2019-09-24 Handwritten Minutes City of Okeechobee, September 24, 2019 Meeting Minutes taken during the meeting by Bobbie Jenkins
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Watford called the Regular City Council Meeting to order on September 24, 2019, at 5:03 P.M. in
the Council Chambers, Room 200 located at City Hall, 55 SE 3rd Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida 34974.
The invocation was offered by Mayor Watford.
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor Watford.
II. ATTENDANCE
Mayor Dowling R. Watford, Jr. Present
Council Member Wes Abney Present
Council Member Monica Clark Present
Council Member Bob Jarriel Present
Council Member Bobby Keefe Present
City Attorney John R. Cook Present
City Administrator Marcos MontesDeOca Present
City Clerk Lane Gamiotea Absent(with consent-attending IPMA Conf)
Deputy City Clerk Bobbie Jenkins Present
Fire Chief Herb Smith Present
Police Chief Bob Peterson Present
Public Works Director David Allen Present
Finance Director India Riedel Present
III. AGENDA AND PUBLIC COMMENTS - Mayor
A. Requests for the addition, deferral or withdrawal of agenda items.
Mayor Watford asked whether there were any requests for the addition, deferral, or withdrawal of items on today's agenda.
None
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.
Mayor Watford asked whether there were any comment cards presented for public comment. There were none.
IV. PRESENTATIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS Mayor apologized for the postponement due to Hurricane Dorian
A. Proclaim the month of September 2019 as Hunger Action Month.
Mayor Watford proclaimed the month of September 2019 as"Hunger Action Month."The Proclamation was presented to Erika
Chavez and Erin Cox Chief Operating Officer of the Treasure Coast Food Bank. The document was read into the record as
follows: "Whereas, hunger and poverty remain issues of grave concern in the United States, the State of Florida, the
Treasure Coast, and the City of Okeechobee, with 7,520 children and adults in Okeechobee County now categorized
as food insecure;and Whereas, the City of Okeechobee is committed to taking steps to raise awareness about the
need to combat hunger in every part of our City and to provide additional resources that citizens of Okeechobee
need; and Whereas, food banks and hunger relief organizations across the country, including the Treasure Coast
Food Bank, coordinated Hunger Action Day on September 12, 2019 and will continue to host numerous events
throughout the month of September to shed light on this important issue and encourage involvement in efforts to
end hunger in their local community. Now, Therefore, I, Dowling R. Watford, Jr., by virtue of the authority vested in
me as Mayor of the City of Okeechobee, Florida, do hereby proclaim the month of September 2019 as `Hunger Action
Month'in the City of Okeechobee and call this observance to the attention of our citizens."
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Ms. Cox explained Largest relief organization in the region, approximately serve 100,000 individuals, support of 300 partner
agencies.40,000,000 meals have been provided. Have a distribution every month in Okeechobee. Mobile food pantry comes
to the County AG Center with Christ Fellowship. Pictures posted to their website.
B. Proclaim the month of September 2019 as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
Mayor Watford proclaimed the month of September 2019 as "Suicide Prevention Awareness Month." The Proclamation was
presented to Ms. Laura Murray with New Horizons of the Treasure Coast. The document was read into the record as follows:
"Whereas, September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, which directs the public's attention to this
public health epidemic that is destroying lives, families and even whole communities; and Whereas, suicide is the
second leading cause of death in the U.S. among individuals age 10 to 34 years old; and Whereas, suicide is the
fourth leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 35 and 54; and Whereas, suicide is the tenth
leading cause of death overall in the U.S., claiming the lives of over 47,000 people; and Whereas, suicide is an
epidemic that may co-occur with depression; and depression is being linked in more than 50 percent of suicides;
and Whereas, on average, there are 129 suicides a day or 1 every 11.11 minutes, In Okeechobee County, there were
8 suicides in 2018;and Whereas, suicide is the only death that is 100%preventable;by offering the public education,
data, support, and services that are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, we as a community have taken a step
toward preventing another suicide by our residents;and Whereas, we as a community are honored to be part of the
healing process and we support services addressing mental illness and drug and alcohol addiction. Now, Therefore,
I, Dowling R. Watford, Jr., by virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor of the City of Okeechobee, Florida, do
hereby proclaim September 2019 as "Suicide Prevention Awareness Month."
Ms. Murray thanked the Council on behalf of the New Horizons Board of Directors. More than 60 years, NH provides care to
over 14,000 adults and children annually. In addition to the statistics, every suicide there is 25 more that have attempted.
Suicide numbers are almost twice the daily homicides in the US. You can also call 211 in addition to the NH crisis hotline.
C. Proclaim the week of September 17 through 24, 2019 as National Constitution Week.
Mayor Watford proclaimed the week of September 17 through 24, 2019 as "National Constitution Week." The Proclamation
was presented to members of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The document was read into the record as follows:
"Whereas, September 17, 2019 marks the two hundred thirty second anniversary of the drafting of the
Constitution of the United States of America by the Constitutional Convention; and Whereas, it is fitting
and proper to accord official recognition to this magnificent document and its memorable anniversary;
and to the patriotic celebrations which will commemorate the occasion; and Whereas, Public Law 915
guarantees the issuing of a proclamation each year by the President of the United States of America designating
September 17 through 24 as Constitution Week. Now Therefore, I, Dowling R. Watford, Jr., by virtue of the
authority vested in me as Mayor of the City of Okeechobee, Florida, do hereby proclaim the week of
September 17 through 24, 2019 as `NATIONAL CONSTITUTION WEEK' in the City of Okeechobee, and ask
our citizens to reaffirm the ideals that the Framers of the Constitution had in 1787 by vigilantly protecting
the freedoms guaranteed to us through this guardian of our liberties,remembering that lost rights may never
be regained."
Information, patriotism and historic preservation. Celebrate this coming Saturday, program DAR is giving at the County library.
We hope to give a little bit of insight of what the women were thinking and doing during the revolution and the writing of the
constitution. 1:30 pm 9/28/19. Ms. Jordan also handed out pocket constitutions.
V. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approval of Minutes—August 6, 2019, August 20, 2019, August 30, 2019, and September 10, 2019 Meetings. Note:
page 3 of August 30, 2019 minutes was changed prior to the meeting to reflect accurate shelter information
for South Elementary. The revised minutes were emailed to Council and Attorney Cook.
B. Approval of Warrant Register—August 2019
Page 2 of 12
Council Member_MC moved to approve consent agenda items A and B [August 6, 2019, August 20, 2019, August 30,
2019, and September 10, 2019 Minutes. Warrant Register amounts are General Fund$553,240.54, Public Facilities Improvement Fund
$14,184.50, and Capital Improvement Projects Fund$58,108.97.]; seconded by Council Member BK .
No discussion
VOTE:
WATFORD—YEA ABNEY—YEA CLARK—YEA
JARRIEL—YEA KEEFE—YEA MOTION CARRIED.
VI. PUBLIC HEARING FOR FINAL READING OF BUDGET ORDINANCES AND ADOPTION OF COMPREHENSIVE
PLAN FUTURE LAND USE MAP AMENDMENT TIME: 5:20 PM
A. Mayor announces that the purpose of this public hearing is to consider the final reading of ordinances for the proposed
millage rate levy and proposed budget for fiscal year 2019-2020.
Mayor Watford announced that the purpose of this Public Hearing is to consider the final reading of Ordinances for
the proposed Millage Rate levy and proposed Budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2019-20.
B. Mayor announces that the proposed millage rate levy represents zero percent (0.0%) more than the roll-back rate
computed pursuant to F.S. 200.065(1).
Mayor Watford announced that the proposed Millage Rate levy represents zero percent (0.00%) more than the roll-
back rate computed pursuant to Florida Statute 200.065(1).
C.1.a) Motion to read proposed Ordinance No.1191 by title only, levying a millage rate of 7.6018 on all real and tangible
personal property for proposed Fiscal Year October 1, 2019 through September 30, 2020 (Exhibit 1).
Council Member bj moved to read proposed Ordinance No. 1191 by title only, levying a millage rate of 7.6018 on
all real and tangible personal property for FY 2019-20; seconded by Council Member_wa .
b) Vote on motion to read by title only.
VOTE:
WATFORD—YEA ABNEY—YEA CLARK—YEA
JARRIEL—YEA KEEFE—YEA MOTION CARRIED.
c) City Attorney to read proposed Ordinance No. 1191 by title only.
Attorney Cook read proposed Ordinance No. 1191 by title only as follows: 'AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA;ADOPTING A MILLAGE RATE TO BE LEVIED ON ALL REAL AND TANGIBLE
PERSONAL PROPERTY WITHIN THE CITY FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2019 AND ENDING
SEPTEMBER 30, 2020;PROVIDING THAT 7.6018 PER THOUSAND DOLLAR VALUATION SHALL NOT BE LEVIED ON
HOMESTEAD PROPERTY; THAT 7.6018 VALUATION SHALL BE USED FOR GENERAL CITY PURPOSES; THAT SAID
MILLAGE RATE IS ZERO PERCENT (0.00%) MORE THAN THE ROLL-BACK RATE COMPUTED IN ACCORDANCE
WITH FLORIDA STATUTE 200.065(1); PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE."
2.a) Motion to adopt proposed Ordinance No. 1191.
Council Member_mc_moved to adopt proposed Ordinance No„ 1191; seconded by Council Member bk .
b) Public comments and discussion.
Page 3 of 12
Mayor Watford opened the floor for public comments; there was none.
Council comments: no discussion from the Council.
c) Vote on motion.
VOTE:
WATFORD—YEA ABNEY—YEA CLARK—YEA
JARRIEL—YEA KEEFE—YEA MOTION CARRIED.
D.1.a) Motion to read proposed Ordinance No. 1192 by title only,setting the annual budget for proposed Fiscal Year October
1, 2019 through September 30, 2020 (Exhibit 2).
Council Member bj moved to read proposed Ordinance No. 1192 by title only, setting the annual budget for FY
2019-20; seconded by Council Member mc .
b) Vote on motion to read by title only.
VOTE:
WATFORD—YEA ABNEY—YEA CLARK—YEA
JARRIEL—YEA KEEFE—YEA MOTION CARRIED.
c) City Attorney to read proposed Ordinance No. 1192 by title only.
Attorney Cook read proposed Ordinance No. 1192 by title only as follows: "AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING AN ANNUAL
BUDGET FOR THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA;FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2019,AND
ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2020; WHICH BUDGET SETS FORTH GENERAL FUND REVENUES OF $10,327,485.00,
TRANSFERS-IN OF $1,583,181.00, AND EXPENDITURES OF $7,568,165.00, LEAVING A FUND BALANCE OF
$4,342,501.00; PUBLIC FACILITIES IMPROVEMENT FUND REVENUES OF $2,283,619.00, EXPENDITURES OF
$1,047,988.00, AND TRANSFERS-OUT OF $350,000.00, LEAVING A FUND BALANCE OF $885,631.00; CAPITAL
IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS FUND REVENUES OF$4,273,470.00,EXPENDITURES OF$790,940.00,AND TRANSFERS-
OUT OF $1,233,181.00, LEAVING A FUND BALANCE OF $2,249,349.00; OTHER GRANTS FUND REVENUES OF
$37,490.00, AND EXPENDITURES OF$0.00, LEAVING A FUND BALANCE OF$37,490.00;APPROPRIATIONS GRANT
FUND REVENUES OF $209,000.00, AND EXPENDITURES OF $209,000.00, LEAVING A FUND BALANCE OF$0.00;
LAW ENFORCEMENT SPECIAL FUND REVENUES OF$10,920.00, AND EXPENDITURES OF$6,500.00, LEAVING A
FUND BALANCE OF$4,420.00;PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT;PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY;AND PROVIDING FOR
AN EFFECTIVE DATE."
2.a) Motion to adopt proposed Ordinance No. 1192.
Council Member bj moved to adopt proposed Ordinance No. 1192; seconded by Council Member_mc
b) Public comments and discussion.
Mayor Watford opened the floor for public comments; there were none.
Council comments: there was no discussion from the council.
The following provides a summary recapitulation of each fund. The General Fund Budget Summary lists the beginning Fund Balance
of$4,342,501.00; Estimated Revenues of$5,984,984.00 ($2,222,209.00 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; $1,233,181.00 Transferred-In from Capital Improvement Projects Fund). Total Projected
Expenditures of$7,568,165.00; leaving a Fund Balance of$4,342,501.00.
Page 4 of 12
Public Facility Improvement (Transportation 301) Fund: 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.
Capital Improvements Projects (304) Fund: Beginning Fund Balance is $4,048,470.00; Total Revenues Estimates of$225,000.00;
Total Projected Expenditures are$790,940.00,plus$1,233,181.00 transferred-out to General Fund;leaving a Fund Balance$2,249,349.
Appropriations Grant (307) Funds: Beginning Fund Balance of$0.00; Appropriation Funds Revenue of$209,000.00; Total Projected
Expenditures of$210,000.00; leaving a Fund Balance of($1,000.00).
Law Enforcement Special (601)Fund: Beginning Fund Balance is$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.
c) Vote on motion.
VOTE:
WATFORD—YEA ABNEY—YEA CLARK—YEA
JARRIEL—YEA KEEFE—YEA MOTION CARRIED.
E.1.a) Motion to read proposed Ordinance No. 1193 by title only for Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map Amendment,
Application No. 19-001-SSA, reclassifying Lots 10 to 12 of Block 178, OKEECHOBEE, from Single Family to Multi-
Family (Exhibit 3).
Council Member bk moved to read proposed Ordinance No. 1193 by title only, amending the Comprehensive
Plan Future Land Use Map (FLUM) as submitted by Application No. 19-001-SSA, [Mr. Helio J. Pereda as registered
agent of the property owner 110 Marion Road, Inc.], reclassifying Lots 10, 11, and 12, of Block 178, OKEECHOBEE
[Plat Book 5, Page 5, Okeechobee County Public Records], from Single Family Residential to Multi-Family
Residential; seconded by Council Member bj .
b) Vote on motion to read by title only.
VOTE:
WATFORD—YEA ABNEY—YEA CLARK—YEA
JARRIEL—YEA KEEFE—YEA MOTION CARRIED.
c) City Attorney to read proposed Ordinance No. 1193 by title only.
Attorney Cook read proposed Ordinance No. 1193 by title only as follows: "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA;AMENDING THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN, ORDINANCE NO. 635
AS AMENDED, BY REVISING THE FUTURE LAND USE MAP ON A CERTAIN TRACT OF LAND MORE PARTICULARLY
DESCRIBED HEREIN FROM SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL TO MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL (APPLICATION NO. 19-
001-SSA); PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION OF ORDINANCE AND REVISED FUTURE LAND USE MAP IN THE
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE."
2.a) Motion to adopt proposed Ordinance No. 1193.
Council Member mc moved to adopt proposed Ordinance No. 1193; seconded by Council Member bj .
b) Public comments and discussion.
Council Member Abney noted for the record he will be abstaining from voting. Form 88 has been filed with the Clerk's
office.
Mr. Steve Dobbs was present on behalf of the property owner.
Page 5 of 12
Mayor Watford yielded the floor to City Planning Consultant Mr. Ben Smith of LaRue Planning and Management Services,
who explained the Planning Board reviewed Application No. 19-001-SSA on August City Planner with Planning Staffs findings
are as follows: The application was found to be consistent with the City's Comprehensive Plan, specifically Policy 2.2
and Objective 12 of the Future Land Use Element. The existing zoning is Residential Multiple-Family. The area around the
subject property includes a mix of future land use designations, zoning designations and land uses. Industrial, commercial,
multi-family, and single-family all exist within a couple blocks of the subject property. Multi-family use is appropriate in this
area.
According to the Institute of Traffic Engineers (ITE) Trip Generation Report, two single-family dwelling units are estimated to
generate 19 daily vehicle trips, with two of those trips occurring during the peak pm hour (one in and one out). According to
the same, five multi-family dwelling units are estimated to generate 33 daily vehicle trips, with three of those trips occurring
during the peak pm hour (two in and one out). This represents a potential increase of 14 daily vehicle trips and during the
peak pm hour, an increase of one inbound vehicle trip. This is not a significant increase in vehicle trips and should cause no
impacts to surrounding properties or roads.
Regarding adequacy of public facilities, the estimated demand for potable water and wastewater treatment that would be
associated with the proposed five multi-family dwelling units will not be significant. The Applicant has stated there are no
wetlands on the site or in the near vicinity. Aerial photography indicates that there are a few large trees onsite. The Applicant
has stated that the subject property is within flood zone X,which indicates a minimal risk of flooding.The site has no significant
or unique characteristics regarding environmental sensitivity, wildlife habitat, soil conditions or susceptibility to flooding.
There were some code issues and structure issues, the City shut it down. The owner would like to bring the building
up to date and remodel to include 5 single-family apartments. A parking lot will be added.
MC-just curious why this wasn't FLU commercial with all the commercial surrounding the property.All the properties
surrounding this property is commercial. I don't really have a problem with it going multi-family, just wondering if
anybody remembered why the FLU was not commercial. Just asking, wasn't here when determined.
Mayor-old honey bee apartments? That's probably why, it was an existing apartment building and the owner plans
to bring that building up to code?
Steve Dobbs- 209 NE 2nd Street, yes I got into this and found out that there were existing issues with the building. I
was hired to do the site plan and the FLUM amendment.We had a floor plan but the city wanted one from an architect.
The existing use had 7 or 8 electric meters on the site. Client planning on turning this into a veteran housing
development. Low rent, according to the Code, to get the additional apartment.
Mayor-are there plans to add additional structures on the property?
Steve-there would not be room with the parking and existing structure. The existing structure encroaches into the
alley and street. Those items are forthcoming.
BJ-sounds like an imiprovement.
Steve-yes I believe so, historically this was not a nice building to have in your neighborhood. The owner is going to
invest a lot of money into the property.
Mayor-where did the external stairs go?
Steve-on the other side of the building because they are encroaching into the right of way.
Mayor-the planning board did recommend approval. This only takes one reading because this is a small scale map
amendment.
c) Vote on motion.
VOTE:
WATFORD—YEA ABNEY—ABSTAINED CLARK—YEA
JARRIEL—YEA KEEFE—YEA MOTION CARRIED.
CLOSE PUBLIC HEARING TIME: 5:37
Page 6 of 12
VII. NEW BUSINESS
A. Motion to approve renewal of Property and Casualty Insurance coverages with the Public Risk Management (PRM)
of Florida and continuation of a two-year coverage agreement with an effective date of October 1, 2019—India Riedel,
Finance Director, Bonnie Mims, Executive Director, PRM and Joshua Hallon, CCP, Assistant Vice President, WRM
(Exhibit 4).
Council wanted to hear presentation first. India introduced PRM Executive Director Bonnie Mims and Mr. Joshua
Halton. A copy of the presentation was provided.
Bonnie-been in existence since 1987, very involved in claims, provide a lot of services to the member. We provide
as many services as we can to the employees. Joshua Halton, Claims Management with World Risk Management,
Assistant VP of the area, he is very involved priding himself in customer service.
Joshua-presented a stewardship report for 2019/20. Began with 8 members, today has over 60 members. Major
objectives: lower costs, selective/strategic membership portfolio, enhanced coverage, outstanding claim and loss
control services, stability, self governed by members-voting rights, professional and timely service.
PRM was formed and is managed differently from the other trusts in Florida. Steady growth goal, with stability being
key to the members.
PRm places great value in its long-term relationships, with both the members and insurance carriers.
PRM carrier partners look favorably on the stability of the members hip and they like to know there will not be a
significant change in the membership and exposures from year to year.
PRM and its membership is recognized by carriers as being a Premier public entity, member managed pool that
works hard to minimize loses, by utilizing the loss control and risk management programs made available.
PRM has benefited from additional resources provided by their long-term insurance carrier partners to assist in loss
control, loss prevention and other valuable services that have improved PRM's management of the Association.
In keeping with the philosophy of PRM, members that commit to a long-term relationship are able to enjoy the best
pricing available for the broadest coverage in the marketplace.
WRM extensively markets PRM's insurance coverages on a yearly basis to ensure the coverages and rates are the
most aggressive and competitive in the marketplace.
• PRM Association of individual self-insured public entities in state of Iforida
• Okeechobee-member since 1999
• Contract with WRM for underwriting, insurance placement and risk management.
• Contract with Johns Eastern
Joshua briefly went over the total values the city is insured for, and explained the additional coverages available to
the City. He touched on the benefits of a PRM member, focusing on "self governing"and "one member, one vote".
PRM exceeds the coverages provided by competitors.
Insurance has increased approx. 21.9 percent in ten years. Property values have gone up (26.6%)
No questions from the Council.
Council Member wa moved to approve the renewal of Property and Casualty Insurance coverages with the Public
Risk Management (PRM) of Florida and continuation of a two-year coverage agreement with an effective date of
October 1, 2019; seconded by Council Member bj .
FY 2018-19 cost $284,574 (includes a $5,808 credit)
FY 2019-20 cost$307,292 reflects a 7.98% increase (includes a $6,271 credit)
Coverage included: property & crime, boiler & machinery, General liability, Workers Compensation, Cyber liability,
Pollution liability, and aviation liability.
Two year coverage agreement option, with rates, not premiums, guaranteed to remain the same for the 10/1/19 to
10/1/21 coverage period. This agreement does not include property insurance coverage and does not constitute a
bar on the ability of a PRM member to withdraw from the PRM pool.
Page 7 of 12
Finance Director Riedel thanked PRM, tremendous asset to the City, on going claims can be discussed over the
phone. Have a plethora of online resources. If we think we can take care of a claim ourselves, we can contact the
insurance company ourselves, if it was not our fault. This is a really good marriage between all of us.
Mayor-there were very on top of the FF's cancer issue. State Legislature passed a new benefit effective 7/1/19. PRM
stepped up and provided coverage. Do I understand correctly that our premium is $307,292?Yes
VOTE:
WATFORD—YEA ABNEY—YEA CLARK—YEA
JARRIEL—YEA KEEFE—YEA MOTION CARRIED.
B. Motion to adopt proposed Resolution No. 2019-11, supporting the 2020 Census (Exhibit 5).
Council Member bj moved to adopt proposed Resolution Na. 2019-11 supporting the 2020 Census; seconded
by Council Member mc_.
Attorney Cook read proposed Resolution No. 2019-11 by title only as follows: "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA; AFFIRMING SUPPORT FOR AND A PARTNERSHIP WITH
STATE AND LOCAL LEADERS TO ENSURE AN ACCURATE 2020 CENSUS;PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT;PROVIDING
FOR SEVERABILITY;AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE."
Ms. Connie Wright was introduced by the Mayor. She is the recruiting assistant for the Census Bureau to get an
accurate count for Okeechobee and Glades County. She can not answer where the money goes questions. Starting
wage is $15 per hour. If you want to work full-time supervisory position, there are positions available.
MC-what is the starting age? 18
Mayor-you can do this part time
Connie-nights, days, weekends, $15 per hour, $0.58 per mile, very flexible.
After the vote, Council took a picture with Connie.
VOTE:
WATFORD—YEA ABNEY—YEA CLARK—YEA
JARRIEL—YEA KEEFE—YEA MOTION CARRIED.
C. Motion to adopt proposed Resolution No. 2019-12 regarding Americans with Disabilities Act requirements for
municipal websites (Exhibit 6).
Council Member_bk moved to adopt proposed Resolution No. 2019-12 regarding Americans with Disabilities Act
requirements for municipal websites; seconded by Council Member_wa .
Attorney Cook read proposed Resolution No. 2019-12 by title only as follows: "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA; URGING THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE TO CLARIFY
THE REQUIREMENTS FOR MUNICIPAL WEBSITES TO BE IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE AMERICANS WITH
DISABILITIES ACT; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE"
There was no discussion on the Resolution
VOTE:
WATFORD—YEA ABNEY—YEA CLARK—YEA
JARRIEL—YEA KEEFE—YEA MOTION CARRIED.
Page 8 of 12
D. Clarification of legal summary for the Mott property and the Primitive Baptist Church property.
On 9/12/19, a memo was emailed to the Council by Attorney Cook providing an update on the properties mentioned. Council
Member Keefe questioned this to be on the agenda. I assume all Council Members read the email, The update was that there
hasn't been any further action taken since the filing of the foreclosure on March 4, 2019. So when asked about the status, I
received the answer that he was working with Mr. Noel Chandler regarding a purchase of the property. I have a couple of
pages of notes, but will consolidate to 3 points. 1-approval of foreclosure 12 months ago, and the city council approved the
recommendation for foreclosure(9/4/18). Fast forward 7 months ago,the status was questioned by CM Abney,the foreclosure
was filed on 3/4/19. AT no time before 3/4/19 no info was submitted by Mr. Chandler or City Attorney. I feel there is a behind
the door arrangement between the good old boys. "Council Member keefe read from his notes. Get this information from him.
Just in the past 12 months, the PD has been to the Mott property 29 times. 1-I don't know why there hasn't been any
communication by the City Attorney with the Council as we were under the understanding it was in foreclosure proceedings.
We should have already pushed this forward. Previous memo that Attorney cook explained a foreclosure could take 5-9
months. I really don't care who buys the property, the ultimate goal is getting the property into compliance, transparency in
government, following procedures.
Other comments is on the Primitive Baptist Church. There was no new information given since we last approved to purchase
the tax certificates. We discussed moving forward with Mr. Chandler becoming a trustee for the estate so we could move
forward with the purchase. No further action has been taken according to the memo.
Also in the memo was Mr. Cook's justification of inaction with"authorized vs. being directed". I would like to direct the Attorney
to follow thru with the foreclosure on the Mott Property and finalize the Primitive Baptist Church purchase.
JC-late last year Noel Chandler came to me about the Mott property. This property has great sentimental value to Noel as it
was his grandmothers property. However, he has not gotten back to me after the first of the year, that's when the foreclosure
was being filed. I was in the process of running the legal ad at the end of July beginning of august. John was approached
again by Noel saying he reached a deal with the son, I did not run the ad, thinking this would go faster. We can run the ad,
once the default is entered, the judge sets sale date out 60 days after court date. I believe this will push us out to January.
The probate could end in October/Novebmer, saving City money. If the council wants us to spend the money, I can finalize
foreclosure.
Mayor-do we want to do probate or move forward with the foreclosure?
WA-what was the direction at the March 5th meeting.
BK-several CM's want foreclosure proceedings to be pursued.
MC-comment is that I understand that Noel is interested in that property but the reason the property is before us is multiple
code enforcement issues. At the last code board meeting, it was the number one item on the agenda and accruing fines
because the grass is not even mowed, we are not even talking about the derelict building on the property. Neighbor called
and expressed disgust with this property. IF noel is so interested, why riot just take care of the mowing to get the property into
compliance.
JC-well Noel can't do anything unless he owns the property. The CE Statute, the City may authorize foreclosure. When you
hire an attorney for litigation, it is the attorney's job to get there with a favorable result.
BJ-I think we've given ample time on it. The only thing that I'd be in favor of is giving him a deadline and if its not met, he can
fight it on the courthouse steps. If he doesn't meet the deadline, then foreclose on property.
Mayor-clarified what BJ was saying.
JC-Noel gave me the information to complete the paperwork a few weeks ago.
WA-the last meeting the consensus was to move forward with foreclosure. What is your next step after the consensus.
JC-once the council authorizes, I file. Next step is gather information, find heirs, publish it, then when it expires, you get a
default and then a court date.
MC-we can go ahead and advertise for foreclosure, and if the probate comes through, then Noel can finish the process with
out going to the Court House steps.
WA-I agree
MC-is there a reason why he can't mow the grass?
JC-the owner is dead, the person who lives there doesn't own it.
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MC-Noel should understand, I think we should move forward and foreclose on the properties.
WA-move forward without any delay
JC-anticipate the probate will be much sooner, if it gets to that point, we dismissed the foreclosure. As I said in my memo, I
don't charge the City for these things, depending on the newspaper ad costs, county clerk's fees, fees should not be more
than $2,000.
Mayor-I think I agree with CM Jarriel, I think probate is the way to go, we know that's in the works as John has been retained.
I like giving him a deadline and then move forward. We will need this in a form of a motion.
WA-if the foreclosure and probate started today, would the probate finalize sooner?
JC-similar situation probate completed in approx.. 1.5 months.
WA-I don't understand
JC-CM Keefe sent an email to MDO thinking I couldn't legally do this, 1:here is a conflict.
WA-is there a conflict
JC-I don't believe so
MC-I had no idea Noel had an interest in the property. If I had known that then we could have not foreclosed on the property
and we could have been past that point by now. I guess that's where the lack of transparency comes in. This was discussed
in December.
Motion give Noel until the end of October to complete the probate and if -BJ second: CM Clark
BK-I'd like to see them run concurrently, there's no reason why this couldn't have been filed.
JC-agree with BK, there's no problem with running the ad.
BK-probate could be finalized, but there could be extenin
VOTE:
WATFORD—YEA ABNEY—No CLARK—No
JARRIEL—YEA KEEFE—No MOTION DENIED.
WA-Motion to continue foreclosure process by running the ads, and re-address on the October 15 mtg; 2nd by BJ
VOTE:
WATFORD—YEA ABNEY—YEA CLARK—YEA
JARRIEL—YEA KEEFE—YEA MOTION CARRIED.
Prmitive Baptist Church—where do we go from here.
JC-Council has not authorize me to take any further steps after purchasing the tax certificates. India and I discussed the
private individuals lawsuit, the city can't fund. If I volunteer my time and we were successful , then the city could apply for the
tax certificate and do a quiet title application. The city can't really do anything, step 1 is upto the heirs to have the court appoint
a trustee.
Mayor-so we need to have one of the heirs go thru that process.
JC-Noel is willing to do that, even if I don't charge fees, someone will have to pay the filing fee and newspaper ad.
MDO-clarified we have the 2017 and 2018 tax deeds, can we wait until this year.
JC-I went over the process with India when we purchased the Tax certificates. This puts the council in the better position.
Mayor-if I understand correctly, but when we file for a tax deed after so many months, then the property goes up for public
auction, take the chance of someone else bidding or we would have to be willing to bid. I know the City of Pahokee got quite
a bit of property thru tax deeds. MDO can reach out and find out how Pahokee did it.
Can we have India and MDO to look into that and put it on a future agenda and in the meantime talk to the Raulerson heirs.
WA-there is no trustee at this point.
Mayor-when it stopped being a church is when the issue started.
WA-what is the process
Mayor-a member of the family has to do the process. Someone has to fund this, the City can't
WA-can we have staff look into that to see what could be done and also look into the other two avenues so we know.
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Direct-India is to find out how the tax deed works, MDO to check with Pahokee on the property obtained and sold, also talk
to the heirs about the process and find funding to go thru the process.
BJ-on this email, there was an item 5. It was supposed to be on the agenda tonight.
DW-under your comments, I would suggest you request it be on the agenda.
MDO-I apologize I thought you were going to add tonight.
E. Agreement for Attorney services (Exhibit 7).
Mayor-Attorney will not be submitted for renewal so we are going to have to go out for RFQ. His contract ends on September
30, and we need to determine if want to continue on a monthly basis.
MDO-the staff recommends extending the renewal until December 31, 2019. That way there will be time to have the RFQ.
BK-confirming you are requesting to amend the expiration date of the existing contract.
JC-in my letter to the Council, I requested those months fees be budgeted.
MDO-I don't have that dollar amount.
BK-we have not renegotiated a contract so there should be no deviation from the contrac.t
JC-so what your saying is that the new dollar amount budgeted is to pay the new person, but you are not willing to pay me
that amount?
BK-Correct
BJ-I don't remember agreeing to pay the attorney that rate. I think we should extend it with the current rate.
WA-we increased the budget due to attorney cook's recommendation for the going rate for anticipation of a new attorney.
That's the dollar we set with the anticipation of a new attorney.
BK-it was also understood that the current City Attorney would apply for that RFQ and now he is not intending to apply. This
RFQ was due 60 days ago, neither MDO or Attorney filled that guideline.And we still don't have one ready to publish tonight.
Another delay tactic-withdraw comment. Unnecessary delay in completing this task, at a crossroads and we are in a bind now.
JC-my recollection it was not an RFQ.
Mayor-lets try to move on and come up with a solution. First of all we have to have an attorney. I know the County kind of
handled it the same way, month-to-month basis, which is the logical thing to do. I think we need to decide if we want to extend
that and what the rate will be. We need to decided that
BJ-motion to extend current contract to 12/31; 2nd by MC.
WA-clarify current; 10/1/2005 contract at current rate.
JC-flat rate and additional billing for coming down to City Hall.
VOTE:
WATFORD—YEA ABNEY—YEA CLARK—YEA
JARRIEL—YEA KEEFE—YEA MOTION CARRIED.
Mayor-now you all have been given an example packet of RFQ's to consider. We need to have an RFQ at the next meeting.
Look over the information provided and get with MDO with any issues so that they can come up with something to look at.
MDO-clarified would like to look at a firm and then look at an individual.
Mayor-where is county on process; at the next meeting will have a RFQ. A
BK-subsidiary motion that staff prepare and present.
VIII. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Abney-would like to see a heading for unfinished business for items that need to be on the agenda until its done.
Mayor-typically unfinished business is something the Council refers to the next agenda.
Abney-you understand my concept, with all the other things that we have going on, these things get overlooked and only
come up again when there is an issue. When need another mechanism.
Mayor-staff report
Jarriel-parking spot out front for Veteran's looks very nice. We represent the City and the Staff represents the City and I think
that we've accomplished a lot and I'm happy with what's happened and next Tuesday the fire department is meeting with the
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County. That will come back. Also 10/22 we will have a town hall meeting. We need to get that in the paper and on the radio.
My other comment is mail procedures.
Mayor-that letter was addressed to me. I have dealt with that individual for years regarding several different issues. That letter
was addressed to me. I did read the letter and felt like the letter had some accusations of a legal matter. I gave it to MDO and
Attorney to respond. That individual knows me well and knows how to contact me, but I felt like this needed to be addressed
by the Attorney. I personally felt like they were unfounded and that's why there was a delay.
BJ-I understand we represent the citizens and we just need to respond as we represent them
MDO-typically I get a copy and respond if needed, and if it's a legal thing, we stay silent and let attorney handle it. I know you
get a lot of requests, send me an email or provide us with a copy and we can discuss. We usually do really well in responding.
MC-I don't care if we get an email, we should respond. I don't think we should wait. Common courtesy. Just a short email
would suffice.
Mayor-I've been dually chastised but do not feel that I could respond due to previous issues.
Keefe-can I get a status update on the strategic plan that we were supposed to adopt before budget?
MDO-update plan has been sent back to refine. We are not there, I would like to bring it back December or January so we
can see where we are at, just to bring it back up and revisit. I know the budget was a push on a lot of the items. That's why
we went with a smaller time line.
BK-do we have a document
MD)-I can bring it back, no official document
BK-yes I would like to officially adopt it
Clark-no other comments
Mayor-none
IX. ADJOURN MEETING
There being no further items on the agenda, Mayor Watford adjourned the meeting at_7:05_P.M.
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