All right, let me um call the meeting to order if I can, please, everyone. Is this um >> went on? All right, welcome everyone. It's 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 3rd, 2026, regular
scheduled meeting of the Fort Myers Beach Charter Review Commission. We could all rise for the Pledge of Allegiance, please. I >> pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation
under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Thank you all. Do the roll call. Start with you Ed please. >> Edunover. >> Hey >> Jim Dudlamp >> Bev Milligan >> Brian Thomas >> Michelle Churnney Anita Sarasa.
>> Let the record show that all chart commission members are here as well as the two alternates. Um the next one is um for the approval of minutes which have been sent out in the packet ahead of time. Looking for a motion on that please. >> So move Brian.
>> Second. >> Second by Hank. Any additions, deletions, corrections for approval? Hearing none. All those in favor? I. >> Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously and member items. Um, we'll start with the uh blue ribbon committee that I was
assigned by the team. Oh, I'm sorry. Public comment. You're correct. Thank you, Hank. Anyone uh would like to make a public comment. See none in the audience today. I'll close public comment. Thank you, Hank. um going to ask for one adjustment to
the schedule today if uh could have the will of the group on article um 11 which are financial procedures. Our CFO is here today to appine on uh both what's currently in the charter and any recommendations he may have. He has a
commitment that um would not allow him to stay to the end. So I'd like to move that up right after the blue ribbon commission if I can get support for that please. A motion. >> Sure. >> I would move that. >> Okay. >> Second. Good. All in favor? I. >> I. >> All right. So, we'll move you up. Let me handle the blue ribbon commission first,
Joe. And, um, as I go through this, um, which you've all gotten some information on, um, if you would be thinking, Joe, for a second, timing on the, um, appointment of this group and their deadline for submission. The will of the
commission was last time to make sure that any financial considerations were put into the budget or the the recommended budget if the blue room commission should approve some sort of a salary increase for the commissioners so that you had ample time to build that in to a preliminary budget you brought to
the team. So if you'll think about that based on the routine you go through when you get to that today for us that advice you have would help us shape that. Okay. Um two quick things I wanted to clear up. Well, actually three uh but two on the uh existing compensation for the um
for the commissioners. Um although the charter did indicate as we've talked about before uh the 2016 uh baseline salaries indicated a component in there that as colas were given to the uh staff of of the community those colas would
apply directly and equally to the commissioners as well and become effective the date they do for the staff. Um I'd indicate on several occasions that had not happened throughout those years which was accurate with the exception of 2024 and 25 when um the group that we have in in
force now charge now put that in place they have given colas out and the baseline salaries have been adjusted for the counselors for 24 and 25. So just want to make sure the public has that information. It's uh correct in the minutes. Also, as it relates to the
benefits that go along with um that baseline compensation, they as all of the um colleagues uh are charged their appropriate co-premium for that and that is added in their taxable income in addition to that base uh year
after year. So, I want to make sure both those are clear. Any adjustments we make going forward be would be handled in a similar way. But sometimes not revisiting those things directly as an individual component, it can get lost in the shovel. So, any commissioners have any question about those two clarifications?
All right. On the blue rim commission, um there was at least uh through voice motion the will of the group to pursue the next steps on this conversation. So, I'm prepared to do that today. I would say, as I'm going to say always, um, as
information gets in the atmosphere out there, particularly through social media, um, I'm going to make sure and and use the appropriate words for the public consumption on that. There was a representation that this commission, if adopted, would determine um, the salaries of the commissioners of the
councilman. Um, I don't think that's an accurate representation. It will make a recommendation. Uh, any determination of those salaries will be by ordinance to the council themselves. should we choose to adopt this process. This group is only advisory and would only make recommendations. They can choose to
accept those, modify those, reject those in total, etc. So, the blue room commission does not come with the authority to determine those salaries just recommend. So, I want to get that on the table. Um, I think you've heard a lot about uh what I talked about when this was first
brought forward. Uh what you have is supplemental information into your packet this time about how it's being handled in a sister community. Um by the way that commission um met once um their
election is today I believe down in Naples actually. So they met back in September uh recommended in one meeting um the final recommendations they had to their council in October. that's handled by ordinance there as is the recommendation I'm bringing forward
today too for conversation two public hearings on that final determination and then it becomes effective the next uh the first day of seating of the new council after the election so while they are voting in many ways on behalf of
their own compensation getting reelected is an important part to whether or not they ever see that compensation so I just want to make sure that's out there today so it wasn't a um wasn't an extensive process But because they have a more mature track record on that now by doing it several years they have the
the history and the baseline information which we can talk about today to bring all the subject matter experts into the conversation in a couple ways. um they don't explicitly uh outline the membership as it relates to their background expertise, but there's it's
highly encouraged to have financial or some sort of HR benefits and comp background something in that line of people that would apply and be nominated. They also have as we now do and you've seen this before in our packet a great deal of professionally um
obtained peerroup information like kind communities histories and patterns on that um the uh big change they made in the Naples one uh back in October was they're no longer included in any pension activities uh which if you know a lot about how that works it's a very
very expensive approval process for communities um I was involved in Michigan in reducing our our pension for our public employees to define contribution from defined benefit and it was just billions of dollars of saving opportunity and let the individual um
employees determine the investment recommendations they want. So they've adopted that too. Outside of our purview today, just wanted you to know some of the kind of media media issues that they're dealing with. So I think the best thing to do is to pause and allow you to weigh in on what I've provided.
It was pretty straightforward in my mind. um it's pretty clear about what the objective would be and I want to make sure and get the concerns, issues, observations or support you have on the table. So I'm going to open up the floor to every instance starting. I guess it was more clear than I
possibly imagined it could be with my two-page document. All right. So, I'm going to go down the line then and we're going to ask for any concerns people have to formalizing this. And let me before I before I say what that means and Nancy and I had a meeting and she reminded me anything that we
decide ultimately to do, she has to document in in the uh format of a of a legal whether it's an ordinance, recommended ordinance or other sort of um material for council to deal with. So, there's going to be a lot of work around making sure that what we indicate
we're looking for gets properly documented and we'll be some way, shape, or form exposed to that before we wrap up. But the work's really going to begin um when she has to put the pencil to paper and bring those things into the into the daylight, if you will, of the of the council action. So, it's
important in my mind that we don't build a camel. We put something fairly straightforward here, as sleek and lean as we can. get our our high points and our determinative points in front of her and the and the minutes so when she constructs the legal document around putting it in force, it doesn't have a
what and a lot of ifs in there on things that weren't clear because that's what we're doing with the charter now. So Ed, you mind me we start with you? I know you were on record with a cola last time, but since the well was to move in this direction, I'm looking for any reaction you have to what's in front of you. >> No, I'm fine with with with uh moving
forward with this. >> No further clarifications or comments. Okay. So >> Hank, can we go to you next? >> Thank you. Uh, good job in getting the background information. It's helpful to be able to evaluate it in the context of what our neighbors are doing. I had two
concerns that I think are addressed, but I'd like to put them on record. One is that any blue ribbon committee should also be subject to uh the exparte and uh communication uh blackout that would u
insulate them from being contacted by one of the members who might benefit from the salary increase. Uh and second address that let me address that for one second and go to your next one. Um, it is very clear in the sister community that we've looked at, they have actually
required Sunshine Law training by their legal council prior to their first meeting after they're appointed, which would cover both the communication, the ethics, and the responsibility for self-disclosure. And the exparte that we talked about last time being more robust. Anything that would apply to any
of our committees and council will apply to this one. >> Okay. Well, it wasn't clear to me that it was, but I'm glad to see it. And and secondly, um I think the timing of both the appointment to the membership of a
blue ribbon as well as the execution of any resolutions with regard to their recommendations should not be co-terminous with the same term of the council. That is that should be after an election rather than before.
so that somebody is not voting necessarily about their salary increase. >> Okay. Interesting. >> Bev, >> yeah, >> I haven't thought about that one. >> Um, no, I don't have any comments. I think it's um well written. I I circle
back again to um what I said initially at the beginning of of this and that is uh definitions and what we mean by residence um and obviously people that are living here. But assuming you know they they declare
their residence on an IRS tax form. >> Um and if if if that's that's the understanding then I've got no issue at all. I think it's very well written and clear. Thank you. >> You're very welcome. Brian. >> No, it looks great. I don't have any comments to add. >> Okay, let me go down to um Michelle.
>> No, I kind of agree that we some anybody on there should not be within the council in the last four years. >> Oh, okay. Did you pick up that, Amy? That's a that's another >> membership restrictions. >> Yeah, membership restrictions. We'll put that under there. Great. Anita,
>> I'm not sure that the membership structure should be any different than the requirements for someone to be on the council. Okay. >> Uh even though I know you know somebody like you Jim brings certain expertise or or Brian brings certain expertise to a
group like this. I don't know that you want to require something more than the person who's going to get those benefits or that is ultimately elected to to the town council. And then the only other comment I had is that you know you
you've written the benefit or maybe this is Naples the benefit of this model is that it creates an independent resident driven process. It's not really a resident driven process because it's a political driven process in essence in in effect that the council will be
appointing those members. So, if the public was choosing who the members of the blue ribbon committee were, then it would definitely be resident driven. But since the council will choose that committee, um it's I just don't know
that it's resident driven. >> And I I think I think you want to avoid having things that somebody can latch on to and say, "Oh, this isn't right." Um because they'll they'll choke the rest of it. >> Duly noted. And um I see our experts taking notes on that. So I'm sure
that'll be put out. I I would say and I wouldn't mind a little mini conversation with you on this since we're having um I think some good clarity around it. Um all of our committees as I've observed and participated in some are by council
appointment. They all have in one way, shape, or form the potential for uh individual benefits to a council person, not overtly, but indirectly. Whether it's how we use our boats in the canals or if it's how we the speed limits we
put on ebikes, they get to benefit from those, too. So I I'm not as concerned about there being anything connecting who's appointed with the recommendations they make having any different motivation or outcome than the way we handle all of the committee.
>> Neither am I. >> Okay, great. Just want to make sure we had that conversation. Some people trying to stir that a bit. Having some fun with it. >> Um the other >> You want me to disagree just with >> No, no, no, no. It's fine. >> Much less reading for me if you don't. >> Go ahead. I dare you.
>> Two comments. um based on what what has been stated so far um first of all on the exparte and the sunshine training and public records. So sunshine and public records basically that training
is for the benefit of the members who are appointed to the blue ribbon committee. >> Yes. >> Um because those laws would would apply to them and that's fine. The exparte, as I heard it, would basically only apply
to town council members because otherwise you're really getting into um an access to um governmental uh appointees or officials or staff, you really should not be denying the public
access to them. However, um we do uh provide for exparte disclosures because of the fact that a specific person's private property right may be impacted by um whatever action is being taken and
there's a huge debate um when exparte issues came about gosh probably back 20 years or so if not more um because again you're kind of denying the right of access to um to talk to those folks.
>> Okay. My point in raising it uh Nancy was not necessarily to uh preclude the public contact but to have disclosure and I think that's what you're saying too that any of the con any exparte
should be disclosed in whatever form it is >> but but a member of the public doesn't really have a private property interest in that. Um, however, our town council members do, >> but they pay taxes and
>> they do pay taxes >> and that would be where the salary increase would come from. >> Okay. And and that's fine. So um basically then what if I'm understanding you correctly it would be that um members of any proposed blue ribbon
committee would make um exparte or disclosures of of an exparte in nature who they've consulted with what other resources they've looked to um that are not present at the meeting itself. >> Yeah.
>> Okay. Um and then my second concern or comment would be um there was reference made that the um that this would come about through an ordinance rather than um Okay. So the ordinance would be
creating the blue ribbon committee. >> That's correct. However, the final recommendation of the blue ribbon committee that would be going to town council by requesting a resolution if if
there's going to be a adjustment or if they if town council chooses not to accept it. Um what a resolution saying that town council is not going to accept it >> or to approve or disapprove. >> Okay. But it is not by ordinance. No,
that's my my view. >> And again, I would defer to both your recommendation, your expertise. It is being done by ordinance in Naples. >> Uhhuh. >> And that affords two public hearings. >> Correct. >> And that was their bias on that only if
there's a more efficient way because we would have and they only had the one meeting. So there wasn't a lot of debate or interaction with the commission, right, >> during the development process. So this is where the public got their fingers into it and were able to interact directly with the decision makers. >> Yeah. I don't have the documents um in
front of me. I think I had provided them to you. It absolutely was by ordinance because I find that usually um things of a financial nature. Um as Joe will attest, you know, budget type things are generally done by
>> I'm sorry. You're sorry. By resolution. It was done by resolution. I have a copy of your >> All right. >> Yeah, I misspoke. It was by resolution and they adopted it at that meeting which afforded the public during public comment to interact. >> Yes, >> there's a copy of that. >> Yes. Um, so as long as we go with a resolution, I think that's fine because
the the concern is if you were to go with an ordinance, yes, it is going to be two readings. However, um the issue then becomes are you going to codify in MUN code each time and it it's just unnecessary
>> um to do it when it can be accomplished by resolution. >> Very good. Y >> I have a question then. So this is something that you're proposing outside of an amendment to the charter. >> Exactly. >> That I don't think it's our purview. >> Okay. as a committee. I maybe this
belongs with the audit committee or some other other group, but I just I've never seen a charter review committee propose an ordinance or a resolution. It I believe that our job is and that's
what I thought this was going to do was to become part of the recommendations to the council to put forward as um as charter amendments. And so this would be incorporated within the charter and wouldn't just be uh legislative in
nature and easy to change. Um so that that's a concern for me. >> Good. Let's vet that out, Nancy. >> So the uh city of Naples, since we're kind of uh my internet's a little slow here. Um it is in their charter. Um and
I I don't know. Do you have the copy? >> I do. Could you read perhaps what the charter says? >> Oh, I don't know if I have that language. I have the >> I just let this finish spinning. >> Sure. I've got all their stuff, but let me see. >> And we go to Nate.
>> Do you see what I'm saying, Jim? >> Within once every four years to commission, the blue ribbon commission. >> Um I think where that debate came and I'm glad you're bringing up for clarification. um it was how to synchronize that with the fixed salaries that were in the com
that in the charter today and replace it with this requirement that sets those knowing full well there could be a recommendation as extreme as it would sound that there's no salary paid for the next number of years by this group. So if we embed it in there, we give them the flexibility both I'm sorry, we give
them the requirement to both create and ordain uh a point and get the recommendation, but it can be anywhere they choose to bring it back to the council through this process and that has to be dealt with and I think you're comfortable if that's the way it works.
Anybody else have any feelings about that? >> I did pull up the Naples language if you want it. >> Yeah, if you can just read it into the record, that would be great. We're still trying to get to it. The city charter provides that a blue ribbon committee of seven Naples
residents may be appointed at least every four years for the purpose of studying and making recommendations to the council on the level of compensation and benefits for the mayor and city council members. >> That's the operative charter authorization. Seven residents appointed
by uh city council purpose study and make recommendations on compensation and benefits for mayor and counsel timing at least every four years. And they do have a provision for kind of um the first committee shall be appointed no later than and there's a date to try to get
them in sync with a uh four-year look. >> Good. >> So to go to Anita's point, it is something that would be have to be a charter change. It would have to be adopted there. >> Um however, there could be an ordinance implementing the language in the
charter. Exactly. >> That fleshes it out a little bit more or you put it in the charter itself because um they did not put um you know the qualifications of the seven Naples residents in the charter. So that was
left to be discretionary at the time of appointment >> which was Anita's other point which I think is valid and and consistent with the way we do appointments throughout the community. So there's no reason to create some special subcategory for this. It would make sense though if I was appointing somebody to that
committee, I'd probably pick you, you know, or Brian or somebody that had that >> that I knew had that financial expertise. >> Excellent. >> I wouldn't pick me. >> So, anybody have a concern with the the imp embedding this in the charter replacing that current language and
we're moving forward as recommended. >> All right. Well, there'll be another day on this. Yep. Thank you for your help. So Joe, if we could bring you up just to um both on this and then we'll get to um your part of the charter itself. Um,
as you think about and whether you want to embed in your answer when you go through what you're doing on these other articles we go through or you just have a reaction to what we're recommending right now, how best can what this group does, not this group of the Blue Ribbon Commission, get to you what you need as
a working document to try to reflect the impact in the budget of a recommendation come out for any salary adjustments. >> Okay. Um, I'm Joe Wanzik, finance director. Um, I would think that as we put the budget together, I would think if it were presented to us no later than
the end of the month of June, that would be enough time for us to incorporate it into the budget given our the current deadlines and that we have. Is is that what you're looking for? >> It is. And that would be a placeholder
of course like all the items are until they go to the formal process of adoption or debate by the council. >> Yes. Is my mic on? >> It is. It's just really low. >> It is low. It seemed like all these are down a little bit today. >> Okay. >> All right. Thank you. I just wanted that on the record as we work through the
process. All right. So, let's look at um article 11. >> Thank you, >> Joe. I'm going to read through these and then um you're going to be first up to react to any language in here that you have obviously inherited since 2016 that
you would like to make us aware of. uh either works very well and you depend on it the way you structure your team and your process andor while we have the patient open what else do you want us to look around for so we can make the other adjustments so let's do 11.01 1 fiscal year. The fiscal year of the town shall
begin on the first day of October and end on the last day of September. And here he comes. >> Oh no. I Well, I have no comment on that. That's perfectly fine and it aligns with state statute requirements. >> Any concerns in that from anyone else?
Okay. 11.02. Submission of a budget and budget message. Interesting title. On and before the 15th day of July of each year, the town manager shall submit to the council a budget in accordance with state law. It shall outline the financial policies of
the town for the ensuing fiscal year, describe the important features of the budget, indicate any major changes from the current year in financial policy, including any changes in budgetary accounting methods from the current year's expenditures and revenues, together with the reasons for such
changes. summarize the town's debt position and include such other material as a town manager deems necessary. First from the commission, anybody have any obvious things that they're concerned about about the July 15th and how that's presented in the charter? >> No. Joe.
>> Um, so I do have just a little bit of concern about the 15th day of July. I mean, we've certainly been able to make that work. I I have seen in just doing a little bit of research some other municipalities um refer to like the
first on or before the first town council meeting of in August. So that would give us a couple more weeks to put that together if we were to be able to consider that change. Um because it's it's a very compressed time frame for us
and putting it together. It's been it's been a challenge. So, I think getting a couple more weeks of of time would help. And the only other comment I have is that, you know, it says the town manager shall submit the coun to the council a
budget. And I'm in my mind, um, it it could be interpreted to mean it's it's the budget. And in all honesty, at that point in the year, it's it is more of a preliminary or proposed budget that is subject to change.
>> Excellent. And so there might maybe by inserting an adjective there so that it's clear that that's what it is might be helpful. >> It's a excellent uh catch looking to my team on both the honor before first meeting in August and putting
preliminary or whatever it happens to be uh in there right language. Anybody have a concern with those two adjustments to the paragraph? >> No, it seems sensible. >> Yeah. >> Anything else? 11.02. >> All right. Let's read on then. 11.03 3 council action on the budget. The
council shall adopt the budget by resolution honor before the 30th day of September of each year. >> I I agree with that. I think I believe that's also in state statute. So we really couldn't change that. >> Excellent. Nice try, Joe.
>> 11.04 public records. Copies of the budget and the capital program as adopted shall be public records and shall be made available to the public at suitable locations in the town. Anita, anything change there workabilitywise? You've got a lot of experience in that, Joe?
>> The only thing I I'm just have a question mark by is how it that sentence ends at suitable locations in the town. Do we actually need to have that in the charter or can we just end it um to be made available to the public?
>> Um do we have to be that specific? So, um, Joe, you haven't been with us for all the meetings we've already been going through. Um, amending the charter is a very involved process because it
requires, um, creating language to be placed to the electorate. Um and sometimes little changes I is difficult to justify um making that proposal to the town
electorate. However, it could be addressed through an ordinance over which there is more discretion and flexibility to accomplish. Um, so you know, at suitable locations in the town, clearly town hall, if someone were to
come to town hall, we would be able to produce a copy of the budget to them. Um, but that doesn't limit us to only requiring a paper copy, which is probably what was in effect when this
was done. Um, so I mean we're already doing it, so I would suggest that we not make the change. Um, and if needed to provide information to the public if you want to put that in your ordinances in
your code of ordinances, you know, um, at a suitable location in the town, uh, which could even be perhaps even at the Chamber of Commerce office >> or the library. Exactly. um or you know listing others but as far
as a charter change I would not recommend that we amend the charter for that purpose. >> Excellent. >> I agree with >> Okay. >> Thank you. >> No rebuttal. Joe, you're fine with that? >> I'm fine. >> Okay. >> 11.05. Let's talk about budget amendments then through the year. U
subchapter A supplemental appropriations. If during the fiscal year the town manager certifies that there are available for appropriation revenues in excess of those estimated in the budget, the council by resolution may make supplemental appropriations for
the year up to the amount of such excess as long as a fiscally responsible reserve is maintained. >> Um, >> commission, any concerns with that paragraph? No. Nope. Joe, >> no concerns. >> Okay, very good. B. Emergency
appropriations. To meet a public emergency affecting life, health, property, or the public peace. The council by resolution may make emergency appropriations. To the extent there are no unappropriated revenues to meet such appropriations, the council may by such
emergency resolution authorize the issuance of emergency notes which may be renewed from time to time. But the emergency notes and renewals in any fiscal year shall be paid not later than the last day of the fiscal year succeeding that in which the emergency
appropriations were made. I trust you have some comments on that because if the revenues or resources that need to repay those emergency notes are not available for whatever circumstance in the um in the fiscal situation of the community then that EQ
becomes a charter interpretation issue or charter violation. Um, well, to be honest, I did not have any concern because we have not run into that. And I mean, I I certainly can appreciate that that situation could
come about. Um, but >> I really don't know how to reward it in order to accommodate such a situation. >> You're the subject matter. I go back to my team and see if anybody has any additional concerns in that paragraph beyond what's been raised.
>> Nothing, Ed. Thank. Okay. C. Reduction of appropriations. If during a fiscal year it appears probable to the town manager the revenues available will be insufficient to meet the amount appropriated, the town manager report to the council without
delay indicating the estimated amount of the deficit, any remedial action taken and recommendations as to any other steps to be taken. The council then shall take f such further action as it deems necessary to prevent or minimize any deficit for that purpose may by
resolution reduce one or more appropriations. >> I >> that sounds like good fiscal oversight to me. >> It does agree 100%. >> Shub chapter D transfer of appropriations. At any time during the fiscal year, the town manager may
transfer any unencumbered appropriations among programs within a department, office, agency, or a program provided by interlocal agreement. And upon written request by the town manager, the council may by resolution transfer between funds
any unencumbered appropriations from one department, office, agency, or program provided by the inter interlocal agreement to the other. That a workable solution? >> It is. It's very concise and it covers everything. >> Does the team agree? >> Yes.
>> Excellent. >> Joe, you didn't create much controversy. What do you want to talk about in addition to what we have here? >> No, I will I will leave it at that. Thank you for your excellent work. >> Thank you. And I know where you're going for your appointment. So, good luck with that, too. Joe, before you leave, is
there anything else that we didn't think of that in previous charters that we might add that would make some sense? Not not that I can think of. I'm I mean I appreciate >> I'm sure you've worked in other communities where these things have come
up. Um >> I mean this is really a very good document. It's I mean it covers the basics. So I think it it allows enough flexibility to handle things you know through the normal processes but yet it makes it very clear as to what the
boundaries are in terms of how um things can be handled. >> So nothing in your opinion needs to be had. I >> I don't think so. >> Thank you, Joe. >> You're released from this responsibility, Joe. Thank you, sir. Nicely done.
>> All right, let's go back to then seven on the agenda. old business article five nominations elections particularly uh terms of office in those appointments I think Michelle weren't you um thinking about bringing some additional recommendations forward which is why we
carried this over was there anything on your mind on that because I know you were >> No I think the last time we submitted the two job descriptions was and I did that >> it it's >> well we're talking about terms of election or terms of office nominations
elections You're okay with that part? Okay. I thought you had some concerns about how much is remaining in the terms and some of that. >> It's been our practice to whatever we bring up as new business this meeting will come back as old business next meeting. All right. Just >> then it looks like we covered it.
Anything open for the team on that? Okay. How about I think you've received the town manager uh contract now description. Any concerns of anything you saw there that ought to be addressed through the charter conversation? >> Can we go back to five for of course one minute? Of >> course. Can Can we just get
with the situation we're in right now? >> Mhm. >> With the appointment being made to cover Mr. Adult's seat >> at the next election, is that a two-year seat or a four-year seat?
>> Because we will have two four-year seats. >> Yeah. >> But the person that's appointed, whether they run for election or not, that seat would just be for two additional years. Isn't that correct? I think madam attorney has ruled on that. Do you want to >> um clarify any concerns to be consistent
with what you've told the public? >> I don't recall. Um so I think that uh we had said that it would be a four-year term um on the appointment. Um although
there was some disagreement about that, but I think that was my interpretation. If I remember right, somewhere in this charter, and I can't pinpoint it right now, it says that an appointment would be made until the next election.
>> That's correct. And that is why November will be the election that will determine the term of the or determine who gets in that particular seat. As I have gone all around on our language here, it comes out the same way every time is that the next election means the next election.
So whenever the normally scheduled next election is based on the time somebody gets appointed to that day they need to run formally for whatever the term is that um Nancy will clarify for us but it is the very next election. So November 2026 the individual being appointed will
need to run and be reelected um by the by the community. >> Our charter came out clear on that. I I don't I I agree with Ed and I had the argument with with discussion with Nancy about this the other day because um I I
thought that our last discussion we were leaning towards the balance of the term. That's that's where I thought we were and because I remembered Scott saying something, but then what happens if Dan and I get sick or something happens, God forbid, and then we've got a whole reset
with everybody at four-year terms. I I don't like this idea of resetting the term because that's not what's happened. What's happened is someone has vacated a term and there's a remainder of that term that someone should run for. I I
really believe that very strongly. Um, you know, Nancy may disagree and and that's fine and we all may decide that, but there's nothing stated in our charter what it should be. and and so it it seems to me historically someone has
run for the balance, but that's just how it's happened. That I think that um there's only been one person who resigned who had terms had time and another one uh another one resigned at almost at the end of her term. Um, but
it just seems to me that by resetting the four-year term, um, it just seems like we're playing with something we shouldn't play with. >> So, let me give you two reactions. Let your reaction. >> Can I Yeah. Okay. You got it. Great. >> So, there was a lot of discussion about
it and um there was some confusion on my part. So, I did clarify on December the 26. Um, I sent an email to the mayor, the vice mayor, and council members stating that it's my understanding that there's discussion in the community
regarding the implementation of 4.08 of the town charter that relates to the length of the remaining term of a vacant council seat. Initially, I believed an error that the term would terminate when the term of the vacating council would terminate. That would be four years. Um,
similar to when the mayor's seat becomes vacant. However, because the seats are at large and not district seats, that's where my confusion came in. Um, and there is no similar language to the language regarding a vacancy of the
mayor. It is my opinion that the term to an appointed vacancy expires at the next regular election. So, that's consistent with what Anita is saying. >> So, so the appointed term would be up until
>> the next election. election and then somebody has the option of running or not >> for the full four-year term of running and that would be consistent then with our our staggered appointments and staggered elections. >> But is there a way some of you math
people can you figure out could that work to not be that way? Because in this particular instance, someone the appointee the appointee whomever that is um would run for election in November
and then would run again or that that term would expire two years from now because we have another election two years from now. But what if it had been who's got four years? Do you still have four years left? So you have three years left. So, I'm just wondering, is there
is there an option? Is there something there where it could be that it's four years? Do you see what I'm saying? I mean, >> you could you could suggest that and we could clarify that. I mean, seriously, that this would be a good charter amendment to be a good charter
>> to the uh electorate to get their their voice and their opinion on how it should be. Um but the the little twist is the fact that you do have at large rather than district. >> So if you recall um when I had done some
other research pure communities again on this the determinant factor for them was months left on the term whether or not you had run for election or you got the remaining term. 24 or less you went into the remaining term. more than 24, you
had to stand for election for the next full term, which is what matched the acceleration of it's no longer a two-year term. It's zero now and you're running for full four-year term. The flying ointment also became >> um if you're running for that seat, assume that you want to stick with the
original expiration of that seat. Which seat are you running for at large elections? If three people running for three seats, how do you choose which one you're running for? >> That's the flying. >> That's the flying ointment. And the way they cleared it up is they did a 24, you get that. More than that, you had to run for a four-year term. And that's how we
cleared it up. That's what the other charters had done. So they're never, you may change a 32, but you're never out of a 3-2 sequence. >> So in other words, whoever would be appointed right now would automatically serve two years. >> It depends if it's 24 or months less. So if they're appointed whatever that
whatever that term is, >> I think it's longer than that for Jim. >> Yeah, I think it is. >> But if it's less than that, yes, they're appointed to the remainder. It protects then the the synchronization of the of the electric electric cycles and everybody knows what they're running for. That's how I saw other people deal with
that. >> So we're kind of back to what we have unless want to put >> I agree other charters that I've looked at have that as well. >> Do they? >> So we can certainly add that to protect the decision of who's getting what job
for what period of time and when are they required to run again and for how long. But in this particular situation we find ourselves in now, what would happen? >> They would u be less than 24 months. So they're going to have the remainder of the term. I'm sorry. In this one, it's
more than 24. They got to run. >> They have to run in November. How long do they get a four-year term because it's over? >> See, I hate that part. >> And that chick, we're in a 3-2 now or it'll be or two three now. We're going to be in a 3-2 next. >> But what if somebody else resigned in the interim? Just say what else? Scott
says, "Forget it. I'm over it." and he's and he drops. >> And then if that happened, playing this out, they would uh have to run again at the very next election because they get the remainder to that till the next election. So that would be in what? 21 months. >> No, that would be in November. >> Oh, in November if you did it right now.
>> And so now we'd have four people running for four-year terms. >> We would. >> Bad idea. >> I guess we got to get Scott's commitment on that. >> But you know, it could happen. It could happen. I mean, I just think of times where all five council members have gone
to the League of Cities. Something happens. Orlando gets blown up. I don't know. Something happens. And I mean, in that case, the governor appoints a new council. But what I just I just I mean I guess I just feel strongly that the term
that that Jim Adder Holt vacated uh expires in what 256 in in 19 in 28 and that the election in November should be for until 28
>> and if no one runs for that seat >> because they're all running for the four-year terms. I >> I don't know. But when they're running on the ballot, I don't think the seats are they're not numbered. They're not identified. >> It would have to be in this situation. Yeah. >> Okay. >> That they would have to be designated
and somebody would want to have to run for those two years. >> Or maybe it's I don't I don't know how I haven't really thought how to resolve this. I'll I'll think some more about Yeah. >> Well, we're not done with our business yet, >> but maybe not everybody agrees. I mean, maybe everybody thinks it should be four
years. I don't know. What do you all think? >> I think it should be two years. I think he should it should fill out what was Jim Adterold's seat >> or whomever's >> to keep to keep the rotation correct. Well, there's 2 three 32 whatever. >> Well, then let me ask it let me ask it
this way, Nancy. Um because you clarified it with not being a district. Uh what if the charter was changed to say if you're appointed, you serve the remaining months of that particular individual's term? Can the charter do that for us? I I think so. But how are
the seats assigned? Aren't they alphabetical? >> That's not what he's asking. >> No, I'm just saying who's ever open, whatever they got left, they get. >> Okay. >> And that would seem to solve all the issues that we're trying to work around a little bit. It does, however, some other conversation does put somebody on
counsel for longer than normal without electorate reaction. But I guess they can react to the appointees, the counselors. >> They could. Anybody think that's a >> No, it seemed like a reasonable solution. Okay. Sorry. Fulfill the term.
>> So, you're proposing changing the language that says the appointment is until the next election. >> Taking that out and putting in placing it with they will serve the remainder of the individual's term to which they've been appointed. >> Yes. >> And and that wouldn't apply in this case
because none of these changes would take >> That's right. be the next one. >> Yeah. So, what what does what would happen in this case? It's already been determined. >> Sorry. >> So, it's the two years. >> Two years. >> Yeah. So, then you create the flip of this election cycle. You're going to
have what? Three people on the ballot instead of two. But then next time you would only have >> two. >> Two. >> Just revers. >> So, it just kind of takes the >> Well, no. Next time you'd have three. If in fact the person who assumes the two
years has to run again in two years, you'd still have three because you're not changing the rotation, >> but then they would pick up four. So you're off cycle again because of the two-year interrupted. >> I feel like this is who's on first. >> Yeah. So I think >> I need a chart. >> I think yes,
>> it it seems the simplest to me. And I think what requires first of all legal opinion. If if the individual pointed as running in November for four-year term, then that is what it is and they'll deal with that. I think our charter language adjustment here could very easily solve what we've recommended at least talked
about is you'll serve the remaining term and that keeps everything on sync and everybody knows what they're running for the >> future. Yes. >> Yes. >> Reasonable. >> Yeah. So, but Nancy, your current your current thought process is or your current advice or uh ruling is that this
November, whomever is appointed is running for two years. >> Correct. Okay. >> Okay. Um, town manager, I was um just clarifying everybody got what they needed to look at the contracts and all that and the deputy
>> on the town attorney. Just one thing, Nancy, and you made this clear to us, but the charter language I want to make sure is satisfying to you. Um, you said we don't hire an attorney. We hire a law firm. >> We didn't hire you. We hired your law firm. It was, did I quote you right on
that? >> Well, yes, but the law firm serves as the attorney. >> That can be interchangeable for purposes of the charter. We hire an attorney, whether it's individual or law firm, we hire an attorney. >> So, there's there's no needed change. >> Excellent. Okay. Thank you. Good.
>> All right. Um, new business article seven, I believe we're at. >> Town clerk. All right. 701. Duties and powers. There may be a town clerk. Wow. There may be a town clerk who shall
be appointed by the town manager with the consent of counsel. The town clerk shall serve at the pleasure of the town manager and shall let's stop at that first sentence. Amy, any concerns about there may be and consent of counsel? How's consent work
on that when you're hired? >> Does council have to approve your hire by the town manager? >> No. I think he might go before them, but he they don't have to approve it. No. >> Anybody concerned about consent? I I don't think there ever has been
consent that the the town clerk is an employee of the town manager. >> Absolutely. So it would seem like we should clean that up. >> Well, yeah. I I guess so. >> Town manager makes the thought about it. >> Yeah. >> Counselor, you have any issues with that? No. Okay. >> Let's make an adjustment there. Yeah,
you know those. >> So again, I would just uh s suggest that that might be something a change to your charter as I did when um when Joe was here. >> Um >> basically a town manager would probably
let their council know informally that there's an intent to hire a certain individual. >> So the consent isn't harmful is what you're saying. >> Yeah. Okay. >> And asking them is is not >> Watch us move on. Yeah. Sub chapter A,
given notice uh the the town manager, the clerk shall give notice of council meetings to its members in the public. >> Okay. >> Done. >> B. Keep the journal and minutes of the proceedings of the council and its committees which shall be public records.
>> Stop me when you have something. >> I just have a question. What is the journal? >> The journal is basically the town records. >> Okay. A journal is an archaic term that's been used in other charters as well. >> We don't keep a physical book any longer. >> No.
>> Okay. C. Authenticate by signature and record in full in books kept for the purpose all ordinances and resolutions passed by the council. >> Once again, we don't have paper any longer. Okay. Everything's electronic. >> So signature is now electronic authorization or approval.
>> Okay. >> Paper doesn't swim well. So the way that that could be done, but I don't really think it's necessary, is that there could be an ordinance adopted that clarifies the definition of books. Books to be an journal as well. Um, you know,
any type of digital file, uh, that is an official record of the town. Um, also I will state that there is a Florida statute that requires us to identify who the clerk or the keeper of the records is. Um and in our situation it is Amy.
>> Let the minutes reflect that clarification and potential resolution around that. D be the custodian of the town seal. You have that Amy? >> I do have a seal. >> I am in >> Is the ink still good? >> It's a Zoom Bosser seal. So yes,
>> have the power to administer oaths. >> I do that. >> Okay. F perform such duties as may be assigned by the town manager. And there it is in every job description. >> That's the scary. Anything missing on town clerking from the commission concerns? >> All right, great.
>> I just would ask you is there any >> No, I I think it's the way >> fairly clear and no difficulty. >> Do we uh just the phrase serves at the pleasure of the town manager? I mean, I understand the concept behind that, but
from a practical human resources perspective, it doesn't really work that way. Um, does this cause us any pain with this language? >> You talking about it being an at will position? >> Correct. >> Yeah. >> Any concerns there, Nancy, on your side
from whether or not that represents the way it operates. >> Um, I believe serving at the pleasure u dictates it is at will. Okay. >> Um, >> long as we got that on record, it's given me. Okay. Okay. Good. >> Fair.
>> All right. Uh, article nine um, administrative departments 9.01 establishment of additional departments. The council may establish such other departments as it determines necessary for the efficient administration and operation of the town. Such departments,
offices or agency shall be established by ordinance. Any history there that anybody should know on how that works or not? Or it's just there as a feel safe and we've got it if we need it. just what it looks like to me. Yeah. >> So, when it talks about um this is not
creating an org chart by ordinance, it it's basically within your code. There are several departments that are spelled out and um provided with a little bit of text >> and anything more than that would need to take a bail of this process to get established.
>> No. Um shall be established by ordinance. >> Yes. What I mean the charter recommends the process by which to get it done >> by ordinance. Correct. >> Okay. >> All right. Speaking of ordinances, let's talk about those and resolutions in article 10 if we can. Section 10.01
definition of ordinances and resolutions. As used in this charter, the following words and terms shall have the following meanings unless some other meaning is plain plainly indicated. Subchapter A. Ordinance means an official legislative
action of the council which action is a regulation of a general and permanent nature and enforceable by local law. That seems to fit perfectly to how we operate.
B. Resolution. Resolution means an expression of the council concerning matters of administration, an expression of a temporary character or a provision for the disposition of particular item of the administrative business of the town. So one looks very permanent and
hard to overdo and one looks more temporary and able to be adjusted. >> Thus the two or administrative. Yes. All right. Let me open up the team on ordinance or resolution. Any recommended changes to that language? Sorry, bother you. Anita, does that all look good to you? >> It looks great.
>> Okay, great. >> Looks great. >> You had to live with it a long time. Thanks for asking. >> You had to live with your own cooking. >> Looks great. >> All right. 10.02. Let's find out about how adoption of the ordinance is handled. Every proposed ordinance shall be introduced in writing and the form required for final adoption. No
ordinance shall contain more than one subject and matters properly connected therewith, which shall be clearly expressed in its title. Well, there's a challenge. The enacting clause for an ordinance shall be it is hereby ordained by the town of Fort Myers Beach as
follows. All right. So, there's the general setup. Anything from the commission on that that they're worried about. >> Is it plainly? >> Yeah. >> I think >> I'm trying to think if there's ever been if there's an or the single topic. I don't know why that's running with me.
Like maybe we've had multi-topic ordinances. Have we? Well, when they're related. Okay. >> Um, for instance, you may have one ordinance that amends your entire land development code. >> Got it. >> Um, and I would I do want to add that we
do have Florida statute requirements that we adhere to. Um, and so I think the language here is consistent with those. Um, but if it's not, the statute is going to override anything that's in our charter. Um, the purpose of the
title, drafting the title is kind of an art. Um, because you want to be able to No, seriously, you want to be able to convey to the public what matter is being talked about. >> So, you want to make it pretty specific.
However, on the other hand, you don't want to have a two-page title that addresses every detail. So, generally, if you get enough information in the title, um that would at least put them on notice to go find out a little bit
more if they're interested in it. Um there is not a requirement for reading the title of resolutions at our meetings, but we do because again it gives the public the understanding of what the town council or even the LPA is
currently looking at and will have under consideration. So it you know um changes that we have made. Sometimes titles will say um you know uh an ordinance amending chapter 6 of the LDC
uh regarding section 419 uh providing for scri what providing for conflict scriveners uh severability and a conflict and a effective date that's insufficient because generally yes a member of the
public can go and look up that section of the code, but it doesn't really give them enough understanding of what's actually coming before the town council. So, we can we like to address the section in the code that's changing, but
we also like to add a description of it. We can't hit every little thing, but enough to really let the public understand what is being considered. I smiled and I I think this handles any concerns around that, but I smiled because I know the changes we attempted
to make and I think made progress on how public notices are written now. If you read those, it's clear to the reader that it's not about housing subsection 6.2. It actually says they're going to build an apartment building here and if you want to come and do that, that was a great adjustment over the last several
periods, whatever it's been. And I know we're all trying to get the same place to get the public connected with what we're really talking about. And if they want more, they can either research or come in. All right. Subchapter A. An ordinance may be introduced by any member at any regular or special meeting
of the council. A proposed ordinance may be read by title or in full or at least two let's start at least >> on at least two separate council meeting days and shall at least 10 days prior to
the adoption be noticed in a newspaper of general circulation in the town. the notice of proposed enactment shall state the date, time and place of the meeting, the title of the proposed ordinance and the place or places within the town where such proposed ordinance may be
inspected by the public. >> So I will comment um the two readings. The first reading that we have of all our ordinances are generally the introduction reading. Um there are some municipalities in the state that simply read the title and move on to the next
agenda item. Um because there is no requirement that you actually deliberate and discuss. >> Other communities including Fort Meyer speech um I think take a more um practical approach to it. they have the
discussion on first reading and that way any needed changes can be made uh before second reading and then presented at second reading and then a decision could be made at second reading. In the first example that I gave, what would happen
is the title would be read and then you come to a second reading of the title and then there's really all the discussion of policy issues, what changes need to be made which might even precipitate a third meeting. So it might
look like it's more efficient um to just you know read them but in reality it really works much better to have that discussion policy discussion and debate on first reading. So then you know that maybe it doesn't even need to come back
for a second reading if there's um not enough support for it. >> Yeah. um curious u so many uh newspapers are going out of existence um and we we read about it every day in national
publications u are there uh more creative uh ways of stating the availability of information to the public? Well, I think that the statute still requires um noticing in
the newspaper. So, this doesn't I I'm not really advocating for any type of change to this language because I think it's consistent. I'll defer to Amy because she has to do all the noticing >> and I believe the statute calls for a um a newspaper of paid circulation too.
>> So, which in our instance is the news press because that's a paid subscription. But then is there somewhere to Hank's point that um elaborates on our our policies and procedures beyond just the newspaper? >> It's on our website. It's out in the
lobby. It's you know that is there anywhere the public can say we do this every time. I know what this what the charter requires but we do this too. >> Any ordinance when it's coming for that first reading will be in the agenda packets and the entire ordinance is
there. >> Another good point. So, it's noticed on the agenda. >> Yes. And um also Amy has been instrumental in adding a little bit of language to our agendas so that um if it
is adopted or approved, it's not adopted on first reading. It's approved on first reading for scheduling at and then she'll have the date in there for the next meeting. So that some communities don't do that and right, >> you know, you don't know when it's coming back.
And uh Amy, do you see the notices that are in the paper? >> I placed the notices in the paper. >> I know, but do you do you >> Yeah, we'll get a tear sheet from the newspaper with the actual tear sheets are all electronic nowadays, but we'll get an affidavit of publication.
>> Okay. And I'm curious because you know at each um >> committee member committee issues in on the county level that the uh clerk has to appine that that that notice was given within that period of time on the
record >> and I do hear now also >> each meeting. Yeah. >> All right. She's asking if you if you um Nancy will read her script at the beginning of each public hearing and I I she asked me that question there. >> Okay. Thank you.
>> All right. Item B. The council as provided by general law may adopt an emergency ordinance without complying with the requirements of notice expressed in the foregoing paragraph. An emergency ordinance shall become effective upon adoption and automatically stand repealed as of the
61st day following. Scott, you had to operate in the real world in this briefing. Did this part of the charter give you flexibility you need to do what you need to do when the town was in emergency? >> I wasn't excuse me, I wasn't on the council. >> So, I can I can I can find to this. So,
we did have a situation where um unfortunately we found out the hard way that our um ability to do appeals of our building official decisions uh was no longer possible to take them to uh Lee
County Construction Licensing Board. So, we adopted an emergency ordinance to allow those appeals to go to our special magistrate. >> At the same time, however, we did a first reading of the same um ordinance
as a first reading of a regular ordinance. Then it gave us the latitude of 61 days to be traveling or authorized under the emergency ordinance knowing that we were going to come back with a second reading of the regular ordinance
>> um which would then supersede that emergency ordinance. >> I didn't finish the whole sentence I saw on the other page. emergency ordinance shall become effective upon adoption and automatically stand repealed as of the 61st day following the date in which it
was adopted. This shall not prevent reenactment of such an ordinance under regular procedures, which is what Nancy just outlined. >> Everybody good there? >> Yeah. >> C. Ordinances which reszone specific parcels of private real property or which substantially change permitted use
categories shall be enacted pursuant to general law. property rights, Nancy. >> Um, yes. So, we for um for resonings um we are dictated by um by general law. We do have our um development agreement
which has the potential of reszoning property. So, our development agreements are also adopted following the same procedures for resonings. Oh, >> okay. Um, every other type of um, land
use approval is primarily adopted by resolution. >> Item D, an ordinance shall upon its final passage be recorded in a book, kept for that purpose, and shall be signed by the mayor and the town clerk. A copy of the ordinance shall be available in town hall electronically
assumed. Now, Amy, >> yep. >> Same process, though. >> Correct. And they're all on our website. Once they're signed, we upload them to our website and then we send them to depending on the ordinance to municode. >> Sure. >> Any before we move on to resolutions?
Section 10.03, adoption of resolutions. Every proposed resolution shall be introduced in writing and in the form required for final adoption. No resolution shall contain more than one subject which shall be clearly expressed in its title.
The clause which shall be used for all resolutions approved by the council shall be. It is hereby resolved by the town of Fort Mary's Beach as follows. A resolution may be introduced by any member at any regular or special meeting of the council. A resolution shall upon
its final passage be recorded in a book kept for that purpose and shall be signed by the mayor and the town clerk. A copy of the resolution shall be available in the town hall. Amen. >> Any concerns? No. All right.
So, that brings us to the end of our u formal agenda today. Um let me um talk about just a little bit about going forward getting down to um a couple meetings left. So, um we should be able to bang through
in March the um I think we've got the date on here for the next meeting, March 3. uh bang to the remaining part of the um of the uh charter itself. I will between now and then um sit down with Nancy and Amy and any others she
recommends to give you all an outline of a protocol and process that we're using in April to start to synthesize and codify our conversations. I'm will be publishing the final um red line copy that you'll all get a copy of
as will everybody else and be able to look through that. I would ask you to look for those material or significant things that would alter the meaning by a different reader versus just personal preference if you will so we don't
relitigate some of this um and get ourselves acquainted with what we're going to do in April. um which looks like at this point we'd be putting our draft recommendations together. Um we'd be worked through from NY's advice on what category we recommend a council
they think about these in and she gave us that whole litany of them then and preparing uh the first outline through conversation of a draft document that then we would bring forward to the council the following month to meet the deadlines we need for them to do anything they want to do on referendum.
So that'll be the back half of next meeting which I think will get everybody organized and um any feedback reaction you have obviously through the appropriate channels but more of that we can do in live c live conversations the better. Any concerns with any of that
>> Amy? >> No concerns about what you just spoke about other than um April 6 you're scheduled to present to council your changes. So, do you want a second March meeting or or because we're trying to catch that supervisor of elections deadline?
>> Isn't that in June though? >> It is, but it's all going to be by ordinance. >> So, you got to have the two readings. >> Okay. >> Right. And discussion by council. Generally, there's um a council agenda item where they can discuss it and then they direct me to bring back an
ordinance for first reading with whatever changes they would like to make in the ordinance. And this is where um I must follow Florida statutes that limits the number of words that I can put in there uh to make it understandable and
transparent to the electorate uh but at the same time not occupy a you know 20 page ballot. >> So let me make a recommendation if it's will the group here and have a good conversation around this. In my mind, it would very terminate very be determinative of how where we are after
our conversation in early March. If if we get to a place that we're just providing documentation, um I think we're going to be pretty well off. If we're at a place where we we want to have an initial discussion before final the document I'll see, I think we can call something with and amongst each
other to reschedu something after March 3rd, whether it be the very next week or something more more critical than that, maybe the very next day, whatever we need to do. But why don't we kind of see how that feels and looks so we can best use everybody's time. Get us the largest amount of participation we can by
looking dynamically at our calendars when we're here. And then I'll just reserve the right to have another March meeting if we want to bring something to closure that way. >> Everybody good with that? >> Yes. And if I can add at the final recommendation that's made to council,
um generally sometimes it's able we're able to go ahead and work out some proposed wording um for the charter change and I would because of all the compensation not compensation um regarding the term
of someone who is appointed um it might be beneficial to have sample language from you all as to how you would like to have that worded. >> Um, mean where we ended up on remaining term. >> Yeah. >> I mean, I don't mind writing that because Yeah, >> I made the recommendation. I'll do an
outline and let the group look at it if you want. Okay. All right. So, let's do um any member items you've got? Let's do reverse here. Anita, anything on your mind um that we should be thinking about before the next meeting? >> Nothing about the charter, but thank you,
>> Michelle. Um, I am traveling on March 3rd, so I am asking if I could do it remotely, >> of course. Um, we'll have to reluctantly approve that at the time with you not being here, but we'll probably get that done by vote. >> Thank you, >> Brian. >> Uh, no comments. >> Okay, Jeff.
>> Yeah, I I um I'd like to I think it's worthy of discussion. something that that occurred over the um since our last meeting and and uh again referring to social media and and a lot of misunderstanding. Um what came up was uh this idea of of
uh homesteading and that to to run for council you needed to be homesteaded and that's not my understanding >> of >> it's not the case. And so so I'd like to if possible spend a little bit of time
discussing that at the next meeting. Um is that something that we want to look at for the charter for example or is that something that is just misinformation and and we just move on? But I I I wonder if it's worthy of a discussion. So Nancy, I know um the
concerns we always have about devolving into conversations that then we have to document and do things like that with and whether or not it's necessary. So I can react to it personally going through it or you can react on behalf of the um town attorney position about qualifications, whether or not homesteading is involved or not and get
that off the record or I'm sorry, get that on the record. >> Get it off the table is what I meant to say. So, I did do a um memo that was sent to um town council when this issue came up.
And let me see if I can find it. I know Amy sent it to me the other day >> while she's looking up. Hank, anything on your mind for um good to the cause? >> Just that I would like to uh uh see some language with regard to what I suggested
on the ethics issue. And >> um Nancy and I haven't spoken, so we haven't really put together a draft, but I I would like to for the next meeting provide more Finnish language um and uh suggest
>> leave that in your hands. You have full support, of course. The the only objections I've ever heard is that it might be redundant. And I say amen. We could use redundancy and restating. Uh nobody reads state statutes at you know
at the dinner table. So let's try to make it very simple. Okay. Done. >> Thank you. >> It's on your table. Okay. Ed. >> I don't have anything additional. >> Okay. Pause here a minute for Nancy to react to Dev's. Can I just bring it back
to you? >> Of course. >> Um, good with you. >> January 9th. >> I know, but my emails are not functioning correctly. Um, >> you sent it as well. >> All right, we'll bring that back then as a follow-up item.
>> We're getting close. Uh, I just want to start a process of thanking the team for the attention to detail here. People have been here, they've been engaged, they've done their homework, they've been provocative, but they they've been cooperative and and the right compromises have happened. I think we're doing what um only gets done once a
decade in a pretty good way with a diverse group of people that some help write this and some of us inherited it, but it's been fun to work with you all and we'll continue to go down that path and get this thing wrapped up. So, with that, I'd entertain a motion to adjurnn. So, move support. Second. All right. The
eyes have it. We're ajourned.