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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes_Regular_8/8/2024 �A f f MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA, FL AUGUST 8, 2024 6:00 PM COUNCIL CHAMBERS CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL The meeting was called to order by Mayor Molly Young at 6:00 p.m. A roll call was taken by Village Clerk Lori McWilliams, MMC. Present were: Mayor Molly Young, Council Member Patrick Painter, Vice-Mayor Rick Sartory, Council Member Laurie Brandon, and Council Member Jayson E. French. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Council Member Laurie Brandon An invocation was offered followed by the pledge of allegiance. APPROVAL OF AGENDA MOTION: Council Member French made a motion to approve the agenda as presented, Council Member Painter seconded the motion. Carried unanimously 5-0. PRESENTATION 1. Legislative Update by Senator Gayle Harrell Florida State Senator Gayle Harrell, representing District 31 , highlighted the 2024 Florida State Legislative session and the $17 billion state budget. Senator Harrell was pleased to inform Council of the legislature's focus on healthcare in Florida. Senator Harrell talked about the tax holidays and the effort to return some of the taxpayer dollars paid. She was happy to report that Tequesta Regional Park had been included in the budget the current year. Senator Harrell discussed the progress made in education fpr the State of Florida. She said a lot of money has been put into education, increasing teacher salaries to $1.2 billion and increasing Florida Education Finance Program (FEFP) funding by almost seven percent. She congratulated Palm Beach County for their A rated schools. She also noted that resources had been allocated for higher education. Senator Harrell discussed the resources allocated for the environment. She noted that the future economy of the State of Florida would depend largely on the environment. For those who were impacted by the Lake Okeechobee releases and the devastating effects of blue green algae, this year the state allocated $207 million for continuing the comprehensive Everglades Restoration project. There was also an allocation of $50 million for beach restoration. Senator Harrell stated that the state understood the importance of Florida Forever being active and continuing to bring those natural resources and land acquisitions as part of the natural ability to keep the environment safe. Senator Harrell stated that 96% of gaming dollars had also been allocated to environmental issues. Senator Harrell discussed the healthcare legislation and the Live Healthy program as well as ways to improve the healthcare workforce, since there has been a shortage of healthcare providers with the influx new Florida residents. She talked about the potential problematic mental health and substances and how those issues are being addressed. Senator Harrell discussed future teaching hospitals, a new model that would help make positive changes in the way healthcare is being delivered to patients. A new Healthcare Innovation Council has been formed to travel the state and listen to new projects and new ideas on how to change the way healthcare is delivered. That council would then deliver their findings to the Department of Health for disbursing low-interest funding for such improvements. • The Mayor and Village Council Members thanked Senator Harrell for her support. • Vice Mayor Sartory thanked Senator Harrell and Representative Snyder for the work they had done on the Dover Ditch project, and their work on behavioral health. • Mayor Young thanked Senator Harrell and Representative Snyder for their presentations and for the work they continue to do in support of Tequesta and the district. 2. Legislative Update by Representative John Snyder Representative John Snyder talked about the Tequesta Regional Park and was pleased to have the opportunity to make an investment and build on that investment. He spoke about the budget and his efforts to bring as much of the available funding as possible back to the community. He stated that some funding had been obtained to continue the operation of Busch Wildlife. The El Center for Autism was also the recipient of funding for teaching students how to swim. Loggerhead Marine Life was a focus for their Sea Turtle Beach renourishment efforts. He spoke about Public Safety and thanked all law enforcement and first responders for their dedicated work. He said in some areas, retail theft had become normalized and, in some essences, legalized. He asserted that Florida would not allow that to happen and one of the signature public safety bills was to ensure that retail establishments and law enforcement would know that the state was supporting them. This type of theft impacts everyone. Representative Snyder discussed the rising cost of property insurance. He said there were encouraging signs in the marketplace with new insurance carriers coming into Florida, and based on some of the previously approved reforms, some carriers had filed rate decreases with the state. 3. Annual Overview Presentation by the Palm Beach County Commission on Ethics This presentation was not given. 4. Presentation by Village Manager Intern Nicholas Gambale Jeremy Allen, Village Manager, introduced student intern, Nicholas Gambale, and talked about how Nicholas ended up in the Village as an Administration Intern. Mr. Allen said Nicholas had been a great addition to the team, and was very positive and fun to be around. Nicholas looks forward to his future aspiration to be in municipal management. Nicholas delivered a presentation pertaining to work he had been doing for his Master's Degree Program. His presentation was based on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Village employees, with a focus on the department directors. Nicholas spoke positively about the culture of Tequesta. He met with each of the Department Directors to discuss whether or not Al was used in their departments. He shared his findings with the Village Council using the following points for discussion: • The importance of Al in municipal government. • The types of Al, its uses and names of various software products. • Ways to engage with residents through automating routine and formulaic governmental services and streamlining resident interactions. • VOTbot on the village website - he helped Village Clerk McWilliams train/program the VOTbot The Village Council Members thanked Nicholas and wished him well in his future endeavors. They appreciated the overview of Al and understanding the ways it could be used to enhance services. Mayor Young mentioned that the county was working on draft guidelines for the use of artificial intelligence. CONSENT AGENDA MOTION: Council Member Painter made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda as presented; Council Member French seconded the motion. Carried unanimously 5-0. 5. MINUTES: June 3, 2024 Workshop; June 13, 2024 Regular Council Meeting 6. Consider Approval of Memorandum of Understanding for Post-Disaster POD Agreement with St. Jude Catholic Church END OF CONSENT AGENDA COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITIZENS Ms. Page Lewis, 15371 69th Drive N, introduced herself and stated that she was running for a school board seat. She discussed her platform for running and provided her email contact information electpagelewis@gmail.com. Jan Fenwick, 71 Azalea Circle, discussed short-term rental properties in her neighborhood. Mayor Young responded that there was legislation regarding short-term rentals, and while it limits what local governments could do, she offered that staff could look into the area of Azalea Circle. Harold Taylor, 13 Chapel Court, made a request for staff to explore creating a quiet zone at the Brightline crossing located at Tequesta Drive. He stated that several residents had voiced their concerns about the train noise. COMMUNICATIONS FROM COUNCIL Mayor thanked staff for hosting the recent Palm Beach County League of Cities Luncheon. APPOINTMENTS 7. Consider Appointment to Fill Environmental Advisory Committee Vacancy (term expires 511412026) Village Clerk McWilliams stated there was a vacancy due to the resignation of Member Jessica Namath. Wade Chance had applied and was present to introduce himself, talk about his interest in serving his community, and answer questions. Mr. Chance, a Tequesta resident, shared his interest in serving on the Environmental Advisory Committee. He acknowledged that he knew the committee held these meetings during the daytime. Mayor Young wondered if there were plans to discuss the meeting dates/times. Mr. Allen said they would be discussing the timing of their meetings at their upcoming meeting. MOTION: Council Member Sartory made a motion to appoint Wade Chance to the Environmental Advisory Committee; Council Member Painter seconded the motion. Carried unanimously 5-0. STANDING REPORTS Village Attorney Attorney Davis stated he and his staff recently attended FMAA Annual Seminar end of July. He talked about some of the topics that were presented and stated it was a good seminar. Village Manager 8. Village Manager Standing Report Mr. Allen provided an update on work being done on Country Club Drive to replace utility pipe. He noted there would be some inconveniences in the area of El Portal and Tequesta Drive with road closures and rerouting at the entrance of the Country Club. Village staff had been working with the contractors to mitigate and minimize interruptions. Public Notices would be distributed, as well as signage to let everyone know of the changes necessary while the water line work was conducted. Mayor Young asked if the village staff had communicated with the school district regarding the road closures. Mr. Allen responded that staff had communicated with the schools. Mr. Allen extended congratulations to Village Clerk McWilliams and her staff for the teacher/school drive. Clerk McWilliams spoke about the 3rd Annual Teacher Supply Drive, which was a reverse supply drive where the teachers benefitted. There were 23 teachers from Pre-K through High School and one college teacher who supported preschool teachers. Clerk McWilliams said the business community was generous, with 19 donors giving approximately $6k in gift cards, cash, and checks. The supply drive benefitted Tequesta resident teachers and teachers who teach in a Tequesta School. The teachers have been very grateful and they were asked to express their appreciation to the business sponsors. Mr. Allen announced the upcoming Environmental Advisory Committee meeting to be held on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, the Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting to be held on August 15, 2024, and the Village Council Budget Meeting to be held on August 26, 2024. Mr. Allen stated that Fire Chief Trube had announced his retirement, although he would be with the Village for another six months. Mr. Allen thanked Chief Trube for his 31 years of service to the Village. Police Department 9. Police Department's Monthly Standing Report Assistant Police Chief James McGrew highlighted the monthly services and tasks that the department took part in during July. These included the Nautical Club Weekly Events/Meetings, Explorer Meeting, Summer Camp (Pruitt & Ramirez), Ride Along with Cpl. Waychowsky, Addressing Parking Issues on Beach Road, Florida League of Cities Assistance and Tequesta Bridge Enforcement. Asst. Chief McGrew mentioned that Sgt. Korkowski had been attending the Nautical Club Weekly Events, and he expressed his appreciation. Asst. Chief McGrew noted that he had attended a meeting with the property owners association (POA) regarding parking, the North County Police Chiefs meeting, and a meeting with Urban SDK Traffic Company. Asst. Chief McGrew also reported on training that had taken place within the department. Vice Mayor Sartory acknowledged the success of the Nautical Club and thanked the Police Department for their hard work and dedication. He stated a lot of positive comments are being received from parents of the children who are participating in the program. Fire Department 10. Fire Department Report Fire Chief Trube highlighted the department's participation in the July 4th Freedom Run, the July 12th Surface Water Rescue Drill, July 15-19th hosted the Dive Rescue (REDS) class, and from July 22 - 24th, participated in the Palm Beach State College Engine Company Operations class. He also highlighted meetings attended, upcoming operations, training and special events, and emergency management operations. UTILITIES 11. Utilities Department Update Utilities Director Marjorie Craig thanked the Village Council for approving the SCADA improvements. She recapped the road closures and noted that staff had worked with the affected parties. She mentioned the interconnect was now open with Martin County and they were taking approximately 300,000 gallons per day. Director Craig introduced the Public Works Intern, Diego Andres Mojica Boada, and stated that he was working on his Master's Degree and had already been an amazing addition to the department. Council Member French thanked Utilities Director Craig for everything she does for the Village. He had looked at some comparisons and it was his opinion that the Village was doing a phenomenal job. REGULAR AGENDA OLD BUSINESS 12. ORDINANCE NO. 05-24, SECOND READING, AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE VILLAGE CODE OF ORDINANCES AT CHAPTER 78. ZONING. ARTICLE VI. IN GENERAL. AT SECTION 78-4. DEFINITIONS. TO CREATE AN ENTIRELY NEW DEFINITION FOR THE TERM PRIVATE MUSEUM, AT ARTICLE VI. SCHEDULE OF DISTRICT REGULATIONS. AT SECTION 78-178. C-3 GENERAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT., TO ADD PRIVATE MUSEUM AS A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE WITH DISTANCE SEPARATION REQUIREMENTS, AND AT ARTICLE X. OFF-STREET AND ON- STREET PARKING AND LOADING REGULATIONS. AT SECTION 78-705. REQUIRED NUMBER OF PARKING SPACES. TO PROVIDE THE NUMBER OF PARKING SPACES REQUIRED FOR THESE ESTABLISHMENTS; PROVIDING THAT EACH AND EVERY OTHER SECTION AND SUBSECTION OF CHAPTER 78. ZONING. SHALL REMAIN IN FULL FORCE AND EFFECT AS PREVIOUSLY ADOPTED; PROVIDING A CONFLICTS CLAUSE; A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE, AND AUTHORITY TO CODIFY, PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Village Attorney Keith Davis read the title into the record. Mayor Young opened the hearing for public comments; there were none. Attorney Davis stated that the last time this item was before the Village Council, there were only four members present and no action was taken. The hearing was opened for Council comments; there being none the hearing was closed. MOTION: Council Member Sartory made a motion to approve Ordinance No 05-24; Council Member French seconded the motion. Carried 3-2 (opposed: Mayor Young and Council Member Brandon). 13. ORDINANCE 07-24, SECOND READING AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE VILLAGE CODE OF ORDINANCES AT CHAPTER 78. ZONING. ARTICLE VI. SCHEDULE OF DISTRICT REGULATIONS. BY CREATING A NEW DIVISION 3. ENTITLED "AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND LIVE LOCAL ACT." TO PROVIDE AND IMPLEMENT ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES AND REQUIREMENTS FOR DEVELOPMENT OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROJECTS PURSUANT TO THE FLORIDA LIVE LOCAL ACT; PROVIDING FOR ENFORCEMENT, AND PROVIDING FOR PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS; PROVIDING THAT EACH AND EVERY OTHER SECTION AND SUBSECTION OF CHAPTER 78. ZONING SHALL REMAIN IN FULL FORCE AND EFFECT AS PREVIOUSLY ADOPTED; PROVIDING A CONFLICTS CLAUSE, SEVERABILITY CLAUSE AND AUTHORITY TO CODIFY, PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Attorney Davis read the title into the record. He stated that the ordinance had been modified pursuant to Village Council direction. The revisions were pertaining to enforcement and clarifying that a conceptual presentation would not be required. Mayor Young opened the hearing for public comments. Ann Minor, 478 Dover Road, asked how many public housing buildings there were in the Village. Jay Hubsch, Planning Director, responded that the State of Florida had adopted legislation that stated when developers built affordable housing, the project had to be approved by the municipality, if certain criteria had been met. The purpose of Ordinance No. 07-24, was simply to ensure that the Village Code was consistent with the Florida State Statutes, and that enforcement procedures were clearly outlined. The public hearing was closed for public comments and opened for Council comments; there being none, the hearing was closed. MOTION: Council Member Painter made a motion to approve Ordinance 07-24; Council Member French seconded the motion. Carried unanimously 5-0. NEW BUSINESS 14. RESOLUTION NO. 15-24, A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA, FLORIDA, ADOPTING THE REFUSE, RECYCLING AND YARD WASTE COLLECTION RATES FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2025 AND AUTHORIZING THE VILLAGE MANAGER TO PROCEED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE VILLAGE'S ADOPTED PROCEDURES; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Consider Approval of Franchise Agreement with WM (Formerly Waste Management) Continuation for 6-years. Mr. Allen provided an overview of the franchise agreement with WM, referencing a recent presentation to Council by WM. He stated that negotiations had taken place and the Village would be switching over to automated waste collection. The contract agreed upon by both parties would result in a $41 .52 annual ($3.46/month) increase bringing the total cost per residential dwelling to $233.40 for Fiscal Year 2024-25, and to establish terms of the agreement to include an annual increase based on the United States CPI for Water, Sewer, and Trash Collection (WST). Jeff Saban from WM said a lot of time and effort had gone into developing this plan for the Village residents. Mr. Allen said all information would be sent out to residents and there would not be any drop in services. However, some residents may experience a slight change in the days for pickup. Council Member Painter supported the automated system. Council Member Brandon thanked WM for working with the Village and for keeping the two days per week pick-up schedule. Council Member French thanked Mr. Saban for working with the Village. He supported the change. Vice Mayor Sartory supported the automated system. He noted that trash collection has to be done and the Village could do it most efficiently and effectively. Mayor Young supported the changes. She asked about commercial rates. Mr. Saban introduced his team, and responded that commercial rates were included in the franchise agreement. He said the specific increase was only $.34 per cubic yard. He also noted that the rates were market competitive, but those rates also were important to drive revenue, and also, in the Village, commercial businesses were containerized and could opt to flex on their services depending upon the season. Mayor Young asked when the automation would begin. Mr. Saban provided the dates for when social media and paper notices would be pushed out to residents. Mr. Saban said that WM would be issuing standard 54-gallon garbage carts to every resident. Residents were encouraged to use their other containers for yard waste. Residents may also purchase an additional cart for $100, which would include home delivery and no increase in the cost of collection. Council Member Brandon asked if pick-up scheduling could be simplified. She had heard some complaints and frustrations from residents regarding Monday pickups. Mr. Saban said that with the new schedule, Wednesdays would be designated for bulk pickup village-wide. Public Comment: Jan Fenwick, 71 Azalea Circle, spoke about concerns with the rate increase. She also asked about bulk pick-up. Stephanie Moto, 272 Village Blvd #7201, was confused about the collections for condominiums; she felt that living in a condominium should be different than living in a single-family home. Mr. Allen explained the rate increase. Mr. Saban added that multi-family residential buildings had containerized trash and still required an equivalent service. Ann Miner, 478 Diver Road, asked why the rate amounts were the same regardless of property size. Vanessa Falanga, 272 Village Blvd, Apt 7104, opposed an additional annual assessment. Patrick Wilkinson, 419 N Cypress Drive, asked if the rate increase was necessary. Mr. Saban responded. Donald Moores, 47 Chestnut Trail, asked if his non ad valorem tax bill would be replaced. Finance Director Snyder said yes, and he explained that even though the tax bill would be replaced, the total would increase for the next year. Jeff Sabin explained why the Village was switching to automated service, and he also talked about the reasons leading up to the rate increase. Mayor Young asked about eliminating the $0.25 cost recovery. Mr. Allen explained what that fee was needed for in terms of offsetting other expenses associated with the service. Council Member French stated his support for the increase and for keeping the cost recovery fee intact, and explained his reasoning. Mr. Painter deferred to staff and felt that if this was necessary, he supported the increase. Council Member Brandon talked about her experience with WM, and she believed the increase was necessary. She also knew that staff members were empathetic to residents with financial limitations. Vice Mayor Sartory thought the recovery cost should remain. He supported the increase. MOTION: Council Member Brandon made a motion to approve the Franchise Agreement Contract and Resolution No. 15-24 setting the FY 2024-25 waste collection rates at $19.45; Council Member French seconded the motion. Carried unanimously 5-0. 15. Consider Approval of Health, Dental and Life Insurance and EAP 2024125 Renewals Merlene Reid, Director HR & Risk Management, provided a background summary and stated that the Benefits Committee had recommended changes to the plan for FY 2024- 25: health insurance would be renewed with FMIT/UHC, dental would be moved to Solstice, Basic Life/AD&D would be moved to The Hartford, and the Employee Assistance Program would remain with new directions. She mentioned that employees would experience a slight decrease in the cost of their vision plans. Council Member French asked about the life insurance coverage that was paid by the Village to the employee. He was interested in the total overall cost. Director Reid said the total cost was $29,624.41 annually. MOTION: Council Member French made a motion to accept the proposed FY 2024/25 plan, with health insurance renewed with FMIT/UHC, Dental to be moved to Solstice, Basic Life/AD&D be moved to The Hartford, and the Employee Assistance Program remaining with New Directions; Council Member Brandon seconded the motion. Carried unanimously 5-0. 16. Consider Approval of Amendment No. 1 Contract Renewal to Aquifer Maintenance Performance Systems, Inc., (AMPS) Piggyback Agreement on the City of Palm Bay Contract and 1st Renewal for Well Repair, Maintenance, and Rehabilitation Services Utilities Director Craig presented the one-year contract renewal to continue with well repair, maintenance, and rehabilitation services. MOTION: Council Member Painter made a motion to approve the contract renewal and piggyback agreement; Council Member Brandon seconded the motion. Carried unanimously 5-0. 17. RESOLUTION NO. 06-24, A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA, FLORIDA, ADOPTING THE STORMWA TER UTILITY FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2025, AND AUTHORIZING THE VILLAGE MANAGER TO PROCEED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE VILLAGE'S ADOPTED PROCEDURES; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES Utilities Director Craig presented the Resolution for a rate increase. She stated the rate increase would be 5%, an additional $.36 per month for the average resident. She stated that when there were opportunities to apply for grants, her staff would make application to help offset expenses. Mr. Allen said some ARPA funds had been used to cover some of the costs associated with the stormwater fund. He said the plan for rate increases had been planned since 2021. He stated this rate increase had been planned and the rate structure would be reviewed within this fund, beginning next year. Council Member Painter appreciated the explanation and understood the importance of the Village having its own water department. Mayor Young said the fund was very lean and the projects would have a huge impact on residents when they could be funded. She stated it was definitely a critical fund. Attorney Davis clarified that the rate increase had been presented and workshopped in the past. However, he advised that it had not been approved. Jan Fenwick, 71 Azalea Circle, expressed concern about the increase in rates. She said some areas with storm drains were still flooding. Director Craig explained the stormwater system along with the stormwater drainage plan for the Village. She said there were typically swales in front of the houses. Maintaining systems that Retain and treat the water. A 'Save the Swales' program will be implemented at some point in the future to support the pipe lining plan. Stephanie Moto, 272 Village Blvd, #7201 , was concerned about the additional fee increase and asked for clarification. Director Craig stated she would be willing to meet with Ms. Moto to explain. Patrick Wilkinson - relinquished his time and his written opposition to the increase. MOTION: Council Member French made a motion to approve Resolution No. 06-24, adopting the stormwater utility fees for FY ending September 30, 2025, and authorizing the Village Manager to proceed in accordance with the Village's adopted procedures; Council Member Brandon seconded the motion. Carried unanimously 5-0. 18. RESOLUTION NO. 16-24, A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR OF TEQUESTA TO ENTER INTO A GRANT AGREEMENT WITH THE STATE OF FLORIDA FOR THE PROVISION OF STATE FUNDS FOR TEQUESTA PARK IMPROVEMENTS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES Mr. Allen presented the resolution supporting the appropriation. Marcia Nielson,94 Beechwood Trail, asked for an explanation of the item. Mr. Allen explained the Resolution was to authorize staff to enter into an agreement for appropriation funds for $340,000. Adoption of this resolution would approve moving forward with the process. MOTION: Council Member Sartory made a motion to approve Resolultion No. 16-24, authorizing the Mayor to enter into a grant agreement with the State of Florida for the provision of state funds for the Tequesta Park improvements; Council Member French seconded the motion. Carried unanimously 5-0. ANY OTHER MATTERS Council Member French shared that he often made a point to listen to the summary of committee meetings that he is unable to attend. His goal has been to gain a better understanding of the Environmental Advisory Committee. He expressed concern that the EAC was receiving good direction from the Council. He thought the monthly committee meetings might be too frequent and suggested reducing the number and frequency of meetings. Attorney Davis said when the EAC was created, a resolution was approved that granted high level parameters on what the committee was supposed to be doing. Council Member Brandon said if the committee was discussed, she felt like the Chair should be involved in that discussion. Council Member Painter agreed. Mr. Allen said that at the next meeting, a discussion would be prompted about the frequency of their meetings. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:36 p.m. MOTION: Council Member Brandon made a motion to adjourn the meeting; Council Member French seconded the motion. Carried unanimously 5-0. Res ectfully submitted, Lori McWilliams, MMC Village Clerk Note: These summary minutes are prepared in compliance with 286.011 F.S. and are not verbatim transcripts of the meeting. A verbatim audio record is available from the office of the Village Clerk. All referenced attachments are on file in the Village Clerk's office.