Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 06.07.2016S■TkaL■(di 1 E COUNTY F L o R r D A BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ST. LUCIE COUNTY, FLORIDA Regular Meeting June 7, 2016 Convened: 6:00 PM Adjourned: 8:18 PM 1. CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM by District No. 5, Chairman Kim Johnson Attendee Name Kim Johnson District No. 5, Chairman District No. 1, Vice -Chairman Arrived Present 6:00 PM Chris Dzadovsky Present 6:00 PM Tod Mowery District No. 2 Present 6:00 PM Paula A. Lewis District No. 3 Present 6:00 PM Frannie Hutchinson District No. 4 Present 6:00 PM Howard Tipton Administrator Present 6:00 PM Bob Adolphe Deputy County Administrator Present 6:00 PM Mark Satterlee Deputy Administrator Present 6:00 PM Daniel S. McIntyre County Attorney Present 6:00 PM Katherine Barbieri Asst. County Attorney Present 6:00 PM Don West Public Works Director Present 6:00 PM Asheley Hepburn Director, Office of Management & Budget Present 6:00 PM Leslie Olson Director, Planning & Development Services Present 6:00 PM Ron Parrish Public Safety Director Present 6:00 PM Melissa Upton Clerk to the Board Present 6:00 PM 2. INVOCATION 3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Generated 611412016 3:06 PM Regular Meeting Tuesday, June 7, 2016 6:00 PM 9 5 C-1 7. Q APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. Board of County Commissioners minutes for the meeting of Tuesday, May 17, 2016 RESULT: ACCEPTED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Tod Mowery, District No. 2 SECONDER: Paula A. Lewis, District No. 3 AYES: Johnson, Dzadovsky, Mowery, Lewis, Hutchinson PROCLAMATIONS APPROVAL There are no items scheduled. PUBLIC COMMENT (excluding Public Hearing items) Howard Fein, Fort Pierce Resident - Mr. Fein spoke about the questions he had raised at the previous Board of County Commissioners meeting. He indicated that a healthy county will have between 8-16% of land set aside for commercial industrial use. He stated that St. Lucie County has cut the amount from 3% to 2%. He expressed concern that St. Lucie County employees are ranked 60th out of 67 Florida counties in terms of pay. He said that future funding, industry and employment of the county needs to be examined more fully. Mr. Fein spoke about private investment being used to solve the salinity issue in the Indian River. He stated that he hopes to join the Board and present his own ideas. PRESENTATIONS There are no items scheduled. CONSENT AGENDA RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Tod Mowery, District No. 2 SECONDER: Paula A. Lewis, District No. 3 AYES: Johnson, Dzadovsky, Mowery, Lewis, Hutchinson A. WARRANTS 1. Warrant Lists 32, 33 & 34 B. ADMINISTRATION 1. Children's Services Council Nominees 2 1 P a g e Regular Meeting Tuesday, June 7, 2016 6:00 PM C. COUNTY ATTORNEY 1. All Aboard Florida - Payment of Legal Defense Invoices through All Aboard Legal Defense Fund 2. Street Naming - Bromeliad Circle Extension to Veterans Way - Savanna Club ***Please note this item (#3541) was not assigned a resolution number originally. Post - meeting RES-2016-100 was assigned to this item.*** 3. Revocable License Agreement - Florida City Gas - 253 NE Prima Vista Boulevard 4. South Florida Water Management District - Lease Agreement 4600001846 - Amendment No. 1 5. Permission to Advertise Notice of Public Hearing to consider temporarily closing Euclid Street from U.S. Highway 1 to Ridgehaven Road f•I►&111i,lkW&I4:Zv/LEI*1 1. Resolution - Public Library Construction Grant Funds 2. Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged FY17 Trip and Equipment Grant E. COURT ADMINISTRATION 1. Court Administration Budget Resolution - Funding to upgrade Indian River County courthouse wiring F. ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES 1. Budget Resolution — Environmental Education & Community Outreach Special Program funds I:��ai1► LP�:Z���1�I:Z�hF� There are no items scheduled. H. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY There are no items scheduled. I. MOSQUITO CONTROL & COASTAL MGMT. SERVICES There are no items scheduled. J. OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT & BUDGET There are no items scheduled. 3 1 P a g e Regular Meeting Tuesday, June 7, 2016 6:00 PM K. PARKS, RECREATION & FACILITIES 1. Award Bid No. 16-015, Rosser Library Building Renovations 2. Award of Bid No. 16-033, Tradition Field Safety Hand Rail Repair Project L. PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES 1. Permission to Grant Partial Refund of Application Fees for Revive Detox Center M. PUBLIC SAFETY 1. Local Mitigation Strategy (LMS) Plan N. PUBLIC WORKS 1. South Header Canal Road @ NSLRWCD Canal No. 77 - Acceptance of Project 2. Favorite Road - Fair Share Contribution Refund O. SHERIFF'S OFFICE There are no items scheduled. P. SOLID WASTE There are no items scheduled. Q. SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS 1. Proposed Budget Amendment R. TRANSPORTATION PLANNING ORGANIZATION 1. Approval Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Supplemental Notification of Funding for FY 15/16 S. UTILITIES 1. Resolution - North County District Annual Report 9. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. COUNTY ATTORNEY 1. Ordinance affecting the use of land in St. Lucie County, Florida, relating to Signs. 4 1 P a g e Regular Meeting Tuesday, June 7, 2016 6:00 PM The Assistant County Attorney presented this item. She stated this ordinance affects the use of land in St. Lucie County, Florida, relating to signs by amending chapter 2 definitions, amending chapter 9 signs and amending section 7.10.24 signs and lighting of the St. Lucie County Land Development Code. This ordinance is to ensure that sign regulations are content neutral unless there is a required content based distinction for public safety purposes. She indicated this ordinance is in response to the Supreme Court decision. This is the 2nd of 2 required public hearings, the first on May 17th and public notice was published in the newspaper on May 26th. RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Tod Mowery, District No. 2 SECONDER: Frannie Hutchinson, District No. 4 AYES: Johnson, Dzadovsky, Mowery, Lewis, Hutchinson 2. Stop Gap Ordinance - Commercial Composting Facilities The County Attorney presented this item. He explained that this is the 2nd of 2 public hearings in regards to the stop gap ordinance. The first public hearing was held on May 3rd and notice was published in the Tribune on May 25th. Staff stated that at the Board's January informal meeting the Board generally discussed the issue of regulating the location and use of commercial composting facilities. The Board requested that county staff study the issue and develop regulations as appropriate to be presented to the Board upon completion of the study. He presented the ordinance for Board consideration which would postpone the issuance of development permits for commercial composting facilities for the earlier of: a period of 330 days or the effective date of the adoption of the regulations. The County Attorney clarified that this Ordinance is not intended to affect backyard composting by residential homeowners on their property. He added that there is no specific application before the Board currently, this is a general law intended to prevent applications while staff determines what regulations to adopt. He said this process will take approximately 11 months, with the ability to extend for another month if needed. He continued, on February 9th, the Board granted permission to advertise the draft ordinance. On March 17th the Planning and Zoning Commission/Local Planning Agency (P&Z/LPA) held a public hearing on the ordinance and voted 6-0 to recommend that the Board approve the ordinance. The P&Z/LPA members were concerned about the definition of "compost" and potential impacts on agricultural operations that purchase organic materials from landscapers and lawn service. Staff stated that in response to this, subsection 2.C.3 was added, which defined "farming operations" and clarifies that the ordinance does not apply to normal farming operations. Commissioner Mowery asked staff to clarify subsection 2.C.3, in regards to the definition of farming operations. The County Attorney answered that the ordinance is not intended to apply to a farmer who owns his own land, but rather it will apply to commercial uses. Commissioner Dzadovsky added that biosolids are also being considered, in addition to compost. He also pointed out an article about a similar issue in Palm Beach County. He 5 1 P a g e Regular Meeting Tuesday, June 7, 2016 6:00 PM asked staff to review the topic of biosolids and reach out to Palm Beach County staff for assistance to coordinate efforts between counties. Chairman Johnson asked if there would be regulations regarding location. Staff answered that the location would be a critical component of any regulation. Commissioner Mowery asked for clarification that the regulations would not indicate specific location within the county but rather the type of area. The County Attorney stated that the regulations have not been developed yet, but there is not a focus on a specific area currently. He said the whole issue would be considered from a technical standpoint. Chairman Johnson added that compatibility is to be considered as well. Commissioner Mowery stated that there would be written language to amend, as well as the actual map. Chairman Johnson opened the hearing to the public at this time. Bill Leary, PGA Village Port St. Lucie - Mr. Leary identified himself as the President of the PGA Village Property Owners Association and addressed the Board on behalf of the board members and residents of PGA Village. He thanked county staff for their work to investigate the biosolids and composting matter. He stated the residents support the county's moratorium. He also encouraged strong language in any changes to the land use code with regard to the health and safety of residents and risk of pollution to the environment. Mr. Leary thanked the residents for the work they have done to support their community. Linda Gausten, St. Lucie County Resident - Ms. Gausten spoke about her previous efforts to organize a rally before the Board at a previous meeting. She commended the Board for their efforts to impose the moratorium. She reminded the Board of the community's concern over having this type of facility within the county due to the proximity to bodies of water that may be harmed by contaminates. Ms. Gausten asked the Board to remain business -friendly to businesses that will bring benefits to the county. She commented on the importance of location in regards to future regulations. Chairman Johnson closed the public hearing at this time. RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Chris Dzadovsky, District No. 1, Vice -Chairman SECONDER: Tod Mowery, District No. 2 AYES: Johnson, Dzadovsky, Mowery, Lewis, Hutchinson 3. Ordinance - Scheduling a Referendum Election on November 8, 2016 for a Proposed 0.5 Percent Local Government Infrastructure Surtax The County Attorney introduced the County Administrator to present this item along with the City Managers from Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie. Staff began by stating the problem statement and detailing the national concern of aging infrastructure. He explained that Florida relies more heavily on local government to fund public services than almost all other states. He stated that the infrastructure surtax was recommended to the Board by the Citizen's Budget Committee to address 6 1 P a g e Regular Meeting Tuesday, June 7, 2016 6:00 PM the $1.2 billion county -wide project backlog. The County Administrator presented the main points of the problem statement, including the decline in Ad Valorem revenue, projected increases in population, insufficient Gas Tax funding, the 75 year repaving schedule, and the water quality crisis in the basin. Staff demonstrated the projected sharp decrease in the balance of the budget stabilization fund from 2016 through 2020. He said these reserves are unable to fund the gap in infrastructure needs. He emphasized the major issues of concern that need to be addressed: water quality issues, backlogged repaving projects, negative impacts of septic tanks, and stormwater and neighborhood retrofits. On the topic of septic tanks, Commissioner Dzadovsky expressed concern that residents that would have to switch over to sewer immediately. The County Administrator answered that is not the intention of the county, but rather to make sure there is infrastructure in place for connection in the future. Commissioner Dzadovsky also mentioned the possibility of a statewide municipal services boundary unit to create a funding source and potential fund -matching with residents to lower their costs. Staff confirmed those statements. The County Administrator presented the other potential options to the county in regards to the funding gap, none of which address the current or future needs. He explained the results of the infrastructure surtax survey conducted in February. He emphasized that this tax will be split between residents and tourists, it will leverage other funding sources and this tax cannot be used for salaries, administration or operations. Staff added that the surtax is paid by everyone, is easily bondable and the proceeds will stay local. He indicated that the estimated annual revenue for the surtax would be $15.5 million and these dollars may be bonded. He presented an update on the 18 counties in Florida that levy an infrastructure surtax. The County Administrator stated that this tax is authorized under Florida Statute and applies to taxable transactions up to $5,000. He detailed the projected funds for each city and the county over a period of 10 years and 20 years. He gave examples of past successes and the funds generated by each. The next topic included a list of projects that the county aims to address in fiscal years 2018 to 2022 and the overall goals. These projects include partnering with Port St. Lucie and Fort Pierce to address water quality, sidewalks, road resurfacing and road infrastructure. He also presented a list of long term, major projects to be considered in 2023 to 2036 and recommendations for shorter term neighborhood drainage projects. Staff explained the septic to sewer replacement project to convert 3500 septic tanks that are located adjacent to the St. Lucie River and Indian River Lagoon. He also described the priority projects in regards to road resurfacing and road reconstruction and the current funding for these projects. The County Administrator introduced the City Manager of Fort Pierce, Nick Mimms to present his city's priority infrastructure needs. Mr. Mimms thanked the Board and county staff for their collaboration on this initiative. He presented the major projects for road reconstruction, sidewalks, water quality and 71 Regular Meeting Tuesday, June 7, 2016 6:00 PM road resurfacing in Fort Pierce. He emphasized the severe lack of funding and considered this initiative an opportunity for his community. Mr. Mimms presented images of aging roads and the need for sidewalks throughout the community. Next, Mr. Mimms introduced the City Manager of Port St. Lucie, Jeff Bremer. Mr. Bremer thanked the Board and spoke about the collaboration within St. Lucie County over the past years. He spoke about Port St. Lucie's strategic plan and listed sidewalks, streets, water quality and economic development as the residents' main concerns. He explained that although the projected surtax revenues will not meet all of the city's infrastructure needs, it will accelerate important projects. Mr. Bremer stated his goal of successfully providing for the residents of the community. He introduced Patricia Roebling, the Assistant City Manager and City Engineer to present the overview of projects for Port St. Lucie. Ms. Roebling presented the city's priority projects in regards to water quality, sidewalks, road reconstruction, and road resurfacing. She described the goals of improving the basin at Veterans Memorial Park and escalating sidewalk projects to be completed within the next 5 years. The County Administrator continued his presentation by totaling the amounts for the priority projects of each city and the county. He presented a chart of the annual local distribution of the sales tax based on a state formula, and the projected revenue totals for each municipality. Staff described the benefits of bonding versus "pay-as-you-go" over a 10 and 20 year period. He emphasized the importance of accelerating crucial projects and the need to create joint projects with the cities and the State of Florida. The County Administrator proposed the surtax be implemented for a period of 20 years, based on the timeline of many infrastructure projects. He also presented the ballot language as drafted by the County Attorney for consideration in November. He detailed the allocation formula and interlocal agreements with the cities. Next, staff focused on accountability and transparency. He expressed the importance of making sure the surtax does not replace current levels of capital spending. He stated these funds would be additional revenue to cover projects that would not be funded otherwise. He explained the citizen's oversight committee would be individual for each community and would submit an annual report for all projects. The County Administrator stated that government entities cannot advocate, but can educate the community on the infrastructure surtax. He listed the efforts to be considered, such as interactive maps, information sessions, social media, and short videos. He explained the importance of outside and external advocacy through local business, environmental and tourism communities. The Assistant Deputy County Administrator stated that the EDC has expressed support of this initiative. The County Administrator concluded with a recommendation that the Board adopt the ordinance scheduling a referendum election on November 8, 2016 for a proposed 0.5% local government infrastructure surtax. Commissioner Dzadovsky expressed concern over the increase in bonds in the near future. He stated that without the support of this surtax the projects would not be Regular Meeting Tuesday, June 7, 2016 6:00 PM bonded with the lower current interest rates. He also spoke about the recent decline in water quality in the county and his fear that without action the Indian River Lagoon will not be saved. He stated his support because staff has been able to identify the priority projects, timeline, funding sources and oversight. The County Attorney indicated that this item is a public hearing and does not implement the tax but rather approves it to go before voters on November 8th. Chairman Johnson opened the hearing to the public at this time. Nyla Pipes, Port St. Lucie Resident - Ms. Pipes identified herself as the director of the One Florida Foundation. She spoke about her concern for her son's safety at his bus stop without sidewalks in their neighborhood. She urged the Board to reach out to parents in the community when undertaking educational efforts. Ms. Pipes also spoke about her foundation's efforts in regards to infrastructure needs and water quality. She expressed support for the surtax through her foundation. Daniel Kurek, St. Lucie County Resident - Mr. Kurek identified himself as the chairman of the Planning and Zoning Board and spoke about his previous and current experience as the chair of the St. Lucie County Citizen's Budget Committee. He explained the goals and strengths of the committee and their history in the county. He stated that the committee recommended the Board of County Commissioner's place the infrastructure surtax on the ballot for the citizens to establish. Mr. Kurek emphasized the importance of educating the public on this tax to address the critical needs of the county. He presented the Board with a resolution from the Citizen's Budget Committee. He also spoke about the passing of committee member Ron Knaggs and his strong support of this initiative. Patrick Campion, 6030 Indrio Road Fort Pierce - Mr. Campion identified himself as a member of the Budget Advisory Committee. He addressed the Board as a county citizen and expressed his concern over the growing backlog of projects. He stated that the county must act before there is further erosion of the infrastructure. Mr. Campion encouraged the Board to allow the citizens to make their own decision regarding the surtax in November. Mark Gotz, 154 NW Magnolia Lakes Blvd, Port St. Lucie - Mr. Gotz spoke about recent tax increases in the county and city of Port St. Lucie. He spoke about his concerns regarding accuracy of the figures presented and current budgets. He stated that the county has over $200 million in cash and investments. He spoke about the transfer of funds out of Port St. Lucie's road and bridge fund. Mr. Gotz expressed discouragement regarding local government's use of funds. He stated that he felt this sales tax would have no impact on the citizens of the county and would only make the county noncompetitive with neighboring counties. Howard Fein, Fort Pierce Resident - Mr. Fein asked the Board to consider how roads were paid for previously and use the revenue from new citizens to cover the costs. He stated that car sales have a major impact on revenue in the county, and felt that an increased tax would drive those sales to Martin County. He also expressed concern over the loss of revenue from land purchases by the county. Mr. Fein suggested asphalt sealant as a potential preventative measure to address the need for road 9 1 P a g E Regular Meeting Tuesday, June 7, 2016 6:00 PM reconstruction. He stated that the projected revenue from the tax does not cover the project costs of future projects. He also felt that there is a need for more studies regarding septic tank seepage and spoke about less expensive measures to filter water. Chairman Johnson closed the public hearing at this time. Commissioner Dzadovsky addressed some statements made during the public hearing. He stated that the $200 million of county money is restricted either from impact fees, grants or sales tax. He also spoke about the decline in taxable value that the county faced in 2008 and the effects on the county budget. He stated that these actions have changed the dynamic of the county. He addressed the point regarding purchasing property by the county, and said the citizens approved the referendum to tax over 20 years. The county was able to leverage that money for over four times that value. Commissioner Dzadovsky concluded that the 0.5% tax would only result in a $25 increase in price on purchases of large items, such as cars and boats. Commissioner Hutchinson asked for clarification regarding the money being as "new money" and asked if it would impact current budgeted funds. The County Administrator indicated that this would be additional funding. Commissioner Hutchinson asked the cities to work with the county to complete projects such as sidewalks. She also commented on using local businesses when available to complete these projects. Chairman Johnson emphasized the importance of addressing the critical needs of the community, such as sidewalks, improved roadways and water quality. He stated that these major issues will get worse without attention. He thanked Mr. Bremer for attending the meeting despite personal matters and thanked Mr. Mimms for showing support. RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Chris Dzadovsky, District No. 1, Vice -Chairman SECONDER: Paula A. Lewis, District No. 3 AYES: Johnson, Dzadovsky, Mowery, Lewis, Hutchinson B. PLANNING 1. Resolution - Rezoning for Glades Cut -Off, LLC The County Senior Planner presented this zoning change request. Staff indicated that legal advertisement had been published, a notification sign was posted on the property and mail notices were sent to 10 property owners within 500 feet of the subject property. As of this meeting, staff had not received any comments regarding the request from the public. Staff continued, Glades Cut -Off, LLC is requesting an amendment to the Official Zoning Atlas from utilities to industrial heavy for a 26.8 acre parcel located approximately 1/2 mile south of the intersection of Glades Cut Off Road and Range Line Road, on the south side of Glades Cut off Road. He presented a map showing the proposed site. He presented the neighboring land uses, including agricultural, utilities, and industrial heavy. 10 1 P a g Regular Meeting Tuesday, June 7, 2016 6:00 PM The Senior Planner indicated that the subject property has been primarily used for agricultural purposes and is encumbered by a 660 foot wide Florida Power and Light (FPL) utility easement with multiple power lines. He stated that the property owner intends to utilize the parcel in the future for industrial uses that are consistent with the uses in the FPL Temporary Right -of -Way Consent Agreement and uses in the industrial heavy zoning district. This agreement allows for limited industrial uses on the subject property and prohibits its agents from using any tools, equipment, machinery, outdoor lighting and installing or growing any vegetation that exceeds a height of 14'. He indicated that FPL has reviewed the rezoning petition and has no objection to the request. FPL will review and approve any proposed improvements within the easement to assure that there are no conflicts with existing or future FPL facilities. Staff concluded that the petition complies with the standards of review of the Land Development Code and is consistent with current land use. He stated that the zoning change follows a logical development pattern of industrial uses in the general area. The Planning and Zoning Commission met on April 21st and recommends unanimous approval of this request to the Board of County Commissioners. Mike McCarty from McCarty and Associates Land Planning and Design, addressed the Board as the applicant for this rezoning. Mr. McCarty stated that the application has complied with public notice requirements and is consistent with the Land Development Code. He stated that there is a consent agreement with FPL for certain uses to occur within the 660 feet easement. The applicant added that there is no particular use or end user for the property and it will remain a cattle grazing pasture for now. He suggested potential future uses for the land such as a staging yard for construction of roadways. At this time Chairman Johnson indicated this item was a quasi-judicial item. The Board would need to disclose any contact they have made regarding the item. Commissioner Lewis stated she spoke to the applicant and staff. Commissioner Dzadovsky stated that he spoke to staff. Chairman Johnson stated that he spoke to staff. Commissioner Hutchinson stated that she spoke to staff and the applicant. Commissioner Mowery stated that he spoke to staff and the applicant. Commissioner Dzadovsky asked the applicant what he would build on the land, based on the restrictions on the property. Mr. McCarty answered that there are constraints based on the FPL easement, for example a vertical structure could not be built. He indicated that improvements can be made to the property, such as asphalt, a parking area, a retention area and some lighting. He stated that sand, rock and other noncombustible materials can be kept on the land. He felt that the land could potentially be used for temporary staging for construction projects in the area. Commissioner Dzadovsky explained that he would need to know how the land would be used before approving the rezoning. He expressed concern over potential uses and the restrictions. He felt that this rezoning is premature, because there isn't an interested party with a specific project. 11 1 P a g Regular Meeting Tuesday, June 7, 2016 6:00 PM Commissioner Mowery added that the rezoning process applies to the property. The applicant can sell the property in the future and the potential uses being discussed now may not happen. He stated that the use is not up for approval, but rather the change in zoning district. He indicated that compatibility is important in regards to following the standards and conditions. Commissioner Lewis stated that the Board is not being asked to approve a conditional use. She added that the permitted uses for the land are limited by the utility placement. She said the land would accommodate the permitted uses and would be limited and the applicant is aware of those limitations. Commissioner Hutchinson added that there are existing restrictions on this land because of the agreement with FPL. She felt satisfied with those restrictions and supported approval. Chairman Johnson opened the hearing to the public at this time. Pamela Hammer, 7672 Charleston Way PGA Village Port St. Lucie - Ms. Hammer stated that she attended the meeting for the composting moratorium, but was interested in this item as well. She wanted to know what uses FPL would permit on the land. She also spoke about the expansion with a neighboring property and possible use as a buffer. Ms. Hammer expressed concern over not knowing what the land would be used for. She pointed out the dangerous conditions of Glades Cut off Road and the potential of this property to add additional trucks on that roadway. She stated that based on her experience with the Planning and Zoning Board, she would like the applicant to provide more information before approving the rezoning. Howard Fein, Fort Pierce Resident - Mr. Fein stated that this item was related to his earlier statements regarding the decrease in commercial industrial zoning. He spoke about the adjacent land uses and said that the applicant will have to apply again before any intended projects are approved for the land. Mr. Fein spoke about the need to bring investors to the area to generate revenue. He suggested that the Board approve this item. Mr. McCarty addressed the concerns regarding the future use of the land. He indicated that this property has been in the family for over 50 years and the industrial uses surrounding the property are compatible with his proposed rezoning. He stated that the agricultural land to the north is vacant and there are no residential uses in the direct vicinity. Mr. McCarty expressed his opinion that this property could be valuable for developing the area. He said that once an end user is interested in the property, waiting for the rezoning process may cause them to look elsewhere for property. He said any concerns could be addressed by the Board if a conditional use or major application needs approval. Commissioner Dzadovsky commented on the industrial heavy zoning to the east of the property, and asked if the subject property had been used as a buffer. He emphasized the importance of these buffers and expressed concern over not knowing what the land will be used for. 12 1 P a g Regular Meeting Tuesday, June 7, 2016 6:00 PM The County Senior Planner commented that there would be a required landscape buffer between the property and the right-of-way, if the property were to be developed. He added that if there is to be any exterior storage or materials, a berm or landscaping buffer would be required to prevent any visual impacts. The Senior Planner from the Environmental Resources Department addressed the commissioner's questions. He stated that between utilities and industrial heavy land uses there would be a ten foot landscape buffer required. He did not know if the land had been used as a buffer between industrial heavy and the roadway previously. Commissioner Hutchinson asked about a statement earlier that the land was being used for cattle grazing. Mr. McCarty confirmed that there is currently cattle on the land. Commissioner Mowery commented on Ms. Hammer's questions and agreed that those would be questions from the Board as well. He mentioned compatibility, consistency and if the site is capable of handling the uses being proposed. He spoke about the uses of nearby properties and FPL's involvement regarding the permitted uses. He concluded that from a legal and practical planning standpoint and based upon the staff report and analysis of the standards for review, he is able to support the rezoning request from utility to industrial heavy. Commissioner Hutchinson asked Mr. McCarty if the land may have been required to be zoned as utility when FPL originally ran the lines. Mr. McCarty stated that when looking at the future land use map there are many other areas where transmission lines run down Glades Cut off and those properties do not have that land use designation. He indicated that future land use and zoning does not typically comply in regards to transmissions equipment. He added that the area was zoned agricultural in the 1970's. Chairman Johnson closed the public hearing at this time. Commissioner Dzadovsky expressed his concern over the unknown uses that FPL would permit on the land. He stated he could not support the rezoning without that information. Commissioner Lewis commented that based on the Land Development Code there is a long list of permitted uses under this zoning. She added that FPL cannot make any different standards of development, there would only be further restrictions on the use for the land. She felt that the permitted uses for industrial zoning are reasonable, based on the current surroundings and future plans. Chairman Johnson also agreed that the rezoning is compatible with future land uses. RESULT: ADOPTED [4 TO 11 MOVER: Tod Mowery, District No. 2 SECONDER: Frannie Hutchinson, District No. 4 AYES: Kim Johnson, Tod Mowery, Paula A. Lewis, Frannie Hutchinson NAYS: Chris Dzadovsky 10. REGULAR AGENDA 13 1 Regular Meeting Tuesday, June 7, 2016 6:00 PM There are no items scheduled. 11. ANNOUNCEMENTS A. Non -Agenda Item - Moment of Silence for Ron Knaggs Chairman Johnson asked the Board to observe a moment of silence on behalf of Mr. Ron Knaggs. B. The Board of County Commissioners will hold an Informal Meeting on June 14, 2016 at 9 am in Conference Room #3. C. The Board of County Commissioners will hold a Regular Board meeting on June 21, 2016 at 9 a.m. in the Commission Chambers of the Roger Poitras Administration Annex located at 2300 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce, FL. D. County offices will be closed on Monday, July 4, 2016 to observe Independence Day. E. The Board of County Commissioners will hold a Regular Board meeting on July 5, 2016 at 6 p.m. in the Commission Chambers of the Roger Poitras Administration Annex located at 2300 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce, FL. F. The Board of County Commissioners will hold an Informal Meeting on July 12, 2016 at 9 am in Conference Room #3. G. The Board of County Commissioners will hold a Regular Board meeting on July 26, 2016 at 9 a.m. 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. 14 1 Pag