on May 26, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. to order. Suz, could you call the role? >> Mayor Reed >> here. >> Commissioner Clark >> here, Commissioner Go >> here, >> and Commissioner Rich >> here. >> And then we have invocation by Pastor
James Brochious from Steuart Alliance Church, followed by the pledge of allegiance. Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Oh, Father in heaven, again, thank you for your great, great love to us. Thank you that you allow us to live in this beautiful area. Thank you for your
kindness to us in so many ways. I thank you for these men and women and those that they represent that work together for our city to plan and develop. How we pray for wisdom. how we pray for a willingness to understand each other and to grow together and to grow our city in
ways that would bring glory to you. We pray your health and strength upon each of us, Lord, that we together would make this area a place that would honor you. Pray this in Jesus name. Amen. I aliance to the flag of the United
States of America and to the republic for it stands. One nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all. Next, we have a presentation from our development department. if you
could read what the presentation is about. >> Um, pursuant to 11.01.02 of the city's land development code upon approval of a major development plan by the development director which would be approved administratively, the development um director uh is to provide
a presentation to the city commission at a subsequent commission meeting on the application and approval. The subject major development plan proposes a uh construction of a two-story restaurant with up to 275 seats along with um 1,442
square foot ship store and marina located on the ground floor. The marina will consist of 158 boat slips, including 10 slips designated for a boat club and will accommodate vessels ranging from 25 ft to 150 ft in length.
The subject parcels are zoned urban waterfront and carry a future land use designation of downtown. The parcels are located within the community redevelopment area. Vehicular access will continue to be provided via the existing ingress and egress point on Northwest Dixie Highway. The project
includes two pedestrian access points along Northwest Dixie Highway where the sidewalk will be widened to 8 ft to enhance walkability. A total of 141 on-site parking spaces, including ADA compliant spaces, are proposed. >> Good afternoon, mayor and commissioners.
For the record, my name is Michelle Arbazowl, planner 2 with the development department. I'm presenting item number one, a public presentation of the Capri Harbor Stewart project, section 111.02 2 of the city of Stewart Land
Development Code and as amended by ordinance number 2544-2025 explicitly removes the requirement for a quasi judicial public hearing for major development project and replaces it with a public presentation to the city
commission with no commission action required as long as the project meets all code requirements. Due to the potential impact on the public and on the surrounding waterways, the development director has determined that the application shall be elevated
from a minor development plan application to a major development plan application for the purpose of providing public notice. In accordance with the public notice requirements outline outlined under section 11.02.05
of the land development code. The applicant mailed letters to adjacent property owners located within 300 ft of the subject parcel providing details of the requested development and the date and time of tonight's presentation.
Additionally, uh one sign was posted on the property along Northwest Dixie Highway with the same information. Uh we did receive a public comment by Mr. Chase Viewamp. His concerns will be addressed during this presentation.
The two parcels uh highlighted or outlined in red on the screen combined total of 7.29 acres. They are located on the northwest side of the old Roosevelt Bridge along North Dixie Highway. The parcels are situ situated within the
community redevelopment area. The parcel to the north uh is49 acres. The parcel to the south is 6.80 acres. The subject parcels are zoned urban
waterfront. The parcel to the east has the same urban waterfront designation. The parcel across North Dixie Highway east of the train tracks has a zoning designation of industrial. The subject parcels are designated by the downtown future land use. Parcels to
the east have public uh downtown and marine industrial future land uses. The downtown land use is applied to properties within the CRA and generally allows for low density residential, multifamily residential, office,
commercial, recreation, lodging, public facilities, conservation, and mixeduse developments. Shown on the screen is the site plan. The proposed project will meet the requirements of the city's land development code. and I will go through
the sections. The application requests a proposal to construct a 158 boat slip marina along with a twostory restaurant to seat 275. The restaurant will have 5,626
square ft interior and 7,641 square ft of outdoor seating, 1,22 ft of retail and 2 of office. The ship store and marina will be located on the ground floor.
A total of 141 onsite parking spaces, including 88 compliance spaces, are proposed. The site provides parking for all its uses in compliance with the code. A traffic impact study was provided and approved. It is anticipated that the
proposed strip generation potential for the site is as follows. 141 that's 76 entering and 65 exiting in the AM peak hour trips and 162
97 entering and 65 exiting in the PM peak hour trip. The analysis included an assessment of the proposed trip generation, roadway analysis, and driveway analysis. The total site area is 156,876
square feet. The impervious surface coverage is 46% with open space of 54%. According with the drainage report provided by Captech Engineering, approximately.57 acres of the upland area will remain
undeveloped. A storm water management system will be constructed to serve the upland portion of the project. The city of sewer utilities will provide water and wastewater services for both the upland and marine portion of the project.
The applicant will be providing a marine marina management plan that identifies all pumpout stations and specify what are each station is metered. This document will be reviewed by the city's environmental attorney. The image on the screen shows the
location of each use. The upland area which is the parcel to the north will remain undeveloped. The restaurant right here is the upland that will remain undeveloped. The restaurant and
ship store is located on the southwest east of the southwest side of the parcel and the covered outdoor dining area is on the water. The marina of course is on the west side of the parcel.
The 8 foot and it's probably really tiny but you'll see it uh later on. The 8 foot elevated 8 foot wide elevated boardwalk will connect to the sidewalk to provide pedestrian connection to the downtown stewart area.
The landscaping will include a minimum 10 ft landscape buffer along the front uh which is the northwest highway and the site will include many trees some of which are the green and silver buttonwood eagle holly cabbage palms
coconut palms silver bismar palm burwood Brazilian beauty leaf wild palm and foxtail palm four existing trees will remain on site and 31 palm trees and 41 trees will be planted. The code requires
27 native trees for this site. 41 native trees will be provided. The covered corridor which is this area right here. It's the same roof system but this corridor will have a vist to show the
water on the other side. There will be raised planters and shaded seating area as well as the public art installation in the courtyard which is centrally located within the drop off aisle. This is the proposed building elevation
facing north Dixie Highway. The building will have glass railings at the elevated terrace and balconies preserve views across the marina and inter coastal waterways while still providing the railing element required by the urban
code. Stuckco with float finish is the main material that will be used throughout the building. The project incorporates at least four of the building design standard listed under section 3.01.04. A2
of the land development code. One being broad overhangs that will provide shade for the outdoor seating and another is the large display windows featured around the building. ornamental and structural architectural details such as the sail inspired
overhangs, vertical battens, lover like shade, the brow projections, architecturally treated emergency stairs and on the northwest elevation, it shows the aluminum and glass railings on the stairs, shade slats, decorative screen
and storefront windows. The west elevation showcas overhang and display windows on the west elevation. On the southwest elevation, the glass railings and storefront windows as well
as the decorative lo and shade. The fourth building design incorporate incorporated are the decorative landscape planters, the shade seating areas and green wall. The power pit will comply with the city's land development code section
3.01.04 which states a power pit wall shall not exceed 24 in in height. Provided however a greater height of up to 10 ft may be permitted by the city development director if necessary to conceal rooftop
utilities such as stairway and elevated bulkheads and other roof equipment or aritectural enhancement. No height of greater than 24 in shall be permitted for more than 40% of any facade of a building.
A power pit wall shall be designed to be consistent and compatible with the design and treatment of the facade of the structure. The applicant revised the plan to show the roof at 31 ft and top of the power
pit at 33. The floating bar will be permitted through the Army Corps of Engineer as well as DP. The design includes decorative screen and smooth finish. The image shown is that of the east and west elevation
on the north and south of the floating bar. The design continues with the smooth finish with decorative screen and round columns. This ends my presentation. Thank you staff for the presentation and
um for clarification Jody um this is how we changed it in the zip. So if it's just if it meets the land development code, there's no vote from the board, no action taken. Correct. >> Mayor, that is correct. >> Any of the commissioners have any
comments for staff? >> Yes, Commissioner. >> Hi, I just wanted to double check that there are um requirements now for dump, you know, for cleanout of the boats that are there. It's a mandatory thing now.
>> Um Commissioner Jobi, yes, they do have pumpout stations. >> Okay, great. >> And they'll also prepare a management uh marina plan that um when they go to submit that, our our attorney will look at our environmental attorney look at it as well. >> Great. Thank you so much.
>> Commissioner Clark. >> Yeah, I just saw Houston. Was it done with Houston? Yeah. Um I just want to make you know I think I saw the trees and everything, but more detail will come in later. And the other
thing was about the architectural. I know that members of the public had had some questions and I think that those again will um uh we we're meeting all the guidelines, but if anything changes, then we can always be opportunity.
>> Yeah, because I know that we had somebody who was concerned. Commissioner Clark, yes, we did have an inquiry uh request of if we they met all the elements. Uh one of their concerns was it is more of a uh modern looking building as opposed to our typical uh
traditional buildings within um downtown, but it does meet all the arches and the vista requirements that is per the code. >> Thank you. >> Any other comments from commissioners for staff at all?
None. Um Jody, um and fire fire had no issue getting a fire truck in there. >> Mayor Reed, no, we do have a fire uh truck radius that they have to do and they have presented that and and detailed and they have approved that. >> Okay. And then uh for clarification
going back to it, when we do the presentations like this, they've already met all the land development code. It just comes down to Florida building code and their D permits and they move on. Yes, sir. >> Okay. All right. Um any comments from
the public on this presentation? Seeing none, um we're going to move on, I guess, to comments by city commissioners. >> Commissioner Rich. >> Uh thank you, Mr. Mayor. Just two items.
For the first time, I I was voluntto by Mr. Joe Flanigan to participate in project graduation which was a fun event. Um it's great to see those kids on graduation day. I did county the county kids u as well as
commissioner go was there. Um it's up at um I forget what it's called. It's that huge new game center at the mall. So I just would like to warn people if you've never worked with Mr. Flanigan. There's no lolly gagging.
He keeps you moving and working. Uh he did a terrific job in providing a great safe space for these children on graduation night and uh job well done. Uh I was at the memorial ceremony
that was yesterday um for Memorial Day. And just to give people an update, this is an event that is in transition with the city and many strong opinions were provided to me and so it was put on by
is Jim here? It was put on by the veterans council. Correct. Yeah. The city accommodates them and provides the essential elements. But it's if you do have questions or
concerns or constructive comments, please reach out to the veteran council to uh work with them on so that we can create an event that we all feel has the correct semnity
um an appropriate ceremony for Memorial Day. Um just to give you context, when I grew up, Memorial Day was a very solemn event. It was not a glorious celebration with a loud parade. um because this was
back in the late 50s. I mean, World War II in Korea was still very present and many of those people there and many families had just recently lost their um you know, children or husbands or wives. So, um you know, we're trying to thread
this needle here. The joyous celebration is Veterans Day in November and that is a parade and a great celebration of those who choose to serve. But, you know, we're trying to figure out what's appropriate for Memorial Day. I thought it was a very
nice ceremony and a very proper tone. So, thank you, Mr. Mayor. >> Commissioner, >> yes. I was also at the memorial memorial day event over the weekend and I do agree with Commissioner Rich. The uh the
ceremony was beautiful. It was moving and it was an opportunity for everyone to honor the men and women whose lives were lost uh for you know in defense of freedom for this country. So I think that we did all of the agencies involved
did a beautiful job and um I think so going forward also when I was growing up it was a solemn occasion. It was not a joyous event. So, I think that it was done beautifully and I think that we honored our um the veterans who lost their lives. I think we honored them
properly the other day. Um and I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend and hopefully you came to Memorial Park. If not, you really need to attend next year. It was really a lovely ceremony. Um I have some questions that I don't
know if they can be answered, but I two weeks ago DAS. Um there was a u a motion that died. Uh but during that discussion there was um I believe it was Commissioner Clark who mentioned the
possibility of getting more information regarding the the um the parks, the restriction of the future long-term lease and possible sale of ballparks uh in Stewart. This would have accomplished a protected long term no
lease greater than 10 years or sale of property without going out for a vote by the constituents of the city who it is their right to make that decision to sell that kind of property. There was lots of talk that evening about reaching out to Jim Kowski, reaching out to the
county, reaching out to staff. I was just wondering if if any of that has taken place over the last two weeks because I think that the long-term goal was to possibly on the referendum in November to be on the ballot. >> Commissioner, what we have done is
the item two weeks ago ended where it ended. However, uh staff has made a commitment to not only we we we took notes and we are going to address each one of the items
that we took notes on and any others that come up to answer any of those questions. And what I what I would say is the history and and to know exactly how those parcels came to
the city and then any linkage as uh Commissioner Clark had handed me um with coordination with the county on parks and other lands that we should
coordinate with the city on by that's mandated that we couldn't coordinate >> and then any recommendations that would come out of that study or any any other findings that we would come out of that.
We didn't put a timeline to it. Uh but we're we we should be ready to present something if asked on that very topic. >> Thank you so much. Um what I'd like to
That is a consensus of the board to be able to ask the city manager and the staff to put that together and have it on an agenda some future date. Keeping in mind that if we wanted to be on the November ballot, we'd have to probably get it to the um board of
elections probably sometime in end of September, beginning of October, >> I'm guessing. Thank you, Lee. >> Uh I don't know the deadline for the November election. We only had in mind the August election which was in June. I think June 12th is the deadline with the
supervisor of elections. So I don't know the exact deadline for the November election, but it would probably be a couple months prior to September. And since I think it will be a discussion maybe over the course of two commission meetings that we, you know, get to the
point where we're doing that and we're not at the last minute, push up against a date that we can't comply with and now we're looking at the next year. >> So can I get a consensus of the board for that?
>> Clark the motion failed to make a mot Well, I guess there's questions I have. >> Commissioner Joby talked about this white paper and some information about the ball fields whereas um there's also an issue of whether or
not it has to come back. It's an ordinance that failed but in the last meeting. So, we have to have a first reading and a second reading of an ordinance. So, are you asking to bring back the ordinance or are you asking to >> bring back a white paper on stuff that >> Right. What I would like to do is before
we get to a first reading which then gets shot down, I'd like to be able to do get it first on a, you know, D&D, let's discuss it. Let's have all the information in front of us and move forward from there and be able to add it to maybe the next agenda after that. But I'd like to have everything available
when we do the deliberation and discussion. I'm going to this way everyone's prepared the white paper I look at it as being something really simple the pros and the cons so that the community knows what are the pros of doing this versus what are the downside of the doing of not doing this so I
think that's what needs to be communicated to the community um the fact that I remember you mentioned that up until 1980 there was protection for these ball fields which no longer exists today and I think that's important for everyone to know that that basically a a
majority of commissioners choose to sell that ball field or they can choose to lease it for 50 or 60 years to someone. And I agree with the mayor that's something that the residents, the constituents in the city should decide, not whoever is on the commission at that
period of time. >> Not really. Sorry. >> Commissioner Clark had a question, I believe. No, no, just so um the wheels do move slowly except when it comes to um I guess
slinging mud at people. So, I'm going to read an email that came to our city attorney from um from Ike Crumpler. And this is not the first time that Mr. Crumpler has basically accused me of something. And this was last year. I let
it slide, but I'm not going to let it slide this time. He says, "Good afternoon, Mr. Bagot. I'm sure you saw the public record request earlier from Joe, which I suggested. It should also include any such records related to the topic to and from
Commissioner Joby, the new city manager, and yourself. Thank you." This goes on to what he says to Joe. Hi, Joe. What do you think of the CPAC sending a public records to requests to the city? We're getting good leads on something shady going on behind the pro the proposed
referendum read the ball fields which Reed and Joby are presenting are pressuring Ula and Campbell to go along with I think the public could use more insight. Number one, it's everyone's right to ask for a public request records. Go and do it. Go at it. That's what they're there for. Why there has to
be an accusatory situation in asking for that record is beyond my comprehension. And I don't know, we have the commissioners here. Commissioner Clark, was I pressuring you? I was just asking questions. Be honest. If you feel I was pressuring you.
>> You did whatever you did. >> Well, that's not an answer. I'm going to really, you know, if >> you you whatever questions I didn't I didn't know that you were pressuring me. >> Thank you very much. >> Did whatever you did. >> So, >> point of order, Mr. Mayor. You cannot
quiz your fellow commissioners on the dice. You simply cannot do it. Robert's rules of order specifically prohibits that. You may make your comments. >> Well, you made mention last week, two weeks ago, that I was doing pooling >> or polling. >> Lee, are you able to answer uh
Commissioner Rich's statement on questioning other board members? Um, I I would say that Commissioner Clark was inquiring whether the accusation that she had pressured was feeling pressure by Commissioner Joby at
the last meeting and or doing it publicly. I I don't feel that there's anything wrong with that, but I think Commissioner Clark had the right to answer it or not answer it at this point. >> And I was accused of polling last week, which I was not. That's something that's
done in the shade where you and what I did was in the sunshine. So, um I'm finished. Thank you. >> And going back to the consensus, could you clarify for me as well on what you were looking for?
I'm looking for consensus from the other commissioners to have this um DND take place over the ball fields with a complete white paper that shows the pros and the cons to this proposal what it actually means to the citizens in the
ballpark. Okay. So I all the information that needs to be available to have a discussion here to have people aware that there'll be a discussion for them to come and ask questions so that we hopefully within a proper amount of time
could get a um a proposal back on the agenda so that we can have a first and second reading and vote on it. Uh I I see that there's no issue with having a discussion and deliberation on
discussing the ball fields in the history of it and pros and cons to doing what was proposed in the referendum. At this point, you're not asking to bring back the ordinance to be reread for the first time. So I don't see that there's any issue and I feel like the
>> um that the three had agreed to do something. If you guys want to >> get a consensus again based on clarification Okay. >> I mean, I think that if we have an opportunity with all the information to discuss it, then we can ask if there's a consensus to put it back on the put the
referendum back on the agenda. >> Thank you. I just want to be sure, not that I'm trying to put words into mouth, but I just want to be sure that um >> Yes. Yes. Yes. that if we're if we're
going to be she said something about doing the pros and cons. I just want to make sure that we're going to be following the comprehensive plan based on the objectives at least 6.04 104 and uh the contents thereof and seven whatever it is that I gave just that we
follow the comprehensive plan not just pros and cons but we follow the comprehensive plan based on the intergovernmental um coordination the inventory and all the other factors that are required >> okay so I'll add to that request for the
DN the the DND is that it will follow the comprehensive plan and all All of those issues will be in line with that. >> Commissioner, >> no, that's fine. As long as we agree that in the DND it will include it will
include any obligations we have to comply with the comp plan. >> Okay. And then uh city manager Mike, you had a statement >> to Commissioner Clark's point with respect to the analysis, if I may. Um
the the idea of pros and cons could be subjective. So we will stick to the facts. We will stick to the numbers utilization of ball fields, who is utilizing etc. how these things are
scheduled. Um those kind of things and then let others determine what the pros and cons are. If I if if staff has a an obvious pro, an obvious kind, then we will bring that up. But, you
know, just we'll we'll stick to the facts and do our analysis and that's what we that I would choose to bring to you >> and the public. >> Thank you, sir. >> Lee, does that help you with the consensus on where to come? Well, as
long as you there's been clarification, so you might want to agree go through the commissioners again to see if there was consensus. >> Do we have a consensus from you? Yay or nay on it coming back as a >> I think if we want to have a a more comprehensive and wellprepared DND on
this issue. I am not opposed to it at this point in time. >> Commissioner go. >> Yes. >> Clark. >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Can we set a reasonable time? You need to resemble time by the end of July. >> I'll look at Jim.
>> Good. End of July. >> Thank you. >> Thanks. >> Thank you, Jim. >> Uh, all right. Moving on with commission comments. Commissioner Clark. Commissioner Clark. >> Thank you. >> You're welcome. So, since the last meeting was on the 11th, on the 12th, we had a event in uh
East Stewart for the um and this was the mayor's first official act, I think. Thank you so much. This was a great event. We had a um a a a plaque for the street for historic for the on the on the street for the
historic dedication for the Steuart um training school formerly and Spectrum Academy and that was a great um event. Uh historic preservation month is still on. There's a big activity end out this
Sunday at the Flagler Center with Steuart Main Street and others and I think there's another one on Thursday and then there's also a Main Street on Thursday morning. So please check the historic preservation activities on the
historic preservation website. Martin County or on the city or through Stewart Main Street. That is a good thing. Uh with regard to Memorial Day, I attended the Memorial Day services at the
National Cemetery South Florida National Cemetery in uh Lake Worth. And that was definitely a solemn and somber occasion. and the families really appreciate the service
and the way the service is conducted. Of course, it's on a bigger um plane. One of the things that really inspired me and I'm sorry that Mary Kendall is not here today um because um the person who
sang the national anthem and another song was a city clerk from Gulfream. So there's more to be aspired to, but it was um it was very good. They had all their communities participating down there and it was a very good thing and
I'm so glad that for the work that Joe Flanigan, Mr. career done and others in the past in the years have done and I'm looking forward to us really utilizing our memorial park and getting our community um to come out for a very very
somber um Memorial Day event uh each year as we move forward. Um, I just uh want to say that, you know, we've had um Gertude Walden children here from time to time, but I don't even know if
anybody knows or maybe has visited, but if you ever have the time, go by, visit, read to the children. And Miss Thelma Washington, who's been there for over 20 years now, at least maybe 25 years, just needs to be highly commended for the
work that she does for these young students starting out early. And I just want to give her um just a commendation for the things that she does in the community and how she inspires these young children. And um that's it for my
comments so far. Thank you. Thank you, Commissioner Clark. Uh, comments by city manager. >> Thank you, Mayor. It's been noted that there have been several events over the course of my tenure and I've been very proud to have
attended those events um with commissioners. Uh, and it has been spectacular to see. But I did want to note, not but I want to note the tremendous effort and I know that
it's been noted up here, but I'm going to say it again. The staff of this city has done so much uh to support these events. I'll just name a few. the emancipation,
the Florida Emancipation Day. Um, a lot of work put in not only on the on the physical plant side, but also putting together uh other other things and and making that happen, of course, in support
of that event, historical marker unveiling at uh 227 Southeast Ocean. Um, again, it takes it takes time, it takes effort, even traffic. Um, we had a little traffic over there. So, it was
great that we we had protection um for th those of us who were part of that unveiling um from some of the traffic that built up. Um, so that needs to be noted. Um, of course, Memorial Day, um, yes,
Martin County Veterans Council put that on, but I know it was supported by city staff and that needs to be recognized and it will continue to be supported by city staff. So, and I'm very I'm I'm
unfortunately I couldn't be there, but I'm very happy to hear that it was an occasion appropriate of the day. Um, So I I wanted to note those efforts and those are only a few things that this
city staff does day in and day out in in support of the community and also being there as the commissioners are there uh the commission is there um recognizing all of these wonderful things about
Stuart and I've had the pleasure to attend with you all. Um so thank you to the staff. Uh I attended the marine industries association of the treasure coast lunch lunch in also there were
representatives from the county. So it was an opportunity for me to interact with some of my counterparts in the county as well as private sector uh individuals who put so much effort into
our waterways and uh the marine industry. Uh I have much to learn, but thankfully as a Navy guy who ran a Navy base, um I've been exposed to a lot of these issues and I look forward to
working with everyone on these issues to improve the marine industry environment. And lastly, you know, speaking of hard work that the staff does, it is budget season and the staff is working very hard in putting that budget together so
that we present the budget to the commission and the community for everyone to see and what we are doing and what we plan to do. And I look forward to that process and also hurricane season coming upon us. Uh reviewing emergency management
procedures not only to for myself but the staff and the emergency action plan. Um, and looking at those processes again well-versed in this area. Um, but always uh eager to learn more and especially
about how we do it here and how we can make it better here. >> Thank you, Mayor. >> Thank you. I don't have much, just one. I I get the same public record request, but there's no nefarious activity. I spoke to Ike. We actually agreed on all three issues that he brought up, but
just part of the job. Uh so moving on uh looking for a motion for approval of agenda. >> Move approval of the agenda. I wonder if I should pull item number five. Oh, it's going to be discussed anyway. >> It's commission action. Yes.
>> Um move approval of the agenda is published. >> Second. >> We have a motion to approve the agenda from Commissioner Clark, seconded by Commissioner Rich. Uh, all in favor? >> I.
>> Motion passes unanimously. Uh, comments from the public on non-aggenda items. Just a reminder, it's three minutes as well. >> First one is Miss Lyn Jensen. >> She's coming.
>> She's coming. She's just getting No rush at all. >> Welcome. >> I'm Lynn Jensen, honorary region of Hal Pattyoki chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution and co-chairman of
the America 250 committee. We've been working for eight years toward a celebration that we are going to be having in Stewart, our home. This is our home port Stewart and it's going to be
celebrating historic preservation and dedicating a bronze patriots marker honoring the men and women who achieved American independence 250 years ago. and it's going to be near the gazebo in
Memorial Park, free and open to the public. And it's time to celebrate. >> Thank you. >> Thank you very much. >> Thank you. >> Thank you so much for your comments. >> Next, I have Joe Flanigan. >> Welcome, Joe.
>> First of all, I'd like to thank I'm sorry, Joe Flanigan's tour of Florida. Like to thank the two commissioners that came volunteer project graduation. Miss Clark, I understand you were out of town >> at a medical school graduation. >> Yes, you were. But uh it it was a good time. But I'm here also in support of
the Memorial Day celebration or sorry, the ceremony. Um as you may know, I was in charge of the Veterans Day parade, Martin Luther King parade, and Memorial Day parade for about three, four, five years. And I let them know back in November that I was no longer going to
do that. And I awaited somebody from the veterans council who is a great group of people very dedicated to what they do to reach out to say what are we going to do for the Memorial Day and I recommended since day one that it should not be a parade a celebration it should be a
sovereign event and I am very glad and supportive of the city and what they did but also six months from now is the Veterans Day parade in November when I was in charge of it I sent a save the date out like months ahead of
and did a lot of that. So, I just want to remind or shouldn't remind you guys, you already know, but that the Veterans Council in their bylaws is responsible for organizing and doing everything for those parades. So, during my tenure, I
they they did not call me. I met with them one time and they said, "You're doing a great job. Just keep doing it." So, and that's fine. But but uh my concern this year was about three weeks maybe four before the Memorial Day was here. They were saying who's going to do
it? They first went to the county and said you guys should do it. They went not us. Then they came to the city and said you're going to do it. They're like not us. So it ended up being exactly what it needed to be and thank you guys for supporting that one. But please remind the Veterans Council, a great
group organized, that they've got about six months to be ready for the Veterans Day parade. Thank you. Oh, and manager, welcome aboard. And uh feel free. I've got a lot of nonprofit events. I'll I'll take you down a rabbit hole with you. Commissioners will verify that.
>> Thank you, Joe. >> Thanks. Careful, Mr. City Manager. Janine Alexander. >> Were these the same ones that were emailed to us? I think what you were referring to. >> Yes.
>> Yeah. My name is Janine Alexander and I appreciate the honor to present under the first amendment free freedom of speech. Have you ever had your suspicions confirmed? I'm here this evening to address the authenticity of a memo presented to the commission in
public forum on January 26th. After the December 8th commission meeting, Leeette was assigned the task of reporting and updating the commission about cases and events regarding my citizens complaint of February 18th, 2018 emailed to Michael Mortell. As a result, Michael
Mortell assigned Ros Johnson the task of writing an investigative summary report. The only evidence obtained by officer Vo is a 55 second video clip edited from a seven minute video skip.
In an email of July 18th, 2018, Michael Martell states, "Too bad we will never know what was on the other six minutes of the tape." In an ini investigation, Gallas and Vo changed their story constituting perjury.
The city of Stewart by and through Chief Das not only violated their own policies but suborned perjury of Gallison Vo to cover up violations of policy 27 and 28. I do not take these accusations lightly.
Roz Johnson's report denies violations of policy 27 which happens to be the domestic violence policy. No corrective action was taken in recent events. January 22 Mr. Mr. Beette identified a memo claimed to be from Dave Ross,
former city manager. I recently confirmed with Dave Ross that he was not involved in the complaint process, nor did he author the memo as represented by Baguette. Ross on personal leave prior to his termination did not know of me or of the citizens complaint. I assert this
memo of April 19th, 2018 was constructed recently to conceal Michael Martell's involvement in review, assignment of investigation, denial of an SIRB hearing, and covering up these events in an effort to politically promote David
DZ to city manager in May of 2018. In 2023, upon the resignation of DZ, Mortell became the city manager. The memo of January 26, 2026 marks a whole new timeline of deception. These claims are in addition to my prior notice of
claim in accordance with Florida statute 768.28 sovereign of waiver of sovereign immunity that was served on baguette in 2023. An ongoing pattern of behavior of Michael Martell, the attempt to cover up Mortell's role in the citizens complaint, and his ongoing concealment
of policy violations by police creates a new wave of liability for the city of Stewart. This seems to be a pattern of behavior as the recent identification of a scam which occurred under DAZD's leadership in 2021 2023 was also
concealed and held from public to prevent filing of liability claims with relations insurance. Thank you for your time. >> Do I have any questions from the commission? >> I have one for clarification. >> Can we stop that? >> Have all your public record requests
that you've put in been fulfilled? No, I have one outstanding and that was of um uh Lewis Bigle. Initially I asked for his full >> So I was just trying to find out if you had one. So I'll I'll get with the city
manager. He he'll follow up with that and just make sure it gets fulfilled. >> I hope you all have seen the method to my madness. I think it would be best suited. >> So my job is just I wanted to make sure that your stuff's being fulfilled. Um, I have another question for legal. Lee, is
there currently any litigation with Miss Alexander and the city of Stewart? Currently, >> um, her most recent lawsuit had been dismissed and then I believe she's in the process of appealing it. >> I filed a notice of appeal and we have outside council representing the city. >> Okay, those were mine. So, thank you for
clarifying and city manager will follow up to make sure your public record requests are fulfilled. Uh, Commissioner Clark, you had a question. I'm glad that you I asked for that clarification because Miss um Alexander approached me and I was aware that possibly we had something but it might have been cleared
up. I wasn't completely 100% sure but her only question today was right before the meeting as to how best to get uh information from the from the city. And you know, I I just explained to her that if it's something from the courts gets
from the court, if she's put in a public records request like you said, then it should it's going to be worked on and somebody will >> That wasn't actually my question. Did you >> Can I clarify? >> Well, what was your second? Commissioner Clark, did you have any questions for clarifications for this?
>> No, I just wanted to because I if there was no lawsuit if there was a lawsuit pending, I just wanted to be sure that I just responded to her. She wanted to know why the What was your question, Miss I actually I'm not trying to go back and forth, Miss Alexander. I'm sure
we're not going back and forth with questions unless you had questions for clarification. >> I'm I'm fine. I just wanted to make sure that I hope I responded to her. >> I've actually requested it be put on an agenda so that I could rebut the 19minute um comments that were made in
January. >> I haven't heard back. >> Okay. >> Thank you, Miss Alexander. I appreciate it. >> Next I have Joe Gillio. >> Welcome and mayor. I'm Joe Julio. I am the head of Lake
Okroby restoration initiative which is also interested in the St. Lucy River. um your uh environmental attorney did an excellent job in writing to the core of engineers regarding what's called the
restore base map. What that simply means is this. The core of engineers is as far as I know unless they've changed it are going to look at the St. Lucy River as it is now as the new normal and
therefore if they do any improvement by taking out some of the muck they can say we've done a great job. They were the ones that actually caused the problem 50 60 years ago and have been doing it since. The reason why this is important
in my opinion is that the uh the river under new technologies especially nano bubble technology can be improved literally nanotechnology means that you are adding
oxygen with tiny tiny bubbles that stay in the water column so that the bacteria that's already out there in the river will eat up the muck and eventually three four years, you will be able to get down to your base white sand that used to be
here 50 60 years ago. So therefore, my suggestion would be or recommendation to the board would be to basically build up what uh Ruth Holmes has already done. It's past the public entity, but I'm going to be sending it anyway. And the
more the more reinforcement she has is to your benefit to clean up the river. The river can be cleaned up. If the core says they can't, then you're we're hurting the city. It can't be done. And uh um ma
Mr. Manager, since I also came from Corona and I know a lot about lakes, if someday I you and I can get together and I can bring you up to speed on the river if you're interested. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Mr. Clark, did you have your light or is
this an old one? We have no more. >> Seeing no further public comments, can we get a motion for the approval of the consent calendar? >> Approval of the consent calendar. >> Second motion. >> We have a motion from Commissioner Clark
for the consent calendar. Seconded by Commissioner Goi. Suz, could you do the roll call? >> Commissioner Rich? >> Yes. >> Commissioner Clark? >> Yes. >> Mayor Reed? >> Yes. But I I I forgot the public comment
on the motion. So yeah. >> So do we have any public comment on the approval of the consent calendar? >> Seeing none, um do we have to retake the vote then? Lee, what would you like to see?
>> I think we can What's that? >> Yeah, let's retake. I don't think that changed anything, but it will pass. >> Commissioner Rich, >> yes. >> Commissioner Clark, >> yes. Mayor Reed, >> yes. >> And Commissioner Jobi, >> yes. >> Motion passes unanimously.
Um, moving on to commission action agenda item five, Lee. So, this is resolution number 40-2026, a resolution of the city commission of the city of Stewart, Florida, providing for ballot language for a referendum under city charter section 9.05,
5 seeking voter approval to resend the November 8th, 2011 election ballot referendum requirement to lease an undeveloped 1.97 acre commercial parcel fronting US1 opposite North River Shores Boulevard that was to fund the
maintenance of the Haney Creek Preserve so that the 1.97 acre parcel may be converted to conservation and added to the Haney Creek Preserve providing for an effective date and for other purposes. This is my agenda item. So I'll give a little bit of a summary on a background.
In 2006, section 9.05 was added to the city charter wherein any conveyance or long-term lease in excess of 10 years of any interest in city-owned property which has or any contiguous parcel has frontage on a
tidal creek of the St. Lucy River requires approval by public referendum. And then moving forward five years later in 2011, uh, Martin County and the city co-purchased a 49.3 acre parcel known as
Harbor Walk commercial plan unit development parcel at Wright Boulevard and North US1 for the purpose of conserving the land and making it contiguous contiguously part of the larger 165 acre Haney Creek wershed
preserve which includes a tidal creek. In addition, the city acquired the 1.97 acre commercial zoned CPD parcel fronting US1 opposite North River Shores, which adjoins the Haney Creek Preserve. And then pursu pursuant to section 905, which was adopted 5 years
earlier, the city commission requested the voters to vote on whether to lease the 1.97 acre commercial parcel on a long-term basis for the purposes of creating revenue to defay the cost of maintaining the Haney Creek Preserve as well as other expenditures.
On November 8th, the voters of the city of Stewart approved approved a referendum authorizing the city to seek a long-term commercial lease for the 1.97 acre parcel in order to generate revenue to fund the perpetual maintenance of the Haney Creek Preserve. Since that time, the city has not leased
the 1.97 acre parcel and it remains undeveloped. I believe there were a couple projects that were kind of proposed to some degree, but it just they all fell apart and they never came to fruition. During this period of time, the city has used alternate means of funding the maintenance of the of the preserve. And
I think the main one when speaking to staff was um an electronic billboard on US1 that the city owns. We've used the revenue from that to help pay for the the maintenance of the part of the preserve. Um earlier this year, the city commission instructed city staff to move
forward with converting this 1.97 acre into conservation and adding that parcel into the Haney Creek Preserve. Um in the original 2011 funding agreement that we had between the city and the county, you know, we agreed to carve out that almost twoacre parcel to
to fund the maintenance. So the first thing that we had to do was we had to amend the interlocal agreement, this funding agreement with the county uh so that we could uh move forward with a referendum. And so in resolution number 20-2026
earlier this year, you you approved the first amendment to this funding agreement with the county. We subsequently gave it to the county and then on May 5th, 2026, the county also approved this first amendment to the 2011 funding agreement. But the the this
amendment to the funding agreement was subject to passing on a on a referendum in the near future. So if it doesn't pass referendum, then there is no amendment to the funding agreement and we'll go back to the way it was. Um
by approving the language that we have in this proposed uh resolution, it would we have it in time where it could be placed on the August 18th, 2026 primary election ballot. Um I I want it not to be confused because we just did this last week with the ball fields, but in
the ball fields, we were starting at ground zero. We were we had to do an ordinance with two readings. We were we're having to add it to the charter, but this was already added for waterfront property owned by the city back in 2006. So, all we have to do for
this issue to go out on referendum is we just have to do it by resolution. So, this is a oneshot deal here today, unless you guys want to continue it to a future uh meeting, but in order to meet the August uh the deadline with the supervisor of elections, we've got to
have this done by no later than the next meeting. So, the language is proposed in uh in this uh resolution. I'm happy to go through it. And why don't I go ahead and do that anyway? So under the statute for the title,
you're limited to 15 words and the referendum language itself, you're limited to 75 words. So you have very limited way means of what you need to get across. So the title is resend prior referendum requiring commercial leasing of parcel adjoining city property
uh fronting titally influenced waters. And then that was the title and this is the the question for the voters. Shall the city resend the November 8th, 2011 election ballot referendum requirement to lease an undeveloped 1.97 acre commercial parcel fronting US1 opposite
North River Shores Boulevard. That was to fund the maintenance of Haney Creek Preserve so that the 1.97 acre parcel may be converted to conservation and added to the Haney Creek Preserve. Yes for approval and no for rejection.
That's all I have to say about it. If you have any questions, I'm happy to answer them for you. But again, I just want to remind you this is a resolution, so it's a one shot. Will be no second reading on this. >> Commissioner, >> I'd like to make a motion to accept
resolution for 40-2026, a resolution of the city commission for the city of Steuart, Florida, providing for the ballot language for a referendum under the city charter section 9.05, 5 seeking voter approval to resend the November 8th, 2011 election ballot
referendum requirement to lease an undeveloped 1.97 acres of commercial parcel fronting US1 opposite North River Shores Boulevard that was to fund the maintenance of the Haney Creek Preserve so that the 1.97 acre parcel may be converted to conservative and added to
the Haney Creek Preserve providing for an effective date and other purposes. >> I have a question for you as well. Okay. >> Yeah, I guess it would depend, but and and this I I would say we would need to have a motion to to move forward with the discussion on it.
>> I mean, and again, just because you do a motion in a second and it brings it to the floor, doesn't mean >> if you're the one who moves, it doesn't mean you have to vote for it. You're just bringing it. It >> was my understanding that we had to, you know, so that we can discuss it and that that we could have public comment. I just seconded the motion for discussion.
>> So, we have a motion for resolution number 40, 2022 by Commissioner Gio and seconded by Commissioner Clark. Are there any public comment on this motion? >> I have
comment on this motion. Is this a good use of the halfent sales tax? Not to put you on the spot, but >> I figured you'd know best. >> Merritt Mat, City of Stewart. For the record, u I would just say
commissioners, take a step back at the look at the 75word language in the referendum. It should be pretty easy to get consensus. It's already at this point of where you want it. 98 99% of the voters are going to read that and know about it for the
first time sitting in the ballot box. Step back in your mind. How are you going to interpret that if you know nothing and you read that 75word language? I'll be honest. I looked at the agenda today coming here. I didn't read that
language um to to formulate an honest opinion about it. But the two referendums I've worked on, I tried to remove, no offense, Mr. Bagot, but the the legal ease from it so that it would hit the average voter.
I didn't hear the word conservation land pop out at me or to, you know, preserve that parcel in perpetuity. You know, it might help to review it with someone who does more marketing
because none of you up there can advocate one way or another for this language and the city staff can't. And there's not a team that I know of that's going to advocate one way or another. So, I'd really think about the language because the voters
going to read it, most of them for the first time in that ballot box. >> Thank you. Thank you, Meredith. >> Thank you, >> Commissioner Clark. >> Thank you. So, I have three things.
Number one, I seconded um what you said so we could have it for discussion. And I think what you said, you said conservative, so it should be conservation since you were reading it into the record. So, we're sure that it's it's conservation. So, it says conservation.
>> Yes. >> And added to the Haney Creek Preserve. So that's fine. Then number two, I'm glad that um Mr. uh Mat, former Commissioner Mat came up and said something because um before I I
comment on on what he said, I go to number three is that when we had new commissioners come on um at least after me, I think everybody has always ran on the idea of transparency and people want
to know and want to be able to communicate with the the public And so I I agree with what you're saying, Mr. Mat, and that we I think that anything to do with any of these referendums and
the way that our commission is now, right now, we have four of us. I think we probably need to take some time and study and work with the public and let the public know exactly what we're putting on these ballots and what these
referendums are. there's no rush with this stuff. I think um this is I don't know if it's it quick sell or easy sell or whatever, but people just need to know and I think if we're going to do one thing possibly leaning towards
November, we should consider looking at all of these three um referendum ideas and put them in November. And we'll hopefully we'll have a full commission one way or another. we'll have a full commission in in August and unless we do
any changes before then. Uh but I think that we just I I agree with that we need to do that that that uh bridge with the public and um let others know what's going to happen. And I know that when I think if anybody if
commissioner if our former mayor was here today, he spent a lot of times when we were working through the zip, we went through the zip twice. Six months, six months, another 90 days, another 30 days. And this is important that when we
have these things and we're bringing referendum to the public that we spend the time to get the information out there and to let people know, especially when it's not going to be anything that's um it's not anything that's pressing on us now, but it's important
that when we do it that we're sure that we have the information um to the public so that when they come to the ballot they know what what's going on. >> Um okay, I don't think this had anything to do with the zip. Um my question would
be what is the cost to the city? What do we spend on a yearly basis um to maintain this property? That was the purpose when county >> Milton >> I if Milton if you can come up and help answer that question. I don't know what
>> he's been the cost of maintaining Hanny Creek Preserve for the on the city. I remember having a conversation with uh Joe Lee before he left that we were using the proceeds from the billboard electronic billboard on US1 to help fund
it. >> I but I I never discussed finance the actual figure and number with them like publish director I didn't bring the numbers with me and stuff. Uh what we do we um we have a couple different things
going on as far as that property goes as far as um how would I say it now? The uh change >> Yeah. Like what does the city do for the property currently on a monthly basis? Well, we have to maintain the signage
out there also with the Lamar site and that's uh every year >> as far as like the landscape >> the landscape and everything, right? And you can only trim like so much because of uh >> but but other than that it's not like the city employees are walking this
parcel on a monthly basis, quarterly basis. >> Well, we maintain it. We if you like the a ranch property on the back side of that, we in that area a lot. So, we do have I don't have the numbers, like I said, in front of me, but we do maintain it. >> Okay. I was just trying to find out to
to determine if it was a financial burden on the city or not. And it doesn't necessarily sound like it cost the city a whole lot to maintain it. >> No, I'll get those numbers to Leah this week. That way, you have >> Okay. Any comments from board members?
Commissioner Rich? >> Yeah. Um, you know, we're really being hard on the taxpayer. I don't get it here. I mean, essentially, this property is in preserve because we're not able to lease it currently.
Um, so if you look at all the property we have in preserve within the city, actually, Haney Creek is 157 acres, Pavleton Creek is 40 acres. I'm going to add the kip on your property because it's adjacent to the city and everybody
treats it like it's in the city. That's 164 acres. We're going to add 20 acres in Aanly that we're considering. So that's 381 acres. Yes. All parks and preserves have costs for for municipalities.
It can range from if you annualize it a$100 to $500 an acre. maintaining is different than enhancing. And I wish we could enhance these. Um,
you know, we have a gas station that's in the county at the corner of um Baker Road in US1. They offered to pay to build a trail head there. We turned them down. I don't know why we did that. Could have taken that cost off the taxpayers. We We have
no interest in doing that. Um, we have not obtained grants in the past two years. We've lost hundreds of thousands of dollars in grants due to to a variety of reasons
that we used to get on a regular basis. We have no current idea how much big our deficit is. And it's going to be substantial. We're going to be in deficit this year. And I don't see the value of adding less than 1 half of 1%
of preserved property on the single busiest stretch of road in the city to not allow the taxpayers to have the ability to earn over a 10-year period. It's not unreasonable. That could
generate a million dollars. And I am not turning my back on $1 million for the taxpayers. Um, it just doesn't seem worth it to me.
We There's more we don't know about uh the budget now. And I will add I was just at a Florida League of City meeting. There will be something on the ballot to reduce property tax. So, we're facing that dilemma.
And so, we were all talking about, so what happens when municipalities face budget shortfalls? Ironically, the first things that are cut are park maintenance. And so, I agree
with Commissioner Clark that we should move cautiously here. Again, no one's beating, you know, no one's beating the door down to lease it, unfortunately. But, boy, I' I'd like for the taxpayers to have choices,
and I just don't see the need for this. tiny tiny parcel percentage of our total preserved land. It'd be so nice to have that money to spend. And what I like about it is that the money has to be
spent on the park. That Haney Creek preserve 157 acres could be fabulous. And I think that's what we should work towards getting that lease and spending that money. >> Does that conclude your comments,
Commissioner Rich? Does that conclude your comments? >> Thank you. Um I guess I can address one. It's not currently in preservation right now and I think there's no greater way to uh give the power to the residents that I represent by supporting a
referendum. I understand, you know, with the public comment, with the with the language, I think that's everything. And like was stated, I think that's that can be looked into. Um, but those are my comments. This is not a new agenda item, by the way. This
has been an agenda item since I got elected in August of 2024. We actually had one-on-one meetings as well with my predecessor, Christopher Collins, where it was stated then. It's it's not anything new, by the way. It's been in discussion for quite a
while. I don't believe to be a financial burden on taxpayers, as stated by Milton. This does not cost the city hardly anything and I don't think the number would be astronomical. But anyway, moving on. Commissioner Chio, you had a comment.
>> I did. I'm not adverse that it has been on the agenda quite often. Maybe I think that Mr. Mat's suggestion is good that we educate the constituents. It's always a good idea for them to know, especially before they see a referendum on the
ballot. So again, like with the other um referendum we're looking to put on the ballot, maybe we put together a DND and then put it back again on the G agenda, but do an education piece. Maybe we do them together. Maybe we do them in a workshop and everyone is then offered
the ability to come listen to what is there, okay? And get, you know, everyone has a opportunity to ask questions. Um, I will say that the property, if I if I'm correct, uh, Lee, the property has been for basically for sale over 10
years. >> Not for sale. >> For lease, I'm sorry. And no one has come forward to to lease it. There are a few, but it's not >> since I've been here, nobody has, but I but when I I had conversations with Mr. Mortell in the past and I believe a
couple different projects kind of came forward but kind of fell off didn't come to fruition and I think one of the one of the main reasons and I'm going off what Mr. Mortell told me so I no direct knowledge of this but I think that there
would be a requirement to I to build anything there you're going to have to have a long turning lane >> uh under F dots and it was like several hundred thousands of dollars if I remember correctly >> right and and that was 10 years ago that
probably is a higher number now >> so that was a deterrent and also there was a large amount of fill that would need to be put in brought in to be able to devel that parcel. Those were the two things that stand out in my brain as far as memory of what Mr. Mortell told me
that the developers who came forward, they kind of lost interest because of that. >> It was not cost effective for them. So, >> and it's it's still undeveloped. So, it's still in its undeveloped state currently. >> But I've been here almost three years and nothing's come forward since I've
been here. So, >> so could I have a consensus from the commissioners to see that if we could do this same D and D for this so that we could have some time to educate the public. Uh maybe like I said we do it in a workshop where both items are
presented gives everybody an opportunity to come and listen to what's going to be on the referendum. Um I don't know if anybody has thoughts on that. Do you think one workshop would do it? So, so currently, yes, currently there's a motion on the floor that that's what we're discussing and we have just commission comments regarding it. We had
public comment, there was one. Uh, but I don't know if that can >> Can I just ask one question of Mr. Beaget? >> Yes. >> Mr. Beet, do you have the results of the original referendum? >> I believe it was 7030. >> I don't know if I attached it to this. I
have it. I just don't have it attached to this agenda. I don't have it handy. Okay. >> I Yeah, I do not have it handy, but I I could get my hands on it in a few minutes. I would just need to get on my computer and look. >> It's okay. >> It's okay. >> Is that your uh >> No, that was my only question. >> I think it was a large, you know. Yes.
In favor, >> but many things have changed over the last 10 years. Traffic on federal highways. >> It's just easier when you hit the >> I'm sorry. Sorry. It just makes my job easy. Commissioner Clark, >> thanks. So, I seconded Commissioner Job's um motion. Is she withdrawing her
motion and then asking for a a consensus to do some study and more research on this? Are you withdrawing your motion? >> I'm going to withdraw my motion. >> Okay, >> I'm moving on. Hopefully, uh, >> yeah,
>> I withdrew the motion, but we didn't have a consensus of what to do. Now that the motion has been withdrawn, we still have to go forward. I don't want it sitting on the calendar for six months. We missed the referendum in November. We we need to move forward as we do with the other referendum. So the consensus
is >> same time frame. >> Yeah, same time frame. >> Commissioner Rich, how do you feel about that? >> Same time frame. That's fine. >> Commissioner Clark. >> Yes, >> sure. I support it. Um the public seeing firsthand though a lot of uh stalling I
guess on passing potential agenda items. Um, this authorizes it for the public to vote on their own destiny, though, whether I'm here representing you or not. >> Uh, whether my fellow board members are, >> um, hopefully we can stop the the
stalling on controversial agenda items that you may or may not support. Um, but allowing the public to decide their own destiny, I think, is a a fair statement to make. Uh but moving on um to ordinance second reading agenda item six
if you could read it Lee. Ordinance number 2551-2026, an ordinance of the city commission of the city of Steuart, Florida, approving a major amendment to the Walmart commercial plan unit development, providing for an amendment to the
adopted resolution number 28-201 to authorize modifications to the approved unified signage plan, install a new canopy and paint the exterior of the building, providing for conditions of approval, providing for conflict,
proving providing for severability, providing for an effective date and for other purposes. >> Good evening, chair and commission. For the record, my name is Michelle Arbazowl, planner two in the development department. I am presenting item agenda
item number six, a request from Walmart stores east LP, seeking to amend the CPU ordinance number 1915-3. and the previously approved resolution number 28-2011 development conditions.
>> I just Yeah, I just wanted to on the yellow card um we had to do uh the exparte. So >> um do any of the commissioners have any exparte communications to disclose? >> I have none. I have >> I'll go on order. Commission. Yeah,
Commissioner Rich, you have none. >> Commissioner go. I have I had um a discussion with Britney unfortunately I was looking up to see what her last name was who is uh with Walmart and I had a discussion with her on Friday. >> Commissioner Clark
>> I had a discussion with uh Miss Mallister I'm not sure from Tallahassee Walmart and um I had discussion with Jodie Cougler staff just with regard to some very um fast
moving changes since last uh Wednesday or Thursday. >> Does that conclude your >> Yes. Thanks. >> I also spoke to Bethany as well. I know she was very concerned because it was a holiday weekend. I let her know we'll be
back on Tuesday. Um I might have had I had a someone email me as well. I believe I might have posted it on Facebook with the entire agenda, but there wasn't any comments. Um, let's see. Directs the city attorney to place
any potential witnesses under oath. >> All people rise and raise your right hand who may or intend to provide evidence in this matter. Do you affirm that the testimony that you're about to provide will be the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth? So, help you God. Okay, you
may be seated. Will a development department please provide a brief summary of the agenda item including the location, size of the property, current zoning, zoning requested, and list the applicant's request to deviate from the
land use development regulations if any. >> Again, I'm Michelle Arzo, planner 2 with the development department. Uh the major amendment to the CPU is going to amend the CPU ordinance originally the 1915-03
and a resolution number 28-201 uh condition number four to allow modifications to approve the unified signage plan. On May 9th, 2026, notification letters were mailed out to property owners
located within 300 ft of the proposed petition. Two public notification signs detailing the city commission public hearing was posted on the subject property outlined in red total approximately 33.7 acres. The site is
located at 401 East Federal Highway and is situated northeast corner of Southeast Federal Highway and Southeast Market. The subject parcel is zoning properties
except for the res to the north and the industrial to the south. The Future land use designation is commercial and almost all of the surrounding properties are designated the same except for the multif family
residential to the north and the industrial designation to the south. The applicant is seeking approval from the city commission to amend the uh since the LPA hearing on March 12th. It came to the attention to the
applicant that signs were not reflected on the existing signage schedule. So they modified those and changed the schedule. Uh removal of 642.14 of existing wall mounted signage uh
which equals 19 individual signs and installation of 493.42 of the new wall mounted signage. changes to the four existing monuments, construction of a new canopy on the previously approved expansion and then
the repainting of the exterior building. The proposed amendment reflected on the signing schedule tables shown on the screen uh shows an existing 642.4 square ft of wall mounted sign uh totaling 19 uh to be removed and
proposing of 493.42 of wall mounted signs totaling 27 27 to be installed. There was a modification from the first hearing. Uh the Walmart and Spark that was not visible due to the landscaping
will be removed. So that is that is why that number that will be installed is lower than before. Upon approval, the applicant will be required to comply with all applicable conditions and requirements outlined in
the PUB agreement and the Florida The signs on the screen there are two auto signs one pick signs four tire sign and the one sign to the
one grocery and one home and fashion sign. The applicant is requesting changes to the existing monument sign on site for the rebranding of the store. The applicant is requesting approval for the installation of a 7 by 20 ft canopy
at the entrance of the store online pickup delivery operations. Uh the expansion that was previously approved uh colors were modified with input from the first hearing. The colors proposed
are that were modified is white, medium brown, and light. The applicant is requesting to repaint the story on the legend. The colors were modified with input from the first hearing. The
colors you see are black, white, white, bronze, brown, light tan, dark brown, true blue, and sky blue. According to the color, per section 6.05.07
of the city's land development code, exterior colors for commercial building shall be restricted to muted pastel or shades. The section goes on to state that the use of black or fluorescent colors are prohibited as predominant
color. The Image on the screen is taken from the plants to reflect the change in colors. You can see the sky blue colors on the new request um after the first
And what's shown on the the top part is the new request. However, just this afternoon um we submitt or a change was submitted. The applicant submitted another option
this afternoon shown on the screen and that they are prepared to walk through the updated plans to help determine if it reflects the city's vision. The existing colors are reflected in the image on the screen. There was a site
visit done on April 17, 2026. Staff did notice that painting has started without an approval. The ED agent with HFA AD was contacted and the painting was stopped. According to HFA, there were miscommunications uh that had occurred
with the contractor on the in the LPA recommendation. Uh they approved the canopy installation. Um the monument sign changes and the LPA board did not recommend the pickup banner on an existing light. Uh that was
pulled by the applicant. did not recommend the original color scheme and made recommendations to the application changer shades that meet the code department. For example, different shades for the
trim and shutter awnings to show the architectural features of the building. The wall signage were recommended for approval with the condition that the sign stays within the 607.58 in this case. with the modifications
that's a lot lower which came into like 400 at the city commission public hearing that we did in April on April 13th it was discussed and concerns were raised regarding the dark colors being proposed an example of the Jupiter Walmart with
the postal blue and other pastel earth tone colors were shown and the consensus uh was made that the submit rendering of those colors instead of the darker It was discussed by the project representative that the proposed colors
reflected in the pictures are not a true rendition of how the building would look. Uh the city commission asked then for an accurate digital rendering of the colors of the building and a member of the public spoke in that hearing stated that they were in agreement with the
pastel and would like for the paint as well. staff recommends approval of the wall signs, canopy, and monument signs and all of it that are required to be permitted and follow the Florida building code. In regards to the paint
color, the applicant submitted lighter tones on some of the coastal blues that were recommended by the commission. The colors comply with section 6.05.07 of the land development code. However, based upon public comment and
recommendations from the commission, the postal is blue is not the predominant color. It was mentioned to be based upon the Walmart that is in Jupiter. So staff is looking for direction from my presentation. The applicant and staff
are here to answer any questions. >> Thank you for the presentation. >> Thank you. >> Uh so yields the floor to the petitioner to it request to the city commission. Welcome. >> My name is Britain Lewis. I work with HFA out of Arkansas. >> Hi, my name is Paul Perez. I'm the
marketing manager here. >> So, how are you guys feeling off the bat with the one that >> last and I'll tell you why. Because I know it was requested that we had the board the Jupiter was built
and constructed. Can >> you speak a little bit more into the microphone? >> It's it's designed to to be on the building. So, it'll stay on there in a hurricane. This store is not. This store was built for Ephus. So, we will have to completely remove the surface, reinforce the back, and then install the shiplap.
So, that's why it's last case. We are willing to do that if that's what the board wants. Not ideal for anybody involved. >> Um, was that the presentation that you had for us? >> No, it was it was more Did you see the actual paint tips on the last page?
>> Yeah, >> that's the newest proposed color scheme. I just want to get a feel for if this is what you're looking for, if this is the muted creamier colors that are nicer. Are we okay with this pastel? >> Yeah, we'll we'll get to that with the commissioner comments if they have questions for the staff or the
So, Commissioner Clark, >> she had a line. I didn't know if you had anything to present. That's what I was asking. >> Okay. Just for clarification back and forth with us and staff. Okay. So, Clark, >> so with just this where it says home and fashion
>> and you have the blue above that, is that the um medium brown? >> No, ma'am. Above the blue is the idler white. >> No. >> So, what's that thing? The type. No,
it's not eye to white. It's >> so the >> Yeah. Well, what's this? Is that the Is that the color or is that not the color >> she's talking about? If you go below like the peak, whether it's over grocery or home and fashion, there's like shutters. It looks like they're black
painted. >> Those are also eer white. They're painted white. It's hard to see because the glass is a blue color in the rendering. >> So, with how they with how they printed it. It's supposed to be it looks black. >> It is because it's a 2D image and every
one of those little shutters is alive. >> Okay. So, that's blue then. Okay. I was wondering what's with it. Well, whatever it is. >> Okay. So, I'm wondering why is that um >> that's a better that's a rendering. It's a little squished up, but that gives you a better idea of what it would more look
like in person. >> So, that's not paint, that's a window. >> Correct. window, but it is a window. >> Those roofs are actual colors. >> Those are going to be bronze. They are
the color in the bottom right. >> And the rest of it is just um shading, lighting, or whatever that is. >> So, we're proposing underneath the awnings to be the medium brown. And that's just for visual cont. also for keeping it clean. You know, I'm sure you guys are aware power washing is a thing,
but it's a lot less necessary if there's a slightly darker color over there. >> And that blue in auto care, that's that section is going to be like that just like it shows on there. >> That is if it was the the true blue, the
Walmart blue, that's where the prototypical line would have stopped. If you guys want, we can push that all the way to the end of the wall and make the whole wall blue. I've gotten permission to do that. >> So, how it's presented, it's split. >> That's what's being proposed. >> That's what's proposed. If you don't
like it, then we can table this and tell us what we want and we will make that happen. >> And those doors will be that white door. >> They are the little bitty white ship. >> Okay. Okay. Can I ask something that's not on here, but and I don't know if
it's going to come up in the future, but when you get present scheme, I do you have like a red and a brighter yellow, but that's for something else. You mentioned that the part about the um what is it that pickup flag and so
on. Since that pickup flag, even if it comes back in the future, it seems like it's always an orange or orangey red or something. Is that something that is always going to be like that? So, if it comes back, we can't ask for it to be a certain color. That's the color that you
have it. >> The current color of that The flag that we're not proposing anymore is actually true blue and it just says >> Okay, good. Because I I thought that you you had it had to be orange or something and I was sure. Okay, fine. >> Right now, no. Give me a year and they might change their mind.
>> Okay. So, if it comes back all right, I think that's all my questions with regard to color. Color is fine. I I can see that. But in terms of the actual square footage and the changes, I know that there was a question about the
lettering, whether there was black lettering and if that was to regarding signs that were um way way signs, way fair signs, signs that would show where to come to the Walmart, but that's
not in this plan. But you can use black lettering. The city allows you to use black lettering for that. And we did clarify that with Michelle, but the signs we're proposing on the store, the darker colored signs are actually going to be this bronze that you're notic.
>> So, but this Walmart and the blue and the gold is going to be that white Walmart. >> It would be the white Walmart with the standard just like the store has on it right now. It would look almost identical. The blue is slightly darker than on the store. It's a little bit
more fluorescent currently. >> Where would the bronze be? Like with auto care or something, >> correct? Everything that's on too light of a color to be visible. It's for ADA. If you can't see the sign, see it. So, >> okay. >> Yeah. Anything that's on a lighter color would be
>> That's interesting. Um, with regard to ADA and visibility, >> it's more for the Walmart sign that it matters, but the others because it is a product offer, a service that we offer, we like it. >> Did you have any more questions, Commissioner Clark?
>> Not right now. Looks like they're taking care of everything. All this staff find something. >> I think it was up to us to be happy. >> Okay. Commissioner Rich, >> Mr. Bagot, Does the code allow us
to require them to redo the exterior of their structure? >> Oh, that's expensive. >> I I what what was what is being proposed is the painting as far as you're asking for additional stuff like you saw in Jupiter. >> Is that what you're asking?
>> No. No. So, we asked them, correct, correct me if I'm wrong, to add party board or >> she said so they would have to strip the stucco. >> They essentially would have to redo the exterior of their build. They simply
want to repaint their business. And we're saying, "Oh, no. We want you to redo the exterior surface to a a to a great degree. I mean, it's it's not an inexpensive >> what?
>> Just the best of yours. >> It doesn't that the applicant is objecting to it. But I I I would say that, you know, this is a PUD, so it's you can put conditions. I don't know that that's a far enough stretch unless they're
claiming that it's a burden on them to make these changes. I'm not sure that it would rise to that level. um you know as part of the PUD process we're giving them a custom zoning so that we could put on conditions that we
would like for for instance the paint um and other things in our code like most Walmarts you go by you see the Walmart building you don't see our Walmart building I would buy it this weekend because we mandated they put trees all around it >> so there are conditions
um in a PUD that we can put on them and Um, >> but their current exterior surface is approved. >> What's that? >> The pro the current exterior surface conforms to code. >> Correct. But they're coming in for a change. They want to update it. Obviously, painting in the signs.
>> They want to paint it. >> Correct. I mean, I have no This is your business. As long as you conform to our code, I think the changes you've made to the color are nice. and they are sufficient in my mind.
You don't want to have an ugly building. And Mr. Bagot makes a good point. This is invisible from the road. So, if you're um if you're turning into Walmart, then you'll see it. But you want to go to Walmart.
>> Does that conclude your comments? >> Thank you. >> You're welcome. Commissioner Joi. >> Yeah. I just wanted to confirm that it's my understanding when you open up a PUD, it's for both sides of the as Mr. as the attorney Bagot said that there are conditions that we could then request
once the PUD is opened up which Walmart has asked to do that. Um and I'm not sure if you saw the presentation from the previous meeting. Um, and of course this was the but it we've been named the best coastal town I can't tell you how
many times and that is a coastal town look >> and we're able to do it with a lot of effort going to take the facade >> and this is a lighter color. I mean the blue is fine but this is not dark. So
you have blue on This seems to me just to be dark. The >> It's because it's the 2D image. It won't. So, you're seeing a whole lot of black lines because we have to show you the articulation changes. >> Okay. >> But in real life, it'll just be a color
transition and you'll see shadows are obviously where the articulation is, but you won't see a dark line. >> Okay. So, is it the light because is it the light tan or is it the medium brown? >> The majority of the building is the light tan. >> It is the light tan. the stripes that
kind of go across it and then above the blue on the vestules is the white and then under the canopies or under the walkways is where they're going to want to do the medium brown to give it a little visual contens and I'm sure that's lighter than most of
Jupiter has stone at the bottom. >> Yes, I very nice. >> So Jupiter is in a C2 zone with an overlay. So they had to have that at the getgo. So it was built with that design in mind. >> Yes. >> Sure, Clark. >> Thank you. >> Thank you.
>> Um question for staff. May I ask? >> Did you ask? >> Yes. staff, if this goes forward with your recommendation with the uh changes or the the um
information submitted by Walmart, is there sufficient information and understanding of the colors and how they appear and how they should be um both applied and and and installed?
um to make sure that we can um monitor this and uh have compliance um monitored without any questions. >> Uh yes. So the modifications that were
made do does comply with the uh city of Stewart land uh land development code section 6.05.07.c uh building permits are pulled. They are final inspections that um that are done
and um there's pass and fail for those depending on if it meets the code or not. >> Thank you. >> Uh just real quick, um when they do a final inspection, we can add that clarification that staff will go out to verify the colors once it's painted as
an inspection process. >> And can I ask another question of staff? >> How long other than the fact that We we had the last meeting. How long did it take for us to find out that the painting had started and it was a wrong color and there were all kinds of issues
going on? So, when uh I go out to the different projects that um that I'm reviewing and on a site visit, I um noticed that signs were down and the paint were already
starting and uh so I came back to the office and just uh stated and give the applicant a call say saying, "Hey, what's going on? We see painting started." There was no approval. Uh that was in April I believe on the 17th 2026.
>> Uh miss thank you Mr. Mayor. Probably the last question >> you're recognized. >> Thank you. >> I just want to be sure that if we do move ahead with this and this is for legal that we have um and I think Miss Moby asks this question all the time. Is
there consensus? This won't even be consensus. will be voted on something. But um that we that we'll be sure that that we we'll be we well it's well we'll be sure that um you're making me lose my train of thought.
We That's okay. We'll we'll be we'll be absolutely sure that we are working with Walmart and our intention is not to penalize or to go back and try to um create some type of
penalty for the issue that came up that brought this to our attention. >> Commissioner Clark >> questions for staff for the >> Yes. When Walmart was notified, they have been working diligently with staff and
almost on a almost on a daily basis on some of the phone calls and working through trying to um come up with renderings that would satisfy the comments about the blue and the lighter colors. So, I commend Walmart for working with us very well.
>> Thank you, Walmart. >> Yeah, and I want to add to you know, just transparently, this is a major gap of communication, uh, you know, from the construction team operation side as well. So, um, you know, we're committed. We want this to be the best Walmart, um, in the area. Um, and, you know, we're excited for the remodel to add new
products, the new digital expansion, um, and the new products that we're going to add to the building. So, we're excited that to provide that for the community and and have it really represent what Steuart stands for. So, thank you. >> Thank you, sir. >> Thank you, Mr. Mayor.
>> Do the commissioners have any questions? Commissioner Joi. I have comm question for staff. Um because you can't see it here and it was my understanding that there were um I don't know what you call them not epileps but things that would make it appear to be a Walmart in a
coastal town. I mean it's the feel we're going for. Were there on the building because you can't see it. You had mentioned they had >> uh Yes. I was as I was on the site visit, I noticed like there were little
pineapples at the top of the the roof air line. Uh but it was painted the same color as the rest of the building, but so you couldn't see that little architectural feature, if that's what you meant. >> I like those. >> Yeah. And so the question is if they were painted a different color, you
would notice them versus them blending into the background, >> I would say. So I think some of the things also you have to look at the towers where they go they're they're going in and out. They have a K coupa on the top.
>> Um they also have some um the Bahama shutters with the faux windows in the front. So they do already have the architectural features. They just they're highlighting those with the different colors now. So you'll be able to see them more. If you see in the last the previous painting, it was just
really like a sand dull color and they weren't even embellishing the um architectural features I already have on the property. Now >> I have a question for staff. So this this Jod, we were handed this
>> and then we have this subitted this afternoon. So this is what it's currently painted and being proposed. >> We need to have the The newest one is the option. >> So yeah, because that's what was confusing me. Current you're talking the
ship left here. That's blue, correct? >> So it was the renderings that you received last Thursday that were emailed to you. >> So that would be Yes. >> So this is what the board asked for that Walmart submitted. And then this is
>> was a backup plan. I have a secondary proposal that actually building And then our third option. >> So is this a third option? >> That's the first option. That's the one we're proposing. >> That's the first one. Okay.
>> Second one I have in my bag. >> That's this. >> No, we don't have it yet. >> She has it with it. >> Can we see it? >> I mean, it might just make it pop because right now it just looks motion
for the first. >> We didn't know that she had other options. >> No, I'm just saying >> huge. I am so sorry. this option that you're unwrapping just it's the the rendering you saw but with the additional blue on the >> colum
>> you don't have >> so this is just a this is a bigger rendering of every elevation >> instead of the front elev. It's the same color with the add version. That's just more blue.
>> I like >> Yes, this looks >> the motion. have to clarify that in fact this version >> correct when we get there >> repeat >> the motion would have to clarify >> it be clarify which option you guys are
going to go with >> a job number >> so if you can see on the um the long portion of the building on the rear elevation or the right elevation you can see the columns now are painted blue instead of just a lighter But it's nice.
>> That is in fact Panatone 220E. Correct. >> Correct. I had to look. >> And what colors did you guys currently start painting it ahead of time? >> It's currently dungeon gray. I'm just making that up. It is gray. >> Very dark. >> So it wasn't even any of the colors that we
>> No, it was the very first proposal. It was on our construction set and there was a miscommunication about don't And so they did. About 90% of the front is painted. So we told them to stop. >> We get to keep this. >> Yeah, that's yours. Put it in your bathroom. Hang it on the wall. I don't
care. >> Commissioner Joy, it's it's just tough. I'm trying to go off the lighted system. Commissioner Clark, >> thank you. So, if you're going to submit this, I want to be sure that all these P's and X's, whatever the legend is, and
if it has a color, a color, if you could attach a color legend to this. >> This is the same color. >> It's the same thing. >> And it's all written on there as well. >> I know it's written, but I didn't. >> Yes, ma'am. Okay. So, the district if we
do this >> and then the only difference is you submitted this just showing the hardy plank at the front. >> Yeah. Because that was what the commission had asked for. I just needed to bring it as an option in case it was still adamantly required. We can do it. It is just going to take a lot of
effort. >> Okay. Um do the any other other commissioners have any questions for staff or the applicant? Does the petitioner wish to offer any additional information before concluding its presentation? >> Yes, there is something I saw that was
wrong. So, the wine and spirit sign is showing white on the blue. It needs to be bronze as well. >> It was It was rendered incorrectly. >> Forget it. >> Okay. >> I just I just want I just want you to be able to see the sign on the blue. That was the only thing I said.
>> Um Lee, I got a question. How does this work if uh Commissioner Clark has a question because we're on step 10 where I'm going to announce the hearing has ended. >> Well, it hasn't ended yet. >> Hasn't ended yet. So, Commissioner Clark, >> I want to be sure that if you're going
to be submitting this, if this break and half 10, if that is it or >> that is it unless you want me to extend it across and you can make that a stipulation and I can totally do that if that's how you do it or you can have us come back to the next meeting and make
that happen. It's up to you. Halfway is proposed, but I have permission from Walmart's head to go all the way to the end of that wall. So, it's in a little al cove situation and it can go to the end. >> Thank you. >> Does that
commissioner go? >> Just a question visually. I'm just me having a problem that it's like that. Is there any reason that you couldn't put also autoare on the other side? >> So, you have autoare here and here. >> The only reason is It's in the cove and
you won't see it when you drive up past the front of the sword to the highway entrance. That's the only time you'll be able to physically see it from the end. >> I'm not opposed to the the hardy plank. I get a it is a financial cost to definitely upgrade.
>> It's more of a we want to make sure we're not >> propelling objects into the wind. >> What do you mean? >> Like we need to make sure it's attached because it's zone. We need to make sure it's attached properly. Not Yeah, that come down to Florida. But I get where you're coming from, Commissioner Clark.
>> So the Jupiter situation was a part of your beginning that Walmart is probably more visible from the highway. But you did mention that if you did some hard vestibule
is the area with the doors in it. So that's where we were proposing it. It's just we were trying to mimic the So over the vestibial doors and then to bring more of that down so it wasn't just those few areas. Um our our manager did tell manager to tell us to put it
underneath the walkways that would be on so >> instead of doing the entire facade. Do any other other commissioners have any questions for staff in the afternoon? Nope. Uh so uh the presentation of evidence has ended and
the hearing is closed. Does any member of the public wish to make a comment? Public comment is limited to three minutes. >> Mayor, I have no >> We do have one public comment. >> No, I have none.
window. >> Make sure you come to the mic, please. Thank you. >> Thank you guys. >> Okay. I just wanted to say I was here when they first
commission made this But I'm not a shopper at all. I prefer to shop at home in my bed on my phone and do my store. So, but I don't see Walmart
that building blue or midnight. It's not losing any money. I don't think shoppers care what color the story is when they go to spend their money. And I think that it's
just being too much emphasis put on it being I know y'all want to keep color and all that stuff, but I'm over it. I'm over it.
Just let let it be what it is to me. People are going to spend their money where they want to spend their money if it's midnight. >> Thank you for your public comment. Um the party shall be provided with equal
time to present the board with closing remarks, new evidence or testimony on what direction to go in. I make a motion that we accept version two, which is represented by
what we were handed last with regard to the Walmart exterior rebrand major commercial PUD agreement ordinance number 2551-2026. You had your light on. >> I did.
>> Gotcha. Okay. So, we have a motion by Commissioner Rich regarding the second option presented. There's no second. >> I motion. >> All right. Right. So, we have a motion by Commissioner Rich for ordinance
number 2551 2026 and seconded by Commissioner Goi. Are there any public comments on this motion? >> How How does this work? >> I know, but can I clarif
providing more evidence? We would have to reopen. You'd have to do a MO sub motion to reopen it. >> It's not more. It was just to clarify the sign that was wrong on your exhibit. I just want to make sure that we'll fix that with the motion. >> Any comments from the public on the
motion? Any comments or deliberation from the commissioners? >> Absolutely you can. Now's the time. for staff. There was a I forget there was one that you didn't
>> that that was changed um with the modification with the square footage. So, um with this approval, it's to approve all of those items. >> Thank you. >> Lee, do you need any clarification on the motion as far as the color on the
lettering bronze where it is correctly? Um if if that is what um Commissioner Rich would like to add to his motion, he can clarify it because as it is proposed, it's white, I guess. And could you provide me with that spec specific
language if I'm required to include it? >> Well, the problem is we're attaching proposals. >> This is not sufficient in detail. She was indicating that the color of >> the color is it the home and fashion or the beer and wine spirits is the wrong
color on that. It would be bronze and not white. Okay. I will amend my motion to include the correction provided during the testimony phase by the applicant that the color on the beer and spirit sign
will be as provided to staff immediately following this meeting. Is that sufficient? >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Okay. So, we have a amended motion from Commissioner Rich regarding the color of the beer and wine to match with bronze
colors and to take the second rendering that was presented to us. And the motion is seconded by Commissioner Goi. All right, we're ready. Roll call. >> Mayor, >> yes.
>> Commissioner Clark, >> yes. >> Commissioner Rich, >> yes. >> Commissioner, >> yes. >> Motion passes unanimously. Congratulations. >> Moving on to ordinance first reading. If you could read it for the Marina Cove. Thanks, Lee.
Ordinance number 2554-2026, an ordinance of the city commission of the city of Steuart, Florida, providing for the abandonment of certain public rightway within the city being that certain 20 foot ride ofway as set forth on the on the plat of Riverside Park as
recorded in plat book 4, page 25, St. Lucy County, now Martin County, uh, Florida. Public records running north to south described in exhibit Attached here 2 and depicted in exhibit
B attached here too. Providing for payment of a privilege fee, providing for conflict, providing for severability, providing for an effective date, and for other purposes. and the development director uh Jody will be presenting on this but I wanted to just
give a couple of uh introduction comments on the law. So charter our charter section 9.01 01 of our city charter. It says where whenever it may deem necessary, the commission may cause a rideway to be
vacated. And in section N the next section, section 902 of the city charter, vacation/abandonment of a rightway shall be subject to the procedures, terms, costs, charges which shall be provided by our ordinance.
And then if you move on to our ordinance section 36-3, the vacation of any public rightaway shall be accomplished by adoption of an ordinance by the city commission. However, the city commission must first pass a resolution declaring its intent of vacating the right ofway before
moving forward with the ordinance. And then also pursuant to section 362 of our code of ordinances, the applicant would be required to pay a privilege fee. And Jody will go over with you on how that would has been calculated for
this piece of the right away. Um, so again, this is also the first reading, so we will be looking for a motion to transmit to the second reading and I'll pass it on to Miss Jody over there. >> Uh, good evening, mayor and vice mayor
and commissioners. Oh, sorry, no vice mayor. Sorry. Um, for the record, my name is Jody Cougler, the development director for the city of Stewart. Tonight, I'm presenting agenda item number seven. The applicant, Marina Cove at Riverside LLC, has filed a petition for the abandonment
of a portion of the public rideaway in accordance with chapter 36 of the city's code of ordinance. The request has been reviewed pursuant to the applicable provisions relating to the abandonment of public property. This abandonment will facilitate access to the proposed
town homes and single family residents along Northwest Dixie Highway. 26. The city commission approved resolution number 23-2026. The intention of the city commi the intention of the city commission to abandon a portion of the public rideway
and to set public hearings before the city commission at its regular meeting in a city commission chambers to consider the abandonment of the subject property. The the 20 foot public rideaway is outlined in red. The city's public works department has determined that the use of the rideway is no longer
in a public best interest and does not object to the abandonment of the city's interest city's rightway. This shows the original plat as you can see outlined in red and in in a little bit of highlight of the yellow. This is the 1925 recorded plat which identifies
the 20 foot rideaway as outlined in the um yellow. The adjacent rideways have already been previously abandoned by the city. Again, if you can see this uh if you move forward with the abandonment, the they are um moving for they have done
the appraisal process which was part of your packet. The privilege fee is determined and fixed by computing 100% of the value added to the adjoining real estate of the petitioner. The value is added is determined by the appraisal of a qualified registered real estate appraiser who practices in the county as
paid by the petitioner in addition to the privilege fee. Based on the appraisal report prepared by Callaway and Price Incorporated real estate appraisers and consultants dated December 17, 2024, the estimated privilege fee to be paid to the city of
Stewart is 32,600. The application was submitted prior to the adoption of ordinance number 2020 of ordinance 2539 20225 which is the zip amendments and is therefore subject to the regulations in in effect at the time of this submitt. The proposed
development encompasses approximately 2.19 acres. The applicant is proposing two buildings consisting of 22 town homes along with five individual single homes fronting northwest Dixie Highway best based on the density and regulations and effort at the time of
the submitt. The maximum allow density is 15 units per acre without the urban code conditional per conditional use permit. While the site could be accommodated up to 32 units at the maximum density, the application the applicant is proposing a total of 27
units. Uh staff is recommending transmitting to the first reading to the ordinance to the second reading uh scheduled to be held on June 22nd, 2026 for advertisement purposes. And this concludes staff's presentation.
We have a motion to transmit it to second reading and then we can ask staff questions if we have any. >> Yes, I'll make a motion to transmit to the second reading. >> Second. >> So, we have a motion by Commissioner Rich to transmit ordinance number 2554 2026 to second reading and seconded by
Commissioner Clark. Now we can ask away. Any com any public comment on this motion to transmit the second reading? Seeing none, any comments from the commissioners for staff >> or the
seeing none. Suz roll call. >> Commissioner go. >> Yes. >> Commissioner Clark. Yes. Commissioner Rich. >> Yes. >> Mayor Reed. >> No. >> Uh, do you guys want to take a 10-minut break >> or do you want me to move on to Yeah,
10-minute break. Five minute break. Or you want me to move? >> Five minute break. >> We'll take a five minute break before we move on to agenda item eight. All right, we're going to resume the regular city commission meeting. Thank you. >> Uh Lee, if you could uh read the
discussion and deliberation agenda item eight for us. So it summary um is pursuant to section 709. Um well actually this is filling a vacancy. So it would be 710.
Um I believe what is at issue today is filling the vacancy of the vice mayor and also the vacancy for the vacant seat that commissioner Collins had left when he left. So, um, if I recall in the last meeting, you guys, uh, there was a
couple of motions to nominate a vice mayor. Um, and that one, I don't think there was two different motions that never got a second. And so, we you wanted to bring those back so you could raise the issue again of nominating
someone for vice mayor. And then also the empty spot. You're not required under our code to replace Commissioner Collins due to the number of days left before the next election. So, it is optional, but you would need to uh
nominate somebody and at least three of you vote in in the affirmative for such a person to finish out the remainder of Commissioner Collins's term until this upcoming election. >> Okay. So, we'll do it in two different discussions then. We'll discuss Vice Mayor first and then we'll move on.
Commissioner Clark. >> Okay. I would probably like to do it in one discussion, but um so with either one of those things with the vice mayor first, I think the vice mayor is um at reorganization
when we come up in December. And our our code doesn't cover that. It just says the immediate ascendancy of the of the mayor and that's why we have to deal with this vice mayor issue. I think that again because of the time frame that we
have um I think that if there's anything at all um we can usually I think that it does go to like um was it senior I forgot you didn't give us the language but I've looked at the language um I just can't remember it
right now but I think that we can I just think that we can we can wait until uh we have um full reorganization when we have a full commission and if we have an emergency that needs somebody to
um be in charge of the meeting, we can all agree to have somebody in charge of the meeting if that's the case with we only have three of us up here. Uh and I don't think that we need to decide on a vice mayor right now. That's my that's
my discussion. Any other commission comments regarding the vice mayor? Commissioner Rich, >> you know, an important part of the role of mayor is ceremonial and
you know that's a current that's a challenge for our current mayor because he works in his family business and is busy and for example he was unable to attend the uh event at the White House
which was just you know It's not of import but people really appreciate when either the mayor or the vice mayor are there to acknowledge the event and the importance and um you know
during my term as mayor I really understood that it was valuable to do that and I'm disappointed the commissioner and Clark said that because there would be no better vice mayor
Commissioner Clark uh she's very very good in those in those positions and recognizing the value and importance of the ceremony and the situation. So I would I would like to nominate her to perform
you know function in that role. It's what do we have six more five more? It's only five more meetings after this. So, but if if if you don't want to do it, Commissioner Clark, there's certainly no need to make the nomination. >> Are you making a motion, Commissioner
Rich, or are you still telling me how to do my job? >> No. >> But did I provide Did I provide instruction to you? >> Well, you're letting me know that I guess it's ceremonial and that maybe I didn't attend an event. I'm not sure
where you're going with it. >> No, no. I'm just saying you you work you have a job. I understand. >> I'm recognizing >> I felt like it was an attack towards me. >> Not at all. >> That's how I felt. So, I apologize if that's not what it was. But yes, I will
I do my best to try to attend uh events when I do have time or if they're important events to me. So, thank you. Were you making a motion though for Commissioner Clark? >> Sure. I'll make a motion that Commissioner Clark serve in the capacity
as vice mayor until what would be the meeting after the 18th of August election. >> Would you clarify the motion? It wouldn't go into effect right away or she would >> Oh, no. It would go in effect right away
>> and she would be vice mayor until reorganization in December. >> How would that work? Well, his motion wasn't until the week after >> the election day, but you are correct. The next reorganization would be December. >> December.
>> So, it probably be better to have someone nominated as vice mayor until December at the next. >> The only reason I was asking for clarification is because depending on, you know, >> you could resend in August potentially. Well, if his if
his motion is that the person, Commissioner Clark in this instance, be uh nominated, his motion was until the the day after the election with the new incoming commissioner commissioners, you know, so or he can do it until the reorg. I mean, that but that was his motion.
>> So, I didn't know if you wanted to keep it at that or amend your motion to reorganization. >> No, we can do it till reorg. >> Okay. So, that' be the first meeting in December then. We have a motion. Um, is there a second? Seeing none, Commissioner G, you had a
comment and then Commissioner Clark. >> Okay. Um, the comment is is that number one, I don't think your job is just ceremonial. So, that's another issue. But, I think that there's three commissioners besides the mayor here that can fill in on the days that the comm that the mayor is busy at his job.
Um I know that uh you has filled in on many occasions. I filled in at the dedication of the white house. So I I think that between the three of us we can do this. We don't need to have a I think it's more important to put another member >> on the dis rather than a vice mayor.
>> Commissioner Clark, you had a comment. >> Yeah, that was basically the same thing. >> Yeah, I don't I don't necessarily my comment will be as far as the vice mayor selection, I don't think it's necessary. We didn't do it um in the last election
when current mayor was there. Um it just stayed like that and then we I remember there was one where the when you were mayor Mayor Rich at the time I think there was a meeting guess and then we took a consensus like we did at the school board and stuff. So I think we can get be cordial and hopefully be
professional when it comes to that if you get to that point. So, I don't think there's any more discussion from us on vice mayor selection. Um, is there any discussion on potentially fulfilling the empty seat that we currently have or taking the
stand and waiting till August? >> So, any comments from the commissioner Clark? I I made this suggestion before and now that this has been brought up and that's why when you brought up the vice mayor thing, I thought I'd try to
do two things, but I'll break it apart since you' asked to break it apart and that's taken care of now. But um I and I've discussed this with the uh city manager and I didn't talk to Mr. baggot about it, but maybe this would be
this gives us an opportunity to look at the language that we have. Now, there's a couple of languages that I'm concerned about with coming up with the elections and one of them has nothing to do with the mayor thing, but it it just has to
do with potential changes that we may want to look at for qualification. It's, you know, with regard to a candidate being qualified like um up to the time of election and there's a reason for me to to bring this up. So it
counts, hold on. It counts until the day because of election. Just just let me just make No, no, no. Because I'm just talking about election and days and counting up to election days. So we are counting the charter now counts us up to election days for that qualification. It
also counts us up to election time for if somebody um if there's a vacant seat open for the is it 120 110 days Lee. >> So the the charter um in section 710 says that you are
required to re you are required to have a special election or appoint someone within 120 days of the vacancy. Mhm. >> But there were less than 120 days of vacate that Commissioner Collins resigned until the next election. So you don't need to
do a special election. It would be optional if you wanted to appoint somebody. >> Okay? And so I've looked at other communities >> where they have set a certain time frame that once a seat is vacant, this is what happens. whether you have a special
election, whether you get you accept applications from people and review those or whether it goes to the governor, they have all kinds of different steps. And the one in particular that I looked at was the city of Tallahassee, which was actually old because it was supposed to be renewed
every five years. And I saw something that was prior to the past five years, but apparently that's still their rule, but I didn't see any updated ones. But so what this brings up is that we probably need to use this opportunity to
look at our guidelines and see if we want to change our charter. That again would probably something in November to see if this 110 days is a satisfactory thing or if we have somebody die or something happens and there's a vacancy
for whatever reasons that do we wait this uh extended time or do we um do it within a a tighter time period and I think that's something that we need to explore among ourselves more and with the public and that's why I think that
we need to wait on this whole thing. Let the elections let people speak at the elections this time and um let's just I know that we say that it's hard to make votes with the four of us up here, but I think that's why we have discourses and
that's why we try to gather information and make the best decision on these um matters that we have in front of us. >> I I'm not necessarily opposed to not picking someone that's so close to the election. As far as changing the charter, you can't even get two
referendums to the ballot. So, I don't think we're going to be discussing any referendums for the voters to even change the charter this election year. Um, but I get where you're coming from. Uh, we're not past, you know, we're so close to uh August
and the whole 120day rule. I think it'd be, you know, I don't know. That's my comment. Even if we gave 10 days or 20 days for people to submit resumes to us and >> is that what direction? >> No. No. If I said even if we did that,
it would still the time would be not until July. >> Yeah. Because we didn't do anything at the last one. Yeah. >> Nobody wanted to discuss it. So, we're here again. >> Did any other board members have comments on this? Commissioner Rich,
>> since I am running for reelection, I've been knocking a lot of doors. I'm surprised how many people are aware of the >> you know they discuss that >> what >> oh justice >> I'm just saying what they're saying is just let the voters decide >> oh in August
>> will >> he can comment on what his constituents are telling him >> but but you can state that you're running for reelection and stuff like that while you're sitting but he didn't I don't know that that is what he was doing >> not saying you're campaigning I just wanted clarification if you make
statements like that while we're sitting up here. >> If you're asking my opinion, my opinion is he was just commenting on what constituents are telling. >> Can you make a statement that you're running for reelection is what I'm >> um I don't know that he made a statement
that he was running for re-election. I think he made the statement that he was out campaigning and he heard from constituents tell him that >> he's up for reelection. Those were his verbatim words. I just I'm not trying to like throw shade or anything at you, Commissioner Rich. I just and I know you didn't do it in ill harm, but I wanted
clarification from legal if we're allowed to state that we're uh up for reelection or running for reelection or any statements along that >> it's our rules prohibit campaign materials in, you know, in the in the
chambers here and I don't think that crossed the line. >> Okay, that's all I wanted. So, thanks Commissioner Rich. Any other discussion regarding the seat and the empty uh commissioner goi? >> Okay, so two weeks ago um we could not
get a consensus to even look at the one applicant I did bring in. Um there've been a lot of talk of we should do this put it out to the community and again the same talk well if we did it now it's but that would be another two weeks. There's obviously no desire here to do
this and I do have an objection to when you said the voters will decide. They're going to decide then anyway. This was a temporary situation. It was not filling the seat permanently. Was to fill the seat until the election. So there's there's no desire to do that and I really have nothing else to say about
Thank you. >> Is there any public comment regarding this DND item at all? >> Welcome. Three minutes, please. Uh, congratulations, uh, Mayor.
Mayor Reid. Uh, put me in, coach. I'm ready to play. Well, that went over good. If there if there are no pressing issues in the next month or two that are coming up,
it's no big deal to go two on everything unless there's something really pressing that's going to be coming before you all. >> Yeah, it's not a it's not an issue to get a get a fifth person up here right now. >> All right. Thank you. >> Thank you for your comments. Any uh
other public comment? Seeing no further public comment or discussion or unfinished business, I'm going to close the meeting. >> Thank you for your service.