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City Council Regular Meeting

Wednesday, March 5, 2025 · Government meeting record

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Record incomplete

The Naples City Council held a regular meeting to discuss beach dune restoration, community infrastructure concerns in River Park East, and local youth recognition. The Council also adjusted its agenda to review labor agreements and professional service contracts.

Why it matters

Residents of River Park East are advocating for the city to prioritize local infrastructure and canal dredging over the proposed purchase of the Stillwater Cove property, with a follow-up discussion set for April 3, 2025.

What happens next

The scheduled meeting date has passed. Minutes or an action agenda are not published in the records we hold.

This meeting date has passed and no official outcome record has been published yet. Nothing on this page is a decision.

Record text

No transcript is held for this meeting. Recording: Watch video

City of Naples City Council Chamber 735 Eighth Street South Naples, Florida 34102 City Council Regular Meeting – March 5, 2025 – 8:33 a.m. It is noted for the record that all: 1) documentation electronically appended hereto is also contained in the file for this meeting with the City Clerk’s Office; 2) experts who testified during quasi-judicial hearings were accepted as qualified to do so in their respective fields of expertise; 3) added items are referenced in red as “ADDED ITEM”; and 4) added attachments are referenced in red as “ADDED ATTACHMENT”. 1) CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL City Council Members Present Teresa Heitmann, Mayor Terry Hutchison, Vice Mayor Staff Present: Gary Young, City Manager Robert Middleton, Public Works Director Chad Merritt, Parks, Rec. and Facilities Dir. Natalie Hardman, Natural Resources Manager Charlotte Loewel, Human Resources Director Russell Thomas, Employee and Labor Relations Mgr. Danielle Futia, Special Events and Marketing Supv. Others Present: Denise Sawyer Patrick O’Connor Adaline Rudnick Greyson Malone Myles Bringardner Renee Vrehas Emma Rosenberg Roman Tallariti Micaela Benito Larry Humphries Liset Zelaya Judy Freiberg James Whittaker Lauren Batlle Keith Choff Berne Barton Ray Christman Bill Kramer Linda Penniman Beth Petrunoff Matthew McConnell, City Attorney Patricia Rambosk, City Clerk Dave Rivera, Traffic Operations Supv. Alison Bickett, Deputy City Engineer Sean Phillips, Master Police Officer Michael O’Reilly, Police Lieutenant Ali Duran, Executive Assistant Jessica Hernandez, Deputy City Clerk Penny Taylor Kristen Haseotes George Williams Brooks McCall Garrett Dietz Dale Pendleton Peter Graffman Joan Fiore Michael Berczk Norman Trebilcock Clay Brooker K. Williams Paul Arsenault Matthew Young Edward Larsen 2) INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE A moment of silence was observed in remembrance of Jerry Sanford, former Firefighter for the Fire Department of New York and North Collier Fire Rescue District, who recently passed away. Reverend Denise Sawyer, System Director of Spiritual Services at Lee Health, offered an innovation. Mayor Heitmann subsequently led in the Pledge of Allegiance.

City Council Regular Meeting – March 5, 2025 – 8:33 a.m. 2 Roll call votes by Council Members are recorded in random order, pursuant to City Council policy. 3) SET AGENDA City Manager Gary Young noted that an updated Tentative Agreement was added as a Supplement for Item 14.B. He also announced that Item 7.A, the Do The Right Thing Presentation, was added to the agenda. Additionally, City Manager Young expressed gratitude to the Gary Sinise Foundation for its generous donation of a high-water rescue vehicle, valued at $89,000 which was previously approved by City Council Council Member Christman requested that Item 7.A. (Resolution ranking professional services for lake improvements) be removed from the Consent Agenda for separate discussion and vote. Council Member Kramer requested removing Item 8.A (Consideration of a private party with band for entertainment) from the Consent Agenda for a separate discussion and vote. MOTION by Hutchison to SET AGENDA subject to accepting Supplement Item 14.B and Supplement Attachment "Updated Tentative Agreement" for Item 14.B and removing Items 7.A and 8.A from the Consent Agenda for a separate discussion and vote; seconded by Petrunoff and unanimously carried, all members present and voting (Barton-yes, Christman-yes, Hutchison-yes, Kramer-yes, Penniman-yes, Petrunoff-yes, Heitmann-yes). 4) ANNOUNCEMENTS AND PRESENTATIONS 4.A) Do the Right Thing Presentation (SUPPLEMENT 2/ADDED ITEM). Master Officer Sean Phillips recognized Sponsor of the Month, Patrick O’Connor, for his efforts in supporting the Do the Right Thing (DTRT) Program. Master Officer Phillips then announced the recipients of that month’s DTRT Award. First, he recognized Adaline Rudnick from Sea Gate Elementary School, who had baked cookies for police officers and civilians in the department during the holiday season for the past four years, continuing a family tradition rooted in generations of law enforcement service. Master Officer Phillips then recognized Greyson Malone and Myles Bringardner from Lake Park Elementary School for picking up trash left behind after a school movie night. Master Officer Phillips also recognized Renee Vrehas, Emma Rosenberg, and Roman Tallariti from Gulf View Middle School for taking quick action to assist a teacher experiencing a medical issue. In addition, Micaela Benito from Saint Ann School was honored for befriending a new student to help ease her transition and also founding the NJHS (National Junior Honor Society) Prayer Pals, an initiative aimed at fostering a positive and faith-based school environment. 4.B) Collier County Update on Beach Dune Planting (SUPPLEMENT 2/RENUMBERED ITEM) City Manager Gary Young introduced the item. Natural Resources Manager Natalie Hardman, introduced Larry Humphries, Collier County Project Manager, overseeing the Dune Vegetation Project. Project Manager Humphries announced that the beach dune plants were significantly compromised by Hurricane Ian in 2022. After that storm, he said Collier County launched a campaign, incorporating input from professionals across various agencies, to renourish the beaches and restore vegetation in the newly formed dunes. He then utilized an electronic presentation that detailed County efforts, which began on November 21, 2024 and which they hoped to complete by the end of May, 2025. Efforts included planting a random mix of Sea Oats, Bitter Panicum, Sea Purslane, and a variety of other native plant species to help stabilize and restore the beach dunes. He announced that as of that day, the County had planted 119,627 plants on City beaches. In response to Mayor Heitmann, Project Manager Humphries stated that signs and barriers have been installed to protect the plantings and estimated an 85 percent survival rate. He explained that cost constraints prevented all plantings from being roped off, as replanting is more cost- effective than maintaining roped-off areas. Agenda Memorandum Presentation 5) PUBLIC COMMENTS

City Council Regular Meeting – March 5, 2025 – 8:33 a.m. 3 Roll call votes by Council Members are recorded in random order, pursuant to City Council policy. Liset Zelaya thanked Police Chief Ciro Dominguez for helping River Park East residents prepare for Hurricane Milton. She announced that she had submitted a petition, signed by her neighbors, urging City Council to halt plans to purchase Stillwater Cove and instead allocate CRA funds to make infrastructure upgrades to the River Park East Community. River Park East resident James Whittaker expressed hope that the current Council would take a more proactive approach in making improvements within the River Park East Community. Expressing concerns about flooding in the neighborhood, Judy Freiberg spoke out against the purchasing the Stillwater Cove property. Instead, she proposed that the City work together with the County to build affordable housing east of the City. She said infrastructure upgrades should be a priority in River Park East. Lauren Batlle emphasized the need for infrastructure improvements and dredging in River Park East. In response, Mayor Heitmann confirmed that a discussion on the subject is scheduled for the April 3, 2025 Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting. Keith Choff highlighted the importance of dredging to improve stormwater drainage, noting that standard dredging depth is five feet below the mean low water mark, yet River Park East canals currently have only one to two feet of water clearance at low tide. He obtained an estimate ranging from $1 million to $3 million for the project and stressed that dredging should take priority over purchasing the Stillwater Cove property. Penny Taylor emphasized the importance of resiliency and suggested that creating a committee representing the members of the property owners association could be an effective approach. Kristen Haseotes, a Broad Street South resident, urged the City Council to carefully consider the neighborhood impact of parking decisions associated with the Old Naples Hotel. George Williams noted that the 2018 Traffic Study for the intersection near the Old Naples Hotel did not account for the need to expand the road for bypass lanes into the parking lot. He expressed concerns that the proposed bypass lane could encroach on historic residential property, and he asked the City Council to consider alternative entrances to the parking area at the Old Naples Hotel. Petition Signatures (Zelaya/Added Attachment) APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA MOTION by Christman to APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA subject to removing Items 7.A and 8.A for a separate discussion and vote; seconded by Barton and unanimously carried, all members present and voting (Barton- yes, Christman-yes, Hutchison-yes, Kramer-yes, Penniman-yes, Petrunoff- yes, Heitmann-yes). 7) RESOLUTIONS 7.B) RESOLUTION 2025-15560 - A Resolution Approving a First Amendment to the Contractor’s Services Agreement Between the City of Naples and TreeScaping of Naples, Inc. for Tree Removal and Stump Grinding Services; Increasing the Amount of the Agreement by $25,000, Not-to-Exceed a Total of $110,000; Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the First Amendment to the Contractor’s Services Agreement; and Providing an Effective Date. Title of Resolution not read. Agenda Memorandum Resolution First Amendment - Contractor’s Services Agreement Certificate of Insurance 7.C) RESOLUTION 2025-15561 - A Resolution Approving a List Of Vendors for Directional Bore and Low And High Voltage Services for the City’s Operations During Fiscal Year 2024-25; Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Contractor Services Agreements with Each Vendor; Authorizing the City Manager to Issue Purchase Orders Therefore; and Providing an Effective Date. Title of Resolution not read. Agenda Memorandum Resolution 24-031 Bid Analysis

City Council Regular Meeting – March 5, 2025 – 8:33 a.m. 4 Roll call votes by Council Members are recorded in random order, pursuant to City Council policy. 01-03 FY25 PS 24-031CC Agreement Aztek DB LHV Serv 01-03 FY25 PS 24-031CC Agreement Bentley DB LHV Serv 01-03 FY25 PS 24-031CC Agreement Bore Tech DB LHV Serv 7.D) RESOLUTION 2025-15562 - A Resolution Approving a Fifth Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement Between the City Of Naples and WSP USA Inc., a New York Corporation (Previously Known As WSP USA Environment & Infrastructure, Inc.). for The Purpose of the City Consenting to an Assignment of the Agreement to WSP USA Inc., and Including Additional Standardized Contract Terms Required by the City, for Environmental and Stormwater Quality Sampling, Analysis and Reporting Services; Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Fifth Amendment to Professional Services Agreement; and Providing an Effective Date. Title of Resolution not read. Cover Page Agenda Memorandum Resolution Fifth Amendment 7.E) RESOLUTION 2025-15563 - A Resolution for the Purpose of Approving a First Amendment to Professional Services Consultant’s Agreement Between the City of Naples and WSP USA Inc., a New York Corporation, (Formerly Known as WSP USA Environment & Infrastructure, Inc., a Nevada Corporation) for the Purpose of Consenting to an Assignment of the Agreement Between WSP USA Environment & Infrastructure Inc. a Nevada Corporation, and the City Of Naples; Including Additional Standardized Contract Terms Required by the City; Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the First Amendment to Professional Services Consultant’s Agreement; and Providing an Effective Date. Title of Resolution not read. Agenda Memorandum Resolution First Amendment 7.F) RESOLUTION 2025-15564 - A Resolution for the Purpose of Approving a Third Amendment to Professional Services Consultant’s Agreement Between the City of Naples And WSP USA Inc., a New York Corporation, (Formerly Known As WSP USA Environment & Infrastructure, Inc., a Nevada Corporation) For The Purpose of Consenting to an Assignment of the Agreement Between WSP USA Environment & Infrastructure Inc. and the City of Naples; Including Additional Standardized Contract Terms Required by the City; Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Third Amendment to Professional Services Consultant’s Agreement; and Providing an Effective Date. Title of Resolution not read. Agenda Memorandum Resolution Third Amendment 6) MINUTES 6.A) Approval of the February 5, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes. Agenda Memorandum February 5, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes 8) OTHER 8.B) Consideration of the following Repeat Special Event Applications: 1) Annual Soup Fundraiser; - Cambier Park; 2) Nash to Naples - Cambier Park; 3) 21st Pet Lovers Gala - Elite Jets; 4) Cinco de Mayo Fest 2025 - Felipes Taqueria; 5) Annual Back to School Bash - Anthony Park; 6) National Night Out - River Park Community Center; 7) Walk the Talk, Naples - Baker Park; 8) Free Jazz Concerts - Cambier Park; 9) DJ for Ceremony and Cocktail Hour - Hyatt House; 10) Santa’s Coming to Town - River Park Community Center; and 11) 8th Annual Candlelight Christmas Carols - Cambier Park

City Council Regular Meeting – March 5, 2025 – 8:33 a.m. 5 Roll call votes by Council Members are recorded in random order, pursuant to City Council policy. Agenda Memorandum Empty Bowls 1.17.25 Nash to Naples 1.24.25 21st Pet Lovers Gala 3.21.25 Cinco de Mayo Fest 5.5.25 Annual Back to School Bash 7.26.25 National Night Out 10.1.25 Walk the Talk - Naples 10.25.25 Free Jazz Concerts 11.16.25 DJ for Ceremony & Cocktail Hour 12.5.25 Santa’s Coming to Town 12.5.25 8th Annual Candlelight Christmas Carols 12.19.25 8.C) CLERK TRACKING 2025-00025, 2025-00026, 2025-00027, 2025-00028 - Acknowledge the Election of Mark Hoyt and Adam Nadelman to the Board of Trustees of the Firefighters’ Retirement Trust Fund and the Election of Erik Noe and Sean Phillips to the Board of Trustees of the Police Officers’ Retirement Trust Fund. Agenda Memorandum Fire Pension Code Police Pension code END OF CONSENT AGENDA 9) PUBLIC HEARINGS None. REGULAR AGENDA 10) BOARDS AND COMMITTEES 10.A) CLERK TRACKING 2025-00029 - Discussion and Selection of the Recipient of the 2025 Sam Noe Award. City Clerk Patricia Rambosk provided a brief history of the Sam Noe Award, explaining that each year, board and committee members may nominate a current or past member of an appointed board or committee to recognize exemplary service within the particular mission of that board or committee. She recognized past recipients Ronald Pennington, James Black, William Kroeschell, Murray Hendel, James Rideoutte, Peter Manion, Willie Anthony, Gary Price, Lodge McKee, Alan Ryker, Linda Black, James Krall, David Feight, Bruce Selfon, Thomas McCann, Stephen Hruby, Renee Zepeda and Sharda Spahr. City Clerk Rambosk announced that Anne Foster, who served on the Community Services Advisory Board from 2015 to 2024 and Ric Phillips, who served on the Planning Advisory Board from 2020 to 2024, were nominated for the 2025 Sam Noe Award. City Clerk Rambosk read a letter of withdrawal from Mr. Phillips, which also expressed support for Ms. Foster’s nomination. MOTION by Petrunoff to SELECT Anne Foster as the recipient of the 2025 Sam Noe Award; seconded by Hutchison and unanimously carried, all members present and voting (Barton-yes, Christman-yes, Hutchison-yes, Kramer-yes, Penniman-yes, Petrunoff-yes, Heitmann-yes). Agenda Memorandum Nomination for Anne Foster Nomination for Ric Phillips Current Resolution 15-13622 11) ITEMS PULLED FROM CONSENT AGENDA (Items 7.A and 8.A) 7.A) RESOLUTION 2025-15559 - A Resolution Ranking the Top Two Consulting Firms to Provide Professional Services Associated with Lake Design Restoration Improvements; Approving a Professional Services Consultant’s Agreement Between the City Of Naples and LJA Engineering, Inc, for Professional Engineering Services to Design Lake Restoration Improvements for Devil’s Lake, Suzanne Lake, and Forest Lake in the Amount of $349,685; Amending the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Budget Adopted by Resolution 2024-15463 Providing a Funding Source to Complete the

City Council Regular Meeting – March 5, 2025 – 8:33 a.m. 6 Roll call votes by Council Members are recorded in random order, pursuant to City Council policy. Design Services; Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Professional Services Consultant’s Agreement; and Providing an Effective Date. City Attorney Matthew McConnell read the title of the Resolution. Public Works Director Robert Middleton provided a brief history of the City’s Stormwater Lakes Master Plan and outlined the selection process for a consulting firm to oversee restoration improvements for Devil’s Lake, Suzanne Lake, and Forest Lake. He announced that the City received two bids, and the Evaluation Committee appointed by the City Manager selected LJA Engineering, Inc. (formerly Agnoli, Barber, and Brundage) as the top-ranking firm. In response to Council Member Christman, Public Works Director Middleton clarified that the scope of work includes assessing potential dredging requirements needed to restore the water quality of each lake and increase each lake’s water capacity. City Manager Gary Young outlined the budgeting process for the lake restoration projects. Council Member Penniman expressed the opinion that resiliency should be a priority over lake restoration. Citing the success of Swan Lake’s biological cleanup method and low annual maintenance cost of $35,000, she suggested applying the same treatment plan to other lakes and reallocating the annual savings to resiliency efforts throughout the City. Public Comments: Brooks McCall touted the use of Microbe-Lift, a biological cleanup method used to clear the muck from Swan Lake. He explained that the $35,000 annual cost of Microbe- Lift will save tax dollars for residents, compared to the dredging cost of $1 million per acre. Garrett Dietz asked why the City is considering spending money on a consulting firm to study lake restoration options when Microbe-Lift has proven to be an efficient, cost-effective solution. Dale Pendleton and Michael Dekic yielded their time when called. Noting that Microbe-Lift is effective at eliminating algae sediment, but not sand, Peter Grafman suggested assessing each lake to determine whether dredging or Microbe-Lift would be the better lake restoration solution. In response to Vice Mayor Hutchison, Public Works Director Middleton stated that LJA Engineering will evaluate the volume of materials in the lakes and compare the findings to previous measurements. He explained that the sediment consists of natural elements and sand, emphasizing that biological treatments will not remove sand. Public Works Director Middleton noted that, although restoration efforts at Swan Lake appeared successful, no study was conducted before the treatment to establish a baseline for sediment levels. Vice Mayor Hutchison voiced support for approving the Resolution, emphasizing the need to understand the composition of sediment in each lake. In response to Council Member Petrunoff, City Attorney McConnell stated that a final determination had not yet been made regarding which area lakes are privately or publicly owned. He added that further studies are needed on the Microbe-Lift treatment to fully assess its long- term effectiveness. Council Member Christman referenced a study conducted by Johnson Engineering, which found inconclusive evidence linking Microbe-Lift to the Swan Lake’s improved condition. In addition, he said a decision had not been made as to whether the ongoing treatment of any lake is the financial responsibility of the City. He cited examples of lakes in the City that benefited from dredging, and expressed support for approving the Resolution. Council Member Barton recommended maintaining lakes connected to the City’s stormwater system to ensure proper water quality, lake water volume and overall support for the system’s functionality. He suggested that staff develop a plan to study the use of Microbe-Lift on a City lake to evaluate the product’s effectiveness. Council Member Kramer emphasized the importance of identifying the source of water entering the lakes before proceeding with restoration efforts. Natural Resources Manager Natalie Hardman noted that the City is searching for a consultant to conduct a watershed study to identify water sources. City Manager Young suggested performing the watershed study alongside ongoing restoration efforts at Devil’s Lake, Suzanne Lake, and Forest Lake. Additionally, he proposed initiating a study to determine the next lake for a case study. Vice Mayor Hutchison emphasized the need for a comprehensive resiliency plan to prioritize actions related to lake

City Council Regular Meeting – March 5, 2025 – 8:33 a.m. 7 Roll call votes by Council Members are recorded in random order, pursuant to City Council policy. restoration. Mayor Heitmann said the City Clerk completed research to identify who owns the lakes in the City, and asked that the report be distributed to Council Members and the City Attorney. MOTION by Christman to APPROVE RESOLUTION 2025-15559, subject to the addition of the following actions; 1) identify a lake for a future case study; 2) conduct a watershed study to identify the point source of pollution for all lakes; 3) evaluate Swan Lake and identify the composition of the sediment in the lake while using the Microbe-Lift product; 4) the City Attorney to provide information related to ownership of lakes in the City; seconded by Hutchison and unanimously carried, all members present and voting (Christman-yes, Barton-yes, Kramer-yes, Petrunoff-yes, Penniman-yes, Hutchison-yes, Heitmann-yes). City Attorney Matthew McConnell requested permission to install warning signs at City lakes treated with Microbe-Lift due to potential side effects from human contact. Mr. Dietz countered that extensive studies have been conducted on the product, with no evidence of adverse effects on wildlife or humans. Mayor Heitmann advised gathering more details before proceeding. Agenda Memorandum Resolution Agreement Recess: 10:12 a.m. to 10:26 a.m. It is noted for the record that the same Council Members were present when the meeting reconvened. 8.A) Consideration of the following New Special Event Application: 1) Private Party with Band as Entertainment - 3033 Rum Row Council Member Kramer voiced concern over the event application not meeting the 120-day timeline submission requirement, warning that allowing applications to be submitted after the deadline could set a troubling precedent. Police Lieutenant Michael O’Reilly explained that Rum Row is not wide enough to legally park vehicles on the road, and parking in the bicycle lane violated State Statutes. Parking is legal in the landscaped right-of-way, he added, but only with the property owner’s permission. City Manager Gary Young stated that special events with unresolved issues should not be included on Consent Agendas. He emphasized the need for a discussion on special events, noting that nearly all recent event applications have failed to meet the 120-day submission requirement. Joan Fiore explained the reason the application was submitted late is because she did not own the subject property 120 days before the event. In addition, she stated that guests have been informed they must use ride-share transportation, ensuring that street parking will not occur. Noting that many events in her neighborhood rely on street parking, she emphasized the need for a clear set of rules that all residents must follow. Party co-host Michael Berczk stated that he did not anticipate many, if any, guests driving to the party and parking on the road. Council Member Petrunoff voiced support for strict enforcement of the 120-day application deadline. With the updated rideshare plan provided by the party host, Council Member Barton inquired whether the event could now be approved, as parking concerns had been addressed. In response, Chad Merritt, Parks, Recreation and Facilities Director, said the only remaining issue is the outside amplified music. Council Member Christman stressed the importance of establishing clear standards to determine when an event permit is required in the City. Director Merritt stated that a revised application will include the updated rideshare parking plan. MOTION by Petrunoff to APPROVE Item 8.A; seconded by Christman and unanimously carried, all members present and voting (Barton-yes, Christman-yes, Hutchison-yes, Kramer-yes, Penniman-yes, Petrunoff-yes, Heitmann-yes). Agenda Memorandum Private Party 3.22.2025 Photographs of Lakes (Added Attachment)

City Council Regular Meeting – March 5, 2025 – 8:33 a.m. 8 Roll call votes by Council Members are recorded in random order, pursuant to City Council policy. 12) LAND USE MATTERS None. 13) OLD BUSINESS None. 14) NEW BUSINESS 14.A) Discussion and Direction of Intersection Improvements at Broad Avenue South and Gordon Drive/ 2nd Street South to Offset the Future Traffic Impacts Related to the Old Naples Hotel Property located at 200 Broad Avenue South. Public Works Director Robert Middleton introduced Deputy City Engineer Alison Bickett, who provided a brief history of traffic impacts related to the future development of the Old Naples Hotel, specifically potential intersection improvements at Broad Avenue South and Gordon Drive. She noted that Walker Parking Consultants submitted a Traffic Impact Statement (TIS), while Trebilcock Consulting Solutions conducted a Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA). Deputy Engineer Bickett noted that the TIA proposed a roundabout as a potential solution, with the understanding that the developer would remain flexible to meet the Citys requirements. However, she noted that in January 2023, the City Council voted against the roundabout as the preferred option. Since then, other intersection alternatives have been discussed, with Trebilcock Consulting Solutions conducting studies of various intersection options. She stated that the studies concluded that a roundabout, a traffic signal, or an all-way stop with a turn lane could all provide a satisfactory Level of Service. Council Member Petrunoff raised concerns about traffic congestion at the intersection of Broad Avenue South and Gordon Drive, citing the impact of valet parking traffic and delivery trucks converging in the area. Additionally, she questioned why the City is covering fifty percent of the improvement costs instead of the developer funding the majority of the project. Norman Trebilcock, President and Professional Engineer at Trebilcock Consulting Solutions, utilized an electronic presentation outlining the three intersection options. He stated that one option is a four-way stop with a northbound right-turn lane, which would be the lowest-cost solution with minimal impact. He noted that this option would preserve on-street parking and promote lower speeds near the hotel, but the planned new turn lane would eliminate existing trees along Gordon Drive. Engineer Trebilcock said the single-lane roundabout option would reduce traffic queues during peak hours, enhance aesthetics, and provide environmental benefits while being the safest choice for all users. However, he noted that it would eliminate six street parking spaces and proved to be the most expensive option. He noted that the traffic signal option, with appropriate lanes, would function efficiently and has a lower initial cost than a roundabout. However, he pointed out that this option would lead to longer queues during peak hours and require higher maintenance costs. Additionally, he said it would result in the loss of 18 on-street parking spaces. He concluded the presentation by recommending the existing four-way stop with the addition of a northbound right-turn lane. He noted that this alternative would retain the existing street character, preserve critical on street parking, and provide an improved level of service with the least impact and effort. Clay Brooker, Attorney at Cheffy Passidomo, P.A., clarified that hotel deliveries will occur off of Broad Street, while pickups will take place off of Gordon Drive. He stated that the petitioner would accept any decision made by the City Council regarding the intersection improvements and is prepared to cover fifty percent of the costs once a decision is finalized. Deputy City Engineer Bickett noted that the site plan with deviations petition and the development agreement between the City and the Old Naples Hotel, approved by the City Council in 2018, required the petitioner to provide five on-street parking spaces on 14th Avenue South and 4th Street South. She added that these spaces were intended to replace those lost due to the addition of the hotel’s valet parking area.

City Council Regular Meeting – March 5, 2025 – 8:33 a.m. 9 Roll call votes by Council Members are recorded in random order, pursuant to City Council policy. Council Member Kramer expressed support for the four-way stop with a turn lane alternative, citing the need for traffic calming and enhanced pedestrian safety in the area. Council Member Christman noted the absence of hotel representatives at the meeting, stating that while hotel construction is ongoing, the intersection issue is not the hotel’s responsibility but rather a matter that the City Council must address. He asserted that all intersection alternatives had challenges, but it was the City Council’s responsibility to determine the most viable option despite the associated drawbacks. Traffic Operations Supervisor Dave Rivera presented potential solutions to address the challenges associated with each intersection alternative. He then expressed a preference for the traffic signal option, which includes a 250-foot northbound right turn lane. He made assurances that traffic queuing at the intersection would not be an issue as cameras would monitor the area and signal timing could be adjusted to optimize traffic flow. Public Comments: K. Williams, a neighbor of the Old Naples Hotel, proposed preserving the existing roads around the hotel and instead constructing a second level on the 13th Avenue parking lot behind the Tommy Bahama restaurant. Paul Arsenault, a longtime resident living adjacent to the Old Naples Hotel property, voiced concerns about the lack of information provided to the City Council regarding the hotels impact on neighboring properties. Recess: 1:52 p.m. to 2:17 p.m. It is noted for the record that the same Council Members were present when the meeting reconvened. Council Member Kramer stated that he had changed his stance after considering the information previously provided by Traffic Operations Supervisor Rivera, and expressed support for the traffic signal alternative, while other Council Members emphasized the need for additional information before deciding. City Attorney Matthew McConnell stated that a decision was made in 2018 to approve the hotel’s construction, with a condition that the hotel pay fifty percent of the design, improvements, and infrastructure costs for the intersection. He added that in order to obtain a certificate of occupancy, the hotel owner must demonstrate that the intersection improvement fees have been paid, which requires that the City Council determine the cost of the improvements. City Manager Gary Young said answers regarding traffic flow and valet operations will be provided at the March 19, 2025 Regular City Council meeting, and if not, the April 2nd meeting. Council Member Christman emphasized that the most important questions were related to the valet parking plan, as well as pick-ups and deliveries at the hotel. Consensus reached to direct staff to gather additional details regarding operation plans at the Old Naples Hotel for further discussion and consideration at the March 19, 2025 City Council Regular Meeting. Public Comment: Clay Brooker suggested that if City Council Members reviewed the Valet Parking Plan approved in 2018, many of their questions could be answered. He agreed that delaying the decision to allow Council Members time to review the agreement would be a wise course of action. Agenda Memorandum Old Naples Hotel Site Plan Signal Plans 2018 Old Naples Hotel Roundabout Feasibility Study Presentation 14.B) RESOLUTION 2025-15565 - A Resolution Approving, Ratifying and Confirming the Labor Contract Between the City of Naples and the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), Council No. 79, Local No. 2017 Bargaining Unit; and Providing an Effective Date. City Attorney Matthew McConnell read the title of the Resolution. City Manager Gary Young introduced Human Resources Director Charlotte Loewel who reviewed the agenda memorandum, noting that the City of Naples and the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), Council No. 79, Local No. 2017 Bargaining Unit have bargained and come to a tentative agreement regarding a three-year collective bargaining agreement retroactive to October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2027. Russell Thomas, Employee and Labor Relations Manager, utilized an electronic presentation to offer details regarding the Agreement Ratification,

City Council Regular Meeting – March 5, 2025 – 8:33 a.m. 10 Roll call votes by Council Members are recorded in random order, pursuant to City Council policy. highlighting the cost of the agreement and its impact to funding, and prospective Pension Plan improvements. MOTION by Hutchison to APPROVE RESOLUTION 2025-15565; seconded by Petrunoff and unanimously carried, all members present and voting (Hutchison-yes, Penniman-yes, Christman-yes, Barton-yes, Kramer-yes, Petrunoff-yes, Heitmann-yes). Agenda Memorandum Resolution Tentative Agreement Updated Tentative Agreement (SUPPLEMENT 1/ADDED ATTACHMENT) Presentation (Staff/Added Attachment) 14.C) Consideration and Discussion of the Repeat Special Event Application of the following events: 1) 4th of July Parade - Downtown Naples; and 2) the Great Canoe Races of Naples - Baker Park. Chad Merritt, Parks, Recreation, and Facilities Director, noted that The Great Canoe Races of Naples were previously held annually at the City Dock. He stated that due to significant safety concerns at that location, the decision was made to relocate the event to Baker Park, to be held on June 14, 2025. He provided a brief overview of the events parking logistics and expressed hope that the 1st Avenue South Parking Garage would be open in time to accommodate attendees. Matthew Young, Events Director of the Naples Young Professionals (YPN) and host of the event, stated that he would collaborate with the City to designate temporary channels for non-race boat traffic. Police Lieutenant Michael O’Reilly, offered details on how boat traffic will be controlled during the event. YPN Secretary Edward Larsen stated that the canoes should be able to navigate the course without issue during low tide, which is expected at 9:38 a.m. that day. MOTION by Hutchison to APPROVE the Great Canoe Races of Naples Special Event Application; seconded by Barton and unanimously carried, all members present and voting (Hutchison-yes, Penniman-yes, Christman-yes, Barton-yes, Kramer-yes, Petrunoff-yes, Heitmann-yes). Director Merritt noted that feedback regarding the Fourth of July Parade included concerns about the heat on that day. Thus, he proposed starting the parade an hour earlier and shortening the route. Council Members discussed concerns regarding the absence of marching bands, the high number of political participants, and police staffing challenges. Director Merritt suggested hosting a family event at Cambier Park in the future in place of the parade. A discussion followed regarding the estimated $30,000 cost of the Fourth of July Parade, with more than half of the expenses allocated to the Police Department. Noting the early morning race throughout the City, the parade, and the fireworks all scheduled for the same day, Mayor Heitmann acknowledged the heavy event lineup but expressed the opinion that it was too late to cancel this year’s parade. MOTION by Christman to APPROVE the upcoming Fourth of July Parade Event subject to staff's recommendation to shorten the parade route and amend the start time to 9:00 a.m.; seconded by Hutchison and carried 6-1, all members present and voting (Christman-yes, Petrunoff-no, Barton-yes, Kramer-yes, Hutchison-yes, Penniman-yes, Heitmann-yes). Agenda Memorandum 4th of July Parade 7.4.2025 The Great Canoe Races of Naples 6.14.2025 ORDINANCES 15) FIRST READING ORDINANCES None. 16) SECOND READING ORDINANCES None. 17) PUBLIC COMMENTS

City Council Regular Meeting – March 5, 2025 – 8:33 a.m. 11 Roll call votes by Council Members are recorded in random order, pursuant to City Council policy. None. 18) COMMUNICATIONS FROM MAYOR, CITY COUNCIL, AND STAFF Council Member Penniman emphasized the need to proactively prioritize resiliency efforts, particularly in the River Park area. She also highlighted the importance of keeping outfall pipes clear of barnacles. In response, City Manager Gary Young stated that just under $200 million each year is allocated in the stormwater outfall budget for maintenance. Council Member Penniman proposed utilizing the Presidents’ Council to address resiliency strategies. City Manager Young explained that the State opted not to invest in beach renourishment efforts south of 23rd Street South citing the limited use of those beaches due to the lack of public parking. He recommended scheduling discussions on beach renourishment, resiliency and associated funding during Workshops after the summer recess. Council Member Barton expressed the need for short-term resiliency solutions in the meantime. Council Member Christman stated that, under state law, canal dredging is the responsibility of the homeowner. He referenced the East Naples Bay Citizens’ Advisory Committee as an example of homeowners who established their own special taxing district to fund canal dredging efforts. He emphasized the importance of understanding this before making any decision to allocate Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) funds for dredging the River Park East canals. Council Member Christman agreed that resiliency is the City's top priority and noted that the public has echoed this sentiment at public meetings. He stated that the City needs a comprehensive plan to mitigate coastal storm risks, along with a sustainable funding strategy to support it. He emphasized the need for a priority list to address resiliency. Mayor Heitmann expressed concern over the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' (USACE) decision not to disclose the findings of its recent Coastal Storm Risk Management study. In response, Council Member Kramer suggested that the City draft a letter to the USACE and use personal contacts to ensure the letter reaches the proper people. He suggested that after local officials rejected prior USACE resiliency recommendations, USACE considered Naples a low priority. After recent storms, Council Member Kramer said Naples residents may be more willing to embrace USACE measures. Mayor Heitmann asked that the City Clerk provide minutes from previous meetings that included USACE presentations to refresh Council Members on the recommendations that were proposed. City Manager Young stated that he would engage the Collier County Manager to coordinate a response to USACE. He affirmed that the City would move forward independently if the County chose not to participate, Council Member Kramer inquired whether the City was obligated to fund canal dredging and seawall repairs in the River Park East area and whether the City had the ability to allocate Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) funds for these purposes if it is not responsible. He asserted that workforce housing should be occupied only by employees who work in the City of Naples. Council Member Petrunoff noted that the Natural Resources page on the City website provides an overview of resiliency priorities. She suggested restructuring the City's organizational chart to include a Chief Resiliency Officer. She expressed concern regarding the lack of discussions and adherence to the City’s Comprehensive Plan, citing recent project approvals that override the Charter Height Amendment, deviated from the Parking Needs Analysis as well as the removal of trees during the Old Naples Hotel intersection discussions earlier that day. Vice Mayor Hutchison emphasized the importance of providing clear directives to the City Manager and ensuring that all instructions align with the City Council’s established priority list. He recalled that the City Council recently hired Johnson Engineering to assist in updating the City’s Comprehensive Plan. He mentioned that the firm had informed the City of having a resiliency expert on staff. Vice Mayor Hutchison suggested that the expert be consulted to advise the City Council on how to provide clear guidance on resiliency matters.

City Council Regular Meeting – March 5, 2025 – 8:33 a.m. 12 Roll call votes by Council Members are recorded in random order, pursuant to City Council policy. City Manager Young stated that a request was received for a Resolution from City Council mandating hands-free cell phone and handheld device use while driving, and he asked for the consensus from the City Council to add it to a future agenda. Consensus reached to direct the City Manager to prepare a Resolution mandating hands-free cell phone and handheld device use while driving and include it on a future agenda. City Manager Young stated that the infrastructure component of the Comprehensive Plan will play a crucial role in addressing resiliency. Additionally, he underscored the importance of expanding the Public Works Department by filling vacant positions and building out the employee flow chart, and asked City Council latitude in his efforts. City Attorney Matthew McConnell identified a scrivener’s error in the title of the recently approved Design Review Handbook Resolution. He stated that he would correct the error and include approval of the revised Resolution on a future meeting’s Consent Agenda. In response to Council Member Penniman, City Attorney McConnell explained that Municipal Service Taxing Units (MSTUs) are a funding mechanism used to establish special taxing districts for neighborhood improvements in unincorporated areas of a county. He added that he would verify the information and provide a follow-up to her. Mayor Heitmann expressed the need for future discussions regarding seawalls. In addition, she shared that she had a personal scheduling conflict with City Council meetings on September 15 and 17, 2025, and asked for approval to reschedule those meetings a week later. City Manager Young stated that he would review potential scheduling conflicts, as the second readings of budget items may be set for those dates. 19) ADJOURNMENT 5:18 p.m. ____________________________ Teresa Lee Heitmann, Mayor ______________________________ Patricia L. Rambosk, City Clerk Meeting clerked by: ________________________________ Jessica Hernandez, Deputy City Clerk Minutes prepared by: David Horton, Executive Assistant Minutes Approved: 4/2/2025.

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