HomeMy WebLinkAboutDocumentation_Regular_Tab 03_11/08/2007MINUTES
VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA
Regular Village Council Meeting
Tequesta Village Hall
345 Tequesta Drive
Thursday, September 13, 2007
7:00 P.M.
I. Call to Order and Roll Call
Mayor Jim Humpage called the meeting to order at 7:15 p.m. Village Clerk Lori McWilliams
took a roll call. Present were: Mayor Jim Humpage, Vice Mayor Pat Watkins, Council Member
Dan Amero, Council Member Tom Paterno, and Council Member Calvin Turnquest. Also in
attendance were: Village Attorney Scott Hawkins, Village Manager Michael R. Couzzo, Jr.,
Village Clerk Lori McWilliams, and Department Heads.
II. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance
Rev. Paul Beresford led in prayer and Mayor Humpage gave the invocation and led the Pledge
of Allegiance to the flag.
III. Approval of Agenda
MOTION: Vice Mayor Watkins moved to approve the agenda; Council Member Amero
seconded.
• Council Member Amero requested to pull items 14, 18 b, c, and d for discussion.
• Council Member Paterno requested pulling items 16, 18, and 18a for discussion.
Motion carried unanimously 5-0.
Council Member Paterno disclosed that he had met with Mr. Sabin regarding the agreement on
18a.
IV. Standing Reports
1. Villacte Attorney
Village Attorney Scott Hawkins referenced his written report with a Code Enforcement issue;
and indicated there was very little development with the Dalack litigation. Council Member
Amero questioned if there had been an attempt to bring the Vince Arena issue to close.
Attorney Hawkins explained that Manager Couzzo had discussed the stipulation which was
developed in the Executive Session by Council in length with Mr. Arena; and had made several
attempts to resolve this matter. Council Member Amero commented that additional attempts
should be made to expedite satisfaction to the Village on this issue.
Minutes -Village Council Regular Meeting 9/13/07
Page 2
IV. Standing Reports (Con't)
1. Village Attorney
Attorney Hawkins advised that in a lengthy conversation with Mr. Ryan, Mr. Arena's Attorney,
on Friday it was mentioned that Mr. Arena did want to resolve this issue and several attempts
had been made to resolve it; he had asked Mr. Ryan if he was aware of the attempts, and was
not convinced Mr. Ryan was aware. He also noted that Mr. Ryan was asked to call the Village
regarding this issue; and to date a reply had not been received. Manager Couzzo responded
that he would continue to make every effort to work with Mr. Arena. Council Member Amero
stated he would like to see a quick end to this matter.
Council Member Paterno questioned the Preserve case. Attorney Hawkins advised that he had
been contacted by Counsel for the Preserve inquiring about the prospect to increase density
relative to their clients' intent to sell the property. Attorney Hawkins explained that they should
put their request in writing and speak with Ms. Catherine Harding, Director of Community
Development; he added that he and Ms. Harding did not see how this request could be
accomplished.
Ms. Harding commented that Code Compliance had been used due to disrepair of the
Preserve property; she confirmed verbal and written notice had been disregarded; and a date
of September 27, 2007 had been set to present the case to the Special Master. Ms. Harding
stated if the Preserve was found responsible for refurbishing the property, and did not; the
Village would clean up the property and then impose a lien.
Council Member Paterno asked if a bond had been required from the Preserve. Attorney
Hawkins implied an agreement had been met previously between the Preserve and the Village
staff and a bond was not required. Ms. Harding replied if an agreement had been made it
would have been in writing that the building and property was in compliance and they were
never in compliance. Discussion ensued.
Mayor Humpage recalled that the request by the Village was for the exterior renovation to be
complete. Vice-Mayor Watkins suggested referring to that meeting for clarity. Mayor Humpage
requested pulling the minutes.
2. Village Manager
Manager Couzzo reported that Tequesta had received grant money from South Florida Water
Management for Capital Improvements and the continued efforts of the Village.
Fire Chief Weinand informed that the Fire Department had hosted an ICS 400 class for the
men's requirements of FEMA and all employees were now current in their training. He stated
that October 6, 2007 the Fire Department would be hosting their annual Open House with
participating agencies such as the Highway Patrol, Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, Tequesta
Police, Wildlife Sanctuary, and others, and were expecting a turnout of approximately 400.
Also, October 13, 2007 the Fire Department would be sponsoring a smoke detector check for
residents on Saturday afternoon's and would use door hangers to let residents know they
could call and set up appointments. Also, October 29, 2007 a Golf Tournament would be held
2
Minutes -Village Council Regular Meeting 9/13/07
Page 3
IV. Standing Reports (Con't)
1. Villa4e Manager
and an affair would conclude at the public safety building with food and raffles. He also stated
the Community Biohazard Spaces program should be available at the next meeting for input
and approval.
V. Presentations /Proclamations
3. 911 Presentation
Mayor Humpage referenced a commemorative flag hanging in the chambers to honor all
involved in the 911 tragedy and he wanted to share a presentation during the Council Meeting.
Complications arose with the DVD player, presentation held later in meeting.
3a. Presentation by Steve Palmquist, Gabriel Roeder, Smith ~ Company
regarding the possibility of reducing firefighter contributions from 6.1%
back to 5%
Steve Palmquist was not present. Item was tabled until the next meeting.
4. Proclamation declaring September 17 Citizenship Day and the week of
September 17 - 23, 2007 as Constitution Week
Mayor Humpage read the Proclamation into the record.
VI. Consent Agenda
5. Village Council Special Meeting Minutes May 16, 2007
6. Village Council Special Meeting Minutes July 10, 2007
7. Village Council Local Planning Agency Minutes July 12, 2007
8. Village Council Regular Meeting Minutes July 12, 2007
9. Village Council Regular Meeting Minutes August 9, 2007
10. Boards and Committee Appointments / Reappointments
Village Council Appointments / Reappointments
A. Recommendation to reappoint Archie Magnum to the Tequesta
General Employee Pension Trust Fund Board -Council Appointee
3
Minutes -Village Council Regular Meeting 9/13/07
Page 4
VI. Consent Agenda (Con't)
10. Boards and Committee Appointments / Reappointments
B. Council re-appointment of Mr. Russell Von Frank to the Planning
and Zoning Advisory Board as "Alternate Member -Two" for a term
of 2-years -expiring 9/7/09
C. Council re-appointment of Bernard Ward to the Board of
Adjustment as "Alternate Member -One" for a term of 2 years -
expiring 12/9/08
Council Ministerial Appointments / Reappointments:
D. Recommendation to reappoint Ed Sabin to the Tequesta Public
Safety Officers' Pension Trust Fund Board -Pension Board
Appointee -Ministerial Reappointment Only
E. Recommendation to appoint Michael Rhodes to the Tequesta
General Employee Pension Trust Fund Board -Pension Board
Appointee -Ministerial Appointment Only
11. Resolution 63-06/07, A Resolution of the Village Council of the Village of
Tequesta, Palm Beach County, Florida amending the 2006/2007 General Fund
#001 Budget $66,360.00 by increasing revenues in "$12.50 Traffic Violation
Funds" Account #001-171-351.250 and increasing expenditures in "Debt Service,
Principal, PD 800 MGHZ Radios" Account #001-700-571.714 in this amount, and
authorizing the Village Manager to proceed on behalf of the Village
12. Resolution 65-06107, A Resolution of the Village Council of the Village of
Tequesta, Palm Beach County, Florida to ratify the PBA Contract for the One-
Year period 2006-2007, and authorizing the Village Manager to execute the
contract on behalf of the Village and the immediately restart negotiations.
13. Moved from Consent Agenda to Item 22 on ReQUlar Agenda
15. Resolution 77-06/07, A Resolution of The Village Council of The Village of
Tequesta, Palm Beach County, Florida, amending and increasing the 2006/2007
Water Utility #401 budget by increasing revenues in Account # 401-000-363.101,
"Interlocal-Martin CountylTropic Vista" in the amount of $7,950.43 and increasing
Expenditure Account # 401-700-571.705, "Principal - 2004 Water Notes Payable
with Bank of America" in the amount of $7,950.43
17. Resolution 79-06/07, A Resolution of the Village Council of the Village of
Tequesta, Palm Beach County, Florida, and amending and increasing the
2006/2007 General Fund #001 Budget $147,882.07 by increasing revenues and
expenditures in the accounts listed below and authorizing the Village Manager to
proceed on behalf of the village.
18e. Council Authorization of two Florida Department of Environmental
Protection Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program Grant
Project Agreements for Tequesta Park improvements -Phase 1 -- $50,000
and Phase 2 -- $50,000
4
Minutes -Village Council Regular Meeting 9/13/07
Page 5
END OF CONSENT AGENDA
ITEMS PULLED FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA
14. Resolution 76-06/07, A Resolution of the Village of Tequesta, Palm Beach
County, Florida, approving Rachlin Cohen & Holtz, LLP, as the Village of
Tequesta's Auditors for FY ending September 30, 2007 for a fee not to exceed
$69,500.00 and authorizing the Village Manager to proceed on behalf of the
Village.
Council Member Amero referred to Resolution 68-06/07 as being a reference to show what
was to be done in the future, and asked what we do now. Ms. Jody Forsythe, Director of
Finance explained that in the past the Village had an audit committee comprised of staff and
since 2001 the Village had used Rachlin Cohen & Holtz; with their contract ending in
September 2008; the State Statute would regulate the Village using an audit committee in the
future.
Council Member Amero questioned why the Village waited until now to bring this resolution
forward and not six months ago. Ms. Forsythe replied this came to her attention around May or
June and she felt it was not enough time to properly put an audit committee together and if
approved she would proceed with the audit committee.
Council Member Paterno stated he was uneasy with the use of several extensions by the firm
and questioned using the firm again. Ms. Forsythe confirmed she felt confident that the firm
understood their concerns and would be doing their best to use the same manager and staff so
the Village would be satisfied.
Ms. Geraldine Genco Dube, 7 Country Club Circle, commented that she understood a previous
request by the Finance Director to obtain an audit committee was ignored; she felt it was a
necessity now and understood it would be State required next year.
Mayor Humpage read the resolution into the record.
MOTION: Council Member Amero moved to approve Item 14, seconded by Council
Member Paterno; motion passed 5-0.
16. Resolution 78-06/07, A Resolution of the Village Council of the Village of
Tequesta, Palm Beach County, Florida, amending the 2006/2007 General Fund
#001 Budget $28,927.18 by increasing revenues in "Donations - Tequesta's
Golden Tribute Account #001-160-366.110 and increasing expenditures in
"Special Events" account #001-160-534.303 in this amount, and authorizing the
Village Manager to proceed on behalf of the Village.
Attorney Scott Hawkins read the resolution into the record.
5
Minutes -Village Council Regular Meeting 9/13/07
Page 6
16. Resolution 78-06/07 (Cony)
Ms. Cyrese Colbert representing Dorothy Campbell, 30 Eastwinds Circle, and Bethany
Humpage read Ms. Campbell's letter into the record.
Council Member Paterno questioned keeping the public safety money separate from the
Village money; and stated the money from the Fall Festival could not be changed because it
was already set in the budget. He stated it could be put into the next budget and Council could
vote again in October.
Ms. Colbert expressed her gratitude for a terrific turnout and exclaimed the event far exceeded
the Village's 25th Year Celebration; she commented on how many people and businesses
contributed to the events success.
Mayor Humpage reported the tax payer's money was not used and money raised at the golf
tournament would be used for the monument. He suggested putting the money into the
general fund instead of recreation and come back to Council as an appropriation to take the
money after October 1, 2007; and put it toward recreation and the Fall Festival.
Ms. Colbert confirmed the event would not have been possible without Tequesta's Parks and
Recreation Department. Ms. Humpage also reported the budgeted expenses included the
parade which was postponed due to weather conditions and would be held at a later date.
MOTION: Council Member Paterno moved to approve Item 16, seconded by Council
Member Amero; motion passed 5-0.
18. Budget Amendments exceeding the $5,000.00 limit and/or affecting Capital
Accounts.
Council Member Paterno referenced journal entry 178754 under personnel legal fees; and
stated he felt the numbers were immense and should have been brought forward previously;
and asked for an explanation. Manager Couzzo recalled past discussions with Council; his
monthly reports; and many unusual situations including unforeseen issues with labor problems.
He agreed the number was high, but recognized there were issues which required legal
counsel.
Mayor Humpage mentioned the police and fire contracts which included labor issues. Vice-
Mayor Watkins recalled Council agreeing to reduce use of legal communications in the
upcoming year. Council Member Paterno questioned the position of the additional $36,000 in
legal bills. Manager Couzzo stated he had several outstanding legal invoices to assess.
Council Member Turnquest agreed the number was extremely high.
Council Member Amero recalled this being discussed but did not recall Manager Couzzo or
Ms. Forsythe advising Council of a $20,000 deficit in legal fees. He would like to see Council
alerted in advance as to these discrepancies, and the reports explained in laymen's terms.
Vice Mayor Watkins responded that this was discussed repeatedly with Council, but felt
6
Minutes -Village Council Regular Meeting 9/13/07
Page 7
18. Budget Amendments exceeding the $5,000.00 limit and/or affecting Capital
Accounts (Con't)
Council was shocked by the numbers. She also agreed that Council should have more
information in advance, and the reports should be easier to read. Discussion ensued.
Council Member Paterno referred to journal entry 178751 which showed purchasing extra
insurance for the water administration and wanted to know why. Ms. Forsythe explained in the
beginning of the year the bill was charged incorrectly and finance had to take the money from
somewhere to make up the difference. Manager Couzzo stated this should not occur again.
Council Member Paterno questioned if this could be put in as a general entry; taking the
money out of insurance and putting it back into contingency. Ms. Forsythe responded yes.
Council Member Paterno asked if the money was being spent. Ms. Forsythe stated if there was
an excess at the end of the year it could be recommended the overage be used to help with
expenditures that went over, similar to the legal fees this year.
Council Member Paterno questioned if there were any roll over projects Council needed to
know about. Ms. Forsythe responded that Manager Couzzo had advised all directors to cease
spending and she would not know what would be remaining in the accounts until all invoices
came in. She explained if an item fell under $1,000 Finance would not be aware of it if the
invoice was outstanding.
MOTION: Council Member Paterno moved to approve Item 18, seconded by Council
Member Tumquest; motion passed 5-0.
18a. Resolution 80-06/07, a Resolution of the Village Council of the Village of
Tequesta, Palm Beach County, Florida, approving the Solid Waste and
Recyclable Collection Services Agreement between the Village of Tequesta and
Waste Management, Inc. of Florida for a period of five years beginning October
1, 2007 and expiring September 30, 2012, and authorizing the Village Manager
to execute the contract on behalf of the Village.
Mr. Hawkins read the resolution into the record.
Ex Parte Communications
Council Member Paterno stated he had a phone conversation with Mr. Sabin. Council Member
Amero, Council Member Turnquest, Vice-Mayor Watkins & Mayor Humpage all commented
they had spoken with Mr. Sabin
MOTION: Council Member Amero moved to approve the Resolution, seconded by Vice-
Mayor Watkins; motion passed 5-0.
Mr. Sabin expressed his appreciation for past ar~d continued business relationship with the
Village of Tequesta.
7
Minutes -Village Council Regular Meeting 9/13/07
Page 8
18b. Resolution 81-06/07, A Resolution of the Village Council of the Village of
Tequesta, Palm Beach County, Florida, to renew aone-year contract for health
insurance with Cigna Insurance, in the approximate amount of $754,600.00 for
FY 2007/2008 with budget allocation from General Funds, Water Utilities And
Storm water Funds, and authorizing the Village Manager to execute the contract
on behalf of the Village.
Mr. Hawkins read the resolution into the record.
MOTION: Vice-Mayor Watkins moved to discuss the resolution, seconded by Council
Member Amero; motion passed 5-0.
Ms. Geraldine Genco Dube, 7 Country Club Circle, asked if part time employees received
benefits. Ms. Merlene Reid, Director of Human Resources, responded that part time
employees work up to 30 hours per week; and did not receive health benefits. Council Member
Amero expressed his concern with a 10% increase on insurance benefits and would like to
know that alternatives would be researched. Ms. Reid stated that she was committed to
completing a review by the second quarter. Mayor Humpage commented that a workshop
could be scheduled for this issue. Manager Couzzo stated he spoke with the Village broker
and discussed having a workshop setting if that was the wish of the Council; His only concern
was which program to go RFP on.
Council Member Amero commented that after doing business with the same company for
years he felt the chance for complacency was higher; and the Village should fight for every
dollar.
MOTION: Vice-Mayor Watkins moved to approve the resolution, seconded by Council
Member Amero; motion passed 5-0.
18c. Resolution 82-06/07. A Resolution of the Village Council of the Village of
Tequesta, Palm Beach County, Florida, to renew aone-year contract for dental
insurance with Guardian, in the approximate amount of $31,406.00 for FY
2007/2008 with budget allocation from General Funds, Water Utilities and Storm
water Funds, and authorizing the Village Manager to execute the contract on
behalf of the Village.
Mr. Hawkins read the resolution into the record.
MOTION: Vice-Mayor Watkins moved to discuss the resolution, seconded by Council
Member Tumquest; motion passed 5-0.
Council Member Amero voiced concern with an increase of 11.85%. He felt the employee
benefits were getting expensive for the Village; and would like to see the cost reduced. Mayor
Humpage agreed. Council Member Turnquest questioned if the Village could obtain a discount
if they were to sign for multiple years. Manager Couzzo stated he had asked that question in
the past and insurance companies were not willing to commit. Ms. Reid noted that the Village
8
Minutes -Village Council Regular Meeting 9/13/07
Page 9
18c. Resolution 82-06/07 (Con't)
only paid for dental insurance on employees; insurance for dependents were paid 100% by the
employee.
MOTION: Vice-Mayor Watkins moved to approve the resolution, seconded by Council
Member Tumquest; motion passed 5-0.
18d. Resolution 83-06!07. A Resolution of the Village Council of the Village of
Tequesta, Palm Beach County, Florida, to renew the Village of Tequesta's
Property, General Liability, Law Enforcement Liability, Automobile, Crime and
Workers' Compensation coverage with The Florida Municipal Insurance Trust
(EMIT) (per attached Exhibit A) for a combined premium of $465,534 and
authorizing the Village Manager to execute the applicable agreement on behalf of
the Village.
Mr. Hawkins read the resolution into the record.
MOTION: Vice-Mayor Watkins moved to discuss the resolution, seconded by Council
Member Amero; motion passed 5-0.
Council Member Amero voiced concern with an increase of 11.80%. He felt the Village was
going to have problems with continually getting hit with increases; he questioned how the
Village was confirming competitive rates. Ms. Reid asked Ellen Jones to clarify the process.
Ellen Jones of the Gehring Group, referenced a review which was given last year to the Village
comparing properties of their size, she explained the increase was due largely in part to an
increase in property values, and stated the Village saved approximately $100,000 when the
coverage was switched to a different carrier. She explained that Florida League of Cities was
asked for quotes on different scenarios aside from the present deductible of $10,000, and they
were included in the packet.
Council Member Amero questioned self insuring and or catastrophic coverage. Discussion
ensued.
Ms. Jones explained that Council would need to give some kind of direction on what they
would like to obtain, she suggested writing "it is our intent to bind coverage, and not specify
deductible or co-insurance until additional quotes have been received". She would then
present that to EMIT. Discussion ensued.
Manager Couzzo suggested changing the deductible from $25,000 to $100,000. Council
Member Amero indicated he would be more comfortable with that scenario, and suggested
backing a resolution, sending a letter to Commissioner Charlie Christ and note their
dissatisfaction with the job done to date. Council consensus agreed.
9
Minutes -Village Council Regular Meeting 9/13/07
Page 10
18d. Resolution 83-06/07 (Con't)
MOTION: Vice-Mayor Watkins moved to increase deductible fo $100,000, remove any
properties of value up to $100,000 and adjust the premium accordingly, the modification was
seconded by Council member Amero; motion passed 5-0.
V. Presentations /Proclamations
3. 911 Presentation
911 Presentation was viewed.
VII. Communications from Citizens
Kit Legato, 9 Bayview Court was pleased that Tequesta would adopt a company of soldiers
through ASA (Americans Supporting Americans), and stated 12 boxes would be displayed for
donations. She would also be recruiting volunteers to help out with this venture. Mayor
Humpage added he would like to see the boxes filled in support of this organization.
Charles Winblat, Tequesta Police Officer and Police Benevolent Association (PBA)
representative stated he was pleased with the bargaining process and would like to express
gratitude for the good relationship with citizens and Council, and appreciated the opportunity to
serve many additional years.
Geraldine Genco Dube, 7 Country Club Circle, stated she forwarded Council a variance report
this week which showed half of the general ledgers were over budget. She felt that Council
needed to use this variance as a tool to observe what was happening on a monthly basis so
that items could be dealt with in the early stages of a possible problem.
Dr. Richard Dube, 7 Country Club Circle, expressed his opinion that the Village was too small
to justify the cost of sending a fire truck to Ecuador. Manager Couzzo stated that it was the
request and hope of Chief Weinand, and it had not been presented to Council for approval.
MOTION: Vice-Mayor Watkins moved to approve the balance of consent agenda; as
amended; seconded by Council Member Amero; motion passed 5-0.
VIII. Communications from Council
Vice-Mayor Pat Watkins thanked Penny Dillon, Director of the Tequesta Terrace Assisted
Living Facility for inviting Council to breakfast for Senior Week, she congratulated Bill Scogal
on his medals in support of the Senior Olympics. She asked that Dan Gallagher be
remembered for his contributions to the Village and stated he passed away on Saturday. She
noted her appreciation of the creative efforts of everyone who contributed to the budget and
referred to items such as the water and park grants, and waste management contract which
she felt were some of the many ideas that supported the savings. Vice-Mayor Watkins
concluded by suggesting the sound system be improved.
Manager Couzzo stated lapel microphones were being considered.
10
Minutes -Village Council Regular Meeting 9/13/07
Page 11
VIII. Communications from Council (Con't)
Council Member Paterno corrected his statement from a previous council meeting when he
stated the Village had 90 employees; he had confirmed they actually had 85.
Council Member Turnquest felt the Village would run smoother since the new budget was
giving back to the community in the form of tax cuts. He commended Department Heads for
working diligently with Council maintaining the tax payer's best interest to be first and foremost.
He felt the residents deserved nothing less than the best, and stated his goal was for Tequesta
to be a role model for all municipalities. He also believed that Village Manager Couzzo was the
best because he wore so many hats, and managed his position and Department Heads so
well. Council Member Turnquest expressed his gratitude for the residents and their knowledge,
and stated Council was not conversant in all subject matter and he appreciated their input. He
ended by confirming Tequesta was a great community.
Mayor Jim Humpage stated that all involved with the budget did a good job and felt Tequesta
would be more frugal in the future. He stated the new variance report looked good and would
be available for viewing.
IX. New Business
20. Ordinance 620-06/07 -Second Reading- An Ordinance of the Village Council of
the Village of Tequesta, Palm Beach County, Florida, providing for the voluntary
annexation of property to combine parcels for the construction of Regions Bank,
providing for repeal of Ordinances in conflict; providing for severability; providing
for codification; providing an effective date.
Attorney Hawkins read the Ordinance into the record.
Mayor Humpage opened the meeting to a Public Hearing.
Ms. Catherine Harding, Director of Community Development, explained a map was provided
showing the location of the annexed property, and confirmed that the present building would
be demolished to provide for a new Regions Bank building.
Council Member Turnquest replied he had no problem with the annexation and questioned
why a seventh bank was needed in Tequesta. Ms. Harding replied that the community was
growing, and she felt that was being recognized by the business industry.
Mr. Michael Hough, Architect for Regions Bank, stated the bank did research looking at
numbers and statistics for potential areas and felt Tequesta was a positive growth area.
Council Member Paterno thanked Mr. Hough for coming and stated the bank would be an
asset to the community.
Mayor Humpage asked for comments from the public. There being no public comments, he
closed the public hearing.
11
Minutes -Village Council Regular Meeting 9/13/07
Page 12
20. Ordinance 620-06107 (Con't)
MOTION: Council Member Amero moved to approve the Ordinance; seconded by Vice-
Mayor Watkins; motion passed 5-0.
21. Resolution 67-06/07 - A Resolution of the Village Council of the Village of
Tequesta, Palm Beach County, Florida, amending and increasing the 2006/2007
General Fund #001 Budget by increasing Revenues in Account # 001-171-
342.102, Police Extra Duty in the amount of $2,014.00 and increasing
Expenditure Account #001-175-515.105, Extra Duty Pay -Contract Services in
the Amount of $2,014.00.
Attorney Hawkins read the Resolution into the record.
MOTION: Vice-Mayor Watkins moved to approve the Resolution; seconded by Council
Member Amero; motion passed 5-0.
22. Resolution 68-06/07, A Resolution of the Village Council of the Village of
Tequesta, Palm Beach County, Florida, approving the establishment of an audit
committee to assist the Council in selection of an auditor to conduct the State
mandated annual financial audit.
Attorney Hawkins read the Resolution into the record.
MOTION: Council Member Amero moved to approve the Resolution; seconded by Vice-
Mayor Watkins; motion passed 5-0.
23. Council discussion and action regarding Council contributions to the
following:
• Limestone Creek Elementary School - $1000
• Jupiter Elementary School - $1000
• Jupiter Middle School - $1000
• Jupiter High School Project Graduation- $1000
• Jupiter High School Environmental Science Academy - $1,000
• Jupiter High School Band Program - $2,500
• West Jupiter Tutorial Center - $1,000
• Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, Inc. - $1,500
Council Member Amero indicated he was not backing these contributions except possibly
Busch Wildlife; and stated the money could go for better use. He felt enough was paid toward
education through tax bills. He argued as a Village too much money was handed out as soon
as it accumulated in the budget. Mayor Humpage commented that it was not the end of the
year that initiated the donations it was just a good time to make donations.
Council Member Amero noted that organizations similar to the Girl Scouts have asked for
support and felt giving to the school board was like double taxation; he stated the school board
needed to manage their monies more efficiently.
12
Minutes -Village Council Regular Meeting 9/13/07
Page 13
23. Council discussion and action regarding Council contributions (Con't)
Council Member Turnquest responded that he agreed somewhat; but felt our students were
behind several countries with their skills in science and he would like to voluntarily donate
above his mandatory tax contribution.
Vice-Mayor Watkins noted she was good with all the contributions since our children go to
these schools and felt the schools did not fund all that was needed. She also commented that
parents did a lot to provide for the schools necessities.
Mayor Humpage stated he supported all the contributions and would like to see the Pittman
School included, he liked that they were funded primarily through the United Way and intended
for the under privileged.
Council Member Paterno agreed strongly with Council Member Amero, but commented he
would like to consider all the contributions. He felt that Lighthouse for the Arts should be re-
considered, he believed in the past they received donations up to $10,000 from the Village and
he would like to see that resumed, he felt their contributions to the community should be
rewarded and the arts would be missed if they were not part of the community. As for the
schools he felt all or none should be considered.
Vice-Mayor Watkins stated project graduation could come out of next year's budget.
Mayor Humpage took a roll call vote for each of the following:
Limestone Creek Elementary School
Humpage Yes
Watkins Yes
Amero No
Paterno Yes
Turnquest No
Consensus of Council: Donate $1,000 to Limestone Creek Elementary School.
Jupiter Elementary School
Humpage Yes
Watkins Yes
Amero No
Paterno Yes
Turnquest No
Consensus of Council:
Jupiter Middle School
Humpage Yes
Watkins Yes
Amero No
Paterno Yes
Turnquest No
Donate $1,000 to Jupiter Elementary School.
13
Minutes -Village Council Regular Meeting 9/13/07
Page 14
23. Council discussion and action regarding Council contributions (Con't)
Consensus of Council: Donate $1,000 to Jupiter Middle School.
Jupiter High School Science Academy
Humpage Yes
Watkins Yes
Amero No
Paterno No
Turnquest Yes
Consensus of Council: Donate $1,000 to Jupiter High School Science Academy.
Jupiter Hig h School Band
Humpage No
Watkins Yes
Amero No
Paterno Yes
Turnquest No
Consensus of Council: Declined to donate $2, 500 to the Jupiter High School Band.
Jupiter West Tutorial Center
Humpage Yes
Watkins Yes
Amero No
Paterno Yes
Turnquest Yes
Consensus of Council: Donate $1,000 to Jupiter West Tutorial Center.
Busch Wildlife Sanctuary
Humpage Yes
Watkins Yes
Amero Yes
Paterno Yes
Turnquest Yes
Consensus of Council: Donate $1,500 to Busch Wildlife Sanctuary.
Lighthouse Center for the Arts
Humpage Yes
Watkins Yes
Amero Yes
Paterno Yes
Turnquest Yes
Consensus of Council: Donate $2, 500 to the Lighthouse Center for the Arts.
14
Minutes -Village Council Regular Meeting 9/13/07
Page 15
23. Council discussion and action regarding Council contributions (Con't)
Thelma Pittman School
Humpage Yes
Watkins Yes
Amero No
Paterno No
Turnquest Yes
Consensus of Council:
Donate $1,000 to the Thelma Pittman School.
X. Any Other Matters
Council Member Amero inquired about the flood insurance and correspondence from Ms.
Susan Wilson from FEMA. Manager Couzzo stated he had sent correspondence to Council
regarding that. Ms. Catherine Harding, Director of Community Development stated Ms. Wilson
had spent an entire day going through researching Tequesta files ensuring compliance with
FEMA; and would be sending a letter regarding her findings by October 1, 2007. Ms. Wilson
stated that Tequesta was in good shape as far as elevations. Ms. Harding explained there was
a prerequisite by Tequesta to conform to elevation requirements; and Ms. Wilson was happy
with that procedure.
Ms. Harding stated that staff had been attending FEMA meetings twice a month; and it had
been an immense undertaking since staff was small and she was the person most likely to
attend; Tequesta had also paid a consultant to represent Tequesta at the meetings when
necessary. She felt it was important for Tequesta to look seriously at remaining in the program,
evaluating the time spent and if they remain involved, possibly pull back from the
responsibilities but maintain a decent standard. Council Member Amero asked if Ms. Harding
felt Tequesta was moving forward, she replied yes; and stated the goal was to get restoration
so Tequesta would have a strong footing.
Council Member Amero asked Manager Couzzo about the $100,000 grant and questioned if
any of it would go toward the master site plan. Manager Couzzo responded he believed it
could, and stated he had met with Mr. Greg Corbitt, Director of Leisure Services, Mr. Cory and
the State Representative; and stated the State Representative had visited the park and had a
good understanding of Tequesta's needs, and was willing to assist in finding additional funding
for the park. Manager Couzzo confirmed He and Mr. Corbitt would be providing additional
information to the State Representative, and reminded everyone the grant was anon-matching
grant.
Council Member Amero referred to Council coming up with incentives and ideas in the budget
process to carry a positive balance; and suggested using the extra $5,000 or $10,000 currently
in the budget to get the practice started. Manager Couzzo responded that was on his agenda.
Council Member Amero questioned the Manager's contract being up for renewal and Council
reviewing it. Discussion ensued. Council consensus was to review contract at a workshop on
September 18, 2007 (Amero, Paterno, Turnquest).
15
Minutes -Village Council Regular Meeting 9/13/07
Page 16
X. Any Other Matters (Con't)
Council Member Paterno asked who had not contributed to the Cypress Drive project. Mayor
Humpage responded that there was a new owner who would make their payments in three
installments; and he had spoken to the final person giving them until the end of the month to
pay. He stated if no payment was received the Village would place a lien on the property.
Council Member Paterno mentioned he had requested a breakdown of the cost and
maintenance of Tequesta's swales; and referenced the County's contract with Phillips &
Jordan Company to remove trees on the main roads in our area after a hurricane. He stated it
would be at no cost to the Village and would like to utilize them if needed.
Council Member Paterno questioned if Tequesta was a Sanctuary City in reference to illegal
immigrants and law enforcement. Chief McCollom stated if in violation their statutory ability to
enforce the law was present; and if there was a question on immigration laws he would call
Border Patrol. Council Member Paterno questioned if Tequesta would report to ICE
(Immigration & Customs Enforcement). Chief McCollom responded that the majority of calls
would go to Border Patrol; and they would make their decision on the individual or group and
who would take the case.
Council Member Paterno questioned using a system to track additional items discussed at
meetings; he felt additional items were frequently set aside and forgotten, he referred to
questions on the Preserve requiring a bond and asked for an update. Mayor Humpage
suggested putting the items under "any other matters" in the agenda to help with follow up and
stated they would start with this meeting and include the Preserve's bond issue, swale
maintenance, FEMA issue, and budget questions.
XI. Adjournment
MOTION: Council Member Amero moved to adjourn the meeting at 10:38p.m.; seconded
by Council Member Paterno; motion carried 5-0.
Respectfully submitted,
Lori McWilliams, CMC
Village Clerk
16