Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006Doug Anderson County Administrator ST. LUCIE COUNTY PROPERTY AND HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION MEETING l.) 2.) 3.) Wednesday - November 8, 2006 9:00 A.M. Conference Room 3 AGENDA Call to Order - Commissioner Paula A. Lewis, Chairman ❖ Pledge of Allegiance ❖ Self Introduction of Property and Homeowners Representatives and Public Attendees Approval of Minutes of September 13, 2006 St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office Report: Deputy Gary Gonsalves 4.) Speaker: Larry Daum, St. Lucie County Economic Development Manager ❖ Tourist Development 5.) Old Business a. Code Enforcement Officers/Districts b. Project North of Johnny's Restaurant 6.) New Business ❖ Next month's meeting date - December 13, 2006 7.) Adjournment p L. W! Nov o 1 Zoos CO. AD,,., �. (7hFICE ST. LUCIE COUNTY PROPERTY AND HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION Minutes of Meeting October 11, 2006 Convened: 9:05 a.m. Adjourned: 10:25 a.m. This meeting of the Property and Homeowners Association was held Wednesday, October 11, 2006 at 9:00 a.m. in Conference Room #3 of the St. Lucie County Administration Annex Building, 2300 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce, Florida 34982. MEMBERS PRESENT: Christi Mollet, Indian River Dr. Freeholders Charlie Brown, Indian River Estates Kathleen Ivins, River Park HOA Kit Linberger, Palm Grove Frank Guarascio, Villas of Sandpiper Richard McAfoos, Coalition of Sandpiper Bay Associations Bob Bangert, Holiday Pines Jim Mckenzie, Bay St. Lucie Craig Mundt, North Beach Association Diane Shaw, Bel -Aire Estates Charles Grande, Presidents Council of Hutchinson Island Bill Hammer, Reserve/PGA Kathy Thornton, Savanna Club HOA Robin Schifilliti, PGA Village HOA ALSO PRESENT: Commissioner Paula Lewis, District 3 Barbara Felton, Aide to Commissioner Lewis Dina Prestridge, Recording Secretary Liz Martin, Aide to Commissioner Hutchinson Faye Outlaw, Assistant County Administrator Deputy Gary Gonzales, St. Lucie Co. Sheriff's Office Toni Trabolsi, COSBA/Villas Sandpipper Tom Linberger, Palm Grove HOA Larry Storms, Resident Andy Stark, Palm Grove Betty Bennett, Palm Grove Fred Cook, Emeritus Mark Boston, FLARA Dr. Bobbie Conti, Property Owners of The Reserve Emily Grande, Hutchinson Island Linda Cox, St. Lucie County Chamber of Commerce Dennis Bunt, Code Enforcement Supervisor Chris Counsellor, Code Enforcement Officer ITEM 1 — CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 9:05 a.m. Commissioner Lewis led the Association in the Pledge of Allegiance. The Homeowners' representatives and the public in attendance gave self - introductions. Property & Homeowners Association October 11, 2006 Page 2 ITEM 2 — APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER 13, 2006 Mr. Charlie Brown moved to approve the minutes of September 13, 2006. Mr. Bill Hammer seconded the motion and the approval carried unanimously by voice vote. ITEM 3 — ST. LUCIE COUNTY SHERIFF'S REPORT Deputy Gary Gonzalves informed the member of a free breakfast presented by the Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers on the last Friday of every month at Norris's on US 1. The Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers have a new website which is www.tcwatch.orq which lists the most wanted in the County and cold cases. Also, Deputy Gonzalves spoke about a locking mailbox, which can be bought for about $50 to protect mail from mail thieves. ITEM 4 — GUEST SPEAKERS: JIM MCKENZIE, ST. LUCIE COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND LINDA COX, ST. LUCIE COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Mr. Jim McKenzie spoke about Referendum #9 that will be on the election ballot in November. Referendum #9 is designed to create a funding source within the County to help move forward with issues that are important to the County. With the monies that will be put into this Authority, if approved, it will create high tech businesses, and provide opportunities for the public. The authority will consist of two elected officials for each city, two from the County, and one appointed by the Governor. The elected officials will work on the by-laws. There will be a fee placed on new residential units ($250), existing residential units ($125), property ($100), and there are formulas to calculate the cost for Agriculture and other zoning. Mr. Charles Grande asked if the fee is $125 per year. Mr. McKenzie said it is $125 but only at the time of the transfer of the property. The money generated from this fee will be available for use by applying for a grant through this facility. It is available to businesses, the County, the cities, Economic Development, etc. Mr. Fred Cook asked if the fee for vacant land was also transferable. Mr. McKenzie said it is transferable at the time of the sale of property. This fee only happens when property is transferred. This will help pay for the growth coming into the County. Mr. Hammer said to make sure the staff is creditable and the County needs high speed Internet available at a low cost to all residents. Mr. Grande asked how the money would be allocated. Mr. McKenzie said it will be set up in the by-laws and when the Authority is established. Ms. Linda Cox said the full text of the bill is on the Chamber's website which is located on the cards passed out at the meeting. Mr. McKenzie said to distribute to all the members of each association to make everyone aware of this bill. Mr. Frank Guarascio asked if we are voting for a committee to make rules. Property & Homeowners Association October 11, 2006 Page 3 Mr. McKenzie said the individuals that will run it would be representatives of the cities and County. Commissioner Lewis said to review the bill itself. This Authority is not funded from the County. Mr. Grande asked if the members could appoint representatives. Mr. McKenzie said no they couldn't appoint people. Ms. Kit Linberger asked about staffing. Mr. McKenzie said a grant process will be established and staff will be minimal. The appointed members will make the decisions as to who will receive the grant money. Commissioner Lewis the entities will help the Authority as needed. Ms. Christi Mollet asked if this was the Research and Education Authority. Mr. McKenzie said this is a separate Authority that will be governed by seven individuals to review grants and decide how the money is to be used. Mr. Guarascio asked if there was a salary factor in addition to what they are currently making. Mr. McKenzie said this is part of their responsibility as an elected official. He thanked the members. He also said to please call the Chamber for more information or to have someone speak at any homeowner's meetings. Mr. Guarascio asked if there was a pamphlet available. Mr. McKenzie said the entire ballot language is on the back of the card that was passed out earlier. Commissioner Lewis said the entire bill is on the Chambers website. This referendum is coming from the community. Mr. McKenzie said everyone in the community had input for this referendum and will be up to the voters to decide if this bill is approved. Ms. Betty Bennett asked if this bill is voted out, would it be able to come back in the future. Ms. Cox said it could but the likelihood that it would become a bill is slim. Mr. Tom Linberger said this bill is coming at a bad time to add another tax. Commissioner Lewis said it is not a tax. Mr. McKenzie said this is not a tax but a one-time fee. There was a short discussion on the tax roll and taxing issues. Mr. McKenzie thanked the members. Property & Homeowners Association October 11, 2006 Page 4 Ms. Cox made a brief explanation of the eight proposed Constitutional Amendments handout that will be on the November ballot. She also said there will be a debate on all the ballot issues, local issues and stated e issues, to be held on live on Channel 25 There will be representative y, October 18, 6 at 5:00 which will also be broadcasted representati a from the City of Port St. Lucie, Judges, St. Lucie County, and possibly one State. Mr. Hammer asked if people loose their homestead exemption in an eminent domain case. Ms. Cox said yes. Ms. Kit Linberger asked if the eminent domain is coming from the north regarding this issue. Ms. Cox said she is not sure. Mr. Mark Boston asked if the $20,000 income includes Social Security in the Amendment #6. Ms. Cox said she is not sure but she will research and find out the answer. Mr. Grande asked if there is an extra $25,000 placed on homestead exemption. Commissioner Lewis said yes there is. Mr. Grande said the extra $25,000 would be placed on top of the $50,000 homestead exemption that we currently have. Ms. Cox said yes. She also has extra copies at the Chambers, or download the handout at www.votesmartflorida.org. ITEM 5 - OLD BUSINESS Commissioner Lewis answered a question about Glades Cut-off Road. The Road Department has patched the area around the Reserve. Commissioner Lewis is waiting for additional information from staff. Mr. Hammer said it would be helpful to reduce the speed limit temporarily on Glades Cut -Off Road. Commissioner Lewis said she will have more news hopefully next month. She then introduced Dennis Bunt, Code Enforcement Supervisor, to give an update on River Park. Mr. Dennis Bunt said since January 1, 2006 Code Enforcement has 519 cases and 613 complaints in River Park. Since September there are 73 cases in River Park, 27 cases went to the Code Board, 5 are still pending with fines against them, and 12 houses have been repainted. Commissioner Lewis said the Code Enforcement department is working hard in that area. Mr. Hammer asked about signs along the roadway that are for businesses. Mr. Bunt said his department picks up about 300 signs per week. The signs advertising for businesses are illegal and to their jobs easier, they just pick up the signs and throw them away. This saves time and money instead of trying to pursue the company or person who are putting Property & Homeowners Association October 11, 2006 Page 5 up these signs. Mr. Bunt said now these companies have people hold signs instead of putting them in the right-of-ways. Ms. Betty Bennett thanked the Code Enforcement Department for their work. Ms. Kathleen Ivins asked about the signs at Advantage Auto on Prima Vista Blvd. Mr. Bunt said the signs are coming out. Ms. Diane Shaw thanked the Code Enforcement Department. ITEM 6 — NEW BUSINESS Mr. Hammer asked if the member could get a list of the current Code Enforcement Officers by area. Commissioner Lewis asked Mr. Bunt if that could be done. Mr. Bunt said yes he could provide a listing for next month. Ms. Kit Linberger asked if anyone knew what is going to be built on the property on US 1 north of Johnny's Restaurant. Commissioner Lewis said she was unsure, but she would look into that for her. Mr. Bunt said there is an on -call officer over the weekend, which is on until 2:00 a.m. You can leave a message at 772-370-2545. ITEM 7 — ADJOURNMENT Having no further business to discuss, Commissioner Lewis thanked the group for their attendance, and adjoined the meeting at 10:25 a.m. THE NEXT MEETING 3 LL OFBE HELD THE ADMINISTRATION �ANNEX BUILDING AT 2300 VIRGINIA CONFERENCE ROOM AVENUE, FORT PIERCE. Respectfully Submitted: Dina Prestridge Recording Secretary PROPERTY &COUNTY PR ST. LUCIE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION Doug Anderson County Administrator NOTICE TO: All Association Members FROM: Barbara Felton, Executive Aide Commissioner Paula A. Lewis DATE: April 25, 2006 RE: JAIL TOUR REMINDER tour This is a reminder of the scheduled tour for Monday, North Rock Fort PierceMandhf t me will begin at the St. Lucie County Jail at 900 Rock Road permit, we will also tour the 911 Communications Center at 101 North Rock Road. Please use the front parking lot of the Jail to park valnd someone available will be present at the front entrance to escort you in. Plea have the prole DIRECTIONS: From the South -Use I-95 to Orange Avenue Make a exit, ghtthen travel on Rock Road sand go down t on Orange Avenue across Kings Highway to Rock Road about 1/4/mile. Jail sits on the left. From the North -Use Kings Highway to Orange Avenue, make a rig C L travel to Rock Road. Make a right on Rock Road and go down'/4 mile. Jai ,; 2 6 �-" ry Page 2 If you live in the area, drive to one of these roads (Kings Highway or Orange Avenue) and follow the previous directions. We look forward to seeing you Monday, May Vt at 10:00 A.M. You may call me at 462-1406 or Sergeant "Z" at 871-5303 if you have any question. BF/bf Doug Anderson r County Administrator ST. LUCIE COUNTY PROPERTY AND HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION MEETING Wednesday - May 10, 2006 9:00 A.M. Conference Room 3 AGENDA 1.) Call to Order - Commissioner Paula A. Lewis, Chairman ❖ Pledge of Allegiance ❖ Self Introduction of Property and Homeowners Representatives and Public Attendees 2.) Approval of Minutes of March 8th & April 12, 2006 3.) St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office Report: Sergeant Richard Ziarkowski 4.) Speaker: Ken Gioeli, Extension Agent/ Natural Resources OF/St. Lucie County Cooperative Extension 5.) Old Business 6.) New Business ❖ Next month's topic and speaker - June 14, 2006 Jack Southard, St. Lucie County Emergency Management Director 7.) Adj ournment c � Il_\`_/1�- �I MAY - 5 2006 CO. ADMIN. OFFICE ST. LUCIE COUNTY PROPERTY AND HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION Minutes of Tour/Meeting April 12, 2006 11:05 a.m. Convened: 9:00 A.M. Ad'ourned: The Property and Homeowners Association met for a tour of the Sheriff Department Headquarters Wednesday, April 12, 2006 at 9:00 A.M. at the St. Lucie County Sheriff building, 4700 West Midway Road, Fort Pierce, Florida 34981. MEMBERS PRESENT: Frank Guarascio, Villages of Sandpiper Richard McAfoos, Coalition of Sandpiper Bay Associations Sherwood Soles, Parks Edge POA Christi Mollet, Indian River Drive Freeholders Craig Mundt, North Beach Association Charlie R. Brown, Indian River Estates Walter Fauth, Fort Pierce South Beach Association Kit Linberger, Palm Grove HOA Sonny Jamieson, Savanna Club HOA Bill Hammer, Reserve/PGA Village Kathleen Ivins, River Park HOA Jack Ross, St. James Golf Community HOA Bob Bangert, Holiday Pines HOA Arlene Goodman, White City Improvement Club Don Wilson, St. Lucie North HOA ALSO PRESENT: Commissioner Paula A. Lewis Barbara Felton, Aide to Commissioner Lewis Sheriff Ken Mascara Sergeant Richard Ziarkowski, St. Lucie County Sheriff Dept. Deputy Glenn Hoffman, St. Lucie County Sheriff Dept. Deputy Gary Gonsalves, St. Lucie County Sheriff Dept. Captain Michael Monahan Lt. Larry Hostetler, St. Lucie County Sheriff Dept. Lt. Kevin Dietrich, St. Lucie County Sheriff Dept. Deputy Tony Savage, St. Lucie County Sheriff Dept. Deputy Brent Wineka, St. Lucie County Sheriff Dept. Fred Cook, PSL Resident John Ferrick, North Fork Property Owner Mark Boston, Florida Lions Assoc. for Retired Americans Betty Bennett, Palm Grove Homeowner Bob Bennett, Palm Grove Homeowner Andy Stark, Palm Grove Homeowner Property & Homeowners Association April 12, 2006 Page 2 The group was welcomed by Sheriff Ken Mascara. After being welcomed Deputy Glenn Hoffman gave a presentation on Crime Prevention and programs that are being used by their department. Some of the programs include: 4-Neighborhood Crime Watch •BCitizens Observation Patrol 4-Citizens Marine Patrol ❖C.A.T. Program ❖Safe Business Initiative ❖S.O.S. - Safeguard Our Seniors ❖Reverse 9-1-1 This presentation is available to be shown at individual property and homeowners association meetings. For more information contact Deputy G. Hoffman or Sergeant "Z" at 871-5305. Mr. Craig Mundt asked about port security. Deputy Tony Savage explained his duties in the Marine patrol unit and how the division work with the U.S. Coast Guards, etc. Mr. Fred Cook was concerned why it takes from 6-12 months to arrest someone who is growing/selling pot in their house. Deputy Hoffman stated that it takes time because of legalities. Mrs. Arlene Goodman was concerned about the jurisdiction of the different law enforcement agencies. The Sheriff Department has authority over all other police agencies and the Highway Patrol. There was concerns about drugs in the Fort Pierce area. Investigations are on going in this area as well as others. Mr. Mundt asked about gang activity in St. Lucie County. There was ongoing discussion on gang activity in the communities and in the schools. (Crypts Gang, Fallen Angels) Lt. Kevin Dietrich, School Resource Commander, stated that violent gang members as seen on televison are not in our schools. They are put in alternative schools and their activities are being watched. Programs such as bullying, GREAT, DARE, etc. are being used for kids in school. Presently, there are 28 SROs and two supervisors and they are hoping to get three more next year. Property and Homeowners Association April 12, 2006 Page 3 Mr. Bob Bangert mentioned that there needs to be more advertisement on the Save Our Seniors program. Deputy Hoffman stated that Crime Prevention is to educate the citizens on what is going on and what can be done to help prevent crime in the communities. Meetings on difference programs will be held at the Sheriff Department on Saturdays and will be advertised in the newspaper. Deputy Brent Wineka, a pilot for the Aviation Unit, gave an overview of his unit. One of the helicopters, Air III, has 2'/2 and 20 minutes airtime on a full tank of gas; can fly up to 115 mph; is approximately 3200 Ibs including gas and persons on board. The helicopter has night vision equipment, carries one pilot and a medic and is 20-25 years old. We went outside and looked at the helicopter as well. Deputy Tony savage of the Marine Unit then gave an over view of his unit and what it entails. At present there are three boats and one C.O.P. boat. Their unit works along with the Coast Guard and air unit offshore; they also do water testing and enforce laws on water. Their boats have night vision as well and radar. There is an eight member dive team, two full-time members in the Marine Unit along with volunteers and they patrol 600 sq. ft. of water. They are hoping to have another deputy by the summer (June) to be able to patrol more waters. The group then moved outside where we met with Lt. Larry Hostetler, Bomb Team commander who also gave an over view of the bomb disposal unit. The unit is composed of a seven -man team. They service St. Lucie County, Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Indian River County, Vero Police department, Okeechobee City and County. The unit has had 67 calls for service and 52 times found explosives. Explosive items has also been found on the barrier islands from past naval units doing testing, etc. After returning back inside the building, there was discussion about a tour of the St. Lucie County Jail and/or 911 Communications Center Monday, May 1, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. This date seems to be good for the majority. Commissioner Lewis will check to see if her calendar is clear for this date. The tour ended at 11:05 a.m. Property and Homeowners Association April 12, 2006 Page 4 THE NEXT MEETING WILL BE HELD WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2006 AT 9:00 A.M. IN CONFERENCE ROOM 3 OF THE ADMINISTRATION ANNEX BUILDING AT 2300 VIRGINIA AVENUE, FORT PIERCE, 34982. Respectfully submitted: Barbara Felton Executive Aide Commissioner Paula A. Lewis Doug Anderson County Administrator ST. LUCIE COUNTY PROPERTY AND HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION MEETING Wednesday - June 14, 2006 9:00 A.M. Conference Room 3 AGENDA 1.) Call to Order - Commissioner Paula A. Lewis, Chairman 2.) 3.) a 5.) 6.) P .4 V 6�411 ❖ Pledge of Allegiance ❖ Self Introduction of Property and Homeowners Representatives and Public Attendees Approval of Minutes of May 10, 2006 St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office Report: Sergeant Richard Ziarkowski Speaker: Mark Godwin, St. Lucie County Criminal Justice Coordinator Old Business a. Street Lights - Port St. Lucie Blvd. & US #1 b Special Needs Shelter Update c. Midway Road Widening time frame d. Chemical Checking in old Groves e. Gas Station -US #1 & Midway Road Update New Business ❖ Next month's topic and speaker - July 12, 2006 Jack Southard, St. Lucie County Emergency Management Director 7.) Adjournment rjIJN - 9 2006 y' CO. ADMIN. OFFICE ST. LUCIE COUNTY PROPERTY AND HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION Minutes of Meeting May 10, 2006 Convened: 9:00 a.m. Adiourned: 10:43 a.m. This meeting of the Property and Homeowners Association was held Wednesday, May 10, 2006 at 9:00 a.m. in Conference Room #3 of the St. Lucie County Administration Annex Building, 2300 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce, Florida 34982. MEMBERS PRESENT: Kathleen Ivins, River Park HOA Kit Linberger, Palm Grove Christi Mollet, Indian River Dr. Freeholders Charles Grande, Presidents Council of Hutchinson Island Sonny Jamieson, Savanna Club Craig Mundt, North Beach Association Diane Shaw, Bel Air Estates Bob Bangert, Holiday Pines Charlie Brown, Indian River Estates Frank Guarascio, Villas of Sandpiper Dr. Madeleine Warns, PGA Village Homeowners Assoc. Jack Ross, St. James Golf Club HOA Don Wilson, St. Lucie North ALSO PRESENT: Commissioner Paula Lewis, District 3 Barbara Felton, Aide to Commissioner Lewis Liz Martin, Aide to Commissioner Hutchinson Eva O'Donnell, Aide to Commissioner Craft Dina Prestridge, Recording Secretary Sheriff Ken Mascara, St. Lucie Co. Sheriffs Office Gary Gonzales, St. Lucie Co. Sheriffs Office Swendy Ariyanayagam, Contractor Licensing Supervisor Andy Stark, Palm Grove Toni Trabolsi, COSBA/Villas Sandpipper Dr. Bobbie Conti, Property Owners of The Reserve John Ferrick, North Fork Property Owners William J. Gesner, Coral Cove Beach Owners Association Frank Montellone, Spanish Lakes Country Club Village Kathy Thornton, Savanna Club Ken Waters, Fire Commissioner Ken Gioeii-, 'Natbral Resources Extension Agent_ LeRoy Creswell, Sea Grant Extension Agent Jeffery P. Gellermann, Growth Management Agent Karla Lenfesty, Windstorm Mitigation Program Specialist Larry Storms, Resident Property & Homeowners Association May 10, 2006 Page 2 ITEM 1 — CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m. Commissioner Lewis led the Association in the Pledge of Allegiance. The Homeowners' representatives and the public in attendance gave self -introductions. ITEM 2 — APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 8, 2006 Mr. Sonny Jamieson ,moved to approve the minutes of March 8, 2006 and April 12, 2006. Mr. Bob Bangert seconded the motion and the approval carried unanimously by voice vote. ITEM 3 — ST. LUCIE COUNTY SHERIFF'S REPORT Sheriff Mascara thanked the members for participating in the jail tour and administration building tour. Sheriff Mascara pointed out that there were 11 arrests made in connection with growing marijuana in homes. Mr. Bob Bangert mentioned the need for more advertisement on the Save Our Seniors, and the Sheriffs Office has a spread for the media but has not see it in the paper as of yet; a C.O.P recruitment tape that will be aired on the St. Lucie Channel as well as the County Information Channel. Sheriff Mascara discussed the jail population on May 1, 2006 was 1,342 and the population on May 9, 2006 was 1,372. ITEM 4 — GUEST SPEAKER: KEN GIOELI, EXTENSION AGENT/NATURAL RESOURCES, OF/ST. LUCIE COUNTY COOPERATIVE EXTENSION Mr. Ken Gioeli introduced himself and the role he plays within the county. Mr. Gioeli focuses on wildlife, environment, and water quality. In the packet that was passed out were flyers that discussed the different programs that are offered. When someone hires a landscaping company, that company has to come to the Extension Office to get their occupational license by taking classes to learn about the rules and regulations. Anyone who is going to be spraying any chemicals for a landscaping company goes through Mr. Gioeli's office. Mr. Gioeli deals with wildlife management on property. He then discussed the bat issue at Tradition Field and how a "bat house" was placed at Tradition Field. Mr. Gioeli also deals with invasive plant management and how insects are able to combat the growth of certain plants. A new insect called the "Soft Fly" that will help control the Brazilian Pepper will be released within the next six months. The Pond Appeal program is good for people living in planned developments and do not know what to expect from a healthy Floridapond. The 1ast-class-:in the first series- will discuss aquatic plants and algae control starting on June 14, 2006 at 6:30 p.m. at the St. Lucie West IRCC campus. Pre -registration is required. Mr. Gioeli discussed the Rain Barrel workshop that is offered through the Extension Office and the benefits of a rain barrel. Mr. LeRoy Creswell is a Marine Extension Agent with the Sea Grant program. He deals with issues in the marine environment. Mr. Creswell works with the Clean Marina Program, the Pond Appeal Program, Monofilament Collection Bins, and the Oyster Restoration Program. Mr. Creswell discussed his handout titled "Our Coastal Environment" is a list of programs available for him to discuss at homeowner association meetings. Property & Homeowners Association May 10, 2006 Page 3 Mr. Charlie Brown asked if the public has any say to the Corps of Engineers about taking sand from St. Lucie County beaches and placing it on the beaches of Miami. Mr. Cornwell said he is not sure but it would have an impact on the environment. Mr. Charles Grande said there was a public hearing at the Blake Library on May 9, 2006 and there is another public hearing on May 10, 2006 in the Chambers looking for input on the beach sand issue. Mr. Jeffery P. Gellermann is the Growth Management Extension Agent. He described how he helps people relay information through the variance process, help people relay information to public officials, how to improve chances of a successful application, and all the things needed for a variance. Mr. Gellermann also helps determine when a special use permit is needed and how to complete an application. He is trying to develop a community design program. Mrs. Karla Lenfesty is the Windstorm Mitigation Program Specialist. She manages the "Hurricane House" in St. Lucie County where public education takes place, training, and demonstrates building techniques. Mrs. Lenfesty also said models on strengthening older homes for hurricanes as well as energy savings techniques are for public viewing at the Hurricane House. Mr. Gioeli also informed the group about the other staff members that were unable to attend the meeting today. Ed Skvarch works with commercial horticulture, Anita Neal is the Environmental Horticultural Agent as well as the County Extension Director, Sue Munyan is the 4-H Coordinator, Jack Hebb is the Citrus Agent, and Carol Alberts is the Personal and Business Finance Program Specialist. Mr. John Ferrick asked if old citrus groves are checked for chemicals in the soil. Mr. Gioeli said he did not know the answer. Mr. John Ferrick asked if there is a way to save trees on property that is going to be developed. Commissioner Lewis said that issue might be better addressed to Vanessa Bessey, Environmental Resources Director, or Amy Mott Resource, Protection Coordinator. Mr. Grande asked where the funding for positions comes from. Mr. Gioeli said the funding comes from both the County and the University of Florida. Mr. Jack Ross asked about the relationship with South Florida Water Management District. Mr. Gioeli said they have a partnership with the SFWMD. Mr. Sonny Jamieson asked if the insects that are released to manage the growth of invasive plants would not be a nuisance. Property & Homeowners Association May 10, 2006 Page 4 Mr. Gioeli said there is a risk assessment done on the insects before the insect is released. He also spoke about how the Bufo Toad/Cane Toad was used in sugar cane fields to control insects. Ms. Kit Linberger asked about the Bufo Toad/Cane Toad. Mr. Gioeli said the toads like to be around scraps of dog food and will even sit in the dog dish. This is when animals come in contact with the toads and can kill a dog within 5 minutes. The safe way to remove the toads is to have some type of glove on your hands, pick up the toad, put the toad in a ziploc bag, and store it in the freezer for 3 days. After the 3 days, throw the bag in the garbage, not bury them in the yard. Ms. Kathy Thornton asked if there was a way to get rid of armadillos. Mr. Gioeli said armadillo trapping is the only thing effective. To keep them out of a garden a hot wire can be used 6 inches off the ground. If there are any questions, please give the Extension Office a call at 462-1660. Ms. Linberger asked if there are any houses that have been built to the Hurricane House standards. Mrs. Karla Lenfesty said she has heard about some on Hutchinson Island. She said the solid concrete walls that developers are using now are hurricane resistant. Mr. Gioeli said Mrs. Lenfesty has information for retrofitting older homes to hurricane standards. Ms. Linberger asked if anyone has more information about a coating that goes on a roof. Mrs. Lenfesty said she has not heard of anything but she can inquire about it to see if the state has heard anything about it. Mr. Don Wilson asked what is the purpose of oyster shells. Mr. Creswell said the purpose of spreading oyster shells in the ocean is to provide more surface area for oysters to feed on. Mr. Gioeli thanked the group for their time. ITEM 5 — OLD BUSINESS Commissioner Lewis asked if there was any old business. Mr. Sonny Jamieson said the base of the streetlights on US 1 is now being used as garbage cans. . Commissioner Lewis said she had a note to check on the lights, but there is a change in staff in the Road Department. The County Engineer remembered there was some problem but did not remember what it was. She said she would get back with the group on the status. Property & Homeowners Association May 10, 2006 Page 5 ITEM 6 -- NEW BUSINESS Commissioner Lewis said the first Public Visioning Meeting to discuss the Port St. Lucie Yacht Club replacement facility would be on Monday May 15, 2006 at 6:00 p.m. at the Oxbow-Eco Center. The second Public Visioning Meeting will be on Thursday May 25, 2006 at 6:00 p.m. at the Oxbow-Eco Center. Mr. Charlie Brown suggested to the group to give the Public Information Officer, Linette Trabulsy an email address where she can send all the announcements. Commissioner Lewis said she would give any email addresses to Mrs. Trabulsy. She then discussed Jack Southard from Public Safety will be attending next month's meeting. Commissioner Lewis spoke about a request from Mr. Bill Hammer to have Mr. Mark Godwin tell the group about what he is doing in relation to the jail population. She asked the group if they would like to have Mr. Godwin in next month or to have Mr. Southard next month. Mr. Charles Grande suggested having Mr. Godwin come speak as soon as possible. Commissioner Lewis said it would be useful to have an update from Mr. Godwin. She asked if the group would like to have Mr. Southard speak in June or in July. It was approved to have Mr, Godwin and Mr. Southard speak in June. Ms. Kathy Thornton asked the group for information regarding employment with the association. Commissioner Lewis said there is a problem finding employees. Mr. Grande suggested starting pitching to retired people. Ms. Linberger said a lot of associations have their own management company. Mr. John Ferrick asked for an update on the progress of the Special Needs Shelter/Gym and asked if there is a time period for construction. Commissioner Lewis said the grant is secure, but she would have to get someone to address this issue for us. She believes the issue is for legislature to provide more funding'. Commissioner Lewis said the basic plan has -been approved but she does not have a construction date. For the upcoming hurricane season, Dan McCarty Middle School will still be used for a special needs shelter. Ms. Linberger asked if there is a timeframe for the widening of Midway Road. She also asked about the gas station that is not open. Commissioner Lewis said there is a timeframe for the widening of Midway Road from 25'h Street to US 1, but she will have to gather the information and present it next month. Mr. Ferrick said he is on the Stakeholders Committee group for Midway Road and it will be 4 to 5 years before construction will start. Property & Homeowners Association May 10, 2006 Page 6 Commissioner Lewis said it would not be that long for the construction to start.. Mr. Ferrick said the gas station that was referenced is not open because the owner has chosen not to open due to the widening of Midway Road at US 1. The US 1 widening has started and work is only at night. There was a discussion about the gas station on the corner of Midway Road and US 1 and the roadway construction on Midway Road. Ms. Linberger thanked Commissioner Lewis for the tours with the Sheriff's Office. She also asked about touring the EOC and scheduling a tour sometime soon. Commissioner Lewis said Sergeant Z was working on that but she will have Ms. Barbara Felton contact Sergeant Z and give an update. Mr. Bob Bangert discussed his tour of the Agriculture Center/USDA. He suggested speaking with Ms. Anita Neal for a tour. Commissioner Lewis said she would check with Ms. Neal about a tour. Ms. Swendy Ariyanayagam discussed the latest trend for contractors. The contractors are having the homeowner pull an Owner/Builder Permit. Please make sure association members know that if a licensed contractor is hired there is no need to pull an Owner/Builder Permit. People can now check to see which contractors are licensed through St. Lucie County and you can check permits. ITEM 7 — ADJOURNMENT Having no further business to discuss, Commissioner Lewis thanked the group for their attendance, and adjoined the meeting at 10:43 a.m. THE NEXT MEETING WILL BE HELD WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14, 2006 AT 9:00 A.M. IN CONFERENCE ROOM 3 OF THE ADMINISTRATION ANNEX BUILDING AT 2300 VIRGINIA AVENUE, FORT PIERCE. Respectfully Submitted: Dina Prestridge, Recording Secretary PRESS/PUBLIC ST. LUCIE COUNTY PROPERTY AND HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION MEETING Wednesday - January 11, 2006 9:00 A.M. Conference Room 3 AGENDA 1.) Call to Order - Commissioner Paula A. Lewis, Chairman ❖ Pledge of Allegiance ❖ Self Introduction of Property and Homeowners Representatives and Public Attendees 2.) Approval of Minutes of December 14, 2005 3.) St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office Report: Sergeant William Radke 4.) Speaker: TBA 5.) Old Business 6.) New Business ❖ Next month's topic and speaker 7.) Adjournment ST. LUCIE COUNTY PROPERTY AND HOMEONERS ASSOCIATION W Minutes of Meeting December 14, 2005 This meeting of the Property and Homeowners Association was held Wednesday, December 14, 2005 at 9:00 a.m. in Conference Room #3 of the St. Lucie County Administration Annex Building, 2300 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce, Florida 34982. MEMBERS PRESENT: JoeAnne Severino, Spanish Lakes Fairways HOA Charlie Brown, Indian River Estates HOA Sonny Jamieson, Savanna Club HOA Frank Guarascio, Villages of Sandpiper Bay Eileen Jenny, River Park HOA Bob Bangert, Holiday Pines HOA Tom Linberger, Palm Grove (representing Kit Linberger) Christi Mollet, Indian River Dr. Freeholders Craig Mundt, North Beach Association William Gesner, Coral Cove Beach Owners Association Charlie Parsons, Lakewood Park HOA Charles Grande, Presidents Council of Hutchinson Island ALSO PRESENT: Commissioner Paula Lewis, District 3 Barbara Felton, Aid to Commissioner Lewis Dina Prestridge, Recording Secretary Gil Backenstoss, Assistant Growth Management Director Sergeant William Radke, St. Lucie Co. Sheriffs Office John Ferrick, North Fork Property Owners Mark Boston, Nettles Island Kathy Thornton, Savanna Club HOA Carol Tibbs, Plantation Manor Lois Bormann, Plantation Manor Havert Fenn, Citizen Property & Homeowners Association December 14, 2005 Page 2 ITEM 1 — CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m. Commissioner Lewis led the Association in the Pledge of Allegiance. The Homeowners' representatives and the public in attendance gave self -introductions. ITEM 2 — APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 9, 2005 Mr. Bob Bangert request a change to the minutes stating there are two dumpsters removed from the golf course and it is almost cleaned up. Mr. Bob Bangert moved to approve approval the cutes of November 9, 205. arried unanimously by vo0 e vote. Charles Grande seconded the motion and the ITEM 3 ~ ST. LUCIE COUNTY SHERIFF'S REPORT Sergeant William Radke stated that in regards to the case against Banner Aluminum is still ongoing. He also said if anyone has had any dealings with Pro-Tec Shutters and you believe that there is fraud, please contact 911 to file a report. He reminded everyone to be careful when going shopping during the holidays. ITEM 4 — GUEST SPEAKER: VICTORIA WILLIAMS, FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF FINANCIAL SERVICES Ms. Victoria Williams discussed information pertaining to the problems that occur after a hurricane regarding insurance claims and insurance policies. She discussed the information that is available to anyone that needed it, and the option of going to mediation with insurance companies if someone is unable to settle with their insurance company. She discussed the issues with condo associations insurance companies and the problems that the associations face. Mr. Sonny Jamieson said if insurance companies sells insurance in Florida, they should sell homeowner's insurance to everyone. Ms. Williams explained how insurance companies could raise premiums. She also discussed what the State oversees with the insurance companies and the process to make sure companies can pay claims. Mr. Tom Linberger asked Ms. Williams how are insurance companies charging people to pay for Citizens Insurance claims. Property & Homeowners Association December 14, 2005 Page 3 Ms. Williams responded that it is law and discussed some of the laws regarding processing claims. Mr. Crag Mundt stated that he has heard complaints about slow pay from insurance companies. Ms. Williams asked Mr. Mundt how many of those people have tried mediation. She discussed the mediation program that is available to individuals and condo associations. Mr. Mundt discussed the issues with the condo association problems with fixing hurricane damage and insurance claims. Mr. Grande stated the system is too complex and the State is allowing too much diversity in the coverage. He went on to discuss his thoughts on standardizing the coverage for insurance. There was a discussion about the insurance company premiums and not covering certain people, and insurance fraud. Ms. Tibbs commented that the Savanna Club residents have faced non -renewal from insurance companies, as well as the Savanna Club HOA needs help. Ms. Williams suggested mediation. Sergeant William Radke asked if there are investigators for problems. Ms. Williams responded that the State has a fraud helpline and an agent agency investigations line. Sergeant Radke asked at what point does the State start punishing insurance companies for not processing claims. Ms. Williams discussed the Department of Financial Services web site (www.Rdfs.com) that lists insurance companies that are the worse in customer service. There was a discussion about health insurance issues. Sergeant Radke asked Ms. Williams at what point does a company loose its license. Ms. Williams responded that the contracts are still in place for the policyholder and should not put all policyholders in jeopardy because of one bad claim. Ms. Williams said to call and report incidents to the State. Property & Homeowners Association December 14, 2005 Page 4 ITEM 5 — OLD BUSINESS Commissioner Lewis asked if there was any old business to address. Ms. Eileen Jenny addressed her concerns about Solida Drive drainage problem. Commissioner Lewis said she would look into the problem. Mr. Sonny Jamison asked if there was an update on the light on US 1 south of Prima Vista. Commissioner Lewis said she will look into it and will get an update. Ms. Lois Bormann asked if there was an update on the Housing Task Force regarding the Pleasure Cove residents. Commissioner Lewis responded that it was not specifically related to Pleasure Cove, but related to the affordable housing in St. Lucie County. She will provide more information at the next meeting regarding the findings, and Mr. John Franklin could attend the meeting if necessary. She also asked that everyone fill out a form to update the appointee listing. Mr. Tom Linberger discussed the issue of garbage left on property and what Code Enforcement can do to issue citations. Commissioner Lewis responded that Mr. Dennis Bunt of the Code Compliance Division would be able to respond to that situation and we will try to have Mr. Bunt attend a meeting to discuss this issue with everyone. There was a discussion about yard waste and debris waste. ITEM 6 — NEW BUSINESS Commissioner Lewis asked how many speakers at each meeting everyone would like. Mr. Mark Boston said one speaker. Commissioner Lewis agrees and said there would be time left for questions and discussions. There was discussion about the format of the meetings. Property & Homeowners Association December 14, 2005 Page 5 Mr. Boston suggested having a Medicare guest speaker come in to speak at the next meeting. There was discussion about the new Medicare program. ITEM 7 — ADJOURNMENT Having no further business to discuss, Commissioner Lewis thanked the group for their attendance, and adjoined the meeting at 10:45 a.m. THE NEXT MEETING WILL BE HELD WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11, 2006 AT 9:00 A.M. Respectfully Submitted: Dina Prestridge, Recording Secretary