--------- your body weight. You're using the angles that you choose to use on the bands. And it just varies with how you're comfortable and how you're feeling when you're here. Hello everyone. My name is Devon Pulis. I'm the aquatics manager within our parks and recreation department. We're
here today at the Northport Aquatic Center just to talk to everyone about our Float for Life program. We recognize that nationally unintentional drowning is the leading cause of death for children that are under the age of four. So, we have an awesome program here called Float for Life. Float for Life is
a program that we teach that starts with the fundamentals of floating before we actually learn swimming. This program is targeted for those children of ages 6 months to four. And what we want them to do is we want them to get comfortable in the water and if they accidentally fall in the water or find themselves in a
trouble situation, they can roll over their back and float. When we launched this program, uh we were the only one in the state that was actually teaching this milestone program. So want to give a shout out to our Northport Rotary as [Music]
Good afternoon everybody. Today is Tuesday, June 24th, 2025. It is 4:00 p.m. We're in city chambers. I call the road and drainage district meeting to order. Commissioners present. Commissioner Dval, Commissioners Langden, Mayor
Stokes, Vice Mayor Emer, and Commissioner Petro. There's a quorum present for the meeting. Also present, city manager Fletcher, Assistant City Attorney Coglin, city clerk FA, board specialist Lane, uh, Deputy Chief
Morales, and Deputy Chief Hurley, and, uh, let's see. Trish, want to lead us? Is he? I didn't see. Oh, there he is. our stand to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic
for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. I need a motion to approve the agenda. So moved. Got a motion by Commissioner Langden, seconded by the vice mayor.
Let us vote. Commissioner Duval. Oh, there we go. It popped up. 520. That passes. Uh, moving on. City clerk. Public comments?
Alrighty. Moving on to the consent agenda. City manager. Any items been pulled? No, Mr. Mayor. Alrighty. Uh, looking for any public comment or any discussion.
Let's do that. Nothing from anybody on the consent. All right. Uh, any public comment then? I am looking for a motion. Move to approve the consent agenda. Second. Got a motion by Vice Mayor,
seconded by Commissioner Langden to approve the consent agenda. If there's nothing more to that, let's vote. And that passes 520. Uh, public hearings
resolution A 2025-R36. City clerk, would you read by title only, please? Resolution number 2025-R36, a resolution of the city commission of the city of Northport, Florida, as the governing body of the Northport Road and Drainage District, authorizing the purchase of real property located on
Cashier Road and described as lot 20, block 1586, 32nd edition to Port Charlotte subdivision, Sarasota County Property Appraiser, parcel identification number 1138158620. Incorporating recital, providing for filing of documents, providing for conflicts, providing for severability,
and providing an effective date. Thank you, city manager. Your item. Thank you, Mr. Mayor. The Department of Public Works is requesting authorization to purchase real property located on Kasha Road. Um, an appraisal has been completed on the property on February
15th of 2025 and valued the parcel at $23,000. An agreement has been reached with Mr. and Mrs. Kingwell to sell the lot to the road and drainage district at the value of $24,000. The acquisition of the parcel will provide permanent access to water control structure 138 for future maintenance and rehab
rehabilitation. We ask that you approve resolution number 2025-R36 today as presented. Thank you, sir. Thank you, sir. Commissioner, is anything to this? Nothing. Nothing. All right. Any public comment? There is none. Then I'm closing
this public hearing. request a motion. I'll make it. I move to adopt resolution number 2025-R36 as presented. Second. Got a motion by Commissioner Langden, seconded by the vice mayor to adopt resolution 2025-R36
as presented. Let's vote. That passes 520. Moving on. Resolution 2025-R38. City clerk, if you'd be kind enough. Resolution number 2025-R38. A resolution of the city commission of the city of Northport, Florida as the
governing body of the road and drainage or the Northport Road and drainage district authorizing the purchase of real property located on Muglone Lane described as lot one block 163 of fifth edition to Port Charlotte subdivision identified as partial identification number 10301
6301 incorporating recital providing for filing of documents providing for conflicts providing for severability and providing an effective date. Thank you, city manager. Your item. Thank you, Mr. Mayor. The Department of Public Works is seeking to purchase property located on
Muglong Lane. This property acquisition will provide access to retention ditch 165 and allow permanent access for future maintenance and rehabilitation. An appraisal report was completed on March 4th of 2025 and the listed the property as a value
of $28,500. An agreement has been reached by the seller to sell the property to the Northport Road and Drainage District for $28,300. We ask that you approve resolution number 2025-R38 today as presented. Thank you. Thank you, sir.
Commissioners, anything to this one? We're all good. Any public comment? Then we'll close this public hearing and request a motion. I move to adopt resolution number 25
2025-R38 as presented. Second. I got a motion by Commissioner Duval, seconded by Mr. Langden to adopt resolution 2025-R38 as presented. There's nothing more.
Let's vote. And that passes 5 to zero. Any general public comments? Well, with that at 407, I'll adjourn this Well, who sponsored this program here at the aquatic center and actually paid for a trainer to come in all the way from
Nebraska where this program originates there. We practice and we go through what's called milestones here. So, as soon as the kids progress through the milestones, we can continue moving on through them. And at the end of it, it's a pretty awesome program. when they graduate is one of the final things that they do is they jump in fully clothed
and they have to turn over, roll over on their back and actually be able to scream for help at that point in time. It's just an awesome segment program that leads right into our learn to swim program. So that way we can make sure we're keeping our kids safe in, on, and around the water.
They're trying to get you. [Music] Oh my gosh, this is going to be great. So, I always get very excited when anybody asks me about my job and where I work and what I do. It's not a secret that I love working for the city of
Northport. I worked for Charlotte County and I felt that I needed to do something different and I wanted something more and I wanted to offer my skills. So I told my friend I'm don't know what to do and I was thinking about my next steps and she said Maria did you think about
applying to a job at the city of Northport? They have a different vibe here and she says I'd love it and I said oh I didn't think about that. So, I applied and I started my first position in a planning and zoning in our development services department. I'm
partnered with the building department because my my the fees are assessed off of the building permits and it's strictly for new construction, new development. And uh the first thing I do is to check the spreadsheet to look at
the permits and determine which ones need me to estimate their impact fees. And that's where I start with that. Then I go to numbers that I have to put together and I put together the invoices for our developers. Oftentimes I'll get
phone calls to give quotes before their um the development comes through and so developers want to know how much they can budget for. So sometimes I put through proposed estimates to help them with that. And the bulk of it is is
making sure that the fees are in the system as fast as possible. I love the aspree decor that I experience. Just how everybody team worked together. I uh enjoy knowing that I'm can make a difference for the city and that my position can have a positive impact in
for our city. [Music] Oh, you're swimming in the pool. [Music] [Music] Guys, the bathroom. [Music]
I'm Stacy Losio. I am the emergency management coordinator for the city of Northport. And we're going to talk about why it's important to have a go kit and what should go inside of it. It's important to have a go bag because if you wait last minute to pack, there are definitely going to be items that you are going to forget in the scramble to
get everything put together. So, it's important to have your documents such as IDs, insurance paperwork, titles for your home and your vehicles and your boats just so that if your home does flood or your roof blows up, all those documents are with you and they're safe
because you don't want to end up losing those and having to try to replace those later on. Also, in your go bag, you should think about what medications you might need to have ahead of time. If we're under a state of emergency, you are able to refill your prescriptions ahead of time, even if they're not due
yet. So, it's important to do that. Also, in your go bags, you should have non-p perishable food, flashlight, batteries, a radio that is battery powered, and extra batteries. Should all power go out, we will be able to broadcast on 97.5 FM anything uh any
emergency information. So, be sure to have your battery powered radio ready and tuned in to 97.5. [Music] We believe that the natural resources department will be an integral part for
the city's growth as we want to achieve a more balanced approach of development. ment in the future. What we really want to do is see sensible development, sustainable development and development that is um in line with what we already
have here. So we want to preserve as much as we can of the uh natural resources. So there is still place for our natural species, our our migrating birds and all the other species that live um and survive in our habitat.
Natural systems are a big part of the ways ecosystems function. An important part for our community, our listed species. They stabilize the soil. They provide so many different benefits
including shade, limiting the heat island effect uh within our city, providing habitat, providing shelter for these species and just uh also for our aesthetic enjoyments. Well, as an
arborist, uh a lot of what I do is making sure that development conforms to the tree protection code. So, one thing we already have in place since April of 2022 is a tree protection code which is quite
robust in the city of Northport that was adopted by commission and the city through also a lot of community involvement. And so, we're very happy to have that tree protection code. So, what I a lot of what I do is making sure that development either residential or
commercial conforms to that code. We are such a passionate team. We come from varied backgrounds. Uh I think between us we have over a 100red years of experience and we are every day raring to go and you know we know our work is cut out here and we're happy to uh take
the challenge through the division and community involvement and leadership in the city. We really hope to make great strides in protecting what we have here and finding that balance with development and environmental stewardship. I am excited to be a part
of this team and I'm really seeking and looking forward to the opportunities for us to be able to make a difference. [Music] [Music] I started with Charlotte County Utilities as a meter reader in 2004.
So that's kind of where I got my foot in the door. And once I reached a point in my life where things were more stable, I decided to leave Charlotte County Utilities and I went and got my insurance license. It was very exciting doing that for a short period of time. But after a while, I started thinking
about the utility. It was in my heart. At this point, I had almost 12, just two months shy of 12 years in. And so I realized during that time, my heart was in utilities. And so I started looking around again. and I seen an opening here
to be a CN D tech. So, I applied and I got in. Typically, I get here at 7 in the morning. I get my list of, you know, if I can get to this, this is what I need to do. And I get in my truck. If if I need any supplies, parts, tools based off of the work I was given that
morning, I'll pick that up here at our shop. And then I head out and um my goal for the day is just to get as much work as that was assigned to me done as possible. And sometimes that happens. And other times there's a lot of first response calls that come in. My favorite
part is the uniqueness. It's um not knowing what I'm going to be faced with every day. It could be different. It's not mundane in any way. And it's exciting when you get a call and you're you're on your way and you don't know what it is. And you you have the
experience and the knowhow and the backing to face whatever it's going to be. So I feel very confident in facing these calls. And I think that's my favorite part. Hello, my name is Devon Pulis. I'm the aquatics facilities manager with the city of Northport. And today we're going
to be talking with you guys about our free swim evaluation. It's important that we do these swim evaluations so as uh kids are registering for swim programs, they get placed in the right class. What we're looking at when we're doing the swim evaluation is every swim level has what's called exit skill assessments. So, what we do is we have
your child get in the water and we'll go through a series of different movements. Can you go under the water? Uh, can you show us your front crawl? Can you show us back crawl? Can you show us elementary backstroke? Different strokes within there. And what we're doing is we're trying to see where your child tests to before it becomes a challenge
for them at that point. Once we assess that, then we'll let you know and you can go ahead and sign your child up for that appropriate level there. It's important that we have these so that way when we're teaching a level one, we don't have kids that should be potentially in a level two and a level one class because they're not learning
the appropriate skills that they need at that point in time. Right now, uh when we're in full summer operations, uh we ask that people come between 8 and 10 to do the swim evaluations just as you can hear the water splashing in the background, slides and everything like that. But any day of the week uh that we're open, you can come in at any point
in time and ask for a swim evaluation. We always have a certified swim instructor on site that can uh have your child take a swim assessment. [Music] Franklowway's manager. I am here today with Mario Van Diddi. Mario, tell people
here how long you've been doing this job. I've been here five years. Five years. Excellent. Excellent. So, Mario, tell people what it entails, what you do. I'm a planner scheduler for Solid Waste the City and um I go around and I I greet the new residents and I educate
them on the recycle. Excellent. Sounds interesting. Very good. Y So, Mario, what do you find inside the recycling bins that shouldn't be there? So, let's try to tell the people how to recycle, right? Well, the most common thing I find, Frank, is plastic bags. Okay. So, the plastic bags are not recyclable. I
find them just tossed in the container or they bag the recycle with them. Right. And they should This is inside the blue lid container. That's right. Inside the blue lid containers. Correct. And they should be either taken back to the grocery store or tossed in the trash. Very good. Do you see a lot of recycling inside the containers? Uh I
do. I come across a lot of that. Okay. We don't want to do that. So, okay. So, if you have any questions, you can always look at our website ww.northportf.gov/ /solidwaste. [Music] Welcome to the brand new Northport
Podcast Network. We're so excited to introduce you to our revamped lineup of shows created to keep you connected, informed, and inspired about everything happening in our city. That's right. With three unique shows under one network, there's something for everyone. First up is Northport. Now Madison and I
will rotate hosting this fast-paced news-driven podcast to bring you the latest city updates, event previews, and important information all in one quick listen. Think of it as your weekly guide to staying in the know about what's happening in Northport. Next, we have Northport Stories. Laura
and I will share heartfelt and inspiring tales from around our community. Stories that showcase the people, places, and moments that make our city special. And don't worry, Voices of Northport isn't going anywhere. I'll continue bringing you even more personal stories and interviews with residents who shaped our
city. And last but not least, Northport Living. Cody and I will also rotate hosting this show, which is all about tips, events, and lifestyle ideas to help you make the most of life right here in Northport. Whether you're looking for family-friendly activities, ways to get involved, or helpful home
and garden tips, Northport Living has you covered. With breaking news, heartfelt stories, or practical tips, the Northport Podcast Network is your go-to source for all things Northport. Make sure to subscribe to the Northport Podcast Network wherever you listen and
join us as we celebrate and connect with our amazing community. Northport Now will be released bi-weekly. Northport Stories and Living will be monthly. A schedule will be available on social media and our website.
[Music] Hello everyone, Devon Pulis here, aquatics manager. Welcome to my crib. We have fun here at the crib. Programs included. Become a pass member. Play all
year long. Payer at the crib. We do have rules. We take all payments here at the crib. Apple Pay, Mastercard, Visa, cash. You pay right here to enjoy the crib. So, enter through the gate. Childproof,
most adult proof. Shade. What's that? Our newly installed sun shade available for rent all season long. Here at my crib, you don't have to worry about a place to find a seat. We've added more chairs than ever here at the
crib. You're coming to enjoy the cribs and you got little ones. We got the perfect area for them. Our Pelican playground, newly painted, fresh floor, fresh palm tree. It's looking clean. Looking for a place to work your upper
body? Take a shot at here at our Stingray shuffle. Looking to relax? I got you covered here with our lazy river. Living more on the adventurous side. Check out the slides right behind me. Newly painted. All offer something
individual and unique. Check it out. Check out the main pool kept at a wonderful 84° all year long. I just want you to have a good time. We have safety covered. Lifeguards here,
staff all day, every day when we're open for you to enjoy. Concession is open. Pizza, pretzels, nachos, ice cream. We got it all. My crib is your crib. Looking forward to
seeing you here. Duty calls. I'm Stacy Losio. I am the emergency management coordinator for the city of Northport and I'm going to be talking about having an evacuation plan. It's important to have an evacuation plan ahead of time. And it's very important
to write it down because that way you can have it somewhere present where everybody in your family can see it and keep it fresh in their minds. And you want to also share it with people in your family or your neighbors so that they know what your plans are ahead of time and how to get a hold of you or where to look for you after a disaster.
for your evacuation plans. Uh you should have multiple routes to get to the location you're planning to go to. Just because traffic-wise, traffic on 75 might be gridlocked. There could be some very good back roads to get to where you're going. Uh that could get you
there more quickly without being stuck in traffic. When you're making an evacuation plan, we usually tell you four different things. You should stay home if you are not in a zone that's being evacuated and if your home is built to withstand the forecasted storm.
If you can't stay home uh and you evacuate, your next option should be to go to a friend or family's home that is outside of the evacuation area and is structurally sound to withstand the storm. Third option would be go to a hotel. They're much more comfortable than our evacuation centers. Fourth
option would be to go to one of our evacuation centers. Sarasota County has 12 evacuation centers. Those can be found on their website. [Music] I'm Stacy Losio. I'm the emergency manager for the city of Northport and I'm going to discuss first responders
after the storm. So, it may take a while for first responders to get to after the storm and that's due to a variety of reasons. One being we pull first responders off the roads when tropical storm force winds are sustained for their safety. That is a standard usually across the state and other states that
have hurricanes as well. So, we will have a backlog of calls that have come in during the storm that we will prioritize based on urgency and they'll be responding to those as well as the calls that are currently coming in if they're urgent as well. Also, the roads might be flooded. There might be debris
in the roads. Our tactical first in teams will be going out right away to clear the roads of any hazards so that our vehicles can get through and respond as quickly as possible. Just keep that in mind when you call after a disaster for assistance. We are coming You are
very important to us. We care about our residents and their safety, but it may just take a while for us to get to you depending on the conditions of the roads. [Music] Hello everyone, my name is Mario Van Diddi. I am the planner scheduler for the city of Northport solid waste. I got
into this position um first I was a recycle driver for 5 years for the city of Northport and then I became the planner scheduler after taking an interest in educating the residents on how to recycle properly. In my position, my day-to-day, usually I start out by
visiting the new residents that schedule garbage and recycle containers to be delivered and I will go see them and educate them on our solid waste guidelines. More or less, I'm more focused on the recycle part of it. After that, I will drive around the city and I
actually inspect recycle containers manually for contamination. And then I will take calls from drivers if there's any issues with uh repeat garbage in the recycle and I will go educate those people as well. What I love most about the city of Northport is
their residents are from all over the world and I get to learn about the solid waste guidelines where they come from as well as educate them on the city of Northport's solid waste guidelines and how to recycle properly. [Music]
[Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] I decided to become a firefighter. I used to work in uh hospitality and group
sales and I had always had friends that were firefighters and I decided one day that I wanted to change my job and serve people. So I went ahead and went through a EMT and paramedic program, went to fire academy and then I saw Northport
were hiring and I really liked what they had on their between their ISO rating and their beliefs and values and everything. So I applied. They gave me an opportunity. Every day is different, but for the most part we start off the
same. We'll uh get our gear onto the apparatus and um make sure everything's operational like our air pack. Then we also check the inventory. Uh make sure we have all our medical equipment. Um everything's operational. Um that way we
can respond to any emergency so we're always stocked and ready to go. I think the best part is that everyone's passionate about their job. So they come to work and they're ready to train and uh take care of each other and and teach each other. So everyone's sharp and on their agame, so it makes the job fun and
I just look forward to coming to work. Yeah. [Music] I'm Stacy Losio. I'm the emergency
management coordinator for the city of Northport and I'm going to tell you the difference between flood zones and evacuation zones or in Sarasota County we call them evacuation levels. So flood zones were generated by FEMA and they're used to determine the likelihood that
you will flood and they're used to determine if you need flood insurance if you have a mortgage on your home. Now, the evacuation zones are based on storm surge data that comes from the National Hurricane Center and they use topography as well as hurricane vulnerability for
storm surge for the area and we use those to determine who needs to evacuate during a storm. So, it's important to understand that there is a difference. If you're interested in finding out what evacuation zone you are in, which we highly recommend you do, uh you can use your search engine of choice and type in
Sarasota County know your level and that'll take you to the Sarasota County government website. [Music] [Music] Frank Lamas always manager city of Northport. Uh here today with Mario Vindetti, planner schedule for the city
of Northport solid waste division. We're going to talk about bulk pickups today. Uh how to schedule bulk pickups, what should go out and what should not go out to the curb, where to place the items in them, what happens if you have more than what's allotted for you for the year for a bulk pickup. So Mario, I know we call
941-24850. Talk to our customer service reps. That's correct. About how to schedule a bulk pickup. How else can we do that? Can also go on our website, northportfl.gov, click on solid waste, and fill out a bulk request form. Excellent. Excellent. So Mario, what about uh if a person
wants to place it out? What should they place out? What's the right thing? What's the wrong thing? Basically, Frank, anything that doesn't fit in the container that's garbage is going to go curbside. We're going to stay off driveways. What's not accepted is tires, chemicals, stuff like that. You can put
yard waste out. That's considered bulk, but just make sure it's separate from the garbage pile. Yard waste is a separate pickup. So, what happens if I use all my bulk pickups, right? Good question. So, you can have more, but you just have to pay. It's going to be$,650 a cubic yard, and that's length time
width time height divided by 27 is 1 cubic yard. Any questions, of course. Let us know. Give us a call. 941-24850. Water in a swale that's kind of the ditch by your house is not flooding. within a after a storm event, water
should be in that soil up to 72 hours after the storm. That allows the water to be filtered to get the stuff that came off our roofs and off the road out of the water so that when it reaches the habitat, it no longer has those contaminants in it. It also provides an
opportunity to slow down water so that the water doesn't go so fast that it erodess um the roadways or any other infrastructure. So when you see water in a soil, if it's only been, you know, up to 72 hours since the last rain, that is
not flooding. That is doing its job. [Music] I'm Stacy Losio. I'm the emergency manager for the city of Northport. And today we're going to discuss storm surge and flooding and how both of those affect Northport during the current. So storm surge is when strong sustained
winds are constantly blowing over a long period of time over the Gulf and pushing water up onto shore. So when that happens there is a lot of flooding along and beach erosion along the beaches and the homes inland. However, the storm surge can also push water up the river.
So it could push storm surge up the Maka River for instance from the Gulf and then the water coming downstream from the river has nowhere to go. So that can cause water to back up along the rivers and cause flooding. That along with a lot of rain that comes from these hurricanes can also cause an increase of
water flooding into the rivers and into our water management systems causing flooding as well. Public works does a lot of work before the storm to make sure that our water levels are as low as possible so we can handle additional storm surge and flooding in our water systems. If you want additional
information about that, we have a great video about our water control structures and you can visit the public works website. [Music] TRX as a full class. TRX boot camp is a new class for me. Although I've been
using TRX for many years uh with personal training that I do or in other style classes that I've done, but an actual focus with just TRX, this is a new class for me. I love the camaraderie. I have to say uh with all the participants, I think we have a lot
of fun. First of all, everyone gets to use the bands, the TRX bands of course. And being that we have five stations. So when we have overflow or more than five people, part of the people are on the band, the other people are doing floor work and then we'll switch. So everybody gets an opportunity to be in all
stations. Just come in, have fun with it, make it your own. It's not scary. It doesn't have to be intimidating at all. You're using your body weight. You're using the angles that you choose to use on the bands. And it just varies with how you're comfortable and how you're
feeling when you're here. Hello everyone. My name is Devon Pulis. I'm the aquatics manager within our parks and recreation department. We're here today at the Northport Aquatic Center just to talk to everyone about our float for life program. We recognize that nationally unintentional drowning is the leading cause of death for
children that are under the age of four. So we have an awesome program here called Float for Life. Float for Life is a program that we teach that starts with the fundamentals of floating before we actually learn swimming. This program is targeted for those children that ages 6
months to four. And what we want them to do is we want them to get comfortable in the water and if they accidentally fall in the water or find themselves in a trouble situation, they can roll over their back and float. When we launched this program, uh we were the only one in the state that was actually teaching this milestone program. So do want to
give a shout out to our Northport Rotary as well who sponsored this program here at the aquatic center and actually paid for a trainer to come in all the way from Nebraska where this program originates there. We practice and we go through what's called milestones here. So, as soon as the kids progress through the milestones, we can continue moving
on through them. And at the end of it, it's a pretty awesome program when they graduate. It's one of the final things that they do is they jump in fully clothed and they have to turn over, roll over on their back, and actually be able to scream for help at that point in time. It's just an awesome segment
program that leads right into our learn to swim program. So that way we can make sure we're keeping our kids safe in, on, and around the water. They're trying to get you. [Music]
Oh my gosh, this is going to be great. [Music] [Music] So, I always get very excited when anybody asks me about my job and where I work and what I do. It's not a secret that I love working for the city of
Northport. I worked for Charlotte County and I felt that I needed to do something different and I wanted something more and I wanted to offer my skills. So I I told my friend I'm I'm don't know what to do and I was thinking about my next steps and she said, "Maria, did you think about applying to a job at the
city of Northport? They have a different vibe here." And she said, "I'd love it." And I said, "Oh, I didn't think about that." So I applied and I started my first position in a planning and zoning in our development services department. I'm partnered with the building
department because my my the fees are assessed off of the building permits and it's strictly for new construction, new development. And uh the first thing I do is to check the spreadsheet to look at the permits and determine which ones
need me to estimate their impact fees. And that's where I start with that. Then I go to numbers that I have to put together and I put together the invoices for our developers. Oftentimes I'll get phone calls to give quotes before their
um the development comes through and so developers want to know how much they can budget for. So sometimes I put through proposed estimates to help them with that. And the bulk of it is is making sure that the fees are in the
system as fast as possible. I love the aspree decor that I experience. Just how everybody team worked together. I uh enjoy knowing that I'm can make a difference for the city and that my position can have a positive impact in
for our city. [Music] Oh, you're swimming in the pool. [Music] I don't know. [Music] [Music]
I'm Stacy Losio. I'm the emergency management coordinator for the city of Northport. And we're going to talk about why it's important to have a go kit and what should go inside of it. It's important to have a go bag because if you wait last minute to pack, there are definitely going to be items that you are going to forget in the scramble to
get everything put together. So, it's important to have your documents such as IDs, insurance paperwork, titles for your home and your vehicles and your boats just so that if your home does flood or your roof blows up, all those
documents are with you and they're safe because you don't want to end up losing those and having to try to replace those later on. Also, in your go bag, you should think about what medications you might need to have ahead of time. If we're under a state of emergency, you are able to refill your prescriptions
ahead of time, even if they're not due yet. So, it's important to do that. Also, in your go bags, you should have non-p perishable food, flashlight, batteries, a radio that is battery powered and extra batteries. Should all power go out, we will be able to
broadcast on 97.5 FM anything uh any emergency information. So, be sure to have your battery powered radio ready and tuned in to 97.5. [Music] We believe that the natural resources department will be an integral part for
the city's growth as we want to achieve a more balanced approach of development in the future. What we really want to do is see sensible development, sustainable development, a development that is um in line with what we already have here. So
we want to preserve as much as we can of the uh natural resources so there is still place for our natural species, our our migrating birds and all the other species that live um and survive in our habitat. Natural systems
are a big part of the ways ecosystems function. An important part for our community, our listed species. They stabilize the soil. They provide so many different benefits including shade,
limiting the heat island effect within our city, providing habitat, providing shelter for these species and just uh also for our aesthetic enjoyment. Well, as an arborist, uh a lot of what I do is
making sure that development conforms to the tree protection code. So, one thing we already have in place since April of 2022 is a tree protection code which is quite robust in the city of Northport that was adopted by commission and the city
through also a lot of community involvement. And so, we're very happy to have that tree protection code. So, what I a lot of what I do is making sure that development either residential or commercial conforms to that code. We are such a passionate team. We come from varied backgrounds. Uh I think between
us we have over a 100red years of experience and we are every day raring to go and you know we know our work is cut out here and we're happy to uh take the challenge through the division and community involvement in leadership in
the city. We really hope to make great strides in protecting what we have here and finding that balance with development and environmental stewardship. I am excited to be a part of this team and I'm really seeking and
looking forward to the opportunities for us to be able to make a difference. [Music] [Music] I started with Charlotte County Utilities as a meter reader in 2004. So that's kind of where I got my foot in
the door. And once I reached a point in my life where things were more stable, I decided to leave Charlotte County Utilities and I went and got my insurance license. It was very exciting doing that for a short period of time. But after a while, I started thinking about the utility. It was in my heart.
At this point, I had almost 12, just two months shy of 12 years in. And so I realized during that time, my heart was in utilities. And so I started looking around again. and I seen an opening here to be a CN D tech. So, I applied and I
got in. Typically, I get here at 7 in the morning. I get my list of, you know, if I can get to this, this is what I need to do. And I get in my truck. If if I need any supplies, parts, tools based off of the work I was given that morning, I'll pick that up here at our
shop. And then I head out and um my goal for the day is just to get as much work as that was assigned to me done as possible. And sometimes that happens. And other times there's a lot of first response calls that come in. My favorite part is the uniqueness. It's um not knowing what I'm going to be faced with
every day. It could be different. It's not mundane in any way. And it's exciting when you get a call and you're you're on your way and you don't know what it is. And you you have the experience and the knowhow and the backing to face whatever it's going to
be. So I feel very confident in facing these calls. And I think that's my favorite part. Hello, my name is Devon Pulis. I'm the aquatics facilities manager with the city of Northport. And today we're going to be talking with you guys about our free swim evaluation. It's important that we do these swim evaluations so as
uh kids are registering for swim programs, they get placed in the right class. What we're looking at when we're doing the swim evaluation is every swim level has what's called exit skill assessments. So, what we do is we have your child get in the water and we'll go through a series of different movements. Can you go under the water? Uh, can you
show us your front crawl? Can you show us back crawl? Can you show us elementary backstroke? Different strokes within there. And what we're doing is we're trying to see where your child tests to before it becomes a challenge for them at that point. Once we assess that, then we'll let you know and you can go ahead and sign your child up for
that appropriate level there. It's important that we have these so that way when we're teaching a level one, we don't have kids that should be potentially in a level two and a level one class because they're not learning the appropriate skills that they need at that point in time. Right now, uh when we're in full summer operations, uh we
ask that people come between 8 and 10 to do the swim evaluations just as you can hear the water splashing in the background, slides, and everything like that. But any day of the week, uh that we're open, you can come in at any point in time and ask for a swim evaluation. We always have a certified swim instructor on site that can uh have your
child take a swim assessment. [Music] Franklama, sawways manager. I am here today with Mario Vendidi. Mario, tell people here how long you've been doing this job. I've been here five years. Five years. Excellent. Excellent. So,
Mario, tell people what it entails, what you do. I'm a planner scheduler for solid waste of the city and um I go around and I I greet the new residents and I educate them on the recycle. Excellent. Sounds interesting. Very good. Yep. So, Mario, what do you find inside the recycling bins that shouldn't
be there? So, let's try to tell the people how to recycle, right? Well, the most common thing I find, Frank, is plastic bags. Okay. So, the plastic bags are not recyclable. I find them just tossed in the container or they bag the recycle with them. And they should This is inside the blue lid container. That's
right. Inside the blue lid containers. Correct. And they should be either taken back to the grocery store or tossed in the trash. Very good. Do you see a lot of recycling inside the containers? Uh I do. And I come across a lot of that. Okay. We don't want to do that. So, okay. So, if you have any questions, you
can always look at our website ww.northportf Florida.gov. GV/Solidwaste. [Music] Welcome to the brand new Northport Podcast Network. We're so excited to introduce you to our revamped lineup of shows created to keep you connected,
informed, and inspired about everything happening in our city. That's right. With three unique shows under one network, there's something for everyone. First up is Northport. Now Madison and I will rotate hosting this fast-paced news-driven podcast to bring you the
latest city updates, event previews, and important information all in one quick listen. Think of it as your weekly guide to staying in the know about what's happening in Northport. Next, we have Northport Stories. Laura and I will share heartfelt and inspiring tales from around our community. Stories
that showcase the people, places, and moments that make our city special. And don't worry, Voices of Northport isn't going anywhere. I'll continue bringing you even more personal stories and interviews with residents who shaped our city. And last but not least, Northport Living. Cody and I will also rotate
hosting this show, which is all about tips, events, and lifestyle ideas to help you make the most of life right here in Northport. Whether you're looking for family-friendly activities, ways to get involved, or helpful home and garden tips, Northport Living has you covered. With breaking news,
heartfelt stories, or practical tips, the Northport Podcast Network is your go-to source for all things Northport. Make sure to subscribe to the Northport Podcast Network wherever you listen, and join us as we celebrate and connect with our amazing community. Northport Now
will be released bi-weekly. Northport Stories and Living will be monthly. A schedule will be available on social media and our website.
[Music] Hello everyone, Devon Pulis here, aquatics manager. Welcome to my crib. We have fun here at the crib. Programs
included. Become a pass member. Play all year long. Hey, at the crib, we do have rules. We take all payments here at the crib. Apple Pay, Mastercard, Visa, cash. You pay right here to enjoy the crib.
So, enter through the gate. Childproof, most adult proof shade. What's that? Our newly installed sun shade available for rent all season long. Here at my crib, you don't have to worry
about a place to find a seat. We've added more chairs than ever here at the crib. If you're coming to enjoy the cribs and you got little ones, we got the perfect area for them. Our Pelican playground, newly painted, fresh floor, fresh palm tree. It's looking clean.
Looking for a place to work your upper body? Take a shot here at our Stingray shuffle. Looking to relax? I got you covered here with our lazy river. Living more on the adventurous side. Check out the slides right behind me.
Newly painted. All offer something individual and unique. Check it out. Check out the main pool kept at a wonderful 84 degrees all year long.
I just want you to have a good time. We have safety covered. Lifeguards here, staff all day, every day when we're open for you to enjoy. Concession is open. Pizza, pretzels, nachos, ice cream. We got it all.
My crib is your crib. Looking forward to seeing you here. Duty calls. [Music] I'm Stacy Losio. I am the emergency management coordinator for the city of Northport and I'm going to be talking about having an evacuation plan. It's
important to have an evacuation plan ahead of time and it's very important to write it down because that way you can have it somewhere present where everybody in your family can see it and keep it [Music] Good afternoon everybody. Today is
Tuesday, June 24th, 2025. It's 5:00 p.m. We're in city chambers. I call the fire rescue governing body district meeting special meeting to order. Commissioners present are Commissioner Dval, Mr. Langden, Mayor Stokes, Vice Mayor Emmer, and Commissioner Pro. A quorum present
for the meeting. Also present, City Manager Fletcher, Assistant City Attorney Coglin, City Clerk FA, Board Specialist Lane, and I believe we got Police Chief Deputy Chief Morales and Fire Chief
Titus. And uh all right, looking for a motion to approve the agenda. So moved. Got a motion by Commissioner Langden,
seconded by the vice mayor. Let's vote. And that passes five to zero. City clerk, any general public comments? Moving on to public hearings. Resolution 2025-R43.
City clerk, if you'd be so kind. Resolution number 2025-R43. A resolution of the city commission of the city of Northport, Florida as the governing body of the Northport Fire Rescue District establishing not to exceed non-avalorum assessment rates for the Northport Fire Rescue District for
fiscal year 2025-2026 incorporating recitals providing for conflicts providing for severability and providing an effective date. Thank you, ma'am. City manager, your item. Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Um, resolution number 2025-R43 establishes not to exceed non-AValorum
assessment rates for the fiscal year 2025.6 as found in the table in section 2.01. The fire rescue district is proposing a tier one rate of $189 and tier 2 rate of $36 based on an average single family home with a structured value of
$255,000. This would increase the cost by $34 over the fiscal year 202425 rates. The actual final adopted rate will occur in September as part of the budget approval process. The adopted rate may be lower than the not to exceed rate based on
upon the budget process. The projected total assessment is 21,114,180 and that figure is based on the sum of the following. Number one being the total build assessment from fiscal year 2526. Number two, the partial growth projected at.5%. Number three, building value projected
at 1%. and for the proposed not to exceed rate. The projected net collected will be $20,375,180 based on assumption of a 96.5 rate of assessed payments. Um we ask
that you adopt resolution number 2025- R43 establishing the Northport Fire Rescue District not to exceed nonavalorum assessment rates for fiscal year 2526. Thank you sir. Thank you sir. Commissioners, any questions,
discussions on this? Commissioner Pedro, I just concerned that if we adopt this resolution not to exceed 10%, we're essentially saying that it can be increased up to 10%.
And uh I just had a a conversation that cleared up a lot of my questions, but um I just want to say in quantitative terms it's uh over $3 million each year. Well,
this year for sure and um if we I think it's a big hike. Um and I'm sure through the budget book that we looked at, it's going to be increased by 10%. Just my thought. I don't know. After
after all, affordable housing is not just the price of the house. It's it is all the cost associated with owning a house. Um just to keep it as your own, let alone upkeep and maintain your house. Um I think by the time I turned out, it's
going to be um thousands added to the tax average tax bill. So, just want to throw out my opinion as far as 10%.
I'm not against increasing it not to exceed 10%. I'm not against this resolution, but just um 10% it seems to me outpaces the rate of inflation, outpaces the cost of living adjustments,
certainly outpaces the salary increase of the average person in the workforce field. So, um that's my thought. I don't know if you, my fellow commissions, if you have anything to add
to this. I feel more comfortable raising the rate at three, four, 5%, even 6%. 10% seems a lot um to me.
Thank you, Mayor. But thank you, Chief Titus, because you cleared a lot of my misunderstanding about about the structure methodology. I've not used my time to meet up with them. I
guess the consultants, but I guess it's coming up. So, Commissioner, if I may, Scott Titus from the Fire Rescue District. I'll keep it short. Um, the only thing I would encourage you to do, I'm always reluctant. One, if you look at last year's plan and you
look at what was expected for this year, what was expected was an 8%. Um, there have been some changes, some things. We're asking for 10% not to exceed. I would request that if you want to beat us up that you wait and do that at the next meeting. Um the July numbers
will be in by then. We will have been we'll we'll be done massaging um all the things that city manager and the team is working on to try and find savings wherever we can. I promise you never ever once have we asked for more money than what I think we need to be sustainable. Now that doesn't necessarily mean just in the year that
we're in. As you know, we do a 10-year plan. Um, we will have the opportunity to sit down and look at that. We have some one-on- ones set up, but you can see the impact of cutting those rates too short in one year. You may make it through. You can see what that does to the rates in the outy years. And then it
drives the rates higher than that 10%. Which not only requires us to go out and do a mailing, but it's a whole special process that ends up costing more money. So, um, we will answer any questions you have on budget when you come back. Um, I would ask that you approve, uh, the not
to exceed of 10%. That doesn't mean it's going to be 10%. If it is 10%, I'll explain to you why. And you all obviously always have the opportunity to make the decision whether you want to do that or not. But it would be our hope that we can come back lower than 10 to 10% we're asking for. That is just a not
to exceed rate. Thank you. Thank you. Anybody else? Nothing. Nothing. Any public comment? There's not. Thought I was going to forget that. Okay, I'll close public hearing. Request
a motion. I'll make it. I move to adopt resolution number 2025-R3 as presented. Got a motion by Commissioner Langden, seconded by the vice mayor to adopt resolution 2025-R3
as presented. If there's nothing more to it, let us vote and that passes 520. Uh any other general public comment city cler? Then I am at 509 adjourning this
meeting. You want a minute or can I kick it right in? All right. And good afternoon. Today is Tuesday, June 24th, 2025. It is 5:09 p.m. We're in city chambers. I call the road and
drainage governing body district special meeting to order. Commissioners present. Commissioner Dval, Commissioner Langden, Mayor Stokes, Vice Mayor Emer, and Commissioner Pro Quum present for the meeting. Also present, City Manager Fletcher, Assistant City Attorney
Cogland, City Clerk FA, Board Specialist Lane, Deputy Chief Morales, and Fire Chief Titus. I am looking for a motion to approve the agenda. Move. Second. Got a motion by the vice mayor,
seconded by Commissioner Langden to approve the agenda. Let's vote. And that passes 5 to zero. Uh, city clerk, we have any public comments? Moving on to public hearings. Resolution 2025-R24.
City clerk, if you'd be kind enough to read by title. Resolution number 2025-R24, a resolution of the city commission of the city of Northport, Florida as the governing body of the Northport Road and drainage district establishing not to exceed non-avalorum assessment rates for the Northport Road and drainage district
for fiscal year 2025-2026 incorporating recital providing for conflicts providing for severability and providing effective dates. Thank you ma'am. City manager your item. Thank you Mr. Mayor. The road and drainage district fiscal year 2024 nonappalor
assessment methodology reported excuse me included rate increases of 25% in fiscal year 24 and 15% increases for both fiscal year 25 and 26. The fiscal year 2526 proposed budget for the Northport road and drainage district includes the 15% increase to the current
nonadalorum assessment rates per the approved methodology report. The city of Northport will provide this information to the property owners through the Sarasota County TRIM, which is the truth and millers notice. Notice of proposed taxes and notification to newly assessed parcels will be mailed directly. We ask
that you approve resolution number 2025-R24 today as presented. Thank you, sir. Thank you, sir. Commissioners, anything to this one? Commissioner Duval. Thank you, Mayor. Um on this one
this is a 15% ask and this is predicated back from 2023. This was discussed when these were brought up you know a certain percentage each year whatever. So
when we do get to the the final, you know, we're not making our decision today is just on the not to exceed rate, but when we look at our final decision for the budget, you know, just keep that in mind that
this rate was discussed back in 2023 and, you know, maybe we might want to make an adjustment either up or down of this rate, you know, based on how have things
progressed since 2023 till today. That's it. Thank you. Thank you, Commissioner. Uh, Mr. Pro. Yeah, I I understand that it is just not to exceed. Um my message is uh if we do
this every year to 15% over and over um there's a cumulative effect on overall tax bill when the average person when an average person gets this bill I mean they look only at the total they don't
distinguish between nonadillerum or adarum tax taxes so just but same concern but I understand. Thank you. Thank you, Commissioner. Anything else?
All righty. Any public comment? Then I'm looking for uh closest public hearing and request a motion. I'll make it move to adopt resolution number 2025-R24 as presented. Second. We got a motion by the vice mayor, seconded by
commissioner. adopt resolution 2025-R24 as presented. If there's nothing more to that, folks, let vote and that passes 5 to zero. Uh, city clerk, any general public comment
which time 5:14, I'll adjourn this meeting. Today is Tuesday, June 24th, 2025. It is 5:15 p.m. We're in city chambers. I call the solid waste district special meeting to order. Commissioners present. Commissioner Dval, Commissioner Langden,
Mayor Stokes, Vice Mayor Emerich, Commissioner Pro, Squarum present for this meeting. Also present, city manager Fletcher, assistant city attorney Cogland, city clerk FA, board specialist Slay, Deputy Chief Morales, and then Fire Chief Titus.
Uh, I need I'm looking for a motion to approve the agenda. Move. Second. Got a motion by the vice mayor, seconded by Commissioner Langden to approve the agenda. Let's vote. And
that passes 520. City clerk, any public comment? There is none. And we're moving on to public hearings. Resolution 2025-R25. City clerk, if you could please read by title only. Resolution number 2025-R25.
A resolution of the city commission of the city of Northport, Florida as the governing body of the Northport solid waste district establishing not to exceed non-avalorum assessment rates for the Northport cell waste district for fiscal year 2025-2026 incorporating recitals, providing for conflicts, providing for severability,
and providing an effective date. Thank you, ma'am. City manager, your item. Thank you, Mr. Mayor. The current solid waste district non-AValorum assessment rate for the fiscal year 2024-25 is $32.50 per each residential unit. The Northport solid waste district is
requesting the fiscal year 202526 solid waste district nonadalorm assessment rate be established and confirmed at $332.75 for each residential unit. The increase in the solid waste assessment is required to align revenue with increasing operational and capital costs
in order to continue to meet current level of service standards outlined by the solid waste district. Resolution number 2025-R25 further provides the option to increase the assessments rates up to and not to exceed rate of 10% per year to allow the
solid waste district to react to future unforeseen circumstances without having to update the methodology. sending first class mail notices and newspaper publications and or conducting special hearings. We ask that you approve resolution number 2025- R25 as
presented. Thank you, sir. Thank you, sir. Commissioners, Commissioner Duval, you're up. Thank you, Mayor. Uh I would just ask my fellow commissioners to keep in mind
uh that this is solid waste and We would like to see, at least I would like to see a solid waste transfer station. Uh we have yet to figure out exactly how we're going to pay for that. But when
considering this 10% u I would like we commissioners to keep in mind um that that is a good investment
and also to keep in mind that the past couple years there was a 10% increase. It wasn't an increase in rates, there was a payment in lie of and that money did not stay with solid waste that went to the general fund. Um, I
just want to keep those thoughts in mind, you know, for when we do get into our budget final decisions. Thank you. Thank you, Commissioner. Anything else? Any general comments? Any public
comments? No. So, I'll close this public hearing and request a motion. I move to adopt resolution number 2025-R25 as presented. Second. Got a motion by the vice mayor, seconded by Commissioner
Langden to adopt resolution 2025-R25 as presented. There's nothing more to that. Let us vote. And that passes 520. Uh any general public comments
at which time it is 519 and I adjourn this meeting. We'll be back. Part: 2
Looking for a place to work your upper body? Take a shot at here at our Stingray shuffle. Looking to relax? I got you covered here with our Lazy River. Living more on the adventurous side? Check out the slides right behind me.
Newly painted? All offer something individual and unique. Check it out. Check out the main pool kept at a wonderful 84 degrees all year long.
I just want you to have a good time. We have safety covered. Lifeguards here, staff all day, every day when we're open for you to enjoy. Concession is open. Pizza, pretzels, nachos, ice cream, we got it all.
My crib is your crib. Looking forward to seeing you here. Duty calls. I'm Stacy Losio. I am the emergency management coordinator for the city of Northport. And I'm going to be talking about having an evacuation plan. It's important to have an evacuation plan
ahead of time. And it's very important to write it down because that way you can have it somewhere present where everybody in your family can see it and keep it fresh in their minds. And you want to also share it with people in your family or your neighbors so that they know what your plans are ahead of
time and how to get a hold of you or where to look for you after a disaster. for your evacuation plans. Uh you should have multiple routes to get to the location you're planning to go to just because traffic-wise traffic on 75 might be gridlocked. There could be some very
good back roads to get to where you're going uh that could get you there more quickly without being stuck in traffic. When you're making an evacuation plan, we usually tell you four different things. You should stay home if you are not in a zone that's being evacuated and
if your home is built to withstand the forecasted storm. If you can't stay home uh and you evacuate, your next option should be to go to a friend or family's home that is outside of the evacuation area and is structurally sound to withstand the storm. Third option would
be go to a hotel. They're much more comfortable than our evacuation centers. Fourth option would be to go to one of our evacuation centers. Sarasota County has 12 evacuation centers. Those can be found on their website. [Music]
I'm Stacy Losio. I'm the emergency manager for the city of Northport and I'm going to discuss first responders after the storm. So, it may take a while for first responders to get to after the storm and that's due to a variety of reasons. One being we pull first responders off the roads when tropical
storm force winds are sustained for their safety. That is a standard usually across the state and other states that have hurricanes as well. So, we will have a backlog of calls that have come in during the storm that we will prioritize based on urgency and they'll be responding to those as well as the
calls that are currently coming in if they're urgent. Also, the roads might be flooded. There might be debris in the roads. Our technical first. Good evening. Today is Tuesday, June 24th, 2025. 6 pm. We're in city chambers and I call
the city commission regular meeting to order. Commissioners present. Commissioner Dval, Mr. Langden, Mayor Stokes, Vice Mayor Emerich, and Commissioner Pro. This quorum present for the meeting. Also present, city manager Fletcher, assistant city attorney Coglin, city clerk FA, board
specialist Lane, I think deputy chief Morales, and fire chief Titus. And uh Michelle, you want to lead us in the pledge? Oh my good [Music] to the republic for which it stands. One
nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all. Well, I am looking for a motion to approve the agenda. So moved. Second. Got a motion by Commissioner Langden, seconded by the vice mayor to approve the agenda.
Let's vote. And that passes 520. City clerk, we have public comment. Welcome sir. Thank you. Good evening. I am Valdi Hollander. I come here in
peace and I am not a criminal. Stop. I am instructing you to order policemen off my back. I have a dignity and please respect it. Why don't you?
It is people right under Florida constitution to instruct their representatives to disobey you all. Where is the police over here? Is any officer around? No, I don't see it. No municipality
around. disrespect people like you all. Move podium in the middle. How many times I going to order it to you? You have no concern to proceed further unless you adhere to instructions.
Please do. Under the budget 2026, I am instructing you to use prudence, not greed or the hatred and get consent of we the people of
Northport on proposed budget by the manager. Let me now tell you what people needs in Northport. four major things and those four major things shouldn't be taxed. Number one, shelter,
either the home or house, whatever you call it. Number two is energy. Number three is the water. And number four is the food, which you don't have a hand on it, I believe. For
example, in my May energy bill, I paid $20.32 for the fuel which produced kilowatt used in the May, which is 17th of the total bill Florida
Power and Light charged. Local taxes, which is city taxes, I assume, and franchise tax was $19.24. which is 86%
of the fuel charge which produce kilowatt. What's going on? Why we are so poor? So the um fuel used so 85% of my bill is the tax tax fees
charges tax under tax under tax. Thank thank you sir. Thank you city clerk. Uh up next announcements. The current vacancies for the following boards and committees include the Art
Advisory Board, Auditor Selection Committee, Charter Review Advisory Board, Citizen Tax Oversight Committee, Community Economic Development Advisory Board, Environmental Advisory Board, Firefighters Pension Trust Fund Board of Trustees, Historic and Cultural Advisory Board, Joint Management Advisory Board,
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, Planning and Zoning Advisory Board, and Veterans Park Advisory Committee. Sarasota County Advisory Council vacancies include one resident in Northport to serve on the citizen advisory committee. If anyone would like more information, please see the city clerk's office. Thank you. Thank you,
city clerk. Moving on to consent agenda. Uh city manager, any items been pulled? No, service mayor. All righty. Uh city clerk, any public comment? There is not. Then I'm looking for a motion. I'll make it move to approve the items in the
consent agenda. Second. Got a motion by Vice Mayor, seconded by Commissioner Langden to approve the consent agenda. Let's vote. And that passes 5 to Z. Moving on to public hearings. Resolution 2025-R44.
Uh, city clerk, if you'd be kind enough to read by title only. Resolution number 2025-R44, a resolution of the city commission of the city of Northport, Florida, approving solely for the limited purposes of section 147F of the Internal Revenue Code and section 163.01 01
Florida statutes issuance by the capital projects finance authority of its educational facilities revenue bonds Imagine school at Northport project in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $60 million the proceeds from the sale of which will be used principally to finance and refinance the cost of
acquiring constructing and improving certain charter school facilities located within the city of Northport and owned and operated by Imagine School at Northport Inc. Authorizing the execution and delivery of an interlocal agreement with the authority, approving a conflict waiver request submitted by Bryant
Miller Olive, PA. Providing certain other matters in connection with the bonds, providing for findings, providing for payment of fees and costs by buyer by borrower, providing for no liability or endorsement, providing for identification, providing for conflicts, providing for severability, and
providing an effective date. Thank you, ma'am. City Manager, your item. Thank you, Mr. Mayor. So, the Imagine School in Northport, Inc. requires approval to receive tax exempt funding for a project referred to as Imagine School at Northport to finance or refinance the
cost of the project from the proceeds of the bonds on a tax exempt basis. It is necessary that a public hearing be held and the issuance of the bonds be approved by the city because the school will be located within the city limits. The city is indemnified and any attorney fees will be paid for by the school. So, we ask that you approve resolution
number 2025-R44 today as presented. Thank you. Thank you, sir. Commissioners, questions. Commissioner Duval. Thank you, Mayor. Um, basically all we're doing here is making
it legal for them to get their bonds. This isn't costing the city anything. and in consideration of the recent news uh that the school board is delaying the development of a couple of schools
in the city of Northport. You know, a new high school that was planned down in the Woodlands section. U this is a project that you know is being financed by the Imagine Schools. Uh,
I can't see where we would be against this in any way, shape, or form. That's it. Thank you, Commissioner. Anybody else? Any public comments? There is none. With that, I'll close this public hearing. Request a motion.
I'll make it. Mayor, I move to adopt resolution number 2025-R44 as presented. Second. Got a motion by uh Commissioner Langden, seconded by Vice Mayor to adopt
resolution 2025-R44 as presented. If there's nothing more to it, let us vote. And that passes 520. Moving on to ordinance second reading. Ordinance 2025-13.
City clerk, if you'd be kind enough to read by title only. Ordinance number 2025-13, an ordinance of the city of Northport, Florida, approving the Imagine School on Price Boulevard development agreement for the construction and maintenance of central water and wastewater facilities, the construction and maintenance of two
bridges, and the maintenance of retention ditch R588 for the property located north and south of East Price Boulevard and east of North Toled Blade Boulevard. providing for findings, providing for approval for providing for filing of approved documents, providing for severability, providing for
conflicts, and providing an effective date. Thank you, ma'am. City manager, your item. Thank you, Mr. Mayor. I will turn it over to Mr. Gabriel Quentis, our development services assistant director, to lead us through the conversation. [Music] Thank you, sir.
Uh, good evening, Mr. Mayor and commissioners. Uh this is the second reading of ordinance number 2025-13. Uh this is for approval of the development agreement associated with the uh project proposed by the Northport
Imagine School. Um associated site development and infrastructure plans are currently under review by the development review committee. Currently, no waiverss to the ULDC are requested, which means that the approval of the plans is handled administratively by
means of a development order issuance. Um, approval of this ordinance does not approve the development. Uh, the proposed development site comprises four parcels uh which total approximately 23.935 acres and a zoned corridor with a future
land use designation of highintensity corridor. Schools are permitted by right in the corridor zoning district subject to compliance with the development standards of the unified land development code. The site is located along East Price Boulevard and is
proposed to contain an approximately 139,500 square foot educational facility catering to students from kindergarten through high school accommodating up to 1500 students. The facility will contain
two gymnasia, two cafeterias, an athletic field, and a playground designed for younger students. The school site will incorporate essential infrastructure, including water and wastewater facilities and a stormwater management system. Ingress and egress
points are proposed along East Price Boulevard and Glen Brook Boulevard. The Imagine School at Northport currently contains two locations near Toledo Blade Boulevard. According to the developer, the new campus is intended to be complete in time for the school year
beginning in the fall of 2026. Existing campuses are intended to be relocated to the proposed educational facility. The contents of development agreements are governed by section 2.2.8
of the ULDC and Florida statute section 163.3227. The development agreement outlines the developer responsibilities associated with constructing and maintaining central water and wastewater facilities. It also encompasses the construction and maintenance of one roadway and one
pedestrian bridge proposed to be constructed over retention ditch R588 along with the maintenance of the same ditch. Parties to the development agreement include the developer Imagine School at Northport, the owner of Forest
Plaza LLC, and the city. The term of the agreement is 10 years with two automatic extensions built into the agreement per the request of the developer. Improvements required to maintain the city's adopted level of service requirements will be required to be
provided concurrent with the impacts of the development. Notices of intent to consider the development agreement have been advertised pursuant to Florida statute section 163.3225. and staff recommends approval of ordinance number 2025-13.
And I'd be happy to answer any questions you may have. Thank you. Thank you very much, commissioners. Anything to this item? And no public comment. All right. And I'll close this public hearing. Request a motion.
Move to adopt ordinance number 2025-13 as presented. Got a motion by the vice mayor, seconded by commissioner Tuval to adopt ordinance 2025-13 as presented. If there's nothing more to it, let's vote.
And that passes 520. Moving on to general business 25-2354. Uh, city clerk, this is your item. Yes, this is discussion and possible action regarding the appointment of Tim Drum or Terry Cheney as a regular member for the community economic development advisory
board. We received these two applications and have one vacancy for a Northport resident. Mr. Mr. Drum submitted his application on May 19th and Mr. Cheney submitted his application on June 3rd.
Thank you, Commissioners. Commissioner Dval, I'm going to uh kind of insert a a preference here based on the fact that Mr. Cheney
is a veteran and officer in the Ambits post. I'm a veteran myself. I kind of have a preference. That's my reasoning. Right. Anybody else?
I have a question for a city clerk. City clerk, how many seats and what seats are open on this board? qualify attorney. Do either of those gentlemen qualify? So, they're both really going for the
resident seat. Okay. Thank you for that, Mayor. I got no problems given veterans preference either. Um, there's nothing Oh, I'm sorry, Commissioner Pro. Thank you, Mayor. I'd
just like to get my preference in. I could see that there was a backup material for resume for the Mr. Drum. He's a professional engineer and I've dealt
with him numerous occasions. Um he helped he has helped a lot with distraction services throughout the city and beyond to v various clients. He has an extensive
background and experience and in construction and engineering and that might be very helpful for the development of the city specifically for this board. So I just want to recommend him
and make my preference known. I think he's a good and valuable asset um to the city despite any personal issues that some might have against or him. But I
would highly recommend his appointment to this board. Thank you, Commissioner. Anything else to this folks? Mr. Langden? Yes. I have a question for city clerk. We do have an engineering
seat on that board, do we not? Yes, we do. And it is filled. It is fil December of 2027. Okay. And so there is no professional or content expertise anticipated
or required of the resident's seat. Correct. Okay. Okay. Thank you for that. Um I would just comment I I would take the nod to a veteran um in this situation. Thank you, Commissioner. Anybody?
Anything else? Any public comment? There is not. Uh, which case I'm requesting a motion? Well, by what I'm hearing, I'll make it. Uh, let's see. I move to appoint uh Terry
Cherry as a regular member for the community economic development advisory board. Got a motion by the vice mayor, seconded by Commissioner Duval to appoint uh Terry Cheney to uh the Community
Economic Development Advisory Board from June 24th, 2025 through June 25th, 2028. There's nothing more to that. Let us vote. And that passes 421.
Uh Mr. Pro uh reasons stated. I just feel like he's not only engineer but I know him personally, he's a businessman as well. Manages a lot of people. So that's why I voted no
and for the previous reasons I stated. Gotcha. Thank you, sir. Uh, okay. Moving on to 25-2355. Um, city clerk, it's your item to introduce discussion and possible action
regarding the appointment of Omi Patel or Samara Nagger to serve as a student member on the parks and recreation advisory board from June 24, 2025 through June 25, 2026. Um, OMI submitted
their application on May 23rd and Samara submitted their application on June 6th. Thank you very much, commissioners. Yeah. Any one of these veterans? Not yet. Not yet.
That's all I had. Mayor, anybody? I mean, I I will say that I read both their resumes. I mean, these are two upand cominging leaders. They really have great resumes and uh they've accomplished a lot in their in their
years so far. Um I'm I'm a little uh I lean towards uh Miss Major only because uh she is local to the city of Northport. Um and uh Miss Patel lives out of the city. Um but both would make
wonderful candidates here. Mayor, I believe both of them do live in the city. I'm sorry. They both do live in the city. Do they? Yes, they are allowed to um attend schools that are not in the city. I got All right. I stand corrected. Um both make great
candidates. They really do. Um anybody Commissioner Dval? Thank you, Mayor. This is a tough This is a This is a tough one. Um Omi
has called me and spoken with me a number of times. Um, I have been an advocate for youth members on our boards and I've gotten in touch with, you know,
various people and organizations and because of that, I'm I'd like to see both of these young people out of board. So I cannot,
you know, in good conscience I can't say vote for one or the other. Um they are both. If you read the resumes, uh these are amazing young people that have done a lot in a very short lifespan.
Um, so uh if anyone chooses to uh make a motion for one or the other, I'm not going to be opposed to either one. Thank you. Can
I ask a question? Yes. City clerk, um, when would the next possible position on a board for a student be available? We have we currently have two vacancies
on the art advisory board. Um we have two vacancies on environmental advisory board. Yes. Youth I have one on historic. I have to look into that one further. But all right,
just a little further on this board. When will a year? So this term will be for a year. Okay. So there's not there wouldn't be another one. There's only one position for a student on this board. They have two. Um the next Gavin
will term out February 26 of 2026. Okay. So that's six, seven months down the road. Yes. Because what I was thinking of is if they're still interested in this board, you know, if we went with the I don't
know them too well, but the one that applied first, put that one in the position now and then since the other one terms out, this individual already has their application in. So, they would be the first pick in
February. And I think that's a fair way to look at it. Now Gavin could reapply in February as well. You just said he turned out. I meant his term is over. His term is over. Well, it's different for us. I guess when you're done, you're done. So,
all right. So, yeah, but he hasn't applied yet for it, has he? She has. [Music] Mr. Langden, whatever you guys decide. Thank you, Mayor. I I would be inclined to go with the first applicant since
they both seem to be um equally qualified for the position. Um either put her first in line for the next vacancy or city clerk, couldn't we give her a choice um to either wait for the next opening or inform her that there
are student seats open on some of the other boards? Yes, we can do that and then see if she's and she might be interested in addition in one of the others. Yeah, I think that's fair. We can do that. Okay, good.
Right. Anything else, sis? Any public comment? There is none. There is none. I'm looking for a motion. Aren't you going with it, Barb? Well, or Commissioner Langden. I can um I move to approve the appointment of
Omi Patel to serve as student member on the parks and rec advisory board from June 24th, 2025 to June 25th, 2026 and further to give Samarine the choice
of being the first applicant in for the upcoming student seat on the parks and wreck advisory board or to um take another student seat
on um another advisory board. Second. All right. We have a motion by Commissioner Langden, seconded by the uh vice mayor to uh appoint Omi Patel to
the uh as a student member of the parks and recreation advisory board from June 24th 25 through June 25, 2026 and to uh offer Sam Najger uh the opportunity
to be first up for the opening on this parks and recreation advisory board this coming season or to sit on an alternative board. I get that right? Close enough. Good. With that, let us
vote. And that passes 520. I'm just glad that we have multiple applicants that we can go ahead and so it's that's a blessing. Moving on to see 25-2400 uh city clerk. Sure item is discussion
and possible action regarding commissioner appointments to the Florida League of Cities legislative policy committees and the legislative advocacy committee. I have listed in your backup material the all five of the committees and who is currently serving on those. So, we'll need to know if commission wants to make any changes to those ones
or keep them the same. Additionally, we will need a separate motion to appoint someone to the legislative advocacy committee. For this one, Commissioner Duval was appointed to it for this this current year. However, because of Commissioner McDow leaving and the time
frame, he was not appointed to it in her place early enough for him to attend any of the meetings this year. They had a cut off date which we did not meet. So, it would be my recommendation if he's open to it to keep him on that. So, because they already have that nomination for next year. Absolutely.
Thank you, ma'am. All right. Anything to this, folks? What uh how's everybody feeling about the committees they're they're on? Anybody want to change? Everybody happy with what they've got?
I like talking about trains. is good. I like talking about utilities and infrastructure. I'm good with mine. Everybody's good. Everyone's happy. Wow. That works for me. Um
got any public comments on this? All right. Um then I'm requesting a motion for uh I got it. I move to approve the appointment of Commissioner Duval to serve on the legislative advocacy committee.
Second. Got a motion by the vice mayor, seconded by Commissioner Langden to uh appoint Commissioner Dval to the Florida League of Cities Legislative Policy Committee. There's nothing to this. Let us vote.
Didn't hear an objection. Hear an objection. Didn't give them time. hasn't voted yet. There he goes. And that passes 520 to zero. Uh looking for another motion. I'll make it. Um I
move to approve the current Florida League of Cities Committee assignments for 2025 to 2026 um as presented on city clerk's document. Second. A motion by Commissioner Langden, seconded by Vice
Mayor to um basically approve the uh appointments to the Florida League of Cities Committees uh as presented in the exhibit. Um there's
nothing more to it. Oh, it's low. And that passes five to zero. Moving on. Any general public comments? Yes. Welcome sir. Hello commissioners, city manager,
ladies and gentlemen. My name is John Krepach and I want to talk about the development costs due to the gopher tortoise. This reptile is not considered endangered by the US Fish and Wildlife Department, but is protected via Florida
State Fish and Wildlife. One tortoise can easily increase lot development costs by more than $8,000. $5,000 of which is paid for each tortoise moved to an offsite
recipient location. For an unknowing buyer, one tortoise can double the true cost of many Northport lots. This state mandate indirectly puts the rights of a gopher tortoise above
property rights or developer rights, especially with a typical 10,000 square foot Northport lot size. Why should Northport commissioners care? Lot costs can be devalued by 50% or more, reducing
annual property tax revenues. Many lots will remain undeveloped. Delinquent property taxes will result due just to new or existing gopher tortoise.
Developers will look to other communities where costs are lower and buyer demand is higher. How many gopher tortoises are in Northport? No one really knows, but Northport locals report the population is very
large. Here are some equal rights solutions. Citizens and commissioners can talk to state representatives and encourage them to sponsor legislation to allocate some
of these large local state parks as off-site tortoise relocation sites. reduce the 25 acre minimum site requirement or remove the gopher tortoise from the protected list
altogether. Maka River State Park alone has 37,000 acres and based on a typical four tortoise count per acre could be home to almost 150,000
Northport tortoises. How can animal lovers assist? Sponsor protected tortoise. Contact the natural resources department to help fund this relocation effort or set aside some of
their own yard for this favorite tortoise. These suggestions should reduce development costs and offer advantages to all parties concerned. Thank you, sir. [Music]
Hello everyone. Uh my name is Al Pikush. I am a 20-year resident, realtor, land owner, and I'm with the commercial land owners association. I just want to follow up on John's comments regarding the gopher tortoise situation in Northport. Has anyone done a survey to
find out how many gopher tortoises there are in Northport? When I travel down to the neighborhoods just off South Chamberlain Boulevard, I often see tortoises crossing the road. I would never buy a vacant lot in that area knowing it would cost me $8 to $12,000
to re relocate tortoises that are on my lot. One of my friends just paid $24,000 to relocate three gopher tortoises they found on his lot. I I'm all for protecting the gopher tortoises. Hopefully, we can coexist. Actually,
John and I recently set up a meeting with the city's natural resources department, which I believe has grown to is it six or eight people now? I'm not sure. Uh we wanted to find out how we might be able to lower the costs to relocate them. The take from meeting was
that their hands are tied since the state fish and wildlife service dictates all the rules and a natural resources department just makes sure everyone follows the rules. One question we had was since the state dictates the rules, especially the
minimum 25 acre rule, have you contacted our state rep to see if we could relocate these tortoises locally? They said that they tried to contact them, but they never called back. You would think that Northport being 100 square miles would be able to find some
land with habitat suitable for cost competitive tortoise receiving sites. What about one of the state parks that John suggested like the Maka State River Park? We would suggest that the Northport Commission mandate to the Natural Resources Department to find
parcels of land with suitable tortoise habitat for possible off-site relocation. Also, Koloa, which is commercial landowners association, would welcome the natural resources department to join us since we we are now setting up a
meeting with our local state representative to see if we can relocate these tortoises locally. Thanks for your attention. Thank you, sir. All right. All righty. Uh moving on to commissioner
communications. Commissioner Pro. Thank you, Mayor. Uh few days, uh I think last Saturday, I attended the kids fishing fishing tournament sponsored by Kiwani's Club. I was impressed by their
organization and then their effort. And I saw two of my fellow commissioners there. It was amazing event and I want to compliment them for their work, what they did and how they did it. It was really nice. It was well organized, well
received. Kids loved it. Um, so I think it was a good time, well spent. That's about it for me. Thank you, Commissioner Vice Mayor. Yeah, I was at the same tournament and uh it was a great day. Everybody had a good time. That's all I
got. Mr. Langden, I once again want to cl uh thank the city clerk's office for attaching my activity report to uh our last commission meeting and I will be submitting my June activity report in
time for it to be attached to our July 8th meeting. But I do just want to take a moment to congratulate the graduates of the um of the Northport leadership class. Um they go through a lot. They
learn a lot and um I think they have a lot of fun doing it. So congrats to the grads. Great. Commissioner Dvau, I only have one thing to report right now. Uh I was contacted by a a young
gentleman who's in college and a gentleman I met with that gentleman and he wanted to uh discuss an item on our agenda and asked me questions about it and he had a list of questions that his college
professor put forward and he also talked to me about possibility of getting on aboard in the in the future getting active in
Northport North Northport city activities. That gentleman took the time to show up here. He's not just a college student, uh he's also a law enforcement officer.
And uh I was very impressed with him and I want to thank him for being here. Right. Uh attended the uh Wharton Smith uh Northport official ribbon cutting at their new facility um off Toledo Blade.
Uh to see they have a nice new location for Charles. Also attended the Kuanas fishing tournament. helped rig up the rods and reels the week before and enjoyed teaching people how to cast even
though they already knew how to cast. It was a pleasure. Really had a good time. Untied a few knots in the lines and am going to actually explore the possibility of could we ever stock that canal. Although I know we'd have to have some conversations with our natural
resource department, God knows who else, but it'd be nice if they could catch a lot more fish. So, It's a It really is a great annual event. The kids like, "Hey, have a blast." I had a blast. So, it was wonderful. Well, you're a kid. I'm a
kid. And u last evening I had uh a roundt with the community over at Shannon Stab Library. Uh was reasonably well attended. 20 25 folks showed up. It was, you know, good conversation. Um these are people who are vocal voices in
our community. And I think uh the takeaway was they appreciated the opportunity to you know share what was on their mind and ask some questions and u you know uh when asked whether it it served any purpose and value to them they
unanimously felt it did and would like to see it continue. So uh you know I'm going to plan them once a month and uh and see where it goes. Um, other than that, I think that's it for me. Um, moving on to charter officers,
uh, city attorney. Anything and, uh, city clerk and city manager? No, sir, Mr. Mayor. Right. With that, unless anybody's got anything else, it's
6:42 and I turn this meeting.