City Council Meeting

Joe Meek, Mayor Robert Holmes, Vice Mayor/Council Seat #5 Gabrielle Satchell, Council Seat #1 Cindi Frink, Council Seat #2 Chris Ensing, Council Seat #3 Audra Curts-Whann, City Manager Rob Batsel, City Attorney Mia Fink, City Clerk Agenda Crystal River City Council Meeting Regular Meeting Agenda Monday, September 22, 2025 at 5:30 PM Citrus County Welcome Center 1. CALL TO ORDER A. Roll Call B. Invocation C. Pledge of Allegiance D. Recognition of Elected Officials in Attendance 2. ADOPTION OF AGENDA NOTICE TO PUBLIC Any person who decides to appeal any decision of the Governing Body with respect to any matter considered at this meeting will need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose may need to provide that a verbatim record of the proceeding is made, which record includes testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. (Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes) Any person requiring reasonable accommodation at this meeting because of a disability or physical impairment should contact the City of Crystal River, City Manager's Office, 123 N.W. Highway 19, Crystal River, Florida, 34428 (352) 795-4216, at least two (2) days before the meeting. GENERAL MEETING PROCEDURES 1. In consideration of others, we ask that you follow a few basic rules: A. Please turn cell phones off, or place on vibrate. If you must make a call, please step out into the hallway. B. If you must speak to someone in the audience, please speak softly or go out into the hallway. C. Personal comments/remarks, directed to Council or the public, are not allowed and are considered out of order. 2. Public Comment: A. The general public will be allowed three (3) minutes to speak during the Public Input section at the beginning of the meeting and five (5) minutes to speak during the Public Input section at the end of the meeting.

3. PRESENTATIONS 4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC INPUT 6. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA A. Motion to approve minutes of the City Council meeting held September 8, 2025 B. Monthly Departmental Report Summary for the Month of August C. Motion to reappoint Deborah MacArthur Anderson to Planning Commission Seat No. 2, reappoint Karen Cunningham to Planning Commission Seat No. 6, and appointment of Kimberley Salter to Alternate Seat No. 1 from Alternate Seat No. 2 D. Motion to approve modifications to the Human Resources Policy Manual dated October 1, 2025 E. Motion to approve Exhibit A to the lease amendment with Crowne Castle GT Company LLC titled Bill of Sale and authorizing the City Manager to execute at the termination of the lease. 7. PUBLIC HEARING A. Consideration of Ordinance No. 25-O-13 amending Chapter 6 of the City of Crystal River Code of Ordinances, entitled "Buildings"; revising Article III "Fire Prevention and Protection" to provide updated code references, establish a process for fire inspection, and establish fees for malfunction or nuisance fire alarm and hold a public hearing on September 22, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. B. Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-R-20 setting the Final T.R.I.M. rate at 6.59 mills for FY2025/2026 for FY2025/2026 on Final Public Hearing for Adoption of the Final Millage Rate for September 22, 2025, at 5:31 p.m. C. Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-R-21 Adopting the Final Budget for FY2025/2026 on Final Public Hearing for Adoption of the Final FY2025/2026 Budget for September 22, 2025 at 5:31 p.m. D. Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-R-22 Adopting the Final Budget for the Community Redevelopment Agency for FY2025/2026 on Final Public Hearing for Adoption of the Final CRA Budget for FY2025/2026 for September 22,2025 at 5:31 p.m. (Three Minute Time Limit) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CRYSTAL RIVER, FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER 6 OF THE CITY OF CRYSTAL RIVER CODE OF ORDINANCES, ENTITLED “BUILDINGS”, REVISING ARTICLE III. “FIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION” TO PROVIDE UPDATED CODE REFERENCES, ESTABLISH A PROCESS FOR FIRE INSPECTION, AND ESTABLISH FEES FOR MALFUNCTIONING OR NUISANCE FIRE ALARMS; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

8. INTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING OF ORDINANCES 9. CITY ATTORNEY A. Riverwalk Update B. 579 US Highway 19, LLC Update 10. CITY MANAGER A. Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-R-31 to designate an administrative authority to receive, review, and process plat or replat submittals; designating an administrative official responsible for approving, approving with conditions or denying a proposed plat or replat. B. Motion to approve Scorpio (CMAR Contract) for preconstruction services proposal - City of Crystal River New City Hall in the amount of $92,660 C. Motion to approve GrantWorks, Inc. "Agreement with the City of Crystal River to Utilize (Piggyback) Existing Agreement No. RFQ 25-127 with Citrus County for On-Call Grant Research and Writing" 11. CITY COUNCIL 12. COUNCIL MEMBER AND COMMITTEE REPORTS 13. PUBLIC INPUT 14. ADJOURNMENT A. Mayor Meek B. Vice Mayor Holmes C. Council member Satchell D. Council member Frink E. Council member Ensing (Five Minute Time Limit)

Meeting Date: September 22, 2025 Agenda Item Number: 6.A. CRYSTAL RIVER CITY COUNCIL MEETING Agenda Item Summary Requested Motion: Motion to approve minutes of the City Council meeting held September 8, 2025 ATTACHMENTS: Description 9.8.25_Minutes.docx

Minutes Crystal River City Council Meeting Regular Meeting Agenda Monday, July 8, 2025 at 5:30 PM Citrus County Welcome Center 1. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Meek called the meeting to order at 5:36p.m. Council members present: Mayor Meek, Vice Mayor Robert Holmes, Council member Chris Ensing, Council member Cindi Frink, Council member Gabrielle Satchell Staff present: City Manager Audra Curts-Whann, City Attorney Rob Batsel, Deputy City Clerk Sabrinna Utter, Assistant City Manager/Public Works Director Troy Slattery, Community Engagement Director Leslie Bollin, Human Resources Director Mary Helprin, Visitor Services Director Andrea Hullstrung, Finance Director Michelle Russell-Maynard, Assistant Finance Director Cindy Marihugh, Growth Management Director Carly Hanson, Fire Chief Frank Melillo Vice Mayor Holmes led the invocation and Mayor Meek led the Pledge of Allegiance. 2. ADOPTION OF AGENDA. Motion to adopt the agenda as amended was made by Council member Frink; seconded by Council member Satchell. Motion carried 5-0. 3. PRESENTATIONS 4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 5. PUBLIC INPUT (Three Minute Time Limit) Anthony Andrew- Pine Ridge- Discussed the proposed Sand Mine and provided council with some information. 6. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA A. Motion to approve minutes of the Fee Workshop held August 25, 2025 B. Motion to approve minutes of the City Council meeting held August 25, 2025 C. Motion to approve a road closure request for the 2025 Stone Crab Jam. D. Motion to approve a road closure request for the 2025 Crystal River Scarecrow Fest. E. Motion to approve both the Letters of Engagement and Contracts with Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC for the FY2025 Audit Services for the City of Crystal River and the Crystal River Community Redevelopment Agency in the amount of $39,900 and $6,400 respectively.

F. Motion to approve and authorize the City Manager to execute a task order agreement with JBrown Professional Group Inc. (JBPro) to update the Infrastructure Element of the City of Crystal River Comprehensive Plan. G. Approval of an Individual Project Supplement to the Master Agreement for Professional Services with Ayers and Associates in the amount of $4,405.00 for Additional Project Management, Meetings, Quality Assurance and Survey Support associated with the Kings Bay Riverwalk. Motion to approve the consent agenda was made by Council member Satchell; seconded by Council member Frink. Motion carried 5-0. 7. PUBLIC HEARING A. Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-R-20 setting the tentative T.R.I.M. rate at 6.59 mills for FY2025/2026 on First Public Hearing and Setting the Final Public Hearing Date for Adoption of the Final FY2025/2026 Millage Rate for September 22, 2025, at 5:31 p.m. Finance Director Michell Russell-Maynard presented the item. Public Hearing: Marybeth Brooks- Crystal River- Spoke on tax rate and requested a lowered T.R.I.M rate. Council member Frink noted concerns. Mayor Meek addressed the rise in taxes and offered assistance in working with the Property Appraisers office. Mayor Meek spoke on the city being the lowest in the area and the effects of past hurricanes. Mayor Meek expressed support for the proposed T.R.I.M. Council member Ensing supported the proposal, as well. Robert Holmes requested the citizen’s situation be updated under council reports be given in the future, Mayor Meek agreed. Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-R-20 setting the tentative T.R.I.M. rate at 6.59 mills for FY2025/2026 on First Public Hearing was made by Vice Mayor Holmes; seconded by Council member Ensing. Motion carried 5-0. B. Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-R-21 Adopting the Tentative Budget for FY2025/2026 on First Public Hearing and setting the Final Public Hearing date for Adoption of the Final FY2025/2026 Budget for September 22, 2025 at 5:31 p.m. Finance Director Michelle Russell-Maynard presented the item and the changes that have been made since the second budget workshop. Public Hearing: No one spoke for or against. Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-R-21 Adopting the Tentative Budget for FY2025/2026 on was made by Council member Satchell; seconded by Council member Frink. Motion carried 5-0

C. Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-R-22 Adopting the Tentative Budget for the Community Redevelopment Agency for FY2025/2026 on First Public Hearing and setting the Final Public Hearing Date for Adoption of the Final CRA Budget for FY2025/2026 for September 22,2025 at 5:31 p.m. Finance Director Michelle Russell-Maynard presented the item. Public Hearing: No one spoke for or against. Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-R-22 Adopting the Tentative Budget for the Community was made by Council member Ensing; seconded by Council member Holmes. Motion carried 5-0. 8. INTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING OF ORDINANCES A. Introduction of Ordinance No. 25-O-13 amending Chapter 6 of the City of Crystal River Code of Ordinances, entitled "Buildings"; revising Article III "Fire Prevention and Protection" to provide updated code references, establish a process for fire inspection, and establish fees for malfunction or nuisance fire alarm and set a public hearing on September 22, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. Deputy Clerk Utter read the ordinance by title only. 9. CITY ATTORNEY A. Riverwalk Update Discussed the completely executed REZCO agreements and next steps with other businesses. B. 579 US Highway 19 Update City Attorney Batsel confirmed Mr. O’Hanrahan will be bringing a check tomorrow, noting demo to begin this week and next steps of the process. Vice Mayor Holmes inquired about the ice machine and the ATM on site. City Attorney Batsel confirmed the landlord has addressed both. Mayor Meek spoke about the future of the site. City Attorney Batsel also discussed the City Manager evaluation process. 10. CITY MANAGER A. Motion to approve the lease amendment with Crowne Castle GT Company LLC location, providing for a six-month lease extension, authorizing the City Manager to execute. City Manager Curts presented the item discussing the need to bring back the bill of sale at a future meeting for execution and the agreement including a small rental fee. City Attorney Batsel addressed the concept of not buying the tower which was included in the original lease agreement. Motion to approve the lease amendment with Crowne Castle GT Company LLC location, providing for a six-month lease extension, authorizing the City Manager to execute was made by Council member Ensing, seconded by Council member Frink. Motion carried 5-0.

B. Motion to approve Resolution No. 25-R-30 to amend items in the City's Fee Schedule, Exhibit "B" Building Permit Fees, Exhibit "D" Special Event Permit Fees and adding Exhibit "F" Fire Department Fees City Manager Curts presented the item. Motion to approve Resolution No. 25-R-30 to amend items in the City's Fee Schedule, Exhibit "B" Building Permit Fees, Exhibit "D" Special Event Permit Fees and adding Exhibit "F" Fire Department Fees was made by Council member Satchell; seconded by Vice Mayor Holmes Motion carried 5-0. 11. CITY COUNCIL 12. COUNCIL MEMBER AND COMMITTEE REPORTS A. Mayor Meek noted attendance at the MPO meeting and updated the council on the 579 project and future meetings with DOT. Mayor Meek also readdressed Marybeth Brooks of Crystal River about the value of her home vs tax rates. B. Vice Mayor Holmes discussed the city charter wanting to have council review responsibilities of council, city staff and the City Manager referring to sections 3.08C, 3.09 and 6.04. Vice Mayor Holmes presented the possibility of bringing the topic back up at the next meeting. C. Council member Satchell had no updates. D. Council member Frink reviewed her attendance at the Florida League of Cities conference and sessions attended to include hurricane preparedness tips and suggestions that were presented by other cities. E. Council member Ensing confirmed upcoming TDC meeting. 13. PUBLIC INPUT (Five Minute Time Limit) Kathy Ebaugh- JB Pro- Thanked council for approving the continuing professional services agreement. Paula Wheeler- Crystal River- Discussed history of the floods and T.R.I.M rates. Presented the idea of keeping homestead exemptions in the event of a disaster, requesting the mater be researched. Mayor Meek suggested that Craig Dalton, Citrus County Property Appraiser, discuss options at a future meeting. Anthony Andrew- Pine Ridge- Discussed concerns regarding the Suncoast Parkway extension and potential issues during storms. Also discussed the homestead exemptions in the event of hurricanes. Gail Kostelnick- Crystal River- Inquired about cell phone tower removal and discussed previous CRA Vernacular Guidelines. 14. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Meek adjourned the meeting at 6:44 p.m

Meeting Date: September 22, 2025 Agenda Item Number: 6.B. CRYSTAL RIVER CITY COUNCIL MEETING Agenda Item Summary Requested Motion: Monthly Departmental Report Summary for the Month of August ATTACHMENTS: Description 2025 Summary Report- August.docx

* Further details are listed in the full departmental reports. Departmental Monthly Report Summary August 2025 THE CITY CLERK’S OFFICE During the month of August, the office clerked 3 public meetings, coordinating the agenda and drafting 11 agenda items. The Clerk’s office also facilitated 8 public records requests and performed 26 notarizations on various legal documents. Recording items included 1 Limited Use Notice, 1 Dissimilar Use Order and 2 lien releases. Ongoing responsibilities include contract management/facilitation for DPW, grant coordination/reporting, audio/visual equipment operations/coordination, budget-related obligations, scheduling for City Manager, Riverwalk permitting and easement coordination/processing, records management duties including facilitation of public records requests, ordinance and resolution drafting, with instructions for administration/implementation, procedural information, etc. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT In August the department hosted First Friday. Since August is focused on back to school and is generally very hot, we tend to not schedule events for this month, nor do other organizations. The department continues to work on the Kings Bay Park design, Crystal River Main Street’s lease at the Heritage Museum space, and various social media campaigns. The main focus was spearheading the upcoming fee workshop for Council as well as researching and restructuring event, parking and launching fees and the development of a residential pass. Upcoming events include: First Friday, Scarecrow Fest, Stone Crab Jam, and Untapped. THREE SISTERS SPRINGS Three Sisters Springs had a total of 1,418 visitors for the month of August. Fiscal year 24’ August had a total of 1,181 visitors. Visitor counts were up 20.1% from the previous year with an average of 45 people per day. August had 103 online admission tickets purchased totaling $1,197.75 in revenue. Gross revenue for the month totaled $14,247.00. Commission paid to USFWS totaled $4,642.76. This month on Social Media: Facebook:  Facebook Reach: 322,450  Facebook Views: 190,316  Facebook Content Interactions: 1,188  Facebook Follows: 203  Facebook Visits: 5,041 Instagram:  Instagram Reach: 239  Instagram Views: 6,433  Instagram Content Interactions: 8  Instagram Follows: 217  Instagram Visits: 377

* Further details are listed in the full departmental reports. HR/RISK MANAGEMENT Open Positions Associate Planner Seasonal Trolley Driver – PT Seasonal Visitors Experience Specialist – PT New Hires Lisa Lindwall – Trolley Driver – PT Rehire Fran Wenhold – Visitors Experience Specialist – PT Promotion Tina Nichols promoted from Visitors Experience Specialist – PT to Accounts Payable/Customer Service – Full time position Employee Headcount Full Time City & Fire – 42 Part Time City – 15 Fire Fighter Volunteer – 12 Fire Fighter/EMT Part Time – 9 EMT Volunteer - 1 Ongoing Items/Upcoming: HR manual revision – Add new policy Revision of Performance Evaluations and Process COLA Forms PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT Roads and Streets - Storm ditches, cleaning in progress, City Wide. - Cleaned out storm drainpipes City wide. - Installed New Swim Buoys and Swim Line at Hunter Springs Beach. - Installed New 6 FT Fence at Hunter Spring Beach from Boardwalk to Boat Ramp beside the old boat house. - Installed Fountains and Aerators (working) at Copeland Park. - Replaced most of the Little Stop Signs on Cross Town Trail. - Replaced all and added Trolley Route signs with QR Codes on them. - Gaudette Electric Has started Repairs on Electrical panels for city lights in the Downtown area. - The New 416 Cat Backhoe was Delivered and put into Service. - A New Park Bench was added by the Kings Bay Bridge. - Received Donated Flood Barriers put into Storage for future Storm Events.

* Further details are listed in the full departmental reports. Parks & Park Rangers - Citations written...............................................................................184 - Incident Reports Written…………………………………………...14 - CCSO or Fire Notified…………………………………………….6 - Boats Pumped..................................................................................44 - Gallons Pumped............................................................................2570 Utilities & US WATER - Completed annual hydrant flushing and maintenance o Pictures and notes updated on Diamond Maps layer o Out of service hydrant data provided to Public Works o 268 total hydrants 3 out of service - Repaired damaged backflow device at: o 305 NE 9th Ave - Repaired water leaks requiring precautionary boil water notice: o Tallahassee Rd. & Tidewater Cir. o 1027 Se 4th Ave o NW 19th Ct o 3920 N Nokomis Pt o 2020 NW 15th St - Repaired water leaks not needing precautionary boil water notice: (under pressure or single service line) o 1133 Se 3rd St o 214 Ne 2nd Ave o 1640 Nw 19th Ct o 1362 Ne 5th Ave o 1290 Nw 19th Ct o 8619 W Crystal St o 221 Ne Hwy 19 o 4050-4066 N Casa Terr o 9150 W Harbor Isle Ct o 10806 W State Park St o Ne 1st St & Ne 4th Ave - Completed Work Orders: o 223 - Underground Utility Locates Performed: o 129 - Repaired broken discharge pipe on low pressure sewer at 9180 W Harbor Isle Ct - Installed new E-One pump in grinder station at 3816 N Hiawatha Terr - Installed new pump in LS 19 - Repaired 2” sewer force main at 3697 N Suwannee Pt. - New Phase Monitor installed at LS 20 - Repaired/Replaced 2 broken cleanouts - Replaced batteries on Omni-Site Alarm Units at: LS W6 - Completed weekly LS maintenance

* Further details are listed in the full departmental reports. Capital Projects - Paradise Point lift station manifold project. 32 in progress of being rebuilt due to hurricane damage. (project 95 percent complete) scheduled to be completed by mid Sept. - Indian Waters –.65 connected 2 in progress 11 not connected. These numbers include vacant lots that may be constructed if construction begins this year. - Kings Bay Park Improvements – In engineering and design phase. Currently in the permitting phase. - Paradise Point Drainage Project – In engineering and design phase. - 25-B-05 Stormwater Drainage Clearing Areas out for bid. Bid closing date 09-10-25 - 25-RFP-05 Depression restoration bid has been awarded to SMG and work has begun NE 8th Ave. has been completed 6 more locations left to be completed. - Riverwalk phase 1 bid package is in process of being put out to bid by A.D Morgan PLANNING, COMMUNITY SERVICES, & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES A. NEW PENDING PUBLIC HEARING(S) a. There are currently no pending public hearings. B. POTENTIAL PROJECT(S) / PERMIT(S) UNDER REVIEW/INVESTMENT: 1. Home2Suites (Hilton) – PB24-0172– 1150 NE 5th Street – A new four-story, 75-room hotel located on the corner of State Road 44 and NE 12th Ave. The developer proposes to develop the parcel with a hotel and a future restaurant as part of a second phase that would front SR 44. This permit is ready to issue. 2. Crystal River Mall Redevelopment 1. Crystal River Townhomes – PZ24-0057 – 1801 NW Hwy 19 – Application for Civil Site Plan for seven 8-unit buildings for 56 townhouses with clubhouse and dog park. This permit has been issued. 3. Restaurant (at Port Hotel and Marina) – PB24-0010 - 1508 SE Kings Bay Drive - Proposed 22,690 sf restaurant. The permit was issued on 11-13-2024, and construction has commenced. 4. Hotel (at Port Hotel and Marina) – PB24-0011 – 1508 SE Kings Bay Drive – Proposed 85,500 sf (85-room) hotel. This permit has been issued, and construction has commenced. 5. Jimmy’s Fish Camp Seafood Restaurant – PB23-0019 – 300 S Hwy 19 – A new restaurant (16,781 sf) and outdoor deck (1,707 sf). The Building Permit has been approved and is ready to be issued. The Developer will use a private provider for building plan review and inspections. 6. Microtel – PZ24-0041 –1030 NE 5th Street – A preliminary review of a civil site plan was requested for a new 103-room hotel (10,160 sq. ft.) This application is under review. 7. Magnolia Creek – New Commercial Center – PZ24-0048 – 605 NW US Hwy 19 – A Site Development Permit for a new commercial center with two buildings totaling over 107,000 square feet. This permit has been issued. 8. Crab Plant Deck and Pavilion – PB25-0059 – 201 NW 5th Street – A Building Permit for a 2-story deck and a covered pavilion at the Crab Plant Restaurant. This permit has been issued.

* Further details are listed in the full departmental reports. 9. Amanda Z Art Studio – PB25-0171 – 215 NE 3rd Street – A Building Permit for an elevated art studio. This permit has been issued. 10. Crystal Creek Townhomes – PZ25-0004 – SE Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue – An application for Site Plan for an 82-unit Townhome Development. This project is currently under review. 11. Fountains at Hidden Lakes – Phase II – PZ25-0023 – 10456 W Ashburn Ln – An application for Site Plan of Phase II was submitted on August 4, 2025. The Developer is using a private provider for building plan review and inspections. This project is currently under Zoning and Fire review. 12. Take 5 Oil – PZ25-0020 – 563 NE 5th Street – An application for Site Plan for the construction of a Take 5 Oil. This project is currently under review. C. PRE-APPLICATION MEETINGS: a. Meeting to discuss the Circle K Gas Station project at the corner of Highway 19 and Fort Island Trail. b. Meeting to discuss renovations of the Jenkins Bobcat at 2035 Highway 19 and the Jenkins Lincoln at 1501 NW Highway 19. BUILDING DEPARTMENT: PERMITS ISSUED: Building 7 Com - Alteration/Repair 3 Com - Electrical 7 Com - Fire Suppression 1 Com - Gas 1 Com - Mechanical 2 Com - Roof 1 Com - Sign 3 Mechanical 4 Res - Alteration/Repair 5 Res - Demolition 1 Res - Dock/Boat Launch 1 Res - Electrical 7 Res - Mechanical 3 Res - Minor Flood Repair 1 Res - Plumbing 2 Res - Roof 5 Res - Seawall 2 Res – Window/Door 2 Total Permits 58 Total Fees $21,733 Total Construction Value $ 1,526,323.13

* Further details are listed in the full departmental reports. INSPECTIONS: Building 164 Fire 12 Code & Zoning 2 Total Inspections 179 CODE ENFORCEMENT: New/Open Cases 930 (Including 906 FEMA NFIP Notices) Closed Cases 45 24 BTR Closed Code Cases 24 Total Cases 999 BUSINESS TAX RECEIPTS: We are now within the Business Tax Receipt renewal season for 2026. Of the 744 businesses emailed renewal notices, we have currently processed 142 business renewals, or 19%. FIRE DEPARTMENT Fire Department Activities: During the month of August, the Fire Department received 83 calls for service. An average of 3.82 personnel per call and had an average response time of 5.16 minutes. The average time on scene was 23.3 minutes. CRFD attended First Friday. CRFD continued training exercises at the fire house. 3 firefighters became certified Fire Officer’s and Chief Melillo became a state certified Live Fire Instructor. Fire Cadet meetings have continued at the fire station. The CRFD responded to a boater in distress outside of city limits. There were 58 EMS calls and 25 calls for fire incidents and crashes including 3 commercial building calls. FINANCE DEPARTMENT Attached is the monthly report for the Finance Department as of July 2025. This report represents the first ten months for the fiscal year FY2025– 83.29% of the year has been completed. General Fund Operating Revenues for the fiscal year are running more than budget ($8,763,070 – 102.14% vs. 83.29%); this is normal following the receipt of Ad Valoreum Taxes which have been completely received for the year – the largest amount is generally received within the months of December and January. July – September only delinquent taxes will be received. As of this date, we have completed 83.29% of the year; however, we have received 100.57% of this main General Fund revenue source (17.28% more). The state revenues are in line with budget to date. Also, interest earned in our bank accounts continues to exceed the budget due to a change in our interest rate by the bank; it is adjusted each month based on the current prime rate. We have received over $1.1 million within the current year for Idalia claims from FEMA and our insurance company; there are still claims to be paid before the City is made whole from the funds expended for the event. We received slightly more (107.13%) of our budgeted interest revenue ($287,893) for the first ten months of FY2025. Overall, revenue for this ten-month period is good.

* Further details are listed in the full departmental reports. Operating Expenditures overall are at approximately 47.96% of the budget – 35.33% less than budget. Many departments have paid their annual dues as well as the computer licensing annual costs were paid in October. These one-time annul costs tend to skew the numbers for the first part of the year. Departments are working to complete projects prior to year-end and encumber funds. Projected expenditures for FY 2025 are $19,462,578 or $11,441,996 more than the original budget; this is primarily for the rollforwards approved during the November council meeting including Hurricane Idalia & Helene funding along with the funding for the two new Fire trucks approved during the December council meeting. Marketing/Special Events Marketing and Special Events are reported as a Special Revenue Fund; however, the fund is still reflected within the financials under the governmental fund. This fund will always net to zero as a monthly transfer from the General Fund is processed to balance the fund; this is the main revenue source for this fund. The total transfer for the first ten months of the year totaled $168,561. Vendor events fees are billed to each vendor for utilization of City space and utilities as City Events continue through the year. The City continues to collect vendor sponsorships to assist with the cost of City events. Visitor Services - Kings Bay Paddlecraft Program and Park Enforcement Program Revenues for the year are less than budget ($332,458 – 56.32% vs 83.29%). Both Hurricane Helene and Milton impacted the City parks’ operations due to closure for a few weeks. Also, the parking meters were non-operational until April. Following Hurricane Idalia, there was concern by the vendor and management this may occur due to the saltwater intrusion. They worked for almost a year and then gradually they all began to fail. The City had ordered new meters; they were delivered and installed the first week of April. The parking meters are one of our main sources of revenues for the parks’ operations. The kayak launch rental fees, our other main source of parks’ revenues were waived for October due to the hurricanes. Unfortunately, two hurricanes back-to- back has significantly impacted the City parks’ revenues for the first half of 2024- 2025. Expenditures for the year are less than budget by approximately $368,438 (20.22% – 63.07% less). This is primarily due to the Park Ranger truck purchase of over $40,400. The fund currently reflects a positive net position - $109,817. CIP Revenues in the CIP Fund continue to remain low in comparison to the revenues budgeted (4.87%); this is primarily due to the grant funding for projects totaling almost $10 million which includes City Hall design and demolition which have not begun yet. Both the state revenue and the local option gas tax are in line with the budget for the first ten months of FY2025. Capital expenditures for the first ten months are also less than budget (9.08%). The main spend year-to-date was for some stormwater projects and the Copeland Park Fishing Bridge. Public Works continues the planning the various capital projects for the year. Very little has been encumbered to date.

* Further details are listed in the full departmental reports. Water/Sewer Operating revenues are slightly less than the budget for the month (77.08% vs 83.29%). The only revenues for the first ten months of the year were the utility billings and interest earned at the bank. Operating expenditures are also less than the budget (80.35% vs. 83.29%). The contract with U.S. Water in the amount of $1,701,342.96 has been encumbered for the year as reflected within the encumbrance. Several of the SRF loans for the old sewer expansion projects were paid year-to- date totaling over $135,488 along with the bond loan totaling over $475,885. Capital Revenues for water and sewer are less than budget (5.59% vs. 83.29%). This is primarily due to the WWTP grant for which reimbursement will not be received until the project is up and running and the City begins to incur costs. Capital expenditures like the revenues are less than the budget for the year (4.68% vs 83.29%). There continues to be very little activity for the first ten months of the year as Public Works in coordination with U.S. Water are planning the capital projects for the year; it appears at this point in the year, several projects will most likely roll into FY2026. Staff also continue to work on the sewer expansion projects. Most FY2024 projects were rolled forward into FY2025. Sanitation Sanitation revenues are slightly less than budget for the month (76.71% vs. 83.29%). Staff completed a comparison of City customer billings to Waste Management billings to the City. There were a few adjustments necessary by both the City and the vendor. The vendor again will pay the Franchise fees monthly vs. annually. The $140,000 collection reflects as revenue into the fund, and then a transfer to General Fund; one-twelfth of this is the $11,666.67. Sanitation expenditures are slightly over budget (88.20%) – 4.91% more than budget. The fund will likely close with a shortfall as did FY24. This will be corrected as Council recently approved an increase to all residential garbage customers to absorb the ongoing vendor CPI increase over these last few years which has not been passed on to our customers. Three Sisters Refuge Revenues for the first ten months of the year are more than budget (107.04% vs. 83.29% - 23.75% more). This fund continues to see an increase in revenues over prior years; tourism is essential for this enterprise fund to be successful. Operating expenditures are running slightly less than budget for the first ten months of the year (61.96% vs. 83.29%). Three Sisters operations were gearing up for season, which required replenishing supplies and training staff. This fund reflects a positive net position to date of $382,475. Overall, this fund primarily continues to be self-sufficient. CRA Revenues for the first ten months of the year are significantly higher than budget (112.71%) due to the Ad Valoreum Tax which was billed to the County as of the close of February 2025. The only revenue normally received monthly is interest income; this revenue source exceeded budget (102.29% vs. 83.29%).

* Further details are listed in the full departmental reports. Expenditures for the first ten months of the year are primarily for payroll, land lease, loan payment, parking project consultant and some Riverwalk expenses. Costs will begin to increase once the Riverwalk project – Water Phase continues to move forward. This FY2024 project was rolled forward into FY2025 in conjunction with the grant funding.

Meeting Date: September 22, 2025 Agenda Item Number: 6.C. CRYSTAL RIVER CITY COUNCIL MEETING Agenda Item Summary Requested Motion: Motion to reappoint Deborah MacArthur Anderson to Planning Commission Seat No. 2, reappoint Karen Cunningham to Planning Commission Seat No. 6, and appointment of Kimberley Salter to Alternate Seat No. 1 from Alternate Seat No. 2 Summary: Terms for Planning Commission Seats No. 2, No. 6 and Alternate Seat No. 1 are set to expire 09/30/25 and are up for renewal. Deborah MacArthur Anderson has served one term in Planning Commission Seat No. 2. Mrs. Anderson was first appointed on September 12, 2022, and wishes to serve a second term. Karen Cunningham has served one term in Planning Commission Seat No. 6. Mrs. Cunningham was first appointed on September 12, 2022, and wishes to serve a second term. With the upcoming vacancy of Planning Commission Alternate Seat No. 1, staff recommends appointment of Kimberly Salter, who has served in the Planning Commission Alternate Seat No. 2 since January 23, 2023. With upcoming Alternate Seat No. 2 vacancy, staff is advertising for applicants and will bring forth an appointment at a later date. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends reappointment of Deborah MacArthur Anderson to Planning Commission Seat No. 2, reappoint Karen Cunningham to Planning Commission Seat No. 6, and appointment of Kimberley Salter to Alternate Seat No. 1 from Alternate Seat No. 2 ATTACHMENTS: Description Planning Commission ROSTER_9-22-25.doc

O- Original Term Date 9/22/2025 REV. 1 A- Appointed R- Reappointed CITY OF CRYSTAL RIVER PLANNING COMMISSION 3 Year Terms MEMBER TYPE/ SEAT # NAME/ADDRESS APPOINTED TERM END WORK EXPERIENCE At Large per LDC 8.02.02(E)(2) Seat #1 Richard Laxton 1411 NW 19th St. Crystal River, FL 34428 352-302-2883 RLaxton@Tmarkhomes.com 03/10/08(O) 12/12/22 (A) 10/23/23 (R) 9/30/26 Architect/ General Contractor Construction per LDC 8.02.02(E)(2) Seat #2 Deborah MacArthur Anderson 707 Miller Creek Road Crystal River, 34428 813-390-6010 deborahanderson0@me.com 10/13/08(O) 9/12/2022 (A) 9/22/25 (R) 9/30/28 Planning and Architectural Design Office Mgr. per LDC 8.02.02(E)(3) Seat #3 Kristen Coble 1611 NW 20th Ave. Crystal River, FL 34428 352-302-9449 Kristen.L.Bare@gmail.com 10/01/09(O) 9/23/24 (A) 09/30/27 Education At-large per LDC 8.02.02(E)(4) Seat #4 Terrance “Terry” Thompson 1107 SE 4th Ave Crystal River, FL 34429 352-895-3561 Captterryrealtor@gmail.com 10/01/09(O) 10/25/21 (A) 9/23/24 (R) 09/30/27 Real Estate Broker Architect per LDC 8.02.02(E)(4) Seat #5 Larry Schenavar 221 SE 2nd Pl Crystal River, FL 34429 352-895-6838 lschenavar@gmail.com 10/13/08(O) 03/28/22 (A) 10/23/23 (R) 09/30/26 Consultant At-large per LDC 8.02.02(E)(4) Seat #6 Karen Cunningham 2011 N.W. 15th Street Crystal River, FL 34428 352-795-2441 kscunn@gmail.com 03/10/08(O) 9/12/2022 (A) 9/22/25 (R) 09/30/28 Real Estate Broker Property Appraiser per LDC 8.02.02(E)(3) Seat #7 Gregory Acker 387 N. Magnolia Circle Crystal River, FL 34428 352-586-9695 Greg.acker@qcdatabase.com 10/13/08(O) 9/23/24 (A) 09/30/27 Project Manager and Construction Alternate Seat #1 Kimberly Salter 410 NW Fern Dr. Crystal River, FL 34429 386-316-5707 kmurphysalter@gmail.com 10/01/09(O) 9/22/2025(A) 09/30/28 Marketing and Project Management Alternate Seat # 2 VACANT 10/01/09(O) 09/30/26 Citrus County School District Non-voting Member S. 163.3174(1), F.S. Chuck Dixon, AICP 2575 S Panther Drive Lecanto, FL 34461 (352) 746-3960 dixonc@citrusschools.org N/A N/A Director of Planning and Growth Management, Citrus Co. Schools

Meeting Date: September 22, 2025 Agenda Item Number: 6.D. CRYSTAL RIVER CITY COUNCIL MEETING Agenda Item Summary Requested Motion: Motion to approve modifications to the Human Resources Policy Manual dated October 1, 2025 Summary: Motion to Approve Modifications to the Human Resources Policy Manual A motion to approve the proposed modifications to the Human Resources Policy Manual, dated October 1, 2025. The key revision for the Human Resources policy manual is a policy addressing the appropriate and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools by City employees. With the increasing use of AI technologies in the workplace, establishing clear guidelines ensures employees understand expectations related to confidentiality, accuracy, compliance with laws, and ethical use of AI in performing City business. Staff Recommendation: Approval of modifications to the Human Resources Policy Manual dated October 1, 2025 ATTACHMENTS: Description Human Resources Policy Manual October 1, 2025 Red - Lined.pdf

HUMAN RESOURCES POLICY MANUAL May October 1, 2025

City of Crystal River Human Resources Manual Document Revision Version Date Revised By Description of Changes 1.0 10/1/2023 Mary Helprin Initial version 1.1 11/1/2023 Mary Helprin Updated Employment Policy – page 12 1.2 5/1/2025 Mary Helprin Exhibit A 1.3 10/1/2025 Mary Helprin Artificial Intelligence Policy – Article 5 Note: This revision page is intended to provide a summary of changes made to the Human Resources Policy Manual. For detailed information about specific policy revisions, please refer to the corresponding sections in the manual or exhibits.

The City of Crystal River was officially incorporated as a city on July 3, 1923, and proudly celebrated its centennial anniversary in 2023. As employees of this unique and growing city, we seek to serve its residents and visitors, and to maintain, preserve, enhance and embrace its beauty, charm and the abundance of nature around us. The commitment, dedication and hard work of our staff are the driving factors in maintaining our residents' quality of life and making our city a place people want to visit to support our local businesses. This employee handbook is divided into sections - including objectives and administrative policies, your responsibilities and rights as an employee, workplace safety guidelines, leave and compensation information, and general provisions to answer questions you may have as a valued employee of Crystal River. The handbook is intended to clearly communicate the city's policies and guide you during your career with the City. Please make yourself aware of the city's policies and guidelines. We are proud to have you as a member of our team! City of Crystal River

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................ 5 ARTICLE 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS .................................................................................................... 6 ARTICLE 2 - EMPLOYMENT POLICIES .............................................................................................. 10 ARTICLE 3 - ETHICS............................................................................................................................... 19 ARTICLE 4 - SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY ................................................................................................. 20 ARTICLE 5 - ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE POLICY ......................................................................... 22 ARTICLE 6 - EMPLOYMENT PROCEDURES ..................................................................................... 24 ARTICLE 7 - APPOINTMENTS .............................................................................................................. 25 ARTICLE 8 - VOLUNTARY SEPARATION .......................................................................................... 27 ARTICLE 9 - INVOLUNTARY SEPARATIONS .................................................................................... 28 ARTICLE 10 - DISCIPLINARY ACTION ............................................................................................... 31 ARTICLE 11 - EMPLOYEE APPEALS ................................................................................................... 34 ARTICLE 12 - GRIEVANCES ................................................................................................................. 35 ARTICLE 13 - PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS ................................................................................ 37 ARTICLE 14 - ATTENDANCE AND LEAVE ........................................................................................ 37 ARTICLE 15 - COMPENSATION PLAN ................................................................................................ 52 ARTICLE 16 - COMPENSATION ........................................................................................................... 53 ARTICLE 17 - EMPLOYEE BENEFITS .................................................................................................. 59 ARTICLE 18 - WORKERS COMPENSATION ....................................................................................... 60 ARTICLE 19 - SEVERABILITY AND EFFECTIVE DATE ................................................................... 60 EMPLOYEE ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT OF POLICY MANUAL ....................................... 61 INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................................... 4 ARTICLE 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS ................................................................................................... 5 ARTICLE 2 - EMPLOYMENT POLICIES ................................................................................................ 9 ARTICLE 3 - ETHICS .............................................................................................................................. 18 ARTICLE 4 - SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY ................................................................................................ 19 ARTICLE 5 - EMPLOYMENT PROCEDURES ..................................................................................... 21 ARTICLE 6 – APPOINTMENTS ............................................................................................................. 23 ARTICLE 7 - VOLUNTARY SEPARATION.......................................................................................... 25 ARTICLE 8 - INVOLUNTARY SEPARATIONS ................................................................................... 25 ARTICLE 9 - DISCIPLINARY ACTION ................................................................................................ 28 ARTICLE 10 - EMPLOYEE APPEALS ................................................................................................... 31 ARTICLE 11 - GRIEVANCES ................................................................................................................. 32

4 ARTICLE 12 - PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS................................................................................ 34 ARTICLE 13 - ATTENDANCE AND LEAVE ........................................................................................ 34 ARTICLE 14 – COMPENSATION PLAN ............................................................................................... 49 ARTICLE 15 - COMPENSATION ........................................................................................................... 50 ARTICLE 16 - EMPLOYEE BENEFITS ................................................................................................. 55 ARTICLE 17 - WORKERS COMPENSATION ...................................................................................... 56 ARTICLE 18 - SEVERABILITY AND EFFECTIVE DATE .................................................................. 56 EMPLOYEE ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT OF POLICY MANUAL ...................................... 57

5 INTRODUCTION The purpose of this manual is to generally describe the Human Resources process and set forth policies to be followed by the City of Crystal River in the administration of its Human Resources program. This HR manual supersedes any previous HR Policy or manual. No manual can anticipate all circumstances that may arise. Actions taken where this manual is silent are the prerogative of the City Manager or the City Manager’s designee. Questions regarding the interpretation of these policies or procedures should be directed to your immediate supervisor, Department Director and Human Resources Director. Periodically existing policies will be revised to comply with changes in State and Federal Law. Proposed manual revisions will be prepared by the Human Resources Director and thereafter will be presented to the City Manager. Any such revisions will be communicated to employees through official notices, or memos from City Manager or Human Resource Director and said revisions shall supersede, modify and/or eliminate existing policies or benefits contained herein. Electronic Copies will be distributed as appropriate. Printed copies will be available upon request. Employment at the City of Crystal River is an at-will relationship. This means that either the employee or the city may terminate the employment relationship at any time, for any reason, with or without notice. Nothing in this employee handbook creates or is intended to create an employment agreement, express or implied. Nothing contained in this, or any other document provided to the employee is intended to be, nor should it be, construed as a contract that employment or any benefit will be continued for any period of time. In addition, no city representative is authorized to modify this policy for any employee or to enter into any agreement, oral or written, that changes the at-will relationship.

6 ARTICLE 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS A. PURPOSE The Human Resources Manual is designed to be the primary reference document for communicating and interpreting Human Resources policies, programs, and procedures to employees at the City of Crystal River. The City reserves the right to interpret, change, modify, add, delete or not apply all or part of the provisions of this manual at any time. B. SCOPE The terms of this Manual apply to all employees of the City except as follows contract workers shall have only those rights and privileges of employment as are specified in their written contracts of employment. C. OPERATIONAL RULES, REGULATIONS AND PROCEDURES The City Manager and Department Directors may establish, and enforce departmental operational rules, regulations and procedures in addition to the regulations contained herein, provided, however, that any such rules, regulations and procedures shall not be inconsistent with the regulations contained herein. D. DEFINITIONS 1. ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE Active duty in the Florida defense force or federal service with any branch of the United States Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, or Coast Guard. The period of active military service shall commence with the date of entering upon active military service, and shall terminate with death, or a date thirty (30) days immediately next succeeding the date of release or discharge from active military service, or upon return from military service, whichever shall occur first. Active military service shall include the period during which a person in military service is absent from duty due to illness, wounds, leave, or other lawful cause. 2. ANNIVERSARY DATE The calendar date each year, which is the same as the month and day of an employee’s initial date of employment. Re-employment after a break in service shall result in a new anniversary date. 3. BREAK IN SERVICE An interruption in continuity of employment by the City following the legal termination of such employment. Reductions in force for periods of less than eighteen (18) months shall not constitute a break in service. 4. CITY The City of Crystal River, Florida.

7 5. COMPENSATION PLAN A systematic process for evaluating jobs based on similarities in duties, responsibilities, and requirements. When positions have sufficiently similar duties, responsibilities, and requirements they are appropriately classified in one job with same title and be allocated on the same salary range. 6. CONTRACT WORKER A person who has a written contract for employment with the City to perform specific duties for a specified period of time. 7. DATE OF EMPLOYMENT The date on which an employee begins active employment with the City. 8. DEMOTION The reassignment, voluntary or involuntary, of an employee into a position having a lower pay range than the employee’s previous position. The term does not include the reclassification of a position or the reallocation of a position. 9. DEPARTMENT DIRECTOR The Department Director of each City Department. 10. DISCIPLINE OR DISCIPLINARY ACTION The dismissal, suspension, demotion, or reprimand of an employee. 11. DISMISSAL An involuntary separation from employment, except by expiration of term, suspension or retirement. 12. ELIGIBILE APPLICANT A job applicant who meets the minimum qualifications for consideration for a position with the City. 13. EMPLOYMENT-AT-WILL The practice whereby employees are hired for an indefinite period of timetime, and the employment relationship may be terminated at- will by either party at any time. Unless otherwise indicated, all employees of the City of Crystal River shall be considered at-will employees. 14. FISCAL YEAR The period of time which begins on October 1st of each year and continues through September 30th of the following year. 15. FULL TIME EMPLOYMENT A full-time employee is an individual who is regularly scheduled to work in excess of thirty two (32) hours per week (on average, annually), as defined by the City’s employment policies. Full-time employees are eligible for benefits as outlined in the City’s policies, in accordance with federal law. 16. FURLOUGH A furlough is a mandatory temporary leave of absence from which the employee is expected to return to work or to be restored from a reduced work schedule. 17. GRIEVANCE A formal action initiated by an employee who believes that a workplace condition is unjust, inequitable, or hinders effective operations. However, dissatisfaction with performance evaluations is not considered a grievance unless the evaluation is alleged to be based on factors unrelated to job performance. Grievances do not include

8 complaints regarding disciplinary actions. 18. IMMEDIATE FAMILY The spouse, children (including step children), mother, father, sister, brother, grandmother, grandfather, and stepparent of an employee or an employee’s spouse or domestic partner. 19. INITIAL PROBATIONARY PERIOD A six (6) month period of probationary employment, in the same position, immediately following the original date of employment by the City, or following a break in service. During this period, the employee may be disciplined or dismissed without a right of appeal. 20. LATERAL TRANSFER The movement of an employee from one position to another position having the same pay range and the same degree of responsibility. Lateral transfers may be within the same department or from one department to another. 21. LAYOFF A layoff is a separation of employment due to lack of work during periods of economic downturn or organizational restructuring. Layoffs may be permanent, or employers may implement a temporary layoff with the intention of recalling workers if circumstances allow. 22. LEGAL HOLIDAY Those days established by City Administration as a day when City offices are closed, and employees receive Holiday pay. 23. MANAGEMENT EMPLOYEES An employee serving as a Director, Assistant Director and the City Manager (unless otherwise specified in employment contract). 24. OBSERVED HOLIDAY Those days established by City Administration as Holidays that fall on a Saturday or Sunday are observed by the City on the preceding Friday or following Monday. 25. PART TIME EMPLOYMENT Part-time employment is defined as a position in which an employee is regularly scheduled to work fewer than thirty-two (32) hours per week, (on average, annually). Part-time employees may be eligible for limited benefits as outlined in the City’s employment policies and in accordance with federal law. 26. PAY RANGE Is the span between the minimum and maximum salary or wage an employer is willing to pay for a specific job or position. 27. POSITION A grouping of duties, responsibilities and tasks to be performed by an employee. 28. POSITION CATEGORY Position category is defined as follows: a. Officials and Administrators b. Professionals

9 c. Administrative Support d. Service/Maintenance e. Skilled Trade Workers 29. PROBATIONARY EMPLOYEE A person who occupies a position included in the City’s Compensation Plan who has not yet successfully completed his/her probationary period. 30. PROMOTION The competitive movement of an employee into a position having a higher pay range than the employee’s previous position. The term does not include the reclassification of a position or the reallocation of a position. 31. PROMOTION PROBATIONARY PERIOD Normally, a period of three (3) months of conditional probation, immediately following promotion. This period may be extended for an additional period of up to six (6) months. Such period of employment does not affect the employee’s rights as a regular employee, including the right to appeal disciplinary action. 32. RATE OF PAY An employee’s wage or salary, whichever is appropriate to an employee’s status under the Fair Labor Standards Act 29 U.S.C., Sections 201-219. 33. REALLOCATION The movement of a position to a higher or lower pay range based on an assessment of market conditions affecting the attraction, hiring, and retention of employees in that position. 34. RECLASSIFICATION The non-competitive movement of an employee to a position in the same or a different (higher or lower) pay range due to a material change in that employee’s job duties and responsibilities. 35. REDUCTION IN FORCE The involuntary separation, through no fault of the employee, as by reason of lack of work, lack of funds, changes in organization, or similar cause, and without adverse effect on the employee’s eligibility for further employment. 36. REGULAR EMPLOYEE An employee who has successfully completed the initial probationary period and does not fall into the Management category. 37. RE-HIRE The reemployment of an individual for labor or personal services in exchange for wages or salary. Rehired individuals are considered new employees for all purposes of this Manual. 38. RESIGNATION The voluntary separation of an employee from their position. 39. RETIREMENT The voluntary cessation of one's position, occupation, or active professional career.

10 40. SENIORITY Preferential position which is based on length of continuous employment with the City, and which is one of the criteria applied in determining order of layoff, or reduction of force. 41. SEASONAL EMPLOYEE A type of temporary employee who works during specific times of the year, typically on a part-time basis. 42. SUSPENSION Involuntary separation from employment during a limited period of time for disciplinary or administrative purposes. 43. TRANSFER The voluntary or involuntary movement of an employee from one position to another within the City Department to which the employee is assigned. ARTICLE 2 - EMPLOYMENT POLICIES A. EQUAL EMPLOYMENT The City of Crystal River provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, genetic information, service in the military, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances. Equal employment opportunity applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training. The City of Crystal River will endeavor to make a reasonable accommodation of an otherwise qualified applicant or employee related to an individual’s physical or mental disability, sincerely held religious beliefs and practices, and/or any other reason required by applicable law, unless doing so would impose an undue hardship upon City of Crystal Rivers’ business operations. The City will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known legally recognized disabilities, under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This policy governs all aspects of employment, including selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination, and access to benefits and training. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring, evaluation systems, promotions, training, and career development programs. B. PREFERENCE TO VETERANS In accordance with the provisions of Chapter 205 Florida Statutes, Sections 295, 07-085 veterans and spouses of veterans who meet certain criteria are eligible for preference in

11 employment or promotion provided the veteran or spouse possesses the minimum qualifications of the position as outlined in the job description. Such preference does not preclude the hiring (outside hire) of a non-veteran who is more qualified than a veteran. Veterans’ preference does not apply to the following positions with the City: • City Manager • City Attorney • City Clerk • Department Directors C. DRUG AND ALCOHOL FREE WORKPLACE The City’s Drug-Free Workplace Policy is aimed at ensuring zero tolerance to illegal drugs at all times and its alcohol-free policy to zero tolerance under circumstances that affect or might affect the safety and wellbeing of employees, citizens and others, or that adversely affect or might affect the effective operation of City operations. This policy has been implemented in accordance with sections 440.101 and 440.102 of the Florida Statutes. 1. PROHIBITIONS a. ILLEGAL CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES The City prohibits the use, distribution, possession, manufacture, cultivation, sale or attempt to manufacture, sell or distribute illegal controlled substances at any time whether on or off duty and whether on or off City property. Illegal controlled substances are defined by applicable state and federal laws. Please be advised that marijuana, even if prescribed for a medical purpose and even if deemed lawful by some states for other purposes, remains an illegal controlled substance under federal law. As such, the City strictly prohibits the use of