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HomeMy WebLinkAbout10.15.2019Generated 10/28/19 10:15 AM - Edited Through 12/31/19 HISTORICAL COMMISSION ST. LUCIE COUNTY, FLORIDA Regular Meeting October 15, 2019 Convened: 4:01 PM Adjourned: 5:13 PM 1.CALL TO ORDER - Chair McAfoos, St. Lucie County Historical Commission The meeting was called to order at 4:01 PM by Chair Richard McAfoos 2.Roll Call Attendee Name Title Status Arrived Richard McAfoos Chair Present 4:00 PM Melanie Trewyn Vice Chair Present 4:00 PM Mike Menard Commission Member Present 4:00 PM Betty Jo Starke Commission Member Present 4:00 PM Krissta King Commission Member Present 4:00 PM Judy Biglin Commission Member Present 4:00 PM Mike Middlebrook Commission Member Present 4:10 PM Additional Attendees: Kori Benton Assistant Planning Manager Present 4:00om Vanessa Desnoyers Recording Secretary Present 4:00pm James (Jim) Oppenborn Coastal Resources Coordinator Present 4:00pm Mark Satterlee Assistant County Administrator Present 4:00pm Heather Young Assistant County Attorney Present 4:00pm Notes: *Board of County Commissioners = “BOCC” hereinafter *St. Lucie County Historical Commission = “SLCHC” hereinafter *Paul Jacquin & Sons = “PJ&S” hereinafter * Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches and the Treasure Coast = “RAPB” hereinafter Quarterly Meeting Tuesday, October 15, 2019 4:00 PM 2 | P a g e 3.ANNOUNCEMENTS A. Introduction of New Member of St Lucie County Historical Commission-Judy Biglin 4.PUBLIC COMMENT 5.APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. St. Lucie County Historical Commission meeting minutes for the meeting on Tuesday, August 20, 2019 The Chair requested a motion to approve; Vice-Chair Melanie Trewyn moved to approve the meeting minutes with minor edits suggested by Chair McAfoos; seconded by Mr. Menard; Motion approved without opposition. 6.ITEMS FOR ACTION / CONSIDERATION A. Old Business None B. New Business 2. Naming of proposed St. Lucie County Artificial Reef after Paul Jacquin James (Jim) Oppenborn, Coastal Resources Coordinator for St. Lucie County, provided a presentation for the naming request. Mr. Oppenborn stated that the county creates artificial reefs and occasionally receives contributions from citizens, businesses, and organizations to receive recognition and naming rights to the Reefs. Mr. Oppenborn stated that the County is attempting to deploy two reefs, one during this fall and the other during winter. The first reef will be titled the Paul Jacquin & Sons Artificial Reef, and the other will be named for the RAPB. The PJ&S reef will be added to a one-thousand (1,000) ton reef that was deployed by the County in 2018 that was funded by FWC. PJ&S was responsible for the demolition of the Port Warehouse that Paul Jacquin Sr. built-in 1935-1936. Mr. Jacquin pledged a fivethousand dollar ($5,000) contribution to assist in deploying the reef in his grandfather’s honor. Mr. Oppenborn stated that the RAPB pledged fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) but have yet to convey the funds. If funded, an additional naming application form / request will be filed. Mr. Oppenborn discussed the materials that will be used in creating the reef (attached in packet) and listed the GPS location of the reef that is very close to another reef, the CCA, or the Harvey Bostick Reef, that was deployed in 2018 as well. 1.BOCC Resolution 19-201 Referral of Applications to Name Public Facilities to the St. Lucie County Historical Commission for Review and Recommendation Chair McAfoos reviewed the new charge from the BOCC regarding naming rights for county buildings / facilities Quarterly Meeting Tuesday, October 15, 2019 4:00 PM 3 | P a g e Mr. Oppenborn stated that according to his plans, the reef would be used as a complement to the high profile of the Bostick Reef and, in fishing terms, it will assist the Juneau fish settle its larvae in the sands surrounding the reef and grow safely using the reefs provided. Mr. Oppenborn then displayed a map of approximate location of the reefs and discussed the process of moving smaller concrete slabs to deploy the reefs around 12 nautical miles southeast offshore from the Fort Pierce Inlet. Mr. Oppenborn displayed the potential location of the RAPB reef, should they make the contribution presented before the BOCC, and the SLCHC recommend to the BOCC to grant permission to the naming rights. Chair McAfoos opened the floor to questions from the SLCHC members. Ms. Starke inquired about the reef creation process. Mr. Oppenborn explained the process of moving large slabs, using various materials, and how they are positioned to them to be stack and set up in the water. Ms. Starke inquired if there was a sand bottom, or if there was something underneath the reefs that were deployed and if anything was grown from the other reefs previously deployed. Mr. Oppenborn stated that it was a sand bottom and highlighted the sea pins that were captured in a photo inside the presentation, and that they are soft corals that provide food for larvae and sea turtles. Ms. Biglin inquired how deep the water was, to which Mr. Oppenborn replied 102 feet. Mr. Menard inquired where the PJ&S reef is, to which Oppenborn replied by displaying the location in a picture within the presentation. Mr. Benton stated that the SLCHC is tasked with evaluating the request made for the BOCC by St. Lucie County’s Public Works team who is working on securing funds from PJ&S for the reef to be deployed and seek the SLCHC recommendation for naming the reef after the Jacquin family. Mr. Benton spoke to the extensive contributions of the Jacquin family’s philanthropic activities and involvement in numerous other positive efforts in the County. Mr. Benton sought clarification of the name of the proposed reef name as to whether it was “Paul Jacquin and Sons” or the “Paul Jacquin” reef. Mr. Oppenborn confirmed that it was the PJ&S reef. Mr. Oppenborn stated that he would come back and make a separate application request presentation for the RAPB planned reef as the donation proposed is significant. Chair McAfoos asked for verification whether this presentation was to brief the SLCHC ahead of time to familiarize its members with the request prior to submission of a formal application and review for recommendation? Then, it was confirmed that the formal application had already been submitted. Mr. Oppenborn confirmed and stated that he hoped SLCHC members would make a recommendation today for the next BOCC meeting. Vice-Chair Trewyn inquired whether a motion was necessary at this time. Mr. Benton stated that it was his understanding that the BOCC is looking for the SLCHC to make a recommendation on the PJ&S reef today to present at the next BOCC meeting. Chair McAfoos questioned Mr. Oppenborn as to whether he was requesting a recommendation for naming rights for the second reef, RAPB? Mr. Oppenborn stated yes, but Mr. Benton questioned whether the SLCHC felt comfortable recommending the naming rights for the second reef contingent upon the financial commitment being conveyed? Chair McAfoos, Vice-Chair Trewyn and Ms. Starke suggested that it would be easier to wait, stating that the Commission would have the facts they needed and could make an informed decision. Quarterly Meeting Tuesday, October 15, 2019 4:00 PM 4 | P a g e Mr. Menard stated that the name RAPB may be inaccurate because “Treasure Coast” as initials (TC) are missing from the abbreviation. Mr. Oppenborn stated that the name is written Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches and the Treasure Coast, and the acronym RAPB has already been established, and it would be a conflict to incorporate Treasure Coast initials. Chair McAfoos requested that Mr. Benton formulate a motion. Mr. Benton stated that it would be staff’s recommendation to approve request of proposed naming of the St Lucie County artificial reef, as identified, after PJ&S. Vice-Chair Trewyn made the motion, and Ms. Starke seconded the motion. The motion passed unopposed Mr. McAfoos opened the agenda item with a 'point of order', stating that he will be seeking comments from our Legal Advisor, Heather Young. Chair McAfoos stated that the resolution (no. 19-201) that was adopted by the Board of County Commissioners hereinafter “BOCC” on October 1, 2019 states that all applications to Public facilities shall be referred to the St Lucie County Historical Commission for review and recommendation. Chair McAfoos referenced the County approved the application and read the requirements aloud for Commission members that had trouble accessing the agenda packet online. Chair McAfoos stated that the application was very specific, requesting that applicant: Describe the building or land you are requesting to be named (With complete address, location, beginning, and ending points), Describe the historical association or connection with the requested name to the facility, and List any proclamations, awards, commendations or resolutions made on behalf of the honoree by any civic, charitable or volunteer organizations that you wish the County Commission to consider Chair McAfoos noted that the application form clearly states at the bottom to “attach a location map along with any additional relevant information that concerns this proposal.” Chair McAfoos further stated that this request does not meet the limited criteria the BOCC had charged the SLCHC with in requiring use of the approved application form / process. Also, Chair McAfoos referenced the last line of the letter from Mayor Hudson previously attached to the agenda packet stating: “We seek your assistance in helping to find a public building or facility that will honor her service to St. Lucie County. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me should you wish to discuss.” Chair McAfoos stated that the request was outside the purview of the SLCHC. The charge from the BOCC was very specific, and this is our first venture into that. Then, Chair McAfoos asked Ms. Young if he wasaccurate? 3.Request for Recommendation - Naming of Public Facility in honor of Sylvie Kramer Marceau Quarterly Meeting Tuesday, October 15, 2019 4:00 PM 5 | P a g e Ms. Young stated that in this instance, because of the request from the City of Ft. Pierce, the BOCC would like input from the SLCHC as to if they had a suggestion for an appropriate building, even though there is no specific application before the Commission. Ms. Young stated that the BOCC is seeking input from the community, and the SLCHC represents the community regarding historical issues as well as now naming public buildings and facilities. Ms. Young gave a summary of the contributions Ms. Kramer made in the community and stated that Ms. Kramer worked extensively with county staff on various programs in regards to pregnancies and issues with Lawnwood at the time with obstetrical services. The City of Ft. Pierce asked the County to assist with finding a County facility that might be appropriate. Chair McAfoos stated that the legal aspect of the charge from the BOCC is very specific, requiring use of the approved application that it (the BOCC) provided. Chair McAfoos stated that since this request is not within the purview of the SLCHC’s charge, is the BOCC suggesting that the SLCHC step outside of the specific charge it gave the SLCHC? Chair McAfoos further stated that there is no list of buildings, and the commission has no information to help make a recommendation or give any opinion. Ms. Young stated that the SLCHC has the option to say no, or state that the SLCHC is uncomfortable acting at this time. Ms. Young stated that staff could provide the SLCHC more information as well as a list of buildings and public facilities to review. Mr. Satterlee stated that we have to make a distinction between which is a policy of the Board and which is a general policy direction or an ordinance, or statute that specifically lays out duties. Typically boards will get assigned other things that the BOCC will ask to be researched. Mr. Satterlee stated that it is a fair assessment to state that the Commission is “walking in the dark” on this task and that staff can easily provide a list of the 160 county- owned facilities. An issue the Board is facing is that many of the buildings the County owns are long-standing and in need of updates. Mr. Satterlee stated that the first suggestion that comes to mind would be the recommendation of the health department in Ft. Pierce. The building is a bit run down which would not make it appropriate to recommend for naming after Ms. Kramer. Ms. Biglin questioned if it had to be a board decision, or if a person could individually make a recommendation. Chair McAfoos clarified that the board is seeking recommendations from the community about a suggestion to public structures that would have to be agreed to and voted upon before submitted to the BOCC. To review and recommend. Vice-Chair Trewyn suggested that a list be made, and the Commission could narrow down buildings from a list and present to County Commissioners to vote on. Chair McAfoos stated that the request for a recommendation for a public building is premature, and any action should be deferred until staff clarifies the legal questions and offers further guidance. Ms. Starke questioned if the criteria specified that the memorial be a building and suggested maybe a park would be more appropriate because of Ms. Kramer’s love for children. Mr. Satterlee stated that he believes that could be a possibility, but it still has to be a County-owned facility. Chair McAfoos also mentioned the challenges the City of Ft. Pierce is dealing with as regards naming rights of a boat ramp for Ms. Kramer and the existing conflicts surrounding that. Quarterly Meeting Tuesday, October 15, 2019 4:00 PM 6 | P a g e Mr. Benton stated that the week prior, there was a communication with our Facilities Director Daniel Rutherford to explore and begin a compilation of a list of County buildings or facilities that may be suitable and fit within the context of the request and Ms. Kramer’s legacy. Mr. Benton stated that because the request came from the Mayor of Ft. Pierce and much of Ms. Kramer’s local contribution was in the Lincoln Park area, in Ft. Pierce, staff was considering an area that would maximize visibility that would tie into Ms. Kramer’s philanthropic activities, but also be accessible and compliment other areas in which the city has invested in. The Ft. Pierce Redevelopment Agency invested millions of dollars into creating a linear park along Moore’s Creek. It enhanced water quality and filtration and improved roadway and streetscapes, providing access for recreation and multi-modal transportation to and from downtown, which is immediately north of St. Lucie County Health facility, where there are green spaces and shade. Potential contributors, the City and County can consider a statue or erect a memorial for Ms. Kramer’s legacy, to tie into the park and open space having a positive recreation scene as Ms. Starke suggested. Chair McAfoos stated we must maintain the differentiation between Ft. Pierce, the city, and their property versus County property. This request is jumping from a City request to a County facility, and the SLCHC needs to have the ability to clearly differentiate. Chair McAfoos questioned if this was going to be a City or County venture? Mr. Benton stated that it could be either or both. The City and County would work together, and, the County would maintain property belonging to the County and the City would follow suit and maintain City property. Chair McAfoos stated that his understanding is that we are now at a point where we will come up with a list of possibilities to send back to the BOCC, which as he previously stated is outside of the purview of the SLCHC and the charge from the BOCC. Mr. Benton stated that his comments were to take the SLCHC direction to compile a list, to research and possibly add to the agenda packet for the next SLCHC meeting, whether it’s the next scheduled or if a special meeting is required. While staff is working on compiling that list, corresponding with the City of Ft. Pierce, to find out if they would like to complete and submit the application and inquire if they would like to recommend one particular building or two as their top priorities for the SLCHC to consider. Mr. Benton stated that the SLCHC could reject those requests and propose alternatives. Ms. Biglin stated that the statue is a great idea due to the buildings being older, and Vice- Chair Trewyn stated a plaque is an option as well. Mr. Benton stated that the visual considerations contemplated making it an attractive green and open space possibly with Ms. Kramer holding the hand of a child with another child in her arms walking toward the Moore’s Creek linear park with an information kiosk that discusses highlights of Ms. Kramer’s accomplishments and programs she helped to launch in the City of Ft. Pierce. Quarterly Meeting Tuesday, October 15, 2019 4:00 PM 7 | P a g e Chair McAfoos stated to that point, a bronze statue and plot investment would be upwards of $75,000, whereas the naming of the building would run in the $5,000 range. Mr. Benton stated that the County would look toward the contributions or even private formulation of these facilities as a gift to the City or the County with the intent for the statue to be placed adjacent to Moore’s creek linear park. Mr. Benton is unclear as to whether there have been there have been any contributions of public expenditures to facilitate this. Vice-Chair Trewyn stated that she never met Ms. Kramer, but in her opinion, Ms. Kramer wouldn’t want the money spent on a statue, she would want to continue the good work with the people who need it. That contribution should be made in her name to towards the new health service buildings. Ms. King stated that there should be a clause stating that the “name” should be able to be transferred barring any renovations or demolishing. Mr. Middlebrook stated that he agreed with most of the conversation but was curious about the timeline. He stated that there seemed to be no sense of urgency to respond to this request, and the SLCHC should possibly review any new buildings scheduled to be constructed. Chair McAfoos requested that Mr. Benton suggest a motion. Mr. Benton stated that the motion should direct that staff work with the County Facilities Director and team to compile a list of eligible facilities, providing examples of past facilities that have been named after individuals for context, and schedule review at a future SLCHC meeting a presentation of findings, including a priority list. Staff would also work with the Mayor and City of Ft. Pierce to do the same and complete a formal application form clarifying their intent with a priority list, for submission to the SLCHC. Mr. Benton stated that he believes the City of Ft. Pierce was seeking a list of recommendations. There are easily three facilities that are healthcare-oriented or serve the youth in St. Lucie County that could be associated with the philanthropic services of Ms. Kramer. Chair McAfoos asked Ms. Young whether a motion was necessary to defer to staff to get more information? Ms. Young stated that at this point, the SLCHC is asking for more information and she is unclear as to whether a motion is necessary. She stated if there is a specific request of staff that the SLCHC is making, it can be completed, and the direction had previously been given. Ms. Young suggested that “the specific agenda item be continued to next meeting”. Ms. Starke motioned that as identified, “That specific agenda item, 6-B-3, be continued to next meeting”; Mr. Menard seconded; the motion passed without objection. Chair McAfoos asked Ms. Young if she was comfortable with that motion, to which she replied yes. Vice-Chair Trewyn motioned to adjourn, and Chair McAfoos denied stating that we hadn’t finished addressing agenda items. Vice-Chair Trewyn motioned to table agenda items to next meeting. Chair McAfoos denied again, stating that the next agenda item was about the 2020 meeting. Quarterly Meeting Tuesday, October 15, 2019 4:00 PM 8 | P a g e The meeting continued 7.MEMBER MATTERS A. Next Meeting Date: January 21, 2020 (Updated to January 14, 2019 post meeitng), at Port Saint Lucie Botanical Gardens and Historical Village & Museum 8.DISCUSSION A. Edenlawn Plantation Mr. Benton stated that the Edenlawn Plantation is a sizeable property of several acres on South Indian River Drive. Mr. Benton stated that there is a collection of Historic resources there and roughly 18 potential historical structures and many of which are in poor condition. The property is up for sale, and several interested parties are willing to preserve and rehabilitate the structures on the site. None of the structures are present on the local register, but serval buildings have historical value and significance. This agenda item may be a potential topic for discussion in the future, depending on interest. Ms. King questioned if there had previously been a restaurant on the premises. Mr. Benton confirmed that there had been an Old Fish Camp. Chair McAfoos stated, for disclosure, that this property had come before the previous iteration of the SLCHC on which he sat several years ago. Chair McAfoos stated that they received an application, which may be stored in archives, and he previously toured the site and facilities. B. Affirmation of Winter Meeting at Port Saint Lucie Botanical Gardens and Historical Village and Museum. Chair McAfoos stated that Mr. Benton arranged for the SLCHC to meet and tour the Port St. Lucie Historical Village & Museums. Mr. Benton stated that he is currently working with staff to confirm meeting time and accessibility to conference room and guided tour after meeting. 9.ADJOURN Mr. Menard motioned to adjourn, Ms. Starke, second. The motion passed unanimously.