HomeMy WebLinkAboutDocumentation_Regular_Tab 04_9/11/2025 Agenda Item #4.
MINUTES
Workshop Meeting
Village of Tequesta, FL
Mayor Molly Young Vice-Mayor Rick Sartory
Council Member Laurie Brandon Council Member Patrick Painter
Council Member Jayson E. French
August 4, 2025 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.
Present were:
Mayor Molly Young, Council Member Patrick Painter, Vice-Mayor Rick Sartory, Council Member
Laurie Brandon, and Council Member Jayson E. French
Vice Mayor Sartory attended via ZOOM.
AGENDA ITEMS
1. Jupiter Narrows Update and Funding Request
Ms. Sue Panella updated Council on the Jupiter Narrows Conservation Alliance Project,
highlighting historical mangrove decline and raising over $730,000 toward a $1 million
target. Ms. Panella reported that Taylor Engineering had been hired to design three
limestone breakwaters for mangrove restoration, with permitting expected within 60 days.
Council Member French proposed a $5,000 investment in Village waterways, which
received unanimous Council support pending project commencement. The $5,000
investment was intended to support the restoration and conservation of local waterways,
specifically focusing on the mangrove islands and seagrasses. Council Member French
preferred to frame the contribution as an investment in public safety and environmental
health, rather than a charitable donation.
Council Member Brandon suggested participation in several South Florida boat shows
that were scheduled for this Fall and Winter, in order to aid in fundraising efforts.
There was a Consensus of Council to offer a letter of support in having the Jupiter
Narrows Conservation Alliance, move forward with naming the Islands.
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Agenda Item #4.
2. Consideration of a Ballot Question for a General Obligation Bond for the Purchase
of 1 Main Street(Paradise Park
Village Manager Jeremy Allen presented an $8.8 million dollar opportunity to purchase 1
Main Street with a bond resolution timeline set for December of 2025. Mr. Phil Perko (the
seller) requested a lease in the amount of $100,000, with additional maintenance costs
estimated at approximately $20,000 per year. The annual Chili - Cook Off and Tequesta
Fest event could be held on the property, once again.
Manager Allen would coordinate a community engagement process and/or charette for
further public input, together with Community Development Director Hubsch. Additionally,
two independent appraisals would be obtained for the property as part of the process.
Council discussed costs associated with the bond referendum which included: appraisals,
maintenance, ideas for the property, events, parking, green space, market price, visions,
and a resolution. Council recognized the need for a detailed development plan and raised
concerns over maintenance costs and the previous failed referendum outcome.
Ms. Nancy Harvey of 165 Citadel Circle commented on the importance of green space to
her school ( The Harvey School) located at 1 Main Street. Her students currently used
the empty, grass lot for recess.
Mr. Ryan Frankel, a representative of the property for sale, commended Council on
having citizens come up with a plan for the property.
Mr. Tom Bradford of 44 Chestnut Trail commented on the purchase of the property and
felt it was not the right thing to do. He believed it was extremely expensive and did not
make good financial sense. He also questioned how the Village would fund both
Tequesta Park and this parcel.
Mrs. Marcia Nielson of Beechwood Trail shared her opinion of supporting the purchase of
the parcel, only if Tequesta Park was given back to the State, with no more taxpayer
funds going towards it. She also felt there should be cost estimates going forward on
development and maintenance costs associated with the parcel.
Mrs. Pat Watkins of 167 River Drive cautioned Council to look at the impact of
maintenance costs after the sale. She felt the sale was going to be difficult at the asking
price, considering the shared parking issues. She was glad to hear there would be 2
appraisals performed and had concerns on the short amount of time involved.
Mrs. Marie Sapire of Yacht Club Place criticized the prior bond being a "blank check" and
suggested polling residents through the EAC and P&Z meetings.
It was a Consensus of Council to bring the item forward to the next Workshop Meeting
with a detailed proposal which would include a timeline, lease agreement, appraisal
costs, and a community engagement process.
3. FPL 's SolarTogether Program Overview
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Agenda Item #4.
This item was removed from the agenda.
4. Village Council Workshop Legislative Update
Village Attorney Keith Davis offered an overview of important updates from this year's
legistative session.
He reported to Council that Senate Bill 180 retroactively prohibited enforcement of the
Village overlay district, adopted October 2024 through October 1, 2027, significantly
impacting development regulations.
There were also multiple new requirements including the administrative platting process,
accelerated sprinkler/fire alarm permitting, and a "reasonable accommodation policy"
codification for recovery residences.
Preemption impacts included artificial turf regulation limitations for residential properties
under one acre, EV charging station regulations, fluoride prohibition in water systems.
and E-bike regulations (new authority to set minimum age requirements and require
government-issued photo ID for operators).
Building and development changes included a prohibition on limiting quasi-judicial
hearings, Live Local Act amendments, and condo milestone inspection requirements.
Additionally, Florida DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) was active and
mandated a 7-day compliance requirement for information requests targeting municipal
spending.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 8:19 PM.
MOTION: Council Member French made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:19 PM; seconded
by Council Member Painter. (caarried unanimously 5-0)
Respectfully 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.
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MINUTES
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA, FL
AUGUST 12, 2025 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 -Vice-Mayor Sartory
Vice Mayor Sartory offered an invocation followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
MOTION: Council Member French made a motion to approve the agenda; Vice Mayor Sartory
seconded the motion. (Carried unanimously 5-0)
PRESENTATION
1. Presentation by the United Way Palm Beach County, CEO Dr. Laurie George, on
Hunger Action Month and Proclamation Declaring September 2025 as Hunger
Action Month in the Village of Tequesta
There was no presentation due to the representative from the United Way being absent.
2. Legislative Presentation by Village Lobbyist Ken Pruitt
Village Lobbyist Ken Pruitt updated Council on several notable bills which included
House Bill 11 (vetoed), Senate Bill 1704/House Bill 1523 (killed, preserving local control),
House Bill 683 (passed—synthetic turf installation), and the ongoing Live Local Act.
Additionally, a $2 billion dollar recurring tax cut passed; business rent tax was eliminated;
and the back-to-school sales tax and generator tax-exemptions were made permanent.
Mr. Pruitt informed Council that the next legislative session would begin on October 6,
2025 (committee weeks), with Palm Beach local bill delegation meetings highlighted for
parks ownership efforts, supported by Rep. Schneider/Senator Harrell.
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Additionally there were special elections for legislative seats resulting from prominent
resignations; and an introduction of new Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins.
Mr. Pruitt reported on short term rentals and home rule discussions, and believed
ongoing vigilance was needed.
3. Proclamation Recognizing Richard Radcliffe on his 14 Years of Service to the Palm
Beach County League of Cities
Proclamation was not read as recipient was not present.
4. Presentation by Administration Intern Joseph Ginossi
Village intern Joseph Ginossi presented an inter-municipality comparison using a variety
of metrics. It was noted that the Village provided robust services per capita, was ranked
high for home costs, boasted low crime rates, and featured above-average park
acreage/cost-effectiveness, while maintaining a solid fiscal outlook.
CONSENT AGENDA
MOTION: Council Member French made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda as
presented; seconded by Council Member Brandon. Motion carried 5-0.
5. MINUTES: 7/10/25 Regular and 7122125 Budget Workshop
6. Consider Approval of Contracts Signed by the Village Manager Under$25,000 (Per
Village Ordinance we are presenting the following agreements, proposals,
commitments and memorandum of understanding to Council.) A. Florida Institute
of Government Agreement for ADA Training, $3,187.50, B. Trevi LLC DBA WetTaps
Proposal for Installation of 6-inch Water Main Insertion Valve, $7,250.00
7. Consider Approving a One Year Extension to the Interlocal Agreement with the
Municipal Public Safety Communications Consortium (MPSCC)
8. RESOLUTION 11-25, A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE
OF TEQUESTA, FLORIDA, DECLARING CERTAIN PROPERTY TO BE SURPLUS
AND DIRECTING THE VILLAGE MANAGER TO DONATE SURPLUS PROPERTY IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THE VILLAGE'S ADOPTED PROCEDURES; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
9. RESOLUTION NO. 12-25 OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF
TEQUESTA, FLORIDA, DECLARING CERTAIN PROPERTY TO BE SURPLUS AND
DIRECTING THE VILLAGE MANAGER TO DISPOSE OF SURPLUS PROPERTY IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THE VILLAGE'S ADOPTED PROCEDURES; PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
10. Consider approval for a Special Event permit application for the "25th Annual Run
4 the Pies Race" organized by Palm Beach Roadrunners, a registered 501(c)(3)
organization. The event is to be held on Thursday, November 27, 2025 from 6:00
a.m. - 11:00 a.m. No alcohol will be served. The projected number of attendees for
the event is 2,200.
11. RESOLUTION NO. 16-25 OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF
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TEQUESTA, FLORIDA, DECLARING CERTAIN PROPERTY TO BE SURPLUS AND
DIRECTING THE VILLAGE MANAGER TO DISPOSE OF SURPLUS PROPERTY IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THE VILLAGE'S ADOPTED PROCEDURES; PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
12. Consider Approval of Kimley-Horn & Associates CEI Services Work Authorization
for Reverse Osmosis (RO) Membrane Replacement for a Total Not to Exceed
$30,000
13. RESOLUTION NO. 15-25, A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE
VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA, FLORIDA, APPROVING A ONE TIME PERFORMANCE
BASED COMPENSATION AMOUNT FOR THE VILLAGE MANAGER FOR FISCAL
YEAR 202412025 IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION S.F. OF THE EMPLOYMENT
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE VILLAGE MANAGER AND THE VILLAGE OF
TEQUESTA EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2019; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE AND FOR
OTHER PURPOSES.
END OF CONSENT AGENDA
COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITIZENS
Mrs. Marcia Nielson of Beechwood Trail addressed Council and referenced charitable giving
from the August 4th Workshop Meeting. She offered insight on the historical significance of
giving to charitable organizations out of individual discretionary funds, and believed travel
should be a separate line in the budget. Lastly, she felt Council should adhere to the Village
employee travel policy.
Mrs. Christina Vanderwesthizen of 113B Lighthouse Circle addressed Council with a complaint
about noise from passing train horns. She was frustrated that there was not a quiet zone in
place, as there was in other cities. She asked Council to keep her updated. Manager Allen
offered a brief history on the process and where the Village stood currently. An agreement was
in the works and Mr. Allen would reach out to Ms. Vanderwesthizen's HOA with updates on the
status.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM COUNCIL
Council Member Brandon thanked the Village for keeping school children safe, and for
preparing for hurricane season.
Vice Mayor Sartory thanked the Clerk's Department for putting together the Palm Beach County
League of Cities Luncheon at Tequesta Country Club. He congratulated Mayor Young on
becoming president of the organization and felt it was a very popular event.
Mayor Young thanked staff for the League of Cities luncheon, and congratulated public safety
for keeping students safe during Operation Safe Start.
APPOINTMENTS
14. Consider Appointment to Fill the Environmental Advisory Committee Vacancy
Council discussed both applicants and recommended Mr. Drew Henriques for the
Environmental Advisory Committee ( EAC) position.
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MOTION: Council Member French made a motion to appoint Mr. Drew Henriques to the
EAC; Vice-Mayor Sartory seconded the motion. Carried unanimously 5-0.
STANDING REPORTS
Village Attorney
Attorney Davis did not have a report.
Village Manager
15. Monthly Manager's Report
Manager Allen updated Council on recent road repairs scheduled for Golfview Dr (FPL
vehicle damages), the United Way Hunger Action Month drop-off location, CWA union
decertification, and schedule reminders for upcoming meetings.
Police Department
16. Police Department Standing Report
Police Chief Gus Medina reported to Council on the ongoing civilian firearm classes , K9
Eric's retirement, K9 Scout's introduction and achievements in recent cases, car seat
installations, Nautical Club, and a special recognition to Detective Loney for his
dedication to anti-drug and asset-seizure work.
Fire Department
17. Fire Department Report Standing Report
Fire Chief John McLaughlin reported to Council on training, new policies, ISO evaluations
scheduled, ongoing recruitments and the grant pursuits for equipment.
UTILITIES
18. Utilities Department Update
Utility Director Marjorie Craig reported to Council on updates for storm preparation,
pipeline/ditch projects, relining, communication plan improvements, positive budget
trends and capital project timelines.
REGULAR AGENDA
OLD BUSINESS
19. ORDINANCE NO. 5-25, SECOND READING AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE
COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA, FLORIDA PROVIDING FOR THE
VOLUNTARY ANNEXATION OF ADDITIONAL TERRITORY OWNED BY ROBERT &
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AMY SWAN TO BE INCLUDED WITHIN THE VILLAGE BOUNDARIES IN
ACCORDANCE WITH ARTICLE VIII SECTION 2(c) OF THE CONSTITUTION OF THE
STATE OF FLORIDA, SECTION 171.044, FLORIDA STATUTES AS AMENDED, AND
SECTION 4.02 OF THE VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA CHARTER; REDEFINING THE
BOUNDARIES OF THE VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA TO INCLUDE ALL OF SAID REAL
PROPERTY, DIRECTING THE VILLAGE MANAGER TO DO ALL THINGS
NECESSARY TO EFFECTUATE THIS ANNEXATION; DIRECTING THE VILLAGE
CLERK TO FILE A COPY OF THIS ORDINANCE WITH THE CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT
COURT IN PALM BEACH COUNTY, THE CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER OF
PALM BEACH COUNTY AND WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE WITHIN (7) DAYS
AFTER ADOPTION; PROVIDING A CONFLICTS CLAUSE AND A SEVERABILITY
CLAUSE, PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Village Attorney Keith Davis read the title into the record. Community Development
Director Jay Hubsch introduced Ordinance 5-25 to Council for approval.
MOTION: Council Member Painter made a motion to approve Ordinance 5-25 on second
reading; Council Member Brandon seconded the motion. Carried unanimously 5-0.
NEW BUSINESS
20. SEU 01-25: Application from Jebccore Tequesta, LLC, for a Special Exception Use
approval pursuant to Section 78-180 (1)(15) of the Village of Tequesta Code of
Ordinances. The owner is requesting Special Exception Use approval for the
currently existing 6,099 square feet building situated in the Village's Mixed Use
Zoning District. The Applicant is proposing a fast-food restaurant in the MU Zoning
District. The subject property is located at 150 Tequesta Drive, Tequesta, FL 33469.
Attorney Keith Davis announced the quasi judicial nature of SEU-01-25 and SPM 03-25
and collectively swore in 4 participants. Council disclosed the activity and contact they
had with the applicant and/or property.
Mayor Young had a discussion with Village Manager Allen and Community Development
Director Hubsch and had visited the site.
Vice Mayor Sartory had a discussion with the Village Manager.
Council Member French had spoken to staff
Council Member Brandon had driven by the CVS and been on the property.
Council Member Painter had no contact or activity.
Community Development Director Jay Hubsch explained that the applicant, Jebccore
Tequesta LLC had asked for a Special Exception Use and Site Plan Modification
approval to redevelop the former Bank of America building on US Highway One and
Tequesta Drive. The applicant was interested in creating a space for a Chipotle
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restaurant and a dental office,with a special exception for the fast food/drive thru use.
Council discussed parking and compatibility criteria as well as the drive-thru
configuration. They had concerns about traffic safety, stacking, and future brand use.
Ultimately, Council agreed that a denial was in order due to compatibility, scale, and
traffic/safety concerns, but not the brand. The site plan modification was bypassed due to
the special exception use denial.
MOTION: Council Member Painter made a motion to approve SEU 01-25: seconded the
motion. DEFEATED. 1-4 (opposed: Mayor Young, Vice-Mayor Sartory, Council Member
Brandon, and Council Member French).
MOTION: Council Member French made a motion to deny SEU 01-25 based upon
criteria number 2 and 6 of code section 78, and number 8 of code section 364; Vice-
Mayor Sartory seconded the motion. Carried 4-1 (opposed: Council Member Painter).
21. SPM03-25 Application from Jebccore Tequesta, LLC for a Site Plan Modification for
new exterior and site modifications on an existing 6,099 square foot building in the
MU Mixed-Use Zoning District. The subject property is located at 150 Tequesta
Drive, Tequesta, F133469.
This item was skipped due to the denial of SEU 01-25.
22. RESOLUTION NO. 17-25, 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,
2026 AND AUTHORIZING THE VILLAGE MANAGER TO PROCEED IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THE VILLAGE'S ADOPTED PROCEDURES; PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Finance Director Jeff Snyder asked Council for consideration in adopting the refuse and
recycling rates for the upcoming fiscal year. The proposed rate was a 4.88% contractual
increase plus an additional 3.5% to cover costs.
Mrs. Pat Watkins of 167 River Drive encouraged Council to support the increase as
Waste Management had always gone above and beyond for the Village during hurricane
clean up times and were a dedicated, good provider.
Mayor Young was in favor of the increase but was not supportive of the 3.5% fee the
Village was adding onto the cost.
MOTION: Vice-Mayor Sartory made a motion Consider adopting Resolution No. 17-25 as
recommended. Council Member Brandon seconded the motion. Carried 4-1 (opposed:
Mayor Young).
23. RESOLUTION NO. 13-25, A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE
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VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA, FLORIDA, ADOPTING THE STORMWATER UTILITY FEES
FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2026, AND AUTHORIZING THE
VILLAGE MANAGER TO PROCEED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE VILLAGE'S
ADOPTED PROCEDURES; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE, AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES
Utility Director Marjorie Craig asked Council for consideration in adopting the stormwater
utility fees for the upcoming fiscal year. A 5% increase was proposed with justification
provided on infrastructure needs and a cross subsidy from the water utility tax to reduce
the resident burden.
Mr. Michael Tomes of 110D Lighthouse Circle raised a question regarding assessments
for condo associations not using the Village stormwater system. Director Craig was
asked to follow up with Mr. Tomes.
MOTION: Vice-Mayor Sartory made a motion made a motion to approve Resolution No.
13-25; Council Member French seconded the motion. Carried unanimously 5-0.
24. Consider Approval of Deevan, Inc. Agreement Piggybacking the Town of Jupiter's
Unit Price Contract for Utility Repairs and Improvements (Contract W2334) and a
Proposal/Purchase Order for$21,849.05 for Utility Repairs
Utility Director Marjorie Craig explained it was a best practice to have a contract in place
for utility repairs, and to have it piggybacked for efficiency.
MOTION: Council Member French made a motion to approve Deevan, Inc. Agreement
Piggybacking the Town of Jupiter's Unit Price Contract for Utility Repairs and
Improvements; Council Member Brandon seconded the motion. Carried unanimously 5-0.
25. 2025126 Benefits Renewal- Health, Dental, Group Life Insurance and EAP
Human Resources Director Merlene Reid addressed Council and asked for approval of
the upcoming fiscal year's benefits renewal.
Ms Reid recommended the employee insurance be moved to Florida Blue (from UHC),
with a 9.2% increase, which was in line with the budget. Employees would pay a 7.7%
increase. with a plan to review contributions during upcoming public safety union
negotiations.
MOTION: Vice-Mayor Sartory made a motion to approve the Village's medical insurance
moving from FMIT/UHC to Florida Blue, and the Employee Assistance Program be
renewed with Lucet (formerly New Directions); Council Member French seconded the
motion. Carried unanimously 5-0.
26. Consider Approval of Property & Casualty and Ancillary Insurance Renewals
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Human Resources Director Reid updated Council on changes for the upcoming fiscal
year. She reported a small overall increase (1.2%) in the property/casualty insurance
rate, after absorbing a 15% decrease in property premium costs. Additionally, workers'
compensation experience was improving, reflected in a reduction of the experience
modification factor to 0.80. New premiums for ancillary coverages, including general
liability and auto, had been approved to ensure comprehensive coverage for the Village.
MOTION: Council Member French made a motion to approve the renewal of the 2025/26
P&C and WC Insurance with FMIT, and the four ancillary policies with the carriers
outlined in Appendix A; Council Member Brandon seconded the motion. Carried
unanimously 5-0.
27. Consider Approval of Increasing the Number of Authorized Positions in the Fire
Department
Village Manager Jeremy Allen asked for Council consideration in creating a temporary
increase in authorized fire staff to 25, to be reduced through attrition and/or post-
retirement while also ensuring adequate service levels during transitions.
MOTION: Council Member French made a motion to approve an increase in authorized
fire staff; Vice-Mayor Sartory seconded the motion. Carried unanimously 5-0.
28. RESOLUTION 14-25, A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE
OF TEQUESTA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE UPWARD MODIFICATION OF EMS
TRANSPORT USER FEES TO KEEP RATES COMPARABLE WITH OTHER PALM
BEACH COUNTY AMBULANCE TRANSPORT SERVICES IDENTIFIED IN "EXHIBIT
B"; AND AUTHORIZING THE VILLAGE MANAGER TO PROCEED ON BEHALF OF
THE VILLAGE, PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Fire Chief McLaughlin asked Council for consideration in allowing an increase in the EMS
Transport Fee of 15%. The increase would bring below-market fees into alignment with
the Palm Beach County median, while also adopting future CPI-based increases. Chief
McLaughlin explained there would be minimal resident impact due to
Medicare/supplemental insurance.
MOTION: Council Member French made a motion to approve an authorization to
increase EMS transport fees by 15%; Vice-Mayor Sartory seconded the motion. Carried
unanimously 5-0.
29. Consider Approval of the First Amendment to the Agreement for Fire Rescue
Services Between the Village of Tequesta and the Town of Jupiter Inlet Colony
Fire Chief McLaughlin asked Council to approve the first amendment to Jupiter Inlet
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Colony (JiC)Fire Rescue Service agreement. This would lock in a 5-year freeze, then
step increases, and would secure a partnership and offer financial predictability.
MOTION: Council Member French made a motion to approve the First Amendment to the
Agreement for Fire Rescue Services Between the Village of Tequesta and the Town of
Jupiter Inlet Colony; Council Member Brandon seconded the motion. Carried
unanimously 5-0.
30. Notification of Dover Ditch Living Shoreline FDEP Grant Amendment for Time
Extension
Utility Director Marjorie Craig informed Council of the request for a time extension due to
delays on permitting from the Army Corps of Engineers.
MOTION: Council Member Painter made a motion to approve the amendment to the
existing grant agreement for Dover Ditch; Council Member Brandon seconded the
motion. Carried unanimously 5-0.
ANY OTHER MATTERS
There were none.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 9:01 PM.
Respectfully 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.
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MINUTES
Workshop Meeting
Village of Tequesta, FL
Mayor Molly Young Vice-Mayor Rick Sartory
Council Member Laurie Brandon Council Member Patrick Painter
Council Member Jayson E. French
August 18, 2025 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
Deputy Clerk Mary Ann Grieser.
Present were:
Mayor Molly Young, Vice-Mayor Rick Sartory, Council Member Laurie Brandon, and Council
Member Jayson E. French.
Absent were:
Council Member Patrick Painter.
AGENDA ITEMS
1. Discussion on Fiscal Year(Fr 2025-26 Proposed Budget
Village Manager Allen presented a PowerPoint to Council, which highlighted several
areas of the budget.
There was an 8.4% overall budget increase for fiscal year 2025-2026 primarily from new
construction, with homestead properties capped at a 2.9% increase. An unchanged
millage rate continued to maintain current tax structure over multiple years. There was
$1.4 million removed from reserves, chiefly due to the cancellation of Remembrance Park
project ($1.3M) and Old Dixie improvements ($100K). Homeowners with homestead
protection would see a $109 annual increase based on a $600,000 property valuation.
The General Fund increased by 4.27%, mainly driven by public safety salaries and
personnel costs.
There was $250,000 earmarked for the nation's 250th-year celebration; which
represented a new item not previously budgeted.
Additionally, $854,000 was allocated for the five-year Tequesta Bridge improvement plan,
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which would start in January/February of 2026.
Water treatment plant upgrades were estimated at $7.3 million, and included a $1.125
million membrane replacement program. A 3.5% water utility rate increase was reported
and a stormwater rate hike of 5% added 57 cents for 68% of single-family residents.
September 4th and September 11th were scheduled for first and second budget
hearings, respectively, with various voting thresholds discussed.
Council discussion included an expenditure allocation for Paradise Park in the amount of
$125,000, funding the Jupiter Narrows project ($5,000) and consideration of assigning
the $1.3 million from Remembrance Park Phase 2.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 6:39 PM
MOTION: Council Member French made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:39 PM Vice-Mayor
Sartory seconded the motion. Carried unanimously 4-0 (absent: Council Member Painter).
Respectfully 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.
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