31:43,050
So what specifically does this agreement do?

2379
03:31:44,710 --> 03:31:45,430
I'm attorney.

2380
03:31:47,410 --> 03:31:54,570
So again, I guess I would ask John Reddick if he could describe the development agreement.

2381
03:31:54,810 --> 03:31:58,030
And then I can follow up with any legal questions related to it.

2382
03:31:58,170 --> 03:31:59,950
But Mr. Reddick, good to see you, sir.

2383
03:32:01,030 --> 03:32:29,110
So this agreement was provided to the city for consideration as the city attorney stated is written by the developers, representatives, and the agreement is essentially the state that D. R. Horton, who, as you know, is working through permitting for development of three different tracks on the southern portion of the Southwood D. R. I, they would like to have this where they are assuming the role of the developer.

2384
03:32:29,110 --> 03:32:33,790
where as the DRI, of course, have St. Joe currently identified as a role of developer,

2385
03:32:34,530 --> 03:32:39,370
by way of doing that, and part of this is they are assuming the obligations of

2386
03:32:40,050 --> 03:32:43,850
roadway construction through these areas that are outlined in the Southwood DRI.

2387
03:32:44,690 --> 03:32:51,470
So what they are recognized the familiarity with the enforcement action associated with

2388
03:32:51,470 --> 03:32:55,990
the Southwood DRI based on the obligations, around the obligations to build those roadways,

2389
03:32:55,990 --> 03:33:01,930
their proposal to this agreement is they'll assume the obligations that the developer,

2390
03:33:02,230 --> 03:33:05,610
as St. Joe would otherwise have had, they will commit to building them all in time.

2391
03:33:07,310 --> 03:33:15,930
Through this would be held accountable if there was any violation relative to what's outlined

2392
03:33:15,930 --> 03:33:18,350
in the South of the DRI for those specific roadway segments.

2393
03:33:18,670 --> 03:33:22,390
So this is merchant throw and Artemis weigh two portions of this.

2394
03:33:22,390 --> 03:33:31,090
In return, they wouldn't be held accountable or exposed to any enforcement action that may be a result

2395
03:33:31,090 --> 03:33:34,990
of violations occurring outside of these tracks that they're developing.

2396
03:33:35,790 --> 03:33:35,890
Okay.

2397
03:33:36,250 --> 03:33:37,790
And that's what I, my question is about.

2398
03:33:37,970 --> 03:33:44,470
So the developers are ready to proceed, said that they can proceed development on those specified

2399
03:33:44,470 --> 03:33:47,350
lines, even if the internal roads aren't built.

2400
03:33:47,350 --> 03:33:53,190
So, the internals rose within what they're developing would have to be built, certainly.

2401
03:33:53,490 --> 03:33:56,930
And, a voltage transparency, they're working through that right now.

2402
03:33:57,070 --> 03:34:02,370
The development plans that they are doing right now as part of their permitting process,

2403
03:34:02,670 --> 03:34:04,050
incorporate these roadways right now.

2404
03:34:04,110 --> 03:34:08,530
So, it is dependent, I would say, not only are they required to build them.

2405
03:34:08,850 --> 03:34:12,850
What they're proposing to do is very much dependent from a traffic analysis standpoint.

2406
03:34:13,490 --> 03:34:15,770
It doesn't happen without them building these roadways.

2407
03:34:15,770 --> 03:34:20,850
So, that's all to say, they very much will be on the hook for what they are incorporating within their

2408
03:34:20,850 --> 03:34:21,870
development scope.

2409
03:34:22,550 --> 03:34:27,330
And St. Joe's the current owner and they're obligated to build those roadways?

2410
03:34:27,870 --> 03:34:29,070
They are the current owner.

2411
03:34:29,290 --> 03:34:35,950
I would also, some of those questions to the representative of the developer to you on any specifics.

2412
03:34:36,590 --> 03:34:38,970
I know as much as the city serves the permitting process.

2413
03:34:39,410 --> 03:34:40,910
So, what is the benefit to the city?

2414
03:34:40,910 --> 03:35:10,890
Okay, we would still, I would say a net neutral in the sense we still are getting the roadway's built that we intended through our agreement with the DRI, the greater value to the home construction that's associated with it, but certainly from an infrastructure priority, the process or the progress that's being made right now towards constructing those roadways is in line.

2415
03:35:10,890 --> 03:35:14,050
with and I had a schedule with what's stated in the South

2416
03:35:14,050 --> 03:35:14,610
with the R.I.

2417
03:35:15,470 --> 03:35:17,430
And so have we done this type of agreement before?

2418
03:35:18,030 --> 03:35:21,090
I'm not familiar with an agreement like this that would be a

2419
03:35:21,090 --> 03:35:26,990
Carval from an existing agreement with a, I'll say,

2420
03:35:27,050 --> 03:35:28,250
a third party involved in.

2421
03:35:29,330 --> 03:35:31,110
And so why are we doing this now?

2422
03:35:32,070 --> 03:35:35,950
I'm sure this was provided to us and ultimately you for

2423
03:35:35,950 --> 03:35:36,510
consideration.

2424
03:35:36,930 --> 03:35:39,670
So I think in that nature, we would look for your feedback

2425
03:35:41,710 --> 03:35:45,490
So this wasn't directed to be brought by the City Commission who put it on the agenda?

2426
03:35:46,410 --> 03:35:56,090
Correct, this is the our typical procedure on a, on a Belman agreement request or even a amendment to a development agreement would be submitting it through both management.

2427
03:35:56,130 --> 03:36:02,350
There's a fee associated with that and then from there processing it for the two public hearings for the City Commission to consider.

2428
03:36:02,350 --> 03:36:11,450
If I'm hearing you correctly, the process is for a developer to submit a fully written agreement and then have that brought to the City Commission.

2429
03:36:12,330 --> 03:36:14,790
It is often produced that way.

2430
03:36:15,890 --> 03:36:17,050
Another question, thank you, Mr. Mayor.

2431
03:36:17,510 --> 03:36:18,410
Sure, absolutely.

2432
03:36:20,270 --> 03:36:25,330
Let me pipe up and say that we are at a point in the process as the process is described.

2433
03:36:25,510 --> 03:36:28,830
No commissioners do not ask for this individually.

2434
03:36:28,830 --> 03:36:34,030
the way how the process is structured, it comes to us for consideration moving forward,

2435
03:36:34,270 --> 03:36:39,910
Commissioner Matlow. And Madam Attorney, I know that your office has had eyes on this and

2436
03:36:39,910 --> 03:36:44,350
have looked at it. I know that you've been in and out a little bit lately, but I have full confidence in

2437
03:36:44,350 --> 03:36:49,710
your legal team. Yes, I would like to, if the issue, and if you need to dive in, I know that Mr. Norvell is

2438
03:36:49,710 --> 03:36:53,990
here as well, I can help answering questions. I know you got caught off guard there, of course.

2439
03:36:54,190 --> 03:36:58,450
Oh, yes, thank you. But I know that you have been engaged. So there is

2440
03:36:58,450 --> 03:37:01,690
motion on the table made by the Mayor Pro Temp for approval? Say them by Commissioner

2441
03:37:01,690 --> 03:37:06,610
Williams, Cox, Mayor Pro Temp for just a quick question, just Mayor. Is it my understanding

2442
03:37:06,610 --> 03:37:13,470
that this helps us avoid the situation that we're currently in in Southwood with?

2443
03:37:15,490 --> 03:37:16,590
Yes, Commissioner.

2444
03:37:16,830 --> 03:37:20,070
I believe that this development agreement would address that type of agreement.

2445
03:37:20,090 --> 03:37:28,570
So it would behover to behovered then to agree to this type of agreement with the developer?

2446
03:37:29,270 --> 03:37:30,170
That's your decision.

2447
03:37:30,510 --> 03:37:31,670
Okay, on point, Mr. Mayor.

2448
03:37:32,490 --> 03:37:33,830
Mr. Matlow, the Commissioner Porter.

2449
03:37:34,090 --> 03:37:38,690
Thank you, Mr. Mayor, and Commissioner Richardson, my view is it does the exact opposite.

2450
03:37:39,530 --> 03:37:44,950
It relinquishes our ability to use these parcels as part of enforcement against St.

2451
03:37:45,030 --> 03:37:51,510
Joe to develop the roadway and allow these parcels to be developed, no matter if those herdways get built or not.

2452
03:37:51,950 --> 03:37:52,250
Mr. Mayor.

2453
03:37:52,850 --> 03:37:53,330
Mr. Porter.

2454
03:37:53,770 --> 03:37:54,450
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

2455
03:37:54,670 --> 03:37:55,710
That's my reading as well.

2456
03:37:55,710 --> 03:38:01,870
Well, I would like to hear more from our city attorney as to why she believes the contrary.

2457
03:38:02,170 --> 03:38:03,990
Could I ask Mr. Norvell to?

2458
03:38:04,050 --> 03:38:06,050
Mr. Norvell, please come join us for the fun.

2459
03:38:17,320 --> 03:38:21,420
And I'll just say, while Mr. Norvell is walking up, this is from the agreement.

2460
03:38:21,660 --> 03:38:23,320
Under the agreement, we're from the item.

2461
03:38:23,480 --> 03:38:26,960
Under the agreement, D.R. Horton would be allowed to continue development of its property,

2462
03:38:27,060 --> 03:38:31,720
regardless of the construction and completion status of other roads required by the

2463
03:38:31,720 --> 03:38:35,000
the Southwood development of regional impact, the development order.

2464
03:38:36,360 --> 03:38:43,140
Mr. Raer, could I have the question restated from the police reporter?

2465
03:38:43,720 --> 03:38:50,760
So Commissioner Richardson's question was, does this agreement help us avoid what we are

2466
03:38:50,760 --> 03:38:58,720
going through with St. Joe, and the city attorney's answer was, yes, but that's not how I read

2467
03:38:58,720 --> 03:39:06,400
this agreement. It seems like it leaves St. Joe fully off the hook and the roads being built.

2468
03:39:07,620 --> 03:39:13,020
I mean, I'll just start by asking, was this agreement prompted by the enforcement action against St. Joe?

2469
03:39:13,720 --> 03:39:15,440
Is that why it's coming to us now?

2470
03:39:16,440 --> 03:39:19,440
So Commissioner, I'd have to defer to somebody else.

2471
03:39:19,440 --> 03:39:26,160
What I've understood, and I mean, at least what this office saw is that there was an application that was submitted,

2472
03:39:26,160 --> 03:39:32,360
It did come, the draft agreement did come to the City Attorney's Office, and it did go to growth management.

2473
03:39:33,680 --> 03:39:38,560
Okay, so as to Commissioner Richardson's question, can you address that?

2474
03:39:39,040 --> 03:39:45,300
So some of this may be just kind of practical application that others may be able to speak to better.

2475
03:39:45,780 --> 03:39:52,540
As I understand it, part of this is to give some assurance to this developer here that they can go forward.

2476
03:39:53,340 --> 03:39:58,160
John may be able to speak to kind of where things are in permitting, but I, as I understand

2477
03:39:58,160 --> 03:40:06,320
it, because of some uncertainty with the enforcement action, that this does give certainty

2478
03:40:06,320 --> 03:40:12,400
to this developer to go forward with permitting and to build homes, and there are the assurances

2479
03:40:12,400 --> 03:40:14,660
that this ordinance way in merchants would be good.

2480
03:40:15,260 --> 03:40:16,620
Okay, thank you.

2481
03:40:16,900 --> 03:40:16,940
Thank you.

2482
03:40:17,420 --> 03:40:18,120
Thank you.

2483
03:40:18,780 --> 03:40:20,460
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

2484
03:40:21,040 --> 03:40:23,600
Aaron Tilton is here and I think she's here.

2485
03:40:23,900 --> 03:40:25,800
We might as well give our opportunity to explain.

2486
03:40:26,000 --> 03:40:28,380
And she's representing DR Horton.

2487
03:40:28,420 --> 03:40:29,620
Thank you for joining us.

2488
03:40:30,680 --> 03:40:32,080
Thank you for having me.

2489
03:40:32,360 --> 03:40:32,920
Appreciate it.

2490
03:40:33,260 --> 03:40:35,660
Aaron Tilton, one of six East College Avenue.

2491
03:40:36,360 --> 03:40:38,100
Sternsweaver Miller on behalf of DR Horton.

2492
03:40:39,080 --> 03:40:43,680
You know, commissioners, I think there are a couple of questions about chapter 163 development agreements generally.

2493
03:40:44,680 --> 03:40:51,340
they are used in pretty much every jurisdiction across the state to encourage private investment

2494
03:40:51,340 --> 03:40:57,940
in capital infrastructure. And the way that you do that through a chapter 163 agreement

2495
03:40:57,940 --> 03:41:02,840
is you provide the applicant with assurances that if it makes these very significant investments

2496
03:41:02,840 --> 03:41:08,260
in infrastructure that are going to be built out over time, that those investments are not interrupted

2497
03:41:08,260 --> 03:41:12,200
by changes in the status quo during the course of the development.

2498
03:41:14,020 --> 03:41:17,480
All right, Commissioner Portage, I would like to be recognized when you finish.

2499
03:41:17,800 --> 03:41:18,260
Okay, thank you.

2500
03:41:20,700 --> 03:41:25,760
So that's particularly important in a very large-scale master plan community like Southwood

2501
03:41:25,760 --> 03:41:30,640
again that has significant infrastructure that is built out over a long period of time.

2502
03:41:31,620 --> 03:41:37,040
And so in protecting that, the private investment, what the city additionally gets through

2503
03:41:37,040 --> 03:41:43,080
a development agreement is another mechanism to enforce the applicant's infrastructure obligation.

2504
03:41:43,380 --> 03:41:47,140
So you asked the question, does this help us avoid a situation like we have the St. Joe in the

2505
03:41:47,140 --> 03:41:53,880
future? You would have the same exact, you know, enforcement capabilities under the DRI development

2506
03:41:53,880 --> 03:41:59,360
order with regard to the roadway obligations that DR Horton is agreeing to assume. You would also

2507
03:41:59,360 --> 03:42:05,340
have contractual obligations and statutory remedies in addition to what's allowed in your DRI development

2508
03:42:05,340 --> 03:42:08,360
in order that you could enforce if those roadways are not completed.

2509
03:42:09,000 --> 03:42:16,680
Under this agreement, DR Horton has to complete those improvements on the same schedule that is currently laid out in Exhibit G to the DRI,

2510
03:42:17,060 --> 03:42:23,420
and those are associated with MDR 1920, so they are in the pods that DR Horton will be developing.

2511
03:42:24,020 --> 03:42:27,700
They are on the south side of the Southwood DRI, they are nowhere near Orange Avenue.

2512
03:42:30,340 --> 03:42:36,560
The R-Warton has multiple, as you noted in Mr. Mallow, they have multiple properties under contract within the Southwood DRI.

2513
03:42:36,960 --> 03:42:40,300
They have not asked for this development agreement to cover all of those properties.

2514
03:42:40,480 --> 03:42:48,480
They've asked for it to cover the properties where they are building their own infrastructure independent of what St. Joe may have obligated in other places within the DRI.

2515
03:42:49,700 --> 03:42:51,000
Mr. Report, do you recognize?

2516
03:42:53,810 --> 03:42:54,710
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

2517
03:42:55,070 --> 03:43:05,510
And I understand the point of a development agreement, and I know that the roads are not that in question with St. Joe or not here, I do have to say it makes me uncomfortable.

2518
03:43:05,870 --> 03:43:15,510
I mean, I would prefer to hear from our own staff about the public benefit of an agreement like this and not from the developer's attorney, but I do appreciate that explanation.

2519
03:43:15,510 --> 03:43:19,810
But I mean, I think it is, you know, we have been through this before.

2520
03:43:20,490 --> 03:43:24,010
I'll let this go because we still have other items to hear from.

2521
03:43:24,630 --> 03:43:29,590
But, you know, the way I see this, this is a giveaway to St. Joe.

2522
03:43:30,130 --> 03:43:37,030
We, frankly, didn't do what we needed to do to make sure that that development agreement was upheld.

2523
03:43:37,630 --> 03:43:42,530
And now we're giving them an out because they don't want to develop that area anymore.

2524
03:43:43,030 --> 03:43:49,230
So, I have concerns about this and concerns about this process, frankly, so that's where I'm not.

2525
03:43:49,390 --> 03:43:50,650
Thank you. I'm ready to move on.

2526
03:43:50,890 --> 03:43:56,870
Commissioner Porter, we've spent as much time as you'd like on this issue, so I don't want you to feel rushed if you have additional questions or comments.

2527
03:43:57,710 --> 03:43:59,350
Right back in, Commissioner Williams-Cox.

2528
03:44:00,050 --> 03:44:05,390
I think the net net is, when all this is said and done, how many homes were anticipating being built?

2529
03:44:08,660 --> 03:44:16,440
So, LSF 11 and MDR 20, our single family 19 is both a combination of multi-family and single-family around

2530
03:44:19,860 --> 03:44:22,400
800 units when you include multi-family.

2531
03:44:22,520 --> 03:44:27,500
Okay, so how the city benefits is that we have a housing inventory that we're trying to build.

2532
03:44:27,500 --> 03:44:32,960
You do and it's also about a price part, a price point that does not currently exist in the market.

2533
03:44:32,960 --> 03:44:50,540
Right. So, you know, after all of this is said and done, the net net is that how we, how it benefits the city and its residents is growing number of residents is housing and to help make it affordable because we have more housing in the inventory to be competitive with other housing.

2534
03:44:50,540 --> 03:44:55,340
Absolutely, Commissioner, and I'd also say the alternative with the current situation with

2535
03:44:55,340 --> 03:44:59,740
Southwood and St. Joe and potential non-compliance without something like a development agreement

2536
03:45:00,000 --> 03:45:29,340
Place, you're essentially looking at, no one is coming in to build in software. Thank you. Mr. Matlow, you have questions. Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Yeah, just one. So, so what's your understanding of the Oran's ability to develop on these lots with those other roads not being constructed that are not included? With which other roads specifically? The Orange Avenue extension and build more? My understanding of their ability to build on these roadways today is that they are not covered by the non-compliance finding. They would be able to build today now.

2537
03:45:29,340 --> 03:45:34,900
whether that noncompliance area is expanded in the future, is a big question mark.

2538
03:45:35,240 --> 03:45:39,280
Okay, and so I asked John Arde the same question, what's the purpose of this agreement?

2539
03:45:39,700 --> 03:45:47,760
The purpose of this agreement is to provide stability for these significant investment that DR Horton is making in taking on those infrastructure obligations that would not otherwise be theirs.

2540
03:45:48,940 --> 03:45:50,400
Okay, thank you, Mr. Chair.

2541
03:45:50,400 --> 03:45:55,620
I've got a motion on table made by Mayor Perth, saying my commission with Cox, all those in favor of the motion,

2542
03:45:55,620 --> 03:45:56,720
by saying aye.

2543
03:45:56,960 --> 03:45:57,200
Aye.

2544
03:45:57,440 --> 03:45:58,140
All those opposed.

2545
03:45:58,520 --> 03:45:58,620
Okay.

2546
03:45:59,020 --> 03:46:00,900
Passes three to two with Commissioner Matt Lillan,

2547
03:46:00,960 --> 03:46:02,360
Commissioner Porter against.

2548
03:46:02,480 --> 03:46:04,640
Ron, item number 16.4, Madam Attorney.

2549
03:46:06,380 --> 03:46:07,920
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

2550
03:46:08,180 --> 03:46:11,200
This is the first of two, item number 16.04

2551
03:46:11,200 --> 03:46:14,100
is the first of two public hearings on the third amended

2552
03:46:14,100 --> 03:46:16,100
and restated canopy development agreement.

2553
03:46:16,620 --> 03:46:20,220
The second public hearing scheduled for September 23rd, 2026.

2554
03:46:20,580 --> 03:46:22,400
The recommended action is option one.

2555
03:46:22,540 --> 03:46:24,640
Conduct the first public hearing on the development agreement

2556
03:46:24,640 --> 03:46:29,200
in schedule the second and final public hearing for September 23rd, 2026 at 6 p.m.

2557
03:46:29,740 --> 03:46:32,420
in the City of Tallahassee City Commission Chambers at City Hall.

2558
03:46:32,840 --> 03:46:37,620
Again, John Reddick, Growth Management Director, will present this item or is available to answer questions.

2559
03:46:37,960 --> 03:46:40,240
Thank you, Ms. Clerk, do we have any public comment on this item?

2560
03:46:40,860 --> 03:46:42,900
Here, again, I have two speakers on this item.

2561
03:46:43,040 --> 03:46:44,520
I assume both to answer questions.

2562
03:46:44,900 --> 03:46:47,260
Lynn Adams, Takas and Aaron Tilton.

2563
03:46:47,900 --> 03:46:48,200
All right.

2564
03:46:52,070 --> 03:46:52,510
Second.

2565
03:46:54,130 --> 03:46:55,390
We're going to get there in just a second.

2566
03:46:55,390 --> 03:46:59,710
This may do either one of our public speakers want to speak.

2567
03:47:01,530 --> 03:47:02,610
Okay, excellent.

2568
03:47:02,990 --> 03:47:03,770
Let's go with presentation.

2569
03:47:06,990 --> 03:47:07,570
Thank you, Mayor.

2570
03:47:07,910 --> 03:47:10,250
I don't have a presentation on this.

2571
03:47:10,470 --> 03:47:12,610
I am just available for questions if we need to.

2572
03:47:12,710 --> 03:47:14,150
It's similar to the prior previous item.

2573
03:47:14,250 --> 03:47:16,710
This was submitted for consideration to staff.

2574
03:47:17,530 --> 03:47:20,350
They did this would be the first of two public hearings.

2575
03:47:20,550 --> 03:47:25,030
Your recommended actions essentially to hold the first public hearing and schedule the second.

2576
03:47:25,030 --> 03:47:40,970
I think at this point, the proposal that was submitted to us, the primary component of an amendment to the canopy development agreement would be omitting the developer's obligation or intent.

2577
03:47:41,190 --> 03:47:51,930
I should say to instruct the roadway connection, Densey Mayo, at Mika Sookie currently terminates essentially at the bounds of the Mika Sookie greenway.

2578
03:47:51,930 --> 03:48:06,110
what is contemplated certainly in the development agreement and the planning of the development to extend across the greenway and tie-in with the existing where HIMC may have currently broached from the East Earth, excuse me, from South into the key.

2579
03:48:06,930 --> 03:48:11,330
So there are other components that were submitted, that have been submitted for consideration.

2580
03:48:12,130 --> 03:48:21,870
I'll say the bulk of the in terms of individual items is acknowledging a lot of obligations that were expected when this was

2581
03:48:21,870 --> 03:48:30,910
originally drafted, but since been fulfilled, there's also proposed revisions to the bus shelter requirements

2582
03:48:30,910 --> 03:48:37,330
for them. There's a recognition of the termination of the inclusion and housing agreement which

2583
03:48:37,330 --> 03:48:46,670
occurred in 2024. So with that, I would certainly, you know, have any questions of the proposal

2584
03:48:46,670 --> 03:48:50,910
That's all in the details behind it to the representative present for the developer.

2585
03:48:51,610 --> 03:48:54,670
But with that from staff side, we look for your direction.

2586
03:48:55,510 --> 03:48:56,370
I'm Mr. Puzzle.

2587
03:48:56,990 --> 03:48:58,950
Go back to public comment, Mr. Plurk.

2588
03:48:59,810 --> 03:49:03,150
Two speakers on the item mayor, Lynn Adams-Takas.

2589
03:49:09,020 --> 03:49:10,800
Excellent, your name and address for the record.

2590
03:49:11,220 --> 03:49:14,300
Lynn Adams-Takas, two and three, three Miller landing road.

2591
03:49:15,080 --> 03:49:18,940
And unfortunately, I don't have prepared comments, so I just went ahead and brought this with me.

2592
03:49:18,940 --> 03:49:27,300
Some of the main components of this developer agreement, which, again, is written by the developer in their best interest,

2593
03:49:28,000 --> 03:49:31,620
is that road construction responsibilities will shift to taxpayers.

2594
03:49:32,340 --> 03:49:38,680
And let's just all remember, Wallani Boulevard is already being built to help support these luxury developments.

2595
03:49:39,320 --> 03:49:45,640
I think the original cost will space be $78 million, currently it's at $202 million.

2596
03:49:46,320 --> 03:49:52,340
It's the most expensive of three major roadway projects going on for Blueprint that all combined

2597
03:49:52,340 --> 03:49:57,560
through about 15 miles of road, little less, and over half a billion dollars.

2598
03:49:57,800 --> 03:50:02,120
So if we're looking for opportunities to help, you know, balance our budget,

2599
03:50:02,600 --> 03:50:07,420
I think one of the main things I would look at is not taking over responsibilities for the public

2600
03:50:07,420 --> 03:50:10,920
to pay for roads that the developer has obligated to.

2601
03:50:11,760 --> 03:50:16,640
Canopy would get reserved road capacity, even if the roads become congested.

2602
03:50:16,980 --> 03:50:22,120
The development can change without amending the agreement, which also cuts the public

2603
03:50:22,120 --> 03:50:23,360
out of picking comments.

2604
03:50:24,140 --> 03:50:30,240
The agreement would lock in provisions for 15 years under the Decurrent Development Code,

2605
03:50:30,580 --> 03:50:35,060
and I don't know if you'll have notice, but we've had a lot of extreme heat days this summer.

2606
03:50:35,560 --> 03:50:37,500
It is so, that, that's hot.

2607
03:50:37,500 --> 03:50:42,520
And a big reason for that is because we keep taking all the trees out, and I know everybody's

2608
03:50:42,520 --> 03:50:43,900
like, oh my gosh, a tree hugger.

2609
03:50:44,320 --> 03:50:49,440
But trees matter, and we have opportunities to keep more of them in what is our open space,

2610
03:50:49,760 --> 03:50:54,860
slash green space, which right now let you just clear everything out and put salt on it.

2611
03:50:55,300 --> 03:51:01,900
And so we may, Lord Willen, change our development code in the future, to keep more of our forested

2612
03:51:01,900 --> 03:51:05,280
areas in what is already set aside space.

2613
03:51:05,800 --> 03:51:11,500
But under this new development code, our developer agreement, if we were to change that next

2614
03:51:11,500 --> 03:51:17,780
15 years, it won't matter, because they won't be obligated to follow the new code.

2615
03:51:18,220 --> 03:51:20,200
So you're handcuffing a future commission.

2616
03:51:21,000 --> 03:51:27,660
The other is that part of the Vellani Boulevard in this development agreement says it will

2617
03:51:27,660 --> 03:51:28,620
be six lanes.

2618
03:51:29,160 --> 03:51:36,320
And I don't think a lot of people realize that what part of Vellani Boulevard will be is equal to what we have on Thomasville Road.

2619
03:51:37,040 --> 03:51:47,880
So there's a lot of important parts to this that I think, you know, the developer is going to write it in their best interest in what we need y'all to do to look out for our best interest.

2620
03:51:48,540 --> 03:51:50,400
And that is what I'm asking you to do.

2621
03:51:50,400 --> 03:51:53,860
Please do not just vote for this next time.

2622
03:51:53,980 --> 03:51:57,800
It's actually look out for the public, because right now,

2623
03:51:57,940 --> 03:52:00,740
Volani Boulevard is already a boon doggle.

2624
03:52:01,240 --> 03:52:03,100
So let's not add to it.

2625
03:52:03,280 --> 03:52:06,440
And let's not add to what taxpayers are paying.

2626
03:52:07,080 --> 03:52:12,160
And keep raising their taxes while we're given developers a free ride.

2627
03:52:12,420 --> 03:52:13,020
Thank you.

2628
03:52:15,780 --> 03:52:17,480
Next speaker is Aaron Tilton.

2629
03:52:20,810 --> 03:52:22,490
Your name and address for the record, please.

2630
03:52:22,490 --> 03:52:23,590
Thank you, commissioners.

2631
03:52:23,690 --> 03:52:27,270
Aaron Tilton, one on six east college avenues, we've remillered on behalf of the applicant.

2632
03:52:27,870 --> 03:52:31,890
As Mr. Reddick mentioned, the item before you is an amendment to the development agreement

2633
03:52:31,890 --> 03:52:32,470
for Canopy.

2634
03:52:33,130 --> 03:52:36,390
That development agreement was originally approved in 2011.

2635
03:52:36,770 --> 03:52:42,110
It's been amended just about once every five or six years since 2011, which again with

2636
03:52:42,110 --> 03:52:49,930
a large scale master plan community built out over a decent span of time, that is fairly

2637
03:52:49,930 --> 03:52:50,430
common.

2638
03:52:51,050 --> 03:52:57,550
So the development agreement has been amended in 2016, 2020, and now, 2026, you have this amendment

2639
03:52:57,550 --> 03:52:58,070
before you.

2640
03:52:58,710 --> 03:53:01,870
Importantly, there's no changes being proposed to the development program here.

2641
03:53:02,510 --> 03:53:08,590
This is really entirely cleanup of existing obligations and clarification where we've realized

2642
03:53:08,590 --> 03:53:09,830
over time that that was needed.

2643
03:53:10,310 --> 03:53:11,750
I want to talk real quick about the roadway.

2644
03:53:12,450 --> 03:53:18,630
The origin of that extension of Dempsey Mayo across the Greenway to connect to Micah City Road

2645
03:53:18,630 --> 03:53:25,190
actually dates back to 1998, when the landowner initially conveyed the greenway to the trust for public land,

2646
03:53:25,570 --> 03:53:32,450
a easement across the greenway was reserved for a future roadway access in 2002, when the city and

2647
03:53:32,450 --> 03:53:38,130
the county adopted the Wallani critical area plan. They adopted a policy that provided for road access

2648
03:53:38,130 --> 03:53:45,610
at Mekosaki and Dempsey, Mayo, across the greenway within that reserved easement, if it was determined by the

2649
03:53:45,610 --> 03:53:49,830
local government, that a connection would have a desirable impact on the Vickasuki

2650
03:53:49,830 --> 03:53:56,370
Canopy Road. That issue came in front of your predecessors in 2006, that your predecessor

2651
03:53:56,370 --> 03:54:00,150
commission based on an expert report and analysis that were submitted by the landowner

2652
03:54:00,150 --> 03:54:05,730
found that that connection point would have a desirable impact. And that was memorialized

2653
03:54:05,730 --> 03:54:12,590
in a prior agreement we refer to as the amended and restated USA. That agreement says

2654
03:54:12,590 --> 03:54:19,070
The city and owners agree that the owners shall be entitled to access, make a

2655
03:54:19,070 --> 03:54:21,950
sticky road at Dempsey, Mayo within that reserved access management.

2656
03:54:22,510 --> 03:54:29,150
But sometime between 2006 and the present day, this narrative has come forward that

2657
03:54:29,150 --> 03:54:31,870
the developer is obligated to build that roadway.

2658
03:54:32,130 --> 03:54:33,170
That was never the case.

2659
03:54:33,690 --> 03:54:35,050
It's never been in the development agreement.

2660
03:54:35,230 --> 03:54:36,690
It's never been in the PUD.

2661
03:54:36,990 --> 03:54:39,290
It's never been in the Wallani critical area plan.

2662
03:54:39,290 --> 03:54:46,850
It has always been that the developer is entitled to that access point, based on a showing that they made to a prior commission of a desirable impact.

2663
03:54:47,630 --> 03:55:05,570
This came to a head, you may remember a little bit over a year ago, the County Commission on its own initiative took up an agenda item to talk about the McKiswicky Canopy Road Greenway and this roadway in particular, and got into a public discussion of actually designing that roadway through the greenway in which the developer was not at the table.

2664
03:55:05,570 --> 03:55:11,610
There was, of course, quite a bit of public opposition to putting that roadway in place.

2665
03:55:12,230 --> 03:55:27,970
That was the point at which we realized this narrative was out in the public that we were required to build the roadway, and that we want needed to add this as one of the things we would clarify when we brought the development agreement forward, will clean up as we have done just about every five years since it was developed.

2666
03:55:27,970 --> 03:55:31,230
Thank you, Mr. Dillon, if you'll just stick around if there's additional questions.

2667
03:55:32,550 --> 03:55:33,390
Thanks, Speaker, please.

2668
03:55:34,050 --> 03:55:35,190
Those are the only speakers on the item.

2669
03:55:35,530 --> 03:55:36,710
All right, well, Commissioner and discussion.

2670
03:55:36,870 --> 03:55:39,150
Director, I actually remember this is the first of two public hearings.

2671
03:55:39,790 --> 03:55:42,270
It will be coming back to us in September as well.

2672
03:55:43,030 --> 03:55:45,370
Your motion to move forward, Commissioner Porter.

2673
03:55:46,130 --> 03:55:46,950
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

2674
03:55:47,750 --> 03:55:51,770
I would like to ask if Mr. Reddick can come back up to answer some questions.

2675
03:55:52,750 --> 03:55:53,110
Reddick.

2676
03:55:53,110 --> 03:56:05,210
So, since the original PUD predates my time on the commission, can someone just address why the prior requirements were put into place originally?

2677
03:56:05,930 --> 03:56:12,710
The requirements of the development agreement, just all of them, I mean, all of them.

2678
03:56:12,710 --> 03:56:23,370
Sure, because it was all encompassing, a lot of it predated the current developers' involvement actually in this property, and then they've amended and restated as they assumed those obligations.

2679
03:56:24,130 --> 03:56:36,750
So, I would say, chiefly, the largest was tied to the build out of Wallani Boulevard, the developer got a lot of, they participated in the construction of that and never turned out.

2680
03:56:36,750 --> 03:56:43,790
The currency credits, they also committed to, for example, the transit facilities.

2681
03:56:44,170 --> 03:56:48,990
They also, again, there was the inclusionary housing component which separately they benefited from.

2682
03:56:49,450 --> 03:56:52,950
That was related to, or at that time, what was our inclusionary housing ordinance.

2683
03:56:53,330 --> 03:56:56,450
They benefited from density entitlement bonuses, essentially.

2684
03:56:57,350 --> 03:57:06,550
So, the net benefit and why the city entered into the agreement was pretty diverse.

2685
03:57:06,550 --> 03:57:10,550
in reason, but I would say the largest component of it,

2686
03:57:11,110 --> 03:57:13,050
certainly financially was infrastructure-related.

2687
03:57:13,970 --> 03:57:16,630
There was a lot of, I think there was even underground utilities included.

2688
03:57:18,110 --> 03:57:24,510
So, and then also recognize the location for a new senior center.

2689
03:57:25,490 --> 03:57:28,950
The city got returned for the participation.

2690
03:57:29,690 --> 03:57:30,710
Okay, thank you.

2691
03:57:31,350 --> 03:57:35,130
Are there any cost impacts to the city by entering,

2692
03:57:35,130 --> 03:57:40,030
if we enter into this agreement or accept the amendment agreement?

2693
03:57:40,090 --> 03:57:50,350
For consideration, that we recognized is that the city's currency, certainly recognizing

2694
03:57:50,350 --> 03:58:03,590
the developers, you know, they're real obligation to that versus we've certainly proceeded with the intent that it would be constructed in the sense of as part of the build out by the developer.

2695
03:58:03,590 --> 03:58:08,370
or is that our concurrency system modeling, for example,

2696
03:58:08,750 --> 03:58:14,250
has assumed that connection would be a case

2697
03:58:14,250 --> 03:58:17,470
or within the timeframe of this development

2698
03:58:17,470 --> 03:58:19,550
or development agreement, excuse me.

2699
03:58:20,170 --> 03:58:24,670
So that is one where essentially assuming a more connected

2700
03:58:24,670 --> 03:58:28,350
roadway network meant for, I'll say,

2701
03:58:28,510 --> 03:58:30,010
a better assessment of traffic impacts,

2702
03:58:30,010 --> 03:58:44,890
Because the state of intent both within the critical area of plan and within development agreement is that that connection would be there to relieve traffic off of the canopy roads and for the broader network.

2703
03:58:45,130 --> 03:58:53,810
So to say since canopy has been built out when we look at one, let's say, phase of residential construction.

2704
03:58:53,810 --> 03:59:02,550
We are modeling the traffic impacts on that based on the assumption that the fact connection is going to be there and we would have done I'm moving forward.

2705
03:59:02,750 --> 03:59:22,220
So that is something for consideration where the city may have had, there may have been more impact concurrency impacts and traffic impacts from things that have occurred already and would be, you know, will occur moving forward for the full build out that the city is looking at this proposal.

2706
03:59:22,220 --> 03:59:26,300
Okay. Thank you. So, I want to make sure I understand. So,

2707
03:59:29,690 --> 03:59:34,530
there is an impact, obviously, if, well, let me back up for a second.

2708
03:59:34,930 --> 03:59:44,710
So, the concurrency calculation in the original agreement or the latest agreement assumed that Dempsey Mayo would be constructed.

2709
03:59:45,370 --> 03:59:45,930
Correct.

2710
03:59:45,930 --> 03:59:52,790
So we're looking at a, let's say, 100 homes that may be built in a phase, we're assessing

2711
03:59:52,790 --> 03:59:57,950
the traffic network, the demands it'll put on our network, and within that model we have

2712
03:59:57,950 --> 03:59:59,050
that connection made.

2713
03:59:59,050 --> 03:59:59,970
so it's just...

2714
04:00:08,240 --> 04:00:29,980
As far as I could tell, and I think you've just addressed this, I didn't see anything in this agreement that addresses the concurrency calculations directly, other than language that reads to me to say we'll handle this later in a separate agreement. Is that accurate? The language you're referring to is the extent of that. Okay. And may I ask why would we do that?

2715
04:00:29,980 --> 04:00:32,180
Why wouldn't we include it in this agreement?

2716
04:00:33,380 --> 04:00:35,760
Frankly, Commissioner, we would look at your direction on that.

2717
04:00:35,960 --> 04:00:39,940
We wanted to incorporate that and assess that in more detail,

2718
04:00:40,160 --> 04:00:42,940
rather than evaluating it after the fact.

2719
04:00:43,900 --> 04:00:44,120
Okay.

2720
04:00:45,420 --> 04:00:49,780
What, and now just jumping forward a little bit

2721
04:00:49,780 --> 04:00:54,800
to talk about the roundabout at the intersection of Wallani and Dempsey Mayo.

2722
04:00:54,800 --> 04:01:06,460
So this agreement would eliminate the roundabout, or we wouldn't move forward with the roundabout, is that correct?

2723
04:01:07,420 --> 04:01:11,740
I don't know that necessarily changes the type of intersection if it does get built.

2724
04:01:12,620 --> 04:01:18,420
Again, I think it's still contemplated another, excuse me, a number of other areas that it would be around about.

2725
04:01:19,540 --> 04:01:22,340
But I think the change is that,

2726
04:01:24,540 --> 04:01:28,660
essentially, maybe someone else is stepping into do that, not

2727
04:01:31,920 --> 04:01:32,760
continuing to do that.

2728
04:01:33,200 --> 04:01:37,280
Okay. I'm seeing shaking heads behind you.

2729
04:01:39,120 --> 04:01:39,940
Yes, please.

2730
04:01:40,720 --> 04:01:42,320
Milton, Roma.

2731
04:01:42,700 --> 04:01:44,980
Thank you. Apologies for interrupting.

2732
04:01:45,440 --> 04:01:50,280
So the way this agreement is drafted, we're not saying the developer is not going to build this connection.

2733
04:01:50,280 --> 04:01:53,440
We are saying they are not obligated to build this connection.

2734
04:01:54,000 --> 04:01:57,640
If at some point in the future, it makes sense from a traffic standpoint, from a

2735
04:01:57,640 --> 04:02:02,560
development standpoint, all of those factors, it may get built.

2736
04:02:02,780 --> 04:02:04,100
It may get built by this developer.

2737
04:02:05,040 --> 04:02:09,580
They're not, they're, they're simply, we're simply clarifying because of the narrative

2738
04:02:09,580 --> 04:02:13,540
that is out there in the public that this is not an obligation associated with this

2739
04:02:13,540 --> 04:02:13,960
development.

2740
04:02:14,520 --> 04:02:17,420
And then to the concurrency question, I think that's one of the reasons we're not

2741
04:02:17,420 --> 04:02:20,740
addressing concurrency now, because it still may get bills.

2742
04:02:21,380 --> 04:02:25,420
If we're concerned about a concurrency refund, I can tell you this developer's also sitting

2743
04:02:25,420 --> 04:02:28,680
on a couple million dollars in concurrency credit right now from other infrastructure they

2744
04:02:28,680 --> 04:02:29,480
have built for this community.

2745
04:02:29,660 --> 04:02:33,560
So it's really not something that I would be all concerned with at this point.

2746
04:02:34,140 --> 04:02:34,320
Okay.

2747
04:02:35,120 --> 04:02:35,720
Thank you.

2748
04:02:38,100 --> 04:02:41,640
I am concerned about it, but I appreciate that response.

2749
04:02:41,640 --> 04:02:48,580
months. Can you speak a little bit to why we are eliminating the minimum for transit

2750
04:02:48,580 --> 04:02:54,000
shelters? I would like to hear from our staff. Thank you.

2751
04:02:57,000 --> 04:03:03,840
The. Yeah, why did we accept that? What is the rationale for the city, for the public

2752
04:03:03,840 --> 04:03:10,380
benefit? Mr. Mayor, I can help it. Mr. Mayor, you're jumping. I think Wayne might be

2753
04:03:10,380 --> 04:03:11,180
able to help a little more.

2754
04:03:11,620 --> 04:03:16,500
I believe in the original agreement it might have been five, three to five, three to five.

2755
04:03:17,080 --> 04:03:21,880
We now have more information on that based on the way the development has occurred and

2756
04:03:21,880 --> 04:03:24,920
what our expectations could be in terms of shelters.

2757
04:03:25,220 --> 04:03:28,040
And so I think it's a refinement of what we think could be added.

2758
04:03:28,580 --> 04:03:33,680
That's why the number, we're comfortable with the change in the commitment.

2759
04:03:34,880 --> 04:03:37,040
When, do I have anything else to add to that one?

2760
04:03:39,980 --> 04:03:55,420
Thatter, bottom line commissioner is that if staff sees the need for five, we will get five because it's written in a way that it's going to be approved by the city regardless of the number but there may not be the need for five within that development.

2761
04:03:57,380 --> 04:03:58,000
Mr. Porter.

2762
04:03:58,680 --> 04:03:59,440
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

2763
04:04:00,600 --> 04:04:06,780
I think that, you know, we have now just gone through this process with St. Joe where there

2764
04:04:07,480 --> 04:04:14,720
was, there were questions and uncertainty. There's so much uncertainty and this is an

2765
04:04:14,720 --> 04:04:24,320
agreement like this as Miss Tilton explained, is that it provides a benefit to the public through

2766
04:04:24,320 --> 04:04:30,000
to assurance mutually between the public, the city, and the developer.

2767
04:04:30,960 --> 04:04:38,100
So, you know, these concurrency fees, these traffic impact fees are hundreds of thousands if not millions of dollars.

2768
04:04:38,840 --> 04:04:49,480
I'm not comfortable leaving that up to chance, especially with all due respect when we've had issues with this developer.

2769
04:04:49,480 --> 04:04:56,440
with, I mean the gas, the gas station issue, you know, this is not, it is not my job to trust

2770
04:04:56,440 --> 04:05:04,520
a developer. It is my job to put faith in our staff to represent the public interest

2771
04:05:04,520 --> 04:05:10,440
when we're having these negotiations and these conversations. And I don't know, it feels

2772
04:05:10,440 --> 04:05:16,920
a little bit rushed given that there are some outstanding questions that I would feel

2773
04:05:16,920 --> 04:05:24,010
much more comfortable moving forward with if we had answers, too.

2774
04:05:24,530 --> 04:05:29,090
So I would like to make a substitute motion.

2775
04:05:29,550 --> 04:05:30,570
There's no motion on the table.

2776
04:05:30,670 --> 04:05:31,770
Okay, then I'll make a motion.

2777
04:05:33,750 --> 04:05:38,090
I also notice, is there staff recommendation on this item?

2778
04:05:40,650 --> 04:05:50,490
Mr. R, our only recommendation was to hold this public hearing, certainly with the intent of receiving your feedback and direction in response to what input for you.

2779
04:05:50,490 --> 04:05:56,750
And so our only recommendation is to schedule a second public hearing, our recommendation was for the next September 13th.

2780
04:05:56,750 --> 04:05:58,130
Okay, one other question.

2781
04:05:58,410 --> 04:06:03,070
What is the impact, what utilities would have run in the roadway along Dempsey, Mayo,

2782
04:06:03,410 --> 04:06:06,390
and does that impact other city plans?

2783
04:06:07,290 --> 04:06:08,390
Mr. Mayor, I think I can.

2784
04:06:08,390 --> 04:06:08,870
I think I can.

2785
04:06:09,070 --> 04:06:09,470
Mr. Banger.

2786
04:06:09,570 --> 04:06:15,330
With that, the utility easement and location is for the electric utility.

2787
04:06:15,930 --> 04:06:20,230
And so this agreement would contemplate that the developer would provide that access.

2788
04:06:20,230 --> 04:06:27,310
and that necessary, the easements necessary for that, this does clarify that, it's helpful

2789
04:06:27,310 --> 04:06:35,730
to us as a city and the utility system, and those easements and placement of those utilities

2790
04:06:35,730 --> 04:06:39,190
would be necessary for the next phase of their development.

2791
04:06:39,390 --> 04:06:46,470
So we feel good about that because it provides clarity that we can have access, we can get

2792
04:06:46,470 --> 04:06:51,170
the right way necessary and we work with the developer in the correct way to expand those utilities.

2793
04:06:52,030 --> 04:06:58,070
Okay, thank you. And then one final question I promise. So on page 14, under utilities,

2794
04:07:00,110 --> 04:07:05,330
the new language says the respective obligations of the parties relative to the provision of natural

2795
04:07:05,330 --> 04:07:10,550
gas to the canopy project, including construction of the gas line along the Lonnie Bill of Art, have been

2796
04:07:10,550 --> 04:07:17,090
completed. So, it's my understanding from reading this that the developer had agreed

2797
04:07:17,090 --> 04:07:23,570
to pay the city $165,000 to be applied by the city toward the cost of installing the

2798
04:07:23,570 --> 04:07:31,290
gas line along the Lonnie Boulevard. So, I want clarification on this. The gas line has

2799
04:07:31,290 --> 04:07:39,630
been completed. The city incurred that expense. And the developer had agreed to pay the city

2800
04:07:39,630 --> 04:07:45,810
the $165,000 to be applied for the cost of installing the gas line.

2801
04:07:46,410 --> 04:07:54,250
That is stricken, was that, did the developer apply, was that amount applied to the city?

2802
04:07:54,930 --> 04:07:56,670
Mr. Mayor, I can answer that.

2803
04:07:56,890 --> 04:08:00,710
Mr. Mayor, the commission report, so that question was posed to the gas utility.

2804
04:08:01,290 --> 04:08:05,890
That provision was an original provision in there, the developer did participate as needed.

2805
04:08:05,890 --> 04:08:10,550
to add the gas line, the gas utility is confirmed that all the work is done.

2806
04:08:11,250 --> 04:08:13,890
I do not believe the money was paid because it was not necessary.

2807
04:08:14,510 --> 04:08:17,790
The question was posed to the gas utility, is it necessary and they said no.

2808
04:08:18,670 --> 04:08:24,350
So the request for a movement is an intent to clean it up because that work has been satisfied.

2809
04:08:25,190 --> 04:08:29,350
Okay, and can you just help me understand what does it mean that it's not necessary?

2810
04:08:30,690 --> 04:08:33,850
Well, I'd have to ask somebody in the gas utility to answer it, right?

2811
04:08:33,850 --> 04:08:41,010
So but the construction is taking place the right away was provided that work is done and the gas utility would

2812
04:08:41,010 --> 04:08:42,430
satisfy with that effort.

2813
04:08:42,650 --> 04:08:43,750
This is now years ago.

2814
04:08:44,250 --> 04:08:54,050
Okay, so did it not cost us money to provide natural gas or the infrastructure?

2815
04:08:54,810 --> 04:08:56,530
I just want to make sure I understand.

2816
04:08:56,530 --> 04:09:13,190
Yeah, of course, it would have caused some money to the gas utilities as you might imagine to expand our main and when we do these development agreements, it's providing for access, you know, other means. And so that was satisfied by the developer.

2817
04:09:15,470 --> 04:09:18,630
Satisfactually to the gas utility, I guess is the best way I can say it.

2818
04:09:20,050 --> 04:09:21,470
Okay. Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

2819
04:09:25,630 --> 04:09:32,390
I think, and I appreciate staff's explanations. I think

2820
04:09:32,390 --> 04:09:38,230
it, in the future, I would love us to have a more comprehensive staff report. You know,

2821
04:09:38,270 --> 04:09:45,370
these are agreements that, as everyone understands now, you know, go back many years. They're complicated

2822
04:09:45,370 --> 04:09:49,870
agreements. It would be really helpful if, in our agenda materials, it could just be like

2823
04:09:49,870 --> 04:09:55,310
side-by-side. Here's what it did, here's what it does. I understand I can read through the

2824
04:09:55,310 --> 04:10:01,390
agreement as I did and there's strike-throughs. But this is a lot of money. I mean, the implications

2825
04:10:01,390 --> 04:10:06,810
of this are pretty significant. I don't like making decisions like this without having all

2826
04:10:06,810 --> 04:10:15,310
of the information and understanding the financial impact, which according to this agenda material

2827
04:10:15,310 --> 04:10:21,910
item says there is none, but it seems to me that there is one, because we don't know, at the very

2828
04:10:21,910 --> 04:10:25,850
least, we know there's one thing we don't know, which is hundreds of thousands of dollars, potentially,

2829
04:10:25,950 --> 04:10:34,450
and that's the concurrency. So, I'm not comfortable moving forward, and I would move that we do not,

2830
04:10:34,750 --> 04:10:40,210
for option two, that we do not hold the first public hearing, and that, you know, staff can come back

2831
04:10:40,210 --> 04:10:47,050
Back to us with this, with, at the very least, the concurrency figure factored in.

2832
04:10:47,050 --> 04:10:52,170
I'm not comfortable saying that that's just something we're going to figure out later in a separate agreement.

2833
04:10:52,870 --> 04:10:54,670
So is that, is my motion clear?

2834
04:10:55,310 --> 04:10:58,810
Option number two has been proudly made by Commissioner Porter, is there a second?

2835
04:10:59,010 --> 04:10:59,290
Second.

2836
04:10:59,550 --> 04:11:01,770
Seconded by Commissioner Matlow, you're recognized for comment.

2837
04:11:02,210 --> 04:11:06,730
Thank you, Mr. Mayor, and Mr. Riddick, the same question on the other item.

2838
04:11:06,730 --> 04:11:14,490
The attachment says that this agreement was prepared by the developers, attorneys, did your staff work on this agreement?

2839
04:11:15,010 --> 04:11:17,230
We did do a preliminary review of it.

2840
04:11:17,810 --> 04:11:24,130
I think some of our feedback was pertaining to questions about concurrency impacts for this, certainly.

2841
04:11:31,650 --> 04:11:43,930
I think our next step in this and receiving it, and doing our review of it was all such a place in front of you and look for a direction on something that's basically based on what was being considered.

2842
04:11:44,810 --> 04:11:48,670
Okay, so did you make any edits or revisions to what was submitted by the developer?

2843
04:11:48,670 --> 04:11:54,930
We haven't directly made provisions on this and something that was provided to us as it is.

2844
04:11:55,630 --> 04:11:55,810
Okay.

2845
04:11:59,560 --> 04:12:07,040
Back to the underlying question, which I still wasn't clear, does this eliminate the developer's obligation to build the Dempsey

2846
04:12:07,040 --> 04:12:08,200
Mayo roadway?

2847
04:12:08,920 --> 04:12:17,380
I would state it as the developer is delimiting their sole entitlement to do, which is probably a better way to

2848
04:12:17,380 --> 04:12:46,420
Is there currently entitle to do it, like the city doesn't have the easement rights to go there and do if we wanted to ourselves, what they're proposing is to step back and say the city may can have easement rights to do so or separately contract with the developer to do it or the developer has still in the state that may decide to step up and do it their own on their own, so their their intent is to clarify their obligation on this and unnecessarily relinquish an obligation.

2849
04:12:46,940 --> 04:12:56,220
Okay, and so I mean, I think that makes it more unclear of what concurrency will look like, what traffic will look like, what utilities to these lots will look like.

2850
04:12:56,600 --> 04:13:05,340
I mean, frankly, on first reading to me, it looks like it's transferring financial responsibility away from the developer to the city government.

2851
04:13:05,640 --> 04:13:06,400
That's an issue for me.

2852
04:13:06,620 --> 04:13:14,020
It's an issue for me that we're operating in a way that developers, attorneys, draft these agreements, and then we bring them to the city commission with no edits.

2853
04:13:14,020 --> 04:13:19,320
It makes me wonder who's actually looking after the city's best interest, and I support the motion.

2854
04:13:19,520 --> 04:13:19,920
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

2855
04:13:20,360 --> 04:13:21,220
Thank you, Mr. Williams-Cox.

2856
04:13:21,840 --> 04:13:22,520
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

2857
04:13:23,020 --> 04:13:34,160
I guess Mr. Radek and Aaron, the city manager, is this kind of different than any other process that we've done with items like this?

2858
04:13:34,860 --> 04:13:37,580
Does it sound like we've been doing this for years?

2859
04:13:37,580 --> 04:13:46,060
Commissioner, if I can answer that, just for a different voice, this is a really old development

2860
04:13:46,060 --> 04:13:50,620
agreement that has been amended from time to time as the development has changed, things

2861
04:13:50,620 --> 04:13:55,900
are new, things have been satisfied, there's new information, and I think that's what you

2862
04:13:55,900 --> 04:13:56,140
see.

2863
04:13:56,620 --> 04:14:03,440
There's probably a natural cycle to that, development agreements really are static, and that's

2864
04:14:03,440 --> 04:14:07,080
what you're seeing. In this case, there's clarification in terms of the roadway.

2865
04:14:07,500 --> 04:14:13,840
I would tell you from my point of view, I'm not sure that road connections ever made.

2866
04:14:14,960 --> 04:14:19,480
That probably is for some time in the future. There's been a lot of debate about it. There's

2867
04:14:19,480 --> 04:14:24,880
a considerable amount of public opposition to that roadway, notably in the Westminster

2868
04:14:24,880 --> 04:14:32,440
or OAPS area, I think it's safe for me to say that they would wish that not to happen.

2869
04:14:33,240 --> 04:14:40,140
So I think this agreement provides that clarity of how that could work if the roadway was

2870
04:14:40,140 --> 04:14:43,660
ever developed, which I would venture to guess is not likely.

2871
04:14:45,020 --> 04:14:50,480
But even with that, we need clarity on right away and easements for utilities and other things

2872
04:14:50,480 --> 04:14:53,240
because the development is expected to continue to go.

2873
04:14:53,240 --> 04:14:59,160
So this does provide clarity that's helpful to the city, that's a developer that is contemporary.

2874
04:15:00,000 --> 04:15:29,460
I think that's how these agreements typically evolve. I just don't want to publicly think that the developer can come in to give us an agreement and we just go running with it without edits or anything like that. That happens later in the process in the planning process. And for these, like you said, this has been around since 1998, 2011, here we are, 2026. So a lot of things have evolved and we'll continue to evolve. I just want to make sure that the public knows that we're not just taking what developers give us.

2875
04:15:29,460 --> 04:15:43,420
Our staff, you know, very well capable of doing what needs to be done to make sure that we're following the laws and procedures that we follow with every development, we don't pick and choose who we pick on, we follow for everybody.

2876
04:15:44,260 --> 04:15:49,760
And my last question is, is this not the public here?

2877
04:15:50,840 --> 04:15:52,720
I thought this was the public here.

2878
04:15:52,720 --> 04:16:08,720
And there will be a second public here, so how then could we do not hold the first public here and provide direction to staff?

2879
04:16:09,160 --> 04:16:13,480
Well, the motion on the table is basically a spend action and not move forward with the second public.

2880
04:16:14,280 --> 04:16:16,680
Okay, so that's what's before us today.

2881
04:16:17,080 --> 04:16:20,500
Commissioner Porter has, I'm summarizing Commissioner Porter,

2882
04:16:20,500 --> 04:16:26,300
that promotion is, let's put a pause, we don't need to move forward with the second public hearing.

2883
04:16:26,560 --> 04:16:34,660
Well, thank you for that clarification because I cannot support that because 1998, 2011, 2026,

2884
04:16:35,600 --> 04:16:39,920
when does this, when does this, when do we, when do we, when do we get going?

2885
04:16:40,260 --> 04:16:47,360
I think we should proceed with the, with it and get questions answered between now and September 23rd,

2886
04:16:47,360 --> 04:16:51,660
from the developer, the growth management, attorney, manager,

2887
04:16:51,760 --> 04:16:56,760
whomever we have time to get that information before the second and final public hearing.

2888
04:16:57,380 --> 04:17:02,540
So I think we need to, we should move forward so that we have an opportunity to get those very

2889
04:17:02,540 --> 04:17:08,200
good questions that were asked answered so that we are, we'll set them for the second public hearing

2890
04:17:08,200 --> 04:17:09,720
and then we go from there.

2891
04:17:09,720 --> 04:17:13,920
Mr. Ninewood's cocks is making a substitute motion for option number one.

2892
04:17:14,160 --> 04:17:16,380
I will second them by the mayor, Pro Tem.

2893
04:17:17,840 --> 04:17:20,980
On the substitute motion, this is the first of two.

2894
04:17:21,400 --> 04:17:25,920
This development agreement has been going on for nearly 30 years now, or over 30 years now.

2895
04:17:26,560 --> 04:17:28,900
We do have some questions that I respect from our colleagues.

2896
04:17:28,900 --> 04:17:32,400
We don't think we'll work in the next two weeks, make sure to get it.

2897
04:17:32,440 --> 04:17:37,420
But I'm not ready to pause quite yet while we're still in the discussion before move forward to the second public.

2898
04:17:40,500 --> 04:17:57,580
So, yes, I had questions, but it's my understanding that when this comes back to us, I mean, we're approving it, like we're not going to, the development agreement coming back to us for second hearing is not going to address the concerns that I raised.

2899
04:18:05,860 --> 04:18:21,260
I just want to clarify that the language we approve today is the language that will be for us at the second public hearing, and will not be able to be amended, then, because it would be considered, I think, a substantial amendment, is that accurate?

2900
04:18:21,260 --> 04:18:30,780
Yes, and if the answers are not satisfactory to this board, and still agrees, then it will be voted down at the time.

2901
04:18:31,120 --> 04:18:37,620
These are serious issues that are being raised and discussed, and this is a very big development agreement that dates over 30 years.

2902
04:18:38,140 --> 04:18:41,460
There's always the opportunity for it to be defeated at the next public hearing, correct?

2903
04:18:42,640 --> 04:18:46,420
All those in favor of the substitute motion on the table made by Commissioner Williams-Cox,

2904
04:18:46,420 --> 04:18:48,620
Seconded by the Mayor of Pro Tem, signify by saying aye.

2905
04:18:48,900 --> 04:18:50,080
All those opposed.

2906
04:18:50,820 --> 04:18:54,780
Pass us thirty to two with Commissioner Matlow and Commissioner Porter in opposition.

2907
04:18:55,260 --> 04:18:57,420
Do we have anything else to come before us at this public hearing?

2908
04:18:58,140 --> 04:18:58,940
No, Mr. Mayor.

2909
04:18:59,220 --> 04:19:04,600
Okay, we are on item number 12.03 under policy formation and direction.

2910
04:19:05,240 --> 04:19:06,640
Mr. Manager.

2911
04:19:07,100 --> 04:19:07,820
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

2912
04:19:08,360 --> 04:19:09,960
Let me introduce it.

2913
04:19:09,960 --> 04:19:15,140
Would you mind coming forward, if I could ask you to participate?

2914
04:19:16,720 --> 04:19:21,020
Commissioners, your recall at your last meeting, Commissioner Richardson actually asked

2915
04:19:21,020 --> 04:19:22,980
for this item to come back.

2916
04:19:23,660 --> 04:19:30,520
It involves the Appalachia Ridge Technology Center that's located at 937 Kindle Drive.

2917
04:19:30,980 --> 04:19:35,200
There's been a request from, and Christine, you correct me if I say this wrong,

2918
04:19:35,320 --> 04:19:37,980
the Greater Appalachia Ridge of State's Neighborhood Association.

2919
04:19:38,500 --> 04:19:40,960
It, Miss Henry, are you representing that group?

2920
04:19:41,260 --> 04:19:41,820
Yes, I am.

2921
04:19:41,940 --> 04:19:44,020
And Miss Henry has made a request.

2922
04:19:44,860 --> 04:19:49,000
We've got a full agenda item that talks about the facility, the nature of the ownership,

2923
04:19:49,200 --> 04:19:54,560
the maintenance, the participation, it's a technology center for youth in the history of it.

2924
04:19:56,320 --> 04:19:56,880
Mr. Mayor of the town.

2925
04:19:56,880 --> 04:19:57,200
Mr. Mayor of the town.

2926
04:19:57,780 --> 04:20:02,540
If I may, I think it's best to ask Miss Henry just to give us a quick summary of the

2927
04:20:02,540 --> 04:20:03,640
request, if you don't mind.

2928
04:20:04,100 --> 04:20:04,380
Okay.

2929
04:20:04,380 --> 04:20:08,040
And then Wayne Tetter is the staff member on this item.

2930
04:20:08,400 --> 04:20:09,540
Did you have a question?

2931
04:20:09,740 --> 04:20:12,040
My question is, will there be a staff presentation?

2932
04:20:14,020 --> 04:20:22,520
Mr. Tetter can summarize any matters you would like, and we'll fill in any gaps that may exist.

2933
04:20:24,990 --> 04:20:25,450
Mr. Henry?

2934
04:20:26,290 --> 04:20:27,590
Hey, yeah, how are you doing?

2935
04:20:28,790 --> 04:20:33,890
First of all, thank you so much, commission for taking this up as an item for consideration today.

2936
04:20:33,890 --> 04:20:36,190
Okay, let me just give you a little bit of backdrop.

2937
04:20:36,810 --> 04:20:51,710
This item is the culmination of over 20 years of resident advocacy, resident engagement, and resident leadership within the Appalachia Ridge and Greater Appalachia Ridge, which is what we call the 10.02 census tract of Leon County.

2938
04:20:52,190 --> 04:21:01,790
The original neighborhood improvement planning process, which was adopted by the city, did a whole lot of things that created a lot of wins for the community address.

2939
04:21:01,790 --> 04:21:04,410
a storm water management, traffic and safety,

2940
04:21:04,770 --> 04:21:07,010
it addressed issues related to flooding,

2941
04:21:07,530 --> 04:21:10,550
it addressed a whole lot of things and a whole lot of wins

2942
04:21:10,550 --> 04:21:14,630
that we have seen matriculate into factors of value,

2943
04:21:15,110 --> 04:21:18,090
increase in homeownership, increase in economic trajectory

2944
04:21:18,090 --> 04:21:19,870
within that census tract.

2945
04:21:20,310 --> 04:21:23,910
Part of that conversation was this Appalachia Ridge

2946
04:21:23,910 --> 04:21:25,830
Technology and Learning Center.

2947
04:21:26,350 --> 04:21:30,270
When it was created, it was purchased with municipal puns,

2948
04:21:30,270 --> 04:21:37,010
But it was funded through a partnership that was facilitated through an organization called the Community Renaissance Neighborhood Partnership.

2949
04:21:37,530 --> 04:21:44,050
That community Renaissance Neighborhood Partnership had over $60,000 of commitments from municipal partners,

2950
04:21:44,050 --> 04:21:48,630
Leon County, City, Tallahassee, the state of Florida, Florida State University,

2951
04:21:48,850 --> 04:21:55,110
as well as NCON personnel that came to the table and said, we will fund the programmatic mission of this center as it relates,

2952
04:21:55,110 --> 04:22:01,590
and as it resonates in the voice of the residents who wanted it as a facility at that time when we used

2953
04:22:01,590 --> 04:22:08,790
flocking this and phone ports to get on the internet. So that just lets you know the context and the age of this

2954
04:22:08,790 --> 04:22:16,130
of this work. When the economic recession hit the community programs were in full swing at the time of

2955
04:22:16,130 --> 04:22:22,410
launch in 2007, reach youth within our community. We have generations of youth that are now employed

2956
04:22:22,410 --> 04:22:26,430
by city and state and local government and businesses that went through the Appalachian

2957
04:22:26,430 --> 04:22:30,930
Ridge Technology and Learning Center, there were much dollars, much grant writing that

2958
04:22:30,930 --> 04:22:32,570
happened that benefited the work.

2959
04:22:32,970 --> 04:22:39,030
But once the economic recession hit the center, then we were at a place where we couldn't,

2960
04:22:39,150 --> 04:22:43,430
where that CNRP model fell into decline.

2961
04:22:44,010 --> 04:22:49,790
And so as a neighborhood association, we were faced with one option, not two, because we weren't

2962
04:22:49,790 --> 04:22:53,270
going to close it down, that was the vision, that was the value, that was the voice of

2963
04:22:53,270 --> 04:22:57,630
the residents, resonating through the work of that center, that would impact the generations

2964
04:22:57,630 --> 04:23:03,130
to come. So, under the management of Anita favors at the time, she said, Christine, bring

2965
04:23:03,130 --> 04:23:07,610
us a proposal from the neighborhood, engage them and see what they want to do, which is

2966
04:23:07,610 --> 04:23:10,590
what we did. We came up with a resolution for the

2967
04:23:10,590 --> 04:23:16,750
Garena, Greater Appalachia Ridge, Neighborhood Association, to become its own 501-C-3, and

2968
04:23:16,750 --> 04:23:43,950
In that process, we work very intently with the Tallahassee Lenders Consortium because we had grant dollars that we were attracting to the facility, but because we were in the 501C3 at the time, we could not use them so they engaged as our fiscal agent to fund programming to fund resource at that time through the city's leadership and partnership, we were able to arrive at a lease agreement during that time that resonated and that spoke of what we wanted to do as a neighborhood association.

2969
04:23:43,950 --> 04:23:58,330
how we would raise our capability and resources to be able to do it, and at the end of that least, which started in 2016 and expired in 2019, we would be considered as the long term owner or long term site proprietor for that facility.

2970
04:24:00,030 --> 04:24:03,070
Now, let's take it from 2019 until now.

2971
04:24:03,610 --> 04:24:11,070
So we were at will as a tenant and were able to get liability insurance because you can't launch it as a center without those types of coverages.

2972
04:24:11,070 --> 04:24:16,750
And so we had those as line items they were sent forward to the City Commission as a part of our budget

2973
04:24:16,750 --> 04:24:24,490
and how we spent quite frankly our facility dollars that we got through the city's continued $10,000 commitment because remember when the

2974
04:24:24,490 --> 04:24:30,670
recession hit all the other money left. The only money that remained was the 10 that the city was given and they continued to give it.

2975
04:24:30,810 --> 04:24:35,790
They also continued to work with us to address capital needs for the facility. They replaced the roof.

2976
04:24:35,790 --> 04:25:05,430
They replaced the HVAC system, they worked with us to invest over $53,000 in site improvements that we curated grants in order to address not just the capital needs within the facility, but also the technological need because we had computers with big streams and big backs, so we didn't want big back computers in our facility, so we were able to curate through partnership the donation of 24 units in partnership with figures communication, and they gave us web based platform

2977
04:25:05,430 --> 04:25:11,370
form computers that are posted up even now and were serviced in partnership again with Cater's,

2978
04:25:11,410 --> 04:25:14,750
which is the Tallahassee Board of Realtors, their technology component.

2979
04:25:14,750 --> 04:25:20,210
They came and did a complete assessment, rewiring of the complete facility.

2980
04:25:20,490 --> 04:25:26,570
They did it at 60% of what they would do at value and we had written for that 60% in grants.

2981
04:25:27,050 --> 04:25:32,930
Now keep in mind, we are still operating without site control as it relates to a renewed lease.

2982
04:25:32,930 --> 04:25:43,870
We are functioning with insurance, and guess what, they said hey, we need to renew where's your lease, and we didn't have one.

2983
04:25:45,090 --> 04:26:02,390
This was 2024, this is at the foothills of a huge, huge launch of a community technology form and partnership with Comcast, where they gave us over $75,000 the previous year, they gave us $50,000 to implement the affordable connectivity program.

2984
04:26:02,390 --> 04:26:07,790
through the federal government and gave us 50 computers to give to residents who were in need.

2985
04:26:08,150 --> 04:26:11,650
We used those funds to be able to do community tech ups.

2986
04:26:11,710 --> 04:26:16,470
We partnered with local computer repair companies and we brought residents in to bring their computers.

2987
04:26:16,690 --> 04:26:20,190
I would get them fixed or assess them for a replacement with our laptops.

2988
04:26:21,490 --> 04:26:25,170
Lots of great stuff, but we're still at will.

2989
04:26:25,690 --> 04:26:29,550
We would like the history of the advocacy of this organization,

2990
04:26:29,550 --> 04:26:51,430
the history of the resident voice as it relates to this facility that we heard tonight, and we will ask this commission to consider transferring the site to the neighborhood association arena as a 501-C-3 nonprofit organization with deed restrictions that would speak to the use of the facility and perpetuity for the purposes identified within that neighborhood improvement plan.

2991
04:26:51,430 --> 04:26:55,750
And also, we would love for y'all to continue to give us that $10,000 in partnership.

2992
04:26:56,370 --> 04:26:58,190
But that's not the major thing.

2993
04:26:58,190 --> 04:27:05,590
The major thing is obtaining the site control necessary to execute fully our programmatic delivery in the work of that center.

2994
04:27:05,810 --> 04:27:09,450
Because it's important to understand also, we don't serve rich people.

2995
04:27:10,910 --> 04:27:15,010
We serve people who, our neighborhood has a 45% poverty rate.

2996
04:27:15,510 --> 04:27:17,030
We don't serve rich people.

2997
04:27:17,030 --> 04:27:21,150
Our residents have that per capita income of $35,000.

2998
04:27:21,370 --> 04:27:23,310
We don't serve rich people.

2999
04:27:23,950 --> 04:27:33,010
But guess what, between 20,08, and now, we started out at our NIP with a 52% home ownership rate.

3000
04:27:33,370 --> 04:27:37,990
It dipped down based on the recession to 43%, but through programmatic delivery and

3001
04:27:37,990 --> 04:27:43,350
continued engagement, that has actually gone up and back to 53%.

3002
04:27:43,350 --> 04:27:51,130
So the work of the neighborhood association continues and we want to make sure that we get another win tonight by getting

3003
04:27:51,130 --> 04:28:04,410
site control access, site control of that property so that we can fully execute our programmatic delivery for our grant, our partners, and seek additional resources to continue the vision of the residents of the Appalachia Ridge Estates neighborhood.

3004
04:28:04,950 --> 04:28:05,750
Thank you.

3005
04:28:06,290 --> 04:28:10,670
Commissioners, are there any questions for Ms. Henry?

3006
04:28:13,100 --> 04:28:15,920
Is there, do we have any speakers on this issue?

3007
04:28:16,260 --> 04:28:21,040
Mr. Mayor Pro Tem, Mr. Mayor, if I could, just to make sure there's continuity

3008
04:28:21,040 --> 04:28:23,000
in, by the way, Ms. Henry, thank you.

3009
04:28:23,080 --> 04:28:24,020
That was very clear.

3010
04:28:24,120 --> 04:28:25,340
I think it was a good presentation.

3011
04:28:26,060 --> 04:28:31,520
If Mr. Teder could explain the ownership that we have today, and how possibly it transfer

3012
04:28:31,520 --> 04:28:35,640
via our real estate policy would work, I think that might be helpful to the commission.

3013
04:28:35,640 --> 04:28:36,180
Okay.

3014
04:28:37,020 --> 04:28:38,520
Good afternoon, commissioners.

3015
04:28:41,220 --> 04:28:51,460
In terms of, if you direct staff to transfer this over to the arena, it would be just a simple

3016
04:28:51,460 --> 04:28:56,740
direction for staff to work with an agreement to do that transfer.

3017
04:28:57,320 --> 04:29:01,220
I think during some of the briefings you had a question, have we done this somewhere before?

3018
04:29:02,060 --> 04:29:05,140
One of the places that we have done it is the NAACP building.

3019
04:29:05,140 --> 04:29:10,200
I think in 2001, we purchased a piece of property for about $60,000.

3020
04:29:11,220 --> 04:29:18,640
In 2004, we approved a lease with the NAACP for an extended period of time.

3021
04:29:19,380 --> 04:29:28,220
And then in 2020, you all directed staff to transfer the property to the NAACP with certain restrictions.

3022
04:29:28,440 --> 04:29:31,520
And those restrictions expire in 2031.

3023
04:29:32,440 --> 04:29:38,200
Another common question, I think maybe occurred during some of the briefings was, have we done an appraisal of the site?

3024
04:29:38,660 --> 04:29:47,900
We have not, looking at Zalo, Zelo, we know that there are some homes for sale in the area between $150,000 and $230,000.

3025
04:29:48,800 --> 04:29:54,140
I would say this property would be on the very low end of that because it's not a single family home.

3026
04:29:54,140 --> 04:29:59,960
So in other words, to put it back into a single family home condition, you will need to spend a number of

3027
04:30:00,000 --> 04:30:28,700
$1 to be able to do that. And then I think lastly, a question about the agreement and why we were doing month to month. And it really allowed the services to continue out there until a situation like this occurs. Now we're getting an approach to say, hey, in order for us to do our job and be able to take in money and to do a better job out of that facility. We need to have long term ownership. So if it's a long term lease, you direct me to do that, and I will have staff write out a long term lease.

3028
04:30:28,700 --> 04:30:31,620
If it's to transfer the property, we can do that as well.

3029
04:30:31,860 --> 04:30:34,600
It'd be a simple work through the terms of the contract.

3030
04:30:34,940 --> 04:30:37,580
And I would say like the NAACP, there's reverted calls.

3031
04:30:38,240 --> 04:30:42,880
So I would expect that if we transferred it to it, there would be reverted calls to come back to the city.

3032
04:30:43,180 --> 04:30:49,460
If it ever exists, cease to exist, or the association cease to exist to operate this facility.

3033
04:30:57,580 --> 04:30:58,460
Any other public comment?

3034
04:30:59,060 --> 04:31:00,600
Yes sir, we do have speakers on the item.

3035
04:31:01,920 --> 04:31:04,020
About a half dozen, maybe eight.

3036
04:31:04,020 --> 04:31:09,160
The first speaker will be Leroy Peck, and the second speaker will be Gregory James.

3037
04:31:09,920 --> 04:31:11,580
Your name and address for the record, please.

3038
04:31:12,340 --> 04:31:14,520
Leroy Peck, public records exempt.

3039
04:31:15,800 --> 04:31:19,840
I will certify a discommission that I live within the corporate limits of the city of

3040
04:31:19,840 --> 04:31:22,820
Tallahasseh and have lived in this community since the fall of 1976.

3041
04:31:24,820 --> 04:31:25,480
Good evening.

3042
04:31:26,020 --> 04:31:26,360
Good evening.

3043
04:31:26,780 --> 04:31:29,700
I stand before you this evening as the president of the Council of Neighborhood

3044
04:31:29,700 --> 04:31:36,260
associations of Tallahassee Leon County, and I stand here in full support of the request

3045
04:31:36,260 --> 04:31:39,560
coming from the greater Appalachia region states and neighborhood associates.

3046
04:31:41,980 --> 04:31:43,640
I'll summarize some of my comments.

3047
04:31:44,600 --> 04:31:52,340
I don't exist because this community believes that residents organized, engaged, and empowered

3048
04:31:52,720 --> 04:31:54,520
are the best stewards of their neighborhoods.

3049
04:31:56,080 --> 04:32:02,160
This is the philosophy behind every neighborhood association that this city has recognized,

3050
04:32:02,700 --> 04:32:04,180
partnered with, or funded.

3051
04:32:06,940 --> 04:32:11,320
The greater Appalachia Ridge neighborhood, the state's neighborhood association is putting a lot of work,

3052
04:32:11,740 --> 04:32:12,740
a lot of resources.

3053
04:32:13,960 --> 04:32:25,580
They've marstelled over $100,000 in volunteer labor, they've come up with an excess of $186,000 in grants and

3054
04:32:25,580 --> 04:32:33,620
other funding for the past couple of years, they've advocated for the Legislature, for additional funding and support.

3055
04:32:34,400 --> 04:32:37,620
This is the kind of thing we encourage all of our neighborhoods to do.

3056
04:32:38,280 --> 04:32:43,240
Put in the work, seek resources outside of the city, outside of government.

3057
04:32:45,300 --> 04:32:46,280
They put in the work.

3058
04:32:48,450 --> 04:32:50,450
You've heard the vision.

3059
04:32:51,030 --> 04:32:54,350
It didn't come from outside of the neighborhood, it came from the neighborhood.

3060
04:32:54,350 --> 04:33:03,330
Good. And they're asking you to allow them to continue to do that work. And as the

3061
04:33:03,330 --> 04:33:07,390
President of the Council of Neighborhood Association, I stand here in full support of that.

3062
04:33:07,790 --> 04:33:08,390
Thank you.

3063
04:33:08,690 --> 04:33:08,990
Thank you.

3064
04:33:09,190 --> 04:33:09,850
Our next speaker, please.

3065
04:33:10,370 --> 04:33:14,350
Next speaker is Gregory James, followed by Dodd and M. Johnson.

3066
04:33:16,730 --> 04:33:18,250
Mr. James, then Dodd and

3067
04:33:18,250 --> 04:33:18,750
M. Johnson?

3068
04:33:25,280 --> 04:33:26,560
The name and address for the record, please.

3069
04:33:36,670 --> 04:33:52,570
I am opposed to a lease for this property because this center technology and learning center

3070
04:33:52,570 --> 04:33:56,870
predates almost everybody up there on the dice.

3071
04:33:59,350 --> 04:34:14,040
It's been there serving that community for a couple of decades and I don't think you

3072
04:34:14,040 --> 04:34:25,880
can compare it to the NAACP because it operates more like a community service center for

3073
04:34:25,880 --> 04:34:26,940
for the people there.

3074
04:34:29,330 --> 04:34:41,370
A few years ago, the 32304 census track was determined to be the

3075
04:34:41,370 --> 04:34:53,510
lowest income census track in the state. The 32301 was determined to be second in line.

3076
04:34:53,510 --> 04:35:06,190
The residents of this area deserve to have that property and that center transferred.

3077
04:35:06,830 --> 04:35:18,610
I would recommend or at least introduce two options, one to transfer it, the ownership

3078
04:35:18,610 --> 04:35:29,790
as the neighborhood is requesting the second is to treat it like a neighborhood service center and the city

3079
04:35:29,790 --> 04:35:45,190
provide the services for that center because there is no hope that forever they will be able to patch together the

3080
04:35:45,190 --> 04:35:56,410
grants to keep this going. And Christic is a very passionate supporter. But if

3081
04:35:56,410 --> 04:36:05,710
Christic ever decided she was not going to do that, who would be as passionate

3082
04:36:05,710 --> 04:36:12,870
to step up and take on all of that responsibility for that center? You're at

3083
04:36:12,870 --> 04:36:31,470
My recommendation is either the transfer I support with a neighborhood is asking for but I think the city should take on more responsibility for the insurance and the support of that center.

3084
04:36:31,710 --> 04:36:32,670
Thank you.

3085
04:36:32,670 --> 04:36:38,250
Our next speaker, please, Joyce Morgan, followed by Elton Thomas.

3086
04:36:39,070 --> 04:36:40,730
Your name and address for the record.

3087
04:36:41,410 --> 04:36:44,890
Joyce Morgan, 926 Millert Street.

3088
04:36:45,770 --> 04:36:52,390
As I speak to you as an association member since the 1990s, the mid 1990s.

3089
04:36:52,650 --> 04:36:59,230
We appreciate the city's actions and the development and the fulfillment of the plans of the south side.

3090
04:36:59,230 --> 04:37:01,930
and also the Appalachia Bridge Estates plans.

3091
04:37:02,550 --> 04:37:07,790
We understand that our current position is due in part to a lack of continuity and

3092
04:37:07,790 --> 04:37:14,050
knowledge as to how the center operates and continues to operate in what we need.

3093
04:37:15,430 --> 04:37:22,130
We have residents that we serve as from Appalachia Bridge Estates, Lynn Haven, Fairview, Meridian

3094
04:37:22,130 --> 04:37:29,770
part and council estates who are asking us what are we doing but because we don't have

3095
04:37:29,770 --> 04:37:35,810
site control and because we can't get the insurance it would be irresponsible to

3096
04:37:35,810 --> 04:37:44,110
open the center and have people come in and out. So we're asking to please at this point

3097
04:37:44,110 --> 04:37:54,450
to grant our request for a transfer so that we can use the facility as it has been intended and as it has been used in the past.

3098
04:37:54,950 --> 04:37:55,470
Thank you.

3099
04:37:55,990 --> 04:37:57,270
Our next speaker, please.

3100
04:37:58,150 --> 04:38:00,850
Elton Thomas and then James Morgan.

3101
04:38:02,050 --> 04:38:03,670
I'm going to adjust for the record, please.

3102
04:38:04,490 --> 04:38:10,830
Elton E. Thomas had this 806 Apache Street.

3103
04:38:10,830 --> 04:38:16,110
I'm coming to speak to you as a resident of Appalachia Ridge.

3104
04:38:16,550 --> 04:38:20,670
I've been in Appalachia Ridge for about 40 something years now.

3105
04:38:21,530 --> 04:38:25,210
I saw this project when I was there when the project was started.

3106
04:38:26,050 --> 04:38:35,330
The amount of enthusiasm, it was like a boom when we first got the learning center, but in the neighborhood.

3107
04:38:36,010 --> 04:38:38,430
We had the children coming there after school.

3108
04:38:38,430 --> 04:38:42,570
So, every day we had volunteers from the major university there.

3109
04:38:42,910 --> 04:38:47,730
Every day, eventually we got had adults coming because we were running programs.

3110
04:38:47,730 --> 04:38:57,130
Not just for the children, the technology, we were running programs to help adults manage our game that is skills for employment.

3111
04:38:58,130 --> 04:39:02,970
A few years ago, it seemed like the second coming of the building.

3112
04:39:02,970 --> 04:39:32,870
After we had lost the economy kind of put everything on the downside, 2024 looked like happy days were here again, but without control of the building, those things have struggled on the things we're trying to do, we're struggling to do that, we spent a lot of money to upgrade the building, we would ask you to give us the site control so that we can have the

3113
04:39:32,870 --> 04:39:39,010
programs that we want, we can have the investment from third parties that we're willing to assist us.

3114
04:39:39,450 --> 04:39:42,790
So that's why I'm here just to ask you to give us control of the building.

3115
04:39:43,170 --> 04:39:44,130
We would appreciate that.

3116
04:39:44,570 --> 04:39:45,090
Thank you.

3117
04:39:46,490 --> 04:39:47,690
Our next speaker, please.

3118
04:39:48,110 --> 04:39:51,270
Next is James Morgan, our last speaker.

3119
04:39:54,420 --> 04:39:57,600
James Morgan, nine, two, six, bill of street.

3120
04:39:58,520 --> 04:40:01,820
And I would like to yield my time, Mr. Henry.

3121
04:40:04,740 --> 04:40:12,700
We don't excuse me, we don't yield the time, it's your time, we've had an opportunity to heard from her state, so go ahead and say your piece.

3122
04:40:17,820 --> 04:40:32,920
Okay, well, I tried to yield my time to be crispy because he has the most information and it put in incredible work and we would invite ask you to consider transferring the house to the arena.

3123
04:40:33,440 --> 04:40:33,920
Thank you.

3124
04:40:33,920 --> 04:40:35,460
Thank you. Our next speaker, please.

3125
04:40:36,060 --> 04:40:37,320
No further speakers on this item.

3126
04:40:37,840 --> 04:40:39,480
Colleagues, Mayor Patim.

3127
04:40:39,920 --> 04:40:41,340
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

3128
04:40:41,660 --> 04:40:46,400
I first of all want to thank Christi for the leadership that she's provided

3129
04:40:46,400 --> 04:40:48,060
and getting us to this point.

3130
04:40:48,680 --> 04:40:53,980
But all of the neighbors and volunteers who have worked tireless years

3131
04:40:53,980 --> 04:40:58,720
to provide programs and services at that technology center.

3132
04:40:58,720 --> 04:41:08,400
I've watched it succeed and grow over the years and I know that the neighborhood association

3133
04:41:08,400 --> 04:41:16,560
and the volunteers would do a tremendous job in providing those continued services for

3134
04:41:16,560 --> 04:41:24,540
the children and families in the Appalachia Ridge neighborhood but in the broader service

3135
04:41:24,540 --> 04:41:45,120
service area that would be provided through that technology center and so, Mr. Mayor, I would recommend that we work out an agreement with the Greater Appalachia Reage Neighborhood Association to transfer site control of that facility to that organization.

3136
04:41:45,120 --> 04:41:55,300
second. Second motion has been made for our team to work on the transfer agreement for site control.

3137
04:41:56,520 --> 04:42:00,640
Seconded by Commissioner Williams Cox. Commissioner Williams Cox for discussion.

3138
04:42:01,120 --> 04:42:05,020
Thank you and I want to echo what Commissioner Richardson has said because I've watched it.

3139
04:42:05,820 --> 04:42:13,580
Visited a time or two and I think it's been sorely missed in the neighborhood and I think it is

3140
04:42:13,580 --> 04:42:21,360
high time for you all to be able to do what you need to do to continue to grow the children

3141
04:42:21,360 --> 04:42:27,320
and the adults who come there for educational purposes, job training, all of those kinds

3142
04:42:27,320 --> 04:42:32,040
of things because we know that AI is here, there are opportunities for you to be able

3143
04:42:32,040 --> 04:42:33,880
to do those kinds of things that help those students.

3144
04:42:35,740 --> 04:42:39,560
Some of you know that my husband is in the hospital at Shans and I'm heading there tonight

3145
04:42:39,560 --> 04:42:40,200
after work.

3146
04:42:40,200 --> 04:42:49,060
after this, but last night his nurse was telling us about her son who is working at

3147
04:42:49,060 --> 04:42:58,540
Google and he makes $30,000 a month, $30,000 a month. Can you imagine how life-changing

3148
04:42:58,540 --> 04:43:04,940
that would be for our children and our adults who could get that kind of education and

3149
04:43:04,940 --> 04:43:09,840
So I see that, I see that greatness can happen right here in this facility.

3150
04:43:09,840 --> 04:43:15,000
So I wholeheartedly support the transfer so that you all can control that destiny.

3151
04:43:15,340 --> 04:43:24,960
But I also agree with Dottie and Min Johnson that Christie and Elton and all of you,

3152
04:43:25,060 --> 04:43:29,040
you have a just a bundle of energy and passion.

3153
04:43:29,980 --> 04:43:32,500
And I know you got a bench, your folks coming behind you.

3154
04:43:32,500 --> 04:43:35,900
But we want to make sure that it continues to be that way.

3155
04:43:36,060 --> 04:43:43,560
So I would ask for a freely amendment that we do provide some type of revertile clause.

3156
04:43:44,020 --> 04:43:47,400
So that if something should happen, you know, 100 years from now, whatever.

3157
04:43:47,800 --> 04:43:52,720
Christine, you know, is gone and she's 100, but she's doing something else.

3158
04:43:53,480 --> 04:44:02,020
That and others that it still remain, it still can come back to the city as a property.

3159
04:44:02,020 --> 04:44:03,940
But I wholeheartedly support this transfer.

3160
04:44:04,540 --> 04:44:05,660
I've seen it at work.

3161
04:44:05,760 --> 04:44:07,060
I've seen the people doing the work.

3162
04:44:07,440 --> 04:44:11,060
They're very integral individuals and go getters.

3163
04:44:11,420 --> 04:44:17,540
I also ask that our grant staff also work with them to help them identify and

3164
04:44:17,540 --> 04:44:23,360
be able to apply for grants to allow them to be able to fund some of the innovative things that

3165
04:44:23,360 --> 04:44:25,920
I know will come out of this, out of this, this project.

3166
04:44:27,820 --> 04:44:29,420
Mayor Pertham, thank you.

3167
04:44:29,420 --> 04:44:39,260
I was my intent that that revertor clause be in the contract, but if we need to do that as an amendment to my motion,

3168
04:44:39,260 --> 04:44:42,680
I would certainly accept that as a friendly amendment.

3169
04:44:43,020 --> 04:44:43,880
Great, as amended.

3170
04:44:44,320 --> 04:44:44,880
Okay, yes.

3171
04:44:45,100 --> 04:44:46,040
I supported as well.

3172
04:44:46,260 --> 04:44:47,100
It was a great idea.

3173
04:44:47,480 --> 04:44:47,580
Yeah.

3174
04:44:47,800 --> 04:44:48,880
For the comment, Commissioner Mallow.

3175
04:44:49,160 --> 04:44:50,060
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

3176
04:44:50,460 --> 04:44:51,820
Thank you for all the speakers today.

3177
04:44:52,120 --> 04:44:56,980
As we know, neighborhoods are only as strong as the people who care about them and are willing to show up for them.

3178
04:44:56,980 --> 04:44:59,620
And I think it's been a great facility.

3179
04:45:00,000 --> 04:45:29,840
Over the years, I recognize the need for a 2.0. So to speak, and happy to support the motion could have also gone the other way. There is a liability transfer. The city currently takes care of the roof and the HVAC and the plumbing and all the things that would get transferred to private ownership. What's important to me is we continue to keep the public purpose, the public facility, which I believe is what the reverter cop clause speaks to. So keep up the great work. Look forward to what it becomes and let us know if we can be helpful in the process.

3180
04:45:29,840 --> 04:45:30,300
Thank you.

3181
04:45:30,500 --> 04:45:31,940
You might need a few pieces, you think?

3182
04:45:32,460 --> 04:45:33,720
We can't talk about that here.

3183
04:45:36,650 --> 04:45:37,470
Alicia Porter.

3184
04:45:37,950 --> 04:45:38,750
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

3185
04:45:39,330 --> 04:45:43,190
And I want to thank y'all for what you've been doing.

3186
04:45:45,820 --> 04:45:47,440
It sounds like amazing work.

3187
04:45:47,580 --> 04:45:54,680
I haven't had the chance to tour the facility or meet with you, but it's really, I read

3188
04:45:54,680 --> 04:45:57,520
through the proposal and it's really incredible work.

3189
04:45:58,920 --> 04:46:03,380
I'm ready to all support the motion to see what comes back to us.

3190
04:46:03,660 --> 04:46:14,700
I do have to say, though, that it, I would like when we have these conversations, I don't think the default should be to transfer or sell public assets.

3191
04:46:15,420 --> 04:46:26,520
If site control and a long-term lease would satisfy the concerns, that is my preference to be the starting point.

3192
04:46:27,000 --> 04:46:40,700
So, I'll support the motion, but in general, we've gone through this before with public assets, and I do believe that this is unique and different, which is why I'll support the motion to see what comes back to us.

3193
04:46:40,760 --> 04:46:42,920
So, I want to understand what is coming back to us.

3194
04:46:43,040 --> 04:46:56,060
Will there be, when we transfer assets, I mean, I want to first of all know what we mean when we say transfer, because we use that term to mean a sale the last time we use that term.

3195
04:46:56,620 --> 04:47:03,540
I think the position of the motion is we're going to transfer a title, they're going to get the building and we're not selling it.

3196
04:47:03,820 --> 04:47:06,020
Yes. That's the intent.

3197
04:47:06,440 --> 04:47:10,680
That's what's coming back. All those in favor of the motion on the table?

3198
04:47:10,800 --> 04:47:12,140
Signify by saying aye. Aye.

3199
04:47:12,360 --> 04:47:12,980
All those opposed.

3200
04:47:13,900 --> 04:47:16,020
Passes five, oh unanimously.

3201
04:47:16,900 --> 04:47:19,020
All right, we're on item number 12.01.

3202
04:47:19,020 --> 04:47:21,480
One, Mr. Major.

3203
04:47:21,880 --> 04:47:22,320
Thank you, sir.

3204
04:47:23,080 --> 04:47:26,440
This topic came, was discussed a year last meeting.

3205
04:47:26,640 --> 04:47:34,080
You asked for additional information to come back regarding license plate reader technology.

3206
04:47:35,000 --> 04:47:40,840
Chief Revel and his staff, including Assistant Chief Celesky, Deputy Chief Mahoney,

3207
04:47:41,080 --> 04:47:44,820
and Director Loer here to answer any questions you have on that.

3208
04:47:44,820 --> 04:47:51,380
you have a full comprehensive agenda item in your material tonight that covers a lot of ground

3209
04:47:51,380 --> 04:47:57,120
it covers ground beyond the license plate reader technology and I want to point out so you know

3210
04:47:57,120 --> 04:48:03,600
whatever direction we take tonight that you provide tonight that we have two companies two brands

3211
04:48:03,600 --> 04:48:11,280
of fixed license plate reader cameras one being flocked which is very well known the other one

3212
04:48:11,280 --> 04:48:16,420
is a Motorola brand. They have, they look different, but they, for all intents and purposes,

3213
04:48:16,520 --> 04:48:21,400
do the same thing. So we're using two different brands of license plate reader technology.

3214
04:48:21,980 --> 04:48:26,460
In your agenda material, though, it covers also public safety cameras. You'll recall lots

3215
04:48:26,460 --> 04:48:31,980
of discussion about that. We utilize those in certain areas of our community. That information

3216
04:48:31,980 --> 04:48:37,820
is available to our real-time crime center, as well as the license plate reader data. We

3217
04:48:37,820 --> 04:48:42,140
We have traffic cameras at all of our intersections, 300 plus intersections in our community.

3218
04:48:42,740 --> 04:48:47,940
That information is used by our traffic management system, but also available to our real-time

3219
04:48:47,940 --> 04:48:48,620
crime center.

3220
04:48:49,520 --> 04:48:54,560
As you also know, there's been an effort to incorporate private cameras, like ring cameras,

3221
04:48:54,860 --> 04:48:55,500
into that.

3222
04:48:55,640 --> 04:49:02,320
So there's been, over the last, about six years, there's been this confluence of video information

3223
04:49:02,320 --> 04:49:05,440
that really has propped up our real-time crime center

3224
04:49:05,440 --> 04:49:09,480
that we partner with the sheriff, FSU, FAMU, FDLE,

3225
04:49:09,740 --> 04:49:12,260
to support the use of that,

3226
04:49:12,380 --> 04:49:14,740
take that emerging technology and crime fighting

3227
04:49:14,740 --> 04:49:16,600
and discovery and locating of people.

3228
04:49:17,760 --> 04:49:21,260
The experts that are here, they're here to answer questions.

3229
04:49:21,940 --> 04:49:24,680
They all have a different role in this, expertise

3230
04:49:24,680 --> 04:49:27,740
about the data, the data handling, the access to the data,

3231
04:49:28,340 --> 04:49:30,040
the policies that we use.

3232
04:49:30,040 --> 04:49:59,960
I think in the agenda item you would have read, that TPD, not unusual, by the way, is ahead of the game because you've heard a lot of discussion around the country and the state about the governance and the use of this information, the access of the information and TPD has a very robust policy, I think is general water 56 and how their officers and others can access this, how they can be used and so that's in your agenda material as well.

3233
04:49:59,960 --> 04:50:07,160
And then there's some anecdotal success stories that are in there where crimes have been

3234
04:50:07,160 --> 04:50:08,780
solved, people have been located.

3235
04:50:09,580 --> 04:50:16,060
What we know is it's become the license plate reader technology and access has become fundamental

3236
04:50:16,700 --> 04:50:23,940
in all of our violent crimes, all of our homicide investigations, whether it ultimately is used

3237
04:50:23,940 --> 04:50:27,160
or not, it is accessed immediately.

3238
04:50:27,560 --> 04:50:29,380
It's become a tool, a standard tool,

3239
04:50:29,400 --> 04:50:30,940
and it's helped us solve lots of crimes.

3240
04:50:31,680 --> 04:50:33,480
You heard from the chief at the last meeting

3241
04:50:33,480 --> 04:50:37,420
that we want to make sure that we're using things properly

3242
04:50:38,080 --> 04:50:40,500
that the public trusts what we're doing

3243
04:50:40,940 --> 04:50:43,180
that we've got proper rules governing that

3244
04:50:43,180 --> 04:50:45,580
and that we manage ourselves, that we audit

3245
04:50:45,580 --> 04:50:48,240
and govern ourselves.

3246
04:50:48,440 --> 04:50:50,680
And so that's happened at TBD,

3247
04:50:50,680 --> 04:50:53,880
the inquiries have to be noted, they're reviewed,

3248
04:50:54,260 --> 04:50:56,940
they're validated and make sure that nobody's misusing this.

3249
04:50:57,280 --> 04:50:58,960
We've heard stories from around the country

3250
04:50:59,590 --> 04:51:01,960
where this kind of access has been misused.

3251
04:51:02,720 --> 04:51:04,820
And I'm happy to say that's not the case here.

3252
04:51:05,920 --> 04:51:08,040
And that's in my estimation,

3253
04:51:08,740 --> 04:51:10,560
kudos to TBD for having good rules

3254
04:51:10,560 --> 04:51:12,580
and good training for the use of it.

3255
04:51:13,360 --> 04:51:15,540
But commissioners, we want to provide you

3256
04:51:15,540 --> 04:51:18,360
this information as a follow-up to the discussion you had.

3257
04:51:18,360 --> 04:51:24,820
We believe it's an important community discussion and there's been a lot of activity even since your last meeting

3258
04:51:25,500 --> 04:51:29,620
The state of Florida has issued an order to remove

3259
04:51:29,620 --> 04:51:34,940
I believe it might be limited to flock. There's a little confusion in other words flocks

3260
04:51:34,940 --> 04:51:36,640
Not the only brand of license plate reader

3261
04:51:37,280 --> 04:51:37,760
cameras

3262
04:51:38,900 --> 04:51:45,200
But they've issued an order to remove those we do have some of our cameras in the state right away

3263
04:51:45,200 --> 04:51:51,760
I think it's in order of six or so of the total 150-ish that we have.

3264
04:51:51,940 --> 04:51:54,200
And so that activity is underway.

3265
04:51:54,960 --> 04:52:02,560
And then the sheriff, Sheriff McNeil locally in Leon County has ordered the suspension of the use of their cameras.

3266
04:52:02,560 --> 04:52:04,120
I'm not sure what brands they have.

3267
04:52:04,620 --> 04:52:12,660
In this, the suspension essentially entails two things, removing the access and security of the users.

3268
04:52:12,660 --> 04:52:15,120
So, think about the ability to log into your computer.

3269
04:52:15,340 --> 04:52:21,740
So, that's easily suspended for all users, and then stopping the video and recording

3270
04:52:21,740 --> 04:52:22,520
to those cameras.

3271
04:52:22,760 --> 04:52:28,320
And so, that stops any data collection, that stops any access to the use of those licensed

3272
04:52:28,320 --> 04:52:29,060
plate readers.

3273
04:52:29,300 --> 04:52:31,520
And clearly, we work closely with the sheriff.

3274
04:52:32,160 --> 04:52:38,260
We work closely with FDLE and our university partners because of that compliance of information

3275
04:52:38,260 --> 04:52:42,420
and data and intelligence in the real time crime center.

3276
04:52:43,000 --> 04:52:44,940
So we wanted to provide you this information.

3277
04:52:45,060 --> 04:52:48,280
Again, you have a full thorough report in your agenda.

3278
04:52:48,800 --> 04:52:50,320
We wanted to be available for questions

3279
04:52:50,880 --> 04:52:53,700
and then look forward to the direction of the city commission.

3280
04:52:54,440 --> 04:52:54,820
Thank you, sir.

3281
04:52:55,520 --> 04:52:56,320
Thank you.

3282
04:52:56,540 --> 04:52:59,080
Before I get the public comment, just put in clarification

3283
04:52:59,080 --> 04:53:00,400
because if I was a bad man,

3284
04:53:00,560 --> 04:53:02,600
I'd be willing to bet that we won't suspend this tonight.

3285
04:53:03,060 --> 04:53:04,800
Because of the action that's been taking place,

3286
04:53:05,000 --> 04:53:06,080
since the last meeting that we had,

3287
04:53:06,080 --> 04:53:11,060
but the gutter is suspended in state roads and right ways and then you've got the sheriff's

3288
04:53:11,060 --> 04:53:16,140
action as well and all of our community partners seem to not be adopting this. Are you looking

3289
04:53:16,140 --> 04:53:21,620
for our direction to suspend this or why haven't we just taken the action to suspend it?

3290
04:53:21,720 --> 04:53:26,420
Mr. Mayor, I think I can answer it, but I'm going to ask Director Load to help me with this.

3291
04:53:28,120 --> 04:53:34,800
The value, you can come forward Jason, if you don't mind. The value and the use of the

3292
04:53:34,800 --> 04:53:36,120
the license plate reader technology.

3293
04:53:36,600 --> 04:53:39,540
Again, not limited to flock, it goes beyond flock,

3294
04:53:39,860 --> 04:53:43,820
has been the ability to cross jurisdictional information access

3295
04:53:44,620 --> 04:53:47,920
and location which extends far beyond the state of Florida.

3296
04:53:48,560 --> 04:53:51,160
Some of the information you saw in your agenda packet.

3297
04:53:51,400 --> 04:53:54,560
And so while valuable, the more information,

3298
04:53:54,700 --> 04:53:56,020
the connections you have valuable,

3299
04:53:56,340 --> 04:54:00,760
that in itself doesn't limit the value of the cameras,

3300
04:54:01,040 --> 04:54:04,240
even if it was only within the city of Tallahassee.

3301
04:54:04,240 --> 04:54:09,760
We do have the ability, it's configurable, we have the ability to say the information can only be

3302
04:54:10,540 --> 04:54:17,840
had by the TPD officers, controlled by TPD officers, and not used beyond our boundaries, that's still valuable.

3303
04:54:18,160 --> 04:54:23,560
And so we want to make sure that we're taking direction from the City Commission.

3304
04:54:24,100 --> 04:54:30,900
That's consistent with what the public would desire, but also sharing how we're using it, how it's being accessed,

3305
04:54:30,900 --> 04:54:33,920
to ask how it integrates beyond the city,

3306
04:54:34,080 --> 04:54:36,080
the county, the state, and elsewhere.

3307
04:54:36,660 --> 04:54:38,540
So, I'll probably answer the question,

3308
04:54:38,680 --> 04:54:41,760
but Director Low, is there anything else I should add to that?

3309
04:54:42,880 --> 04:54:43,780
You did a great job.

3310
04:54:43,820 --> 04:54:44,300
No, thank you.

3311
04:54:45,140 --> 04:54:47,660
Hey, look, it's a completely different day

3312
04:54:47,660 --> 04:54:49,260
since we met two weeks ago.

3313
04:54:49,620 --> 04:54:51,600
There's been a lot of action with our community partners.

3314
04:54:51,940 --> 04:54:57,000
First of all, I want to congratulate all of our agencies

3315
04:54:57,000 --> 04:54:58,500
locally, especially TPD,

3316
04:54:58,500 --> 04:55:03,760
that we have not had one recorded case of abuse of what we're seeing going on across the

3317
04:55:03,760 --> 04:55:08,980
country. Nonetheless, this is a big issue out in society. And we're all hearing about

3318
04:55:08,980 --> 04:55:13,180
it right and left. And so again, if I was a bet man, we're going to do exactly what the

3319
04:55:13,180 --> 04:55:18,880
sheriff did and we're going to suspend all action on the flat cameras or those that we use

3320
04:55:18,880 --> 04:55:24,700
that are similar to it. But I just want to make sure that we clearly identify, first of all,

3321
04:55:24,700 --> 04:55:28,820
We all did a great job with putting together the policies and procedures on how to operate.

3322
04:55:29,380 --> 04:55:33,820
I'm very proud that we have an agency that did not have a single complaint of abuse period.

3323
04:55:34,100 --> 04:55:34,320
Period.

3324
04:55:35,300 --> 04:55:40,320
But at the same time, I think we need to suspend just because of the fact of our community

3325
04:55:40,320 --> 04:55:43,820
partners and where we are in society until we get more answers and more comfortable.

3326
04:55:44,560 --> 04:55:48,520
That's where I am before we move forward because I know we've got a lot of people here that

3327
04:55:48,520 --> 04:55:49,680
want to speak on this issue.

3328
04:55:49,680 --> 04:55:54,100
And so, we have any other questions before we get the public comment?

3329
04:55:54,860 --> 04:56:03,380
Yeah, the question that I have, Mayor, is it, is this simply the suspension which I would agree with,

3330
04:56:03,620 --> 04:56:14,160
limited to the license plate readers or would it apply to all of the cameras that we have available to them?

3331
04:56:14,620 --> 04:56:17,420
Specifically, what was the action that would take about the sheriff's office?

3332
04:56:17,420 --> 04:56:31,680
Yes, sir. Thank you. That's a really good question, sir. And I appreciate that. I think if it's consistent with what the sheriff did, it would be the suspension of our fixed LPR cameras, which includes block and motor oil.

3333
04:56:32,080 --> 04:56:40,300
Motor oil has a different brand name, but it's the motor oil product, which is approximately 150 LPR cameras.

3334
04:56:41,300 --> 04:56:48,800
And Mr. Mayor, the reason I asked that question in particular, I'm sure most of us are familiar

3335
04:56:48,800 --> 04:56:55,700
with the fact that in the bond community, at one point, we had an exorbit crime rate

3336
04:56:55,700 --> 04:56:56,900
in that neighborhood.

3337
04:56:57,600 --> 04:57:06,000
We put cameras in the neighborhood and saw immediately a 30% reduction in crime.

3338
04:57:06,000 --> 04:57:21,680
In my own neighborhood, which is on the south side of town, we have had some issues with crime and my neighbors and I agreed to have the camera surveillance for our neighborhood.

3339
04:57:22,100 --> 04:57:34,500
And so I just want to make sure that where we have, I just want clarification as to whether or not we're going to suspend all of that surveillance.

3340
04:57:35,560 --> 04:57:39,620
or if it will be limited to the license plate read.

3341
04:57:40,060 --> 04:57:47,460
Mr. Mayor, Mr. Mayor Pro Tem, it would be limited if you're acting consistent with the sheriff's actions.

3342
04:57:47,580 --> 04:57:48,000
Yes, right.

3343
04:57:48,220 --> 04:57:55,500
And other similar actions, it would be limited to the license plate reader cameras, the public safety cameras you reference.

3344
04:57:55,820 --> 04:58:03,580
Yes, they exist, they're available to the real-time crime center, that would, we would presume those would continue

3345
04:58:03,580 --> 04:58:05,760
I need to operate, okay.

3346
04:58:06,020 --> 04:58:06,600
Mr. Mayor.

3347
04:58:06,940 --> 04:58:09,160
Before we go ahead, yes, Commissioner Williams-Cox.

3348
04:58:09,600 --> 04:58:13,100
I just wanted to weigh in as well.

3349
04:58:13,240 --> 04:58:14,800
I'm thankful again for that clarification.

3350
04:58:15,420 --> 04:58:18,640
We're not talking about all cameras, we're only talking about flock and motorola.

3351
04:58:19,960 --> 04:58:21,500
There has been a flurry of activity.

3352
04:58:22,200 --> 04:58:28,440
I have spoken to the chief, I've spoken to the sheriff, I've spoken to our local delegation, the legislators.

3353
04:58:29,060 --> 04:58:32,640
I've spoken to former police officers, I've spoken to community members.

3354
04:58:32,640 --> 04:58:49,300
I've even consulted chat GBT, and I'm telling you that I think we're going to land in the same place that we need to suspend these technology.

3355
04:58:50,140 --> 04:59:00,360
Because we want to be able to provide public safety, but we also want to respect the civil liberties and privacy of individuals.

3356
04:59:00,360 --> 04:59:04,380
But being a technologist, I'm looking over here at my man,

3357
04:59:04,460 --> 04:59:09,220
Harold Lane, and he's sitting there listening because you've got your finger on the switch.

3358
04:59:09,960 --> 04:59:14,100
As soon as the decision is made, it's shut off.

3359
04:59:14,240 --> 04:59:20,580
So thank you all for working together to be ready to do what this commission says to do.

3360
04:59:20,760 --> 04:59:21,780
Thank you, Mr. Manifold.

3361
04:59:21,780 --> 04:59:23,940
Sure, I want to get straight into public comment.

3362
04:59:24,080 --> 04:59:27,500
We have 20 speakers, we have an hour of public comment on this item.

3363
04:59:27,700 --> 04:59:29,800
So let's jump right in, Mr. Clerk.

3364
04:59:29,800 --> 04:59:35,820
Thank you Mayor, first speaker on the item, Tim Staddle Mueller, followed by David Derby.

3365
04:59:44,310 --> 04:59:45,330
Thank you for hearing me.

3366
04:59:47,520 --> 04:59:48,720
Name an address for the record please.

3367
04:59:49,120 --> 04:59:51,040
Tim Staddle Mueller, 9-11-Poward Trail.

3368
04:59:51,900 --> 04:59:53,960
Thank you for putting the item back on the agenda.

3369
04:59:55,160 --> 04:59:56,980
And thank you for considering suspension.

3370
04:59:57,300 --> 04:59:59,980
I want to be very clear about the fact that suspension is not the same-

3371
05:00:00,000 --> 05:00:16,740
The thing is removal, and frankly, if we're suspending use, if we're suspending use, they need to be covered as well, because we don't own these, and as long as those lenses are exposed and those solar panels are working, those cameras are still sending information. I want to be clear about that, my

3372
05:00:20,290 --> 05:00:31,210
understanding. We are no closer to the revelation who exactly made the backroom deal that brought flock cameras to our community.

3373
05:00:33,320 --> 05:00:34,460
As the adage goes,

3374
05:00:34,460 --> 05:00:39,160
If you've done nothing wrong, you've got nothing to hide.

3375
05:00:40,780 --> 05:00:41,920
Here's my question.

3376
05:00:44,220 --> 05:00:46,320
Why is this information not public record?

3377
05:00:47,260 --> 05:00:48,240
To my understanding.

3378
05:00:49,400 --> 05:00:54,980
And if we're so much safer now, you should be standing behind your decision proudly.

3379
05:00:56,440 --> 05:01:01,540
And it's telling that to my understanding, the people who made this decision are not.

3380
05:01:01,540 --> 05:01:01,600
Not.

3381
05:01:06,880 --> 05:01:14,040
I'm finding it difficult to strike a measured and composed tone when you're out here installing

3382
05:01:14,040 --> 05:01:19,500
what amounts to police surveillance state, police state infrastructure.

3383
05:01:20,480 --> 05:01:24,040
I want to be very clear about the fact that I understand that these reduce crime.

3384
05:01:24,460 --> 05:01:25,440
That's a positive thing.

3385
05:01:25,740 --> 05:01:33,180
What I'm asking you to consider is how this information and that is being collected, this infrastructure

3386
05:01:33,180 --> 05:01:42,420
When normalized, as background infrastructure essentially provides a potential authoritarian shift,

3387
05:01:42,840 --> 05:01:54,920
authoritarian power grab, with a turnkey tool to jail and neutralize, shall we say, opposition.

3388
05:01:55,900 --> 05:01:59,800
This is not barfetched at all.

3389
05:02:00,980 --> 05:02:05,220
And I want to be clear about the fact that I find the fact, I find it irresponsible

3390
05:02:05,220 --> 05:02:11,000
that this decision was made behind the backs of the entire community, and some of the

3391
05:02:11,000 --> 05:02:17,380
comments that have heard made less so today but two weeks ago gave me the impression

3392
05:02:17,380 --> 05:02:22,280
that some of the people on this commission do not have a full understanding of the

3393
05:02:22,280 --> 05:02:24,260
implication of what this technology represents.

3394
05:02:26,180 --> 05:02:31,380
There is a petition of moratorium that the folks who I have been working with have been

3395
05:02:31,380 --> 05:02:36,980
working on. It is a non-vendor-specific moratorium to be placed in perpetuity.

3396
05:02:37,500 --> 05:02:41,120
The language is currently being reviewed by a legislative policy expert.

3397
05:02:41,940 --> 05:02:47,580
Please follow our lead on this and show respect for the privacy rights of our community.

3398
05:02:47,580 --> 05:02:47,860
Thank you.

3399
05:02:47,920 --> 05:02:48,740
You have my time.

3400
05:02:49,900 --> 05:02:50,480
Next speaker, please.

3401
05:02:51,080 --> 05:02:52,280
Next speaker is David Derby.

3402
05:02:53,380 --> 05:02:55,240
David Derby followed by Zachary Bell.

3403
05:02:57,630 --> 05:02:58,930
Damon, just for the record, please.

3404
05:03:01,210 --> 05:03:06,510
David Derby, the Labor Street in May remanner, 3-2-3-0-4.

3405
05:03:07,590 --> 05:03:11,050
That's a famous zip code intelligence, yes.

3406
05:03:12,870 --> 05:03:15,550
I'm very much against the cameras to be get go.

3407
05:03:16,070 --> 05:03:19,930
I understand as one of my officers explained to me it's a tool in their tool.

3408
05:03:19,930 --> 05:03:28,110
But the tool is too easily abused, it's too easily metamorphed into other things.

3409
05:03:28,230 --> 05:03:33,250
Not only do our police department have access, but I can guarantee you somebody can hack

3410
05:03:33,250 --> 05:03:36,110
in there and record everything that they've got going on.

3411
05:03:36,990 --> 05:03:42,250
With AI, it's prime to hunt people, not your citizens.

3412
05:03:44,110 --> 05:03:48,210
They have live streaming, not just picture taken, but live streaming.

3413
05:03:48,750 --> 05:03:54,450
They identify vehicles, not just ice and baits, and then there's technology where they

3414
05:03:54,450 --> 05:03:57,930
go into your vehicle and pick up all your electronics in your vehicle at the end of

3415
05:03:57,930 --> 05:03:58,650
life who's in there.

3416
05:03:59,530 --> 05:04:01,330
I think this is a little bit of overreach.

3417
05:04:02,710 --> 05:04:05,010
It's turning us into a surveillance state.

3418
05:04:06,150 --> 05:04:09,090
China started this stuff off, I don't know if y'all remember, I think it was a home guard

3419
05:04:09,090 --> 05:04:15,010
so he started hunting, and it made them really good at hunting the people and suppressing

3420
05:04:15,010 --> 05:04:17,630
just like my colleague here doesn't

3421
05:04:17,630 --> 05:04:20,190
elaborate, this can be used nefariously,

3422
05:04:20,330 --> 05:04:21,330
really, really bad.

3423
05:04:23,510 --> 05:04:25,650
Insurance companies also use this to raise

3424
05:04:25,650 --> 05:04:29,030
rates and to buy co-riches, along with

3425
05:04:29,030 --> 05:04:33,150
your credit score, vehicle profiles,

3426
05:04:33,670 --> 05:04:35,850
occupants, what's the need for it?

3427
05:04:37,350 --> 05:04:39,370
It's a tool that's great to solve crime,

3428
05:04:39,630 --> 05:04:41,870
but what are we doing all this information

3429
05:04:41,870 --> 05:04:47,090
gathering on honest citizens. I mean, I'm really, really disappointed that we got this

3430
05:04:47,090 --> 05:04:54,050
where I also like to know, like he asked, how did we get here? How was this grant and

3431
05:04:54,910 --> 05:04:58,650
our chief just decided to go put these cameras out or did he come and tell you all we're

3432
05:04:58,650 --> 05:05:04,110
going to do this? And did you don't know to the extent of this surveillance when this came

3433
05:05:04,110 --> 05:05:10,590
out? 150 cameras, that's an awful lot of surveillance. Why do I need to know? Why do TPD need to

3434
05:05:10,590 --> 05:05:13,070
I know where I'm going all around town and how I get home.

3435
05:05:13,490 --> 05:05:14,330
It's another business.

3436
05:05:15,530 --> 05:05:16,870
Now, this supposed to be a free state,

3437
05:05:17,730 --> 05:05:20,870
but it's turning into this surveillance state really quick.

3438
05:05:21,930 --> 05:05:23,210
How about false arrest?

3439
05:05:23,630 --> 05:05:24,830
How do you make that up to somebody?

3440
05:05:25,750 --> 05:05:27,410
How do you undo a cavity search?

3441
05:05:28,410 --> 05:05:30,770
Did you know anybody answered that one from I don't think you can?

3442
05:05:31,810 --> 05:05:34,090
I'm glad to hear that there's no abuse,

3443
05:05:34,510 --> 05:05:37,610
but how's there been any false arrest in telehasty?

3444
05:05:37,870 --> 05:05:38,850
You're at 30 seconds remaining.

3445
05:05:38,850 --> 05:05:44,850
I would like to see an accountability report every year on how this is going, how it's been impacted,

3446
05:05:44,850 --> 05:05:48,150
what the good was, and if there's any bad, it needs to be highlighted.

3447
05:05:50,210 --> 05:05:56,130
You're losing the respect of your constituents. We didn't have an opportunity to say we wanted

3448
05:05:56,130 --> 05:06:03,790
this or not. So I would appreciate y'all understanding that the people have opinions, and we elect you guys,

3449
05:06:03,790 --> 05:06:07,430
but somewhere in this it was lost. Thank you for your minutes.

3450
05:06:07,430 --> 05:06:08,910
Next speaker, please.

3451
05:06:09,470 --> 05:06:10,790
Next speaker, Zachary Bell.

3452
05:06:14,380 --> 05:06:17,780
Don't see Zachary Bell, so Marsha Rule.

3453
05:06:21,690 --> 05:06:23,470
Your name and address for the record, please.

3454
05:06:23,890 --> 05:06:26,610
Marsha Rule, Maple Drive, here in Tallahassee.

3455
05:06:26,790 --> 05:06:30,830
I'd like to start out by saying, you know, I'm here to speak against the cameras.

3456
05:06:31,370 --> 05:06:33,250
Let's call them what they really are.

3457
05:06:33,310 --> 05:06:35,230
They're not license plate readers.

3458
05:06:35,510 --> 05:06:37,510
They capture everything that's in view.

3459
05:06:37,790 --> 05:06:42,310
And that's just today's technology, which can be updated without any of your knowledge.

3460
05:06:43,150 --> 05:06:49,990
One of the largest invasions of privacy of American citizens ever, and we didn't consent to it.

3461
05:06:50,490 --> 05:06:52,530
There's been some discussion about abuses.

3462
05:06:53,450 --> 05:06:58,430
I think it's abusive to have them out there in the first place, but even so,

3463
05:06:58,490 --> 05:07:04,490
they're over, according to TPDs, portal over 1,300 organizations that can access

3464
05:07:04,490 --> 05:07:06,310
Tallahassee information now.

3465
05:07:06,890 --> 05:07:10,750
And of course, that can be abused, but that's not really the worst of it.

3466
05:07:10,750 --> 05:07:16,910
that can build any number, flock in other providers, can build any number of data

3467
05:07:16,910 --> 05:07:23,110
resale products, they can aggregate it with data from other brokers, and they're

3468
05:07:23,110 --> 05:07:25,710
selling our data, they're selling our lives.

3469
05:07:26,390 --> 05:07:31,330
A foreign government can track and buy, but you just get a subscription and purchase

3470
05:07:31,330 --> 05:07:38,370
the data, and of course, the data can always be hacked and stolen and sold, and I'm

3471
05:07:38,370 --> 05:07:46,510
I'm sure some of you have gotten data breach notices, maybe from your bank or from TNH most

3472
05:07:46,510 --> 05:07:47,110
recently.

3473
05:07:47,550 --> 05:07:50,010
And those are only the ones you know about.

3474
05:07:50,410 --> 05:07:54,610
I guarantee you that there have been others and you can find out in the dark web.

3475
05:07:55,790 --> 05:08:03,490
But when you allow flock cameras and other camera readers into our community, you're allowing

3476
05:08:03,490 --> 05:08:09,630
and encouraging the creation of data, data that can be sold, data that can be misused,

3477
05:08:09,950 --> 05:08:12,050
data that invades our privacy.

3478
05:08:13,030 --> 05:08:13,690
Thank you.

3479
05:08:13,950 --> 05:08:14,350
Our next speaker.

3480
05:08:15,050 --> 05:08:17,470
Sean Thomas is the next speaker, then Darryl Alfred.

3481
05:08:27,430 --> 05:08:29,030
You may have an address for the record, please.

3482
05:08:29,510 --> 05:08:32,970
Sean Thomas, 2113, join our drive, Tallahassee, Florida.

3483
05:08:33,490 --> 05:08:35,110
Good evening, Mayor and commissioners.

3484
05:08:35,430 --> 05:08:42,210
I urge you to end Tallahassee's block camera program and stop treating mass vehicle surveillance as a normal part of life in our city.

3485
05:08:42,210 --> 05:08:50,770
CPD operates 155 automated license plate reader cameras, 80-flot cameras, and 75 vigilant cameras.

3486
05:08:51,170 --> 05:08:56,810
That's what the 155 consists of, someone getting paid $317,000 should know this.

3487
05:08:57,550 --> 05:09:05,450
Supporters call this a public safety tool, but public safety cannot cost that, cannot come at the cost of turning every resident into a data point.

3488
05:09:05,450 --> 05:09:12,910
Tracked when they go to work, attend church, visit a doctor, go to a protest, or see family and friends.

3489
05:09:13,530 --> 05:09:15,130
The privacy risk are real.

3490
05:09:15,650 --> 05:09:22,350
These systems can connect local vehicle data to a broader law enforcement network and move data as deeply personal.

3491
05:09:22,870 --> 05:09:25,370
And movement data is deeply personal, sorry.

3492
05:09:25,950 --> 05:09:32,710
Once a surveillance network exists, the question is not only how it is used today, the question is how it can be expanded,

3493
05:09:32,710 --> 05:09:35,130
stated, shared, or misused tomorrow.

3494
05:09:35,670 --> 05:09:40,050
The state of Florida has already recognized that these cameras raise serious concerns.

3495
05:09:40,570 --> 05:09:45,530
On August 31st, F.Revoked permits for license plate readers and state highway

3496
05:09:45,530 --> 05:09:50,630
right-of-ways ordered agencies to remove them within 30 days and said it would stop

3497
05:09:51,190 --> 05:09:53,510
approving new installation in those areas.

3498
05:09:54,190 --> 05:09:57,050
Soon after, Sheriff Walt McNeil also followed suit.

3499
05:09:57,050 --> 05:10:02,850
Kelly asked he should not respond by looking for ways to preserve surveillance on every remaining city street.

3500
05:10:03,270 --> 05:10:06,170
It should lead by protecting civil liberties.

3501
05:10:06,710 --> 05:10:11,250
If police believe a vehicle is connected to a serious crime, they have investigative tools.

3502
05:10:11,550 --> 05:10:16,890
Witnesses, warrants, detectives, traditional camera footage, and targeted searches.

3503
05:10:17,610 --> 05:10:25,270
We do not need a permanent city-wide system that collects information on everyone's first and ask question later.

3504
05:10:25,850 --> 05:10:30,790
I ask this commission to remove the cameras and in the city participation in the flock network,

3505
05:10:31,170 --> 05:10:36,590
prevent future expansion and require deletion of data that is not tied to an act of criminal investigation.

3506
05:10:37,250 --> 05:10:41,390
We can support effective policing without accepting indiscriminate surveillance.

3507
05:10:42,050 --> 05:10:46,350
I ask he should choose safety with privacy, not safety at the expense of privacy.

3508
05:10:47,130 --> 05:10:53,730
Commissioners, Mayor, I recommend taking a look at the quote-unquote God's eye view and take a look at

3509
05:10:53,730 --> 05:10:56,290
what the capabilities are when we talk about surveillance.

3510
05:10:56,890 --> 05:10:57,570
Thank you.

3511
05:10:57,810 --> 05:10:58,910
Next speaker please.

3512
05:10:59,410 --> 05:11:02,330
Your offer is our next speaker, then Colton Taylor.

3513
05:11:10,260 --> 05:11:11,620
Your name is just for the record please.

3514
05:11:12,060 --> 05:11:16,280
Good evening, again, I'm Dar Alfred of 814 West Darb Street.

3515
05:11:17,080 --> 05:11:20,380
I'm standing here tonight in opposition to flock, ALPRs,

3516
05:11:20,460 --> 05:11:21,660
and master valence at large.

3517
05:11:22,340 --> 05:11:24,480
This technology got ahead of the public fast.

3518
05:11:25,080 --> 05:11:28,180
Flock cameras were deployed before most people

3519
05:11:28,180 --> 05:11:30,500
or even many legislators had any real awareness

3520
05:11:30,500 --> 05:11:35,040
of what these systems could become, how much information they could collect, or how easily

3521
05:11:35,040 --> 05:11:40,160
that information could be shared. For that reason alone, automated license plate readers deserve

3522
05:11:40,160 --> 05:11:44,380
a moratorium, no different than the pause the community has called on large data centers.

3523
05:11:45,000 --> 05:11:52,020
This week, a former open AI researcher just resigned from Anthropic warned that even

3524
05:11:52,020 --> 05:11:56,980
warned that even the people building these technologies believe they're moving dangerously fast.

3525
05:11:56,980 --> 05:12:01,020
And yes, these cameras can help solve crimes, of course they can.

3526
05:12:01,360 --> 05:12:05,800
If we put a GPS tracker on every car in town, that probably helps solve crime, too.

3527
05:12:06,320 --> 05:12:11,280
We don't do that because public safety is not the only value of a free society it's supposed

3528
05:12:11,280 --> 05:12:11,760
to protect.

3529
05:12:12,260 --> 05:12:16,980
We have a fourth amendment for a reason, and surveillance technology now being sold for

3530
05:12:16,980 --> 05:12:19,520
civilian policing has already been deployed in Gaza.

3531
05:12:20,120 --> 05:12:24,560
I don't want Tallahassee becoming another testing ground for technology moving from war zones

3532
05:12:24,560 --> 05:12:25,560
in a civilian life.

3533
05:12:26,220 --> 05:12:28,620
There is a practical problem here too.

3534
05:12:29,440 --> 05:12:33,540
Why keep spending public money building surveillance infrastructure whose constitutional and

3535
05:12:33,540 --> 05:12:35,680
regulatory future is increasingly uncertain?

3536
05:12:36,520 --> 05:12:41,320
Every one of these cameras represents public money, labor, materials, installation and maintenance.

3537
05:12:41,980 --> 05:12:46,160
If these systems are ultimately found to go too far, we have wasted all of this time.

3538
05:12:47,020 --> 05:12:52,180
Yet flock and surveillance technology out of telehasty and put our resources into things that actually prevent crime.

3539
05:12:52,180 --> 05:12:56,460
young people, mental health services, housing stability,

3540
05:12:56,940 --> 05:13:00,160
community activities, job creation, and business ownership,

3541
05:13:00,660 --> 05:13:03,040
build infrastructure that gives people lives worth living,

3542
05:13:03,320 --> 05:13:05,860
and you prevent the violence set before it happens.

3543
05:13:06,600 --> 05:13:08,640
Give neighbors pathways to ownership and stake,

3544
05:13:08,820 --> 05:13:09,860
and you'll get stronger neighborhoods.

3545
05:13:10,660 --> 05:13:13,200
A camera can tell you where something has gone wrong

3546
05:13:13,200 --> 05:13:14,740
after it's already happened.

3547
05:13:15,280 --> 05:13:18,120
It can't stop desperation and pain before it comes violence,

3548
05:13:18,720 --> 05:13:21,040
or a crime created through necessity or boredom.

3549
05:13:21,580 --> 05:13:24,540
We have limited money, limited labor, and limited attention.

3550
05:13:24,980 --> 05:13:29,920
We should stop spending all three teaching government how to watch us better and actually try to serve the public.

3551
05:13:30,520 --> 05:13:33,640
Let's build a city that has less reason to watch us in the first place.

3552
05:13:34,080 --> 05:13:39,500
Put a moratorium on these systems, get them out of Tallahassee because we have far larger problems to solve.

3553
05:13:39,980 --> 05:13:40,400
Thanks.

3554
05:13:41,560 --> 05:13:45,720
The next speaker is William Colton-Cyler and then Simone Hickman.

3555
05:13:46,220 --> 05:13:47,900
Great, name and address for the record, please.

3556
05:13:49,820 --> 05:13:53,340
Appreciate it, my name's Colton Taylor. I live at 631 East Call Street.

3557
05:13:54,120 --> 05:13:57,800
So, communities across the country have seen our rights to be violated on numerous fronts

3558
05:13:57,800 --> 05:14:01,920
and these flood cameras, especially concerning because not only do they're infringed upon our rights,

3559
05:14:02,320 --> 05:14:06,200
the technology can be used to track our every move. They say it's just for public safety,

3560
05:14:06,320 --> 05:14:08,700
but we've seen the terrible consequences of how they've been exploited.

3561
05:14:09,500 --> 05:14:12,600
Mass surveillance begins suppression and oppression.

3562
05:14:13,200 --> 05:14:16,060
So, my question is, is do we want to live in a city under mass surveillance?

3563
05:14:16,060 --> 05:14:18,340
My answer is no, and yours should be too.

3564
05:14:18,480 --> 05:14:18,660
Thanks.

3565
05:14:19,420 --> 05:14:20,260
I'd like to speak, or please.

3566
05:14:20,740 --> 05:14:21,580
Simone Hickman.

3567
05:14:23,360 --> 05:14:25,360
And then the next speaker will be Jonathan Gardner.

3568
05:14:28,350 --> 05:14:29,670
Name and address for the record, please.

3569
05:14:31,090 --> 05:14:35,170
That's Simone Hickman, 101, 54 Rose Road.

3570
05:14:35,870 --> 05:14:41,130
I live in a more rural area and every single road from my house is covered by

3571
05:14:41,130 --> 05:14:41,790
floor cameras.

3572
05:14:42,410 --> 05:14:48,010
My family and I can't even buy gas or groceries without the system

3573
05:14:48,010 --> 05:14:49,170
and recording our vehicles.

3574
05:14:49,890 --> 05:14:52,610
So I was very glad to hear the governor announce

3575
05:14:52,610 --> 05:14:54,450
that the cameras would be coming down.

3576
05:14:54,910 --> 05:14:58,870
I'm grateful to Sheriff Walt McNeil for doing the same.

3577
05:15:00,000 --> 05:15:28,940
Especially grateful to Jefferson County Sheriff Mack McNeil for going above and beyond, because when I drove to Monticello this weekend, the cameras recovered with black trash bags. Interesting. The cameras from what I understand can't actually be removed because they are still the property of the flock corporation, but they covered them with trash bags to reassure drivers that they weren't being tracked. That's how you build public trust with the community.

3578
05:15:28,940 --> 05:15:36,540
It's not with the transparency portal written by Flock that honestly has very little useful information.

3579
05:15:37,600 --> 05:15:40,540
Waakala County is also getting rid of their cameras.

3580
05:15:40,940 --> 05:15:46,020
I'm not sure why Tallahassee Police Department is holding out on this issue.

3581
05:15:46,680 --> 05:15:53,720
The city of Berkeley, California has been in the news lately because a memo was leaked where city attorneys

3582
05:15:53,720 --> 05:15:59,100
counties discussed how the city may be liable in court for issues related to flock.

3583
05:16:00,160 --> 05:16:07,960
An independent study in Roseville, California, found that 71% of all license plates read by flock were read inaccurately.

3584
05:16:08,540 --> 05:16:10,220
71% failure rate.

3585
05:16:11,240 --> 05:16:15,920
So not only are these cameras a privacy nightmare, they are a liability nightmare too.

3586
05:16:16,660 --> 05:16:21,060
And as some people are going to be hurt by these things, and they are probably going to sue.

3587
05:16:21,060 --> 05:16:29,880
to. Block is now facing a class action lawsuit in Georgia, and let me just read you the charges

3588
05:16:29,880 --> 05:16:38,080
they are facing. Count one, invasion of privacy. Count two, negligence. Count three, negligent

3589
05:16:38,080 --> 05:16:45,760
design. Count four, failure to warn. Count five, emotional distress. The lawsuit also reveals

3590
05:16:45,760 --> 05:16:49,580
that the cameras can actually photograph the occupants of vehicles.

3591
05:16:50,580 --> 05:16:56,080
Block's newest model called the Condor is specifically designed to track human beings.

3592
05:16:56,800 --> 05:17:02,520
It uses AI to identify people down to their tattoos and can even read their phone screens

3593
05:17:02,520 --> 05:17:03,500
over their shoulder.

3594
05:17:04,060 --> 05:17:05,040
You're at 30 seconds remaining.

3595
05:17:05,600 --> 05:17:08,160
So that's what's coming next most likely.

3596
05:17:08,700 --> 05:17:14,300
I think we're hitting an inflection point on surveillance in our society and you guys are

3597
05:17:14,300 --> 05:17:18,080
really the front line defenders of our privacy. So thank you for listening.

3598
05:17:19,620 --> 05:17:26,860
Next speaker please. Jonathan Gardner and Matt Berk will then follow.

3599
05:17:28,100 --> 05:17:29,960
Your name and address for the record please.

3600
05:17:31,240 --> 05:17:37,220
Hi there. Jonathan Gardner, 3-2-3-09-368-7. I'm in drive. I do have some handouts. I'm a handout person.

3601
05:17:37,420 --> 05:17:38,920
I don't know who I should hand this to.

3602
05:17:38,920 --> 05:17:39,720
to the officer right there.

3603
05:17:44,140 --> 05:17:44,320
All right.

3604
05:17:44,640 --> 05:17:49,280
So that's a long set of documents, but I have prepared for the county and for you guys

3605
05:17:49,280 --> 05:17:52,800
a personal report on some of this, and it's more than just flock cameras.

3606
05:17:54,120 --> 05:17:56,200
We're talking about surveillance tools in general.

3607
05:17:56,360 --> 05:18:03,940
There is a market that is being built for civilian domestic espionage that you can't put another

3608
05:18:03,940 --> 05:18:04,540
name on it.

3609
05:18:05,020 --> 05:18:10,620
And with AI tools coming up on the last set of pages of that handout, there's an article

3610
05:18:10,620 --> 05:18:17,720
by wired of flocks own, what they have a AI chatbot that takes in all of this data from

3611
05:18:17,720 --> 05:18:24,460
your license plate readers, from your drone cameras, from social media pieces, and puts

3612
05:18:24,460 --> 05:18:28,420
it all together and creates you a list of suspects based on what kind of information you're

3613
05:18:28,420 --> 05:18:28,940
looking for.

3614
05:18:29,640 --> 05:18:33,860
I would definitely recommend looking into that, I think, is the most striking and forefront

3615
05:18:34,780 --> 05:18:36,720
portion of what this looks like.

3616
05:18:36,720 --> 05:18:41,900
On the local level, I want to thank you guys for considering suspension.

3617
05:18:42,400 --> 05:18:45,140
I think that we need to move towards something bigger than that.

3618
05:18:45,720 --> 05:18:50,360
A previous speaker mentioned looking back and saying, how was this set up?

3619
05:18:50,500 --> 05:18:54,320
How was this done without real public input or public knowledge?

3620
05:18:55,040 --> 05:18:57,580
I believe that these were set up last summer.

3621
05:18:57,920 --> 05:19:02,140
I mean, that's when the real explosion of them were, and then it didn't get to you guys until December,

3622
05:19:02,360 --> 05:19:03,780
and there was a conversation in January.

3623
05:19:03,780 --> 05:19:08,900
So, I mean, six months of time where this is a big deal that now that everybody knows.

3624
05:19:09,660 --> 05:19:13,280
So, I would like to backwards look at that.

3625
05:19:13,460 --> 05:19:31,240
And then a forward look at a previous commission meeting put forward what Austin, Texas did and set forth a policy, a local policy, focusing on AI surveillance technologies, and what the commission locally can set forth on policies for review before they're enacted.

3626
05:19:31,240 --> 05:19:38,200
to do privacy impact assessments on what these technologies are doing and if they're effective.

3627
05:19:38,960 --> 05:19:44,900
And really none of those questions have been asked at this commission until this became a big public outrage

3628
05:19:44,900 --> 05:19:46,840
over this year, maybe past several months.

3629
05:19:47,380 --> 05:19:55,060
It looks very bad in terms of public trust when you have a year of this kind of level of surveillance

3630
05:19:55,060 --> 05:20:00,320
is being enacted with nobody knowing and not having any public input if we want this.

3631
05:20:00,740 --> 05:20:05,780
Sure, we can argue that they're great for solving crimes, as somebody previously

3632
05:20:05,780 --> 05:20:08,040
said, GPS readers would be great for that, too.

3633
05:20:08,460 --> 05:20:13,500
There's a reason that the Supreme Court made that a warrants warrantable search.

3634
05:20:14,800 --> 05:20:18,120
And what flock is in all these other people are really selling as a database,

3635
05:20:18,440 --> 05:20:19,400
that the police can access.

3636
05:20:19,620 --> 05:20:20,260
It's not the cameras.

3637
05:20:20,620 --> 05:20:22,480
I mean, the cameras are a big deal, but they've been around for a while.

3638
05:20:22,480 --> 05:20:26,380
Now, it's the data base, it's the profiling, it's being able to track people.

3639
05:20:27,120 --> 05:20:29,760
And that is what I think most people are really upset about.

3640
05:20:30,040 --> 05:20:35,020
It's not the cameras that can help solve crimes, it is the database that profiles people.

3641
05:20:35,360 --> 05:20:38,260
Thank you for considering suspension, let's keep this conversation going, thanks.

3642
05:20:38,820 --> 05:20:39,420
Next, please.

3643
05:20:39,860 --> 05:20:40,300
Matt Burke.

3644
05:20:42,760 --> 05:20:43,600
Matt Burke.

3645
05:20:46,150 --> 05:20:48,610
At Burke three times, moving to PJ Perez.

3646
05:20:55,400 --> 05:20:57,000
Name an address for the record, please.

3647
05:20:57,000 --> 05:21:04,550
Good evening, PJ Perez 3, 2, 3, 0, 1, all right.

3648
05:21:07,850 --> 05:21:12,590
So opposition to master valence has bipartisan support nationwide, right?

3649
05:21:13,390 --> 05:21:15,530
Block is the poster child, but it's not the only threat.

3650
05:21:16,450 --> 05:21:20,130
Our community has been expressing concern over these things for the better part of a year

3651
05:21:20,130 --> 05:21:21,150
as we've been talking about.

3652
05:21:22,010 --> 05:21:26,890
This invasive technology has been woven into our lives and we've taken it as the reality

3653
05:21:26,890 --> 05:21:28,090
that we're just forced to accept.

3654
05:21:28,090 --> 05:21:31,830
But it's time for this commission to finally listen to the voices of the people.

3655
05:21:33,940 --> 05:21:37,820
Over the past year, this commission has given away the hospital, given away capital city

3656
05:21:37,820 --> 05:21:43,940
country club, slashed on agended public speakers to 30 minutes, and now hot off the presses,

3657
05:21:44,400 --> 05:21:48,640
some city manager contract hijinks to add to a pretty rough resume over the course of

3658
05:21:48,640 --> 05:21:48,840
a year.

3659
05:21:51,240 --> 05:21:54,680
It's time this commission, the government closest to the people, began to vote like it, right?

3660
05:21:56,020 --> 05:22:00,720
As a high school social sciences teacher, I press upon my students every day to get active

3661
05:22:00,720 --> 05:22:03,320
in their community, especially in politics here at the local level.

3662
05:22:04,380 --> 05:22:07,440
It's an essential project that we're all working on here together.

3663
05:22:08,980 --> 05:22:11,160
Here, we can actually touch the government.

3664
05:22:11,860 --> 05:22:14,940
It's not federal, it's not state, it's not disconnect, it's not abstract.

3665
05:22:15,420 --> 05:22:15,700
It's here.

3666
05:22:16,240 --> 05:22:21,060
So I went in this room, people coming around, sharing each other's thoughts, signing

3667
05:22:21,060 --> 05:22:25,300
petitions, gathering information, we're living amongst each other, we need to be listening

3668
05:22:25,300 --> 05:22:25,800
to each other.

3669
05:22:27,260 --> 05:22:33,640
We need to be able to show the next generation of their voice matters, show them there's still hope in this city and in public service.

3670
05:22:34,720 --> 05:22:42,520
Instead of pulling up the rear on this issue, I mean, we were behind the governor on this guy's, the governor, behind him, strange.

3671
05:22:43,000 --> 05:22:45,100
Nothing changed in two weeks, Mr. Mayor.

3672
05:22:46,260 --> 05:22:47,240
Y'all just weren't responsive.

3673
05:22:48,100 --> 05:22:51,660
We had to wait for it to become a safe issue politically for us to act on this thing.

3674
05:22:53,300 --> 05:22:56,160
This is not the way that our capital city needs to be acting, right?

3675
05:22:56,420 --> 05:22:58,360
We need to be nimble and responsive.

3676
05:22:58,700 --> 05:22:59,380
We're all right here.

3677
05:22:59,500 --> 05:23:01,100
We see each other all in flush and blood.

3678
05:23:01,740 --> 05:23:05,380
We can't wait for things to feel safe or be politically expedient.

3679
05:23:05,700 --> 05:23:09,080
We need to do it's responsive to the community, to the people.

3680
05:23:11,080 --> 05:23:17,020
So I assure you, we need to be voting to cancel this contract with flock and make it clear

3681
05:23:17,020 --> 05:23:19,540
that no other vendor's cameras should be able to fill that void.

3682
05:23:20,140 --> 05:23:20,700
Thank you.

3683
05:23:20,700 --> 05:23:21,380
The

3684
05:23:23,850 --> 05:23:26,830
next speaker is Abel Laylor-Schkeer,

3685
05:23:35,620 --> 05:23:38,580
and then the next speaker after this will be De La Lapeare.

3686
05:23:40,360 --> 05:23:42,060
Your name and address for the record, please.

3687
05:23:42,580 --> 05:23:43,440
Good evening, commissioners.

3688
05:23:43,460 --> 05:23:44,440
My name is De La Scheeer.

3689
05:23:44,560 --> 05:23:48,020
In 1951 North Meridian Road, I'm here representing the ACLU of Florida.

3690
05:23:48,420 --> 05:23:51,700
Permission is to protect, to promote, sorry, to protect defend,

3691
05:23:52,920 --> 05:23:57,480
promote and expand the constitutional rights and civil liberties of all people in this country.

3692
05:23:57,920 --> 05:24:00,220
We all deserve to be safe in our communities.

3693
05:24:00,220 --> 05:24:05,360
But surveillance does not make us safe, and Americans don't surrender our privacy rights

3694
05:24:05,360 --> 05:24:08,740
when we drive to work, drop the kids off at school or go to church.

3695
05:24:09,180 --> 05:24:13,560
Automatic license plate reader, ALPR companies like Flock Safety, Cell cameras that record

3696
05:24:13,560 --> 05:24:16,680
and digitize license plate numbers and run them against hot lists.

3697
05:24:17,260 --> 05:24:21,480
But that data can be stored and shared, and by doing so, it allows people to be tracked

3698
05:24:21,480 --> 05:24:23,080
for as long as that data is retained.

3699
05:24:23,400 --> 05:24:27,300
By the way, the TPD policy that you all have says that that data is retained for

3700
05:24:27,300 --> 05:24:29,180
at least 30 days, even though flock recently,

3701
05:24:29,760 --> 05:24:32,100
change their default retention settings to seven days.

3702
05:24:32,560 --> 05:24:36,460
So this can reveal very intimate and private details of a person's life.

3703
05:24:36,740 --> 05:24:40,020
Every time we drive through a doctor's office, a place of worship or a friend's home,

3704
05:24:40,160 --> 05:24:43,300
we leave a trail and the issue isn't just one snapshot.

3705
05:24:43,580 --> 05:24:46,520
It's that enough snapshots can create a map of your life.

3706
05:24:46,820 --> 05:24:49,240
They can record where we were and when we were there.

3707
05:24:49,740 --> 05:24:53,000
And that can reveal our religious practices, our medical visits,

3708
05:24:53,480 --> 05:24:56,280
political activities, personal relationships, our daily routines.

3709
05:24:56,280 --> 05:25:01,740
This inescapable network of surveillance gives police around the country new power to track

3710
05:25:01,740 --> 05:25:06,000
our movements without a warrant, by the way, putting our freedom to move freely in danger.

3711
05:25:06,520 --> 05:25:08,700
This technology can be very easily abused.

3712
05:25:09,200 --> 05:25:13,100
In Kansas, police used them to pursue a man who wrote a newspaper op-ed that was critical

3713
05:25:13,100 --> 05:25:13,820
of the department.

3714
05:25:14,360 --> 05:25:18,500
Here in Florida, in Polk County, an officer was recently suspended after allegedly accessing

3715
05:25:18,500 --> 05:25:24,000
the FLOG database 717 times over nearly two years to track his estranged wife.

3716
05:25:24,000 --> 05:25:28,960
but we are not powerless. Communities across the country are rejecting these creepy

3717
05:25:28,960 --> 05:25:33,020
cameras and winning. Cities and police departments are cancelling their contracts with

3718
05:25:33,020 --> 05:25:36,380
flock in response to public pressure and Tallahassee must join that list.

3719
05:25:36,900 --> 05:25:41,000
Everyday Americans are coming together across the political spectrum to reject this

3720
05:25:41,000 --> 05:25:45,320
mass surveillance. We don't have to hold the same political beliefs to agree that

3721
05:25:45,320 --> 05:25:49,380
it's wrong for the government to track everyone's movements just in case they

3722
05:25:49,380 --> 05:25:51,360
may someday be suspected of something.

3723
05:25:51,360 --> 05:25:56,660
And let's be clear, while FLOC provides the most widely used ALPRs, they're not the

3724
05:25:56,660 --> 05:25:59,360
only company trying to make a buck off of spying off of us.

3725
05:25:59,960 --> 05:26:05,200
Axon, Vigilant Solutions, Genetic, Plate Smart, Perceptics, those are just a few of the other

3726
05:26:05,200 --> 05:26:08,540
major companies selling ALPRs to police, private companies, and others.

3727
05:26:09,060 --> 05:26:13,940
It doesn't matter which company has its creepy cameras in our neighborhood, they all have

3728
05:26:13,940 --> 05:26:18,100
the same problem, a lack of transparency and oversight into how they collect, store, and

3729
05:26:18,100 --> 05:26:22,460
share our data and how to hold public and private actors accountable if they abuse it.

3730
05:26:22,780 --> 05:26:26,780
You're at 30 seconds. Thank you. We must protect our communities from these invasive cameras.

3731
05:26:27,440 --> 05:26:32,740
If the government suspects us of wrongdoing, they also need to get a warrant. Everyone in America

3732
05:26:32,740 --> 05:26:39,820
has the right to move freely without being surveilled. No flock, no ALPRs, no exceptions, no excuses,

3733
05:26:40,120 --> 05:26:45,300
yet these creepy cameras out of our communities now and tell these ALPR companies to get the flock

3734
05:26:45,300 --> 05:26:46,280
out of Tallahassee.

3735
05:26:49,200 --> 05:26:50,580
The next speaker, please.

3736
05:26:51,320 --> 05:26:54,500
Delilah Pierre is next, followed by Robert Lee.

3737
05:26:55,260 --> 05:26:56,820
Your name and address for the record, please.

3738
05:26:57,460 --> 05:26:58,440
My name is Delilah Pierre.

3739
05:26:58,600 --> 05:26:59,500
My address is exempt.

3740
05:26:59,660 --> 05:27:03,120
I'm a member of the Tallahassee Alliance against racist and political repression.

3741
05:27:03,680 --> 05:27:06,920
And I want to say that police chief Lawrence Revel, sitting right over there.

3742
05:27:07,560 --> 05:27:11,640
And the Tallahassee Police Department are the last people we want possible to have access

3743
05:27:11,640 --> 05:27:15,420
to flock cameras because the Tallahassee Police Department has again and again shown that

3744
05:27:15,420 --> 05:27:19,940
they have had history of using surveillance technology to harass and spy on black and brown

3745
05:27:19,940 --> 05:27:25,020
people in our city, and TBD has always responded negatively when asked to take accountability for

3746
05:27:25,020 --> 05:27:30,060
their actions. So, TBD says that flock will be expanded to areas, at least it says in your

3747
05:27:30,060 --> 05:27:35,020
agenda item, that flock will be expanded to areas that have historically experienced higher

3748
05:27:35,020 --> 05:27:41,340
levels of criminality. That's a nice way for you to say black people. TBD has been caught using

3749
05:27:41,340 --> 05:27:47,660
Stingray Technology in 2015, despite on thousands of innocent bystanders, and all these

3750
05:27:47,660 --> 05:27:52,100
investigation TPD made, they made no mention of using Stingray Technology in any of their

3751
05:27:52,100 --> 05:27:54,680
court filings to the judicial authorities.

3752
05:27:55,080 --> 05:28:02,060
Um, TBD also has a history of using this technology for things like the 287G agreement, the

3753
05:28:02,060 --> 05:28:06,620
Thai Civilized Department, although not having to, decide to sign on to the 287G agreement

3754
05:28:06,620 --> 05:28:07,220
and work with them.

3755
05:28:07,220 --> 05:28:12,380
Let's talk more about what TPD has done, because TPD also was responsible for the conviction

3756
05:28:12,380 --> 05:28:17,880
of Calvin Riley, a black man falsely convicted of his DUI, when there was direct evidence

3757
05:28:17,880 --> 05:28:23,220
that he was being set up by officer Kirsten Oliver, who literally, who took an alcohol

3758
05:28:23,220 --> 05:28:27,360
bottle from his car, opened it, and then put it back in so she had the pretext to arrest

3759
05:28:27,360 --> 05:28:27,680
him.

3760
05:28:28,320 --> 05:28:35,080
So I don't understand why you would think that an organization that barks against transparency,

3761
05:28:35,080 --> 05:28:42,120
That organization that fought for the removal of a citizen's police review board that openly celebrated working with war criminal

3762
05:28:42,120 --> 05:28:49,860
Eddie Gallagher, who posed with a corpse and was convicted for it, that an organization where our police chief, Lawrence Revel,

3763
05:28:50,460 --> 05:29:05,060
went to an anti-LGBDQ-plus conference with a toxic police department shirt, and then y'all, city commissioners,

3764
05:29:05,060 --> 05:29:08,860
time, again, when we ask for justice for victims of police brutality, for immigrants

3765
05:29:08,860 --> 05:29:14,000
and for people who are affected by your actions, you go through an internal investigation process

3766
05:29:14,000 --> 05:29:16,720
that finds it, that TBD is non-trouble.

3767
05:29:17,460 --> 05:29:18,660
What kind of system is this?

3768
05:29:19,300 --> 05:29:24,420
Where we already spend one-third of our budget on policing, and you already have the real-time

3769
05:29:24,420 --> 05:29:31,260
crime center and a thousand other ways to surveil people, to criminalize people, to attain

3770
05:29:31,260 --> 05:29:31,780
people.

3771
05:29:31,780 --> 05:29:36,780
As an organizer fighting for black liberation, I know these fought cameras are a damage to black

3772
05:29:36,780 --> 05:29:40,760
communities in Tallahassee, to brown communities in Tallahassee. Our police department has shown

3773
05:29:40,760 --> 05:29:44,120
time and time again that they don't care about an account of villainity. And I, Williams,

3774
05:29:44,240 --> 05:29:48,880
Cox, your time is coming up. Your seat is not secure. So you better be thoughtful when you make that

3775
05:29:48,880 --> 05:29:56,440
vote today. Thank you. Our next speaker please. Robert Lee. And the next will be Lily Anderson

3776
05:29:56,440 --> 05:29:58,960
and messing. Your name and address for the record, please.

3777
05:30:00,000 --> 05:30:29,980
My name is Robert Lee. Tell us Florida 3203. So I'm going to read off a few things from some recent news articles. Brandon Upchurch was just driving his Dodge Ram through Toledo when an AI camera changes life forever. The Flock safety surveillance system mistreated a seven as a two on his license plate, triggering a stolen vehicle alert that ended up with a police canine tearing into his arm and dreadlocks. What should have been a routine drive became a nightmare of John Gunn's

3778
05:30:29,980 --> 05:30:35,340
dog bites, hospital visits, and jail time. All because a computer couldn't tell the difference between two numbers.

3779
05:30:36,460 --> 05:30:41,960
On October 4th, 2025, Joaquin Dino attended his granddaughter's birthday party in Sanford, Florida.

3780
05:30:42,280 --> 05:30:48,860
At the end of the night, he headed to his daughter's house. Eight miles down in her state floor, a speeding car swirled across multiple lanes over a hundred miles an hour.

3781
05:30:49,600 --> 05:30:58,220
It swiped Dino's motorcycle, then hit a Ford focus, causing a pile up before driving away. Dino died at the scene, as they had a county official in his wife.

3782
05:30:59,140 --> 05:31:03,420
Witnesses said the speeding car was a dodged derango. Police found that a

3783
05:31:03,420 --> 05:31:07,100
flat camera, a type of automated license plate reader, had spotted a derango nearby

3784
05:31:07,100 --> 05:31:11,460
at the time. They arrested the owner, 23-year-old Lindsay Isaacs, but Isaacs

3785
05:31:11,460 --> 05:31:14,420
wasn't involved in the crash, and officers had enough information at the time to

3786
05:31:14,420 --> 05:31:19,000
exclude her as a suspect. Yet, she still spent two weeks in jail and faced the

3787
05:31:19,000 --> 05:31:22,320
threat of life behind bars for months, because police didn't use basic

3788
05:31:22,320 --> 05:31:25,720
scrutiny, and, you know, like just regular police work, to be sure their

3789
05:31:25,720 --> 05:31:28,240
cameras didn't implicate an innocent person.

3790
05:31:29,160 --> 05:31:32,500
In 2020, Aurora Colorado notoriously held a black family,

3791
05:31:32,580 --> 05:31:35,400
including small children, faced down at gunpoint.

3792
05:31:35,860 --> 05:31:39,660
After an ALPR, misidentify their SUV as a stolen motorcycle

3793
05:31:40,000 --> 05:31:40,920
from another state.

3794
05:31:41,660 --> 05:31:43,540
So these cameras can't tell the difference between a car

3795
05:31:43,540 --> 05:31:45,720
and a motorcycle or between two different state license

3796
05:31:45,720 --> 05:31:46,040
plates.

3797
05:31:48,620 --> 05:31:51,780
These cameras are not compatible with a free society.

3798
05:31:52,800 --> 05:31:54,840
I understand the desire for safety,

3799
05:31:54,840 --> 05:32:01,760
But creating a panopticon that surveils us at all times and all our of our movements is not safety.

3800
05:32:02,280 --> 05:32:11,640
What creates safety is providing community resources, giving people the help that they need so that they're not desperate to figure out how to survive any way that they can.

3801
05:32:12,120 --> 05:32:15,460
These cameras are security theater at best.

3802
05:32:15,460 --> 05:32:21,460
And obviously we've heard quite a bit about all the misuse of the cameras, officers all

3803
05:32:21,460 --> 05:32:26,480
over the country, stalking their ex-girlfriends, stalking their ex-wives, stalking random

3804
05:32:26,480 --> 05:32:28,820
women that they met who didn't go on a date with them.

3805
05:32:29,400 --> 05:32:30,140
Really weird stuff.

3806
05:32:31,580 --> 05:32:35,720
But even beyond the misuse, the stories I said before-

3807
05:32:35,720 --> 05:32:36,600
30 seconds remaining.

3808
05:32:36,820 --> 05:32:39,460
Just the simple existence of them is a problem.

3809
05:32:39,460 --> 05:32:40,880
They make mistakes.

3810
05:32:41,620 --> 05:32:45,060
This is not something that we should be accepting of.

3811
05:32:45,340 --> 05:32:46,920
We shouldn't be surveilled at all times.

3812
05:32:47,300 --> 05:32:48,440
We should be able to go about our movements.

3813
05:32:49,140 --> 05:32:52,640
If we haven't done anything wrong, we shouldn't have to be worried about are we constantly being

3814
05:32:52,640 --> 05:32:56,780
filmed by the city, trying to track our movements everywhere that we go.

3815
05:32:57,060 --> 05:32:58,840
So please end this contract.

3816
05:32:59,660 --> 05:33:04,160
I mean, don't be in conflict with the state and the county and countless other cities across

3817
05:33:04,160 --> 05:33:05,060
Florida and the country.

3818
05:33:05,160 --> 05:33:05,660
There are three minutes.

3819
05:33:05,860 --> 05:33:06,920
Suspending their contracts.

3820
05:33:07,160 --> 05:33:07,220
Thank you.

3821
05:33:07,220 --> 05:33:08,280
My next speaker, please.

3822
05:33:09,060 --> 05:33:11,540
Next speaker is Lily Anderson Messick, then Stanley Sims.

3823
05:33:13,280 --> 05:33:14,940
Your name and address for the record, please.

3824
05:33:14,960 --> 05:33:18,900
Lily Anderson Messick, I live on West 6th Avenue,

3825
05:33:19,100 --> 05:33:20,420
tell us the 323.

3826
05:33:21,320 --> 05:33:24,420
And hi, I was, thank you guys for Stanley listening to us.

3827
05:33:24,420 --> 05:33:25,220
I appreciate it.

3828
05:33:25,320 --> 05:33:27,640
I was born here until I see a team age.

3829
05:33:27,900 --> 05:33:29,640
And grew up here.

3830
05:33:29,920 --> 05:33:33,440
Your mayor daily, your mom was one of my grade school teachers

3831
05:33:33,440 --> 05:33:34,220
here in town.

3832
05:33:34,220 --> 05:33:40,600
And I'm just really frightened by these cameras that are going that are all over town.

3833
05:33:40,880 --> 05:33:49,500
I'm also a victim of sexual assault and I'm every time I leave my house now and I drive past these cameras at every street light.

3834
05:33:49,860 --> 05:33:54,400
I don't know how many men are tracking my whereabouts.

3835
05:33:54,760 --> 05:33:56,760
It's really concerning to me.

3836
05:33:56,760 --> 05:34:04,480
This is a stockers and a domestic abusers dream to have access to this type of information.

3837
05:34:05,220 --> 05:34:06,580
And they are using it that way.

3838
05:34:06,740 --> 05:34:12,660
We're seeing cases in Florida and across the nation of these cameras being used to stock and abuse women.

3839
05:34:13,440 --> 05:34:20,760
I'm also a botanist in a college and I spend a lot of time in, you know, secluded areas and I drove out to

3840
05:34:20,760 --> 05:34:28,680
that logical national force this week passed the toss the airport, and I passed so many cameras.

3841
05:34:28,860 --> 05:34:34,660
My entire route was tracked out there, and it made me realize I'm in these secluded areas,

3842
05:34:34,760 --> 05:34:39,060
which I have historically always felt very safe and because I know how to handle myself in nature.

3843
05:34:39,660 --> 05:34:47,640
But to know that I don't know how many strange men know where I am at all times and know that I'm in a secluded area,

3844
05:34:47,640 --> 05:35:01,540
That's scary to me. That's really frightening. It's also a roll-out of mass surveillance across the nation that is happening, and that has been mentioned. This is data that is being stolen from us and being sold.

3845
05:35:01,960 --> 05:35:14,720
So we don't know who. It's just very scary. It's a tool that has too many, it's just too right for abuse. And we have rights. I believe I have a right to privacy in public.

3846
05:35:14,720 --> 05:35:19,520
You know, I would like to have a reasonable or right to privacy and not know that my data is being sold.

3847
05:35:20,180 --> 05:35:26,020
I was really, I wasn't able to attend the last mission meeting that I was really dismayed at what happened at that commission meeting.

3848
05:35:26,500 --> 05:35:33,680
I think it's really embarrassing that DeSantis came out and is against Fox before our own commissioners.

3849
05:35:34,660 --> 05:35:36,120
That's shocking to me.

3850
05:35:36,200 --> 05:35:37,600
I never thought that would happen.

3851
05:35:38,000 --> 05:35:44,240
And I also was really shocked and dismayed at chief rebels attitude in that meeting.

3852
05:35:44,240 --> 05:35:45,960
and how he treated Commissioner Porter.

3853
05:35:46,280 --> 05:35:46,860
I thought that was pretty interesting.

3854
05:35:46,860 --> 05:35:47,960
You have 30 seconds remaining.

3855
05:35:48,280 --> 05:35:50,600
So I just wanted to express my concern.

3856
05:35:50,760 --> 05:35:52,080
Thank you for listening, have a good night.

3857
05:35:53,820 --> 05:35:54,980
I'd like to speak as please.

3858
05:35:55,480 --> 05:35:57,300
Stanley Sims and then Lisa Sears.

3859
05:35:58,040 --> 05:35:59,200
My name is Stanley Sims.

3860
05:35:59,460 --> 05:36:03,320
I'm still at 1320 Barack Obama way.

3861
05:36:04,900 --> 05:36:06,400
First of all, let me say this,

3862
05:36:06,460 --> 05:36:07,860
because I don't get a chance to say,

3863
05:36:08,040 --> 05:36:10,580
matter of fact, I've never had the opportunity to say this.

3864
05:36:10,600 --> 05:36:12,080
I want to thank the governor.

3865
05:36:17,370 --> 05:36:24,470
I want to thank him, because if he can come to common sense on this, everyone should.

3866
05:36:27,320 --> 05:36:31,860
But in my heart, I believe that if the governor would not have done what him done, we would

3867
05:36:31,860 --> 05:36:32,700
not be here today.

3868
05:36:36,850 --> 05:36:41,270
The second thing I have a problem with, we keep using the word suspend,

3869
05:36:44,400 --> 05:36:45,640
so that's for a time

3870
05:36:45,640 --> 05:36:46,080
period.

3871
05:36:46,780 --> 05:36:48,880
So does that mean that this can come back?

3872
05:36:51,890 --> 05:36:53,770
I also have heard some distortion.

3873
05:36:53,770 --> 05:37:01,670
These flock them up cameras do not do facial recognition.

3874
05:37:03,680 --> 05:37:05,300
They read license plates.

3875
05:37:08,050 --> 05:37:09,370
Also, another distortion.

3876
05:37:09,390 --> 05:37:14,590
I want to clear it with you on good frame, Mr. Curtis Richardson.

3877
05:37:15,870 --> 05:37:25,430
Those cameras that we put up in neighborhoods are nothing compared to these flock cameras.

3878
05:37:25,870 --> 05:37:26,830
I never said there were.

3879
05:37:26,830 --> 05:37:35,200
I didn't say you did. I didn't say you did. Okay. They operate totally different.

3880
05:37:37,290 --> 05:37:37,930
This

3881
05:37:37,930 --> 05:37:46,270
flock camera can track me from place to place. If I go to win Dixie, it could catch me. If I go to

3882
05:37:46,270 --> 05:37:57,170
publics, it could catch me. The cameras are stationary. So I know I'm in a survey area and those people

3883
05:37:57,170 --> 05:38:00,270
So in that area wanting that camera, so I'm cool with that.

3884
05:38:02,880 --> 05:38:04,680
Here's the other problem I have.

3885
05:38:08,220 --> 05:38:11,340
You keep bragging about transparency, Mayor.

3886
05:38:16,530 --> 05:38:18,350
And what's the hell is going on right here?

3887
05:38:20,330 --> 05:38:24,010
Nobody, nobody explained to us.

3888
05:38:26,620 --> 05:38:29,780
This is different, also chief, our good friend chief.

3889
05:38:30,420 --> 05:38:30,900
30 seconds.

3890
05:38:31,320 --> 05:38:33,400
Then pulling somebody's driving license.

3891
05:38:34,280 --> 05:38:35,800
It is not the same.

3892
05:38:37,080 --> 05:38:46,900
This is an invasion that is not really justified or been explained to the public.

3893
05:38:47,800 --> 05:38:49,600
You have a right to be upset.

3894
05:38:50,500 --> 05:38:51,680
You can't say this one more time.

3895
05:38:52,060 --> 05:38:56,730
I want to thank the governor for making this move.

3896
05:38:57,810 --> 05:38:59,030
I'm going home.

3897
05:38:59,850 --> 05:39:01,190
Next speaker please.

3898
05:39:01,530 --> 05:39:05,770
Lisa Sears is our next speaker followed by Thomas Spears.

3899
05:39:05,770 --> 05:39:06,810
your

3900
05:39:09,720 --> 05:39:11,080
name and address for the record, please.

3901
05:39:12,680 --> 05:39:16,460
My name is Lisa Sears, zip code 3303.

3902
05:39:17,900 --> 05:39:22,460
First I want to thank the commissioners and the mayor for taking the stance that you

3903
05:39:22,460 --> 05:39:24,620
are on this situation.

3904
05:39:26,360 --> 05:39:32,440
My major reasons for opposition are for the amendment concerns, police misuse, immigration data

3905
05:39:32,440 --> 05:39:37,180
sharing, mass immigration data sharing and creeping mass surveillance.

3906
05:39:37,180 --> 05:39:39,120
and lack of transparency.

3907
05:39:40,180 --> 05:39:42,020
Vlog cameras build national databases,

3908
05:39:42,600 --> 05:39:44,100
perhaps even international.

3909
05:39:45,660 --> 05:39:49,860
Tracking the daily moves of just ordinary citizens

3910
05:39:50,800 --> 05:39:52,740
without a warrant, which is actually

3911
05:39:53,020 --> 05:39:54,600
on constitutional.

3912
05:39:57,060 --> 05:40:01,620
If you all insist on keeping the vlog cameras,

3913
05:40:02,160 --> 05:40:07,040
then let's use them on our public citizens

3914
05:40:07,040 --> 05:40:14,740
on our public servants, put them on the driveways, put them in their offices to ensure transparency and integrity.

3915
05:40:16,700 --> 05:40:23,960
We have a pedo, predatory administration, and possibly the majority of the leadership in this world.

3916
05:40:26,450 --> 05:40:29,570
And we already seem to be implementing the Nazi playbook.

3917
05:40:30,270 --> 05:40:34,350
So this is just another thing to weaponize against we the people.

3918
05:40:34,350 --> 05:40:41,050
As a two simple example, the woman was tracked in two different states and several

3919
05:40:41,050 --> 05:40:44,810
states to criminally charge her for having an abortion.

3920
05:40:45,990 --> 05:40:49,290
There was another older lady who was tracked in several states.

3921
05:40:49,750 --> 05:40:54,530
She would go get pain medication at a dispensary that was not legal in her own state.

3922
05:40:55,450 --> 05:41:07,560
Yet not one of these flock cameras have helped track down one not one predator in the

3923
05:41:07,560 --> 05:41:11,380
and race alliance in action, which helps humanity,

3924
05:41:11,700 --> 05:41:13,620
our human families that are in crisis,

3925
05:41:13,780 --> 05:41:16,880
which of course, immigrant families are high

3926
05:41:16,880 --> 05:41:17,860
on that list right now.

3927
05:41:19,730 --> 05:41:22,660
I have seen our constitution being walked all over,

3928
05:41:22,840 --> 05:41:25,840
our rights being eroded, the American dream going up and smoke,

3929
05:41:26,780 --> 05:41:29,160
that our immigrant ancestors believed in,

3930
05:41:29,440 --> 05:41:31,720
and were very grateful for.

3931
05:41:32,460 --> 05:41:34,120
I see families being torn apart

3932
05:41:34,120 --> 05:41:39,520
and people being imprisoned without due process moved from prison to prison for profit.

3933
05:41:39,880 --> 05:41:49,100
The misspelling of names, whether it's on purpose or poorly trained or incompetence by these poorly trained agents.

3934
05:41:50,900 --> 05:41:53,400
Lord have mercy, I have so much to say.

3935
05:41:54,480 --> 05:41:55,160
Well,

3936
05:41:57,330 --> 05:42:02,490
as a mom and a grandmother and volunteer helping fellow humans,

3937
05:42:02,490 --> 05:42:07,830
I am disappointed and baffled and even angry that you want to keep flock cameras in our city.

3938
05:42:08,570 --> 05:42:13,530
Normally, I wouldn't say this, however, please follow this answer's example and take them down.

3939
05:42:15,720 --> 05:42:21,260
The next speaker is Thomas Spears, followed by Brandon McIntyre.

3940
05:42:21,820 --> 05:42:21,880
Yes,

3941
05:42:27,140 --> 05:42:28,380
may I may adjust for the record, please?

3942
05:42:28,900 --> 05:42:31,100
Thomas Spears in 3, 2, 3, 0, 3.

3943
05:42:31,640 --> 05:42:37,300
It's very interesting that the conservative majority of the board are suddenly supporting suspending the flock cameras.

3944
05:42:37,300 --> 05:42:39,940
They mentioned the actions of community partners.

3945
05:42:40,640 --> 05:42:43,100
Why is the City Commission following and not leading?

3946
05:42:44,200 --> 05:42:46,640
And why is that the city is only moving after those community?

3947
05:42:46,960 --> 05:42:47,960
Partners move.

3948
05:42:48,640 --> 05:42:50,800
The community was out here at the last meeting.

3949
05:42:51,540 --> 05:42:52,920
Why not listen to us?

3950
05:42:54,660 --> 05:42:59,720
This issue was brought to a vote already, and it was declined by the conservative majority three to two.

3951
05:43:00,400 --> 05:43:06,960
I'm thinking a lot about three to two votes, telling the golf course with unmarked graves of enslaved black people on it,

3952
05:43:06,960 --> 05:43:09,460
and selling it for a song was done three to two,

3953
05:43:09,980 --> 05:43:12,560
selling the city's hospital without a full appraisal,

3954
05:43:12,960 --> 05:43:15,680
to the school with a billion dollar endowment,

3955
05:43:16,020 --> 05:43:18,760
done three to two, dozens of other votes,

3956
05:43:19,060 --> 05:43:21,100
all done at the behest of the conservative majority

3957
05:43:21,100 --> 05:43:22,560
of this commission three to two,

3958
05:43:22,860 --> 05:43:24,740
and then includes to stay on the contract with Flock,

3959
05:43:25,200 --> 05:43:28,080
to continue to expand surveillance of all people of Tallahassee,

3960
05:43:28,300 --> 05:43:29,420
despite the significant issues

3961
05:43:29,420 --> 05:43:31,180
that that kind of surveillance has in general,

3962
05:43:31,500 --> 05:43:33,840
despite the dozens of reports of police around the country,

3963
05:43:33,840 --> 05:43:39,120
abuse these systems to track their ex-girlfriends and ex-wives, and despite the ACLU, saying

3964
05:43:39,120 --> 05:43:43,480
that these surveillance programs do violate our constitutional right to privacy.

3965
05:43:44,500 --> 05:43:47,800
The mayor keeps saying he doesn't want things in the diets to be political.

3966
05:43:49,360 --> 05:43:54,160
When he or the conservative majority votes whether it's on this board or as members of Blueprint,

3967
05:43:54,500 --> 05:43:57,160
not to support affordable housing, is that not political?

3968
05:43:58,000 --> 05:44:02,860
When poverty is a policy choice and poverty is the source of crime,

3969
05:44:02,860 --> 05:44:05,360
why does the mayor and the conservative majority support

3970
05:44:05,360 --> 05:44:09,540
flock cameras to empower the badge and the gun over supporting the people?

3971
05:44:10,540 --> 05:44:13,860
The truth of the matter is, his statements of not wanting things to be political

3972
05:44:13,860 --> 05:44:16,360
are a plain, insultingly obvious, farce.

3973
05:44:17,000 --> 05:44:19,460
This is the City Commission, your five elected officials.

3974
05:44:19,720 --> 05:44:20,600
Of course, it's political.

3975
05:44:20,860 --> 05:44:21,680
It can't be anything else.

3976
05:44:22,760 --> 05:44:25,020
The Tallahassee Alliance against racist and political repression

3977
05:44:25,020 --> 05:44:28,980
stands with the people of Tallahassee against these flock cameras and demands

3978
05:44:28,980 --> 05:44:32,100
that these surveillance systems be under the control of the people of Tallahassee,

3979
05:44:32,100 --> 05:44:36,180
not just the police. We demand that off-floor cameras be removed from the city.

3980
05:44:36,620 --> 05:44:40,120
We demand that every instance of any department pulling in from a camera

3981
05:44:40,120 --> 05:44:44,940
into how it has to be listed in a public database accessible without an explicit pull request.

3982
05:44:45,320 --> 05:44:51,660
And we demand that when TPD misuses the system, they are held accountable by us, the people, all powers to the people.

3983
05:44:52,000 --> 05:44:52,060
I

3984
05:44:54,240 --> 05:44:55,520
heard next speaker please.

3985
05:44:55,520 --> 05:44:59,900
branded Mac and Tire, and then Yuri Gus.

3986
05:45:00,000 --> 05:45:00,200
Sure.

3987
05:45:02,400 --> 05:45:09,780
Feel about 5.11. Sneeze, Florida. My name is Brandon McIntyre. Now, what do I need to start now? First of four

3988
05:45:09,780 --> 05:45:20,520
months, this is what I would like to say. The God that I serve is not Muslim. God that I serve is not a Christian. God that I serve is not part of

3989
05:45:20,520 --> 05:45:31,540
no denomination. His love, his unity, his every fruit of every spirit. So what we get the vision from? Why we've been

3990
05:45:31,540 --> 05:45:37,860
so divided, they want to watch one another when we're all full of seeing guilt, but what

3991
05:45:37,860 --> 05:45:42,780
I also want to say is this right here, as your future governor for Florida, when Brennan

3992
05:45:42,780 --> 05:45:46,640
brought attention to these flat cameras, when Global Worldwide known, because I used

3993
05:45:46,640 --> 05:45:51,680
that on my platform, I served you guys a constitution to know about these actual things.

3994
05:45:51,920 --> 05:45:54,420
You don't believe it? Go back and plug the record requested.

3995
05:45:55,260 --> 05:45:59,320
So what I'm telling you all is this right here, right? But all the police officers, y'all

3996
05:45:59,320 --> 05:46:01,720
I say we don't have no crime yet in here.

3997
05:46:01,960 --> 05:46:03,460
I'll be using the flock cameras.

3998
05:46:04,300 --> 05:46:06,220
But once my team come here to the panhandler,

3999
05:46:06,300 --> 05:46:07,020
we oughta been in Georgia.

4000
05:46:07,520 --> 05:46:08,600
Once we come to the panhandler,

4001
05:46:08,600 --> 05:46:10,360
it's a lot going to happen, okay?

4002
05:46:11,100 --> 05:46:13,140
If you haven't picked your tags yet,

4003
05:46:13,280 --> 05:46:15,080
go to haveibentflock.com

4004
05:46:15,080 --> 05:46:17,280
and get your plumber records requests as well.

4005
05:46:17,880 --> 05:46:19,560
But listen, but they say it's the third part of sight.

4006
05:46:19,860 --> 05:46:21,600
It's not accurate, it's wrong.

4007
05:46:22,340 --> 05:46:23,280
Listen, this is what I'm here to say,

4008
05:46:23,360 --> 05:46:26,340
because most of you officers wanna go back

4009
05:46:26,340 --> 05:46:31,280
and read that information and try to change the purpose of your investigation, it's not

4010
05:46:31,280 --> 05:46:31,800
going to work.

4011
05:46:32,600 --> 05:46:39,780
It's not going to work because the system has a mechanism that actually tracks the people

4012
05:46:39,780 --> 05:46:45,500
and also put in the system where the officer put in a certain investigation, it automatically

4013
05:46:45,500 --> 05:46:46,360
saves it.

4014
05:46:46,980 --> 05:46:49,400
So if they go back and try to read that, the information gets what happens.

4015
05:46:49,860 --> 05:46:51,260
It also saves that as well.

4016
05:46:51,880 --> 05:46:54,060
So covering your tracks is not going to help you.

4017
05:46:54,060 --> 05:46:59,780
Cover your ass. Excuse my French. It's not going to help you because I've been tracked just for doing the right thing

4018
05:47:00,420 --> 05:47:02,440
Two plus years for no reason

4019
05:47:02,440 --> 05:47:06,900
Then because I ran for president of the United States. That's why you want to track me and investigate me

4020
05:47:06,900 --> 05:47:11,660
But guess what we coming to the panhandle and a lot of you going to go to jail not saying you guys

4021
05:47:11,660 --> 05:47:14,540
But listen, I'm telling you something to as well a lot of you saw

4022
05:47:15,580 --> 05:47:17,440
NDAs no disclosure of what grievance

4023
05:47:18,520 --> 05:47:19,940
That's going to hit the fan too

4024
05:47:20,700 --> 05:47:25,440
I had a executive branch that allowed you guys to come in with this unlawful policy.

4025
05:47:26,220 --> 05:47:31,620
It was unconstitutional, but we have a governor, right, that wanted to get rid of it, but I thought he was a lawyer.

4026
05:47:32,840 --> 05:47:34,180
This isn't going to pass his desk.

4027
05:47:35,280 --> 05:47:36,620
He signed off on it, too.

4028
05:47:37,980 --> 05:47:42,220
He knows what it's right to do for the better good of Florida, you think so?

4029
05:47:42,780 --> 05:47:47,360
Guess what, he knew his time was coming to him as well, okay?

4030
05:47:47,820 --> 05:47:49,380
So guess what, a lot of people.

4031
05:47:49,920 --> 05:47:52,040
I'm going to go to jail behind this block.

4032
05:47:52,700 --> 05:47:54,740
Let's go Brandon on the ground, I'll fight for you guys.

4033
05:47:57,770 --> 05:48:00,490
Here you got, Sharp, and this is the last speaker I have at this time.

4034
05:48:01,050 --> 05:48:05,710
Hello, Regatio, 3-2-3-1, the one that Tallahassee, Florida.

4035
05:48:06,430 --> 05:48:12,270
I am not going to seek to try and enumerate all of the issues that have been laid up before me.

4036
05:48:12,450 --> 05:48:17,630
What I am going to ask you guys to do is to take action, because as it has been pointed out previously,

4037
05:48:18,970 --> 05:48:21,450
a suspension is not covering this.

4038
05:48:21,450 --> 05:48:28,470
And furthermore, when it comes to flock as well as the Motorola, these are not the only cameras that are gathering data.

4039
05:48:28,650 --> 05:48:35,630
This is my issue. My issue is that it's not just gathering data, it's gathering data, and then being put in the hands of private companies.

4040
05:48:35,830 --> 05:48:47,150
And what I'm asking for you is my City Commission is for you to not only monitor the contracts with flock as well as whatever the Motorola company is, but also look at the body cam footage.

4041
05:48:47,150 --> 05:48:52,650
That's a service. My question to you all, and I don't know the answer, this is probably a question to our attorney,

4042
05:48:53,310 --> 05:49:00,130
is when we pay for a service from that, is there something that prevents, as well as any other cameras,

4043
05:49:00,510 --> 05:49:09,110
any third party, non-regulated age or private entities from using that information, that data?

4044
05:49:09,610 --> 05:49:14,370
I don't know. I don't, I think that that is something that the City Commission should take up.

4045
05:49:14,370 --> 05:49:20,990
And that is, I think, the utmost importance for me as a citizen, the idea that we need

4046
05:49:20,990 --> 05:49:24,890
to have rights to the data that is collected on us.

4047
05:49:25,030 --> 05:49:34,110
And that those, that data is also limited and restricted by the same laws that are law

4048
05:49:34,110 --> 05:49:38,710
enforcement are required to follow when they serve a search and seizure on private property.

4049
05:49:38,710 --> 05:49:44,610
I, the reality is that, like, I, I, you know, I give an address.

4050
05:49:44,730 --> 05:49:49,570
I used to live it on what was formerly 909 Central Street for several years.

4051
05:49:50,450 --> 05:49:54,650
While I was there, you know, a new tenant moved in next door and they were selling drugs.

4052
05:49:55,190 --> 05:49:59,210
I know this because they would try to sell drugs to people who were coming to visit me.

4053
05:49:59,490 --> 05:50:01,690
That was reported by my landlord at multiple times.

4054
05:50:02,030 --> 05:50:08,150
It got to the point where they had their power turned off and my landlord called the cops or called the TPD on that.

4055
05:50:08,150 --> 05:50:11,450
As a result, they went over and they said, yeah, they're running a generator.

4056
05:50:11,650 --> 05:50:12,130
I know it's loud.

4057
05:50:12,890 --> 05:50:16,910
You got to call the code enforcement and a week later, the place burned down.

4058
05:50:17,730 --> 05:50:21,470
You know, who was there in five minutes, the fire service.

4059
05:50:23,150 --> 05:50:28,390
And ultimately, I personally, I feel like there was a missed opportunity that it doesn't

4060
05:50:28,390 --> 05:50:32,810
feel like putting cameras were going to do that because ultimately, that house was rated

4061
05:50:32,810 --> 05:50:33,510
during that time.

4062
05:50:33,650 --> 05:50:34,990
It was done by the Sheriff's Department.

4063
05:50:35,530 --> 05:50:36,970
They arrested each remaining.

4064
05:50:37,710 --> 05:50:44,010
And during that time, it seems like the adage came true of if you want to call a response,

4065
05:50:44,350 --> 05:50:50,490
call the sheriff to pardon not TBD, that ultimately the signs were put out, people were

4066
05:50:50,490 --> 05:50:53,430
warned, they were said, hey, there's some bad stuff going on here.

4067
05:50:53,430 --> 05:50:54,230
It was very clear.

4068
05:50:54,730 --> 05:51:00,370
And ultimately, when there were police, there's such bad relations that the people in the

4069
05:51:00,370 --> 05:51:03,970
neighborhood started yelling and screaming at the cops, and there was conflict just by

4070
05:51:03,970 --> 05:51:09,570
passers-by, and TPD needs to work on fixing that as well as directing new cameras to watch them.

4071
05:51:09,730 --> 05:51:10,070
Thank you.

4072
05:51:10,350 --> 05:51:11,510
All right, next speaker, please.

4073
05:51:12,270 --> 05:51:14,010
I have no other speakers on the side of Mayor.

4074
05:51:14,450 --> 05:51:16,130
All right, Mr. Williams-Cox.

4075
05:51:16,790 --> 05:51:20,450
Thank you, Mr. Mayor, and thank you all for your conversations.

4076
05:51:20,770 --> 05:51:26,170
I said earlier, I've done a lot of research and homework as well, and so at this point,

4077
05:51:26,310 --> 05:51:33,450
I am ready to move forward with making the motion that we suspend the use of flock and motor roller cameras.

4078
05:51:34,090 --> 05:51:41,350
in the city of Tallahassee to follow suit with what our partner to share is already doing.

4079
05:51:41,670 --> 05:51:46,430
In the last meeting, I mentioned that I didn't like the hodgepodge of us.

4080
05:51:46,610 --> 05:51:57,310
Some doing this and some doing that, but to provide some consistency in what we're doing that we move to suspend the use of flock cameras as well as Motorola.

4081
05:51:59,350 --> 05:52:07,410
All right, motion in second, motion made by Commissioner Williams-Cock, seconded by the mayor approved Tim for the comment.

4082
05:52:10,350 --> 05:52:11,010
Mr. Mallow.

4083
05:52:11,430 --> 05:52:12,330
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

4084
05:52:13,450 --> 05:52:20,350
I also drove to St. George Island this weekend and probably passed 25 bagged cameras.

4085
05:52:21,250 --> 05:52:29,430
It was great to see them bagged, but it was insane to see how many were in my drive between Tallahassee through a very rural area.

4086
05:52:29,430 --> 05:52:33,190
community. I mean, you talk about master valence. This is master valence.

4087
05:52:35,130 --> 05:52:38,670
I do want to, you know, we just took the item up two weeks ago.

4088
05:52:39,430 --> 05:52:43,310
We didn't have the votes to get it passed. Sometimes leadership is going first.

4089
05:52:44,150 --> 05:52:50,010
We brought the item up last December. I've been discussing it as a city commission, but I just

4090
05:52:50,010 --> 05:52:55,850
do everybody who came out and spoke today, who's been advocating on this issue. This decision is

4091
05:52:55,850 --> 05:52:57,450
only changing because of you.

4092
05:52:58,250 --> 05:53:19,070
If you weren't advocating for this, you would not see a change on this commission today, and I know the majority of this commission tends to reject what the public is asking for time after time again, but you showed that the power of advocacy still works, and if you continue to show up, you can't see real change for your impacts.

4093
05:53:19,070 --> 05:53:21,150
So, thank you, thank you for that.

4094
05:53:21,510 --> 05:53:25,930
I do have a couple of questions or a question, Mr. Manager.

4095
05:53:26,670 --> 05:53:33,490
The budget today allocated $150,000 for ALPRs and the capital improvement plan.

4096
05:53:33,790 --> 05:53:36,650
How will this decision impact that allocation?

4097
05:53:37,870 --> 05:53:38,850
Mr. Major,

4098
05:53:41,300 --> 05:53:49,040
I'm not sure that level of detail, but we clearly would not be spending additional money on ALPRs.

4099
05:53:49,620 --> 05:54:01,800
It's entirely possible we could reprogram that for the technology, but if the commission moves forward with the decision that seems to be at hand, we would not spend money on a LPR's.

4100
05:54:03,000 --> 05:54:04,200
Okay, I think-

4101
05:54:04,200 --> 05:54:04,500
Mr. Matlow.

4102
05:54:05,020 --> 05:54:05,280
Thank you.

4103
05:54:05,520 --> 05:54:09,660
And is it still the city's position and the chief's position that he should remain?

4104
05:54:12,440 --> 05:54:13,180
Mr. Mayor.

4105
05:54:13,220 --> 05:54:13,300
Mr. Mayor.

4106
05:54:15,020 --> 05:54:21,060
I think the TPD has been very clear in terms of the value of the information.

4107
05:54:21,060 --> 05:54:28,380
information, but at the same time you heard the words from the chief last meeting and there

4108
05:54:28,380 --> 05:54:33,660
was a request for this to come back, so there was quite a bit of effort put into the

4109
05:54:33,660 --> 05:54:37,740
agenda item, and you see no recommendation, we're seeking commission direction.

4110
05:54:38,700 --> 05:54:46,780
DVD and myself and others, we believe this to be a policy issue, this update on LPRs and

4111
05:54:46,780 --> 05:54:52,320
Cameras and other technology has been provided over the years, a dozen times.

4112
05:54:52,960 --> 05:54:59,000
There's been investment added and so TBD and law enforcement does believe in technology.

4113
05:54:59,980 --> 05:55:06,840
But we believe this rises to the level of public policy, which is provided by the commission.

4114
05:55:07,020 --> 05:55:11,980
So you don't see a recommendation other than seeking the direction of the commission.

4115
05:55:14,940 --> 05:55:25,600
I know there was a lot of discussion at all last meeting about the right to privacy in public, but we really didn't ever really get to get into the issue of this being completely different.

4116
05:55:25,820 --> 05:55:31,260
It doesn't give you the right to go back in time and trace the whereabouts of somebody for the past 30 days.

4117
05:55:31,260 --> 05:55:35,020
That has nothing to do with what's clearly visible in public.

4118
05:55:35,020 --> 05:55:46,380
But going forward, I've heard the speakers concerned, I've heard the motion, and I do think whether you can let me know if these are friendly amendments or a substitute motion is required, but I think we need to be aggressive about this.

4119
05:55:46,800 --> 05:55:51,140
I think that means black trash bags covering them by tomorrow within 24 hours.

4120
05:55:56,140 --> 05:56:08,100
I think that means issuing the directive to move them from all city right away within 30 days as consistent with the governor's orders on state right away or the city will remove them if they're not removed by the owner within 30 days.

4121
05:56:08,100 --> 05:56:20,120
And I think we need a policy to come back to the City Commission that requires explicit City Commission approval on any future surveillance technology moving forward.

4122
05:56:23,860 --> 05:56:32,340
So that is a friendly amendment, Commissioner Williams-Cox that we can support, or do you want to have a separate substitute motion?

4123
05:56:32,340 --> 05:56:41,300
I don't know why I'm not in favor of riding around town, seeing black bags all over the city of

4124
05:56:41,300 --> 05:56:49,180
Tallahassee when here's us hey everybody calm down just please right I mean that that's just

4125
05:56:49,180 --> 05:56:56,220
that's just where I am but I believe now knowing how technology works when we say suspend that means

4126
05:56:56,220 --> 05:57:01,480
it's turned off it's not transmitting it's not doing any of that is

4127
05:57:04,520 --> 05:57:05,040
the second

4128
05:57:05,040 --> 05:57:08,060
I don't warn him before I clear chambers for the rest of the evening, okay?

4129
05:57:09,320 --> 05:57:09,880
Thank you.

4130
05:57:12,560 --> 05:57:14,140
So, why don't we do this?

4131
05:57:14,340 --> 05:57:16,760
Why don't we react on the motion that I have on the table?

4132
05:57:16,900 --> 05:57:21,180
The Commissioner Matlow wants to do a separate motion, and he can do that.

4133
05:57:21,680 --> 05:57:25,100
But he will be making a substitute motion that would be taken up first.

4134
05:57:25,460 --> 05:57:30,040
And then if it fails, then we will take up the original motion on the table.

4135
05:57:31,300 --> 05:57:34,000
Okay, so you do not want to accept it as a friendly amendment.

4136
05:57:34,000 --> 05:57:37,160
Okay, so Commissioner Mallow, back to you.

4137
05:57:37,660 --> 05:57:38,440
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

4138
05:57:38,840 --> 05:57:45,020
I guess substitute motion that we bagged the cameras in the city within 24 hours.

4139
05:57:45,560 --> 05:57:57,880
It gives 30 days for them to be removed or have the city remove them and bring back a city commission policy at the September 23rd meeting that requires explicit city commission approval for any new surveillance technology.

4140
05:57:58,660 --> 05:58:01,580
I'll second that, I have two questions.

4141
05:58:01,900 --> 05:58:03,820
Motion in a second, Commissioner Porter.

4142
05:58:04,680 --> 05:58:15,580
Thank you, and I'm not sure exactly who this question is for, but I think Commissioner Williams-Cox, for the original motion, I want to make sure that I understand.

4143
05:58:15,780 --> 05:58:19,360
So is it all ALPR cameras?

4144
05:58:19,920 --> 05:58:21,220
Lock and motor roll.

4145
05:58:21,500 --> 05:58:26,040
Does that encompass all the ALPR cameras that we have?

4146
05:58:26,940 --> 05:58:37,680
That's the entirety. There's a 150-ish, a little 150, fixed AOPR cameras made up of flock in the Motorola brand.

4147
05:58:38,460 --> 05:58:38,760
Okay.

4148
05:58:39,020 --> 05:58:44,260
And they look different form factors. They all don't look the same, but that would be the entirety.

4149
05:58:45,040 --> 05:58:53,820
Okay. I would ask if you would accept the friendly amendment to extend it to all AOPR cameras, because I think that what we don't want is to just,

4150
05:58:53,820 --> 05:58:58,000
not that I'm assuming this would happen, but I think everyone would like the reassurance

4151
05:58:58,000 --> 05:59:02,080
that we're not going to just sign a contract with another company, with another provider.

4152
05:59:06,370 --> 05:59:12,910
My question is, will the original amendment, can it be amended to just say that we are

4153
05:59:12,910 --> 05:59:15,210
suspending all ALPR cameras?

4154
05:59:15,870 --> 05:59:19,050
We're on a substitute motion right now, not the original motion.

4155
05:59:19,270 --> 05:59:20,110
I understand that.

4156
05:59:20,250 --> 05:59:24,990
I just want to make sure that both, Commissioner Matlow did not speak to that.

4157
05:59:24,990 --> 05:59:29,690
So I want to make sure what's included both in his motion and in the original motion.

4158
05:59:30,810 --> 05:59:33,490
Yes, my motion encompasses all the PIRs.

4159
05:59:34,470 --> 05:59:34,830
Thank you.

4160
05:59:35,730 --> 05:59:43,210
And then I also wanted to ask the city manager, this commission took action on June 10th to ask

4161
05:59:43,210 --> 05:59:49,770
that an item come back with information about the Austin City Council Trust Act that they

4162
05:59:49,770 --> 05:59:58,130
passed that had a framework for how to deal with these kinds of surveillance tools.

4163
05:59:58,510 --> 05:59:59,870
Is that item still coming?

4164
06:00:00,000 --> 06:00:29,600
Back to us. Yeah, I believe that topic, which has been consistent would be a retreat item topic. I would expect that you can have that item back. Okay. The intent was not that it come back to us at a retreat. The intent, the direction was that it just come back to us at a regular meeting. So, can it come back? I mean, doing the motion should. I'll amend my motion to include that information at the September 23. Okay. I just want to make sure that we're not really in the commission. Okay.

4165
06:00:29,600 --> 06:00:30,180
All right, thank you.

4166
06:00:30,280 --> 06:00:31,260
That was motion.

4167
06:00:33,560 --> 06:00:33,920
Oh.

4168
06:00:34,260 --> 06:00:35,500
Mr. Mayor, ma'am.

4169
06:00:36,280 --> 06:00:36,600
Sure.

4170
06:00:36,900 --> 06:00:44,260
I just just declared the way we would immediately disable these is by turning the systems

4171
06:00:44,260 --> 06:00:47,800
off and turning the cameras off.

4172
06:00:47,880 --> 06:00:55,700
So the access to the system, the access to the data and the cameras to just just be clear

4173
06:00:55,700 --> 06:00:56,300
that's how we do.

4174
06:00:56,300 --> 06:00:57,720
I haven't heard that action.

4175
06:00:58,260 --> 06:00:59,440
Commissioner Williams-Cock said that,

4176
06:00:59,520 --> 06:01:01,540
but that's how we would do that very rapidly.

4177
06:01:02,700 --> 06:01:05,840
That would be how we would disable that technology.

4178
06:01:06,060 --> 06:01:08,200
So it couldn't be accessed by us or anybody else.

4179
06:01:08,820 --> 06:01:12,600
And is that the way the sheriff is doing it?

4180
06:01:12,600 --> 06:01:13,020
Yes.

4181
06:01:13,560 --> 06:01:17,900
Is that the way that the governor's state is doing it?

4182
06:01:18,040 --> 06:01:18,260
Yes.

4183
06:01:19,220 --> 06:01:21,000
Yeah, that's the most, that's the fastest way

4184
06:01:21,000 --> 06:01:22,560
to stop this technology.

4185
06:01:23,060 --> 06:01:23,420
That sounds good.

4186
06:01:23,540 --> 06:01:25,380
All right, so we got a substantive motion on the table.

4187
06:01:25,380 --> 06:01:32,280
the Commissioner Matlow has made that has been amended with friendly suggestions from Commissioner Porter and seconded by Commissioner Porter.

4188
06:01:32,880 --> 06:01:37,700
I am respectfully going to support the original motion on the table and not support the substitute motion.

4189
06:01:38,440 --> 06:01:40,280
All those in favor, single file by saying aye.

4190
06:01:40,680 --> 06:01:40,820
Aye.

4191
06:01:41,160 --> 06:01:41,680
All those opposed.

4192
06:01:42,060 --> 06:01:42,200
Aye.

4193
06:01:42,620 --> 06:01:48,860
And it fails 3-2 with the Mayor Mayor Pro Tem and Commissioner Williams Cox in dissent with Commissioner Matlow and Commissioner Porter in favor.

4194
06:01:49,080 --> 06:01:54,460
We are on the original motion made by Commissioner Williams Cox, seconded by the Mayor Pro Tem, all those in favor.

4195
06:01:56,360 --> 06:01:57,500
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

4196
06:01:57,640 --> 06:02:03,740
Just for clarification on the motion, suspension until which point and who has the authority

4197
06:02:03,740 --> 06:02:04,580
to remove the suspension?

4198
06:02:05,420 --> 06:02:07,000
I could not hear you, sorry.

4199
06:02:07,200 --> 06:02:12,300
Suspension until when and who has the authority to then remove the suspension and put them back into play.

4200
06:02:12,640 --> 06:02:19,320
Sure, it is my understanding that the action that is being proposed is the exact same action taken by the Leon County Sheriff's Office, correct?

4201
06:02:19,320 --> 06:02:37,540
So, the question is, and I don't have the answer off top of my head, but it's a suspension and perpetuity chief, can you come and help clarify Sheriff's action so that as a community we're moving forward together with the suspension that he has put in place?

4202
06:02:40,570 --> 06:02:42,430
Yes, for thank you, Mayor, for the opportunity.

4203
06:02:43,550 --> 06:02:57,470
The suspension that the sheriff has done and that I believe is where we're getting the direction here tonight would be until such time as, and again, if I might take a little bit just to have extra time.

4204
06:02:57,890 --> 06:03:02,890
We just spent two days with the Florida police chiefs discussing this exact issue.

4205
06:03:03,490 --> 06:03:07,130
And there is a model statement coming, there's a model policy coming.

4206
06:03:07,130 --> 06:03:11,250
And that information will be then used with the Florida Sheriff's Association.

4207
06:03:11,790 --> 06:03:17,410
And our legislators to bring forward legislation which will, if in fact,

4208
06:03:17,610 --> 06:03:23,890
this moves forward, direct how that has moved forward, how it's used, how it's protected, anything, if it in fact goes forward at all.

4209
06:03:24,350 --> 06:03:34,930
So what the sheriff has done and what I assume you would be in agreement with doing would be to suspend this until such time is those legislative efforts and

4210
06:03:34,930 --> 06:03:41,770
Those efforts of the FPCA and the FSA come and set that national standard that we

4211
06:03:41,770 --> 06:03:45,510
talked about two weeks ago that we believe we're already very close to.

4212
06:03:46,130 --> 06:03:48,330
But it would formalize all that.

4213
06:03:48,830 --> 06:03:53,330
It would put it in formal policy with IECP, International Association of Chiefs of Police,

4214
06:03:53,930 --> 06:03:57,790
with the Florida Sheriff's Association, Florida Police Chiefs Association, and create that

4215
06:03:57,790 --> 06:04:03,210
national standard that everybody is looking forward to direct if and when this technology

4216
06:04:03,210 --> 06:04:04,030
can be used.

4217
06:04:04,030 --> 06:04:08,270
So, you would be suspending it until such time as those guidelines were in place.

4218
06:04:08,670 --> 06:04:09,070
Understood.

4219
06:04:09,290 --> 06:04:12,910
In the difference between the Sheriff's Office and this legislative body, Sheriff

4220
06:04:12,910 --> 06:04:15,490
being a constitutional officer that can make decision on his own.

4221
06:04:15,790 --> 06:04:21,750
If we as a body decide to put in suspension, we cannot reinstate that program unless

4222
06:04:21,750 --> 06:04:25,630
that item comes back before this commission with the positive vote unless directed

4223
06:04:25,630 --> 06:04:26,150
otherwise.

4224
06:04:26,650 --> 06:04:30,510
So, the answer to your question, Commissioner Matlow, if we take action tonight to suspend

4225
06:04:30,510 --> 06:04:39,090
And in order to reinstate, excuse me, it would have to take an affirmative vote of a future commission,

4226
06:04:39,090 --> 06:04:42,410
because I don't see this coming back the next month and a half before the election.

4227
06:04:43,410 --> 06:04:45,170
Mr. Matlow, thanks, Chief.

4228
06:04:45,510 --> 06:04:47,130
Thank you, Japhia, and thank you for that clarification.

4229
06:04:49,210 --> 06:04:53,570
I can't believe I'm going to say this, but I believe I'm more in line with what the governor ordered,

4230
06:04:53,570 --> 06:05:02,530
which was, must be removed by the permitting within 30 days of this date, if such removal has not occurred within the 30 day period.

4231
06:05:02,890 --> 06:05:07,010
The department will remove any remaining devices subject to this memorandum.

4232
06:05:07,310 --> 06:05:10,910
The governor has ordered them to come down, at least on state, state highways.

4233
06:05:11,550 --> 06:05:16,130
And so we are, I don't know where that puts us politically in relationship to the governor, but

4234
06:05:16,130 --> 06:05:21,910
it seems like the governor has a lot more common sense about the threat of the surveillance technology.

4235
06:05:21,910 --> 06:05:24,450
But look, incremental progress is progress.

4236
06:05:24,510 --> 06:05:33,330
I'll support the motion on the table, but I don't think it's a total victory for people who don't want to see this come back in a year and go through this same process again.

4237
06:05:33,510 --> 06:05:33,910
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

4238
06:05:35,030 --> 06:05:36,770
Commissioner Porter, with the question.

4239
06:05:37,310 --> 06:05:38,070
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

4240
06:05:38,590 --> 06:05:40,210
And I intend to support the motion as well.

4241
06:05:40,470 --> 06:05:48,640
I would like to have the question answered, how did we get here since this did not come to a vote for the commission.

4242
06:05:49,820 --> 06:06:06,320
Mr. Manger, actually, there's been numerous votes by the commission on the video technology license plate reader technology updates to the commission dating back to 2020.

4243
06:06:09,260 --> 06:06:11,540
So all of the action has been done by the commission.

4244
06:06:12,540 --> 06:06:15,420
Did we vote on entering into a flock contract?

4245
06:06:16,580 --> 06:06:18,680
We did not enter into a flat contract.

4246
06:06:18,760 --> 06:06:24,300
That's right, it's a derivative of the red speed contract, yes you did.

4247
06:06:24,740 --> 06:06:29,360
Okay, so I don't understand.

4248
06:06:30,220 --> 06:06:32,460
That was legislation of action, we did vote on that.

4249
06:06:32,840 --> 06:06:39,560
I know the red speed was, but so are you telling me that that is, that red speed is?

4250
06:06:39,560 --> 06:06:45,880
There's a relationship between red speed and availability of flock, and you acted on that contract.

4251
06:06:46,080 --> 06:06:47,680
Okay, I know we acted on that contract.

4252
06:06:47,840 --> 06:06:49,440
I reviewed those items before we got here.

4253
06:06:49,880 --> 06:06:52,820
There's no mention of flock, there's no mention of ALPRs.

4254
06:06:53,840 --> 06:06:59,520
That's the contract, that's the contract you said is for the flock, and

4255
06:06:59,520 --> 06:07:01,860
then you've had to have the motor role on the updates.

4256
06:07:02,320 --> 06:07:04,320
So this commission's provided the direction.

4257
06:07:05,180 --> 06:07:09,700
It's not been a few times, it's been numerous times.

4258
06:07:10,240 --> 06:07:12,140
All right, we got a motion on the table, but we're going to take a vote.

4259
06:07:12,400 --> 06:07:16,400
All those in favor of the motion made by Commissioner Diane Williams-Cock, seconded by the mayor,

4260
06:07:16,560 --> 06:07:18,000
pro-tem, seconded by by saying aye.

4261
06:07:18,100 --> 06:07:18,560
All right.

4262
06:07:18,800 --> 06:07:19,340
All those opposed?

4263
06:07:20,140 --> 06:07:22,500
And it passes unanimously, 5-0.

4264
06:07:22,680 --> 06:07:24,380
We have nothing else to come before us.

4265
06:07:24,420 --> 06:07:26,240
We are on other agenda speakers, Mr. Chair.

4266
06:07:26,240 --> 06:07:31,660
Mr. Mayor, can I just take care of that item that we were going to take care of earlier?

4267
06:07:32,360 --> 06:07:33,040
Do you want me to-

4268
06:07:35,440 --> 06:07:43,560
I would just like to, the record to reflect my vote on the street renaming to be unanimous.

4269
06:07:44,000 --> 06:07:49,640
Well, I think we have to, she wants to change her position and change the official vote on the street renaming

4270
06:07:49,640 --> 06:07:54,720
reductors' homes. So do I need to take a motion to reconsider?

4271
06:07:55,580 --> 06:08:01,880
Again, it's, Robert's rule refers to it as if it's within the same meeting, it's not really a motion to reconsider.

4272
06:08:01,880 --> 06:08:08,420
It does require unanimous consent of the body to allow the commissioner to change her vote.

4273
06:08:08,540 --> 06:08:15,000
Commissioner Porter wants to change her vote on the renaming so that the vote reflects not a 4-1, but a 5-0 unanimous vote.

4274
06:08:15,140 --> 06:08:23,080
Is there any objection seeing none let the record reflect a 5-0 unanimous vote in the renaming of the street in favor of the doctors?

4275
06:08:23,540 --> 06:08:25,080
We are on unadjointed speakers.

4276
06:08:25,640 --> 06:08:27,000
Mr. Clerk, how many speakers do we have?

4277
06:08:27,000 --> 06:08:29,220
I have nine, nine speakers, let's go.

4278
06:08:29,680 --> 06:08:36,100
First speaker, Bobbi Nehoun, followed by Michael Rubano.

4279
06:08:40,060 --> 06:08:42,500
Bobbi Nehoun, 576 East Call Street.

4280
06:08:43,420 --> 06:08:48,300
I'm speaking to you all today about the need in our community for public access to tracks for running an exercise.

4281
06:08:49,220 --> 06:08:53,600
For many decades, tell HACC residents had access to the tracks that are public high schools.

4282
06:08:54,180 --> 06:08:58,940
During evenings, weekends, and holidays when they're not being used for school activities, practices, or games.

4283
06:08:58,940 --> 06:09:03,460
In 2020, the school district completely closed public access these tracks.

4284
06:09:03,620 --> 06:09:09,900
After lobbying the district, we got them to reopen the tracks in a limited capacity in 2023.

4285
06:09:10,640 --> 06:09:12,460
For a few months again in 2025.

4286
06:09:13,180 --> 06:09:16,720
For almost an entire year, we hadn't reopened in 2025.

4287
06:09:17,240 --> 06:09:21,000
However, this past June, the district once again closed public access.

4288
06:09:21,440 --> 06:09:23,900
Our community now has no access to these tracks.

4289
06:09:23,900 --> 06:09:33,060
This deprives residents of safe places to exercise and young athletes of places to train for sports and athletic competitions outside of school hours.

4290
06:09:33,560 --> 06:09:39,000
I along with others and once again working with the school board to find a permanent solution to reopen the tracks.

4291
06:09:39,520 --> 06:09:47,240
The school board and superintendent have been receptive but they have expressed that they could use help maintaining the tracks and bathrooms to accommodate public use.

4292
06:09:47,240 --> 06:09:51,520
I believe it's time for the city to fell, ask you to partner with Leon County Schools.

4293
06:09:52,020 --> 06:10:00,520
They were shared use agreement to help maintain these facilities and restore public access during designated hours when the tracks are not being used by the schools.

4294
06:10:01,220 --> 06:10:06,800
Several school board members and the superintendent are open to this idea and there is precedent for the shared use agreements.

4295
06:10:06,800 --> 06:10:20,960
Board of Statute 101 3.101 passed in 2018, was specifically intended to encourage school districts and local governments to create shared use agreements to make outdoor school recreational facilities available to the public.

4296
06:10:21,560 --> 06:10:33,460
Before the law was passed, the shared use task force was created to explore the benefits of local governments and school districts combining resources to make school facilities available to the public.

4297
06:10:33,460 --> 06:10:37,280
The report became the basis for Florida Statute 101 3.101.

4298
06:10:38,300 --> 06:10:42,100
Task force found that public access to the track can improve public health,

4299
06:10:42,220 --> 06:10:46,320
help prevent vandalism by putting more people on school grounds during off hours,

4300
06:10:46,840 --> 06:10:51,860
and conserve taxpayer dollars by preventing unnecessary duplication of facilities.

4301
06:10:52,440 --> 06:10:57,920
This is relevant in our city here because we don't need to spend tax dollars in building more public tracks

4302
06:10:57,920 --> 06:11:01,260
when we already have five high school tracks that sit vacant much of the time.

4303
06:11:01,260 --> 06:11:09,360
It makes more sense for the city to work with the school district to make these existing facilities available to the public designated hours.

4304
06:11:09,980 --> 06:11:19,000
Board of Statute 375.251 provides liability protection for local governments and school districts that make recreational facilities available for public use.

4305
06:11:19,500 --> 06:11:22,820
So liability associated with public use of these tracks is not obstacle.

4306
06:11:23,340 --> 06:11:24,400
You're at 20 seconds remaining.

4307
06:11:24,700 --> 06:11:27,320
We had access to these tracks for decades and it worked.

4308
06:11:27,320 --> 06:11:30,780
Presumably, the city never built new tracks because we always add access.

4309
06:11:31,200 --> 06:11:35,660
I'm asking for you all to work with Leon County Schools to help restore public access to these tracks.

4310
06:11:36,240 --> 06:11:40,360
Let's use the facilities we already have, safe taxpayer dollars, remote public health,

4311
06:11:40,500 --> 06:11:43,660
and give our community back the tracks that we were able to use for decades.

4312
06:11:44,180 --> 06:11:44,480
Thank you.

4313
06:11:44,800 --> 06:11:45,660
Nice figure, please.

4314
06:11:46,180 --> 06:11:49,860
Michael Robano, you'll be followed by Kim O'Connor.

4315
06:11:50,120 --> 06:11:51,420
Name and address for the record police.

4316
06:11:51,660 --> 06:11:54,560
My name is Michael Robano, 1325 West Tharp Street.

4317
06:11:55,400 --> 06:12:01,480
Hello. I came here to talk about football, specifically game day traffic management by

4318
06:12:01,480 --> 06:12:07,740
TPD. I'm a rideshare driver, I have been for a decade. I am in the trenches during

4319
06:12:07,740 --> 06:12:09,700
game day when all this stuff happens.

4320
06:12:12,500 --> 06:12:14,740
I'm specifically referring to traffic on game

4321
06:12:14,740 --> 06:12:18,360
days and other events where TPD controls the flow of traffic. Currently the game day's

4322
06:12:18,360 --> 06:12:24,460
traffic situation is an unmitigated disaster. Closing roads down does not get people where

4323
06:12:24,460 --> 06:12:30,520
they need to go. The same song and dance has been done for decades. Despite changing demographics,

4324
06:12:30,800 --> 06:12:34,980
there are now thousands of people, thousands of people that live in that area in College Town.

4325
06:12:35,680 --> 06:12:40,960
Shuffling everyone out to Appalachia Parkway and closing all those roads makes no sense at all.

4326
06:12:41,740 --> 06:12:50,220
People go to and from the game and cross the roads regularly and need to. The policy needs to be changed,

4327
06:12:50,220 --> 06:12:54,920
It needs to be changed to where the roads are opened up, and people are allowed to come in and out where they need to go.

4328
06:12:55,500 --> 06:13:02,500
This would make it easier to, and from the games, it would allow transportation, it would reduce the congestion that's created by TPD.

4329
06:13:04,380 --> 06:13:06,240
It's a problem that creates itself.

4330
06:13:06,580 --> 06:13:14,500
There's a traffic jam that's coming into town from the people that are shuffled out to Appalachia Parkway, because they didn't get where they needed to go.

4331
06:13:15,140 --> 06:13:18,600
Right, they shut all these roads down, so now they go up, well, now an Appalachia Parkway,

4332
06:13:18,600 --> 06:13:21,300
but I needed to really go to this hotel down here, whatever it is.

4333
06:13:21,900 --> 06:13:27,620
So we have a traffic jam coming into town and a traffic jam leaving town during game day

4334
06:13:27,620 --> 06:13:31,820
because it makes no sense. And I go, no, nobody talks about this. It's one of those things that's,

4335
06:13:32,180 --> 06:13:36,140
it's existed so long, I think people just do it because it's the thing that happens on game day,

4336
06:13:36,260 --> 06:13:40,900
but it makes no sense. It makes no sense at all, right? So it's just something that I just wanted

4337
06:13:40,900 --> 06:13:46,140
to bring up and hopefully, you know, people can just start talking about it because I don't think

4338
06:13:46,140 --> 06:13:50,180
to get anybody talks about it, and I think it's just something that's been done for so long, and it makes no sense.

4339
06:13:53,990 --> 06:13:55,110
Yeah, that's pretty much it.

4340
06:13:55,130 --> 06:14:00,530
I just wanted to see a reevaluation, and again, I mean, I'm not even sure that you guys are going to, the guys that talk about it, but

4341
06:14:00,530 --> 06:14:10,530
I think that it's a partnership between the city, TBD, FSU, during game days, as part of a potential solution, I would think that

4342
06:14:10,530 --> 06:14:17,650
And the real answer would not be reduced the police presence, but instead of blocking

4343
06:14:17,650 --> 06:14:22,570
roads off, have police officers direct traffic as to where it needs to go.

4344
06:14:22,710 --> 06:14:28,730
So instead of closing off lanes and arteries, you have people shuffling that traffic to

4345
06:14:28,730 --> 06:14:29,430
where it needs to go.

4346
06:14:33,650 --> 06:14:36,710
And again, I think you could do that with the exact same number of officers.

4347
06:14:36,830 --> 06:14:40,170
I know you pull officers from literally counties from all over the place, Liberty Poke,

4348
06:14:40,170 --> 06:14:44,130
what Kola you name it, they come from all over just so they can stand on a road,

4349
06:14:44,230 --> 06:14:46,230
Twitter their thumbs, and nobody gets to go anywhere.

4350
06:14:47,690 --> 06:14:48,630
They thanks a lot guys.

4351
06:14:49,830 --> 06:14:53,870
Our next speaker please, Kim O'Connor, and then Finay.

4352
06:15:03,860 --> 06:15:11,980
Your name and address for the record, please. My name is Kim O'Connor. I live at Georgia, Bill Dickinson.

4353
06:15:13,340 --> 06:15:27,360
A few people, given their address, as there's zip code, I didn't know that was sufficient, but I'm going to give my whole address because of Georgia, Bill Dickinson, 301 East Carolina street, and I'm very proud to live there.

4354
06:15:28,180 --> 06:15:34,320
I'm not as prepared as the two on agenda speakers, but I will do my best and it'll be over

4355
06:15:34,320 --> 06:15:34,820
in three minutes.

4356
06:15:38,520 --> 06:15:49,300
Tomorrow, I'm going to Sanchez as scheduled the 15th execution for 2026 of Daniel Conahan.

4357
06:15:51,080 --> 06:16:13,320
In his first three years, he had zero executions, his next year he has six, next year after that, 2024 election year, he had one, but he's been on air this last two years, 2025 as a record, 19 and 2026, this will be number 15, and it's only August.

4358
06:16:16,580 --> 06:16:27,080
On September 1st, they executed Harold Lucas, and at the same time, the governor was in

4359
06:16:27,080 --> 06:16:34,300
Tampa at the Peppin Institute, having a Republican fundraiser to try to find out what the cost

4360
06:16:34,300 --> 06:16:39,560
they said is similar to what they just had in Texas was $20,000 up, but none of that

4361
06:16:39,560 --> 06:16:40,240
is information.

4362
06:16:40,240 --> 06:16:44,380
And while the execution is scheduled at 6 p.m., he has a fundraiser in Tampa.

4363
06:16:44,840 --> 06:16:50,600
He's an artist, Byron Donalds, Will Simpson, James Uthmeyer, and

4364
06:16:50,600 --> 06:16:51,740
Blades in Gaulia.

4365
06:16:52,560 --> 06:16:59,160
And so I just, I have to just mostly speaking to the public out there, you know,

4366
06:16:59,220 --> 06:17:02,080
that we do some things here at the time as he's citizens against the disability.

4367
06:17:03,200 --> 06:17:09,060
At Good Shepherd Church in the morning at 9 a.m., we'll have a program that's 46,

4368
06:17:09,060 --> 06:17:16,900
65 Thomasville Road, and then at 6 p.m. we gather at the governor's mansion, and he wasn't there on September 1st, we gather.

4369
06:17:20,440 --> 06:17:30,280
And we bring the bill, that brings the first Presbyterian bill, and we bring it on every name for the governor, so this will be number 44.

4370
06:17:31,800 --> 06:17:39,980
and just this fundraiser thing, in 2013, 13 years ago, September 10th, the same day, the anniversary of the day,

4371
06:17:40,360 --> 06:17:45,600
I mean, I was at the execution of the anniversary of the day, that Pam Bonney got Rick Scott,

4372
06:17:46,200 --> 06:17:54,700
2013, to reschedule the execution of Marshall Lee Graves, so she could have a fundraiser in Tampa.

4373
06:17:54,700 --> 06:17:58,000
I don't know what I'm asking the commission, but I am asked.

4374
06:17:58,140 --> 06:18:02,660
And then the next day, September 11th, citizens against the LSEs,

4375
06:18:02,660 --> 06:18:06,920
citizens against death penalty will have a service of remembrance around the rotunda.

4376
06:18:07,360 --> 06:18:11,420
I hope anybody out there, anybody out there who would come and join us.

4377
06:18:11,500 --> 06:18:12,440
I appreciate it so much.

4378
06:18:12,860 --> 06:18:13,140
Thank you.

4379
06:18:13,360 --> 06:18:13,620
Thank you.

4380
06:18:13,980 --> 06:18:16,600
And to be here just 10 o'clock, I really appreciate you,

4381
06:18:16,780 --> 06:18:18,240
the commissioner is to the mayor.

4382
06:18:18,340 --> 06:18:18,700
Thank you.

4383
06:18:18,820 --> 06:18:19,740
Our next speaker, please.

4384
06:18:19,740 --> 06:18:25,410
FNA, because FNA wants twice.

4385
06:18:27,630 --> 06:18:28,770
Here I'll offer it.

4386
06:18:34,230 --> 06:18:35,550
Name an address for the record, please.

4387
06:18:37,070 --> 06:18:37,990
You already know.

4388
06:18:38,610 --> 06:18:40,090
Hey, this is Dar Alfred.

4389
06:18:40,550 --> 06:18:43,070
I'm a resident at 14 West Tharp Street.

4390
06:18:43,550 --> 06:18:47,290
I'm also a rideshare driver, and I have some policy for that if you guys are interested

4391
06:18:47,290 --> 06:18:48,230
in talking about it.

4392
06:18:48,330 --> 06:18:48,830
It's on my site.

4393
06:18:50,410 --> 06:18:54,650
So, Tallahassee has effectively created a charging desert for residents who drive

4394
06:18:54,650 --> 06:18:55,890
of Chathamau electric vehicles.

4395
06:18:56,310 --> 06:18:58,350
You all got an email about it this past week.

4396
06:18:58,870 --> 06:19:00,290
If you don't know what Chathamau is,

4397
06:19:00,410 --> 06:19:02,310
it's one of the major DC fast charging plugs,

4398
06:19:02,750 --> 06:19:04,510
most commonly used by Nissan Leafs

4399
06:19:04,510 --> 06:19:05,690
in some earlier EVs.

4400
06:19:06,090 --> 06:19:07,430
It's how my car fast charges.

4401
06:19:08,030 --> 06:19:09,790
I've been driving mine since 2022.

4402
06:19:10,610 --> 06:19:13,030
At the time, there was a promise of federal nebby funding

4403
06:19:13,030 --> 06:19:16,330
that could cover up to 80% of new charging infrastructure.

4404
06:19:17,010 --> 06:19:18,170
The Santa's blocked it.

4405
06:19:18,770 --> 06:19:19,970
Florida never really got it.

4406
06:19:20,210 --> 06:19:22,910
So for four years, people like me have learned

4407
06:19:22,910 --> 06:19:25,010
to walk our work around a limited network.

4408
06:19:25,670 --> 06:19:29,350
Today, a Tallahassee has roughly 40 CCS charging connections,

4409
06:19:29,890 --> 06:19:33,030
about 52 NAX connections, and effectively one active

4410
06:19:33,030 --> 06:19:34,110
Chatham O'Fash charger.

4411
06:19:35,190 --> 06:19:37,890
I've driven 10 hours, gotten back to Tallahassee,

4412
06:19:37,910 --> 06:19:40,590
or gotten back, gotten done at 4 in the morning,

4413
06:19:40,790 --> 06:19:43,370
and still couldn't go home because somebody else was charging.

4414
06:19:44,030 --> 06:19:45,230
I've fallen asleep waiting.

4415
06:19:45,590 --> 06:19:47,810
What should have been a 40-minute stop can turn into hours.

4416
06:19:48,710 --> 06:19:50,750
Then recently, you guys opened the cascades

4417
06:19:51,690 --> 06:19:54,690
charging station with four fast chargers that work for my car.

4418
06:19:55,070 --> 06:19:55,710
That was awesome.

4419
06:19:56,650 --> 06:19:58,070
Leaf drivers, cried tears of joy.

4420
06:19:58,590 --> 06:20:00,270
I saw them because they were in my rear view mirror.

4421
06:20:02,010 --> 06:20:04,610
Then, just this past month, a maintenance crew came out.

4422
06:20:05,290 --> 06:20:07,970
When they left, all four chat-mo connections were suddenly gone.

4423
06:20:08,710 --> 06:20:10,590
Meanwhile, the state charger near the capitals

4424
06:20:10,590 --> 06:20:13,530
been out because of construction and will be for the foreseeable future.

4425
06:20:14,110 --> 06:20:14,990
Southwood is done.

4426
06:20:15,710 --> 06:20:18,730
Kraft Nissan is the only single charger and it's private.

4427
06:20:18,730 --> 06:20:20,630
So, after hours, you can't access it.

4428
06:20:21,190 --> 06:20:26,190
So, someone coming in until AC late at night working overnight like I have for years or living

4429
06:20:26,190 --> 06:20:29,970
in an apartment without home charging can realistically find themselves with nowhere

4430
06:20:29,970 --> 06:20:31,810
to go and stranded on the side of the road.

4431
06:20:32,750 --> 06:20:36,350
This is what makes this worse is how the transition was handled.

4432
06:20:36,850 --> 06:20:41,530
For a Chathamode driver, the answer is now basically go buy an adapter that costs around 800 bucks.

4433
06:20:42,670 --> 06:20:44,090
They use, excuse me, that's backwards.

4434
06:20:44,270 --> 06:20:48,150
They use Nissan Leaf as one of the most affordable ways for a working person to get into an

4435
06:20:48,150 --> 06:20:54,050
electric car, most people buying one don't have $800 sitting around to fix a problem they didn't create.

4436
06:20:54,690 --> 06:21:00,150
I'm lucky enough to have a regular outlet at home, charging for 24 hours to get a full charge guys.

4437
06:21:00,890 --> 06:21:03,270
But plenty of apartment residents don't even have that.

4438
06:21:03,870 --> 06:21:13,430
So my remitties straightforward, restored Chathamau access at cascades, whether that means restoring the Chathamau connections or providing compatible CCS to Chathamau adapters at the station.

4439
06:21:14,010 --> 06:21:16,250
I'm not asking Tallahassee to stop modernizing.

4440
06:21:16,350 --> 06:21:18,310
I'm asking to modernize without stranding people.

4441
06:21:19,130 --> 06:21:21,930
If we're spending public money on transportation for structure,

4442
06:21:22,090 --> 06:21:24,590
more people should be able to use it when we're done, not fewer.

4443
06:21:25,610 --> 06:21:28,410
The Tesla adapter to Chathamau is like 50 bucks.

4444
06:21:29,010 --> 06:21:32,050
My adapter is 800 bucks and people like me can't afford it.

4445
06:21:32,830 --> 06:21:35,270
As far as while I have a little bit of time, 10 seconds,

4446
06:21:35,830 --> 06:21:38,770
we should have stations away from events,

4447
06:21:38,770 --> 06:21:53,330
You know, where Baja's is at the fairgrounds, the governor's square mall where people can be diverted after events and not congest the center of town and create emergency problems in the center of town. Thank you, too.

4448
06:21:53,330 --> 06:21:54,550
Next speaker, please.

4449
06:21:54,770 --> 06:21:58,110
Sean Thomas, in Lisa Sears.

4450
06:22:01,000 --> 06:22:02,520
Name the gesture of the record, please.

4451
06:22:02,860 --> 06:22:05,080
Sean Thomas, 2113, join your drive.

4452
06:22:06,480 --> 06:22:14,320
When I first wrote this, it was afternoon, is now evening, so I've been here since now 10, so I know we're all tired.

4453
06:22:17,200 --> 06:22:25,560
My first wasn't going to do an unagent speaking item until I saw behavior on the commission that I thought I needed to point out.

4454
06:22:26,940 --> 06:22:34,340
So, Mayor Daley, let's start with you, year after year, your colleagues on this very commission

4455
06:22:34,340 --> 06:22:39,840
and outside groups have described the same pattern, talking over women, belittling them

4456
06:22:39,840 --> 06:22:43,540
in the chambers, concerning that or cornering them in a hallway.

4457
06:22:44,240 --> 06:22:46,520
You earned the nickname for me and I hope it sticks.

4458
06:22:46,760 --> 06:22:52,180
Daley, the king of mansplaining, that's not a punchline, it's what happens when someone

4459
06:22:52,180 --> 06:22:59,000
with power treats with the woman on this commission like they're here to be managed instead of heard.

4460
06:22:59,600 --> 06:23:04,320
That behavior doesn't play in this room. It sets the tone of how every department,

4461
06:23:04,560 --> 06:23:10,160
every board and every resident watching at home learns to treat each other and is the direct driver

4462
06:23:10,160 --> 06:23:16,660
of the division in the city. Commissioner Williams-Hawks, first time in eight years on this commission you

4463
06:23:16,660 --> 06:23:21,340
have achieved a runoff election that doesn't happen to someone the community feels is listening.

4464
06:23:21,340 --> 06:23:27,480
You can rename Wannish Way, Pasco Street, West Carolina Street, and now push the floor for

4465
06:23:27,480 --> 06:23:29,600
junior street to four streets.

4466
06:23:30,120 --> 06:23:37,560
And not one of those room cuttings fixes a pothole, lowers a utility bill, or returns a resident's phone call.

4467
06:23:38,060 --> 06:23:40,660
Streets are symbols, people need substance.

4468
06:23:41,200 --> 06:23:44,360
And this runoff is the community telling you they've noticed the difference.

4469
06:23:44,940 --> 06:23:49,700
You say we need to move forward about the city manager, and that we have seen the city move forward.

4470
06:23:49,700 --> 06:23:55,540
But under Mayor Daley, under your tenure, and under RISCO, we have seen a rise in robberies at gas stations.

4471
06:23:55,940 --> 06:24:00,060
Block parties have to have TPD officers and drones to protect them from shootings.

4472
06:24:00,760 --> 06:24:05,700
And city commission, as city commission is urging churches to do a city hall's job.

4473
06:24:06,920 --> 06:24:09,680
And Commissioner Richardson, we've all heard it.

4474
06:24:09,980 --> 06:24:12,680
Quote on quote, I was born and raised on the south side.

4475
06:24:12,960 --> 06:24:17,380
It's become a meme in this town because you reach for it every time your record gets questioned.

4476
06:24:17,380 --> 06:24:20,020
them, as if geography excuses policy.

4477
06:24:20,660 --> 06:24:21,080
It doesn't.

4478
06:24:21,460 --> 06:24:26,480
The Southside deserves a commissioner who fights for it with boats, not a home townline

4479
06:24:26,480 --> 06:24:29,340
recycled for cover while the public loses out.

4480
06:24:30,080 --> 06:24:31,400
Yes, 30 seconds.

4481
06:24:31,680 --> 06:24:32,060
Thank you.

4482
06:24:32,200 --> 06:24:34,420
This dius sets the tone for the whole city.

4483
06:24:34,680 --> 06:24:38,920
When residents watch a mayor talk down to his colleagues, a commissioner dodge accountability

4484
06:24:39,520 --> 06:24:44,620
with the slogan and streets renamed while real problems sit on the touch, they stop trusting

4485
06:24:44,620 --> 06:24:46,640
each other and they stop trusting you.

4486
06:24:46,640 --> 06:24:50,420
and that is how division gets manufactured in Tallahassee,

4487
06:24:50,420 --> 06:24:52,940
not by outsiders, not by Matlow,

4488
06:24:53,300 --> 06:24:55,580
but by the conduct in this very room.

4489
06:24:55,940 --> 06:24:57,900
We're asking you or at least I am,

4490
06:24:58,260 --> 06:25:00,020
treat each other with, treat each other,

4491
06:25:00,140 --> 06:25:01,180
and bring him this respect.

4492
06:25:01,580 --> 06:25:02,060
Thank you so much.

4493
06:25:02,240 --> 06:25:02,920
Thank you so much.

4494
06:25:03,120 --> 06:25:03,280
Thank you so much.

4495
06:25:03,320 --> 06:25:04,960
Our next speaker, Lisa Sears.

4496
06:25:06,700 --> 06:25:10,000
Lisa Sears will be followed by a Delilah Pierre.

4497
06:25:12,380 --> 06:25:15,100
My name is Lisa Sears, 3-2-3-0-3.

4498
06:25:15,900 --> 06:25:17,980
Due to work I wasn't able to arrive,

4499
06:25:17,980 --> 06:25:24,880
here until after the city manager topic. And when I got here and I was told what

4500
06:25:24,880 --> 06:25:32,020
happened, I was in shock. I was like, no, that can't be. That's ridiculous. What

4501
06:25:32,020 --> 06:25:39,260
do they make up a new rule? And honestly, it is mind-boggling to me. And I was

4502
06:25:39,260 --> 06:25:45,140
explained really briefly with the reason why y'all use that. It doesn't make

4503
06:25:45,140 --> 06:25:55,900
makes that still. And to me, my truth is that to me, that was very weak. That was like trying

4504
06:25:55,900 --> 06:26:01,380
to hold on to power and make sure that the three two didn't go the other way on that

4505
06:26:01,380 --> 06:26:07,000
particular person that you're putting there. And I'm not saying I don't like her. I don't

4506
06:26:07,000 --> 06:26:13,320
know her. I hope that she's great, you know? And I hope that they work with the new dynamics

4507
06:26:13,320 --> 06:26:14,200
Thanks coming into town.

4508
06:26:15,060 --> 06:26:22,640
But seriously, I felt I needed to express my feelings as a citizen that was disappointing.

4509
06:26:24,490 --> 06:26:25,730
Next speaker, please.

4510
06:26:26,390 --> 06:26:27,870
La La Pierre is our final speaker.

4511
06:26:29,170 --> 06:26:30,790
May we address for the record, please?

4512
06:26:32,370 --> 06:26:36,870
La La Pierre, a member of the Tassie Alliance against racism, political repression, address exempt.

4513
06:26:37,510 --> 06:26:41,950
I'm here to speak on behalf of the Tallahassee students for a democratic society,

4514
06:26:41,950 --> 06:26:53,730
a local organization at FSU that is being repressed by Florida State University and has continued to be repressed by Florida State University for using their first amendment rights.

4515
06:26:55,030 --> 06:27:04,110
Organizing is not a crime. The right to protest is not a crime. The right to speak out against injustice is not a crime no matter how much you like it or don't like it.

4516
06:27:04,110 --> 06:27:09,470
and time and time again, Florida State University has proven that they do see the right to organize

4517
06:27:09,470 --> 06:27:14,990
as a crime. They criminalize and repress protesters. And now, Florida State University students,

4518
06:27:15,510 --> 06:27:21,850
JJ, Glouac, and Kaden Rosa, face the potential of having, you know, of being kicked off their own

4519
06:27:21,850 --> 06:27:27,290
campus for doing nothing more than organizing against rape culture on campus. Florida State University

4520
06:27:27,290 --> 06:27:34,090
claims that the real reason that this is happening is because they quote unquote harassed a member of

4521
06:27:34,090 --> 06:27:35,490
campus, but this isn't what's happened.

4522
06:27:36,330 --> 06:27:38,170
Florida State University students, JJ,

4523
06:27:38,890 --> 06:27:41,470
Glouac and Kaden Rosa are fighting for justice.

4524
06:27:42,030 --> 06:27:44,650
They are organizers in our community who have

4525
06:27:44,650 --> 06:27:48,070
thought side by side to see improvements in their school

4526
06:27:48,470 --> 06:27:49,990
and the lives of people in their schools.

4527
06:27:50,170 --> 06:27:52,930
Meanwhile, Florida State University continues to

4528
06:27:52,930 --> 06:27:56,930
suck up more of the resources, energy, and life of our city.

4529
06:27:57,070 --> 06:28:00,030
They act like there's nothing that can get them in trouble.

4530
06:28:00,030 --> 06:28:01,210
They act like they're invincible.

4531
06:28:01,610 --> 06:28:03,870
And that's because they are treated like they are invincible.

4532
06:28:03,870 --> 06:28:11,210
That's because our City Commission constantly bends over backwards to give more funding, more money, and more resources to

4533
06:28:11,210 --> 06:28:15,790
Florida State University, while Tallahassee students and Tallahassee residents starve.

4534
06:28:16,330 --> 06:28:20,750
We lack access to the same qualities, the same healthcare, the same affordable rights,

4535
06:28:21,370 --> 06:28:25,550
the same things that can essentially help people in the city live and thrive.

4536
06:28:25,790 --> 06:28:33,650
So I'm going to say specifically to Commissioner's Porter and Matlow as commissioners who I think are on a more progressive trend in the city.

4537
06:28:33,650 --> 06:28:37,770
who have shown that they're more willing to stand for more substantive policy in the city.

4538
06:28:38,150 --> 06:28:43,410
Speak out publicly in favor of these two students who are being repressed by Photo State University.

4539
06:28:43,870 --> 06:28:47,770
This repression of the right to organize affects all of us and affects you as well.

4540
06:28:48,250 --> 06:28:53,930
Because we know that Rhonda Santas, that Trump, that the other reactionaries in power in our country,

4541
06:28:54,270 --> 06:28:57,230
are not just going to start with targeting student activists and end there.

4542
06:28:57,590 --> 06:29:01,610
They're not just going to target community activists, they're not just going to target people who are fighting on the streets.

4543
06:29:01,610 --> 06:29:03,890
They're going to target politicians as well.

4544
06:29:04,410 --> 06:29:08,050
They're going to use their power to partisanly attack whoever they can.

4545
06:29:08,270 --> 06:29:12,590
And if you don't stand with J.J. and Kaden, they can't stand with you.

4546
06:29:12,930 --> 06:29:17,250
But if you do stand with the people and stand against the attacks that we're seeing from

4547
06:29:17,250 --> 06:29:21,950
the Santas and the Trump administration and Florida State University against students doing nothing

4548
06:29:21,950 --> 06:29:26,170
more than fighting for their right to free speech, then we will stand with you.

4549
06:29:26,510 --> 06:29:28,450
For the rest of you, I expect nothing.

4550
06:29:28,450 --> 06:29:32,210
Let's continue to organize and fight for justice in our city and our community.

4551
06:29:32,670 --> 06:29:35,790
What does that university does not determine who has the right to speak?

4552
06:29:36,170 --> 06:29:36,910
The students do.

4553
06:29:38,710 --> 06:29:40,050
The next speaker, please.

4554
06:29:40,990 --> 06:29:42,170
I have no further speakers.

4555
06:29:42,490 --> 06:29:44,390
All right, we're on a shared of ideas.

4556
06:29:44,570 --> 06:29:45,110
I got nothing.

4557
06:29:45,490 --> 06:29:49,070
Mayor Prattim, Mr. Williams Cox, Mr. Metlow.

4558
06:29:49,450 --> 06:29:50,130
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

4559
06:29:50,510 --> 06:29:57,790
I'm fighting to suggest the three issues from public speakers on the track uses with Leon County schools.

4560
06:29:57,790 --> 06:29:59,970
It was mentioned I guess the tracks have been

4561
06:30:00,000 --> 06:30:29,740
I'm shut down to the general public. My personal opinion is the school board and superintendent are asking us to renew a property tax to go into infrastructure. We all pay into that and this should be accessible to the public within reason, but I'm open to the idea of a shared use agreement within reason to allow access to the tracks again for city residents. So I like to move. We bring back an item, just contemplating the idea of a shared use agreement with Leon County school stuff in the tracks. Most should on the table.

4562
06:30:29,740 --> 06:30:37,760
to enter into an agreement with Leon County Schools or shared use agreement for their

4563
06:30:37,760 --> 06:30:39,020
tracks. They're second to the motion.

4564
06:30:39,400 --> 06:30:47,140
I'll second the motion, but a point of clarification, it was, I understood the motion to be to have an item come back, not to enter into a joint use agreement.

4565
06:30:47,360 --> 06:30:52,620
Yeah, to have an item come back. Okay, okay. I will respectfully definitely not be supporting this motion.

4566
06:30:52,900 --> 06:30:58,820
That is Leon County School property. It should be open to the public and the fact that they're coming to us and

4567
06:30:58,820 --> 06:31:03,320
And they want us to pay to have their track open for public use.

4568
06:31:03,960 --> 06:31:06,300
We concentrate on our parks and recreation.

4569
06:31:06,860 --> 06:31:09,680
We have a joint use agreement for when we operate like

4570
06:31:09,680 --> 06:31:12,180
policy parks and recreation for like football and stuff.

4571
06:31:12,760 --> 06:31:14,800
And that's a very successful agreement at work.

4572
06:31:15,260 --> 06:31:18,700
But for the shared use of just maintaining their facility.

4573
06:31:19,440 --> 06:31:21,120
For the track, I can't go there.

4574
06:31:21,480 --> 06:31:22,400
I'm not interested.

4575
06:31:22,720 --> 06:31:25,820
That's their responsibility and they need to take care of business.

4576
06:31:27,020 --> 06:31:28,020
commission Williams-Gox.

4577
06:31:31,480 --> 06:31:36,680
I'll say this, or I've said this many times before, we have an agreement with Leon County

4578
06:31:36,680 --> 06:31:38,140
Schools for utilities.

4579
06:31:38,800 --> 06:31:39,400
It goes to $1 million.

4580
06:31:40,660 --> 06:31:41,500
We haven't gotten it.

4581
06:31:42,100 --> 06:31:48,540
So I don't see how, yeah, Professor, I don't see how doing this type of agreement, I have

4582
06:31:48,540 --> 06:31:53,080
a staff spend time with this, knowing that we've got something with a real money on the land

4583
06:31:53,080 --> 06:31:56,320
and they told us they're not going to do it.

4584
06:31:57,020 --> 06:32:00,900
So I'm just don't see where we have leeway to do that.

4585
06:32:01,300 --> 06:32:04,280
And having gone to the school board in the past,

4586
06:32:04,440 --> 06:32:08,740
many, many times to try to get a new high school build on the south side of Tallahassee.

4587
06:32:09,060 --> 06:32:12,340
And it didn't happen in many reasons.

4588
06:32:12,880 --> 06:32:16,120
I just don't see where energy needs to be spent in doing that.

4589
06:32:16,600 --> 06:32:22,800
Now, of course, if we have, the city has some facilities that are open to the public.

4590
06:32:22,800 --> 06:32:33,620
We can direct folks there to get their exercise in, but I just don't think we need to be dipping into another governmental entity's business, especially as a million dollars.

4591
06:32:34,220 --> 06:32:38,820
So, a motion on tab made by Commissioner Mantle, a second by Commissioner Porter to bring back an agenda.

4592
06:32:39,020 --> 06:32:48,040
I am exploring the expansion of the shared use agreement to include public school tracks, all those in favor signify by, I'm sorry, Mayor Prattam.

4593
06:32:48,040 --> 06:32:57,680
So, yeah, you know, just earlier tonight we passed an increase in our military and a budget for the next fiscal year.

4594
06:32:57,840 --> 06:33:02,080
So, we have a level of military, but it will increase in the budget.

4595
06:33:02,300 --> 06:33:11,920
In the budget. And so now we're talking about additional expense when we don't know what amendment three is going to look like.

4596
06:33:12,060 --> 06:33:12,260
Correct.

4597
06:33:12,260 --> 06:33:15,260
that could cost us money.

4598
06:33:15,680 --> 06:33:19,060
Schools are exempt from the provisions of that amendment.

4599
06:33:19,940 --> 06:33:23,320
And I just can't see us at this point

4600
06:33:23,960 --> 06:33:30,460
agreeing to pay the expenses to have those facilities

4601
06:33:31,000 --> 06:33:32,180
available to the public.

4602
06:33:32,400 --> 06:33:35,740
I think it's the responsibility of the school district

4603
06:33:35,740 --> 06:33:46,620
and they should find the fund to make those facilities available to the public as they have in the past.

4604
06:33:48,060 --> 06:33:50,840
All those in favour of the motion on the table, Commissioner Porter?

4605
06:33:51,160 --> 06:33:51,880
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

4606
06:33:52,220 --> 06:34:02,100
I'll just add that we don't really know what it would cost, and so that's why I support this motion for it to come back to us.

4607
06:34:02,600 --> 06:34:03,820
All those in favour of something?

4608
06:34:03,820 --> 06:34:05,900
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

4609
06:34:06,060 --> 06:34:11,700
And so just for clarification, what public tracks are available through the City of Tallahassee,

4610
06:34:11,700 --> 06:34:13,560
the City of Tallahassee resident, Mr. Mayor?

4611
06:34:15,900 --> 06:34:22,040
I don't know, I'd have to get rational, but I don't believe there are any city tracks.

4612
06:34:22,580 --> 06:34:27,140
Well, we got Cascades Park, which is 3.2 mile track around the holding facility.

4613
06:34:27,380 --> 06:34:31,160
It's not the traditional track of which you're thinking of of track and field.

4614
06:34:31,160 --> 06:34:37,100
We also maintain how many hundreds of miles of greenways and trails in the city.

4615
06:34:37,320 --> 06:34:41,020
It's over 70 miles and then including with the county.

4616
06:34:41,620 --> 06:34:44,180
We have more and much more and we have parts.

4617
06:34:44,380 --> 06:34:45,680
I mean, you are correct.

4618
06:34:45,940 --> 06:34:52,020
We do not, to my knowledge, operate the traditional track that a high school does.

4619
06:34:52,340 --> 06:34:58,100
But we do offer plenty of municipal facilities to be able to get out, run and get exercise.

4620
06:34:58,100 --> 06:35:11,940
Again, I strongly believe it is a county facility, the school board needs to find a way through their budget to keep their facility open, and we do not need to be maintaining their tracks.

4621
06:35:12,640 --> 06:35:16,460
Period. Okay, motion on the table. All those in favor of the motion?

4622
06:35:16,680 --> 06:35:17,600
Seeming five by saying aye.

4623
06:35:17,940 --> 06:35:18,260
Aye.

4624
06:35:18,580 --> 06:35:19,100
All those opposed.

4625
06:35:19,420 --> 06:35:19,540
Aye.

4626
06:35:19,540 --> 06:35:19,620
All right.

4627
06:35:20,040 --> 06:35:24,240
And it fails to the three with the mayor of Mayor Pro Tem and Commissioner Williams Cox in the Senate,

4628
06:35:24,800 --> 06:35:26,700
Mr. Matlow and Commissioner Porter in favor.

4629
06:35:26,900 --> 06:35:27,880
Commissioner Matlow, you have the floor.

4630
06:35:28,240 --> 06:35:28,760
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

4631
06:35:29,000 --> 06:35:35,540
So then I'd like to move that we bring back an agenda item outlining the public facilities available for

4632
06:35:35,540 --> 06:35:38,440
track and field to the city of Telehusty residents.

4633
06:35:39,880 --> 06:35:40,160
Thank you.

4634
06:35:40,220 --> 06:35:40,300
Sure.

4635
06:35:41,960 --> 06:35:45,580
Isn't that part of the annual report that we produce every year through Parks and

4636
06:35:45,580 --> 06:35:47,160
War creation, what we maintain?

4637
06:35:50,920 --> 06:35:56,700
I believe the commission just said track and field and I think I think you'll just establish that we don't do track and field.

4638
06:35:56,800 --> 06:36:03,180
I mean, maybe I'm just understanding the question, we have walking and track and field being distinct, I guess.

4639
06:36:04,280 --> 06:36:05,040
Is that question?

4640
06:36:05,200 --> 06:36:09,300
Yeah, I mean, the mayor's assertion was that there's plenty of ways to engage in that activity.

4641
06:36:09,500 --> 06:36:16,460
So, I mean, we can outline the difference between track and field tracks that are available, what it would take to create a track for the cost to create a track for

4642
06:36:23,120 --> 06:36:40,440
I don't even want to go down this road to be quite honest with you, at this point, with trying to build a track in facility when we have such a tight budget in amendment three is coming down the pipe.

4643
06:36:40,440 --> 06:36:46,920
I just don't know if it's worth using staff time to track the, if you, if you want

4644
06:36:46,920 --> 06:36:51,060
just a list of the Parks and Rights Facilities, we have that on the website, and

4645
06:36:51,060 --> 06:36:52,140
then the annual report.

4646
06:36:52,560 --> 06:36:58,620
We do not have a traditional track in the sense of what the schools are operating.

4647
06:36:59,220 --> 06:37:04,420
So outside of exploring the creation of a track that has been misplaced and

4648
06:37:04,420 --> 06:37:09,040
The information's there, Commissioner Matlow.

4649
06:37:09,800 --> 06:37:12,280
Sure, it could all be provided in the agenda item, the submission.

4650
06:37:12,600 --> 06:37:12,800
Okay.

4651
06:37:13,120 --> 06:37:14,800
What was the motion, could you restate the motion?

4652
06:37:14,820 --> 06:37:21,620
Let's see, bring back in the agenda item, illustrating, tracking field, opportunities for

4653
06:37:21,620 --> 06:37:26,780
city of Tallahassee, residents of facilities that are operated for that activity.

4654
06:37:27,000 --> 06:37:29,520
All those in favor of the motion on the table, so you can file by saying aye.

4655
06:37:29,820 --> 06:37:30,080
Aye.

4656
06:37:30,080 --> 06:37:30,140
Okay.

4657
06:37:30,400 --> 06:37:30,960
Well, let's pose.

4658
06:37:31,200 --> 06:37:31,400
All right.

4659
06:37:31,700 --> 06:37:32,220
Motion fails.

4660
06:37:32,460 --> 06:37:36,640
Two to three with mayor, mayor pro-10 and commission-winps cocks and dissent commission-winps cocks.

4661
06:37:36,640 --> 06:37:37,240
Oh, point.

4662
06:37:37,740 --> 06:37:39,700
I think it's an easy list to provide.

4663
06:37:40,080 --> 06:37:40,200
Yeah.

4664
06:37:40,580 --> 06:37:45,040
I mean, I wouldn't want to spend staff time doing what we could do.

4665
06:37:45,440 --> 06:37:45,540
Correct.

4666
06:37:46,320 --> 06:37:46,780
Correct.

4667
06:37:47,120 --> 06:37:48,140
Commissioner Malley, you had the floor.

4668
06:37:48,620 --> 06:37:49,060
Thank you.

4669
06:37:50,100 --> 06:37:55,060
I know a game day trafficer else was mentioned and it's changed a million times over my life.

4670
06:37:55,200 --> 06:37:59,620
I don't pretend to understand the different reasonings for that, but if that could just provide an update.

4671
06:37:59,620 --> 06:38:02,720
by email of the traffic patterns,

4672
06:38:03,160 --> 06:38:06,280
how they're measured, their efficiencies are measured,

4673
06:38:06,440 --> 06:38:07,240
just for better understanding.

4674
06:38:08,840 --> 06:38:13,640
So, am I correct in assuming that it's actually

4675
06:38:13,640 --> 06:38:15,660
Florida State University that contracts

4676
06:38:15,660 --> 06:38:17,660
with the Palace Police Department

4677
06:38:17,660 --> 06:38:20,380
and all the other agencies for game day traffic

4678
06:38:21,150 --> 06:38:23,980
because every year that's a big contract negotiation

4679
06:38:23,980 --> 06:38:27,540
that goes through, so Florida State would be the point person

4680
06:38:27,540 --> 06:38:29,180
on the traffic.

4681
06:38:29,700 --> 06:38:30,520
Adderance, first.

4682
06:38:30,880 --> 06:38:33,080
No, Mr. Mayor, you're right.

4683
06:38:33,300 --> 06:38:37,300
So the TPD provides a little over a hundred officers,

4684
06:38:37,300 --> 06:38:39,160
but it takes much more than that.

4685
06:38:39,220 --> 06:38:39,460
Sure, sure.

4686
06:38:39,760 --> 06:38:43,100
So if you contract with TPD in the other agencies,

4687
06:38:43,460 --> 06:38:45,140
share office does different functions.

4688
06:38:46,100 --> 06:38:47,820
The traffic management,

4689
06:38:48,270 --> 06:38:52,560
I do believe TPD can provide the details of that,

4690
06:38:52,760 --> 06:38:53,800
of the flow of traffic,

4691
06:38:54,100 --> 06:38:56,400
where the streets are blocked and those kinds of things.

4692
06:38:56,400 --> 06:39:07,700
It's manned and operated by a collection of officers, you know, that's through FSU, but I do believe that TPD could provide the flow of traffic pattern.

4693
06:39:08,700 --> 06:39:09,520
It sounds good.

4694
06:39:09,740 --> 06:39:10,240
It sounds good.

4695
06:39:10,560 --> 06:39:16,760
For the record, I am comfortable with my pattern in and out and I'm not part of the Southern Scholarship Foundation.

4696
06:39:17,040 --> 06:39:18,820
I don't have any special parking or anything.

4697
06:39:19,480 --> 06:39:23,840
But you want to have a briefing on the traffic pattern of game day.

4698
06:39:23,840 --> 06:39:32,120
Yeah, I can just be an email of how it was decided what the implications are the efficiencies of it just this question.

4699
06:39:32,260 --> 06:39:36,960
I'd be helpful. I'm not familiar with the red chair spots and how they coordinate that.

4700
06:39:37,100 --> 06:39:40,740
I'd be curious on that as well. Commissioner Williams got on that on point there.

4701
06:39:40,940 --> 06:39:51,460
I think it needs to be also considered by everybody that it is not a good idea to have two games on the same day at the same time.

4702
06:39:52,500 --> 06:39:57,580
That is where the problem is, there's many times, it stretches our law enforcement.

4703
06:39:58,160 --> 06:40:01,360
I don't care what kind of traffic plans you may have, but when you're trying to

4704
06:40:01,360 --> 06:40:05,740
manage a FAMU and FSU football games at the same time, and I understand it's gonna

4705
06:40:05,740 --> 06:40:13,220
happen another time this season, so we just buckle up, buckle up, and it's not good,

4706
06:40:13,440 --> 06:40:16,820
it's really not good, so get that information, it would be good, but I don't know

4707
06:40:16,820 --> 06:40:20,300
I don't know what it's going to do, we'll have it.

4708
06:40:20,540 --> 06:40:22,160
Do you need an email?

4709
06:40:22,420 --> 06:40:23,840
I mean, do you need an information for it?

4710
06:40:23,980 --> 06:40:26,080
Yes, we'll email it.

4711
06:40:27,780 --> 06:40:27,960
All right.

4712
06:40:28,140 --> 06:40:28,500
Sounds good.

4713
06:40:28,660 --> 06:40:29,660
Commissioner Mellie, you have the floor.

4714
06:40:29,720 --> 06:40:30,200
Thank you.

4715
06:40:30,400 --> 06:40:34,880
And the final speaker mentioned the change in the chargers for Nissan Leafs.

4716
06:40:35,220 --> 06:40:36,720
Have we changed those?

4717
06:40:37,040 --> 06:40:37,220
Or how?

4718
06:40:38,700 --> 06:40:39,900
We'll look at that.

4719
06:40:40,020 --> 06:40:41,100
That was an interesting comedy.

4720
06:40:41,360 --> 06:40:43,500
He has an old-style charger.

4721
06:40:43,500 --> 06:40:46,000
or I think that was understood from his description.

4722
06:40:47,240 --> 06:40:50,340
The charges we put in at Cascades had that older plug

4723
06:40:50,340 --> 06:40:53,080
and it'd been upgraded to the more current plug.

4724
06:40:53,380 --> 06:40:53,900
Because of the man.

4725
06:40:54,660 --> 06:40:56,420
We just the way the cars are.

4726
06:40:56,600 --> 06:40:58,540
I think what you heard him describe was,

4727
06:40:58,920 --> 06:41:01,260
he has a Nissan leaf that has a very specific one.

4728
06:41:01,760 --> 06:41:02,700
But we'll take a look at it.

4729
06:41:02,740 --> 06:41:04,960
I think that was a good comment in terms of availability,

4730
06:41:04,980 --> 06:41:06,660
in terms of the stations we have.

4731
06:41:06,800 --> 06:41:11,200
Because we've got the one at Van Buren

4732
06:41:11,200 --> 06:41:13,040
and we're building the one on Orange Avenue.

4733
06:41:13,040 --> 06:41:15,380
So we'll see what we can do.

4734
06:41:15,520 --> 06:41:17,100
I don't know how that works, right?

4735
06:41:17,400 --> 06:41:20,720
The adapter, but we'll certainly look into that.

4736
06:41:21,500 --> 06:41:22,260
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

4737
06:41:22,700 --> 06:41:23,000
Health and pay.

4738
06:41:23,320 --> 06:41:23,840
Mr. Porter.

4739
06:41:24,540 --> 06:41:25,240
Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

4740
06:41:25,420 --> 06:41:26,820
I just have one item.

4741
06:41:29,420 --> 06:41:32,400
I would like to make a motion and I'm not sure exactly

4742
06:41:34,080 --> 06:41:37,560
the best way to do this, but that we, I think it's important

4743
06:41:37,560 --> 06:41:41,200
that we do something to recognize the historic significance

4744
06:41:41,200 --> 06:41:46,260
of West Virginia Street and French town as a safe haven for black travelers.

4745
06:41:46,260 --> 06:41:49,280
I think that was something that seemed important to the people there.

4746
06:41:50,220 --> 06:41:56,060
And for the record, I spoke to Reverend Holmes, and he would have happily accepted the Bernou Street renaming.

4747
06:41:57,360 --> 06:42:07,880
But since we didn't go in that direction, I think it would be important if there is a way to preserve that history that we do so.

4748
06:42:07,880 --> 06:42:15,660
So whether I don't know what options there are, but that would, I don't know if there's any insight from the manager.

4749
06:42:15,960 --> 06:42:23,760
I was second that motion, and I did have some follow up conversation with Miss Daryl Scott, and with Miss Maesha Mitchell.

4750
06:42:24,240 --> 06:42:35,920
And I offered the possibility of having something that says formerly known as as well as having a marker that would identify all of

4751
06:42:35,920 --> 06:42:41,680
those historical businesses and entities that were there on those streets.

4752
06:42:42,220 --> 06:42:44,980
All those favour the motion on table signify by saying aye.

4753
06:42:45,100 --> 06:42:45,460
Aye.

4754
06:42:45,780 --> 06:42:48,680
All those pass as unions, the commission for you have the floor.

4755
06:42:49,060 --> 06:42:50,140
Thank you, that's all for me.

4756
06:42:50,340 --> 06:42:51,340
We stand adjourned.