What? Oh no. What? the hills and um so I sold it or actually traded it. But u anyway, I've been kind of looking for It's the owl. I apologize it is late. It is 6:15.
We've had some technical difficulties, but we are up and running now. Um I want to start with if we could please um Commissioner Moore, if you would lead us in our invocation. Please stand your
>> Let's bow our heads. Dear heavenly father, we want to thank you for allowing us to come together. We thank you for this brand new day, one that we've never seen before and we won't see again. We give you praises and we honor you all today. We ask that you be with us this evening for all your
help and assistance with that and getting everyone in um off when they were supposed to. Um it was a great parade. Everybody had smiles on their faces even though they were soaking and wet and a little chilly, but it was a great day and um thank you to the
downtown partnership for the evening and the day for the market during the day. It was um I think a great day for everyone and especially here for the residents here in Crescent City and those passing through. So, we greatly appreciate all of our volunteers. I do
want to do a big shout out to um and she never wants any recognition, but Lisa Rodenberry. Um she anytime we were doing anything in the park with those lights, she was right there. Um she uh Liz Gomez was out there. We had Paty out there and
we had Cheryl Gavitz out there and of course our employees uh Cecil Margarito, Ronnie, um and and the other gentlemen that helped with that. And so, um, thank you all for all of your support. It takes a village, but a lot of it takes a
lot of volunteers. And so, any of you out there watching, please, by all means, if you want to be part of the community, join in. There's plenty to do. And it can be a lot of fun. Um, and of course, Derek, we want to thank you for, you know, your staff and leading
the way with the staff. So, thank you for that. With that, we've got a couple of announcements. Um, the Crescent City Libraryies book angel tree. Each ornament has a child's gender, age, and interest. Please keep all donations to books only. Return your
ornament with new unwrapped books by December 18th. Thank you for your contribution. Stop by the library. I And you can get um you can get um an ornament with with your child on that. Also, I want to thank the library
um that you donated all of the books, a lot of the books for the children on Saturday. So, there's I saw some I saw some books out there that I used to read to my daughter back in the day. It brought back a lot of memories sitting out there. Um so, thank you for that
because you know if you if you can if you have a book and you can read the world is open to you. So, thank you for that. Um the women's club on Sun on Sunday, this Sunday the 14th from 11 to
2, they're having a holiday lunching. It's $15. You can buy tickets at the door. They're having ham, scalloped potatoes, veggies, and desserts. Um on Wednesday the 17th from 1 to 3, they have their monthly bunko. And then on
Thursday on Friday on um the 19th starting at 5:00 with bingo beginning at 5:45 um they will be open also. And I think at both that and the um bunko there is meals available uh for a small cost. And
then our Futland Peninsula Historical Society, they're having their potluck holiday dinner uh Thursday the 18th at 4:00. And it's going to be is that correct? >> At the women's club. at the woman's club. Um, so everybody, that's always a nice feast. So if you can, please stop
by. >> RSVP. >> Okay. >> RSVP. Who should they RSVP to? >> They can send it to me. William FPhistory.com. >> Okay. Did you get that? >> Um, RSVP, please. >> Website, >> William or at the website,
fphistory.com. >> FPhistory.com. And then Simon with Simon's house. He reached out um a few days ago and they would like to do a food giveaway. They did this in the past. I don't know if any of you remember. They came over here
to Market to Market Square and lined up on a Saturday and gave out a tremendous amount of food. And he said he and his staff um would love to come back and do that. and they're looking at Saturday the 20th. He is going to firm that up so
that we can get some notices out to everyone. But he said in this this time of the year um it would be he feels most helpful for a lot of people. I believe how Memorial is doing their um Christmas caroling on the 12th.
Um, and with that, does anybody have any other Um, I want to say that January 21st through the 22nd, it's going to be rural county days in Tallahassee with the legislature. Please, if you have the opportunity, um, come to Tallahassee and
show your support. And then February 19th on the 22nd floor, um, they're going to have Putnham County Days at in the capitol. Um that is something I believe I was I was told representative sap that he has asked that we do something for Putnham County
to show the support and um so everybody I'm hoping that commissioners it would be that's February 19th. So um getting a hotel this time of the year but I've said you know if we needed to possibly we could even caravan caravan up there
for the day just so that we can make sure that we show our support. Julianne Young um with the county. She is kind of spearheading this. So if you have any questions, by all means you can reach out to her or you can reach out to Derek. I'm sure Derk will have that
information. Does anybody have anything else happening except for of course Santa will be coming after the FLC legislate back to 26? January. >> Oh that's January 26. That's the Florida
League of um cities um rule. That's their action day. Legislative action days. Lot going on. >> Anything else? >> Our action days, right? >> Our us um so I guess with that we're going
to go ahead and go into our um celebrate Arbor Day. This is an a proclamation that we have, but we do on behalf of of myself and and my fellow commissioners, we want to wish everybody a wonderful holiday season. Um, and it's it's a time
to make sure that that you hold your friends and your loved ones near and tell everyone just how special they are and take in take in the season, take it all in, live in the moment. Um, with that, let's go to our city of Crescent
City, Florida Proclamation 2025-08. It's celebrate Arbor Day. Whereas in 1872, J. Sterling Morton proposed to the NEA Nebraska Board of Agriculture that a special day be set aside for the planting of trees. And whereas this
holiday called Arbor Day was first observed with the planting of more than a million trees in Nebraska. And whereas Arbor Day is now observed throughout the nation and the world. And whereas trees can reduce the erosion of our precious tops by wind and water, cut heating and
cooling costs, moderate the temperature, clean the air, produce lifegiving oxygen, and provide habitat for wildlife. And whereas trees are a renewable resource, giving us paper, wood for our homes, fuel for our fires, and countless
other wood products. And whereas trees in our city increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of business areas, and beautify our community. And whereas trees, wherever they are planted, are a source of joy and spiritual renewal. Now, therefore,
I, Michelle Meyers, mayor of the city of Crescent City, do hereby proclaim January 17, 2026 as Arbor Day in the city of Crescent City. And I urge all citizens to celebrate this day and to support efforts to protect our trees and
woodlands. Further, I urge all citizens to plant trees to gladden the heart and promote well-being for this and future generations dated this 11th day of December 2025. Commission, do I have a motion to accept this publication?
>> I move second. >> Okay, we have proper motion and a second. Do we have any comments? Any discussion? All in favor, please say I. I. >> Oppose. Name. Okay. So, it looks like further on in the agenda, there is a a
request for Arbor Day. But I believe this is pretty much it that it's going to be January 17th, 2026. Is that correct? >> Um, yes. Because um if you want to have um Chris Edler, the educationist who is
assisting and you want to have county forester and you want to have um Mr. Perez the county extension agent, that is the only day they're available and they're pretty much booked for that day. I mean that's that's the day they are
available to us. I will not be available to read the proclamation that day. Um I will be back always that weekend when we are out of town um with my husband. So um I guess >> you can do it for me.
>> Well, thank you. >> So with that, um let's move on and we're going to open up um for approval of the minutes. You've got the minutes in front of you. We've got July 31st, November 13th, November 18th, November 25th, um
the one the special meeting at 1:30, and then also the one at 3:00. And then I believe we've got some um corrections that uh Commissioner Devidito has. Um so I know I have a few. I have a few. So if
anybody wants to I I don't want to suspend a tremendous amount of time. I will say this, there were a few things in here, but for the most part, um, this new system is capturing these minutes. They're doing, um, one of the best jobs we've had in our minutes.
>> So, um, with that, we'll start with the July 31st, 2025. Um I think that um there I have something for um well I numbered the pages on the
ones I sent out. Um essentially it's the third page for July 31st. If you go to tenant maximum millage rate where the bullet points are in second bullet point that says TPP I think it would be helpful to spell
that out and as well the next bullet point TIFF I think that should um TIF income financing right and TPP is tangible property right and then um I also had
some on the next page. Okay. Does anybody have anything else on that page? >> On the next page. >> Okay. On the next page, let's go. Okay. Um, this mill is always tricky. Uh, under
options considered where it says maintain current millillage. I think that's the place that you would want to say for the result of 35,621 reduction in revenue
and then take out the 35,621 on the next line where it says do roll back rate and that is really to maintain revenue at current level because we're we weren't trying to raise revenue. We're trying to maintain it.
>> We're trying to maintain it. >> Prop value, property values increasing themselves is the one that increases that. Okay. >> Um, commissioners, are you is everyone in in approval of that? >> That's right.
>> Okay. I think that >> on the same on the same issue though, that same part, I was not the one that made that motion. That was Commissioner Devito and then Commissioner Burton actually seconded it. I just watched the video tonight. >> Okay. >> I was I'm surprised that I would desend
for my own motion. >> Well, that's I had a question mark for that. So, it was you did not make the motion. >> You did. >> Okay. So, that was Theo and then the second was Burton.
>> Um and then um mayor, if I could under public explanation letter. >> Okay. It says, "David moved to prepare a letter to taxpayers explaining the rationale for um I think instead of adopting it should
be setting. I would strike adopting and putting put in setting um strike roll back and put maximum and then after millage put at the roll back rate." So it would the second line would read setting the maximum millillage at
the roll back rate because in that meeting we didn't adopt the >> we set the maximum. Okay. >> And on that one the second was not being able. >> Okay. And then I think all of us I think with
our voices I said that we're all a little southern. >> So except for Commissioner >> Burton. >> So >> I don't know what's wrong with you. >> Maybe it's catching all it's catching all of our accents. Um
>> Okay. And so then >> Okay. And then I had one more um under number seven on the same page. Number seven, funding requests. Um the first bullet point motion move to
distribute available $900 equally. It doesn't say what line item. I believe that was from the aid to local organizations. >> So we'll just add that inations in the in the general budget. Okay.
>> Commissioner Lori, did you have anything else? Is that all you had on that page? Okay, let's move to the next page. And I'd really like I'd really like us to move through these. We spent a tremendous amount of time rather than kind of rehashing them. What are the changes? Let's just go over the changes if we can. So the next one, Commissioner
Devito, you have um reviewing water usage and dock maintenance costs. So you want to add usage to it. Correct. >> Yes. Just >> to make clear, it's not the lake, it's how much water we use consumption. >> One of the other change was that we did
not 8:35. It was 6:35. >> Just felt like 8:35. >> Okay. Anything else on this first one? >> Okay. Um I'm going to do these if we can. I'll um I can I have a motion to
approve this one, please? >> I move that we approve the July 31st meeting >> with directions. >> Do I have a second? >> Second. Okay. Any discussion? Seeing none. All in favor, please say I. >> I.
>> Okay, let's move on to the November 13, 2025. That's the um regular commission meeting. >> Um I have a question about the second page. >> Okay. Says approval of minutes. Says the
commission reviewed three sets of minutes with corrections noted by Commissioner. Um was that the only one? Commissioner Roy didn't have any. the mayor didn't have any. >> Um I I don't know. I think that
>> I don't even think we need to put in there commissioner de I think the commission review three sets of minutes with corrections that corrections and cross out who did it. >> Is there anything else on that one? Commissioner Lori, >> my only was on the next page.
>> Okay. the resolution and the ordinances usually we have them by title in there the whole title. So nothing. >> Okay. >> And we've got lock side in. And so it it
needs to be LC. Um and this one um I do have something down. Um this this one was resolution 202507, the maintenance agreement. Um this said the resolution reauthorizing. Should it
be reauthorizing the maintenance agreement? Because that's really what we what we're doing. So I would add rather than authorizing reauthorizing >> the entire >> Yeah.
Okay. Let's go to the next page if we can. Uh, I don't think Commissioner Devito added in here with a mobile flatbed trailer picking up and dropping off the lion. Um, I don't know that that's >> Well, that was the main part of the
event. They didn't really care that's commissioners. Do you want to add that or are we actually getting resolution. >> Okay. >> Commissioner Devito, you want to continue with your >> um Yes. But there those rational my
concern all along was that we were giving them permission to use the park, but they were actually using the streets and there are liability issues. So this comes up next year. Um, I wanted it to be clear what had taken place because sometimes
>> So, what if we put in there using using a mobile flatbed trailer? >> Sure. >> Okay. Is everyone okay with that? >> Okay, >> that's good. Okay. And then, um, volleyball practice at Harry Banks Park. Um, there's just not too much in there
about that. Um, and I said request for approval of use of Harry Banks Park for volleyball practice including use of lights by and then I put a line because I don't remember who made the request. Okay. But it was
doesn't say who um they were the volleyball the volleyball team with is it private or the school? It's the the the um club club volleyball.
Okay. By local volleyball club. >> So I think we would just put in there that who was requesting it. Is that good? >> That's good. That's good. >> Okay. Anything else on this page? >> Next page. Commission page. Yep. Yes. Top of page.
Um that was your doc additional funding. Um very top of the page request first line for $10,000. Um it doesn't say what source we were taking that money from. >> I have that too. So we just need to add. So So what we knew we just need to add
where it was coming from. He said the guidelines in two year and his opinion must be coming back up. Okay. Okay. Um well it's funny I did not write anything here
mayor but um I did think that what she really did was he really recommended that we purchase begin the process of purchasing a truck. Now he had that specific recommendation. We
didn't accept it, but Chief Fraser recommended that we purchase an available truck or begin the process to purchase an available truck. Okay. >> Um, so how do you so what do you want to how do you what language do you want to use?
At the end, um, Chief Fraser made a recommendation that the city begin process now
to purchase an available truck. Okay. And then obviously it says um, what we Okay. Yep. >> Okay. Anything else on this one? Um, the only other thing I want I think a correction is FPL would cover lighting
cost. FPL would cover lighting installation, not the cost of the lighting. The city would pay for the directional drilling. The overall improvement cost would be included on a on a monthly basis in the um energy bill.
If everyone's okay with that. Okay, let's go to the next page. >> Um, I have something under >> You have something under the city manager evaluation schedule, >> right? Um, the paragraph that starts
special meeting. The second line says followed by an FG meeting. I would strike and the word and and insert a special meeting for Florida gas utilities presentation on rate study and recommendations. >> Okay. Is everyone okay with that?
>> Okay. Okay. We have um you have it under additional business. Um the part about um I would just take out the 23 and say pending sets of minutes. Um because we we didn't talk about 23
sets of minutes. Minutes were just handed out by the clerk. I remember there was a notebook. Okay. Handed out by the clerk. Okay. Any other changes on that page? I'm going to go ahead and I will entertain a motion. >> I move that we approve the
rainbow minutes with correct. >> Okay. Second. I have a proper motion in a second. All in favor, please say I. >> I. Nay. Okay. So move. Let's go on to our um November 18th, 2025 the 1:30 p.m.
meeting. Um, Commissioner Veto, you had nothing on the first page. I have Anybody have anything on the first page? >> Okay, let's go to the second page. Um on the second page, first paragraph, the
very first line, um where it says minutes that had alleged been approved that were taken out allegedly because actually um I did find the YouTube to that and I listened to it and we had approved 13 sets of minutes. >> Okay. >> As we recall.
>> Okay. So we're going to do that and then you go down and you have Commissioner Lori attempted to locate. Correct. >> Yes. because I >> I wasn't able to do that during the meeting. Um and then Commissioner Lori
also um I don't know that that we need to um she has in here. Commissioner Lori also remembered that the August 15th meeting for corrections to um I don't >> Yeah, I don't know what
>> I don't know what that was took place. Basically, there was um there was a suggestion that we didn't have the second meeting on August 5th, but we did have it. Commissioner Lori and I both remembered it. We couldn't find the
YouTube, but it is there. We met at noon and it was for two hours plus >> because I looked at the time on it. So, I don't know. Just some clarification. I mean, Commissioner Lori did call the meeting and actually, mayor, I think you did as well, didn't you?
>> I said I remembered something to that. So, let's just put in there the commission question >> whether whether any of these minutes had already been approved. >> No, it was kind of the opposite because I think we agreed they had been approved
because >> but we didn't verify it. So, we were questioning it. Well, >> I'm giving you some verbage. I need some verbage. >> I would just leave it. >> Leave it. Leave it off. >> Leave it alone. And um because then
motion to resend previous approvals. I think we were pretty convinced we did prior. >> Okay. >> Approved. So I have commissioner >> minutes. >> Right. Move to resend previous approval of minutes for the following meetings and that they are listed. Okay. Is there
anything else? Nope. on this page. Okay. Second page. Commissioner Devidito, you wanted to put in there um a set of um down there clarifications for accuracy for new sonic player, >> right? That was what we
>> commissioners provided for accuracy. Right. >> Okay. Anything else on that page? >> No. Um I I the ordinance 25-07 down there with
Commissioner Devito. Um opposed. I want to say I don't know if we want to put opposing. Opposed is good. Okay. Let's go to the next page. >> Are you saying we're changing that? >> Okay. And this is a reversal. So it should have been the women's club. I had
that on mine, too. Okay. So it should have been correcting women's plural to women's club. So it's just a it's just a um >> it's just reversed happens every day. >> Okay. Anything else on that page? I do
not see nothing on that page. What about the next page? um something about a 10 a.m. Oh, the um the August 5th minutes, the ones that we approved, that was for the 10 a.m. budget workshop
because there were two separate um events. I guess one was the first one was a 10 a.m. That was a budget workshop. That was the YouTube one that we identified. and then um just disregard
the rest of it because this is just a list of minutes that have been approved. >> Anything else on that page? If nothing, let's move to the next page. >> Okay. >> And we're down um on the motion to
resend July 10th uh approval. Was that a question that Commissioner Devito moved to resend that me or was that? >> Oh, no, I didn't. No, the motion to resend. We did the motion to approve all the correct minutes. I did. >> Okay. I remember sitting there reading while I video.
>> I remember because you said you were getting tired. >> Okay. Anything else on that page? Let's move on to the next page. >> Okay. So, just to clarify, number nine, final approval. That was not Commissioner. It was Commissioner Lori made the motion. >> Right. I put that on my
>> um >> change. >> Okay. And Okay. It says who submitted it. >> Yep. >> Um >> and so it was and then um on here we want to make a note that the mayor
was actually at 350 or approximately 34 >> that you left and vice mayor. >> Yeah. >> Right. which also then after that we did the water meter purchase and I did not make the motion as I was the chair. So commission made
me purchase >> the next page very first. >> Oh okay. >> Yeah. I was watching it to see what was >> okay. And so I made you sure it wasn't your burden? No.
>> Okay. >> Um Okay. Any other changes? Well, except the meeting was during >> um so everyone um if I can I'll understand a motion on these. These are
your November 18th, 2025 minutes. I move that we approve the November 18th governance for that special meeting with the corrections. >> Okay. Second. Do I have a second? >> Second. Okay. All in favor, please say
I. >> I oppose. Nay. Okay. So moved and approved. Let's move on to November 25th, 2025. And um there I did corrections to these and I call myself correction
>> I called myself sending them out at the same time I sent the others but >> Okay. So if you >> that didn't go out. So but I haven't written >> Okay. >> Others might have Okay. So, we're on November 25th at 1:30 p.m. >> Um, on the first page under roll call, I
know it says the mayor called the meeting to order, but I'm assuming you would want to be listed in that list somewhere under present. >> Yeah. Um, okay. And this is a long sentence.
>> Go to the next. Are you on the first page still? >> I'm still on the first page. So, city manager probationary evaluation. Um, after the first line where it said purpose of meeting to conduct a six-month evaluation, um, I think it needs to say
commissioners had previously given written writings of Mr. Martin using a standard pre-approved form. The mayor tallied the results. Copies of each commissioner completed form and numerical tallies were distributed. >> Okay. And then that
>> is good for that. And I can't give a copy of this to the clerk. Um, oh, under right. Second page commissioner comments. Uh, someone's left out and, um, I am not to be. >> Pardon?
>> You are not there to be, >> right? It should be Mayor Meyer. Um, >> I believe that was Commissioner Burton's remarks, >> but I think so, too. Okay. >> Um, >> mine were left out.
Okay. So, whose belongs to whose? >> These are Commissioner Burton. >> These are Commissioner Burton. Which one? >> Commissioner Burton. >> Yeah. >> Okay. So, that should the fourth paragraph should be Commissioner Burton. >> Right.
>> Um Right. Cuz um Wait a minute. Where it says Mayor Devito, it should say Commissioner Burton. Okay. And then mine were left out. >> So we might have to just
>> Yeah. >> Do you have anything else on this page? >> I don't know. I would just say um there's something I don't know. The last paragraph sounds
a lot like what you said. materials. >> I know Commissioner Burton talked about changes last night. >> I told him I was very hard on him. So that was that was mine is that I was very hard on him and there was a reason.
>> That's his first plan. It says it intentionally rigorous. I think that is Mayor Myers. >> But we're in here. Um, >> Commissioner Burton spoke about the agendas and that she doesn't read the agendas until the very end because they
constantly are changing. >> Yes. >> Um, and so >> did that get left out? >> That that that was left out unless she emphasized the importance of more comprehensive agenda preparation. >> This one let's I don't want to spend a
lot of time on this. >> Yes, we just need to straighten that out. >> Okay. Anything else on that? >> Let's go to the next page, please. >> Anything on this? >> No. Well, I could um under five motion
to end probationary period. I didn't think it was necessary, but um as Commissioner moved that was actually upon request of the mayor. Um I just I didn't think that was necessary, but you asked to do it, so I did. >> I don't think it was necessary. Okay.
Comment. Anything else on this one? >> No. >> Okay. I'll entertain a motion to approve with changes. >> With the understanding that Commissioner Burton's comments be added. >> Yes. So, I moved that we approve the
minutes of November 25th, 2025. that was held at 1:30 p.m. with the changes noted and um making sure that the comments of Commissioner Burton um be included with
the others and the city evaluation. Okay. Do I have a second, please? >> Okay, we have a proper motion and a second. All in favor, please say I. I. >> I. >> All oppose? Nay. Okay, so moved and approved. Let's go into our November
25th 3m. Is this the last set of minutes? >> Yes. See if we can on the second page. Futurland is left out. >> Anytime there's a peninsula historical society, Futland needs to be added. I have that in mind as well. Also, county
commissioner J.R. New. That should be >> So, anything else on this one? >> Um, yes. Under a motion, um, What is your proposed wording and sponsorship in principal? Um because I
made it very clear that I was not moving to what language do you want >> after sponsorship add the words in principal. Sponsorship in principal >> and no spirit >> or spirit either.
>> Well, it's it's in spirit right now. Well, this is under the discussion. Motion >> say motion because I made it very clear wasn't requesting funding. Um then also under um Florida gas utility presentation
um the second line at the June 11, 2025 meeting, the city decided to retain after retain should say ownership of and then after the word B and before system should say CCNG or Crescent City Natural
Gas. So it would read the city decided to retain ownership of the CCNG system. >> I don't think that we actually decided that. I think that it was discussed and that's why we asked them to come back to us with some recommendations um as to how we could make it if we
decided to keep to keep it. So I put on there that it was discussed to um retain the system and pursuing a two-phase sustainability plan. Okay. I think we need some verification on that because I don't recall otherwise there would have
been there would have been a motion. >> Okay. >> Um so >> may I >> we'll have to look at that. Yes. >> Okay. So if you're in agreement and the rest of the commission is instead of decided the city discussed
retaining >> discuss retaining >> yes ownership of the CCNG system and pursue a two-step yes two-phase sustainability plan okay with that can we go on to the second page the next page second page
but the third page what Devito's spong but also um where where it says commissioner question raising customer charges I thought that was commissioner >> uh talked about raising
>> right because I thought it was a great question but I didn't ask it so um under the line that says expected revenue 50,000 annually instead of commissioner it's commissioner Um and then um under rate stabilization
fund the first two bullets um says overcolct during summer and I have a question about this. Should it be lower wholesale prices? >> Well you over summer because the prices are lower on the house
the high too much detail >> we get ourselves in trouble with that. Okay. But without it, I think it's confusing. But >> next, >> pay miners expressed the concern of
long-term financial struggles. >> Yes. So, we need to change that. And also, I believe I asked Katie to do um to research the impact that sale was having um on any of our grants. >> So, that needed to be added.
>> Okay. Investigative report presentation. Do we have anything else? Do you have anything else, Commissioner Dvita, that you were adding there? >> Um, yes. Just on the second line where it says city clerk's office, I would
take out the word office and insert complaint and say city commissioner. It's not we don't really have an office. Um but up on um
going back up to the yes um the top of the page, the second paragraph at the top of the page um the second sentence where it says Miss Hall Miss Hall estimated the current sale would be a distressed
sale at roughly 500,000. Hold on just a second. But with grant funded improvements, um I would insert the words the value of the present city natural gas system could reach 3 to 5 million. I think it would be
>> about with grant funded improvements the value could reach. >> Yes, the value could reach right and then instead of above that instead of roughly um at a current value of approximately
that's she said that would be the current value. >> Well, that was her that was her I I just wanted to make it clear that she was saying that would be the current value. That's not the valuation. That's what she said roughly that it could possibly be roughly. I think we um
>> Okay, that's fine. >> Yeah, because that's because there's there's concern back and forth that it's worth more than that, but that's where she was thinking it would probably it could start. So, >> okay. >> Okay.
>> We have anything else? Um, does anyone have anything on page page? Page five. Commissioner Lori, does that um the interim court coverage motion bl Okay.
Okay. Next page. That's going to be this 11th day if we can get through it. Um the 11th day of December 2025. So with that, I'll entertain a motion for approval on on these minutes for the November 25th, 2025 special meeting.
>> I move that we approve the November 25th, 2025 special meeting minutes with the corrections. >> Okay, by second. But um I just have one question. Um
okay, I think we need to um if Commissioner Roy could make clear of the November 25th, 300 p.m. special meeting because we had two special meetings that day. >> Okay. So November 25th, 3 p.m. special meeting. >> Yes. >> Okay. All in favor, please say I. I
oppos. Nay. Okay. So, moved and approved. At this time, I'm going to go ahead and we're going to open up for public comment. Um, these are topics that are not already listed on the agenda. They will be heard at this time. Comments regarding public hearing topics will be heard during the public hearing
session. Comments regarding business items will be heard during the business item section. Speakers are limited to three minutes. If you wish to speak, please come forward. state your name and um your address if you will. I currently
don't have any speaker cards. So, I don't know that anybody is there to speak under public comment, but please come forward if you um just have not filled out your speaker card. Seeing no one come forward, I'm going to close public comment. And with that, we go to pres. We do not have a
presentation tonight. Commissioners, I do want to ask you um our Park Warner and I know you saw them in the parade. um our our our team um they won their championship. They did not win the Super Bowl, >> but they won the championship with a
which is a huge huge accomplishment. Um and we I've talked to um the heads of it about possibly bringing the the um team in and just recognizing them. So, at the January meeting and they said they would be okay if the commission is okay with
that. I think that would be a good thing. It's a big achievement for them and for their parents and the coaches. They've worked hard for that. So with that, I'm going to turn it over to Major Astri. Thank you, Major of the Sheriff's Office. This is for our sheriff's office
report for the November 2025. >> Good evening, everyone. We'll go right into the report and I'll answer any questions or if you have any have anything else for me, we'll get into that. This page usually displays what we have for our criminal activity in Cresant City and those are those specific crimes
that I spoke of that we monitor which is violent crimes and all nonviolent crimes specifically property crimes that we that we monitor and I'll show you what those are here in just a second. I didn't have anything for traffic activity as far as traffic crashes on the main thorough affairs of Cresant
City. So I found this one and I thought were very interesting. This was actually just a parking lot fender lender. Uh our guys ended up locating the gentleman out into the county and ended up arresting him for driving with a drive without a valid driver's license, leaving a scene in an accident with property damage and
obviously DUI here. So it was very good investigation for those guys. >> Here's our general activities calls for service. I don't know what happened with the traffic stops. They did way down for some reason. I'll have to look into that. Traffic accidents again were zero.
16 reports, six arrest, and one of those being charges were filed at the state attorney's office. Here's those crimes that we monitor is robbery, burglary, vehicle theft, theft, and general aggravated assault. That's the ones we feel like that we can make a
difference in and we just didn't have anything to report this month. Well, fortunately, >> um, Major Commissioner Lori asked, "Is 811 North Summit, is that the um, Save A Lot parking lot?"
>> It's either Save a Lot or the >> I thought when Dixie >> Save or Dollar General. >> I believe that's Dollar General. >> Is it Dollar General? >> Okay. >> I believe it's one of the two.
>> That being said, >> one of the two. >> Yes. We know it's on this side of the road. It is on this side of the road. >> Yes, ma'am. >> Okay. Do we have any questions of um Major? >> I did have a question from someone who
lives down here in 3D. >> Okay. >> Um just it's my understanding there was a death near Three Bananas several weeks ago. >> Um and I was asked whether there's any
further information on that. I don't know what the status of that case is right now, but there was a death investigation at the boat ramp. And if you will give me just a minute to Well, I don't have my computer. Let me uh make a text message real quick and I can give you that information. Can you Can we
move on? Let me get that information. >> Absolutely. But also wanted to ask just for clarification if this came from someone who lives in the area and was buried nearby. Um if any the neighbors want more information, should they contact him directly? >> They can contact the sheriff's office in
general, but yes, I would I would be much wise to answer any questions that they have. >> Okay. But then later I don't need it now, but um >> Yes, ma'am. There's no there's no threat to the public or anything like that. Just the the cause of death. I don't know. I have to
>> a lot of my phone my colleagues unfortunately because I don't know the status of it right now. I'm pretty sure it's closed, but I want to be certain. Okay, thank you. And I think some a lot of the immediate residents were standing they were outside too. They were standing outside unfortunately.
>> Unfortunately, it's the holidays and so there's certain situations that I don't >> care to see. We'll talk about that. >> Anything else? Um from Major's office. >> Thank you.
>> What was that? It was the doctor's office north of >> doctor's office. >> That's island doctors, isn't it? >> Doctors. That was the >> And from whoever interacted with my deputies during the Christmas break, thank you very much. They were very much
appreciative of all your support and once again this year. Fortunately, I wasn't there. I was up in Jacksonville at a wedding. I forgot my jacket and it was really cold and I would rather have been here. I missed out this year. But I hear that they've done a fantastic job. So I sent
out amazing emails to everybody that was involved in that letting them know that your your support and appreciation. I got a lot of phone calls. >> Thank you. And I um I I was able to reach out to both you and Holly and um
pleased with the um sheriff. thank him also because he participated and everybody all of all the sheriff's office and our fire department. Um they they did an outstanding job and they all had smiles on their faces and even in
the rain >> and I was brave and hard >> and none of my guys got blessed out this year. Every year, you know, somebody is frustrated because they've had to divert traffic. You know, they got divert all the way around the city and it's about
45 minute to an hour ordeal. And people these days are very impatient, but they express their >> their sincere gratitude for our >> they were right there when we needed them. They did a great job. And again, everything on Saturday went off without
incident. And we are very blessed. >> The sheriff had that swap vehicle, too. He did. And so he he came he headed back in the northbound lane. Um so I don't think anybody was gonna mess with with that. So So we we appreciate we
greatly appreciate that. >> Thank you >> and all that you do. >> Commissioner Devito, did you want him to um look that up and give a report later in the meeting? >> Um later in the meeting. >> Okay. Thank you. >> With that, if we have nothing else. >> Thank you. Okay. At this time, I'm going
to go ahead and I'm going to recess the current meeting um and open up our CRA meeting for our community redevelopment agency. Um I'm going to turn it over to you. It looks like we've got the quarterly report request for payment
from the present city. >> Yes, ma'am. Thank you. Um Tim Jackson, if you could come up please come to present for you all tonight request. And >> first of all, I have a new financial for
>> Would you please hand that out to everyone? >> Thank you. >> Thank you, sir. Give us just a second to look us over. Okay, commissioners. Does anybody have any questions regarding this? >> Yeah, I do. Um, you say here the
executive director salary for just a quarter was 8350. I think that's because it covered like October and November. So it was two months and maybe two months. >> Okay. Actually, I'm sorry. I didn't look at the >> Yeah, it's October, November to through
today. This was a difficult quarter because with the Bitefest, we had we had opened a secondary account just for those funds. And so some of the back and forth money
that went between those two accounts showed up differently on the first uh financial that you got. So Connie and I work today to try to get those numbers in logical places. Uh the bottom line numbers
haven't changed so much, but the the they're in more appropriate >> sales of where would that be for the bike fest for the income that was received from the bike fest? Did you include it in here? >> It is. It is included in here. So the
the sales of product revenue is the 6238 number. >> Okay. >> Is that just from the bike? That's pretty much from the bike fest because we had the two events, the bike fest and the holiday. Holiday had some
vendor and about 25 vendors which was less than $1,000, but the bulk of this is from the bike fest. This does not reflect um the hopeful hopefully reimbursement
of the uh grant which probably won't come until next year which is approximately $5,000. >> What do you mean it won't come until next year? >> Well, we're into December. >> You meant into this into the 2026. So,
you'll have the reimbursement into January. >> January, correct? >> If not sooner. Okay. If we had gotten it this year, it would be reflected in this award. >> Okay. I >> mean, chances of getting it this year is pretty slim. I talked to Kim. >> Okay. >> The other day about it.
>> Okay. And that grant is for what purpose? What are you doing with that grant? >> That grant was um because Bikefest was the first time event that we had and so the the county gives basically seed money for
>> the TDC. So the TDC gives um you can make application to the TDC which is our tourist development >> um tax and and from bed taxes and so that's where that's where that comes from and so you can make application to them and there's several categories you
made application to the TDC right >> and the TDC um approved reimbursement up to $5,000 if they meet the criterion which is going to be in this case your insurance, your um marketing, your advertise and
your advertising. >> Correct. >> So that would be approximately 5,000 that we get every dollar. >> Yeah. >> This also does reflect another $3,000 of sponsorships that we are still working
on and hopefully we'll get by the end of this uh year from extended and then we have a few hundred dollars more that will be coming in. So the bottom line could be different. It could be 80 almost $9,000 better.
>> Okay. >> Okay. So I I have one more question, I guess. >> Pull your mic down. >> I know that. >> Pull your mic down. >> Oh, I'm sorry. I have one more question and then we can move on, I guess. Um but
we're looking at um respond to it. >> Okay. So, so we're we're looking at um a salary for for our executive director of $50,000 a year in increments of
12,500 every quarter. Correct. >> Yes. >> Okay. So, that amount is due. Now, the CRA that comes out of CRA money. I just want somebody to explain to me why that comes out of CRA money. Is CRA
money Why does that come out of CRA money? Isn't CRA money meant to to help uh uh improve the city? >> Um well, no I'm just asking just asking.
>> Yes. and and that's where this because the Crescent City downtown partnership is located within that central CRA. So it's coming out of the central CRA model. >> Okay. So when you >> which is to encourage economic vitality and meets part of the the four points
that the main street program is supposed to do >> because I've had a lot of people ask me, you know, and I think I know you think it's coming coming edge. It's not. I know. He He asked me to take my products out. He thought I was all upset, but I wasn't. It was just that it took you a
long time to refill the window. Okay. The window was empty for a long time, but that's neither here nor there. You know, $50,000. Are you appraised by who who appraises the the job that you do? Tim, who who says Tim is worth $50,000?
Who says that? Well, I get the evaluations, but >> the evaluations, right? And who gives you those evaluations? >> The executive board. >> And Okay. So, let me ask the commission. Why are we not part of that? We we are actually handing them money. Correct.
Why are we not part of why don't we not see that evaluation? >> The city manager is one of the representatives of Florida director. >> So, it's not really the executive board. It's the entire board. So I believe the executive board gives you your evaluation and the board approves the
evaluation. That's how it should. Is that correct? >> So and um the city manager as part of the board he is on member of the board. >> Correct. >> Mayor. Yeah. If I could um the
arrangement Yeah. is and I believe we're required to is we have a contract with the Main Street organization. So, we have contract with them. >> We do, but it's not it's not a requirement. It's it's not a requirement because there are some communities that
the city does not does not sponsor. It's not a requirement. Um what they have a requirement of is based on the um the population that we have here. Yes. that they can either have a full-time, but they also can have a part-time.
>> Yes. >> So, they have the opportunity to have a part-time if needed. Um, according to the state with Main Street, they will they will allow that. Um, but it was when we
when they decided Main Street decided they were ready to be independent, which is what we were really striving for. um commissioners, correct me if I'm wrong, they were striving to be independent and not under basically the city um because
before it was uh Christina Marie, she was the executive director and also our CRA um >> direct manager. Okay. Um and so we split it with her. And so when we did that, um there was an agreement that we would
fund the um the salary for and and basically I think it was determined that that position should be a full-time position based on the amount of time at that time that was being given to it because at that time we had quite a few festivals and I'm not festivals but
event that they that they had going on and it was pretty much a full-time a full-time plus job. So that's when when they broke away and and went to their own location and we said that we would um support them, continue to support
them because it does make a difference in in the communities when you see that the city support is behind Main Street um as opposed to not being behind them. >> Yeah. No, I think I understand that. >> Okay. So, mayor, I had kind of another
point I wanted to raise. Um and just I mean technically to me um they're if we are funding the executive director SAI then to me they're not altogether independent but my
recollection is is that our memorandum of understanding um basically says that we will provide the funding as long as they pursue the fourpoint approach. So um in terms of to me what I think is
important for us to receive in the future um particularly for the next quarter um is um not just a list of activities but what they are doing in each of the
four points. Um and it's then can't really read these. There's um creating an inviting inclusive atmosphere celebrate historic character that's design foster accessible people centered
public spaces. Then there's economic vitality. There's criteria for that um such as cultivate a strong entrepreneurship ecosystem. there's organization build leadership and strong organizational
capacity promotion um market the district's defining assets um I think it would be helpful if they would explain to us because that is in our agreement our memorandum of
understanding how they are progressing with each of those four points I think that is a um substantive That's a legitimate request, right? A substantive issue because we want them to grow and
according to the main street criteria, they will be most likely to be successful if they will do those four points, but we are not really getting a full ex really an explanation of that. >> I think that's part of my question. Why
why we're missing some stuff here, >> right? So, and for example, historic preservation, um, that's, you know, that's the character of the central district. Um, I think I would like to know more about what they're doing to
address that and as well the, um, the strong entrepreneurship ecosystem if they could articulate that for us and explain the progress in those four areas. So, um I I don't know about the rest of the commission, but I think
that would be very helpful to see in the next quarterly report. >> I could address a couple of those points now if you like. >> Um you're welcome to. >> Okay. Well, as far as the entrepreneurial, we've incubated two small businesses in the last quarter. uh
the pastries. Unfortunately, neither have worked out as we wish, but at least we're making an effort to find small businesses that are local and giving them the opportunity to have a storefront, see what it would be like on a day-to-day basis. Um, a lot of the
effort in this quarter has been working with the CRA to and I think you've got this report here this year projects that the partnership has been helping with which of course is the building we're in with the awnings and the painting and so
forth of that building. But we're working with building here the People's Bank 338 central. He put on put in an application which will be coming in the next couple months about some improvements there as well as the Chevron station here Chevron the two
summit two south summit working with that property in order to determine what needs to happen to that property so that it can become rentalable. also working with a property owner right across the street uh for a possible
facade grant and having that look better but also putting in a business in that location. And the last one is the cricket building 14 North Central. I spoke with him about uh we putting a large mural on that wall so that as
people go south they would see something like the lakes or something graphic. So we've been working together with the CRA. So that would be the historical and economic vitality. >> Okay. May could I get some feedback
quickly? So my concern there is um you know working with businesses that's very good. Um but the city CRA grants for the central district are quickly um those funds are quickly maxing out.
>> Right. And um I I don't think it's going to be productive to just focus on those. Um when you and I, Commissioner Lori, um and Miss Kavanagh went to the main street conference over the summer, um it
was identified that commercial buildings there, I guess what I'm trying to get at. I think for historic buildings and commercial buildings, they need to look at other sources of funding. For example, there's the federal income tax credit, but it's very important um
that's not available if the property owner doesn't work with Florida Department of State and our local preservation board to make sure that they are doing historically acceptable changes. And um I'm going to get to that later when we get to the CRA part um as
well. working with the city and the building owners that might involve um in the historical survey update, Mr. Weaver identified that the city could enact um and we talked about this in the follow-up meeting could enact a um tax
um rebate or a tax forgiveness um for certain improvements to u both real commercial and residential property. So, I think we got to branch out beyond the central CRA grants for the next um particularly for the next year or two.
And as well, I think it's counterproductive to ask people to ask for funding for things that are going to um impair the historic status of a building that particularly adds to
downtown character. So, just that's a little feedback. um maybe >> impair >> impair in other words if they're going to make changes that aren't going to be con in conformance with historic preservation requirements. >> Okay.
>> Um Okay. Do you have anything further that you you can >> So I'm looking at your first off I if this is where you if this was where the accounting is um and then I'm looking at what your calendars
um I have a I have some concern about the funding um because you have a a a note to pay every month on the building that you're in, >> right? >> Okay. um those funds will be eaten up
pretty quickly between electricity, um water, everything that that is is part of that. And so I would I would like to know, I mean, because I've gotten some I've gotten some feedback um from from businesses and and also people in the
community about the sponsorship um that that everybody's trying to drink out of the same trough >> and and it's pretty dry right now. Um, and that when they try to go get the sponsors, the Crescent City Downtown
Partnership has already gotten those sponsors and the sponsors feel like they have already funded those events because they are they funded they gave to the Crescent City Partnership. So, please tell me because when I'm looking at this
um and and I know you've said over and over again, you're not an event you're not an event group. that's not your However, I do know that here in Crescent City, that has made the biggest difference because we've never we
haven't had anything in a very long time. When the partnership came on board, they started having these events and bringing people together and it was um very wellreceived. And so while you say you're not an event organization, I
do believe that the events add a tremendous amount to our to this downtown area and to the community. So when I'm looking at this, please tell me what you know where you're looking um to number one bring in more revenue because
you've got to bring in more revenue as a as a from a practice. And also when um Katherine Beck came in and met, she said that it needs to have more family oriented um functions. And and I really don't see much change
here that's going to bring the children because she said if you have something that involving the students, the children, it's going to involve the parents as well and that's going to be an opportunity to bring more people in. So tell me two parts with that.
We started we started with sponsorship. Of course, I came in February and and the the work plan had already been planned out >> but this is the new work plan, >> right? But traditionally they the partnership has uh done a campaign from
January to March for the sponsors that happen again this year >> and then a little bit towards towards the end. So unless there's been a change or there needs to be a change, I think that's what So you're going to continue that path and >> I haven't heard anything other other
than that. Yeah. Um >> and the events of course are one of the four pillars. It's the promotions. We will have seven events in this calendar year. Large ones. Um I mean eight. So um
that will bring in and the family the chalk event. We plan to have that be more than just a couple people. That was my suggestion, right? >> That was my suggestion that you do a chalk event. So, you put it in March. >> Um, my concern with a chalk event in
March is it can be very cold in March and you're on sitting on sidewalks. >> Well, we can move this around. >> I mean, I'm just saying that if you want it to be successful and that's really not necessarily going to be that much of a fundraiser, but a way to bring people >> Exactly.
>> into the downtown. >> And there might be some some funding for that. the I think the also the porch fest or the mini porch fast because it wouldn't be a big might be four or five porches that would be something being free we're hoping that people will bring
their lawn chairs and sit in front of the porches and so forth so that's another one red and blue of course is a family event um and will continue to be fest is families but probably mostly
from other places the happy I was a family and the holidays family. So, I think we're trying to to consider that the family. >> Yeah. >> So, from raising money though, um, and you feel like you're going to be able to raise enough through January through
March to cover all of your expenses. >> Well, when we do the final tally, 2025, sponsorship was just about half of what it was the year before. So, we've we've been able to
work with less sponsorship in 25 and more expenses. And I think we're going to finish the year about the same place as we did last year. About $13,500 will be left in the account going into 26.
>> Okay. >> But in 26, you've taken on um >> 25 took on two. What did you take on both sides in 2025? >> In May. >> In May. Okay. >> So, >> half of it January, February, March,
April, and then May was the full amount. >> We are hoping to have a a exercise class starting in January, two times a week, which will bring some money. Of course, the dancers will continue. Lori will continue. And we're having two holiday
parties this month. So I think the word is getting out slowly that that space is available for different things. >> And hopefully that will be enough to offset the added expense. >> Okay. And I think um Tim and I and I I
do concur with Commissioner Burton in that we have to be mindful that this is taxpayers money. >> Yeah. >> Um and so however we spend that money, we're accountable to the taxpayers for it. >> Sure. So that's um that's just a concern
to make sure that we're spending that money wisely and that we're getting the return that we had hope that you know that we would be getting. Um so do we have any further questions? >> My question is you guys have not
approved your work plan yet though for next year. >> I'm sorry. >> Have you approved your work plan for next year? >> No. >> Okay. Do we get to see that once it's approved? >> Are you sure? >> Okay. Oh, okay. So, you didn't at the December meeting, you didn't approve for next year's work plan. >> No.
>> Okay. >> They just discussed it. >> Checking with Rachel who takes the minutes. >> Okay. >> She shook her head down. >> Okay. Okay. And mayor, if I could get just for the record, I think we're all concerned about the expenditure of
taxpayer money and we want our downtown to be a success. Um, and I I do want to thank Mr. Jefferson, I think he's worked very hard and tried to get to know the community and um tried to maybe take up
some slack when we did not have a CR manager um on duty all you know at certain times. So just want to thank him. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> So we need a motion. Um
they're requesting the quarterly payment as well. Yes. for the 12,500 for the first quarter of 2026. >> Um I move that we approve the um payment of $12,500 to the Princess Downtown Partnership
according to our memorandum of understanding to be paid from the central CRA line item. >> Um I'll second that. We have a motion and a second. Do we have um any further discussion? >> This gets done every quarter, correct?
Yeah, every quarter they have they come and request this. Okay. Um the one thing um as part of the discussion I would like to see and as we go forward to request that that the
office is is or the building is that there's more presence that there's more that there's more presence and I know that's something that we talked about with Katherine Beck also um and that's a concern. So, um I would like to see there to be more presence. Maybe for you
to think about, um as you go forward, how it could even be some sort of a visitors, you know, so that visitors when they walk down Central and are looking for something that um that they you have a strong presence, y'all done a
great job with um trying to, you know, um uh liven up that area, that block especially. Um so, we would just like to see that. I agree with her. You know, one thing that's really lacking, I mean, I go to a lot of main street type
cities. I love them. And the first place I always go is to the visitor center. Always go to the visitor center. I mean, pick up pamphlets. I can see where I'm going. Pick up maps and and that's one thing that you guys really should consider doing. I think, you know,
trying to get that that going. I think it would really help. So, it's an idea. >> There's no further discussion. Anything else? I'm going to ask madam clerk to do roll call for us please. >> Commissioner Burton >> hi. >> Commissioner Moore >> I. >> Commissioner Lorie.
>> Hi. >> Commissioner Devito. >> Hi. >> May Ryers >> I Okay. So approved. Thank you. Um grant requests and applications. It's my understanding that the city manager you've asked um for us to table this at
this time. >> Yes ma'am. >> Okay. So, can I get um >> I would like to table the CRA grant requests until next month. >> Until the next meeting. Do we have a second? >> I'll second.
>> I'll pop a motion in a second. Any discussion? Um, the one thing I do want to say is that um, we started this and I'm not sure why we got off track, but I think that we
should consider um, the commission we should consider that these grants are done on um, really more of at least an annual basis. you could do them on a secondary um after the fact if something
was not to come forward and we had monies available. But then we did this before and if you'll remember we were all on golf carts and we we went around town and looked at the properties and then we ran them based on that. And I
think that in fairness to there's quite a few property owners and I remember um Commissioner I'm sorry that um Christina and I went out to all the businesses that were in the CRA and we handed them a flyer. We had a kind of
an overview that Charles Redd held in the evening for business owners to come in and understand how to apply for these grants and um what's eligible, what's not eligible and I think that was very beneficial and maybe we should consider
going back to that with these grant applications. We don't have um a lot of money in the central. we don't have a lot of money in in the southern in the south of CRA. So there could be a lot of competition.
There could be some competition there. And I think in fairness to everyone who might not be aware that there is a grant program that this might be an opportunity. I know commissioners how you feel about that. And I don't know if you recall that that we did that and and
kind of decided that that would be um the best. So that and then we could and then there were different portions if you remember that you know um some had several different things they wanted and we had to we could we could determine well we'll do this but we couldn't do
this. And so I just think that as we go forward in fairness to all of our property owners um and to and and and really to to us because there's it just makes it easier I think and
fair. Mayor, >> yeah, if I could say something, I'm glad you brought that up. Um, it's my understanding that Christina um for this year sent letters to all the property owners. Um, but a couple things occurred
to me. You are absolutely correct. there's not a lot of money for grants in the central CRA. Um and I think um we are by taking them as they come in, we're not necessarily prioritizing our criteria
um to essentially do the most improvement to raise um you know to eliminate blight and raise the the um I guess the ability for u buildings to be occupied by businesses to build them out and as well I don't
think either our staff or the commission or the business owners understand all of our criteria um especially the ones for the historic buildings. And then finally um I had suggested earlier this year that we
consider making the grant program a loan program for central CRA to make the money go farther. And I have not been able to find um the loan programs that I saw last year. Um,
and I think Christina is not here now. Correct. >> Um, is that correct? >> Correct. >> Okay. So, uh, the other option to find out about loan programs because I know they're there is to put the question out on the FRA weekly question website. And
I would do my best to remember to do that. you can go on the FRA weekly um newsletter or whatever it is and put a question um because that would that would definitely stretch your money. >> Excuse me. Could I say something?
>> Yes. At the last Main Street uh conference which was in Plant City in I think September, uh they talked about vacancies in looking at the grid of vacancies that
a a city might have like ours and they said it's good to have one point to be the catalyst to hopefully spread it. I myself picked this corner right here because with the improvement of this
building and the wonderful brick traditional across the street and the market square that seemed a logical corner to work on and so for the last few months I've been trying to work with Miss Patel and she's
coming next week with her daughter and so this is the only real stop sign. So people either they fly by or they stop here. They go look around and they see some change right at this intersection. That could be the catalyst.
>> Thank you. Thank you for that input. >> Okay. Well, I currently have a motion to table this um these grants um until the next meeting. Um and I have a second. So there's no further discussion. Madam clerk,
>> Commissioner Debito, >> hi. >> Commissioner Mory, >> hi. >> Commissioner Moore, >> hi. >> Commissioner Burton, >> hi. >> Mayor Myers, >> hi. >> Okay, so table um that's something that we need to before you since we've tabled them to the next meeting that this is
something that we want to look at doing. Um I I don't want to give them false false hope, those grant applicants. So, commission um don't know if this is something we want to consider or >> Well, I think we ought to go do just
what you said. We want to take a look at what what we're looking at, what we're trying to do, but we also need all the quotes that they we say three quotes, not one. Um and um I guess all the windows now in Crescent City are
historic. I don't necessarily agree with that, but these are things that we have to look at and make sure of before we start giving uh money out. So, um I'm just saying, you know, I I I I haven't looked at it all, so I'm I'm not sure of
any of it. And um and of course, you know, I'm a person I remember when we when we did this building over here, I forget who owned it, but uh that was Allen's building. He wanted a roof. He was going to only do half of it. and and we said, "Hey, wait a minute. You know,
if you do half of it, you're going to have a leap right down the middle at some point, you know, so let's do the whole thing." So, there's there's there's things that I think need to be brought up when we start looking at these things. What what really does it mean? How should it be done um efficiently and so that they don't have
to come back in another year for something else. So, anyway, just just my thoughts and just a delicate point. I think yes that building did belong to Elma but didn't get the grant after he passed away and it went to either
>> it went to the he passed away >> that was yeah that was but it was still through our it was still through our grant program we just used the ARA funds for that portion of it so it was still but it was a good example and that they split with us 5050 on that one um so and
I think when you get into these historical windows, you know, we have to be really careful. Um, uh, you want to also maintain the integrity of the building. And oftent times those historic windows um I know for a fact because we looked at restoring all all
of our windows which were over 100 years old >> and it was going to cost us three times as much. We were still going to have the single pane windows and um and it was uh just >> it's a ton of money.
>> It was a time we were still going to have the old windows and we would be dealing with the same issue several years down the road. I mean the other thing the other thing that you issue or the other issue is uh insurance for single payment >> you know they don't like to they really don't like to insurance because of
hurricanes and all the other things that kind of happen. >> Yeah the safety >> all these things have to be considered. >> That's a lot of things that we need to consider but okay then we're going to go to um our grant contractor agreement. >> Did we vote on the table? >> Yes we did.
We table it. So then we've got the grant contractor agreement that um Mr. Martin has proposed for us. If everybody had a chance to review this um I have a couple of suggestions. I
don't know if anybody has any comments on this. Um I just have one. >> Okay. Um there may be others but on the first page item number four um third line um vetted is not really a
word it's reviewed vetted is kind of slang so I would say properly reviewed okay or just reviewed okay and then I have a question do we do we
always enter into a services agreement with the contractor. >> No, >> this is a whole new >> that's why he's presenting it. >> That's why that's why he's presenting it. But >> I have some um in talking to Mr. Martin about this. When I was looking at this,
I said, "Well, it's it's three to me. There's three involved. There's the property owner." >> Yes. >> Um there's the contractor and then there's us. >> And so I think the property owner needs to be included in this. I asking that throughout where it says the Crescent City community redevelopment that's the
city of Crescent City re um development um an agency on the third line down it says established established um contractor it says agreement I think we need to come up with a different word for that when you come down to um number
two compensation the CRA take out the presency because we've already established CRA um come down to the second to or third to the last where it says payment for services final payment for services because oftent times we have to put a deposit we have to put a
deposit down so I think final payment for services performed will be processed within 30 it says 15 but it but we need to change that to 30 days of receipt of invoice and approval of work completed
in accordance with exhibit So I think that's very important that before we do final payment that we have um that we have inspected the work that has been done and that both of them um
um and then over here where it says Derek Martin it says executive director. I think you should put city manager executive director just so that um clarification purposes and that both the
contractor and the um and I think you should have this notorized um the contractor and the property owner. Um, and this has happened several times and and I think commission we too need to um
and may I'll put it on me that I need to ask more questions. Um, I would encourage each one of you to ask more questions to make sure that you're clear on these grants. Um, I I wasn't clear on the awnings. I thought the awnings on
Central was going to match the awnings on the other buildings. And I was standing out there when they were putting those up and I'm like, "Who approved this?" >> And then it was like you did with the commission and like, "Well, that's not what I thought it was." Um,
>> and then of course we have now it's worked out and and I think we've all gotten used to the color. It's a little different, but I like bright, as you can tell if you drive by my house. Um, the car wash, we all thought it was going to be white and blue, and that's kind of
what was presented to us when we approved. This is a situation where this agreement um will help us. And I really think that this needs to come as um so that we understand this too, the scope
of the work, correct >> and that what we're voting on. And so I'm going to really start looking more to to you to make sure that we have a full scope of the work that's going to be um performed so that we're not caught by surprise because then we get texts
and emails which I don't know if any of you did but I sure did. Um who picked this color, who's paying for this, who's approved this and I I had to say well um we did. And so I think this will help everybody involved so there's no
miscommunication. And it was there. I mean it was all presented up presented to us. We just quite honestly didn't ask some of the questions that I wish I had asked. Um but it was presented and we and we it
was it was changed. >> It was and this was presented as a you know I never thought to ask is it the retractable what's there? Um so now every time we want an awning they have to go out there and manually yes
>> you know do this. So anyway I just think that as we go forward yes so um what I get from this is um in beside grants or any kind of building improvement um the details are really important. I think that's what you're
saying. And of course we've just been talking about funds being scarce under public funds. So, to me, the good news is um with the car wash, it has been painted and improved. The bad news is we probably could have gotten a better
aesthetic outcome um for the money, but as you said, now we know and we can do a better job. Um >> and I'm not complaining about that. It's actually grown on me and they've changed some of those signs and I know they're changing more signs. I mean, they've done
>> and it stands out. >> It does. However, >> it's been very busy. Yeah. >> I think as I said, the good news is it it is definitely an improved facility. Yes. And it does stand out and and um the the new signs are very attractive
and noticeable. So, I think, >> you know, they've been encouraged to do not only the improvement that the city paid for, but >> they've done they've gone over above. Yes. I will say aesthetically it would look so much better if the south side of the building would have a blue detail
that matches the blue on the north side. >> I asked about that for the awning if they could paint the awning that blue and I guess the awning is so old and that the owners did not want that awning painted >> um a different color because when the painters were out there, I I ran over
there and and talked to him about it and he said that was the owner's preference. Well, I guess maybe we all need to keep talking to her because just the southside needs some blue. It's very >> even if it's just that money or even if it actually you could put something on
the window or the side of the building or you could do something but um a real substance question is here we are talking about the services agreement and we're being asked to approve it. >> Has the city attorney reviewed it? >> Well, and that was another question I don't think he has. So, I don't think
it's here for approval. >> No, it's not. No, it's not. I just wanted to bring it to you all's attention since we're at this time. Um once you all at least agree as a group that this is where we're moving forward, I'm going to go ahead and make these changes and then give it over to uh to
our attorney for for a final review and then I'll bring it back to you all for for vote. >> Okay. Because um the because my my other observation that I just could I don't see a place on here really for everybody's address. I assume it would
be somewhere on the statement of work, but um it would be helpful to have the contractor's address as well. A little more information about >> Well, it does say principal places business at and their tax ID number for the contractor. So, it is in there. It's
not necessarily Yeah. >> Okay. That's all I have. >> Okay. >> It is a step in the right direction. Okay. So, with that, if we have nothing else for CRA, are we good with CRA? Um, and then I'm
gonna take a a short recess. Um, do we have any um public comments on CRA at this time? Yes, sir. If you would come forward, please state your name and your address if you will. >> My name is Todd Lang and I own six
street. How you doing? Um, I just want to let the council know, counc, c men, executive director, mayor, and city manager. Uh, we're looking to beautify our building and we're looking for some of these funds.
I've also been told that my building is fully commercial and I can't live it. Okay? Because I can alleviate some of your pressure on these grants just as long as I can live in my building. and you tell the building department,
they're going to put $50,000 into my building. You don't have to put a S because FEMA's going to do it. But at this point, everything's held up because they don't want to give any permits.
>> So basically, if that's $50,000 that you don't have to put any money into, >> you live up and down. >> Yes, ma'am. >> You're allowed to live. I was told that I couldn't at one point >> and we had to sign a waiver that allowed
us to live upstairs just as long as we designated a portion for business and for the longest time I wanted to but I was just very dismayed with the city itself. So at this point I also want to say that my fiance is a major marketer in the
industry. She works for NASA. She also works for business. We have offered her services free at Crescent City. We've actually put a proposal together for Tim that basically even goes into advance digitally and we're going to propose it next month
to you. >> Okay. Right. >> It also it also brings history. It brings recreation. It brings into the fact visitors center. We're also going to show you ways to breathe the brain. tough mutters here. We want to put a
paddle and kayak business either down at that little building down there at the CRA building or down at three. There's so many ways because I did this back in Kingston, New York when I was in government there. And it's easy to do. You just got to get groups to want to
participate >> and that's what we're trying to do. Well, this surprises me though that uh I always thought that that you were allowed to live above your store. >> Ma'am, since I got here, >> I have run into every obstacle possible.
>> Okay. >> And I've got a CO saying I can live there and put out all the permits. I had to get the electrical plumbing. Before I got there, they had a family living upstairs that was illegal because there's no bathroom or kitchen.
>> There's no more As you recall, we had this discussion with Mark Kat about the central business district and allowing um living upstairs or living behind the building because our our previous zoning did not allow you to do that. You could not live upstairs. You could not live
above your building. Any of that was was not allowed. And that's your building is zone commercial. Correct. Currently, >> I was told it was basically >> what? So, yeah. But but what we're doing is actually changing the zoning in the central business district. That's why we
created that that new zoning. Um so that we would allow that to do a mixed use. You could live upstairs and below. So we're in the process of rectifying that. All of our old zoning you could not do that and there was no allowance at all for under our current under our zoning laws, but we've adopted a new land
development code and part of that is changing the zoning of the central business district. So you can do that. So this is in the process of being changed. I believe we already we changed that. >> We changed that. So it used to be that
you could not rent for livables up above, >> but we changed that. We changed that. But the owner could reside >> Okay. >> above. >> Mayor, I have I have a question. Um Mark should be able to answer that question.
It was my understanding that our reasonzoning quite a while ago, because I was very interested in this, was to allow second floor residential and not just for the owner because the
the original plan for downtown Crescent City from the historic period was residential upstairs and we have had apartments. In fact, the um what I know is the old dry cleaners building at the
corner of Prospect and Central um that I guess um impermissibly had apartments. >> Um but that just that whole second floor resential was I believe you're correct that we did put into effect and
resilient to allow second floor residential as historically was done. Mark should be able the planner should be able to accurately answer that. It's my understanding that the I guess the further uh whatever they
want to take with the reasonzoning is to specifically prohibit ground for residential. It's it's very confusing whatever it is for the central business district. But I think we need to know for sure from Mark
what the status of second forward. You need to if you would please um and Mr. Martin if you would work with him and make sure that he has clarification for whatever it is that he is he is needing to show that in fact we do allow
such. >> Yes ma'am. I and I we've had a discussion about this and uh I believe that it was of course under a different commission and a different time um the letter that was given to you previously. So we we'll follow up with it with Mr. Car. >> Yeah, because I think something
definitely I I >> we want to do a convection shop there. All handmade chocolates, cakes, pastries. >> All my restaurants had the same baker myself. I'm telling you, we did very well.
and really add something to this town. >> We have had a few meetings about this new central business district at the where we're at right now is that we have meeting with the downtown partnership and now the next meeting is going to be with the entire partnership and also some of the business leaders from from
the town before we end up having >> separate and apart from that >> there should be an allowable use. Yes. So if you would please look into that. Absolutely Mr. Sure. Tom came over today and we talked about so I had met Mark so I emailed Mark this question.
>> What's the current zoning of this property? He says the current zoning is GC1 >> commercial. He says uh to allow residential above commercial, the property owner must apply for reszoning.
That requires reputation of uh planning and zoning commission and two approval from the city commission at separate meetings. The city sponsored central business district reszoning that we have been talking about will take care of this issue for the land uh land owner at
no cost. >> Okay. But if you would in the meantime, please check our ordinances because we did do something. I know for a fact we did something to where that they could and commissioner deto you recall that too that they weed
code since last year and that >> but we haven't accepted. No, we have not accepted the um the land was is brand new and that did not that does not allow for upstairs living in a GC. Well, um I think that's a
problem and I asked specifically what are the changes and they gave us a list of the changes and if that is what has occurred that is rectify that >> but that's the problem with enacting an ordinance when you don't know what the changes are.
>> Would you please work with Mark Caret and our city attorney Mr. Holmes >> on this to get some clarification? >> Absolutely. Thank you. Thank you council mayor. Thank you very much. Thank you. Thank you very much. And thank you for bringing that to our attention.
Okay, with that, if there's no one else, I'm going to close out our CRA and I'm going to take a short recess. lost the remote control at my apartment when I moved. I could never find it
special. Hey everyone, we're ready. >> Yes. >> Okay, this is back in session. Um, at this time, Major, would you like to report before we get >> I apologize to the commission, but we had some, as you know, there was a child
in the crowd and they're kind of trying to put me on the spot. So, before I wanted to talk about something like that. So on November the 14th, as you know, we had the homicide in Futland. While we were in the uh beginning stages of that, we searching for our suspect.
Unfortunately, we had a gentleman come down to the dock in Cresant City and he took his own life and that was suicide. >> Okay. >> It was with a firearm that may. So you um mentioned major user that
that's the conclusion and it is deemed closed. >> Okay. And anybody has any questions they can contact the sheriff's office. >> Okay. >> Okay. >> And there is a isn't there a number for people that are in this situation? Um
>> yes I would say that even anybody out there watching if you got something going on as you know the holidays come around. We see this stuff a lot and it is extremely tragic. We don't want to see a family member want to deal with that right here at the holidays. That's the last thing you want to remember when you're trying to go into the spirit of
family and I encourage anybody out there. Even if it's me you have to reach out to, but reach out to someone and there's plenty of places out there that are more than willing to help. So, we do care and this is not, you know, >> ask for help. >> Yes. Ask for help.
>> And you can call 988, correct? Like 911, but 988. >> Call 911. It's the new number for the to get help and assistance not just for suicide depression. Yes. All kinds of >> but I looked I looked it up. So just
call or text 988 and as major said you can always if you can't remember that you can call 911 >> and they call the information and mayor thank you so much for bringing that up. >> It's very important. >> Yep. Absolutely. especially this time of the year.
>> Thank you. >> People are going through we're all going through a lot. Everybody's going through a lot. So, thank you. >> Okay, with that, we have nothing. We have no public hearing at this meeting. Um we're going to go into our business items. So, I'm going to turn this over to you, Mr. Martin.
>> Thank you, Mayor. Um our first item may be a special event request by Soda. Um this is the Southern Outlaw Drag Boat Association. This event was an event that was put on last year. I was sponsored and put on by the host soda. Um, this event was really great for the
city that bringing in a few thousand people to our town. It was a very good economic impact. It was positive for our local businesses. They enjoyed servicing the people for this event. Um, Soda is of course bearing the cost for this event entirely um like they did last year. And they are wanting the
commission. I have a formal letter requesting the commission remove any fee associated with the permitting for this event. Um, and last year the commission did that. They were in favor of allowing this the issuing of the special event permit with zero cost. Staff recommendation of course is for the commission to allow management to
wave the fees over the permit fees for this event as previously done. >> Okay. Commissioners, you have some questions. I believe we have a representative from the office. >> Well, actually my questions are for the manager. Okay.
>> Um this is really more of a staff issue. Um we have the application for the special event. Um it's my understanding um that we well we have a special event or event and the
fees are if it's a class A event which is a larger event with a thousand more people the fees are one amount and then it's a class B event which falls below a certain amount. Um then the fees are
another amount, a lower amount. Um and as well um when there's a special event permit, there's supposed to be an attachment for the site plan and that kind of thing. I don't see that here.
>> Um but also I looked in I believe it's uh chapter 24 of our ordinances. I think there are some other fees and costs including for trash removal that go with paying for an event. So, um
I would I want to be clear. Are they asking just for the permit fee or for all fees associated? >> It's a good question and I asked the same question of Mr. Mitch Atwell. They are asking for all fees and they are willing to take on all of those costs.
The trash, the police, the fire, all of that cost comes out of their pocket and uh with their um with their organization. >> So they would be we'd be waving our fees permanent. >> Correct. They would take care of >> those. Correct. >> So
>> and I don't believe this is a class A. I believe this is a class B because um just based on the numbers, it's under a thousand per day. >> Um so that would be the $100 a day. 300, >> right? Just based on the application. >> Um, right. Well, mayor, I was going to
raise that because the the application numbers kind of differ from the ones the city manager had, but um my other question is at one point when we voted to wave fees for a smaller event, I believe our city attorney asked us, did
we have criteria for waving fees? And it's my recollection, am I right about this, Mr. homes that you said we should get ourselves some criteria for waving fees. >> You're probably correct. I probably did. That's been fairly consistent position
of mine is that um you know since you asked uh it's been my position that uh really for consistencyy's sake and to
avoid claims that you're being that you're showing favoritism to one group over another ordinances probably ought to have a specific provision in that allows for
fee waiverss with certain criteria being established or partial fee waiverss with certain criteria being established. So, you know, yes, that's been my position. >> Well, I think it is understandable.
>> So, as we go forward, we do need to create the criterion for that. Um, so if I do the math correctly, if the if it's a smaller event and the fees are $100 permit a day and there are 50 to 60
votes, that would be an average of about $6 and cost per vote. Um, I mean, it sounded like it was very successful event last year. Um I do have I have a couple questions for the uh permit
applicant Mr. >> and I I will speak to um because I was down there um during the entire event even when they were preparing and um they worked hard to get that prepared.
They took very good care of the park. They had someone's on security and everyone that I've spoken to has been excited. Um, even homeowners on the water in front of that have been excited for this to for this to return. So, it
was very wellreceived. Um, and I know even the restaurant had said that they were >> Well, Commissioner, mayor, thank y'all for hearing me out again. Um, I seen the look when we said we had to raise last year. Yes, it was last year because it
was in 24, not 25. >> We do day. Um, as far as the fees that go, I'm bringing people from Canada, Texas, Louisiana, North Carolina, and we're not paying them to
come. They're coming to basically do entertainment for the city, bringing finances into the city. Um, I've had numerous support. I go to the grocery store still to this day. Man, we have another boat
race this year. another boat race this year. Well, I'm hoping to um I hated the thought we didn't get one this year, but they actually gave our date to Louisiana. Okay, they realized that was a mistake. We had a much better turnout, a much better presentation through the city.
So, they said, "Hey, let's have another race." I'm like, "Well, we'll put her name in that and see what happens." And here we are. Um I've been in touch with TDC already. They're on board. They actually suggested maybe I put it in Pala, but I love my little town and I'm staying in
Crescent City. >> Thank you. >> So, mayor, I didn't have a question. >> Yes, go ahead. Okay. Thank you very much and for clarifying because yes, I thought it was 2024 and um that was one of my questions. Um the in 2024 was not
in April, correct? >> No, Memorial Day was Memorial Day. was just so hot and I think it was we had no incidents with the you know we had we >> I'll go into another in a minute but yes it was Memorial Day was very hot and we did have a couple of heat incidents
>> I think you had at least two >> at least two or three and I mean I might even been one of them myself and we just tried to bring it to a cooler time of the year and actually we are making this the first race of the
year for our organization So all of this voters that's been building all their new toys >> are waiting to come >> and let's get some >> now you know that April is um alligator
mating season. >> Yes ma'am. >> So you know they're going to be kind of busy in the water. >> Yes. >> Yes. Unfortunately they'll be right there on the hill on the bank. commissioner to be there. Are you are you >> um that No, just um it just occurred to
me I you know hopefully downtown partnership will coordinate their activities. Um I notic they had some things listed for um April. Oh, my other question was are it says Central Avenue boat ramp, sunrise boat ramp. You're not
asking >> the we try to just fill in the blanks from last year because I we got on and we just want we just need the big boat ramp like last year >> and the little boat ramp by Three Bananas. >> Um Three Bananas is actually
had conversations that they might want to come on board as sponsor or something. We thought about maybe even moving the track to give them more visibility of the race. Um That's about what I got.
>> The only I'm sorry, but mayor, if I could the only thing we really would have to approve was waving the fee because it if it's a class B, which it would be helpful for us to know that for sure before it comes, then the city the city staff take care of. I'm going to
say um I I would say in this instance the city staff would take care of it, but this has some other nuances in that we're going to have to close down all of Sunrise and they'll have to close it down for several days. That includes that boat ramp, right? And so they're going to need permission for us in order
to do that. They locked that gate up and he has security, his own personal security in there. And so we're going to have to I I think we would have to approve that and not put that on the city manager. Yes. And then so I mean that it just helps to know what we are
and are improving. And I guess that was my other question. Isn't April fishing season? And we will be we will be displacing fishing boats at that time. I think >> we never displace fishing boats. >> Crappie. The crappie really they've
always done their tournaments in here. January. Yeah. January and February. >> I didn't mean a tournament. I mean, you know, sometimes just >> the boat ramp and the entire place is filled. >> So, I don't think that
>> it's and quite honestly, if there's a lake, >> people fish it all the time. >> I mean, so if you're a fisherman, you're out there fishing year round. >> There was an issue, I believe last year, because it was on Memorial Day and a bunch of stink was made about, oh, we're
going to close. The next morning after the race, we had everything picked up. I'm at the shell down there. >> There was not a first voter in that park all day. >> Right. Exactly. >> All day. So, I mean, how are we going to what could happen? And then I want to go back on the thing about your numbers.
It is basically a three-day event. Our people will start coming in Friday from Canada or wherever. Okay. Friday, there might only be 15 people from my group. Saturday is when my group will come in. Now, my group is going to understand the
the 40 50 boats. Okay? I'm going to be at least two people per boat, a team. You have to have a team. There's usually more than that. On top of that, we don't know what the generation of spectators. I mean, I actually had
talked with the um Rotary Club about maybe trying to do it with the with the on the catfish festival and we kind of thought, okay, little town, you know, we could use two events, not one. And and then again, we thought it was Easter weekend. Okay, my guys weren't going to race Easter weekend. Catholic, that
don't bother because they don't do nothing Sunday. So that's why we changed it to another date. >> But yeah, I don't think you can really say what the what the numbers are actually. So we're really kind of going on the history and history says what did
you say it was in Michelle what about thousand >> less than a thousand >> less than between the two days we probably had 20 if the three days went by we probably had 2500 people but not at one time >> per day >> and and also so the central avenue boat
ramp so on the application we need to make sure that we we are very clear and cross that out so we we have a motion on this please make sure that's included in the motion And we have signage um the city has signage to make sure that we
have um ample signage that we put out that that boat ramp will be open and and we'll you know make sure that everyone is well aware of that and also give ample notice that Sunrise will be closed. >> Yeah. And then we go back as far as our
fees. We're a nonprofit. We don't charge people to come to the event. All we are is an entertainment for to bring people into your town to see. Um, >> and you also don't you don't have any food or >> you're a not for profofit? >> Yeah. Yes. >> Okay. So, you're a not for profit? >> Yes.
>> Well, there you go. >> That right there. That right there. >> I mean, we I mean, we don't charge. We don't We're not out to make any money. We're just out to entertain. >> You know, I've got, you know, we got guys have 10, 15, 30, $40,000 in these boats. You know, I can't see asking them
say, "Hey, you got to pay $3 come to my little town >> and then they got to go all the way to Palac. >> I've already got a hold of the fish camp." They done pretty much booked all rooms. They're holding for my guys. >> Soon as my guys found out we was having a race back here or might have a race,
they already booked four cats. >> Yeah. >> That quick. >> Yes, please. Um, I move that we approve the soda application for the press shootout. Is that correct? >> Yeah. >> Um,
April 12th, 2026. Um, and that it also we removed the Central Avenue boat ramp. So, that just included Sunrise Park and the boat ramps there for their use. >> And we Yeah.
fee, >> right? And we Yeah. close down Sunrise Park and let them have it for those three days and that we bench wave the fee. >> Okay. >> Okay. Do I have a second? >> I'll second. >> Okay. We have a proper motion in a second. Do we have any further discussion?
>> Yes. Mayor, if I may remind everyone, I need everyone to speak into the microphone, please. >> Thank you. >> I would like to add one thing. Yes, >> madam chair. Um I have talked to Mr. the planned uh life safety plan, the
insuranceances, also the map will be uh included in in the package before. Okay. >> You know, Michelle know we're required to have a paramedic site all time. The county could would not >> last year we had it during what was it?
Blue crab festival was that same weekend. >> They were strapped. We I mean I had to go to a private organization in Dane to get an ambulance. We had to have a diver on site. We need a patrol boat. >> Yeah. >> Yes. And the thing there is if we lead
that boat ramp over the bananas, we racing that way that somebody don't just put a boat in and pull out front of us. >> So, I mean, we I mean, you know, we're running over 100 miles an hour >> and they go on foot. So, I I understand that you know what you're
doing. And I think the rest of I mean, really, this life kind of stuff that just needs to in terms of manager have to approve that. >> Yeah. So, just letting you know information and the insurance coverage all that. >> And I think you're still working on the race on the race pattern, aren't you? As far as exactly where the race I know
they asked that you move it a little. >> Yeah. I'm going to give the three bananas and um the yacht club and you know they they did reach out. Last year they didn't. This year we'll see. And you know I like to work with them because that's a whole goal. think about
packing three bananas like the toys for tots >> but for do it for three days not an afternoon >> and that did happen they were they were very busy so >> okay with that we have a proper motion and a second any other discussion if none madam clerk can you do a roll call for us please
>> commissioner >> I commissioner I >> commissioner Moore >> I >> commissioner Burton I >> thank you >> thank y'all so much looking forward to helping Thank you. >> It will be >> so hot last night.
>> I know. I went down and came back home. >> Okay. So, let's go on to the tree and garden board. >> First line of business is of course the request from the tree and garden board is set arbor day which was already put in the proclamation on the 17th of January. >> Okay. Motion to set arbor day.
>> I move that it be set arbor day on >> January. >> January 17th. Thank you. 46. >> I'll second. >> Okay. Any any discussion? If none, all in favor, please say I. >> I.
Okay. So, so approved. >> Of course, everyone's invited. Um I do have a question about this. If I could just share. Okay. So, um, and I received, um, an
inquiry from the president of the South Path Christian Service Center board, uh, Kitty Miller. Uh, she saw there's already been some advertising for Arbor Day, I guess, by one of the people who's helping out and it didn't mention um the
traditional donation of canned goods or non-p perishables. >> Are you still doing that this year? >> Christian Service Center. That's what I mean. I don't think that was included. Um with and I think the training guard board is meeting um aren't they meeting in December?
>> Yes, they are. >> Right. So, um, do we want to refer that to them? Because we've always Arbor Day has, well, ever since one of the foresters started it about 5 years ago, Arbor Day has always said, um, please
bring non-perishables for the Christian Service Center. Um, so I got that request from Kitty Miller. I just wanted to bring that up. Okay. So, if you would make sure you bring that to the training board. >> Yes, ma'am. >> Okay.
So then next we've got Go ahead, Mr. Martin. The approval. >> Yes, thank you very much. Uh let me go back to my notes. I was looking at my calendar. It is on the 22nd December next meeting. Um the next is request approval for the 202526 annual tree and garden plan. Um just so you all know
you'll have a printed document in front of you um that under that is if you have it underlined in blue that are that is the changes compared to 24. So you can see the new language that has been added into the uh tree garden board
comprehensive tree plan for FY226. >> What are the little trials? >> I would pay attention to that. That's just the AI app that was utilized. >> Yes, >> correct. >> If you look at just underlined in blue,
those are the specific changes. >> Yes, sir. >> This is a Microsoft Word. >> I'm sorry. >> This is a Microsoft Word. >> Yes, sir. Mayor, >> may I ask? Yes. Um, my question is for
the city manager. Um, there was a copy in my packet of the tree plan. Is it the same in substance of what is here on our desk just without the blue underlining? >> Yes, ma'am. >> Okay. So, there's no the one that I
found on my desk this evening. There's no substantive change. There's no shows the difference. >> Yes, we we took an AI program, dropped the 24 in, put the new one in, and it gave a difference of what was added or showing you highlighted underlining
blue. >> Okay, good. So, so what I read is essentially what's there. Thank you. >> Yes, ma'am. >> I I didn't get a chance to review this. There's some I have some changes that >> Yeah, I like George, first of all, is
not in Crescent City. >> Yeah. Right at the beginning city landscape is dominated by not one but two large lakes within the city limits. The larger Crescent Lake is one of the largest lakes in the state. The second large lake George just 8 miles
away >> and that's not that's not factual. Number one and number two that doesn't need to I don't know why that would be in there. >> It should be talking about that's the two. So I mean that needs to be changed. I had a I had a bunch of notes made at
home, but um it is a good plan. It's been in years past and better, but there was some locations of trees and stuff that were not um factually accurate. Um,
and then some of the other park I mean there's my computer with me but there was some stuff that was like u out of the public areas it says the the 100 block of North Southern Street on city hall and this the annex. This is not the 100 block of this is the zero block of
North S street and so the addresses in here are not correct but they're just a minor little things. Um I I'm gonna almost say because there was a lot here and I think there are
some some changes. Um, one of those is of course this with where is it that I had? Um, that maybe that we consider so that we can really digest this. And like you
said, you've got some major changes. Um, this about the mulching around the tree roots going out to the drip line. Um, I'm I am concerned about that because especially in Eagle Line Park, if you go to the drip line, you're going to mulch the
almost the entire park. I'm very familiar with all those trees in case anybody don't know that. >> Um, but that drip line is your can is your canopy. Um, and so I I have some concerns about that. The other thing I
do, and I don't see it in here, um, we've got some major issues in the city that I I get complaints about from our bus drivers. I I even spoke one just recently about the branches. Um, our fire department is having a hard time
um, and delivery and waste pro. They're having a difficult time because we have overhanging in the in the streets and they're hazardous. I know the fire department has said they've had to actually even go over into the other lane
um to get by to get through there. And so that's a safety issue that we're not addressing. And I think that some parts of this are very limiting to that um with our staff. Um I I understand about maybe we have
one person on staff that has you know worked with an arborist to completely understand and have them available. But to have an arborist in here any time that we do any cutings um to these trees and and of
course most of those are your very mature trees because they're the ones that are are growing over the roads. um that is um I think that's um a burden on on the city. Um so I I don't know
that has I have some concerns. I don't know. Commissioners mayor, I would like to speak to that. Yes, sir. >> So we do have I mean partly this is this is on us. Um, as a city with heritage
oak trees, um, it would have been a good idea to do preventive maintenance on an annual basis. These trees to keep them, they need to be properly maintained. And if you don't have um supervision by a
certified arborist, especially in tree risk assessment, and they're improperly trimmed, um you get failing trees and that creates danger and it also creates a lot of expense. So, we do have money
in the tree budget. Some of that was used a couple of years ago. Um, if you'll look, I think on what page is it? Um, well, where is it? I think it's on the
very last page. Um, yes, update in 2024, uh, funds were used um for supervision by certified arborists from advanced tree care to supervise um, trimming and evil park and that was very successful.
So, I think that it would be more helpful instead of risking introducing disease into the trees. And by the way, these trees are very stressed. Um, they've sustained damage during the
water mane project. But anyway, um I think that the better approach would be to um see how we can properly get the trees trimmed that need to be trimmed with the supervision of an arborist. And I don't think we've gotten a an actual
cost estimate on that. I mean, we can get the work done. We just need to make sure that we do it um properly and and safely to preserve our shade trees. Um and I will point out our um our
strategic plan says that we should market our treeline streets. So, how do we market our treeline streets if they're not tree lined? Um, >> nobody says they're not tree line, but when it's hanging over the edge of the road, that's different from being on the
side of the on the side. >> They're shady. Hopefully, um, we can maintain our shady street. So to me, the first thing to do is to get to identify the streets where the trees are actually hanging and to get a price to have
someone come and give proper direction because um we've had trees fail and I don't think we want to um I don't think we want to be responsible for having more tree failure.
So, um, I would like to see us get a price and make a schedule to do it. We could have done this last year. We just didn't do it. >> Well, where where's the deficit that we have to have our first recommendation? It's in the recommendation.
>> The first recommendation is city staff, church, procurement institutes should receive annual training expense and best practices. That doesn't mean they have to be in our >> No, but if you would just be helpful. >> Okay. Commissioner White, >> if you want if you want if you want to
maintain the structural integrity and continue the life of a large oak tree, it is in everybody's best interest to get advice from an arborist about where it should be trimmed and how. >> But we're talking about heritage trees.
>> Yes. >> Not not just every tree. So >> no but for right for the heritage trees you need advice because if you don't do it correctly you weaken the structure of the tree and you can introduce disease which I'm afraid um was done on my
street. So, I think we should try to use our money to the best advantage and get a plan for making sure that we correctly um trim the heritage of trees that are
>> you don't have problem with trees when when they're ready to fall down fall down. >> We don't generally you can go out and look and you can see the ones that have a real good possibility falling down. And if
you're hit by a bus or hit by a whatever, you know, whatever's tall, um there's a good possibility that it would fall down, >> right? >> So there's certain things maybe that an average should come in, but I think that
it should be um it should be something very special before we spend a whole lot of money on arburous. I don't know how to explain what I'm trying to say, but there are trees that are in certain places that that really Yes.
Okay. Before you take it down, you ought to talk to somebody. But if something's in the way, >> we have a duty there, too. >> Okay. It is It is not an accurate It is not an accurate statement that it
doesn't matter who or how you cut a tree. If you will ask any qualified person, they will tell you. And other cities do this. So I I don't see why Crescent City cannot um do what our
proclamation just said. Our our proclamation says the trees enhance our economic and property values. And I will tell you when all those trees on Prospect Street were ringing with orange for the Waterman project, I never saw so
many comments on social media as to people being concerned about what was going to happen to those large oak trees. So I guess >> their only concern is they thought they were being marked to be cut down, >> not that they were. I've got several of them right there and there was no damage to those trees.
Okay. And then what I'm trying to say is people expressed that they valued the trees that they did not want them to be taken away. So my suggestion is that we do our best to maintain the health and integrity of those trees and we do what
other cities do and we get a consultant arborist to tell us the best places for them to be trimmed. We've done it before and we can do it again. Number one, we need to know where this is a problem. So, can you know, you know, list the
places where we need to look at this and then meetings are and we need to, we can have someone come out and look at them all one day and say, "Here, this is what you need to cut because I mean, the point was brought up to not all of these trees are are protected type and we have her oaks or things of that nature." I
have I have tasks key to look into is the Florida chapter. There's a several weeks online course. They meet. It's for one and a half hours, two days a week. Um, I'm trying to find out how much that course is. I've asked Keith to look into this. We've thrown around ideas on certain staff members or myself or even
him taking the course and becoming a certified ISA Florida arborist for the city. So, we don't have to hire anybody. Um, because that's money that that's thrown away that we could put elsewhere. I'd rather invest into the city. >> Okay. Wait, wait, wait, wait. So you're saying that for a heritage tree you're
throwing away money to get a qualified person but point everybody only speak please >> I'm asking him I'm not putting words in my mouth. He said that money is wasted
to hire an arborist >> in the long-term view of things. Financially, it's always a waste of money to spend something on you that you spend in house and get training for your employees to take care of the same problem. I I don't want to not take care of the problem. I just don't want to throw away money that we're never going to get back. If we invest in the
employees long term and we have somebody that's here long term, I plan on being here long term. We don't have to wait on somebody. We don't have to give a phone call. We don't have to get a quote. We don't have to get proposals. We have somebody in house that can go out, look at the tree, find out what the health is, take care of it right there, sign
cert certified, you know, letter and make a plan. >> Okay. The the problem is it takes several years even to get a basic qualification. >> Well, then you're not going to get that. You've already said in here about them making sure that they have the training.
So that's I think what you're saying is to get the proper training. Correct. Correct. not to necessarily become an arborist. >> Well, there's a certified it's a certified ISA arborist. It's a it's a multi-week course and that's what I would like to look into. We've been talking about it, Keith and I for the
last two to three weeks since that happened. I mean, we have to think about this that we also don't want to restrict ourselves that should a branch break and it's hanging there, okay? And it needs to be locked off and it's it's a a safety issue, we want to be able to go
in there and take care of that immediately and not have to wait on correct an arborist correct to get on their schedule to come to Crescent City so that we can be able to do that. So, we have to be really careful >> that we don't restrict ourselves. Yes, ma'am. We all we all agree our trees are
beautiful. We all love our trees and we want the very best for our trees. >> We do. >> We just have to make sure that we also take into consideration the health and safety of of our residents, people that travel in and out
of the city, those that are making deliveries. Um that you know it's it's an issue if I could share with you. Um, one of the reasons some of our trees are failing is because we have not cared for them properly. And nobody cared about
the health and safety of the people who travel Main Street or the people who lived on my block when that tree broke off two years ago and fell across our driveway in Main Street and somebody in the baby carriage came. That tree had
been improperly trimmed for years. And then after the top half fell, another 15 ft of the tree was left there, a huge tree, and was not removed until a year and a half later when I came down to the
tree board and spoke about it. So it it is in our best financial interest and safety interest to take good care of our heritage oak trees. And other cities do this and they don't consider it a waste.
Okay. Right now we currently have this in front of us and so what what is the pleasure of the commission with this? >> Take this off the table. >> We haven't decided we discussing it but it needs to be tabled so that everyone
can take into this until January. So they'll have a chance to take a look at it >> take out. Okay. Okay, I will I will second that. We have a proper motion in a second to table
this at this time. All in favor, please say I. I oppose. Nay. >> But I don't want to distract anything from the garden board. They've done a great job. This is a lot of good work and I know that everyone worked on it. So, every year
it's getting better and and more comprehensive. So, I'm I'm glad that they worked on it. I just want some more time to review it. Okay. >> So, let's go to um the lease renewal for government building for the government building. This is item C on the business.
>> Mr. Martin. >> Yes, ma'am. Thank you so much. So, what we did, we basically took the last renewal, updated the dates. Um I forwarded the information over to Mr. Kennedy, Patrick Kennedy. He reviewed the information. Um they are going to be
voting on this in January. They're done with their meetings in December. However, I got the green light from them that they agreed that this would be uh that these days would be fine. We're extending the contract out or the lease agreement three years with the annual 2%
increase. That puts them at $2,297.37. And that's off of the base of the original base monthly rent in 2023, which was the last time this was done. >> Somewhere somewhere I saw you write two more 5%. Is it 2%? >> It's 2%. Okay. Yes, >> that's
a typo. >> And then the the line I had a question about was the the list responsible for bringing repairs necessary to roof maintain water condition. Is that what our project? >> That is what was voted on prior. I left that in there, but that was already
voted on on the actual lease. >> So what's the what's the amendment you need? Because you said there's it's amended. the amended. >> Yes, the amended portion was what was in there before. Nothing has changed from what was voted on the last time which was in 2023. I can take that language
out because nothing was amended since then. That that language was left in there from the previous. >> So I think that because otherwise this will be a renewal amendment. Um, so I think that that that's something that um that needs to that we've already if they've already agreed to this, we've
agreed to this and we're renewing those terms. Is that correct, Don? >> The title really isn't all that super significant. I mean, the body of the of the document is what's what's important. So, >> just so it doesn't look like we have an amendment, he could take that part out
that says now agreed to amend the lease as follows, >> right? >> Right in the middle now. Therefore, >> there's four. >> You did increase the price, didn't you? >> Yes, I did. >> There are some amendments to increase. >> Increase the price
>> and the terms. I mean, it's a new term. So, >> okay. >> So, you can call it renewal, but technically you did amend it. >> Okay. >> Right. And mayor, if I could, it does say renewal at the top. >> It does. >> And Okay. Um, so my my main concern
because this wasn't clear in this staff memo is just that the county is fully on board with this and Mr. Martin said yes they are. >> Yes, they are. >> Okay. Because they are truly a wonderful tenant and >> Oh, absolutely.
>> We have observed in the past that they bring a lot of foot traffic to the downtown area. And um personally I don't know about the rest of the commission but I would like county to know that we appreciate that as
>> can we fix the effort so she has >> yeah effort and then up here in the second where third whereas it says unless desire to continue to the lease >> continue the good >> u and then we might want to put the
underside here by agree to the lease amendment and renew renewal uh on the three-year renewal. Just to make sure it's very clear that it's a three-year renewal. >> That I mean >> because it says the undersign hereby
agree to the lease amendment as of this date. >> I just think that we're renewing it because the title at the top says renewal. So, I think that either you take >> or you say the undersign hereby agree to the three-year renewal as of this date.
>> Don, >> again, I think it's the mandates as long as you're the the intent of the document is to engage in a three-year lease, right? From an effective date. It says that clear. Yeah. So I think so I think the undersigned hereby agree to the
three-year renewal as of this date. >> Okay. And you probably want to put the title down at the bottom where it says LC print name and date. You're probably going to want to put their title. >> Okay. >> Well, normally what you'd have there for
LE would be Putinham County. >> Yeah. Unless it's blank. >> It's just who signs it. It's just print the name and date so that >> we know who >> that's why you the le is going to be the county whether it be
>> tax collector's office proper whatever it is >> but underneath that you put by and a blank and then underneath that you put it blank like >> do that >> executive assistant chief operating officer. >> Okay. Thank you.
So, um, >> chair, I would like to move that we approve the lease, a three-year lease with the county of Putham, um, for 115 No, I'm sorry. Yeah, 115 on Summit Street. Um, and I authorize the city
manager to sign the contract. >> I have a second. >> I'll second it. >> Okay. Any further discussion? None. Madam clerk, if you do a roll call force, please. >> Commissioner Burton, >> I. Commissioner Moore. >> Hi, >> Commissioner Wary. >> Hi, >> Commissioner Deo.
>> I Meyers I. So approved. >> Thank you. >> And thank you, Derek, for doing this and making sure. >> Yes, sir. And I apologize. >> I think I sent an email with the two and a half% the numbers are right. Um, next on there is our code enforcement. I have Miss Camela Taylor here to do a um a
small presentation provide some details for you on specific case number 24-0070 Morland at 350 North Summit Street and this is for a fine lean reduction >> he's not participate
>> he's not there >> is he complicated policy is that if the respondent's not present that we don't hear the claim reduction. So that's up to you if you want. Apparently he's not going to participate. >> Well, has somebody reached out to him?
>> Does he know? >> He was aware. Yes. Yes, ma'am. >> He was aware. >> Did he know what time? I mean I mean otherwise he would have had to be on standby the entire time. So >> he's been on standby since 7:30. >> He was. >> Yes, ma'am. >> And when did he go off? And when did he
go off? He never joined. Okay. >> Wait, so I'm mayor, could I ask a question? I'm a little confused. What does that mean? He never joined, but what does it mean that he was on standby? >> His time was 7:30 this evening and he
never joined the Zoom meeting. >> Okay. So, in other words, he was he was told that he could >> he was properly notified. Correct. >> Okay. That he could be there. Well, um I just have a couple of questions whether we take this at this time or not.
>> Candy. >> Yeah, why not? >> Well, I mean, I just have a couple of questions about it before we even decide. He doesn't have to be here to hear it. >> No, I wouldn't say you would have to. I don't know. You said it's policy. I don't know if that policy is in the
nature of the practice or you've got something in your ordinances that states that, but uh there's no I don't know the legal requirement that states that the applicant would have to be present. Um if again the criteria for a lean
reduction are present. And so if the applicant's testimony is necessary in order to establish the criteria, then that's a whole different ballgame. So why were you going to reduce the lean or why were you suggesting that the lean be reduced? >> He requested that it be reduced. We have
>> he requested it. >> Would they have a reason? >> The property's in compliance. >> No. >> No. Um so >> we have a lean and we have a fine >> and we have three different amounts.
>> Could I ask just a really basic question? From reading these documents, it's my understanding that um I can't read his name. >> That Mr. Morland, okay, that he offered 5,700
and the professional magistrate had a hearing and recommended um an amount in the 3,000 level. 37, >> right? So, Mr. Morland offered 5700, but then he wanted a further reduction or
was he willing to pay 5700? >> He offered 5,000 on the lean and 700 on the fine. >> Right. So why did we have a hearing? >> The special
to agree to that to release. >> Got it. Got it. So we had the hearing. So >> the specialist did. Yes. >> Right. So, the special magistrate recommended $2,000 less than Mr. Morland was offering. >> Yes. >> Did he say why?
>> No. And he didn't give me an opportunity to uh cuz I I make a recommendation, >> right? >> And he did not give me the opportunity to make my recommendation before he decided on the $3,700. And this is for 188 days of
non-compliance. >> Yes. >> And for that large commercial building? >> Yes. >> Okay. Um I don't know. I mean to me it doesn't make much difference whether we hear it or not. Is that correct? I mean other
otherwise he owes us more than $5,700. >> Right. He owes us $12,100. >> Okay. So, is there an advantage to us trying to hear this without the applicant? >> I just have one question, too. What was
your recommendation before? >> Yes. >> My recommendation was for 6,800. >> $23.24. >> Yes. >> Okay. So, that was going to be your recommendation to the magistrate. >> Yes, that was my recommendation. Yes.
>> Okay. So, um I would like to move that we table this until such time as um the applicant requests it to be um heard. >> I don't know if he wants to be heard. I think he's made his mind up and says,
"Hey, I'll pay you 5,700 bucks to get >> We still have to approve that." Correct. >> Correct. Yes. So when I'm but he's not here >> and staff recommendation is still higher than both the magistrate and
um the offer that he made prior to going >> and he's and he was he was told you know when the meeting was he's told you know he's been on what he been sitting around or not sitting around but but he's been asked to come to this meeting and he's
decided not to. Well, you know, how long do you want to wait for these people? We need to wait forever for some of them. I mean, we wait forever for be cleaned up. >> So, if you'll recall, I have consistently stated that I think you need a set of criteria that you are
guided by determining whether you reduce leans by how much. I don't know that you have them as of right now. Without that, um, you made a recommendation. I don't know what it was based on. the magistrate decided that
your recommendation needed to be basically cut by 50%. Um, he made a recommendation that's coming to the to the board. Um, so I mean it's sort of a u
it's it's sort of a mixed bag. The whole idea of final deductions usually is to go ahead and get some money in the bank and close a case. Otherwise, you said, "Well, why why worry about it?" Well, you may not ever pay. And
then, are you going to go in with foreclosure? And if you do, is your lean superior to any other leans on the property? And so, do you just basically get bogged down in a whole another set of complications if if there's not a payment and if there's not a a
resolution, the book closed? It's it's kind of one of those things that I guess you guys have to decide on on a philosophy. My approach always was look, you're doing you're doing code enforcement to try to improve properties, bring properties up, not
necessarily to penalize anybody. >> So, from my perspective, you come up with a set of criteria that govern your lean reductions, i.e. such things as how long has the property been out of compliance? Did this is this person the one that allowed it to go out of
compliance or did this person buy the property after it was already in a dilapidated state? What was the cost of bringing it into compliance? Was was there an economic hardship that accounted for the delay? And then impact on surrounding properties for instance you can take into account how big was
that? Was this an isore that that was impacting properties the whole time it was it was uh it was out of compliance. a lot has to do with the type of of of code compliance too because sometimes people will end up generating huge fines
over not having their grass cut and I mean I guess your philosophy is what it is personally but from my perspective and yeah they should have cut their grass but is it do you do you impose a multi00 penalty for that so all those
are the things that I think like I as I alluded to earlier consistency is the key to having people buy into your enforcement procedures. And if you don't have a a set of guidelines that you're looking to in each case, how you come up with 6,800, how they master come up with
3500, you got two people looking at the same scenario coming up with a fine that's 50% higher or 50% less um depending upon which way you look at it based on what? And I don't know how you make the decision. I don't know how you'd break the tie. So without
criteria, do you have criteria right now? >> Well, you know, I I just want to, you know, he's basically saying, boy, you got to go do all this work, you know, in order to do, you know, to make sure that, you know, we don't charge him
anything basically because we just want the place cleaned up. I'm just I'm just putting it in a nutshell. But why do we have a magistrate if we don't take that magistrate's recommendation? Why? Why do we bother with him?
>> And I don't know that a lot of municipalities don't have a magistrate decide fine reductions. But I'm not talking about a lot of work. Is it a lot of work to figure out how long the property's been out of compliance? Is it a lot of work to figure out whether this is the person that allowed it to go into
>> talking about Okay. Is it, you know, I mean, you went on a little bit too long with it, but but all I'm saying is if we have a magistrate that decides this for us, Why why why can't we just use it?
>> Well, I think that um with this case, I think there's some confusion because we do have three different three different amounts. Typically, the magistrate, we try to follow the magistrate's lead on these properties. Ultimately, our goal is to have the properties cleaned up.
>> Exactly. >> Um this has been an eyesore. They were ignoring this. Um, my understanding is he had a property manager still in charge of this because he's in Colorado and now he has fired that property manager. Is he keeping the property
properly maintained? >> When did you inspect it? >> Any other thing? Didn't we go in and clean that property up at one time? >> We did. >> Okay. So, you know, I don't know. Those
are my questions. I I've been in the last couple of meetings with the magistrate. This particular meeting, I had a conflicting meeting. I could not make it. I I don't know what the metrics were used to reduce it that much. I'd have to go back and see if there's a recording or whatever happened. That's
where I have the problem seeing the reduction from 12,000 to $3,000. And I don't know why. Um and again, she wasn't given a chance to go through her metrics and give her $6,000 number. So, that's just needs to be
fixed. >> Does anybody know what this says here on the grounds for the reduction request? I can't read. It says something about I live in Colorado and on the property and then there was a real estate broker in Orlando and I don't know the rest of this. I
>> he he had someone maintaining the property that he thought maintain property and they didn't maintain it. He he had a real estate agent that was supposed to be managing it and they didn't. and he um he lets them both go
and he's he's looking for somebody new to uh list it for sale. >> I see there's a sign out in front of it. >> They they actually had a real estate agent out there taking photos uh two days ago. >> Real estate agent supposed to be
maintaining it. >> Okay. So, could I make a request? So, first of all, um it would be my request that anytime a document is put in our packet that it be
legible. Um this code enforcement fine reduction request. Um personally, I think they should be legible when they turn it into you. Um this is not legible. It's copied. it would have been very helpful um to copy the facts or
whatever it is to have it, you know, like typed out on the site so we could see what it actually said. Um I don't know. I I don't to me I don't think it makes any difference whether we make a decision tonight or not. Um they can't
sell the property without satisfying the lean. Correct. >> Correct. And um >> so they don't have to satisfy the link, but the new buyer is going to buy it subject to the lean. >> Right. >> Right. So um which they usually don't
want to. That's usually when we see them. It is it's on a major corner. I I think to me it appears that um you know the owner of this property was not very um attentive and it's right there on 17.
It's a commercial property. Um, but I I don't know. I don't understand, you know, why the special magistrate reduced it so much, but the applicant is not here. >> Um,
I would I would say my just for my own is maybe we're doing this um a little too soon. Um, they've just cleaned that property up. We need to make sure that they maintain that property. It was a major
eyesore. And then they also did not address the issue we had with homeless that were living um in and and filled up the back of that. Although they did try to keep it neat, but they still and I know you had numerous communications or
tried to with um this property owner. Maybe at this time because right now we currently have a lean on the property and we are he is he no longer acrewing because he's in compliance. Is that correct?
>> Yes, that's correct. >> So um I I would know Don um because if if it if it goes back out of compliance and he just recently did all this maintenance. You're telling us he does not have a maintenance person
at this time? >> He does. >> A manager. >> He had one um previous and then he called me in September. He um >> I thought he didn't. >> Excuse me. >> I thought you said he doesn't have one. >> He didn't have he had someone before
>> that he thought was maintaining the property and they weren't. So he let them go and he had a property manager, real estate um person and he let them go too. So he was looking for he has um FNF lawn care
>> maintaining it >> the $300 payments in there is that he paid >> these $3,000 vend receipts to >> right he paid them >> it's still a vacant property at this time and this is in my opinion it's it's
just been newly cleaned up and so if we release this at all then we're going to have to start back from the beginning. You're going to start back from the beginning anyway. I mean, if he goes out of compliance, you >> still have I know, but we have a lean on the property currently. >> You do >> for the first one. And so that's where
I'm saying that if we release if we let this go, we're releasing that >> and we have to start over from it again. >> So that's just commissioners, it's at your pleasure. So >> I don't see any if he's not here, right? >> And I don't see any impetus to act now
and he obviously doesn't either. Are you >> Yeah, I would move to table this until such time as the applicant wishes us to hear it and intends to be here. >> Do I have a second? >> Second motion second. Do you have
anybody that further comment >> participate? He doesn't have to be here in Colorado. >> So, are we voting? Yes. >> Um I >> Commissioner War. >> Hi, >> Commissioner Moore. >> Hi, >> Commissioner Burton. Hi,
>> Mayor Myers. >> Um I thank you. >> And then uh I believe that the commission just based on the conversation that and with Mr. Holmes's recommendation, Mr. Martin, would you work with Miss Taylor? Is that correct,
Commission? That we have some criteria. >> Yes, ma'am. And in fairness to everyone, >> before we move on, I just want to bring up one thing. We do have quite a few um absentee or out of out of city or out of
county property owners and both residential and commercial. Um and those many of those properties are vacant. Um, since the real estate crash in 2008, a lot of jurisdictions have
enacted registration programs for either forclosed or vacant properties and uh, also for rental properties. I think we could benefit from those a registration program um because we have this come up
over and over with code issues. People say they didn't get the whatever. um if you make them register then um they they know exactly what they have to do and um I don't think other cities would do this
if they didn't find it beneficial >> multiple cities that have done this >> so we don't want to reinvent the wheel so that's something that you can look into as well
>> I did a Google search today I'm happy to, but certainly I I encourage our code officer to see if she can find a um a recommended registration ordinance. Okay. >> Anyway, I just think help us.
>> Thank you. Thank you, Miss Taylor. >> Thank you. >> Thank you very much. >> Let's go on to our 2025 mitigation resolution. Can I just ask >> is our chief emergency operations name >> very all right so Tman County's 2025
mitigation plan has been approved by the Florida Division of emergency management. I put a hyperlink on the agenda. You'll find the approved pending adoption letter. Uh present city as a member of the Pton County LMS and I want to apologize ahead of time with my acronyms. The LMS's local mitigation
strategy. Um we'll need to adopt the 2025 mitigation plan and return a copy of the resolution for final submitt. The adoption is required to ensure that we Crescent City continues our eligibility for FEMA and FDM mitigation grants and projects. The county's adoption
resolution I have on my notes is expect to be passed on the 9th. It was passed on the 9th and um there was not a deadline, but he asked for us to get this done as soon as possible. >> And and from what I know, this is just an update of the 2020 plan. Correct. >> Correct.
>> Yes. I know you ask for the length. I was going to ask >> I I did send >> I did send to everybody pages 500 pages 400 pages of indices it's very exciting. >> Yes, it's an exciting read.
>> Well, I could thank you. Um it just concerns me that they just ask us to adopt it. We have no idea what it really says. Um, that could potentially affect our
amenities or our landmarks or who knows, but can may we please inquire of the county or ask the county to give us a heads up and advance notice of these things that we might have an opportunity to comment.
Um, I I think that would be nice. That reminds me um I have a couple things I wanted to ask about. That reminds me of the impact fee issue that we found out about after. Um I'm sure they're doing it for the very best, but it would be courteous and helpful if they would just give us a
heads up that hey, we're adopting this and we need to adopt it too. So that's all I have to say about that. >> Well, it was adopted already once. We're just readopting it. Um, I don't know if that changes your work, but I look through it
doesn't look pretty current, but >> I'm saying and I think we can I believe we helped and had input on it when it was first formulated. So, >> and and if you all would like, I can request when the changes were uh to the 2020 plan.
>> There there was a there's a list of projects that's in there that are countywide in city compact. Even there's one project for our city across the city. I don't remember what it was. There was something about the top of my head, but there was something about countywide mitigate
because it's about mitigation. It's about stuff before a storm hits um basically and also the risks that are with the other things like wildfires and tropical storms and thunderstorms and tornadoes and stuff. So, um it it just
talks about that, but I don't remember what off the top of my head was. I wouldn't be correct. I mean, we can always look out for it again. >> This in in this resolution at the very bottom it says, and I'm not sure I know that you followed I asked you this and
this is what we have done in the past, but it's hereby approved. Um, I don't know that we're actually approving it, but we're adopting the counties. So, I'm wondering if it should say is hereby adopted by the Crescent City um city of
Crescent City Commission as required by the Florida um Department of Emergency Management. >> Doesn't that say approved and adopted by the city that the local mitigation plan is hereby approved and adopted?
>> So, doesn't that cover it? Well, I'm saying that take the approved. It's already been approved. The county's already approved and we're >> I guess it doesn't hurt for us to approve it as well. >> That's what I'm saying. >> I mean, Don, do you
>> We're trying to give the hyperlink so that I could look at it. Good luck with that hyperlink. >> Yeah, well there he's got it. So I >> think that's the only one that has it is that hyperlink. The hyper one.
>> So it's a resolution, not an ordinance. The wording that's here now is perfectly fine resolved by the city commission approved and adopted. So no problem that I see with that wording. >> So approved and adopted even though it's already been approved by the So we're approving. Okay.
>> Your resolution, you're approving and adopting this resolution. >> Okay. >> Yes, I did a motion, but okay. Um, I move that we adopt resolution 2025-08, approving and adopting the Hutton County
Local Mitigation Strategy Plan. >> Second. >> And we have a proper motion to second. Any further discussion? If not, Madam Cler, if you would please. >> Commissioner Burton. >> Hi. >> Commissioner Moore. >> Hi. >> Commissioner Lori. >> Hi. >> Commissioner Devito. >> Hi. >> Mayor Myers.
>> I. >> Sir. >> So, approved. Okay. Let's go into our city manager report. Um, do we have any questions on the city manager report? >> Mayor, I do. >> Yes. So, what is the status of our
product and are we going to need a special meeting to receive and approve that audit? As far as a special meeting, I believe so, but it will not be this year. Um, can you hear me? As far as the audits
concerned, we are pencils down. Everything has been turned in. Uh we were waiting on some information from our attorney as well to forward over to James Moore. We have a draft copy of the final uh results and I believe that we
are about a day away from receiving the final. We've submitted everything they needed in legal document um and certification. I can't I'm sorry if I'm not on the correct word, but Steve, would you like to talk about a little bit more? >> Yeah, basically we've given them everything they've requested. So, they're just um going to turn around and
just do their their final review and and get that back to us probably probably tomorrow. If not tomorrow, Monday. >> Okay. And what does Mr. Holmes need to do? >> Nothing. As a matter of fact, what they asked for today, I give them February of 24, but I'm g to him again now, both for
24 and 25. So all it was was a standard letter that that I do for five different governmental entities every year which says that I'm not aware of any pending lawsuits. I'm not aware of pending claims and that you're paying and that
you're current with your bill. So that that was the Yeah. Which we So when they asked for it, we did it for today for 25 and then they said no it's 24. My secretary says I did that in February. Here's where I sent it. I said, "Do it
again. Give it to him again." So, we did it again for 24 and 25. >> And so, basically, that's what's holding them up on our final right now. >> Was just that confirmation done sent that over. So, they're >> Okay. >> As soon as we get this, we can send it
to the state. Correct. >> As soon as we get the final, it can go directly to the state before it comes to us. >> Yes. >> We don't have to approve it. >> No, we don't have to approve it, but it can go to the state immediately. >> Yeah. As soon as I get it, I will let everybody know. Okay.
>> Yeah. And that's because that needs to be >> correct. >> That needs to be >> that's the plan that'll be here in January to present it. >> Correct. >> Yes. >> Okay. But so it's going to go to the
state and hopefully we will all get a copy when that happens. >> Yes. >> Okay. Not wait till January. >> No ma'am. >> Till the packet. Okay. that's your request because the way you you burst that it was as if you're not getting information. So is that your request? If
that's your request, please make it to Mr. Martin that please that you want that sent out to all the commissioners so there's no question. Is that correct? >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Yeah. Staff was already going to be doing that ma'am. Yes. Soon as we got it
>> mayor, I have another question about the audit. Okay. So, we had a prior discussion. I believe Commissioner Roy identified that our 5-year contract for James Moore was
actually um at the fifth year. >> Yeah. Is it >> Well, this this this year that just ended, >> they're good for that. So, then they have a there's a renewal clause. So, yes, that the price they gave us is up is up. They need to give us a new um
legal agree with them unless we want >> so and so my question is have they have they begun the proc the process at all for the fiscal year that ended um
September 30th 2025 >> no ma'am >> no ma'am not >> and it includes but it includes fiscal year 2025 >> as the audit their fifth year we just closed out is included in their fifth year in their
fifth year contract. Okay. And technically that audit is due June 30th. >> Okay. So it is I guess when that audit is complete is the time for us to either renew or rebid. And well actually we
this was a no bid contract. >> It was we renewed without bidding. Well, actually, you would not you would do an RFQ, not an RFP. >> RFQ. But so, but that this would be our window after
the audit for the year that ended September 30th 25. That would be our window. Is that right? >> Is there an out in the contract? >> I don't need that contract. I have the
>> actual review that contract. That's something >> I think maybe that would be a question what's what's the out for that in the current contract also if not then we need to go ahead and proceed with business with them preparing the 2025
>> you have a problem >> I don't I don't believe that we have an issue with them the biggest issue that we have um is the pension and that's what that's always the hold up that is that has been the hold up >> well it's been the hold up for the last
two or three years we didn't have >> it's not like it's old before Yeah. It's not like it's new. So, this is something that um and and I'm I have I have some concerns. >> I'm very concerned. I and mayor, it's
it's my hope for the rest of the commission that when they present this audit in January that we ask them very specifically to explain to us why this seems to get worse every year because they >> because we're getting better. Our finance department is getting better,
right? And then the police pension like it's I think last year fiscally year 23 was the last year they could really audit that with any good numbers. Now now we're into the the period now where we're out of that phase with the police
department being gone. So that's that's where the the problems are starting to come up with that. >> But we've addressed that. >> We've addressed that >> and and so we gave them a an out for that also. and that still seems to be
holding up our audit. Um, and and that's >> yeah, we were trying we were trying to get documentation actually to do the audit on the the police pension, but that just wasn't feasible. >> And then, mayor, I don't know if you recall, but um when we were having our
budget workshops, I think we asked for the total cost of what we were spending on our auditors because it was divided into different sections of the budget. And I don't think we got that information. Um it would be helpful to know because
we have a contract. >> I don't think we have a current do we have a we don't even have a building, do we? >> Um not current of this this >> Yeah. So So we would have to get a a current invoice as to so that we could have that to find out how much this
audit is actually costing us. I think if we look at in the past >> that that we've spent more than we anticipated, of course, some of that um we need to take ownership of because it was because we were having issues in our finance department and was creating more
work for them. However, in this last especially in this last audit season that they've prepared for us, I feel like that we have been much better prepared. Um, but we're still in the same we're still in the month of
December before we're we're issuing this to the state and and it it looks like when we look at our financial report that the cost of the audit is significant much beyond what we
budgeted that's what I just said right and that's right so I I think it would be helpful for us to have an understanding of what that total figure is even if it's just to date and compare that to um the original contract figure
where everything was assumed to go as planned. Um because we just I think it's having an impact on budget. >> It is. >> Yes. >> Okay. Do you have any other questions from his report? >> Um not specifically his report. No, I
don't think so. Um you said Fletcher Park that repair is complete. >> So Fletcher Park the streamers are being put up. It'll be complete by tomorrow. >> Okay. >> Yes. >> Um there there was a small slight delay
with the city dock >> down here in the city. >> Yes ma'am. But that will be completed uh by the middle of January. First first or second week of January. And it's just because the holidays and some other claus project clos the small dock that
was program that the larger dock thing that partally washed away that that underpinnings of the polling uh on the other dock as well. The larger platform that's still we already invested 2,000 into that and that comes off of this bill.
>> Correct. >> So that's and that's the platform at the end of the ball. >> Yes sir. Yes sir. And I know that I came to you all because of the extra damage and the other things that's happened, but because there was some cost savings that the the contractor had, it looks like the totality of of the cost that we
as 31,000 it's around $30,000 the last time that I checked and got an invoice from him. >> Thank you. >> And we're still going to submit to FEMA? >> Yes, we are. And he is prepared to give me a very itemized report. Okay. So, I
have a question >> and I don't know if it applies to anybody else and I think I um this with the insurance. Did you find this Commissioner Lori? >> I did. Yeah. >> Okay. Thank you very much. >> Um
>> yes. So, this is something that has not been placed and I'm I'm I'm very interested in it. I'm not of the Medicare agent. Um, and I don't know how many of you are, but I I could certainly
this would be of certain benefit to to us and for anybody in the future that is looking to to come into this position. >> Um, okay. Mayor, what exactly are we talking about here? Because >> I didn't
see >> Okay. I assumed that that was what is this saying that we would receive >> that we're entitled to that we're entitled to individual health insurance coverage under the term of the city's group health insurance policy or an
amount of compensation equal to the cost of coverage for set individual mayor commissioner or other individual commissioners under the terms of the city's group health insurance coverage. I read that I was assuming that this was
identified as some kind of glitch. Um because as far back as I can recall, commissioners have not been receiving any compensation for health insurance. >> Um >> well, this was back in 1999. So,
>> right. So, I mean, um, I just assume that this was some kind of a glitch that maybe when all the ordinances were sent to Money Cutter that the one that repealed this provision had slipped behind the desk and wasn't sent.
>> That's what what did happen was this has been in place since 1999 when Code Reconified. Um Charles R had a proof with all the ordinances and he went through and what it used to say was the mayor commissioners receive the salary
in the amount of $500 each month and each city commissioners obviously see the salary in the amount of $400 each month. Um and he changed that to these numbers because this is actually what we do get paid. This is what we get paid >> with correct >> what was $328
added on for insurance because when I was a city commissioner in 2003 we got paid the same thing. So this has never changed and there's even been there was a motion at some point or somebody voted and to do that $328 in step insurance.
Um, but that was something that was done then and really now that we've recodified and I I I would give Bon's opinion on this. This was what we adopted as our recon ordinances. So these numbers that were changed even
though we didn't vote on it. I mean it was it was changed or adopted by us because when UNI code recodified and put it all together these numbers we approved, right? >> Okay. Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, wait a minute. Wait a minute. I I
got to ask Don this. Don, >> this could be a mess. >> Is this a mess? >> Is Commissioner Lori saying that our city manager found an ordinance that he felt was out of date and just updated it
on his own without telling us? What he what he did was it had $500 and $400 and he put I believe he asked for what we get paid and crossed it out and said the note at the foot of the bottom and said these are the current numbers
and but that that changes really because now that means that that's our salary and then we still have to get insurance or we still should be out insurance that I'm good with that >> I'm sorry I have a problem with an
employee making a change of that significance and not bringing it to us our to our attention and letting us affirmatively vote on it. We were told we were told it was represented to us that the MUN code was a simple
codification of existing ordinances. accurate accurate. Each ordinance was transmitted truly to uni code and they were the ones who were going to accurately with no
substantive changes put it into the code, >> but he made a substantive change and did not bring that to our attention. >> Well, I'm asking does he have a comment on that? The cool
question is is >> what do we do with it? >> Well, to start with, if if all you did was adopt what you thought was a copification of your existing ordinances. >> Yes. >> With and you voted on no changes to your existing ordinances,
but in fact, someone had changed an ordinance, then I don't believe that it this was a properly adopted change >> because it wasn't. And I'm just relying upon what you're telling me. I wasn't here for that. Uh so it it sounds like
what you're telling me is that it was brought before the commission that the ordinances that were in place >> be incorporated by the MUN code into the MUN code in their in their current form without changes. Y'all voted on that.
But in fact, unknown to you, at least this ordinance and maybe others, I don't know, had been changed, >> which is a problem. >> So, so there's a big question about whether this is a valid, in my opinion, a valid ordinance. However, at this
point, probably rather than going back and and and dealing with whether this was or wasn't uh validly adopted, I think you ought to decide from this point forward what you want the compensation to be and then adopt an
ordinance knowingly. Well, but whichever way you want it to go because otherwise you're talking about trying to go back and people to go back and dock yourself for wages for because you did you unknownly pass the the compensation ordinance. That that doesn't sound very
practical. >> Well, and my other my other problem or my other issue is in our charter it says that we cannot change our compensation until the time of the next election. >> So, we would have and we have to pass the orders 90 days before the election.
So we would have to pass the ordinance to change this and then do it and it won't be effective until uh we are up for election next year. >> But that was our salary. I think it was our salary compensation. >> Does it say is it compensation? >> That's what I charter.
>> Um so when they did this in 1999, >> are you sure in fact that this was not a charter revision? >> No, this was under the code of ordinances. This is on article two under city commissioner and that was like whatever section 222 is compensation
that's right there which is funny not >> when you changed that when you were a commissioner >> and and you changed that and you increased >> I wasn't >> no but you said when you were pay
>> and so they they increased it because of the lack of of providing the insurance >> right How did they how did they do that? Did they do that by ordinance or they do it by resolution? And where's a copy of that? >> All I know is what I got paid and that
was we got a salary of $400 and then that 32821 is was supposed to be payment in the li of insurance because I had health insurance through my company and actually everybody did. No de got >> but what I'm saying is
>> is order in order to have done that because that's been the amount for years >> there had to have been a document something there had to have been a document that made that change >> right and I don't know where that is >> so where's that document and so and I'm
going to I'm going to protect Charles in in regards he he did not do this with malice >> not at all >> I think he was unbeknownst to him probably is that well they've got the wrong amount in here for the salaries and he increased that and if you're saying that you couldn't find a
resolution he obviously couldn't either and I don't know that he went through that was a lot when they were copying these to send them to MUN code >> and you could compile it all and a set of proof >> and questions about certain things and that's also why we don't have historic
preservation ordinance anymore that was that was taken out inadvertently because it was in the zoning it was part of the zoning chapter and he had that all removed because that would be covered in the land development code because we were adopting that simultaneously. Well, unbeknownst to him, the land development
code doesn't have anything about uh the historic preservation ordinance and enacting it. Um and that was based on what Mark correct. >> So, can we do some some research on this to find out? >> Be a good idea. >> Yeah, I think so because I would be interested.
>> Um I would be interested um and um and that would be that would be very helpful. Um now this is just for you too but it is for everyone for all commissioners
>> but not our spouses >> but not our spouses issues the issue of the insurance that we this is what I've been told from Sheila we have looked into this before or has been looked at before is that >> because you all are not full-time >> right
>> you cannot get the insurance that's provided to the city that's the other problem If you're to be compensated for the insurance, then you're talking about close to almost $1,000 per person. We don't have that in the budget, >> right? >> That's tough. >> That's tough.
>> So, just just just let you know. Um the other thing is we're talking about MUN code. Um this will come up in next month's meeting, but since we're talking about uni code, we have an issue there as well. They have not been billing us. We have not been paying. But with the
caveat of that, they've gone from per page now to a yearly subscription. It's around $2,800 a year. You can do as much as you want. The biggest problem is the land development code. The reason it did not get uploaded, um there was a couple reasons for that, but they want $8,500
for a onetime fee to upload that LDC to to the meeting code. So, I'll be bringing the information forward at a later time with more data for you all. >> Okay. And then it is up there and it is once we >> And then I had a question quickly for
Steve. Um the pay that they receive every month based on this code, is there an extra amount on top of that that's added to that? >> Have to talk to >> I thought that there I heard that there is an extra $200 added to the base pay.
I don't know. But that's I was told I was going to look into it further to find out >> cuz I actually was like, well, this isn't the right amount because that's not what I get paid because I don't have any federal holding, but I we do have pipare
and so that that is the amount and that's $50 or so that we got. >> So I was surprised. >> So you you think this amount is accurate that you are you are getting paid what this says? They are being paid and right now I can tell you right now I have my case. It says regular
>> regular 72821. There's no $400 and 324. >> There's also not an additional $200. >> Nobody $4510. >> Yes. Look at it. Figure it out. >> Can we bring it up at the January meeting? >> Sure. >> Yes. Absolutely. >> Bring that up.
>> Sorry, I didn't mean to cause a problem. >> No, it's fine. Oh, I >> it was important that I found that. I'm like, what? I never why did I never see this t? >> Um, another question I have in going through this and I believe Pam has left, but she's got in here a violation for
garage sales. Um, why is that a violation? Um, she's got four garage sales in here under violation. Is it possible that she that she they issued permits for that? because one of them in particular, I'm pretty sure they came
and asked for a permit. They got a permit for it. So, I don't know why there's a violation. >> I think they're continuous uh type garage sales. I'm just looking at some of the >> not 310 North Prospect Street or um 34 North Prospect Street.
>> Yeah, 34 North Prospect Street is one. So, I you know, I haven't gone to all of these, but I I recognize a few of them as being continuous. garage sale. >> That that was one issue I asked her before. And two, it's also the the trash left in the rideway overnight or things
left out overnight and not taken back in. >> Does your code require any sort of permit or >> for him to hold a garage sale? >> So maybe somebody's holding garage sales without the permit.
>> I thought it was just odd. >> Um and then when we go over to the St. John's rehab buildings with the use of natural gas. >> Um, who's going to pay for this to reroute that gas man? Are they paying for it or are they asking us to pay for that? >> Right now, Dave's still working through
that. Um, and he's still ironing out those details on that, but we did get some estimates on the cost and I believe they are footing most of the bill if not all of it. >> The name of you or is that just water? >> That was different. This is the gas for the school. That was just water.
>> Well, I thought you said St. Hungry. >> Oh, sorry. I thought >> St. John's >> and you gas >> cuz I heard gas. I'm sorry. Okay. >> Okay. I don't know about the gas for that. I do know about the water line for that and that
>> I know the water they have agreed to do. >> This is for the gas. Okay. >> Yeah. I'm sorry about that. >> They'll use natural gas and they've asked CCNG. So yeah, it's been there and he said no new information but I just when I was looking through this I just said I wonder who's paying for that. So
we need to through there. I think I was across >> you did anou for water and sewer, but I don't know. I don't think gas was included in the Was it? >> I don't think so. >> I haven't heard that. So, that's something we just need to um
>> I'll look at for you. >> Yeah. >> Um and and then the reasonzoning central business district map changes to the schoolboard property. So, is that where you've included the schoolboard property
into the central business district? I didn't quite understand that. >> There was. So, they'll bring that up later when they go to planning and zoning and they're also going to take this. This is a meeting we were talking about earlier, but they want to do with the downtown partnership and businesses, but the portion of the land, not the school, but the portion of the land that
was talked about as maybe building housing, they removed that from CD1. >> Correct. And they were going to leave it as the the status that it is right now. responsible facilities. >> Public facilities. Correct. Facilities. >> Okay.
>> Anything else on this? >> Yes, sir. >> Um, and my understanding you are going to bring to us and I guess you're still working on that some some language some a policy for how we as commissioners
deal with staff. >> Yes, ma'am. Um, I've actually sent a couple of things over to Don um for review and we're going to be reconvening sometime in the next week or two. I wanted to bring something to you all in January. I have three items that I want to bring on. One is an onboarding tool
for new commissioners and existing commissioners. Uh, another is a revision of our grievance policy to include the commission uh and and management. And the other is uh is language included into our um discrimination clauses within our policy. And within that
you'll also if there's agreements for this towards the city manager >> that in there. >> Yes, it is. Yes. And that's already been forwarded over to Don Maria. >> Okay. >> Yes, ma'am. >> Okay. Commissioners, I want to remind everybody if you haven't, we have ethics training that has to be completed before
the end of the year. >> Okay. So, no, what you're talking about is the sole um report that we got, >> the investigative report and her recommendations. her recommendations I know were to uh actually fix some of the
things here in the city, right? Because we don't have anything in place. But at the same time, okay, the report of this whole investigation was and I'm not trying to be rude and I'm not trying to be mean, but it was caused by one commissioner uh
an employee thinking that that commissioner was out of line. And I think I think that that has to be addressed as well. And and it's it's not an address like oh gee, you know, she can't be a commissioner anymore. You know, you take
her out for a couple months or something. Those are those are stupid kind of things to do. But um there's it says here while the investigation was unable to resolve whether any of the specific incidences alleged to occur,
multiple witnesses reported subjective feelings of negative interactions with commissioner. That line bothers me. That means that it's not just uh Miss Ames, but it's other employees that also have
uh quite a bit of negative interactions with you. and that subjective feelings. >> So, so uh but it's there. It's there. Okay. >> And um I just I think we need to talk
about that. And and I think one one solution to it. And it's for all commissioners that want to that have somebody, you know, one of our if we get crazy with with one of our uh employees, uh that that we have we have to we have
to be accountable for that. And um so I I would you know recommend that you know part of uh this stuff that you're doing here and and something for commissioner um would be to possibly take uh some I don't know what kind of classes
you want to call them but they did the same thing up in Palaco with the uh manager up there the city manager. they they sent him to a couple of classes just to uh go through and and uh become a better person I guess with their
employees. So I I think we need to look at that. We need to we need to address it. >> Okay. Could I please respond to that? >> So the report says unsubstantiated. It says employees reported subjective
feeling. this entire investigation could have been avoided. Um, and I know there was a comment about um, the complainant did not expect to have her name in the PLA Daily News. Neither did
I. I am the one who is accused of wrongful behavior that a report says unsubstantiated. So if we had had a procedure in place or it had been handled differently, um we could have had an informal
resolution of the issue where nobody's needed to feel upset because their name was in the paper or whatnot and um possibly um hurt feelings could have been addressed. And I said from the beginning that it's
never my intent to hurt anyone's feelings. And if they um had brought it to someone's attention and said that they wanted to speak to me about it, I would have been happy to do so. Um as far as these subjective feelings of
other employees, I don't know who they were. I don't know why. Um, I am certainly happy to sit down with the city manager or um or the um human resources director and
talk with anyone who feels that they do not have good interactions with me. Um, I will tell you that when I was interviewed by the investigator, some of the um, issues that were brought to her attention were things that occurred in
commission meetings and were voted on by the entire commission. So, um, that's an issue. Um, because someone doesn't like the way I vote um, does not mean that I have personally insulted them. The other
thing that I would like to be considered um when these procedures are developed is and I pointed this out when the complaint was first brought um I have been the subject of abuse and swearing
um by city employees. I have brought that abuse to the attention of the commission. Um, and the commission did nothing. I brought to the commission's attention that uh an
interim city manager was hostile and extremely abusive of me. Nothing was done about that and I was cursed at in a city commission meeting and nothing was done about that.
So, um I I just I think that it needs to be a two-way street and that when a commissioner is abused and treated poorly either by staff or by the rest of the commission and there are incidences
where people have said to me, um don't you how do you keep going back to the commission meetings when people snap at you? And I have asked the mayor in meetings before, please don't interrupt me and please do not snap at me. And in
fact, I was listening to budget workshop, the one on August the 5th, and yes, the mayor cut me off. So, I think we need to have I didn't want this to get into >> Okay. Well, you raised it. >> No. So, what I raised was something very
simple. It's it's concerning the report that came back from this particular investigation. It's not about anybody else in this room. It's just about a conversation and >> I have I have a basic question. When I am cursed at or treated abusively, it is
not addressed. But when there is an unsubstantiated report and a reporting that someone had a and this is very key, a subjective feeling, I don't think that's sufficient for the commission to decide that I'm
the one who needs re-education when it is on the record that I have been cursed at and treated abusively and I have complained about it and nothing was done. >> Okay. Okay. Wait a second. >> Yeah. >> Commissioner,
>> yes. >> I've heard numerous times about you being cursed at and abused by an interim city manager. Um I don't know what you expected from the commission to do because that was his last meeting. That was his last day of employment here and
he basically walked out during that meeting. And so we couldn't fire him. We could not um put him on any type of leave without pay. there really was no um remedy, >> right? >> And so, but we hear that a lot and and I
am concerned >> there was no apology. But, mayor, before that happened, quite early in his tenure, I brought to your attention that he was quite abusive and ugly to me and treated me in a very angry manner. And
you dismissed that and said, "Oh, you'll know when he is angry." You laughed. >> No, I think I said you'll know when I am angry. >> No, you said when he's angry. >> Okay. Regardless, >> regardless. Um, that's not And and as
far as the investigation, um, I'm disappointed. >> Yeah. >> Um, she did not reach out to me. I was the first phone call that was made. Um, and I'll be honest with you, I was I I was surprised that she did not reach out to me. Maybe my name was not given but I
was the first contact that was made um when this happened. Um, I I was I was unaware there was going to be a a complaint filed, but um I did reach out to Dawn immediately and I was concerned
that she came to this conclusion and but maybe my name was not given as as someone for her to contact. But um I think this will be interesting in in January and I think it's it's necessary
and um you know I I've brought it to the attention before that I've had employees come to to me numerous times um especially at clerks and um so I think that this something that is past due and
appreciative that she brought it to light that that we need to work on ourselves as well. >> Yep. >> But that >> and the the the clerk and myself have worked on it together. Um and it's something that is has been a lot of time spent on um it's going to be a busy
month in January. Um since we're talking about meetings, I I would like to have you all decide on a date for a special meeting um for a couple of things. The fire station discussion is ready for you all. Um, another discussion that needs to take place um is our emergency uh
active shooter that we need to work with Dawn on making sure that we have a closed meeting. Um, we have a plan ready. Um, Fen County is going to be involved in that as well. I have construction plans ready to go. Rich is ready to build what we've decided to do for this commission room. And uh, so we
have a couple things to discuss and I'd like to have that special meeting. Um, and we can make that a part of that. So, those three subjects on the special meeting. >> Okay. >> Okay. >> I have my calendar available if we like to shoot some dates. >> I don't have my calendar. I don't know
if anybody has their calendar. >> Um, >> running short on time. Yeah, we can shoot out some some dates and I can work with y'all individually to see what works best and then on the >> um and and madam cler I I just thank you
for your assistance getting um Mr. Martin through I guess you're still advertising for that position correct? >> Yes, ma'am. Yes, ma'am. Uh M Brooks told me that she's going to be here to help out till we find somebody. Um, tonight is is her last night
>> for the meeting. >> For for the meetings. Yes. Yes, ma'am. >> Um, but she's not going to be totally gone. She'll be helping out intermittently as we need her. >> So, maybe you need to cross train work on cross trainining in the meantime. But you have somebody here because you have other meetings that are taking place
that are going to need >> Yes, ma'am. >> some assistance. >> She's actually set up documentation for Sonic Clear U, other SOPs that we've discussed. So anybody can kind of go in and have a guide >> even if it's me. >> Commissioner Lawrence,
>> can we can I extend my move to extend for 10 minutes? >> Okay, you have a motion to extend. Do I have a second? >> Somebody support him. >> Okay, I'll second. >> Okay, we have a motion and a second. All in favor, please say I.
>> Um, yeah. Um the BRC is reborned and the county is negotiating with the school district to buy the Miller property. Um I was asked to be part of that the BRC
2.0 to help lobby on behalf of you know the county and I just wanted to inform and ask permission and make sure that's okay as a representative of no one but myself if I help in that process. They do have a special meeting scheduled for January. Um
>> what is this? Excuse me. Just explain >> the county there's a workshop >> my understanding because I was also it was mentioned to me from a commissioner as well. >> Um but I thought that was just a workshop
just to talk about >> right >> options >> it is and then the BRC 2.0 is going to be there to help um explain some of the nuances of the property. And I just want to make sure that's okay with the commission. I'm not
representing Crescent City. I'm representing myself. >> Don, >> so the workshop is going to be, I assume, an advertised meeting. >> Yes. A public meeting between the school board and the county commission. >> Say what now? I'm sorry. >> The county public county commission and
the school board. >> Had heard about that. >> No, it was they might not be having they trying to stay closed on the 14th of January. So, I mean, if it's a public meeting advertised and complies with
public notice requirements, then um you know, I've got no problem with someone from the from the board being there. Um, and I guess that's what all you're asking about is going to that meeting, which will be public and and uh and
noticed and all that good stuff. >> But I'm not representing the city commission. I'm representing myself. I mean, is there going to be a vote by the city commission on any of this at all? >> For for what? >> For whatever it is you're trying to do with the school down there. Now, again, >> the county is trying to purchase it from
the >> Well, the county isn't trying. The county has has given direction to commissioner new to to discuss it, but they haven't approved funding yet. >> That that is their intention. That is why they're having a special need
workshop >> to sit down with the school board. >> Um, do we have a date yet? Because I have asked him for a day. >> Last time I heard it was supposed to be January 14th, but that might have changed. Everyone's schedules for >> I mean all asking that question is if it
has to come to this commission. You're still commissioner here. You know what I'm saying? He's a commissioner. So I guess he would just have to recuse himself on any votes. >> Well, he's also been a part of that committee prior to this and he didn't I don't
think but they recuse themselves on votes but I don't know what shape this is going to take if the county buys the property if they do >> I hope they don't because there's no taxes if they buy the property >> I understand that and I'm not saying they should and shouldn't I'm just
saying if they do then it doesn't have to come before this board come before the county board and the and the school board but this board won't have anything to do with in terms of any kind of a actually an action. You may voice your
intent or your thoughts about it obviously um by resolution or whatever, but I mean it won't be something that you decide if the county ends up buying it and I don't know where it goes from there because I have I have no idea, you know, where all that is headed and I
haven't heard about the school board's meeting with the county commission which I assume I'll hear about it because I represent them. But in any event, >> well, of course, we may not have any. >> So, >> I'm not sure. And I it might just be with the district. I don't even know if
it's at the school board level at this point. >> I think the county commissioner was told at one time it was just Yes. Commissioner. >> Okay. So if I remember when the blue ribbon committee presented their report
to us or present made a presentation at one point the title search identified that the city of Crescent City had property ownership interests in different portions of that property and
we approved um we approved a contract um yet to be activated with an attorney in Pala, I believe it was Charlie Douglas's farm,
>> um, to advise us on that. And it was my understanding that we did that because Mr. Holmes represents the school board. Is that correct? >> That's correct. >> So, um, what are you getting at? Well, what I'm
getting at is if the title search shows that we have interests in the property, um do we not need to have legal advice on how to handle those interests in that property before um they disappear from us? That's
my understanding that one of them is a road um as well as a couple of other items. So, um, it would seem to me that on that issue and maybe a couple of other issues, we need to have some kind of
representation if other entities are negotiating for sale. Well, they're going to find and I don't think I don't think that we right now it would be it would not be I would this is of course just my thought on this is until
something actually happens with it that for us to expend any money um at this time it is not in our probably not in our best interest they are going to have an issue if they transfer title because there is um the title is clouded because
there's de restrictions on it And I I don't there was a lot of talk and a lot of statements were made >> that I wouldn't tell you I was I would want to uh basically endorse. So I don't know what the status of the title is. >> Um but whatever the status of the title
is it is and that status has not been something that u has just arisen. I mean whatever that status is been in place for a bunch of years. There's a time if my understanding Don isn't there a certain time when some of those could go to the
wayside as well that so I mean there's >> well there's a whole lot of theories that I mean you know the title to that property I don't want to get too deep into it because you know we don't have all of that in front of us right now but someone even made the statement that the
that property couldn't be sold which was interesting to me because title could be quieted on home all kinds of issues. >> Yes. uh five file titles every day. But I don't know what the status of the title is. I I think I don't I wasn't
part of that uh that entire process, but I know that the school board had that property for a long time. And um so if there was an issue with title, you know, I I assume that it would have >> would have risen somewhere in the time
frame, maybe not. But in any event, >> I'm sorry. >> I'm sorry. I I think I'm saying that I think that I think the title report said that if the property was going to change hands and not be
used as a school was when the majority of the title issues would arise. And I guess my concern is I mean if we own something then and we have given something of value then I think it's our
responsibility on behalf of the city and the residents um to make sure that we adequately protect those interests and I don't see how we can do that without getting some appropriate legal advice and I
That's >> I mean I don't know. I think maybe we need to I agree with the mayor. I think it's kind of early. I mean I don't think this this is not going to happen overnight. I mean >> but it is early to know where you stand. >> We'll get back to your question. >> Yeah, I know. That's why
>> I mean your question was that is it okay for him to >> for him to participate and for him to be a participant as as an individual. You're always, no matter where we are, we're always always >> as long as he doesn't speak on behalf of the town or indicate in any way, shape,
or form that he's conveying a town position, I don't think that he can be prohibited from >> That's right. He can be >> his personal >> and I plan to be at that meeting as well, but again, it's an advertised meeting, >> right? So, >> I just want to make sure those of you are surprised and come back.
>> Thank you. Thank you for your courtesy of each and every one of us on that. We appreciate that. Um, okay. Do we have anything else? >> Was there anything else on the report that I I I wanted to tell you all we had what I feel was a successful um bid opening all of the bids. I listed how
many bids we actually got. We had a lot of biders. Um so that that definitely was a success. Um I've got a meeting set up uh next week with FD. We did get the short order form. Um Chip is not happy with some of the pH uh levels that were stated in the document. It kind of sets
us up for the future for them to ding us. So, we're going to fight back on that, see if we can get it modified one more time. Okay. >> Um, that's something that's important because that is a $10,000 bill. >> Okay. >> Or or $15,000 project. So, it's still an issue. Outstanding.
>> Okay. Do you have anything else? >> So much, but we don't have time. >> Yeah. >> Um, oh, I I do have something else. I'm sorry. Thank you. >> One minute. >> Okay. I I was extend
>> I I would like to get with you all on a three-month schedule and get back to having our one-on- ones and get a a time that works for you all individually uh at least once a week. >> You can work with that that out with us individually. >> Yes, I will. Okay. Thank you.
>> Commissioner, >> any update on impact fees? Um yes, I spoke to Mayor Haynes and we are um convening in uh January. His commission has also given him that permission and we're talking about how we along with
our commissioners can go to the county and possibly get on the agenda. And so we're going to have a discussion with the mayors um in January, the 1 of January want to get through the holidays, the 1 of January. And so take all of the um municipalities and their
commissioners and we try to figure out the um how to do that correctly. >> I had a conversation with Dean last week. >> Great. And the other thing is um we have never done this but most cities set a
vision and a plan for the coming year. They set some priorities. Um when I looked at the minutes I realized we each had different objectives. uh that vary just in the city recommendations for the city manager. Um I think it would be
helpful if we would have a planning meeting and set some priorities for a very busy year >> and as a project I need a motion to adjourn. We are at the time is it's 1010
>> second. All in favor? >> Okay, this meeting is adjourned. Thank you all. Someone's telling me we can say we have a