We're live. We're live, ma'am. >> We're live. All right. Calling to order uh this uh Town Council special workshop meeting June 16th, 2026, 6:00 p.m. Uh pledge of allegiance and a moment of
silence. >> I pledge allegiance to 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. Roll call, please.
>> Councilmember Stevens. >> Present. >> Councilmember Cain. >> Present. >> Councilmember Coleman. >> Present. >> Vice Mayor Sood. Mayor El Ramey. >> Present. >> Acting Town Manager Oats. >> Present. >> Town Attorney Kurtz. >> I am here. >> Public Works Director Lawler.
>> Here. >> Community Standards Director Gardner-Young. >> Here. >> Thank you. Uh additions, deletions, and modifications. >> No. >> No. >> I'll make a motion to approve the agenda. >> All right. We have a motion to approve
the agenda. Second by Councilmember Coleman. All those in favor? >> Aye. >> Aye. Opposed? Hearing none, motion passes 4-0. All righty. That brings us to uh agenda item one, uh presentation by Treasure Coast Regional
Council. Uh good evening. I see that you made it here. >> Yes. Yeah, absolutely. In fact, I left our office at 3:00 today, and I was uh I got to watch the power outage. It was exciting over here for a while, actually. So, um,
no hiccups today. All right. So, um, you guys have seen this, um, these recommendations already, um, 2 weeks ago. Again, Jessica Seymour with the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council. Um, these are the presentation for the community technical, community planning
technical assistance grant from Florida Commerce. We're reaching the end of that, uh, that process. Um, as a reminder to everyone in the room, um, we regional regional planning council, we only work for municipalities. Uh, we're
not developers. And in this study, we are not we are not, um, uh, changing anybody's, uh, zoning or land uses through this process. What the grant did ask us to look at, uh, was public input in a particular area, the
traffic infrastructure in that area, public safety and drainage, the equestrian pedestrian safety, and gateway identity. And then also look at any, um, fiscal and zoning strategies that would be appropriate for the area. Um, each of the recommendations
is just that, a recommendation. Um, it's up to the town council to create any action on those recommendations. Uh, and what we heard from the community, again, was that the the reason why we were here is that the development has diluted the town with
generic architecture, landscaping, that the infrastructure is aging and facing new challenges, and that there's a general, um, concern about the quality of life in Loxahatchee Groves. So, with that, we have four main, uh, recommendations.
Most importantly, hold the line, follow the comprehensive plan, and provide more consistency within the zoning. Codify the standards, adopt improved architecture and landscape standards. Uh, again, specifically for, um, anything that's on the the commercial
properties. Announce the town identity through values and the character at every opportunity and invest in the infrastructure thinking long-term and pursuing grants strategically. So we went through each of those recommendations
2 weeks ago. So I'll try to introduce some some more information based off of the comments we received so far. But again, following what's in your comprehensive plan, what's in your future land use map, you have very strong policies
in policy 1.2 to use that line developed from East Citrus Drive as well as the commercial low and the commercial low office future land uses. There was very strong support for limiting any expansion of
commercial. So we we wanted to echo that what we heard from the community. We mentioned the adopt improved architectural standards and landscape standards. We talked about that last time. I also wanted to mention in the umbrella of landscape standards also
looking at green infrastructure and littoral plantings. You'll see the pond there to the the bottom of the slide is an existing pond and it could be greatly improved upon if the littoral plantings were stronger. Littoral plantings are
the shelf of landscaping that helps to clean and help prevent the kind of greening that you see there, algae growth. It also helps to mimic the landscape more naturally, it provides a habitat as well as cleaning the quality
of the water. So those are standards that can help improve stormwater quality throughout the town as well. There we go. We also mentioned uh, gateways and town identity. The last meeting we introduced
some renderings and some concepts along Southern Boulevard, but we also identified some other key locations for improvements. One of those, um, we we identified in plan. Um, this is the the B Road entrance into Loxahatchee Groves. We
heard a lot about the commercial um, there's actually a lot more We heard a lot about the, um, the amount of vehicle trips going through there, how difficult it is to navigate, the congestion close to the intersection. So, we developed a series of interventions, um, that could
be looked at by the town. Again, this is something that would be the next step if the town is interested in pursuing it. Um, but essentially, and I wish I could point at it, but essentially what we, um, illustrated as a concept is including a elongated
roundabout to the north a little bit from where it had it previously been looked at to try and connect some of the, um, the tangerine connections there. And then also, really importantly, a landscaped median to kind
of reduce what right now is very wide, and that width today can, um, induce speeds and doesn't necessarily set the right character for, um, entering Loxahatchee Groves. We also, um, identified an improved equestrian crossing. That photograph is very near
to that, uh, what is today is marked as an equestrian crossing, but it's not marked, um, appropriately for drivers on on the asphalt. Um, it lacks signage on the other side. So, we call out each of those improvements, um, along that B
Road entrance, again. So, this is another opportunity to, um, identify and and communicate the expectation to to drivers and, uh, pedestrians as they enter into the town. Um,
I'm having a hard with the clicker today. Sorry. Can Can I ask, is it possible to have the slide advance? I don't know if it's It doesn't want to go forward. The next slide um is >> Oh, there you go. There you go. >> Thank you so much. Um the next slide,
these are examples from Lake County. Um and again, this is just something to um include for a discussion sake uh going forward, but having unified signage throughout the town could be a goal over time. Also, the those yellow indicating
signs we talked in the report about recommending future signage include more icons so that there are no language barriers to the expectations and that they're visually read very quickly. Um also, signage that tells you what you should be doing like yielding rather
than what you shouldn't be doing. Um people tend to listen um to directions uh believe it or not sometimes when they're driving because they only have a a a brief moment to see the signs and if they can't quickly read everything on that um signage, you want them to absorb
what they need to be doing first. So, if we can can you advance the slide again? We did um um and then one more time. And then the next the last one is a how do you pay for these things, right? We want to think long term, we want to think about
grants strategically. So, if you next slide. Sorry, I apologize. It wasn't working. Um we included a matrix of recommended uh grants to pursue that tie to specific projects rather than just what might be available. Um these tie specifically to
the projects that are outlined um in our recommendations that are in the report. We also identified whether or not um matching grant uh dollars are required as part of that grant proposal. If you could do next slide. An example of one of those types of of
improvements and an approach to grants is looking at resiliency, not just the transportation network. So this is Collecting Canal and Collecting Canal Road. We took a look at this road because we heard about the many
crashes that have occurred here and the safety concerns. So if we go to the next slide, one of the the very low hanging pieces of of fruit is some additional signage. As a newcomer to the town, I saw notice
that when you turn from the south, you can turn to the right and there's actually nothing on on 6th there that'll tell you, "Hey, this is a yield street condition. Go to the next intersection." So that would be very helpful. So
announcing the yield street, announcing that it's an equestrian sharrow as it is today. And then on the next one illustrating again that it is still a yield street. We took some measurements along Collecting Canal Road there and some of the lane widths because the road
does wiggle a little bit and because of some intrusion of maybe sand over time and grass over time, you do have portions of that road that actually have 9-ft travel lanes on either side. So it might be worth to again talk about
looking at that as a yield street condition with signage, not just the signs that say you know, yield to canal side. So those those at a more regular interval and talk about yielding. You can go to the next slide.
You can go through. Yep. We also um maybe worth investigating whether or not that center line is is um if if the if the too much of that roadway is 9 ft wide, um the lanes I mean, um that that line in the center maybe
needs to be uh reevaluated. Next slide. Uh and next slide. I could go you can go through the next one. Yeah. Um we also addition to the road, the infrastructure should be looked at with the canal because the canal and the road
work together um as a piece of infrastructure. So, here are some illustration and you know, some examples of possible um interventions to harden those edges as well as a vertical element to really indicate the the caution that needs to
be taken when driving on this road. Um I saw it myself how fast people tend to go um even though there's there's a pretty narrow condition there. And next slide. Oh, and then last but not least, um
considering a yield um pull-offs. I know this would be sent again a recommendation only it voluntarily, um but there could be opportunities to study some places where um vehicles could pull to the side to allow
pedestrian uh traffic to pass safely. Um the la- We also had some um some research put into the business and neighborhood improvement districts. Um these are districts that can be established. They do require a voter referendum. Um and but it does allow
that district to um assess a a two mil um ad valorem tax within that district that could be spent within that district. Um and there needs to be a governing body that represents the property owners from that district as well. So, this is one tool in the
toolbox. If you go to the next slide, um that tool could go towards um additional, you know, open space, additional, uh, uh storm water infrastructure. Um, but there would definitely need to be a nexus between that, neighborhood security, as well.
Um, the nexus between that district and that governing body. Um, and the property owners within that district. And we did ask some questions about that in the survey. Um, about 38% of people were interested, I would say, in that, um, in that
concept. The next slide. If you combine the group of people who were not sure, said other, or that they, um, they had they they would they didn't support any of those mechanisms that were described, that is actually 46% of
of the respondents. Um, and we only looked at the the resident respondents on this response this piece of the survey. So, in order to establish a business or a neighborhood district, I think it would require a lot of, um, outreach and very clear mission that
would, um, enthuse the whole town. So, it's something to to keep pause on, maybe, at this moment as a lower priority. Um, next slide. Um, another mechanism that, uh, we looked at was the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District. Um, you guys
today have an assessment based off of acreage. Um, there are other examples throughout the state of some, uh, municipalities. This is a infographic from Pinellas County that looked at, um, impervious land as a another way of of looking at
it, or an additional way of looking at, um, a storm water assessment. Um, and again, the nexus here then looks at, um, a potential assessment that would look at, um, how much of an impact a property has on your storm
water and on your, um, in on your infrastructure, uh, based off of the size of the impervious. So, that's land that doesn't allow water allow water to go down to um to the ground, right? It has to be captured by a system. So, this is again food for thought, not
anything that the town has to take um action on. Um the grant asked us to look at some strategies, and so these are two of the strategies that we we looked at um identifying. And next slide. Um again, we're making reference to the
grant. Uh this is our our last stop as far as the grant goes. Um we have a hard deadline uh for this month for uh satisfying the requirements of the grant. We're asking today um to get hopefully an action on either
receiving and filing the study um or adopt or um accepting the study. Um and that will be then submitted back to the state um for um satisfying the deliverables of the grant. Um and again, I just want to reiterate that this is
all information for the town um and that each piece of this is something that can be acted upon either slowly or not at all or if there's enthusiasm for some of these ideas um with with um uh you know, at equal enthusiasm.
So, I again, I wanted to thank everybody's time and effort that went into this, particularly staff and and town council and the public who was very very engaged in this process. >> Well, and I think we thank you for creating the balancing act that you've achieved. So, uh Council member Coleman,
you had your light on first. >> Yeah, just quick question. Um so, on that next-to-last slide about the water control district. So, we could actually come up with a basically an impact fee for lack of a better term. Don't quote me. Based on
the amount of impervious surface that uh development has. >> Right. It's It's because it there's um there's a relationship between how much water doesn't hit the the ground and go back into the earth. And so, when that happens, um it burdens the community.
And so, there need They again, St. St. Augustine has one, Pinellas County has one as well. And so, that's something to investigate um separately. >> So, this sounds like you looked at a little bit. So, are those done on an annual basis or a uh beginning of project basis like an impact fee or is it an assessment that's done?
>> On annual basis. So, it's part of the maintenance of that system, yeah. >> Is it I mean, I I again, thank you, Jess. You you worked really hard on this and I I saw you diligently at all those workshops, you know, taking in all the information and
and you and Kim and the team um I don't know if we need Do we need a motion to receive and file? >> Well, there's some other comments. >> Oh, okay. Sorry, my bad. >> Actually, I was going to I I I was doing this the afternoon. I was going to make the motion to receive and file.
>> Right. >> I wanted to try to try to get some consensus about it. So, I'll make the motion to receive and file. How's that? >> Okay. Paul would like to second. Okay. All in favor? >> Wait. I'm sorry. >> Wait. Wait. Wait. Wait. Wait. >> Can you bring up your questions or
>> Okay. My questions have mostly that um that uh are I was looking for us >> I'm looking for some kind of consensus to direct staff to identify potential grants for landscape and drainage and
buffering and also potentially gateways and also trail way connectivity cuz I think those are some There's some local grants besides what's in here that um that might be available to us, but they'll be probably need to act on pretty quickly um as far as getting them written up and
identified. So, maybe identify them and bring them to us at our next meeting so that we can help develop which ones we might like to pursue. So, that's what I was looking for some kind of a consensus amongst us that >> I I frankly don't want to spend any money in the street right away. So,
I mean, if we want to look for B road and some improvements there that we might need some help with or we hold the the developer there with the some of the impacts of the traffic there. But, I'm not interested in spending in the state tax state right away. So,
I don't know about the rest of council. >> Well, it's not just about the state right away. >> No, I'm I'm fine with stuff that isn't the state right away, but some of these suggestions and Jessica can clarify that these are right away. >> It's talking about buffering
collecting canal buffer >> I was going to say that very specific. >> So, >> Yeah, I think if we're specifically working within our town boundary, yeah. >> Yeah, that's what I was talking to >> So, um So, it sounds like you know of some that are
available. >> There's a whole bunch there available locally, but you know, but I would think staff needs to research them that have that have that have been sent to me in emails and I know they've been sent to other people on staff. So, I think probably a list probably needs to be assembled and then we need to decide which ones we might
want to pursue. I I thought it would be a good idea particularly to have them identified as we go into budgeting cuz most of them are matching and we would have to obviously pick and choose and decide what we could afford to do as far and what the priorities are. Greg, as far as like drainage with drainage along
that area be more of a priority than would landscaping say or do those things go hand in hand? Is there some landscaping that will help with drainage, you know, kind of thing. So, I I think it's something that we need to have staff look into and develop a little bit
before before we actually do that, but most grants have deadlines and so we're and we're going into the budgeting season. So, thought we might want to have some idea. I don't know. Maybe not. >> Sounds time-consuming right now. Um so,
unless uh Treasure Coast has something that they could shoot our way that's kind of easy more easily digested. >> So, Madam Mayor, um Vice Mayor Sude is on um Zoom. And he has some comments. >> Okay. Good. Take it away. >> All right. Thank you.
Um in the last meeting, Jessica, you had mentioned that you will provide a statement on the scope of the study. Um Did you get a chance to provide us with the scope that you agreed upon with the
Florida Commerce? >> Um I believe that has been routed to you the the full um scope of work from Florida Commerce. >> I'm not talking about the I In the last meeting, you said we have a
accurate scope of work that we shared, not the one originally that was a big scope that prior mayor had signed. Did you share Can you put in in the public record that
you have shared the exact scope, final scope you agreed upon, and it it has been shared with the council? >> Yes, it has been shared with the council to my knowledge. Um >> Okay. I I haven't seen it. I haven't seen it, but we'll take your record as a
yes. Okay. Um in your in the prior discussions, I had brought up that there was a disconnect from the comprehensive plan, and I'm glad to see that you have added policy 1.2
in your report. But, could you please confirm that um you had used the word water control district on the slide that you're are showing or the prior slide that shows business district, could you
could you define for me what is the scope what is business district? What is the geographical definition of any such terminology? >> So, as of today there's no there is no business or neighborhood
improvement district that's been identified. We included information about what's entailed and what's required about a a district such as that if it were desirable to create one.
It's established there's a specific requirements by Florida statute and again that goes back to the fact that the initial grant did require us to look at fiscal strategies. So, that is one strategy but it does not identify a
specific area. >> Okay, could you I I would recommend that you put a first bullet point that none of such district has been defined and everything defined so far in your prior
first point is according to policy 1.2 which is our comprehensive plan. Okay, so that is on the record. Okay, now next point is in the initial phases of the study when there was a muddy situation on
what a business district was or definition of so-called southern corridor boulevard whatever corridor was and now it it was corrected eventually. Should we this is not a question to you Jessica.
This is for our acting town manager or or for the for community director who's leading this project should we add a memo that in the initial phases of the study
there was a whatever you want to use the word, you know, we we want to clarify that everything is in accordance with the uh comprehensive plan and we are correcting the scope official moment
record to that effect that would explicitly state that uh previous submissions contained outdated definitions and policy 1.2 is the sole legally binding framework for the grants deliverables. Would you have any objection
if we added that language? >> So, um Manish, this is kind of Karen. I think from our perspective, we did send a letter to the state clarifying it. They did receive that letter. They have not
received the prior work. Any work that they have received with uh the study has always indicated the comp plan with it being the citrus. The only language that they would have had different would have been during the outreach programs where
we talked about, but that would not really be part of the document. So, I'm thinking we've already covered that, but again, you know, I leave it if if the desire of the council or the acting town manager would be for us to do that. I mean, obviously, we can. I just think
the more we go outside of the study and try to provide things, it makes it more confusing for them. But, uh again, I I think we addressed it, but I leave that up to >> Okay. >> council if they decide to do it currently. >> If I understood your answer, you are saying there was no deliverable
prior to this. You haven't submitted any deliverables, so there's nothing to correct. But, I would still advise that uh we we big board letters on this presentation should say that policy 1.2,
which is our comprehensive plan, is the sole legally binding framework for the grant grant deliverables. Do you have any objections to writing that first thing on the presentation? First point. >> I I believe, if I can interject, the
comprehensive plan is the overriding overarching document legally for the town, no no matter what this study says. >> No, I know, but but initially the scope went in all directions, right? Southern Boulevard, nobody defined. They then
corrected the website, which I helped um pointed in that direction, and they did. So, a lot of public information was not correct or not clear at in the beginning stages of this grant. I don't want any developer to wake up and say, "Oh, by
the way, in the beginning you said this was Southern Boulevard corridor, and now So, in other words, if that is the policy, why not say it that this policy 1.2 is the legally binding framework for this grant deliverables. And you have already
mentioned that in in your first bullet point. >> So So, I'm sorry, Vice Mayor Sood, Council Member Coleman would like to say something as well. Hold on. >> If I may, uh there was a grant that was applied for and funded by the state for these
individuals to create a study. They have created the study. We up here, the five of us, did not create the study. The staff did not create the study. Treasure Coast created the study. So, now we're telling Treasure Coast how to edit their study?
That that that doesn't compute to me. They created their study. It is just a study. It is information for us to to digest and to either act upon or not act upon. At this point, all we are doing is receiving and file the study the Treasure Coast has put forward. We can
take a sentence out of here and use it or we can take the whole thing and use it. If I'm if I'm you know, if I'm wrong, the whole idea about the comprehensive plan being addressed here and there and in the beginning whatever, we're we're now at the last stage. It was addressed. It was addressed a
couple times. A letter was sent to the state, which in my opinion was a fruitless thing to to do. It was already defined what was going on. The state has had oversight over the whole thing. So, at this point all our job is to do is to receive and file it and digest it at such a time that that we have time to
digest it and deal with it. You know, I that's that's that's my two cents on it. To tell them to to to edit their document that's >> the study I think the study has clearly clarified and defined that we all know commercial south of Citrus and >> Amen.
>> some version thereof tangerine. So, I I I'm not quite sure Vice Mayor Sude, what your requests are and and it's a council decision as a whole anyway. >> Yes, sure. So, let me let me restate. Yeah, sure. So, I think to Paul's point
it's the scope of the study that worries me. Because and it's not just my worry. All residents came and said in the beginning the whole letter rural area of opportunity, the whole letter about uh
Southern Boulevard redefined everybody everything was fuzzy and it gave the impression as if it's being a setup for something else. >> And I think that has been addressed >> No, no, I know. I know. Let me finish. Let me finish.
Let me finish. I intervened, okay? And we fixed the website. We sent the letter. It was not to my satisfaction. I objected to that. >> order of Vice Mayor Sude, point of order. This This has been discussed repeatedly. >> know. >> on the floor.
>> of order, but let me finish my >> 30 and we're we're going to close this conversation. >> know. No, you are not going to close it. I have to finish my comment. What I'm asking for >> I will close I will close this >> Why? Why will you close? I haven't finished my comment. What I'm saying is
simply state that that the study, any future planning, zoning, or infrastructure studies north of east Citrus Drive are strict are confined strictly to impact mitigation and can never be used to advance commercial or business park concepts. In
other words, say very clearly that this is policy 1.2 is the policy. That's it. That's the >> That is the policy and that has not been changed by this study. So, we have a motion on the floor. I am closing the floor to discussion unless there is a public comment.
>> No, ma'am. >> Thank you. Uh, motion to receive and file by Council member Cain and seconded by Council member Coleman. All those in favor? >> I. >> I. Opposed? >> Opposed. >> Opposed one. Uh, motion passes 4-1.
Thank you. >> Thank you, Council. >> Thank you, Jess. Hands up. Sorry. >> Thank you, Jess. I would like for the record we have um some some letters and emails that we did receive. I would like to also receive and file those into the record um along
with us. Thank you, Council member Coleman. Uh, this is now uh res uh item number two, resolution 2026 46. And this is uh we got this item back up
material after the agenda came out, so I think everybody has the supplement in front of them. >> Yeah. >> No? >> Yes. >> No? Yes? >> Yes. >> Yes, no? Okay. All right. um, and I believe Mr. Lawler. >> Usually I I do not.
>> Uh, supplemental item two here? >> Ah, yes. Okay, sorry. >> Yes, no, yes. We're good. Good to go. >> Yes, no, yes. >> No, but it's all not This is the quote The quotes for the I think I got it. I got it. I got it. I think I got it. >> Yes, it was sent It was provided
electronically as well. So. >> Thank you. >> Mr. Lawler. >> It's confusing [clears throat] when you've got like five pieces. >> Good evening. >> Be nice if they were all in the agenda on time. >> So, as requested by the town attorney to make sure all
the quotes of were apples to apples, everything was exactly the same, the same exact line item across the board and everything. So, we did receive all the quotes back as he requested. And we're still going to move forward with
the carpet at your guys' request. >> Okay, thank you. So, this is an update as I believe the the town attorney had suggested to like you said compile all this information and I believe Councilmember Stevens was first on with the light.
>> Thank you, yes. Um, just a quick question and a few comments just a follow up from the last time we spoke about this. Going through here, some of the numbers look to be a little bit off from one quote to the other. I wrote down 2696, 2597. I don't know
if I'm looking at it wrong or and then of course you have >> talking about the quotes aren't on the front page? >> one quote to the other like like what I guess what they're what I can see that they're using for for measurements to get based their quotes on. >> So, every vendor was brought into town
hall, every vendor was brought in to measure each each part of the building for every single room. Um, I can't say if one vendor went a square foot shorter than the other to try to get their quote smaller. I can't give you that exact. Each one
was brought in to measure everything completely to every last bit. >> Okay. Somebody's math probably didn't math it, but hey, that's >> Whatever. Yeah, that's their call. >> It's all right. >> Again, you know, some may add to make their dollar amount more. I can't I can't vouch for their measurements.
>> Right. And I'll remind you guys, I'm an English teacher. So, when I start talking about numbers, y'all If y'all guys get thing, I mean, it's Listen, I don't blame you. >> Mhm. >> So, um okay. So, we started this conversation a couple of weeks ago. I said, "Hey, put this one on me." I gave you a little background of what was
going through my head when I went to the back offices. Simply put, I think that man, I just feel the staff deserves something better. I think the residents deserve something better. This is This is pretty worn down. It's um But as far as council goes, if you guys are
thinking, "Hey, these quotes are too high. We should get some more quotes." Hey, awesome. Let's do that. Um maybe we can get the quotes down a little bit or maybe we break it up and do maybe for the staff in the back first and then come back here and do it later. Or maybe even we kick it down to the uh fact
committee and let them roll the numbers and see what we could get away with. It's nothing that man, I feel pressed to do other than man, I just feel these guys deserve something better, but I'm open for any and all ideas. Um whatever works best for the town and our budget. >> Thank you, Councilmember Coleman.
>> Yeah, I you know, I want to clear the air here. Um I don't think anybody said black mold at the last meeting when we were talking about the carpet. Nobody said that. It was put out there. Nobody said that. None of us are mold experts, right? I'm not. You're not. Okay. Um
I I can tell you that you know, I mean, as much as I hate to, I I did uh kind of chat GPT or Google what the average age of a commercial carpet should be. 5 to 15 years. Um types of hazards found
in commercial carpeting. Um, mold, mildew, bacteria and pathogens, dust mites, dander. These are all things that you kick up. They're microscopic. Nobody sees them. Even though we see the stains, okay, we can live with stains. I get that, whatever. But there is a I
think there's we have a an obligation to folks to have them in a and to have the public here in a safe environment, you know, and and no matter how minute you might think it is or how important you might think it is. Um, I think that's a responsibility of
us. We have folks that are working in here for, you know, what the town hall's open for what about 10 12 hours a day plus, you know, when they're here doing meetings, etc. Um, you know, this is not the first time that this carpet has come before council.
Um, you know, I think last time it was kicked down kicked down the road. Let's let's hang out on a little bit longer. I can't Craig, do you have any idea when this carpet went down? >> Um, the original quote or the actual coastal carpet that's in here, one of the quotes
was the original person that put it in. Um, I believe they said in 18. >> 18, when we bought the building? >> Yes. >> Right. >> They redid the carpet when the building >> Right. So, you know, what, 18 years? >> No. >> Right. No, am I mathing wrong? >> Yeah.
>> Two eight years. Eight years. Thank you. He's going for the big numbers. Sorry, guys. Eight I like the way you had the one. >> Yeah. Yeah. Thank you. >> Yeah, I'm not a math teacher either. No. I just I I stayed at a Holiday Inn Express last night. Um, so, you know, I mean, you know, kidding aside, I mean,
VOCs, if you know about paint, whatever, VOCs, adhesives, things like that, you know, as as adhesives start to break down and things, they these this is what comes up. So, um, you know, that's that's my two cents. I'm I I think that we can provide, you know,
we can go out and we can shop it around to 10 different places and we're going to get 10 different numbers depending on how the 10 different people calculated it. As I used to be an estimator once upon a time for a tile marble company, which is very similar. Um depends on how they calculate and things like that. So,
you know, I think it's just, you know, that's my two cents. I I turned my light off. >> VOCs, okay. Uh Vice Mayor Sood, you're back up there. >> Hello. Okay. I think uh you know my point of view, but I would like to add um that I
understand that uh some of my colleagues will point to the age of carpet and dust and mold mildew and all those things as reasons for replacement. Um well, if there is a genuine health or safety issue,
then it should be properly documented and addressed before we spend taxpayers dollars. We should determine whether cleaning or remediation or targeted repairs can solve the problem. But more importantly, and this is really really important,
this comes to our priorities. In the last meeting, we spent 45 minutes on carpets and almost zero minutes on PBSO and tax reduction and tax cutting. Residents don't drive on town hall carpet. They drive on the roads with potholes. They
see canal banks that need mowing and maintenance, and we spend money on interior upgrades, and we should be focusing on the infrastructure and services that affect our residents every day. So, my suggestion is the measure of the government is not how nice
town hall looks from the inside, but it is how well the community looks and functions on the outside. Let's fix the potholes, mow the canal banks, deliver these services. If you have a health and safety issue, then do a proper stuff. Maybe the building is old. Maybe the fan
is falling from the ceiling. Who knows? So, before we do all of the spend, let's deliver services to the residents first before we do these superficial projects. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Okay, thank you, Vice Mayor Massoud. Uh Council member Cain, you've got your
light on. >> Yeah, well, I would make the argument that I could make the argument that replacing the carpet is serving the community because members of the community are sitting in this building and perhaps inhaling these spores and
whatever, but here's my question. I'm not going to go down that road. Valerie, is there money in the budget to cover this? >> Um where were we pulling it out of? >> We're pulling We're pulling out of the >> agency Yeah. >> contingency fund. >> Contingency money that's just sitting
there? >> This is the contingency money that was the 5%. >> This will not put us over our 6% >> the contingency money that is the PBSO contingency. >> I we understand that. >> Nice. I just wanted to state >> Right, it's the $150,000 contingency that was put in the year before. So,
there's money that's just sitting there waiting for such a project. >> Yes, ma'am. >> Thank you. >> So, I I would like to propose that we look at vinyl flooring um where the higher traffic areas are just from a
standpoint of uh durability and um and appearance and maintenance. Uh there I think there might be strategic areas where the carpet could stay. Um I'm just looking at the wear and tear over the threshold of the doorway and and things
like that. Um and as we're coming into the budgeting, we can have a broader sense of building building maintenance um discussed in the budget. Um because there's I know the air conditioner is still a big concern as well. Um and
maybe we understand a more a global uh approach to the maintenance down here. Um I I think possibly replacement of some of these chairs in in town hall as also, you know, I've seen some ones that look a little worn and
frayed. So, I personally would like to see this come back to us on a on a broader building maintenance thing as we go into budgeting and and hold this off until we get some other options maybe with with some high traffic area. >> Where like tile in the front hall, tile
in >> Yeah, where Yeah, where we see the >> all the way to the threshold here. >> Yeah, I have that at my school and I have like the like a little rubber and then the carpet starts. I mean, certainly would want carpet in here, but like tile out there and then and >> Yeah, things where maybe spills are going to be more likely to happen and
things like that. So, that that's what I would like to see. Paul, you put your light on? >> Yes, ma'am. >> Go go ahead. >> Waiting patiently. >> Yes, please. >> Okay. Um I I can tell you I mean, just the carpet of what you see here today is not the carpet of today.
The carpet that was installed here eight years ago is not the quality of as far as traffic, etc. that they're installing nowadays. >> Okay. >> Um I can tell you that um personally where I work, they installed new carpet. Um they re-molded area and did new carpet.
Uh this is I think they put We took >> And it's this system >> year. >> system of tiles is 2 by 2 system. >> can pull it out, exactly. But it's very uh stain resistant. I'm not saying it's going to block every stain. I know some but it's very stain resistant, high traffic. I mean, there's people, you
know, it's got traffic on it constantly all day more than what would be here. Um so, I you know, it So, I think if we start looking into um just pulling out of my bag of tricks that, you know, from experience, start oh, we're going to vinyl here, we're
going to carpet here, we're going to that's going to pop the bill up a little bit more, too, because now we're inputting multiple things and they got it's I don't know. In my mind, I >> more expensive. >> I I would think yeah, it's going to be more just you know, most most contractors I think
just come in here and rock and roll and get it done. And maybe the carpet crew isn't the laminate crew, so then they got to bring a different crew. So I'm I mean I'm just kind of you know, grasping. >> well, either way, I would like to see this come back as a as a budget discussion. Not just looking at this problem.
>> Do you know, I'm sorry. I got to Do you know the life that's left on like the air conditioner? I know there was talk of wanting a generator, too. >> And years ago. >> I think yeah. >> Yeah, we've had >> We need to know the life left on the AC. >> We've had multiple recommendations from the AC company to replace them.
>> Yeah, my maintenance guy says you've got probably two more years. So maybe that is a better idea to put everything like kind of in focus and have it all so become a budget cuz we may have to make some choices. We'd rather replace the air conditioning. I mean it's that's probably more important and go with an even cheaper flooring
possibility or >> What are the terms of the quotes? What's that? What are the terms of the quotes? 30 days? I price is good for 30 days. >> Yes, sir. >> Gas price is coming down. We might see a drop. Hey, I'm just saying. >> [laughter] >> Gas prices are down as of right now.
>> All these things are petroleum based, so that looking globally, looking more globally at what the building is going to need and then um >> I mean whatever you guys recommend, I mean we can wait till budget and >> We're not looking at what, 3 months total? You know, October 1st, this could
some of some of this could happen and then we know that, you know, the first 6 months we're going to do X and Y and then the second, third quarter we're going to do something like that. We know we need to take care of the building. We have an investment here. We need to take care of it and >> We've been slowly working at it.
>> Yes, and great job painting. You're hired. I I have a room. So Um so do I get get and and do we have any public comments on that? >> I'll make a motion to direct >> Well, yeah, there's no motion. >> Is there I'll make a motion to direct
the >> Well, we can table the resolution and and in lieu of bringing it back as a as a building management proposal during budgeting. >> Yeah, so I'll make a motion to table this and to bring it back as a complete
building maintenance proposal for the next 5 years. >> That would be nice. >> for for the next 5 years what you foresee so that we can use that during budgeting and make wise decisions. >> So just so I understand, we're we're >> lot of wording here.
>> Did you get what I said? >> Yes, we're trying to clarify. >> 5-year building maintenance >> this to revise it to be a more global Right, okay. >> As part of a global >> Instead of just denying this and coming with a new one, we're just going to table this and revise it. >> Correct. Bring it back as a as a more inclusive
>> Right, okay. >> building maintenance >> I'll second that. >> proposal. Okay, we have a second to that. Uh any public comments on this item? >> No. >> Okay. >> I have comments. >> We have a motion. >> I have comments. You changed the motion. I have to have comments. Okay. So, I I
would say that the the problem you highlighted, which is important one, is health and safety and and security of our people in our town hall staff. Why don't you guys Why don't we say that we will do an assessment whether the
carpet has mold or air condition has this or electrical wire is coming out or some other infrastructure is failing, why not have a Why not do first, if you're worried about the health and safety, create an assessment on what is
immediate that needs to be fixed and and add that health and safety review of the entire building and then and yes, it should be reviewed as a part of the overall budget, but health and safety is non-negotiable.
So, I'm all for that. So, why don't we add that to your concurrent >> Hold on, please. >> Yeah. So, I would suggest that add health and safety review and then inform us of what has to be done, what is required for insurance
companies, what is required for regulatory purposes, and best practices, and then that will inform us that what is an essential spend versus what can be planned over a period of time. Thank you. >> Okay, thank you. We got a motion. All those in favor?
>> I. >> Opposed? >> Opposed. >> Motion passes 4-1. That brings us to resolution 202647. Uh this is an agreement for the special magistrate. Um
that was proposed. I don't remember how many meetings ago. Uh and I did have a question because the agenda item is spelled differently than the than the backup material. So, I just want to make sure that we have Mr.
McGibbon's name correct. >> I believe it is correct in the contract. >> Okay, good. That's right. It has to be correct. >> So, uh yeah, this is a >> Oh, you have it with an A in the agenda. >> Well, and it even says it in the title of the resolution is MAC and then the
rest of the resolution is MC. So, those those Irish mix out there or Macs, I'm sure it's important to you. >> Yes. >> The Macs, okay. >> [laughter] >> Yeah, I No link for that.
Um >> It's a >> This this has to do with certain insurances. The the the original agreement that was proposed included um uh we had understood that Mr. McGivern had uh reviewed that agreement and didn't
have any objections to it. Um when it came and so that's the way it was presented to council. Um at the time he came back from his trip to Europe and in re-reviewed the agreement, he said, "Hey, um these insurances are not really
applicable to my role as a special magistrate." I agreed with him. Your current uh special magistrate agreement does not contain those um with our other existing magistrate because they're making the magistrates making
decisions, but they're not culpable to us for those decisions. Um they are an independent arbiter. Um and so if litigation arises out of those decisions, that's not something that uh they would provide us insurance for. The work that they do here is as an
invitee, so it's not their building or general liability insurance that would um cover things. And and they do not um go out and view sites or anything like that. They're um automobile insurance is
just to this building as a commuter and back. Um so they're not actively driving on behalf um of the town or related to the town. Um uh And so uh there's a request that uh
the insurance provisions be consistent with those of our existing special magistrate. Um and that is my recommendation to you. >> Okay. So, all spelling aside, um we're we're sure we're certain that we're good. >> physically address the script near there is there >> Yes. So,
>> you do need to fix that. >> So, this is basically housekeeping regarding the the insurance issues. >> Yes, it is. >> Okay. Uh any comment >> a >> a motion to pass resolution 2026 48. >> 47. >> 47. >> Second.
>> Okay, we have a motion to um to approve resolution 2026-47 by Council member Cain, seconded by Council member Coleman. >> With corrections. >> With yes. >> With any spelling errors um corrected. Uh
anybody comment-wise? Vice Mayor Sood, do you have a comment? >> Um I'm all for it. It's a common sense. Thank you. Yes, good to go. >> All right. Any public comments on this? >> No. >> Okay. Look alive out there. All right. All those in favor? >> I. >> I.
>> I. >> Opposed? Motion passes 5-0. That brings us to resolution 2026-48. I believe that will be Mr. Lawhorn, public works. >> All right. So, this is the change order
that was um requested by Town Council to add on the um northern end of E Road that we were the one property that we were going to stop at and where it was requested by Town Council to add aprons all to the um A Road and Collecting
Canal paving project. >> I had a question about aprons because it said they will be paid by actual field measurements. >> So, they get So, we went out and we did a measurement on all the um driveways. We are adjusting the driveways right now. We're putting new pipes in for some
of them that are going to be close to the catch basins. So, some of these may adjust where like some say, you know, 18 ft, we're putting in 30-ft pipes. Driveways. So, these driveways may widen, some may shrink. So, I was on the phone with Cheatham's contra you know, their um representative
right before I walked in here. Um and it his wording in that was hey, if we add in, there would be a plus or there would be a minus. If we take come and go. If we adjust the measurement in the actual aprons. So, it's not like we went out there and said, "Hey, 20 ft to this one, 20 ft to that one." Cuz some of these
driveways, uh like at one stop, they have a monster's driveway for their entire property. There's some of the farms have big driveways coming in, but there's a couple of properties that have just a 15-ft driveway going in. >> Is there a standard depth to how far the
apron extends from >> Um they went with 2 ft so that they would not have to add another machine in. So, they can go down with their paver and with the wing of the paver they can adjust out. 2 ft was the furthest they can go with that wing to go out and then they would just come right back in with it.
>> Uh would it be reasonable to to have a standard size and then any additional cost for the >> size was 1 1 ft off. I went to 2 ft to give us a better >> to ask the >> about she's talking about the width. >> That No, no. >> Oh, the width. >> No one. >> I
You're getting there, but yes. Uh a standard Well, we'll do 2 ft by 20 ft. And then if you want a wider one, then the property owner would pay. I mean, obviously we're protecting our road surface. >> Correct. >> But it seems as you just described,
there's a great deal of variety of these driveways. So, and >> Yes. >> member Coleman, you have the floor. >> Yes. 2 to 20 ft is probably >> Yeah. That's That was my concern. >> that was my original was it was just saying we're going to do a 2 by 20. But then the contractor went out and re-measured every single one of them.
He's like, "Hey, there's a lot of these that they're going to be really short cuz we he went off of the wheel path of the driveways where the people come in in and out of their driveway coming onto the road. >> Right, but I mean, they're coming in and out because it's dirt now, dirt to dirt.
>> Yeah, he said he would have absolutely no problem saying, "Hey, if we wanted it 2 by 20, he would adjust the quote and come back 2 by 20." >> Yeah, but >> just on the phone with him to I'm going to question. >> I was going to say this begs a a great topic at a different time about the standard of our >> Well,
but I like Lisa's idea of 2 by 20 is what we're doing as part of the project, but you can go to a one-stop who perhaps has a 50 and say if you want the whole 50 done, this is this is >> But you But to your point, uh would we
want to limit their their opening by doing a berm or something because they're going to tear the side of the road up going in and out willy-nilly? >> If they're >> And their a retail nursery as we know is a different problem. >> Well, that's a different scenario. It could be rude, but
>> He's jumping in. Okay. >> Uh I want to make sure that uh >> [laughter] >> Uh Vice Vice Mayor Sood resides on um E Road. Um and I think you all know when you reside on a road that is being
discussed, it's always a good idea to recuse yourself and I think um the vice mayor is going to do that, but I wanted to give him an opportunity before we got >> I did. >> any further on that. >> All right, he's Yeah, wait. >> Yeah, I'm good. I'm good. I'm recusing
myself. Thank you. >> Okay, thank you, Vice Mayor Sood. So, >> Yeah, I think that I think the stan the standard of I think we're all on the same page here. Sorry, let me so I'm speaking for Joe. Joe has >> I agree. >> Yeah, no problem. Instead of just going, "Yeah, well, well, Jimmy got 50 ft. Do I
have a problem?" I only got 20. >> Understood. >> Yeah. >> But I mean, but I would also say if somebody only needs 15 ft, I wouldn't force them to have 20 if they only have a 15-ft opening. >> Yeah, if we're going to go that route, we're going to 2 by 20, we're going to stick with 2 by 20 all the way down.
>> Yeah, and I would say that that the plate that was in conversation a minute ago, they've done inroads in having people parking inside instead of on the road and stuff now. So, that actually that apron that is there currently that's >> been just people jumping off of A road.
Might actually >> It will self-resolve. >> Self-resolve, but I mean I I think >> Yeah, I I think Yeah, if we work with them, I think we can figure out where it is. Yeah. Yeah, exactly. >> Human engineering. >> Yes, no problem. I'll ask I'll ask him. He said he had no problem with changing the vote.
>> Okay. >> I don't know. >> Oh. Is it cheating? >> So the the only thing I would ask is with this proposal um is there any Would we approve Can we get it approved because we're actually trying to get them in to do the paving for the E road
and the smaller ones? That's what this actual um change order would come through. >> me do Yes, I I think we both do that. >> Okay. >> Resolution 2026-48 with the change made that all a driveway pavements will be a standard
2 by 20. All right, we have a motion. >> Second. >> And a second. Motion by Council member Keen to approve resolution 2026-48 uh with the standardization of driveway aprons at 20 by 2.
Uh and seconded by Council member Coleman and Vice Mayor Sood has recused uh due to his uh conflict of interest living on one of those streets. All those in favor? >> I. >> I. Opposed? Hearing none, motion passes 4-0. >> Thank you, Council.
>> Thank you. >> Not this Friday. Monday, Friday holidays. Monday. >> They were wanting to start tomorrow. >> Hey. >> Follow right >> I have pen, can sign, whatever you need. Uh so that concludes, I believe, the meeting um
with staff present, and we'll move into our workshop mode. I did have one question for staff. Notes. Um Shoot. >> Can I go to the potty while you ask your question? >> Sure.
We can even do that before we start the meeting. >> thank you. So on um the memo for this agenda item one of the the preparation expansion and codification of rule for agenda preparation. Are you looking for us to standardize
the structure given what you had explained regarding muni codes constant because they have to basically create the template? Is Is that what you're looking for? That's page 37. Number five. It's going to be the last thing on that page
regarding the change the order of the meeting by practice and direction. Um So we I think you were looking for some standardization of the agenda structure. That's my interpretation.
You go to the rule. Give me 1 second. >> Um I think what that refers to is that right now um there is flexibility as to today's point. It's not an absolute as to
where public comment is going to occur during the agenda on the where staff reports are going to occur during the agenda. Um and it has moved around a little bit.
>> So you're looking for a more formal adoption of that. >> direction. It's up to you as to whether you want to formalize it. If you formalize it, then adjusting and moving in a different direction takes us bringing the rule of back and all those kind of things. >> Sure.
>> That that's what that was intended to to get at. >> Okay. >> Right now, um the way we view it, there's flexibility and and we uh um well, have a standard um but it is
amenable to alteration at the direction of council rather than bringing it back to where um another resolution um and amendment and going through that all that discussion process. It's >> Okay. >> more flexible. But it's totally up to
you if you want to codify the idea that um staff comments are going to be at a latter part of the agenda or early part of the agenda, wherever it happens to be, or public comment is always going to be um the first 30 minutes, all those
kind of things, you can do so. Uh just give us that direction. That was That was just something that was discussed. >> Right, and I do know that Muni code is a little cumbersome. You had said that every time things shift, you've got to contact them because the agenda is built
through the system. Right. So, we create these templates. So, every single time that we um change these templates, we have to contact them, we have to wait for them to make those updates, um and so if we could get
a standard template, that would be great. Okay. So, as long as we're using Muni code, we have to play nice with them. So, awesome. Okay, thank you for your time tonight and um we will move down to the floor. >> Drive safe, y'all.
>> It's our It's our historical behavior. Don't take your microphone. You might need a backup. >> I'll shoot him when you get in the truck, Good deal. >> Yes, ma'am. They wanted us to give them another copy
of the worksheets in their packet, but then printed it off the worksheet that we received from the bill. Okay, what numbers? >> That's all. >> You're welcome. >> Great. >> Thank you. You're welcome. >> See you. >> I appreciate that. Is Carol okay?
>> Probably that happens because >> Oh, I didn't mean to do >> I'm glad that >> So, we're going to have a chair and a fighter agreement. They won't let me get in the car. So, okay. Um, they had to call the police together. >> Okay. All right. I think now that I've got to
do it on it. >> You have all my information. They actually called the police on the guy. So, she got So, we're going to just leave you alone. >> Yes. Did you enjoy it? >> No, the future is not in the block. >> Okay. >> And he's going to call them. I'm >> You are too short.
>> Well, I didn't imply it. >> No, you said it. I am. I think it matters. >> Yeah. >> I am. >> Where is the other part? >> Return personnel. >> Yeah, come on. Robert's here. Grab chair and microphone-wise. >> Give it a slight of figure.
>> Um, we'll have an extra one because uh Vice Mayor Sood is still on. So, take take one of those handy dandies. And um So, I understand uh the Red GAC um chair is not going to make it tonight.
Um, so I I thank all of the chairs for coming tonight to discuss our strategic plan exercise. And council members, we were provided a copy of the worksheets that
were received up here somewhere. So, um I think each of your committees we probably have some version thereof. Oh. All right. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> I did not turn mine in. I really mailed
them. >> You could. You could probably jump back there and grab staff real quick if you want to make copies. Oh, look, he's brought plenty to share. Sharing is Sharing is what you That We're all about sharing. That's it. What'd you learn in school today?
Joe, [clears throat] is this ULDC? >> I I I I have to see the the pages to get a problem. >> I I heard it over the mic. >> No. Oh, no, this is just the conglomeration of what was turned in. Yes. And so ULDC's is in there.
Robert Austin is ULDC. Yeah. Yeah. >> But I have a compilation put together for a presentation taken from the notes that everybody went that we went over in the meeting. >> Talk really close.
>> [laughter] >> Suck it, baby. >> Everybody in your committee >> like I'm yelling at it. >> Yeah, yeah. Okay. But if you talk quietly, you don't really have to I I could. Well, I don't I And I would have
And and Thank you. And I would have printed this out, but my notes was not cooperating and I did not want to lose it cuz it is the only copy I have. So, afterwards, if someone more techy than me, probably everybody in the room,
can >> [laughter] >> Do you want me to just email? >> I tried and it would just spin. I don't know if it's too much. Cuz I was going to exactly I was going to >> Did you save it as a PDF? >> Oh,
no. I did that. >> No. >> I did that. Nope, spin. >> Oh, wheel of death. >> Just on notes. That must be an Apple thing. >> bad. >> It is. I'm a droid. >> I'm
Mine is well, mine is. Yes, it is. >> Because it's >> Because it's everybody's thoughts put together as best. >> Right. >> Um Can you see now? >> The hard drive run. >> It's all right. Next time we'll figure it out. >> Well, if you save it, it goes away.
Me, too. Yeah. >> Yeah, cuz if you save it >> So, so would anybody like to start off that's that's ready to Joe, are you are you leading the pack? Okay, well. And then that way we could maybe figure out how to print it so that everybody
can have >> Ooh, okay. >> Copy. >> Super high-tech. >> Okay. Glad there's Glad you all have DC memory here. >> In case I missed anything. Okay. So, uh for the ULDC rural as it pertains to Loxahatchee Groves
rural means maintaining the community's low-density goals by upholding fortifying the existing standing. Look at that. Um >> [laughter] >> existing standard of one dwelling unit per five acres.
While encouraging nay, demanding the preservation of open and green spaces and the natural landscapes that define or should define our unique and now sadly endangered identity. >> [gasps] >> Rural living includes supporting agriculture endeavors and industry that contribute contribute to local economy
and reinforce the town's bucolic character. It also means promoting conservation and environmental stewardship to protect and preserve our natural resources, native tree canopy, green spaces, and the wildlife habitats that rely on those resources.
Rural development should respect the town's rural vista guidelines to ensure that any future commercial growth is thoughtfully designed and scaled Ooh. Where did that go? Thoughtfully designed and scaled to complement the community's values,
agricultural heritage, and quality of life rather than diminish them. Our strategic colors >> Oh, oh, hold on. Hold on. Let's go Let's stop for a second. Rural definition. Yeah, let I want to hear each rural definition. >> Okay. So, Robert, would you like to go next on what you all made your
definition? >> Okay. Use your microphone cuz it's hard to hear. >> Yeah, I'm a Agri-residential, low density, open space, natural environment, tree canopy, and conservation, less urban structure,
large properties, animal trails, wildlife, large equestrian properties, lots of trees, animals, two-lane roads, motorists wave when passing, No two houses or properties look the same. >> Okay.
>> I'm waiting for mine to be >> Oh, oh, we Oh, here here she comes. Ask and you shall receive. And you're the best. And when Joe can get hers printed out. >> Maybe Kenny can print hers out, too. He's really good at printing stuff out.
>> Not yet, she can't. >> [laughter] >> Yeah. >> Not the one to eat. >> Thank you, Robert. >> She's trying to invite you now, so >> That girl >> Okay. >> We have a hard stop at 8:00, so that's why I believe this can >> Nope, that's good. >> So, yeah.
>> As both a resident and a member of the finance committee, I believe the rural the term rural in Boxford Grove means preserving the unique character, lifestyle, and the land use patterns that originally defined the town and continue to make it distinct within Palm Beach County.
Rural character includes maintaining low-density living, protecting agriculture, and equestrian uses, preserving open space and natural drainage systems, supporting property rights, avoiding over-urbanization that would fundamentally change the community's identity. It also includes
maintaining roadway character, limiting excessive traffic impacts, preserving environmental resources, and supporting a quieter and more self-sufficient way of life that many residents specifically choose when moving to Loxahatchee Groves. Especially keeping This was part
of our thing. Especially keeping away from being an HOA. From a financial perspective, pres- preserving rural character also means making thoughtful and sustainable decisions regarding growth, infrastructure, public safety, and long-term municipal obligations.
As a rural community with a limited tax base and a large geographic area, the town must carefully evaluate future costs associated with development intensity, infrastructure expansion, drainage demands, and service expectations to ensure they remain financially sustainable for residents.
In conclusion, protecting the town's rural identity and protecting resident property values are directly connected. Responsible planning, transparent government, fiscal accountability, and preservation of town's agricultural and equestrian heritage are all important
components of maintaining long-term quality of life that I think the residents value in Loxahatchee Groves. >> Thank you. So, um the Those were all great. And I think there's a theme. Yes, there there's a theme, right? So, the bullet points I think all included
trees, maintenance of trees, maintenance of I don't know if it's open spaces so much as natural spaces, I think. >> Open meaning not built on. >> Open natural. >> Open natural. >> That's the head point. >> pervious >> surface >> pervious >> pervious >> pervious, yes. >> Trees and and
natural space, open natural. And then land uses limiting to agriculture and encouraging that. Would that Would that kind of be along those lines?
>> Ours that comes in our pillars. >> Okay, limited. Traffic keeping traffic low was >> Limits except for traffic impacts. >> Traffic limitations. Um Responsible use of resources I would we
call it. Um And then trails, was that in everybody's? Okay. And and what we can do is >> And that and rural development follows the guidelines to to
make sure that they're not just cookie-cutter franchise buildings and things like that that looks like it's supposed to be part of our town. >> Unique, being unique. >> Yeah, unique. >> That was one wasn't everybody's. >> Unique. >> But within guidelines if
>> Unique unique identity. >> Sounds like it's sounds like that's going more toward the commercial end of things and when you do that if they're making a PUD or the the MUD, right? Like they did with most like like you did with with Publix
the whole building looks the same. That's what you're going to get. You're going to get that cookie-cutter developer thing. I mean that's unfortunately trying to insist on this you know, I know a lot of people I I even at the workshops with Creator Coats they're pointing to these
um pictures of these yeah these different >> Facades, yeah. >> Yeah, that were inset and they're kind of lack of a better term texture as it goes in front of you and then things were different. So, um but it's definitely a something to
reach for. >> I think commercial and residential are totally two different things when you're when you're talking about people's property and the way we own those. Yeah. They're like >> If somebody but if if the four of you
just bought a property and the four of you decide to go with Jimmy John construction and Jimmy John makes a spec house and that's the only spec house he makes then four people are going to have the same exact looking house. Even though you're not in our You know what I'm saying? So And you can't tell people >> We're not required to.
>> Yeah, never should be. >> There's different changes change your color of the house and change your roofing material. >> I guess my point is we can't really tell people what >> Well, I think now that we've got everybody's >> I was talking about commercial development. That's where I was going
with this. >> So, what what we can do is what we have once we have red gaps, we can combine these and see where they overlap. You know, and then try to to boil it down. Does that sound good? >> You know how they do that thing where they with the words in a circle?
>> The word bubble? >> Or the word cloud? >> But the one that shows up the most >> Most gets the biggest, yes. Yeah. >> The computer automatically does it. >> Yeah, yeah. So >> That GPT is awesome that way.
>> Give me a word. Well, let's go through the pillars each one um run through what what you identified as pillars to support each one of your definitions. So, Robert said we started with you, we'll go back to you from the pillars. >> Yeah.
>> Oh, I'm sorry, Joe. That's right. I don't have hers in front of me because I'm all >> You haven't printed it out. >> [laughter] >> Yeah, I'm impressed she's got an iPad in front of her, just so you know. >> Me too. Me too. >> My father is guest. >> Oh my gosh. So, um
Our strategic pillars were thoughtful growth. Uh promote develop patterns that support the town's long-term vision rather than isolated site-by-site decisions. And we did these pillars we how it pertains to ULDC. That's That's where we were looking at broad
sweeping as where the whole town goes. Um for the most part. Ensure that the town charter, comprehensive plan, land use codes, planning and zoning, and roads and trails and greenways policies are aligned and consistent with one another. This consistency will provide clear guidance for residents,
businesses, developers, and town decision-makers, council and staff, and it will reduce unnecessary conflicts and procedural obstacles, and enable the town to implement its vision effectively. A coordinated framework will support efficient governance, fiscal responsibility, protect community
values, and allow Loxahatchee Groves to move forward with confidence about preserving its rural character, agricultural heritage, and environmental resources. Keep commercial zoning limited to the areas designated by the charter, and do not settle for a landscape or architectural design dominated by
cookie-cutter franchises. The land and rural character of our town should not bear the burden of preserving community identity on their own. If commercial development wants to operate within our town's borders, it must be required to adhere to our rural design guidelines, building
buildings, site plans, architecture, landscaping, signage, lighting, and overall design should reflect what we as a town deem the character of our community. The adaptable element should be the development itself, not the town's heritage, landscape, or identity. Growth should fit the community, not
force the community to fit the growth. Future generations Future generations should inherit a town with more trees, more open impervious space, and a stronger sense of place than exists today. And our last pillar was
This one was a little tricky because most everybody turned in um written things that I could pull from, but some were were spoken. So, um hopefully I got it right. >> [clears throat] >> Our discussion uh the discussion was
in my opinion to preserve Loxahatchee Groves' historical identity. Many many many memories were shared about barefoot children, chickens, and panthers roaming the land. And as chairperson, my takeaway was that we do our best to ensure that Loxahatchee Groves maintain its rural
and agricultural identity by strengthen it strengthening its code to back up those ideals, securing and identifying our borders to let folks know that they are now entering or perhaps leaving Loxahatchee Groves. Taking measures to ease the traffic
throughout our town also was a hot topic with roundabouts and cut-through road closures being mentioned as remedies. The trail greenway system is also a hot topic that this committee would love to see in place in our lifetime. >> So, can you boil it down to the one
description of each pillar? So, um all policy alignment? >> No. >> But you said all all policy alignment, that was one of them, right? Making sure all those policies align so we don't have conflicting conflicting >> compatible growth, a cohesive and aligned policy.
>> Right. >> Okay. >> program. >> Got that. Um commercial, making sure commercial adheres to >> stays to the character and then and and adheres to our town's desires. >> Please. >> Yeah. >> Turn your >> We've got We have a lot of
>> We talk a lot about commercial adhering to and and we have by virtue of the fact that we have to approve site plan, we have pretty good control over that. But uh two weeks ago I got a phone call from someone who um um told me
"Did you see what's going on over at the Browning's place?" And what was going on over at the Browning's place was that somebody was cutting down 100-year-old oak trees. They were cutting down when the town originally incorporated, we were gifted a bunch of slash pines in the back. Browning's took like 20 of
them, planted them, and nurtured them, and they they were now 20-ft tall trees getting cut down. So, I immediately called Valerie and Craig. And actually Craig went out and told them they had to stop. That they could not do that. Of course, we had already lost some some
two treasures in our town. Um and their response to Craig was that they didn't know. Well, lo and behold, the same person called me back the next morning and said, "They're at it again." So, at that point, they did know, okay? And but they, I guess, you know, had already hired the crew, and they were just going to continue their project.
So, I called Valerie, and she right away sent code enforcement out and told them, you know, give them a cease stop work order. And they'll be fined and everything, but the whole point of that long story is they said they didn't know. We got to figure out some way that they do know. You know, now I don't know if
there's some kind of a packet, not an HOA packet. I don't want to sound like I'm advocating for an HOA cuz I'm not, but I don't know. Are rules if you're going to buy in the Grove packet that every real city agent should have to give to people? I I mean, I don't know because they're not going to proactively
come in here and find out what the rules are, you know? It's that old thing, it's better to ask forgiveness permission, right? So, there's got to be some way. It's very clear how how we're getting the message across to our commercial people, right? But how are we getting the the message across to
our residents about what is and what is not acceptable if you're going to live in our community. I mean, I think we need to hold just as hard of a line on those people as we do. I mean, that it brought me to tears to think that those trees were were cut down. They really did bring me bring me to tears. So
>> That's the answer anybody has. Well, I didn't know. >> Right. >> I got contracts. I've been in business for years. And then I say, "Hey, XYZ." And they go "Oh, when did that happen?" >> Right. I I I I know. But I'm just saying I I think that a part of this is some kind of educational piece, too. So, I think what
we talked about was doing a fact page on the website, frequently asked questions page. It could be directed at residents, real estate agents, backers, whoever's coming in. And then have a printout version in here in the in the lobby. That says
>> Is there any way we can control >> zoning. Right. This this this. >> Yes. >> Don't this this this. >> Right. How about when you cut down the damn trees? >> When you buy property saying, "Hey, we have a town. Let's go to town hall and make sure that >> Oh, sure. Wouldn't that be wonderful? But no.
>> But that's that's what the fact sheet would would show, right? And and keep it super simple. >> Or a mailer. >> Doesn't town know when when [clears throat] property sold. The timing on that is pretty open-ended. Actually, just had a conversation with a realtor that went around calling
different title companies and said, "Is there a law that says that that a sale has to be reported to the property appraiser within a certain downtime?" No. >> Right. But if we could enroll the real estate agents maybe perhaps that are selling within our property. And there, you know, like that's I mean it's not limited. But there's a there's a lot
there's there's a handful that are pretty active in our town. If we could have them give out a fact sheet, that would be really helpful. But anyhow, that's all. I I I digress. So, I apologize, but it just came to my mind. I apologize. >> Somebody raising >> Need somebody to say something to
residents? So that there's a number they can call on weekends? >> Emergency number. >> Okay. I like that. >> They call us. >> Or what about or what about uh next to the um where the signs that say you're you're entering an agricultural property
uh yield for horses. And if you cut down trees without permission, you will be fine. This is a no tree cut neighborhood. >> Just put big old trees signs that say Yeah, that >> Yeah. >> Tree signs. No tree No tree cutting.
>> Well, and I think as the Treasure Coast planning uh thing showed some um consistency with the signage and things like that. So, that that's an opportunity if we're going to start investing and decide what are our future
looking signs, what's the uniform desire, and then start ordering signage that that supports that sort of stuff. So, yeah. >> We have a tree [clears throat] and it's like cut down and >> We can still put our best foot forward. We can put our best foot forward. I can I can tell you right now.
>> them all. >> People with the funds to do so will just come in and do whatever. >> And And they'll just Oh, I didn't know, and give me my fine, and all of that. >> Yeah, of course. >> and you know, I wish there was a really good way to
be proactive about it. The issue is that the commercial folks know, right? They do this all over the place, so they know, "Listen, I got to go get a site I got to get approval. I got to get this." So, but when people buy residential property, especially on a 20-acre scale, and they come from middle Tennessee, which I don't know why that would
happen, but you know, when that happens, in middle Tennessee, in the middle of nowhere, they require a like a final inspection and a septic and then a final electric, and that's it. You know, so it's you know, um >> We've got to start somewhere. Get the word out, right? >> Yeah, absolutely. So, these are the
initiatives, though. >> So, just throwing it out there as a I'm a real estate agent for 17 years. One thing I know about real estate agents is they love get-togethers. They love reason to go to open houses and get together and gossip and mingle and talk. >> Networking. >> Networking.
Why couldn't we do something like that here and invite just every real estate agent we could possibly get a hold of? I know there's a ton in the area, but why not host something here? At least start getting the word out. And it's a start. It's not all of this, but at least it gets it out there. >> There's real after we replace the carpet. >> Yeah. >> [laughter]
>> There's a There's realtor organizations where you could come in and get the information through as well. So. Yeah. >> I think we've got >> Right. >> Not that they always follow what we say, but we've got a relatively good handle on the site plan thing, but I we've got
to figure out some way to do better. >> Awesome. And and then also I've got presentation I'm sorry, preservation / historical legacy is kind of what I got from your your explanation and then
reducing traffic / road design options. So, traffic reduction in general, you know >> And further down in this it'll mention it, but maybe this is a good place to put it because I I I really like some of the ideas from the study about identifying that you're
coming into our town. And and while I understand you don't want to beautify state roads, it it may help to again help with letting them know it's a community. It's not just B road to get to Westlake. >> Sure. No, and I think it could show
beauty is fair game. I'm just not interested in spending money down there on Southern Boulevard too much. But certainly coming into B, coming into D, coming in here at F, yeah, absolutely. Yeah. For sure. You you both the demarcation
>> You're in us. This is a neighborhood. >> Yeah, exactly. >> We had a grant from the solid waste authority, $350,000 to do signage multiple places, and then it got voted down. >> Well, that's a shame. >> Was it a match grant?
>> No. No, it was a beautification SWA. >> SWA voted it down? Or we we voted to accept it? >> Council voted >> Was that a TVA grant? >> at the end >> Wow. >> Yeah, it was uh >> Was that Was that the one with the the
stops where people were sitting at that I think that's what >> Oh, that's it. >> And um >> It had a stop. It had bike lines. It had a beautification. It had >> I don't like the wall. >> bus stops, I guess. Pavilions and stuff. >> Yeah, I think it was the bus stops people were like >> garbage >> Yeah.
>> And the garbage can would go instead of being next to the guardrail. >> I remember that. >> Yeah, so yeah. >> So, Joe, are you done with your pillars? >> I I believe so. Karen, did I miss anything? >> [laughter] >> You didn't know you were back up.
>> [laughter] [gasps] >> I got them in there. All right, so Robert, what are yours? This was U L D C. >> All right. Protect conservation easements. Protect the Allen infrastructure. New commercial blend into the existing environment. Strengthen the landscaping code. No
uniform perimeter landscaping in Lake Shores. Break it up. Make it curve. Limit the street lines. Uh public safety. Um It says get back PBSO. This is individual people
uh comments. Rural preservation. Do not remove trees until the site plan is approved. [clears throat] Equestrian support. Support equestrian estates {slash} ranches. Encourage equestrian trails. Protect conservation easements. Crime prevention. Bring back volunteer
citizens on patrol. Rural preservation. Keep one dwelling per 5 acres. Preserve trees. Public safety. Obtain solid long-term contract with PBSO. And maintain existing infrastructure with minimum staff time.
>> Okay. >> Not sure. >> I I >> What else? one? What was that last one? I mean, merging the pillars with the how do we do it? It's, you know, pillar is more of a one >> Well, the pillar I think Yeah, the pillar like so a lot of these ideas
and there's a lot of repetition in the back to the 165 list, right? That can be put under certain headings. But a pillar would be code enforcement. >> Yeah. >> So and and to your point, all policies align that so code enforcement can be
really effective. And it's it's understood. Education I think is a pillar. I think that um design standards is potentially a pillar. Um maybe public safety. I think I think
interconnectedness, whether that's through trails or road design or canal design or identity identification of of the town, the trails, signage, signage consistency. I think all of those represent a potential pillar. >> And it's too that they can better post
about the consistent signage, you know, that is unique unique and consistent could be for our town. You know, come up with something that way. I know signs are expensive. >> Well, we got ILA with Palm Beach County, so they're not possibly as expensive. It depends on the sign you're building,
etc. So I mean >> Yeah. Well, graphics hopefully are cheaper than lots of words. >> Right. >> I don't know anything about um municipal signage, so. All right, um >> FAC Um so we have four. One is rural
preservation and responsible growth. Preserve the town's agricultural and equestrian character, low-density land use patterns, open space, rural roadways identity, while ensuring that future growth and development remain compatible with the community's long-term vision and quality of life.
Two, fiscal responsibility and government transparency. So it's a big one. Promote responsible budgeting, long-term financial planning, transparent decision-making, and accountability to residents. The town should prioritize sustainable spending, careful management of taxpayer resources, and policies that protect
long-term financial stability without placing unnecessary burden on the residents. Um three, infrastructure, drainage, environmental resilience resiliency. Prioritize maintenance and improvement of roads, canals, drainage systems, and other core infrastructure in a manner
that supports public safety, protects property values, and respects the town's unique environmental conditions and rural design. Four, public safety and protection of property values. Support effective public safety services while ensuring service levels, contracts, and long-term obligations
remain financially sustainable and align with the needs of the rural community. Protecting property values, including maintaining community appearance, infrastructure reliability, and overall quality of life for residents. Another thing that they said was um to include local farming and community more
community engagement. As part of that rural preservation and responsible growth. >> Sorry, to include local farming? >> Yeah, farming. And more farming cuz we have a lot of people that grow and nobody knows it. So >> And they don't have horses. >> And they Yeah, they don't have the
Equestrian Park. >> So, basically local promotion? >> Promotion of farming and more community engagement. And that can kind of go under initiatives. >> Yeah. Right. >> I mean, I I look forward to hearing what Rick Igg has to say, but I guarantee it's not going to be far off base from what's going on here cuz everything >> Yeah.
>> We have different groups of people aside from the you know, I I expected a little more from PC&B to be more >> PC&B-ish? >> Uh design Yeah, PC&B-ish, you know. >> Well, that's what we asked >> Yeah. >> is our direction to just stay on target as a board. It's like, "No, just say
whatever." >> Say whatever. Absolutely. I mean >> We'll enter me. >> But I mean, we are Yeah. I mean, I can tell you I took We were in I'll be quick. Um we were in Jupiter a couple weeks ago um staying at Jonathan Dickinson. And uh I had to run a Walmart to get
some things. And I I'm park in the parking lot. It's right on Indiantown Road. Mind you, if you drive by Indiantown Road, you won't know there's a Walmart there. Right? There it's all shade trees. And of course it's been there for a minute. Don't get me wrong.
>> forever. >> It's but it's all shade trees. And then when you pull into the parking lot, right? You pull in the parking lot, there's there's shade trees in the in the in the in the median sections, right? But you look at the building. The I can I'll send pictures. I'm not
trying to get on a tangent. But you look at the building. The building looks like a Key West house. A big Key West house. It looks like it's got these big massive sconces on it, whatever. So my point being is as much as we get told, you know, Robert
and going back and forth with with Wendy's on the size of their menu board sign and all the on the size of the Listen, we hold the key. You know, then that's I think and that's what this all gets around to is and and we do a lot of
work with Rural Vista. Hopefully here in about a year, right? >> One more season to go. >> saying that. >> I I got to. I'm I'm willing it into existence. But you know, so I think even even as as you know, like was it um
What's the place that's coming up right now? Um >> Panda Express. >> Yeah, even as they come forward say, "Hey look, this is what's coming in the future. We this is the same thing we've had. This is what's coming." And just re- cuz right now it's a guideline. It's not really codified, right? So I think
but saying look, these are And I think in the past we've had a little bit of "Hey look, this is how they want they would like things to look. You know, just use this, right?" But then you see palm trees are worse than I'm I'm excited. >> Madam Mayor, can I take can we take
comments from other council members, please in a systematic manner? >> Anytime, it's an open workshop. >> Thank you. Thank you. I think first of all, thank you to all the committee chairs. This has been very helpful. I appreciate your time. I know these are volunteer unpaid positions and
you have done a fabulous job and we benefit from your experience. Thank you. I would emphasize three things that came out of your all your discussion. The first one and that is non-negotiable is the rural protecting our rural lifestyle and
trees and drainage and upholding our comprehensive plan and charter are the core of that. So I think that's first thing that is common. The second thing is the financial strength. None of this is doable. Trees and this and that and roads and drainage
and safety if we don't have the financial strength. And I think what I hear from everybody is they want people want safety, accountability, transparency and focus on stopping any wasteful or
non-priority spending but making sure we are strong financially. And thirdly, I think public safety and trust and that's where I would emphasize that I heard from two committees at least that our public have
said that you know, establish PBSO, establish safety, their perception or reality of safety. So I would say that let's bring that up PBSO as the topic that we need to discuss. So public safety is the pillar that I'm
worried about. Thank you. >> Okay. So until we get Red Gax pillars and and input, I will go back to Joe on initiatives. So. >> Thank you. So, um
Okay. >> How is this all concepts and initiatives? >> Yeah, concepts and initiatives. >> 14. >> Um so, maybe something like rural character and design excellence initiative. Recognition and awards for exemplary development, rural vista guidelines,
create a community-wide design framework requiring all new commercial and mixed-use development to reflect town's rural heritage through architectural landscaping signage, lighting, and site design. Maybe there's an award. Um uh number two would be local first
initiative. Prioritize locally owned and operated businesses, artisans, agricultural enterprises over franchise development. Incentives for local businesses, streamlined approvals for local businesses, community marketplace and seasonal vendor programs, green markets, town
yard sales, etc. And maybe even help to incubate unique business concepts in town, within our town. This [clears throat] is all, of course, you know, agricultural business is what I'm talking about. Local local revenue
economy driven dollars. >> Residential enterprise? >> Exactly. Just just to be clear. Three, um conservation through or better despite growth, require development um to contribute directly to preserving
open green spaces, require them to donate, >> [clears throat] >> contribute. Meaning meaning canopy and natural features. Maybe it's a dollar amount. Maybe it's a portion of their land. Maybe it's a portion of their land that they beautify themselves and they can win the award.
Um conservation set-asides, easements in the form of greenways or scenic corridors, uh green corridors and wildlife connections, wildlife and dark sky lighting. This is cuz all you all these are That's why this is so
>> You want to see >> [laughter] >> preservation preservation identification and preservation of historic and specimen trees >> [clears throat] >> or just ones that don't need to be cut down needlessly. Uh robust agricultural buffers, open
space dedication requirements. And the goal for that would be every new project it leaves the community greener and more resilient than before. Greenways, linear parks, and open spaces, canals as um
scenic routes. Pursue grants and partnerships to create a connected system of linear parks, greenways, trails, and natural corridors, your canals, throughout the community. The canal easements and you know, I'm not suggesting you know gondolas. Um
>> I think I could kayak through those new pipes The pipes though, those are pretty big. >> we could. >> See >> Let's see that. >> Seek county, state, federal, and private grant funding. Connect parks, schools, and commercial areas with trails and greenways. Preserve natural habitats and drainage corridors.
Expand recreational opportunities for residents. Improve walkability, bike, equestrian access, and overall public health. Create lasting Well, because if you're walking, you're getting healthy. It's kind of where I was going with that. Or your horse is getting >> healthy lifestyle >> a healthy lifestyle.
>> healthier >> Uh create lasting green infrastructure that increases property values and community appeal. Community tree and stewardship initiative. Identify and protect specimen historical trees. Promote the culture of preserving and maintaining trees especially and not
limited to but conservation easements and wetlands for sure as as defining features of our town. Plant a tree. Don't clear cut. Transplant. Mitigate. Save the canopy. Um incentive programs. Seek grants for urban forestry and
canopy expansion. Recognize residents and businesses that preserve mature trees. Strengthen and force tree protection and fines if not adhered to during development. Encourage replacement ratios that result in more trees being planted or saved
than being removed. >> Can you imagine coming in to town of Loxahatchee Groves on Okeechobee Boulevard and it being that tree canopy >> Yeah, that whole way. >> I have a big have a dream, a vision >> I So, in Martin County when you when you used to go out towards Indiantown, that's how that is. It was beautiful.
>> Yeah. >> It >> I hear past tense. >> I don't think you have >> You haven't been up there in a minute. >> Because I have somebody that continually tells me, "Oh, what if we could just plant oak trees >> it's not going to It takes hundreds of years. >> said well, it does take years and you
got to start at some point. >> Yeah. >> But my answer my answer every time this person asked me >> Not our road. >> Well, no. I mean, even if you could get them to buy in and let them put it it's it's even if we could get that, right? And they say, "Okay. And you know what? We'll we'll go and we'll go halvesies on the trees with you." Right? But who's maintaining the trees
after? Who's watering them? Cuz you know, oak trees need months and months to get established, you know? That's that's that's the that's the hitch, right? It all comes back to the >> Yeah. Who's going to take care of it? >> but the Well, people >> Plant them underneath the telephone
lines, then FPL will have to take care of them. >> Yes, and then they end up like >> I didn't say they take care of them well. >> I have those. They're like >> [laughter] >> They got half an oak tree leaning tower of oak trees. >> It's I do vision that. >> It would It would It would identify our
town, though. >> I have a hand in the background there. Yes. >> If they can mow the grass, they can water the trees. >> [laughter] >> We don't mow that >> We don't mow as often as you need to water those the grass when it doesn't need mowing. So Joe, you're done? >> I would say that. >> That was incentives, yes. Okay.
Robert, you want to give us a easy bees? >> My last one is we combine the concepts board request kind of was the but it was the same thing. Uh weir system to hold water in canals north of Okeechobee, improving connect trails, more community events, utilize
existing policy to allow donations for community events, adopt wildlife lighting, adopt rural vistas guidelines for design architectural regulations, maintain open space, no increase in living space, maintain canals so they work properly, pave
roads, restrict trucks based on truck weight height before closing roads, more equestrian trails, get grant money, maintenance of roads, finish so people can ride and be safe, create community events for children like equestrian shows for each program,
create a community events area, finish paving the main grid to reduce grading and road rock cost, use blocks paved for dead end roads, develop a 10-year plan for canal bank restoration, enter into a long-term contract with PBSO reduce staffing to minimal levels,
only do what we can afford to do, create a town mission and vision statements and post on the town website. And I was surprised that that wasn't on there, but I guess we don't have one on there. >> Isn't it mission mission vision statement? >> A vision statement. >> Not a mission.
>> Create a culture that aligns with these statements. And then something I added that we talked about was our direction as a the planning zoning board in the future. They were working on an equestrian estate ranch type uh development guidelines and we're a new
board now, so they were asking, you know, do they pick that back up or not? >> I think you too. >> Yeah, one of the notes was the question of farms and nurseries without houses paid minimum taxes. So, how do we encourage a house on the property to help the tax base?
And uh So, yeah, we're looking for direction for our upcoming meetings. >> Okay, we'll put that on a future agenda. I know that's been discussed there. Uh UALDC. >> I provided staff from the equestrian estates staff from other communities. >> I wish you would have brought it up
earlier. >> But >> Like in the meeting? Like in your in like public comment? >> Oh. >> Cuz I probably would have asked for some direction or something to kind of push that along. >> Yeah. >> do that cuz we have to work on it. >> Please get them all called back. >> I I >> Please get it done. >> Yeah.
>> I I'm trying to I'll try to help you write that down. estate question >> You're okay. You got this. You're okay. >> Got it. Got it. >> Okay. >> All right, concept initiative one, develop a long-term rural infrastructure and preservation plan that prioritizes
roadway maintenance, drainage improvements, canal management, and traffic mitigation in a manner that protects the town's rural character while remaining financial sustainable financially sustainable. The plan should include long-term capital forecasting, grant opportunities, and prioritization of projects that directly
protect resident property values and the quality of life. Concept initiative number two, create a rural identity and agricultural support initiative focused on promoting equestrian and agricultural heritage through community events, educational partnerships, responsible
agritourism opportunities, and preservation focused planning policies. This initiative could be could also encourage resident engagement while supporting local agricultural businesses and reinforcing the town's unique identity within Palm Beach County. Community, back to communities.
>> So, I think kind of what this is leaning if I can pick one one or two three overarching ones, town identity is a huge one, right? So, an initiative for town identity, creating some kind of
um >> Do we want to call it a town identity or rural identity? >> Well, it's the one in the same, hopefully. Um >> The town identity is a rural identity. >> Yes. >> If I have my way. >> Um so, identity seems to be like one of the overarching initiatives.
Um I would say it looks like promoting coming up with some kind of event. >> something up that that that I think may may be putting us on the right track. So, we're going to talk more about it on Friday, but we met with um in the last
um anniversary Veterans Day celebration meeting, we met with um a young man and they have a product that's called I can't remember the name of it right now, sorry, but I could look at my emails and get it. But anyhow, she'll be telling you more about it later. It's like an app. But but it is it's an app.
And first of all, talk about it developing our identity, we'd be one of the first ones in this area to be using it, which is really cool. But what other communities have used it before is to uh highlight like if they want to get to put have people use like local businesses, right? So, it provides like
maps and then the QR codes and it's all in an app and it's it's it's really cool and you can follow the map and you can like even do like little virtual like like, you know, find the Where's Waldo within a place to be like it's really cool. Like all the stuff that they have you can find a little Where's Waldo in
the place to be like have a scavenger hunt kind of thing at the same time. So, I think that that we were talking about offering like tiers or levels, right? For for people to be on and maybe even doing several different maps like a, you know, an agritourism map and and a
commercial business map or an equestrian support services map, you know, or equestrian venues map. So, so we're we're looking into that. To me, it's all like as Joe said with the technology way above my pay pay grade, but it may be it
may really really align with this as far as like identifying us, identifying, promoting our community, and promoting the ruralness of our community, and the uniqueness of our community. I think it may really help with that. >> So, to that end, uh >> If you'll allow me to look on my phone
>> Yeah, look it up. Uh there is the state of Florida has um art grants. And the town as a government entity is able to apply. Um so, we could come up with an art project idea that might fund certain
aspects of it, and we can apply for up to $25,000. >> We have a local resident, by the way, who's a very talented artist who has already volunteered her time >> Perfect. So, I wonder if Soaring Lawn would let us use their building as like a billboard. >> Well, that that's been that's been
proposed. I think uh Red Gakis working on that. >> Yeah, we got some more money towards this, right? >> Oranges. I think I think they've done that. Yes, but we could apply for an additional grant, and if we came up with an art idea
that I don't know. You you painted something Like we talked about the signage. >> Yeah, we can do the signs at the end. >> Well, we're talking about like the road signs where farms and other agribusinesses could have participate to
be included on the signs. That might be something we get a grant for. The nice thing about these art grants is there's no matching funds, and we get up to 25,000. The only thing is it has to be applied for by July 10th for the next fiscal year. So, there'd be no money before July 2027.
So, if we get council's agreement tonight, we can kind of take a year. We can at least move forward with a plan. >> What does the application look like? We just write down what it says it goes on it. The mayor signs it, and we send it off. >> It it's >> But does it have to have engineering? Does it have to have >> No, no, no. It's it's an art initiative for your community. It's It's pretty You
say something like we want to do sculptures or we want to do visual arts. So it might be painting on the side of that building. It might be painting on the side of public works. We can give like options because you can do a call for artist. And then but I
think as you could probably keep it pretty general from what I saw on the online stuff that I was looking up and I called them today cuz it wasn't clear. It sounded like you had to be an art thing. Yes. Well, and I can look at it and if it looks like it's going to be too extensive, we'll just maybe look at it
next time. But >> The program is called Driftscape. You can the app you can download it. Some ones that we went over with them was one that was Visit Sitka with which was a It's in Alaska. So it was like a whole thing to do that. We also went over like Hida Shoda. It's like just some ones for
you to look on. Uh Love Lani, the Lantus and Central. This was created with Australia. They They had it It's in Australia and it's a shop local passport kind of thing that you that they had. Um and then a downtown Tempe is and their websites
actually embedded on it. Um there's the big >> That's what I was going to ask. >> Yeah, there's the Well, and I think I think what this supports is the idea of of attracting younger people, right? To the community. Right? And now it's maybe cost prohibitive for some of them, but as
they get used to coming into the community, I know there's some younger families and they're like, "I came out to Loxahatchee Groves 20 years ago and my dream was to buy and live in and now I get to live my dream." So there there are young people that are getting the opportunity
They They liked all of it, I guess. So you know, it's So back to Rose though, I thought uh Treasure Coast were uh taking the line out the center line out of the roads was really really interesting finding from them. Um
>> I've always thought it was a good idea. >> Yeah, so it'd be curious to see I know the A road collecting project has the striping. So maybe we put the kibosh on that. So that would be something we want to discuss at a at a future >> It'll look more rural. >> No, I don't think so because what
happens on B road is people say oh well I'm on my side of the yellow line so I'm not moving over and there goes your mirror. >> There was never a disaster when it was a dirt road. Why is there on the dirt road there's no lines? I mean I don't understand that mindset at all. I I would say that the canal side needs
to be a wider definitely Whatever that's a topic for a different day. >> You're being conscientious. When I'm looking at a line well what the hell I'm in my lane why aren't you >> Exactly. >> When there's no lines you can't say >> Well but also even if you're in your
lanes because they're not 10 ft like I don't know my truck mirror got taken off you know by somebody because it's not >> enough. >> So the lines are deceptive. They create a deception in my opinion. >> I I do I agree with that. I think that removing the lines has to come along
with the signage though. The yield the yield signs for the the side that has to give up the fact that that poor guy is going to have to dive into water right? You just yield to oncoming traffic. >> Yes actually is it D road? I think it's D road. Um
There's no way on either side of that road. >> D road. >> D road. >> D road. >> Oh with the with the >> A tree in the water. >> It's a powerful water powerful water. We have a hand in the back of the room. >> I don't know how people feel but I just thought we could share the wealth of the sod farm tractor trailers they could go
on all the roads. >> go on all the roads. >> they do all the time. >> They're special. And some of some of these landscape maintenance companies that with their crews it's a little wild >> can have a couple of ours, too. >> Yeah. >> We still have them. >> It's those going over the speed bumps. >> has to pay for the repairs.
>> told that money has disappeared. >> Oh. >> The impact fee? >> That's cuz that's the most direct route. >> Yeah, but that seems to have gone away. Um so, we didn't get to our council rules. So, I have some notes. Um
>> Can Can we finish that? Sorry, can I make some comments on the workshop before we go there? >> Wait, I have two more. >> Yeah, okay. So, um Here Here is another point that I would like the committees
to look at. As you know, the Florida voters have a are going to approve or not approve new property tax reform in November 2026. So, every municipality in Florida, including us, will be affected. So, I would like us to at least start
thinking about diversifying our revenues and look at non-essential cutting non-essential spending. We don't We don't even know at this time I asked this question multiple time, what is essential or degree of essential spending versus non. Secondly,
we should also prepare other sources of revenue in case the property tax revenue declines in the 2027-2028. So, let's think of that as a long-term plan. Long-term in financial
terms means anything more than one year plan. So, two or three or four year horizon is long-term. And then, I would in terms of safety, in addition to PBSO, I would like to add that one of the biggest issue and I'm being
one of the you know, I wouldn't brag too much, but I am let's say one of the agrotourism operators myself. And I have so many other agrotourism operators I speak with and one of the issues of any visitor or any new resident who comes to our town
is they are afraid of our canals and some of the canals, very few of them have guardrails, others have none. So, if we have some funding, I would like to put better guardrails or especially on the turns and other risky
uh points. I was talking to the police uh Colonel, Colonel Coleman, a few weeks ago and he said, "People die in your canals and there are deaths because you know, people don't know there are canals. This is the top fatality issue in our town as well." So,
having thinking about safety guards or rails or having some kind of a signage, I would say, "Please look into that issue." And thirdly, and this falls right in your expertise, um Mr. Shore and others, that this
Okeechobee uh Boulevard, we have a county doing everything they can to make it a four-lane highway and nothing against them, but we have to protect our own interest. I would like us to uh think about having some discussions
on uh traffic calming measures or putting stop signs or roundabouts in certain, maybe in the beginning and in the end or maybe stop sign with a right turn lane, but uh let's think about how what what do we do today to preserve our rural
um our rural town and mostly Okeechobee four-lane highway is is something I'm very concerned about because we have some businesses who are operating as if they are commercial or they may be agritourism or they may be
ag, I don't know, but they they are operating and whole thing is turning into uh a a very uh challenging situation. I know for sure that few of the people who who are having businesses on Okeechobee are
coming in front of the town to claim that if other people have sort of commercial enterprises, they may be agriculture or agrotourism, but they are claiming why can't they have it? So, we have to have very clear guidelines on Okeechobee Boulevard and
keeping it residential and rural, etc. So, please think about how can we get that going and where will the funds come from? Thank you so much. >> Okay, thank you. Joe, you had one other thing you wanted to say? >> Well, there's the last part was what we
thought as a board. >> Oh, yeah. That I don't >> You don't think we can >> That wasn't us. That was staff. >> Oh. >> But I will I will I >> Did it. >> Yeah. >> Did our homework. >> You did. You did. >> Well, we did I want read it I want read it. >> This is This is going to come back. This
is not a one-and-done because this this strategic plan the strategic plan has to make sure like you said all policies align and support it. So, and I think bringing it back and having further conversations and and I I appreciate the chair's time and all the
committee members doing the the work. And if it does go back to the committees, maybe then focusing from PZB, specifically ULDC, specifically FAC, specifically RECAC. >> Well, and but yes, you Yes. >> Because Yes. >> Hopefully
She may need IT's help. Yes. But they couldn't be here tonight. I'm sure they'll send it to us. And now I'll try to compile it and then I'm sure we'll see it again. And I do I do have one question that we can hopefully bring up at a council meeting in the future of can we
rename the RECAC? To maybe lifestyle committee? I don't know, but RECAC? I mean it and I know sometimes things get added and taken away and then it changes the acronym. So, I don't know. Just thinking thinking something maybe like >> Well
but >> It doesn't sound like that. It sounds so subversive. >> I I know. >> Can I just mention >> But let me comment on, you know, council stuff, our council policies. If everybody's got their notes, then we can bring it back next time and go through it quickly. It'd be nice.
I I There's waving at the back and um and we're leaving. So >> Five or six? >> No, no, that >> We're just doing five. We're just doing five. >> No, we were supposed to get to that, but we've run out of time. So we we have a
set time on this. No, we're not we're not going to get into all of that. So Yeah. She's got her She's got her microphone up, but she made a motion to adjourn and we have a second. All those in favor? Aye. That's right. We did not.
>> Oh. >> Thank you. Thank you. summarize I think that If we very >> I feel like I did a research paper. >> And then I will try and I will email it to staff. >> Okay. >> All right. I love you.
>> And ask them to >> Yes, of course. >> Joe, did you get her