07-16-1990 - Regular
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CITY COUNCIL OF EDGEWATER
REGULAR MEETING
JULY 16, 1990
MINUTES
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Mitchum called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. in the Community Center.
ROLL CALL
Mayor David Mitchum
Councilman Dan Hatfield
Councilmember Gigi Bennington
Councilman Russell Gold
Councilman Thomas Fish
City Attorney Jose' Alvarez
City Manager Elly Johnson
City Clerk Susan Wadsworth
Chief Lawrence Schumaker
Present
Present
Present
Present
Excused
Present
Present
Present
Present
INVOCATION. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Reverend Dr. Tee, Edgewater Union Church, delivered the invocation. There was
a pledge of allegiance to the Flag.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Regular Meetina of Julv 2. 1990 - Councilman Gold moved for approval.
Councilmember Bennington seconded the motion. Motion CARRIED 4-0.
CITIZEN COMMENTS
Mayor Mitchum advised they're under the 3 minute rule unless Council wishes
otherwise.
Harrv Jones, 3035 Tamarind, spoke as Chairman of the Merit Board. Mr. Jones
distributed copies of a memo dated July 31, 1989, to the Mayor and City Council.
He said they felt with the advent of the City Manager-Mayor and Council form of
government some duties of the Merit Board weren't appropriate so they proposed
four changes in their duties. He noted three of these referred to "official
channels". He distributed copies of an Ordinance number 89-0-30, stating it was
prepared by the City Attorney and in the personnel phases "city council II was
struck out and "official channels" was put in. Mayor Mitchum called time.
Councilman Hatfield suggested since he's speaking as Chairman of the Merit Board
instead of bringing this up under Citizen Comments, he can give them a brief
synopsis and bring a proposal for the next agenda that they can study and have
a rational decision. Mr. Jones requested more time. Mayor Mitchum agreed to
extend it because he's Chairman of the Merit Board. Mr. Jones distributed copies
of Ordinance 89-0-30 which was passed by Council, stating "city council II was
struck out and "City Manager" is there, also in number 3 and 6. He stated this
has deprived the Merit Board access to the City Council. He read an excerpt from
page 20 of the Charter regarding establishment of the Merit Board. He stated
the City Attorney prepared an ordinance for Council and when it reached them,
it had been rewritten and the intent had been changed. He asked Council to find
out who made the change, why, and under whose orders. He said he didn't get the
data until it was too late to get on this week's agenda.
Mr. Johnson explained he didn't make the changes, and they were discussed with
the City Attorney and he discussed them again today with him. He noted the
proposal came in two days after he came on board, and copies were sent to the
Merit Board and other members of the Merit Board remember seeing it before it
went to Council. He said Council can change it, and it was done about 12 months
ago. He stated anything the Merit Board sends to him, he sends to Council and
the City Attorney, and he doesn't always agree with them. Mr. Jones stated based
on the Charter, he requests and recommends all advisory boards and committees
report directly to Council. He added they saw it as it was written up but
doesn't believe that was what Council wanted and they wanted to keep it within
the status of the current Charter. He recommended at the next meeting that
additional data be brought in and have the Merit Board report directly because
now it just says it will be established, and based on that, they'll have no
authority whatever and he recommends it be changed.
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CITIZEN COMMENTS (Continued)
Frank Roe, 2732 Juniper Drive, stated at the first meeting after Council was
elected he asked them to study needs of the City before acting on important
issues but they didn't take his advice and they've all disappointed him. He
asked if anyone objected to the 3 minute limit by the Mayor. He said 3 minutes
should be enough to make a case but if it's an important issue, 3 minutes is not
ample time and these tactics prove to him the Council doesn't care about the
taxpayers. He asked how others feel about treatment they've received the last
two years, and asked for Council comments. He suggested Council may want to tell
the citizens what they've done for them to improve their life styles.
Bill Klein, 2910 Needle Palm, asked Mayor Mitchum if there have been any budget
workshops. Mayor Mitchum replied no. Mr. Klein stated by now they usually have
Council workshops with Department Heads and have started work on the budget and
he's appalled Council hasn't been involved with the budget. Mayor Mitchum said
it's about time and there's a document being prepared. Mr. Klein stated even
though some are not running for re-election, Council is the boss and he hopes
they won't be the rubber stamp of the one who's putting it together.
Mr. Klein said he requested information from City Hall and didn't receive it in
the order he asked for it. He said held asked for an itemized list of certain
things and didn't get it and he'll be back in City Hall asking for certain
specific things and if he doesn't receive them, helll go to the State Attorney.
Kathy Bushong, 1211 Bond Street, owner of Little Red Furniture House, stated
she's purchased 927 A-3 across the street and applied for an occupational license
to be transferred and upon inspection of the unit she was told everything was
brought up to Code except she was obliged to purchase a fire hydrant. She said
she feels it's unfair for a small business to be responsible for fire hydrants
that are to be used throughout the City and different businesses. She said she
presented this to First Federal Savings and Council received a letter from Vice
President Richard Fawley stating he wished they'd reconsider this decision and
allow her the occupational license without purchasing the fire hydrant.
Councilman Hatfield noted this will be coming up later on the agenda.
CONSENT AGENDA
City Engineer1s request to purchase computer equipment at cost of $16,680 under
GSA contract and land Development & Regulatory Agency and Planning & Zoning
Department recommendations to amend Code, Chapters 3, 7, and 14, and Appendix
A, ZoninQ - Mayor Mitchum asked if Council wants to remove anything. Councilman
Hatfield asked to remove item 4.B. re: LDRA. Councilmember Bennington agreed.
Mayor Mitchum requested a mot i on to close and accept the con sent agenda.
Councilman Hatfield so moved. Councilmember Bennington seconded the motion.
Motion CARRIED 4-0.
land Development & Regulatory Agency and Planning & Zoning Department
recommendations to amend Code, Chapters 3, 7, and 14, and Appendix A, Zoning
Councilman Hatfield stated this is a lengthy ordinance proposal and there are
a lot of questions for LDRA and it might be advantageous to have a special
meeting with them to discuss it because it involves deleting power of the City
Council and giving it to LDRA. He pointed out nothing needs to be done right
away and held like a meeting sometime in August. He then moved to TABLE it until
the August 5th meeting to set a date to meet with the LDRA. Councilmember
Bennington seconded the motion, agreeing with Councilman Hatfield and noting
there are things in the draft that donlt even apply to LDRA and the way it's
presented, there are a lot of things they need to go over with LDRA. Mayor
Mitchum clarified the next meeting is the 6th. Motion CARRIED 4-0.
City Attorney Alvarez stated the draft wasn't prepared in his office and he won't
be present at the 6th meeting, this came straight from LDRA through the Planning
Department. Mayor Mitchum asked if that's customary. City Attorney Alvarez
replied when they decide on a draft, then they direct him to prepare it.
NEW BUSINESS
Release of Edgewater landing Phase II performance bond with requirement that
maintenance bond be submitted - Mr. Johnson stated they received a request and
have clearance from each person involved and the bond is being posted and it's
their recommendation the release be granted. He pointed out this is Phase II.
Councilman Hatfield moved they release Edgewater Landing's performance bond upon
receipt of their maintenance bond. Councilman Gold seconded the motion. Motion
CARRIED 4-0. 2 Council Regular Meeting Minutes
Ju ly 16, 1990
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ORDINANCES. PUBLIC HEARINGS. AND RESOLUTIONS
FIRST READING:
Ord. 90-0-29 Establishing deductibles for settlement of claims as recommended
by self-insurance committee - Mayor Mitchum read the ordinance. ORD. 90-0-29 -
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EDGEWATER, FLORIDA, AMENDING
CHAPTER 2, ADMINISTRATION, ARTICLE IV. "SELF-INSURANCE FUND", SECTION 2-68, OF
THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF EDGEWATER, FLORIDA, BY PROVIDING FOR
DEDUCTIBLES FOR CLAIMS; CONTAINING A REPEALER PROVISION, A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE,
AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Councilman Gold moved for approval of
Ordinance 90-0-29. Councilmember Bennington seconded the motion. Motion CARRIED
4-0.
Ord. 90-0-30 Repealing Ord. 79-0-10 re: street light impact fees - Mayor Mitchum
read the Ordinance. ORD. 90-0-30 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF EDGEWATER, FLORIDA, REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 79-0-10, IN ITS ENTIRETY WHICH
IMPOSED A STREETLIGHT IMPACT FEE ON THE CONSTRUCTION OF ALL NEW RESIDENCES AND
COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS; CONTAINING A REPEALER PROVISION, A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE,
AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Councilmember Bennington moved they accept
Ordinance 90-0-30. Councilman Hatfield seconded the motion. Motion CARRIED 4-0.
Councilmember Bennington stated her intent when she made the motion at the last
meeting was to follow the City Attorney's recommendation and immediately stop
collecting those fees, and she moved they do it right now. Mayor Mitchum said
he thought it was in the motion. Councilman Gold seconded the motion. Motion
CARRIED 4-0.
Ord. 90-0-31 Amending Appendix A. Zoning. Section 607.00. 1-1 light industrial
district. by allowing transportation services as a permitted use - Mayor Mitchum
read the Ordinance. ORD. 90-0-31 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF EDGEWATER, FLORIDA, AMENDING APPENDIX A, ZONING, SECTION 607.00 LIGHT
INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT, OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF EDGEWATER, FLORIDA,
BY ALLOWING TRANSPORTATION SERVICES AS A PERMITTED USE; CONTAINING A REPEALER
PROVISION, A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE, AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Council-
man Hatfield moved they accept Ordinance 90-0-31. Councilman Gold seconded the
motion. Motion CARRIED 4-0.
Res. 90-R-41 Authorizing appropriate officials to execute Interlocal Agreement
with County Council. acting as Ponce De Leon Port Authority. for Kennedy Park
boat ramp repairs - Mayor Mitchum read the Resolution. RES. 90-R-41 - A RESO-
LUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EDGEWATER, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING
APPROPRIATE OFFICIALS OF THE CITY OF EDGEWATER, FLORIDA, TO EXECUTE THE "INTER-
LOCAL AGREEMENT" FOR REPAIRS TO BOAT RAMPS AT GEORGE KENNEDY MEMORIAL PARK WITH
THE COUNTY OF VOLUSIA, ACTING AS THE PONCE DE LEON PORT AUTHORITY; REPEALING
ALL RESOLUTIONS IN CONFLICT HEREWITH AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Councilman Gold moved for approval of Resolution 90-R-41. Councilman Hatfield
seconded the motion. Motion CARRIED 4-0.
Res. 90-R-42 Authorizing application for matching grant to Ponce De Leon Port
Authority for Riverside Drive river walk - Mayor Mitchum read the Resolution.
RES. 90-R-42 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EDGEWATER,
FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE SUBMISSION OF A GRANT APPLICATION TO THE PONCE DE LEON
PORT AUTHORITY; ASSURING THAT THE REQUIRED 50 PER CENT MATCHING FUNDS WILL BE
AVAILABLE; AUTHORIZING THE APPROPRIATE OFFICIALS OF THE CITY OF EDGEWATER,
FLORIDA, TO EXECUTE THE APPLICATION; ASSURING THAT FUNDING IS AVAILABLE UPON
COMPLETION TO OPERATE THE FACILITY; REPEALING ALL RESOLUTIONS IN CONFLICT
HEREWITH AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Councilman Hatfield asked if
matching funds can come from the recreational impact fees. Mr. Johnson replied
whatever funds are approved with the budget and they can designate it at that
point, and can appropriate from impact fees if not already appropriated. He
noted it's just applying for it now and they're not sure they'll get it.
Councilman Hatfield moved they accept Resolution 90-R-42. Councilmember
Bennington seconded the motion. Motion CARRIED 4-0.
Res. 90-R-43 Authorizing appropriate officials to execute Cooperation Agreement
with County of Volusia for Community Development Block Grant Program - Mayor
Mitchum read the Resolution. RES. 90-R-43 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF EDGEWATER, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING APPROPRIATE CITY OFFICIALS TO
EXECUTE A COOPERATION AGREEMENT WITH THE COUNTY OF VOLUSIA TO UNDERTAKE OR ASSIST
IN UNDERTAKING ESSENTIAL ACTIVITY PURSUANT TO THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK
GRANT PROGRAM; REPEALING ALL RESOLUTIONS IN CONFLICT HEREWITH AND PROVIDING FOR
3 Council Regular Meeting Minutes
Ju ly 16, 1990
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ORDINANCES. PUBLIC HEARINGS. AND RESOLUTIONS (Continued)
FIRST READING: Res. 90-R-43 (Continued) AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Councilmember
Bennington asked if this grant was used for resurfacing. Mr. Johnson replied
yes, and also for one neighborhood park they're developing. Councilmember
Bennington moved they accept Resolution 90-R-43. Councilman Gold seconded the
motion. Motion CARRIED 4-0.
SECOND READING: (PUBLIC HEARING)
Mayor Mitchum noted the first item won't be audience participation for the
petition but the second reading will be for audience input and he requested a
motion to go from regular meeting to public hearing. Councilmember Bennington
so moved. Councilman Hatfield seconded the motion. Motion CARRIED 4-0.
Public Hearina re: application for certificate for Robert J. Faunce d/b/a Yellow
Cab and accept City Clerk1s recommendations re: waivina Code requirement and
amendina Code - Mr. Johnson stated there's an application for a taxi cab and the
City Clerk has worked with the gentleman and the City Attorney and it's
recommended the certificate be approved for Mr. Faunce. Robert James Faunce,
3589 Omni Circle, stated he's worked in the taxi cab business the last 23 years.
Mayor Mitchum asked if there were any objections. There were no comments from
the audience or from Council.
Ord. 90-0-28 Establishina policies & procedures re: peddlina. solicitina and
canvassina within City limits - Mayor Mitchum read the Ordinance. ORD. 90-0-28 -
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EDGEWATER, FLORIDA, DECLARING
AND ESTABLISHING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES WITH RESPECT TO PEDDLING, SOLICITING,
AND CANVASSING WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS; REQUIRING REGISTRATION OF CERTAIN PERSONS
AND ESTABLISHING BUSINESS REGULATIONS FOR SUCH PERSONS; CONTAINING A REPEALER
PROVISION, A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE, AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. He
requested audience comments and there were none.
Mayor Mitchum requested a motion to go back into the regular meeting. Councilman
Hatfield so moved. Councilman Gold seconded the motion. Motion CARRIED 4-0.
Robert J. Faunce d/b/a Yellow Cab - Councilman Hatfield moved they accept the
City Manager's recommendation. Councilmember Bennington seconded the motion.
Motion CARRIED 4-0.
Ord. 90-0-28 - Councilman Gold moved for approval of Ordinance 90-0-28.
Councilman Hatfield seconded the motion. Motion CARRIED 4-0. Councilmember
Bennington noted they need to establish a fee when the ordinance is passed.
Mayor Mitchum advised itls scheduled for the next agenda.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Discussion and update by Financial Advisor Stan Livenaood and Leaal Counsel Dan
Livermore re: defeasance of Gulf Breeze Pool loan - Mr. Livengood stated no
action is needed tonight but he'll have documents implementing it for the agenda
August 6th. He stated in late May Council approved his recommendation regarding
financing that was closed June 7th in Orlando which approved sale of 1990 BANis
of $4.7 million to Sun Bank, refunding outstanding 1989 BAN's previously purch-
ased by Sun Bank, and establishing an escrow which defeased City obligations
under an outstanding 1964 water and sewer utility revenue bond issue. He pointed
out it also was to establish an escrow to defease obligation under a 1988 Gulf
Breeze Pool loan agreement. He stated all was accomplished at June 7th closing
with the following modification: 1988 Gulf Breeze loan is still outstanding, it
hasn't been defeased, and the $675,000 authorized to defease it was placed in
escrow in Sun Bank June 7th, was invested, and is earning interest for the City.
Mr. Livengood said on June 7th Sun Bank agreed to purchase 1990 BAN's even though
they were not the obligation they contracted to purchase, and because the 1988
Gulf Breeze loan hasnlt been defeased, Sun Bank owns 1990 BANis that have a
junior lien to the 1988 Gulf Breeze loan on the City's water and sewer net rev-
enue and is contracted to have first lien. He explained they didn't get the 1988
loan defeased June 7th because they had verbal agreement to pay $675,000 to the
Pool, which Council approved, and they wanted to make a cash payment to the Pool
because the Pool could defease the 1988 loan obligations less expensively than
the City could do itself. He explained the borrowing rate of the City under the
1988 loan agreement was 7.9% interest on $650,000 of borrowing, which meant under
Federal Tax Laws the Pool could invest money to defease those obligations at a
rate of 7.9%, but if the City invested, it would be restricted to the interest
rate of 6.6% for the 1990 BAN's. 4 Council Regular Meeting Minutes
July 16, 1990
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UNFINISHED BUSINESS (Continued)
Discussion and update by Financial Advisor Stan Livenqood and Leqal Counsel Dan
Livermore re: defeasance of Gulf Breeze Pool loan (Continued) Mr. Livengood said
the Pool's cost to purchase an escrow was approximately $655,000 and the City's
cost was $710,000, or about $55,000 difference. He explained he requested
$675,000 instead of $655,000 because the concept was unique and it was non-asset
bonds. He said helll recommend Council get rid of this Gulf Breeze loan which
will tie up an additional $55,000 of City funds for a period ranging from 6
months to 7-1/2 years. He stated this is a different situation than he presented
to them in May and what was authorized.
Mr. Livengood explained non-asset bonds of Gulf Breeze and generated investment
income of 1-1/2 to 2% more per year than interest they had to pay on bonds since
1985. He noted it pays administration costs of the Pool and provides a source
for paying origination's issuance costs. He noted that by 1998 it's expected
because of arbitrage all non-asset bonds will be retired and the share will be
zero, but as of May 1st the City's pro rata share of non asset bonds was $21,000,
which they agreed to pay in the loan agreement.
Mr. Livengood stated the deal he worked out with the Pool verbally and recom-
mended to the City of $675,000 was the Pool's cost of $655,000 to purchase the
escrow, plus the City1s non-asset bond pro rata share as of May 1st of another
$20,000, and they split the difference of the Pool and City's cost of the escrow.
Mr. Livengood said on June 7th Sun Bank purchased the 1990 BAN's even though the
1988 Gulf Breeze loan hadn't been defeased and put $675,000 in a separate
specific escrow which can be used only to retire the 1988 loan with joint consent
of Sun Bank and the City. He suggested efforts and cooperation of Sun Bank should
be acknowledged and they should be thanked. He explained the Pool discovered
if they accept prepayment from the City of $675,000 cash, they1d have to give
IRS an opinion that it was their reasonable expectation they could turn around
and within the next 36 months loan the money back to another borrower at interest
rates equal to or greater than 7.9% because that's what the Pool is obligated
to pay on that loan. He added they didn't think they could make that certifi-
cation because they feel interest rates are going down and they couldn't accept
cash payment. He stated to defease the Gulf Breeze obligation, the City must
form the escrow themselves and while 1990 BAN's are outstanding the yield is
restricted to 6.6% and cost will be approximately $710,000. He explained there's
only $675,000 at Sun Bank now and it will take an additional $35,000 of City
funds. He pointed out the City expects in November or December of this year
about $14 million plus of water and sewer utility revenue bonds will be issued
and part of the proceeds will be used to retire the 1990 BAN's and when that
happens, allowable yield for this escrow, the one for the 1988 loan and that
established June 7th to defease the 1964 bond, if interest rates are the same
then as they are now, the bonds will bear about 7-1/4 to 7-3/8%. He explained
they expect to restructure these escrows and get a substantial portion of the
$35,000 or more back for the City. He pointed out there's no absolute guarantee
the bonds will be issued, but in order to complete defeasance of the Gulf Breeze
loan they must now deal with the non-asset bond obligation and the City pledged
first lien on the utility net revenues to pay to Gulf Breeze Pool what the pro
rate share of non-asset bonds might be at the call date of 1998. He stated the
lien must be removed because the City won't be in a position to meet its obli-
gations to the State and enter into the Revolving Fund loan agreements unless
the first lien on the utility revenue is eliminated.
Mr. Livengood stated this non asset bond lien must be removed and they negotiated
a second escrow, with the first to be $710,000, and amount of non-asset bond
pro rata share as of May 1, 1990, of $21,800, and the City purchase U. S.
Government Treasuries that mature shortly before the 1998 call date with a
maturity value in excess of $40,000. He added you grant the Pool first lien on
proceeds of that escrow to pay whatever the City's share is of non-asset bonds
in 1998. He noted it's possible the non-asset bond balance could increase and
the City's share could be greater than maturity value of the U. S. Treasuries,
or $40,000, and the City would agree to budget and appropriate from legally
available non ad valorem revenue whatever amount of non-asset bonds pro rata
share might be greater than maturity value of the escrow U. S. Treasuries.
Mr. Livengood said it will take an additional $55,000 approximately of City
funds, borrowed utility funds, to establish these two escrows and the one for
$21,000 he's confident will be returned to the City in 1998 with interest which
5 Council Regular Meeting Minutes
Ju ly 16, 1990
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UNFINISHED BUSINESS (Continued)
Discussion and update bv Financial Advisor Stan Livenqood and Leqal Counsel Dan
Livermore re: defeasance of Gulf Breeze Pool loan (Continued) means they lost
use of that portion of it for 7 years and it's invested and investment earnings
will come to the City. He added he believes a part of the remaining $35,000 can
be recovered when water and sewer bonds are issued and they restructure the 1964
bond escrow as well as the 1988 Gulf Breeze loan escrow and recover at a higher
yield some of that escrow cost.
Councilman Hatfield asked if it's a $675,000 debt to Gulf Breeze Pool. Mr.
Livengood replied it's $640,000 to Gulf Breeze with $675,000 in escrow at Sun
Bank to provide for payment of the Gulf Breeze loan and its obligation. Council-
man Hatfield said they'll need an additional $35,000 to the $675,000. Mr.
Livengood agreed. Councilman Hatfield asked what they'll do with it. Mr.
Livengood replied they'll take $710,000 to do the same thing the Pool can do with
$675,000, and the higher the interest rate at which you can invest money, the
smaller the principal amount you have to invest to have a given cash flow and
the Pool can invest at 7.9% and the City is restricted to 6.6% so it takes a
larger principal amount.
Councilman Hatfield asked if the $21,000 second escrow would be an individual
escrow. Mr. Livengood replied yes. Councilman Hatfield said it's not a part
of the $710,000. Mr. Livengood agreed that's correct. Councilman Hatfield said
that's to insure to Gulf Breeze that no matter how we invest the $710,000 they'll
have to guarantee to take the lien off our utility and put it on this escrow.
Mr. Livengood explained the City pledged a first lien on its utility revenue to
make principal and interest and call premium payment to Gulf Breeze.
Councilmember Bennington said they'll put $710,000 into an account to make the
payments, principal and interest, and then $21,000 is in another account and
clears up everything and Gulf Breeze has a lien on that instead of the utility
rate. Mr. Livengood said there's a possibility that in 1998 the City's pro rata
share of non-asset bonds could be greater than $40,000, although expected amount
then is zero, but if it's greater than $40,000, then you've covenanted to budget
and appropriate whatever is greater than $40,000 from any legally available non
ad valorem revenues available to the City.
Councilman Gold asked why they can't pay it off without penalizing us. Mr.
Livengood replied the loan agreement doesn't grant the borrower the unilateral
right to do that and you have to get out from all obligations before 1998.
Councilmember Bennington said the Pool can't make money by our paying it off
early and they won't let us do it. Mr. Livengood agreed that's correct and he
reviewed risks to the Pool in accepting prepayment, adding there'll be documents
in the August 6th agenda and they'll be present and will have more details.
Councilman Hatfield asked if there will be anything about how we stand with the
State Revolving Loan. Mr. Livengood suggested Mr. Ferland will discuss it.
Councilman Hatfield suggested they have it at the next meeting.
Mayor Mitchum called a 5-minute recess at 8:10 p.m. He called the meeting back
to order at 8:20 p.m.
Policy statement on City's fire protection - Mr. Johnson stated at the last
meeting Council requested a draft pol icy regarding fire hydrants and fire
protection and it's included for their consideration. He read the "Statement
of the City's Fire Protection Policy".
Councilman Hatfield stated he agrees with item 1 for new development but feels
even though the use is changed, when the structure isn't changed or use is con-
sistent with what it was previously used for, he doesn't see as a significant
change. He said he'd like to see that as long as the structure doesn't change,
and hasn't been changed, there need not be a change in the fire flow. Council-
member Bennington agreed with Councilman Hatfield that she has no problem with
number 1 and new development should pay costs to develop, but it was suggested
to her that maybe the possibility existed that we could credit the business
person with their water use to offset the expense of the fire hydrant and she
called the accountant and he said no, because the water is an enterprise fund
and this is general fund, and she also talked to him about the lessee signing
an agreement that they'll put in the improvement when the lines become available
6 Council Regular Meeting Minutes
Ju ly 16, 1990
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UNFINISHED BUSINESS (Continued)
Policy statement on City's fire protection (Continued) and he said he wasn't an
attorney but didn't see how we could hold a lessee liable. She pointed out on
existing buildings, the Fire Chief has the option of determining what should go
in there, if it should go in there, after he determines if it's life threatening
or property damaging and any decision can be appealed to the Board which they're
now sett i ng up. She sa i d that's inState Statute they read before, and she
doesn't feel every citizen in Edgewater should pay for fire hydrants or whatever
for a business but she feels very strongly that for existing structures, if they
don't pull a building permit when they move in for an occupational license or
don't do any kind of modification, they shouldn't be charged for this. She said
it's the City's fault it's there.
Councilman Gold said he thought it was the City's responsibility to provide fire
protection but now with lack of funds, to get it going, if people were willing
to support payment for it, if not, we'll have to rely on businesses to help
defray the cost, you can't have it both ways. He expressed concern if adequate
water supply can be provided and whether it would be the owner's or business's
responsibility. He suggested possibly cost could be reduced if we could piggy
back off any other city that may be purchasing fire hydrants. He pointed out
after they get actual fire protection it might be a reduced insurance premium.
Councilmember Bennington stated at the last meeting she asked the Chief in
reference to the Fire Code about the 500 feet, 150 feet from a fire hydrant.
She read an excerpt from the minutes regarding a complex with a building within
150 feet of the fire hydrant and the last building is approximately 500 feet.
She asked if that's legal and do they have to require that second building or
last building in the complex, if someone moved in or out of it, to install a fire
hydrant and he replied any building has to be within 500 feet. She asked if they
can fight a fire within 500 feet in a complex. Fire Chief Vola replied no, that
was a condensed version of his answer, and the answer held given was that no part
of any building on that complex, no part of the building, may be any more than
500 feet of fire hose on the ground from the hydrant, that's what the Code says,
and it's measured by hose length. Councilmember Bennington asked how we can
force an existing building to put in a fire hydrant if they're not within 150
feet when the Code says any building can be no greater than 500 feet. Chief Vola
explained it doesn't say any building, it says any portion of any building, and
you can have a building that's 150 feet away and we still have to stretch the
fire hose from the truck to the seat of the fire and therels where the 500 feet
of hose lay comes in. He pointed out there are two different hoses, one is a
supply hose from the water system to the fire truck where it stops and the second
is the hand or attack lines stretched from the fire truck to all portions of the
building and that's where part 1 and part 2 come in. He explained to layout
500 feet of hose on the ground and then put a fire truck there and expect it to
get adequate fire flow through that above ground line is not practical. He
pointed out there are two different portions of that same Code.
Councilmember Bennington stated with the example brought to them tonight, it says
she won't be granted an occupational license until she installs a fire hydrant,
and was she given a choice of sprinkler system versus fire hydrant. Chief Vola
replied yes. Councilmember Bennington asked why it doesn't say fire hydrant or
sprinkler system. Chief Vola replied it's his oversight, it was discussed and
wasn't met with enthusiasm, and it's also not the most economical of the choices.
Councilmember Bennington asked the City Attorney if they can legally have an
occupant sign an agreement that when we get the lines there they'll pay for the
expense of the hydrant. City Attorney Alvarez said the occupant presumably is
transient and he'd prefer to see the agreement with the owner of the building,
it wou 1 d have more enforceab il i ty, and we don I t dea 1 wi th renters on water
deposits, we deal only with owners, and it's something Council needs to look at.
Councilmember Bennington asked if they want to establish a policy that any change
of occupancy or use in an existing structure has to have a fire hydrant,
sprinkler system or stand pipe system or they don't get an occupational license.
She said she doesn't feel they should and doesn't think it should be in here.
Councilman Hatfield stated Mrs. Bushong bought a retail unit and identity of that
unit hasn't been changed and she's only moving into it, someone had a business
there before. He said he didn't see where responsibility to the unit has
changed. He noted it will make it almost impossible for Mr. Rowe to rent units.
7 Council Regular Meeting Minutes
July 16, 1990
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UNFINISHED BUSINESS (Continued)
Policy statement on City.s fire protection (Continued)
Councilman Hatfield said New Smyrna Beach gives incentives to encourage business
and if we want to encourage businesses and industry to come to Edgewater to
structures we already have, and if the structure hasn't been changed and usage
is something such as one retail store opposed to another retail store, he feels
the City has some obligations and the taxpayers have some obligations to assist
to bring retail business and industry into the City.
Councilmember Bennington agreed with Councilman Hatfield, and said if they're
going to encourage businesses and development that in turn will help our economy
with a broader tax base, for the amount it will cost in existing structures to
put fire hydrants in, she doesn't see where they can go wrong. Mayor Mitchum
asked the cost of the fire hydrant. Chief Vola replied he thinks it's between
$1,100 and $1,200. Mayor Mitchum stated they're getting people to agree to it
but we're not actually putting in fire hydrants. Chief Vola replied not until
such time as water mains are in place or upgraded to support them. Mayor Mitchum
stated they're requiring a hydrant be paid for but we don't have the hydrant so
if the place of business is going to receive fire damage, it's going to receive
it whether itls paid for or not, and they're requiring lessees to pay this which
he's not sure that would hold up in court. He said Chief Vola has a tough job
to bring existing things up that have been ignored over the years. He said he
has no problem with bringing buildings up to Code and making people follow Fire
Codes when they remodel, and fire safety isn't grandfathered in, and when they
remodel they should follow Code and put in fire walls and update electricity.
He agreed it may need to be addressed later and as improvements are brought into
this area that the property owners participate in an impact fee or assessment
and if a block has 4 property owners and one fire hydrant would service them when
we bring the line through, then assessment would be split four ways.
Mayor Mitchum stated as taxpayers they're all paying since they're the City and
held like to see a policy developed, and can't see making someone who needs an
occupational license pay this. He suggested as they bring the improvements on
line that we address the problem at that time because we're charging for
something we don't even know we can provide.
Councilmember Bennington asked if he agrees with the first item. Mayor Mitchum
replied yes. Councilmember Bennington suggested they accept that and in any of
their policies they accept that they explain the appeals process in that policy
or when they renew their occupational licenses to make them aware there is an
appeal process and how to go about it. Mayor Mitchum suggested it be handed out
to them at that time when the decision is made, and they're told no. Council-
member Bennington said they're not getting the message. Mayor Mitchum asked if
it's being done. Mr. Johnson replied the process hasn't been set up and the
committee's trying to get it established. Councilmember Bennington said she's
also talking about Planning and Zoning and anything that has an appeal process.
Mr. Johnson noted they've had hearings on LDRA appeals recently. Councilmember
Bennington said they have a Building Trades Regulatory Appeals Board that acts
as a board of adjustment and they didn't realize until about a year and half ago
they could hear complaints the builders had or a citizen had against a builder.
Council members discussed items on the policy. It was the consensus there was
no problem with item 1. Councilman Hatfield and Councilmember Bennington agreed
they had no problem with 3. Councilman Hatfield said in item 3 they're talking
about a remodeling project where the building usage is being changed. Mayor
Mitchum said perhaps a restaurant type where the seating is expanded. Councilman
Hatfield said it's where they'd have a higher increase in fire flow and he agrees
with it when they change the structure and the usage. He said the problem is
item 2 and he has no problem with paragraph one but the second paragraph needs
to come up with something agreeable to all about who will pay for all this. He
noted on roads it's one-third, one-third, one-third and they all share in it.
He suggested a shared expense between the City and owners of structures and get
lessees out of it. Councilmember Bennington suggested with item 3 they take
"or occupant II out and leave just "owner". Councilman Hatfield agreed. Mr.
Johnson asked about a man leasing the building and it requires fire protection
and the owner won't pay for it, which has happened in a couple of cases, then
who would be responsible to put it in. Councilmember Bennington replied the
owner, if there's a building permit. Mr. Johnson stated the owner said he won't
put the hydrant in even though the business requires additional fire protection
and the tenant will pay for it if he wants it. Mayor Mitchum pointed out if we
8 Council Regular Meeting Minutes
July 16, 1990
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UNFINISHED BUSINESS (Continued)
Policy statement on City's fire protection (Continued)
had an ordinance that says the owner, it will be up to the owner. Councilman
Hatfield said the situation is between the owner and the tenant.
Mr. Frank Roe, from the audience, asked if this is a public hearing. Mayor
Mitchum replied no, they may have one later. Mr. Roe attempted to continue
speaking and Mayor Mitchum advised him he's out of order.
Councilmember Bennington questioned on number 2, if they don't increase required
flow, how can there be a larger threat to property and life, and she thinks State
Statutes addresses that by giving the Fire Chief the option.
Counc il member Benn i ngton moved they accept in th i s fire protect i on po 1 icy
statement number 1 and number 3 with the "and/or occupant II marked off and they
further check into number 2 and maybe have a public hearing and get some ideas
from other cities how they handle this in existing structures. Mayor Mitchum
requested Chief Vola get that information and bring it back to the next meeting.
He suggested they take action tonight to relieve the situation because if it
doesn't increase the fire flow they seem to agree there's not an impact.
Councilman Hatfield seconded the motion. Motion CARRIED 4-0.
Chief Vola asked that they not bind him to the next meeting because it may take
longer to get written replies from other cities. Councilmember Bennington
suggested it be as soon as possible.
Councilmember Bennington asked if a motion is needed from a legal standpoint
that until they corne up with a policy dealing with this they do not enforce
making existing structures. Mr. Johnson replied they have a policy adopted and
they'll follow it and the other isn't in the policy. He added their problem has
been and still is with definition of State law and the Chief's interpretation
of it and responsibility State Statute puts on him as a fire official. He said
they still feel the Code says certain things but the Council's adopted a policy
and the policy will be enforced. Councilmember Bennington asked if by adopting
this policy and leaving that out, if there were a problem they'd be taking the
burden of the responsibility off the Chief and putting it on their shoulders.
City Attorney Alvarez replied he doesn't think it's a question of responsibility
on anyone's shoulders, it's a matter of interpretation of regulations,
discretion, and fairness, and they've made a decision and that's the end of it
as far as he's concerned.
Mayor Mitchum asked Chief Vola to get information as soon as possible, and the
way it stands now the section is out so they're not enforcing it. Councilmember
Bennington said Mrs. Bushong can get her occupational license. Mayor Mitchum
agreed if she meets other requirements. Mr. Johnson said they'll work with her.
Concurrency impacts report with presentation by Plannino & Zonino Director Mark
Karet - Mark Karet, Director of Planning and Zoning, stated at the last Council
meet ing Counci 1 member Bennington asked him to prepare a brief presentation
regarding concurrency management and the outline was given to Council in this
agenda. He made the following comments: "In 1985 the State of Florida passed
a Local Government Comprehensive Planning and Land Development Regulation Act.
This Act, called the Growth Management Act, because of its provisions that have
become known as the concurrency requirements. The word concurrency refers to
events that occur at the same time and/or place. The specific events that the
Growth Management Act is concerned with are development and the location of
supporting facilities and services. The specific time that the Act is concerned
with is the point at which impacts of development are felt. The Growth Manage-
ment Act states "Public facilities and services needed to support development
shall be made available concurrent with the impacts of such development." The
bottom line for the City is that new development can only be approved for
specific locations at which we have or will have the capacity to provide services
before the development project is complete. Concurrency does not apply to every
public facility and service, but does apply to the basic infrastructure that is
necessary to adequately accommodate growth. These facilities and services are
solid waste disposal, storrnwater drainage, roads, potable water, sanitary sewer,
parks and recreation. This infrastructure must be provided to an extent which
is consistent with the levels of service established in our Comprehensive Plan.
If the facilities and services are not in place or the adopted levels of services
are not maintained, then development cannot be approved by the City.
9 Council Regular Meeting Minutes
Ju ly 16, 1990
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UNFINISHED BUSINESS (Continued)
Concurrency impacts report with presentation by Plannina & Zonina Director Mark
Karet (Cont inued) Concurrency app 1 ies to all development act ions that have impact
on public facilities and services. The City has some limited discretion in
determining which developments are either vested or exempt from a concurrency
test. A concurrency test is simply a comparison of a particular development's
demand for infrastructure to the available capacity of the existing public
facilities and services. The term vested refers to an established private
property interest that cannot be eliminated in regard to some future benefit.
Vesting is closely, but not completely, akin to what is commonly known as
"grandfathering", Developments which receive approval prior to the effective
date of the City's concurrency management system can be vested completely or
subject to limitations. By the way, the City's Concurrency Management System
must be in place by November 1, 1990. Moreover, some development actions can
be exempted altogether from concurrency. These development actions may include
the construction of public safety facilities such as Police and Fire stations,
or other items such as utility substations and similar devices. Rooms, access-
ories, and amenities added to residences may also be exempt. In addition, some
jurisdictions are exempting developments that are referred to as de-minimis.
The impact of these de-minimis projects are considered so slight they that they
will not measurably degrade the levels of service. One caveat is appropriate
in regard to either vesting or exempting projects. When you vest or exempt a
project while you're not putting them through a concurrency test, they do eat
up available capacity and whether they.re testing for concurrency or not, that
capacity must be reserved for them. Let me give you an example of how concur-
rency might work for a typical private development. Suppose a developer has
found a properly designated vacant site for a medical clinic he or she wishes
to build on Park Avenue. After checking with the City, the developer learns that
all the public facilities necessary to support his or her development are
operating at an acceptable level of service. However, it seems that a segment
of U.S. 1 which runs from Park Avenue to the North City limits, is operating very
close to its established full capacity. While U.S. 1 is a quarter mile away from
this particular development, it is anticipated by the City that a substantial
number of trips generated by the clinic will impact that segment of U.S. 1. The
City also determines that the trips generated by the clinic will degrade the
segment of U.S. 1 below its adopted levels of service. The developer also learns
that the Florida DOT has no current plan to improve the road. As a result, he
or she cannot get a development order. This leaves the developer with essent-
ially three basic options: 1) the developer can ditch the project, 2) the
developer can scale down the project so that it will not generate enough traffic
to degrade the U.S. 1 segment. The problem is that the scaled down version of
the project changes the economics and it will take that much longer to break
even, or 3) the developer may make improvements to the road, at his or her own
expense. That will mitigate the traffic impacts of the clinic, such as a turn
lane or traffic signal at the intersection of Park Avenue and U.S.l. The problem
here is that these improvements will add substantially and unexpectedly to the
overall costs of the project. We have seen how concurrency will affect private
sector. What are its implications for the City? The programming of improvements
to the City.s public facilities and services will take on a new urgency. In the
past, improvements to the City's capital facilities could be delayed almost
indefinitely provided the environment and the quality of life could stand the
stress. Since development wi 11 be halted under concurrency without adequate
supporting infrastructure, any undue delay in the provision of services will
occur directly at the expense of the City's tax base. Now, more than ever,
capita 1 improvement projects represent an investment in the City's future.
Edgewater, just like anyone who saves for retirement or a child's education, will
have the future it is willing to pay for. Not all of the public facilities and
services necessary to support development are provided by the City. State and
County roads cut through a number of jurisdictions and drainage basins do not
conform to corporate limits. As a result, this makes intergovernmental coord-
ination a particularly important component of the concurrency management system.
When Councilmember Bennington first raised the issue of concurrency management
it was in reference to some concerns of what a particular developer heard from
the County. Volusia County must have their concurrency management system in
place one month before the City's. Naturally this puts them ahead of the city
and most other cities within the County. In addition, in their capacity as a
major provider of transportation facilities, this gives them a good reason to
wish to control concurrency determinations on a County-wide basis. In fact,
there have been some discussions at the County level of adopting a minimum
standard for concurrency management related to protection of the environment.
10 Council Regular Meeting Minutes
July 16, 1990
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UNFINISHED BUSINESS (Continued)
Concurrency impacts report with presentation by Plannina & Zonina Director Mark
Karet (Continued) This would give the County staff the ability to control both
the costs of road improvements and all development in the County. In response
to the County, the municipal Planning Directors, in cooperation with VCOG, have
begun investigating the creation of a County-wide concurrency management system.
It is envisioned that this system would be independent of the control of any
single local government. The MPO is currently developing a computer model that
will simulate transportation County-wide. This would be a necessary prerequisite
for any organization that was attempting to manage concurrency on a County-
wide basis. The County has participated in these discussions so far but they
have stated as recently as today that it is staff's recommendation that they take
an independent approach to concurrency management.
Councilman Hatfield asked if it would be separate for municipalities. Mr. Karet
replied yes, and a road maintained by them, such as Park Avenue, they will get
approval from the County if they want to develop. Councilman Hatfield asked
about Roberts Road. Mr. Karet replied that1s still a question. Councilman
Hatfield asked about State roads, and u.S. 1. Mr. Karet replied it's State Road
5 and receives some Federal funding and most likely under the County's approach
to concurrency management, you'd have to go to the County in regard to that.
Councilman Hatfield stated the County can control all our growth on Park Avenue,
U.S. 1 and Roberts Road. Mr. Karet said there's an attempt to take the same
approach as the water supply when the County had begun discussions in reference
to the need to have a Volusia County Regional Water Management District and some
of the cities banded together and created a Halifax Water Authority. He added
that subsequently the County has joined with the combined municipalities.
Councilman Gold asked if we allow them to build on a restricted road and the
County doesn1t approve it, do we have to pay toward costs of rights of way or
something. Mr. Karet replied it depends on the concurrency management system,
if a County-wide system has been opposed, and we're not willing to maintain the
road, then the County will have authority to veto that development, but if we're
willing to accept responsibility of maintenance of the road, then we can control
it. Councilman Hatfield expressed concern that all our commercial development
and business zoning is along Indian River Boulevard and Park Avenue, and in the
future Roberts Road and u.S. 1 and it will all go to the County. Mr. Karet said
if it's on those roads.
Mr. Johnson referred to a vote in Tallahassee regarding growth management and
concurrency requirements. Councilmember Bennington stated if we have to put a
building moratorium on the City, that's our main industry and can really hurt
us. Mr. Karet said any delay in the placement of capital improvements is done
at the expense of the tax base.
Determination of term of ad hoc Beautification Committee - Mr. Johnson stated
the expiration of the resolution is up and they need direction from Council to
continue. He added the Committee gave them information about their feelings.
Councilmember Bennington stated it's up August 1st and she thinks they've been
doing a terrific job and she1d like to continue it and doesn't want to put a time
limit on it and would like a resolution to establish it permanently. City
Attorney Alvarez suggested they could just remove the year. Councilman Hatfield
stated his initial idea for the Beautification Committee was to advise the City
and the number one project was to motivate people to clean up their properties
and to make U.S. 1 and commercial areas more attractive and to let them know the
City appreciates it. He added they're doing that, but he doesn1t feel it should
be their responsibility to have car washes to raise money for City projects, and
the City should be responsible for funding City projects. He suggested they be
sent some kind of appreciation for what they.ve done and give them some positive
input that certain monies will be budgeted for beautification and for landscaping
in the City and their efforts might be better served on advising where and what
types of landscaping might be best. He noted 2 or 3 of the Committee members
are landscapers and they may want to redirect their pattern away from fund
raising into an advisory committee to the City. Councilman Hatfield then moved
they extend the Beautification Committee for an indefinite term, that we send
a letter thanking them for their year's work for this City and the input they've
had, and also in the letter redirect their time spent away from money making
projects into advisory and landscaping projects and let the City finance the
project. Councilmember Bennington seconded the motion. Motion CARRIED 4-0.
11 Council Regular Meeting Minutes
Ju ly 16, 1990
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COUNCIL/OFFICERS REPORTS
City Attorney - City Attorney Alvarez stated a petition has been filed for an
administrative hearing regarding the CIP which delays our ability to get a permit
for the discharge to the Indian River. Mayor Mitchum stated he had the City
Manager request Ron Ferland give them a report on the CIP.
City Manaaer - Mr. Ron Ferland, Project Manager, Dyer, Riddle, Mills & Precourt,
Inc. gave a brief overview of the various projects: With the Alan Thomas water
treatment plant, we've responded to the Volusia County Development Review
Committee and the Department of Environmental Regulation, and he's meeting with
Volusia County Review on Wednesday with a final response to their last request
for additional information and we should be getting our development order from
them subsequent to their receiving the information and signing off; with DER
the only outstanding issue is they'd like to see the filters enlarged and we've
resized the filters and will be submitting that information this week and should
have the DER permit and the Volusia County development order in the July-August
time frame. At that point the City will be in a position, if they desire, to
go out for bids once the financing is obtained; wellfield expansion will occur
concurrently with the water treatment plant; the consumptive use permit for the
wellfield is in hand and that can start at any time when funding is available;
water transmission main on 442 that connects the proposed water plant to the
existing distribution system is approximately two months from being completed
and they intend to put it on the back burner until Florida Shores design
situation is resolved but we're getting ready to pick it up two weeks from now,
and go into permitting and to be ready for bid; all our Florida East Coast
railway crossings have been obtained, there are two for crossing permits for
that water ma in; and we've been coord i nat i ng placement wi th DOT and the i r
potential widening of SR 442 so when they widen the road we won't have to
relocate the line within five years after constructing it; design of the facility
for wastewater treatment plant expansion and upgrade was completed in March and
submitted to DER for technical review in accordance with the State Revolving
Fund and the State's review comments have been received, we've verbally gone over
them with the State and provided sufficient responses and the only issue out-
standing is providing adequate storage for shellfish water holding plus reject
water, and we're working with them on that, and the intent is to submit to DER
the revised design when we reach a conclusion on storage in mid to late July.
Mr. Ferland continued his overview: The SRF application has been submitted to
DER and the outstanding items with SRF are 1) receipt of the finding of no
significant impact from the facilities planning section, and they are currently
reviewing minutes of the May 30th 201 Amendment public hearing and capital
financing plan and advised they're in a position to issue the FONSI (finding)
in August; they're awaiting legal title certification of the wastewater plant
site and that is being handled by the City Attorney; regarding DER construction
permit, the State indicated an intent to issue the permit for wastewater dis-
charge to the Indian River published by the City on June 20th, and there was a
14 day hearing period allowed. He said on the 14th day, the State received a
petition for administrative hearing from Volusia-Flagler Environmental Political
Action Committee, Inc.. He added they also received several other one paragraph
petitions from United Taxpayers of Edgewater as well as other citizens and those
issues were not considered salient to issuance of the permit. He said some
information was miscalculated and the issue was nutrient load would be increased
in the United Taxpayers' petitions when in actuality, with advanced waste treat-
ment, even at 2-1/4 million gallons a day, nutrient loading to the river would
be reduced almost by one-third of what's currently being discharged now at 1
million gallons a day. He stated the PAC petition will probably be upheld in
terms of being valid for administrative hearing and he hasn't got a standing
from the DER attorney handling the case because he's been on vacation. He
pointed out the petition may be heard, but that doesn't mean the petitioners
will prevail. He said the petition requests the permit be issued under dictate
of HB 3247, but the intent to issue was issued under guidelines of recent EPA
mandated regulations which are in Chapter 17-4.242, anti-degradation permitting
requirements, and we had to respond to DER regarding this, and it's similar to
the exception allowed in HB 3247. He pointed out 3247 mandates that all dis-
charges into Indian River Lagoon, from Palm Beach County to Ponce Inlet, be
removed from the Indian River and that affects Edgewater, New Smyrna Beach,
Titusville, Vero Beach, Fort Pierce, and every community along the Indian River
waterway that discharges. He stated the legislation has a paragraph that DER
may grant an exception to subsection 1 or 2, which is elimination of the
discharge by 1995, under the following circumstances: 1) if the applicant
12 Council Regular Meeting Minutes
Ju ly 16, 1990
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COUNCIL/OFFICERS REPORTS (Continued)
City Manaqer (Continued) conclusively demonstrates no other practical alternative
exists and discharge will receive advanced waste treatment or higher level of
treatment, and in our 201 Facilities Plan we1ve looked at all alternatives
available for effluent discharge and concluded, with concurrence of DER, that
is what's economically and realistically available to the City in terms of a
discharge, 2) the City unilaterally decided to go to advanced waste treatment
He said the other component of the exception is if the applicant conclusively
demonstrates proposed discharge will not result in a violation of State water
quality standards either by itself or in combination with other discharges, it
won't hinder efforts to restore water quality of the Indian River Lagoon system.
He pointed out they1re going to be putting better water into the Indian River
than is currently being discharged.
Mr. Ferland stated normal procedure for administrative hearings is lawyers from
the State and the petitioner, because they've petitioned DER, not the City of
Edgewater, those lawyers with the lawyer from the City attending, will try to
negotiate a settlement which would possibly be for the City to embark on a more
aggressive reclaimed water system than they currently have, and he1s not sure
they can do it more aggressively than they are planning to, because they're
taking a 5 square mile development and providing reclaimed water to it. He said
if it goes to administrative hearing, the wastewater treatment plant program
will be delayed approximately six months, which is two months to get on the
administrative hearing docket, two months for preparation of attorneys for DER
and PAC to prepare their case and take depositions, two months for the hearing
officer to respond and make his recommendation, and implementation of that
recommendation. He noted the six months period will put the wastewater treatment
plant permit issuance, if the City prevails and is issued a permit, in December
or January, which more closely aligns funding mechanism for the collection system
in Florida Shores, so from a time perspective, it works out well if the City
prevails and receives the permit.
Mr. Ferland stated we have a financial commitment from DER regarding the State
Revolving Fund for 1990 which ends in September and he's talked to the State and
they assured him that this administrative hearing is of no fault of the City
and the City has done everything in its power, responded satisfactorily in the
eyes of DER to every piece of information requested, and it does not affect the
standing for SRF for 1990, nor the standing for 1991 funding which is a different
project altogether.
Mr. Ferland noted the State, in recognition of Edgewater's commitment to clean
the environment and provide a better environmental system than it currently has
with septic tanks and secondary treatment discharge, has found $2 million dollars
in closing out the grant program that needs to be used and they decided Edgewater
would get the full $2 million. He explained this is contingent upon approval
of the Environmental Regulation Commission when they meet in September and it's
a grant, not a loan where the money has to be repaid, and nothing is final until
ERC approves it.
Mr. Ferland stated the Florida Shores infrastructure improvements consist of
water, wastewater, reclaimed water, paving, and drainage, and the aerial survey
is completed and utility system design is approximately 70% complete. He said
they'll provide the City with construction documents that will be available at
the end of July, proceed with preparation of assessment rolls, and get the City
embarked on the three public hearings associated with an assessment program.
He noted during the assessment program public hearings period, they'll finalize
plans and take care of details that don1t affect parcel cost.
Mr. Ferland stated paving and drainage is approximately 60% complete and there's
a lag because you do wastewater and then paving and drainage have to work around
it and we anticipate 100% completion of that design for special assessment
purposes in August, with the clean up going into an October-November time frame.
Mr. Ferland stated one thing that's complete is the primary-secondary corridors
for future traffic demands have been defined, whether it will be 20 foot or 24
foot for the pavement width, east/west roads that are going to be closed and used
for stormwater retention basins have been defined, typical right of way and
retent i on bas insect ions have been deve loped, and swa 1 e and retent i on bas i n
bottom elevations and grades have been programmed for the total Florida Shores
13 Council Regular Meeting Minutes
July 16, 1990
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COUNCIL/OFFICERS REPORTS (Continued)
City Manaaer (Continued) development. As part of the infrastructure program and
recognizing the City's need with the new elementary school opening in November
to January, they designed a sidewalk along Roberts Road that will provide a safer
access for children to the new school from Florida Shores than what exists now.
Mr. Ferland stated in the stormwater master plan, they've applied for a concept-
ual permit to St. Johns River Water Management District, and on Turgot Avenue
paving, drainage design is completed but since the City is currently negotiating
with the School Board to possibly obtain the site on the west side of the
Shangri-La canal, rather than buying an area on the east side of Shangri-La canal
for stormwater retention basin required for paving Turgot Avenue, we're in a hold
pattern to put facilities on the west side if the City purchases that property.
Mr. Ferland stated with the water and wastewater rate study, they had to final-
ize the finance plan to a conceptual status, which they now have, and debt
service amounts from the Finance Advisor, and a draft was developed and will be
sent to City staff this week for preliminary review and next week Council will
receive a report and review it and have a presentation at the August 6th meeting.
Councilmember Bennington asked if the Building and Planning Departments know
about the east/west roads defined for stormwater retention basins so they don't
issue driveway permits. Mr. Ferland replied they.ve worked with Planning and
Zoning and Building and identified streets and have a policy in place on how to
handle access to those lots from the north/south roads to the east/west roads.
Councilman Gold asked the depth of the swales. Mr. Ferland replied not as deep
as India Palm, maximum will be 2 to 2-1/2 foot, with most to be 1-1/4 to 1-1/2.
Councilman Hatfield suggested they have an update on each subject once a month.
Mayor Mitchum agreed it I S a good idea as they get closer, and they need a
response from Dyer, Riddle before the next meeting for items he's going to go
through. He stated the CIP Committee hasn't met recently and they need to. He
requested a more detailed report of the following: what.s going on in the water,
wastewater, stormwater, and roads; the status of the City, State, County, and
Federal permits, which ones we have, which ones do we need, why we don't have
them, and when will we get them; status of land acquisition and easements, and
have we identified parcels needed for easements and temporary construction. He
asked if we have right of way across the railroad. Mr. Ferland noted we have
the permit for right of way. Mayor Mitchum continued with his requests: status
of engineering completion versus contract schedule; status of engineering costs
versus contracted amounts; percentages complete; and what items are critical.
He said he sees the water treatment plant as more critical than the wastewater
treatment plant and sewer, because with water shortage we1ve had a lot of demand
on the system and are having to blend water, and that's a priority.
Councilmember Bennington said wastewater is important but water is right now
the most important. Mayor Mitchum said they have the consumptive use permit for
the water plant but can1t build it because of problems with the County. Mr.
Ferland pointed out they also don't have bonds issued. Mayor Mitchum stated
they need a priority list with water treatment plant on the top. He asked the
status of participation and educational programs for the public, they did a news-
letter and need something from DRMP, and status of financing plan, which is more
from Stan Livengood, and we need them to bring it together. He said all need
to be addressed and there are a lot of things involved at State and County level
that we need to control if we can. He requested a bi-weekly status report from
Dyer, Riddle of what's going on. He added we've spent a lot of money and need
to show something concrete.
Mayor Mitchum asked Dyer, Riddle to reaffirm their commitment and Ron Ferland
to be full time for Edgewater with a letter stating Edgewater is their priority
because we don't need part time people or someone who doesn't know what's going
on. He again stated the water plant is a priority.
City Attorney Alvarez said he has some concerns. He reviewed the memorandum they
received which outlines Mr. Ferland's presentation and different percentages of
completion in terms of dollars and job. He noted his concerns are not in order
of priority: 1) opening paragraph states DRMP is providing engineering services
related to definition and design, and he's heard about going to construction,
and how is that going to be achieved? Who's going to do that? How are those
14 Council Regular Meeting Minutes
Ju ly 16, 1990
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COUNCIL/OFFICERS REPORTS (Continued)
City Manaaer (Continued) contracts going to come about and be reviewed, espec-
ially complexities of the bidding process and preparation of those contracts?
He said as part of design there should be a bid package, contract models sub-
mitted, and those contracts shouldn't be submitted at a time that they just sign
them and send them out. He added helll need a lot of consultation before we
embark on construction, they're looking at $20 to $30 million dollars of con-
struction and chances are weill incur unforeseen conditions underground and
incur overrun costs in a number of matters. He asked who is going to be
responsible and how is it going to be handled as we embark into that last phase?
City Attorney Alvarez continued with his concerns: Regarding the water plant,
we had an initial estimate of a building permit by March and this is July, and
that's not unreasonable, and he's not an expert on administrative hearings but
he's seen them go for as long as two years. He said with the permit for effluent
disposal the memo called for a minimum of six months and he wishes it's right
but they can't labor under rose colored glasses for the following reasons: we
are on line for $4. some million dollars of BANis, we have a facility with a
design that's one half million dollars, the water plant has a contract of $364
and it's $295 so itls virtually designed. He asked what do we do with the water
that comes back from the homes if we don't have a place to put it? He said the
cornerstone of the project is the effluent disposal and without that, they don't
have anything, and they have new wells and a new plant and are sending out new
good water and if they don't have the effluent disposal either in the river or
someplace, then what do they do? Do they continue with designs and other expen-
ditures with uncertainty of the petition? He said he1s heard the attorney for
DER will handle it for the City and there will be attorneys for the petitioners,
and are we going to sit back and let them handle it? He noted they have a legal
standing and they should be supervising that process very closely because if it
gets tied up with an appeal, then what do we have to face? He stated Council
needs to assert who will have legal responsibility on the outcome of adminis-
trative hearings and any possible appeals as that hasn't been decided or defined.
Mr. Ferland stated he agrees with the Mayor and Councilmember Bennington that
water is the highest priority and it's always been. He pointed out Park Avenue
had an interim expansion, and in order to lock down SRF funding in absence of
perfecting the special assessment pledge, they're using the same money to pledge
to SRF instead of being able to issue revenue bonds for the water plant. He said
if the City prevails on the permit, then they have an opportunity to revisit the
finance plan with intent of issuing bonds for water improvements. He stated
regarding construction management percent completions, the contract will show
fees include construction management and engineering inspections associated with
projects. He said construction documents and contracts will be reviewed by legal
counsel and will be bid in accordance with Florida law and they accept the lowest
acceptable bidder to do the job. He stated the collection system for Florida
Shores is the key and unless theylve perfected the financing tool to pay this,
they don1t need effluent disposal increase at the wastewater plant until they
know how they're going to do the collection system. He said they.ll have the
design complete but have to determine if it will be special assessment or
referendum for G.O. bonds. He noted they have to hold an equalization hearing,
which is third of the public hearings required in the special assessment process.
He said he'll detail status of the permits, but the only easement acquisition
outstanding is 140 feet on 442 where it goes to 65 feet and that has been
addressed to City staff to provide acquisition of the easement back in January.
He said other components, stormwater facility, reclaimed water mains, wastewater
collection system, water systems and force mains and pump stations will be in
public rights of way. He said with the wastewater treatment plant, they're in
the process of getting title insurance and certification on the property which
is being handled by the City Attorney. He said he'll give Council as much detail
as they want, his commitment to Edgewater has been 100% and will continue to be.
He said on pendings, the staff load has 20 to 30 people devoted to the projects
to get it in a timely manner so they can decide what they want to implement.
City Attorney Alvarez stated issues he raised weren't designed for a response
from Mr. Ferland but to conclude his observations to Council. He said in January
last year the Council formed a CIP Committee and meetings have been held until
the last several months and issues Council raised have to be addressed by the
CIP Committee and then have to come to Council for decision. He asked that they
go back to that system which the motion states that no one individual is to make
decisions, as he sees very important issues here and he's not participating in
making those decisions. 15 Council Regular Meeting Minutes
July 16, 1990
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COUNCIL/OFFICERS REPORTS (Continued)
City Manaaer (Continued)
Councilmember Bennington asked if he's the project manager. Mr. Ferland replied
yes. Councilmember Bennington asked about Mr. Gerry Hartman. Mr. Ferland
replied it was withheld because of a separation agreement and Mr. Hartman was
principal in charge of the environmental division and due to a disagreement with
the six other partners for whatever reason, he's decided to leave the firm of
DRMP and has established his own firm. He said he feels the loss, and since
then he's been promoted to manager of the environmental division and has taken
over responsibilities of Gerry Hartman but that hasn't caused his commitment to
diminish, and it probably enhances it because he has more power with the company.
Councilmember Bennington asked if he'll be meeting with the County to get a use
permit for the wastewater treatment plant. Mr. Ferland replied he'll meet with
the County Wednesday on the water treatment plant. He said an outstanding issue
is the number of crepe myrtles on the site and they miscounted last time and they
want clarification about where the flow will go after a 100 year storm, and upon
resolving those two issues, there are no others outstanding with the County, and
DER had only one outstanding issue which was the filter sizing and they responded
to that, and when they get that, they're intending to issue. He said for the
transmission main, the outstanding issue is the DER permit and DOT permit. He
added the water plant also has a DOT driveway permit he has to get.
City Council - Councilman Hatfield stated there could be a situation that someone
is able to build a mound around his home and put a four foot fence on top of
it. He asked if it's legal as they found it's a gray area. He moved they direct
the City Manager to have the Planning Department and Engineering look into the
ordinance and give them a response back of any changes that may be needed.
Councilmember Bennington seconded the motion. Motion CARRIED 4-0.
QUESTIONS FROM PRESS
There were no questions from the press.
CITIZEN COMMENTS
Frank Roe, 2732 Juniper Drive, stated held attended the meeting regarding fire
hydrants and a motion passed that the occupant has to pay for the fire hydrant.
Mayor Mitchum clarified they discussed it. Mr. Roe stated they'd passed it and
Councilmember Bennington presented it, so why is it still on the books. Council-
member Bennington stated she didn't make the motion. Mr. Roe stated he doesn't
think it's right to try to legislate anything backward and there was a hydrant
put in Florida Shores and the City paid for it. He asked if there's a fund for
the department. Mr. Johnson replied no. Mr. Roe asked who put it in Florida
Shores. Mr. Johnson replied it's when the infrastructure was put in, and this
is commercial, not residential. Mr. Roe stated they donated money for them to
enlarge the pipes and there's no reason to spend so much time on that topic when
something could be done at the last meeting and someone suggested a workshop.
He said itls not a great way to spend their time. He suggested when they go
for election held like them to state what they did in the last two years. He
suggested they practice water conservation. Mayor Mitchum called the time 1 imit.
Al Rowe, Edgewater Industrial Park, stated a fire hydrant costs $2,600 by a
plumber and the hydrant is approximately $1,100. He said regarding tenants and
owners, the landlords have mortgages usually and if someone refused to put in
a hydrant, the tenants will walk so he has to have tenants in his building and
will put them in if it comes down to that. He added itls hard to rent when you
tell a tenant held have to pay $2,600 on top of his first, last, and damage
deposit and they'll just go elsewhere and it will drive people from this area.
He stated he pays $600 a month in sales tax to the State, $13,000 on property
tax with Edgewater getting $3,500 of that and has for 10 years. He said he has
27 businesses on his property and quite a few employees and the higher the cost
for him to operate, the more rent he'll have to charge. He thanked Counc il
members who are sensitive to his feelings and several are in favor of the fire
hydrants not needed in existing buildings. He added nobody will mind with new
construction.
ADJOURN.
Mayor Mitchum suggested a motion to adjourn. Councilman Gold so moved.
Councilman Hatfield seconded the motion. Meeting adjourned at 10:02 p.m.
Minutes submitted by:
Lura Sue Koser
16
Council Regular Meeting Minutes
July 16, 1990
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ATTEST:
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CITY CLERK I
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MAYOR
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17 Council Regular Meeting Minutes
Ju ly 16, 1990