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2001-04-03 RegularCITY OF OKEECHOBEE APRIL 3, 2001 REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING SUMMARY OF COUNCIL ACTION CALL TO ORDER - Mayor: April 3, 2001, City Council Regular Meeting, 6:00 p.m. II. OPENING CEREMONIES: Invocation offered by Pastor Neil Gunsalus; Pledge of Allegiance led by Mayor Kirk. III. MAYOR, COUNCIL AND STAFF ATTENDANCE - City Clerk. Mayor James E. Kirk Council Member Noel A. Chandler Council Member Robert Oliver Council Member Dowling R. Watford, Jr. Council Member D. Clayton Williams, Jr. City Attorney John R. Cook City Administrator Bill L. Veach City Clerk Bonnie S. Thomas Deputy Clerk S. Lane Gamiotea IV. PRESENTATIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS - Mayor. A. Proclaim April 4, 2001 as "Kick Butts Day". PAGE 1 OF 7 Mayor Kirk called the April 3, 2001 Regular City Council Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Pastor Gunsalus offered the invocation; Mayor Kirk led the pledge of allegiance. City Clerk Thomas called the roll: Present Absent Present Present Present Present Absent Present Present Mayor Kirk read the following proclamation in its entirety: "WHEREAS, teen smoking is on the rise and smoking among high school seniors is at a 19-year high; and WHEREAS, 4.5 million kids aged 12 -17 are current smokers and more than 3,000 additional kids become regular smokers each day; and WHEREAS, the Centers for Disease Control predicts more than 5 million children under age 18 alive today will die prematurely from smoking -related diseases unless current trends are reversed; and WHEREAS, smoking - related illnesses already kill roughly 400,000 Americans each year, representing more deaths than from AIDS, alcohol, car accidents, murders, suicides, drugs and fires combined; and WHEREAS, most of these deaths could have been prevented; and WHEREAS, the children of the City of Okeechobee will no longer tolerate the tobacco industry's efforts manipulate them into buying lethal and additive products through 133 134 APRIL 3, 2001 - REGULAR MEETING - PAGE 2 of 7 IV. PRESENTATIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS CONTINUED. A. "Kick Butts Day" Proclamation continued. Insidious advertising campaigns; and WHEREAS, the Mayor of Okeechobee wishes to stand up with the children of this City in opposition to the advertising and marketing of tobacco products to children; NOW THEREFORE, I, James E. Kirk, bythe virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor of the City of Okeechobee, Florida, do hereby proclaim April 4, 2001 as "KICK BUTTS DAY" in Okeechobee." The Proclamation was presented to Ms. Betty Arthur of the Okeechobee County Health Department who briefly addressed the Council thanking them for their support and advised them of the educational activities planned in the schools promoting the dangerous effect of smoking. B. Proclaim Endorsement and Support for Healthy Start Florida. Mayor Kirk read the following proclamation in its entirety: "WHEREAS, in just one decade, infant death rates have dropped more than 22% to the lowest level in Florida's history; and WHEREAS, for every one dollar spent preventing an unhealthy birth, six dollars are saved in neonatal intensive care costs, recurrent hospital and medical expenses paid by Medicaid, exceptional and remedial education, child abuse and neglect' investigations, disability and dependency costs; and WHEREAS, Healthy Start Coalitions have created a seamless system of care which benefits more than 50,000 pregnant women and 50,000 families with newborns each year in Florida; and WHEREAS, Healthy Start Coalitions are comprised of community volunteers who are uniquely positioned to assess and respond to community maternal and child health needs, and direct funding toward services to address those needs; and WHEREAS, in one recent year, Healthy Start Coalitions have collectively leveraged almost $13 million, or three times the annual appropriation, including some 100,000 volunteer hours, in in -kind services and resources, cash, grants and projects related to matemal and infant health. WHEREAS, Healthy Start has been publicly praised as a "government program gone right." NOW THEREFORE, I, James E. Kirk, by the virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor of the City of Okeechobee, do hereby proclaim Endorsement and Support for Healthy Start Florida." The Proclamation was presented to Mr. Lowry Markham representing the Healthy Start Program. Mr. Markham thanked the Council for their support of this program. He will be taking this Proclamation along with others to Tallahassee next week. The program is in jeopardy, due to budget cuts and the Healthy Start Board Members are doing everything possible to keep this project funded for Okeechobee County. V. MINUTES - City Clerk. A. Motion to dispense with the reading and approve the Summary of Council Member Oliver moved to dispense with the reading and approve the Summary of Council Action for the March Council Action for the March 20, 2001 Regular Meetings. 1 20, 2001 Regular Meeting; seconded by Council Member Williams. APRIL 3, 2001 - REGULAR MEETING - PAGE 3 OF 7 135 V. MINUTES CONTINUED. A. Motion to dispense with the reading and approve the Summary of Council Action for the March 20, 2001 Regular Meeting Continued. VOTE KIRK -YEA CHANDLER - ABSENT OLIVER - YEA WATFORD - YEA WILLIAMS - YEA VI. AGENDA - Mayor. MOTION CARRIED. A. Requests for the addition, deferral or withdrawal of items on today's Mayor Kirk asked whether there were any requests for the addition, deferral or withdrawal of items on today's agenda. agenda. III There were none. VII. NEW BUSINESS. A.1. a) Motion to read by title only and set April 17, 2001 as a public Council Member Watford moved to read by title only and set April 17, 2001 as a public hearing date for proposed hearing date for proposed Ordinance No. 768 amending the City of Ordinance No. 768 amending the City of Okeechobee and Okeechobee Utility Authority Employees' Retirement Okeechobee and Okeechobee Utility Authority Employees' System; seconded by Council Member Oliver. Retirement System - City Attorney (Exhibit 1). b) Vote on motion to read by title only. VOTE KIRK - YEA CHANDLER - ABSENT OLIVER - YEA WATFORD - YEA WILLIAMS - YEA MOTION CARRIED. c) City Attorney to read proposed Ordinance No. 768 by title only. Attorney Cook read proposed Ordinance No. 768 by title only as follows: "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE AMENDING THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE AND OKEECHOBEE UTILITY AUTHORITY EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM, ADOPTED PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE NO. 714; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE 11 DATE." 136 APRIL 3, 2001 - REGULAR MEETING - PAGE 4 OF 7 VII. NEW BUSINESS CONTINUED. A. 2. a) Motion to approve the first reading of proposed Ordinance No. Council Member Watford moved to approve the first reading of proposed Ordinance No. 768; seconded by Council 768 Member Williams. b) Discussion. Council Member Watford questioned whether this was the ordinance amendment that was discussed at the meeting of March 20, 2001, regarding the option for the City Administrator to participate in another pension fund? Attorney Cook answered that it was. Council Member Williams asked, does this specifically include the Okeechobee Utility Authority (OUA) Director or was that already in there? Are we creating the two positions? Attorney Cook responded, no it was not in there originally, but when the OUA was formed, due to the retirement system we had, they deemed it bestthatthe OUA Director be included in the City Plan, this ordinance was not designed to include the OUA but since they are both authorized to participate in the plan, the pension attorney felt it appropriate to do both. Council Member Watford interjected, it was just an option for them only. Council Member Williams continued by asking, any future City Administrator we have, is it mandatory they come into this plan? Attorney Cook stated it was mandatory they come in the City plan, they can opt out of the City plan and go into a separate plan but once they opt out they cannot come back. Mayor Kirk added, that is probably important with this level of administrative personnel because the average job expectancy is less than three years, so it is probably important for them that they have something they be into for retirement that can keep building if they do change jobs. c) Vote on motion. VOTE KIRK - YEA CHANDLER - ABSENT OLIVER - YEA WATFORD - YEA WILLIAMS - YEA MOTION CARRIED. B. Motion to approve a request by Absolutely Art Gallery to Council Member Watford moved to approve a request by Absolutely Art Gallery to temporarily close the 100' Block of temporarily close the 100"' Block of South Park Street between the South Park Street between the hours of4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on April 11, 2001; seconded by Council Member Oliver. hours of 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on April 11, 2001 -City Clerk (Exhibit 2). Ms. Shawn Henderson, a representative of "Friends of the Okeechobee Battlefield", addressed the Council explaining, we are assisting Mrs. Kelly Raulerson, who is the new owner of Absolutely Art Gallery. She then distributed packets to the Council containing an invitation to the event, a media release and a flyer regarding the event. She continued with her presentation, our intentions are to promote the gallery and downtown activity. Also, she has in her gallery the APRIL 3, 2001 - REGULAR MEETING - PAGE 5 OF 7 137 VII. NEW BUSINESS CONTINUED. B. Motion to approve a request by Absolutely Art Gallery to original Okeechobee Battlefield Painting. We would like to raise community awareness regarding this particular painting temporarily close the 100' Block of South Park Street between the to keep it here within Okeechobee County because it is our heritage. The actual battlefield site has been placed on the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on April 11, 2001 continued. list as one of the eleven most historically endangered sites in the United States by the National Trust. It is endangered due to encroaching development. The original site consisted of six hundred acres. Currently there are approximately three acres left. The artist of the painting, Mr. Guy LaBree will be atthe event to give a talk about the history of the battle, the work and research thatwent into making the original painting, as well as a question and answer session. Mr. Bradly Cooley, a sculptures will be at the event in addition to: Falconer Ray Becerral with Birds of Prey from Billie Swamp Safari; Bjorn, a photographer; and live music by recording artist Fritz Henry. Authentic battle artifacts will be on display, courtesy of the Historical Society. There will also be Swamp cabbage, prepared by Davy Raulerson;and refreshments; face painting; and a raffle for a framed signed and numbered print of the Battle of Okeechobee. Mayor Kirk and Council Member Watford commented this was a great idea to get something going downtown. Attorney Cook questioned any permits, proof of insurance and whether there will be sales in the street. Ms. Henderson advised that she will provide a copy of their $1 million liability insurance policy. That no items will be sold in the street, only in the gallery, and that other business owners within the block were personally contacted. No one had any objections. The only business that will be open is Joey's Pizza. He is very pleased with the idea and has offered his restroom facilities which are handicapped accessible. Ms. Henderson presented Clerk Thomas with a list of names with signatures of the business owners contacted, as previously stated, for the record. Ms. Henderson also noted that the motion was to close the street until 8:00 p.m. Perhaps 8:30 p.m. or 9:00 p.m. would be a little more feasible for whatthey are going to be doing and getting everyone safely off the streets. Council felt thirty minutes would be a reasonably expected time for a crowd to disburse. Police Chief Davis agreed and noted that Public Works Department could distribute the barricades and the Police Department would set them up and take them down at the appropriate times. Council Member Watford noted for the record that the Council has temporarily closed certain streets of the downtown area, most recently Arrow Communications for their grand opening, therefore this is not something new. VOTE KIRK - YEA CHANDLER - ABSENT OLIVER - YEA WATFORD - YEA WILLIAMS - YEA MOTION CARRIED. 1 Q APRIL 3, 2001 - REGULAR MEETING - PAGE 6 OF 7 VII. NEW BUSINESS CONTINUED. C. Presentation/Approval of the Sister City Program - Laura Young Mrs. Laura Young began her presentation by giving a little history of herself, I have been in Florida for twelve years. I (Exhibit 3). am originally from Seattle, Washington. My husband's family moved down here, they are retired military. His father is an ex-Vetnam Vet who served three tours in Vietnam. His brother is in Special Forces and is currently in Asia. I have been in law enforcement for ten years, five years as a deputy for West Palm Beach and five years for the State in Corrections. The main reasons why I got involved in this Sister City Program is because after coming to Florida and working with people in the jail and seeing people work three and four jobs, barely making it, and working with abused children and seeing how many people's living conditions are, due to the low wages I wanted to help the situation. A friend of mine, back in Seattle is in charge of the Sister City Program and I asked her what it was all about. She explained it involved several States and several foreign countries, it brings relationships closer and promotes businesses. I thought Florida would be a great place because of the need here for better wages. The Sister City promotes culture, educational and business exchanges. Ft. Lauderdale has become a Sister City with China for one year and it has been a great success for them economically. The Chinese people need help with agriculture and raising beef cattle, since that is Okeechobee's main economy I thought it would be good to start a Sister City Program between the two places. The Mayor has been involved in discussions with me a few times. I brought the Chinese news media here on a trip. At the time they were here, the United States bombed the Chinese Embassy in Bosnia. The Chinese people here were very afraid, they thought we might take them hostage but due to the heartwarming welcomed they received here and all across Florida they were able to report their experience about the everyday Americans when they returned home. The Chinese were protesting America and after the news groups started printing their stories all that died down, all because of the communication between our little town and that group of people. I am planning a trip to China, as soon as this current thing settles down. We currently have attorneys' from West Palm Beach going and several business owners. I would like to have a representative from Okeechobee to go. Once we know who will be going, we will set up individual meetings so that the business owners can meet with the business leaders, medical people will meet, etc. in addition to the tour of various places in China. I would need to know by August if someone can go. Mayor Kirk thanked Mrs. Young for sharing this information with the Council and may be one of us can make the trip, it would be really nice. She also noted that she will be holding a question and answer session on the trip at the Sacred Heart Church, April 20, 2001, 6:30 p.m. An international attorney from Ft. Lauderdale has recently returned from a trip to China, her pictures and a letter she wrote about her trip will be at the meeting. She will also be forwarding this packet to the Council along with financial statistics from Ft. Lauderdale and what countries are participating within the Sister City Program. APRIL 3, 2001 - REGULAR MEETING - PAGE 7 OF 7 139 X. ADJOURN MEETING - Mayor. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE AND BE ADVISED THAT IF 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. ATTEST: Bonnie S. Thomas, CIVIC, City Clerk James E. Kirk, Mayor There being no further items on the agenda, Mayor Kirk adjourned the meeting at 6:35 p.m. Page -1- CITY OF OKEECHOBEE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEMO - - April 3, 2001 HANDWRITTEN MINUTES I. CALL TO ORDER: - Mayor: K hz3 zooz c couv�c,L - �q1� 6:00 b. me II. OPENING CEREMONIES: Invocation offered bPaA Pledge -of ANegEance led I,y_� III. MAYOR COUNCIL�9NQ;;TAFF-ATTENDANCE-- _ Thus: Mayor !(irk Present Absent Council Member Chandler Council Member ✓� �� .- _ . ___ _ - -- _Oliver__ Council Member Watford ouncil Member Williams Attorney hook Administrator Veach City Cieik Thomas Deputy Clerk Gamiotea Carolyn Arnold, Office Assistant PRESENTATIOWAND PROCLAIWAPMS = Mayor. A. Proclaim y. Apnt 4, 20@-1 as�"Kick $ufts �a wrritKtA8-1M smokirtg-is--on the rise arrd smokin amo million kids aged 12 -17 are current smokers and more than 3 0 additional become regular smokers each EAS' 4.5 WHEREAS) the Centers.for l E-Control drets from smoking -related diseases unless current trends are e5 and WHEREAS -age - - day, and {DIY ' age i g-relaoday iWiff llnesses year, fig mom. smoking -related illnesses already kill drugs and fires combined; and WHEREAS, most of these deathhfrom ave bpratcotrcted, a d WHER' ABrthes, suicides; City-of-Okeeehobe& willr�e Wger-leleri�te-the tebaeeoeen children of the products through insidious advertising campaigns; and WHEREAS, the Mayor of Okeechobee wish �`ss�man►Pufatethem-into buyingtethal-and addflrve _- - childrenOfthis-City in_ oppoWonto-#1e.advergs g es to stand up with the E. Kirk, by the virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor of the City of Okeechobee, e Florida, do hereby proclaim d l' dames - as "K1CK BUTTS DAY" in--Okeechobee.p Ap 14, 2001 B. Proclaim Endorsement and Support for Healthy Start Florida. "WHEREAS, in just one decade, infa�t�d'1'4e��arres have dro ed more th PP an ar to the lowest level in Florida's history; and WHEREAS, for ever one dollar spent reventin an unhealthy birth,, six dolt s_ r aged iq geQnatal_intensive_care costs recurrent hospital and medical expenses paid by Medicaid, exceptional and remedial education, child abuse and ne le , investigations, e-fils lit and d pendencycosts• and WHEREAS, Healthy Start Coalitions hays created a seamless,system_of care which benefits more than 50,Og pregnant women and 50,000 families with newborns each year in Florida; and WHEREAS, Healthy Start Coalitions are COT �risedofcommunit volunteers whoareuniquelypositlonedtoassessandrespond — to community maternal and chit —health needs, and direct -fun( Ing toward services to address those needs; and WHEREAS, in one recent year, Healthy Start Coalitions have collectivel - _ y _,Aar d almost $13 million, or three times the annual appropriation, including some fQ0,0U0 volui-teer hours, inin-kmd ervices-andresources, cash, grants and projects related to maternal and infant health. WHEREAS, Healthy Start has been publicly praised as a "government program gone right." NOW THEREFORE;1, James E. Kirk, by the virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor ofthe City of Okeechobee, do hereby proclaim Endorsement and Support for Healthy Start Florida." f • Page -2- V. MINUTES - City Clerk. ?C — _ A. Council Member, , � moved to dispense with the reading qnd approve the Summary of Council Action for the March _. 20; 200 Regrita�' fMeetin , seconded by-Courmml Member __ _ _ VOTE YfA..._ MAY ABSTAFIV -- ABSENT KIRK _ CHAPMER LIVER WATFORD WILLIAMS _ Motion Denied. VI. AGENDA -Mayor. A. Requests for the addition, deferral or withdrawal of items on today's agenda. VII. NEW BUSINESS. A.1. a) council Member moved to read b title only and set Y Y April 17, 2001 as a public hearing date for proposed Ordinance Nrr.-768 amerrdirrg-the City-of-Okeeftbee-and Okee ee-U�y Authorityf-mptoyees' Retirement System - City Attorney (Exhibit 1); seconded by Council Member f�-GG Vote on motion to read by title only. VOTE YEA NAY ABSTAIN ABSENT -KIRK _ CHANDLER OLIVER- WATFORD _ WILLIAMS. ' Motion aOed — Denied. cCity Attorney to read proposed Ordinance No. 768 by title only. "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE A.M.. ENDING THE CITYOFOKEECHOBEE AND OKEECHOBEE UIILITYAUTHORITYEMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM, ADOPTED PURSUANTTOORDINANCE N0. 714 PROVIDING-FORCODIFICATIOW-REPEALIuG ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE." 2.a Council Member _ ) moved to approve the first reading of proposed Ordinance No. 768; seconded by Council Member _ c) Vote on motion. _ VOTE YEA-NAY_ABSTAIN ABSENT . KIRK CHANDLER OLIVER WATFORD. WILLIAMS _ __ Motion a e Denied. E U Page -3- B. Council Member moved to , _�yvu - approve a request by Absolutely Art Gallery to temporarily close the 100'hBiock of South Park Street be n t i6hours of4,00 p.m art-d8,00-p:rn: or April-11-33M -CItytNet-(fxhibit2); seconded by Council Member. VOTE YEA NAY ABSTAIN ABSENT KIRK CHANDLER -OLIVER WATFORD _-WILLtAN[S Motion cirri — Denied. zo d r sz- 7- .�. - _ _ f � r _ e i Page -4- G. Presentation/Approval e€the Sister pity Program r Lauri Young (Exhibit 3y: Page -I- CITY OF OKEECHOBEE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - April 3, 2001 HANDWfRITTEN MINUTES I. CALL TO ORDER: -Mayor: xwk Apra3, 2001 City cou4%caRgg!Ai Meng. 6:00 p.wu II. OPENING CEREMONIES: Invocation offered by Pa4tor NealQu*uaiyk Pledge -of Allegiancefed-by P14W _ -III. MAYOR, COUNCIL AND STAFF ATTENDANCE- "WHEREAS, teen smoking is-onbe rise and smoking among -high school seniors is at -a 9=year high"; and WHEREAS, 4.5 million kids aged 12 -17 are current smokers and more than 3,000 adclitional kids become regular smokers each day; and WHEREAS, the Centers for ffisease Contratpmdi`cis-moretharf5-MtMon-ctfiidrefftm&q-aW t8-aM-todayvMI dieprematurely_ from smoking -related diseases unless current trends are reversed; and WHEREAS, smoking -related illnesses already kill roughly ,000 Americans-eactfyear, reprewft—morL:,-tW hst-an-from ,-alcohot car accidents; murders, -suicides drugs and fires combined; and WHEREAS, most of these deaths could have been prevented; and WHEREAS, the children of the-City-ofOkeechobee will nolonger-toteratethe-tob-industyseffbitsmanipulatertheminto buying-lethatand-additive products through insidious advertising campaigns; and WHEREAS, the Mayor of Okeechobee wishes to stand up with the children-ofthisCityingVositm-totheadveffsingantFmarkEtingoFfobaecoproduetsto-diten; NOWhTHEREFORE, I, James__ E. Kirk, by the virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor of the City of Okeechobee, Florida, do hereby proclaim April 4, 2001 _ _as "IEICK BUTTS DAY" in 0keechobee: PU,1LV,1_J tom_'_ CtAjth.�&Lc.li�_,� B. Proclaim Endorsement and Support for Healthy Start Florida. ti' "WHEREAS, in just one decade, infant death rates have dropped more than 22% to the IaGvest level in Florida's history; and WHEREAS, for. every_one_dollar. spent preventing_an_ unhealthy_birth, ix__d411a_rs_are saved in neonatal_ intensive. care _costs, _ recurrent hospital and medical expenses paid by Medicaid, exceptional and remedial education, child abuse and neglect investigations, dsability_and dependency_cosis; and WHEREAS, Healthy_Start Coalitions have created a seamless system of care which benefits more than 50,000 pregnant women and 50,000 families with newborns each year in Florida; and WHEREAS, Healthy Start Coalitions are comprised of community volunteers who are unique)�positioned to assess and respond to community maternal and child health needs, and direct funding toward services to address those needs; and WHEREAS, in one recent year, Healthy Start Coalitions have collectively leverage_ d almost $13 million, or three times the annual appropnation, including some 100,000 volunteer hours, inin-kindservices andresources; cash; granfs and projecis related to maternal and infant health. WHEREAS, Healthy Start has been publicly praised as a "government program gone right." NOW THEREFORE, I; -James E: Kirk, by-* the virtue -of the author-tyvested in me as llfiayor of the -City Of Okeechobee, do hereby proclaim Endorsement and Support for Healthy Start Florida." gat�l Z • • Page -2-- V. MINUTES - City Clerk. A. Council Member PAD moved to dispense with the reading an approve the Summary of Council Action for the March 20, 2001 Regular-Meeft seconded-by-,Cwncil M4ember- VOTE YEA 4 Y ABSTAIN .ABSENT KIRK ___..CHANDLER OLIVER _.. WATFORD WILLIAMS v _._ Motionr'rR—e�I_-_Denied. VI. AGENDA - Mayor. ........-... A. Requests for the addition, deferral or withdrawal of items on today's agenda. VII. NEW BUSINESS. A.1. a) council Member w- moved to read by title only and set April 17, 2001 as a public heari _ ntec5eUti Au►ority EnOrdinanmt4o-76g__aendingthat'" ofi a e�d�eoy System - City Attorney (Exhibit 1); seconded by Council Member 9. date for proposed wees'_Retirement b) Vote on motion to read by title only. VOTE YEA NAY ABSTAIN ABSENT KIRK CHANDLER ✓ OLIVER _. ✓ _ _ _ _ _ WATFORD WILLIAMS._ _ v _._ Motio !! R Denied. c) City Attorney to read proposed Ordinance No. 768 by title only. "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE AMENDIN.GTHECITY0FOKEECHOBEEANQnKEECHnREEl1T1LITYAUTHORITYEMP_LOYEES_.RETIREMENT _- SYSTEM, ADOPTED PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE NO.714; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH ANQ_P_ROVIDI.NG AN EFFECTIVE DATE." 2.a) Council Member, NA i moved to approve.the first reading of _proposed Ordinance No. 7ft secondedb-y Council Member N-0 4l1{ lug c4�n��ci, ,�drA�►_ b) discussion. $ ►��, 7 W-11 1,4- ux cLwwz&d4Wct 44 :� A'S �%. . Ud y up(PA1-4tuDdol_ w`� L _ �� 4�� nw sys+ C l,s� wt CILU �.u� � y� 5 W QA 44W O'L V likI ,.�_,��. 00 ti P m►� �:t1t hciu�t t!n ,� !�� Pifilwr +_�E`�.�3_CDA 61P �p�t tx,f �{Z�i�(JlAlt? q4 a�w S"Udla-fw b44 oxen. `/ � t c) _ Vote on motion. r� ik..o pn� u _ :tteD+rste� - ilt i Dot VOTE. YEA NAY __ _ABSTAIN . _ABSENTT-_ A,n tho►�nQ m _ . KIRK CHANDLER OLIVER WATFORD- WILLIAMS v Motio Denied. - ......- .. . - Page -3- . Council Member f moved to approve a request by Absolutely Art Gallery to temporarily close the 100"' Block ofSouth-Pad-Sr6et 15e ewthelsours �f 4:DO p:m: nd 8:00 p.m: on-Aprit'ht 2(i61- City�terk by Council Member _ 60 tEx OR2Y; seconders - VOTE YEA NAY ABSTAIN ABSENT - _ KtRtC �- _ CHANDLER ONVER WATFORD WILLIAMS + Motio e - Denied. _ t --_ F _ _ �Ao t - . -_y n wt- - a+ &t+ _ _ _�..� 4U0 UAL -eLv�4&i - r 4L ftA s _� you C - c�c Fro hOW_. - hPA - O Z ---� -V41 bra. ? - CL Ou&L Ct awl } g t _ c�.rn g ,_ a ono. s�. ►, 5_ -G ._ LP 4�4w me -" bL 61 - 4 tip a _6 , ut O-Q-W � �' mcs� _ bury ._, -haw d ova _ - Ply i • c� `7 LXO __ . 't _ _ _Via- c O J�Z ��L s,, �� , �. ;�. c�exw� eta riti ��f -2 C�twCtd • P� J r'1 Page -4- _ C. PrMntationf Apprmj Ofthe Sister-EitY Program---Laura-yourrg (fxhibtt 3). at &Cat LA -_; Mk�1 Cn tn c CUP _+lcm &Dau �- ram Gt1i. _ _a q, -bu* WLL-Low-aKw- -atol- CLO-W, -V' UrL Lit a �' Ct . _. ,tA -F . q ` - (�t2 c -► �j_ fCaI- -, „ } - f uep�o_ J d, Know, cv� OL-4._P-0, ci\ .a L\�) & , Si664 pit L. Ak4 ur;.a,Q _ jv'mncp' A a\�- Sttt ua% - L�p a- --6� 75� WLOUU �tA L .(&aqD Lka j ruakc , t_ sic a em . - 4MAD_Wh4,-LDnL__ cr� ur Wrx4 _ C JD otct-�' U, -UUA4 4u- 40 0�0*-�Jw T 0 WiA e. _ LA� ' Lsy� "4- aU96AD�2 q�JN-wr� dtip -w' Sock -_LAJO t (%-Lka eaA- _ 4&, L , 4 io z� pt�+uAk/� -f 4 eh cv-a &rd cyu 4tcst q- laat c fu woo ahati h kL 11 had uki tl-A)I)i Joufu 614j- rut i qauc# T LP i r�,O-t. f � hu-L(L , mom - L ? n�Q • r ,� ! r�� },l`��u�l)¢�" CITY OF OKEECHOBEE APRIL 3, 2001 REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OFFICIAL AGENDA PAGE 1 of 3 I. CALL TO ORDER -Mayor: April 3, 2001, City Council Regular Meeting, 6:00 p.m. II. OPENING CEREMONIES: Invocation offered by Pastor Neil Gunsalus; • Pledge of Allegiance led by Mayor. III. MAYOR, COUNCIL AND STAFF ATTENDANCE - City Clerk. Mayor James E. Kirk Council Member Noel A. Chandler Council Member Robert Oliver Council Member Dowling R. Watford, Jr. Council Member Clayton Williams City Attorney John R. Cook City Administrator Bill L. Veach City Clerk Bonnie S. Thomas Deputy Clerk S. Lane Gamiotea 0 IV. PRESENTATIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS A. Proclaim April 4, 2001 as "Kick Butts Day". B. Proclaim Endorsement and Support for Healthy Start Florida. APRIL 3, 2001 - CITY COUNCIL AGENDA - PAGE 2 OF 3 V. MINUTES - City Clerk A. Motion to dispense with the reading and approve the Summary of Council Action for the March 20, 2001 Meeting. • VI. AGENDA - Mayor. A. Requests for the addition, deferral or withdrawal of items on today's agenda. VII. NEW BUSINESS. A. La) Motion to read by title only and set April 17, 2001 as a public hearing date for proposed Ordinance No. 768 amending the City of Okeechobee and Okeechobee Utility Authority Employees' Retirement System - City Attorney (Exhibit 1). b) Vote on motion to read by title only. C) City Attorney to read proposed Ordinance No. 768 by title only. • 2.a) Motion to approve the first reading of proposed Ordinance No. 768. b) Discussion. C) Vote on motion. APRIL 3, 2001 - CITY COUNCIL AGENDA - VII. NEW BUSINESS CONTINUED B. Motion to approve a request by Absolutely Art Gallery to temporarily close the 100t' Block of South Park Street between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on April 11, 2001 - City Clerk (Exhibit 2). C. Presentation/Approval of the Sister City Program - Laura Young (Exhibit 3). VIII. ADJOURN MEETING - Mayor 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 for such purpose may need to ensure a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. City Clerk tapes are for the sole purpose of backup for official records of the Clerk. 3 of 3 - .P \< -. p� r -z T 44 c 1. OFFICE OF THE MAYOR x OX-redzobm xllou�ia k RE AS, teen smoldng is on the rise and smoking among high school seniors is at a 1'9-ye y 1ugh; and SEAS, 4.5 million kids aged 12 -17 are current smokers and more than 3,000 addiiionalkids *` become regular smokers each day, and VIEMEAS, the Centers for Disease Control predicts more than 5 mullion children under age 18" alive today will die prematurely from smoking -related diseases unless current trends are reversed; and VEWJU S, smoking -related illnesses already loll roughly 400,000 Americans each year, representing more deaths than from AIDS, alcohol, car accidents, murders, suicides, drugs and Ewes combined; and SEAS, most of these deaths could have been prevented; and iNEME.AS, the children of the City of Okeechobee will no longer tolerate the tobacco industry's efforts to manipulate them into buying lethal and additive products through insidious advertising campaigns; and NEIME AS, the Mayor of Okeechobee wishes to stand up with the children of this City in opposition to the advertising and marketing of tobacco products to children; NOW nW MORE,1, James E. Kirk, by the virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor of the City of Okeechobee, Florida, do hereby proclaim April 4, 2001 as-RlC1hRU77 S DAY -in Okeechobee. X.- IN VVITNESS VVEMEOF I HAVE EMEURrO SET MY HAND CAUSED THIS SEAL TO �r 7z- r-+ } a: ;,� 'ohs . ; _.fx5 ,.� �4 x � ,r..`^yw, a �� ♦ € f }7, OFFICE OF THE MAYOR Okii z/ao6ee, J9 aa, WHEREAS, in just one decade, infant death rates have dropped more than 22% to the lowest fl, Florida's history; and {g an unhealthy birth, six dollars are saved in nepna REAS, for every one dollar spent preventintaf intensive care costs, recurrent hospital and medical expenses paid by Medicaid, exceptional and remedial education, child abuse and neglect investigations, disability and dependency costs;:and , WHEREAS, Healthy Start Coalitions have created a seamless system of care which benefits more than 50,000 pregnant women and 50,000 families with newborns each year in Florida; and WHEREAS, Healthy Start Coalitions are comprised of community volunteers who are uniquely positioned to assess and respond to community maternal and child health needs, and direct funding toward services to address those needs; and WHEREAS, in one recent year, Healthy Start Coalitions have collectively leveraged almost $13 million,, ` or three times the annual appropriation, including some 100,000 volunteer hours, in in -kind services and resources, cash, grants and projects related to maternal and infant health. WHEREAS, Healthy Start has been publicly praised as a "government program gone right." NOW THEREFORE, I, James E. Kirk, by the virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor of the City of Okeechobee, do hereby proclaim Endorsement and Support for Healthy Start Florida. IN WITNESS WHEREOF IV HEREUNTO SET MY HAND AND CAU D T S SEAL TO B FF XEI� L is JAMES FYI% ri A -- ATTEST: `''✓ BONNIE S. THOMAS, CMC, CITY•e; DATE: APRIL yyy,YJ ��s EXHIBIT 1 ORDINANCE NO. 768 APR 3 AGENDA AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE AMENDING THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE AND OKEECHOBEE UTILITY AUTHORITY EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM, ADOPTED PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE NO. 714; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA: SECTION 1: That the City of Okeechobee and Okeechobee Utility Authority Employees Retirement System, adopted pursuant to Ordinance No. 714, is hereby amended by amending Section 2, Membership, to read as follows: SECTION 2. MEMBERSHIP. 1. Conditions of Eligibility. All General Employees as of the Effective Date, and all future new General Employees, shall become Members of this System as a condition of employment. Notwithstanding the previous paragraph, the current City Administrator and any future City Administrator or Administrative Assistant and the current or future Executive Director of the Okeechobee Utility Authority may, in the event he has elected to participate in another pension program, within the first sixty (60) days of his employment as City Administrator or Administrative Assistant or Executive Director, notify the Board and the City of Okeechobee (with respect to the City Administrator orAdministrative Assistant) orthe Okeechobee UtilityAuthority (with respect to the Executive Director), in writing, of his election to not be a Member of the System. In the event of any such election, he shall be barred from future membership in the System. Notwithstanding any provision herein to the contrary, the current City Administrator as of April 1, 2001 may, in the event he has elected to participate in another pension program on or before June 1 2001 notify the Board and the City of Okeechobee, in writing of his election to opt out of the System In the event of such election, the Board shall refund the Accumulated Contributions to the City Administrator and he shall be barred from future membership in the System. 2. Designation of Beneficiary. Each General Employee shall complete a form prescribed by the Board designating a Beneficiary or Beneficiaries. SECTION 2: All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances in conflict herewith be and the same are hereby repealed. SECTION 3: That this Ordinance shall become effective upon adoption. Introduced on first reading and set for public hearing this 31 day of April, 2001. James E. Kirk, Mayor ATTEST: Bonnie S. Thomas, CMC, City Clerk Passed on second reading after public hearing this 171h day of April, 2001. ATTEST: Bonnie S. Thomas, CMC, City Clerk APPROVED FOR LEGAL SUFFICIENCY: John R. Cook, City Attorney WOK-GEN,03-23-01.00 James E. Kirk, Mayor TEMPORARY STREET CLOSING EXHIBIT 2 — APR 3 AGENDA A request has been made to temporarily close South Park Street between South Parrott Avenue and Southwest 2"d Avenue on April 11, 2001 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Please review the request, write your comments, sign and date in the appropriate section for your department. PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT T ,` - 62F— O& Donnie Robertson, Public Works Director Authorized Signature Date Typed Name & Title POLICE DEPARTMENT (Z� Au#Kiorized Signature ADMINISTRATION Date Date Dennis Davis, Chief of Police Typed Name & Title L. Keith Tomey, Fire Chief Typed Name & Title . . /�.- �" Bill L. Veach, City Administrator Authorized Iignat4e Date Typed Name & Title APPROVED/DENIED BY COUNCIL ON: April 3, 2001 CI'T'Y OF OKEECHOBEE 941)763-3372 * Fax 941)763-1686 AGENDA ITEM REQUEST FORM Please mail or bring completed form to: City of Okeechobee City Clerk's Office 55 S.E. 3rd Avenue Okeechobee, Florida 34974 NAME: 6LE4L�� ,QS��J -' AQSaIctTezL/ ADDRESS: l/sue S iJ ?�A,,e /<- �?2 �/4 3u97a TELEPHONE: ej3--il67- ?s3-7 �3- 357 //99 (HOME) (BUSINESS) MEETING: REGULAR SPECIAL a WORKSHOP ❑ DATE: Apj1 ,, L 3, Z,) L) PLEASE STATE THE ITEM YOU WISH TO HAVE PLACED ON THE CITY COUNCIL AGENDA. cc�tcesT �a Glaser ��t- /ova r31oc/L DF !�- Kk cS'i7-tezt PLEASE STATE WHAT DEPARTMENT(S) YOU HAVE WORKED WITH THUS FAR. AaL%a— LcJ; //ir,&t,- 3"1- V"c/f PLEASE STATE DESIRED ACTION BY THE CITY COUNCIL. 1 41R/Z,xI,9 PLEASE SUMMARIZED PERTINENT INFORMATION CONCERNING YOUR REQUEST AND ATTACH APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS. T t9of- A 0,D -h R,<k 523 ,—Ca . -i2ij 1-�4 .z 4 s;,A,Te Ly Ae7 6RI1eX4 z'/C A �S7Q�7- ;'007 KJ6 f4X'7 .SNOBS CYc) ✓tti �'jtu �a i / (Z )te S S t7F eo& A)e'a'I PRESENTATION IS TO BE MADE, HOW MUCH TIME WILL BE REQUESTED? /L' �S Min ufQS SIGNED BY: l� ��.�� t�d� J DATE: 7'Catc,� �23�000t Temporary Street Closing 1. Proof of insurance is required: $200,000. 2. If wine & cheese is being given to guests that attend the opening — the wine must remain inside the business location. No alcoholic beverages can come out onto the City street or sidewalk. 3. Donations cannot be requested — due to alcoholic beverages being involved. If they still insist on donations — then no alcoholic beverages can be involved. 4. If any items are being "sold" in the street — a $ 17 5.00 temporary use permit is required through the General Services Department. Each additional business that participates in "sells" must also purchase a temporary use permit. 5. Cleanup is required. r Continued: Request From Kelly Raulerson to City Council Re: Event to be held at Absolutely Art Gallery I April 11 `h, 2001 5 P.M. to 8 P.M. I, Kelly Raulerson have contacted the business owners on the 100' block of Park Street and made them aware of my intentions to have a special event at Absolutely Art Gallery. Name of Business Business will be open? If so, are the restrooms available? Handicap Jeff M. Robinson Date Yes C. J s Outlet Date Yes Z t� �rodAL/-�- Mike's Guns Date Yes Joey's Pizza Date ees 44�� Home Care Connection Yes Glades Electric Date Yes et's P&ty ate Yes L-'1�Iome Date (ND Yes No Yes No No No QN Yes OYes Yes Yes Yes Yes (:N:o) No No No No ZNo No :No; • • House of Hair Date Yes {/ One Stop Center Date Yes Steve Nelson - Owner Okeechobee Discount Drugs Frank Altabello - Owner / 100`' block of Park Street �Ye No No Yes �Nam' TO: All businesses and property owners located in the 100 block of S.W. Park Street Okeechobee Discount Drugs FROM: Kelly Raulerson, Absolutely Art Gallery DATE: March 26, 2001 RE: Event to be held April 11, 2001 Absolutely Art Gallery will be addressing the City Council on April 3, 2001 to request permission to close off the 100 block of S.W. Park Street to through traffic for a three-hour period, from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. on April 11, 2001. We will be hosting an event at which the artist, Guy LaBree will be in attendance to meet the public and to show and discuss his painting "Battle of Okeechobee". If you have no objection to the street closing, please sign below. Also, please indicate if your business will be open during the event hours, and if so, if you have handicap accessible rest room facilities that you would be willing to open to the public during those hours. Thank you for your consideration of this request. Absolutelij Art GA11" "Tic 1=rie"bs of the Okeechobee DAWefielb" request the ho»or of flour prese"ce ON April llth, 2001 from S r. m. to s r, m. At AbsolNtcIM Art Ga11eN 115 SW Park Street Okeechobee, PloriSa Please help w Welcome "PloribA's l;arefoot Artist" GuM LADree A"b the Origi»al t;atde of Okeechobee MAsterpiece. Authentic Artifacts will be oh bisplati courtes,4 of the Okeechobee Historical SocietH. Live Music b,4 recorbing artist Fritz He"r4. Special Appearance bti RAM 13ecerra anb his Birbs of rreH from Billie Swamp Safari. Refreshments will be serveb. ` Contact Kelly Raulerson at Absolutley Art Gallery 863-357-1199 or Shawn Henderson - 863-634-2126 or Becky Williamson -Prince - 863-634-3264 `•1 "Friends of the Okeechobee Battle Field" APRIL 11 TH, 2001 Present Ahab oa by boa ON to SP.M. Music Nationally Known Ming Artist It Henryl Special appearance by Falconer B I LL I E Ray Becerra SWAMP ZRIJ ENR SAFARI with Birds of Prey 115 SW Park Street, Okeechobee - 853-357-1199 IMMEDIATE ATTENTION MEDIA RELEASE EVENT APRIL 1 l "', 2001 Absolutely Art Gallery i, located at 115 SW Park Street in Okeechobee is proud to present Guy Labree and the original Battle of Okeechobee painting. Guy Labree is known as "Florida's Barefoot Artist" . Guy has the ability to transcribe legendary and historical thought onto canvass, this has made Labree one of the nation's most collectible artists. The Battle of Okeechobee was fought on Christmas Day in 1837. U.S. troops under the command of Colonel Zachery Taylor and the Missouri Volunteers under the command of Colonel Richard Gentry. The Seminoles and Miccosukies were led by medicine man Sam Jones, Wildcat, Alligator and Holleck Tustenugee. This battle was during the second Seminole war and was one of the fiercest engagements of the Indian wars. The Okeechobee battlefield is a National landmark and was named by the National Trust for Public Lands as one of the eleven most historically endangered sites in the United States. The battlefield is on the verge of complete destruction by pending development. In order to help preserve this site, the "Friends of the Okeechobee Battlefield" were formed. Friends of the Okeechobee battlefield assist in the effort to raise public awareness and interest concerning preservation for this endangered site. The Friends would like to see a Battlefield park to commemorate this historical site. Please join Absolutely Art Gallery I and the Friends of the Okeechobee Battlefield on April I I" from 5:00 p.m. to 8pm in welcoming Guy Labree in a question and answer session about the history of the battle and the work and research that went into making the original masterpiece. In addition to artist Guy Labree a special appearance will be made by Falconer Ray Becerra with Birds of Prey from Billie Swamp Safari, live music presented by nationally known recording artist Fritz Henry, face painting, a raffle for a framed signed and numbered print of the Battle of Okeechobee with a retail value of $500.00. AUTHENTIC BATTLE ARTIFACTS WILL BE ON DISPLAY COURTESY OF THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY. `This will be a great opportunity to take part in preservation of one of the most historically endangered sites in the United States. We must press forward before we lose this national treasure forever. Absolutely Art Gallery in located in the heart of downtown Okeechobee on Park Street. From Palm Beach take 710 west to 70. "Turn left at the traffic light on 70. Absolutely Art Gallery is approx. 3 miles on the left at 115 SW Park Street. Call for further directions. Absolutely Art Gallery - 863-357-11" or Battlefield Chairwoman Shawn Henderson 863-634-2126 A ik EXHIBIT 3 APR 3 AGENDA (arientar Culture Inc. Mrs. Laura 12=19 6085 §t 30WPaA*T1a*P Okeec6o&e ff-. 34974 (863)357'2626 To: Mr. Bill Veach; Okeechobee City Administrator Dear Mr. Veach: As you may already know, the sister city program is a successful, established program between various provinces of China and the state of F could not do for o has achieved what governments co Florida. It is a program that centuries, and that is to combine a friendship and business relationship. The city of Ft. Lauderdale already has a long term sister city program 91 in the works and have reported substantial financial gains. Ft. Lauderdale has been able to achieve this without the great wealth of resources that the Chinese are currently seeking which is citrus, dairy, beef, allig ator skin, and venison resources that Okeechobee possesses. Opportunity is now Knocking at the door of the city and county of Okeechobee. The goals of establishing friendly relations, cultural exchanges, and tremendous financial gain for those cities wise enough to become involved with this program, help to bring about needed change for both nations while creating improved ideas for individual communities. Four delegations from China have toured several locations in Florida, including here in Okeechobee. Those delegations included the head of the Chinese-American trade and economic relations, television and newspaper reporters representing over 300 million Chinese citizens, the mayors and governors of selected cities in Hubei Province, and most recently, the head of all corrections and law enforcement for Hubei Province, along with key firms. lawyers from prestigious law f Each group that has passed through this area have expressed their _j -r- +t, of hospitality that was displayed during their graL LU V, I %, A, individual tours. They were delighted with all they learned about the wonderful history of this area, the high technology and efficiency of our law enforcement agencies, and our community's commitment to education. p Orientaf tufture Inc. Mrs. Laura'young 6085 §t 300 10ark=T OkeeC606ee SL- 34974 (863) 35702626 They continue to send letters stating the profound impression which was left upon them for all the kindness shown to them and for lifting a veil of mistrust that centuries of propaganda have created. Invitations have been extended by each group to visit China to experience their culture, history, sights, and to continue to establish business relationships. For that reason we are forming a mixed delegation that will include several backgrounds. The schedule and the dates are dependent upon a full delegation being formed. To continue forward with these plans, a letter of intent, or a phone confirmation, must be received by May 1, 2001. This will afford us the opportunity to confirm a full delegation and will allow each individual to secure their own passports with ample time. The following is a preliminary itinerary. The trip is scheduled to begin on October 31, 2001. October 3 1 -November 12: Day 1: Arrive Beijing Day 2: Tour Tianamen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Summer Palace Day 3: Tour Great Wall of China, Underground Palace, the Temple Of Heaven, and enjoy China's specialty duck dinner. Day 4: Fly to Xiam-Chinese ancient city, tour of big wild goose pagoda Tang Dynasty, and a singing and a dancing show. 1_; Day 5: Tour Huaqing Hot Springs, Qin Massed Terra-Cotta, and Bampo Village Day 6: Fly to Wuhan, tour of East Lake, Hubei Musem, and Yellow Crane Tower *Day 7: Visit with business and city officials to discuss trade needs *Day 8: Tour trade center and continue discussions with business and city leaders Day 9: Fly to Shanghai, tour of Jade Budda Temple, Yu Garden, and Children's palace Day 10: Train to Suzhong, Tour of Tiger FER and Liu Garden Day 11: Tour Zuozheng Garden, silk factory, and train back to Shanghai. Day 12: Fly back to USA mrientaf tufture Inc. Mrs. Laura poung 6085 .fit 300 Parkv0ap Okee*bee S.E. 34-974 (863) 357%2626 *Denotes your individual schedule based upon your business or personal needs. The trip will cost $2,880 per person, which includes international air tickets, domestic air tickets, land transportation, 5star hotels, meals, evening shows, sightseeing tickets, English speaking local and national guides. Please contact Laura Young, Public Relations Director, Oriental Culture, at the number and address in the letter head of this invitation. This current tour is already being well represented by high West Palm Beach officials looking to tap into China's vast potential. Okeechobee still holds China's primary interest. Okeechobee representation would greatly improve and hasten the sister city program which will benefit this community greatly in financial, cultural, and educational growth. This is a great opportunity for the city and county of Okeechobee to break free from being solely dependent on the tourism dollar and will provide local businesses that made Okeechobee what it is to once again flourish. Sincerely: Laura D. Young r Laura Young Oriental Culture Inc. Public Relations Director for the state of Florida 6085 SE 30th Parkway 5 Okeechobee Fl 34974 a: s (863) 357-2626 A 5 i I. DRUCILLA E. BELL, P.A. International, Immigration & Travel Law i 2400 E. Commercial Blvd Suite 709 Ft Lauderdale, FL 33308 (954)536-2464 Fax: (954) 493-7770 Joseph E. Slavin Business ldmtnfstrator . E-mail: dru@globalawfum.com http://www. glnbalawfimi.corn (,ukc0 also OUR SISTER CITIES AUSTRALIA, Gold Coast BRAZIL, Sao Sebastiao COLOMBIA, Medellin DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, La Romana ITALY, Rimini TURKEY, Mugla VENEZUELA, Margarita Island HONORARY CHAIRMAN Honorable Mayor Jim Naugle City of Fort Lauderdale CHAIRMAN February 22, 2001 Nuccia McCormick OFFICERS Oriental Culture PARRY GORE Mrs. Laura D. Young g IAN C. R. GAIL 6085 SE 30`h Parkway Vice President Okeechobee, FL 34974 BRENDA WEIDMAN-McGREGOR Recording Secretary DRUCILLA E. BELL P.A. Re: Sister Cities Corresponding Secretary SUSAN MURRAY Treasurer Dear Mrs. Young, JAMIE J. FINIZIO BASCOMBE Parliamentarian COUNTRY'S CHAIRMAN In response to your letter requesting information regarding the benefits of AUSTRALIA Sister Cities, I am not sure if you are wishing to discuss the benefits of Sister BRAZIL Nicholas Cities affiliations. Certainly, the maintenance of a Sister Cities can be of Eric Willner COLOMBIA great benefit to the community. It and the projects necessary to strengthen the Lesly Jaramillo DeFlorez ties with a Sister City can be financially and culturally rewarding to the DOMINICAN REPUBLIC participants and community at large. Lilv Guzman— Washington Collado D We are asked by the City of Ft. Laurderdale for a yearly report on the Tim as Tim Bascombe activities of our Sister City program and a budget for the following year. ENGLAND Ruchel Louis The City always requires an economic impact as an important part of our FRANCE request for budget contribution. The activities of Sister Cities bring together Guy -Paul Lopez ITALY many cultural aspects of the City into one program. Further, business Tamar Paltrow Zwerdling exchanges, such as breakfasts with visiting dignitaries and foreign business SOUTH AFRICA azl leaders exemplify the type of programs that can offer great economic benefits TURKEY to local companies. Sister Cities further serves the City as the official greeters Semra Deniz M.D. VENEZUELA and hosts when visiting foreign delegates arrive. We are the starting points Erwin M. Vasquez, M.D.. P.A. for many organizations wishing to make international contracts and those DIRECTORS Franco Aguggiaro Glenn Borregard Russell Carlisle James Carras Nancy Goldberg Gypsy Graves Thomas Hamaway, M.D. Henriette (Ruthy) Siegel Martin L. Zisholtz CITY LIAISON Jim Hill YOUTH COMMITTEE Adam Zisholtz international organizations wishing to make contracts in Ft. Lauderdale. The City estimates that the Sister City program performs over a half million -dollar activity for the City which would otherwise have to come from a tax base. If there is a more specific program that you would like to discuss, please let me know. Otherwise you did request a brief letter. I would be happy to discuss Sister City programs in further detail at you convience. Sincerely, 555-7 Laurence D. Gore HONORARY James Allmand III Carl DeSantis Linda Gill Frank & Jo Ann Miniaci Douglas & Linda Von Allmen 101 N.E. 3rd Avenue • Suite 300 • Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301 • Telephone (954)468-1536 • Fax (954)468-1500 Web Site Address http://info.cl.ftlaud.fl.us/sister.htm • • I FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT JUVENILE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE MEDIATION PROGRAM 205 N. Dixie Highway ' Fifth Floor/Room 1715 •��OD Wft West Palm Beach, Florida 33401 Telephone Number (561) 355-1664 FAX: (561) 355-1673 February 28, 2001 Oriental Culture Inc. Mrs. Laura Young 6085 SE 30"' Parkway Okeechobee, Florida 34974 Dear Mrs. Young: I was referred to your cultural exchange Sister City Program by Rick Hussey. My husband and I are very interested in participating by traveling to China. I am the Program Director for the Juvenile Domestic Violence Mediation Program a diversionary program for first offenders. My husband is the Village Manager for Royal Palm Beach and he is also an Attorney. Your tour sounds absolutely fascinating and we would appreciate it if you would send us whatever information is needed to participate. You can send the information to the address above or to my home 12094 Old Country Road Wellington, Florida 33414 Thank you for providing this opportunity! Sine ely, Laurie Pine Farber The Florida Bar News/January 1, 2001-11 "nternational Law Section hosts Chinese lawyers ly Amy Brown ssistant Editor Picture it: Hubei Province, China, lay 2000. A group of lawyers from the Jnited States watch court proceedings, peak with Chinese legal professionals nd gather information about the Chi- ese justice system. Back to the resent: Ft. Lauderdale, December 12, .000. The American lawyers return the Ivor by hosting a Chinese delegation nd educating them about the Ameri- an justice system. Members of The Florida Bar's Inter- iational Law Section ventured across he ocean earlier this year to learn the ns-and-outs of the Chinese justice sys- em. A group of Chinese lawyers hosted he American delegation for a brief stay, -roviding a tour and a luncheon for hem. To return the favor, the American lelegation hosted the Chinese when hey came to the United States in mid- )ecember, as part of the "Sister Cities" )rogram. During their visit, the Chinese del- egation was treated to a reception, lun- cheon and several court proceedings, according to Larry Gore, secretary of the Bar's International Law Section. The delegation went to the Broward County Courthouse, where they were able to observe a trial and two hearings in progress, and to the federal court- house in Ft. Lauderdale, where U.S. Magistrate Judge Lurana S. Snow also gave them a complete civics lesson and showed them the marshal's office and the holding cells. "The judges stopped and explained what was going on.... The [delegates] couldn't believe the judges went out of their way in mid -trial to explain.every- thing." "One of the delegates was even hand- cuffed," Gore noted with a laugh, "for demonstration purposes only" The luncheon for the delegates was sponsored jointly by The Florida Bar and Broward County Bar's interna- tional law sections. At the luncheon, the state Bar's International Law Section INTERNATIONAL LAW SECTION members Donna Gore, third from the left, Laurence D. Gore, center, and Drucilla E. Bell, were recently presented with coins of the Yellow Crane Tower in Wuhan, China by the Chinese Delegation and the leader, Xu Dewen, second from the right, vice president of the Hubei Provinciai Lawyers' Association, in front of a welcome banner. signed an agreement of cooperation with the Hubei delegation for mutual cooperation and exchange. Having lawyers travel from across the world to view the U.S. legal system in action was no small feat, Gore said, but the International Law Section worked hard to make sure the delegates felt at home. "They were extremely well -received and were happy ro pass this information on and see the inter- est we had here. They were so very, very enthusiastic and said they learned an awful lot about our legal system. They were actually quite stunned." Though there are similarities be- tween the two justice systems, one of the most noticeable differences is the lack of senior partners in China. "We found it interesting to nc:te that there had not been private law firms in China until the 1990s. There really aren't that many, what you might call `large' firms, and no senior partners because the whole idea of a private law- yer is new in China," he said tremely rewarding and he hopes the Bar can continue working with the sis- ter cities program. "They learned a lot and there's a lot we had to teach them." 0 0 • I* In - Yci iuriri oral sc_ i ne laws,., refused to believe that the assault, bat- --w—tv vn monaay as a possible futut lake, visited Okee- re sister city. From left, Okeechobee hostess' 1-wit 11unon's sLaura Young Mrs. Lei Li, Sheng Le Quan, Senior Advisor to the China Central Authority Zhou Hanchun Xip. Shijan, Ms. Wpng Li Jun and Ms. Chinese Photo by Muriel Harrington) official 's in �h��:= YOUNG Trade Relations, summed up his view on that China's Okeechobee rolled out the red carpet the status of China's trade relations by Trade p membership into the World in yesterday's historical meeting between saying the United States is the number in organization would be forthcorn_ the Chinese dignitaries and local busi- one developedgin the near future. ness and political representatives. country in the world. When asked what the potential mar_ The turnout for this Mr. Shijian went on to explain that ket for our citrus, beef and agriculture milestone event there is great cause for optimism for con- could be expected Mr. Shijian said, was a virtual who's who of the political p° tinued economic trade between the two "There are over one and business circles. The meeting began countries. with the discussion of China's economic pie in m p°tat two billion peo- ple rate over the past decade o so. CernO Okeechobee eefrfi�cie expressed con- y country. humorous need a lot of food." governments unents recent the tone for the rest of the meeting and Zhon Shijian, Senior Advisor to the position on China's status with the World China Central Authority on American Trade Organization. g Mr. Shijian stated Please see CHINESE/b nqrt of cou n tV :dousy Mr�Mosely strapped n. :ins into a harness and held on- ;a little bit: He was pretty much" Mr. Clines, a former Anne l T ibei:kProvince not unlike Okee ob n ch ee By MARK YOUNG t ; in the continental United States. the entire country. It is an in- dation, and developed econor. 'Who day.:" That is how one Dongting Lake sits in the mid- dustrialized province with a It is also known for its 1 }pounces Hubei,•as in Hubei dle reaches of the,Yangtze River_highly effective automotive. in standing history, splendid i wince -,much as the Kissimmee River ; dustry, metallurgical, macro- ture, beautiful scenery, and Hubei -Province's interest in touches the heart of Lake Okee- electronic, textile, petro-chemi- . merous places of historical in :oming' part of ".sister" pro- chobee: - cal, and building material indus- est. tm with the City of Okee- Lake Okeechobee boasts some tries. Hubei has a strong pontin- While Okeechobee Coun ,bee has caused .much excite- of the best bass fishing in the gent of science and technology. documented history dates b nnity. How in world. The Provincial Capital City of to the early 1800s Hubei's hi world did Okeech obee and a Dongting Lake provides great Wahun is the third largest center ry dates back 5,000 years. )once in China ever become Mandarin fishing, which is the for education, and scientific re- Hubei Province is proud o :nected? Chinese version of bass. search. It already has a proven culture and history. I'he two areas actually have There are also many differ- track record with successful So, what in the world d :ny things in common and much ences. trade relations having been es- Okeechobee have to do with a )ffer one another. _ Hubei Province holds a popu- tablished with over 140 coun- off Chinese Province? A few c Hubei Province is located in the lation of 58 million. The province tries and regions throughout the ago many of, us would not h xt of China, much like.Okee- is rich in natural resources with world. They already enjoy over been able to even ventur ;bee is located in the heart of 111 kinds of minerals coming 35 sister city relationships with ` guess. Now if .asked that sc :r, , zda. It is located just North of from its land. The central loca• r , the United States, Japari, the question the answer is quite lgting,lAke which happens to tion of Hubei Province links its United Kingdom, France, Russia ple: Economical interests, the second largest fresh water east with west and north with and many more. Hubei Province tural interests, educational e in all of china. south giving it bragging rights of is well known. for its abundant terests, industrial interests, )keechobee sits just North of having the largest transportation resources, convenient trans more importantly, human in second largest fresh water lake and communication facilities in portation, strong. economic foun- ests. ese deleg atop .rep1gysitoOkeechobee _ 1 NESE/From 1 future trade 'relationship to that of would like to come`to� America to and invited her to attend the mt subject mattes- began to shift to- a personal relationship. " perform. It is these. kinds of cultur- ing. Ms. Xin's reaction in meet ds the mention of a sister city To set up this program is like al exchanges that must come first." Jing was very enthusiastic gram being established by Ms. , dating, she said. "First we will begin Student exchanges are another knowing that Okeechobee has ichun Xin. " + Jo get to know one another by cul- high priority�for Hubei, Province. ready established itself as model cariosity of the program was the tural and educational exchanges." Ken Sutherland runs' a student e' ' the students _exchange program. oral theme set forth by our local Once a relationship has been es- change program ,in Okeechobee-'' After the meeting, the 1 u P ials and Ms Xin,explained that ': tabhshed between the two'peoples and currently has in his care a stu- out on a boat trip around La tiled questions will be best an- then economic traihe can be pur dent fro Hunan Province attend- `; Okeechobee. Roy guiggins, a gL red when'the Mayor's delega- sued' i ing. Okeechobee' High School. Jing on Lake Okeechobee for, seve from Hubei Province arrives "The Chinese" people ' love your Xia has`beerij'in Okeechobee for years graciously donated his ti r in the y Country and Western music hu We ..nine months and will return to C- as a gesture, of good will. They a :eneral .questions were fielded Would like `to see some; of your',rna at the end of the school year. enjoyed a tour of some of the k /Is Mn singers come to Clina;"..she said The Chinese officials met with ' citrus, dairy, and agricultural ar• she very eloquently compared a "We have , a dance troupe, that, Jing on the morning of the meeting ' of the community. �ihnt�rt 3 mPr+� s� mproe GREATER FORT LAUDERDALE Hanchun Xin - President Representat INTE*IONAL BUSINESS COUNCIL 136-04 Cift Ave. 6J# Foreign Aftairs C Flushing,111111111P York 11355 Hubei Provincial G. Thomas L. (Dax) Paradis, JD (718) 539-1706 Chi President/CEO Florida (941) 357-7860 512 NE 3rdAvenue I oriental culture Inc. Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301 /L7 y !--� TEL• (954) 462-6000, Ext 8781 • FAX. (954) 468-1230 Email: dax@ftichamber.com www.InterntionaniusinessCouncil.org FL Pager. (954) 238-1564 WHEELER INDUSTRIES, INC. (WINC) Dr. Ernest Joseph Wheeler, Jr. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 Washington, D.C. 20033 3414 N.W. 32nd Street P.O. Box 33516 . (954) 731-1564 Phone " Toll Free: 1=(877) 731-3414 (954) 731-3860 Fax i Web Site - www.iifeconsultant.org (954) 806-2226 Cellular E-Mail: WINCOlifeconsuttant.org s A R>:setaat, M=% Devrtorhm+r dt L" CrCU M4Wamrr Ona waaaN CANTON PHARMACEUTICALS, INC. 5ubSidiary oi the National Phartnaceutii;alGroup of China, Guangzhou Corporation John O'Connor Director of Sales, US Division Delray Beach Office 2535 SW 221 Ave. Building Suite103 Delray Beach, 334ch, FL 33445 Tel: 561-704-5388 is ♦ C) Qma o n .-. ^ •" 4 J rn 65, m —3 C/1 F , Z 3 r. `° o w x r • ��wno�p 0 f--r-1 C) m In n LA�t. r)6`. Assists. Laura & Mark Young 6085 SE 30th Parkway Okeechobee, FL 34974 (941) 357-26. co�__ • Randy Avon Vice President / Chairman of Economic Development 2100 Northeast 55th Street Tel.: (954) 563-52C Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 Fax: (954) 491-77C Beijing Honolulu New York Fort Lauderdale Panama Buenos Aires ASIAN PACIFIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Randy Avon CEO AND MANAGING DIRECTOR 2100 Northeast 55th Stre Fort Lauderda Florida, 33Y Phone: (954)563-5201• Fax: (954) 491-7709 Website: asianpacificdev.com • E-mail: kahunal @pmketmail.com NSUNOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY Shepard Broad Law Center PAUL R JOSEPH Associate Dean for International and External Programs Leo Goodwin Sr. Hall 3305 College Avenue - Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33314-7721 (954) 262-6171 -Fax: (954) 262-3844•Cell: (954) 257-5705 Email: josephponsu.lawnova.edu I n v o 1 U -e__ d