1981-08-25 Regular Meeting 29O7
521.64-EQUIPMENT
Typewriters, Radar Units, dictaphone.
Citizen Andrew Rubin was given an opportunity by the Chairman to express his views to the
Council concerning the importance of the Police and Fire Departments to this Community. Stating
they were in fact the "backbone" of the Community.
Detective O'Neil of the Police Department expressed his views in regards to the need for a
records clerk in the department stating that a dispatcher with a headset on couldn't be both a
records clerk, type reports and dispatch at the same time effectively.
Councilman Chapman discussed the Crossing Guard situation concluding that it seems the
responsibility will not be shared by the School Board nor County, but would fall completly upon
the shoulders of the City.
Assistant Fellows reminded the Council to authorize the Clerk to notify the Property Appraiser
of its proposed millage for the 1981-82 Budget. Therefore, the Council instructed the Clerk to
notify the Property Appraiser of the proposed millage.
Assistant Fellows also presented a proposed Sanitation Division Budget to the Council for its
consideration.
There being no further business the workshop was adjourned at 9:55 P.M.
Edward W. Douglas
Chariman/Mayor
City of Okeechobee
ATTEST:
City Clerk
City of Okeechobee
TUESDAY, AUGUST 25th, 1981
REGULAR MEETING
The City Council of the City of Okeechobee, Florida, convened in a regular session in
the City Council Chambers at City Hall, Okeechobee on Tuesday, August 25, 1981 at 7:00 P.M.
Chairman/Mayor Edward W. Douglas presided with the following Councilmen present:
Dowling Watford, Jr., Jim Knight, Donald Burk and Oakland Chapman.
Others present were: City Clerk Bonnie S. Thomas, Administrative Assistant
Richard C. Fellows, City Attorney David Conlon, Director of Public Works, L.C. Fortner, Jr.,
Fire Chief Keith Tomey, Police Chief Larry Mobley.
Chairman Douglas called the meeting to order. Councilman Knight offered the
invocation.
81-2 APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Councilman Watford moved to approve the minutes of the July 28th and August llth
'-'- regular meetings and the August 13th Budget Workshop as written. Seconded by Councilman
~ Knight. Motion carried.
A.L. WHALEN
81-10] VFW POST 10539
Mr. A.L. Whalen, Commander appeared before the Council representing VF~ Post 10539
requesting the City's participation in the cost of electricity for providing a twenty
four illuminated American Flag in Flagler Park over the memorials. There will be an
electronic eye on the light which will burn from dark until daylight.
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Chairman Douglas called for a decision of the Council in this matter.
Councilman Burk moved that this request be approved. Seconded by Councilman
Chapman.
Councilman Watford questioned Mr. Whalen as to what type of light will be used.
Mr. Whalen informed the Council that there will be one spotlight shinning on the
flag, a power 38 bulb.
Chairman Douglas called for a vote by the Council. Motion carried.
Mr. Whalen asked that the Council advise the Post in writing of the approval.
CHANGE IN OWNERSHIP OF L.P. SANITATION, INC.
Mr. Ray Hoekstra, Mr. Ray Hoekstra, Jr. and Mr. Jay Huffman appeared before the
Council to request the approval of the Hoekstra's to purchase the stock in L.P. Sanitation
and transfer the franchise accordingly.
Councilman Chapman questioned if provisions will be made to improve the trash pickup.
Mr. Huffman stated that since the Council changed to not allowing the trash and
garbage to be combined, L.P. Sanitation is securing another vehicle to use one of the
packers for nothing but trash.
Attorney Conlon questioned Mr. Huffman about a clause in the franchise that the
City and Huffman had previously discussed being deleted. That clause deals with the
application of the Municipal Public Works Chapter 180 to the franchise. This Chapter
deals with the situation that if the franchise is not renewed, the right of the City to
buy all of the equipment through an arbritrary proceeding or the right of Huffman to
insist on the City buying the equipment.
Conlon stated he felt it would be to the best interest of all involved that this
clause be deleted.
Councilman Watford questioned other items that had been previously discussed.
Attorney Conlon stated that under the terms of the franchise, the City has to
give their approval to the transfer. This does not give the right to totally
negotiate a new franchise. Areas that are not agreed on can be clarified.
Mr. Fellows stated that the three main items were: 1) Penalty clause in regard
to missed pick ups, 2) a performance bond and 3) dealt with the term of the franchise.
Councilman Chapman stated that he felt it would be best to approve the change
and allow the new owners to operate the business for the remaining nine months of the
franchise and then discuss changes at that time.
Attorney Conlon suggested that he rewrite the franchise, take out the 180 Clause
and insert a performance clause and the Council act upon this on the condition that the
Attorney make this change.
Councilman Burk stated, "When the City was negotiating with Mr. Huffman and L.P.
Sanitations, on the mandatory trash and garbage pickup the proposed rates that the Council
wanted to apply was $4.00. The ultimate amount that was agreed upon was more than that.
The reason for that was to go ahead and get this in place with the assurance of Mr. Huffman
and L.P. Sanitation that there would be better service than previously provided." Burk further
stated that the Council should renegotiate the $1,000 per month trash pickup. It was
tentatively agreed that nothing positive would be done at that time, but did agree to go higher
on the rates assuming that this would take care of the $1,000 fee. Whatever the public is
paying for the trash and garbage pickup should take care of the pickup and the City should
not have to pay the $1,000 per month over and above.
I I I Il" 'fl
2909
Attorney Conlon advised that the current franchise has a performance bond
of $2,000 and also provides the franchise holder will provide a dumping area for
disposal of garbage which will be made available to the City for all garbage the
City desires to transport. Conlon questioned Director Fortner as to whether or
not this is in effect.
Director Fortner advised the provision is not being made available to the
City.
Councilman Watford questioned Mr. Hoekstra as to whether he is familiar with
some of the problems the City has had with L.P. Sanitation.
Mr. Hoekstra stated that he does understand these problems.
Chairman Douglas called for a decision of the Council and asked if it was
agreeable with the members that the one clause be removed and everything else remain
the same for the nine month period or go with the workshop and discuss other items.
Councilman Chapman moved to change the one clause and leave the remainder of the
franchise as is until the nine months is up and then renegotiate at that time.
Seconded by Councilman Watford.
Councilman Watford asked Mr. Hoekstra if he objected to the City calling him
back to discuss and make changes.
Mr. Hoekstra stated that they see a few problems and they feel they can work
with the City.
There being no further discussion on the matter, Chairman Douglas called for
a vote. Motion carried.
Attorney Conlon asked Mr. Huffman if he agreed to the change if made into his
name. Conlon stated that he is not sure how the change will be made, with Huffman
and then give the assignment to the Hoekstras or if everyone would sign the agreement
that has the new clause.
Mr. Huffman stated that he agrees, the Hoekstras agreed and Mr. Huffman stated
that the Hoekstras will be the ones bound by the agreement.
81-97 MORROW, INC.
JERRY DAVIS
SEWER LINES AND LIFT STATIONS TO BE CONSTRUCTED AT PROJECT SITE
Mr. Jerry Davis, Vice President of Morrow, Inc. appeared before the Council
and introduced the following people: Mr. Ray Hatton, Mr. Dwight Wyatt, Mr. Kenneth
Sweeney and Mr. Donald Jones.
Mr. Davis stated that he would like to give a little of the history as to why
he is appearing before the Council. Prior to the time of construction on the 26 unit
apartment building on 9th Street, Morrow, Inc. came to the City Council for permission
to tap onto the City sewer lines and at that time were given this permission and were
given the amount of gallons and rate per gallon. Morrow, Inc. went ahead with plans
to engineer the utility lines as they were to be placed from their property to the
existing facility that the City had. During that interim period, Morrow, Inc. began
working on a joint venture with the Hattons, who owned property to the north of Morrow,
to engineer the lines where both the Morrow project and the future development of the
Hattons would be able to work together and make the sewer available to both projects.
During that period of time, it was the understanding of Morrow, Inc., that the City
Council became involved and would expand the area up in that part of town and design
the facilities in such a way that additional developers, owners and others than the
Morrow and Hattons would have access to the sewer. At that point, engineering was
started in that direction. A week to ten days ago, the City found out that they would
not be able to participate in this venture because of some problems that the City has
2910
had in the past and evidentally the funds which the City was going to use in order to pay their
share were not legally available. Therefore, the burden was back on the Morrows and the Hattons. --~
Mr. Davis stated that it is his understanding from a letter he received from Mr. Fortner,
that on August llth, the City Council made a decision to allow M~rrow to go ahead with the work
that needed to be done, that it had to be installed in the same manner as though the City of
Okeechobee was going to go ahead and participate. Mr. Davis stated his concern that the meeting
was held and that type of decision was made without a representative present from Morrow or
Hatton or the engineering firm that has been doing the work.
Mr. Davis stated that he is appearing before the Council to ask that Morrow be given the
right to install water and sewer lines, primarily sewer, in the way in which the Morrow, Inc.
and the future development of the Hattons would be arranged and not do it in the way in which
the City Council is asking because they feel at this point that this is an undue burden upon
Morrow and that they are sharing their expenses to do this work.
Mr. Davis asked they be allowed to submit their engineering plans to the City Council and
have them approved the way in which Morrow had on±ginally intented to go prior to the involvement
of the City Council.
Chairman Douglas stated that in reply to Mr. Davis, the City is presently into 201 Sewer
planning and it would be foolish for the City to allow a developer to go out and put a lift --.
station in that would just supply his needs when there is an overall plan. Then the City would
come in later and have to redesign everything. This is the problem the City is confronted with.
The Council would then be facing the problem anywhere there is a new development.
Councilman Watford asked Mr. Davis about the City reserving a certain amount of capacity
and giving Morrow permission to tie onto City sewer lines, and at that time, the City did not have
any engineering plans of the Morrow system.
Mr. Davis explained that the reason the City doesn't have the plans, is that Morrow is on
their third go around of trying to design this sewer. Before Morrow got their designing completed
the City Council decided that they wanted to become involved, therefore, Morrow retained the
services of Mr. Wyatt to design the facility in such a way that would open up all of the area to
the east and to the west and to the north. That is one reason Morrow still doesn't have any
engineer ing plans.
Councilman Watford asked Mr. Davis if he just assumed that before the City expressed a
desire to be in on it, he would design it to handle his facility or his development.
Mr. Davis stated that was the understanding from the very inception of the project, that
Morrow was going to be putting a lift station in at their project and a force main the rest of
the way to where it ties into the existing sewage facility for the City. --~
Councilman Burk asked Mr. Davis if he was ever given by the City, the City's engineer,
or Fublic Works Director any plans specifying what the City would require Morrow to do as far as
the capacity of the lift station.
2911
Mr. Davis stated that he would have to refer this question to his engineer, but his under-
standing that the size of the lift station and the pumps that went into the lift station would
be of a size to facilitate all of that area.
Councilman Burk questioned Mr. Davis about his understanding of the City's "participation"
in the project whether Morrow understood that the City wanted to participate with only this one
project or that this had to tie in with the City's ultimate comprehensive plan and the 201
Sewer Plan.
Mr. Davis informed the Council that he had not heard anything about the 201 until this
meeting. Mr. Davis stated that everything to this point has been verbal between Morrow and
working primarily through Mr. Fortner and also Mr. Wyatt, engineer involved in engineering the
sewer to facilitate the Morrow development and the Hatton development. While he was working
on that, that's when the City suggested that the City would "participate". Mr. Wyatt was
asked by the City to redesign it in such a way to pick up all the existing area.
Attorney Conlon explained that a developer must submit their engineering to the City and
have it approved by the City. Conlon stated that there is no agreement that the City was
going to pay part of the cost, there is a lot of misunderstanding as nothing has been put into
wr it ing.
At this point, Mr. Davis asked exactly what the intention of the Council is and what
is their interpretation of the word "participation".
Mr. Conlon stated that he thought Mr. Davis meant participation as money wise. Mr. Davis
stated that was correct.
Councilman Burk informed Mr. Davis that when he refers to the City participation, he should
keep in mind the 201 Project as this is something the City has been working on for over two
years. When the City does participate in your pumping station, your lines are going to have to
hook into that. At that time, the City will participate where it hooks onto your lines and
where it goes from there. Your line will be a lateral line off of the City's main trunk line.
That's where the City is going to participate in the Morrow project.
Mr. Davis asked if the 201 Project has been completely approved.
Councilman Burk stated that it has not been completely approved but the City must make
preparation for it because if the grants don't come through on the 201, the City must still
go through with it. It will affect this lift station the Morrow Corporation is having to build.
Councilman Watford questioned Mr. Davis about the name Hatton stating that the City has no
agreement with Mr. Hatton or the Hatton Corporation to provide them with any sewer at this time.
Mr. Davis stated that to his knowledge Hatton has no construction going on at this time.
It would be Davis' assumption that there is no agreement between the City and Hatton.
Director Fortner appeared before the Council to state his understanding of the situation.
At the May 26th meeting of the City Council, the City granted Morrow, Inc. permission to
connect to the sewer system approximately 7,000 gallons a day for 6 months for a charge of 80
2912
cents per gallon, one time charge. Mr. Fortner discussed with the Council at that time to consider
the balance of the area from the railroad north to the City Limits and from 441 over to 7th Avenue
to cover future developments. The City discussed the requirements. It was suggested that --~
because of past experience of lift stations, the City participate in the construction and
compile additional cost over and above the need of Morrow, Inc. project for Council review.
This is the information Mr. Fortner submitted back to the Council at a later date was the
additional cost involved in the station. This information was for Morrow, Inc. Immediately
after that, the contractor for Morrow came in and started talking about installation for sewer
systems with Mr. Fortner for that project. At this time, Mr. Fortner still did not have any plans
Mr. Fortner at that time told the contractor that the City was talking about serving the entire
area and the station will have to be deeper and stated that he needed some figures and plans to ge~
it down on paper so the City will know what they are serving. This is when Mr. Wyatt entered the
picture because of the Morrow development. Then Mr. Hatton got into the picture, they wanted to
develop theirs, to relocate the sewer lift station to another point.
Mr. Fortner informed Morrow and Hatton that the City was still looking at the area and had
to know what depth the sewer line would have to be and the lift station to serve the area.
Morrow came in with some figures just before the August 11th Council meeting, a depth of almost
six feet deeper and a cost of almost $19,000. This information was presented to the Council the
same night the final agreement with ORS was discussed and Mr. Conlon told the Council that the
City cannot participate without expanding this into a minority neighborhood to comply with ORS ~
regulations. Director Fortner stated that it was his understanding that was why the Council
decided they could not participate in this lift station of this development. From there, the
Council instructed Mr. Fortner to get plans from Morrow, Inc. that must still serve the entire
area. It was suggested that the City participate and it was decided by the Council at a later
date that they could not participate because of certain requirements.
Attorney Conlon asked Director Fortner if he had said anything that made a deal or meeting
of the minds that obligated the City.
Director Fortner stated that since the May 26th meeting the Council suggested that they
would like to look at it as they may want to get involved, Mr. Fotrtner approached the Morrow,
Inc. stating that the City would have to have some figures.
Mr. Wyatt stated that Mr. Markham, a contractor on the job putting in utility lines, had been
in contact with Mr. Fortner on a daily basis. The initial design basis, in which the Morrow,
property and the Hatton property could be serviced by the sewer to a potential four times that
large with Hatton on the North. Participation came to Mr. Wyatt's knowledge at the time he was
advised through the contractor from a conversation with Mr. Fortner that there must be two
designs to submit to the City, one as if Morrow was going to propose it themselves and one to
service the entire area. Mr. Wyatt stated that he went to the extent as to get contractors to ~
bid the two systems so he would know what the additional cost would be. Mr. wyatt stated that
he felt this goes a little beyond just a casual conversation as he had come up with two different
2913
designs in order to satisfy the requirements of the City.
Attorney Conlon stated that there had been a lot of misunderstandings and there should
have been something in writing before any expenditures or plans were made.
Mr. Davis asked the Council if the 201 is formulated far enough that Mr. Wyatt could take
and engineer the system that is needed out there to fit into the 201 program. Attorney Conlon
stated that the City is concerned with the depth the lines are put in now. Mr. Davis asked if
the Council was prepared to tell him what those depths were to fit into the 201 project.
Mr. Fortner stated that this would only connect to the 201 by force main as this is an
isolated area.
Mr. Davis stated that Morrow, Inc. is in a position where they have got to do something.
Davis further stated that he would go with his original request to be able to put the sewer
in, egineered in such a way that it will facilitate the Morrow and the future Hatton developments.
Attorney Conlon noted that the original request did not mention Hatton. When Morror, Inc.
came before the Council, the request was for 7500 gallons sewer capacity for Morrow only.
Mr. Davis stated that his request at this time is to be able to submit plans for approval
for the Morrow and future Hatton developments because they need to get underway.
Councilman Burk asked Director Fortner how long it would take him and the City engineers
to get Mr. Davis an answer on what the City's requirements are on this particular lift station.
Mr. Fortner stated that the elevation could be established in a short period of time.
The drawing of the plans would take a few days.
Mr. Davis stated that originally, the lift station was to go down on the Morrow end of the
property and go with force main all the way to the existing City sewer plant.
Council discussed with Mr. Davis the location of the lift station, tt was determined
the station would be installed in an alley between N.Wo 11th and 12th Streets and 5th Avenue.
Mr. Davis stated that even though the project is financed by the Farmers Home Administration,
the Farmers Home Administration is not paying any for the sewer or water off site.
Attorney Conlon stated that before the Council considers this new request, he would like
to ask Mr. Fortner if he could give any type of opinion if they stayed with the original
requested location would the cost be as high to them.
Director Fortner stated that if the location of the station had stayed at 10th gtreet and
5th Avenue, it would have had to have been deeper than if it is moved to the north. By moving
the station to the north, it is more centrally located and it has to be deeper in order to take
on the Hatton project.
Councilmen stated their regrets to Mr. Davis and the Morrow, Inc. for the misunderstandings
between their firm and the City Council but reiterated the fact that the project must meet the
City's specifications.
Chairman Douglas called for a decision of the Council on the matter. Council members
agreed that their motion formally made during the August 11th meeting which Councilman Burk
2914
motioned to authorize Director Fortner, after consultation with the engineers, to state what the
City's minimum capacity would be that we would accept for this particular lift station, motion --~
was seconded by Councilman Chapman and carried, would stand.
Mr. Davis requested if between this time and the completion of the project, there are any
topics that come before the City Council involving Morrow, Inc., someone from Morrow be invited
to attend the meetings.
ANDRE~ RUBIN
81-103 VANDALISM OF MAIL BOXES AND
CHARGING FOR CITY BUDGET COPIES
Mr. Andrew Rubin appeared before the Council to report that he has met with Chief Mobley
regarding the problem with vandalism of mail boxes in the City and the County and he feels
progress is being made in getting the matter resolved.
Mr. Rubin stated that three weeks ago he asked for a copy of the City's proposed budget. At
the time he requested a copy of the budget, copies were passed out to the media free of charge.
When Mr. Rubin reported to the City Hall the next morning to get a copy of teh budget, he was told
that he would have to pay for his copy of the budget, which he did, $15.25. Mr. Rubin stated that
he felt this was wrong and something should be done about the situation.
To clarify the point, Chairman Douglas asked Clerk Thomas about the charging of copies. Clerk
Thomas stated that everyone that comes into the Clerk's office and asks for a copy of any record in
the City is charged 25 cents per sheet. Attorney Conlon stated that if the news media came into --~
the office and requested a copy, they would be charged this fee; however, at a meeting, this is
considered a press release and is released to the media by the Council free of charge.
Councilman Burk quoted Florida Statute 119.07 to Mr. Rubin: "The custodian shall furnish
copies or certified copies of the record upon payment of fee as prescribed by the law or if fees
are not prescribed by law, upon payment of the actual cost of duplication of the copies".
After further discussion with Councilmen, Mr. Rubin stated that he will discontinue this
discussion.
Mr. Rubin further expressed his concern that there was not a representative of the City
present at the County budget workshop. Mr. Rubin informed the Council he had talked with County
Commissioners and was told the County has not provided in thier budget to pave any City streets.
Mr~ Rubin requested that he be put on the agenda for the August 27th workshop meeting for
ten minutes at the beginning of the meeting and ten minutes at the end of the meeting.
Chairman Douglas granted Mr. Rubin ten minutes at the beginning of the meeting but stated
that the Council could not guarantee anything after that.
Mr. Rubin requested that the minutes state "You haven't seen all of me Mr. Chapman and
Burk,'.
Chairman Douglas informed Mr. Rubin that he does have a right to be in the Council meetings, --~
but we do not need personal gripes and comments to the Council.
2915
81-8 PUBLIC HEARING
FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE ON CHANGE IN
HEARING PROCEDURES FOR ISSUANCE OF TEMPORARY
USE PERMITS
Chairman Douglas read the ordinance in its entirity:
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE #402 THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE FOR
THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE: AMENDING SECTION 9.2 TO PROVIDE THE PLANNING
BOARD MAY ISSUE TEMPORARY USE PERMITS FOR UP TO 180 DAYS; AMENDING SECTION
9.5 TO ELIMINATE THE WORDS CITY COUNCIL AND INSERT THE WORDS PLANNING
BOARD; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION I: Sections 9.2 and 9.5 of Ordinance #402, The Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance for the
City of Okeechobee, Florida be and they hereby are amended to read as follows:
Section 9. TEMPORARY USE PERMITS
2. Procedures in securing temporary use permit under subsection, above.
Temporary use applications for uses set out in sub-section one, above,
shall be submitted to the Planning Board which may grant or deny a temporary
use permit or may grant a temporary use permit subject to suitable
conditions, safeguards and stipulations. A Public Hearing with due
notice, is required before the Planning Board. Prior to granting a
temporary use permit, the Planning Board shall insure that:
a) Any nuisance or ~azardous feature involved is suitably seperated from
adjacent uses;
b) Excessive vehicular traffic will not be generated on minor residential
street; and '
c) A vehicular parking problem will not be created.
The'temporary use permit, if granted, shall be granted for a specific time period
(no longer than 180 days), at the end of which, if the use permitted has not
been discontinued, it shall be deemed a violation of this zoning ordinance
and shall be punished as herein set out.
5. Application for Temporary Use Permit. All applications for temporary use
permit, whether issuable by the Zoning Administrator or requiring approval by
the Planning Board, shall contain plans indicating the precise area where the
temporary use is to be conducted, the nature of the activities that will. occur,
and the period of time for which the temporary use permit is requested.
SECTION II: This Ordinance shall take effect upon its adoption,
Introduced and passed on this final reading this 25th day of August , 1981
Chairman Douglas called for any objections from the audience on this ordinance. There
being no discussions from the audience, Chairman Douglas opened the floor for discussion from
the Council.
Councilman Knight moved that the ordinance be approved as written. Seconded by
Councilman Chapman. Motion carried.
81-88 REPORT FROM ATTORNEY DAVID CONLON AND FIRE CHIEF KEITH TOMEY
REGARDING OFFER OF RYDER TRUCK LINES TO PAY 75% OF COST OF
REPLACEMENT OF' FIRE EQUIPMENT DAMAGED WHILE DEALING WITH
SULFURIC ACID LEAK
Chairman Doulgas called for Attorney Conlon to give a report on the results of negotiations
with the Ryder Truck Lines.
Attorney Conlon stated that the City has been given a written offer of payment equal
to 75% of the value of the items damaged. This offer has been given to Chief Tomey. The
carried made a 75% offer because they indicated the City is still using some of the items or
some still have some useful life.
2916
Chief Tomey stated that on most of the gear, the only expense he has incurred, which is more
than he had aniticpated, was for a regulator. The bunker gear has been in use for approximately
four to five months and can be used for another six months before complete deteriotation, this
is where the carrier came up with the 75%.
After further discussion between Council members and Chief Tomey, Councilman Watford moved
to accept the 75% from Ryder Truck Lines to replace the bunker gear. Seconded by Councilman
Knight, motion carried.
81-104 REPORT ON THE COUNTY IN REGARDS TO COUNTY
?OLICY INDICATING COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT
PLANS TO ANSWER STRUCTURE FIRES WITHIN THE CITY
Chairman Douglas informed the Council that the City had been informed the County had
established a policy of responding to all structure fires within the City and understood at this'
point that this had been a policy since the inception of their fire department. Chairman
Douglas appointed Councilman Burk to serve on a committee with Attorney Conlon to meet with
County Commissioners and the County Attorney and Mr. Fellows.
Chairman Douglas called for Councilman Burk to give a report on a meeting held on August
24th, to discuss the matter.
Councilman Burk stated that there were no agreements made in the meeting, but did attempt
to define the term "stand-by". Burk stated that the County was referring to the fact that 'they
would be standing by on any structural fire that the City would have to go to. Burk further state~
that the County does not intend to go to every City structural fire. Their intent is to be on
stand-by, as we are, if they are needed.
Attorney Conlon stated that he didn't see any problems at the meeting and the County
didn't assert any right to control fires within the City. They were only concerned about getting
a call, and do they back the City up by being at the scene or being on call. There is a need for
written procedures so each department will know where the other will be.
Chief Tomey stated that the County Fire Chief informed him by phone that he was told by the
Chairman of the County Commissioners that the County was to answer all structure fires in the
City, whether called or not.
Councilman Watford stated that in his conversations with Mr. Lashley, he understood that
the County was going to roll the trucks on all structure fires within the City.
Attorney Conlon stated that he felt Mr. Lashley meant by this statement that the County
Department would get close to the scene and stand by if needed.
Councilman Watford asked Attorney Conlon if it was clear that the City Fire Department
has jurisdiction inside the City Limits. Attorney Conlon stated that the City has total
jurisdic%ion. The County will be there only if needed. This agreement will be in writing.
Chairman Douglas stated that the City Council would wait for further communications from
the County Commissioners before setting up a workshop on this matter.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM DEPARTMENT HEADS
A) BONNIE S. THOMAS
1) MONTHLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Clerk Thomas informed the Council members that the monthly financial statement for Wager
and Sewer is ready and the monthly financial statement for the General Fund will be ready on
August 27th.
B. CITY ATTORNEY
81-105 ~) PROPOSED RESOLUTION FOR CONSIDERATION
OF COUNCIL CONCERNING BUDGET MAKING
PROCESS OF THE COUNTY OF OKEECHOBEE
Attorney Conlon informed Council members he has a proposed resolution for the consideration
of the Council concerning the budget making process of the County of Okeechobee and the fact
that the County is to break down their expenditures and revenues for City expenditures which
presently they are not doing in their budget. Attorney Conlon read the Resolution:
WHEREAS, a County budget system for the control of finances of the Board of County
Commissioners of the several counties of the State of Florida has been set up and approved by
the legislature and
WHEREAS, Chapter 129.01 of Florida Statutes, established such budget system and lays out
the requirement of preparation of the county budget, and
WHEREAS, Chapter 129.01 (2) (b) provides the receipts and appropriations division of the
County budget shall reflect the approximate division of locally raised receipts and all
expenditures between the incorporated and unicorporated areas of the County, and
WHEREAS, the present County budget as prepared apparently does not provide breakout of
revenue and expenditures as provided by said Chapter.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Okeechobee, Florida
as follows:
1) The Board of County Commissioners and the Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller
of the Board of County Commissioners be in and are hereby respectfully requested to prepare
the 1981-82 County budget in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 129.01 (2)(b) so that
residents of the City and County may adequately understand where County revenues are
derived and in what areas County expenditures are being made.
2) That certified copies of this Resolution be furnished to the Chairman of the Board of
County Commissioners, County Attorney and County Comptroller.
3) This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption.
Introduced and adopted at a regular session assembled this 25th of August , 19 8~
Following discussion of the matter between Council members, Councilman Knight moved to
adopt the Resolution, seconded by Councilman Chapman. Motion carried.
81-18 2) ORS AGREEMENT
Attorney Conlon stated that he has been in contact with the Office of Revenue Sharing and
they have received our signed agreement and Affirmative Action Plan. The ORS is in the process of
evaluating the agreement. Attorney Conlon stated that he informed the ORS that the Council
supported this agreement .as their final offer and urged them to accept the agreement.
C) ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
81-29 1) VACANCY ON CODE ENFORCEMENT BOARD
It has been learned that Herbert Nix, a member of the Code Enforcement Boardi is not a
resident of the City and therefore cannot serve as a member of the Board. Mr. Fellows will
make a recommendation for replacement at the September 8th meeting in order to have a full Board
? ! ['' TI !
2918
when the CEB meets on September 21st.
Mr. Fellows further advised the Council that the Code Enforcement Board has set their regular
meetings for the third Monday in each month. --~
COMMUNICATIONS FROM COUNCILMEN
A) DONALD BURK
81-10( 1) RECLASSIFICATION OF ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
TO CITY ADMINISTRATOR
Councilman Burk stated that the Council has had experience with Mr. Fellows for some time
and Mr. Fellows has saved the City a considerable amount of money since his employment. The
City has progressed to the stage that there is a need for someone to be in the City Hall everyday
who can do more than just assist the Council, a full administrator.
Councilman Burk proposed that Mr. Fellows be reclassified as the City Administrator and
that his salary be commensurate with his responsibilities. This reclassification does not mean
that Mr. Fellows would have control of the City.
Councilman Watford stated that he was under the impression that the form of government the
City has under the Charter, the City Administrator could not be hired without Charter revisions.
Councilman Watford further stated that at the time Mr. Fellows was hired, as Administrative
Assistant, the Council assured the public that he would not be a City Administrator.
Councilman Knight agreed with Councilman Watford that the position was for an
Administrative Assistant even though he feels Mr. Fellows has done an outstanding job for the
City. __~
After further discussion among Council members, Councilmen Burk moved to reclassify Mr.
Fellows to the position of City Administrator and during the budget session set his salary
commensurate with his responsibilities, seconded by Councilman Chapman.
Councilman Watford asked Attorney Conlon if it was certain this is legal. Councilman
Burk quoted Article 5, Section 25 (Charter) "The City Council has the power to create and abolish
offices". Attorney Conlon stated that the City by motion Would have the power to create the
office of Administrator but may have to by ordinance, name the Administrator and specify his
duties.
Councilman Burk restated his motion at this time to wi.thdraw the word "reclassify" and
insert the word "create" by ordinance the office of City Administrator, seconded by Councilman
Chapman.
Chairman Douglas called for a vote by the Council. Councilmen Burk and Chapman voted "yes"~
Councilmen Watford and Knight voted "no".
Chairman Douglas stated that he is not entirely clear on the subject, however, he has no
objections to Mr. Fellows having the position of City Administrator. Chairman Douglas stated
that he must vote "no" on the motion at this time until he is a little more sure of the position
and the procedures. Chairman Douglas asked Attorney Conlon to come back with an opinion on the
overall procedure.
919
B. DOWLING WATFORD
81-6 1) CENTRAL FLORIDA REGIONAL PLANNING COUNCIL
Councilman Watford stated that the Central Florida Regional Planning Council is meeting on
81-107 August 26th in Bartow and he will try to attend.
2) ZONING CHANGES TO COMMERCIAL STATUS
Councilman Watford stated that since he had been on the Council, there had been three
different zoning changes that he personally has had problems with because they were changes to
commercial. These requests were for professional type buildings and because they were changed
to commercial, any type of business could be put on the property. Councilman Watford requested
that the Council request the Planning Board to investigate the different categories we have in
zoning property and perhaps make recommendations to the Council about adding additional categories
Councilman Watford moved to ask the Planning Board to investigate the different categories
for zoning of property, especially commercial categories, and make recommendations to the
Council for changes. Seconded by Councilman Burk. Motion carried.
81-62 3) FLOURIDATION OF WATER
Councilman Watford questioned the issue of flouridation stating that the grant that can be
obtained from the State will expire in September.
Chairman Douglas informed Councilman Watford that the issue of flouridation will be
discussed at the first meeting in September, that being September 8th.
C. EDWARD DOUGLAS
81-93 1) BARROW PITS
Chairman Douglas discussed with the Council the Ordinances Attorney Conlon had received from
different cities in regard to the barrow pits.
Councilman Chapman recommended that an ordinance be drawn up covering both barrow pits and
swimming p~ols to be discussed at a later meeting.
D. LANDON C. FORTNER
81-25 1) PIPE AND FITTINGS BIDS
Director Fortner presented the following bid tabulation for pipe and fittings:
Southeastern Municipal Supply $8,028.44
Less 2% if paid in 10 days
Riverview Utility Supply $8,464.31
Florida Utility Supply $8,709.56
Davis Meter & Supply $8,944.81
On the recommendation of Director Fortner, Councilman Knight moved to accept the low bid
from Southeastern Municipal Supply in the amount of $8,028.44, seconded by Councilman Burk.
Motion carried.
81-108 2) HOSPITAL REQUEST FOR ADDITIONAL SEWER CAPACITY
Director Fortner informed the Council he had received a request from the H. H. Raulerson
Memorial Hospital for an additional 6,500 gallons of sewer capacity .
2 20
After a brief discussion, Councilman Watford moved to grant H. H. Raulerson Memorial Hospital
the additional 6,500 gallons sewer capacity as requested, seconded by Councilman Chapman.
Councilman Burk questioned if the existing lift station is adequate to handle the
additional capacity. Director Fortner informed the Council that the Hospital had hired an
engineer to inspect the site and based on his calculations, the lift station will handle an
additional 150 beds.
By unanimous vote, the Council approved the additional sewer capacity for the H. H. Raulerson
Memorial Hospital as requested.
81-109 3) MEDIAN STRIPS
Director Fortner informed the Council he had received several requests for making median
strips that are in the larger right of ways (grassy strip between two streets) no parking areas
and enforce the no parking.
Attorney Conlon stated that in order to enforce the no parking, there must be an ordinance.
After further discussion of the matter, Councilman Knight moved to ~erect no parking signs
in the affected areas, seconded by Councilman Chapman. Motion carried.
RICHARD FELLOWS
Assistant Fellows expressed his appreciation for the individual support he has reveived
from Council members during this meeting.
RECESSED MEETING
Councilman Knight moved to recess the meeting until Thursday, August 27th at 7:00 P.M.
Seconded by Councilman Chapman. Meeting recessed at 10:35 P.M.
ATTEST:
~ofinie S. Thb~mas
City Clerk
City of Okeechobee
-92 BUDGET WORKSHOP THURSDAY, AUGUST 27, 1981
The City Council of the City of Okeechobee, Florida, convened in a recessed meeting at 7:00
P.M. on Thurdsay, August 27, 1981, in Council Chambers, Okeechobee, Florida~ for the purpose of
conducting a Budget Workshop.
Chairman/Mayor ~dwar~ ~. Douglas presided with the following Councilmen present: Dowling
Watford, Jr., Jim Knight, Donald Burk and Oakland Chapman.
Others present were: City Clerk Bonnie S. Thomas, Administrative Assistant Richard C.
Fellows, Director of Public Works L. C. Fortner, Jr., Fire Chief Keith Tomey and Police Chief
Larry Mobley.
AGENDA
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF OKEECHOBEE
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
REGULAR MEETING
AUGUST 25, 1981
7:00 P.M.
1. Invocation
Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of July the 28th
and August the llth, 1981 and Budget Workshop of August 13th, 1981.
III Appearances:
a) Al Whalen or K.E. Hummon representing the V.F.W.
Post 10539 asking for the City's participation in
the cost of electricity for providing a twenty
four hour illuminated American Flag in Flagler Park.
b) Mr. Ray Hoekstra and son to inform Council of change of
ownership of majority of stock of L.P. Sanitation, Inc.
and to request present franchise be approved for assigning
to new owners although continuing the name of the business
as L.P. Sanitation, Inc.
c) Mr. Jerry Davis of Morrow Inc. to discuss sewer lines
and lift station to be constructed at the
Farmers Home Administration project in the northwest
area of the city.
d) Mr. Andrew Rubin to discuss vandalism of mail boxes
and make inquiry regarding the reason for charging
for obtaining copies of the proposed City Budget.
IV. Public hearing and final reading of an ordinance amending the
Zoning Ordinance to provide a change in the hearing procedures
for the issuance of temporary use permits.
(Planning and Zoning Board recommends approval)
V. Action by the Council on a report by Attorney David Conlon
and Fire Chief Keith Torrey relative to offer of Ryder Truck
Lines to pay 75% of the cost of replacement of equipment
damaged while dealing with a sulfuric acid leak.
VI. Report on the county in regards to county policy recently
stated indicating County Fire Department plans to answer
structure fires within the city.
VII. Mayor to call on anyone in audience wishing to address the
Council.
VIII. Mayor to call on City Clerk, City Attorney, Administrative
Assistance and Councilmen regarding requests and/or reports.
IX. Adjournment