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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 07.24.2018S■TkOL■NIAM COUNTY F L o R I D A BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ST. LUCIE COUNTY, FLORIDA Regular Meeting July 24, 2018 Convened: 9:02 AM Adjourned: 12:30 PM 1. CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 9:02 AM by District No. 4, Chair Frannie Hutchinson Attendee Name 1W Title Status Arrived District No. 4, Chair Present 9:00 AM District No. 3, Vice -Chair Present 9:00 AM District No. 1 Present 9:00 AM Frannie Hutchinson Linda Bartz Chris Dzadovsky Anthony Bonna District No. 2 Present 9:00 AM Cathy Townsend District No. 5 Present 9:00 AM Howard Tipton Administrator Present 9:00 AM Daniel S. McIntyre County Attorney Present 9:00 AM Jeffrey Bremer Deputy Administrator Present 9:00 AM Jennifer Hill Office of Management and Budget Director Present 9:00 AM Sophia Holt Budget Manager Present 9:00 AM Stan Payne Director of Port & Airport Present 9:00 AM Peter Jones Business Navigator Present 9:00 AM Ken J. Mascara Sheriff Present 9:00 AM Ron Roberts Director of Public Utilities Present 9:00 AM Kori Benton Planning Support Coordinator Present 9:00 AM Brittany Jones Recording Secretary Present 9:00 AM 2. INVOCATION The County Administrator led the invocation. Generated 71311201812:50 PM Regular Meeting Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:00 AM 3. :j 5. M PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. Board of County Commissioners minutes for the meeting of Tuesday, July 10, 2018 RESULT: ACCEPTED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Cathy Townsend, District No. 5 SECONDER: Linda Bartz, District No. 3, Vice -Chair AYES: Hutchinson, Bartz, Dzadovsky, Bonna, Townsend PROCLAMATIONS APPROVAL A. Adoption of a resolution designating the week of July 23 through 29, 2018 as "Treasure Coast Waterway Cleanup Week" and Saturday, July 28, 2018 as "Treasure Coast Waterway Cleanup Day" in St. Lucie County, Florida. The deputy clerk read the proclamation into the record. A motion was made to adopt the resolution and it passed unanimously. Chairman Hutchinson presented the proclamation to Steve Haigis, who appeared on behalf of Marine Industries Association of the Treasure Coast. He accepted the proclamation with gratitude and thanked the Board. RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Anthony Bonna, District No. 2 SECONDER: Linda Bartz, District No. 3, Vice -Chair AYES: Hutchinson, Bartz, Dzadovsky, Bonna, Townsend PUBLIC COMMENT (excluding Public Hearing items) (This item was heard following the Presentation -Item 7.A.) Chairman Hutchinson opened the meeting for public comment at this time. Nyla Pipes from One Florida Foundation spoke in support of ongoing efforts to improve the water quality in St. Lucie County. There being no one further wishing to address the Board, Chairman Hutchinson closed public comment. 2 1 P a g e Regular Meeting Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:00 AM 7. PRESENTATIONS A. Microbial Source Tracking of Bacterial and Nutrient Pollution in St. Lucie County (This item was heard prior to Public Comment -Item 6.) Lynn Wilking, Laboratory Coordinator, began the presentation on bacterial and nutrient pollution in St. Lucie County. She detailed the history of water quality issues with the North Fork and how it led to collaborative efforts for a microbial source tracking study. She explained the multi -prong approach used in the study, detailed the sample sites and study period and presented a breakdown of the detailed findings from the study. Next, Rachel Brewton, Research Coordinator, provided a summary as to the significance of the data. She stated the findings indicate there is wastewater present at the North Fork and tributaries as well as herbicides and pesticides as a result of surficial urban runoff. In conclusion, Ms. Brewton stated the study indicated a number of hot spots where bacterial and nutrient pollution were present and it is advised these be closely monitored moving forward. Lastly, she detailed the recommendations that were included in the report and acknowledged everyone involved in the study. Commissioner Dzadovsky asked a few questions on the quantity of water flow and the effects of input from wastewater treatment plants, facilities that use biosolids and septic material being introduced into ground water. Both Rachel Brewton and Brian Lapointe, Research Professor, provided answers. 8. CONSENT AGENDA Commissioner Townsend asked for clarification on Item 8.V.1. (North County Water & Wastewater Line Extensions Budget Transfer). The County Administrator provided clarification on this item. A motion was made to adopt the consent agenda and it passed unanimously. RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Cathy Townsend, District No. 5 SECONDER: Anthony Bonna, District No. 2 AYES: Hutchinson, Bartz, Dzadovsky, Bonna, Townsend A. WARRANTS 1. Warrant Lists 39 - 41 B. ADMINISTRATION 1. Commissioner Bartz' Appointment to the Tourist Development Council 2. Budget Resolution - Board Acceptance of additional Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) funds for the Treasure Coast International Airport Expansion/Maintenance Repair & Overhaul (MRO) 3 1 P a g e Regular Meeting Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:00 AM C. AIR & SEA PORT There are no items scheduled. D. COUNTY ATTORNEY 1. Declarations of the St. Lucie County Public Safety Director Declaring a State of Local Emergency for Hurricane Irma 2. Revocable License Agreement - Fence - Utility Easement - Holiday Pines Subdivision Phase I - Steven and Sandra Baran - 5309 Echo Pines Circle West - Parcel ID 1312-500- 0157-000-1 3. Resolution - Establishing Parking Regulations for Tax ID # 2403-341-0005-000/6 - 656 N. 2nd Street 4. Permission to Advertise a Proposed Ordinance Amending Section 46-78 Fees for Nonconsentual Towing 5. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) appeal E. COMMUNITY SERVICES There are no items scheduled. F. COURT ADMINISTRATION There are no items scheduled. G. ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES There are no items scheduled. H. FACILITIES 1. TCIA Terminal Building Remediation and Bid Process Waiver I. HUMAN RESOURCES There are no items scheduled. J. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY There are no items scheduled. K. LIBRARY SERVICES There are no items scheduled. 4 1 P a g e Regular Meeting Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:00 AM L. MOSQUITO CONTROL & COASTAL MGMT. SERVICES There are no items scheduled. M. OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT & BUDGET There are no items scheduled. N. PARKS & RECREATION There are no items scheduled. O. PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES 1. Transportation Impact Study Waiver Request for Cristelle Cay Condominium - North Hutchinson Island 2. Resolution - correcting a scrivener's error in the expiration date of Resolution No. 2017- 127 P. PUBLIC SAFETY 1. Resolution - Emergency Management Preparedness and Assistance (EMPA) Trust Fund Program Base Grant 2. Resolution - Emergency Management Preparedness Federally -Funded Grant (EMPG) Q. PUBLIC WORKS 1. Peacock Road at NSLRWCD Canal 78 2. FPL Road Restoration Agreements - Final Acceptance 3. Tropic Supply - Fee -in -Lieu of Sidewalk Construction 4. Prima Vista WaWa - Conditional Acceptance 5. Prima Vista Boulevard Milling and Resurfacing Improvements 6. Property Clean -Up Special Assessment District 7. Resolution - Hurricane Irma - Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) Grant Agreement Verada Ditch & Christensen at Canal 102 R. SHERIFF'S OFFICE 1. Authorization to Accept the 2017 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Local 5 1 P a g e Regular Meeting Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:00 AM S. SOLID WASTE 1. Phase 11113 - Change Order No. 3 T. SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS There are no items scheduled. U. TRANSPORTATION PLANNING ORGANIZATION There are no items scheduled. V. UTILITIES 1. North County Water & Wastewater Line Extensions Budget Transfer 9. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES 1. Crossing Church aka St. James Christian Academy (Educational Services, Grades K-5 & 9-12) - Conditional Use Permit Chairman Hutchinson noted that this item was quasi-judicial and asked for Commissioners' disclosures: • Commissioner Dzadovsky spoke with staff • Commissioner Bonna spoke with staff and the applicant • Commissioner Bartz spoke with staff • Chairman Hutchinson spoke with staff • Commissioner Townsend had no disclosures This item was presented by Kori Benton, Senior Planner from Planning & Development Services. The Crossing, a Network of Community Churches Inc. is requesting a Conditional Use Permit to allow for educational services (Grades K-5, & 9-12), to be provided by St. James' Christian Academy, at an existing church campus established across a +/-9.55 acre property located at 5200 Oleander Avenue, on the east side of Oleander Avenue roughly 0.2 miles south of Midway Road. The subject property is zone I, Institutional and is designated RU (Residential, Urban) on the Future Land Use Map. The surrounding buildings and their zoning designations were detailed. Educational services and facilities are allowed in the Institutional Zoning District as a Conditional Use in accordance to Land Development Code (LDC), Section 3.01.03.X.7.f. The proposed 200 student school would occupy approximately 19,500 s.f. of space, of 6 1 P a g e Regular Meeting Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:00 AM which 8,348 s.f. exists amongst three buildings at the east segment of the site, and 11,152 s.f. of new space proposed via placement of a modular classroom structure on - site. The conditional use plan was overviewed, which included the proposed buildings, drop-off and pick-up site and operation hours. Staff and a private traffic consultant have reviewed the applicant's traffic report and study and concluded it does not provide a level of service impacts to that section of Oleander Ave. On May 17, 2018, the Planning & Zoning Commission unanimously recommended approval of the request, subject to conditions, to the Board of County Commissioners. On July 10, 2018, the Board of County Commissioners unanimously voted to continue the public hearing until the July 24, 2018 meeting at 9:00 am or as soon thereafter. Notices for the public hearing were posted in the local newspaper as well as posted on the property. Additional notification letters for the public hearing were sent out to property owners within 500 feet of the property. Staff worked with various departments to allow approval of the Conditional Use permit subject to the following conditions: • The number of students at any given time, on -site shall not exceed 200 • The hours of operation shall not extend beyond Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. Annual or bi-annual school events such as Open House and Graduation may be considered an exception to general operational hours • The applicant shall maintain arrival and dismissal times to reflect a minimum separation of thirty minutes between White City Elementary and Sun Grove Montessori School, incorporating greater deviation than currently presented • Prior to occupancy, the applicant shall complete sidewalk, landscaping, and ADA accessible improvements presented within the Conditional Use Plan • Prior to beginning the 2018/2019 school year, the applicant shall incorporate an off-street loading space in accordance with LDC Section 7.06.02.A.3.b • A bicycle rack shall be provided on -site prior to the beginning of the 2018/2019 school year • Directional signs shall be installed as needed to delineate drive -aisles and routes designated for student delivery and pick-up prior to the beginning of the 2018/2019 school year • The proposed modular classroom structure shall be removed, appropriately modified, or replaced with a structure compliant with the Community Architectural Guidelines adopted within LDC Section 7.10.24 within 5 years of a certificate of occupancy 7 1 P a g E Regular Meeting Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:00 AM • A drop off circle at the east end of the parking lot shall be completed as part of phase 1 for the 2018 school year. Final paving must be completed prior to January 1, 2019 • Draft plans for a cross access driveway to the Covenant Reform Site to the north shall be submitted to the County for review by January 1, 2019, pending the approval for the Covenant Reform site • Construction of a cross access driveway shall be completed by the beginning of the 2019 school year. The cross access driveway shall be a minimum of 14 feet and meet turning radius requirements of the buses • A cross access easement will be required for the cross -access driveway and pedestrian access contingent upon approval of the Covenant Reform site to the north • Prior to the issuance of a building permit, the applicant shall submit an updated landscape plan depicting the required wall and landscaping between the proposed institutional use and adjacent residential uses. The wall requirement shall be waived through the Administrative Wall Waiver process should the adjacent property owners consent to removing the wall between their parcel and the proposed use [Land Development Code 7.09.04.E] • The issuance of County development permit does not in any way create any rights on the part of the applicant to obtain a permit from a state or federal agency and does not create any liability on the part of the County if the applicant fails to obtain requisite approvals or fulfill the obligations imposed by a state or federal agency or undertakes actions that result in a violation of state or federal law • All other applicable state or federal permits must be obtained before commencement of the development Staff recommended the Board adopt resolution 2018-118, authorizing the conditional use permit for educational services (Grades K-5 & 9-12) for 5200 Oleander Avenue, subject to conditions. Chairman Hutchinson asked a couple questions for clarification regarding the wall requirement, recreation field and sidewalks. The Chair requested the conversation on sidewalk connections involving bike paths and safety for school activities be revisited at a later date. Commissioner Dzadovsky had a couple questions in regards to the staggered school hours and stormwater management plans. Richard Lattico, the engineer for the project, was present and provided answers. There were no other comments or questions from the Board at this time. Regular Meeting Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:00 AM Chairman Hutchinson opened the hearing for public comment at this time. There being no one wishing to appear before the Board, Chairman Hutchinson closed the public hearing. A motion was made to adopt the resolution and it passed unanimously. RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Cathy Townsend, District No. 5 SECONDER: Linda Bartz, District No. 3, Vice -Chair AYES: Hutchinson, Bartz, Dzadovsky, Bonna, Townsend 10. REGULAR AGENDA A. COUNTY ATTORNEY 1. Request for Qualifications (RFQ) No. 18-055 - Develop and Operate a Conversion Facility to Process Municipal Solid Waste for St. Lucie County - Authorization to Negotiate The County Attorney presented this item. St. Lucie County's Solid Waste Department (Department) already has developed and operates a baling facility for "Class I" waste (e.g., garbage), a processing facility for construction and demolition debris, and a recycling facility. The Department operates these facilities because it wants to reduce the volume of material placed in the County's landfill. When the County's landfill is full, the Department will need to (a) build a new landfill in the County or (b) send the County's waste to an out -of -county facility. Either of these 2 options will be more expensive than continuing to use the County's existing landfill. The Department continues to look for new technologies that can be used to supplement and enhance the County's operations. The Department is seeking a technology that is proven, cost-effective, and more environmentally friendly than traditional methods of waste disposal. The Department believes a modern "Conversion Technology" may satisfy these criteria. A Conversion Technology uses energy to convert Municipal Solid Waste into gases or elements (e.g., carbon, hydrogen), which are then used to create valuable products (e.g., electricity, steam, fuel). In 2006, 2012, and 2014, the County issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) from companies capable of successfully providing a viable Conversion Technology to the County. On each occasion the County entered into negotiations with vendors that offered to provide a technology meeting the County's needs. On two occasions the County entered into contracts for the construction of a facility that would use Conversion Technology. Unfortunately, these past efforts were ultimately unsuccessful, typically because the vendor was unable to obtain financing for the proposed project. When the County issued a RFQ in the past, the County told the vendors that the County would not approve a vendor's project if the cost of using the vendor's facility would 9 1 P a g e Regular Meeting Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:00 AM cause the County's waste disposal costs to increase. In effect, the County told the vendors that they must construct a new facility and provide modern technology for the County, but the vendors would only be paid an amount equal to the cost of using the County's landfill. This requirement made it extremely difficult and oftentimes impossible for the vendors to obtain financing for their projects. On April 17, 2018, the Board granted permission to advertise a new RFQ. Responses to the County's latest RFQ were submitted by two proposers: • St. Lucie Cellulosic Ethanol, LLC (Venergy) • Waste Wise Associates, LLC On June 8, 2018, a selection committee composed of County staff, a representative from the City of Port St. Lucie, and a representative from Martin County met and determined that the response submitted by Waste Wise Associates, LLC was not responsive. A Waste Wise representative subsequently sent an e-mail to the Purchasing Department that it wished to withdraw its response. Since there is only one responsive proposal, County staff recommends that the Board authorize staff to commence negotiations with St. Lucie Cellulosic Ethanol, LLC as the only qualified proposer. Staff recommended the Board authorize staff to commence negotiations with St. Lucie Cellulosic Ethanol, LLC as the only qualified proposer. Commissioner Townsend commented on the low responses to the RFQ and encouraged a discussion on that topic. Commissioner Dzadovsky shared the past hardships with the ongoing issue of finding an alternative option for handling the almost full capacity of solid waste at the landfill. Ron Roberts, Public Utilities Director, spoke of the tremendous cost to design, permit, construct and operate a new landfill. He also elaborated on the State's mandate regarding a waste diversion recycling rate and explained how a conversion facility will help the County achieve that mandate's requirements. Cory Clive, from St. Lucie Cellulosic Ethanol, LLC, spoke on the company's goals and objectives and their aim to work with St. Lucie County and the community. There were no other comments or questions from the Board. A motion was made to approve staff recommendation and it passed unanimously. RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Chris Dzadovsky, District No. 1 SECONDER: Linda Bartz, District No. 3, Vice -Chair AYES: Hutchinson, Bartz, Dzadovsky, Bonna, Townsend 2. Request for Qualifications (RFQ) No. 18-049 - Operation and Development of the former Indian River Terminal at the Port of Fort Pierce; Approval of Addendum This item was presented by the County Attorney. The purpose of the Request for Qualifications is for interested potential parties (Partner) to enter into a long-term 10 1 P a g Regular Meeting Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:00 AM agreement for the operation and development of the former Indian River Terminal, a part of Port of Fort Pierce. The County's goal is for a Partner to operate and develop a world -class facility on the Terminal property that will create well -paying jobs, not only on the Terminal itself, but through the growth of existing businesses and the creation of new ones within the community. The Partner shall be responsible for all funding, design and construction (if required by the Partner's proposed project), operations, maintenance, equipment replacement, and marketing during the term of the agreement. The Partner shall be fully responsible for keeping the Terminal facilities in good working order at its own expenses, including maintenance, repair and replacement of existing equipment and infrastructure, as well as maintenance, repair and replacement of all Terminal improvements. On June 6, 2018, responses to RFQ No. 18-049, were opened. Two proposals were received; 668 companies were notified and 55 RFQ documents were distributed to interested parties. On June 29, 2018, the review committee which was appointed by the Board, discussed, evaluated and developed a shortlist as to which proposals were the most qualifies for the Board's consideration. The short-listed firms in no particular order of ranking were as follows: 1. Derecktor Holdings, Inc -Mamaroneck, New York 2. Ft. Pierce Yacht & Ship, LLC - Vero Beach, Florida On July 10, 2018 the Board of County Commissioners approved the recommendation of the Review Committee and authorized the Committee to proceed to the next step in the evaluative process (Phase 2) request the shortlisted firms to submit additional information. The proposed Addendum contains the following information request of the shortlisted Proposers (among other possible information): 1. Detailed Project Costs Breakdown of construction, operations, and maintenance costs; 2. Detailed Schedule for construction and Proposer's ability to meet the schedule; 3. Detailed financial plan, including costing methodology, project financing approach, satisfactory evidence of secured obligation to finance and construct the Project as proposed, including proportion of equity cash and unsubordinated debt, and source of funds; 4. Detailed structure of business plan and transaction with the County; 5. Financial Pro -forma, commitments, and Payment Guarantees; 111 Page Regular Meeting Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:00 AM 6. Additional information regarding the Proposer's qualifications and demonstrated technical competence; 7. Evidence of insurance coverage suitable for the Project; 8. Any other information the County deems relevant or necessary The Review Committee will then evaluate the information provided largely based upon, but not limited to, the criteria applied in Phase 1, while taking into consideration any refinement and clarification of that information provided, and additional information provided in Phase 2, (Submitters in Phase 2 will be allowed to revise and/or supplement their Phase 1 submittals to make adjustments to add or change team members, consultants, respond to further public comments, direction from reviewing agencies or the County, or otherwise reflect changing circumstances) and submit final recommendations to the Board. The procurement will be governed by a Cone of Silence. Proposers, including any representative will be required to refrain from contacting or communicating with any member of the County, including Members of the Board of County Commissioners, regarding the procurement. County staff will be bound by the same Cone of Silence, and shall not engage in communications with any Proposers regarding this procurement, except for the limited circumstances set forth above for the Pre -submittal Conference and written questions. Any violations of this Cone of Silence may subject the offending Proposer to a disqualification from the procurement and rejection of any proposal. The intent of the County is to continue promoting a fair, transparent, competitive procurement process. Staff recommended Board approval of the proposed Addendum for RFQ No. 18-049. Staff further recommended that the Board approve using PFM, the County's Financial Advisor, to conduct an independent financial review of the proposals in lieu of a committee review process by the Economic Development Council. A motion was made to approve staff recommendation and it passed unanimously. RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Linda Bartz, District No. 3, Vice -Chair SECONDER: Anthony Bonna, District No. 2 AYES: Hutchinson, Bartz, Dzadovsky, Bonna, Townsend 3. Resolution - Accel Holdings, International, Inc. Economic Development Incentives PRESENTATION Peter Jones, SLC Economic Development Manager & Business Navigator, gave an introduction for both Item 10.A.3. and Item 10.A.4. Next, Pete Tesch, President of the Economic Development Council, gave a presentation on Accel International Holdings, Inc., which was also referred to as Project Connect. He stated Accel International is a cable and wire company that manufactures high performance conductors and detailed 121Page Regular Meeting Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:00 AM the company's background. He provided an overview of the company's projected sales, described the technology operations, and explained the economic impact analysis. Mr. Tesch highlighted the partnerships involved with this project, as well as the performance based incentives for St. Lucie County. He then introduced Malcolm Sina, Executive Chairman for Sina Companies and Dan Chung, a Senior Executive with Accel International, who both spoke. There were a few questions asked by the Board that Mr. Chung and Mr. Tesch provided answers for. BACKGROUND Pursuant to Section 125.045, Florida Statutes the County has broad power to expend public funds to attract and retain business enterprises. County staff has been working with the City of Port St. Lucie and the Economic Development Council to assist Accel Holdings International, Inc. in the development of a new 150,000 square feet manufacturing and distribution center in the Tradition area. Accel is a leader in the high performance conductor industry, one of the County's targeted industries. Accel intends to invest a significant amount in both the construction and equipment for the new facility which upon completion will create 125 new jobs. As a result, it appears the project will be eligible for an Ad Valorem Economic Development Exemption pursuant to Section 196.1995, Florida Statutes, and Section 42-28, St. Lucie County Code of Ordinances, subject to review of the exemption application by the Property Appraiser and adoption of an ordinance granting the exemption. A resolution for Board consideration and action regarding the following economic development incentives: 1. The Board authorizes County staff to prepare a JGIG agreement with Accel for the creation of 125 new jobs pursuant to the Job Growth Investment Grant guidelines. The twenty percent (20%) local financial match requirement for the State of Florida's Qualified Target Industry Tax Refund will come from the JGIG program. Any residual JGIG funds the company is eligible to receive will be provided and authorized by the Board. 2. Make a preliminary finding that the improvement and tangible personal property are eligible for an Ad Valorem Economic Development Tax Exemption, subject to review of the exemption application and adoption of an ordinance granting the exemption, and direct staff to assist in the preparation of the application as needed. Staff recommended that the Board adopt the resolution as presented. A motion was made to adopt the resolution and it passed unanimously. 131Page Regular Meeting Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:00 AM RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Cathy Townsend, District No. 5 SECONDER: Linda Bartz, District No. 3, Vice -Chair AYES: Hutchinson, Bartz, Dzadovsky, Bonna, Townsend 4. Resolution - Oculus Optikgerate GmbH Economic Development Incentives This item was presented by Pete Tesch, President of the Economic Development Council. Mr. Tesch introduced the company Oculus Surgical, also referred to as Project Glaze. He stated the company was established in Germany and is a worldwide leader in the manufacture of eye surgery devices. He provided additional details on the company, went over the economic impact analysis and emphasized the performance based incentives. Next, Mr. Tesch introduced Ross McDonna, a Senior Executive of Oculus, who said a few words. A few comments from the Board expressed their excitement and acknowledgement of the teamwork towards this project. BACKGROUND Pursuant to Section 125.045, Florida Statutes the County has broad power to expend public funds to attract and retain business enterprises. County staff has been working with the City of Port St. Lucie and Economic Development Council to assist Oculus Optikgerate GmbH in the development of a new 50,000 square feet manufacturing and distribution facility in the Tradition area. The new facility is expected to create 50 new jobs. Oculus is a global leader in the manufacture of ophthalmic instruments, one of the County's targeted industries. Oculus intends to invest a significant amount in both the construction and equipment for the new facility. As a result, it appears the project will be eligible for an Ad Valorem Economic Development Exemption pursuant to Section 196.1995, Florida Statues, and Section 42-28, St. Lucie County Code of Ordinances, subject to review of the exemption application by the Property Appraiser and adoption of an ordinance granting the exemption. A resolution for Board consideration and action regarding the following economic development incentives: 1. The Board authorizes County staff to prepare a JGIG agreement with Oculus for the creation of 50 new jobs pursuant to the Job Growth Investment Grant guidelines. The twenty percent (20%) local financial match requirement for the State of Florida's Qualified Target Industry Tax Refund will come from the JGIG program. Any residual JGIG funds the company is eligible to receive will be provided and authorized by the Board. 2. Make a preliminary finding that the improvement and tangible personal property are eligible for an Ad Valorem Economic Development Tax Exemption, subject to 141 Regular Meeting Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:00 AM review of the exemption application and adoption of an ordinance granting the exemption, and direct staff to assist in the preparation of the application as needed. Staff recommended that the Board adopt the resolution as presented. A motion was made to adopt the resolution and it passed unanimously. RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Chris Dzadovsky, District No. 1 SECONDER: Cathy Townsend, District No. 5 AYES: Hutchinson, Bartz, Dzadovsky, Bonna, Townsend B. OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT & BUDGET 1. Setting of FY 2019 Proposed Millage Rates and Dates for Budget Public Hearings PRESENTATION The County Administrator began with a brief background on the item and explained how the Board and County staff conducted budget workshops earlier in July. He stated the presentation will be an overview of the matters discussed at those budget workshops and will be led by himself and OMB Director, Jennifer Hill. He began by saying a role as County Administrator is to annually put together a recommended budget and he detailed the agenda for the presentation. Next, the OMB Director stated the recommended budget for fiscal year 2019 is $534 million and she compared this number to previous budgets and the population of St. Lucie County. She detailed the County's position count and described how integral property values are to the budget. The OMB Director illustrated the history of the County's property values which includes legislation implemented by the State of Florida. It was stated the millage rate has been increased in years past, however the recommendation for fiscal year 2019 is to leave all millage rates the same, which overall gives the County an aggregate millage rate of 8.8934 mills. She also explained the formula used to calculate the tax revenue and illustrated the change in percentage of the property valuation. Continuing on, the OMB Director detailed how an item on the November ballot for a homestead exemption would impact the budget. She gave an overview of the fund balance and reserve levels which included plans of budget stabilization and reserves policies. The County Administrator went ahead and detailed the challenges facing the County. He began by describing the outstanding issues of competitive employee compensation, budget stabilization and deferred maintenance on facilities and roads. Next, he discussed the new issues which includes school resource officers (SROs), storm impact on reserves and infrastructure, impact of an additional homestead exemption, and an increase to the Department of Juvenile Justice. The Chair commented that the County is 15 1 Regular Meeting Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:00 AM currently still waiting on reimbursements from FEMA on funds spent due to Hurricanes Jean and Frances. The County Administrator described the priorities used to build the recommended budget including a key focus of maintaining a sustainable budget. He illustrated through a chart how the County has increased funds for public safety despite a reduction in property tax revenues. Next, the County Administrator gave an in-depth history on the SRO program and stated that due to a reduction in contributions from the School Board, the County has funded about 90% of the SRO program. He said as a result of the mandates from the State, the Sheriff has asked for more funding to be able to meet those requirements. Next, the OMB Director explained an incremental change in revenue from the property values and detailed the net amount available for allocations for the general fund/fine & forfeiture fund. It was stated the incremental change resulted in an additional $1.5 million which was suggested to be placed into reserves and some of that revenue has been allocated towards other funds following discussions at the budget workshops. The OMB Director stated the budget requests exceeded the revenue available and in keeping with the Board's priority of public safety, 50% of the revenue was allocated to the Sheriff's Office for public safety needs. She detailed the breakdown of the remaining revenue and the recommendations, as well as the allocations of the additional revenue that was a result of an incremental change in property values. The County Administrator presented the unmet needs of the County and detailed the uncertainty two ballot initiatives pose to the recommended budget. He discussed the approved list of priority infrastructure projects that would be conducted if the sales tax initiative is passed and stressed the importance and impact of each project for the County. He further stated that if the sales tax initiative does not pass, the Board and staff will conduct a meeting in December to address the infrastructure needs. The County Administrator reiterated this agenda item is to set the maximum millage rates and to approve the two public hearings to adopt the tentative and final millage rates and budget. BACKGROUND The County is required to advise the Property Appraiser of the proposed millage rates; the rolled -back rates; and the date, time and place the tentative budget hearing will take place. This must be done within 35 days of the Property Appraiser's certification of taxable values in accordance with Section 200.065, Florida Statues. The Property Appraiser utilizes this information in preparing the notice of proposed property taxes (TRIM notice) which are mailed to each property owner in August. The TRIM notice is intended to inform property owners of the maximum millage rate and taxes for each taxing district. After the proposed millage rates are set, any of the millage rates may be further reduced any time before the final budget hearing on 16 1 Regular Meeting Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:00 AM September 20th. However, none of the millage rates may be increased without going through a re -noticing process. At the budget workshops held by the Board of County Commissioners on July 9 through July 11, 2018, the Board was presented with the recommended FY 2018-2019 Budget. The recommended rates are consistent with the rates as presented at the budget workshops. This request is for the purpose of setting the maximum millage rates in compliance with Truth in Millage (TRIM) requirements. Staff recommended Board approval to set millage rates in order to comply with Truth in Millage (TRIM) requirements: • Advise the Property Appraiser' Office of the millage rates as outlined on "Worksheet Analysis of Roll -Back Millage Rate for fiscal year 2018-2019" under the column headed "2018-2019 millage". • Set two public hearings on September 6, 2018 and September 20, 2018 at 6:00 PM in the Roger Poitras Administration Annex Commission Chamber. • Authorize the County Administrator to be able to modify the millage rates between General Fund and Fine and Forfeiture Fund as long as the total countywide millage stays the same. DISCUSSION Chairman Hutchinson had a question as to the increase to the Department of Juvenile Justice funding and the County Administrator provided an answer. Commissioner Dzadovsky commented on the mandates required of the County by the State and the lack of funding provided for those mandates. A discussion on this topic and how it relates to the SRO program and the millage rates ensued between the Board members. There was a discussion on the formula for the budget and the impacts of property values, increased millage rates and an increase in population. There were comments on the importance of keeping public safety and infrastructure as priorities and it was stressed how strong partnerships have allowed for successful teamwork in the past. The Chair invited Sheriff Ken Mascara, Superintendent Wayne Gent, and School Board member Kathryn Hensley to speak on the matters discussed. Each was allowed the opportunity to explain the issues each of their organizations faces in regards to their budgets and mandates from the State. The Sheriff respectfully requested an increase from the Fine & Forfeiture fund to cover costs for the SRO program. The Superintendent went into details on the partnership the School Board has with the Sheriff's Office and clarified that partnership does not exclude the city agencies and police departments from participating. He also explained that the School Board plans to allocate an additional $400,000 to the Sheriff's Office and plans to use the remaining state funding for ten trained law enforcement officers to help maintain public safety. 17 1 P a g Regular Meeting Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:00 AM There was a question regarding the additional budget discussion for December. The County Administrator confirmed that is the plan. There were comments clarifying the funding allocations to the Sheriff's Office. There was a discussion on the good partnership the County has with the Sheriff's Office and on the ways other counties and school boards in Florida fund their SRO programs. Commissioner Bonna requested further information on the additional law enforcement officers employed by the School Board. Brian Reuther, Director of School Safety, stated the services provided by these officers is not the same as those required of a school resource officer and detailed their duties. A motion was made to approve staff recommendation and upon roll call, it passed unanimously. RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Chris Dzadovsky, District No. 1 SECONDER: Linda Bartz, District No. 3, Vice -Chair AYES: Hutchinson, Bartz, Dzadovsky, Bonna, Townsend 11. ANNOUNCEMENTS A. The Board of County Commissioners will hold a Regular meeting on Tuesday, August 7, 2018 at 6pm in the Commission Chambers of the Roger Poitras Administration Annex located at 2300 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce, FL. B. The Board of County Commissioners will hold a Regular meeting on Tuesday, August 14, 2018 at 9am in Conference Room 3 of the Roger Poitras Administration Annex located at 2300 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce, FL. C. The Board of County Commissioners will hold a Regular meeting on Tuesday, August 21, 2018 at 9am in the Commission Chambers of the Roger Poitras Administration Annex located at 2300 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce, FL. 12. MOTION TO ADJOURN There being no further business to be brought before the Board, the meeting was adjourned. Please Note: Final minutes are recorded in the official minute books that are filed with the Clerk of the Circuit Court and available for inspection upon request. ou