Board of County Commissioners

>> Good morning. Welcome to the board of County Commissioners meeting. We appreciated one being here reverend So I'm at. If you would come up and give us indication. Commissioner Sumner after that, what you need to send a salute to the flag. And everyone it can please stand. Let's pray. >> A father, we're so grateful for another day that you've given us. For the breath of life and each and every one of our long as God. I just pray. But your blessing would rest on this place. On each and every man and woman that's in this room. Got those that are outside this room working hard God. We know that this is an unusual week and Okeechobee, sir, got a just your hand of protection over each and every one God that. Putting themselves got an extra hours and working extra time, God help out each. Each one got each neighbor helping neighbor got I just pray. Your continued blessing and protection over each one. So got a preview. Bless this meeting. Got every commissioner, God. Every single staff member, Okeechobee County got may we all live a life of loving God and loving people and got me this county be known for not only its its growth with God may be known that we look out one for another and got me your presence be strong in this place today and will give you honored glory and praise in Jesus name. Amen. A allegiance to flag. United States of America and to Republic for which it stands. One nation God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> you know, we all would come along. Is really that well, that's what most everyone just. So that's what I figured. You know, it's the only meeting that does that. >> We're doing a little change up today because we have a lot of deviation from the regular agenda. But we're good at this time. We're gonna for Miss Jessica. And she's going to give us some updates on what's been capping. I'm sure that everyone in here and everyone that sir observing meeting wants to know. So just place. Take it from here. Yes, sir. Thank you. >> So on November, first 2026, Okeechobee County experience. Historic rainfall totaling approximately 9 to 13 inches and parts of the county resulting in widespread flooding. Roadway impacts residential damage and public health concerns. The county issued a local state of emergency on Sunday November. First at 02:00PM. And the county currently remains under level one full emergency Operation Center activation and continues coordinating response and recovery options Okeechobee County has officially been added to the governor's emergency order for the flooding event, strengthening strengthening the county's ability to seek state assistance and support ongoing response and recovery activities with our current status. Flooding continues to affect neighborhoods throughout the county, particularly mobile home communities and low-lying areas. Preliminary damages assessed and assessments have identified more than 2.1 million and residential damage damages with over 850 structures. Still awaiting assessment. More than 400 mobile home units have experience flooding impacts but have not been assessed yet due to access State Road Highway. 78 reopened yesterday afternoon. And this operation response resulted in over 49 million gallons being pumped out of the affected area and additional 62 million gallons of water moved out of effective areas with comes throughout the county have occurred. The state is supporting requests for heavy equipment, operators and heavy equipment transport vehicle. And it should arrive today. And we've been working with 2 local contractors since Monday. Preliminary assessments of the county's infrastructure damages are over 4.2 million. And we still have a lot of road to cover public health concerns include septic system failures. Well, contamination, sewage, overflows mold concerns and increase mosquito activity. We are partnering with Department of Health Okeechobee Utility Authority to continue communication efforts with in affected communities. We have requested aerial mosquito spraying support with the state and sandbags are available at the road department at 804, northwest Second Street, a point of distribution remains operational at the Agger Civic Center currently providing bottled water to affected residents with additional resources that arrived this morning, including tarps and flood buckets. We are partnering with Treasure Coast Food Bank for a combined distribution site on Friday. And we are also partnering with F dacs for Agricultural resources which will provide more information soon. Once it's confirmed. A recovery shelter remains open as of yesterday at 01:00PM and it's managed by American Red Cross in the support of county staff. Anyone impacted by the recent flooding who needs assistance, support or resources is encouraged to contact the county's call center at 863-824-6888. >> Our recovery priorities are to complete residential in infrastructure, damage assessments, support residents affected by flooding and uninsured losses. Address public health concerns related to sewage drinking water and mosquito control and continue documentation necessary for potential state and federal recovery assistance. I'd like to close by saying we would like to extend our sincere appreciation to our state representatives, community partners and stakeholders for their continued support and advocacy and ensuring Okeechobee counties inclusion in the governor's executive order. We are equally grateful to our county staff for their unwavering dedication. Tireless response efforts and commitment to advocating for the needs of our community, the collaboration and teamwork among our local regional and state partners have been instrumental in strengthening our response in securing critical support for Okeechobee County. While we are grateful for this significant step forward, we recognize the devastation and challenges. Many homeowners and families continue to face. Our work is far from over. We remain committed to supporting our residents through the recovery process, maintaining strong partnerships and actively pursuing all available state and federal resources to assist those impacted. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to these efforts together. We will continue working toward the recovery and resilience of our community. Thank you, >> Mr. Nelson, I'm I'm I'm understanding you're going to have the next report for engine generic. Got a gun to merge. emergency Cohn had to leave? Yes, sir. Yes, sir. I I needed him to get out and look at some issues we're having outside on my side of county. >> So I can I can give you a report kind what the engineers got going on right now. Of course, that dot projects are pretty much shut down due to the storm activity. So he's he's also as as we've stated, the administrative stated he's still I think we have about 9 to 12 more projects that still have not been evaluated by the engineer to put within our system to have those total numbers. We're we're looking at a pretty significant increase of what still could be coming in with that. So that's kind of the report that he has given me right now. This point we will keep evaluating. We've got road and bridge staff. We've got contractors as a minister sted working all throughout the county, we still have multiple pumps running. So where, you know, we did break the large, calm down, but we still have multiple pumps running throughout the county and we will keep working as we can to try to try to. Evaluate what's coming into the system. As we know. We've got stuff coming still that's coming to us from the east from Port St. Lucie County is is coming to us. So we will keep working on trying to eliminate the issues we have in those areas. That's what we have. Yes, just received notice that the state is preparing a submission to FEMA. So what we have more information on that, hopefully today. I just want to give a shout out to all of our staff. We had in every department, people coming in on Sunday whose homes were affected. They left their home that was being affected in come in and worked to provide the services for the county and then also want to shout out to our command staff of Mr. Jessica, Justin and Karen, it's been a wonderful team, wonderful experience and all is good public safety. Emergency management is prepared, just chugging away. But community development will will switching to half-days for the next few days. So they'll be open in the mornings to the public. We're still able to take online submissions and will be processing those. We'll still be out doing inspections. But they're also doing our damage assessments from the storm. So I just don't have the staff to support full it our days there. So they'll they'll be pushing that out to the contractors and customers and will notice that the door as well. So >> everyone's aware that we just went through restructuring. We never had any idea that we're going have a trial by fire from a flood. But I am so impressed with from Miss Jessica, all the way down to command staff that you talked about and and our workers and seen him out there when we go bend is him in the field are aware they are ended. The public has no idea. What goes on of an emergency management meeting that several meetings today. They have a room public be 50 people in that room and everybody's working on different things give reports that we can work so well together. It's amazing. If there's naysayers out there about our our management. >> They they should should be be a a have the availability to see what I see every day going on there. And so I'm I'm so appreciative yeah, I was yesterday morning I went look to location where we've been pumping water all night so that people wouldn't have to evacuate. so gentleman that I know we Will pulled up. The idea is asking me some things and ask him about. His son. He said Yea came at 4.30 this morning. Checking on the pumps. And they're just they've given up their their time from home and taking care of this just, you know, from our standpoint and miss Jessica Yu Stacy did. But I think that little of our staff from tractor driver, too, shoot 2 in a straighter. I think we owe him around to propose. So if you're the place. We're going move on to. But the comments have card and Miss Ruby. >> Mister B, which come up place. It has to be on. >> For 15, see, I believe. >> My name is Ruby Borowski. 76. 26 southwest 9th Street. >> And I also had roads and bridges out on southwest Side Street. The gentleman that spoke with, this was just and mind you what a quick response. I am proud of our county. >> So but I would like to get Southwest 9th Street on the list for paving. We haven't had that road. Payton previous boards had a 5 year paving agenda. And I looked out there since 1994. And let me see I. Gas to Mont 10 years since that Richmond paved and it's now starting to crumble on the side along with because it's not really that wide of a road. I think it's under your standard. Is standard road. But the side of the roadway is crumbling along with the middle. And and from my house on barge covert. Everything drains to goes under and back out through the flood program. That covert and that paving above that covert is deteriorating. So we need something put over to hold that covert. And help the drainage. and we had a lot of water. I've seen more order. And 2004, but it was very comparable to that 2004 hurricane season in that short, a period of time. So anything that you guys can do? I know maybe it might not be for this year, but maybe next year. You know something like that for our neighborhood and then do you know if this South Florida water management meeting meeting is going to be held tonight. Cause a presentation was for today this morning. And but it's not for tomorrow either. >> And tribute could answer to these things for you first. Tell them what are management is is not having not being here today or tonight. They've got their like are people. They've got a lot of the things they need to be working on a that we Mitchell agreement, that it was time to do this. As far as the paving missed it was Jen today is going to be pool because we have no idea at this point where we're gonna have to pay. You know, like you talked about the covert and all that. So we will be reevaluating and putting where where it needs to go so that your your road will be assessed. I can't promise you to be prey, but it will be assessed along with the rest of I understand that. Yes, this chair, if you I can make a quick statement on her area. Also, we we've been working with the county engineer. The board gave direction to improve the drainage. >> The drains across intersection. >> That's one of the reasons why we don't have that rose on the painting list this year. It's not on the paving with us because we will be looking at replacing that box. Culvert. >> Andreev fixing the whole entire drainage issue there all the way down to the corner of 11th and 12th, the county engineer myself work on that for about 3 months now board gave direction about 3 months ago to to make some improvements that are. So we are working on that and we will make sure when we get to that point will be looking at how we're going address the road at same time. >> You're talking where in Town, 11 Centre. Well, yes, well, it's County, Southwest 9th. And what area? >> Lazy, 7 area. All okay. Southwest Night tonight, 7. That's we will be addressing that with this with the new stuff too. And you'll see that coming Sunday. Okay. Yes, ma'am. We do have we have a mask and we have a massive drainage improvement plan going on out there. That's already in our engineers already got a preliminary design. All right. Because I know years ago, they counted guess came in and put those. >> Catch basins what correct of it is. But that didn't help yet. What will have output will have that address. We're working on right now. Okay, and if you're well, thank you is well. >> Mr. Hunt. >> First, want to thank you all for all your solving all the problems and all the Seeing a little bit of your coverage on the news and on that. so thank you for doing everything you're doing. I came to speak expecting the Lower Kissimmee project now understand it's not for today. So I'll keep my comments very short. I would encourage you if you haven't already received to try and wrestle out of the district. Whatever hydrology reports that. Claim. Or whatever their bases to say that it's not going affect the neighboring lots it's been over 3 years. It was August 2023 since they first came to this meeting. And they continue to say it won't affect it, won't affect the neighbors. And most of you are on the board at that time. Thanks. Commissioner Hayes, Alice grilling. They finally admitted they didn't even know the elevation of the neighboring homes. So how can how can they make such a claim? It was just ridiculous. And so since that time, they've continued to make this assertion at their meetings. It was we're not going affect the neighboring. You know, the water levels. I was at the meeting at Stewart. It's been a couple years now. One person made made that claim again at the pitch Richard Reid was there. During the lunch break. I asked Jacoby. I said, can you please show us share with us these engineering reports when you say it's not going to affect us, give us today to give us to report so we can scrutinize that. We'd like to know, says And she said it hasn't. We haven't done that part yet. I just my chin hit the floor. And then ahead at the next meeting was over here at college. And I'm talking to some of the engineers and I tell them about my story. Marco, be. And they kind got real awkward. And then they asked another engineer, walked by and said, hey. Can you tell us when whatever, I don't know the terminology for the OG reports? And they she said, we're going to do that soon. So I don't know how you can keep forging ahead on a project. And not look at the neighbors first. So. So I begged Mr. Reynolds, at the last meeting, I think it was September of last year. Big completed her show us the data shows 2 reports. We've got nothing. Maybe they provided it to you. If so. Somebody reach out to me and share it. The other thing, thing so wasteful. We'll talk more about that later. the funding the way, it's the way it's going down. It's it's wasteful is costing twice as much as it should have cost. So and I would encourage you to continue opposing it. Because it's it's just wasteful. There's better ways to do it. They could build to St Ays for the way they're trying to do this one and not affect neighbors, not create a safety hazard for aviation. Thank you. Thanks, Scott. >> We have one more filling out a card. Come on a post and we know who your. Good morning. >> Good morning. How are >> Yes, this. >> Flood event was catastrophic and seemed to be unprecedented. >> But in fact, it may have been forgotten that action, October 10th not terribly long ago, was a similar flood event. Rain bands from hurricane or tropical storm making contact Lousiana sent quite a bit of rain on Saturday on October 10th, just about a month ago. A lot of our neighbors were affected. Several floods, a Kurd, even you a backup where sewer systems under pressure from that water backed up into some of our neighbors. Homes. The renovation on that work was ongoing when this new event occurred. And now as a result of this rain event. All of those renovation efforts are paused on hold. Home owners with their homes currently. You know, mostly removed drywall insulation in the middle of a major renovation. with the a rainfall event like that, they flooded again. Bringing up a problem that this homeowner. And the surrounding county and city areas having trouble draining are going to create a problem for them again, requiring them to potentially renovate seasonally, which is and possible. So I suppose a question I would have for you is whether or not this may be time to consider or if maybe already a program does exist and I'm ignorant of it. A grant program. Or of some sort of county or city assistance for land owners wanting to tie their drainage systems into the county and city. Systems available to them. Is that something that maybe I'm ignorant of or maybe something we're considering? >> Can we can we offline on this one because that that's already in place traffic. Yeah. But if we could do that, be more happy to meet with EU sometime in and go with all of the things that we we with them on their way. The county does all the drainage so we work with glad to work with them. Great. Thank Thank you. That's all the cards. I get a motion to close. The public 2nd motion by Commissioner good bread. Second by commissioner for those on favor say Aye. Aye. All opposed. Nay motion carries unanimously. Okay. Jessica revisions to the agenda. Please. >> Yes, We would like to request that item 6, a 7, a and 15 C are polled for a date to be determined. >> And we're going move. But the range that. >> Yes, will rearrange. So after After item, 6 P will go to 12 a >> then 15. then 15 thing. >> And the reason for these changes are that separate from the ones that moving as we have some staff really need to get back to the day things that are working on. So we're gonna move them up. Thank you. Get a motion to Motion to get up. Motion by Commissioner Burrows second by commissioner. Good bread. All in favor say Aye. Aye. All opposed. Nay motion carries unanimously. It's just going like talk about consent agenda, please. Yes, warrants list, 2026, dash 20 in the amount of 3 million, one $78,012 and $0.92. >> Item 5 P is the minutes from October. 22nd 2026 regular session. 5 C is to authorize the sheriff to increase miscellaneous revenue in the amount of 240,813 for fiscal year. 25 26. 5G is to approve budget amendment. Be a 27 Dash 0, 4, and adopt resolution. 26 dash 73 and the amount of 95,182 to recognize anticipated grant revenues for post-election equipment. 5 E is to approve budget amendment. 27 Dash 0, 6 resolution 2026. Past. 75 and budget transfer 27 Dash 0, 0, 5 authorizing the return of excess fees in the amount of $19,354 to the sheriff's Office for fiscal year 26. 27 5 AF is to authorize the chairman to adopt resolution 2026 dash. 74 amending the fiscal year 26. 27 budget to appropriate $17,635 in an anticipated funding received from insurance recovery providing an effective date and approved budget amendment. 27 Dash 0, 5, in the same amount. 5G is to receive an approved. The property Appraiser's 20's. 26 fiscal year and September, 30th 2026 financial report has submitted by Mickey Banding 5 each is to adopt the Code Enforcement Special Magistrate report and recommendation as to the reduction request filed by the property property owner, Jayson Tomlinson Living Trust and Direct the chairman to execute the attached final administrative order, which reduces the lane from 89,300 to 3,463 $0.49 provided. The amount is paid by 05:00PM on Monday, December 7, 2026, if not paid in a timely manner, the fine would remain at the original amount and direct the chairman execute a release, a lean upon the timely payment as a reduced amount of 3,463 $0.49. Any questions, comments that the consent agenda. >> Motion to approve as presented second, we have a motion by Commissioner Bo second by commissioner to Kahlo all in favor say Aye. Aye. All opposed. Nay motion carries unanimously. >> OK, we're going move on to public hearing. Counts are good. >> Yes, So our public hearing for today. Ordinance number 2, 0, 2, 6 Dash, 0, 0, 0, 6, an ordinance of the board of County commissioners of Okeechobee County, Florida, amending the code of ordinances, specifically section 2 Dash 101 use of county funds for refreshments decorations and a few minutes that in play functions. County gatherings and section 102. 2 dash, 102 procedure for payment of expenses permitted by section 2 dash 101 to update expenditure specials, approval procedures and permissible expenses providing for codification providing for conflicts, providing for severability and providing for an effective date. So essentially what this ordinance that it updates the expenditure thresholds 4 permitted hospitality expenses. From $750 being able to approved by the administrator up to $1200 to be approved by the county administrator. >> And that is to be adjusted annually in accordance with the CPI. The reason we're doing this increase now it's been it's been several years since we've had that increase of the administrative threshold and then any out may be approved by the board of County Commissioners in excess 1200. And this also just update some of our statutory references to make sure that any travel expenses, including lodging, meals, transportation. Are to be payable in accordance with Section one. 12.0 6, 1, Florida statutes and any applicable county travel policies. >> The public hearing is open anyone want to speak to this. >> Good morning, Mr. Chairman Bryant. And clerk of the Circuit Court and comptroller part of my function as comptroller. Is this too? It described in 8th many of the articles some of that rain to go through the we are they watched all for the county finances, all the money that the county rasheem's comes to my office and write checks spend that money. It's my job to watch how that's been to make sure it's bit in accordance with the law in accordance with the budget. You you adopt. And of course, with the contracts we have with vendors. I have a read this. ordinance. And I have to rise because just a few months ago. We were told that we were to sharpen our pencils. Whenever we've submitted our budget. We did so. I was asked to cut less than 1, 1, and a half percent off my budget, which I did it. Because everybody in the county is supposed to sharpening their pencils because of perceived impact of amendment 67% of people in this county voted for amendment 3, which means that they're all concerned about government spending. I know this is only about $450. But I think she opted to of this. What we're asking everybody else to tighten their belt. We now come in and say but let's give ourselves extra $450 whenever we want to entertain. I just don't think that is a good thing for Okeechobee County. Unfortunately, whenever. People in this county talk about election officials. They love all of us together. Get in there, Even though I don't make I don't make the fiscal decisions. All the constitutional officers are in there. Any elected officials when they start talking about need to do something. They talked. They're talking about all of us. And I think if I here and and did not at least express. Not only is that a comptroller, but as a citizen of this county, I think this is a bad look for us. Whenever across the state were supposed to limiting our budgets. And here we at. Almost double. Money for entertainment. I just think shorten should rejected. >> Anyone else for public comment? Move to close public comment. motion by Commissioner Sumner second by commissioner both those. But the in favor say Aye, aye, all opposed. Nay motion carries unanimously March Yes, sir. >> This is an actually asking for any increase. County ability to spend money on entertainment. It's to authorize. Our administrator. To go up to $1200 from the 7.50, that it currently is. We as a board can approve any amount we wanted in Utah. This is this is more giving her a little bit more leeway. it's meant to be reflective of the it cost increases across the board. It doesn't. You can't take a dignitary out to dinner at the same process. It's good for years. So there's no increase and spending. Associated with this. just an increase in the ability for the administrator to do it. Coming to us with their hat hand. that's way It's. There's 2 Foles here. What you just articulated. Yes, correct. Statement. But on the other hand, we sit here is the governing body. And we were just told by 67% of the people that amendment 3 is. >> Because what they want and that's associated with spending, whatever it may be, whether we spend it or not spent because when we get to the budget time. We're going to find out. We're going to do something said we're all going to be uncomfortable with. And so we might as start now. And I understand we're just giving her the approval to set any other, but at the end of the day is I think that circuit court probably bring some light to this in terms of optics. And as we all know, optics. It will make everybody that that will be a true statement to in everybody's mind. The personally, I don't see reason why we need to do this. Just based on the fact of what voting come out. On Tuesday. Well, first of all, it doesn't increase the budget it just means that we may spend it in different ways when we're not change in any of that. >> Very disappointed that we have a constitutional officer. promise you that if I go to your department, I can find things that that could cut back on and you can find things in mind. But the working together, I'm very disappointed. do whatever the commission wants, but I'm very disappointed in this way. This is handle. I'll leave it at that. >> Chair if I may >> if the consideration is to it. There's other changes in here that could provide further limitations on on some of the 8. Approaches. We are trying to take to educate our community. And we do. Reach out to guest speakers or prominent and distinguished visitors. And oftentimes they're not requesting any funds. They're coming on their own time. So the travel expenses, including but not limited to lodging, meals and transportation are some of the things they just ask for to be covered for there. time of educating our public on certain If you are considering a change, I would I would ask that you consider the amount only and not the entire ordinance. >> So in other words, you'd like us to keep the ordinance. But if we so choose, keep your number limited at 7., and obviously anything above that comes before this board in help back to. And I understand what Commissioner Burrows was saying about optics. Optics is one thing. Reality is reality. All it says is a gives her the ability without asking or permission. So it's a function of do we trust the person we've hired to sit in that chair? And she shouldn't have to come kicking and screaming. To your optics. Find your right. The Internet's completely off chain. So if if this ordinance. I would like to make a motion that we adopt this ordinance with one change, which would be to bring that 1200 number back down to the 7.50. We have a motion to have a second. I'll second. For discussions. Okay, So we ran back to 7.50, and I I I understand where you're coming from, but I understand her issue based on the fact some things we've been working on recently that >> we have to do certain things. Do the fact of your clarification. I'm okay with that. Because I understand from piece of it. But also want to make sure that public understands why we are doing certain things that and that's my only comment with that. When I read this, I read this twice and I'm just sitting here thinking when I read last night again, is that after that vote, it just seem odd that we would be even though we're not spending more money, it it's given the authorization spend more money. It's just crazy upticks that we have to deal with in this environment. I'm not opposed to giving her the. The leeway. Which that's what we should be doing. So let's resolve second. It. let it go. From that standpoint commission. I disagree with you spending more money. It's still have the budget. We have to work out of. It just means that you could one time you can go over that. >> 7.50, spending limit doesn't mean we have more money in that budget. We could. It would have to budget amendment if we spend more than what Senate and it's just like commissioner summer said you have prices going up. You're doing the same thing we've done for years, except it costs more that particular time. >> But it still does. It is still not increase in the budget. still keeping our budget deadline. >> I agree with you. I'm not debating that point. I was the meeting that point. Debating the issue of the And if we have a discussion up here, why we're doing something. I'm okay with that. But to just 2. Just to pass it without discussion and and have an understanding. To the public what we're doing. It. I'm okay with what you know was what we're doing. But we just can't just stamp it and go ahead. And we've had a good discussion on it. I'm hoping the public understands we're not spending more money, but you're giving the opportunity if you have to do And as you say, did we do it? We're going to do a budget amendment to transfer from one to another and not increase the budget. I got that piece of it. It was just the optics of it. >> okay, if you want to the 7.50, I mean, that's basically that's what we already went on increase. But I just want to make sure the public what knows that this was not any intent to increase spending other than particular time. You may spend it. One time is to spend it over 3 times that some lives that it was not budget increase. And I'm still upset that that they came up that way. >> But I would accomplish accomplish based on fact of what I a I said, I had a problem with We had a discussion here and I think we've we've aired at Dell now. That is is Sarah appreciated by his comments and that and I will say this. As we've had this discussion, I don't mind the 1200 to be quite frank with you. The reason I stopped it, that's because I wanted to have the discussion so people could understand what we're doing. And I was probably premature with my motion there. >> And I don't really know now going forward with the additional conversation. If we need to vote on that and either up or down it and then. If it goes down, started again. I'm not sure what the he could rescind There. You can pull second. Well, you can it. You can amend it. But at this recommended we go ahead. But the motion because the perception out there that looks like we're trying to do a budget increase. >> And we're not so that that's reason I say really been at the same were just rearranging things and surely nobody can help with that. I'm okay if you want to amend the budget. Well, Mr. Here did because of the perception has been presented here. I will recommend that we leave it, leave it like that. Marchenko with have you think that's because there's how often how many times is there going to be a threshold where you could have taking care of something on your If you are up to 1200 as opposed to have come to us, that number between the 75th. We had assured once a year. >> It depends on how much education we want to bring to the community because that's another factor that we're considering in terms of just not meal expenses, but travel expenses and lodging for those designated visitors that are coming so it depends on how many sessions we want to hold on certain topics, whether it's amendment 3 or something else to provide that education to our public and to our commissioners. But the reality is, if it's an expense that is needed. >> For the education of the public, we're going to approve it anyhow. So this was a function of trying to make it where she can skip that step back to the perception. Commissioner. I would recommend you just amend your motion. And let's let's do what we started with what I was after was the discussion to make sure that >> people knew what we were doing. I don't have a putting the level there because the chairman correct. If we if we were going to do something and we had to go over that level obviously we're going to have move money from one to another and not increase the budget. That's just the budget process. I wanted to have that discussion of Pierce. Will this clear everyone's mind whether we can make it clear in everyone's mind, not it's a question, but I wanted to clear up would we were doing? So I would recommend. Even though I understand what the chairman is, his position, I would recommend that you would amend your motion. And listen to what we started to have a good just we've discussion. So I'd like to amend. My motion. >> To simply state a move to approve. As is present. And I will second that, you know, wait a minute, we've got a motion for >> The book on the floor to do it with the 7.50 I would recommend you make an amendment to raise it back to the original. >> Out. Okay. Then the amendment is I'm in my motion from the 7.50, threshold and increase that threshold to the 1200 as was presented by Commissioner Burrows. Could. >> Retract his second. And then you're back to same thing. So if you if you'll story tracked the Second Amendment, retract a second U and I amendment and a second to raise it back up to the 1200 all in favor of the amendment say aye. Aye, all opposed nay motion carries unanimously. Okay. We're gonna vote on the motion as amended. All in favor. Say Aye. Aye. All opposed nay motion carries unanimously. Thank you so much. And it's good to have these kind of discussions. I mean, that's that's what it's all about. Appreciating. >> going move on to. >> item 12, they would be next. Mr. Nelson, good Morning. Chairman County Commissioners, County Administrator County attorneys. >> I was everyone morning. I'm in front of you now for looking for approval for the board of County commissioners to approve and authorize the chairman to execute a work authorization with Sumner Engineering and Consulting Inc and the amount of $77,704 providing engineering and design assistance services. For the proposed outflow out overflow parking lot at Northwest 23rd Lane some are engineering is one of our cutting services contracts. We've been negotiating out. We've sent this out to 3 different farms. Summer Sumner engine earring came in almost half of what the other 2 farms were at. We would like to go ahead and move forward to getting that design storm water permitting and all of that started on that project. The board previously had given us $30,000 for the actual design. Part of that when we went back realize storm water permitting everything else, it it did increase significantly. We have residual funds from one of the facilities maintenance projects that was 2026 budget year, which this project was budget are 2026 budget year. That budget amendment was done in 26. We just did not get in comfort in time. So that will be moving over closer to when we do our part in the fiscal year. So the money will be there. The full funds will be there based off of savings from other projects. So it will be a fully funded project at the board's size to move forward with it. And then at that point, we have, I think, a little over $100,000 for construction of this project. Also so. That's that's what my ask for this one. Just see where we are. A spate of the board. Mister chair. Yes, Summer engineering is my brother. So I will be recusing myself from this vote. Mr. Chairman, one question for you. Should remember your name, Justin? >> Is that see all the tests sitting here, but I don't see timelines is or timeline associate with all these tasks. >> We have not given them a tree timeline. The biggest issues. It's always hard to do that. Whenever you start talking about storm water permitting, that's always will hold us up. So we've we've kind of learned we give them a work authorization. There is a timeline based off of the work authorization. Total timeline. But we normally give them partial work. Authorizations would give him a design, work authorization that we give them a permitting work authorization to help not have such drastic timeline. If the board wants to see a more defined timeline, I have no problem making sure that we give them or to find timeline. But as we all know, when we get into dealing with government entities does take a little bit of time to get that permitting taken care of those reason. For my question, yes, Maria. maybe we should think >> check timeline. So, you know, we've submitted the district. This admitted back. We did 30 days or whatever. So we can see those periodic. They said we could know that done. However, moving along as we get questions, you know, yes, sir, what have where we stand, if we could have some kind of timeline that come that would be beneficial? >> Yes or not. And I can do so. I'll give y'all timelines based off of once we get to permitting how fast we're responding. Keep in mind any permits to go through South Florida Water Management district or any of our state agencies and federal agencies they submitted in my the the FCC's myself and administrators portal. So we see when they submit the permit, we see when they submit the RF Eyes or eyes, which everyone comes out and then we see the responses. So we have full control over that because we are the permitting agency for so even though the engineers submitting that information and this is what all of our projects we see, the live response we don't want We don't want to handle that. We know those timeline. We definitely interesting. You know, when the people out there, you know what, we've got this land when we're gonna be able to park there. >> Then will say, OK, it's water management or whatever it can. Yes, sir, we can definitely give you updates on that. I'll get with Mister. Really have him put together some updated timelines. >> And get that back to the board for, you know, either quarterly reports or something to keep this moving, make the motion to approve. >> have a motion by Commissioner Burrows second by Commissioner. Good bread to put approve. The summary Jane contract all in favor say Aye. Aye. All opposed nay motion cares for with with commissioner. century. Sumner abstaining. And think about that a minute, OK, Mr. Nelson, you're still I am. So here. So now I'm looking for the board of county commissioners to approve. >> So >> my brain is about that today. I've been gone. I have 4 hours of sleep last 4 days. the subordination of county utilities interests for the the to the state of Florida. And this is Fort FDOT for the 7.10, project. This is just utility and right away is that the county has the 7.10 will be taking pretty much over those right of ways with the widening We've got the we've got 2 different ones here. But this is the first one. owes down. If we want the road for lane, we better do this. Yes, sir. This is kind of where we are with some of this is for the road for line and the bypass says partners move to approve the items. Second motion by Commissioner Sumner second by Commissioner Burrows of favor say All opposed. Nay motion carries unanimously >> one more mystery have guests similar item. We're looking for the board of county commissioners to approve the subordination of county utility interest to the Florida Department of Transportation. And this is for property located along side Highway 7.10. And of course, the maps are both with both of them showing you where those areas are. Both of these have been approved by the bows. The legal team and our county engineer. Motion by commissioner Senator second by Commissioner. Good bridge. All in favor. Say Aye. Aye. All opposed nay motion care sense of unity. I'm not Mr. Nelson. Thank you for you're doing. Thank you. Okay. Miss jacket come back up to. jacket is released item 8, a I'm sorry, 8, a budget and procurement. Oh, okay. I'm sorry. Miss Lisa, good morning. >> Board approval is required to amend administrative regulation. 4 point, '06, of the procurement policy Section 9 f sales and use taxes to incorporate the justification memorandum process for sales tax charges that cannot be removed or refunded by the under. Administrative regulation. 4 point, '06, of the procurement policy establishes procedures and requirements for purchasing goods and services. Section 9 F sales and use taxes is currently requires employees to provide vendors with the county sales tax exemption. Documentation and obtain a credit if sales taxes charge the proposed amendment addresses situations in which an employee has made a reasonable effort to ensure the sales tax exempt purchase. What the vendor refuses or is unable to remove or refund the tax under the current procedures. Employees may be required to personally reimburse the county for sales tax. The revised language establishes a formal documentation, approval process for these exceptions, employees will be required to prepare a justification memo explaining the circumstances obtain signatures from the department head and submit the memorandum with the play couple credit card transaction. Details to finance for processing. This amendment provides a consistent process for handling these exceptions, maintains appropriate financial oversight supporting documentation and prevents employees from being personally responsible for charges they could not reasonably prevent. >> What would you like us Miss Lisa? I would like you to accept this as presented. Motion to approve We have a motion by commissioner second by commissioner to Carla all in favor say Aye. Aye. All opposed. Nay motion carries units. That was hard. It was it. No, it was Thank U.S.. Lisa, thank you. I thought you believe in. work which we have a sick sense. Again. a red hat. >> Just like so you're the employee >> Here's Jacqueline. Good morning. Good morning. >> This morning, I am asking that the board of County commissioners approve and authorize the chairman to execute a host agreement with Basque Events, LLC for the 2027 Bassmaster Elite Series Fishing Tournament to be held February. 11th through the 14th 2027 at C Scott driver, recreation area and authorized financial support in the amount not to exceed $70,000 has reviewed and approved by the county attorney. Earlier this year. Okeechobee County Tourist Development Council submitted Okeechobee County's proposal to be considered host community for the 20 20th asked Masterly series which is a fishing tournament the most professional highest of the professional bass fishing tournament. Excuse me. The county received notification. The Okeechobee County was selected as the host community for their season opener for the 2027 Lee Series. This will be the 5th time that the county has hosted Bassmaster Elite. Competitors must qualify for the series to the Turtle Box Bassmaster Open or the vast nation anglers who are in those who are already on the Elite Series must re qualify each year. The proposed that master host agreement includes the following requirements. The event will occur from February. 11th through the 14th 2027 at the Scott Drive or park. There will be daily tournament weigh ins that are scheduled to be held at 03:00PM. The community festival will be held on February 13th and 14th in conjunction with the Saturday and Sunday weigh INS. The event and the county will be promoted through national advertising, including publication's website. Live video streaming television coverage. And number 5 financial support required by the county funded through the tourist Development Fund, which would include the vast Elite series host FIA $50,000 and other expenses that are estimated at $20,000 for the require community Bast Bash event. Are there any questions? >> Mr. Chairman. Yes, sir. You know, you do such a good job with So I hate to ask this question, you given some of the scrutiny the 5 of us get her under sometimes based on the fact of what we do, what perceived not do. Deserve when you bring these things to us, is there opportunity for you to try to estimate the amount of revenue that comes into the community that we experience because people see $50,000. And number one, they don't understand some people do. Some people do that. This money's coming from bed tax that come from ad valorem come from anything else. But if there's a way you could just articulated some given time, what do put your return your investment is on. That would be great. >> Absolutely. I will look forward to that. I know that since we posted this event in the past, we do have some economic impact numbers that I could provide. But after the event, they also are required to submit a post event impact report. And that'll help me see what kind of tourism tax we can expect. But also what kind of economic development and economic impact we can expect in our community. People eating at our local businesses shopping visiting our tackle stores are gas stations, stuff like that? >> Perfect. That's exactly what I'd like to Make the motion to approve second motion second, further discussion. just say this. I'm just. A question was asked of me a couple days ago on. Social media. How much money does the board of county commissioners like take from our budget and give to. >> The tdc. And I explain it And you did just a ago, they come from the bed tax or tourism tax from people's real Senator hotels short-term. Stay short-term rentals, which anything under 6 months. RV, RV rentals comes from a lot of places other than just hotels. But it does not come from our from our general fund for from her budget and the theory behind it is for us to. Sports or or 2, 2, Get. People to come to our town and state stay in the hotels to replenish that to replenish that to that those coffers so we can keep growing our. Our tourism industry and it's so. Widespread from always said, you people bond film for the cameras, but no does anymore. But mind as we go into the restaurant, son and different been to church and going Walmart you know, getting toothpaste different kind of things it mushrooms into our local economy, sideshows hotels but it's a self. It's a self eating budget item. We've talked before that it's in our budget. looks like, you know, work. Our budget is increasing and that we're taxing people. What you owe more money. But it's not it. But the Wake County budgets operate. It ends up in our budget. So it looks like we're, you know, worst. We're spending more money, but it's we're actually getting the money from from the hoteliers in the county. So this This is a a U.S. kind self-fulfilling. Revenue stream. You know, getting people to come and stay. It does have a little bit of a educational component. Sometimes will help sponsor things like the. The battlefield and some different things which we can. But it's it's very stat. State statute really does control what we can use the money for. So because some people say, but we can take some of that money from tourism tax and spend it on. and roads and things where we can't. It's The state statues is so very hard and fast on what we can spend that money on. So thank you, ma'am. I just want to add a little little bit of little bit of educational metric to just because people are starting to wonder with the, you know, words the money going to come from and and I know the governor and Senate one time it don't take take money from the tdc. I've heard that he had said that. didn't hear him say, but heard it said that in you know, it's it's very strict and very restrictive on what we can use TC money for. >> Okay. We have a motion a second. in favor say Aye. Aye. All opposed nay motion carries unanimously. Thank you as Jacqueline. Thank you. And and I failed to mention that the first the meeting, we have a hard stop at 11 o'clock and we don't have an executive session that that we will have to clear the room at that time. But I think it will be I don't know. Ms Amanda Hallam you're gonna need but few would come on up in New York's place. >> Good morning, chairman and commissioners are certainly will not take an hour. He's a good sport. I think to 45 55. >> Kz? >> Today I'm presenting the Okeechobee County's proposed. All right. France. We'll get to that. Today. pleased to give a brief overview of the grants compliments accomplishments and activities for physical year. 25 26. This past year has been an important year of growth for their grants department. The department has involve evolved from a single grant specialist position and to a 3 person department consisting of a grant specialist grants manager and a strategic planning and grants director. Each position plays an important role and the grant lifecycle from administration documentation and reporting to compliance financial coordination and strategic planning and identifying future funding opportunities. This growth has allowed us to provide a greater oversight and support to county departments while also taking a more strategic approach to grant funding. We have also updated our software. We have made progress in improving the tools we use to manage grants. The transition to unit grants will provide an opportunity to improve grant management. Tracking reporting and close out process is it will also help reduce manual entry and allow us to better research and identify new grant opportunities. The goal is not simply to have new software, but to use technology to make the grant process more effective, organized and transparent. One of the most important things I want to highlight is the role of the grants Department plays and connecting outside funding opportunities where the services provided for the community. State and federal funding comes into the county through various grant programs. Our role is to help identify those opportunities can't coordinate with county departments manage the requirements and ensure that funding ultimately supports projects and services that benefit the residents of Okeechobee County. In other words, the grants Department serves as the bridge between state and federal funding and the county departments and programs delivering those services. When we look at our funding activity from year to year, there are always going to be changes based on a bill ability of grant programs. Award cycles and specific needs of county departments for fiscal year. 25 26 the department continue to actively manage a significant portfolio of grant funded projects across the county. This slide gives us a closer look at Grant awards fire departments. This is a comparison of just a few of the department's for physical year. 25 26 award totals approximately one 0.2, 8 million compared with their approximately 1.7 million in fiscal year. 24 25. While the total amount or has decreased. It is important at the overall grant workload and portfolio and not just one year's award. Total. Our grant activity has told part important part of that story. Grant applications increased from 41 to 52 representing a 27% increase. We searched 18 new grants representing approximately 4.65 million in new funding. So although the number of the new grandson, new funding was lower than the previous year, the department was pursuing more opportunities and managing a substantial amount of ongoing grant activity. This is perhaps the best snapshot of the departments overall workload during physical year. 25 26 the Grant Department managed. 52 active grants representing approximately 25.88 million and total funding. have also secured 18 new grams, totaling approximately 4.6, 5 million in funding. These numbers represent more than just applications and dollars. They represent projects programs, services and opportunities for the county and its residents. Looking ahead, our focus will be continue to strengthen the county's overall grant program. We continue pursuing state and federal funding opportunities that align with the county's strategic plan and community needs. We will also continue to improve grant management compliance reporting monitoring while helping County departments maximize availability, funding and successful, complete. They're grant funded projects and we remain committed to support programs with the ship that directly serve our community. Ultimately the grants Department is focused on one goal, bringing resources and to Okeechobee County and making sure those resources are managed responsibility used to achieve meaningful results and our community. >> I've I've learned one thing. You know, we we ask for Grants S for grants and And we got him and we said, wow, it takes a lot of work to handle these grants. And appreciate what you let you do there. mean, what think right now, we're working on 40 million dollars worth of grants to do you got for the county. goes specific things basis. We got 40 million dollars by don't you pay more road Bill more ball Fields will unfortunately there specific things you can use for. But amount of reporting that that that has a limited amount of it, I can't imagine how much all of you go through with it. But is so great that we have a staff taking care of this. We just want sun has done a phenomenal job. Yes. >> a when we appreciate it. It's used to have the footwear. Thank yes, sir. I >> Our next topic is the Okeechobee County's proposed 2027 legislative approach, shuns priorities and general legislative issues. >> Each tour each year the board reviews and establishes legislative priorities to help guide the county's advocacy efforts. >> At the state and federal levels. These priorities are intended to identify projects programs and legislative issues. There are the most important to our community and where the state support or legislative action can make meaningful difference. For the 2027 legislative session. We have identified 2 primary appropriation request. Our first request is a 5 million for improvements to the sheriff's administration building. This has been an ongoing appropriation that we've asked for 3 previous years. This projects this project focuses on arising. Addressing critical infrastructure needs, improving security and expanding operational areas to better accommodate the needs of the sheriff's office. The proposed improvements include building hardening, mechanical and electrical upgrades expanded and taken booking areas, enhanced medical services and improvements to specialize housing units. This is an important investment in our public safety infrastructure and the county's ability to support the sheriff's office now and into the future. Previous see discussed. We have our second request that was discussed. Setting me 2026 meeting. A local bill authorizing the conveyance of approximately 42 acres of property currently held by the Board of trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust fund. Back to Okeechobee County. The request is particularly important from a long-term economic development standpoint, obtaining ownership would allow the county to develop a comprehensive master plan for the property establishments coordinated approach to future development, infrastructure improvements and storm water management and capable public uses. It would also provide an opportunity to attract private investment, encourage business expansion, create jobs and strengthening our local tax base. In addition to the 2 appropriation requests, the document outlined several broader legislative priorities. A major focus continues to be per protecting home rule and ensuring local governments retain the flexibility to make decisions that best serve our communities. We also want to remain proactive and opposing unfunded mandates and car shifts that place additional financial responsibilities on counties without providing the necessary funding have included several priorities focused on strengthening role, Florida and including economic development programs, greater flexibility with grant reimbursements resources to help small counties prepare for business and economic development. Opportunities. Other areas of focus includes transportation disadvantage services, law enforcement, salary adjustments, affordable housing, broadband access, cybersecurity, water, quality veteran services and maintaining adequate funding for central County programs. These priorities are not simply a list of funding request. They represent the county's position on issues that directly affect our ability to operate effectively provide service, protect our residents and plan responsible for future growth. As we move forward to 2027 legislative session. Our goal is to ensure Okeechobee County has a clear and unified message when working with our legislative delegation and advocating for the needs of the community bringing these priorities before the board for the review direction and consideration for the upcoming session. Thank you. What should those commissioners? >> Mister Chairman mission. >> Under rule economic development add one thing, too, is what what we've been working on now to propose as a rule infrastructure fund of 200 million dollars saw. I'll give you the verbiage if you don't mind. Yes, that's what we're working from the from the 3 radios. So its own, including only other thing. And I'm trying to think through this. Thank your county jail's inmate medical costs are It sets score policies that provide Medicaid eligibility for persons and course are it is in county jails awaiting disposition. I'm not sure that the state has that ability to do that. Leaving a Social Security Act 1966, S a federal issue. Just have to go back and think about that. I don't think you have the opportunity. They don't have the opportunity to to go against that law. That's what we've been trying to change. So let me give it when do you need this back? >> We have until December second to provided to the legislation. The region reason why we want to on this agenda because there needed to be 30 day public notice for the local, though, get back to you. But more just want to get paid with said we want to prove it with those 2 possible changes. Yeah. If you don't mind. That's only thing I see. That's questionable. Miss. Just the one a motion to support this with his 2 possible changes. Are you in just? >> was just consensus. >> Just a consensus is fine because we'll do layout changes and I'm trying to get more information on the efforts that we did towards the sheriff's administration building to show the appropriation requests or any grants w