2019-08-06 Minutes - Regular and Budget WorkshopCITY OF OKEECHOBEE
AUGUST 6, 2019, REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AND BUDGET WORKSHOP
55 SE 3RD AVENUE ♦ COUNCIL CHAMBERS • OKEECHOBEE, FL 34974
SUMMARY OF COUNCIL ACTION
PAGE 1 OF 18
AGENDA
COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE
I. CALL TO ORDER - Mayor
August 6, 2019, City Council Regular Meeting, 5:00 P.M.
II. OPENING CEREMONIES
Invocation by Don Hanna, First United Methodist Church; Pledge of Allegiance
to be led by Mayor Watford.
III. MAYOR, COUNCIL AND STAFF ATTENDANCE - City Clerk
Mayor Dowling R. Watford, Jr.
Council Member Wes Abney
Council Member Monica M. Clark
Council Member Bob Jarriel
Council Member Bobby Keefe
City Attorney John R. Cook
City Administrator Marcos Montes De Oca
City Clerk Lane Gamiotea
Deputy City Clerk Bobbie Jenkins
Fire Chief Herb Smith
Police Chief Bob Peterson
Public Works Director David Allen
Finance Director India Riedel
IV. AGENDA AND PUBLIC COMMENTS - Mayor
A. Requests for the addition, deferral or withdrawal of items on today's
agenda.
B. Public participation for any issues not on the agenda - Agenda Item Form
or Comment Card is required, Citizen comments are limited to 3 minutes
per speaker unless otherwise approved by the Mayor.
V. PROCLAMATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
A. Present Certificates of Completion to Council Members Clark, Jarriel, and
Keefe for completing the 2019 Institute for Elected Municipal Officials.
Mayor Watford called the August 6, 2019, Regular City Council Meeting to order at 5:00 P.M.
The invocation was offered by Pastor Don Hanna of the First United Methodist Church; the Pledge of Allegiance
was led by Mayor Watford.
City Clerk Gamiotea called the roll:
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Mayor Watford asked whether there were any requests for the addition, deferral, or withdrawal of items on today's
agenda; there were none.
Mayor Watford opened the floor for public comment on matters not on the agenda; there were none.
On behalf of the Florida League of Cities, Mayor Watford presented framed Certificates of Completion to Council
Members Clark, Jarriel, and Keefe for their participation in the 2019 Institute for Elected Municipal Officials Basic
Academy.
AGENDA
V. PROCLAMATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS CONTINUED
B. Promotion of Police Officer Cesar Romero to Sergeant.
C. Swearing in of Police Officers Brandi Drapal and Trenton Moutschka.
AUGUST 6, 2019 - REGULAR MEETING & BUDGET WORKSHOP - PAGE 2 OF 18 514 -
COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE
Police Chief Peterson took a moment to recognize Detective Sergeant Taylor, who was recently awarded the
Community Hero of the Year award hosted and sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee and
Centerstate Bank. He explained local agencies were asked to nominate members of their Teams -Corrections, Law
Enforcement, and Rescue Services -and to describe why they felt these individuals were Hometown Heroes. These
are the reasons why Sergeant Taylor was nominated: as the supervisor to the Detective Division, she is responsible
for overseeing all aspects of investigatory work performed. She has taken on the responsibilities of the
Department's Information Technology Officer, which includes being the liaison for the Computer Aided Dispatch
vendor, liaison to multiple law enforcement databases at both the State and National levels to include the Florida
Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Florida Regional Law Enforcement Exchange, the Florida and
National Crime Information Centers, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and Florida's Integrated Criminal
History System. She also serves as the Department's liaison to the Florida Department of Children and Families, the
nationwide Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce, and serves on the governing Board for the Children's
Mental Health System of Care for Okeechobee. She is an active member of the Kiwanis Club of Okeechobee, the
American Legion Post 64 Auxiliary, Friends of Okeechobee Main Street, and holds the position of Secretary for the
Suncoast Mental Health Board of Directors. With her award, Sergeant Taylor received a three-day stay at a Resort,
but asked that the money instead be donated to the Real Life Children's Ranch of Okeechobee; a $500.00 donation
was made in her honor. The Mayor and Council congratulated her on this prestigious award.
Due to the recent addition of a School Resource Officer for Okeechobee Christian Academy, Sergeant Eddings
voluntarily gave up his Sergeant stripes to fill this role; that opened a Sergeant position within the Department.
Officer Romero joined Chief Peterson and Major Hagan at the podium where his promotion to Sergeant was
officially announced. Sergeant Romero, who was accompanied by his fiance Samantha, and their two children,
thanked the Council, Chief, and Major for this opportunity.
Chief Peterson administered the Oath of Office to Police Officer Brandi Drapal; with her right hand raised, she
recited the following Oath: "1, Brandi Drapal, do solemnly swear that 1 will support the Constitution of the United
States, the Constitution of the State of Florida, and the ordinances of the City of Okeechobee. That I will faithfully
perform the duties of Police Officer of the City of Okeechobee, so help me God." She was pinned with her badge by
Chief Peterson, as prior obligations prevented her family from attending.
Chief Peterson administered the Oath of Office to Police Officer Trenton Moutschka; with his right hand raised, he
recited the following Oath: "1, Trenton Moutschka, do solemnly swear that I will support the Constitution of the United
States, the Constitution of the State of Florida, and the ordinances of the City of Okeechobee. That 1 will faithfully
perform the duties of Police Officer of the City of Okeechobee, so help me God." He was pinned with his badge by his
mother,
AGENDA
VI.
OPEN PUBLIC HEARING FOR RESOLUTION AND ORDINANCE ADOPTION - Mayor
A.1.a) Motion to read proposed Ordinance No. 1185 by title only, regarding
Land Development Regulation Text Amendment Application No.
19 -001 -TA - City Attorney (Exhibit 1).
b) Vote on motion to read by title only.
c) Attorney to read proposed Ordinance No. 1185 by title only.
2.a) Motion to adopt proposed Ordinance No. 1185.
b) Public comments and discussion.
c) Vote on motion.
AUGUST 6, 2019 - REGULAR MEETING & BUDGET WORKSHOP - PAGE 3 OF 18
COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE
MAYOR WATFORD OPENED THE PUBLIC HEARING AT 5:18 P.M.
Council Member Jarriel moved to read proposed Ordinance No. 1185 by title only, regarding Land Development
Regulation (LDR) Text Amendment Application No. 19 -001 -TA; seconded by Council Member Keefe.
VOTE:
WATFORD — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA
ABNEY — YEA CLARK — YEA
KEEFE — YEA MOTION CARRIED.
Attorney Cook read proposed Ordinance No. 1185 by title only as follows: "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA; AMENDING PART 11 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, SUBPART B -LAND DEVELOPMENT
REGULATIONS; PROVIDING FOR AMENDMENTS TO CHAPTER 66 -GENERAL PROVISIONS, AMENDING SECTION
66-1, REVISING DEFINITIONS OF PAWNSHOP, SERVICE- PERSONAL, AND SERVICE- RETAIL; PROVIDING FOR
AMENDMENTS TO CHAPTER 90 -ZONING, ARTICLE III -DISTRICT AND DISTRICT REGULATIONS, DIVISION
6 -COMMERCIAL PROFESSIONAL AND OFFICE DISTRICT, SECTION 90-223 SPECIAL EXCEPTION USES, AMENDING
ITEM (2) AND ADDING ITEM (13) PAWNSHOP; AMENDING DIVISION 7 -LIGHT COMMERCIAL DISTRICT, SECTION
90-253 SPECIAL EXCEPTION USES, ADDING ITEM (23) PAWNSHOP; AMENDING DIVISION 8 -HEAVY COMMERCIAL
DISTRICT, SECTION 90-282 PERMITTED USES, ADDING ITEM (19) PAWNSHOP; AMENDING DIVISION 9 -CENTRAL
BUSINESS DISTRICT, SECTION 90-312 PERMITTED USES, TO INCLUDE TAKE-OUT RESTAURANT TO ITEM (3)
RESTAURANT, CAFE AND BAR TO ITEM (6) PRIVATE CLUB, NIGHTCLUB; AMENDING SECTION 90-313 SPECIAL
EXCEPTION USES, ADDING ITEM (13) PAWNSHOP; AMENDING DIVISION 10 -INDUSTRIAL, SECTION 90-342
PERMITTED USES, TO INCLUDE RESTAURANT, TAKE-OUT RESTAURANT TO ITEM (23) CAFE, ADDING ITEMS (34)
PAWNSHOP AND (35) BAR; AMENDING DIVISION 12 -MIXED-USE PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT,
SECTION 90-402 PERMITTED USES, TO INCLUDE TAKE-OUT RESTAURANT, CAFE TO ITEM (10) RESTAURANT, BAR
TO ITEM (14) PRIVATE CLUB, NIGHTCLUB, AND ADDING ITEM (27) PAWNSHOP; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT;
PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE."
Council Member Clark moved to adopt proposed Ordinance No. 1185; seconded by Council Member Abney.
Mayor Watford opened the floor for public comment; there was none. At the June 20, 2019, Planning Board meeting
the Board found LDR Text Amendment Application No. 19 -001 -TA to be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan,
and recommended approval. The specific definitions changes are: add Pawnshop which means an establishment
where items may be bought outright or left as collateral in order to borrow money; and which those same items may
be sold. Delete the word "pawnshop" from Service, personal. Modify Service, retail, to read as: means a printer,
dance or music studio, pet shop, or similar establishment. Planner Smith was unable to attend the meeting tonight.
However, he presented the Staff Report thoroughly at the first reading.
VOTE:
WATFORD — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA
ABNEY — YEA CLARK — YEA
KEEFE — YEA MOTION CARRIED.
AGENDA
VI.
PUBLIC HEARING CONTINUED
B.1.a) Motion to read proposed Ordinance No. 1186 by title only, regarding
Right -of -Way Abandonment Petition No. 19 -002 -SC - City Attorney
(Exhibit 2).
b) Vote on motion to read by title only.
c) Attorney to read proposed Ordinance No. 1186 by title only.
2.a) Motion to adopt proposed Ordinance No. 1186.
b) Public comments and discussion.
AUGUST 6, 2019 - REGULAR MEETING & BUDGET WORKSHOP - PAGE 4 OF 18
COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE
Council Member Keefe moved to read proposed Ordinance No. 1186 by title only, regarding Right -of -Way
Abandonment Petition No. 19 -002 -SC; seconded by Council Member Clark.
VOTE:
WATFORD — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA
ABNEY — YEA CLARK — YEA
KEEFE — YEA MOTION CARRIED.
Attorney Cook read proposed Ordinance No. 1186 by title only as follows: "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA; VACATING AND ABANDONING CERTAIN STREETS AND RIGHTS-OF-WAY BEING AN
UNIMPROVED PORTION OF SOUTHEAST 4TH STREET (f/k/a AVENUE A) MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED
HEREIN; RESERVING UNTO THE CITY ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS A NON-EXCLUSIVE EASEMENT FOR
CANAL MAINTENANCE; DIRECTING THE CITY CLERK TO RECORD THE ORDINANCE IN THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF
THE CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT;
PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE."
Council Member Clark moved to adopt proposed Ordinance No. 1186; seconded by Council Member Keefe.
Mayor Watford opened the floor for public comment; there was none. The applicant, Louis D'Onofrio, requested to
abandon the 373.5 -feet long by 40 -feet wide unimproved portion of Southeast 4th Street West of Southeast 10th
Avenue. Mr. D'Onofrio owns the contiguous properties which encompass Lot 12 of Block E, WRIGHT'S THIRD
ADDITION TO OKEEECHOBEE, Plat Book 1, Page 9 Lot 1 of Block F, and Lot 1 of Block 4, WRIGHT'S FIRST
AND SECOND ADDITION TO OKEEECHOBEE, Plat Book 1, Page 12 [Okeechobee County public records].
The Petition was reviewed at the May 16, 2019, Technical Review Committee meeting, and a Public Hearing held at
the June 20, 2019, Planning Board Meeting, with a recommendation for approval being made by both with the
special condition that Mr. D'Onofrio provide an Easement across the North 12 -feet of Lot 12 to the City for the
facilitation of maintenance to the canal (New Business Item XIII.A. addresses the required Easement).
Planning Staff recommended approval based on the following findings: the property is designated Single Family on
the Future Land Use Map; the right-of-way is not the sole means of access to any property; all three parcels
bordering the right-of-way are owned by the applicant with the access to Southeast 10th Avenue; the proposed area
to be vacated has not been improved to facilitate vehicular travel; turning over maintenance responsibility to the
applicant and adding this property to the City tax rolls will be benefit the City; and the applicant received
authorization from all necessary utility entities. Mr. D'Onofrio and his Attorney, Mr. Dennis Boyce, were in
attendance.
AGENDA
VI. PUBLIC HEARING CONTINUED
B.2.c) Vote on motion.
C.1.a) Motion to read proposed Ordinance No. 1187 by title only, amending
the Police Officers' Pension Plan - City Attorney (Exhibit 3).
b) Vote on motion to read by title only.
c) Attorney to read proposed Ordinance No. 1187 by title only.
2.a) Motion to adopt proposed Ordinance No. 1187.
b) Public comments and discussion.
c) Vote on motion.
D.1.a) Motion to read proposed Ordinance No. 1188 by title only, amending
the Firefighters' Pension Plan - City Attorney (Exhibit 4).
b) Vote on motion to read by title only.
AUGUST 6, 2019 - REGULAR MEETING & BUDGET WORKSHOP - PAGE 5 OF 18
COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE
VOTE:
WATFORD — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA
ABNEY—YEA
KEEFE — YEA
CLARK — YEA
MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Clark moved to read proposed Ordinance No. 1187 by title only, amending the Police Officers'
Pension Plan; seconded by Council Member Jarriel,
VOTE:
WATFORD — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA
ABNEY — YEA CLARK — YEA
KEEFE — YEA MOTION CARRIED.
Attorney Cook read proposed Ordinance No. 1187 by title only as follows: "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
OKEECHOBEE AMENDING THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE MUNICIPAL POLICE OFFICERS' PENSION TRUST FUND,
ADOPTED PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE 888, AS SUBSEQUENTLY AMENDED; AMENDING SECTION 8, DISABILITY;
AMENDING SECTION 17, MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS; AMENDING SECTION 28, DEFERRED RETIREMENT
OPTION PLAN; AMENDING SECTION 29, REEMPLOYMENT AFTER RETIREMENT; AMENDING SECTION 30,
SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFIT COMPONENT FOR EXTRA BENEFITS; CHAPTER 185 SHARE ACCOUNTS; PROVIDING
FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY OF PROVISIONS; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN
CONFLICT HEREWITH; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE."
Council Member Jarriel moved to adopt proposed Ordinance No. 1187; seconded by Council Member Keefe.
Mayor Watford opened the floor for public comment; there was none. Clerk Gamiotea noted for the record the
proposed Ordinance and Actuary Statement of no impact were sent to the Florida Division of Retirement, with no
objections or comments received to date.
VOTE:
WATFORD — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA
ABNEY — YEA CLARK — YEA
KEEFE — YEA MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Clark moved to read proposed Ordinance No. 1188 by title only, amending the Firefighters'
Pension Plan; seconded by Council Member Keefe.
VOTE:
WATFORD — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA
ABNEY — YEA CLARK — YEA
KEEFE — YEA MOTION CARRIED.
1
AGENDA
VI. PUBLIC HEARING CONTINUED
D.1.c) Attorney to read proposed Ordinance No. 1188 by title only.
2.a) Motion to adopt proposed Ordinance No. 1188.
b) Public comments and discussion.
c) Vote on motion.
E.1.a) Motion to read proposed Ordinance No. 1189 by title only, amending
the General Employees' Pension Plan - City Attorney (Exhibit 5).
b) Vote on motion to read by title only.
c) Attorney to read proposed Ordinance No. 1189 by title only.
2.a) Motion to adopt proposed Ordinance No. 1189.
b) Public comments and discussion.
AUGUST 6, 2019 - REGULAR MEETING & BUDGET WORKSHOP - PAGE 6 OF 18 54
COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE
Attorney Cook read proposed Ordinance No. 1188 by title only as follows: "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
OKEECHOBEE FURTHER AMENDING THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE MUNICIPAL FIREFIGHTERS' PENSION FUND,
ADOPTED PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE 889, AS SUBSEQUENTLY AMENDED; AMENDING SECTION 8, DISABILITY;
AMENDING SECTION 17, MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS; AMENDING SECTION 28, DEFERRED RETIREMENT
OPTION PLAN; AMENDING SECTION 29, REEMPLOYMENT AFTER RETIREMENT; AMENDING SECTION 30,
SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFIT COMPONENT FOR EXTRA BENEFITS; CHAPTER 175 SHARE ACCOUNTS; PROVIDING
FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY OF PROVISIONS; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN
CONFLICT HEREWITH; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE."
Council Member Jarriel moved to adopt proposed Ordinance No, 1188; seconded by Council Member Clark.
Mayor Watford opened the floor for public comment; there was none. Clerk Gamiotea noted for the record the
proposed Ordinance and Actuary Statement of no impact were sent to the Florida Division of Retirement, with no
objections or comments received to date.
VOTE:
WATFORD — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA
ABNEY — YEA
KEEFE — YEA
Council Member Clark moved to read proposed Ordinance
Employees' Pension Plan; seconded by Council Member Keefe.
VOTE:
CLARK — YEA
MOTION CARRIED.
No. 1189 by title only, amending the General
WATFORD — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA
ABNEY — YEA CLARK — YEA
KEEFE — YEA MOTION CARRIED.
Attorney Cook read proposed Ordinance No. 1189 by title only as follows: "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
OKEECHOBEE AMENDING THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE GENERAL EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM, RESTATED
PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE 1141, IS HEREBY AMENDED; AMENDING SECTION 4, FINANCES AND FUND
MANAGEMENT; AMENDING SECTION 8, DISABILITY; AMENDING SECTION 16, MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS;
AMENDING SECTION 25, REEMPLOYMENT AFTER RETIREMENT; AMENDING SECTION 28, DEFERRED RETIREMENT
OPTION PLAN; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY OF PROVISIONS; REPEALING ALL
ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE."
Council Member Jarriel moved to adopt proposed Ordinance No. 1189; seconded by Council Member Clark.
Mayor Watford opened the floor for public comment; there was none. Clerk Gamiotea noted for the record the
proposed Ordinance and Actuary Statement of no impact were sent to the Florida Division of Retirement, with no
objections or comments received to date.
547
AGENDA
VI. PUBLIC HEARING CONTINUED
E.2.c) Vote on motion.
F.1.a) Motion to read proposed Ordinance No. 1190 by title only, amending
the General Employees' Pension Plan - City Attorney (Exhibit 6).
b) Vote on motion to read by title only.
c) Attorney to read proposed Ordinance No. 1190 by title only.
2.a) Motion to adopt proposed Ordinance No. 1190.
b) Public comments and discussion.
c) Vote on motion.
CLOSE PUBLIC HEARING - Mayor
VII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. Consider Centennial Park chickee alternatives - City Administrator
(Exhibit 7).
AUGUST 6, 2019 - REGULAR MEETING & BUDGET WORKSHOP - PAGE 7 OF 18
COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE
VOTE:
WATFORD — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA
ABNEY — YEA
KEEFE — YEA
CLARK — YEA
MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Clark moved to read proposed Ordinance No. 1190 by title only, amending the General
Employees' Pension Plan; seconded by Council Member Jarriel.
VOTE:
WATFORD — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA
ABNEY — YEA
KEEFE — YEA
CLARK — YEA
MOTION CARRIED.
Attorney Cook read proposed Ordinance No. 1190 by title only as follows: "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
OKEECHOBEE FURTHER AMENDING THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE GENERAL EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM,
RESTATED PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE 1141; AMENDING SECTION 6, BENEFIT AMOUNTS AND ELIGIBILITY; AMENDING
SECTION 9, VESTING; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY OF PROVISIONS; REPEALING
ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE."
Council Member Keefe moved to adopt proposed Ordinance No. 1190; seconded by Council Member Clark.
Mayor Watford opened the floor for public comment; there was none. Clerk Gamiotea noted for the record the
proposed Ordinance and Actuary Impact Statement were sent to the Florida Division of Retirement, with no
objections or comments received to date.
VOTE:
WATFORD — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA
ABNEY — YEA
KEEFE — YEA
MAYOR WATFORD CLOSED THE PUBLIC HEARING AT 5:32 P.M.
CLARK — YEA
MOTION CARRIED.
At the June 18, 2019, regular meeting the Council requested the Administrator to provide the costs to construct a
traditional chickee hut, costs for alternative materials that could be used for the roofs, and all annual maintenance
costs for each (palmetto, aluminum, concrete, etc.). Materials provided explained the traditional chickee hut's initial
cost is $5,000.00, with a life span of 10 to 15 -years. The annual maintenance includes the application of three
coats of flame retardant every year, which costs approximately $200.00 for materials with three to four hours of
labor. A steel shelter's initial cost is $9,000.00 to $12,000.00, with a life span of 30 -years. The annual maintenance
consists of pressure cleaning periodically and re -painting every eight to 10 -years. A wood/shingle shelter's initial
cost is $5,000.00 to $7,000.00, with a life span of 20 to 25 -years. The annual maintenance consists of pressure
cleaning periodically, water seal/stain annually or paint every five years.
AUGUST 6, 2019 - REGULAR MEETING & BUDGET WORKSHOP - PAGE 8 OF 18
AGENDA
COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE
VII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS CONTINUED
A. Consider Centennial Park chickee alternatives continued.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
A. Motion to approve an Easement across Lot 12 of Block E, WRIGHT'S
THIRD ADDITION TO OKEEECHOBEE for canal maintenance in
relation to Abandonment of Right -of -Way Petition No. 19 -002 -SC - City
Administrator (Exhibit 8).
B. Discussion of operations and utilities within the Veteran's Park - City
Administrator.
Council Member Abney recommended the steel structure as the maintenance cost is low and the life span is long.
Council Member Keefe agreed and inquired as to the Park's conceptual plan. Administrator MontesDeOca
explained the original plans for Centennial Park included approximately 11 chickees with the plan of requesting
quotes for four during the current Fiscal Year (FY). The existing chickee is located near the area of the proposed
playground and could be incorporated so that the aesthetics remain balanced with having both steel and thatched
roof structures. The consensus of the Council was to have two or three steel structures constructed for
Centennial Park outdoor barbecue/picnic areas during the current FY.
Council Member Keefe moved to approve an Easement across [the North 12 -feet of] Lot 12 of Block E, WRIGHT'S
THIRD ADDITION TO OKEECHOBEE, Plat Book 1, Page 9, Okeechobee County public records, for canal
maintenance in relation to Abandonment of Right -of -Way Petition No. 19 -002 -SC; seconded by Council Member
Clark.
VOTE:
WATFORD — YEA ABNEY — YEA CLARK — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA KEEFE — YEA MOTION CARRIED.
Administrator MontesDeOca was approached by the American Legion with a request for the City to assume the
monthly electric utilities expense for Veteran's Park [Park E of FLAGLER PARK], which is approximately $53.00 per
month. Representatvies from the American Legion were in attendance to answer any questions. Since there is a
current Use Agreement with the American Legion, Mayor Watford asked that the issue be made in a form of a motion.
Administrator MontesDeOca explained the Florida Power and Light (FPL) meter will be transferred to the City's name.
A motion was made by Council Member Keefe to assume the [monthly electricl utilities cost for Veteran's
Park Park E of FLAGLER PARK Plat Book 5 Pa•e 5 Okeechobee Count •ublic records • seconded b
Council Member Jarriel.
VOTE:
WATFORD — YEA ABNEY — YEA CLARK — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA KEEFE — YEA MOTION CARRIED.
549
AGENDA
VIII. NEW BUSINESS CONTINUED
C. Motion to adopt proposed Resolution No. 2019-09, approving a
Competitive Florida Partnership Grant Agreement with the Department
of Economic Opportunity and authorizing the execution of the Grant
Agreement - City Administrator (Exhibit 9).
D. Motion to adopt proposed Resolution No. 2019-10, regarding
temporary street closure applications for special events - City Attorney
(Exhibit 10).
E. Motion to approve an Interlocal Agreement for Automatic Aid between
Okeechobee County Fire Rescue and the City of Okeechobee and
authorize the termination of the current Agreement for Mutual Aid
established in 2003 - Fire Chief (Exhibit 11).
AUGUST 6, 2019 - REGULAR MEETING & BUDGET WORKSHOP - PAGE 9 OF 18
COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE
Council Member Clark moved to adopt proposed Resolution No. 2019-09, approving a Competitive Florida
Partnership Grant Agreement with the Department of Economic Opportunity and authorizing the execution of the
[$40,000.00] Grant Agreement; seconded by Council Member Abney.
Attorney Cook read proposed Resolution No. 2019-09 by title only as follows: "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF
OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA; APPROVING AND ACCEPTING A COMPETITIVE FLORIDA PARTNERSHIP GRANT
AGREEMENT WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF THE
GRANT AGREEMENT; INCORPORATING ALL ATTACHMENTS THERETO; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT; PROVIDING
FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE."
Administrator MontesDeOca explained the funds received from the Grant will cover the cost of a Resiliency Study
and introduced Ms. Jennifer Codo-Salisbury with the Central Florida Regional Planning Council (CFRPC) as the
entity completing the Study. Once it is complete, it will be presented to the Council.
VOTE:
WATFORD — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA
ABNEY — YEA
KEEFE — YEA
CLARK — YEA
MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Abney moved to adopt proposed Resolution No. 2019-10, regarding temporary street closure
applications for special events; seconded by Council Member Jarriel.
Attorney Cook read proposed Resolution No. 2019-10 by title only as follows: "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF
OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA; RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 1988-5 AND NO. 2011-02 CONCERNING
TEMPORARY CLOSING OF STATE ROADS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS; CREATING PROCEDURES AND FORMS
FOR SUBMISSION TO FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR STATE APPROVAL FOR SUCH
CLOSINGS; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE."
VOTE:
WATFORD — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA
ABNEY — YEA CLARK — YEA
KEEFE — YEA MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Jarriel moved to approve an Inter -local Agreement for Automatic Aid between Okeechobee County
Fire Rescue and the City of Okeechobee and authorize the termination of the current Agreement for Mutual Aid
established in 2003; seconded by Council Member Clark.
AUGUST 6.2019 - REGULAR MEETING & BUDGET WORKSHOP - PAGE 10 OF 18
AGENDA
COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE
VIII. NEW BUSINESS CONTINUED
E. Motion to approve an Interlocal Agreement for Automatic Aid between
Okeechobee County Fire Rescue and the City of Okeechobee and
authorize the termination of the current Agreement for Mutual Aid
established in 2003 continued.
F. Motion to approve an Agreement with Florida Power and Light for
Streetlight LED Upgrades - Public Works Director (Exhibit 12).
G. Motion to approve disposal of obsolete and surplus equipment no longer
needed by the City - Public Works Director (Exhibit 13).
H. Motion to approve an Agreement to Piggyback a contract for services by
another government entity with C.W. Roberts, Inc. for asphalt paving,
milling, and striping services - Public Works Director (Exhibit 14).
Chief Smith provided a memorandum that explained the existing Mutual Aid Agreement dated August 19, 2003, was
for structure fires in a defined geographical area. An updated Agreement is needed for compliance with the
Insurance Services Office (ISO) evaluation process to assist with improving/maintaining the City's current rating of
three. Chief Smith and County Chief Franklin agree with the concepts of the new Agreement; it has been approved
by the Board of County Commissioners.
VOTE:
WATFORD — YEA ABNEY — YEA CLARK — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA KEEFE — YEA MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Abney moved to approve an Agreement with FPL for Streetlight Light -emitting Diode (LED)
upgrades; seconded by Council Member Jarriel.
VOTE:
WATFORD — YEA ABNEY — YEA CLARK — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA KEEFE — YEA MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Keefe moved to approve disposal of obsolete and surplus equipment no longer needed by the City;
seconded by Council Member Clark.
The list of obsolete and surplus equipment is as follows: 2009 Ford Escape (former Code Enforcement vehicle);
generator from Fire Department replacement; 2010 Badboy zero turn mower; traffic signal equipment removed from
South Park/Southwest 5th Avenue and Park Street/Southeast 3rd Avenue; Samsung Prostar Telephone System Hub;
water fountain; and a black plastic truck toolbox. All items will be sold on govdeals.com.
VOTE:
WATFORD — YEA ABNEY — YEA CLARK — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA KEEFE — YEA MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Clark moved to approve an Agreement to Piggyback a Contract for Services by another
government entity [Okeechobee County, awarded May 9, 2019] with C.W. Roberts, Inc. for asphalt paving, milling,
and striping services; seconded by Council Member Abney.
The term of the County Contract is May 1, 2019 to April 30, 2022, with a two-year extension option. During the term
of the Contract, a list of proposed asphalt projects with estimated costs, based on annual budget amounts, will be
provided annually to the Council for approval.
551
AGENDA
VIII. NEW BUSINESS CONTINUED
H.
Motion to approve an Agreement to Piggyback a contract for services by
another government entity with C.W. Roberts, Inc. for asphalt paving,
milling, and striping services continued.
Discuss letter to Governor DeSantis concerning the appointee of a
Heartland Representative to the South Florida Water Management
District Board - Mayor Watford (Exhibit 15).
J. Discuss letter to the Army Corps of Engineers concerning deviation to
the Lake level schedule - Mayor Watford (Exhibit 16).
AUGUST 6, 2019 - REGULAR MEETING & BUDGET WORKSHOP - PAGE 11 OF 18
COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE
The FY 2018-19 proposed asphalt paving project list submitted with this Agreement is as follows: Northwest 10th
Street from 5th to 3rd Avenues (approximately $18,361.20); Northeast 9th Street from 100 -feet West of Taylor Creek
Bridge to 800 -feet West of Taylor Creek Bridge (approximately $17,655.00); Northeast 5th Avenue from 5th to 6th
Streets (approximately $9,180,60); South Park Street alleyways from Southwest 3rd to 5th Avenues (approximately
$9,886.80). The total estimated cost of this project is $60,583.60 with a 10 percent contingency of $5,500.00.
Administrator MontesDeOca responded to Council Member Abney's question that the proposed streets were
selected by the "windshield test" and are not definite. The alleyways are being paved due to flooding complaints by
business owners and/or large holes caused by high traffic volumes. Council Member Keefe recommended creating
a multi-year pavement plan to complete during the entire term of the Agreement.
VOTE:
WATFORD - YEA
JARRIEL - YEA
ABNEY - YEA
KEEFE - YEA
CLARK - YEA
MOTION CARRIED.
Mayor Watford expressed his discontent that Governor DeSantis has not appointed a representative for the
Heartland Region to the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) governing Board to date. There have
been major discussions and decisions regarding Lake Okeechobee without representation. He asked Mr. Gary
Ritter with the Florida Farm Bureau Federation (FFBF) to provide further insight. Mr. Ritter explained what has taken
place since Governor DeSantis terminated all members of the SFWMD governing Board upon his election. What
new members have been appointed are from the Coast with strong environmental backgrounds but no
understanding of agriculture. The FFBF is extremely concerned and has been arranging meetings with the new
members to visit several dairy operations, Williamson Cattle Company, and other farms in South Florida. They have
submitted letters to the Governor's Office for Carol Platt from Saint Cloud and Alex Johns with the Seminole Tribe of
Florida to be considered for appointments. The consensus of the Council was to have the Mayor execute a
formal letter expressing the City's concern over the lack of representation on the Board.
Mayor Watford asked Mr. Ritter to provide background on the Army Corps of Engineers' (Corps) Lake Okeechobee
release schedule. Mr. Ritter explained the Corps operates the Lake Okeechobee Regulation Schedule 2008
(LORS), which provides for a high-end lake level of 15.5 -feet during the wet season to a low-end lake level of
12.5 -feet going into hurricane season. In June, the Corps violated their policy by lowering Lake Okeechobee without
public input. The Corps kept the Lake within the beneficial use ban until the Lake dropped below 11 -feet; it could
have actually gone to 10.5 -feet without going to water restrictions. That process deviated from the discussions at the
public meetings previously held regarding the Lake levels.
AGENDA
VIII. NEW BUSINESS CONTINUED
J. Discuss letter to the Army Corps of Engineers concerning deviation to
the Lake level schedule continued.
K. Motion to approve the implementation of a Consent Agenda.
L. Motion to approve the renewal of the City Administrator's Contract -
Mayor (Exhibit 17).
AUGUST 6, 2019 - REGULAR MEETING & BUDGET WORKSHOP - PAGE 12 OF 18 552.
COUNCIL ACTION • DISCUSSION - VOTE
The Corps started Lake releases again because of public health and safety issues that have been identified as algal
blooms. There is the possibility of water supply shortages in the spring due to these current Lake levels, which may
reach up to 12.5 -feet by the end of the rainy season. The FFBF is concerned that deviation from the LORS is being
done without required public input. The US Sugar Corporation recently filed a lawsuit against the Corps for violating
the LORS. The Corps has come up with an assessment with no environmental impact, and has given the public
15 -days to provide input instead of the usual 60 to 90 -days. Mr. Ritter encouraged the Council to email the Corps to
let them know the City supports a longer period of time to review the assessment. The Corps will be holding a
meeting in the upcoming weeks at the John Boy Auditorium. Mr. Ritter added any feed back from rural communities
and agriculture groups is very important; the Corps' management could affect agriculture and the water supply.
Mayor Watford thanked Mr. Ritter for his input and update on the current situation. The consensus of the Council
was for the Mayor to execute a formal communication to Corps.
Council Member Keefe moved to approve the implementation of a Consent Agenda; seconded by Council Member
Clark. There was a brief discussion on this item.
VOTE:
WATFORD — NO ABNEY — YEA CLARK — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA KEEFE — YEA MOTION CARRIED.
Mayor Watford explained the Council has had the opportunity to meet with the Administrator individually to discuss
their concerns with the proposed employment Contract presented at the July 16, 2019, meeting. Council Member
Keefe formally apologized to Mr. MontesDeOca for the lack of communication at the last meeting. It was not his
intent to imply that the Council would not be renewing an employment Contract. Council Member Clark noted she
did not support the multiple salary increases being proposed. It was her understanding that when the initial Contract
was approved, the salary mirrored a step on the Salary Step Plan. When the Contract was renewed in 2017, a
multi -step increase was requested and approved. At that time, she requested the Plan be reviewed for comparability
to other municipalities (this has not been completed). She continued by stating the City should not use the list of
salaries from other municipalities provided for a comparison as she researched and found that most of them have
utility departments with approximately 30 to 50 more employees, and their operating budgets far exceed our City's.
She agrees that his asset as an Engineer warrants additional pay and suggested a percentage -based bonus should
be offered based on specific engineering projects, and annual evaluation scores. For example, an overall score of
four would warrant a 4 percent bonus. She does not agree with increasing the severance pay from 60 to 90 -days,
nor increasing the payment for sick leave accrual balance from 50 to 100 percent. She recommended the Salary
Step Plan remain in effect for the upcoming FY to provide time for the Council re-evaluate whether the Administrator
should be addressed in the Plan. It was her recommendation that this position not be included as it is the only
position addressed by an employment contract.
553
AUGUST 6, 2019 - REGULAR MEETING &BUDGET WORKSHOP -
AGENDA
COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE
VIII.
IX.
NEW BUSINESS CONTINUED
L. Motion to approve the renewal of the City Administrator's Contract
continued.
COUNCIL COMMENTS • Mayor
Council Member Jarriel agreed with Council Member Clark, adding the requested salary is a large increase for one
year and suggested the Council consider using a percentage for the salary increase. He does not support the
included longevity increase (which is a step increase equal to 1.5 percent), Cost of Living Allowance (COLA)
increase, and a set annual salary adjustment. He does not support including engineering fees as part of a set salary
but supports providing a bonus instead. Administrator MontesDeOca stated there were paragraphs in the
agreement to be deleted and championed his cause for including engineering fees as part of his salary, the value of
the engineering services he provides within his position of Administrator are intertwined; it would be difficult to
separate the two.
Council Member Abney questioned which part of the proposed contract was supposed to have been removed. The
Administrator replied the longevity and COLA. Council Member Abney then questioned the reasoning behind
changing the terms of the contract from a two to a five-year. The Administrator responded that was a
recommendation from the Mayor to show good faith on his longevity intentions. Mayor Watford explained he has
received numerous calls on this item. He does not agree with including the longevity and COLA but does agree that
including engineering fees to justify the increase to the salary.
Discussion and negotiations ensued. Council Member Clark made a motion to remove the City Administrator
position from the Salary Step Plan and approve the Employment Contract with the following amendments:
remove paragraphs C and E within Section 4 -Salary and Evaluation, and in Section 9 -Term and Severance,
second paragraph of A to reflect 60 -day severance pay and 50 percent payout of accrued sick leave;
seconded by Council Member Jarriel,
Further discussion clarified the language change to Section 5 -Duties and Obligations, paragraph A. The meetings to
attend "as necessity requires" is referring to the Planning Board/Board of Adjustment/Design Review Board
meetings only. This Contract includes the Job Description as Exhibit 1, and Code of Ethics as Exhibit 2, as attached
to the initial Employment Contract. The salary effective October 1, 2019 will increase from $92,180.50 to
$113,000.00; year two increases to $117,500.00; year three to $120,500.00; year four to $122,500.00; and year five
to $125,500,00.
VOTE:
WATFORD — YEA ABNEY — YEA CLARK — YEA
JARRIEL — YEA KEEFE — YEA MOTION CARRIED.
Mayor Watford, Council Members Abney, Clark, and Keefe offered no comments. Council Member Jarriel
expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to have Council comments, and that the City needs to become very
consistent with enforcing regulations.
AGENDA
X. RECESS REGULAR MEETING AND OPEN BUDGET WORKSHOP - MAYOR
A. Discuss the proposed 2019-20 FY Budget - City Administrator and
Finance Director (Exhibit 18).
AUGUST 6, 2019 - REGULAR MEETING & BUDGET WORKSHOP - PAGE 14 OF 18 55
COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE
MAYOR WATFORD CALLED FOR A RECESS OF THE REGULAR MEETING AT 7:25 P.M. AND RECONVENED
THE SESSION, OPENING THE BUDGET WORKSHOP AT 7:39 P.M.
The purpose of the Workshop is to review the proposed budget for FY October 1, 2019 to September 30, 2020,
Budget as presented by Administrator MontesDeOca. To assist with the presentation, the Administrator deferred to
Finance Director Riedel who distributed additional information. The first page distributed and discussed provided
State Revenue Comparisons from FY 2013-14 through the estimated FY 2019-20. The next page distributed and
discussed was Budgeted Revenues, which provided an overall view of revenues from FY 2008-09 through the
estimated FY 2019-20. A chart was distributed showing the comparisons of taxable values inclusive of new
construction from FY 2006-07 through 2019-20, noting the 2019-20 amounts are as of July 1, 2019. A homeowner
effect illustration was distributed and briefly discussed. Lastly, Finance Director Riedel provided charts showing the
fluctuation of ad valorem budget amounts, proposed 2019-20 budgeted expenditures, and public safety operational
budgets.
Finance Director Riedel distributed a page containing three alternative millage rate options for FY 2019-20, noting
the use of reserves changes with each option provided. Option One provides for a millage rate of 7.9932 which
generates $2,336,625.00 in ad valorem revenue, requiring $1,137,594.00 of reserve funds to balance the budget;
Option Two provides for a millage rate of 7.7500 generating $2,265,531.00 in ad valorem revenue, requiring
$1,208,688.00 of reserves; Option Three provides for a millage rate of 7,6018 generating $2,222,209.00 in ad
valorem revenue, requiring $1,252,010.00 of reserves.
Page one provided a recapitulation of the General Fund revenue and expenses, presented using a millage rate of
7.75. The proposed Beginning Fund Balance Total is $4,342,501.00. Estimated Revenues of $6,028,305.00
($2,265,530.00 Ad Valorem, $3,762,775.00 Other Fees, Intergovernmental, Charges for Services,
Fines/Forfeitures/Penalties, Uses of Money and Property, and Other Revenues; $350,000.00 Transferred -In from
Public Facilities Improvement Fund; $1,207,588.00, Transferred -In from Capital Improvement Projects Fund). Total
Projected Expenditures of $7,585,893.00; leaving a Fund Balance of $4,342,501.00. Pages 3 and 4 provided the
detail Line Item breakdown of the General Fund revenues including transfers -in and transfers -out from other Funds.
A revised page 4 was distributed at the meeting.
The next proposed budget to review is the Public Facility Improvement (Transportation 301) Fund (pages 23-24)
which was prepared in coordination by Administrator MontesDeOca and Public Works Director Allen. Florida
Statutes provide specific expenditures to be authorized with the revenues received. It was presented with a
Beginning Fund Balance of $1,021,107.00; Total Revenue Estimates of $1,262,512.00; Total Expenditures
Projected of $1,047,988.00, plus $350,000.00 to be Transferred -Out to General Fund; leaving a Fund Balance of
$885,631,00.
555
AGENDA
X. BUDGET WORKSHOP CONTINUED
A. Discuss the proposed 2019-20 FY Budget continued.
AUGUST 6, 2019 - REGULAR MEETING & BUDGET WORKSHOP - PAGE 15 OF 18
COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE
The third proposed budget to review is the Capital Improvements Projects (304) Fund (pages 26-27) and was
prepared by Administrator MontesDeOca, in coordination with each Department Head and in coordination with the
Five -Year Capital Improvement Element of the Comprehensive Plan. Total Beginning Fund Balance is
$4,048,470.00; Total Revenues Estimates of $225,000.00; Total Projected Expenditures are $786,340.00, plus
$1,207,588.00 transferred -out to General Fund; leaving a Fund Balance $2,279,542.00.
The fourth proposed budget to review is the Other Grant (302) Funds (page 29) which was prepared in coordination
with Administrator MontesDeOca and Public Works Director Allen. There is no proposed activity within this Fund for
FY 2019-20.
The fifth proposed budget to review is the Appropriations Grant (307) Funds (page 30) which was prepared in
coordination with Administrator MontesDeOca and Public Works Director Allen. The Fund activity is a continuation of
the Southeast 8th Avenue Project Grant. Beginning Fund Balance is $0.00; Appropriation Funds Revenue
$209,000.00; Total Projected Expenditures of $210,000.00; leaving a Fund Balance of ($1,000.00).
The sixth and final proposed budget for review is the Law Enforcement Special (601) Fund (page 31), presented in
coordination with Chief Peterson. Beginning Fund Balance of $9,920.00; Total Estimated Revenues of $1,000.00;
Total Projected Expenditures as $6,500.00; leaving a Fund Balance of $4,420.00.
MAYOR WATFORD CALLED FOR A RECESS AT 9:01 P.M. AND RECONVENED AT 9:10 P.M.
The Council then discussed each Department's projected expenditures within the General Fund. Each are
presented with a proposed 2 percent increase to salaries for COLA and the appropriate step increase within the
Salary Step Plan, increases to the Life and Health Insurance (Line Item 2300) premiums, increases in the Workers
Compensation (Line Item 2400) and Property/Casualty (Line Item 4500) Insurance premiums.
Proposed Budget for General Fund/ Total Personnel Cost: $ 112,532.00
511-Legislative/City Council Total Supplies and Other Services: 273,190.00
(pages 5-6) FY 2019-20 Proposed Total: $ 385,722.00
FY 2018-19 Amended Budgeted Total: $ 203,591.00
Difference: $ 182,131.00
Items noted and discussion: Line Item 3100 includes the addition of Grant Services $10,000.00. Line Item 3400
includes Legislative Services $18,000.00, Annexation Study $40,000.00, Fire Assessment Study $31,000.00,
Charter Review $40,000.00, and CRA Study $17,500.00. Line Item 8202 is specific to the contribution to the
Okeechobee Economic Development Corporation. Line Item 559-8300 added for Competitive Florida Partnership
Grant $40,000.00. The consensus of the Council was to increase Line Item 8202 to $50,000.00 and remove
the expenses for the annexation and fire assessment studies.
AUGUST 6, 2019 - REGULAR MEETING & BUDGET WORKSHOP - PAGE 16 OF 18
AGENDA
COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE
X.
BUDGET WORKSHOP CONTINUED
A. Discuss the proposed 2019-20 FY Budget continued.
Proposed Budget for General Fundl Total Personnel Cost: $ 213,430.00
512-Executive/Administration Total Supplies and Other Services: $ 36,990.00
(pages 7-8) FY 2019-20 Proposed Total: $ 250,420.00
FY 2018-19 Amended Budgeted Total: $ 222,240.00
Difference: $ 28,180.00
Items noted and discussion: Line Item 4000 increased based on additional attendance of conferences/Tallahassee
visits. Line Item 4609 includes the addition of Office 365. Line Item 5201 increased based on the rate of $4.00 per
gallon and increase gallons used from 850 to 950.
Proposed Budget for General Fund/ Total Personnel Cost: $ 165,343.00
2512-Executive/City Clerk Total Supplies and Other Services: $ 82,075.00
(pages 9-10) FY 2019-20 Proposed Total: $ 247,418.00
FY 2018-19 Amended Budgeted Total: $ 239,384.00
Difference: $ 8,034.00
Items noted and discussion: Line Item 1400 was added due to the possible Charter Review. Line Item 3103
increased in anticipation of additional ordinances being adopted. Line Item 4000 increased based on elections
training and the Clerk attending the IIMC Florida conference. Line Item 4909 decreased due to the election cycle
and a smaller number of longevity awards. Line Item 5100 increased based on trend. The consensus of the
Council was to increase personnel costs associated with transferring the part-time Office Assistant position
to a full-time Administrative Secretary.
Proposed Budget for General Fundl FY 2019-20 Proposed Total: $ 145,500.00
514 -Legal Services FY 2018-19 Amended Budgeted Total: $ 116,260.00
(page 11) Difference: $ 29,240.00
Items noted and discussion: Line Item 3100 increased to $80,000.00 based on increased need/possible Request
for Qualifications for 2020 based on average of 35 hours per month at $185.00 per hour. Attorney Cook explained the
proposed rate of $185.00 per hour was a result of polls he generated at the Municipal Attorney's Conference he
attended in July.
Proposed Budget for General Fund/ Total Personnel Cost: $ 210,010.00
513 -Finance Total Supplies and Other Services: $ 132,065.00
(pages 12-13) FY 2019-20 Proposed Total: $ 342,075.00
FY 2018-19 Amended Budgeted Total: $ 331,341.00
Difference: $ 10,734,00
557
AGENDA
X. BUDGET WORKSHOP CONTINUED
A. Discuss the proposed 2019-20 FY Budget continued.
AUGUST 6, 2019 - REGULAR MEETING & BUDGET WORKSHOP - PAGE 17 OF 18
COUNCIL ACTION • DISCUSSION - VOTE
Finance Department Items noted and discussion: Line Item 1200 increased due to the proposed promotion of
the Account Clerk to Account Supervisor due to the additional duties taken on in the absence of the Department's
Supervisor (Finance Director). Line Item 3400 includes the implementation of server/fiber/accounting software
integration. Line Item 4609 increased to include replacement software/server incidentals/security.
Proposed Budget for General Fund/ Total Personnel Cost: $ 122,815.00
519 -General Services Total Supplies and Other Services: $ 383,097.00
(pages 14-15) FY 2019-20 Proposed Total: $ 505,912.00
FY 2018-19 Amended Budgeted Total: $ 384,484.00
Difference: $ 121,428.00
Items noted and discussion: Line Item 1200 increased to include 200 hours to mirror retiring employee. Line Item
3100 increased to include additional Planner Services for the review of the Land Development Regulations and a
Comprehensive Plan review. Line Item 3400 increased due to the additional costs of animal control. The consensus
of the Council was to increase personnel costs associated with the adding a second full-time
Administrative Secretary, and for the Administrator to consider an appropriate increase to the General
Services Coordinator position due to the drastic increase in their work load.
Proposed Budget for General Fund/ Total Personnel Cost: $ 2,400,470.00
521 -Police Department Total Supplies and Other Services: $ 433,364.00
(pages 16-17) FY 2019-20 Proposed Total: $ 2,833,834.00
FY 2018-19 Budgeted Total: $ 2,553,395.00
Difference: $ 280,439.00
Items noted and discussion: Line Item 1200 proposes the addition of a full-time Code Enforcement Officer, one
additional School Resource Officer for the Contract with Okeechobee Christian Academy and leave payout for retiring
employees. Line Item 5201 reflects the increase in gallons used from 18,500 to 24,000. Note: prior to the meeting,
Chief Peterson amended his request for personnel changes within Code Enforcement, transferring the
part-time Code Enforcement Officer to full-time only; the Secretary will remain part-time.
Proposed Budget for General Fund/
522 -Fire Department
(pages 18-19)
Total Personnel Cost: $ 1,420,350.00
Total Supplies and Other Services: $ 222,227,00
FY 2019-20 Proposed Total: $ 1.642,577.00
FY 2018-19 Budgeted Total: $ 1,715,754.00
Difference: ($ 73,177.00)
AGENDA
. BUDGET WORKSHOP CONTINUED
A. Discuss the proposed 2019-20 FY Budget continued.
Xl. ADJOURN WORKSHOP AND RECONVENE IN REGULAR SESSION - Mayor
A. Unfinished items or issues discussed during the Budget Workshop to
be addressed - Mayor.
XII. ADJOURNMENT - Mayor
Please take notice and be advised that when a person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Council with
respect to any matter considered at this meeting, he/she may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceeding
is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. City Clerk media are
for the sole purpose of backup for official records of the Clerk.
ATTEST:
C 1 c�
Lane Gamiotea, CMC, City Clerk
Dowling R. Watfor
ayor
AUGUST 6, 2019 - REGULAR MEETING & BUDGET WORKSHOP - PAGE 18 OF 18 5
COUNCIL ACTION - DISCUSSION - VOTE
Fire Department Items noted and discussion: Line Item 1200 increased to reflect the addition of a $1,000.00
Plan Review Stipend. Line Item 1400 increased due to the additional participation in Special Events. Line Item 1501
increased to utilize a fourth Firefighter fill-in, specific to the Captain's shift. Line Item 1402 increased to include
dispatcher overtime. Line Item 1540 increased for Firefighters to obtain their Associate of Science and Bachelor of
the Arts degrees (reimbursed by the State). Line Item 4902 increased for additional supplies. Line Item 4905
increased due to ISO required hours, Line Item 5201 reflects the increase in gallons used from 2,800 to 3,200.
Proposed Budget for General Fund/
541 -Public Works
(pages 20-21)
Total Personnel Cost: $ 660,150.00
Total Supplies and Other Services: $ 572,285.00
FY 2019-20 Proposed Total: $ 1,232,435.00
FY 2018-19 Budgeted Total: $ 1,302,570.00
Difference: ($ 70,135.00)
Items noted for discussion: Line Item 3400 includes leased employees from Labor Finders for summer mowing
help, which was transferred from Line Item 1300. Line Item 4400 increased to reflect new printer lease. Line Item
5201 increased due to a rate increase.
The discussion then turned to lowering the millage rate. The consensus of the Council was to hold the second
Budget Workshop on August 20, 2019, and have the proposed budget presented two ways, one with a
proposed millage rate of 7.7500 and one with a rate of 7.6018.
MAYOR WATFORD ADJOURNED THE BUDGET WORKSHOP AND RECONVENED IN REGULAR SESSION
AT 10:04 P.M.
There were no unfinished items remaining from the regular session, nor were there any issues discussed during the
Budget Workshop requiring action.
There being no further discussion, nor items on the agenda, Mayor Watford adjourned the meeting at 10:04 P.M