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2012-03-06CITY OF OKEECHOBEE MARCH 6, 2012 REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING SUMMARY OF COUNCIL ACTION PAGE 1 OF 6 II AGENDA III COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE II I. CALL TO ORDER - Mayor: March 6, 2012, City Council Regular Meeting, 6:00 p.m. II. OPENING CEREMONIES: Invocation to be offered; Pledge of Allegiance to be led by the Girl Scouts. III. MAYOR, COUNCIL AND STAFF ATTENDANCE - City Clerk. Mayor James E. Kirk Council Member Devin Maxwell Council Member Mike O'Connor Council Member Dowling R. Watford, Jr. Council Member Clayton Williams City Administrator Brian Whitehall City Attorney John R. Cook City Clerk Lane Gamiotea Deputy Clerk Melisa Jahner Police Chief Denny Davis Fire Chief Herb Smith Public Works Director Donnie Robertson IV. PROCLAMATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS - Mayor. A. Proclaim the year 2012 as the "Year of the Girl." Mayor Kirk called the March 6, 2012, Regular City Council Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. The invocation was offered by the Very Reverend Dr. Edward Weiss of the Church of Our Saviour; The Pledge was led by Girl Scouts Troop No. 60599 and Daisy Troop No. 60011. City Clerk Gamiotea called the roll: Present Absent Absent Present Present Present Present Present Present Present Present Absent Proclaiming 2012 as "Year of the Girl," Mayor Kirk read the following proclamation in its entirety: "WHEREAS, March 12, 2012, marks the 100th anniversary of the Girl Scouts of the United States of America, which began in 1912 when Savannah, Georgia native Juliette "Daisy" Low gathered 18 girls to provide them the opportunity to develop physically, mentally and spiritually; and WHEREAS, the award winning Girl Scout Leadership Program helps girls discover themselves and their values, connect with others, and take action to make the world a better place; and the health, safety, and comfort of this community greatly depends on these facilities and services; and WHEREAS, this leadership model helps girls develop skills such as critical thinking, problem MARCH 6, 2012 - REGULAR MEETING - PAGE 2 OF 6 11 AGENDA 111 COUNCIL ACTION . DISCUSSION • VOTE 11 IV. PROCLAMATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS CONTINUED. A. Proclaim the year 2012 as the "Year of the Girl' continued, (Continued from page one) solving, cooperation and team building, conflict resolution, advocacy and other' important life skills; and, the quality and effectiveness of these facilities, as well as their planning, design, and construction, is vitally dependent upon the efforts and skill of public works officials; and WHEREAS, core programs around Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), environmental stewardship, healthy living, financial literacy, and global citizenship help girls develop a solid foundation in leadership; and WHEREAS, since its founding in 2000, the Girl Scout Research Institute has become an internationally' recognized center for original research, research reviews and surveys that provide significant insights into the lives of girls; and WHEREAS, through the dedication, time and talent of volunteers of different backgrounds, abilities, and areas of expertise, the Girl Scout Program is brought to over 100,000 girls in grades Kindergarten through 12th across the State of Florida; and WHEREAS, today, more than 50 million' American women are Girl Scout alumnae, 3.3 million girls and adult volunteers are active members, and Girl Scouts is the largest member of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts, a global movement comprised of more than 10 million girls in 145 countries worldwide. NOW THEREFORE, I James E. Kirk, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor of the City of Okeechobee, Florida, do hereby applaud the Girl Scouts of the United States of America for their 100 years of leadership and expertise as the voice for and of girls, and proudly proclaim 2012 as the "Year of the Girl. "The proclamation was presented to the Troop Members and their Troop Leader, Mrs. Laurie Pharr. Special recognition was offered to Girl Scouts Alumni members in attendance, Mrs. Betty Williamson, Mrs. Pat McCoy, and Mrs. Libby Maxwell. B. Present Terisa Garcia with Police Department Employee of the Year Mayor Kirk yielded the floor to Chief Davis to make the Police Department presentations. Ms. Terisa Garcia began her Award. career in 1985 as a Dispatcher, then in 1989 was promoted to Police Records Clerk, finally in 1996 she was promoted to an administrative secretary position, which she still holds today. She has 27 years of employment, giving her an incredible amount of knowledge that keeps the entire department running. She was presented with a plaque, "Administrative Employee of the Year, in appreciation for yourloyal dedication and the many years of service to the citizens of the City." C. Present John Zeigler with Police Department Employee of the Year Mr. John Paul "JP" Zeigler began his career with the department in 1989 as an Officer. He has worked in many Award. capacities over the years, and is now a Detective. During 2011 he was presented, on two separate occasions with critical situations, putting himself in harm's way to protect citizens. The first time he was not able to save the person from harming himself but kept him from harming others. The second situation, he was able to save a small child from walking into oncoming traffic on Highway 441 North. Mr. Zeigler is the first recipient to be presented with the "Chief's Award, in appreciation for your life saving action on November 15, 2011." 608 MARCH 6, 2012 - REGULAR MEETING - PAGE 3 OF 6 II AGENDA III COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE II IV. PROCLAMATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS CONTINUED. D. Present Ryan Holroyd with Police Department Employee of the Year Award. V. MINUTES - City Clerk. A. Motion to dispense with the reading and approve the Summary of Council Action for the February 21, 2012 Regular Meeting. VI. AGENDA - Mayor. A. Requests for the addition, deferral or withdrawal of items on today's agenda. VII. NEW BUSINESS. A. Motion to approve the Impact Fee Agreement with Okeechobee County and the School District of Okeechobee County - City Administrator (Exhibit 1). Mr. Ryan Holroyd began his career as a part-time Officer from February to June of 2008. After being offered a full-time position, he and his family made Okeechobee their hometown. He is a young officer with a lot of maturity and we are pleased to have him on the force. He was presented with a plaque, "Officer of the Year, in appreciation for your', loyal dedication and service for the year of 2011 to the citizens of Okeechobee." Council Member Williams moved to dispense with the reading and approve the Summary of Council Action for the February 21, 2012 Regular Meeting; seconded by Council Member Watford. There was no discussion on this item. KIRK. - YEA WATFORD - YEA MAXWELL - ABSENT O'CONNOR - ABSENT WILLIAMS - YEA MOTION CARRIED. Mayor Kirk asked whether there were any requests for the addition, deferral or withdrawal of items on today's agenda. There were none. Council Member Watford moved to approve the Amendment (to the Interlocal Agreement, dated May 8, 2007, between the City, County and School District regarding the collection of the Public Education Facilities Impact Fees) as presented; seconded by Council Member Williams. On October 11, 2011, the School Board adopted a resolution recommending the suspension and waiver of the imposition and collection of the Public Educational Facilities Impact Fee by the County through June 30, 2012. The amendment documents the School Boards action and officially notifies the City not to collect such fees. The amendment was adopted by the Board of County Commission on September 27, 2011, then by the School Board on December 13, 2011. The City was recently sent the original document to consider and execute. VOTE KIRK - YEA MAXWELL - ABSENT O'CONNOR - ABSENT WATFORD - YEA WILLIAMS - YEA MOTION CARRIED. MARCH 6 2012 - REGULAR MEETING - PAGE 4 OF 6 SO II AGENDA III COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE II VII. NEW BUSINESS CONTINUED. B. Motion to approve a lease agreement with the Chamber of At the February 21 meeting, the Council reviewed a proposed lease agreement for the Okeechobee County Chamber Commerce of Okeechobee County - City Attorney. of Commerce to lease the City's facility at 50 South Parrott Avenue. City Staff was instructed to have the building 11 inspected and bring the results back for further consideration. The electricity was connected for these inspections. On February 27 both Chief Smith and Building Official Schaub inspected the building. Official Schaub's findings were to remove all unused electrical wires by the air conditioner compressors, remove unused air handlers from the attic, label air conditioner disconnects; improvements to water heater needed; provide emergency lights; repair lighted exit sign; provide occupant load sign for conference room; restrooms signage and repairs needed; several roof tiles need replacing; inside entrance has a water stain on the left side of base indicating water may be entering from outside due to the parking lot grading, he suggested raising the grade to slope the water to the sidewalk and consider installing eve gutters to eliminate the problem; striped handicap parking and signage improvements needed. Chief Smith's report noted the following items need attention: fire extinguishers out of date, exit sign and emergency lighting not working, area in front of the electrical panel and water heater needs to be cleared; fire alarm system needs further inspection to decide whether it should be removed or brought up to code; occupant load signage added; combustibles stored properly and light truss placard added. The Chamber had Mr. Elbert Batton and Mr. Michael Hazellief inspect the building as well. These are their findings: a ceiling stain over the welcome center indicates a roof leak (middle area); air handlers and drain pans in bad shape; air handlers do not work; non connected older air handlers need to be removed from where they are being stored in the attic; carpet worn and in disrepair; the damage to roof (Northwest corner, West side and over entrances); water needs to be checked; further inspection of fire alarm system needs to be done; electrical wiring around air conditioning units exposed; ingress and egress issues evident; window facing police station held in place with masking tape; all electrical connections appear to be in order. Mr. Whitehall added that he obtained the services of Emory Walker Air Conditioning to conduct an inspection on the air-conditioning system. After finding some issues with blown fuses, they were able to operate the system without any problems. It was indicated they could remove the stored air handlers from the attic, replace the fuses and remove the unused electrical wiring around the units. The City's current lawn maintenance company was contacted, and offered to add the area to the current contract for $80.00 per month. The Chamber has indicated that they would take care of the landscaping, utilizing in -kind services but did not have the means of the lawn mowing at this time. Mr. Burroughs is investigating whether the Chamber could utilize the Police Department's solid waste collection dumpster. MARCH 6, 2012 - REGULAR MEETING - PAGE 5 of 6 I( AGENDA III COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE II VII. NEW BUSINESS CONTINUED. B. Motion to approve a lease agreement with the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County continued. Mr. Terry Burroughs, Vice president of the Chamber addressed the Council by offering that the Chamber pay half the City's liability insurance premium (estimated at $1,700.00 per year), carry renter's insurance, have the landscaping cleaned out and replaced as well as have the missing roof tiles replaced. The stain on the ceiling indicates a leak in the middle of the roof. However, the inspections could not confirm whether it is still leaking. There will be a lot of cleaning and interior work to complete. In response to several questions, Mr. Burroughs stated that once the lease was approved, the Chamber should be able to be in operation within a month or two. The utilities will be in the Chamber's name. The past due Okeechobee Utility Authority bill of $272.33 still has to be cleared -up. The paperwork put in plastic bags by the IRS, when they seized and auctioned the office furniture, has to be reviewed. Normal office hours have not been determined to date, but it is expected to be operated and offer information to the public as any Chamber facility does. The concept being discussed is to have a staff person operate the facility and answer the phones from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 or 3:00 p.m. Once an Executive Director is hired, office hours may be extended or changed, depending on staffing. The discussion turned to utilizing in -kind services of the Chamber membership to get the office in operation and that the City could offer services such as pressure cleaning the roof and outside of the building. The City would also consider adding to the annual asphalt paving program, to re -pave and stripe the parking lot, in this year or next years plan. The facility is in a valuable location and the City is offering modest costs for its use. However, they recognize the Chamber is still in its infancy with limited resources. The responsibility of major repairs or the sharing of those potential costs was discussed. While the Council agreed to the 50-50 sharing of major repair costs exceeding $500.00, they agreed the City should set a time limit for one year. Any major repairs needed after that time frame would be borne by the Chamber. Sponsoring annual community festivals and events was the next area of discussion. The previous Chamber hosted/ coordinated the various festivals/events, which were addressed in their lease and how they obtained a "blanket approval" for the use of the parks. However, the new Chamber's mission is geared more to assisting current and potential businesses throughout the City and County and tourism. Due to the closure of the previous Chamber a few years ago, Okeechobee Main Street (OKMS) stepped up and began sponsoring the festivals/events, and continues to do so. In an effort to address the Council's concern with making sure the festivals/events continue, should OKMS become disillusioned with their sponsorship, Mr. Burroughs offered that the Chamber would consider taking them on. MARCH 6, 20"12 - REGULAR MEETING - PAGE 6 OF 6 II AGENDA III COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE II VI1. NEW BUSINESS CONTINUED. B. Motion to approve a lease agreement with the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County continued. C. Discuss City Attorney Cook's Annual Evaluation. D. Discuss City Administrator Whitehall's Annual Evaluation VIN. ADJOURN MEETING - Mayor. Please take notice and be advised that when a person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Council with respect to any matter considered at this meeting, he/she may need to insure that a verbatim record of the proceeding is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. City Clerk media are for the sole purpose of backu official records of the Clerk. t sr ATTEST: �r ames E. Kirk, Mayor Lane Gamiotea, CMC, City Clerk The Chamber Board of Directors may not fully understand or appreciate the City's stance on certain areas of the lease, and the purpose for being specific in addressing the operation of the Chamber within the City's facilities. The City has learned some valuable lessons in their relationship with the previous Chamber. Should this Chamber fail to operate in the capacity as the public demands, the City will be the one once again, that takes the brunt of the fall out. Performance is part of the entire package. In conclusion, a revised lease, containing the items addressed tonight will be forwarded to Mr. Burroughs by the end of the week in order to give him sufficient time to distribute to the Chamber Board Members, for review and consider approving at their next meeting, March 15. Either the proposed lease, approved by the Board, or further commentary from the Board will be presented at the next Council meeting. Due to the entire Council not being present and all the evaluations not collected, it was decided to defer Attorney Cook's annual employment evaluation until the next meeting. Due to the entire Council not being present and all the evaluations not collected, it was decided to defer Administrator Whitehall's annual employment evaluation until the next meeting. There being no further discussion nor items on the agenda, Mayor Kirk adjourned the Regular Meeting at 7:01 p.m. The next regular scheduled meeting is March 20, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. CITY OF OKEECHOBEE MARCH 6, 2012 REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OFFICIAL AGENDA PAGE 1 OF 2 • I. CALL TO ORDER- MAYOR: March 6, 2012, City Council Regular Meeting, 6:00 p.m. II. OPENING CEREMONIES: Invocation. n. �wae Pledge of Allegiance led by the Girl Scouts. III. MAYOR, COUNCIL MEMBERS, AND STAFF ATTENDANCE - City Clerk. Mayor James E. Kirk v"' Council Member Devin Maxwell Council Member Mike O'Connor a`'4 Council Member Dowling R. Watford, Jr. Council Member Clayton Williams City Administrator Brian Whitehall City Attorney John R. Cook City Clerk Lane Gamiotea Deputy Clerk Melisa Jahner Police Chief Denny Davis Fire Chief Herb Smith ,/ Public Works Director Donnie Robertson`' IV. PRESENTATIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS - Mayor and Chief Davis. A. Proclaim the year 2012 as the "Year of the Girl." ./ ,yp q- i & 0 0 B. Present Terisa Garcia with Police Department Employee of the Year Award. C. Present John Zeigler with Police Department Employee of the Year Award. D. Present Ryan Holroyd with Police Department Employee of the Year Award. March 6, 2012 PAGE 2 of 2 V. MINUTES - City Clerk. A. Motion to dispense with the reading and approve the Summary of Council Action for the February 21, 2012 Regular Meeting. VI. AGENDA - Mayor. is A. Requests for the addition, deferral or withdrawal of items on today's agenda. �Zp VII. NEW BUSINESS. A. Motion to approve the ImMatFee Agr ement with Okeechobee County and the School District of Okeech bee County - City Administrator (Exhibit 1). B. Mof n to approve a lease agree ent wit the Chamber of Commerce 9f Okeechobee County City Attorney. AcoLJ C. Discuss C�ty Attorney Cook'q Annual Evaluation. - 2zr /6 D. Discuss City Administrator Whitehall's Annual Evaluation.�� VIII. ADJOURN MEETING. %: D/ ; '01 JAAA� PLEASE TAKE NOTICE AND BE ADVISED that if any person desires to appeal any decision made by the City Council with respect to any matter considered at this proceeding, such interested person will need a record of the proceedings, and forsuch purpose may need to ensure a verbatim record of the proceedings, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. City Clerk media is for the sole purpose of backup for official records of the Clerk. • • & - oj�, -k W ,,� u Lam, i co, N4'-D NDF.EPENDE NEWSPAPERS M OKEECHOBEE NEWS J STATE OF FLORIDA COUNTY OF OKEECHOBEE 107 S.W. 17th Street, Suite D, Okeechobee, FL 34974 Before the undersigned authority personally appeared Tom Byrd, who on oath says he is Publisher of the Okeechobee News, a three times a week Newspaper published at Okeechobee, in Okeechobee County, Florida, that the attached copy of advertisement being a in the matter of in the 19th Judicial District of. the Circuit Court of Okeechobee County, Florida, was published in said newspaper in the iss es of Affiant further says that the said Okeechobee News is a newspaper published at Okeechobee, in said Okeechobee County, Florida, and that said newspaper has heretofore been published continuously in said Okeechobee County, Florida each week and has been entered as second class mail matter at the post office in Okeechobee, in said Okeechobee County, Florida, for a period of one year next preceding the first publication of the attached copy of advertisement, and affiant fur- ther says that she has neither paid nor promised any person, firm or corporation any discount, rebate, com- mission or refund for the purpose of securing this advertisem�Wfbr publication in the said newspaper. ' Tom. Sworn to and subscribed before me this day of l,_._.__....�:G'!�-- AD Notary Public, State of Florida at Large NOTARY PUBLIC -STATE OF FtWD. Angie Bridges 1 Commission#DD779718 r,; Expires: APR. 20, 2012 AONDBD THRU An ANTIC 8ONDM CO., INC. (863) 763-3134 w Office of the Mayor p: Okeechobee, Florida v r, EREAS, March 12, 2012, marks the loo`h anniversary of the Girl Scouts of the United Stated ofA which began in 1912 when Savannah, Georgia native Juliette `Daisy"Low gathered M girls to pro ,- them the opportunity to develop physically, mentally and spiritually; and �WREREAS, the award winning Girl Scout Leadership Program helps girls discover themselves and their ,. values, connect with others, and take action to make the world a better place; and the health, safety, and comfort of this community greatly depends on these facilities and services; and WHEREAS, this leadership model helps girls develop skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, cooperation and team building, conflict resolution, advocacy and other important life skills; and, the quality and effectiveness of these facilities, as well as their planning, design, and construction, is vitally dependent upon the efforts and skill of public works officials; and WHEREAS, core programs around Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), environmental y" stewardship, healthy living, financial literacy, and global citizenship help girls develop a solid foundation in leadership; and WHEREAS, since its founding in 2000, the Girl Scout Research Institute has become an internationally recognized centerfor original research, research reviews and surveys thatprovide significant insights into the lives ofgirls; and WHEREAS, through the dedication, time and talent ofvolunteers ofdifferent backgrounds, abilities, and areas of expertise, the Girl Scout Program is brought to over loo,000 girls in grades Kindergarten through 12`h across the State of Florida; and WHEREAS, today, more than 50 millionAmerican women are Girl Scout alumnae, 3.3 million girls and adult volunteers are active members, and Girl Scouts is the largest member of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts, a global movement comprised of more than to million girls in 145 countries worldwide. NOW THEREFORE, I James E. Kirk, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor of the City of Okeechobee, Florida, do hereby applaud the Girl Scouts of the United States ofAmerica for their loo years of leadership an ertise as the voice or and o rd �►, f ofgirls, and proudly proclaim 2012 as the "Year of the Girl." `{ In witness whereof lhave hereunto set my hand and: caused this seal to be affrlxe t i day of Marc 2012 Kirk, Attest - Lane am otes,"I _ Y �'j • CITY OF OKEECHOBEE (863) 763-3372 FAX (863)763-1686 AGENDA ITEM REQUEST FORM PLEASE SUBMIT COMPLETED FORM TO: CITY ADMINISTRATORS OFFICE 55 SE 311D AVENUE OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA 34974 NAME: _"t t G '?1i G.r r ADDRESS: < OjCee TELEPHONE:p�aFAX: /O(r�5"4 MEETING: REGULAR SPECIAL ❑ WORKSHOP DATE: _ f1 4ic r,4 PLEAS E STATE TIJE IUM YOU WI5H�TO HAVE PL4CED ON THE ITY COU�I`IL AGENDA,: -5� u Nf i�N«/_ koe,/QAl�'_ldA) PiAl rr/ _JCLl C DIZ PLEASE STATE WHAT DEPARTMENT(S) YOU HAVE WORKED WITH: PLEASE STATE DESIRED ACTION BY THE CITY COUNCIL: PLEASE SUMMARIZE PERTINENT INFORMATION CONCERNING YOUR REQUEST AND ATTACH APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS: IF A PRESENTATION IS TO BE MADE, PLEASE LIMIT THE TIME TO TEN M INUTES UNLESS OTHERWISE APPROVED BY THE MAYOR. SIGNED BY: ll /�✓L�2 DATE: 2012-02-14 13:16 Giff Acctg 1 >> 863 462 5040 P 2/2 i State off orida Girl Scouts Cent�nial Proclamation A Proclamation Deela g 2012 as the Year of the Girl and Celebrating 1 0 years of Girl Scouting WHEREAS, March 12, 2012, marks the 100"' anniversary of the Girl Scouts of the United States of America, which began in 1912 when Savannah, GA native Juliette "Daisy" Gordon Low gathered 18 girls to provide them the opportunity to develop physically, mentally, and spiritually; and, WHEREAS, for 100 years, Girl Scouting has helped build millions of girls and women of courage, confidence, and character who act to make the world a better place; and, WHEREAS, the award winning Girl Scout Leadership Program helps girls discover themselves and their values, connect with others, and take action to make the world a better place; and, WHEREAS, this leadership model helps girls develop skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, cooperation and team building, conflict resolution, advocacy, and other important life skills; and, WHEREAS, core programs around Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), environmental stewardship, healthy living, financial literacy, and global citizenship help girls develop a solid foundation in leadership; and, WHEREAS, since its founding in 2000, the Girl Scout Research Institute has become an internationally recognized center for original research, research reviews and surveys that provide significant insights into the lives of girls; and, WHEREAS, through the dedication, time, and talent of volunteers of dit%rent backgrounds, abilities, and areas of expertise, the Girl Scout Program is brought to over 100,000 girls in grades K--ff across ' the state of Florida; and,,�r WHEREAS, today, more than 50 million American women are Girl Scout alumnae, 3.3 million girls and adult volunteers are active members, and Girl Scouts is the largest member of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts, a global movement comprised of more than 10 million girls in 145 countries worldwide; and, "o rr NOW, THEREFORE, 11Geverner-Rkk&oU, by virtue of the authority vested in me as G0V6rfW of Florida do hereby applaud the Girl Scouts of the United States of America for their 100 years of leadership and expertise as the voice for and of girls, and proudly proclaim 2012 as the "Year of the Girl." '3 � - X ra M L�� _(6 4 Okeechobee News OPINION dealing with stray dogs or coyotes. 1 have S a dLup for the flag seen my donkey take on a pack of dogs and run them all out of the pasture. A few well • The more our young people disrespect our flag and our country the easier it will be placed kicks and they are outta there. The thing is that donkeys have the instinct to for the enemy to take over. I honestly believe fight, where horses have the instinct to run the young people have been dumbed down on purpose for that very cause. If it contin away. Mules are also good for this and they are usually much bigger than donkeys. The ues and the do not wake u then someday y p> coyote problem is not going to go away. Coy- they will wake up not under the USA (United otes are well adapted to living near people. States of America) flag but under the USSA are smart and difficult to trap. (United Socialist States of America) flag and IRS the sad part will be that they will already be used to it so it won't seem like a big deal. I The parents and students of Okeechobee High School are proud to know that present- ly there are new coaches at the school. We welcome them with open arms, but we are hoping and praying that these coaches work sincerely and diligently in procuring scholar- ships (athletic) for these hard-working ath- letes, so when they graduate they can attend colleges/universities. Public Works Kudos for the Public Works Dept. and all others involved in doing a good job of cleaning up the area around l2th Street and 9th Street. The area surely looks and is bet- ter. However, there are numerous stray cats left around that should be rounded up and Ifr oved from the area. Once the buildings e down, the cats become homeless the present condition. Thanks for making the appearance of the area better. To Reach US Address: 107 S W 17th Street, Suite D Okeechobee, FL 34974 WehSite: www.newszap.com To Submit News The Okeechobee News welcomes submissions from its readers. Opinions, calendar items, stories ideas and photographs are welcome. Call (863) 763.3134 to reach our newsroom. Items may be mailed, faxed or e-mailed. E-Mall: okeenews@newszap.com To Place A Display Ad Phone: 863-763-3134 E-Mall: okeeadsales@newszap com am scared to death for my country! • It's in the schools as well. I've seen it at the football games. Kids are too busy tex- ting and running around to respect the flag. I've also heard with my own ears some of our folks from across the border say they are Mexican so it is not their flag. My question is: Where do you live now? if you are going to live here, then respect our flag. • If you look at the Okeechobee News parade pics on facebook, the people sitting down as the flag goes by appear to be young people, so they aren't likely Canadian —most of the Canadians are retirees. And they are not Hispanic. Right across the street from them is a group of folks standing respect- fully, the men have removed their hats and have their hands over their hearts. And right next to that group are more people just sit- ting there. They didn't take the hint when the people right next to them stood. To Place A Classified Ad Call 877-353-2424 to place a classified advertise- ment from home. FWL 877-354-2424 E-Mail: classads@newszap.com Billing Department E-Mail: billteam@newszap.com To Start or Stop A Paper Phone: (800)282-8586 E-mail: readerservices@newszap.com The Okeechobee News is available three times a week via home delivery and is on sale at rack and store locations throughout Okeechobee County. Call the office to find out if your home is within our pres- ent home -distribution boundaries. Call 800-282-8586 to report a missed newspaper or Door delivery. 'm Aft ," M Additional copies of the newspaper are available for 50 cents Wednesday and Friday and 75 cents for Sunday at the office. Home delivery subscriptions are available at $18.00 for three months. Okeechobee News USPS 406-160 Published 3 times a week: Sunday, Wednesday and Friday by Independent Newspapers, Inc. 107 S W.17th Street, Suite D • Okeechobee, FL 34974 Periodicals Postage Paid at Okeechobee, FL 34974 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Okeechobee News Circulation Administration PO Box 7011 • Dover, DE 19903 Staff Editor: Katrina Elsken Circulation Manager: Janet Madray Publisher: Tom Byrd Our Purpose.. The Okeechobee News is published by Independent Newspapers of Florida. Independent is owned by a unique trust that enables this newspaper to pursue a mission of journalistic service to the citizens of the community. Since no dividends are paid, the company is able to thrive on profit margins below industry stan- dards. All after-tax surpluses are reinvested in Independent's mission of journalistic service, commitment to the ideals of the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, and support of the community's deliberation of public issues. We Pledge - To operate this newspaper as a public trust To help our community become a better place to live and work, through our dedication to conscientious journalism. To provide the information citizens need to make their own intelligent decisions about public issues. Wednesday, March 21, 2012 To report the news with honesty, accuracy, purposeful neutrality, fairness, objectivity, fearlessness and compassion. To use our opinion pages to facilitate community debate, not to dominate it with our own opinions. To disclose our own conflicts of interest or potential conflicts to our readers. To correct our errors and to give each correction the prominence it deserves. To provide a right to reply to those we write about. To treat people with courtesy, respect and compassion. MEMBER OF: tiK1 2 Okeechobee News UKeecnooee rvewslroLa va " Chief's Award City of Okeechobee Police Chief Denny Davis, left, presented Detective J. P. Zeigler, right, with the Chief's Award during the Tuesday, March 6, meeting of the Okeechobee City Council. The Chief's Award is presented by the Chief of Police for "life saving action." Chief Davis mentioned two events in the detec- tive's exemplary career. The first was Detective Zeigler's prompt and quick thinking action in a suicide situation which could have resulted in harm to the crowd in a waiting room. In the second instance the detective was driving along a busy highway in his private car. He saw a mother with several chil- dren on the side of the road. One small child broke away and ran toward the traffic. Detective Ziegler stopped his car, jumped out and dived for the child, rescuing it from the traffic but injuring his knees in the process. Okeechobee Forecast Brought to you by: L IT "OurFocus Is To Make, You Comfortable" www.QuaiityACokee.com 467,1545 Today: Mostly sunny, with a high near 85. East wind between 5 and 15 VP W mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Tonight: Mostly clear, with a low around 59. East wind between 5 and 10 mph. Roofing with the name you trust! Roo ING REIRS Residential �,'P Commercial Extended Forecast Monday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 85. East wind between 5 and 15 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Monday night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 61. East wind between 5 and 10 mph. Tuesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 84. Windy, with a east wind 5 to 10 mph in- creasing to between 15 and 20 mph. Winds could gust as high as 25 mph. Tuesday night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 63. East wind between 5 and 10 mph. Meftife' DO 1 M BET N01 Study by Cambridge Univer; Until recently, there was no practical way to identify dead regions of hearing cells in the ear. However, a new British developed procedure using standard test equipment now allows for identification of dead hearing cell regions. The study suggests that the presence or absence of dead j regions may have serious implications in the fitting of hearing a This research reveals that amplifyi poorer speech understanding in noise. cuit is now being released from Audit gy - that can be,programmed to bypas hearing cells receive amplification, th We are able to achieve maximum new hearing aid. The results have bee shell sizes, including the smallest d Centers nearest you for a no-obligatic "I've Got Good News!' Nearing Cot FREE Demon,, Appointments ar Imagine a hearing aid that this bre automatically adapts to gy from your surroundings and world's reflects your specific manufa lifestyle. Imagine a hearing the first aid that is so pleasant to develol wear that it gives a new most in meaning to the phrase "cus- only do tomer satisfaction." Well, vidual 1 imagine no more - With the wa, r--------------- BATTERIE BUY 1 Get 1 FREE 1 AUDIB iExpires 4/2/2012 RE�I GQIR C L--------------- Paul 3545 Highw (Publix Sho ' w&-�_c� LkHIBIT 1 MAR 6, 2012 AMENDMENT TO INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE, AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA THIS AMENDMENT TO INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT, made and entered into this day of , 2011, by and between the OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, a political subdivision of the State of Florida, by and through its Board of County Commissioners, hereinafter referred to as "County," the CITY OF OKEECHOBEE, a Florida municipal corporation, hereinafter referred to as "City" and the SCHOOL DISTRICT OF OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA, hereinafter referred to as "School Board." WITNESSETH: WHEREAS, the County, City, and School Board previously entered into that certain Interlocal Agreement dated March 8, 2007 to address the procedural aspects of the collection, imposition and remittance of impact fees as authorized by each jurisdiction; and WHEREAS, the School Board on October 11, 2011 adopted a Resolution recommending the suspension and waiver of the imposition and collection of the Public Educational Facilities Impact Fee by the County through June 30, 2012 and yearly thereafter thereby necessitating an amendment to said Interlocal Agreement. NOW, THEREFORE, for and inconsideration of the premises and mutual agreements hereinafter contained herein and other good, valuable consideration, the County, the City, and the School Board hereby agree that said Interlocal Agreement is amended to the extent as follows: The City and the County shall suspend imposition, collection and forwarding to the School Board as soon as each may lawfully do so given their existing ordinances dealing with the imposition and collection of Public Educational Facilities Impact Fees. 2. Any such Public Educational Facilities Impact Fees collected pending amendment or repeal, as necessary, of such ordinances mandating their collection, shall be remitted to the School Board as provided in said ordinances or theInterlocal Agreement, to be retained or refunded as the School Board may determine, provided however, any retention and later expenditure shall be in accordance with such ordinances as were in effect on the date of the collection of such fees. [7103-89835.WPD) 3. The City and the County shall each, if necessary, initiate the legislative process, to amend or repeal such ordinances that may require the imposition and collection of Public Educational Facilities Impact Fees, however, nothing in this Agreement shall be deemed to be an agreement or obligation to amend or repeal such ordinances. ATTES SHARON ROBERTSON, Clerk ATTEST: By LANE GAMIOTEA, City Clerk ATTEST: By KEN KENWORTHY, Superintendent and Secretary to the Board [7103-89835MPD1 OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA By a'�XA4'4 C.tAR 4z:�� MARGARE GARRARD HELTON, CHAIR BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Date: 1 c2% c� 0/ l CITY OF OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA laz JAMES E. KIRK, Mayor Date. SCHOOL DISTRICT OF OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA By KE Y OWENS, Chair Date: 12/13/2011 ►A Chamber of Commerce Lease discussion w/ T Burroughs (3/5/12) This is some of the issues we discussed. Roof - Public Wks can pressure wash Public Wks can replace tile, but prob not as effective as a roofer Chamber was checking w/ a roofer Window issue - Needs fixed on east side of bldg Lawn Maint- City cost is $960/yr ($80/mo) added to our existing lawn maint contract Chamber can take care of landscaping, plan to remove a cpl of cabbage palms Parking lot & striping - City will add lot to annual asphalt program this or next program and stripe thereafter Inspection issues- E. Walker got both A/C running and will remove the two old abandon air handlers in the attic for free. Fire — will review the fire alarm system for working order, need fire exting reinspected, occupant load posted, Exit sign lighted.. investigate emergency lighting Bldg official -see list incl handicapped restroom issues, water heater relief vavle Utilities - Chamber pay elec, water & sewer, phone, renter's (content) insurance City pay property insurance (est at $1700/yr), perhaps the Chamber could split that cost (50/50) w/ the City Garbage — I believe it's the City's and the chamber can use, but Terry B. was investigating Major Capital expenditures — The chamber is worried about unexpected major expense and it was proposed (certainly subject to discussion) that the City consider a 50/50 split of unexpected costs exceeding $500 • i The Updates! Ffrom the City Administrator's Desk SS SE 3rd Av., Okeechobee, FL 34974 City Council meetin,a of March 6, 2012 • Impact fee Agreement amendment (housekeeping) — on the Agenda is an amendment to the Impact fee Interlocal Agreement that was never executed in connection w/ the School Board impact fee suspension. • Girl Scouts on the Agenda, opening meeting w/ a ceremony and proclamation designating 2012 as 100th anniversary and week of Mar 12 as Girl Scout week. • Chamber of Commerce Lease — on Agenda *Given lease to Atty Cook to rework *Terry, Elbert Batton & Michael Hazellief inspected the bldg 2124 and attached is their observations. *Chief Smith, Bldg Off Schaub, and I inspected the bldg on 2/27 and their reports are attached. *Emory Walker inspected 2/29 and after finding some issues got the air conditioners working. Indicated they could remove old air handlers to recycle, replaced a fuse, and removed unused elec wiring around A/C units. • CDBG for housing repair grant — Expect a prebid meeting w/ potential contractors on March 91h and receive bids on April 6th for at least 2 houses. • Applebee's project — Applebee's expects to be open by March 19, the C/O was issued on 2/29/12. • Proposed park at SE 6th Av and SE 7th Street - Original Committee recommendations to the City Council incl: 1. Bathrooms and water fountains be added to the site plan; 2. Step terracing vs. riprap along the water bank, 3. Low impact lighting (strategically placed) added to the site plan; 4. Perimeter, playground and step terrace fencing be added, 5. Benches with shade 6. Recognition sign within park, incl rules/regs City Council consensus at 2/21 /12 meeting: 1. Playground area incl one additional chickee 2. Fence only around the playg'd area 3. At shore line, no terracing, no fencing, sloping 4. Restrooms investigation continues 5. Administratively — devel new costs est, construction flow chart/timeline, project maintenance estimates, City PWks capabilities, solicit donations publicly 6. Concur w/ recognition and rules/regs signage, residential night lighting Legislative report — from Dale Milita dated 2/25/12 is attached. CSX depot — there's been some recent discussion about the depot disposition and will keep you posted Page 1 • • 3161112 Activity Rpt Cont d — • Ron Main 101 NE 8th Av., complaints from prior meetings — I sent the following 2/23/12 email to you: My point in expounding on the Code and Police Dept's responses to the Mains' complaints was not to defend our action or to re-engage Mrs. Main but rather to reinforce the fact that the City can fine tune the Code, but it will not improve the City's enforcement process. After Mrs. Main's rebuttal I didn't get a chance to express that, in my opinion, the code is probably fine and I tho't (along w/ the Mains) that the City did an adequate job in trying to resolve the matter. Making the Code more complex might generate addition finger pointing but I don't think it will resolve noise complaints any more efficiently. I wanted to resolve the matter once and for all ... but that didn't happen. Unfortunately, the suggestions that the Mains made are inadequately defined. Changing `continuous period of ten minutes or more to repetitive un-natural noise (music and/or voices) that are (sic) verified by a police officer' may, of course, be the perfect solution for them but places the City in a terrible compliance enforcement position. If I represented Hammerheads I think I would scream, "unconstitutional". Besides, I'm sure that latitude would come back to haunt the City with those crying that we are not upholding the Code. So, as I referred to in the meeting, Chief Davis supplied a copy of a Martin Co Noise ordinance. Therein they have a `correction for intermittency' whereby they describe the `character of sound' (such as `source operates continuously one(1) minute or less in any hour) and they allow for a higher decibel (in that example +15 decibels over the 10 minutes restriction). The ordinance goes on to list a series of exceptions. If the Council wishes for us to pursue the matter (perfecting a new ordinance) we can, otherwise I can explain the predicament to the Mains. City Attorney: • Carter Pritchett Advertising v. City billboard issue — Atty Bob Shearman conveyed that some progress has been made on negotiation... perhaps agreement on the 15 yr teardown requirement ... will deliver news when I have it. There was an agreement to extend a 30 day window for them to bring litigation or face statute of limitation requirements as provided for in the Trolling Agreement. • Florida Public Utilities Franchise — fOrd #1081 2"d Rdg was rejected at the 1/17112 mtg pending additional information) We've continued analyzing other natural gas franchise agreements including soliciting info from existing FPU customers. City Clerk: • Procedure in the event of an election tie —Recall that the Council's request was to investigate minimizing the number of days to hold a subsequent run-off Special Election. Page 2 • 316112 Activity Rpt Cont'd — Fire Dept & Code Enforcement: • Nuisance properties in Dean's Ct — In June 2011 the City passed a Resolution advocating a County DREF (Disaster Recovery Enhancement Fund) grant for funding demolition of dilapidated properties. In Sep 2011, the county confirmed 6 City properties were scheduled for demo but we continue to wait on DEO to execute the approved project documents. The City has been assured that while we have demolished a couple of the properties on the orig application, we can later substitute and CE Sterling has submitted additional dilapidated houses for consideration. Police: • SLERS radio - At least to date the City has rec'd no invoicing... that's the good news. The rest of the story is that the bugs are still being worked out including a cpl of concerning statewide outages. Investigation continues on the fire dept paging capabilities. We're exploring a few options incl OUA's `one-call'system which works like a `reverse 911' and can page out specific cell or landline numbers all at once ... in much the same way that OUA notifies customers of a water main break. Public Works/Engineering: • 441 & SR 70 intersection improvement - As reported at the last meeting Councilman Maxwell, Whitehall, Robertson and an FDOT entourage met on 2/17/12 to discuss the project and how it can be tailored to fit a 'Main Street' and beautification theme. We learned that the timeline- Phase 1 60% (Jan 2012), Phase II (Jul 25) 90%, Phase 4 - Nov, Final 12/20/12, Utility clearances, development of bids and budget timing move the tentative bid letting to 12/4/13. I've enclosed in the packet the newest project diagram. We are formalizing our concerns and wish list and have incorporated Bill Brisson in the dialog to assist Comp Plan compliance, albeit the State often believes they have ultimate jurisdiction. • Flagler park bench / Eagle Scout project - Colton Brown has made considerable progress. • City Engineer — continue working on a new, more diverse job description. • SW 21 Storm sewer project funding —The County has been given tentative State grant approval and as soon as formal grant -use confirmation is reed they plan on moving to the bid stage. • Asphalt project — Staff met this week to fine tune the project. The project has grown a bit more than I like, therefore I we are preparing priority -based spreadsheet that we can readily modify based on project bid or your influence. Continuing to work on same. • 200 blk of SW 11"' Street dry retention area — As part of a County 2008 hurricane disaster mitigation CDBG, at an estimated $20, 000, the project calls for essentially excavating the R-O-W and replaced with a dry retention area. While close to bidding apparently there's some housekeeping issues incl SFWMD permitting and a CSX issue at another location using the same grant. • Sidewalk program 2012 — We have begun developing next year's project. If you have input on the matter pls advise. Page 3 Brian Whitehall From: Terry Burroughs [twbfla@embargmail.coml Sent: Sunday, February 26, 2012 2:30 PM To: 'Brian Whitehall' Cc: bblazak@ct-eng.com; Joshua Mixon; mhazellief@gmail.com; Mike@chcpa.com; pelican688 @yahoo.com; robert.lee@hcaheaithcare.com; tonischicboutique@centuryiink.net Subject: Chamber building inspection Brian, Elbert Batton, Michael Hazellief and I conduct an inspection of the chamber building on Friday. The following is a list of items we found to be problematic. l have denoted all problems that were evident. The intent of this email to identify all problems not who is going to fix the problem. Electrical power was on in building at time of inspection. 1. Previous internal roof leak over welcome center portion of roof ( middle of roof) 2. Air handlers & drain pans in very bad shape. Air handlers do not work 3. Current air handlers had been replaced at some period of time by cutting hole in ceiling, however, old air handlers are still in attic discarded in between the rafters 4. Carpet worn and in disrepair 5. Tile damage on the following sections of the roof a. NW corner of roof b. West side of roof c. Over door entrances 6. Water needs to be checked 7. Fire alarms system requires checking out 8. Electrical wires around air conditioning units exposed 9. Ingress and egress issues evident 10. Window facing police station held in place with masking tape All electrical connections appear to be in order. We could not get to some, but for the most part they seem to be in good working order. I will be out of pocket for most of tomorrow with my mother's funeral arrangements and service. I will touch base with you on Tuesday T-e,r-ry $L!A Yf7ta pre4t.L&ylt $if�tYlf'✓ 3 Eh�f' C17Y Yi i �LiYG�U�©ke'e�c�iC Y.vay cha4 siiex of ca ce of ©kee,( u- vCou qty 863 -697 -6325 1 C7 • February 28, 2012 LOCATION: Chamber Building 55 S. Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 Findings: CITY OF OKEECHOBEE BUILDING DEPARTMENT 55 SE THIRD A VENUE OKEECHOBEE, FL 34974 Tele: 863-763-3372 Fax: 863-763-1686 rshaub@ci0 o1bkeechobee. coin INSPECTION REPORT 1) Remove all unused electrical wires by A/C compressors. 2) Label A/C disconnects. 3) Stripe a 5' strip by handicap parking and elevate WC sign to a minimum of 84" above grade. 4) Roof tiles on hips at entrance are missing. There doesn't appear to be any water staining at ceiling indicating roof leaks. 5) Inside entrance, water staining on left side of base indicating a possibility water seeping in from outside. Rain water being held in that location because of grading. Fix solution, dig out dirt from foundation, seal with approved sealant and fill in with dirt and raise grade to slope water to sidewalk. You my also want to consider eve gutters. 6) Rest rooms require H/C signage placed 60" to center by the latch side of doors, lever door hardware, hand towels a maximum 48" reach height and doors need a minimum of 18" clearance on the pull side of doors. 7) Provide emergency lighting. Exit sign needs light bulbs. 8) Provide occupant load of conference room. 9) Water heater needs a pressure relief valve down pipe to a minimum 6" above floor. 10) Remove unused air handler from attic. Insulation appears to be about a R4, a minimum of RI I is required. Ray Schaub, CBO CITY OF OKEECH OBEE FIRREPARTMENT INSPECTION SORT Occupancy Name: Occupancy Location: Annual Periodic Complaintf j�F other The items circled below need your attention: MEANS OF EGRESS / EXITS Exit obstructed Aisles blocked ` 6" Exit '$ig Battery back-up working Emergency Lighting workin Panic Hardware working Proper locks present Fire doors closing properly Egress stairs unblocked and no storage of combustibles EL -V kT a4+S --"' u Current Certificate and Date: I\j 18 Elevator keys accessible Fire extinguisher present in hydraulic room FIRE EXTINGUISHERS Current tag / Date: t'J:, `I Mounted to code Correct number and ratings (2A:10B:C) min. 1DELECTRICAL I KNOX BOX Open slots in panel Open / Bad wiring Breakers marked properly Extension cords for permanent wiring Clearance in front of panel Current keys in Knox box SEPARATION Proper occupancy separation Ceiling tiles Penetrations sealed properly SPRiiNXrER` ! STANDPIPES Current Tag ! Date: N/--A Access to hydrants, FDC's, Standpipes, and Risers Valves open / secured Sprinkler heads 18" clearance and no paint FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS Current Tag/Date: 4 Z ,120,-J ram..-.-': Panel normal'�> Devices in good condition j KITCHEN / COOKING Current Tag ! Date: Grease Grease accumulation Appliances properly covered "K" Class Fire Extinguisher present with current tag STORAGE / MISC. Combustibles stored proper Excessive storage Gas cylinders secured Occupant load `; Address numbers 6" fight truss placard / posted - \ J Inspection dates: Date passed �} NOTE: hi-i b)fRKty'l ��,r� t>< l`' t1�3� �i� �o �7•�Y Print Name Sign Fire Inspector_, OKEECHOBEE FIRE DEPARTMENT 55 SE 3rd AVENUE OKEECHOBEE, FL 34972 (863) 467-1586 FAX (863) 7634489 FORM.OSS-FDIR NOTICE TO COMPLY Florida Statute, Section 633.027 requires the owner of any commercial, industrial or multiunit residential structure of three units or more constructed of light -frame trusses, to install a symbol adopted by rule of the State Fire Marshal's Office. This rule establishes the dimensions, color, and location of the symbol to be applied to these structures. Where the owner of the structure and the authority having jurisdiction(Fire Marshal) disagree as to the use of light -frame truss -type construction within the structure, the owner shall be granted not more than 30 days to provide written verification from a licensed engineer or licensed architect; otherwise, the owner shall comply with the rule. Floor Construction Roof Construction Both Roof and Floor Construction Symbols must be all weather and contrasting with background Maltese Cross shall measure 8 inches horizontally and 8 inches vertically Maltese Cross shall be bright red reflective color Maltese Cross shall be within 24 inches to the left of the main entry Maltese Cross shall be not less than 4 feet above grade, walking surface, finished floor Maltese Cross shall be not more than 6 feet above grade, walking surface, finished floor Additional signs to be installed as determined by the Authority having Jurisdiction The complete rule is available on the State Fire Marshals web site Brian Whitehall From: M. Dale Milita [dmilitagovser@gmail.com] Sent: Saturday, February 25, 2012 11:32 AM To: lex.albritton; rchartier; rlevy@townofpembrokepark.com; twilde@townofpembrokepark.com; bwhitehall@cityofokeechobee.com; wtaylor; guymaxcy; mbrantley@moorehaven.net Cc: Connie Vanassche Subject: 2012 Legislative Session - FYI - (while there is nothing etched in stone the following scenario seems likely) IN FINAL TWO WEEKS OF THE 2012 LEGISLATIVE SESSION MORE BILLS ARE DEAD OR DYING. With two weeks left in the legislative session, several bills that have sparked controversy are either dead, dying or on death row. In a year characterized by redistricting and budget battles, few pieces of legislation that stirred opposition -- at least within the ranks of Republicans who control the Legislature -- have been able to get through both chambers. Lawmakers have not been shy this year about voting down bills early in the session, instead of merely temporarily postponing them as a means of placing them in purgatory until the end. The most notable instance was the destination casino resort bill, which although postponed, received a quick death notice from House Rules Chairman Gary Aubuchon, who declared he would not take up the measure after it failed to get through its first committee. Add to the mix a presidential election year in which every lawmaker who isn't term -limited has an eye on the shape of their new district. Also consider the fact that the last scheduled committee meetings in the House are on Monday, the Senate wraps up its committee meetings on Tuesday, as well as the promise from House Speaker Dean Cannon that any bill must make it through at least one committee in order to get a floor vote. The result? Weakening vital signs for any bill still struggling to get to the floor of either chamber. Here's a look at some bills that have either already died or are likely headed to the morgue: SB 2106 — The bill would have allowed restaurants to pay their tipped employees the federal standard of $2.13 per hour instead of the Florida minimum wage for tipped employees of $4.65 per hour, provided they guaranteed an overall wage of $10 per hour. Sen. Nancy Detert, R-Venice, a main backer of the bill, said this week the legislation was dead for this session, citing difficulty in getting it moving in the House and having the legislation apply fairly to all types of tipped workers. SJR 314/SB312/HJR 1289 — After announcing his intention to revive the measure, Sen. David Simmons, R- Altamonte Springs, on Thursday tabled the proposed "super exemption" for homestead properties, which had already faltered before a House committee. HB 4177 — A straight repeal of red-light cameras appears to have crashed this year. Rep. Scott Plakon, R- Longwood, postponed his bill before the House Economic Affairs Committee this week, sensing he didn't have enough votes. He said he's still holding out hope of persuading members, but after narrowly passing through the p House last year and not getting a vote in the Senate, it's not likely to get through the intersection before the hanky is dropped. HB 3/SB 380 — Plakon has a lot of heavy lifting to do during the final two weeks. His bill to ban Internet sweepstakes cafes is likely to be voted out of the House, but a similar proposal is essentially dead in the Senate, where a measure to regulate the storefront casinos was preferred. Gov. Rick Scott and the entire Cabinet have come out in favor of a ban, but don't bet on this issue getting resolved this session. HB 833/SB 1372 — An odd grouping of business interests and environmental organizations are backing legislation to shrink the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund, or Cat Fund, from $17 million to $12 million over five years, and increasing co -pays for private insurance companies. But some private property insurers, as well as state -backed Citizens Property Insurance Corp., are fighting the bill, since it will mean higher rates for policyholders, and make Citizens' policies more attractive. The Senate version is up for a committee vote next week, but shows no signs of movement in the House after Rep. Dorothy Hukill, R-Port Orange, chairwoman of the House Economic Affairs Committee, adjourned her committee's final meeting Friday without considering the bill. SB 2098/SB 1514 — Proposals to collect sales taxes on Internet purchases are being read their last rites. Two separate plans in the Senate to begin collecting the tax from online retailers such as Amazon were backed by traditional brick -and -mortar retailers. However, they appear to have fallen victim to election -year jitters over voting for a perceived tax increase, even though provisions were added to include tax cuts to offset any additional revenue gathered by the state. Although the bills were moving in the Senate, similar proposals have yet to receive a hearing in the House. Of course, with last-minute horsetrading and legislative maneuvering ahead of budget conferences, the prospect of a Lazarus -like revival for some measures cannot be ruled out. But chances of survival are slim for bills carrying the fever of controversy in the final weeks. Dale M. Dale Milita Kenneth Grimes Connie C. Vanassche CAS Governmental Services, LLC P. O. Box 35 Canal Point, FL 33438 561.924.7702 O 561.718.2100 C EN ,• , i . x U �,M f*09" • • MN END MILLING &TR REION E 3RSURFACIYG — N x -k- R _ , ;, 4' TRAFFIC SEPARATOR NW 2ND ST NE 2ND T T TYPE IV (TYP) 1, a .,, -- DRIVEWAY • (TYP) BEGIN ! CO (ON 8EG1N 6 I (Ty MILLIN 6 RESUR GIN:: LIMITS OF MILLING 6 W1OEAING RESURFACING.ffTT�YPI R. I 'r v TMp) NW PARK ST NE PAW ST TYPE F CURB 6 GUTTCR ' e 1 W W j L W. uj _.�•. Q Q ¢ R Q lr � I- v � r � Lu Lu r 75 .. N ar sv,sl� e E rt- � • ^ � �. 9° 4 or Lu '" • _ - , - ,, ¢ SW PARK ST SE PARK ST QIr f lam * p ;1 , . 3 • 4 { W W .n W .J • .. ,. [ , tn �r 7 h "tom `iw. I � �' pp tn SED R/W_ 6,ir.. ! +': P m. `4. I -rM�- 7r 4, A llrll oilTYPE E C(i •� -�l (TYP) S P. ITOP OSED 6' SIDEWALK SW 2ND ST SE 2ND ST +fir c LEGEND WIDENING 1 ® PAVEMENT °) _�,. .� ��__ • ,, _' `*�'� - _... REMOVAL �- w a a lrs wY� — + SAY 3RD ST SE 3R ST -