City Council

CITY OF PUNTA GORDA, FLORIDA CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES AUGUST 27, 2025, 9:00 A.M. 120 LAISHLEY COURT PUNTA GORDA, FL 33950 MEMBERS PRESENT: Denton, Julian, Lockhart, Lux, Polk CITY STAFF PRESENT: Acting City Manager Reichert; Interim City Attorney Leskovich; Kristin Simeone, Finance Director; Tom Spencer, Utilities Director; Ron Everts, Public Works Director; Jeff Payne, Human Resources Manager; Boyd Lawrence, Planning Director; Pam Smith, Police Chief; Holden Gibbs, Fire Chief; Anne Heinen, Procurement Manager; Bradford Schuette, Information Technology Manager; City Clerk Welch CALL TO ORDER Mayor Lux called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. Mr. Carlo Gargiulo provided the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. He then announced a September 11th memorial service would be held at AdventHealth Port Charlotte at 8:30 a.m. Councilmember Julian stated he received notification that he had been appointed to the Florida League of Cities’ Utilities, Natural Resources, and Public Works Committee. Mayor Lux announced the next regular City Council meeting was scheduled for September 10, 2025, at 5:01 p.m. AGENDA APPROVAL There were no changes. 1) PROCLAMATION / PRESENTATIONS There were no items scheduled. 2) PUBLIC INPUT 2.a Those wishing to introduce themselves as nominees for a board or committee may do so at this time. Those who choose to speak must state their name for the record. Mr. Ken Rolland stated he had been instructed to appear before City Council as he was seeking reappointment. 2.b Anyone wishing to address the Council on any matter must state their name for the record. Each person will be allowed to speak up to a maximum of three minutes. Mr. Tim Ritchie stated on August 11, 2025, he was honored by Senator Benjamin Albritton at the Charlotte County Legislative Delegation meeting when Senator Albritton had indicated a study was commencing at Florida Gulf Coast University

because of his work. He thanked City Council and Senator Albritton, Mr. Mark Asperilla, and his mother. Mr. Bob Fritz spoke against installing a Huey helicopter at the Punta Gorda Veterans Park, opining that it would be a distraction. He then spoke in favor of continuing to pursue commercial annexation expeditiously. Mr. John Peterman urged City Council to approve the agreement with Kimley Horn for a downtown flooding study. He then spoke in favor of using a metal roof on any structure built at the Bayfront Center property. Mr. Tom Cavanaugh requested City Council consider the future of the Learn to Sail program during their discussions of the future of the Bayfront Center property. 3) PUBLIC HEARING AGENDA (Quasi-Judicial and Legislative) There were no items scheduled. 4) ORDINANCES / RESOLUTIONS (No Public Hearing Required) 4.a A resolution of the City Council of the City of Punta Gorda, Florida, adopting the Charlotte County/City of Punta Gorda 2025 Local Mitigation Strategy as the formal guide for hazard mitigation activities. Exhibits: Cover Page Resolution 2025-247 2025 Local Mitigation Strategy Proposed Resolution Local Mitigation Strategy Presentation Mr. John Robson, Interim City Attorney Leskovich’s representative, read the resolution by title. Mr. Richard Lehmkuhl, Grants Coordinator, provided a presentation on the Local Mitigation Strategy (LMS), explaining the Florida Department of Emergency Management required review and update of the LMS every 5 years. He noted failure to adopt the update could cause the City to lose eligibility for Community Rating System points for the National Flood Insurance Program, which could cause residents’ insurance premiums to increase. He explained considerations included the need to update certain references, share GIS data, update repetitive loss maps, and identify mitigation projects that aligned with the City’s goals for inclusion on the project list. He requested adoption of the LMS. Councilmember Julian stated he was impressed with the document. He pointed out the referenced Comprehensive Plan and the Land Development Regulations (LDRs) no longer existed, suggesting same be updated once a new Comprehensive Plan and LDRs were adopted. Mayor Lux requested Council be informed when the document was updated. Mr. Lehmkuhl stated he would provide an update following the next LMS working group meeting. Councilmember Polk MOVED approval to approve the resolution, SECONDED by Councilmember Denton. MOTION UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED. Mayor Lux confirmed consensus of City Council was to hear Items 6.g and 6.h next.

NOTE: The Consent Agenda was heard following Item 6.h. 5) CONSENT AGENDA Councilmember Lockhart MOVED approval of the Consent Agenda, SECONDED by Councilmember Julian. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 5.a May 22, 2025, Workshop Meeting Minutes Exhibits: Cover Page May 22, 2025, Minutes 5.b June 30, 2025, Pre-agenda Meeting Minutes Exhibits: Cover Page June 30, 2025, Minutes 5.c July 2, 2025, Regular Meeting Minutes Exhibits: Cover Page July 2, 2025, Minutes 5.d July 7, 2025, Pre-agenda Meeting Minutes Exhibits: Cover Page July 7, 2025, Minutes 5.e July 7, 2025, Workshop Meeting Minutes Exhibits: Cover Page July 7, 2025, Workshop Minutes 5.f July 9, 2025, Regular Meeting Minutes Exhibits: Cover Page July 9, 2025, Minutes 5.g Approval to Utilize Law Enforcement Trust Fund Monies for Patrol Vehicle Wrap - Charlotte High School - School Resource Officer Exhibits: Cover Page 5.h Invoice of Leskovich Law Group, P.A. for legal services rendered through July 29, 2025, in the amount of $6,319.75. Exhibits: Cover Page July 2025 Invoice 6) REGULAR AGENDA

NOTE: Item 6.a was heard after Item 6.c. 6.a *PGI Barge Landing Exhibits: Cover Page Punta Gorda Isles Barge Landing Letter Punta Gorda Isles Barge Canal Permit Plans Mr. Ron Everts, Public Works Director, explained the letter of support requested Florida Governor Ron DeSantis rescind the letter from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Division of State Parks, which objected to the City’s request for State approval for a barge landing that crossed state park lands in the west. He indicated the barge landing was needed to provide continued access to the Burnt Store Isles (BSI) and Punta Gorda Isles (PGI) canal systems for seawall repairs, dredging, and removal of derelict vessels, noting the state park lands also would benefit as there was no other land access for hurricane mitigation purposes. He explained the State could not approve the project while the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Division of State Parks (DSP) objected to same. Councilmember Lockhart inquired as to what alternatives were available. Mr. Everts replied this was the ideal location for numerous reasons, summarizing other locations that had been examined in 2022. He stated Colony Point had been used; however, the inlet was blocked during the barge's use. Mayor Lux opined there was room around the barge, questioning if complaints had indicated the inlet was blocked completely. Mr. Everts replied a seawall inspector had indicated there was insufficient room around the barge due to the inlet's narrow width and rocky character, which made it impassable to other boat traffic. He explained trucks would still be needed to transport materials to the spoil site. Mayor Lux received confirmation from Mr. Everts that trucks would be used to transport materials regardless of the project. Councilmember Julian requested the provisions to protect the environment be shared. Mr. Everts replied floating turbidity barriers would be used and the turbidity level would be monitored, with the site shut down if turbidity increased. Mayor Lux requested the report from FDEP DSP be shared. Mr. Everts replied that impacts always occurred during marine construction, noting requests for additional information were addressed in order to minimize impacts. Mayor Lux emphasized the importance of the habitat in the State park lands, voicing opposition to making this request of Governor DeSantis. She expressed preference to investigate other options. Councilmember Lockhart stated she had concerns, opining information on the environmental impact of the project was lacking. Mayor Lux noted the full project costs were not known. Mr. Everts indicated the current engineer's estimated cost for the project was $1.36 million, explaining the costs would be funded by the PGI Canal Maintenance Assessment District.

Councilmember Polk spoke against taking action which would negatively impact the wildlife; however, she did not see any other location that could serve this purpose. Mayor Lux questioned why Sancho Panza Court and Colony Point Drive could not be used, further questioning how many miles of seawalls existed. Mr. Clemons replied 109 miles. Mayor Lux suggested the environmental cost was not outweighed by the benefit of this project when many seawalls had already been replaced and lasted for approximately 60 years. She reiterated her concern regarding the extent of environmental impacts, reading a letter from Mr. David Abderhalden, Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center Executive Director, detailing impacts to the environment, related educational opportunities, and fishing. Discussion continued regarding environmental impacts and FDEP’s objections as well as the history of the project. Councilmember Denton MOVED approval to request a letter of support, SECONDED by Councilmember Polk. AYE: Denton, Julian, Lockhart, Polk. NAY: Lux. MOTION CARRIED. Mayor Lux requested the letter indicate her opposition. 6.b City Councils Approval of Lease with the Charlotte-Desoto Building Industry Association Exhibits: Cover Page Lease City and CDBIA draft Acting City Manager Reichert explained the lease, drafted based on City Council’s direction, would allow the Charlotte-DeSoto Building Industry Association (CDBIA) to restore the A.C. Freeman House. She explained the agreement was still being examined by CDBIA’s attorney, adding the CDBIA would provide a scope of work to the City and the item would return on a future agenda. NOTE: Item 6.c heard following Consent Agenda. 6.c Presentation and Discussion about Helicopter Display at Veterans Park Exhibits: Cover Page Veteran's Park Huey Presentation Mr. Richard Carr, Vietnam Wall Memorial of Southwest Florida (VWMSF) President, provided a presentation on the request to install a Huey helicopter at Veterans Park, with placement proposed across from the Armed Forces Flag Court with a southern orientation for the helicopter. He noted considerations for approval included acquisition of the helicopter, installation of a concrete or gravel pad, limited space, safety concerns and liability, and future maintenance. He concluded by requesting approval of the site plan to place a Huey helicopter once one was acquired. Councilmember Polk inquired if the City was responsible for the cost of the pad. Mayor Lux replied the VWMSF was responsible for that cost.

Councilmember Denton expressed preference for a concrete pad. Councilmember Julian questioned if ceremonies would take place at the pavilion. Mr. Carr replied affirmatively, stating same was the location used prior to Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Councilmember Lockhart stated she was amenable to providing preliminary approval; however, she voiced desire to first clarify details in writing. Mr. Carr stated he would follow staff’s direction. Ms. Courtney Buckles, Risk Coordinator, clarified the City would have exposure regardless of who owned the helicopter, noting the City would be responsible for insurance if the City took over ownership of the helicopter. She questioned if the helicopter would be open for individuals to climb into, noting that it was a hazard. She stated staff desired to see the insurance, a hold harmless agreement, and indemnification. Councilmember Lockhart suggested Mr. Carr participate in a Design Studio and then return to City Council for approval. Mayor Lux received confirmation from Mr. Carr that VWMSF would own and insure the helicopter, suggesting approval be granted this date contingent that concerns being addressed. Councilmember Denton expressed concern regarding the impact of hurricanes on the helicopter. She stated she did not see the need for display of two Huey helicopters in the City; however, she was open to considering approval. Discussion continued regarding the significance of the Huey helicopter to Vietnam veterans. Councilmember Lockhart confirmed Mr. Carr was amenable to participating in a Design Studio meeting with staff. Councilmember Julian attested to the value and importance of the Huey helicopter, expressing support for approval of the site plan. Councilmember Denton suggested a plaque be installed including verbiage on the importance of the Huey helicopter. Councilmember Lockhart MOVED to table this item until Mr. Carr could meet with staff, SECONDED by Councilmember Julian. AYE: Denton, Julian, Lockhart, Polk. NAY: Lux. MOTION CARRIED. NOTE: A 10-minute break was called at 10:26 a.m. 6.d Commercial Annexation Exhibits: Cover Page Presentation Annexation Breakdowns Mr. Carl Benge, Principal Planner, provided a presentation reviewing 12 commercial properties along Jones Loop Road and 6 commercial properties along US 41 that could be annexed into the City, noting 3 additional commercial properties had been brought up on Jones Loop Road. He then reviewed the voluntary annexation procedure, noting the time was not ideal to pursue annexation due to the current conflict between the City's Land Development Regulations and Comprehensive Plan. He requested direction from City Council.

Councilmember Julian spoke in favor of pursuing commercial annexation in order to balance the City’s tax base. Councilmember Polk suggested this should be considered relative to water rates as well, suggesting lower water rates were appealing to property owners considering annexation. Councilmember Julian stated a cost-benefit analysis needed to be performed to consider sanitation, fire, and police services. Mayor Lux concurred with the need to perform a cost-benefit analysis prior to approving any annexations. Councilmember Lockhart questioned if additional properties would be pursued after these properties. Mr. Benge replied annexation of these properties would make new properties contiguous to the City and eligible for annexation. Mayor Lux noted the surcharge for utilities customers outside of City limits could be eliminated pursuant to State legislation. Councilmember Lockhart MOVED approval to proceed, SECONDED by Councilmember Polk. MOTION UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED. 6.e Approval to continue the single source with Upland Software, Inc. for the purchase of integrated software product, maintenance, and support for fiscal year 25/26 beginning 10/1/2025, and implementation of new components. Exhibits: Cover Page Renewal File Bound Image Q372082-5 Renewal File Bound Q326180-4 Statement of Work for UScan and CloudFax 2024 City Council Agenda Item November 20, 2024, Minutes Ms. Anne Heinen, Procurement Manager, reviewed the history of the contract with Upland Software for the purchase of integrated software products, maintenance, and support. She recalled City Council requested to review the contract on an annual basis, indicating the proposed services for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025/2026 totaled approximately $106 thousand for document management and workflow automation software, maintenance, and technical support as well as implementation of “U Scan” and CloudFax services. Mayor Lux confirmed Procurement Division had negotiated lower prices. Councilmember Polk MOVED approval to continue with Upland Software and the additional services, SECONDED by Councilmember Lockhart. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Ms. Heinen confirmed City Council desired to review this contract on an annual basis. 6.f Bayfront Design Proposals Exhibits: Cover Page Presentation Mr. Benge provided a presentation detailing options for the Bayfront property as follows: (1) 8.1 thousand-square-foot tiki structure; (2) one large pavilion; (3) two

smaller pavilions. He noted the Punta Gorda Boat Club (PGBC) and Learn to Sail (LTS) program had been consulted, noting PGBC was concerned regarding the proposed structure’s impact on their ability to lease the existing parking lot and LTS was concerned their storage needs were not contemplated in the second and third proposed options. He indicated staff did not desire to set a precedent for providing private organizations use of public property, noting LTS had operated since the loss of the Bayfront Center without the proposed additional storage. He noted staff felt the second and third options best fit the existing character of Gilchrist Park. Mayor Lux commented positively on Mr. Benge’s narrative, requesting City Council receive staff’s speaking notes in advance. She then inquired as to the costs, noting a beach would need to be replenished following storms. Councilmember Julian expressed favor for the beaches. Mayor Lux suggested the tiki could be smaller to save on costs. She received clarification of the per-square-foot cost for the tiki hut ($100 to $150) and the pavilions ($65 to $100). She opined big spaces were desired for rental, expressing preference for a larger pavilion, removing the beach, retaining the majority of the asphalt and confining landscaping to the area closer to the Harborwalk. Councilmember Lockhart opined the pavilions would provide a cohesive aesthetic, expressing favor for the second option. She stated she had no opinion on inclusion of a beach. She then acknowledged liability needed to be considered for the LTS program, suggesting same be further discussed. Mayor Lux expressed favor for inclusion of plumbing and an area for beverages, but not alcoholic drinks specifically. She then inquired as to the plans for the LTS program, suggesting they participate in cost if storage for their program was included. Councilmember Denton stated she was open to the pavilion, indicating a serving area should be considered rather than a bar. She questioned the purpose of a gravel area, suggesting bocce ball lanes could be located in that area. She expressed concern swings would be projectiles in a storm. She suggested bike racks could be located in the area as well. She questioned if the PGBC could house the LTS program. Mr. Benge explained the City could not require the PGBC to accommodate the LTS program; however, the PGBC lease needed to be modified to address provisions which were no longer relevant. Councilmember Denton noted landscaping required maintenance, suggesting low-maintenance palm trees be considered. Mr. Benge replied landscaping would use Florida-native plants, which would reduce the maintenance needs. Councilmember Julian questioned if a physical fence or vegetative barrier was desired for boat storage for the LTS storage space. Mr. Tom Cavanaugh, LTS, replied both. He indicated willingness to talk with the PGBC and the City. Mayor Lux questioned if sails could be stacked. Mr. Cavanaugh stated some materials needed to be housed outside of the enclosed area but sails could be stacked. Councilmember Denton stated a dumpster might be needed in that area. Mr. Benge noted staff had attempted to provide shade in the area through trees. Councilmember Polk stated she was relieved to see the proposed pavilions, agreeing they better aligned with the visual character of the park and the area.

Mayor Lux expressed desire for a space heater and ceiling fans in the pavilions as well as a way to enclose the pavilion for events. Councilmember Denton noted TT’s Tiki Hut had plastic rolldown curtains, suggesting that they could be an affordable option. Consensus of Council was to develop pricing and scenarios for a 5,000-square- foot structure, removal of the beach, inclusion of a serving area, retention of parking, addition of bike parking, removal of swings and inclusion of options for enclosing the pavilion. Councilmember Denton inquired as to the gravel area. Mr. Benge replied that it was an existing space and could be used for food trucks. Councilmember Julian questioned if public input could be taken. Consensus of City Council was to do so. Ms. Cindy O’Hara expressed dissatisfaction with the focus on tourism, speaking in favor of replacing the prior Bayfront Center with another building with a kitchen. Mr. Noel Hyde spoke in favor of a pavilion, noting a building at that location would be extremely expensive due to its location in the velocity zone. He agreed a beach would likely need frequent replenishment. Mr. Tony Ratzing, PGBC Commodore, suggested the LTS program had been accommodated to the greatest extent possible by the PGBC. Mr. Benge clarified the PGBC’s lease needed to be updated regardless of the LTS program. 6.g *Agreement award to Kimley-Horn and Associates Inc. of Fort Myers, Florida, for a master agreement to provide engineering services for the downtown storm water management system. Exhibits: Cover Page Agreement Recommendation for Award Ms. Kelly Clark, Kimley Horn, offered to answer any questions. Mayor Lux inquired if a workshop could be held with Kimley Horn on this topic. She then requested Mr. Brad Schuette, IT Manager, comment on GIS integration. Mr. Schuette questioned if development of GIS data would be included in the study. Ms. Clark replied affirmatively, noting survey data would be collected and model files would be developed as GIS data. She then provided a presentation on the proposed downtown flooding study, reviewing Phase I tasks which were intended to result in a final report of recommendations after analysis of existing and future conditions and potential alternatives as well as their costs and benefits. She stated key decisions would be provided in technical memoranda prior to the beginning of modeling to ensure the models developed were acceptable. She noted grant funding would be investigated throughout all phases of the project. She reviewed the proposed schedule for the project, noting minor modification was needed as same had originally contemplated commencement in August 2025. Councilmember Julian inquired as to the length of period the study would be valid.

Ms. Clark replied if existing conditions and future models did not change, the report would remain valid. Councilmember Lockhart stated the project was needed and funded, speaking in favor of approving the agreement. Councilmember Denton inquired if engineering would be performed in the study. Ms. Clark replied engineering for project construction would occur in Phase II, clarifying those costs were not included in this agreement. Councilmember Denton received confirmation from Ms. Clark that grant writing was not included in this agreement but would be addressed as additional services. Councilmember Polk noted this item had been delayed in order to receive additional information. Ms. Clark clarified preliminary engineering to determine the type and size of pipes would be included in Phase I and would help inform pursuit of grants. Councilmember Denton expressed desire for the agreement to include grant writing. Mr. Bryan Clemons, Engineering Manager, stated until a plan was in place, grant writing would not be possible. Mayor Lux questioned if the timeline could be expedited. Ms. Clark stated the benefit of this type of study was defining what was needed, which would ensure projects would produce the desired results. Mayor Lux expressed desire to incorporate grant writing services to help fund identified projects. Councilmember Denton questioned if grant writing could be included in the agreement. Mr. Clemons explained Item 6.g would approve the consultant and Item 6.h would approve Phase 1 of the improvements, suggesting an amendment could be sought if needed. Ms. Anne Heinen, Procurement Manager, explained this was a multi-phase project, indicating a portion of a task within the agreement concerned Kimley Horn’s grants team to examine other grants the City had received to understand what grants would be needed in the future. She stated if City Council desired, additional negotiations could be held in order to pursue a change order or amendment concerning grant writing. Mayor Lux expressed desire for Council to be educated on the costs of projects in advance of presentation of the projects for approval. Ms. Clark noted an estimated range of design costs would be provided as part of the agreement. Councilmember Denton inquired if this sort of item was procured as a low bid. Ms. Heinen replied in the negative, explaining engineering services were procured based on qualifications and then hourly rates were negotiated. Councilmember Denton noted City staff had been actively working to ensure the existing drainage system was functioning properly. Councilmember Lockhart MOVED approval to award the agreement, SECONDED by Councilmember Julian. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 6.h *Award of Authorization #1 to Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. of Fort Myers, FL to evaluate the downtown storm water management system. Exhibits:

Cover Page Agreement Recommendation for Award Councilmember Lockhart MOVED Lockhart approval to award Authorization 1, SECONDED by Councilmember Julian. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 7) BOARDS / COMMITTEE 7.a Nomination: Punta Gorda Isles Canal Advisory Committee (1 regular) Exhibits: Cover Page Punta Gorda Isles Canal Advisory Committee Rolland Application City Clerk Welch confirmed this item could be held. She then indicated given Council’s direction at the prior meeting, further announcements of vacancies, nominations, and appointments could be held for boards and committees. Consensus of City Council was to do so. 8) REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS 8.a City Manager Acting City Manager Reichert requested confirmation that City Council desired the following information when the Veterans Park Huey helicopter proposal returned to City Council: (1) proof of liability insurance; (2) placement of helicopter; (3) anchoring devices; (4) impacts to City insurance. Councilmember Denton requested a concrete pad be required for the helicopter. Acting City Manager Reichert then provided the following updates: (1) a workshop discussing code enforcement was scheduled for September 9, 2025, at 5:01 p.m.; (2) a workshop focused on conservation be held once seasonal residents returned; (3) utilities rate study required two public hearings but could also be discussed at a workshop. Consensus of City Council was to discuss the utilities rate study at the workshop scheduled for September 9, 2025, and to continue the code enforcement topic to the September 23, 2025, workshop, which would also discuss permitting. Acting City Manager Reichert then noted the gazebo repair and hurricane assessment bids would be released August 28, 2025. She next announced the Code Compliance and Urban Design Divisions had returned to the City Hall Annex. Mr. Everts provided the following updates: (1) Public Works had performed inspections with FEMA for the past 3 weeks; (2) Herald Court Centre waterproofing on the second and third floors was underway; (3) City Hall Council Chambers interior scope of work was being developed; (4) City Hall Council Chambers roof was delayed by 1 week due to materials being damaged during shipping; (5) City Hall mold testing was scheduled to begin this week; (6) Tiger Dam anchor preparation was underway; (7) Herald Court Centre surge panels had been ordered; (8) electricians were restoring power around the City; (9) no

progress to report on the dinghy docks or other wooden waterfront structures as staff awaited selection of a consultant to design and perform evaluations; (10) marine consultant was working on estimate for evaluation of Laishley Pier; (11) staff was working on bids for pickleball courts; (12) 4-foot fence to be installed along the Harborwalk around the former Punta Gorda Waterfront Hotel property. Mayor Lux questioned why items in waters near Laishley Park had not been removed. Mr. Everts stated he could investigate same when he received additional information. Councilmember Denton inquired as to the status of the pavement for the pickleball courts. Mr. Everts replied same was still in progress. Acting City Manager Reichert stated Mr. Everts had been updating the citizen group that had secured donations for improvements to the area of the pickleball courts. 8.b Interim City Attorney Mr. Robson expressed gratitude for the City's trust. 8.c City Clerk City Clerk Welch expressed appreciation to staff for their assistance in arranging the move back to the Herald Court offices. She then reviewed sponsorship opportunities for the Neighborhood Fall Festival. 9) COUNCIL MEMBER COMMENTS Councilmember Denton noted the kayak and accessible dock donation offer had been withdrawn, expressing desire to be a city that worked with potential partners. Mayor Lux recalled the City was going to inquire with Charlotte County as to similar kayak rentals they had. Acting City Manager Reichert stated she believed those kayaks had been removed from Charlotte County due to liability concerns. She requested consensus regarding whether City Council desired staff to pursue kayak rentals for parks. Consensus of City Council was to pursue same. Councilmember Polk stated 751 West Retta Esplanade was in a state of disrepair, indicating she had determined who the current owner was and provided photographs to that person. She opined the state of the structure posed a health hazard, noting the Code Compliance Division had become involved. Acting City Manager Reichert stated Interim City Attorney Leskovich was involved in discussions on the property. Councilmember Polk inquired as to the status of the Laishley Park Splash Pad. Acting City Manager Reichert replied the City was awaiting the final inspection. Councilmember Polk stated she desired to charge for boat trailer parking at the Laishley Park Marina. She then noted Trabue Avenue, which was just recently repaired, was already washing out again. She suggested a long-term solution be identified. Acting City Manager Reichert stated staff were examining options for charging for boat ramp parking. She noted Mr. Everts had a comprehensive plan for paving that would be brought forward as well.

Mayor Lux stated there was a home in a state of disrepair on West Marion Avenue as well. She then expressed dismay regarding negative rumors and comments on social media, speaking in favor of working together to strengthen the City. She commented positively on Mr. Tom Spencer’s StoryMap on utilities infrastructure, opining same was a valuable educational tool. 10) PUBLIC INPUT 10.a Anyone wishing to address the Council on any matter must state their name for the record. Each person will be allowed to speak up to a maximum of three minutes. Mr. Gary Skillicorn suggested City Council listen to the prior meetings where installation of a Huey helicopter at Veterans Park was discussed. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 12:20 p.m.