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re on. Good morning, everyone, Uh we will be convening our FEBRUARY 20th Board of County Commissioner meeting and I m Commissioner Hetherington I ll be sitting in for chair Commissioner Jenkins today. Unfortunately I know he would have wanted to be here but he can t be here, so I ll be filling in. I ll do my best So we re going to start the meeting with our invocation by Reverend Christian Anderson from st Mary s Episcopal Church If you ll please join us at the front and that will be followed by the Pledge of allegiance by Don Kline us Air Force veteran serving from 1987 to 1992 don, if you ll stand and you follow, Um Reverend Anderson. Let s pray, Father. GOD. We thank you that we have the ability to manage and steward resources that we have this, uh, beautiful land to be stewards of in this county, So we pray for your wisdom. MAY. We become the lesser so you become the Greater and Commons serve all the good people of this county this morning. We pray for Sarah and for Don For, Sarah and Edward for Stacy, uh, for Harold, Doug and Layla. Uh, move through them GOD with the great responsibility they ve been commissioned with, uh, to hear your voice, a voice of love, mercy, justice and compassion and goodness to this community and beyond. Amen. Thank you. Please show me in the pledge. I pledge allegiance. I see. The Sans Uh, Individuals and justice. Yeah. I m Not really Sure exactly what I m supposed to tell you, But. My name s Don and I think the reason I ve done everything I ve done is because as soon as somebody tells me I m too small or too female to do something I, go do it and I do it better than they do it. So. That s My revenge is success and I think the best revenge is success no matter what you re doing instead of doing something derogatory, do it better. So. That s what I do and so from roofing to commercial diving. Um, in the Air Force. I was military police. We called it security police on our side, and, uh, I was the first female 81 millimeter mortars. Fire in the hole for all those that do m. Um and I thought that was fantastic that I got to do that. The round was half my size. So when you throw that in the tube, you know it s going. Um I got to do 50 Cal I got to do like every weapon. I grew up with a father. It was The carpenter. He got us a couple of months a year and, uh, we re either camping and doing it survival with a tent when we went out there, a fishing pole and a gun, and that s it, or we went and stayed on sailboats at a very old sailboat for three months at sea and learn how to survive that way. So. He got crazy later, but he was good when he was good. And so he told me that there s nothing you can t do. I would have a twin brother. We were the same size, so we all had to do everything. We all had to clean the dishes. We all had to take care of the yard. Animals the house, the fishing the cooking everything so to me, I think that I think having a hard life made me better. It made me stubborn. It made me uh, dedicated and it made me want to do everything that I could especially when they tell you not to get it, And, So. I went to non Commission Officer school, and I said, Well, I don t care what y all say about us. I m getting the levato and I did. I got it in non Commission office school. It was the best thing that I ever did. Besides sinking the Vandenberg. So. Um, I just wanna say that it s a the air force was away for me to get out of Dodge. Start my life as an adult to get away from everything, and so I went to another country. I got out. I. Of course i m from Florida, So. They sent me to North Dakota to, you know, Put me in my place And then after I froze my butt off, I begged for the Philippines and there I was for three years and I got greeted by a coup tump and earthquake and then a volcano. Yay! That was my send off back home. So, uh I saved my car, though. Came back with me, but, um, the air force was really important because I met so many people from so many places around the world, and each one had a different flavor. Um, and it s like going to different restaurants and learning the cuisine. But this time you get to meet the people who cooked the cuisine, and he developed it. And in Okinawa. It was beautiful. The water under now. Okinawa Kadena. Marina, Um, all those places and all those people that I got to meet. I would have never met them. I met somebody from Palm City, Florida in the Philippines. And and I d like to say what we called it, But. It was plum something I m Sure people that live there know have heard it before, but that was a nickname for teenagers. But, Uh, somebody s laughing so somebody must have heard it before, But. Uh, it was a one way bridge both ways And. Now. It s two lane Highway two of them. I Think I don t even think I ve been on the second Big one, but i don t wanna keep you long, but the air force is important to me. The environment is important to me. The ocean is important to me. I spent 12 years under it after I got the service to hide because that what we kind of do sometimes just to readjust. You want to read and Jessica down to the bottom of the ocean. Get in touch with yourself. Nothing else will matter after that. So thank you. Thank you. Thank you? I Appreciate you being here this morning? Thank you. Ok on our agenda this morning. We have Oh. We have public comment and we have a preset actually, we re gonna do our legislative session update with Ms sarah powers because she is going to need to book it back to Tallahassee. We have a 10:30 A.M. Preset discussion on the half cent sales tax for conservation lands. Uh, departmental number five additional items consent 15 approve the State Housing Initiative partnership and consent 16 Adopt approximately proclamation de Leading MARCH 4th through 10th as flood awareness Week in Martin County, and there are no consent polls. I m Sure. Yes, we approve of the agenda with the presets. Additional items of c consent item 15 and 16. And the rest of the agenda. Second ok we have a motion by Commissioner Smith to approve the agenda seconded by Commissioner Smith are can t be all those in favor. I boast motion carries 4 to 0 with Commissioner Jenkins absent. Ok, So. We re going to start then with our legislative When The proclamations, Laura for, or l? Uh, Legislative update first. Ok let s um go ahead. Sarah will do Legislative session update Good. Morning. Good morning. What happened in Tallahassee. It s been It been busy. It was, um, nice to have a little reset this week and I m headed back right after this As we said the car the car is running. So, um so we re We. Go. Uh so we re right now at day 42 leaving us with 18 days left of a regular session, um, ending on MARCH 8th. Um, there s nine or yeah, nine weeks. One Week seven. So. So Far. There s been 1900 general bills filed in 22 of those have been enrolled and placed on the governor s desk. Um, none that that we ve been tracking so far, Um, budget conferencing will begin next week. And. Speaking of the budget. Uh, the House budget is sitting at 100 and 15. The Senate budget is the same and the governor s budget coming in a little below that at 100 and 14 Billion and well, so they re about three, the Senate and the house are about $391 million off from each other, which is pretty good, but leaves a little bit of wiggle room for, uh, conferencing next week. So we do expect any of these All of these numbers, um, below for our appropriations to change. Hopefully. They all go up, but they might Down, but hopefully not, um, so in the budget. Currently we have our Bessie Creek project, Um in Repo, Dorf and Rep. Harrell s office for a million dollars. Our county Road 710 made it in both budgets. Um The Sheriff s Office housing pod at a million dollars and our, uh Gomez Padway potable water project also made it in the budget. Uh, so this is a little update on something that we went up to, Um don and, uh, Commissioner Smith were up. Last two weeks ago in Tallahassee to discuss a little blip We found in the fun in the cert funding. Um so basically, it just limits the scope of, um the projects that can be funded, Uh, in Serp, Uh, so we were up advocating. It It s Not that these are bad projects. We support them all. But, um Some of the problems that, um, some implications that we ve discovered, um, would be you know, messing with the cost share. The. Feds are close to us and the cost share. So. Um, you know, if anything goes sideways, those projects the money needs to be shifted somewhere else. Um, that would not be a possibility. So. Um, we ve heard positive. It s the same language in the governor budget as it is in the House budget, so we ll find out next week. Hopefully. They can come to some number agreement and some language agreement that works. Everybody. Uh, some highlighted legislation just to go through term limits is moving. Uh, I have a slide after this, so we ll go over that, um, sampling of beach waters and public spaces. Um, that pretty much just gives the doh more, Uh, leeway with, um Beach sampling when it comes to, um Bacteria and health and safety of our of our waterways. Uh, there are, um some preemptions but I, I think that they re good, and it s no more strenuous than we already do. Um, at the county level. Um, a building. There s some building, Reg, a few building regulation bills, um, that that would be In effect, Uh, Uh, hb 267 would change the time frame of when building the building department must approve permits, you know, from 30 days from 100 and 20 Days to 30 days for a certain permits. Um, so that would could could potentially, uh, have a big cost to our county? Um hb 1537 about vacation rentals? Um, I ve spoken with Narissa about this bill. We do support it. There are a few preemptions, but it also does give some power back to local governments with regulating Airbnbs. Um, the the hotels and all of that, Um, but ma mainly Airbnbs, um And and v rbs. Um, there is there is an affordable housing fix bill in there. Uh hb, Uh 1239 and sb 2328 It fixes a few issues major issues, especially for us from the local act. It does clarify density and height restrictions so that you know they they cannot in any circumstances be higher than are already allowed. Um, it does require us to publish a policy and procedures. Um, for the administrative approval, so that will obviously come. Uh, once this bill is passed, and there s also um something that I was I, I don t know that it was a big concern to us, but in other counties, there is a like a neighborhood continuance clause in there so you can t go into a historic neighborhood and add a four story apartment complex in a in a in a neighborhood that s historic or is like a I don t know like a community that s look all looks the same, basically. Um That was big down south. I know some of the historic Now commissioner. Her House. Bill 665 is expedited. Uh, residential building permits. Is that the one that you said is moving from 100 and 20 days to That s, uh to 267. So there. There s a few and I can I can get you that language, um of what it changes, but, um, it just approve. There s just Certain And eight and House Bill 791 now has a companion bill in the Senate. And is that the one that allows the developer to, uh write their own permits? It s moving. It does have a companion. Um, in the sponsors are Perry and overdorf. Residents beware. Um, so we will continue to to monitor that one as well. Um hp, uh, 1557 a little. It s It you know, exciting for us. It will designate um the Christian, Kristen Jacobs coral Reef ecosystem conservation areas Aquatic preserve right off our coast. I know that that was important to Commissioner Smith. So. It does a few other things. Um, the departments there. The Department of environmental protection package that they pass every year, But. I thought that little that little piece was important. And. Lastly, I mean there s a few others, but lastly, that we re monitoring is the ratification of the statewide stormwater rule. So this was The legislator Legislature passed the Clean Water Act to address a number of environmental issues relating to water quality. Uh, importantly, storm water management, So, that s just moving that forward. And. Uh, so term limits update so it was agreed upon that we would, um, it would be 12 years and last week, they changed it back to eight years. Uh, and it will be heard tomorrow in the Senate, and it seems like eight years will be the the standard for for term limits. And. That is all I have if you have any questions, let me know. Uh I can get any bills that you heard today. I can get you the specifics on those I just wanted to keep it brief And, um and light. Not anything you have questions. Just one question. Can. You, can you, uh, also keep a surprised about the prog progress on the, um Gambling pack I. I understand that that s going to be used to fund a lot of worthy environmental projects, which is welcome. Absolutely. Thanks. Thank you one more Commissioner Smith Sarah when we were up two weeks ago, um, talking about the Everglades funding, Um It. It seemed like There was a significant understanding. Uh, from our delegation on the importance of it, but it really was targeting specific projects to pull from the funding. Yes, Um Do. You think it s it? At. This point. It s much more of a leverage on something else than it is specifically to do that. I do. Ok I I just for the public that MAY not follow or completely understand. Um there s proviso language in the budget that would have stripped basically all the funding from Everglades restoration. Yeah, so it will and it designates some specific projects. And like we said, you can t like the ability to be able to shift if those projects those, you know, four projects go sideways or something happens in the pre phases that that wouldn t be able to shift anywhere else and it would be significant and I. Think one of the things we shared with everybody that, um, either completely understood or didn t understand. Um I. Guess. There s a lot of conversation going on between the core, not between the core and the water management district. But in the Legislature between what the corps does and what the Legislature or what the Water Management District does. And what we ve seen through the years at least watching it. There ll be a project that will start out and it ll head in one direction, and it looked like the core is going to do that project. And then for whatever reason, Bidding Wise Project Wise scale wise, they ll shift it over the water management district and the water management will take on something that the corps was going to do. And. It was that flexibility that has worked incredibly well for the last. I Don t know 56 years or so and and I think, explaining that to some of our legislators that MAY not have completely understood that nuance was important. But anyway, Thank you for the update. Thank you, Sarah Safe travels. Now we re going to move on with our proclamations. Laura. The first I m gonna go ahead and announce the proclamation. The First Proclamation is the employee recognition Bin. Peer to peer recognition and safety on the spot. Yes, I ll. I ll Yes, I m going to do that one. So. We have two employees that were recognizing today and they I think both of them represent the best of our staff. Uh, and, uh, they both span both ends of the spectrum in terms of times of service. We have one that s been here a few years and one who s been here over 20 years. So. Um, Anyway, we re gonna start with, uh, Terry Williams and and again. These are recognition programs that were initiated from their co Um and we celebrated, uh, during the year various times of the year to talk about, uh, both the spot on program and a safety on the spot and then at the end of the year, we also had employees vote to see who out of all of those who had run those other boards who were the best of the best. And. Uh to me. I m very proud of the two that were selected. Um uh uh, My participation was very minor other than to, uh, once I saw The recipients to just be very glad of, uh, how it all worked out and and again. They re most most representative, uh of your staff. So. The first one we re gonna talk about is Terry Williams. He was selected as employee of the year for our spot on program. Terry is the trade superintendent and General Service department. Our Countywide building repair and maintenance division. His coworker wrote the following tearing had Terry has one of the most complex jobs in the department. He is responsible for every piece of hvac heating ventilation, air conditioning equipment at parks and recreation and utilities and solid waste facilities that amounts to thousands and thousands of pump sensors. Motors, water heaters, pipes, et cetera. Terry also manages all of our trade staff and is responsible for weekend and after hours services. Terry provides excellent customer service and always has a positive attitude. He provides continuous updates on repairs and service. Is to building users and department heads where appropriate. When people see Terry in a building. It usually because they are uncomfortable. But I can tell you that Terry had his operation always make you feel comfortable and his expertise in knowing that he will get it done. He also manages to make them feel comfortable and I don t think he and his staff can be thanked enough for their work in positive attitude. Car. Employee of the year spot on presented to Terry Williams in recognition of your outstanding performance and dedication this year. Me. Then you can All dressed up and we don t see you dressed up. You wanna recognizes you? Congratulations to Congratulations, Terry. Would you like to say a pos? Thank you. It s very comfortable in here. By the way Thank you. Oh, Thank you, everyone. Thank you for selecting me as the employee of the year. I am honored and Grateful county is a great place to work. I started working here in FEBRUARY 12 2018 as a hv ac technician. At the whole correction of sight with Joe, Carl, Rick, Mark and Bill as my supervisor at the time, I had a blast and enjoy a lot of cake. This recognition means that I have a lot of work to do. And I am up to the challenge. I am looking forward to see how excited the next employee of the year will be. Thank you to all the departments. As I close. I would like to share this moment. With my wife, Charlene and my Children, Alicia and Isaiah but also with General Services department. Sean, Kevin, Kristen, Sonny Bill all the building supervisors, vehicle maintenance staff, Life safety staff accounting staff. The whole correction of maintenance staff, the trades workers and maintenance staff. I am sharing this moment with you all. But. I will keep the hours of pto that I receive. Thank you. Da. You re gonna do the safety on the spot. So. The. Next. One is Jeff Hunter who s also an employee of the year. Uh uh. So, um, because it was a tie. Obviously. We had the two excellent employees. And. So. Jeff is a a project manager for in the Public Works department field operations division, and Jeff is recognized. Um, he had recognized multiple accidents that occurred with dump truck tailgates, so he took initiative to develop and facilitate a training. Ask for employees operating heavy equipment. Jeff has extensive knowledge with heavy equipment and takes time to share information and educate his fellow employees. Thanks to Jeff, identifying safety concerns and training is co workers together, Everyone can prevent a future accident accidents with heavy equipment. And so I ve also had the pleasure of working with Jeff for a number of years, and he s always been one to show up at storms. And, uh and helping us solve flooding problems or helping with our our beaches. Anywhere. We need him. He s He s. He s always there. Um So with that, Jeff, come on up. Of the year safety on the spot Pres PRESIDENT Presented to Jeff Hunter in recognition of your outstanding performance and dedication. Said. Come on over. Now. I m Not. Sure, If If. Uh, if Jeff had known that he might have to say a word, we would have got him to show up. So. Uh, so if you want to say anything, Where s Terry Terry, You re killing me, man. No. I. Just Wanna say thanks to All the employees that try to make it safe. It s hard out there. Uh, working in the roads and the streets and ditches and swales. Um so Everybody that I work with deserves this. Thank you. Thank you. All right. Congratulations to you both. And Laura You Wanna present the Proclamation Proclamation for the House of hope Commemorating. Their 40th anniversary. Absolutely. Good Morning Commissioners. House of Hope is a community service agency founded in 1984 that empowers Martin County residents to overcome hunger and hardship. The agency provides support for basic needs, including food, clothing and financial assistance, as well as life skills through programs and classes and education, health and nutrition, job readiness. The arts and more. Route 2024 House of Hope is celebrating its 40th anniversary of empowering our community and in celebration of this occasion, the board commences house of Hope for the services they provide to those most in need. And here to accept we have rubber near ceo of the House of Hope. Sure. Morning commissioners and staff. Thank you very much for, uh, acknowledging this milestone for house of Hope. Uh, we certainly appreciate that, um, a lot of great things happening Still in our organization. We are putting the finishing touches on another greenhouse out at our production farm. That ll put us over 92,000 cubic feet of hydroponic growing space. All that food is coming back out into the community through our pantries and through our partners, Um there s still a lot of need and a lot of challenges that Our neighbors are facing, uh, House of hope will continue to try to lead the charge in problem solving and creative solutions to deal with those issues. Uh, I also want to take a moment to thank the commissioners and certainly the county staff for all of your support through cares through a p, not just the house of hope, but to many non profit organizations. Uh, those efforts are not support certainly made a difference for us to be able to meet the expanded needs that we ve been facing for the last several years. So. We certainly couldn t have done it without you. Uh, I like to invite each of you to come out and take a look at the farm when you have some time I know some have been and some have not, Uh, thank you, Commissioner kamie for your support, uh, as the farms in the Palm city, uh, community and, uh, we ve been able to tap into you for some resources over the years, so we certainly appreciate that, Um And again. I. Just wanna give you I ll end with our pledge at house of Hope? Um Our staff. Our board our partners we re going to continue to do the best we can to help our neighbors that are most vulnerable in the community, and we re looking forward to the next 40 years. Chair If. I might, uh, house of hope we are so fortunate in our community for 40 years to have the house of Hope. Uh, I think What is most remarkable is that people that are suffering in our community don t have to feel embarrassed for the services that they receive. Rob and his team have created a pantry that s more like a supermarket. So that families and their Children can go in there with respect. They have also taken the pantry idea of food, banks and things like that and realize that it can all be food that comes in a in a can or a box or a jar. Uh, very few food pantries that I have Scene and heard about have gone to the level of farm to table if you will, or the the natural and nutritious items that not only did rob and his team, you know, get as donations from grocery stores. They took that level to the to the next level and started growing their own and now also have a packing house and gleam in other in other farms in the area, what they are doing quietly throughout the community is absolutely remarkable and a huge benefit for all And if you re not familiar with house of Hope, uh, it s definitely a worthwhile organization to support either with your finances or with your time. So. Thank you very much. Like a prom picture. Now. Laura is going to introduce the declaring 211 Awareness month in Martin County. Tens of thousands of people reach out to 211 helpline every year during these challenging times that seem increasingly uncertain. Two and one is highly trained and accredited staff continue to be front line responders available. 24 7 and 211 is that central access number where individuals and families people of all ages and walks of life can find life saving crisis, support, guidance and hope. 211 carrying staff listen to each and every person to provide available resource options and help them strategize and problem solve in recognition of FEBRUARY is 211 and awareness Month. The board encourages all citizens to be aware that if they are overwhelmed and in crisis or just need to talk, 211 is available any time of the day or night and here to accept we have Chad Adcock who is our 211 Community outreach representative. Yes. Good morning Thank You Commission and staff for, um, recognizing 211 awareness month anytime I m given the opportunity to speak publicly about the the life saving work that 211 does I, I have this internal struggle of I m saying the same thing over and over again and also knowing that there are people out there who still don t know and that there is hope out there and that there is these there. There are these resources that are available? So, um, for for those that MAY not know 211 has been the the helpline in crisis line in this area. For more than 50 years. So answering those calls for anyone who doesn t know where to turn to to face whatever storm they might be facing literal or metaphorical storms. We re here. We re doing that life saving work and advocacy every single day. Um, In fact we re in the process of totaling up our 2023 calls, but somewhere just north of 15,000 calls every year come from Martin County residents alone. Um, and we know that The Mental Health struggle is real. We know that That process is ongoing and will be going on for a long time. Um, somewhere around 30% of our calls involve some type of mental health component and then about 10% of those calls involve even a suicidal um, aspect as well, Persons feeling suicidal, So. We know that those calls are are there and also other issues that we re starting to see, Just like with the House of Hope. Food shortages are starting to become more and more of a comment, Uh, occurrence for And housing, affordable housing issues, which we always talk about so nothing that I m saying here today is is any different than what you you all know, Um and I just want to encourage anyone who s struggling, uh, at any point to and it and it MAY be anyone it could be me. It could be you. It could be anybody that you know your neighbor, your friend, Uh, they don t know where to turn to, uh, they can reach out for free. It s confidential. We re there 24 hours a day 365 days a year. Um and we re able to have the highly trained staff that are there to listen to. Make assessment and make referrals to whatever resources that are available. So again. I encourage everyone to reach out. Um and I appreciate you making the recognition today. And, he would almost hit his head on the tv. Laura. Do. You have something for engineers Week that you wanna I do. Do you want me to go ahead, go ahead and present Engineers week. Mm. Engineers design, construct and maintain the infrastructure and facilities that contribute to a high quality of life for all Martin County residents. The Florida Engineering society s purpose is to advance the public welfare, promote the professional, social and economic interests of engineering professions and stimulate and develop and engineering professional concepts through education and excellence in practice in recognition of engineers Week, which is FEBRUARY 18 through 24th 2024, the board expresses appreciation to all members of this important industry for their contributions. And we did find out this That Brian Arnold, who was supposed to be here is unable to come. So we will get this sent to him. Ok. Well. Thank you for that. And? Uh, congratulations to Brian Arnold. So with that we re going to move into the public comment portion of our meeting and many of you I see in the gallery have made public comments before, but our rules are we have three minutes for public comment, and you will hear a short tone. Just as your time is wrapping up. It means that you have a few more moments prior to the time And then you, will he He here an ear, tone and tone. So. Um, if you hear something that somebody has already said, and you don t wish It. Then you re welcome to use your three minutes or just reference a prior comment and I believe. Don has a statement that he would like to read. Yes. Thank you chair? Um, since we are in election season politicking is prohibited, which is defined as advocating the election or defeat of a candidate for public office, either partisan or nonpartisan. This includes the use of words date signs, props and or wearing apparel that conveys a message of support for a person or group of persons. Thank you. Ok. I have about four that I ve set aside that have indicated they want to speak during an agenda item if I call your name, and you don t wish to speak during public comment and would rather defer to the agenda, I then please just say So. Our, First, speaker of this morning will be Casey. Uh, darling Kniffin. And on deck. We will have Macy JUNE Do I Hope. I pronounced that correct. Agenda item. What Which agenda item? The ballot refer. Ballot referendum, ok? Is going to be So. We will have Macy JUNE door. Oh, look at that. Macy. Good morning. You can Uh, Hello, everyone. My name is Maisie. I m in third grade, and I m a river kid. I m here today because I m worried about the river when polluted water from Lake Okeechobee reaches our river. It can be very harmful to the animals that live there. The. Murky water makes it hard for the animals to survive water entering the ocean can harm the animals living there, too. It also means that we can t swim in the water. It s time to send the water south. Thank you for listening. Thank you for being here? Our. Next speaker is Finlay door. Following Finlay. We will have Mark Perry. The agenda item. He is going for ph, or departmental number five. Ok, Mark Perry. I want to mark I think the previous speaker said it all. Basically what I was gonna address. But. You know why I m here and that is because, uh, just Saturday. They started the major discharges from Lake Okeechobee into the northern estuaries. Uh, particularly about 5800 cfs over the next 14 days and probably over the next six weeks until APRIL 1st is bringing 3.7 billion gallons of of unneeded water from Lake Okeechobee into the estuaries. As soon as that started happening within two days, the salinity at Roosevelt Bridge dropped from about 20 to 25 parts per 1000, down to five parts per 1000 almost fresh water, which is zero and it s gonna stay that way. And if it stays that way longer than 20 days or so, the oysters start to expire, so we re going to lose a lot of oyster reefs. We re going to lose a lot of seagrass beds. And we ve been trying to advocate to have the core. Put this, uh, water south even back in OCTOBER last year when it jumped up, uh, past 16 ft, and we knew we were in an El Nino season. We re trying to get the core and the district to put this water south. Uh, we re having them come at the Rivers Coalition meeting on Thursday. Uh, they kind of go over this. I did meet out on Saturday morning. Actually, Colonel Booth was out there at the site when they started the discharges, and he was answering questions and Was available, so I present that but I think this body um goes way back, and, uh, I wanted to kind of give you a handout. Pass it down. This is, uh, from the official records of Martin County. This is like DECEMBER of 15th of 1930. This is when this board of county commissioners took an action and passed a resolution to basically write to the Internal Improvement Trust fund to close the gates at the the lake. The discharges that are coming into the Saint lucie Canal. Uh, for the reason is that the discharge is large volume and dirty water. Into the Saint lucie River killed all of the shellfish driven all the salt water fish from the river filled the river with hyacinths and so polluted the Saint lucie River as to completely taken away its attractive features and ruin its commercial value. This is in 1930 this commission along with all the residents of Martin County have been trying to fight this and stop these discharges. Um, soon I encourage. Maybe. We need to write to the commanders in chief, both. Ah for the co And also our governor to the district to encourage them to got to stop these releases to these estuaries and put the water south. I know there are future plans. We ve all been working on trying to plans to stop this for years. But Now is the time. Thank you. Oh, commission. I think Mr Perry makes As usual, Perfect. Common sense and I would make a motion that we, uh, craft a letter. Look. A letter is not going to necessarily stop it, But. I don t think when we all read that information for us as a board and as a community to sit silently and just say, ok, I. Guess that s what s gonna happen. At the very least we should Write a letter to All of the parties that have some say in this because, as as Mark said. 20 days once you start getting north of 20 days, we re gonna be in a big big problem, and it s only been 100 years. I think maybe we can continue to at least not sit silently and just take it. We could at least Yell back. Thank you. Second ok? We have a motion by Commissioner Camie don, Are you clear on the motion to write a letter to I am clear on that motion and a second by Commissioner Hurd. All those in favor. I opposed motion carries 4 to 0 with Commissioner Jenkins absent. It carries 100 and 50 to 0. Everybody in the room. So. Our. Next speaker is going to be Emily Prior. And. Emily will be followed by Tom Camp. Hello. Good. Morning. Good Morning. I m, Speaking about the referendum to include the half tax ballot in NOVEMBER. Um I m a resident of Hope sound, Thank you for considering the referendum to give Martin County voters a chance to decide whether to allocate funds to protect critical natural habitats and our beautiful county since the 19 sixties, I ve spent time in Martin County on Jupiter Island with my family, and I m blessed now to live in the town of Hope sound. Because I care deeply about the natural resources and open space of this special county. I attend the public meeting on JANUARY 19th 18 when the updates to the comprehensive plan were presented, I was amazed by the public support for conservation. The number one community concerned the ear discovered was the desire to protect the county s Western lands from development. Number two was a concern for next generation in terms of climate change to look at future and protect natural and agricultural lands, Number three was to thoughtfully determine where growth and development should go. We are fortunate that Martin County forever. The initiative has carefully planned an effective approach to generating an allocating funds to purchase some of the most vulnerable and important natural land in our county. I hope the commission will decide to allow this future thinking and practical referendum on our ballot in NOVEMBER. Thank you. Yeah. Campaign and Tom will be followed by Darlene Van Riper. Good Morning, MADAM Vice chair commissioners, Don, Sarah. I m here to speak on behalf of the referendum. I m not taking sides whether you should vote for or against it. But. I think it needs to go on the ballot. I think the Martin County residence and voters should be the ones that decide if they re going to have their tax money pay for this initiative. At some point I would be glad to say that I will vote for it. But, This is not the day the day today is for you to allow the taxpayers and voters of Martin County to do so. The referendum was crafted by staff. Thank you, Sarah and don. They worked very hard on it. Martin martin forever worked very hard on getting it this far. So I m gonna say it deserves to be heard, And. It deserves that the taxpayers and voters once again decide whether they re going to just complain or they re gonna tax themselves. To save these environmentally sensitive lands. Thank you. Next speaker is Darlene Van Riper and Darlene will be followed by Michael Circus. Good morning. Darlene Van riper, representing the 73 year old Martin County Taxpayers Association for the Citizens. The Martin County Taxpayers Association has decided to support having a referendum for a half cent sales tax to buy specific conservation land in Martin County Martin County Taxpayers Associate Association is not endorsing the proposal but believes the voters of Martin County should decide whether they want to tax themselves a half cent for 10 years to acquire sensitive environmental lands. The reasons are as The areas to purchase are clearly enumerated in the ordinance, and they have already been declared environmentally sensitive lands by the federal government, the state government or other professional agencies charged with assessing which properties to be included in that category, one of the largest complaints we ve heard about the last sales tax was that the commission used the money for things that were not intended in an effort to minimize such a problem. Sponsoring group Martin County forever has also written in the documents about their creation of a Citizen s review board. Martin County Taxpayers Association will have a dedicated seat on that board. We will not hesitate to make the taxpayer aware of any attempt to circumvent the intention of the referendum. Martin County Taxpayers Association believes that this is a well written referendum and that the resolution is tightly crafted to leave little wiggle room for either staff or the commission. That will ensure that they will adhere to the intent. We are not encouraging a vote either in support or against what we are saying is that the voters should decide that s up to them. We also would caution the commission not to tinker with the language or introduce other areas or reasons to spend the dedicated sales tax during deliberations. If we see that they have changed the text to include other new other needs. Then. We MAY take a different position on any change proposal. If. The voters believe that buying the land is in the best interest of Martin County than they can cast an affirmative vote. This referendum was the product of a group of citizens who considered that this is the best way of protecting ecologically sensitive lands. In our view, the commission should allow the people to decide whether to tax themselves or not for this purpose. Thank you. Our. Next speaker is Michael Circus. And Michael will be followed by Jot Loon Rice. Good morning Mike Circus from Palm City. Excuse me while I m reading for a second. First airplane seen in Stuart were a pair of us Navy amphibious landed in the st Lucie River during World war one for almost a decade. After that the only place in the area which is Martin County, where an airplane can land was on the water. The two Navy biplane were assigned to patrol the southeast coast of Florida each day looking for submarines starting in Miami. They would arrive in Stuart about noon and land in the river for refueling at the Gulf Oil company docks near the railroad bridge. MISS Anita Parks Morrison, whose father, George w Parks, was Gulf oil company agent recounts an incident that occurred on one of those landings. Uh, you find the rest of that story? Page 442 of this book History of Martin County. It s a really cool book. It s Over 500 pages Thick. I ve used this in research at Florida, a and m University. I ve used this in my master s program at Liberty University. I ve used it in, uh, research for the Martin County Farm Bureau and I probably have to take my shoes off to think about how many other organizations I ve used this book in which is quite impressive for a book that s been out of print for 50 years. 1975. This was printed. We got a lot of history. That, uh, that we ve we ve left off the table, and as we approached the centennial celebration, I know there s discussion. Later today for a book 100 and 44 Page estimated coffee Table book cost about $8000 to do the design work. I d highly suggest before we marry to this idea, and I, I love coffee table books. Pictures are awesome, but Google gives us a lot of pictures. We have an opportunity that we can actually put some real history into a real book. So before marrying to that I would suggest you kick this idea over your historic preservation board give them an opportunity to put together some ideas and we can put together a formative plan so we can have an actual, uh Actual quote actual idea of what we want to do for the centennial before we get married into something just because the centennial is coming up. Thank you. Thank you. Ok. Our. Next speaker is Mrs Rice and MISS Rice. You ll be followed by Harry MacArthur. Good morning commissioners. Joette Lauren Rice Martin County Historic Preservation board in 2003. You created the our historic Preservation Ordinance and created the board that I serve on And. I. Thank you for that one of the most important things that I think we have done as a board is is historic Preservation month because one of our duties under your ordinance was to promote the awareness of historic preservation. So, um it became bigger and bigger every year until covid hit, I think He had 40 events the year before Covid hit, it s back up to 22 again. So we re doing good, but I m not here today to talk about that, and I m here today to talk about the centennial. We have a very important birthday celebration coming up as you know, in 1925, and, uh, I mean in 2025, and and it s our 100th birthday and, um, as you know, some of the dates. Um it was on MAY 28th. That Martin County was, uh, c. Uh, the bill was passed by the Senate 26 to 4 and then it was going for the governor s signature. And. This was the actual an actual newspaper that Sandy Thurlow gave me Martin Conny wins and I just find it very exciting to see that newspaper And in the past. Um they ve had celebrations of the Centennial dun Hole newspaper sections. This was the 50th anniversary when newspapers were really big newspapers tc Tom did, but, um What. We talked about the centennial yesterday at our board meeting and we wanted to tell you that next year we for historic preservation month the month of MAY when the bill was signed, and the governor signed it into law, and we became a county That. Um the board is willing to do historic preservation Month totally about the centennial and get all our partners and pre preservation the city of Stuart. All of the organizations and and try to make each event about the centennial. But. I also wanted to We wanted to offer some other ideas. Um, uh, There are things that we ve done in past years or that I ve seen done in Miami for the centennial. Um, that you and you re probably already planning to do this, but that you declare 2005 the centennial year in Martin County and brand all events with an impressive centennial logo so that we have something to remember. I still have my plate from Miami with the Art Deco logo that they created for the centennial there. Um, we could ask tc Palm to do now We know they re not gonna do whole whole giant section like that, But. They can do, uh, some kind of insert or help us to advertise the events and they ve been very happy to do that in the past, and I think, just meeting with the editor there and trying to see that it s good for them, too, because they ll get a lot of advertising. This whole issue here from 1950 is full of advertising. Um, do something special on AUGUST 5th, which is the day we were actually incorporated. Founder s Day Party or picnic where people can dress up as their favorite historic character, which we ve done in the past here have a parade with flows for Martin County in 1950. They did it on Veterans Day. So you know, maybe we could work together with the veterans and organize the parade. In any event, but in closing a centennial celebration is an acknowledgment of martin County s place in history. It can be used to promote Martin County s achievements, history and cultural heritage, and your Time is up. It. Sounds like you ve just signed up to volunteer for a lot. I. Don think I signed up for that. It d be nice if the county designated, Um um or or hired a consultant or have somebody So. Thank you for your For all those thoughts, So our next speaker is going to be Harry McCarthy and Harry is going to be followed by Tom Pine. Good Morning. Thank you for letting me speak today. Thank you for your service and thank you for doing such a great job for Martin County. We are the best county in the country, and it s all because of your work and everything else and we thank you for it. You know what? Everybody comes up here to complain. I m gonna come up here to thank you because I ll tell you what it takes a lot of hard work and a lot of Um, biting your tongue to set back there. So I. Thank you for that, Um I d like to say. Just I like to put my two cents worth in for Martin County forever. Um, I think it s needed. I think we are in that point that we don t want to be like the other counties and if we could I get the half cent tax and we could buy this land and possibly have trails in it and Maybe my bike trails. I think it would, uh, help people and we wouldn t have the Problems that other counties have because of mental illness and everything else I think getting outside and all that stuff is so good for us. And. So. That one of my two cents worth for it. Um, I. Think. It is another thing I d like to say is I m another thing is Employee housing. Um Vail is doing things with employee housing for Um People if they re willing to let their guest house or people. Um, uh, employees stay in guest houses or places on their property. They give a tax break. It s another thing We need to look into they they shuttle people in and out of their from an hour away in and out for for housing. Now, they say it s not working great, but we got to look at something. So if we could even do something and and Indian town or whatever. I don t know what it is, but Thank you so much. Now. One more thing. Am I up? Uh, with Nathaniel Reed. Uh, we were working on a plan to, uh, run. Um, pipes underneath the the, um chop d island and Hutchinson Island to to let more, um salt water in And before he passed away, and that s another thing we should look into possibly something like that to try to get some more. Um So fresh salt water in there for our sea grass beds and for our our Oyster beds and that stuff and it s just other things to think about. I m just a burger Flipper, but anything we can do I mean something off a reef off of, uh, a bathtub beach? Something like that? I don t know. But. Thank you for your time you folks are wonderful. Thank you for all you do appreciate it. Thank you Sarah Woods. If. You Wanna walk the streets of gold roll t I roll love you And? Yeah, Special place in my heart all the time. Thank you, Harry. Our. Next speaker will be Tom Pine and Tom will be followed by Lorraine Kaiser. Good morning commissioners. My name is Tom Pyne I present. Live in the Jensen Beach area once again, this county commission will use the consent agenda to prove 741,000. $13,728,317 in expenditures from taxpayers between JANUARY 22nd and FEBRUARY 4 2024 without identifying the pace or the purpose of the payment. Using the consent agenda to hide where our tax dollars are being spent, is how taxes have gone up 144% in seven years without any accountability to the taxpayers. I spoke. I speak for those of us that make around the medium wage and down those of us that have almost no representation on our county government. Today a proposed ordinance would improve an additional half cent sales tax raised in the state and local sales tax in Martin County to seven. Percent be used primarily for acquisition of land for preservation and conversation. During the budget meetings. The people that spoke representing various h hoas spoke about a high percentage of their long term residents were having trouble making ends meet with that said, I am, speaking against the proposed half sense t tax increase until our county government can show that they have the ability to govern within a firm budget, which has been elusive for decades. At present We are nearly $10 million in debt. Seem to be played by different rules than the average taxpayer in Mountain County does at the last county commission meeting. I spoke about the cuny Redevelop investment program, which is just another con job on the taxpayers of Martin County. This past week. I checked with the building department and guess what? No permits have been pulled on for either of the buildings in downtown Jenson Beach that got grants totaling $37,740. According to the building department permits are required to replace Windows, doors and shutters. So do any of the businesses that got grants from Martin County totaling $305,000.57 pull permits where they are needed or permits just for the average guy. Headlines in the Palm Beach Post West. Palm Beach wants to drill baby drill. Not for a while, but for water, the city of West Palm Beach wants to tap the brackish Florida aquifer with 30 Wells to subsidize the vulnerable service water supply and then move that would require a building expensive desalination plant. I have a rhetorical question for our county attorney. Is it moral for a sitting commissioner to have firefighters collect signatures to get on the ballot for your election at the county fair? Thank you for your time. Thank you, Tom. Our. Next speaker is Lorraine Kaiser and Lorraine will be followed by Butch Olson. Good Morning. Good Morning and, uh, thank you for having me county commissioners. I really appreciate everything that you do. Um, I was a resident of Stuart. And I m also one of the architects of the Martin County Forever initiative. I m really hoping that you all will give us an opportunity to let the voters decide. I. Thank you for the opportunity to address you today to advocate for this cause not only that it s vital for the community but for the entire state of Florida and beyond. I m here to propose the inclusion of a crucial proposition on the 2024 ballot, one that calls with the acquisition of 46,000 acres of wetlands. And natural habitats in the largest estuary in North America, which we are all so blessed to live in and and to protect. As. We All know Florida is home to some of the most unique and diverse ecosystems in the world. Our State s beauty lies not only in sandy beaches and vibrant cities, but also in the richness of its natural habitats. The estuary we re discussing today is a treasure trove of biodiversity housing countless species of flora fauna, many of which are endangered or threatened, and I Think, the young girl who got up here said it for all of us. I know we all care, and we care about the birds and and they have all these animals have no voice. Have to be the voice for them. We have to be the voice for the ocean. We have to be the voice for these amazing wetlands. By acquiring these 46,000 acres. We have an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the preservation of our environment. This proposition is not just about protecting land. It s about safeguarding the delicate balance of our ecosystem. Wetlands play a crucial role in maintaining water quality, preventing flooding. And habitat for countless species. They Act as the kidneys. They, help clean our environment, our landscape they filter pollutants and they ensure substantial environment for both wildlife and human communities. Preserving this vast expanse of wetlands is not only investment in our environment, but also for the well being of our citizen. These wetlands Act as a natural barrier against storm surges and floods, offering a level of protection that no man made infrastructure can really replicate. I hope for future generations, uh, that we can all be the good stewards that I think we are. I really encourage you to vote Not only with your heart but with your mind and with this community in mind, I think you all are very aware how many a wonderful organizations like Rivers coalition like Mark and, uh, Oceanographic Society, we We all really do care. Uh, please let the citizens vote And I. Thank you very much for your time and your consideration. No. Our. Next speaker is But Olson and Butch will be followed by Bill Flynn, which Olson ver. Thank you Good Morning commissioners, So Butch Olson, representing the Port Center Dock Authority. I m here today to express our support for the, um for the proposed upland facility for the port Center manatee, uh, pocket mooring field. Sorry that was long winded. So So. Uh, you know, you know, we ve supported the the morning field for since the beginning, you know, our organization exists to support the commercial fishing fishermen in Martin County. However. We also also support working waterfronts, the marine industries, public access and boating as a whole. So. We understand the the importance of this facility for the mooring field. Um, although I sure it s been done in good faith, this upland f, this upland property has been referred to as a park. With all due respect. I mean it s it two benches and a table. On, a grassy patch and behind extremely dense mangroves with no waterfront view, so we understand the benefit that this land will will give to the, um to the morning field. So I also want to take a moment to, uh, compliment your staff we ve been working with Martin County staff on a couple of items recently, and, uh, Martin County staff has been extremely, um Just, um extremely professional and has really listened to us and, you know, we always hear about when things are going wrong, and we pointed out organizations pointed out things that we felt were going wrong in the past, too. But when people are doing their job and really listening to the citizens. And just doing things right. That deserves recognition as well. So I just want to give you folks that feedback. Thank you. Thank you very Our next speaker is Bill Flynn and Bill will be followed by Jackie Thurlo Lish. Good morning. Good morning. Commissioners. Good morning. Uh, I. Uh, this meeting, uh, my purpose to to you today is to speak about, um, myself and, uh, selfish Sands golf course. And. I wanna thank you almost a year late because I appeared before you last year, asking you regarding selfish sands. To change the status. That tenants, Uh, who live here could also get the favorable rate, uh, to play a selfish sense of the resident rate. And. You ok that now this year, my concern here and my reason for being here in front of you. Is that yours truly, Bill Flynn has been booted off the selfish sands golf course. Uh, I was, uh, riding a bike. Uh, on the, um Quite path, not on the golf course but on the court path, and I was told not to do it again. I did not do it again. And just the same, Uh they booted me off. I had a sheriff come to the house or last in JANUARY and to my condo, and, uh, they course maintained after I checked with them that I was I was still on the course. Even, though. I was riding my bicycle in the parking lot because I was on the sidewalk in front of the restaurant. I think you all know where that restaurant is? On the sidewalk they maintained correctly or incorrectly. That was part of the golf course and therefore I was riding my bike again on the golf course. And. I was a trespasser. And. For. This reason I m asking you to, uh, overlook that override that booting me off and allowing me to play golf there at selfish science again for the foreseeable future. It ll be a nice birthday present for me. I m about to turn 84. Happy birthday and and we ll have someone from staff look into. It Sounds. Very good. Thank you a lot Thanks for your time. And. Our. Next speaker is Jackie Thurlow lips and that will be all of the cards I have for public comment. Jim. Did You. Wanna departmental number five. Yeah. Ok one moment and I ll address. All. The other cards. Go ahead, Jackie. Good morning. Honorable commissioners and staff. I m, Jackie Thurlow lips Today. I m here as a lifetime resident of Martin County, Florida, you might not be able to tell from where you re standing, but I am wearing earrings that are on the catch and release pin made in 1941 by the sailfish Club of Martin County. That, indeed, is what inspired, uh The logo behind your desk, and I m bringing that up today because the land and the water are connected. Martin County has a great legacy of conservation. Martin County was the first to catch and release sailfish. My mother has a story in her one of her books. I Think, the Stewart one about how 5000 sailfish were caught. Uh, and it was over a three month period of time. But it was the most ever caught and it was right before they created this conservation pen and about half of them were killed and thrown back into the ocean, and that terrible experience was what inspired Kurt Whitaker and others to draw the pin for conservation of these waters. I feel like we re at that same point today with our lands, and I want to thank you, all of you. I know those of you. Been here for a long time, especially have done a lot for lands already, and you ve just done more for land already. Please give Martin County residents an opportunity to do more. It is our legacy. Thank you. Dad. Ok, let s I have I have a couple of items. So Rob, I have your card to speak on an agenda. Item three likes. Would You like to speak now. Ok, come forward. Carol. I have two cards for you. I have one for p one And do you want to do the public comment now? So? I will take you after Rob Carol. Thank you commissioners? Uh, for the record, Robert Ri. Um, I noticed on the agenda today you ll be talking about three lakes golf course. And. I just wanted to, um Add something that probably is not in all of the applications and reports that you read. Um for a while. Now, the team at three leagues has been, uh, working to learn about the community through the eyes of several of our leading nonprofits, including House of Hope, Um and basically, um, has, uh, supported all of us very generously in our missions. Um and I just wanted to kind of make that aware of you. They ve done all that with, uh, without any expectations from us not looking to get their names on things. Um, you know, have us wave the flag for them or anything like that. They just did it because they learned about the community they learned about our work, and they re trying to be good partners. Um, I think that says a lot about the character of their leadership, uh, and their approach to community and I just wanted to bring that to your attention to your consideration today. Thank you again for the opportunity to speak and have a great day. Thank you. Ok Carol. I have two comment cards for you for departmental number five and ph one. Page 11, ok? Perfect. Ellen if you would like to speak during public comment, I ll take you next. Good morning. Good morning. P one Agenda item. 24-0608 cpa 22-09 Exhibit, a chapter 18 community redevelopment element has changes to the s, which are community redel redevelopment areas. This is the main part that should be revised and some reversals made. I live near Port Salerno, which is a cra. It has some good changes. Many are not and too many instances, a
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FINAL MINUTES 2/20/2024 9:00 AM MINUTES COMMISSION CHAMBERS 2401 SE MONTEREY ROAD, STUART, FLORIDA 34996 Don G. Donaldson, P.E., County Administrator Sarah W. Woods, County Attorney Carolyn Timmann, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Harold E. Jenkins II, Chairman Stacey Hetherington, Vice Chair Doug Smith Sarah Heard Edward V. Ciampi CALL TO ORDER 4 - Vice Chair Stacey Hetherington Commissioner Doug Smith Commissioner Sarah Heard Commissioner Edward V. Ciampi Present: 1 - Chairman Harold E. Jenkins IIAbsent: 1. INVOCATION ~ Reverend Christian Anderson, St. Mary's Episcopal Church 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ADDITIONAL ITEMS 4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA MOTION: A motion was made by Commissioner Smith, seconded by Commissioner Ciampi, to approve the agenda, with presets and additional items CNST-15 and CNST-16. The motion carried by the following vote: 4 - Vice Chair Hetherington, Commissioner Smith, Commissioner Heard, and Commissioner Ciampi Aye: 1 - Chairman Jenkins IIAbsent: Page 1 of 142/20/24 FINAL MINUTES
5. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA PROCLAMATIONS AND SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS PROC-1 EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION - SPOTON PEER-TO-PEER RECOGNITION AND SAFETY ON THE SPOT Agenda Item: 24-0548 County Administrator Don Donaldson presented the SpotOn Peer to Peer Recognition and Safety on the Spot award recipients to the Board. General Services Trades Superintendent Terry William accepted the SpotOn Employee of the Year award. Public Works Project Manager Jeff Hunter accepted the Safety on the Spot Employee of the Year award. PROC-2 PRESENT PROCLAMATIONS PREVIOUSLY APPROVED VIA THE CONSENT AGENDA Agenda Item: 24-0524 Communications Manager Laura Beaupre presented the proclamations to the Board. House of Hope CEO Robert Ranieri accepted the proclamation congratulating House of Hope on the occasion of their 40th Anniversary. Commissioner Ciampi commended the House of Hope on their innovative farm to table style pantries, servicing those needing it most. 211 Community Outreach Representative Chad Adcock accepted the 2-1-1 Awareness Month proclamation. The proclamation for Engineers Week was read for the record; the recipients were not present. COMMENTS 1. PUBLIC - PLEASE LIMIT COMMENTS TO THREE MINUTES. Maisie June Dore (River Kidz) advocated for clean river waters. Mark Perry addressed the Board regarding discharges from Lake Okeechobee into the estuary. He spoke about the harmful impacts discharges have on oyster reefs and seagrass beds. Mr. Perry suggested writing a letter to the Commanders in Chief for the Corp [Army Corp of Engineers], Governor and District [SFWMD], to encourage them to stop the releases into the estuary south. MOTION: A motion was made by Commissioner Ciampi, seconded by Commissioner Heard, to draft a letter to all parties involved in the process. The motion carried by the following vote: Page 2 of 142/20/24 FINAL MINUTES
AYE: 4 - Vice Chair Hetherington, Commissioner Smith, Commissioner Heard, and Commissioner Ciampi ABSENT: 1 - Chairman Jenkins II Emilie Pryor addressed the Board in support of the referendum on the half-cent sales tax for conservation lands (DEPT-5). Tom Campenni spoke in support of placing the half cent sales tax on the ballot. Darlene VanRiper (Martin County Taxpayer Association) spoke in support of placing the half cent sales tax on the ballot for the voters to decide. Michael Syrkus read an excerpt from "The History of Martin County'. He suggested collaborating with the Historic Preservation Board and historical of literature to place actual history into the book regarding the centennial celebration [DEPT-4]. Joette Rice (Historic Preservation Board) shared ideas on advertising and commemorating the centennial celebration [DEPT-4]. Harry MacArthur spoke on issues concerning the half cent sales tax and employee housing. He also shared an old plan to run pipes into Jupiter and Hutchinson Island to assist with saltwater runoffs for seagrass and oyster beds. Tom Pine addressed the Board regarding consent agenda spending. He also spoke in opposition to the half-cent sales tax and issues with the CRAs. Lorraine Kaeyser advocated for the half-cent sales tax to be on the ballot to preserve the environment. Butch Olsen (Port Salerno Dock Authority) spoke in support of the proposed Manatee Pocket Mooring Field upland facility [PH-3]. Mr. Olsen commended Martin County staff for their professionalism. Bill Flynn addressed the Board regarding an issue at Sailfish Sands Golf Course, after he was trespassed for riding his bike on the car path. Jacqui Thurlow-Lippisch spoke about conservation lands and the importance of the half-cent sales tax to Martin County's legacy. Rob Ranieri addressed the Board in support of Three Lakes Golf Course and spoke of their willingness to partner with the community. Carol Ann Leonard addressed the Board concerning PH-1 amendments; she highlighted the importance of open space and walkable areas. Ellen Asselin spoke in opposition of the Manatee Pocket Mooring Field [PH-3]. Page 3 of 142/20/24 FINAL MINUTES
Kim Singleton addressed issues with transparency for the proposed Manatee Pocket Mooring Fields [PH-3]. Linda Fithian spoke regarding zoning and Comprehensive Plan Amendments. She also spoke about the half-cent sales tax. Pam Burnelle expressed her concerns regarding development on Dixie Highway and concerns with the safety of peacocks and gopher tortoises. She also spoke about dredging on Bathtub Beach and urged the County to let it go. Tom Haas addressed the Board regarding the Manatee Pocket Mooring Field and issues at Bathtub Beach. 2. COMMISSIONERS AM Commissioner Smith highlighted public comments regarding "All things Water"; he stated that a more comprehensive strategy is needed to assist with legislation. Commissioner Heard thanked residents for their ballot input and attendance this morning. PM Commissioner Smith shared updates from the Regional Planning Council meeting and announced some of this year's priorities for a wildlife corridor and transit. Commissioner Ciampi wished Commissioner Jenkins a speedy recovery. 3. COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR AM None at this time. PM County Administrator Don Donaldson announced on March 9th the County is hosting an [employee] picnic. CONSENT ADMINISTRATION CNST-1 CONTRACTS THAT MEET THE THRESHOLD FOR BOARD APPROVAL Agenda Item: 24-0399 This item was approved by the first motion of the meeting. CNST-2 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ APPROVAL OF WARRANT LIST FOR DISBURSEMENT VIA CHECKS AND ELECTRONIC PAYMENTS TO COMPLY WITH STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS Agenda Item: 24-0405 Page 4 of 142/20/24 FINAL MINUTES
This item was approved by the first motion of the meeting. CNST-3 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSION MINUTES TO BE APPROVED Agenda Item: 24-0559 This item was approved by the first motion of the meeting. CNST-4 NOTED ITEMS Agenda Item: 24-0409 This item was approved by the first motion of the meeting. CNST-5 ADOPT A PROCLAMATION COMMENDING RILEY ALLEN MEAD UPON THE ACHIEVEMENT OF EAGLE SCOUT Agenda Item: 24-0522 This item was approved by the first motion of the meeting. CNST-6 ADOPT A PROCLAMATION DESIGNATING MARCH 2024 AS IRISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH IN MARTIN COUNTY, FLORIDA Agenda Item: 24-0574 This item was approved by the first motion of the meeting. CNST-7 ADOPT A PROCLAMATION DECLARING PROCUREMENT MONTH AND PROCUREMENT PROFESSIONALS’ DAY IN MARTIN COUNTY, FLORIDA Agenda Item: 24-0640 This item was approved by the first motion of the meeting. CNST-8 EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES ADVISORY COUNCIL APPOINTMENTS Agenda Item: 24-0589 RESOLUTION NO. 24-2.9 This item was approved by the first motion of the meeting. BUILDING CNST-9 REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF FINE REDUCTION STIPULATION AND AGREED RECOMMENDED ORDER REGARDING THE CODE ENFORCEMENT CASE OF CATHERINE HEASLEY ESTATE CASE NUMBER 15-0092670 Agenda Item: 24-0582 This item was approved by the first motion of the meeting. Page 5 of 142/20/24 FINAL MINUTES
CNST-10 REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF FINE REDUCTION STIPULATION AND AGREED RECOMMENDED ORDER REGARDING THE CODE ENFORCEMENT CASE OF CATHERINE HEASLEY ESTATE CASE NUMBER ENF2018030519 Agenda Item: 24-0584 This item was approved by the first motion of the meeting. CNST-11 REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF FINE REDUCTION STIPULATION AND AGREED RECOMMENDED ORDER REGARDING THE CODE ENFORCEMENT CASE OF DAVID KENT DAVIS AND CHERYL A DAVIS CASE NUMBER ENF2022100441 Agenda Item: 24-0593 This item was approved by the first motion of the meeting. CNST-12 REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF FINE REDUCTION STIPULATION AND AGREED RECOMMENDED ORDER REGARDING THE CODE ENFORCEMENT CASE OF COASTLOVE PROPERTIES LLC CASE NUMBER ENF2019050600 Agenda Item: 24-0595 This item was approved by the first motion of the meeting. CNST-13 REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF FINE REDUCTION STIPULATION AND AGREED RECOMMENDED ORDER REGARDING THE CODE ENFORCEMENT CASE OF TRAVIS ZIELASKO AND MARGARET ZIELASKO CASE NUMBER ENF2021040678 Agenda Item: 24-0600 This item was approved by the first motion of the meeting. COUNTY ATTORNEY CNST-14 REQUEST TO REMOVE MARIBETH KONZ FROM THE PORT SALERNO NEIGHBORHOOD ADVISORY COMMITTEE Agenda Item: 24-0629 This item was approved by the first motion of the meeting. ADMINISTRATION CNST-15 APPROVE THE STATE HOUSING INITIATIVE PARTNERSHIP (SHIP) PROGRAM REPORT AND TRANSMITTAL TO THE STATE Agenda Item: 24-0661 This item was approved by the first motion of the meeting. Page 6 of 142/20/24 FINAL MINUTES
CNST-16 ADOPT A PROCLAMATION DESIGNATING MARCH 4-10, 2024 AS FLOOD AWARENESS WEEK IN MARTIN COUNTY, FLORIDA Agenda Item: 24-0669 This item was approved by the first motion of the meeting. PUBLIC HEARINGS PH-1 PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF THE COMPREHENSIVE GROWTH MANAGEMENT PLAN AMENDMENT CPA 22-09, CHAPTER 18 COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT ELEMENT, CHAPTER 4 AND CHAPTER 2 TEXT Agenda Item: 24-0608 ORDINANCE NO. 1214 Growth Management Deputy Director Peter Walden provided the item to the Board. Office of Community Development Manager Susan Kores and Deputy County Attorney Elysse Elder assisted with Board questions. Vice Chair Hetherington solicited public comment; none was heard. MOTION: A motion was made by Commissioner Smith, seconded by Commissioner Ciampi, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote: 3 - Vice Chair Hetherington, Commissioner Smith, and Commissioner Ciampi Aye: 1 - Commissioner HeardNay: 1 - Chairman Jenkins IIAbsent: PH-2 LEGISLATIVE PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT (CPA) 22-11 THREE LAKES GOLF CLUB, LLC Agenda Item: 24-0596 ORDINANCE NO. 1219 Growth Management Comprehensive Planning Administrator Clyde Dulin presented the item to the Board. Growth Management Deputy Director Peter Walden and Deputy County Attorney Elysse Elder assisted with Board questions. Lucido & Associates Senior Partner Morris Crady addressed the Board on behalf of the applicant. The Affidavit of notices were filed for the record. The following member of the public addressed the Board regarding this item: Len Sucsy. Page 7 of 142/20/24 FINAL MINUTES
MOTION: A motion was made by Commissioner Ciampi, seconded by Commissioner Smith, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote: 3 - Vice Chair Hetherington, Commissioner Smith, and Commissioner Ciampi Aye: 1 - Commissioner HeardNay: 1 - Chairman Jenkins IIAbsent: PUBLIC HEARING QUASI-JUDICIAL PHQJ-1 REQUEST FOR REZONING APPROVAL TO PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (PUD) THROUGH A PUD ZONING AGREEMENT FOR THE THREE LAKES GOLF CLUB PROJECT INCLUDING A MASTER AND PHASING PLAN AND PHASE ONE FINAL SITE PLAN (B115-003) Agenda Item: 24-0585 RESOLUTION NOs. 24-2.10 and 24-2.11 Ex parte communication disclosures were filed by the commissioners. There were no interveners. Notices were filed at the LPA. The participants were sworn in by the deputy clerk. COUNTY: Growth Management Principal Planner Brian Elam provided staff's presentation to the Board. Growth Management Deputy Director Peter Walden and Deputy County Attorney Elysse Elder assisted with Board questions. The following County exhibits were filed for the record: (1) agenda item/staff report, (2) applicant's work history and (3) Brian Elam's resume. APPLICANT: Gunster Law Firm Attorney Bob Raynes addressed the Board on behalf of the applicant in support of staff's recommendation. Notices were provided during the hearing for PH-2. Lucido & Associates Senior Partner Morris Crady presented the applicant's presentation to the Board. Vice Chair Hetherington solicited public comment; none was heard. MOTION: A motion was made by Commissioner Ciampi, seconded by Commissioner Smith, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote: 3 - Vice Chair Hetherington, Commissioner Smith, and Commissioner Ciampi Aye: 1 - Commissioner HeardNay: 1 - Chairman Jenkins IIAbsent: Page 8 of 142/20/24 FINAL MINUTES
PUBLIC HEARING PH-3 LEGISLATIVE PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT (CPA) 23-18, MANATEE POCKET MOORING FIELD UPLAND FACILITY Agenda Item: 24-0572 ORDINANCE NO. 1217 Growth Management Planner Carolyn Grunwald presented the item to the Board. Comprehensive Planning Administrator Clyde Dulin, Deputy Public Works Director George Dzama, Parks and Recreation Director Kevin Abbate, Office of Community Development Manager Susan Kores, County Administrator Don Donaldson and Deputy County Attorney Elysse Elder assisted with Board questions. The following members of the public addressed the Board regarding this item: Tiffany Perri and Nicole Watson. MOTION: A motion was made by Commissioner Heard, seconded by Commissioner Ciampi, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote: 4 - Vice Chair Hetherington, Commissioner Smith, Commissioner Heard, and Commissioner Ciampi Aye: 1 - Chairman Jenkins IIAbsent: PUBLIC HEARING QUASI-JUDICIAL PHQJ-2 PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ARTICLE 12, REDEVELOPMENT CODE, DIVISION 6, PORT SALERNO COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT CODE, LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, MARTIN COUNTY CODE, LDR 23-05, MANATEE POCKET MOORING FIELD UPLAND FACILITY Agenda Item: 24-0571 ORDINANCE NO. 1218 Ex parte communication disclosures were filed by the commissioners. There were no interveners. Notices were filed for the record. The participants were sworn in by the deputy clerk. COUNTY: Growth Management Planner Carolyn Grunwald provided staff's presentation to the Board. Comprehensive Planning Administrator Clyde Dulin and Deputy County Attorney Elysse Elder assisted with Board questions. The following County exhibits were filed for the record: (1) agenda item/staff report and (2) Carolyn Grunwald's resume. Page 9 of 142/20/24 FINAL MINUTES
The following member of the public addressed the Board regarding this item: Margaret Rhodes. MOTION: A motion was made by Commissioner Heard, seconded by Commissioner Smith, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote: 4 - Vice Chair Hetherington, Commissioner Smith, Commissioner Heard, and Commissioner Ciampi Aye: 1 - Chairman Jenkins IIAbsent: DEPARTMENTAL QUASI-JUDICIAL GROWTH MANAGEMENT DPQJ-1 REQUEST PHASE 2 PLAT APPROVAL FOR THE HIGHPOINTE PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (PUD) Agenda Item: 24-0590 RESOLUTION NO. 24-2.12 Ex parte communication disclosures were filed by the commissioners. There were no interveners. Return receipts were not required. The participants were sworn in by the deputy clerk. COUNTY: Growth Management Principal Planner Brian Elam provided staff's presentation to the Board. Growth Management Deputy Director Peter Walden and Deputy County Attorney Elysse Elder assisted with Board questions. The following County exhibits were filed for the record: (1) agenda item/staff report and (2) Brian Elam's resume. APPLICANT: Daniel Saro addressed the Board on behalf of the applicant in support of staff's recommendation; no presentation was given. Vice Chair Hetherington solicited public comment; none was heard. MOTION: A motion was made by Commissioner Ciampi, seconded by Commissioner Smith, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote: 4 - Vice Chair Hetherington, Commissioner Smith, Commissioner Heard, and Commissioner Ciampi Aye: 1 - Chairman Jenkins IIAbsent: REQUESTS AND PRESENTATIONS Page 10 of 142/20/24 FINAL MINUTES
R&P-1 PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION WITH REQUEST FOR BOARD DIRECTION REGARDING PROPOSED PLANS FOR AN ADDITION TO THE LEASE AREA WITH THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF THE TREASURE COAST Agenda Item: 24-0549 Real Property Manager Carla Segura presented the item to the Board. Children's Museum Executive Director Richard Baron addressed the Board on behalf of the museum. MOTION: A motion was made by Commissioner Smith, seconded by Commissioner Ciampi, to direct staff to work with the Children's Museum to facilitate the amendment of the lease. The motion carried by the following vote: 4 - Vice Chair Hetherington, Commissioner Smith, Commissioner Heard, and Commissioner Ciampi Aye: 1 - Chairman Jenkins IIAbsent: DEPARTMENTAL ADMINISTRATION DEPT-1 OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET ITEMS WHICH REQUIRE BOARD APPROVAL Agenda Item: 24-0417 RESOLUTION NOs. 24-2.13 through 24-2.24 OMB Director Stephanie Merle presented the items to the Board. County Administrator Don Donaldson assisted with Board questions. The following items were approved: (1) FY 2026-2030 FDOT Small County Outreach Program (SE Commerce Roadway reconstruction and improvement project), (2) FDOT Small County Outreach Program (CR-A1A resurfacing and improvement projects), (3) FDOT Small County Outreach Program (SW Citrus Boulevard resurfacing and safety improvement projects), (4) FDEP Amendment No. 1 (for Bathtub Beach/Sailfish Point Beach nourishment project), (5) Supplemental Agreement No. 2 for the construction and construction engineering services for SE Indian Street drainage project), (6) Florida Statewide Response for Opioid Abatement, (7) FY24 Mosquito Control Agreement, (8) FDOT Public Transportation Grant Hold Bay Extension at Witham Field, (9) FDOT Public Transportation Grant (rehabilitation of Taxilane Bravo), (10) FDOT Public Transportation Grant agreement Witham Field Business Plan and (11) Substance Abuse Prevention Funding. Commissioner Smith requested an agenda item with an overview of the historical nature of Bathtub Beach. Page 11 of 142/20/24 FINAL MINUTES
MOTION: A motion was made by Commissioner Smith, seconded by Commissioner Heard, to approve all items. The motion carried by the following vote: 4 - Vice Chair Hetherington, Commissioner Smith, Commissioner Heard, and Commissioner Ciampi Aye: 1 - Chairman Jenkins IIAbsent: DEPT-2 CONTRACTS THAT MEET THE THRESHOLD FOR BOARD APPROVAL $1 MILLION OR GREATER Agenda Item: 24-0423 There were no items. DEPT-3 2024 LEGISLATIVE SESSION UPDATE Agenda Item: 24-0591 Legislative Coordinator Sarah Powers provided the legislative session update to the Board. Commissioner Heard requested to stay apprised on the Gambling Pact progress, which will be used to fund environmental projects. DEPT-4 MARTIN COUNTY CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION STATUS UPDATE Agenda Item: 24-0594 Assistant County Administrator George Stokus presented the Centennial Celebration update to the Board. Deputy Library Director Richard Reilly shared the Library's efforts. County Administrator Don Donaldson assisted with Board questions. The Commissioners each shared input on the Centennial Celebration project. The Board directed staff to use MSTU funds from each Commission District for the book design. Commissioner Heard suggested asking Sandy Thurlow to be an honorary member of the committee. COUNTY ATTORNEY DEPT-5 DISCUSSION REGARDING DRAFT BALLOT TITLE, BALLOT LANGUAGE AND ORDINANCE CALLING FOR REFERENDUM ON A TEN-YEAR HALF-CENT SALES TAX FOR CONSERVATION LANDS Agenda Item: 24-0630 County Attorney Sarah Woods provided the item to the Board. Environmental Resource Administrator John Maehl assisted with Board questions. County Administrator Don Donaldson provided Commissioner Jenkins comments for the record in his absence. Jim Snedeker with Martin County Forever presented Martin County Forever's presentation. Merritt Matheson provided the presentation to the Board. Page 12 of 142/20/24 FINAL MINUTES
The Board discussed the makeup of the oversight committee. County Attorney Sarah Woods advised the Board that the committee can be established by resolution and comply with ordinance. Merritt Matheson explained the involved organizations would prefer the protections provided in an ordinance. The following members of the public addressed the Board in support of this item: Paul Owens (1000 Friends of Florida President), Jim Moir, Finley Dore (River Kidz), Casey Darling Kniffin (Florida Wildlife Federation and River Kidz), Carol Ann Leonard, Mark Perry, Melissa Burice, Gil Smart, Ken Parks (Marine Resources Council), Eve Samples, and Greg Braun. Michael Syrkus addressed the Board to suggest a reduction in the FPL franchise fee, if the County moves forward with the half cent tax. MOTION: A motion was made by Commissioner Ciampi, seconded by Commissioner Heard, to direct staff to advertise the proposed ordinance for a public hearing; and Martin County Forever will work with staff to finalize members and five members will represent each geographical district, two not for profit environmental group, one from the tourist industry and one from the financial sector; place the language, not the titles in the resolution; if not approved today the language will comeback with ordinance. The motion carried by the following vote: 4 - Vice Chair Hetherington, Commissioner Smith, Commissioner Heard, and Commissioner Ciampi Aye: 1 - Chairman Jenkins IIAbsent: PUBLIC WORKS DEPT-6 COMMUNITY TRANSPORTATION COORDINATOR/TRANSPORTATION DISADVANTAGED PROGRAM AND FUNDING UPDATE Agenda Item: 24-0628 MPO Administrator Beth Beltran introduced the item to the Board. Public Works Director Jim Gorton assisted with the Board questions. Karen Diegal with Senior Resource Association provided the Senior Resource Association presentation to the Board. Chris Stephenson with Senior Resource Association shared insights on the Impact 100 Martin Grant. PUBLIC - PLEASE LIMIT COMMENTS TO THREE MINUTES. None at this time. Page 13 of 142/20/24 FINAL MINUTES
ADJOURN The Board of County Commissioners February 20, 2024 meeting adjourned at 4:53 p.m. _________________________ _________________________ Carolyn Timmann, Clerk of the Harold Jenkins II, Chair Circuit Court and Comptroller Board of County Commissioners /lp Minutes approved: _________________________ This document may be reproduced upon request in an alternative format by contacting the County ADA Coordinator (772) 320-3131, the County Administration Office (772) 288-5400, Florida Relay 711, or by completing our accessibility feedback form at www.martin.fl.us/accessibility-feedback. Page 14 of 142/20/24 FINAL MINUTES
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FINAL AGENDA 2/20/24 9:00 AM BOCC MEETING AGENDA COMMISSION CHAMBERS 2401 SE MONTEREY ROAD, STUART, FLORIDA 34996 Don G. Donaldson, P.E., County Administrator Sarah W. Woods, County Attorney Carolyn Timmann, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Harold E. Jenkins II, Chairman Stacey Hetherington, Vice Chair Doug Smith Sarah Heard Edward V. Ciampi PRESETS 9:05 AM - Public Comment 10:30 AM - Discussion regarding Half-Cent Sales Tax for Conservation Lands (DEPT-5) 5:05 PM - Public Comment CALL TO ORDER 1. INVOCATION ~ Reverend Christian Anderson, St. Mary's Episcopal Church 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ADDITIONAL ITEMS 4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 5. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA Consent Agenda items are considered routine and are enacted by one motion and will have no action noted, but the "Recommendation" as it appears on the Board item is the approved action. PROCLAMATIONS AND SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS PROC-1 EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION - SPOTON PEER-TO-PEER RECOGNITION AND SAFETY ON THE SPOT The County Administrator would like to recognize two employees as part of our Employee Recognition Program. The program has two components SpotOn and Safety on the Spot. SpotOn peer-to-peer allows employees to nominate their peers who have gone above and Printed on 2/15/20242/20/24 BOCC FINAL AGENDA Page 1 of 13
beyond doing their job and demonstrate exceptional performance. The Safety on the Spot program provides an opportunity for employees to regularly be spotted demonstrating excellence in safety-conscious behaviors. Agenda Item: 24-0548 PROC-2 PRESENT PROCLAMATIONS PREVIOUSLY APPROVED VIA THE CONSENT AGENDA The Board is asked to present a proclamation congratulating House of Hope on the occasion of their 40th Anniversary, commending Engineers Week, and declaring 2-1-1 Awareness Month in Martin County, Florida. Agenda Item: 24-0524 COMMENTS 1. PUBLIC - PLEASE LIMIT COMMENTS TO THREE MINUTES. 2. COMMISSIONERS 3. COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR CONSENT ADMINISTRATION CNST-1 CONTRACTS THAT MEET THE THRESHOLD FOR BOARD APPROVAL This item is a placeholder on all Board meeting agendas to streamline the process for items that meet the Board approval threshold. Specific items requiring approval, if any, will be provided by Supplemental Memorandum. If there are no items, a Supplemental Memorandum will not be attached. Agenda Item: 24-0399 (No items) CNST-2 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ APPROVAL OF WARRANT LIST FOR DISBURSEMENT VIA CHECKS AND ELECTRONIC PAYMENTS TO COMPLY WITH STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS Pursuant to Chapter 136.06, Florida Statutes, checks and electronic payments issued by the Board of County Commissioners are to be recorded in the Board meeting minutes. In compliance with statutory requirements, the Warrant List is added to the Consent Agenda for approval by the Board of County Commissioners. This Warrant List is for disbursements made between January 22, 2024 and February 4, 2024. Additional details related to these disbursements may be viewed in the office of the Martin County Clerk of Court and Comptroller or on the Clerk’s website. Agenda Item: 24-0405 Warrant ListAttachments: CNST-3 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSION MINUTES TO BE APPROVED The Board is asked to approve minutes from the July 17, 2023 budget workshop meeting. Agenda Item: 24-0559 July17.2023 BCC Minutes.pdfAttachments: CNST-4 NOTED ITEMS Noted items are documents for the Board’s information that must be a part of the record but do not require any action. Printed on 2/15/20242/20/24 BOCC FINAL AGENDA Page 2 of 13
Agenda Item: 24-0409 CNST-5 ADOPT A PROCLAMATION COMMENDING RILEY ALLEN MEAD UPON THE ACHIEVEMENT OF EAGLE SCOUT The Board extends greetings and congratulations to scouts achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. Agenda Item: 24-0522 Eagle Scout_RileyAttachments: CNST-6 ADOPT A PROCLAMATION DESIGNATING MARCH 2024 AS IRISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH IN MARTIN COUNTY, FLORIDA The Board is asked to adopt a proclamation designating March 2024 as Irish American Heritage Month in Martin County, Florida. Agenda Item: 24-0574 Irish American Heritage MonthAttachments: CNST-7 ADOPT A PROCLAMATION DECLARING PROCUREMENT MONTH AND PROCUREMENT PROFESSIONALS’ DAY IN MARTIN COUNTY, FLORIDA The Board is asked to adopt a proclamation declaring Procurement Month and Procurement Professionals’ Day in Martin County, Florida that will be presented at the March 5, 2024 meeting. Agenda Item: 24-0640 Procurement RecognitionAttachments: CNST-8 EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES ADVISORY COUNCIL APPOINTMENTS The Board is asked to confirm appointments to the Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council. Agenda Item: 24-0589 Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council.docx Establishing Document EMSAC.pdf Resolution EMSAC Jup Island Ewing_Michael.pdf Jup Island ALT Lasaga_Frank.pdf MCSO Immordino_Matthew.pdf Attachments: BUILDING CNST-9 REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF FINE REDUCTION STIPULATION AND AGREED RECOMMENDED ORDER REGARDING THE CODE ENFORCEMENT CASE OF CATHERINE HEASLEY ESTATE CASE NUMBER 15-0092670 Pursuant to the provisions of Section 1.98B, General Ordinances, Martin County Code, the Board of County Commissioners is asked to consider approval of a Fine Reduction Stipulation and Agreed Recommended Order regarding the Code Enforcement case of Catherine Heasley Estate. Agenda Item: 24-0582 SIGNED FINE REDUCTION 15-0092670.pdfAttachments: Printed on 2/15/20242/20/24 BOCC FINAL AGENDA Page 3 of 13
CNST-10 REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF FINE REDUCTION STIPULATION AND AGREED RECOMMENDED ORDER REGARDING THE CODE ENFORCEMENT CASE OF CATHERINE HEASLEY ESTATE CASE NUMBER ENF2018030519 Pursuant to the provisions of Section 1.98B, General Ordinances, Martin County Code, the Board of County Commissioners is asked to consider approval of a Fine Reduction Stipulation and Agreed Recommended Order regarding the Code Enforcement case of Catherine Heasley Estate. Agenda Item: 24-0584 SIGNED FINE REDUCTION ENF2018030519.pdfAttachments: CNST-11 REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF FINE REDUCTION STIPULATION AND AGREED RECOMMENDED ORDER REGARDING THE CODE ENFORCEMENT CASE OF DAVID KENT DAVIS AND CHERYL A DAVIS CASE NUMBER ENF2022100441 Pursuant to the provisions of Section 1.98B, General Ordinances, Martin County Code, the Board of County Commissioners is asked to consider approval of a Fine Reduction Stipulation and Agreed Recommended Order regarding the Code Enforcement case of David Kent Davis and Cheryl A. Davis. Agenda Item: 24-0593 SIGNED FINE REDUCTION ENF2022100441.pdfAttachments: CNST-12 REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF FINE REDUCTION STIPULATION AND AGREED RECOMMENDED ORDER REGARDING THE CODE ENFORCEMENT CASE OF COASTLOVE PROPERTIES LLC CASE NUMBER ENF2019050600 Pursuant to the provisions of Section 1.98B, General Ordinances, Martin County Code, the Board of County Commissioners is asked to consider approval of a Fine Reduction Stipulation and Agreed Recommended Order regarding the Code Enforcement case of Coastlove Properties LLC. Agenda Item: 24-0595 SIGNED FINE REDUCTION ENF2019050600.pdfAttachments: CNST-13 REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF FINE REDUCTION STIPULATION AND AGREED RECOMMENDED ORDER REGARDING THE CODE ENFORCEMENT CASE OF TRAVIS ZIELASKO AND MARGARET ZIELASKO CASE NUMBER ENF2021040678 Pursuant to the provisions of Section 1.98B, General Ordinances, Martin County Code, the Board of County Commissioners is asked to consider approval of a Fine Reduction Stipulation and Agreed Recommended Order regarding the Code Enforcement case of Travis Zielasko and Margaret Zielasko. Agenda Item: 24-0600 SIGNED FINE REDUCTION ENF2021040678.pdfAttachments: COUNTY ATTORNEY CNST-14 REQUEST TO REMOVE MARIBETH KONZ FROM THE PORT SALERNO NEIGHBORHOOD ADVISORY COMMITTEE Printed on 2/15/20242/20/24 BOCC FINAL AGENDA Page 4 of 13
The Board is asked to remove Maribeth Konz as a member of the Port Salerno Neighborhood Advisory Committee for failure to abide by Florida public records law. Agenda Item: 24-0629 ADMINISTRATION CNST-15 APPROVE THE STATE HOUSING INITIATIVE PARTNERSHIP (SHIP) PROGRAM REPORT AND TRANSMITTAL TO THE STATE This is a request for review and approval for submittal of the SHIP 2019/2020 annual report. Upon approval, the report will be submitted to the Florida Housing Finance Corporation (FHFC). Board approval of the report is required for submission. Agenda Item: 24-0661 19-20 SHIP Annual Report - 2.9.24.pdf 19-20 SHIP Report Certification.pdf Attachments: Additional Item (24-0661) CNST-16 ADOPT A PROCLAMATION DESIGNATING MARCH 4-10, 2024 AS FLOOD AWARENESS WEEK IN MARTIN COUNTY, FLORIDA The Board is asked to adopt a proclamation designating March 4-10, 2024 as Flood Awareness Week in Martin County, Florida that will be presented at the March 5, 2024 meeting. Agenda Item: 24-0669 Flood Awareness WeekAttachments: Additional Item (24-0669) PUBLIC HEARINGS PH-1 PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF THE COMPREHENSIVE GROWTH MANAGEMENT PLAN AMENDMENT CPA 22-09, CHAPTER 18 COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT ELEMENT, CHAPTER 4 AND CHAPTER 2 TEXT The Board initiated changes to Chapter 18, Community Redevelopment Element, to improve clarity and internal consistency regarding density language, open space and preserve area requirements. In addition, there are amendments to Chapter 4, Future Land Use Element and Chapter 2, Overall Goals and Definitions for consistency. Agenda Item: 24-0608 231114_Staff_Report_Chapter 18_.docx 240205_Draft Ordinance for Chapter 18 text.docx Exhibit A Chapter 18.docx Exhibit B Chapter 2.docx Exhibit C Chapter 4.docx 2024_0220_2nd BCC Adopt_Tearsheet.pdf Attachments: PH-2 LEGISLATIVE PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT (CPA) 22-11 THREE LAKES GOLF CLUB, LLC This is a request for an amendment to the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) on 1,216-acres. The request will change the future land use designation from Agricultural (up to one unit per Printed on 2/15/20242/20/24 BOCC FINAL AGENDA Page 5 of 13
20 acres) to Rural Lifestyle (up to one unit per 20 acres). The property is located east and west of SW Kanner Highway. and north of SW Bridge Road between the Okeechobee Waterway and SW Pratt Whitney Road. Agenda Item: 24-0596 1_Staff Report.docx 2_Ordinance for FLUM.docx 3_Plan Policies.pdf 4_Traffic Memo CPA 22-11 Three Lakes Golf Club.pdf 5_School_Impact_Letter_CPA 22-11 Three Lakes Golf Club PUD FLUM.pdf 6_Utilities CPA 22-11 Three Lakes Golf Club Rnd 3 Draft_ (002).pdf 7_Application Materials.pdf 8_ Agency Comments.pdf 2024_0202_CPA 22-11_Tearsheet.pdf Attachments: PUBLIC HEARING QUASI-JUDICIAL PHQJ-1 REQUEST FOR REZONING APPROVAL TO PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (PUD) THROUGH A PUD ZONING AGREEMENT FOR THE THREE LAKES GOLF CLUB PROJECT INCLUDING A MASTER AND PHASING PLAN AND PHASE ONE FINAL SITE PLAN (B115-003) This is a request by Three Lakes Golf Club, LLC for approval of a Planned Unit Development (PUD) Zoning Agreement for the Three Lakes Golf Club project including Master and Phasing Plan, Amended Preserve Area Management Plan (PAMP) and Phase 1 Final Site Plan. The proposed development consists of approximately 1,217-acres located west and east of Kanner Highway approximately 2.4 miles southwest of I-95 at 10980 SW Apogee Drive in Stuart. Included is a Request for a Certificate of Public Facilities Reservation for Phase 1. Agenda Item: 24-0585 Printed on 2/15/20242/20/24 BOCC FINAL AGENDA Page 6 of 13
2024_0122_B115-003 EXHIBIT A Legal Description.docx 2024_0202_B115-003 EXHIBIT D MSP.pdf 2024_0202_B115-003 EXHIBIT E-1 PP.pdf 2024_0205_B113-003_AMENDED PAMP.pdf 2024_0122_B115-003 Draft Reso Approve.docx 2024_0122_B115-003 Draft Reso Approve P1 FSP.docx 2024_0202_B115-003 EXHIBIT B PHASE 1 FSP.pdf 2023_0606_B115-007_Stamped_RFSP.pdf 2024_0122_B115-003 Application Materials.pdf 2024_0122_B115-003 Disclosure of Interest.pdf 2024-0131_B115-003 Legal Ad Tearsheet.pdf 2024_0122_B115-003 Sample Letter.pdf 2022_0419_B115-003 Sign Posting Affidavit.pdf 2024_0122_B115-003 Draft Reso Deny PUD.doc Staff Presentation SUPP MEMO Three Lakes PUD Agreement.docx 2024_0208_B115-003_DRT_STAFF_FINAL.docx 2024_0208_B115-003 Property Owners Certification.pdf Exhibit 2 Applicant's Work History.pdf Attachments: Supplemental Memorandum PUBLIC HEARING PH-3 LEGISLATIVE PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT (CPA) 23-18, MANATEE POCKET MOORING FIELD UPLAND FACILITY This is a request for a small-scale amendment to the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) on 0.02-acres of an abandoned right-of-way. This request proposes to assign future land use designation Marine Waterfront Commercial (up to 10 residential units per acre) to the abandoned right-of-way at the intersection of SE Bayview Street and SE Park Drive. Agenda Item: 24-0572 Printed on 2/15/20242/20/24 BOCC FINAL AGENDA Page 7 of 13
1_FLUM Staff Report.docx 2_Oct24.2023 BOCC Action Summary.pdf 3_Pages from 2023-10-24 Final Agenda Packet.pdf 4_Resolution 23-10.14 to Initiate_Amendment (Fully Executed).pdf 5_Draft Ordinance for FLUM.docx 6_CPA 2023-18 Manatee Pocket Mooring Field.pdf 7_Surrounding Property Owners letter affidavit.pdf 8_Affidavit with Sign.pdf 9_2024_0117_CPA 23-18_LAD_Tearsheet.PDF SUPP MEMO Public Comment.pdf Staff Presentation Attachments: Supplemental Memorandum PUBLIC HEARING QUASI-JUDICIAL PHQJ-2 PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ARTICLE 12, REDEVELOPMENT CODE, DIVISION 6, PORT SALERNO COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT CODE, LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, MARTIN COUNTY CODE, LDR 23-05, MANATEE POCKET MOORING FIELD UPLAND FACILITY This application is a request to assign the Waterfront Subdistrict (10 units per acre) to a 0.02-acre abandoned right-of-way. The land is located at the intersection of SE Bayview Street and SE Park Drive. Agenda Item: 24-0571 1_LDR Staff Report.docx 2_Oct24.2023 BOCC Action Summary.pdf 3_Pages from 2023-10-24 Final Agenda Packet.pdf 4_Resolution 23-10.14 to Initiate_Amendment (Fully Executed).pdf 5_Draft Ordinance for LDR.docx 6_Surrounding Property Owners letter affidavit.pdf 7_Affidavit with Sign.pdf 8_2024_LDR 23-05_LAD_Tearsheet.PDF SUPP MEMO Staff Presentation Attachments: Supplemental Memorandum DEPARTMENTAL QUASI-JUDICIAL GROWTH MANAGEMENT Printed on 2/15/20242/20/24 BOCC FINAL AGENDA Page 8 of 13
DPQJ-1 REQUEST PHASE 2 PLAT APPROVAL FOR THE HIGHPOINTE PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (PUD) This is a request by Cotleur & Hearing, on behalf of Pulte Home Company LLC, for approval of the Highpointe PUD Phase 2 Plat. The proposed plat is to be consistent with the Phase 2 final site plan which includes 190 residential lots on approximately 145-acres. Included with this application is a request for a Certificate of Public Facilities Exemption. Agenda Item: 24-0590 2024_0207_C148-015_DRT_STAFF_FINAL.docx 2024_0202_C148-015 PHASE 2 PLAT.pdf 2024_0207_C148-015 DRAFT CONTRACT.pdf 2024_0207_C148-003 DRAFT SURETY.pdf 2024_0130_C148-015 APPROVED EOPC.pdf C148-015 RESOLUTION TO APPROVE PHASE 2 RFSP.doc 2023_1120_C148-015 EXHIBIT A LEGAL DESCRIPTION.pdf 2024_0130_C148-015 EXHIBIT B PHASE 2 REVISED FSP.pdf 2023_1107_C148-013 PHASE 2 FSP APPROVED.pdf Resolution cs 2-2-24.docx 1-Non-Exclusive Flow-Through D and A Easement.pdf 2-Highpointe UE.pdf 3-Escrow Agreement w-Replacement UE-Exhibit A.pdf 4-Release of Non-Exclusive Flow-Through.pdf 5-Partial Release of Corrective UE.pdf 2024_0130_C148-015 APPLICATION.pdf 2023_0518_C148-015 SIGN CERTIFICATION.pdf 2024_0202_C148-015 RESO DENY PLAT.doc Staff Presentation SUPP MEMO 17. Disclosure of Interest Affidavit.pdf Attachments: Supplemental Memorandum REQUESTS AND PRESENTATIONS R&P-1 PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION WITH REQUEST FOR BOARD DIRECTION REGARDING PROPOSED PLANS FOR AN ADDITION TO THE LEASE AREA WITH THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF THE TREASURE COAST The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast (Children’s Museum) wishes to discuss and present a proposed future use, for the section of property adjacent to and north of the property the Children’s Museum currently leases from the County located within Indian Riverside Park (IRSP). Printed on 2/15/20242/20/24 BOCC FINAL AGENDA Page 9 of 13
Agenda Item: 24-0549 2024-01-11_084942.png Map 2026_001.pdf 110912_IRSP Conceptual Master Plan.pdf 23-018 IRSP public art fountain final bid plans.pdf Attachments: DEPARTMENTAL ADMINISTRATION DEPT-1 OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET ITEMS WHICH REQUIRE BOARD APPROVAL This is a placeholder on all Board meeting agendas to streamline the process for grant applications, awards, budget resolutions, budget transfers from reserves, and CIP amendments. Specific items requiring approval, if any, will be provided by Supplemental Memorandum. Agenda Item: 24-0417 Printed on 2/15/20242/20/24 BOCC FINAL AGENDA Page 10 of 13
SUPP MEMO (11 items) 1_Item #1 Cover Sheet.docx 1A_Resolution_24-xxSCOP_Commerce.docx 2_Item #2 Cover Sheet.docx 2A_Resolution_24-xx_FDOT-SCOP_Dixie.docx 3_Item #3 Cover Sheet.docx 3A_Resolution_24-xx_FDOT-SCOP_CITRUS.docx 4_Item #4 Cover Sheet.docx 4A_21MI2_Amendment 1 Bathtub Beach Sailfish Point Beach Restoration.pdf 4B_133001_Budget Resolution_Amend 1.xlsx 5_Item #5 Cover Sheet.docx 5A_441922-1 SA 2.pdf 5B_Reso_441922_IndianSA2.docx 5C_133729_Budget Resolution SA02.xlsx 5D_2024-02-20 Indian St Resurfacing 101775.pdf 6_Item #6 Cover Sheet.docx 6A_MC Service Agreement - AGR72.docx 6B_Budget Resolution_139550.xlsx 7_Item #7 Cover Sheet.docx 7A_FDACS_CONTRACT_FY24.pdf 7B_Budget Resolution - Mosquito Control Grant 13811 FY24.xlsx 8_Item #8 Cover Sheet.docx 8A_445980_PTGA_Hold_Bay_Revised.pdf 8B_13687_Budget_Reso_Hold_Bay_Extension_Design.xl sx 9_Item #9 Cover Sheet.docx 9A_SUA_453346_Rehab_Taxilane_B.pdf 9B_2024-02-20_CIP_ Airport Pavement Rehabilitation 3202.pdf 9C_13685_Budget_Reso_Taxilane_B_Designl.xlsx 10_Item #10 Cover Sheet.docx 10A_SUA 445985 PTGA.pdf 10B_13686_Budget_Reso_Airport_Business_Plan.xlsx 11_Item #11 Cover Sheet.docx 11A_Martin County Service Agreement_ZDF07.pdf 11B_Budget Resolution_139551.xlsx Attachments: Supplemental Memorandum (11 items) DEPT-2 CONTRACTS THAT MEET THE THRESHOLD FOR BOARD APPROVAL $1 MILLION OR GREATER Printed on 2/15/20242/20/24 BOCC FINAL AGENDA Page 11 of 13
This item is a placeholder on all Board meeting agendas to streamline the process for items that meet the Board approval threshold. Specific items requiring approval, if any, will be provided by Supplemental Memorandum. If there are no items, a Supplemental Memorandum will not be attached. Agenda Item: 24-0423 (No items) DEPT-3 2024 LEGISLATIVE SESSION UPDATE Each year, the Martin County Board of County Commissioners adopts a state legislative program that sets the appropriations and policy priorities for the county. This presentation discusses the 2024 legislative priorities, the successes and any additional direction needed within the legislative program. Agenda Item: 24-0591 DEPT-4 MARTIN COUNTY CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION STATUS UPDATE Martin County, which was established by an Act of the Florida Legislature in 1925, will be celebrating 100 years in 2025. The Board of County Commissioners (BCC) is being asked to provide further guidance on how staff should proceed with commemorating this historic milestone based on the previous policy direction at the November 7, 2023, BCC meeting. Agenda Item: 24-0594 Plaque Draft.docx 10.20.2023 centennial book quote.pdf Attachments: COUNTY ATTORNEY DEPT-5 DISCUSSION REGARDING DRAFT BALLOT TITLE, BALLOT LANGUAGE AND ORDINANCE CALLING FOR REFERENDUM ON A TEN-YEAR HALF-CENT SALES TAX FOR CONSERVATION LANDS This agenda item brings forward a draft ballot title, draft ballot language and a draft ordinance calling for referendum on the question of whether to levy a ten-year one-half percent (one-half cent) local government infrastructure sales surtax to be placed on the November 5, 2024 General Election Ballot. Agenda Item: 24-0630 2024 Sales Tax Ordinance 02072024 BCC022024.docx Schedule for Sales Tax Referendum 2023.pdf Attachments: PUBLIC WORKS DEPT-6 COMMUNITY TRANSPORTATION COORDINATOR/TRANSPORTATION DISADVANTAGED PROGRAM AND FUNDING UPDATE At the February 20, 2024, BOCC meeting, Senior Resource Association (SRA) will present an update on current funding and Transportation Disadvantaged grants for Transportation Disadvantage in Martin County. Agenda Item: 24-0628 SUPP MEMO Staff Presentation Attachments: Supplemental Memorandum PUBLIC - PLEASE LIMIT COMMENTS TO THREE MINUTES. Printed on 2/15/20242/20/24 BOCC FINAL AGENDA Page 12 of 13
ADJOURN This document may be reproduced upon request in an alternative format by contacting the County ADA Coordinator (772) 320-3131, the County Administration Office (772) 288-5400, Florida Relay 711, or by completing our accessibility feedback form at www.martin.fl.us/accessibility-feedback. Printed on 2/15/20242/20/24 BOCC FINAL AGENDA Page 13 of 13
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re on. Good morning, everyone, Uh we will be convening our FEBRUARY 20th Board of County Commissioner meeting and I m Commissioner Hetherington I ll be sitting in for chair Commissioner Jenkins today. Unfortunately I know he would have wanted to be here but he can t be here, so I ll be filling in. I ll do my best So we re going to start the meeting with our invocation by Reverend Christian Anderson from st Mary s Episcopal Church If you ll please join us at the front and that will be followed by the Pledge of allegiance by Don Kline us Air Force veteran serving from 1987 to 1992 don, if you ll stand and you follow, Um Reverend Anderson. Let s pray, Father. GOD. We thank you that we have the ability to manage and steward resources that we have this, uh, beautiful land to be stewards of in this county, So we pray for your wisdom. MAY. We become the lesser so you become the Greater and Commons serve all the good people of this county this morning. We pray for Sarah and for Don For, Sarah and Edward for Stacy, uh, for Harold, Doug and Layla. Uh, move through them GOD with the great responsibility they ve been commissioned with, uh, to hear your voice, a voice of love, mercy, justice and compassion and goodness to this community and beyond. Amen. Thank you. Please show me in the pledge. I pledge allegiance. I see. The Sans Uh, Individuals and justice. Yeah. I m Not really Sure exactly what I m supposed to tell you, But. My name s Don and I think the reason I ve done everything I ve done is because as soon as somebody tells me I m too small or too female to do something I, go do it and I do it better than they do it. So. That s My revenge is success and I think the best revenge is success no matter what you re doing instead of doing something derogatory, do it better. So. That s what I do and so from roofing to commercial diving. Um, in the Air Force. I was military police. We called it security police on our side, and, uh, I was the first female 81 millimeter mortars. Fire in the hole for all those that do m. Um and I thought that was fantastic that I got to do that. The round was half my size. So when you throw that in the tube, you know it s going. Um I got to do 50 Cal I got to do like every weapon. I grew up with a father. It was The carpenter. He got us a couple of months a year and, uh, we re either camping and doing it survival with a tent when we went out there, a fishing pole and a gun, and that s it, or we went and stayed on sailboats at a very old sailboat for three months at sea and learn how to survive that way. So. He got crazy later, but he was good when he was good. And so he told me that there s nothing you can t do. I would have a twin brother. We were the same size, so we all had to do everything. We all had to clean the dishes. We all had to take care of the yard. Animals the house, the fishing the cooking everything so to me, I think that I think having a hard life made me better. It made me stubborn. It made me uh, dedicated and it made me want to do everything that I could especially when they tell you not to get it, And, So. I went to non Commission Officer school, and I said, Well, I don t care what y all say about us. I m getting the levato and I did. I got it in non Commission office school. It was the best thing that I ever did. Besides sinking the Vandenberg. So. Um, I just wanna say that it s a the air force was away for me to get out of Dodge. Start my life as an adult to get away from everything, and so I went to another country. I got out. I. Of course i m from Florida, So. They sent me to North Dakota to, you know, Put me in my place And then after I froze my butt off, I begged for the Philippines and there I was for three years and I got greeted by a coup tump and earthquake and then a volcano. Yay! That was my send off back home. So, uh I saved my car, though. Came back with me, but, um, the air force was really important because I met so many people from so many places around the world, and each one had a different flavor. Um, and it s like going to different restaurants and learning the cuisine. But this time you get to meet the people who cooked the cuisine, and he developed it. And in Okinawa. It was beautiful. The water under now. Okinawa Kadena. Marina, Um, all those places and all those people that I got to meet. I would have never met them. I met somebody from Palm City, Florida in the Philippines. And and I d like to say what we called it, But. It was plum something I m Sure people that live there know have heard it before, but that was a nickname for teenagers. But, Uh, somebody s laughing so somebody must have heard it before, But. Uh, it was a one way bridge both ways And. Now. It s two lane Highway two of them. I Think I don t even think I ve been on the second Big one, but i don t wanna keep you long, but the air force is important to me. The environment is important to me. The ocean is important to me. I spent 12 years under it after I got the service to hide because that what we kind of do sometimes just to readjust. You want to read and Jessica down to the bottom of the ocean. Get in touch with yourself. Nothing else will matter after that. So thank you. Thank you. Thank you? I Appreciate you being here this morning? Thank you. Ok on our agenda this morning. We have Oh. We have public comment and we have a preset actually, we re gonna do our legislative session update with Ms sarah powers because she is going to need to book it back to Tallahassee. We have a 10:30 A.M. Preset discussion on the half cent sales tax for conservation lands. Uh, departmental number five additional items consent 15 approve the State Housing Initiative partnership and consent 16 Adopt approximately proclamation de Leading MARCH 4th through 10th as flood awareness Week in Martin County, and there are no consent polls. I m Sure. Yes, we approve of the agenda with the presets. Additional items of c consent item 15 and 16. And the rest of the agenda. Second ok we have a motion by Commissioner Smith to approve the agenda seconded by Commissioner Smith are can t be all those in favor. I boast motion carries 4 to 0 with Commissioner Jenkins absent. Ok, So. We re going to start then with our legislative When The proclamations, Laura for, or l? Uh, Legislative update first. Ok let s um go ahead. Sarah will do Legislative session update Good. Morning. Good morning. What happened in Tallahassee. It s been It been busy. It was, um, nice to have a little reset this week and I m headed back right after this As we said the car the car is running. So, um so we re We. Go. Uh so we re right now at day 42 leaving us with 18 days left of a regular session, um, ending on MARCH 8th. Um, there s nine or yeah, nine weeks. One Week seven. So. So Far. There s been 1900 general bills filed in 22 of those have been enrolled and placed on the governor s desk. Um, none that that we ve been tracking so far, Um, budget conferencing will begin next week. And. Speaking of the budget. Uh, the House budget is sitting at 100 and 15. The Senate budget is the same and the governor s budget coming in a little below that at 100 and 14 Billion and well, so they re about three, the Senate and the house are about $391 million off from each other, which is pretty good, but leaves a little bit of wiggle room for, uh, conferencing next week. So we do expect any of these All of these numbers, um, below for our appropriations to change. Hopefully. They all go up, but they might Down, but hopefully not, um, so in the budget. Currently we have our Bessie Creek project, Um in Repo, Dorf and Rep. Harrell s office for a million dollars. Our county Road 710 made it in both budgets. Um The Sheriff s Office housing pod at a million dollars and our, uh Gomez Padway potable water project also made it in the budget. Uh, so this is a little update on something that we went up to, Um don and, uh, Commissioner Smith were up. Last two weeks ago in Tallahassee to discuss a little blip We found in the fun in the cert funding. Um so basically, it just limits the scope of, um the projects that can be funded, Uh, in Serp, Uh, so we were up advocating. It It s Not that these are bad projects. We support them all. But, um Some of the problems that, um, some implications that we ve discovered, um, would be you know, messing with the cost share. The. Feds are close to us and the cost share. So. Um, you know, if anything goes sideways, those projects the money needs to be shifted somewhere else. Um, that would not be a possibility. So. Um, we ve heard positive. It s the same language in the governor budget as it is in the House budget, so we ll find out next week. Hopefully. They can come to some number agreement and some language agreement that works. Everybody. Uh, some highlighted legislation just to go through term limits is moving. Uh, I have a slide after this, so we ll go over that, um, sampling of beach waters and public spaces. Um, that pretty much just gives the doh more, Uh, leeway with, um Beach sampling when it comes to, um Bacteria and health and safety of our of our waterways. Uh, there are, um some preemptions but I, I think that they re good, and it s no more strenuous than we already do. Um, at the county level. Um, a building. There s some building, Reg, a few building regulation bills, um, that that would be In effect, Uh, Uh, hb 267 would change the time frame of when building the building department must approve permits, you know, from 30 days from 100 and 20 Days to 30 days for a certain permits. Um, so that would could could potentially, uh, have a big cost to our county? Um hb 1537 about vacation rentals? Um, I ve spoken with Narissa about this bill. We do support it. There are a few preemptions, but it also does give some power back to local governments with regulating Airbnbs. Um, the the hotels and all of that, Um, but ma mainly Airbnbs, um And and v rbs. Um, there is there is an affordable housing fix bill in there. Uh hb, Uh 1239 and sb 2328 It fixes a few issues major issues, especially for us from the local act. It does clarify density and height restrictions so that you know they they cannot in any circumstances be higher than are already allowed. Um, it does require us to publish a policy and procedures. Um, for the administrative approval, so that will obviously come. Uh, once this bill is passed, and there s also um something that I was I, I don t know that it was a big concern to us, but in other counties, there is a like a neighborhood continuance clause in there so you can t go into a historic neighborhood and add a four story apartment complex in a in a in a neighborhood that s historic or is like a I don t know like a community that s look all looks the same, basically. Um That was big down south. I know some of the historic Now commissioner. Her House. Bill 665 is expedited. Uh, residential building permits. Is that the one that you said is moving from 100 and 20 days to That s, uh to 267. So there. There s a few and I can I can get you that language, um of what it changes, but, um, it just approve. There s just Certain And eight and House Bill 791 now has a companion bill in the Senate. And is that the one that allows the developer to, uh write their own permits? It s moving. It does have a companion. Um, in the sponsors are Perry and overdorf. Residents beware. Um, so we will continue to to monitor that one as well. Um hp, uh, 1557 a little. It s It you know, exciting for us. It will designate um the Christian, Kristen Jacobs coral Reef ecosystem conservation areas Aquatic preserve right off our coast. I know that that was important to Commissioner Smith. So. It does a few other things. Um, the departments there. The Department of environmental protection package that they pass every year, But. I thought that little that little piece was important. And. Lastly, I mean there s a few others, but lastly, that we re monitoring is the ratification of the statewide stormwater rule. So this was The legislator Legislature passed the Clean Water Act to address a number of environmental issues relating to water quality. Uh, importantly, storm water management, So, that s just moving that forward. And. Uh, so term limits update so it was agreed upon that we would, um, it would be 12 years and last week, they changed it back to eight years. Uh, and it will be heard tomorrow in the Senate, and it seems like eight years will be the the standard for for term limits. And. That is all I have if you have any questions, let me know. Uh I can get any bills that you heard today. I can get you the specifics on those I just wanted to keep it brief And, um and light. Not anything you have questions. Just one question. Can. You, can you, uh, also keep a surprised about the prog progress on the, um Gambling pack I. I understand that that s going to be used to fund a lot of worthy environmental projects, which is welcome. Absolutely. Thanks. Thank you one more Commissioner Smith Sarah when we were up two weeks ago, um, talking about the Everglades funding, Um It. It seemed like There was a significant understanding. Uh, from our delegation on the importance of it, but it really was targeting specific projects to pull from the funding. Yes, Um Do. You think it s it? At. This point. It s much more of a leverage on something else than it is specifically to do that. I do. Ok I I just for the public that MAY not follow or completely understand. Um there s proviso language in the budget that would have stripped basically all the funding from Everglades restoration. Yeah, so it will and it designates some specific projects. And like we said, you can t like the ability to be able to shift if those projects those, you know, four projects go sideways or something happens in the pre phases that that wouldn t be able to shift anywhere else and it would be significant and I. Think one of the things we shared with everybody that, um, either completely understood or didn t understand. Um I. Guess. There s a lot of conversation going on between the core, not between the core and the water management district. But in the Legislature between what the corps does and what the Legislature or what the Water Management District does. And what we ve seen through the years at least watching it. There ll be a project that will start out and it ll head in one direction, and it looked like the core is going to do that project. And then for whatever reason, Bidding Wise Project Wise scale wise, they ll shift it over the water management district and the water management will take on something that the corps was going to do. And. It was that flexibility that has worked incredibly well for the last. I Don t know 56 years or so and and I think, explaining that to some of our legislators that MAY not have completely understood that nuance was important. But anyway, Thank you for the update. Thank you, Sarah Safe travels. Now we re going to move on with our proclamations. Laura. The first I m gonna go ahead and announce the proclamation. The First Proclamation is the employee recognition Bin. Peer to peer recognition and safety on the spot. Yes, I ll. I ll Yes, I m going to do that one. So. We have two employees that were recognizing today and they I think both of them represent the best of our staff. Uh, and, uh, they both span both ends of the spectrum in terms of times of service. We have one that s been here a few years and one who s been here over 20 years. So. Um, Anyway, we re gonna start with, uh, Terry Williams and and again. These are recognition programs that were initiated from their co Um and we celebrated, uh, during the year various times of the year to talk about, uh, both the spot on program and a safety on the spot and then at the end of the year, we also had employees vote to see who out of all of those who had run those other boards who were the best of the best. And. Uh to me. I m very proud of the two that were selected. Um uh uh, My participation was very minor other than to, uh, once I saw The recipients to just be very glad of, uh, how it all worked out and and again. They re most most representative, uh of your staff. So. The first one we re gonna talk about is Terry Williams. He was selected as employee of the year for our spot on program. Terry is the trade superintendent and General Service department. Our Countywide building repair and maintenance division. His coworker wrote the following tearing had Terry has one of the most complex jobs in the department. He is responsible for every piece of hvac heating ventilation, air conditioning equipment at parks and recreation and utilities and solid waste facilities that amounts to thousands and thousands of pump sensors. Motors, water heaters, pipes, et cetera. Terry also manages all of our trade staff and is responsible for weekend and after hours services. Terry provides excellent customer service and always has a positive attitude. He provides continuous updates on repairs and service. Is to building users and department heads where appropriate. When people see Terry in a building. It usually because they are uncomfortable. But I can tell you that Terry had his operation always make you feel comfortable and his expertise in knowing that he will get it done. He also manages to make them feel comfortable and I don t think he and his staff can be thanked enough for their work in positive attitude. Car. Employee of the year spot on presented to Terry Williams in recognition of your outstanding performance and dedication this year. Me. Then you can All dressed up and we don t see you dressed up. You wanna recognizes you? Congratulations to Congratulations, Terry. Would you like to say a pos? Thank you. It s very comfortable in here. By the way Thank you. Oh, Thank you, everyone. Thank you for selecting me as the employee of the year. I am honored and Grateful county is a great place to work. I started working here in FEBRUARY 12 2018 as a hv ac technician. At the whole correction of sight with Joe, Carl, Rick, Mark and Bill as my supervisor at the time, I had a blast and enjoy a lot of cake. This recognition means that I have a lot of work to do. And I am up to the challenge. I am looking forward to see how excited the next employee of the year will be. Thank you to all the departments. As I close. I would like to share this moment. With my wife, Charlene and my Children, Alicia and Isaiah but also with General Services department. Sean, Kevin, Kristen, Sonny Bill all the building supervisors, vehicle maintenance staff, Life safety staff accounting staff. The whole correction of maintenance staff, the trades workers and maintenance staff. I am sharing this moment with you all. But. I will keep the hours of pto that I receive. Thank you. Da. You re gonna do the safety on the spot. So. The. Next. One is Jeff Hunter who s also an employee of the year. Uh uh. So, um, because it was a tie. Obviously. We had the two excellent employees. And. So. Jeff is a a project manager for in the Public Works department field operations division, and Jeff is recognized. Um, he had recognized multiple accidents that occurred with dump truck tailgates, so he took initiative to develop and facilitate a training. Ask for employees operating heavy equipment. Jeff has extensive knowledge with heavy equipment and takes time to share information and educate his fellow employees. Thanks to Jeff, identifying safety concerns and training is co workers together, Everyone can prevent a future accident accidents with heavy equipment. And so I ve also had the pleasure of working with Jeff for a number of years, and he s always been one to show up at storms. And, uh and helping us solve flooding problems or helping with our our beaches. Anywhere. We need him. He s He s. He s always there. Um So with that, Jeff, come on up. Of the year safety on the spot Pres PRESIDENT Presented to Jeff Hunter in recognition of your outstanding performance and dedication. Said. Come on over. Now. I m Not. Sure, If If. Uh, if Jeff had known that he might have to say a word, we would have got him to show up. So. Uh, so if you want to say anything, Where s Terry Terry, You re killing me, man. No. I. Just Wanna say thanks to All the employees that try to make it safe. It s hard out there. Uh, working in the roads and the streets and ditches and swales. Um so Everybody that I work with deserves this. Thank you. Thank you. All right. Congratulations to you both. And Laura You Wanna present the Proclamation Proclamation for the House of hope Commemorating. Their 40th anniversary. Absolutely. Good Morning Commissioners. House of Hope is a community service agency founded in 1984 that empowers Martin County residents to overcome hunger and hardship. The agency provides support for basic needs, including food, clothing and financial assistance, as well as life skills through programs and classes and education, health and nutrition, job readiness. The arts and more. Route 2024 House of Hope is celebrating its 40th anniversary of empowering our community and in celebration of this occasion, the board commences house of Hope for the services they provide to those most in need. And here to accept we have rubber near ceo of the House of Hope. Sure. Morning commissioners and staff. Thank you very much for, uh, acknowledging this milestone for house of Hope. Uh, we certainly appreciate that, um, a lot of great things happening Still in our organization. We are putting the finishing touches on another greenhouse out at our production farm. That ll put us over 92,000 cubic feet of hydroponic growing space. All that food is coming back out into the community through our pantries and through our partners, Um there s still a lot of need and a lot of challenges that Our neighbors are facing, uh, House of hope will continue to try to lead the charge in problem solving and creative solutions to deal with those issues. Uh, I also want to take a moment to thank the commissioners and certainly the county staff for all of your support through cares through a p, not just the house of hope, but to many non profit organizations. Uh, those efforts are not support certainly made a difference for us to be able to meet the expanded needs that we ve been facing for the last several years. So. We certainly couldn t have done it without you. Uh, I like to invite each of you to come out and take a look at the farm when you have some time I know some have been and some have not, Uh, thank you, Commissioner kamie for your support, uh, as the farms in the Palm city, uh, community and, uh, we ve been able to tap into you for some resources over the years, so we certainly appreciate that, Um And again. I. Just wanna give you I ll end with our pledge at house of Hope? Um Our staff. Our board our partners we re going to continue to do the best we can to help our neighbors that are most vulnerable in the community, and we re looking forward to the next 40 years. Chair If. I might, uh, house of hope we are so fortunate in our community for 40 years to have the house of Hope. Uh, I think What is most remarkable is that people that are suffering in our community don t have to feel embarrassed for the services that they receive. Rob and his team have created a pantry that s more like a supermarket. So that families and their Children can go in there with respect. They have also taken the pantry idea of food, banks and things like that and realize that it can all be food that comes in a in a can or a box or a jar. Uh, very few food pantries that I have Scene and heard about have gone to the level of farm to table if you will, or the the natural and nutritious items that not only did rob and his team, you know, get as donations from grocery stores. They took that level to the to the next level and started growing their own and now also have a packing house and gleam in other in other farms in the area, what they are doing quietly th
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