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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes_Regular_04/10/1997• F TF v P r~ Gf sA ~~ 9 '~ ~ O 3 ~ '~ c~ ~ 4~ f'Ch COU ty VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA Post Ofifice I~os 3??3 3~ 'I'eyuesta 1)riac Teyues~i, Plo~ida 33~iG9-0??3 (>Cl) ~7~~?00 F:~t: (61) >>-620 VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES APRIL 10, 1997 I. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL8 The Tequesta Village Council held a meeting at the Village Hall, 357 Tequesta Drive, Tequesta, Florida, on Thursday, March 6, 1997. The meeting was called to order at 7:03 P.M. by Mayor Elizabeth A. Schauer. A roll call was taken by Betty Laur, Recording Secretary. Councilmembers present were: Mayor Elizabeth A. Schauer, Vice Mayor Carl C. Hansen, Joseph N. Capretta, and Ron T. Mackail. Also in attendance were: Village Manager Thomas G. Bradford, Village Attorney John C. Randolph, Village Clerk Joann Manganiello, and Department Heads. II. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Councilmember Mackail gave the Invocation and led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag. III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Under ANY OTHER MATTERS, Village Manager Bradford requested the addition of the Florida Power ~ Light engineering cost estimate; Mayor Schauer requested addition of an item regarding the toddler who had drowned and also the Police Bike Rodeo. Vice Mayor Hansen made a motion to approve the Agenda as amended. Councilmember Mackail seconded the motion. The vote on the motion was: A'crrded Pnp<~r • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 2 ------------------ Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for Joseph N. Capretta - for Ron T. Mackail - for The motion was therefore passed and adopted and the Agenda was approved as amended. IV. COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITIZENS (NON-AGENDA ITEMS) Joan Marshall, 343 Country Club Drive, asked that the Village Council reconsider their decision to withdraw from membership in the North County Education Foundation. Mrs. Marshall explained that she believed it was now more important than ever for the Village to be involved since Tequesta's children • might be bussed as far away as West Palm Beach; and volunteered to be the citizen representative for the Village if she could get someone else to replace her as the representative for the Chamber of Commerce. James Champetro, 73 Camilla Circle, expressed concern that a neighbor had just installed a pool and questioned why the Village had not adopted the County Ordinance requiring certain barrier heights for pools. Scott D. Ladd, Building Official, explained that the Village had recently updated their pool code to the 1994 Standard Pool Code which was almost the same as that of the County, including alarms for doors opening onto a pool patio, and which were required for all new pools and new homes with pools V. PUBLIC HEARINGS A) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Hurricane Opal Recovery Funding Program (DR-1074) 1) Overview of CDBG Hurricane Opal Recovery Funding Program (DR-1074) • Planner Damien Peduto explained that the CDBG Hurricane Opal Recovery Funding Program was • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 3 ------------------ recovery funding provided to the State through HUD and distributed to Florida counties and cities. Palm Beach County had been given $365,149 and had held two meetings to decide how to determine who would receive funds. The rules set up for awards contained a provision that all participating entities must agree to the system used. Tequesta was one of the three entities chosen for an award; however, since everyone had agreed to the system except Jupiter, awards could not be made. This Public Hearing was a part of the requirements for the Village to receive an award. 2) Village Council and Public Comments and/or Questions Mayor Schauer explained that Jupiter wished to • receive some of Tequesta's award. There were no comments from the public. Vice Mayor Hansen questioned the cost to the Village compared to the amount of the reimbursement. Mr. Peduto explained that the Village had not really spent any more than what had already been spent on the drainage improvement project itself; however, a portion of the project might have to be re-bid which could lead to some expenditures. Mr. Peduto commented that with the award being $121,000, the Village would certainly retain more than any possible expenditures. Mr. Peduto explained that this award had been the result of the Community Development Department working with the Stormwater Utility and Public Works Departments to meet required criteria, and that the Village had placed number two out of the three chosen. Mr. Peduto advised that the attorneys were working on the problem of how to respond to Jupiter's lack of agreement to the process. VI. PRESENTATIONS AND PROCI~P.MATIONS . Presentation by Tequesta Peninsula Stakeholders Roadway Mediation Group Pertaining to Suggested Solutions for Roadway • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 4 ------------------ Issues. Mike Montefusco. Mr. Montefusco explained that his presentation was the same as the one he had given at the beginning of the year at a roadway mediation meeting. The presentation has been attached to and made a part of these minutes as Attachment I. Councilmember Capretta discussed the policy discouraging drivers from using Country Club Road which had possibly slowed the increase of traffic on that road, and commented that the big problem of increased growth could be reduced if Martin County would reduce densities in new development areas, and if the Western Corridor and the connector road could be used. Councilmember Capretta questioned why this presentation had been made at this time, to which Mr. Montefusco responded that the actions suggested were things that could only be done through the Village Council, could be done now, and were • relatively low cost. Mr. Montefusco explained that the suggested actions were made in reaction to the fact that there were insufficient roadways, and the actions were offered as interim solutions until additional roadways were added and that all of the solutions were reversible. Councilmember Capretta commented on the speed humps on Loxahatchee River Road which he indicated had not had much of an effect to slow traffic and expressed concern that some young people would speed over the humps for thrills. Mr. Montefusco responded that the suggested use of speed humps had been based on information that the speed humps throughout the nation as well as those on Loxahatchee River Road had significantly slowed traffic. Councilmember Mackail complimented Mr. Montefusco on his presentation, and the suggestions which were all reversible based on future roadway additions, and discussed the fact that Martin County had no plans for any infrastructure or road changes even with their anticipated growth. Councilmember Mackail explained that the characteristics of the present neighborhoods could not be changed and that the governments involved must address the roadway situations. Vice Mayor Hansen expressed the opinion that it was time the • Village began to do some things such as speed humps and to also look into other actions suggested in Mr. Montefusco's • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 5 ------------------ presentations. Mr. Montefusco explained that although his group's suggestions did not have uniform support from all the Village residents that it seemed to be the best alternative to try to exert some leverage on the other governments to do their share; and that when those other governments instituted changes then the suggested actions such as speed humps, stop signs, etc., should be removed as quickly as possible. Tom Little, 486 Dover Road, requested that no action be taken until the mediation process was finished and Mr. Goodheart's report was available. Peggy Virhoven, Point Drive, expressed agreement with Mr. Little that no action should be taken until the mediation had been concluded. Jim Humpage, 426 Cypress Drive, commented that the suggested actions would cost the Village residents money, and asked whether the total cost could be used more effectively for another Police officer to enforce the existing traffic laws and issue citations which would be sources of revenue. Richard Berube, 4 Country Club Circle, questioned under what procedure and authority the road might be closed, to which Mr. Montefusco responded that had deliberately not been addressed since it was hoped it would never happen and the group had been felt it would be best to leave such decisions to the time when that was considered as a last resort. Mr. Berube expressed concern that suggested traffic deterrents would be an eyesore and a major irritant to residents and agreed with Mr. Humpage's suggestion to enforce the traffic laws. Jim Lagrow, 298 Country Club Drive, commented that he was willing to put up with the suggested traffic deterrents since if some of the traffic volume was not reduced the future would bring a lot more traffic, and requested that the Village Council take some action. Ed Resnick, 342 Country Club Drive, explained how the nature of the residents along Country Club Drive had changed over the • years and now was made up of younger families with children. Mr. Resnick referred to traffic speed data, expressed concern • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 6 ------------------ regarding the speeding traffic and the danger to the neighborhood children, and requested increased law enforcement to ticket those exceeding the speed limit. Joan Marshall, Country Club Drive, expressed concern regarding the children playing on the street and the big trucks using the road, related incidents where she had almost hit a child, and commented that it was only a matter of time before a child was hit by a speeding vehicle, and requested immediate action. VII. CONSENT AGENDA • All items listed with an asterisk (*) are considered to be routine and will be enacted by one motion. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a Village Councilmember so requests, in which event, the item will be removed from the Consent Agenda of Business and considered in its normal sequence on the Agenda. The following items were listed on the Consent Agenda: VIII. APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND REPORTS *A) Community Appearance Board Meeting; January 8, 1997 *B) Community Appearance Board Meeting; February 5, 1997 *C) Community Appearance Board Meeting; February 19, 1997 *D) Community Appearance Board Meeting; March 5, 1997 *E) Employee's Pension Trust Fund; January 20, 1997 *F) Special Master Hearing; February 20, 1997 *G) Special Village Council Meeting; February 27, 1997 *H) Tree Board; February 5, 1997 *I) Village Council Meeting; March 6, 1997 *J) Village Manager's Report; March 3, 1997 - April 4, 1997 • X . APPOINTMENTS Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 7 ------------------ *A) Consideration of Reappointment of Susan Brennan as a Regular member of the Board of Adjustment, with said Three-year Term Expiring on April 15, 2000. (Staff Recommends Approval) *B) Consi deration of Reappointment of Mo11y McCormick as an Alternate member of the Community Appearance Board, with said One-year Term Expiring on April 12, 1998. (Staff Recommends Approval) *B) Consideration of Reappointment of Sharon Walker as an Alternate member of the Community Appearance Board, with said One-year Term Expiring on April 11, 1998. (Staff Recommends Approval) XII. NEW BUSINESS *A) Consideration of Purchase of Four (4) ITC-ACE Tube Counters (Traffic Counting Devices) from Greater Traffic Company/Jamar Technologies, Inc. of Roswell, Georgia, in the Amount of $4,394.00 Having a FY 1997 Police Department General Fund Budget Allocation of $0 with Said Funds to be Provided from the Undesignated Fund Balance Estimated to be 5808,327.00 (Staff Recommends Approval ) *B) Consideration of Acceptance of FY 1995/1996 Comprehensi ve Annual Financial Report (CAFR). Bi11 C. Kascavelis, Director of Finance. (Staff Recommends Approval) Motion was made by Councilmember Mackail to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. The motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Hansen. The vote on the motion was: Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for • Joseph N. Capretta - for Ron T. Mackail - for • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 8 ------------------ The motion was therefore passed and adopted and the Consent Agenda was approved as presented. IX. COMMITTEE REPORTS A) Finance & Administration Committee; March 14, 1997 Village Manager Bradford reported that at this meeting the Committee had reviewed the annexation staff report prepared by Planner Damien Peduto. The Village Manager summarized the report, explaining that Area E which is the area south of Tequesta Park would be the number one focus; Waterway Village would be number two with the staff directed to work with Palm Beach County on an • annexation agreement whereby the 1/3-1/3-1/3 split in the cost of infrastructure needs would hopefully be effectuated; and the Bermuda Terrace area would be studied to generate interest in annexation in light of common interest in regard to the sewer issue and ENCON. The Committee recommended acceptance of the idea of conducting a limited public opinion survey within certain neighborhoods for annexation to insure the validity of the information relative to issues which may arise. Village Manager Bradford advised that staff recommended formation of a Political Action Committee to help promote the idea of annexation to the people of Tequesta and proposed annexation areas. It was recommended that annexation of Anchorage Point be pursued through special legislation in Tallahassee. The Committee recommended that the Village Council pursue annexation in the manner presented in the report. The Finance & Administration Committee also reviewed a Resolution to reimburse the Village for expenditures made prior to bond issue for reverse osmosis, which was on the agenda for tonight's Village Council meeting. Proposed health insurance recommendation by staff was also reviewed. Staff recommended that the health insurance • provided be changed from the Florida Municipal Health Trust to United Health Care of Florida. This change would result in an annual savings of approximately • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 9 ------------------ $85,000 to the Village, with an equal or better level of coverage for employees, who would also receive cost savings. Village Manager Bradford reported that the communications workers had approved this proposal. The Committee also considered holding a charrette relative to Tequesta Plaza and the Bridge Road area, and to invite the businessmen and women in the area on both sides of Tequesta Drive and Bridge Road from U.S. One to Old Dixie Highway to provide their input for the redevelopment of Tequesta Plaza and the Bridge Road area. The Committee recommended that the Village Council approve the charrette with the expenditure not to exceed $4,350 for the one-day event. Vice Mayor Hansen expressed support for pursuing the annexation of Anchorage Point through special • legislation. Village Manager Bradford explained that the special legislation had been prepared by the office of the Village Attorney, and would be presented at the Palm Beach County Legislative Delegation Public Hearings in the fall of 1997 prior to the 1998 Legislative Session. The Village hoped to obtain the support of a member of the delegation; and the bill would be shepherded through individual and group lobbying and any other sources available to hopefully come before the House or Senate in Tallahassee. Village Manager Bradford stated that he would follow the procedure and would advise the Village Council when their participation was needed. Councilmember Mackail commented that the staff report had discussed reducing the size of annexation areas. Village Manager Bradford responded that all of the reductions discussed had been approved by the Village Attorney's office except Section E where there was still a question of whether that section could be divided by the FEC railroad right-of-way. Councilmember Mackail made a motion to approve the report of the Finance & Administration Committee meeting of March 14, 1997. Vice Mayor Hansen seconded the motion. The vote on the • motion was: • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 10 ------------------ Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for Joseph N. Capretta - for Ron T. Mackail - for The motion was therefore passed and adopted. XI. DEVELOPMENT MATTERS A) Final Approval of Plat for Tequesta Oaks Subdivision. Scott D. Ladd, Building Official. (Staff Recommends Approval) Mr. Ladd reported that Tequesta Oaks plat had been reviewed by staff, whose questions had been answered by DiVosta representatives, and was being presented to the Village Council for final approval. There were no questions from any of the Village Councilmembers. Vice Mayor Hansen made a motion to grant final approval of the Plat for Tequesta Oaks Subdivision. Councilmember Mackail seconded the motion. The vote on the motion was: Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for Joseph N. Capretta - for Ron T. Mackail - for The motion was therefore passed and adopted. B) Consideration of Approval for the Renewal of Two (2) 4' x 8' Temporary Subdivision Development Signs for DiVosta Townhomes (Tequesta Oaks Subdivision) at 187 Tequesta Drive and 130 U.S. Highway One North for an Additional 6- month Period. Building Official Ladd explained that this was a housekeeping item if the Village Council wished to allow the signage for another six-month period or until the final certificate of occupancy was received. • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 11 ------------------ In response to Councilmember Capretta's question regarding scheduling, William Shannon, attorney for the project, introduced Charles Hathaway, President of SunCo Building Corporation and Vice President of the DiVosta Company. Mr. Hathaway explained that May 15 was the starting date and the time to finish each unit was 45 days. The 158 units would be constructed at the rate of two per day, with unit owners moving in as their units were completed. Completion of all units would be accomplished in October, and signage was requested until that time. Vice Mayor Hansen made a motion to approve renewal of two (2) 4' x 8' temporary subdivision development signs for DiVosta Townhomes (Tequesta Oaks Subdivision) at 187 Tequesta Drive and 130 U.5. Highway One North for an additional 6-month period. Councilmember Mackail • seconded the motion. The vote on the motion was: Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for Joseph N. Capretta - for Ron T. Mackail - for The motion was therefore passed and adopted. C. Landscape Ordinance No. 377 Plan Review; Landscape Plan Submittal; Barnett Bank of Tequesta, 150 U.S. Highway One. Rood Landscape Company, Landscape Architect. Building Official Scott D. Ladd reported that this plan had been approved by the Community Appearance Board with minor modifications. Mr. Ladd commented that staff had recommended the wide drive onto Bridge Road be reduced and the landscaping increased, which had been approved by the Community Appearance Board. Mayor Schauer questioned why it had taken from July, 1996 for this to move from Community Appearance Board approval to presentation before the Village Council, to which Mr. Ladd responded that most of the reviews moved much faster but it had taken this one longer to move through the process. Vice Mayor Hansen questioned the percentage of landscaping • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 12 ------------------ prior to and after Ordinance 377 compliance, and requested that be shown on future plans. The percentages were then located on a table provided. Richard Rutledge, representative for Rood Landscaping, explained that the project had been divided into three phases because of cost. Phase one would be the most expensive since it would involve removing asphalt and addressing drainage. Phase two would include removal of additional asphalt, curbing and palm tree installation; and the final phase would add two oak trees and replace any dead existing material. Henry Cantwell, Project Architect with Sharp Associates, 3407 NW 9th Avenue, Ft. Lauderdale, explained that his firm had been hired by Barnett Bank to coordinate the landscaping and future work to be done on the branch bank. Mr. Cantwell reported that as the landscape plan had been developed it had been discovered that the existing drainage on the site was not functioning adequately. Sharp Associates had therefore contracted with a civil engineering firm to do a site survey and civil drainage analysis to determine solutions to the drainage problems. Councilmember Mackail requested and Mr. Cantwell agreed that Barnett Bank would send a representative to the upcoming charrette, since the drainage problem was shared by all the business properties along the road. Public Works Director Gary Preston reported that this drainage work had been discussed regarding coordination with the Stormwater Utility. Mr. Cantwell described the problem as standing water during heavy downpours and indications that an existing french drain was no longer functioning. Councilmember Capretta discussed the entrances to the Barnett Bank property and the poor condition of the roadway used at the main entrance. Village Manager Bradford advised that the owner of the adjacent property to the west, Mr. Felhaber, was responsible for keeping that road paved, which would be referred to the Code Enforcement Officer. Vice Mayor Hansen made a motion to approve the landscape • plan for Barnett Bank of Tequesta, 150 U.S. Highway One, for compliance with Landscape Ordinance 377. • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 13 ------------------ Councilmember Mackail seconded the motion. The vote on the motion was: Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for Joseph N. Capretta - for Ron T. Mackail - for The motion was therefore passed and adopted. D. Landscape Ordinance No. 377 Plan Review; Landscape Plan Submittal; Gallery Square South, 370-384 Tequesta Drive. Cotleur Hearing, Inc., Landscape Architect. Building Official Ladd described improvements approved by the Community Appearance Board. Donaldson Hearing, • Landscape Architect, explained that the parcel consisted of two separate parcels which were not currently connected. A single point of entrance would be defined, and the existing 150 landscaped area would be increased to 340. Mayor Schauer commented that she would like to hear comments from the Beacon Street residents, who should be very happy with the proposed improvements. Councilmember Capretta commented that these improvements would highlight the poor condition of the empty lot at the corner of Seabrook Road and Beacon Street. Village Manager Bradford distributed photographs depicting the existing concrete structure abutting the sidewalk at the northern property line. The Village Manager explained that this proposal made no provision for a hedge between the curb stops for cars and the sidewalk, as had been done on the former BRITT property. Mr. Ladd commented that staff had also recommended this same improvement. Councilmember Mackail made a motion to approve the landscape plan for compliance with Landscape Ordinance 377 for Gallery Square South, 370-384 Tequesta Drive, with the removal of concrete along the sidewalk on the north and south sides of the property facing Tequesta Drive and an irrigated hedge planted in that area. Vice • Mayor Hansen seconded the motion. The vote on the motion was: • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 14 ------------------ Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for Joseph N. Capretta - for Ron T. Mackail - for The motion was therefore passed and adopted. Mr. Hearing pointed out that the Community Appearance Board had requested plantings within the retention island in lieu of the hedge just approved by the Village Council, and requested elimination of the plantings within the retention island to help keep costs down. Village Manager Bradford recommended elimination of the plantings within the retention island. Councilmember Mackail made a motion to approve elimination of the plantings within the retention island requested by the Community Appearance Board for Gallery Square South, 370-384 Tequesta Drive, because of the hedge required by the Village Council. Vice Mayor Hansen seconded the motion. The vote on the motion was: Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for Joseph N. Capretta - for Ron T. Mackail - for The motion was therefore passed and adopted. XII. NEW BUSINESS C) Ordinance - First Reading - Amending Chapter 6 of the Code of Ordinances, Buildings and Building Regulations, at Article III, Section 6-41 and 6-42, to Provide for the Adoption of the 1996 National Electric Code and the 1996 Edition of the Uniform Countywide Amendments to the National Electric Code; Providing for Prevailing Standards in the Event of Conflict; Providing for Repeal of Ordinances or Parts of Ordinances in Conflict • Herewith; Providing for Severability; Providing for Codification; Providing an Effective Date. (Staff • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 15 ------------------ Recommends Approval) Mayor Schauer read the above Ordinance on first reading by title only. Building Official Ladd explained that this was a housekeeping item to meet periodic updating requirements per State statute. Councilmember Mackail made a motion to approve the above Ordinance on first reading by title only. Vice Mayor Hansen seconded the motion. The vote on the motion was: Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for Joseph N. Capretta - for • Ron T. Mackail - for The motion was therefore passed and adopted. D) Resolution No. 11-96/97 - Approving United Health Care of Florida as Village of Tequesta Employee Health Insurance Provider Effective May 1, 1997, and Authorizing the Village Manager to do All Things Necessary to Effectuate Same. (Staff Recommends Approval) Village Manager Bradford explained that this was the first of the three insurance programs reviewed by the Finance & Administration Committee, and that making this change would save taxpayers approximately $85,000 annually. The employees choosing the dependent coverage option would also save money. The Village Manager Bradford recommended that the Village Council approve this change. Vice Mayor Hansen questioned why there would be such a large savings, to which the Village Manager responded that United Health Care was the largest health care provider in the United States and they had just been awarded the School Board of Palm Beach County's contract, and attributed the large savings to efficiency and economy of scale, as well as a slight downward trend • in premium amounts throughout the industry. Notification had been received that the current provider, Anthem, • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 16 ------------------ would no longer be available as of May 1, which would mean an increase if the Village stayed with the Florida Municipal Health Trust. Village Manager Bradford reported that the agent for the Village, Accordia, had shopped and reviewed at least three companies. Councilmember Capretta commented that the Village was constantly looking for ways to save money in the area of employee fringe benefits and health care, and questioned whether the Village was completely dependent upon Accordia to do that. Finance Director Kascavelis explained that it was advantageous to use the services of Accordia and to take advantage of their expertise in this area. Village Attorney Randolph read Resolution No. 11-96/97 by title only. Councilmember Mackail made a motion to approve Resolution No. 11-96/97. Vice Mayor Hansen seconded the motion. The vote on the motion was: Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for Joseph N. Capretta - for Ron T. Mackail - for The motion was therefore passed and adopted. E) Resolution No. 12-96/97 - Approving Standard Insurance Company as Tequesta Life Insurance Provider Effective May 1, 1997, and Authorizing the Village Manager to do All Things to Effectuate the Same. (Staff Recommends Approval. Finance Director Kascavelis explained that Anthem had notified the Village that effective May 1 they would no longer provide ancillary network services unless they were the underwriter of the policy, which required the Village to expedite the search for coverage. Mr. Kascavelis explained that the Florida Municipal Trust currently provided three employee benefits: health insurance, dental, and $5,000 of term life. In order to • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 17 ------------------ obtain the lowest and best pr would replace those services underwriter. Florida Municipal for dental coverage only, since for that package, which was only previous premium. ice, three underwriters now provided by one Trust would be retained they had the best price a slight increase in the Village Attorney Randolph read Resolution 12-96/97 by title only. Vice Mayor Hansen made a motion to approve Resolution No. 12-96/97. Councilmember Mackail seconded the motion. The vote on the motion was: Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for Joseph N. Capretta - for • Ron T. Mackail - for The motion was therefore passed and adopted. F. Resolution No. 13-96/97 - Approving Florida Municipal Insurance Trust as Tequesta Employee Dental Insurance Underwriter Effective May 1, 1997, and Authorizing the Village Manager to do All Things Necessary to Effectuate the Same. (Staff Recommends Approval) Village Manager Bradford commented that although there was a slight increase in premium that this was still the lowest price on the market that the Village was able to obtain. Village Attorney Randolph read Resolution 13-96/97 by title only. Vice Mayor Hansen made a motion to approve Resolution No. 13-96/97. Councilmember Capretta seconded the motion. The vote on the motion was: Elizabeth A. Schauer - for • Carl C. Hansen _ for Joseph N. Capretta for • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 18 ------------------ Ron T. Mackail - for The motion was therefore passed and adopted. G. Resolution No. 14-96/97 - Expressing the Village Council's Declaration of Intent to Reimburse Original Expenditures with Proceeds of Certain Tax-Exempt Obligations in Connection with Improvements to the Village's Potable Water Utility System; and Providing an Effective Date. (Staff Recommends Approval) Village Manager Bradford advised that the Village's Bond Counsel, Mark Raymond, had recommended adoption of this Resolution to comply with Treasury Regulation Section 1.150-2 which allows for the reimbursement of certain prior expenditures associates with bond issues. Village • Manager Bradford explained that if passed, this resolution would preserve the Village's ability to reimburse itself for expenditures made prior to the bond issue and 60 days prior to date of passage. Current expenditures underway for the last sixty days for the reverse osmosis treatment facility was final design engineering. Village Manager Bradford explained that the Resolution would not require reimbursement, but would only preserve the right to do so. In response to a question from Vice Mayor Hansen, Village Manager Bradford clarified that if this Resolution were not passed that reverse osmosis expenses incurred prior to the bond issue could not be recouped. Councilmember Mackail recommended approval in order to amortize expenses over the life of the bond which would lessen the impact to the Village. Councilmember Capretta expressed agreement with Councilmember Mackail. Village Attorney Randolph read Resolution 14-96/97 by title only. Vice Mayor Hansen made a motion to approve Resolution No. 14-96/97. Councilmember Capretta seconded the motion. • The vote on the motion was: • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 19 ------------------ Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for Joseph N. Capretta - for Ron T. Mackail - for The motion was therefore passed and adopted. H) Resolution 15-96/97 - Requesting Loxahatchee River Environmental Control District Board to Amend Public Facilities Report to Specify Repair and Replacement Projects in Tequesta. (Staff Recommends Approval) Village Manager Bradford reported that this Resolution had nothing to do with the sewer conflict with ENCON. Florida Statute 189.4.1.5 requires that all Special Districts, including ENCON, do an annual public facilities report to be sent to the local governments in the Special District. Village Manager Bradford explained that within this public facilities report, the Special District, i.e., ENCON, is required to advise the local government of all renewal and replacement projects within the corporate limits of the government that are contemplated to take place within the upcoming fiscal year and beyond. ENCON's current practice was to report a total dollar figure for all projects; therefore, Tequesta was not able to properly plan the infrastructure activities for which the Village was responsible. For example, it was necessary for Tequesta to know when ENCON intends to replace a sewer main or a sanitary sewer manhole to avoid conflicts with the Village's annual street repavement program. Correspondence to ENCON's staff had elicited no response, therefore, consideration of this Resolution was requested so that the ENCON Board would be asked to provide more specificity regarding renewal and replacement projects within Tequesta. Vice Mayor Hansen questioned whether ENCON would be required to obtain a permit from the Village in the event that they intended to replace a sewer system. Village Manager Bradford responded that the permit system did not • always work since the Village was not always notified. Councilmember Mackail expressed favor for this Resolution • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 20 ------------------ and concern that a major problem could arise with ENCON because of the Village's new Stormwater Utility and the efforts it would be making to address renewal and replacement projects. Councilmember Mackail recalled that at prior meetings ENCON had expressed a desire to work with the Village and commented that he hoped the efforts of the Village and those of ENCON could be coordinated. Vice Mayor Hansen also expressed favor for this Resolution. Councilmember Capretta commented that the request to ENCON should be made with the approach that the Village wished to work with them and needed a five-year projection. Village Attorney Randolph read Resolution 15-96/97 by title only. Councilmember Mackail made a motion to approve Resolution • No. 15-96/97. Councilmember Capretta seconded the motion. The vote on the motion was: Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for Joseph N. Capretta - for Ron T. Mackail - for The motion was therefore passed and adopted. I) Resolution No. 16-96/97 - Authorizing Approval of Electronic Data Interchange Agreement Hetween the Village of Tequesta and the Healthcare Financing Administration and Authorizing the Village Manager to Execute the Same on Behalf of the Village of Tequesta. (Staff Recommends Approval) Village Manager Bradford explained that this agreement would allow electronic billing with Medicare to expedite claims processing so that the Village would receive their money more quickly. Mayor Schauer read aloud a section regarding holding Medicare harmless, which Village Attorney Randolph had indicated should be modified. Fire • Chief Weinand explained that this was a standard contract which Medicare would not change, and the Village must • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 21 ------------------ either accept or reject the contract. The Village Attorney stated that he was always concerned for the Village to enter into a contract where the Village was holding someone harmless and the Village should be careful about waiving sovereign immunity, and that although in this case the liability was probably not approaching the limits associated with sovereign immunity, he always advised that hold harmless or indemnification clauses entered into by a municipal client be subject to the laws of the State of Florida relating to sovereign immunity. The Village Attorney advised the Village Council that this contract would not be amended. Village Attorney Randolph read Resolution 16-96/97 by title only. • Vice Mayor Hansen made a motion to approve Resolution No. 16-96/97. Councilmember Mackail seconded the motion. During discussion of the motion, Village Attorney Randolph further clarified the issue of sovereign immunity and advised that the Village Council must make a determination whether claims might be in excess of the $100,000 liability limit. Fire Chief Weinand explained that this would involve only insurance billings averaging $324, and should not approach the $100,000 limit. The vote on the motion was: Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for Joseph N. Capretta - for Ron T. Mackail - for The motion was therefore passed and adopted. J. Resolution No. 17-96/97 - Approving an Agreement Between the School District of Palm Beach County and the Village of Tequesta for the Fire-Rescue Department to Accept Emergency Medical Technology/EMT Students from the • Vocational-Technical Education Programs for Supervised Learning Experiences and Authorizing the Village Manager to Execute the Same on Behalf of the Village. (Staff • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 22 ------------------ Recommends Approval) Village Manager Bradford explained that this would be a way to provide additional Fire-Rescue staffing at no additional cost, in return for which the Village would provide emergency medical technician students with supervised learning experience in the care of patients from 8 A.M. to 11 P.M. only, so that no sleeping accommodations were necessary. Mr. Bradford advised that the Village Attorney had approved the agreement for legal form and sufficiency. Fire Chief Weinand explained that the students would be taking a vocational college course required of anyone who wished to get an emergency medical technician license, which required 100 hours of clinical time. The Village would be providing the clinical time under this program. • Village Attorney Randolph read Resolution 17-96/97 by title only. Vice Mayor Hansen made a motion to approve Resolution No. 17-96/97. Councilmember Capretta seconded the motion. The vote on the motion was: Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for Joseph N. Capretta - for Ron T. Mackail - for The motion was therefore passed and adopted K. Resolution No. 18-96/97 - Approving an Agreement Between the Village of Tequesta and Medical Claims Processors Group, Inc. (MCPG) for the purpose of Providing Insurance and Patient Billing for All EMS Transport Services Rendered by Tequesta. (Staff Recommends Approval) Village Manager Bradford explained that approval of this Resolution would formalize an existing informal agreement with Medical Claims Processors Group, Inc., to do medical billing services for Tequesta. The Village Manager reported that this local Jupiter-based company handled Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 23 ------------------ the billing for Palm Beach County Fire Rescue and were qualified to do the same for Tequesta. Billing would be done on a per unit basis, which would be cheaper than if done in-house. Village Attorney Randolph read Resolution 18-96/97 by title only. Vice Mayor Hansen made a motion to approve Resolution No. 18-96/97. Councilmember Mackail seconded the motion. The vote on the motion was: Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for Joseph N. Capretta - for Ron T. Mackail - for The motion was therefore passed and adopted. L. Discussion Regarding Adelphia Cable Franchise Renewal Request. Village Manager Bradford explained that this was a followup to the Village Council's request in January to present a survey with different rates and programming information regarding Adelphia Cable Company's desire to renew their non-exclusive franchise with the Village. The Village Manager reported that Adelphia's only real competition in this area was from Comcast Cable which served portions of Jupiter and other areas throughout the County. Research had indicated that Adelphia was a competitive provider for both programming and pricing. Primary issues recommended for consideration by the Village Council to be placed into a non-exclusive franchise renewal agreement were for a short term agreement of 3-10 years; acknowledgment that Adelphia would abide by the Village's right-of-way permit application process so that the Village would be able to record all locations of utility equipment at some point in the future; provide universal service for commercial • as well as residential areas; acknowledge underground service requirements; provide maximum competitive • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 24 ------------------ programming in order to get maximum revenue from the agreement; and provide free CATV and Internet drops at all Village buildings. Village Manager Bradford explained that the Village Council would need to make a decision whether to have a public hearing to get public input prior to directing staff to negotiate a franchise agreement. Councilmember Capretta discussed competitive programming, and expressed his favor for a short contract and to hold a public hearing. Councilmember Capretta discussed Jupiter's practice of granting agreements with an amount also given to the Town. The process of holding a public hearing was discussed. The Village Attorney suggested that the public hearing be held in June to allow sufficient time for legal requirements. Mayor Schauer expressed her opinion that the contract should be for a 3-year period. The consensus of the Village Council was to hold a public hearing with timing set to • meet the goals and objectives of the Village. M) Consideration of Palm Beach County Request to Proceed with a Comprehensive Plan Amendment to Provide an Extension of the Western Connector Road Absent Conclusion of the Anticipated Regional Roadway Mediation Final Accord. Village Manager Bradford explained that at a prior Regional Roadway Mediation meeting Commissioner Karen Marcus had requested a consensus from the participants regarding their willingness to allow Palm Beach County to proceed with a Comprehensive Plan Amendment to the County's Thoroughfare Right-of-Way Identification Map (TIM} to provide for the Shoney's extension, actually an extension of the Western Connector (also referred to as the Church Street Extension}. Commissioner Marcus desired approval from the Village Council for the extension to terminate due west of Shoneys. Village Manager Bradford expressed his opinion that this type of issue should be negotiated within the mediation process, and that the speed humps installed by the County left the Village free to also proceed outside the mediation • process if they desired. Commissioner Marcus had indicated that she would not request the County to move forward with the amendment if both Jupiter and Tequesta • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 25 ------------------ did not grant their approval. Village Manager Bradford expressed his opinion that the Village should not move forward so that the County would be required to negotiate this item within the mediation process. Vice Mayor Hansen commented that it was his understanding that approval of the item would allow it to get on the map before the deadline and that negotiation within the mediation process would mean delay so that it would not get on the map. Village Manager Bradford explained that as a compromise, the Village Council's approval could be conditioned so that if the roadway extension was not in the final mediation accord that the County must pull it from their Comprehensive Plan amendment. Village Manager Bradford responded to Vice Mayor Hansen's question of whether there would be any detriment to approving the extension tonight that it was his opinion that it would • circumvent the process contemplated in mediation. Councilmember Mackail commented that he did not support approval of the amendment prior to final accord of the stakeholders in the mediation process. Councilmember Capretta expressed his opinion that the Village Council should approve the roadway extension with the condition suggested by the Village Manager, to prevent a delay of possibly several years and to take advantage of available funding. Mayor Schauer explained that the Western Corridor would only go from Indiantown Road to the Martin County line because Martin County would not accept anything near Section 28. Councilmember Capretta expressed his opinion that stopping the Western Corridor at the Martin County line might be good since it would only allow people to go west and not through Tequesta, and that Martin County would not spend money on anything, so it would be good to get Palm Beach County to get some money allocated for that road because he thought Tequesta would be better off with the road than without it. After further discussion, Village Manager Bradford explained that Councilmember Marcus wanted to go ahead with the Comprehensive Plan Amendment since if the road was not on the map it could not be built or make developers provide impact fees to build the road. • Councilmember Capretta made a motion to support Palm • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 26 ------------------ Beach County's request to proceed with a Comprehensive Plan Amendment to provide an extension of the Western Connector Road with the provision that if this extension was not included in the Regional Roadway Mediation Final Accord it will be pulled from the Palm Beach County Comprehensive Plan Amendment. Councilmember Mackail seconded the motion. The vote on the motion was: Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for Joseph N. Capretta - for Ron T. Mackail - for The motion was therefore passed and adopted. Mayor Schauer requested that Village Manager Bradford • write a letter to Commissioner Marcus and to Mr. George Webb, Engineer, Palm Beach County regarding the motion adopted by the Village Council. At Mayor Schauer's request, Village Council to re-order {0) ahead of item (N) . it was the consensus of the the agenda to consider item O. Consideration of Village of Tequesta/Tequesta Financial Centre Lease Agreement; Assignment of Lease. Village Manager Bradford explained that the owner of Tequesta Financial Centre, Ernie Hamilton, had requested approval of assignment of the lease for a strip of land at the western edge of his property which was leased from the Village, in case he decided to assign the lease in the future. Village Manager Bradford advised that the lease would expire on May 31, 1997; the current lease amount was extremely below current market value; the Village had already indicated to Mr. Hamilton that it did not intend to renew the lease; had begun to have the property surveyed along with the property formerly leased by the owner of the 222 building, and were having it appraised to establish fair market value for either a • sale or new rental amounts for the former lessees. Florida law has changed to be very specific so that the • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 27 ------------------ lessee must pay taxes; therefore the lease formats would need to be changed; however, the Village would rather sell to the lessees rather than renew the leases. Because Mr. Hamilton was in the process of selling his building, he desires a blanket assignment of the lease. Councilmember Capretta suggested telling the lessees that the leases would not be renewed and they would need to either buy or vacate the property. Village Attorney Randolph explained that the lease would not automatically expire on May 31, so that if the Village Council did not want to renew the lease, specific action should be taken to advise the lessee that the lease would be terminated. The Village Attorney advised that the lease contained a clause requiring the lessee to notify the Village 60 days prior to May 31 that he wanted to renew, and unless the Village Council took action • within that period the lease would automatically renew under the same terms and conditions. Another clause allowed the Lessor to terminate upon 60 days written notice to the Lessee. Attorney Randolph further advised that the Council could grant the assignment request but notify the Lessee that the lease would only continue for 60 days. Councilmember Capretta made a motion to notify the Lessee of the Village of Tequesta/Tequesta Financial Centre Lease Agreement that the Village did not intend to renew the lease, and did intend to put the property up for sale as soon as the lease expires. Councilmember Mackail seconded the motion. Village Attorney Randolph called for clarification on whether the Lessee could assign the lease for the remainder of the lease term, to which Councilmember Capretta responded that the lease could be assigned for the remainder of the lease term. The vote on the motion was: Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for Joseph N. Capretta - for • Ron T. Mackail - for • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 28 ------------------ The motion was therefore passed and adopted. N. Consideration of Village Council Appointment to Vacant Village Council Seat No. 1. Mayor Schauer explained for benefit of the public that the list of candidates for Village Council Seat No. 1 provided by Village Manager Bradford consisted of the following names: Alec Cameron of Tequesta Gardens; Betty Coyle of Beach Road; Al DeMott from Tequesta Country Club; Jack Downey of Beach Road; Wade Griest of Jupiter in the Pines; and Gene Robbins from Tequesta Pines. Mayor Schauer announced that those names had been given to Village Manager Bradford by the Village Council; and explained that Mr. Little had written a letter to the Village Council dated March 12, 1.997, requesting that he be appointed to the vacant seat. Mayor Schauer explained • that Mr. Little's name was not on the list because he had not been recommended by a Village Councilmember. Village Attorney Randolph commented that the names were merely suggestions provided to the Village Manager by individual Councilmembers and that other names could be added. The Village Attorney recommended that Mr. Little's name be added to the list for consideration, and if anyone else expressed an interest in the position their names should also be added. Mayor Schauer clarified that the names had been provided by individual members of the Village Council to Mr. Bradford, who had then compiled them into a list for consideration by the Village Council. Vice Mayor Hansen clarified that the names on the list were only suggestions and not nominations. Councilmember Capretta commented that some people who had been willing to fill the vacancy but did not want to run for re-election, and explained the process he had used to arrive at his choice. Councilmember Capretta made a motion to nominate Alec Cameron for Village Council seat No. 1. Councilmember Mackail seconded the motion. The following comments were • made: Tom Little, 486 Dover Road, explained that he had • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 29 ------------------ questioned why his name had not been on the list, but that Attorney Randolph had answered that question. Mr. Little expressed his qualifications and invited any questions from the Village Council. Mayor Schauer explained that she had not contacted Mr. Little in person since she had had one of his recent campaign brochures, and felt sure Mr. Little would run for re-election. Mr. Little commented that when standing on the corner campaigning that he had noticed many cars making several trips a day and that organizing trips could reduce traffic. Peggy Verhoven, Point Drive, explained that her question had been answered by Attorney Randolph. • The vote on the motion was: Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for Joseph N. Capretta - for Ron T. Mackail - for The motion was therefore passed and adopted. Mr. Cameron took his seat on the Village Council, thanked the Village Council for this honor, expressed regret that he was on the Village Council due to Mr. Meder's misfortune and stated that his appointment was partially due to where he lived which he did not consider to be important; and explained that he could be reached by telephone by the Village residents. Village Manager Bradford administered the Oath of Office. XIII. ANY OTHER MATTERS Village Manager Bradford explained that the Village Council had authorized work to determine the differences in cost to • run the transmission line to be installed by FPL along Old Dixie Highway or U.S. Highway One and to use an underground route. The Village Council had capped the work at $3,000, but • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 30 ------------------ Gee & Jepson's estimate to do the job was $3,435. Vice Mayor Hansen expressed his support to approve the extra $435 for the work. Village Manager Bradford verified that Jupiter had also hired engineers to do cost estimates. Councilmember Mackail made a motion to approve the amount of $3,435 for Gee & Jepson's work to determine the cost of various routes for the FPL transmission line. Vice Mayor Hansen seconded the motion. The vote on the motion was: Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Carl C. Hansen - for Alec Cameron - for Joseph N. Capretta - for Ron T. Mackail - for • The motion was therefore passed and adopted. Mayor Schauer questioned Building Official Ladd whether the Village could make any changes to regulations for existing pools so that further toddler drowning deaths might be prevented. Mr. Ladd responded that some sort of ordinance with an amortization period requiring people to install the new alarms on doors from the interior of the house which allow access to the pool area could be instituted. Mayor Schauer asked whether the Village could require the new alarms upon sale of a home to a new owner. Mr. Ladd commented that an information campaign could be conducted, the alarms could be purchased and offered to residents at cost, and that retrofitting was not easy to accomplish. Chief Weinand commented that a member of the Fire Department had been certified in a Drowning Prevention Program and there were a lot of things that could be done under this program other than the alarm system. Further discussion included comments that information on Village programs should be better advertised and that better supervision of children was needed. Betty Nagy questioned why Tequesta only required a 4-foot fence around a pool. Mr. Ladd explained that a 4-foot fence • would stop a toddler, and that an older child could get over a higher fence. • Village Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 1997 Page 31 ------------------ Mayor Schauer announced that the Bike Rodeo would be held on Saturday, April 12 beginning at 11 A.m. XIV. ADJOURNMENT Vice Mayor Hansen moved that the meeting be adjourned. Councilmember Capretta seconded the motion. The vote on the motion was: Ron T. Mackail - for Elizabeth A. Schauer - for Alec Cameron - for Joseph N. Capretta - for Carl C. Hansen - for • the motion was therefore passed and adopted and the meeting was adjourned at 10:32 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Betty Laur Recording Secretary ATTEST: ~.~~ J ann Mangani to Village Clerk DATE APPROVED: ~~, ~ . ~ 997 • • A~r~~-cNM~~rr ~ ~ VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA ROADWAY ISSUES Background Information for Village of Tequesta (VOT) residents/businesses - Responsible government requires responsible citizenry. VOT property owners need to become familiar with the issues concerning their roadways and those of the surrounding areas. They also need to understand some of the background and be able to provide responsible input to the Village Council regarding what actions they would like to see happen. - It is in the best interest of the property holders of the VOT to have a consistent presentation of concerns and proposed solutions so that the Village Council can support a realistic course of action and so the mediation effort can be effective. - The mediation effort should continue with responsible and coordinated input from the VOT property owners. - Some independent actions are required at this time to calm the road traffic on • Tequesta roadways. - Country Club Drive is a connector road on the VOT, Palm Beach County, and State of Florida Comprehensive Road Plans. As such, this roadway is importan not only for the normal flow of vehicular traffic, but also for emergency vehicles an area evacuation when necessary. - With so few roadways around the Loxahatchee River, Country Club Drive, at this time, forms an important link in the area road system. As areas around the River continue to be built out, traffic will continue to increase unless some positive action is taken to keep the volume in some type of control. - Several local area road adjustments are being looked at through amulti-participant mediation process. Most of these adjustments would occur in south Martin County and in north Jupiter along Loxahatchee River Road, and the general area where Loxahatchee River Road connects to Island Way. - The concern of VOT residents in these mediation meetings seems to be that not enough will be done by Jupiter, Palm Beach County, and Martin County to provide • new roadway connections, and hence, to substantively improve (i.e. reduce) the volume of traffic on Tequesta roadways. ~i~ Village of Tequesta Roadway Issues, Background Info: December 6, 1996 Page 2 f - Another fear is that, even if all the connections being proposed are agreed to and implemented, the traffic volume on Tequesta roadways will still be unacceptable, • and, as far as VOT residents are concerned, still out of positive control. - Thus far this discussion has focused on traffic volume, but that is not the whole story. Traffic speed is also an important factor. Although the speed limit on Country Club Drive was reduced in April 1994 from 30 mph to 25 mph, the speed limits are still often being exceeded by a substantial amount. - VOT police are doing a good job of patrolling the roadway when they are available. However, there are many times of the day when the police are not available and the traffic volume is high. The speed by some is dangerously excessive and trucks are passing through the area into, or out of, Martin County. - With higher volume and speed also comes increased traffic noise. Residents along Tequesta Drive and Country Club Drive have long been noting that the traffic noise has reached the point where many feel they can no longer keep their front doors open for fresh air. - Increased traffic volume, speed, and noise have caused property values along Tequesta Drive and Country Club Drive to decrease by as much as S 10,000 versus comparable properties just off these roadways. • - As traffic continues to increase on Tequesta roadways, there is also an increasing area crime problem. The bounds of this problem are not well defined, but any increase in crime in our area is cause for grave concern from all. VOT property owners . - Consideration must also be given to the businesses that operate within and around the VOT area, including the medical plaza on Tequesta Drive just north of Seabrook Drive and the Gallery Square North & South shopping plazas. When Country Club Drive was closed for some months in order to build the VOT gateway at the Martin County Line, a number of local businesses were questioned as to the impact to their customers and their revenues. This inquiry was done in conjunction with VOT Country Club Drive Task Force which studied the traffic problem earlier in 1996. The inquiry found that most all businesses sensed no impact to either customers or revenues as a result of the temporary closure of the roadway. VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA ROADWAY ISSUES Presentation The Village of Tequesta, in conjunction with Palm Beach County, Martin County, and possibly the town of Jupiter, is participating in a Mediation effort regarding roadway issues in the area around the North and Northwest forks of the Loxahatchee River in both Palm Beach and Martin Counties. The Mediator has asked the various stakeholders to present to the assembled group specific information regarding: 1. Interests of each stakeholder group, 2. Interests of others affected by the interests of each stakeholder group, 3. Root causes of Tequesta's interests, and 4. Proposed Tequesta Stakeholders Group solutions a. Regional Solutions b. Tequesta Solutions • 1. Interests of Tequesta Stakeholders Group The current volume of traffic in the Village of Tequesta, on Tequesta Drive, and on Country Club Drive is unacceptable. Estimates for increases in traffic volume on these roadways aggravates the problem even further. Action must be initiated now to reduce the traffic volume. - Traffic volume in the next 5-7 years is expected to exceed 10,000 trips per day on Country Club Drive, and exceed 16,000 trips per day on sections of Tequesta Drive. - With the increased traffic comes an unacceptable level of traffic noise and an unacceptable level of vehicles exceeding the speed limit. - With the increased traffic comes an increased potential for crime. - Many homes directly along both roads have straight driveways. This means that residents must back out of their driveways onto roadways with increasingly higher traffic levels. This is a major safety concern. • - Re-sales of Tequesta area homes are bringing younger families into the area, and with these families come an increasing number of children. This is also a significant roadway safety concern. Village of Tequesta Roadway Issues: December 6, 1996 Page 2 - Increased traffic, speed, and noise have caused property values along Tequesta Drive and Country Club Drive to decrease by as much as $10,000 versus comparable properties just off these roadways. • 2. Interests of Others Affected by Above Interests - Solutions to above interests will affect other stakeholder groups throughout South Martin County, Jupiter, Palm Beach County, and residents on several Tequesta roads. - Solutions that will help Tequesta should have a positive affect on other Stakeholders. 3. Root Causes of Tequesta's Interests - Over the past 20 years the daily volume of traffic on Tequesta roadways has steadily increased. The property area of the Village of Tequesta (VOT) has been built out for some time. Therefore, traffic seems to be increasing from outside the contiguous VOT area. Traffic studies done over the years point • to several root causes of these increases: 1. The continuing development of residential property in south Martin County and other surrounding areas, and 2. Cut-through traffic from south Martin County and the northern Jupiter area on the western side Northwest fork of the Loxahatchee River, including the traffic traveling between A 1 A/US 1 to I-95 . - The "traffic" in question is comprised of: 1. Privately-owned autos, 2. Commercial trucks, delivery vehicles and vans, and 3. School buses - To fairly represent the situation it is necessary to differentiate between traffic using Tequesta roadways that is: 1. From the VOT area, and 2. From outside the VOT area Village of Tequesta Roadway Issues: December 6, 1996 Page 3 • Martin County appears to have two principle sources of traffic using Tequesta roadways. Traffic comes from: 1. South Martin County north of Country Club Drive, and 2. Turtle Creek - Although prohibited by VOT statutes, commercial trucks use Tequesta roadways as scut-through from Palm Beach County into Martin County. - Martin County school buses are coming south from Stuart on Route 1, west on Tequesta Drive, north on Country Club Drive, and into Martin County to pick up Martin County students. - Turtle Creek traffic, which is in Martin County and outside the VOT area, also contributes to the problem. Since Turtle Creek is essentially fully built out, its traffic consists mostly of Turtle Creek residents, visitors, and commercial deliveries. Over the years, two gateways into Turtle Creek, that would have reduced traffic on Country Club Drive, have been closed. The only current access to Turtle Creek is on Country Club Drive in the Village • of Tequesta, and this entrance is a public road that has been gated by Turtle Creek residents. - The t~ottom line: 1. Most recent traffic studies on Country Club Drive found that more than half of the traffic is coming from outside the VOT area, and 2. Most of this "outside the VOT area" traffic is due to either Turtle Creek residents, other Martin County residents, or cut-through traffic. - The Tequesta Drive bridge poses an additional concern. This .bridge has a projected life based upon a certain level of utilization per unit time. As traffic volume increases ahead of estimates, the time period between maintenance actions becomes shorter. Major bridge maintenance is planned for sometime within the next 7-10 years and will have a substantial cost associated with it. To pay the cost for this major maintenance, VOT property owners should reasonably expect an additional assessment on top of all other assessments currently being levied or proposed. The cost for this major maintenance will be fully borne by VOT property owners even though • a substantial volume of traffic using the Tequesta Drive bridge comes from outside the VOT area. Village of Tequesta Roadway Issues: December 6, 199b Page 4 4A. Proposed Tequesta Stakeholders Group REGIONAL Solutions - Establish a western corridor road from Northfork south via Church Street, • Longshore Drive, or any other connection to Indiantown Road and I-95 that can be agreed upon. - Complete the South Martin County Line Connector Road to eliminate two 90° turns through Little Club and encourage trucks and cut-through traffic from US 1 to I-95 to use County Line Road. - Establish County Line Road a_ s an alternative east/west road link from US 1 to Island Way, primarily for truck traffic, thus taking truck traffic and some car traffic off Tequesta Drive and Country Club Drive. - Open a second Turtle Creek gate on Country Club Drive just north of the Tequesta Village limits. This would result in I00-300 fewer daily trips on Country Club Drive. All Turtle Creek truck and commercial vehicle traffic should enter and leave through this gate. - Martin County should continue to appeal the Section 28 density decision. Village of Tequesta Roadway Issues: December 6, 1996 Page S 4B. Proposed Tequesta Stakeholders Group TEQUESTA Solutions - Roadway studies have shown VOT stakeholders that, even if all of the Regional solutions being proposed are implemented, the traffic flow on Country Club Drive and Tequesta Drive would still be at unacceptable levels. The traffic condition would continue to worsen unless additional independent actions are taken by VOT. - The following actions are proposed for phased implementation: 1. Install speed humps-on Country.Club Drive and consideration of speed humps on sections of Tequesta Drive, Riverside Drive, Golfview Drive, and River Drive as traffic increases. NOTE: Unlike speed bumps, speed humps work without causing any ineorrvienee because there is no need to slow down if you are traveling within a few miles of the posted speed limits. Speed humps are a gradual rise in the road and can be set at any limit to control speed. A vehicle exceeding the set speed ofa hump design will feel a definite bump which increases in severity with a corresponding increase in speed. • 2. Place STOP signs along Country Club Drive at all intersections. 3. Install around-about at the intersection of Country Club Drive, North Place, and the entrance to Turtle Creek. 4. Review landscaping plans for Country Club Drive to create a narrowing tunnel effect to slow traffic. 5. Increase Police patrolling on the Tequesta peninsula to strictly enforce speed limits and limit unauthorized commercial traffic. - The following solutions should be considered for phased implementation if the Regional and Tequesta solutions discussed above do not reduce the traffic throughout Tequesta to an acceptable level: 1. Limit access to Country Club Drive by gating the southbound lane at the north entrance. 2. Replace the VOT gateway on Country Club Drive at the county line • with a toll gate. The tolls should generate VOT revenues in a special fund to compensate for the cost of the toll gate and for VOT road and bridge maintenance. Village of Tequesta Roadway Issues: December 6, 1996 Page 6 3. If a second Turtle Creek gate cannot be, or is not, opened, consider . installation of a toll gate on VOT property along Country Club Drive, and across Turtle Creek Drive, for traffic entering the VOT. 4. Only as a last resort, if all else fails, close Country Club Drive to all but emergency and evacuation traffic. 5. Summary and Conclusions There is currently an unacceptable volume of traffic in the Village of Tequesta, specifically on Tequesta Drive and Country Club Drive. In addition, traffic is projected to increase dramatically over the next S-7 years. This situation requires regional actions to establish alternate routes that will redistribute traffic away from Tequesta Drive and Country Club Drive. In conjunction with these regional actions, the Village of Tequesta will initiate its own actions in a phased implementation to reduce and manage traffic on its residential streets. These actions will take place over a period of time to permit determination of their impact on traffic volume. • It is our sincere hope that these actions, in conjunction with the regional actions previously described, will reduce traffic throughout the Village of Tequesta to an acceptable level. In doing so, we strive to retain, the residential nature of the area, maintain it as a safe neighborhood, and protect the stated interests of Village of Tequesta residents without the need to close any Tequesta roadways. End of the VOT Stakeholders Mediation Presentation r~ U Village of Tequesta Roadway Issues: December 6, 1996 Page 7 Village of Tequesta Proposed Phased Implementation Schedule Phase 1: (Speed humps) Begin improvements by April 1997. When improvements are completed, test effectiveness for 3 months. After 3 months of implementation, set a firm date for review of findings. After review of findings, set a firm date to decide whether to proceed further. Phase 2: (STOP signs) Begin improvements in August 1997. When improvements are completed, test effectiveness for 3 months. After 3 months of implementation, set a firm date for review of findings. After review of findings, set a firm date to decide whether to proceed further. Phase 3: (Round-about) Begin improvements in December 1997. When improvements are completed, test effectiveness for 3 months. After 3 months of implementation, set a firm date for review of findings. After review of findings, set a firm date to decide whether to proceed further. Phase 4: (Landscaping) Begin improvements in April 1998. When improvements are completed, test effectiveness for 3 months. After 3 months of implementation, set a firm date for review of findings. After review of findings, set a firm date to decide whether to proceed further. Phase 5: (Restrict southbound traffic) Begin improvements in August 1998. When improvements are completed, test effectiveness for 3 months. After 3 months of implementation, set a firm date for review of findings. After review of findings, set a firm date to decide whether to proceed further. Phase 6: (Add toll gates) Begin improvements in December 1998. When improvements are completed, test effectiveness for 6 months. After 6 months of implementation, set a firm date for review of findings. After review of findings, set a firm date to decide whether to proceed further. • Phase 7: Close road ( ) Begin improvements in June 1999.