Welcome to the city of Palaka Community Redevelopment Agency meeting on January 22nd, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. I'm calling this meeting to order starting with the invocation from Pastor Mo from Commissioner Campbell and the pledge of
allegiance from Commissioner Jones. Please stand if you're able to. Please join me in prayer. Dear heavenly father God, we thank you for this day. We thank you for your grace. We thank you for your mercy that you have bestowed upon us. God, we ask as we go forth with this meeting, God, that you allow us to have the wisdom, knowledge,
and understanding to make sound decisions to move this city forward. God, I ask that you bless every household that is represented not only in the chambers, but in the city of Palaca. God, giving them the just covering them with your blood. I pray those prayers in your name. Amen.
>> Amen. Amen. Please pledge the flag 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. >> Roll call, please. Madam clerk, >> Commissioner Davis, >> Commissioner Campbell >> John >> Pres. >> Here, >> Mr. Deputy >> President.
You forgot me. Mayor, >> that's okay. It's not the first time somebody's forgotten. Okay, >> that's okay. I'm present, though. Just in case. Does everybody have opportunity to read the minutes from December 8th, 2025? >> Yes. Move to approve.
>> Second. >> We have a motion to second. All in favor? I. Any um opposition? Thank you. On to public comments. These are public comments for items not specifically on our agenda today. Um or a John Jenkins.
Please give us your name and city or town of residence. >> Uh my name is John Jenko. Um my uncle 3 St. John's Avenue Black 3177. Um I'm now the vice president of RHP which puts on the Aelia Festival. Miss
Kathy couldn't be here today. She asked me to speak. I've never spoken before so I'm excited. Um, I just wanted to uh stress the importance of the uh sidewalk and downtown construction as to not interfere with not just our festival but
also the blue crab festival and uh I believe another the new town festival that's happening at the same time as blue crab. Um I just think it's very important we try and you know work through those and make sure that timeline works out. Um I did use um the
internet and kind of draft a timeline construction block by block to kind of help with different timelines to understand with construction. I do a lot of construction personally. I mean you know they say four to five weeks and it probably will happen but you know there's always stuff that arises can delay things and that's just construction that that's part of it. Um
but I have these to share if y'all like to look at them. Um but kind of going on certain blocks that won't interfere with the festivals that are planned you know throughout the year and not just mine. Um, obviously I'm here to speak about mine, but I did speak to other people about their festivals uh today too. Um, when I learned I was asked to speak here
today on behalf of RXP. Um, but just, you know, not just ours, like I said, all of them, uh, Bluegrown, New Town, any kind of festival. And making sure that also, you know, certain areas too during Christmas time won't be severely affected um, with shopping and stuff like that. Um, but that's my main
concern. Just wanted to pass that along. Kind of pass these over. >> There's a whole stack over here. some of it's you know obviously it's very preliminary it's not accurate but I want to stress >> thank you >> thank you >> is there anybody here for public comment
for something not specific uh Mr. Lee has a car but it is specific if you want to get up Mr. and give your name and town or city residence rather. >> Joey Lee, I'll be here in Palata L Creek Road. I'm here to kind of back up what
Minister Jenkins was just talking about. I'm a member of the RHP and and help with the development of the AA festival. And we like to try to make sure that everything's accessible for the people that tourists that come in to attend the festival. and and if we have a lot of construction, there could be some risk
of of people not being able to get in when when they need to get in. Uh people that have disabilities or handicapped people that need parking. We're going to be put using uh up to the fourth street through the fifth street uh uh entrance and we're going to use the courthouse parking lot parking. We're going to use
a lot of people use the mayor's bank to to park and walk down to the festival. So, we'd like to make sure that any construction that's taking place is at least west of that while the the uh the AAA festival is going on. And and that that should if the further west you
start, that should help out not only with the festival with the flute crab as well. >> So, just keep that in mind. We appreciate your consideration on that and anything you can do to help us maintain this to be the 77th AA festival. Want to make sure it goes all smoothly like they have in the past. So
we appreciate it. >> Thank you. Is there anybody else here for public comment? Seeing no more closed public comment. Um I think we can respond to that between city man and manager Mr. and we also did meet with the merchants. So please
>> yes please. Thank you. Uh we did have a meeting with the um with all the down well with the downtown merchants. Um it was a good representation from the city including public works director, the
contractors themselves and our CR uh coordinator. Uh the intent was that um we would be given a list of all of the festivals and they would incorporate that in their uh fiveweek planning for
each block. So there's an intentional effort to make certain that we do nothing to hamper the success of any of the festivals during this period and the period is expanding. Uh Mr. Ferrettio, can you come up and clarify more? But uh
this period is going from my understanding February 1st to December 5th. So you can talk a little more. >> We're going to meet with them on Monday morning as far as schedule goes. um with the whole intention of making sure we're
not in any of our events that we're going to talk about the weekends, how they're going to clean up, how they're going to move everything out of the way, and how they can bounce around to better avoid. I guess one of the major questions is what side are they going to start? Are they going to start out on the 4th? Are they going to start up on 11? Um right now, depending on the
schedule and how we come to terms with that, is where are they going to be a year from now at the end of the project? But if we start down at 11, we're going to have the same problem with the events a year from now. Meaning they're going to be down on Fourth Street and in that area. If they start down there on Fourth
Street and work their way back by within two months, they should be far enough down and out of the way. So, we're going to look at it collectively tomorrow or Monday morning, I'm sorry, with the contractors, right? >> And we'll come to some far to start. I'm
hoping that we can figure that out at that meeting as well. We are shut down and everything goes as smoothly as possible. >> Would it would it be possible to start with 11th um 10th and 9th and then bounce down
to fourth and fifth and get those done and then go back again so we avoid as much as possible and and you we're going to run into the hopefully it'll all be done before Thanksgiving or the Christmas parade. >> That will be part of the conversation. >> I know. So, I'm just trying to figure
out a compromise so we can make everybody happy. >> Add to their schedule. So, every time we tell them they have to jump four blocks, is that going to add 30 days to the schedule? And >> no, they didn't say that when we were at the meeting. That's why I'm bringing that up. >> Like, they're they're under the impression they could start on one side
and if they had to jump a block, that would be different than going from one side to >> I get that. I get that. >> I will certainly work with them on that up% see what the solution can come up to do. That would be the ideal situation. Yes. >> Okay. Because Miss Kathy did come in to talk to me and she was asking if it
could be started at the 1100 block. And so I'm just relaying that >> for you to share with them. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Um on to regular business discussion direction progress of the streetscape project activity communication to the
public. >> Before I u start Mayor Commissioner Board. I would like to introduce our new CRA coordinator, Miss Nicole Off. Uh she comes with a
good deal of experience and has already jumped in and started working. >> Welcome, Miss O. We are happy to have you. >> Happy to be >> press your speaker button. >> Thank you. Happy to be here. Um so a
question at the beginning of the week was brought to me by uh Mr. Sam Deputy inquiring about efforts put forward using CRA budget to communicate to the public that businesses are still open to mitigate any business impacts and we can
use um we can use funds according to the statutory basis of 163.370. We just have to be really careful of what the the marketing is. Um, it can be any sort of wayfinding signage directing customers to open
businesses. Um, it can be updating the public on timelines. Uh, regular construction updates, phases, closures, and access. What we have to be really careful of is anything stating language such as come downtown or we're open. We
have to stay away from that. So, as long as we're very careful about what the signage and public communications are, we can definitely use CRA funds for that. Thank you. Go ahead, patient. >> So, I know previously um we talked a lot about the way findings
and a lot of that uh hindrance of moving forth with the way findings was based on the um uh the rebranding efforts of downtown. >> Um and I know that it has been at the
forefront of our conversation. And so I would be interested in knowing even with the temporary signage um how quickly would we be able to get something and a sketch of how it will possibly look because of course I know it won't be the final thing but uh I would definitely
want us to be able to be ahead of the curve when it comes down to the construction uh to make sure that we do not uh be a hindrance to our downtown businesses um small businesses and things of that nature. So, I would want us to be at the forefront and possibly
have that out way before the actual construction starts so that individuals that patronize those various uh businesses would have an idea of what it would look like prior to them going down. Especially if we have um individuals that travel from outside of
our community that may not be as familiar with our downtown merchants. We want to make sure that those signs are easily identifiable. um when they are downtown >> and to that point uh in today's meeting
item 6C we will give an update on exactly that. >> Thank you. >> An update on the >> on the wayfinding the branding and so forth. That that's mainly what he um Commissioner Campbell
has been wanting to understand. My my concern in bringing it up is um this has been >> uh this has been an eight-year project. Uh I've been involved since the very beginning and this is six years past due
date and the downtown businesses truly have suffered. >> Yeah. >> Uh we've had the roads torn up. We've had the intersections torn up and everything and now the sidewalks and and there's been it could have been done different so that it was smoother, but
those people involved are no longer here. So, we're dealing with our situation. Uh but my concern is once people hear that this block is closed, they've they're going to go elsewhere because it's just easier than to get
through downtown. And so our downtown is going to once again be under struggling uh after just kind of recovering from the intersections. And we're going once again into the Christmas season which we
did the intersections starting believe it or not Thanksgiving weekend um which was a shock to us. And so my concern was to take the positive instead of saying this block is closed, we need to say
these parking lots are open. >> Uh but my other concern is is u most of our businesses in my district don't depend upon paca people. My customers come from everywhere but paca. Uh uh
magnolia is an hour wait on Sundays and they're not paca. They're everywhere else. And then they come to me while they're waiting for a magnolia. We're feeding off each other and we have some good energy going. But once we hear, you know, I'm trying to offset once we hear
that it's difficult to get through town, which is why I wanted some advertising of some sort, but I understand the new guidelines from the state hinder some of that. But I was wondering if we could somehow work with the chamber and
tourism to offset this because according to this to highway studies, a project like this, we're going to take a 40% hit >> uh and a 10% closure >> um is is the national average. So
downtown's going to take a hit, but our taxes aren't going down. our insurance actually has doubled downtown even with the fire ratings. Uh businesses are under some strain. So that's what I wanted to see is how we
could do that. And I think I was thinking it's one step more than just putting up signage, but it's >> you you were thinking about marketing and outreach. I would love to see some >> Facebook advertising and stories. >> So, some of the things that we can do is
social media advertising, advertise on our website. Um, take advantage of the LED sign that we have down at the on the right consolidated. Yes. >> So, those are some additional avenues that we can go to to get that word out. Miss Morgan was at the meeting, Kimberly
from the chamber, and he's made a commitment to assisting us >> in terms of making it clear that we're in still open for business downtown. We're going to be beautiful and we're working towards being beautiful, but in the meantime, we are still open. So, please come see us and see our progress
>> um sort of thing. And so, Kimberly was committed to that, too. So I think between her Nicole and some palaca >> and Greta and and visit Palaca Gabrielle I think there's a real commitment to making this as we can and it is going to
be nobody's denying it's going to be difficult for all of us that have a business downtown. Um but I think we're going to come out the other end at a much better place. So that's I'm opt I try to be optimistic and you hope to come up with solutions. >> Yes, we will focus on that. Instead, Anthony,
>> maybe we could have, if I may, a meeting of some of us to work on a plan to to do that. >> You got to be careful with the sunshine. >> Correct. >> Um, I would like to offer that we would
prepare a plan and send it out to the uh board. Okay. Thank you. >> Thank you. Any more on that topic? Um discussion direction landscape
maintenance and this um regular business B and new business A are basically the same item just for clarification more or less. Um Miss >> Sure. Um the distinction is the direction for landscape maintenance is
specifically centered around what's already there um on Laurel Street and Oak Street. And what we've been doing is Joe and his gentleman from public works have been watering those trees. Uh they have a six-month time frame to to
solidly root. So they've been watering those in in the interim. Um, but what we would like to do because there's a little bit of shortage of resources and also only two places where they can currently get water is to get a quote
from Shane Ellison from Four Seasons, which we already have actually um to get that approved to continue watering at Laurel and Oak for now until we move into the second phase of the streetscape
project where additional landscaping and trees will be planted and then at that time um can I jump ahead? >> Sure can. The St. John's. Yes, >> the St. John's. Once those are planted for St. John's Avenue, what the mayor had suggested is that we submit a formal
RFP to have someone water and take care of all of that collectively. So, it falls under one contract. My my take was that we're making a big investment um in the downtown landscaping and we don't want to lose it due to lack of maintenance and care. Um and I know I've
certainly seen on social media citizens concerns about the the care of the trees and other landscaping. So I think in respect of that as well. >> So once we receive more information on the cost and the quote uh perhaps we
could bring this back >> for the next meeting. Yes, I prefer that. >> Probably make some decisions about the direction. >> Go ahead, Mr. >> in a question on this. >> Um, >> the maintenance of, you know, the trees
and the leaves and the street, you know, right now that the guy that comes on Sundays to blow just blows it across the street and leaves it uh or they blow it into the drain. Are we including in this
maintenance proposal the cleaning of the St. John's Avenue? Because right now it's it's it's >> Are you referring to going forward when the streetscape project is complete >> or well right now or or whenever this starts?
>> That to my understanding is not included at at this time. >> Go ahead. >> Go ahead. forward. Which which >> Commissioner Jones, please excuse >> would that be the job of the street sweeper? We have a street sweeper. I think uh the truck is actually um being
repaired, but we do have a street sweeper and that's part of their duty. So, they will street sweep the streets. Sam, >> I understand that sweeper is nonreparable. >> Well, we will have Mr. Verio come up and speak to that. >> That's just my
>> the street sweeper. Um, one second. Mr. Verio, could you please come up and tell us about the status of the street sweeper? >> Um, uh, as you know, street sweeper has been down for quite some time. We have
spent the a considerable amount of money in the last year having the entire thing rebuilt. We've replaced all the parts, all new parts, and we still can't get compression where it everything spins, spits, pushes, and does what it's supposed to except suck up what it's doing. Um, we had somebody come out just
today, in fact, a outside contractor worked specifically on these and he's trying to put together a quote for us at this time to get it up and running. That's where we are with it currently. >> Not only that, haven't we spent 60,000?
>> Uh, very close to 42,000 building. >> 42,000. >> Yes, ma'am. >> How much the new one cost? >> About 425,000, sir. And that's why we're watching. >> That's the plan. >> We're really trying to do everything we can to get it up and running and
working. >> Commissioner, tell us here. >> Yes, ma'am. Um, those trees that all are on St. John's, that's an elm, isn't it, with that flacy bark on them. >> Those trees have gotten so big and they're leaning out into parking. I actually parallel parked by Sam's, Mr.
Deputy's store the other day and I hit one of them on the side of my truck, which doesn't matter. my work truck doesn't matter. But I think that's something we need to look into. I don't know, some type of different a tree with a more restricted growth or something that that those are getting big and they're just going to get bigger.
>> Yeah, they're they're coming out all those trees as part of the landscape project and they're coming back with uh pines of some not pines, the um >> palms. Thank you. The date palms and so on so forth that aren't supposed to get that big and a little more manageable. Yes, they drop a lot more stuff. It's
just going to increase the maintenance as far as having to blow and clean up the sidewalks a little bit more, but you're not going to have that overgrowth to that degree. That'll be much more manageable and easier for the city to maintain. >> Okay. >> Go ahead, Commissioner Davis. >> Let me clarify. So, you're saying they're going to the palms are going to
replace >> Yes, ma'am. They're every every one of the planters that are currently down St. John's are they're coming out and they're replacing them with new trees. Yes, ma'am. >> Um, >> it's part of the side streetscape project. >> Okay. That's a part of the street skate project. >> Yes, ma'am.
>> Okay. >> Um, what I was going to do is get back to the um, sweeper. Yes. >> The the vendor we used to fix it with the 40k approximately. Is that one vendor? >> No, that was actually two vendors. We
used John Deere and then we used Ring Power. Two very reputable companies who got in there and did everything they could. But apparently the the back of the truck itself is bent and that's where we're having a problem to get it put back into place so we can get compression in order to make the suction
work again. I know that's a bit technical and I'm sorry. >> I'm good. >> But it's it's the big problem and that's a very expensive fix. So we're trying to find this guy who came here was an expert who worked on these over here said he's seen this problem before and he may have a fix for us. So we're currently waiting for his response, ma'am.
>> Okay. Okay. And I guess my my what I want to understand is when we went to these two reputable companies, they assessed, I'm sure, before they fixed. And so what was what were they planning to do? What was the expected outcome that we paid for?
>> So when these things get to over certain years, and I turned in a a actual uh plan of what we went over and did, you have to replace all the parts is is what it is. So before you could every time you replace a part, it moves on to the next part. So we figured we'd replace
everything that needed to be replaced up to this point, which we did. But once you put everything back in place, that's when you find out the frame is off. And that's not a a regular situation. So, when they did fix everything and got it all up and running, all the parts they installed, everything works properly and
according to the way they're supposed to, they did offer to have that rest of it fixed, but at a much higher rate than we're going to be paying this newer person. So, we're trying to find the best deal to get it in the best situation. Um, and not to mention, they
had it for seven months between the two contractors and it just kept going back and forth. Yes. So my next question is, do we have a viable alternative to this defunct street sweeper that may be a better use of our funds and to continue
trying to use this street sweeper? Because we want an expected outcome. And my question is, can we get that expected outcome in another way? And is there an opportunity to potentially sell this to someone who really needs a defunct
street sweeper so we can recoup some funds? I'm not trying to be funny, but I just want to know before we continue spending without >> correct. We could put it up in auction and get a fraction of what if it was and unload it. Um, but it would put it
towards a new one, but it would be >> most let me rephrase my question. Is there an alternative to a street sweeper? >> No, ma'am. >> And I've got to go to these legend, but I've seen those smaller street sweepers.
How much what's the cost of those? Out of curio. >> First and foremost, let me make clear. We part of the street sweeper and how we received or obtained the street sweeper in the beginning is we've got funds from the state to do the state uh roadways as well with street sweeper. We get funds from them every year to pay for it.
anything smaller than what we have currently would not be able to do uh the state roads. So that's kind of the conundrum we're in with that >> first. Commissioner Campbell, >> I think for the word that uh Commissioner Davis
used, defun, I'm more concerned about the safety aspect of trying to repair something where the frame is bent. Generally, when a frame is bent on any type of vehicle, they deem it to be unpreparable. I mean unrepable or established uh worthy. And so I'm a tad
bit concerned that we may be putting funding into something that potentially was there damage done as far as accident or how did the frame become bent if there was just general generally operating it. >> Okay. So let me let me rephrase frame
bent because we're going right to the structure of the vehicle being bent. That's not what I mean. What I mean is the back side where the air is drawn, the top part of where all the stuff comes into, it forms a vacuum. That part is bent. There's no fear of safety
issues as far as my operators go. Otherwise, we would have shut it down and moves in a different direction long ago. Got >> um but if we can get the thing to hold compression, it'll start back up again. I feel wholeheartedly that if this man offers us a viable solution to straightening out, that's what we're
going to go with. If not, we'll put it back in front. We'll make some decisions, move forward. And comfortably knowing we did everything we possibly could at a reasonable amount to fix what we have and not move into the area having to spend a tremendous amount of money to replace it at this time. So,
yes. Sorry, >> Commissioner. >> The suction part is not where it meets the surface of the road and and it's not getting it's in the back of the street. >> Yes, sir. Correct. >> Um John Deere and Caterpillar ain't going to help you with that. >> No, sir. That's >> you need to go to a machine welding shop
plaque welding locally here plus some others who can get some biz but there who can fix that machine for you. >> I have great confidence in that. >> We're we're on that track sir and we're hoping to get it done soon. I was hoping to have it done sooner rather than later unfortunately but uh we're on that track right now sir.
>> They can do that kind of work. >> Thank you. Any additional questions of Mr. Verio we got to topic. >> Thank you. Um, the next item, item C, M. >> Yeah, we were thinking of pulling that, I believe. >> Huh?
>> I I believe item C, we were considering pulling this. >> Yes, that's what I'm going to say. I thought Mr. Russo called me today and asked if it could be pulled, >> right? >> So, that's I was just going to say >> um yes to the next meeting. Um five, new business, Belton property,
>> future use discussion. >> Miss off. >> Um yes. So, the city owns the Belton property which is located at North 11th Street. And um per the mayor's request, this is a vacant lot now and she was
wanting to open up a conversation regarding future potential future use of that property. >> And again, we've we've owned it for I'm sorry. Go ahead. >> That's a conversation. >> Okay. >> I'm sorry I didn't hear you.
Don, we getting interrupted by the side by phone. >> Um, yes, I I brought it up just because we do own that property as a city and we the house was demolished as we all know and it has been sitting there. There was the larger plan for the multimodal
location which is there with the train station and the Greyhound and etc and ride solutions. But again, I just wanted to open that discussion if we have any thoughts about the future of that property. It's a vacant lot. >> Your suggestions, ma'am. >> Any suggestions?
>> That's yours. >> I think that's Yeah. No, I I really wanted the group to talk about it, but I mean my I do have thoughts that we either need to do something with it as a CRA city or perhaps put it on the market. I don't think we should own a lot of real estate if we have no purpose
for it um and get it back on the tax roles. But those were just some my thoughts. I don't have anything specific in mind. I just wanted to bring up the future discussion so we start talking about it and don't forget I know we haven't forgotten but it's sitting there vacant. It just seems kind of a waste.
Anybody else have any thoughts or just want to >> I have a question. Um, do we have any in our CRA plan that requires property, you know, that we're trying to accomplish that that could be a good fit for, and
I'm just putting it out to have discussion. Um, I'm stop there. I I would think the fact that we have the um GI consultants uh actually now performing the study of the CRA plan update that perhaps a part
of that effort will give us uh some ideas about how do we use this property and any other vacant properties that are in our CRA district. >> Yeah. And >> so that would be one of the ways >> infill as a consideration and you know
there's the possibility that the city could continue to keep the property but lease it in I mean there's all sorts of possibilities and I think it's just something maybe we should wait until a plan update and then discuss further anything in the port consolidated etc.
>> Right. And meanwhile, our new CRA coordinator is getting herself uh very familiar with our CRA plan. So, we'll look at that as well. >> Okay. Thank you. Okay. Anybody else have any thoughts? On to reports, November and December
2025 financial reports. Miss Pierre, >> good evening everyone. Presenting November and December um financial statements included in the packet is a summary of the financials for both months along with a detailed monthly
line by line um report. And just to give you a brief overview, we have received the funds for um the tax increment and you can see that in the revenues for the month of November and December. So we're in good shape there. And with
expenditures, you could see the progression from November to December. Um, we've expended 15% in November and then you can see the the progression in December to 17% of expenditures.
I also see in here that we still um have the build we still have the um I thought we still have the grant for events. Why did I think I see that? Maybe it's my >> actual event. >> Yeah.
>> Yes, there it is. Yes, that's um page two. >> If you're looking at November um the second >> Okay. portion of that. We do have um for downtown we have 15,000 budgeted that hasn't been
>> um that hasn't been >> but that has to be taken out. Correct, Miss West? >> Yes. >> Previously discussed this that item needs to >> right >> be part of our CRA budget. >> Exactly. special events grants, >> right? We uh because of the new law that
Miss West identified. >> It's an old law, but yes. So, we have to you allocate that money to another line item basically. I was going to suggest public art to increase the public art budget which is at 25,000 to add that money to that and then we need to really
let people know that the art local artist that there there is the option to get some funding for public art. That was just my thought. whatever else anybody else has in mind. >> Mhm. >> Possibly marketing as well. >> No, public arts. >> Public arts.
>> Yes. Which is at 25,000 to increase that budget. 25,000 doesn't go very far for public art projects. >> If we're making changes to the budget, can we we're going to do a vote and or I would come back the res and also
transfer. >> Yeah, we would. >> I was just throwing out a suggestion. I don't know if anybody else has any thoughts. >> Come back. We could come back. >> Okay. >> Unless they give us up. >> Okay. >> Does anybody want to make a motion? >> I make a motion that we transfer that to
public special events. >> You have a second. >> Second. The motion is second. All in favor? >> Oh, I'm sorry. Discussion. Go ahead. Any discussion?
>> Go ahead. >> Well, since we Yeah. discussion >> and I think that the city manager kind of like asked could we use part of those funds for wayfinding and that's one of the big
projects that we also have. U what about what about splitting it in half? Some half of it go to way finding and half of it go to public art. >> We can do that but we have quite a bit of funds in the CRA. >> I mean >> yeah that we need to allocate. I
>> mean but it's when you start talking about signage and >> that's just a suggestion dispersement. It's just a dispersement. It's not saying not do it but it's dispersing it a little differently. Yeah. There's 10,000 in signage for um the north or
south, sorry, south district. There's 10,000 >> and and I'll tell you why. I'll give give you explanation. Um I heard Commissioner Campbell start talking about the wayfinding, but the additional would go towards businesses that being
affected. We could say, you know, the detour signs, tell them that these businesses, well, we can't say it's still open. I just heard that. But, uh, it was a big thing when we had businesses coming in saying, "Hey, listen. Our business is closed and being affected and people don't know how to
get to it." That was the, uh, uh, St. John's Auto Body, I believe, came in here. So, um, that extra money could go towards that kind of stuff. It won't take away from the budget that we already have for the way finding that we're doing right now. That's just a
suggestion. Take it. >> Go ahead, Commissioner Campbell. I was going to ask because I know that there was a um we talked previously and I'm not sure if it was CR or
commission with regards to the electronic signs. Um could that be something that we take into consideration for having specifically for our downtown area? um which would be an the what's the >> the messaging sign
>> that we have out there? >> Not like the one that we have here. The portable one that would be able to be on the different blocks >> um for consideration um throughout this time frame. um that would be something that can be
considered a wayfinding option that hey whatever messaging brand that comes that could be something that could travel >> yes >> along the way so maybe we can take in considerations I mean it shouldn't be any different of a quote than we already
have previously but I would like to see it be allocated to something a little bit more um useful for the downtown especially with the progress um that we see coming that way. That would be another option for wayfinding to me if
you ask me. >> Mayor, I'm sure >> can you clarify vision for public art usage? Can you give us an example of what you >> So the only public we do have murals um and we do have one sculpture near the riverfront and then we have the
doughboys and navy soldiers. So we don't have any of the public art. public art. There is a vast array of public art and we have a lot of talented artists. Um, if you go to any downtown community, um, there are far more public art than we have. The murals are beautiful. There's
a limited amount of walls. Um, I think we have to diversify our public art. And I think I'm not an artist. I think we'd have to turn to them to come up with some concepts to present um, and a plan. But it's just, I think, something that would add to downtown that we don't
currently have. It's pretty stock um after that you get off the riverfront. There isn't a lot of public again except for the minutes. >> Um thanks. I just wanted to clarify that we're on this that I understood what you meant by it. Um I will agree that we are
very stark and I I re I lived previously in a community that had a very large public art presence and it really does add a lot of value to the community. So thank you. I'm Mayor. >> Go ahead. I'm not against it, but I
think that if we are looking to have money allocated, we should have a vision as a CRA um of how we would want that to be presented, the areas that we would want to address the so that we just don't have funding out there that people
are applying for and we're leaning on them to give us a vision of what they would like to do versus us putting something out there saying this is what we would like to incorporate in our downtown and then having those funds. So, I would be against allocating funds
for public art and we don't have a vision of how we want that to appear. Not saying that I don't support that, mayor, but I just think having an allocation and not having um the necessary strategic plan regarding the public art
that it will be a little bit off for me though. >> Were you going to say something? Of course, Mr. Deputy. >> Yes, Mayor. Um, do we not have a section in the comprehensive plan that covers public art already? >> We do and we have No, no, >> we don't. Okay.
>> We don't. Um, and I think we allocating money would be then turning it back to our large arts committee which includes Florida School of the Arts and asking them for some concepts, letting them know right now they know that historically the mural committee has gotten this money basically. Um, nobody
else has. And again, that's fine. But again to expand that we have a huge arts community. I think we have to turn to them for some ideas. I don't I'm not an artist but I'm fine with either way. This was just to reallocate those funds.
There's fun. There are funds in the CRA. We have to use them or lose them. And so I'm suggesting we can do both. We can get wild and we can get the wayfinding signage and the public eye. >> And we don't have to get this restrictive and count pennies in that way. It's not like the general fund. Go
ahead. >> I I do. Um um Commissioner Jones alluded to it. May I ask Miss Cardi, you mentioned you said marketing. >> I did. >> What did What did you mean? >> I was actually thinking in reference to
during that street cape streetcape period that we were doing some marketing to keep the businesses since the conversation came up earlier. So, I was thinking about that, but also with wayfinding as well. So, if I made a
recommendation at all, the 15,000, I would suggest that at least, you know, 7,000 or 8,000 of it go to the public arts and well, half half and half. Yeah. Let me ask this and I'm asking I don't
want to make it appear but is there a way that we would be able to allocate it to a line that says uh the public art or so that way we won't have to come back and change a line item in the future to
where it's either it can go for either or wayfinding or public art. Oh, in the voting right now >> because what I'm struggling with and I I want to support the mayor in bringing this to us because again uh I think it's
a wonderful opportunity, but I'm a little bit concerned that with the budget cycle that this may not be accomplished um this particular budget cycle. And so instead of you all having to come back to us to allocate or move funding, is there a way that that can be
a combination or some of sorts? And it's just a question. If it's a yay, yes. If it's not, I just wanted to put that out there. Yes, sir. >> But I have no problem either way. But I do want to support the mayor with that effort of public art. But I'm just
concerned that the vision, it's not really there right now, even though we would have to lean to those um potential local um individuals. But I think as of now uh I just
>> Okay. So to answer your first question, it's wise to be specific where we place the funds. So public arts is one line item. Wayfinding wayfinding is another one. And so would be wise to whatever amount uh the commissioners or the board
agree upon that we would put those funds precisely in the line that it's designated for. because we now have the CRA coordinator on site, she can make this one of her priorities as she's doing now and try to ensure that we
spend the money as you all have budgeted, meaning that we would work to get those objectives met. >> Um, and I was on the committee who got the grant, who got we ended up with the bass fish sculpture. Um, and when we got
that grant, we didn't have we we then put out for proposals like an RP. We didn't have we applied for the grant, we got the funding, we kind of specified we wanted to do something on different public artwise in our city because we were limited to what we had and we got
that grant and um from there we did put out a request for proposals and we got those. We got several sculptures and in the end that was the one chosen by the public and by the committee. So that was kind of the process. I'm saying it just usually happens that way
>> and I think we could start that process before the end of the budget year. Would that sculpture be there or would that other piece of public art whatever it may be be there? Probably not. But you could start the process. >> We will do our best to to complete it this year.
>> Again, after all this discussion, what is the wish of the the board? >> Call for question. I mean call for vote. Um, >> but the motion is already out there. >> Yeah, we need to both second. >> Okay. All in favor?
>> I >> I >> I >> opposed. I >> nay. Okay. >> I I because I don't know what the full discussion was, so I'm might have to say nay at this point.
>> Well, I was No, Dave, the motion was made. I mean, I came in on the discussion. It's been it's been going on since I've been here. >> Um, we have to make a decision about those funds being reallocated to something from the special. >> So, can we have a roll call, please?
>> I don't know. >> Okay, let's do a roll call. >> Can I have a clear motion? >> Sure. Motion is by the mayor for public art current uh to have the funds go into public art and Commissioner Davis
seconded the motion. >> Hold on. The mayor can't make the motion. >> Oh, excuse me. I'm sorry. The mayor brought the idea up. Deputy made the motion. Davis seconded >> and it was the money that had to be moved out of the special events grant
because we can't use CR for that. >> Okay. >> So, that money had to be real. >> Thank you. Because I wasn't in on this. >> So, but tell them what the discussion was though. The discussion then went to should that those funds be added to the
public art line item or should it go to wayfinding signage or should it be split between the two. >> Right. >> Okay. And then we had a vote and we need a roll call on that vote for public art for the full 15,000 of the fund. Roll call, please. >> Right. And that's what we had the vote on.
>> And and my question was do they have a do they have a line item a line item for the public art? >> Yes. Yes. And for wayinding. >> Okay. >> So, um, roll call, please. >> First motion. >> Commissioner Borum,
>> yes. >> Commissioner Jones, >> nay. >> Commissioner Campbell. >> After clarification, nay. >> Commissioner Davis, >> yes. >> Commissioner Palisier,
>> nay. >> Mr. Deputy. >> Yes. >> Yes. So 43. Um the motion passed. >> Thank you everybody. >> I I have a question on budget
>> on on the um and and in the future I'll get a hold when I get up to speed I'll try to call you ahead of the meeting >> on the uh u central business district budget. uh the 911,000
that goes to better place. Uh what what are we what what is that actually going towards? >> Number 9134. >> Sorry. Um city manager, you were going to say something. >> I was I was going to say that is the
funding for part of the funding for the streetscape project. >> Okay. >> So that's why that's you can't touch it. >> No, that's fine. I just wanted clarification. Okay. >> What that was. >> Thank you. >> Anything else? Any other questions on Miss P? Thank you.
>> M clarification. Did Miss Pierre gave the November? You gave November and December. >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Um on to reports of streetscape project downtown merchants meeting January 6th. Miss off. Nice. >> So, this was
to summarize the um there was a merchant downtown meeting held about street the streetscape project. Um a lot of the merchants their questions were answered regarding the strategies to minimize the construction impact on their business. Um coordinate construction phases phases
to maintain um the availability for those festivals. make sure there was no impact on that as well. Overview of proposed bumpout locations, um, intended safety and walkability benefits. Also, there
was some discussion over bike lanes. So, those those were just some of the items in the meeting and that was just to recap. Additionally, um, public works has also provided the following document. I just got these printed, so I
apologize you didn't have them beforehand, but it's just to further clarify information that was discussed with the upcoming streetscape project. >> Miss Karen, can you please put the report up so we can all see the report
as she's uh going over it, please? Thank you. >> Staff report for Why she look at me may I may >> I ask >> go ahead. >> Never mind. I was >> um the staff recommendation is that the
city will keep the merchants updated on any timeline changes and work with them on discuss plan during upcoming festivals and events and provide regular communication. And that was going to be with you Miss Off with me,
>> Miss Hall. And also Miss Morgan was going to again help from the chain. >> Mayor again. >> Yeah. >> Any questions? >> Any questions about this? >> Thank you.
>> Update on logo and wayfinding signs as well. >> I think we have a couple of slides to show. Yes. >> Yes. >> And Miss Hall is not here. Anticipating
her new granddaughter. She's with her daughter. So, >> yes. So, at the June 9th meeting, um it was indicated that based on the previous presented information for the the logos that the
board did not want a complete revamp of the logos and the wayfinding. They wanted a refresh of what was already in place and Miss Hall has worked diligently on getting that completed. So, it is actually ready to go. She just isn't here to present that. So for the
CRA part of it, I'm going to show you what what we have, >> right? >> Are you able to pull that up? >> I'm trying to find it. >> Is it this? >> I think it was sent it was sent to her email. >> Okay. Yep.
>> And we made sure that everyone had it. Yeah. So there's a few slides in there that are specific to CRA. >> Yeah. And they're they're in the packet that we all receive >> for the public. That's unfortunate they can't.
>> Yeah. >> And I know. >> So the final that final final slide where it says relax, explore, repeat. That's what the CRA will be using at this time.
>> And Miss Paul will be here for the next meeting. >> Yes. >> But we wanted to be certain that um Commissioner Campbell had asked several times. I wanted him to know that we we did complete the assignment and we still we will start using this.
>> So I have one I really don't see any difference. >> There is a there is a small difference. >> Let me finish please. Oh okay. >> But I would want an understanding of what is that lpping through the uh the
river the if you look at the CRA portion >> it appears that there is something that's where the river flows that am I what does the >> significant >> the abstract version of the current no I'm making that
>> no I'm just trying to >> I just want an understanding of what does that represent? like >> the green >> the wave. Yeah, the kind of the >> wave. I'm serious. >> It's like a paintbrush. >> And that's what I'm I want clarity
because if this is going to be we should be able to identify or at least what is the significance >> of that. >> Okay. >> And maybe I'm asking I'm not saying I don't like it, but I want to know the significance of it. I don't know.
>> I mean, but that's that's just me. >> That's just me. I'll I'll >> unfortunately. Yes. Hall >> because the intent was at least to utilize all of the work that had been done. >> Understand? >> Yeah. And um >> and I think this is a preview. I think
we have to save this for Miss Hall next meeting. I don't think we're going to solve it right now and here without worked on it. >> Absolutely. Just to go back to the previous conversation. So when we're talking about wayfinding for the upcoming
streetscape um project, then we this would have to be postponed until the February meeting. So that would not be ready for any of that marketing or communications
>> unless we are okay with moving forward with design. >> Yes, ma'am. >> Okay. What's Go ahead, Commissioner Pelia. Um this is this there's nothing for this isn't the last one we're getting is it? >> No. And there's more to that. That's
just specifically what is for CRA if >> Oh, you have the full deck. I only had the four. Okay. I apologize. >> Um we're always highlighting and talking about our river where the gym city on the St. John's. Why not more I like I like the top part of why not something
more dignifying a river scene underneath the flat. So I think >> so you know it's a river not a >> bank that's what I think that depicts on this but it doesn't >> river scene underneath community I agree
>> okay >> I think >> one one person at a time please >> I think the idea based on conversation at previous meetings was to take what was already in place and just refresh it >> without without making it too different for brand
recognition and And I believe that was the intent of what you see there today. >> And that this has been kind of the original and the original rebrand the branding package that was done about Drew. Um this was kind of the look, but this is a more updated version of it. Um
you can put a scene on the river, but for logos it's usually not that busy. It's usually pretty basic, pretty graphic. Um but if we want to wait, I think we should wait for Miss Hall. It's just that some of the information that will be sent out will be with the old logos. And if we're okay with that, then
we should wait till February. That's our choices. So, >> is that what we prefer to wait and get? >> He should take his input at least. >> Okay. Well, go ahead. >> Both of you guys. >> Do you want to get everybody? So, I'll start with Commissioner Davis. We'll go down the line. What What are your
thoughts? >> Feedback on this logo. >> Yeah. >> So, I like their logo. How? And then um let me back up. Yes, I like it. I think it's aesthetically pleasing. When I looked at it, what I got from the
art underneath the uh verbiage is I got river and I got I got river and I got river flow with an abstract piece on it. So I just saw water. So that's my take
on it. I do think it yields to a when I look at this I think of a print or like you said wayfinding or something and I think it yields to a clean logo. So that I'm going to stop there
but I know art is in the eye of the beholder >> and we only have four more minutes. I I do like I do like the logo, but when I'm looking at community redevelopment agency, are we redeveloping the river or
are we redeveloping our downtown? Um because relax, explore, repeat. I I like I like that and that can apply to the downtown, but I don't see what we're redeveloping because it's not the river. >> Um
>> so I think we have to hold tight and tape. We have discussion for the next meeting because we're running out of time. >> I think this prime example of why we don't like having meetings before meetings. >> Well, but I we we can do this on a separate day, but again, that's another discussion. We've got to go on to the
cop staffing and enforcement update. >> I will give >> um you guys do y'all do you guys have our presentations? >> I'm I'm gonna skip to I want to say it's slide three. Um, and just give a brief
overview of our foot patrols. In this reporting period, which was October 16th to January 15th, our two cops officers assigned to the CRA did 135 miles in foot patrols.
Um, from a enforcement perspective, um, and continuing the foot patrols, we've issued numerous trespass warnings to folks who have been in the downtown area causing disturbances. Um, some of our business owners have
expressed during this quarter some concerns for stop sign running. Um, the CRA guys have done a lot of stop sign enforcement. Currently we are in the end of week two, beginning of week three for the new
>> ordinance for the truck route. So we are making a lot of traffic stops on uh tractor trailers for uh the enforcement and education of that uh new ordinance. But if you go to the
calls for service, um, we had in this quarter we had 11, I'm sorry, 111 calls for service in CRA district, 11 of which resulted in police reports. Four of those reports were traffic crashes. Two were natural death
investigations. One was a Baker Act, one was a property damage report, one was a juvenile runaway, one was an information report, and one was an exposure incident where a gentleman was arrested. I know I didn't quite go over
everything, but for the sake of time, I tried to go fast. Do you have any questions? Yes, sir. >> Go ahead. I I wanted to say thank you because um my bench has been cleaner than it has been in a long time and I'm not over
there scrubbing with bleach and I appreciate that so much. Uh my next concern, you know, is of course um the semis coming through because I would like to know why my intersection has wagon ruts in two years. But that's not
you. That's somebody else. >> Yes, sir. >> Um, but it's the bicycles and the electric bikes on the sidewalk I'm about taking out every day. >> Nobody looks out our doors and looks to the left and looks to the right or whatever to see if it's safe. You don't
do that coming out of your bedroom at home with the kids and and but we have to do that on the street because the electric bikes are they're fast. >> Yes. >> And they're not stopping at the corners. Uh even on the sidewalks, they're just
going straight across. >> We're going to have to bring that to >> stop. Yes. But but otherwise, we're making progress and I am so appreciative of what y'all are doing. >> Thank you. Tell us here quickly. >> I'll be very brief. Uh the truck stops. Are you referring to Krill Avenue?
>> Um on Krill Avenue on 9inth Street, anywhere where someone that's driving a tractor trailer is violating the new ordinance for the uh current truck route. Yes, sir. Thank you very much. Yes, sir. >> Okay. >> Thank you. Um and I don't know if we can
have time to do >> I I don't think so other than >> we have we've got to stop now because our commission meeting. >> Thank you everybody. Motion to adjourn. >> Thank you. Um, welcome to the city of Palaca City
Commission meeting on January 22nd, 2026 at 6 PM. I'm calling this meeting to order with an invocation from Miss Pastor Moberry still tuned in. An invocation from Commissioner Davis and pledge of allegiance from Commissioner Barum. Please stand if
you're able. Let's pray. Dear heavenly father, we thank you for this day. God, we ask that you guide and direct each and every one of us as we make decisions so that our city can be better. God, we pray for protection. We pray for guidance. We
pray for um just clarity. Um and again, Lord, we just thank you for our city. We ask these and all blessings in Jesus name. Amen. >> Amen. >> Please join me in the pledge. Pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States
and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, liberty and justice for all. >> Roll call, please. Madam clerk, >> here >> present.
Davis Commission forum >> present >> present. Thank you. Um we have quorum on to approval of the minutes. Has everybody had an opportunity to read the minutes from January 8th, 2026?
>> Yes. >> Motion to approve. >> Motion. A motion in a second. All in favor? I. Any opposition? Thank you. On to public recognition presentations. In the spotlight, employee of the month, Ms. Jones.
>> Madame Mayor, commissioners, um thank you once again for this opportunity to continually to continue for the third year of recognizing our employees as well as our departments um during this new season um of outstanding performance and work that they're doing. And for the
month of January, we would like to rec um to recognize our administrative assistant at our community affairs department, Miss Jessica Cruz. I know I'm going be very brief. Uh two years ago when I interviewed Miss Cruz for the
job, she was very hesitant on what she could achieve. Oh, throughout the last year and a half, two years, she has been outstanding. She was very shy to be on the radio. She didn't like to go live on any kind of events that we have. But now, you see, we can't get her to stop talking.
As you if you read some of the things, some of the community members have gave me emails and everything about how great job she's doing from Mr. Veto Russo to uh Sam Deppy who just left out of here, Wayne Mlan and Denise them have gave me emails saying the wonderful job they
have working with her throughout this process that Jenkins Jenkins would not be where it's at without her help. Uh the staff loves her. Uh Reno and Mr. James wanted to be here but we got basketball but Miss Chef Phil is here and uh so we came here to support her.
So I'm not going to keep talking. I can't do what I do without her help. So I want to let her know that you appreciate it and now you see that the city appreciates you. So thank you. >> Not my skill set, but I'll try. >> Small. >> Congratulations.
Congratulations. >> Congratulations. Well deserved. >> Well deserved. Well >> deserved. >> Thank you. >> Congratulations. >> Laura Pablo, Chamber of Commerce. >> Miss Pablo.
I need like Okay. Okay. All right. I'm I'm gonna watch that right there. Okay. And I'm I'm doing this unscripted. So, you're all in for a a fun ride. And we just got in from Tallahassee. It's great to see everybody there. We just uh c we had our rural counties day in uh at
the capital. So, that was that was a great time with our giant blowup fish. Was awesome. So, I'm Laura Pablo. I'm the president of the chamber and um Marcia asked me to just kind of come give a little update on all the fun things that we've been working on as an
organization. Um and so one of the things to highlight is our uh chamber of commerce and every other community it's structured differently. So um in Klay County where I was previously it was three separate organizations that handled tourism, economic development
and chamber membership. And then in Putham County, we're fortunate to have a model where we have all of those efforts um collectively working together under one roof, which is really important for, you know, unity and strengthening, especially with all of those types of
things going on collaboratively in our community. So, um talking through those pillars, as we like to call them, and just kind of what's going on with all the different areas. Um so, our chamber, the chamber membership side of everything. Um, we have our Taste of
Putnham event coming up next year. It's our second second annual event. We're really looking forward to hosting that if you haven't already gotten your tickets. We finished our second cohort of our leadership program, which you were in our first cohort when we brought it back, Miss Davis. So, um, we're
getting ready for our third cohort in 2026 of that program to cultivate and bring in new leaders into the community. Um, we also have our business after hours events going on for the year to support our uh B2B networking. We have
that calendar filled out for the rest of the year. Um, and the um other thing that we've been talking about um so last year we kind of set a precedent that any new business, they didn't have to be a chamber member that wanted to do a ribbon cutting in the community, we would wholeheartedly host and do their
ribbon cutings. And that's been really successful. It's a way for us to give give value first and kind of show people what we're all about before we ask for anything in return, which is how we prefer to do things. Um, and so then the other thing that we've been talking about is um extending complimentary
chamber membership to any new business that opens up in the city of Palatka. Honestly, it makes my job a lot easier. I don't have to show them what we're all about. Come on, let's help you help you get established. Come come do your thing. And then once you're successful, then you'll just automatically
understand the value and and continue to be a part of our chamber and our organization. So that's something that um we're excited to implement and get going for um all the local businesses that want to to partner and and come on in. So that's all of our and we have a
bunch of new we have a new we just did software cover. We had a ton of stuff going on with our chamber membership to support our B2B community, networking, councils, workforce development. So, um, our tourism arm is crushing it. Um, with, uh, Kimberly Morgan came on. She's
just about hitting her her one year. They are in the middle of a a branding study which is going to yield a whole new branding effort for um, our organization, for the community. I I think Robbie, you were in some of those those meetings, mayor. Um, so we're
really excited to have that unveiled probably the end of Q1. Q2, we'll have all that new branding, new messaging, all of that. And then we're also doing a marketing strategic plan kind of effort um to really be focused and dialed in based off of data with all of our tourism efforts. So, we're wrapping up
that. We're also in the middle of doing a um an RFP for an advertising agency. You get a little bit better of an ad buy, ad spend, that kind of thing when you you know, you work in partnership with some of these different organizations. So, we've got that out. Um, and we're also we have an RFP for a
brand new website which all those efforts that's just going to be the start the foundation to get us on the map. So hopefully you're starting to see some of this trickle out. But you should really expect to see some really awesome movement in our tourism that we've been working hard on, but it takes a minute
and now we're getting ready to unveil it. And so then the thing that everybody always wants to talk about is economic development and our elevate um our elevate pillar. So, we have, I think, on your agenda tonight, um, Project Poly, which we've been working with. That
project was actually going to locate, um, outside of the city. And honestly, the site that they were looking at was not a good fit for the project. And so, working with our partners, we've been able to um to locate them to a site in
the city. Um, and so it's it's closing in and uh a couple steps away from we we'll be able to do the ribbon cutting and announce that project. That's that $39 million project, >> 80 high wage jobs. Um, that'll be and
then we also have project pavers which I think is announced now as tricycle pavers. We're still talking to them. We've been working um with some of their water and sewer extensions and trying to figure out if we can get that solved and EDA grants and all those kinds of things. So, um I'm out of time. Um happy
to answer any questions. It's obviously just the top, but um we we we've got a lot going on. >> Does anybody have any questions on this panel? Go ahead, Commissioner Davis. >> Um one, I have a comment and a question. And first of all, thank you for all you
do. um the energy that your um new staff and that you've brought to not just the city but the county is um very visible and um I personally appreciate it um
especially as a a resident of Palka. But um you guys have a lot of projects going on and you mentioned a couple here. Is there just one other one that will have a major impact that you that you could um mention?
>> We we have a lot. So, I'm assuming that you probably want me to talk about the the the Legosi project which is at the back side of the airport that we've been um helping with for probably close to a year. We've been in conversation um with them. So, they are um through their due
diligence. They're through the state. They're back to the county. They're done with all of that. um they're still finishing up their um civil and their site plan. And that's that civil is is what's going to determine whether or not they're able to locate into the the city
with annexation or if they will um operate in the county. And so, yeah, we're still supporting that project. That's they're saying very conservatively 200 million. I mean, I think easy math that project is going to go well over 300 million um by the time
it's done. It is still a competitive environment. I'm sure you've seen the press releases the the competition Nassau. There's two other communities also that haven't gone public that are vying for that project as well. So there's there's still a lot of competition on that project. We're still
heavily engaged. >> But the good news, I think, is the legacies kind of have an advanced they're more advanced in their process than some of these other locations. So hopefully that will help them move. >> Yeah. Yeah. Yeah, I had to learn a lot about the whole business side of
that world, all the the motorsports. I if you didn't if you watched the F1 movie, I learned a lot. >> Yeah, >> it's a whole different business model. >> Anybody else have any questions? Go ahead. Go ahead, Commissioner Jones. I know there's Jones. >> Project Poly, I know you mentioned it,
but could you expand on what what type of industry is that? So, it's a PVC manufacturing company. And so, they the site that they're looking at is right next to Kamarco at the back end of the business park there, which is the perfect place to put a a
company like that. All the infrastructure is there. So, this is a perfect example of a a shovel ready site. I mean, it's still forested, but you know, the water and sewer is right there, the electric is right there, gas is not too far away, the telecommunications are right there. And
so, um, the amount of due diligence that that company would have had to do if they had located at the other site would have been extraordinarily cost prohibitive and just the amount of time and engineering and and everything else would have
it just would have been to me insurmountable. So, the site that they're um they're looking at going into now is absolutely the perfect fit and we're excited to to see it all come to fruition. I think they're going to be wildly successful. Thank you, >> Commissioner Ball.
>> Yes. I just want to just commend you for all the the wonderful work that you've done. You are certainly uh you you you've brought new energy to Palaca. Uh we we see the results as um these new businesses are joining. You're going
out, you're making things happen. um the all of the um and especially with the the ribbon cutting when you're recognizing new businesses >> as well as you're also just um automatic membership for people who are starting new business. That's huge. >> It's a small it's it might be small to
the um the business owners but that's a huge thing for for for those guys and we want to thank you for that. you have changed the um the um the model per se because again it was hard to get people to join especially when they having to pay out money and trying to start up new
businesses as well as being recognized. >> Yeah. So our goal is we want to help the business get successful. We want to help them I and then once they're up and running and all the things you have enough new challenges when you start a business and so that's that's such an easy thing for us
to do. We we also we're starting a new program. We're going to talk about it in our um March economic development lunchon. We're going to unveil some if you've had little snippets at our um board meetings, but we've been working with uh Carlton Robinson with Jax Bridges on beta testing and AI
entrepreneur program for our small businesses, which you're probably going to geek out about that. I got to tell you about that. Yeah. Yeah. Um but uh stay tuned for that. We're also really excited to bring that level of support to our small businesses. So, if you
don't know who Carlson Robinson is, check him out. He's pretty awesome, dude. So, to have him engaged locally down here in our community, I'm really excited about that, too. >> Again, >> there's a lot there's a lot. >> Just wanted to commend you for the um the work that you've done and you how you have helped Pala and Putnham County.
I don't know where have you been all those years, but we certainly happy to have you here now. >> And we're just getting started. That's what we're just getting started. So, >> thank you. Go ahead. Babe, >> can you the announcement when you said you hope we already bought our tickets? >> Oh, for the we're doing our our second
annual. So, when I got here, I said, "Oh my gosh, PLA Putham County is a foodie town. We have so many awesome small business, unique, family-owned restaurants. Like, you need stretch pants if you're going to live here." And uh so last year, we changed up the model
of our annual meeting that we do for the chamber. and I said, "I'm coming for the food and wine festival in Charleston. That's ours. We're taking that there. That's we're, you know, and so so that's what we're doing." So the last year we had seven vendors, you know, new concept trying to explain it. People hadn't been to a bite event or anything like that.
So um this year we have uh 15 signed up and couple food trucks and just excited to continue to grow that and and get them the visibility and the notoriety. So everybody likes to eat. We can all bond on eating. And people can go on the chamber website to look for how to
purchase >> platinum platinum county chamber.com. Yep. >> Yep. And you can buy tickets. You don't have to be a member to come. It's cheaper if you're a member, but um it's open to the public. We hope everybody comes and wears your stretch pants. >> You too. >> Thank you.
>> Thank you guys. Thank you. >> Um financial report. Miss Yeah. Hello everyone. So within the packet that was submitted in the agenda includes the um a written summary of our
financials along with a summary report, the monthly financials, the individual um fund reports. I will say I did have a chance to meet with Commissioner Davis and she is providing input um as far as revamping the reports. Um but I will not
read to anyone tonight. I'll just give you an overview taking in all of the suggestions and welcoming more suggestions as far as what you would like to see for the financial reports. Um so just giving you an overview of each fund. Um just an overview that
we're the financial condition is stable. There are a few funds that the revenues are um we're watching we're closely observing because we are 3 months into the fiscal year. Our as you know the fiscal year starts in October and we're
now this is reporting December. So that's 25% of the year and the simple measurement that we're looking at is any item that is exceeds or when it comes to revenue as if it's below the 25%
then we would be watching. So we're carefully watching um airport utility, golf course, sanitation and the general fund is in good shape.
Um that's the revenues are 29.59% and TIFF um revenues are also in good shape. That's 37.68% of revenues. And for expenditures, we're doing we're doing fairly well. Um
the only fund that we're carefully looking at is the golf course and we are um organizing with the head of the the golf his name slips my mind but we are going to meet with him and sit down and
revisit to figure out a more effective and um fiscally effective way to operate um golf. And that is my ex uh overview. Um just taking in all the comments that I've received thus far.
>> Any questions of Miss Pia? >> No, thank her for that. Um that's an excellent excellent report overview and letting us know what we're watching and what's doing what's performing well. So that's exactly what we're looking for. Commissioner Camp,
>> I too want to say thank you um for the work that you are doing and actually listening and getting the feedback that speaks volumes and keeping us aware um of requests that may have come from someone else and making sure that we all have the information that was requested
by certain individuals. So, I want to thank you for that. >> You're welcome. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> City manager report. >> Yes. Um so I mainly wanted to give an update on
Moody Road Lift station that we are working diligently to um have uh well to expand it. Uh we expect to have two new complete pumps um with all the motors and generators and so forth. So
hopefully within the next 6 months uh the lift station Moody lift Moody Road lift station will be completed. This will extend the life of that uh lift station by at least 30 years. So, uh just want to give you a heads up on
that. The EDA grant, we're working with Northeast Florida Region Council. They're applying for an EPA Brownfield assessment coalition grant and as a uh general purpose unit of that um we're
are part of that coalition. So if they're awarded, we will also have funds to conduct environmental assessments. Our um IT team phone system is now operative and uh one of the things that
I will start doing is training staff more. They're not aware I don't think well enough of the um some of the benefits of our phone system. The primary reason for that new phone system was to have the quick updating and then
also when they walk away when staff walk away from their desk they can literally uh forward the phone to their cell phone so that we're more responsive. We've gotten complaints about not answering the phone. So yes, go ahead.
>> We hire someone to >> make sure that staff is aware of all of those things. and he did do that, but I'm looking at the usage by the staff. The usage is not as high as it needs to be. >> I was just taken by the words that you
say that you're going to train, but we have >> Not me. Not No, I mean I will authorize the training paid. >> Yes, we do have that individual. Not I. Sorry about that. >> I will not be training. Don't even know how to use it. Okay. Uh, additionally
the airport uh they're working on their 28J projects and uh so we are now working on the AWS and the airfield painting and that should be done very soon as well.
Uh human resources with critical positions um we've now had three filled. These are some critical um and is making a change also a financial specialist too. I think she's been with us two weeks uh projects
gen grant manager grant writer and administrator uh by Monday both of those will be on board and we are making progress as well with the commissioner legislative aid. We've had um maybe nine interviews and we hope to hopefully have
a candidate perhaps by the end of this week. also the positions of uh assistant city manager, human resources director. Uh we were directed to post those as soon as we could and we did do that I
think this week. Okay, that's it for my update. Uh I was able to attend um yesterday and today the uh rural county day and I must admit that it was very effective and I just leave it there. It
was a very well spent day. >> Thank you. Any questions? >> Did I have pictures? Do you have pictures? If you can give them a quick glance that would be helpful. if that's possible.
Oh, so that is >> Cora. >> Yes, sir. And uh so I was able to, you know, talk to him about uh Palaka and he was very much aware of what we're doing. He he knows the growth that's going on
here. Uh do you have any you have another one? I think I was with um uh SAP was it? Right. So yes, right. I was with him also and and Commissioner Davis and I
today had a great opportunity to share with him and he also gave us a lot of good pointers. So very beneficial meeting. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Um going on to public comments. These are public comments um for items not
specifically listed on the agenda. Um, is there anybody here for public comment? Items not listed on the agenda. Please give us your name and city or town of residence. For the record, >> good evening. My name is uh Robbie
Clunch. Um, I live in Pala, Florida. Um, good evening everybody. Mayor, commissioners. Um, back on December 29th, I um submitted a public records request. Um, I got the response that the
city received it and I would receive my public records request for if they could find it. Um, I got no response after that. That was about that was the following day I believe the 30th. Um,
I have reached out twice to find out a follow-up. What's going on? Just holding it up. Did I miss an email so forth? Um, maybe an invoice, so forth. Um, no response. So, uh, basically I'm here
just to give everybody a copy of the, uh, public records request. >> That's it. >> Yeah. >> I have one for each commissioner and then, um, one, two, three. >> Um, you can't talk.
>> This is would be one, two, three, four, five. Yep. This should be for the commissioners. Oh, I don't understand it. She's always been very very helpful. Um, I don't understand why I can't get this fulfilled
>> or at least get a response to my email. >> Can we answer now? >> Well, I think we just have to we we will answer, but we have to wait and see if there are any other public comments before. >> Yes. No. Thank you. >> Thank you very much. I appreciate y'all's time. >> Thank you. >> Is there anybody else here for public comment?
Seeing none, I'll close public comment. Okay. Would you like to respond? >> Uh, I would like to defer to the city clerk. Uh, could you please respond? >> I received his email. >> Talk in the mic so I can hear you, please. >> I received his email on
December 30th and I know it's 22 days since that email came in. Um, and I received one just yesterday asking about it. So, when I forward I'm sorry, when I forward the email that
comes in for a public records request, I send it out, let them know that I did receive it, then I send it out to the department. So, um, right now it's sitting where the department should have the answers to that, but she's, um, she's working on getting all of those
answered, um, as we speak. So, I'm not sure. Um, I should have and I apologize, Mr. Wabby. I should have sent you an email today to let you know I did receive it and and we were working on it. So, I do apologize for that.
>> Thank you. >> On to the consent agenda. Are there any items to be pulled from the consent agenda? M has the items. >> I'll make a motion that we accept consent agenda as printed. >> Okay, we have a motion. >> Second.
>> Motion in a second. All in favor? >> Any opposition? Thank you. On to public hearings. Second reading for ordinance 2025. >> Mission and staff. >> Okay. I'm sorry.
Oh, on to regular business. I'm so sorry. Um, discussion direction policy for transferring sick pay, >> Miss Jones. >> Madame Mayor, commissioners, um, what's before you is a an updated policy for our transfer of sick leave um, policy
and the form that goes with it. Um in a review of our policy um recently during last um this past fiscal year, we've had um several employees that had to go out um for either accidents or paternity leave, but whatever unsuspected um
absences where sick leave was being donated. Although our employees have a heart to give, um we found that some of the employees that were giving and they were given a minimum of eight or 16 hours didn't have adequate um leave time remaining if something were to happen
for them. So I wanted to standardize something and put in place so that they wouldn't give out it had to be they had to have a remaining a minimum remaining balance in order to donate. so that if something were to happen in their case, we wouldn't be in the same spot of
trying to donate to them um if they exceeded that um amount of time. So, what you have before you is simply um an updated form and um a best practice is to have at least a minimum of 80 hours remaining if you're donating. So, if they're donating, they want to donate,
they have 96 hours, they can donate 16, they have to have remaining. So, we want to put something in there um that these provisions had to be met and to let them know that if an employee goes out and they're in their probationary period that they cannot donate to that employee. They have to be out of their
probationary period before then and the form also that's attached. Um just added an ID number, the total available hours they have that the um department head would sign off on and the remaining balance before it would be approved by HR. So that's what you have before you
um something to just standardize um everything as it pertains to um the transfer of sick leave from one employee to other. >> Any questions, Miss Jones? >> Um I don't have anything. I'm not against this by any
stretch of the imagination, but is there an opportunity for us to kind of sway away from paper and become a little bit more techsavvy with uh some of the things that we're moving forward with given the option of you know I'm I'm I'm fine with it but we
need to start moving you know >> yeah once once this form is updated and approved um all most of our forms that we're doing there that can go through the system are going to be electronically sent through to the department head through ADP So we will be able to utilize it in that aspect.
>> Uh yes I do have something to say and it's reference to the six time 80 hours or more remaining after they donate. Well, um
I know the importance of having sick time, the lack of sick time, having families, children, you you know there's times you may have to take off and that restriction actually handicap someone um from like
you said kindness of their heart to donate to someone else that's a need. And I do understand that they may help someone and they need it. Um, but 80 hours that's that's a lot of sick time that you must have that putting a restriction on this. And
by golly, you know, if you if you end up sick, you don't I mean, you you don't you don't care if they had just 24 hours, but if they want to give you eight hours, I I think an employee should be able to do that. >> Thinking about the brotherhood of fire
department, police department that worked the 16 hours and 12 hours shifts. Um I just I I had to use the sick bank before, >> right? >> And I I know how that that that feels. And I I didn't know I was going to get it when I when I when they volunteered.
And uh I've also contributed to to the sick bank. I just think that restriction is a bit much. I I I really do. And so maybe no one up here have used it or contributed, but I'm telling you, you don't know when a gonna get sick. What
we don't have, what silly um city currently does not have is a sick pool. So employees don't donate into a pool and if there's a need then they can pull from that pool. We don't have that. >> Right. But but we can transfer it. It is
>> we have the ability but right and so what I'm saying basically is it really not broken. >> So why put these type of restrictions on it? So, so, so do we have an example of
something happened where >> No, no particular incident where people were giving that didn't have um that needed it. Not that. It's just that when people are giving eight hours and I understand that's a heart to do
something, but most employees that are donating sick time have 5600 hours, 300 and something because they can have as max of hours they want. um they can have up to 1920 hours of sick time. So we have employees that have astronomical
amounts of sick time that does do they don't mind. They donate 120, they donate 200 hours, they do whatever. But for an employee because there are no guidelines, I don't think it's fair to an employee and I and I don't see the cap because some caps are higher in researching and
looking. Some people say you got to have a minimum of 120 hours. So I tried to just keep it that's two weeks that an employee needs to maintain and if they were to use those two weeks um we would send out if it's an emergency and ask
for donations in any event for them as well. But if they don't have if they haven't been able to accumulate that time so if they haven't even been able to accumulate up to 80 hours without losing it then it's kind of hard. I don't think I don't look I don't see it
as a restriction but I'm looking for guidance. So if you all want to make a change I don't think it's a restriction. I think it's looking out for the employees to give them the opportunity to build up a sick bank and then if they want they decide they want to give you know hours then they would be able to
donate but not um draining what they have available for them. >> The restriction is you must have 80 hours. So that is a restriction first of all. Um, and it it also said the that it should be off of probation. So, that changed
cuz you stricken that, right? >> I'm sorry. >> I took it off the bottom line, put it up into one. I just moved it up. >> If you're looking at the policy, it was already in there on item um six. I just moved it up to employees receiving donations must have completed the new
hire probationary period. I moved it up to item B as one of the provisions that need to be met in order to receive sick leave donations. That's all I did. I just it was already in the policy. >> So, let me give you a hypothetical. >> Yes, sir.
>> Person new hire, just got hired on and they three weeks in they got sick and no fault of their own. They got sick or had an accident. Well, let's just say got sick. So, you're saying that
I couldn't donate sick time to that person because they haven't met their probationary period? >> Never have been able to because they're not even allowed. Our policy states that recommends that they in our old system it did it. It doesn't do it as effectively in ADP yet. They're still
working out the tws in that. But 90 days probationary period, your sick time, vacation time didn't even show up and it wasn't available for you. >> Right. I understand they don't have it. They Right. So they wouldn't be able to utilize it. So an employee that comes in 3 weeks have no sick time, they would go
out without pay. This provision has always been our sick policy. So if they can't use their sick time, sick time can't be donated to them to use either in that probationary period. >> Yeah. Yeah. Well, I just wanted to put I would I would wouldn't want that. If
there are any recommendations or considerations that need to be taken um into consideration before I bring it back, please um just let me know. Um this is these were the thoughts and I was just finding best practices to try to um cover our employees so that they
have an ample sick time and still be able to donate when they exceed that amount, but not if they got 24 hours want to give 16 because of the heart of who they want to help. >> Well, couldn't it be if they only have 24 they only donate eight? Yeah, complicated.
>> That's still that still doesn't fall for me. Um, from what I've researched, it doesn't fall into the best practices of how this policy needs to be outlined. >> Does anybody else have any thoughts? Because I also don't does it make sense from from my perspective to postpone a
recommendation on this if we depending on how the the board the commission feels. So, anybody else have any thoughts or do you have any specific suggestions? >> I just said it. I said that part be taken out 80our minimum um because that you have to have remaining.
>> Um but you know as we get older we'll see I'm telling you you know u but anyway I guess I have a little more empathy. >> Okay. Anybody have any?
>> Well, I'm I'm all for, you know, helping helping the employees as well, but I mean, I think u when people fall in those situations like that and and they don't have the hours or they don't meet that requirement, uh I don't understand
why people um the other employees could not donate if they have the ample time to be able to do so. We don't want to make it more complicated because we've invested in the people. We've hired the people. So why, you know, we don't want to punish them, you know, because of
their it, you know, they could have gotten fallen sick or they could have gotten in an accident or what have you. So I I want to whatever we can do to make it better to take care of the employees, uh, and not to, you know, make it difficult.
>> Commissioner Davis, >> um, what's the city's policy on someone who leaves the city in terms of their sick leave? >> Okay. If they've worked a um minimum of 10 years, their sick time will be paid
up to 1920 hours at a quarter. A quarter of what it's worth. If they have worked under 10 years, say an employee got 700 sick hours, worked only seven years, and they decide to leave, none of that time is paid, defaults back.
But so I in my point I was saying that there are a so many employees that have astronomical amount of sick time that when that email goes out for a severe case or a case that people really need that assistance um most of the people are willing to
donate that have a lot of sick time they're willing to donate. Um what you find and that's with any organization people that don't donate to a person that don't have is because probably patterns of they've seen abuse of their sick time. >> Correct. >> And we cannot mandate employees to
donate sick time. Okay. >> But so so that that's my >> that was my question. So thank you. Um and of course I want to offer um another perspective and that perspective is I want to use the analogy of um I'm a giver.
I like to give people stuff, but don't worry, I have a a husband who does not allow it because we often times what I hear is protection for employees and that protection is you are not we're
protecting them from giving what they can't afford potentially with a kind of a stop gap or a start gap in this case. And so I just want to offer that protection because if someone has 40 hours and donate eight, you know,
it's putting them at risk for not um being able to have coverage if they have sick um reasons to be out or doctor's appointments or whatever. So I am I support this change. Um so thank you.
>> Ready for a moment? >> Wait for everybody. Anybody else have a thing to say? >> Anyway, I move that we accept the uh recommended sick leave transfer policy as presented. >> Second. >> We have a motion to second. Any further
discussion? All in favor? >> I. Any opposition? >> Nay. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> 4 five passed. On to public hearings. Second reading ordinance 202519
and let's see or request uh yeah ordinance sorry 202519 ordinance of the city commission of the city of Paka Florida establishing regulations for short-term vacation rentals. Is there anything further questions about this? Anything to say?
Do we have a motion? Move. I move to approve um ordinance 2025-9. >> Second >> for a motion is second. Is anybody here for public comment on this item? Seeing no close public comment. All in favor? >> I.
>> I. Any opposition? Thank you. On to B. Second reading request to annex, amend and reszone 902 South State Road 19, ordinance number 2026, um, identified as possible number 1110
11-10-26-0000-5074-0012, Mr. Agama. >> Oh, and also ordinance number 20263 um pertaining to the same property. That is correct. Mayor commissioners, nothing has changed since the first read
of these ordinances and we still recommend approval. >> Motion to approve. >> Have a motion second. Anybody here for public comment on this item? Say no and close public comment. All in favor? >> I want I want some clarification. >> Okay. Sorry. Go ahead.
And I asked it uh our last meeting Lorenzo and I visited the u the site. So to be clear, unit it said unit one.
Are there subunits in that unit one? >> No sir. >> The unit one is the legal description. It's part of the legal description. It doesn't refer to unit one of the building. So other different story this is just a coincidence you know that
>> so the nail shop uh the uh rebuild Florida places they are all unit one >> that's correct it's part of the legal description >> the whole parson yeah >> okay that's >> all in favor
any opposition thank you on to second reading request to annex amend resone 106 comfort road ordinance number 20264 and 2026 parcel identification number
37-09-26-000000-230-0010 Mr. Arma, >> same situation by the Bay Commissioners. Uh, nothing has changed since your first reading and we recommend approval of the ordinances. >> Motion to approve. >> Second. >> Have a motion second. Any public comment
on this item? Seeing none, we'll close public comment. All in favor? I. Any opposition? >> Thank you. Adopt ordinance 20267 and 20268. Amend future land use map and
resone parcel number 0310-26-0000-00-00 6 Flume ordinance 20267 in ordinance of the city of Palaca providing the future land use map of the adopted comprehensive plan be amended with respect to the following possible land less than 50 acres in size from city of Palaca public building and grounds P2B
the city of Palaca Industrial Yeah, >> Madame Mayor Commissioner, this is the request for a future future land use amendment and the reasoning of a 5.68 acre parcel which is located on zero PRC
way. Uh it has been reviewed by the planning board. Staff review the standards and and the policies in the comprehensive plan and it meets all the standards and the comprehensive plan and we are recommending approval. This
parcel of land is the one that uh they're trying to get industrial designation in order to put the the factory the manufacturer >> that um that Laura was referring to earlier today. So it makes sense. Uh we recommend approval.
>> Okay. Is there anybody here? Anybody? >> The applicant is here. You have any questions? >> Questions of the applicant. >> I want to hear from the applicant. >> Yeah, absolutely. Tell us a little bit about >> Please give us your name and city of
town of residence for the record. >> Um good a I'm sorry. Good evening, commissioners. James Triano. Um my address is uh 2000 Reed Street here in Palatka. I hear I'm representing Beexloone Properties. We're the property owner for that particular parcel. We're
excited to uh have an opportunity to sell this prop. So I'm sorry to annex this property. Let me just let me start all over again. I do apologize to um yes to resone the property. Um it is it's in particular zoning is not applicable to
us at this time. We feel that this is an applicable zoning for us. It will certainly help the new property owners that we hope to come in on the property and to do this uh wonderful work for us and bring new jobs here to Putnham County and to Palaca. So, we would hope that you all would see your way to
support us in the change of this uh zoning. >> Thank you. Any questions of Mr. Toronto? >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Do we have a motion? >> Motion to approve. Second. >> Motion to second. Is anybody here for public comment on this item? Yes, we do.
>> Come on up, Miss Kitchens. Allegri Kitchens, Palaca, Florida. And I wholeheartedly approve of this project. This is what we need in Palaca. We need businesses that bring jobs. We need industries that bring jobs. Kudos to Beex Loan Properties. And I'm glad you all are in favor of passing this. This
is what we need. We need businesses and industry, not housing. Housing follows business and industry, not vice versa. Please continue to support industries coming into Pala and businesses. Thank you. >> Thank you. Anybody else here have public comment? Seeing none, we close public
comment. All in favor? I. Any opposition? Thank you. Reszone Ordinance 2026-08, an ordinance of the city of Palaca, Florida, providing that the official zoning map of the city of Palaca, Florida be amended from city of Palaca Airport District AP1 to city of Palaca
Light Industrial District M-1 for the following property. Um, possible number 03-10-26-000000-00-0060. >> Same property. >> You say same property. Yes. >> Okay. >> Motion to approve. >> Second. >> Motion is second. Any more public comment? Seeing no, we'll close public
comment. All in favor? >> I. Any opposition? Thank you. >> Thank you. >> On to commissioner comments. Do we any of us have comments? >> I do, mayor. >> Go ahead, Commissioner C. I'm happy to see that this time um has flown by as today I am celebrating my daughter
turning one years old um uh Jordan and Renee. So I have ample time to go and be with her um before bedtime. But I also want to bring up a few things. Um as you all know, thank
you um also to the county for the joint meeting. I do believe that conversations that arose from that meeting would be beneficial um as we begin to move forward. But I also want to take in consideration uh the system that they
utilize to be called upon. Um I think that is something that we should take in consideration. And I know Min uh Karen has been working diligently previously um to identify systems that would be beneficial to us, but I think a lot of
the flow of the meeting would flow a lot easier if we're able to identify individuals via a system that I just thought it was flawless outside of Commissioner Davis wanting to speak from Commissioner Jones and vice versa, those little things. But I think it would be
an opportunity for us to enhance um and take our meetings to the next step so that we won't um so that we can eliminate some of the chatter or overt talking. Um so I would definitely like to make that a priority uh above a lot
of things that we have on the table because again that vote so the flow is just amazing. Um Mr. Sean has availed himself two different occasions for the community and individuals. Uh the meeting was not well attended or not
attended at all. So I would like to uh give a little bit direction to city manager to get with both um Mr. Sean the water as well as Miss Hall to possibly put what he wanted to discuss or disc the community output and do some type of
video that we would be able to point um individuals to. I did um reach out to him because I was at the facility when he was um attempting to host the meeting, but I think the information is still needs to get out and so it will give us a place to send uh citizens who
may have questions or concerns with regards to that. Um my last thing is uh with regards to the policies. Um, I've spoke previously about uh we had periodically at commission meetings some
of the policies, older policies that hadn't been addressed in a while um to come back before us so that we would be able to address some of those. I made that uh several meetings ago as well as the last meeting. So, I would definitely want us to make sure that the requests
that are made that we take in consideration to bring them before the commission. Uh much like we did today with the sick leave policy. Uh it's time that we can that we take a look. Times have changed and I'm quite sure a lot of the policies that have been before us um
could use a good overview or possibly update. So I would still make that request and I would make that request that it be happen sooner than later. >> It is. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, Commissioner Jones. >> I don't have anything. >> Commissioner, >> yes, just a couple of things. Um, I know
we are going to be in Tallahass for legislative action days. Um, I have not received a packet that I can recall the packet. This is it here. >> You mean a travel packet? >> No, the packet. >> This is Okay. This is we talked to our
prior. Okay. >> Yes, I did. >> Okay. And um, we already have our legislators lined up. Correct. >> We do. >> Okay. >> I may certain. >> Okay. So, I just >> also made sure they did that today as well. >> Okay. I just wanted to make sure that
that was taken care of so we know what we're doing when we go up there. I I don't like to have no empty >> empty meetings. Um the other thing I noticed we talked about the number of positions that we have and we we need to be mindful that uh we have a lot of
things on the um the bills being passed as it relates a lot of them are moving right through the house and then you know on the senate side of the house we we need to be um watching that as well. Uh we have about three or three to five um bills on the um
uh house side that is going to could severely affect our our revenue stream. >> Yes. >> Our avalorum tax. That's our base tax. We already know that the governor is already looking to alleviate all of Avalorum tax. >> And so what does that look like for the
city? Um, I'm not sure we should be moving too fast with uh like a lot of a lot of hiring and among other things because we don't know how legislation as they move and um when things pass what
what is what is that going to affect? And so I just think we need to just be a little bit more cautious on what we're um uh and we see revenues some of the revenues are not where they need to be at right now. 25% is what we're looking at in some several departments was below that. Yes.
>> And so we need to be looking at all of those different things as it relate as we move. So we need to be strategic as we do it and not just do it because there's a budget there. >> Right. >> And I think uh I will
close out my comment as it relates to that. And the last thing with the um the public record request only 20 22 days or whatever that that public record request out there. I know u it was acknowledged at first but I think we need to have some form if it's going to be going over
a certain number of days. There should be another reachout point to understand and know what the status of that public record request is and give some feedback if the individual leave their information because not everybody when they do public record
request um you you they're not they're not it's not they don't have to provide information. They can be anonymous. But for the people who are identifiable, you have information that you can reach back out to them. My
recommendation is that we make sure we let them know if things are going way beyond uh the normal time frame, which I think is generally like 72 hours depending on the the complexity of the the request. >> Commissioner Davis.
>> Yes. Um I'd just like to um piggyback off what our city manager mentioned about attending uh rural county days. Um, I also was there and it was very effective, even more effective than I anticipated. Um, I
want to thank Attorney West for keeping us a breast of um, potential bills and things that are in front of our legislators. It definitely gives us information so we can properly position ourselves in the best interest of our
city. Um, we gained some great insight from um, Representative Sap that we will hopefully be able to I um, talk about in an upcoming workshop so we can
make sure we're all on one page. Um, Miss Cardi put together this additional information today based on some information we gleaned and I think it's really important. And I do want to just remind us I um, Commissioner Borum, I know we all share the concern of um, the
potential impact to our advorum fees as income to our city because we absolutely depend on them. Um and there are some things we can do to prepare so that we're positioned to show the impact um the concrete impact to our city and I
think we'll um be prepared for that and our um lobbyist um we met with the company today and they are absolutely working on our schedule. um we should have that schedule sooner rather than later so we are prepared and know how to
arrive and where to be so we can use our time most efficiently and effectively. And finally, um, as Commissioner Campbell said, um, I'm grateful that we were able to have the joint county city commi, um, meeting. And today at rural
county days, it was evident that we are definitely on the same page and we were able to share that and work with them and um, be united in what we're looking for so that we can all be better. So, thank you. and we're all looking forward
to legislative action days next week so we can represent our city well. So, thank you. >> With that said, do we have a motion to adjurnn? >> So, move second. >> Thank you. Amen.