HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 12.12.2023M
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BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
ST. LUCIE COUNTY, FLORIDA
Regular Meeting
AMENDED
December 12, 2023 Convened: 1:00 PM
Adj ourned: 2:10 PM
1. CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 1:00 PM by Vice -Chair Chris Dzadovsky, District No. 1.
Commissioner Cathy Townsend District 5, Commissioner Linda Bartz District 3, Commissioner Chris
Dzadovsky District 1, Commissioner Larry Leet District 2, Commissioner Jamie Fowler District 4
Also Present
Dan McIntyre, County Attorney
George Landry, County Administrator
Mayte Santamaria, Deputy County Administrator
Jason Davis, Deputy County Administrator
Michelle R. Miller, St. Lucie County Clerk and Comptroller
Chris Craft, St. Lucie County Tax Collector
Thad Crowe, Planning & Development Services Senior Planner
Grant Chambers, Planning & Development Services Senior Project Engineer
Barbara Guettler, Public Works MSBU Coordinator
Kori Benton, Planning & Development Services Planning Manager
Benjamin Balcer, Planning & Development Services Director
Adolfo Covelli, Transit Director
Katrina Slay, Agenda Coordinator
Vera Smith, Deputy Clerk Recording Secretary
2. INVOCATION
The County Administrator led the invocation.
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
4. RECESS FOR SPECIAL DISTRICT MEETINGS
Erosion District Meeting
Mosquito Control District Meeting
BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, December 12, 2023
1:00 PM
S. APPROVAL OF AGENDA - ADDITIONS, DELETIONS, REVISIONS
A motion was made to approve all additions, deletions, and revisions to the agenda, and it passed
unanimously.
RESULT:
APPROVE
MOVER:
Commissioner District 4 Jamie Fowler
SECONDER:
Commissioner District 3 Linda Bartz
AYES:
Cathy Townsend, Linda Bartz, Chris Dzadovsky, Larry Leet, Jamie Fowler
NAYS:
None
EXCUSED:
None
6. PRESENTATIONS
A. Clerk and Comptroller Excess Fee Check Presentation - Michelle Miller, St. Lucie County Clerk of the Circuit
Court.
Michelle Miller, Clerk & Comptroller, presented a check for $530,251.13 in excess fees for Fiscal
Year 2023. She was accompanied by her staff who helped throughout the year with various
initiatives. Clerk Miller also updated the Board on the year's accomplishments, including grant
funding to provide online access to historical documents from 1905 to 1960 and another grant for
a large cybersecurity upgrade.
B. Tax Collector Excess Fee Check Presentation — Chris Craft, St. Lucie County Tax Collector
Chris Craft, Tax Collector for St. Lucie County, presented the board with a check for $2,599,627.41
in excess fees for services such as tax collection, driver's license issuance, registration renewal, title
processing, etc.
C. Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged Award
David Darm, Executive Director of the Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged (CTD),
and Adolfo Covelli, Transit Director presented to the Board an overview of the Transportation
Disadvantaged Program. Chapter 427, Florida Statutes, defines the Transportation Disadvantaged
as older adults, individuals with disabilities, persons with low income, or at -risk children who
cannot transport themselves or purchase transportation. They are dependent upon others to
obtain access to health care, employment, education, shopping, social, and other life -sustaining
activities. Some of these individuals may have access to limited transportation options in their
community. For example, if enrolled in Medicaid, they may have transportation to medical
appointments, but not necessarily options to access grocery shopping or employment.
The program was created by the Florida Legislature in 1979, to establish a coordinated
transportation system fully responsive to the needs of the disadvantaged population. The
Legislature recognized that the availability of public transportation services was limited to large
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BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, December 12, 2023
1:00 PM
metropolitan communities and not generally conducive to the needs of persons with disabilities
and older adults. The program is implemented at the local level by three primary entities. The
program also works with state and local partners, including the Florida Department of
Transportation (FDOT), to coordinate funding and purchase trips through the coordinated system.
Coordination is the arrangement of transportation in a cost-effective, efficient manner that
reduces fragmentation and duplication of services. An individual may have access to medical
transportation through Medicaid but requires another funding source to access employment.
Paratransit is demand -response trips that are not sponsored by any other agency or provided as an
extension of the fixed -route system and may be purchased under the Transportation
Disadvantaged Trust Fund. If Transportation Disadvantaged riders are physically able to access the
fixed -route system, the funds may be used to purchase bus passes, more cost-effectively than
paratransit services. The Commission administers the TD Trust Fund and distributes the funding
each year appropriated by the legislature through its grant programs. This includes non -sponsored
trips funded under the TD Trust Fund and the development of the Transportation
Disadvantaged Service Plan under the planning grant. Each year, CTCs are required to submit an
Annual Operating Report (AOR) on trips and other operating data, which are then compiled within
the Commission's Annual Performance Report to the Governor and Legislature on January 1st each
yea r.
The Transportation Disadvantaged Trust Fund is established in Chapter 427.0159, FS, and consists
entirely of state revenues, no federal dollars. The largest share of revenue comes from the $1.50
when Florida residents renew their vehicle registration. FDOT contributes 15% of its block grant to
the Transportation Disadvantaged Trust Fund as well as transfers $1.4 million each year to support
the purchase of capital equipment. Each year, the Commission receives legislative budget authority
through the General Appropriations Act to distribute TD Trust Fund dollars through its four grant
programs. The Trip & Equipment (T&E) Grant is a formula -based program that allocates funding to
all 67 counties to deliver Transportation Disadvantaged non -sponsored services for the state fiscal
year July 1—June 30. After funding is allocated and grant agreements are executed for the fiscal
year. Funding that is not spent by the end of the fiscal year is reverted to the Transportation
Disadvantaged Trust Fund and re -appropriated for a future year. Funding that is not spent by the
end of the fiscal year is reverted to the TD Trust Fund and re -appropriated for a future year.
In conclusion, Mr. Darm shared information regarding some upcoming events for 2024 and
highlighted the Legislative Budget Request for a $5 million increase to the Transportation
Disadvantaged Trust Fund, including $4M to the Innovative Service Development Grant.
The Develop of a Five -Year Transportation Disadvantaged Plan (s. 427.013(15), FS), solicit
stakeholder input throughout the process. The improved accuracy and analysis of performance
data reported to CTD. The review and streamline quality assurance process of CTCs and Planners
TD Day at the Florida Capitol in Tallahassee on January 18, 2024, and the Annual Training
Workshop in West Palm Beach on September 23-25, 2024. Lastly, he thanked St. Lucie County for
being an engaged and dedicated partner of the Transportation Disadvantaged program and
advised for more information, visit the website at Florida Commission for the Transportation
Disadvantaged - Home (fdot.gov)
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BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, December 12, 2023 1:00 PM
7. PUBLIC COMMENT (excluding Public Hearing Items)
Chair Townsend opened the meeting for public comment at this time. The following people addressed the
Board. With no one wishing to address the Board, Chair Townsend closed public comment.
8. PROCLAMATIONS APPROVAL
There were no items scheduled.
9. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A motion was made to approve all minute sets, and it passed unanimously.
RESULT:
APPROVE
MOVER:
Commissioner District 3 Linda Bartz
SECONDER:
Commissioner District 2 Larry Leet
AYES:
Cathy Townsend, Linda Bartz, Chris Dzadovsky, Larry Leet, Jamie Fowler
NAYS:
None
EXCUSED:
None
A. Board of County Commissioners minutes for the BOCC Informal Meeting of November 7, 2023.
10. CONSENT AGENDA
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RESULT:
APPROVE
MOVER:
Commissioner District 3 Linda Bartz
SECONDER:
Commissioner District 4 Jamie Fowler
AYES:
Cathy Townsend, Linda Bartz, Chris Dzadovsky, Larry Leet, Jamie Fowler
NAYS:
None
EXCUSED:
None
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1. Warrant Lists 9
Adopted by Consent Vote
B. ADMINISTRATION
1. Letter of Support - City of Fort Pierce Proposal for Treasure Coast Brightline Station - ADD ON
Staff recommended Board approval for the Chair to sign documents as approved by the County
Attorney.
Adopted by Consent Vote
C. COUNTY ATTORNEY
1. Revocable License Agreement - Sneed Road - South Florida Water Management District
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South Florida Water Management District is requesting a Revocable License Agreement to install two
(2) 96" pipes across the County right-of-way of Sneed Road. They understand that if the County
Engineer determines the installation is causing flooding, drainage problems, or for other needs in the
area, the installation will need to be removed or relocated at their expense.
Engineering, Road & Bridge, and Water Quality have reviewed the revocable license agreement and
have no objections.
Staff recommended the Board approve the revocable license agreement, authorize the Chair to sign
the agreement, and direct the South Florida Water Management District pay to record the agreement
in the public records of St. Lucie County, Florida.
Adopted by Consent Vote
2. Revocable License Agreement - Temporary Utility Service Notification Signs for Fort Pierce Utilities
Authority (FPUA) Gas Expansion and Installation of Gas Main in County Rights -of -Way
FPUA is requesting a Revocable License Agreement to install to install temporary utility service
notification signs ("signs") in County rights -of -way to promote FPUA's gas expansion. FPUA has also
requested to install approximately 8 miles of 4", 6", and 8" gas main ("utility installation") in County
rights -of -way, through open trench and horizontal directional drilling. They understand that if the
County Engineer determines the signs or utility installation are causing flooding, drainage problems,
reduction of visibility in the right-of-way, or for other needs in the area, the signs and utility
installation will need to be removed or relocated at their expense.
Administration, Public Works, and Utilities have reviewed the Revocable License Agreement and have
no objections.
Staff recommended the Board approve the Revocable License Agreement, authorize the Chair to sign
the agreement, and direct staff to record the agreement in the public records of St. Lucie County,
Florida.
Adopted by Consent Vote
3. Adoption of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Cybersecurity Framework
Staff recommended the Board approve the adoption of the National Institute of Standards and
Technology Cybersecurity Framework and authorize the Chief Information Officer to affirm via the
Florida Digital Service online portal before the January 1, 2024 deadline that standards have been
adopted.
Adopted by Consent Vote
4. Proposed Interlocal Agreement - Fiscal Agent Services for the State Attorney's Victim Services
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BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, December 12, 2023
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Department
Staff recommended the Board approve the Interlocal Agreement and authorize the Chair to sign the
agreement subject to final review and approval of the County Attorney.
Adopted by Consent Vote
Revocable License Agreement - 179 SE Placita Court - River Park - Unit 7 - Nick Daniel Joshua Adorno
and Brittany C. Adorno - Parcel ID 3419-550-0136-000-7
Mr. and Mrs. Adorno are requesting a Revocable License Agreement to install a 6' wood fence with a
gate along the west side of the property, within the County's 6' Drainage/Utility Easement and a 6'
wood fence along the north side of the property, within the County's 10' Drainage/Utility Easement
per the Plat recorded in Plat Book 12, Page 41. They understand if the County Engineer determines the
fence and gate are causing flooding, drainage problems, or for other needs in the area, the fence and
gate will need to be removed or relocated at their expense.
Engineering, Road & Bridge, Water Quality, and the City of Port Saint Lucie have reviewed the
revocable license agreement and have no objections.
Staff recommended the Board approve the revocable license agreement, authorize the Chair to sign
the agreement and direct Mr. and Mrs. Adorno pay to record the agreement in the public records of
St. Lucie County, Florida.
Adopted by Consent Vote
D. ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES
1. Myers Stickle Unique Abilities Preserve Florida Department of Environmental Protection Legislative
Appropriation Grant
Staff recommended Board acceptance of the State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection
Legislative Appropriations Grant L2310 for the development of project elements for the Myers Stickle
Preserve for Persons with Unique Abilities in the amount of $800,000 and authorization for the Chair
to sign the grant document as approved by the County Attorney.
Adopted by Consent Vote
2. Bid No. 24-001 Award for Outdoor Classroom Pavilion at Oxbow Eco-Center
Staff recommended Board approval of 24-001 bid award to the lowest responsive and responsible
bidder, Jim's Complete Construction, in the amount of $78,074.00 to permit and construct the
prefabricated pavilion, and authorization for the Chair to sign the documents as approved by the
County Attorney.
Adopted by Consent Vote
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BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, December 12, 2023 1:00 PM
E. HUMAN RESOURCES
1. Termination (Without Cause) of April 1, 2023 Agreement with FMLASource, Inc.
Staff recommended that the Board exercise its right under Section 2a of the April 1, 2023 agreement
with FMLASource, Inc. to terminate the agreement without cause by providing one hundred twenty
(120) calendar days prior written notice.
Adopted by Consent Vote
F. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
1. Vulnerability Management Services and Software with Kudelski Security
Staff recommended Board approval of the bid waiver and permission to enter into the software and
services agreement with Kudelski Security for three years in the amount of $347,400.00 and
authorization for the Chair to sign documents as approved by the County Attorney.
Adopted by Consent Vote
G. PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
1. South Florida Logistics Center 95 Plat
Staff recommended the Board approve the plat, authorizing the Chair and Staff to sign documents as
approved by the County Attorney's office including the associated Subdivision Improvement
Agreement.
Adopted by Consent Vote
1. Senate Bill 4-A Waiver Program for Local Match Requirements for Public Assistance
Staff recommended the Board acceptance of the Agreement for Waiver of Local Match Requirements
for Public Assistance for Hurricane Ian and Hurricane Nicole (SB4A Waiver) and authorization for the
Chair to sign documents as approved by the County Attorney.
Adopted by Consent Vote
2. 2023 Statewide Mutual Aid Agreement (SMAA) and Resolution - UPDATED
Staff recommended Board approval of the updated 2023 Statewide Mutual Aid Agreement and
authorization for the Chair to sign documents as approved by the County Attorney.
Adopted by Consent Vote
I. PUBLIC UTILITIES
1. Sale of 2 x M&J 8 Knife Cutting Tables from the St. Lucie County Solid Waste Operation
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BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, December 12, 2023 1:00 PM
Staff recommended the Board authorize staff to enter into a sales agreement with eFACTOR3 LLC to
buy back the 2 x M&J 8 knife cutting tables from the St. Lucie County Solid Waste Operation "as is
where is" for the total amount of US $200,000.00 FCA Fort Pierce, FL and authorization for the Chair to
sign documents as approved by the County Attorney.
Adopted by Consent Vote
J. PUBLIC WORKS
1. Award of Bid No. 24-008 - Construction of the Melville Road Drainage Improvements Phase II Project -
THIS ITEM IS RELATED TO THE AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN
Staff recommended Board approval of the Bid Award to MJC Land Development, LLC. with a total bid
amount of $1,273,648.20 for the Melville Road Drainage Improvements, Phase II project and authorize
the chair to sign documents approved by the County Attorney.
Adopted by Consent Vote
Chair Townsend commented on this item.
2. Approval of a Work Authorization No. 01 with Ecological Associates, Inc. (EAI) for Artificial Reef
Monitoring
Staff recommended Board approve Work Authorization No. 1 for $61,120.00 with EAI and
authorization for the Chair to sign documents as approved by the County Attorney.
Adopted by Consent Vote
3. Enter into Local Agency Program (LAP) Agreement with and Approve the Florida Department of
Transportation (FDOT) for the construction of the Walton Road Sidewalk (SE Lennard Road to SE Green
River Parkway) project and Adopt Resolution No. 2023-221
Staff recommended that the Board adopt Resolution No. 2023-221 and authorize the Chair to sign the
FDOT Local Agency Program Agreement, FPN 448308-1-58-01 as approved by the County Attorney.
Adopted by Consent Vote
K. TRANSIT
1. Interlocal Agreement between the Fort Pierce Redevelopment Agency (FPRA) and St. Lucie County
This Interlocal Agreement would be a partnership to receive a grant from the Florida Department of
Transportation (FDOT) for the on -demand transportation service currently run by Freebee. The
County would accept and manage the FDOT grant and the FPRA will provide the service and the
County's Transit Department will handle all invoicing, quarterly reports, and any other items that FDOT
may require.
Staff recommended Board approval of the Interlocal Agreement between the Fort Pierce
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Redevelopment Agency (FPRA) and the County to manage a Florida Department of Transportation
(FDOT) Service Development Grant and authorization for the chair to sign documents as approved by
the County Attorney.
Adopted by Consent Vote
Choir Townsend commented on this item.
11. PUBLIC HEARINGS
Changes were made to the order of agenda items during the meeting.
A. COUNTY ATTORNEY
1. An Ordinance Amending Section 2-115 of the St. Lucie County Code "Administration" to Change the
Administrator of the County's Deferred Compensation Program From TIAA CREF to Lincoln Retirement
Services Company, LLC
Dan McIntyre, County Attorney, presented this item to the Board. The amendment of the County code to
change the administrator of the County Deferred Compensation Program. The current Deferred Compensation
Administrator is TIAA CREF, and the proposed replacement will be Lincoln Retirement Services Company, LLC.
Counties were authorized by state law to enroll in Deferred Compensation Programs, which the County did in
1983. In 2013, the administrator was changed to TIAA, and recently they notified the County that it no longer
desired to service the County's account. As a result, the Deferred Compensation Committee, comprised of
Constitutional Officers and County staff, requested proposals from firms interested in providing administrative
services. The committee ultimately ranked Lincoln Retirement Services Company LLC., as the top -ranked firm.
Based on the recommendation and independent consultant AnclCo Consultants, staff recommended in the
interest of the officers and County employees to change the administrator to Lincoln Retirement Services
Company LLC. Permission to advertise was granted by the Board, and the hearing item was published in the St.
Lucie Tribune on November 29, 2023. Staff recommended that the Board adopt the ordinance and authorize
the Chair to sign the ordinance.
Chair Townsend opened the hearing for public comment at this time. With no one wishing to address the
Board, Chair Townsend closed the public hearing.
The Board did not have any questions or comments on this item.
A motion was made to approve staff recommendations, and it passed unanimously.
RESULT:
APPROVE
MOVER:
Commissioner District 2 Larry Leet
SECONDER:
Commissioner District 4 Jamie Fowler
AYES:
Cathy Townsend, Linda Bartz, Chris Dzadovsky, Larry Leet, Jamie Fowler
NAYS:
None
EXCUSED:
None
B. PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
1. Adoption of County Initiated Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map Amendment to Designate +/-
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862.4 acres as CPUB (Conservation Public)
Thad Crowe, Senior Planner, and Kori Benton, Planning Manager of Planning & Development Services
presented this item to the Board. The re -adoption of the future land use map amendment for a conservation
public land owned by the County totaling 862 acres. A public hearing notice was advertised according to the
statute, including courtesy mailed notices. On September 19, 2023, the Board held an adoption hearing and
voted unanimously to adopt the amendment. On September 29, 2023, the amendment was transmitted to the
Florida Department of Commerce, with an updated executed ordinance provided on October 19, 2023. On
November 9, 2023, the Florida Department of Commerce notified the County that it had not met the deadline
of submitting the executed ordinance 10 working days after the adoption hearing and advised the County Staff
to re -adopt the amendment. Staff advised there have been no changes to the ordinance. Staff recommended
the Board adopt the amendment to the Future Land Use Map for 12 parcels to Conservation Public (CPUB).
Chair Townsend opened the hearing for public comment at this time. With no one wishing to address the
Board, Chair Townsend closed the public hearing.
The Board did not have any questions or comments on this item.
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RESULT:
APPROVE
MOVER:
Commissioner District 4 Jamie Fowler
SECONDER:
Commissioner District 3 Linda Bartz
AYES:
Cathy Townsend, Linda Bartz, Chris Dzadovsky, Larry Leet, Jamie Fowler
NAYS:
None
EXCUSED:
None
2. Lennar's Petition for a Land Development Code Text Amendment to LDC Sections 2.00.00 and
11.03.00. to Define and Expand the Allowance for Dry Model Development
Thad Crowe, Senior Planner, and Kori Benton, Planning Manager of Planning & Development Services
presented this item to the Board. Lennar Homes, Inc. has proposed a Text Amendment to the County's
platting requirements. The amendment seeks to increase the number of dry model homes, which do not
require connection to water and/or sewer lines, the current unit limit is 4. The amendment would define dry
model homes and allow for a proportional number of dry model homes greater than 4 or 10%, whichever is
greater, and includes safeguards for the County requiring a surety that would allow for the removal of
models in the event of project abandonment or default. The proposed definition:
"A residential structure that shall be constructed in accordance with the ordinances and requirements of St.
Lucie County, but which has not connected to some or all utility services."
The permit is to be issued after approval of a Preliminary Record plat and construction plans, but before
approval of a Final Record Plat, for the construction of the dry models. In no event shall the dry model(s) be
issued provided no certificate of occupancy is issued before recordation of the Final Plat, utility service
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verification, and completion of necessary infrastructure to support the function. Dry model homes shall be
oriented to locations more quickly accessible to primary road access and future utility services, where
applicable. Upon recordation of the Final Plat, the dry model agreement will sunset, and the surety will be
released.
Staff recommended the Board review the Amendment and schedule the second public hearing on January 9,
2024, at 6:00 PM or a meeting soon thereafter.
Chair Townsend opened the hearing for public comment at this time. With no one wishing to address the
Board, Chair Townsend closed the public hearing.
The Board did not have any questions or comments on this item.
A motion was made to approve staff recommendations, and it passed unanimously.
RESULT:
APPROVE 1ST READING
MOVER:
Commissioner District 4 Jamie Fowler
SECONDER:
Commissioner District 2 Larry Leet
AYES:
Cathy Townsend, Linda Bartz, Chris Dzadovsky, Larry Leet, Jamie Fowler
NAYS:
None
EXCUSED:
None
3. N. Header Canal Road & Schumann Road - FP&L's Road Paving Waiver Request - THIS ITEM IS QUASI-
JUDICIAL
*Resolution # 2024-541 assigned post meeting. *
This public hearing was Quasi -Judicial, and the commissioners made the following disclosures regarding this
item:
Commissioner Jamie Fowler - Spoke with staff and Dennis Murphy.
Commissioner Linda Bartz - Spoke with staff only.
Commissioner Larry Leet- Spoke with staff only.
Commissioner Chris Dzadovsky - Spoke with staff only.
Chair Cathy Townsend - Spoke with staff only.
Thad Crowe, Senior Planner, of Planning & Development Services, Grant Chambers, Senior Project Engineer,
and Kori Benton, Planning Manager of Planning & Development Services presented this item to the Board.
The FPL Sunbreak Road Paving Waiver site plan requests the development of 224 acres into an electric
substation and supporting infrastructure. A public hearing notice was placed in the newspaper and mail
notices were sent to property owners in the zoning area. The site is located on the Florida Turnpike and the
Belcher Canal, and the site is accessed from Orange Avenue via North Header Canal and Schumann Roads,
which access the FPL property where private roads will be constructed for construction and maintenance
traffic. The substation will be unmanned. North Header Canal Road and Schumann Road are owned and
maintained by the County but are unpaved. Per the County's land development codes, projects on
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1:00 PM
unimproved roadways seeking site plan approval are required to provide paved access to the project. To
obtain the road paving waiver, the Board has set certain requirements that must be fulfilled, including
paving which is not essential to provide adequate road access. The applicant requests a waiver of the fair
share contribution to the estimated $423k improvements to North. Header Canal Road and Schumann Road.
Any improvements needed to complete and maintain vehicle access to a substation, during and after
construction, shall be reviewed and approved by the County Engineer before issuance of the site
development permit.
Staff recommended the Board approve the Waiver of Road Paving for the public and private roads providing
access to the proposed Sunbreak electric substation. Staff recommended approval of a waiver of road
paving and provision of a fair share contribution with the following conditions:
• The current and future owners and their heirs/assigns agree to participate and shall be a "yes" vote
in any lawfully established MSTU, MSBU, or other special assessment district created for the purpose
of providing paving and/or drainage improvements to Schumann Road.
• Improvements to N. Header Canal Road and Schumann Road to support construction vehicle access
to the site shall be reviewed and approved by the County Engineer prior to issuance of a site
development permit.
Commissioner Dzadovsky inquired if the Fire Department examined the proposal's access point given the
substation and power. Staff advised the Fire District serves on the Development Review Committee and has
been consulted. The Board did not have any further questions or comments on this item.
Chair Townsend opened the hearing for public comment at this time. The following people addressed the
Board.
• Dennis Murphy
With no one else wishing to address the Board, Chair Townsend closed the public hearing.
a. motion was made to approve statt recommendations, including conditions, and it passed unanimous
RESULT: APPROVE
MOVER: Commissioner District 1 Chris Dzadovsky
SECONDER: Commissioner District 3 Linda Bartz
AYES: Cathy Townsend, Linda Bartz, Chris Dzadovsky, Larry Leet, Jamie Fowler
NAYS: None
EXCUSED: None
C. PUBLIC WORKS
1. Culvert 2023-10 Municipal Services Benefit Unit - Assessment Resolution
Barbara Guettler, Public Works MSBU Coordinator, presented this item to the Board. In 2021, the Board
created a Culvert Assistance Program to which eligible property owners can apply for and receive funding to
improve or repair culverts and then repay this funding through the imposition of a non -ad valorem special
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1:00 PM
assessment. The proposed resolution is the assessment resolution as required by the County's Ordinance. The
purpose of this resolution relates to the imposition and collection of special assessments to fund stormwater
culvert improvements within the MSBU to determine that real property therein will be specially benefitted,
establish the method of assessing the cost of the improvements, and approve the assessment roll.
Staff recommended Board approval of Resolution No. 2023-225, the Culvert 2023-10 MSBU Final Assessment
Resolution, and authorization for the Chair to sign documents as approved by the County Attorney.
Chair Townsend opened the hearing for public comment at this time. With no one wishing to address the
Board, Chair Townsend closed the public hearing.
The Board did not have any questions or comments on this item.
A motion was made to approve staff recommendations, and it passed unanimously.
RESULT:
APPROVE
MOVER:
Commissioner District 3 Linda Bartz
SECONDER:
Commissioner District 2 Larry Leet
AYES:
Cathy Townsend, Linda Bartz, Chris Dzadovsky, Larry Leet, Jamie Fowler
NAYS:
None
EXCUSED:
None
12. REGULAR AGENDA
Changes were made to the order of agenda items during the meeting.
A. COUNTY ATTORNEY
1. Interlocal Agreement - Inmate Medical - ADD ON
Dan McIntyre, County Attorney, and George Landry, County Administrator, presented this item to the
Board. The St. Lucie County Sheriff has been designated as the County's Chief Correctional Officer and has
been charged with responsibility for the care, custody, and control of jail inmates, including managing the
healthcare delivery system at the jail. The Sheriff entered into an agreement for inmate healthcare services
with Wellpath, LLC effective March 31, 2021, to provide inmate healthcare services. The County and Sheriff's
staff discussed assigning inmate medical services to the County. From the County staff perspective, the
proposed assignment makes sense as the County is ultimately responsible for funding the cost of inmate
medical care. The proposed Interlocal Agreement with the Sheriff provides for the transfer of managing
inmate medical services to the County. This will be contingent upon the Sheriff assigning the agreement to
the County with the current vendor on or before February 1, 2024. The Interlocal Agreement would also
provide for a reduction in the Sheriff's budget equal to the amount of the Wellpath, LLC agreement which is
indicated in the Sheriff's fiscal year 2024 budget.
Staff recommended that the Board approve the proposed Interlocal Agreement and authorize the Chair to
sign the Interlocal Agreement. Staff also requested the Board to approve the creation of two positions to
manage the performance of the inmate's medical expenses.
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George Landry, County Administrator, commented on the partnership with the Sheriff's office and the Board
creating savings in terms of tax dollars.
The Board did not have any questions or comments on this item.
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RESULT:
APPROVE
MOVER:
Commissioner District 2 Larry Leet
SECONDER:
Commissioner District 3 Linda Bartz
AYES:
Cathy Townsend, Linda Bartz, Chris Dzadovsky, Larry Leet, Jamie Fowler
NAYS:
None
EXCUSED:
None
2. Permission to Advertise - Ordinance Amending the Airport Minimum Standards - ADD ON
Dan McIntyre, County Attorney, presented this item to the Board. The request to advertise the amendment
of airport minimum standards, which was recently amended in 2007 and originally adopted in 1982. County
staff have been working with the County's special counsel and airport consultants to update the standards.
The proposed revisions for consideration include provisions for rules, regulatory measures, minimum
standards for airport operators and tenants, security, use and conduct, insurance, prohibited activities,
violations, operations, maintenance, storage, etc. The draft will be circulated to existing and prospective
tenants for review, and meetings or discussions will be scheduled as needed with airport staff and
administration to address any issues. The process for adoption will require a public hearing. Staff will try to
meet with tenants concerned about the changes before the public hearing.
Staff recommended that the Board grant permission to advertise a public hearing to consider the adoption
of an ordinance proposing changes to the County's Airport General Provisions, Rules and Regulations, and
Minimum Standards. In advance of the public hearing, staff recommended that the Board direct staff to
provide a copy of the proposed changes to the Airport's existing tenants for review and comment and meet
with tenants as needed to discuss any issues or concerns.
Commissioner Dzadovsky discussed the potential for economic growth in the community, which could
create job opportunities, increase revenue, and ultimately lead to lower millage rates and better access to
resources. The Board did not have any further questions or comments on this item.
A motion was made to approve staff recommendations, and it passed unanimously.
RESULT: APPROVE
IMOVER: Commissioner District 1 Chris Dzadovsky
SECONDER: Commissioner District 2 Larry Leet
AYES: Cathy Townsend, Linda Bartz, Chris Dzadovsky, Larry Leet, Jamie Fowler
NAYS: None
1 EXCUSED: None
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BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, December 12, 2023
1:00 PM
B. PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
1. Historic Preservation Ad -Valorem Tax Abatement Request - Improvements to 2601 N. Indian River
Drive.
Kori Benton, Planning & Development Services Planning Manager, presented this item to the Board. The
property owners' request for historic preservation ad valorem tax exemption for rehabilitative improvements
is located at 2601N. Indian River Drive in St. Lucie Village. The property was originally developed in 1902 and
was known as St. Lucie Club, but more recently, it has been called Grimes House. St Lucie Village is on the
National Register of Historic Places as an established district contributing to the structure that was originally
built for US Senator Quay of Pennsylvania and Friends developed as a political retreat. The development is
designed to accommodate 8 to 10 units of apartments for short-term and long-term stays. The applicants
invested several dollars to replace wood features, decks, and stairs to preserve the historical resources long-
term. The County has introduced an ordinance that allows property owners to apply for a Florida Tax
Exemption for the rehabilitation improvements made on their property. If certain criteria are met, property
owners can claim a tax exemption of up to 100% of the increase in assessed value associated with the
specific improvements. This does not include the existing structural value but the new investment and
supporting the preservation of the historic structure. It only applies to the County's General Fund taxing
assessment, which is currently at 4.27 Mills, either from the prior year or the recent reduction adopted by
the Board.
The proposed request would specifically apply to any increase in the assessed value of the structure, not the
land applicable to the County's general fund. The structure of the exemption is not dissimilar to the City of
Fort Pierce and the City of Port St. Lucie Community Redevelopment Areas that have supported infill
rehabilitation of some urban and historic areas. The City of Fort Pierce has established a tax abatement
program for historic preservation as well. The St. Lucie County Historical Commission at their October 5,
2023, meeting reviewed and unanimously passed a motion to recommend approval. Staff recommended the
Board authorize the Tax Abatement Program for 10 years as eligible, requiring the recorded resolution and a
covenant that the applicant has signed, which guarantees that the improvements made to the historical
resource remain in place and intact, and not be destroyed. The staff has estimated that the potential ad
valorem tax savings against future increases in the assessed value of the building based on the improvements
is projected between $0-$250 annually.
Staff recommended the Board approve Resolution 2023-226, authorizing the Chair to sign documents as
approved by the County Attorney's Office.
Chair Townsend asked if the property tax would still apply to the land and house values at the time of
purchase, although the exemption was for home improvements. Staff advised yes, the evaluation in the tax
assessment factors in the land and structural value. It applies only to the structural and increased value
correlating with the historical preservation -related improvements.
Chair Townsend also mentioned that the home may be torn down by the owner and requested that language
be added. Staff advised owners have submitted a signed covenant in agreement to abide by the Florida
Administrative Code for the program.
15 1 P a g
BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, December 12, 2023
1:00 PM
The Board did not have any further questions or comments on this item.
A motion was made to approve staff recommendations, and it passed unanimously.
RESULT:
APPROVE
MOVER:
Commissioner District 4 Jamie Fowler
SECONDER:
Commissioner District 3 Linda Bartz
AYES:
Cathy Townsend, Linda Bartz, Chris Dzadovsky, Larry Leet, Jamie Fowler
NAYS:
None
EXCUSED:
None
2. Administrative Approval Update from the PDS Director
Benjamin Balcer, Planning & Development Services Director, presented a brief presentation on the
Planning & Development Services monthly update on development applications that received
administrative approval through the department. This discussion focused on approvals that
occurred in November.
• Contender Boats Minor Site Plan
• United Teleports — Major Adjustment to Minor Site Plan
• APP Jet Center — Major Adjustment to Minor Site Plan
• Mainstreet Village Phase 1— Minor Site Plan
• Mulberry Self -Storage — Minor Site Plan
• Avanti Storage — Minor Site Plan
• Evans Properties Inc. Telecom Tower — Minor Site Plan
The purpose was to notify the Board of projects that qualified for administrative approval. This
item was presented to the Board for informational purposes only.
13. ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. County offices will be closed in observance of Christmas on Monday, December 25 & Tuesday, December
26, 2023.
B. County offices will be closed in observance of New Year's Day on Monday, January 1, 2024.
Chair Townsend mentioned an informal meeting in February to discuss the Request for Proposal (RFP) for
the port and airport.
14. MOTION TO ADJOURN
With no other information to be brought for consideration before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at
2:10 PM.
16 1
BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, December 12, 2023
1:00 PM
Please note: Final minutes are recorded in the official minute books filed with the Clerk of the Circuit Court
and available for inspection upon request.
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