We'll call the uh Monday, April 13th, city commission meeting to order of Winter Haven. Uh can I get a roll call? City clerk. >> Yes, Mr. Mayor. Commissioner Davis >> here. >> Commissioner Dles here. >> Commissioner Birdong >> here. >> Mayor Prom Mercer >> here. >> And Mayor Yates
>> here. Okay, we've got invocation this evening. It'll be led by Father Paul Head of St. Paul's Episcopal Church. Please stand if people let us pray. Gracious God, we give you thanks for
this day, for this city, and for the people who call Winter Haven home. We thank you for those who have accepted the responsibility of public service and for all who work quietly each day for the good of this community.
Grant to these commissioners wisdom in their deliberations, clarity in their decisions, and charity in their disagreements. Give them patience when the work is difficult, humility when the issues are complex, and courage to do what is right
for the sake of all. Help us as a community to seek not only our own interests but also the welfare of our neighbors. Teach us to speak with honesty, to listen with respect, and to work together for the common good.
Bless this meeting and all that is done here tonight that it may serve the cause of justice, peace, and the flourishing of this city and guide us in all the ways of mercy, integrity, and hope. In
your holy name we pray. Amen. >> To the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all.
Good evening, honorable mayor and commissioners. We have one presentation this evening. It is a proclamation in recognition of Earth Day. Like to invite to the podium our public works director, Mrs. Britney Hart along with members of our natural resources team and the deputy city manager MJ Carnival will
present this proclamation. >> Good evening, mayor and city commissioners. Whereas Winter Haven, Florida is part of a global community that desires to take action to create positive environmental change. And whereas on April 22nd, 1970, approximately 20 million Americans came together to celebrate the first Earth
Day. And whereas Earth Day is now internationally observed on this date as sanctioned by the United Nations. And whereas the city of Winter Haven is committed to promoting science-based sustainable environmental practices. And whereas in working towards a sustainable future for our children, we must also provide them the necessary tools for
them to solve the environmental problems of the future. And whereas through constant friendly communication about environmental issues, citizens tend to be more creative, sensitive, experimental, and flexible in resolving the challenges faced. And whereas an International Earth Day can draw people together in appreciation of their mutual
home, planet Earth, and bring a global feeling of community through realization of our mutual dependence on each other. Now, therefore, William Brian Yates, mayor of the city of Winter Haven, Florida, does hereby proclaim April 22nd, 2026 as Earth Day in the city of Winter Haven, and urge all citizens to
support efforts of environmental lit literacy and contribute to a healthy and sustainable future. a witness whereof he is here to set his hand and cause the seal of the city of Laven, Florida to be affixed this 13th day of April, 2026. Signed, William B. Yates, mayor. Test
Vanessa Castillo, city clerk. Good evening, mayor and commissioners. Earth Day is a reminder that the work that we do every day, which is maintaining our water resources, protecting our lakes, and keeping our community clean, directly contributes to the quality of life for everyone who lives and calls Winter Haven home. We
will be celebrating Earth Day this year with the second annual Great Winter Haven Cleanup, which will be held on April 22nd, and we will be meeting at the Ruben Williams Sports Complex. This is a great opportunity for all of us to come together, give back, and make a visible difference in the community, and we hope that you would join us. We also
want to thank you for your contribute, your continued support in recognizing the importance of this work as we celebrate Earth Day this year. Thank you. Okay, we've got no developments of note this evening. We do have two sets of minutes submitted for approval for March
18th and March 23rd. City Commission, >> Mr. Mayor. >> Yes. Move approval of both sets of minutes. All right. Motion's been made for approval. Any further discussion on the minutes? Seeing none, all those in favor signify by saying I. >> I.
>> Oppose. Like sign. Motion carries. Comments from the audience. We do have one individual who signed up this evening. Generally, how we uh work this is that uh if you want to speak on a specific item, we'll ask you to come up at that
time. So, um, it'll be congruent to to the discussion. However, if there is anyone wishing to speak on a non-aggenda item, now's an opportunity for you to do that. Okay. Seeing none,
we will move on into the uh normally would be the ordinance for second readings and we have none of those. So, we've got the consent agenda. City commission. >> Mr. Mayor, >> yes. Move approval of the consent agenda in its entirety. Thank you very much.
We've got a motion for approval of the consent agenda. At this time, we'll close the public excuse me, close the commission meeting. Open the public hearing. Anyone wish to speak to any item on the consent agenda? Seeing none, we'll close the public
hearing, reopen the city commission meeting. Any further discussion on any items within the consent agenda? Seeing none, all those in favor signify by saying I. >> I oppose like sign. Motion carries. Resolutions. We've got one uh two
resolutions this evening. First up is resolution R26-12. City manager >> or city attorney, excuse me. >> Yes. Thank you, mayor. Uh first item of formal business in the days tonight mayor's resolution number R-26-12 a resolution confirming the acceptance of roadway pedestrian utility
improvements located within Lake Ruby Drive West providing for severability the administrative correction of scriers errors and providing for an effective date general location that portion of Lake Ruby Drive West lying south of Eloise Loop Road Thompson Nursery Road and east of County Road 653.
>> Thank you city manager. >> Thank you Mr. Mayor. PUD Ordinance 2339 required the developer TJS of Central Florida to construct roadway improvements from Eloise Loop Road, Thompson Nursery Road southward to the entrance of their proposed residential
development located south of Lake Ruby Drive west and north of Lake Hart. The ordinance also required the construction of an 8 foot wide multi-purpose trail from the terminance of terminus of the improved roadway westward to County Road
653. This is what is depicted upon the map shown on the monitors. Following Lake Ruby Drive West's transfer from Pulk County's ownership to the city in April of 2024, all improvements required
by PUD Ordinance 2339 were designed to the city's roadway and utility standards. Earlier this year, the developer completed the required improvements to Lake Ruby Drive West and is now requesting the city accept the constructed improvements.
Staff conducted inspections of the improvements and found them ready for formal acceptance by the city. The value of the improvements is approximately 2,390,000. Staff recommends the city commission approve resolution R26-12
and authorize the city manager or designate to take all necessary actions associated therewith. Thank you. >> Thank you. City commissioners, Mr. Mayor. >> Yes. Move approval of resolution R 2612. Okay, motion's been made. We'll close
the commission meeting, open the public hearing. We do have one individual who signed up to speak on this item. Um, Miss Linda Fe. Miss Fe, if you'll give your name and address for the record, and you'll have five minutes. Good evening. My name is Linda Fe. I
live at 3691 Plymouth Drive, Winter Haven that is in the uh community of traditions of Winter Haven. I am the vice president of the HOA board and I'm presenting to you today um some of our
concerns regarding the further development of the area. I'm glad to see that the picture is here. If you're looking at the uh picture that's on the screen right now, if you look at the beginning on Thompson Nursery Road, that little white spot up there in the right corner of that intersection is where
Publix is currently going up. Um, and everything on the right side of the north side of that Publix area is Traditions. On the south side of that block is ver the verandas. Going to the east is on the south side of Thompson
Nursery is the south side of traditions. We're the only community on Thompson Nursery Road that is split on both sides. Yes, we know that Thompson Nursery Road belongs to the county. But I'd like to point out today, my neighbors from traditions, if you'll
raise your hands, you probably haven't had this many people from a a community here at a meeting in a long time. These are our concerns tonight and we'd just like to address them with you. We love the development. Yes, we're glad that they made this road and of course the
road is there so that they can develop the 25 acres that are at the terminus of the road going south. The problem here is that as you said uh and I think T. Michael said when it was read that you approved multifamily housing back there
numbering over 500 units on that 25 acres on the west side of the road ending there. You also approved another 500 multifamily units. A thousand additional cars coming to that one intersection at
Thompson Nursery Road and Lake Ruby Drive. The kids coming to school, the school buses going down there. Everything dealing with construction is coming from the east side down Thompson Nursery Road through our intersection.
We've talked about this over the years. Our intersection has no stoplight, no traffic signal, no way for our residents to get from the south side to the north side. We've dealt with Mr. Jarvis. We've uh talked to county commissioners. It's
a death ear. I've come to you uh recently uh Mayor Yates, uh Commissioner Mercer, Commissioner Birdong, you sit on the transportation planning organization for Poke County. You're one of 20 uh three out of 25. We understand that we
have ongoing issues trying to get across the road. The county was so nice a couple of weeks ago to repaint the hashmarks on the west side of our intersection. Um, I put a a map there in the packet that you've received. That's it right there. Um, and if you look at
that, you'll see that the hash marks are on the left side of the intersection. And the hashmark goes from sidewalk to sidewalk. This is one thing we've battled with the county over the last five years as we've worked on the the road widening project for Thompson
Nursery Road. Their fear that golf carts are going to be on sidewalks. And here from Mr. Jarvis is the designation of a hashmark and Mr. Jarvis's set of roads and drainage for Poke County. He runs from sidewalk to sidewalk. We asked him
following the fact that a Poke County Sheriff deputy stopped one of our residents going from the south side to the north side, but they were using the east side of the intersection, not going across the hashmarks. I contacted Mr. Jarvis about adding hashmarks to the
right side. He said, "Absolutely not. We don't put two hash marks on a nonsalized intersection. Okay. So, what do we have? We have a non-salized intersection. We have a hashmark going sidewalk to
sidewalk. And the last suggestion, and I gave you the four emails that went between myself and our property manager. His last suggestion was that we put the golf carts on the sidewalk, take them through the pedestrian gates before they go out on Thompson Nursery Road across
uh to go across. Again, contradicting himself on using sidewalks and golf carts. We ask that you take another look at support, whether it's a letter from the entire city commission or whether it's those three of you that sit on the
planning board to help us address these issues. Finally, we're looking for a meaningful, safe solution to the residents. And I just did a double check before the meeting
started. Uh, we're all voters. You know, people often look at our community and think of snowbirds, but that's not the case. So, in closing, in closing, Mr. Jarvis and Rick Wilson met with us at Lake Ashton September of 25. And the the comment, and I quote
from Mr. Jarvis noting that somebody had to be killed at the intersection of Traditions and Thompson Nursery Road in order to consider a signal. Please don't put a human life as payment for a preventable solution. I thank you for your time and look forward to hearing
from you in the future. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Okay. >> Would anyone else like to speak to this item? State your name and address for the record. You have five minutes. >> Good evening everyone. My name is Charlene Anger. I live at 2713
at Waterloop and I am on the south side of traditions and I'm a very very concerned resident there right now. Um I've I've lived there since 2018 and it's a beautiful beautiful community. But right now, um, I own a golf cart as
many of our residents do. We spend a lot of money on them to make sure we are safe. But going across to the north side, because that's where all most of the amenities are, it can take me any time from 5 to 7 minutes. And even then, it's kind of like you don't know if
you're going to get hit because it's a 45 mph zone. And I tell you, if a cop sat there for one hour, he'd make his quota for the day. people go down there 60 and 70 miles an hour and I don't want to be the one to get hit or any of my
community residents because we're family there and we all just really care about where we are and we love it and we don't want somebody to get hurt as Linda said to in order to get a traffic light there. We really need it. We do have the golf cart sign and we have the hash
marks. I have yet to see one person slow down because you're sitting there to wait. I'm just a very concerned resident. Thank you for your time. >> Thank you. >> Anyone else wish to speak to this item? >> Okay, seeing none, we will uh close the
com close the public hearing, reopen the city commission meeting. Um I'll make a couple I've got a couple comments, but the problem is the The comments today have been about this issue and I totally get it. But we've
got one other issue here at hand. So what I'm going to ask to do is if there's any discussion from the commissioners on the particular item that we're voting on, let's have that now. We'll close that out and then we'll have discussion
on what was said tonight. So with that, is there any other discussion on R2612? Okay, seeing none, all those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. All those opposed like sign. Motion
carries. Okay. So, thank you for your comments tonight. Um, I know this commission I'm trying now. I'm going by memory here. So, I the last request was the the sidewalks and how the county was kind
of, you know, dictating, well, they it made sense to do this and and none of you agreed with that and we sided with you guys if I remember correctly and we all advocated for that um unfortunately to no avail. However, um on this particular item,
I don't know what the county's rule is on It seems to me like you could have hash marks on both sides. seems to me like you could put a a blinking light. Um, so I'll lean on my city staff for their thoughts on what was asked for and
then open it up for further discussion. >> So, thank you, Mr. Mayor, and Miss Fe and others. Thank you for coming out and sharing those concerns. I think we we obviously share similar concerns for pedestrian safety in that area. I don't know what the county's policies or
protocols are with hashmarked crossings and on multiple sides of a non-signalized intersection. I certainly wouldn't want to speak on their behalf. Um, you are correct that we communicated the commission's desire. I think it was to have a a a trail system in that
corridor that would accommodate pedestrians and carts and and that was uh was not favorably received or acted upon. Um, I think that, you know, from my perspective, and I'm not a traffic
engineer, but certainly as you have not just more traffic that comes about development along this road, um, from housing that's out there, but also as that road is improved long term and becomes a much more functional roadway. Um,
the the opportunity for improvements there seems like it would be apparent. Um, but I think that's a that's a discussion that has to be held with the county who's responsible for that road. Um, ideally I would love to see a signal there so that people can make lefthand
turns coming out of either side of that subdivision which if when Thompson Nursery develops to its full potential I think becomes an even greater concern. But I don't know where they are in that conversation or consideration with their design. So I think for us it would be to
follow back up with Mr. Jarvis and county staff explore that and see what their plans are for it. But I I don't think we can comment beyond that on their behalf. >> That that's kind of my thoughts as well. I I I I don't have any issue and I'll
ask the commissioners if they have any issue. Um but we don't know enough information yet. So I would ask for staff to reach back out to the county. Let's see if we can get some clarification on what those
rules are in place for hash mark hash marks on both sides on a non-salized intersection and let's see if we can get some comment from them as well on what the future plans for that intersection
are once the widening takes place. Uh once we have that, then we can determine if there's a letter of support or what direction we need to reply to the county. Do the the commissioners are you okay with that? Does that sound okay? Okay.
>> So, we'll we'll follow up with our county counterparts and get some clarification and then prepare something for the commission to consider in terms of forwarding on to uh county manager Beasley and staff. >> Perfect. Thank you. All right. Okay. Next resolution is R-26-13.
City attorney. >> Thank you, mayor. Resolution R26-13. The resolution confirming the acceptance of remaining improvements, infrastructure, and dedications in favor of the public, city of Winter Haven, as notated on that certain platit south, recorded in the office of the clerk of the circuit court in and for Pole County, Florida, in
platbook 211, pages 6 through 14, public records of P County, Florida, and authorizing the city manager to release the performance bond posted to guarantee completion of required improvements and infrastructure. General location, subdivision is generally located north of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard south of the Lake Smart Lake Fanny
Canal. >> Thank you. City attorney or city manager, excuse me. >> Thank you, sir. And again, for clarification from the other night, the commissioners, this these items normally don't come back to you anymore because of the change in the statutory guidance that we have for administrative review
and approval of these items, but this is one that started before that process came into play. Hence, it's coming back to close it out. I don't think there's going to be many more of these in the queue coming before you, but this certainly is one of them. So, back in December of 2024, the commission
approved resolution 2454 platting the Willowbrook South subdivision, which consists of 152 plus or minus acres and contains 234 building lots and 10 common lots. At the time of that platting, certain improvements were not completed. In accordance with the city of
Winterhaven Unified Land Development Code, the developer submitted a performance bond in the amount of 4,315,75045 to guarantee completion of all required infrastructure and improvements. While Willoughbrook South subdivision was
platted in as a singlephase subdivision, the developer chose to break the installation of required in infrastructure into two phases. In September of 25, the city commission approved resolution 2546 to accept those improvements, infrastructure, and
dedications associated with phase one and to accept a reduced performance bond in the amount of 3,132,415.76 to ensure completion of all remaining improvements and infrastructure associated with phase 2. Recent inspections by staff found all
remaining incomplete improvements associated with phase 2 are now complete and the water wastewater and reuse utilities can now be accepted by the city. The city will not be accepting maintenance responsibilities for the drainage infrastructure andor the internal road rights of way within this
subdivision. Staff recommends commission approve resolution R2613 and authorize city manager or designate to take necessary actions related there too. Thank you. Thank you. City commissioners, >> Mr. Mayor, >> yes.
>> Motion uh to approve R 26 13 and to give authorization to the city manager. >> Okay. Com motion's been made. We'll close the commission meeting, open the public hearing. Anyone wish to speak to
this item? Seeing none, we'll close the public hearing, reopen the city commission meeting. Any other questions or discussion on this item? Seeing none, all those in favor signify by saying I. I >> oppose like sign. Motion carries.
Okay, we've got ordinance first reading this evening. Uh there will be no vote. Uh we will vote on this item at the second reading which will be on the meeting of April 27th. However, city attorney, if you'll read by uh title only 0-26-10.
>> Thank you, mayor. This item is ordinance 0-26-10, an ordinance amending chapter 21 of the code of ordinances of the city of Winter Haven, Florida by reszoning two parcels from commercial highway C3 zoning district to mixed use MX zoning district providing for the administrative correction of scrier errors, repealing
all con, excuse me, repealing all ordinances in conflict here with providing an effective date. General location 120 and 124 Avenue H southeast. The area covered by this request is 0.30 plus or minus acres. This item is on for first reading tonight. >> Thank you.
>> All right. Any questions or discussions? Seeing none, >> do you want an overview of that item this evening, sir? >> Oh, I'm sorry. >> I was going to give you the rest of the night off, but if you want to go for it, >> city manager, >> mayor and commissioners, Langley G
request the city reszone two parcels from commercial highway C3 zoning district to mixeduse zoning district. contains two 50 foot wide parcels totaling 30 plus or minus acres. The eastern parcel contains a single family home constructed in 1932.
The western parcel is vacant and has been for at least 20 years. A review of historical zoning maps indicates the property properties had residential zoning through at least 1969. The city assigned commercial zoning at some point prior to 1999.
The current C3 zoning designation was assigned to the parcels in 2000. When C3 building setback requirements, C3 permitted uses, on-site parking requirements, storm water requirements, and landscape buffer requirements are
applied, it is highly unlikely these properties will be developed with a use permitted in the C3 zoning district. The petitioner proposes to construct a duplex on the vacant parcel which the MX zone zoning district permits and a single the single family home located at
124 Avenue H Southeast currently operates as a legal non-conforming use. Reszoning the property from C3 to MX would bring the existing single family residence into compliance as a permitted use. The maximum potential demand on public
infrastructure would be less than what is currently allowed within the current zoning uh district. All notification requirements for this request were met. Planning commission on May 3rd, 2026 voted to recommend approval of this
request. No members of the public spoke for or against the item. Based on the existing and proposed residential uses, the small lot dimensions, and the development requirements imposed by the C3 zoning district, the requested MX zoning district represents a more
appropriate zoning designation for these two parcels. The current C3 standards, including setbacks, parking requirements, storm water regulations, and buffering significantly limit the reasonable redevelopment potential of these small lots for a viable commercial use. In contrast, the MX district better
aligns with the historical residential pattern of the properties and supports reinvestment compatible with the surrounding area. Staff recommends the city commission move ordinance 02610 to second reading. Thank you. >> Thank you.
>> Okay. Uh again, no no vote on this this evening. However, is there anyone in the audience that wish to speak to this item? All right. Seeing none, we will move forward to 026-13. >> Thank you, Mayor.
Ordinance number 0-26-13, an ordinance of the city of Winterhaven, Florida, amending ordinance 0-25-29 regarding appropriation of funds for deferring expenses of the municipal government of the city of Winter Haven for fiscal year for the fiscal year commencing October 1, 2025, providing for severability and for the
administrative correction of scribers errors and providing for an effective date. Mayor, this item is on for first reading tonight. Thank you, city manager. >> Mayor and commissioners, this item actually pertains to an item that was on your consent agenda for the change order related to the parking lot at Chain of
Lakes Park. Um, as noted, the Fieldhouse Park Northwest parking lot has not been resurfaced in more than 20 years. Due to cost savings realized within the Chain of Lakes Park phase 2 project along with savings in the parks and recreation operating budget for the current year,
there is an opportunity to engage the existing contractor a lot of construction to complete the resurfacing while they remain mobilized on site. Upon doing so, this will complete a resurfacing or improvement to every uh area of asphalt within that entire
complex uh and certainly extend the life of of those facilities. Uh a budget amendment is required to authorize additional expenditures and the funding sources. The requesting amendment will transfer $110,000 from the general fund to the construction fund for the
proposed change order, which is a total amount of $29,914. The balance of that cost comes from savings within the chain of lakes park project. The uh transfer is a result of savings within parks and recre parks and grounds
budget, the aquatics budget, and the fieldhouse budget. The balance of the change order 99,914 is what I mentioned as being available from the chain of lakes phase 2 Rada contract. Staff recommends city commission move ordinance 02613 to
second reading at which time we'll ask for authorization for the city manager designate to sign all documents and take all necessary actions related there too. Thank you. >> Thank you commissioners. Any discussion on this item? Seeing none, anyone from the audience
wish to speak to this item? Seeing none, we will have a second uh reading and vote on April 27th. No new business. Uh city commissioner liaison reports. Start with Commissioner Davis. >> Sure. >> Um you know, it's been what few weeks
since our last meeting. We had that extra week in there. We had our our retreat. It was a wonderful retreat. Um really learned a lot from that. And I think our our conversation was very productive. And other than that, this is the first time we've been back since Easter, so I wish everyone a happy Easter. Um, and that's really all I got
tonight. >> Thank you, Commissioner Bird's song. Sorry. >> I know I'm a little off tonight. It's okay. We'll get there. We'll get through it. >> Um, not too many things. Uh, attended
the sunrise service at the park and, uh, it was a a very nice service and a beautiful gorgeous sunrise over Lake Silver. I mean, and the temperature was perfect. So, it was
uh and it was well well attended uh attended for a few minutes. The the bark in the park get didn't get a chance to judge the race. It's always the the the mayor is the one that actually judges the race. So, I had
to relent. Uh >> I was going to let you make the close call. >> To my reluctancy, I relented to the to the mayor. U But there were quite a few people out in the park, which is the dogs.
The park had really gone to the dogs. So, um that was good. Um The strategic planning u sessions were good as always and again hats off to our
city manager and staff uh continue to make uh things look good for us as a city commission and we do appreciate that. And uh finally just two other things. I had my CDC banquet and we had
a crowd of over 212 people at Noro Hall which was one of our largest crowds in recent years and uh it was very good. And finally, I'd like to say congratulations again to uh Reverend
Dolison on 34 years pastoring First Missionary Baptist Church. And that's it. Thank you, Commissioner Dawson. >> Well, good afternoon. I uh also equally enjoyed the uh strategic plan uh
retreat. Um very insightful, very informative. I I really uh just helpful to to really have those type of exercises so that uh we can fully appreciate, you know, really the scope of of uh and also just the vision
that we're moving in as a city. So, uh uh hats off to the city, uh staff and to our leadership for putting on a very very uh I think helpful retreat. the uh sunrise in the park as uh mentioned um
34 years ago actually I was uh one of the local pastors actually started that and uh I came on Easter actually and wasn't able to participate that year but I promised him that I would be there the
following year and we started the the sunrise in the park and we did it for a number of years and then uh leadership in the organization and they want to go inside and uh that didn't work out too well. Pastor uh Steve Nagley and I
decided we would try to reclaim that again and we came together uh two alliances actually came together the interfaith as well as the winter haven alliance and uh so for the last almost 20 years we have been uh championing the
uh sunrise in the park. I want to thank the city for are just uh Natalie uh for doing a wonderful job supporting us and uh making that what it has been over the past few years. So we appreciate a lot of people come out and really thank uh
uh many of us for just coming together. you know, we're so divided a lot of times on on Sundays. Our churches are, you know, it's not necessarily a a day of uh coming together for different groups, but uh when we
come together as a community to put on that service, I think it speaks volumes to uh the need for even more of those ecumenical uh type of services. Uh so again, thank you so much for that. the CDC banquet uh was very uh enjoyable. U
I want to thank uh Commissioner Bergong uh his leadership for the uh CDC. I remember when he actually started and uh he's really done some great work in the community with organization is really having a great impact uh in our
city and uh I'm excited about the things that they're planning and increasing uh in the years even to come. And as well as you mentioned that, you know, it is an honor to uh celebrate 34 years uh
pastoring the historic First Missionary Baptist Church. I have the privilege of privilege, excuse me, of uh being the longest serving pastor in the churches. So that is a blessing in of itself. So uh I'm grateful just to be here. God bless.
All right. Thank you very much, Mayor. Per Mercer. >> Um I attended the momentous plan strategic planning and it was um want to thank T. Michael and all the the staff for putting that
on and um that was a it keeps us focused and so I appreciate that. Um with all the things that we run around doing sometimes we forget to focus on some of those things. Um, also I attended the Ridge League meeting and I um with our
newest member here at the Ridge League, he forgot to tell you that. And I did the sunrise service. I was up high. I could see everybody. So, but it was a beautiful sunrise. So, it
was >> all right. Thank you. All right. Uh, couple things I'll I I saw you walking away. I thought you were going to come back because I was going to let you handle all the close calls at Bark in the Park. Like that's Bird
Song's decision there. But there were no really close calls this year. So it was it was a easy easy decisions. >> So that was a great event. I was honored to to finally partake and and be a judge in that. And um um that was neat thing
that we do down there that Main Street puts on for us. Um, I'll just say on the strategic planning part, yeah, it thank you to the staff, you know, for putting that on, uh, being prepared,
um, getting the ducks in the row and, um, you know, I I'll say it, you know, in order to to live differently, you got to do things a little differently sometimes. And I think Winter Haven does that, and we accomplish that through things like the strategic planning uh,
session. um you've got to take a step back to see where you've come from, you know, what what has come forth from from the decisions made and um try to adjust those decisions if needed going forward. So, uh I appreciate that we do that and
I hope that this future commissions and and uh continue to to embrace and support that um that measure. I attended the uh Ridge League of Cities dinner as well. That's why I couldn't be at the the CDC dinner. I never win
anything at the auction anyways. Everybody out bids me. So, um was glad to be at the RLC dinner. Uh the presentation was on uh social media and how to respond and how not to respond. So, obviously over the past weekend, I need to go back and watch that
presentation one more time, but we'll get there. We'll figure it out. Um that was a joke. Nobody laughed. That's okay. Not even Katrina laugh. All right, whatever. I'll move on. Um,
so with that, uh, we'll that's it. That's all I've got. Oh, Easter. So, I wasn't I was at the second most beautiful city in the country. Um, behind Winter Haven, of course. I was got lucky and got a friend invited me to be up at Augusta, Georgia for Easter.
So, that was that was cool. So, hated to miss the events here, but Um, I knew you all had it under control, >> you know. All right, with that, uh, anyways, um, city attorney, >> nothing to report tonight, mayor. Thank
you. >> All right, city manager. >> Couple things for you this evening, mayor and commissioners, I'd like to start off with our discussion on grant nade uh application review committee direction. Ask Miss Hill if she'll come to the podium and give you an update.
Also want to recognize Linda Caligritus is with us in the back. She's a member of your grant and aid application review committee. Uh had a couple of them at at meetings recently. So um she'll hear firsthand what what direction you give us this evening. I think Katrina sent something to you this afternoon that was
at the request of Commissioner Birdong. Uh just a little analysis on numbers from last year. So ask her to update you on that. And then uh just getting that direction from you on I think there's I've got three questions. I think that
come into play this evening. How do you want to deal with um schools and foundations? We left that conversation Wednesday night with some direction, but I think we need action on that this evening. what is your intent for funding
in terms of the uh your legacy agencies and all others, what that dollar amount looks like, and then are there any areas of specific focus that you would like us to pass on to the committee as they're doing their review. So Katrina, I'll
turn it over to you at this point. >> Thank you. Um, first I am happy to announce that everybody got their required documents in before 5:00 PM on Friday at the deadline. So all of the applicants will be moved forward. Um,
the dollar amounts that we provided in the update last week with a total request of 601833 is correct. When we did our final reconciliation today, there are actually 58 agencies, not 57, but we've got 58 complete applications.
Um, Commissioner Birdong had asked how much of the dollar amount was from returning applicants. So, including your legacy and your returning applicants, 497700 of that 601 is returning. 104133 is from
brand new applicants. So, I don't know what else we can provide you at this point. We I think we gave you a chart when we presented last that gave you an indication of who all was there and some uh summaries of those
that received funding the year prior, what they uh had requested this year, also identifying which are the new agencies, and then it also indicates those that were prior recipients that did not apply this year. But as Miss Hill pointed out, 58 applications um
that met the criteria that that came through and and we vetted all those out, did the sufficiency reviews on them, worked with them to make sure that they were good to be reviewed by the committee. Total requests $61,833.
Compared to last year, total funding was our current budget year that we're in was 347,76 $761. That's the amount that is budgeted in the current year. The delta between what
was requested for fiscal year 27 and what was funded this year is a difference of about $254,000. So >> okay I think the first thing we'll tackle is um is the uh schools and found
um foundations >> foundations colleges. >> So um well not necessarily colleges could be any foundation under under that bucket but >> um I think we had some brief discussion on that Wednesday night. Um I I personally don't see how we can um allow
for schools and foundations after we've already set that precedent in years past. So if there's any Do you want an official motion or do you want a head nod? >> I think if we can get that as a as a consensus, I think that will suffice at this time
for us. >> Is there a consensus to exclude foundations and schools? >> Yes. Looks like you got it. >> Thank you. >> All right. Next up, um, did we want to talk about budget tonight
or or where we're at with how much we want to set aside for this? >> We're going to need to know that because your committee when they convene and and really it's two questions, mayor and commissioners. It's >> what's and you choose how you want to approach this. The question comes up if
you have six agencies that are the what we call legacy agencies that historically have been funded um at a a slightly higher level. Boys and Girls Club, Girls, Inc., Meals on Wheels, Public Education Partnership, the Haley
Center, and the Neighborhood Service Center. Those requests from those agencies are consistent with what they've been funded at at the past at combined $145,000. So
my question is the 145,000 um that's what they requested and that's what's that 145,000 uh it's not a part of the 352 I
understand that. So but uh is it a it's a part of the 497 right? >> Yes. >> Okay. So >> yes, and it was part sorry to interrupt you commissioner, but if you look at what was funded this current year at
347,761 >> $145,000 of that went to those agencies. That left a balance of $22,761 that was uh dispersed amongst the other agencies. >> Okay. So the 145,000
that's there this time, that's basically the same as we gave them last year. >> It's exactly the same amount. Yes, sir. >> Mr. Mayor, I'd like to see those just remain. >> I guess the question is
>> Sorry, I guess Commissioner Davis, he wanted to >> um do these organizations also apply for that? Do they request that funding or is it just kind of expected as a given >> they go through the same process as all the others. So they give us a a mid-year report and an end ofear report and they go through the full application process
including training. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Yeah. I think part of that discussion we had some time ago was whether or not uh we would just maintain or how how can you actually get into that status or
would anyone else be able to move up into that status? Um, and I guess also and I'm assuming the committee looking at those legacies that they maintain a certain level or standard that we know some of those organizations have been
longstanding in the community, but we also have others as well. Um, and then we know that from what you shared that the beginning amount that the most they can receive would be 5,000 for for the new applicants. Is that correct? >> That is correct. And uh on average, I
think we were looking at most agencies uh slight on that scale. The lowest amount was what? $2,000 >> last year. >> Yes. >> I believe the lowest amount was 2500
last year. >> 2500. >> Yes, sir. >> So that's kind of the kind of the the lowest amount >> and that was based upon 70 some odd applications last year. >> So, >> there were se there were 76
um sorry there 76 applications. They made 44 awards last year because they had some that they pulled out that were schools and foundations as I recall. >> Yeah. I I guess my question is, you know, whether or not those that are legacy
and will remain as such in perpetuity or or are we revisiting that or looking at that from time to time to consider whether or not uh anyone else would be moved into that category uh or or are we giving at that level
that for the most part they are actually receiving uh which is what is similar to those in the legacy and I The largest of course is the Boys and Girls Club that we've been funding at that pretty much at that level. And then whether or not
there's any uh thought of increasing in those areas as well or have there been any increases in those in the legacy? >> There has not been increases in those, Commissioner Dles. Um and they are the
only one that exceeds the maximum threshold. Boys and Girls Club. The others are funded or their request and their prior funding has been at the $20,000 level. That is also the maximum
that a returning agency can qualify for. So none of these are receiving any foundation funds. Is that what you're saying? None of these organizations I don't if if they're getting money from a foundation, say public's charities or something like
that. I'm sure that there there are opportunities that they're getting funding from other sources. But when we look at foundations, we are not the commission last year and what you you agreed to just this evening through your your consensus was that if a foundation
specifically was coming asking for money to receive as a foundation to then turn around and give to others or to a different program. We don't do that. >> Gotcha. >> But likely um well certainly I can use
uh uh Boys and Girls Club. I think that they they received money from public's charities. I think um Girls, Inc. and and Girls and Boys and Girls Club received money from United Way of Central Florida. Obviously, when you're talking about a $20,000 grant from the
city, that's a a very small piece of what their total operating costs are. So, they probably have multiple uh grant sources that they go after. Meals on Wheels, I would say the same thing. I can't speak to what any of their specific revenue streams um are, what
percentages or dollar values they receive. >> Commissioner News. >> Yeah. Um we we refer to these as legacy projects. How how many years have we been funding them? What what >> gosh made them legacy? I would say
with the exception of PEP which came about in the 2000 as a lot of these go back in 30 plus years >> except for the Haley center >> Haley center is a newer one probably within the past 10 to 15 years.
>> Okay. Um and then u forgive me I'm I'm still trying to figure this process out. What what are the next steps? you referred to the um the advisory committee or review committee. >> So what will happen once we have a budget from a number to work from that
committee will get their uh their binders or their electronic files that have all the applications? I don't have those gone out yet, Katrina? >> No, they get them next Friday. >> Next Friday. >> We're working on them. Y >> So we compile all of that and they go through every application. Um, some of
them that want to know more about agencies that maybe are new to the process or that they're not as familiar with, they'll go out and visit them, try and understand what their their program is and who they're serving just to be more informed as an individual committee
member. They don't do that as a group. It' be a sunshine violation to to do such. Um, so they go out and and gather as much information and intel as they can. They will convene for their two meetings that are here in at the dis in
May and they'll go through every one of the 58 applications as a group and share insights. Um, we ask for a representative uh to be available to the the committee to answer questions they
may have and they basically go through all of them and figure out how much money they have, who's getting what and make that recommendation back to the commission that we'll bring to you. Typically, if we can't get it done in in late May at your second meeting, it's going to come to you at your first meeting in June. And that is simply a
recommendation for you all to act on at that point. And I think there has been in years past the committee has brought forward their recommendation and the commission has actually increase that. I think two years ago we had a couple
agencies that didn't have um didn't meet some of the requirements and the commission uh took favorable consideration of that and and gave some funding to those. That's why we came about doing the sufficiency review for so we didn't put the commission in that
situation again. >> Would the uh committee do they consider recommending to us either more or less with these legacy funds or are we just deciding now we're done? They >> they go off of if there's if there's direction from the um the commission on
how you want those six funded, they take that as the direction on that. >> Okay. Um, I'm I'm I don't feel prepared yet to make a decision on that. I'd like to see some more information from them and know how the funds are used, what their budgets are. Um, I'd like to learn a little bit more before I can just
rubber stamp that. Uh, but I a couple more questions of the uh the committee who who's made up on the on the committee. How many members? >> It's a five member committee. Um, so you have chair Alex Santiago, uh, Melinda Caligritus is here, Tina
Summerland, we have Abdul Al Katib, >> David Barry, >> and David. Yes, our newest member, David from the mission. >> And who who appoints them? >> You all do. >> Oh, okay. >> Okay. So, maybe next year. Um, now, do
any of these folks have any kind of conflicts with these organizations? Are they sit on the boards? Are they affiliated with them in any way? On occasion, we do have that and we we're actually in the process right now. Assistant city attorney Drew Crawford is
putting all of our boards and committees through their annual sunshine training. You want to speak to that? >> Happy to. Yeah. Thank you so much, Commissioner, for asking the question. The these things can be incredibly specific at times. Um, but one of the things we're trying to do to make sure all of our appointed members are aware
that anytime whenever there's a special private gain or loss to and it can be a number of different situations, mostly money, sometimes property, those kinds of things. Uh there could be potential for a voting conflict. Uh there could also be potential for a participation
conflict. And so we're raising those issues with our appointed members so they're aware of them, they understand them and know what they need to do in order to either participate in the discussion if they have a conflict. Certainly if they need to abstain from voting because of a voting conflict. >> Okay. Do they uh they file disclosures
and all that? >> They do. They do. Yeah. In the appointed realm, you can either do one of two things. If you have a participation conflict, which is really the same as a voting conflict, you would need to either file some kind of written memorandum ahead of time to let your fellow commissioners know you have a
conflict. What most likely happens though is you orally state that at the meeting. It's, hey guys, I have a conflict here. I need to make sure that I'm that y'all are aware of that before I participate in discussion. Um, now that's separate and apart from the voting conflict. If a voting conflict exists, you will always have a voting
conflict. you would need to file the same memorandum that you would in the you had a voting conflict. >> Okay. And that would apply for us as well on the commission. >> It it does it does those are those are very fact specific scenarios though and and so we we would need to look at the exact circumstances of the question
before you in order to determine whether you would have a conflict. You you as elected officials normally would never have a participation conflict but you but you may have a voting conflict. >> Right. Um yeah, because uh chapter 112,
as you know, is pretty specific about um you know, the misuse of our positions and trying to uh seek a gain, whether it be to our entity or um you know, something we're affiliated with. And and I just want to make sure I I actually am
not a big fan of these kinds of grants uh with tax dollars because I think they're too fraught for for conflicts. Um, I I will be very conservative in the amount that I would recommend that we spend on them and I will be scrutinizing the applicants as best I can. I'd like as much information as I can on
everything. >> When we have the applicant binders prepared, there's will be one that's available uh for the commission to review. We always place that in the in your mail room here so you have access to that. We can certainly send those to
you as well. Um, that's what we provide to your committee. That's what they'll review when they bring that forward to you. >> Great. Thank you. >> And one of the things just to give you a little maybe a little further comfort. Um you know the the voting conflict that
question comes up whether it's with this committee or any other committee um on on a I don't want to say a regular occasion but it's not infrequent. Um, one of the questions that we will pose to all of our committee members at the beginning of that is simply that does
anybody have the affiliation or a affiliation with any of these entities that are applying. They don't know who applies until they get the binder. So, um, putting that out and um, I anticipate that this year for the first time we'll also have legal counsel here
to answer those specific questions and help guide that discussion. >> Yep. And mayor, if I may, just to follow up on the manager's comments, you know, the chapter 112 questions you mentioned, commissioner, those deal primarily with whether there is a prohibition of
entering into the agreement. Uh, and so there's a number of different ethics opinions that the commission on ethics has issued. The these things can get, as I mentioned earlier, extremely fact specific. So we are happy to participate and happy to help sort those issues out whenever they potential of them arises.
>> Thank you. >> Yes, sir. Commissioner Mercer. >> Yes. Um since we've seen a significant growth in the applications and in the funding side of this request. Um and at
the same time the city is preparing for maybe reduced state funding or abilorum taxes revenues. Um so I think we need to manage this program
um with some financial constraints um and so that remains strong for the years to come if we plan on keeping it and can provide um that sustainability.
uh I don't want to see it go away or large cuts to it because we don't have the funding uh available. Um so I think maybe one of the things we may have to do or may have to look at in
the future is what is the greatest impact? Um is it food security? Is it shelter, medical access, support for children, seniors, and our most vulnerable residents? So, um I think we
need to look at those that and the measurable outcomes of some of these programs maybe in the in the future. We're little late now, but I don't think I think we have to be reasonable in that increase. We have to provide the residents that we are doing our best to
control some of this and um it can't be um double you know what it was last year. So that's my feeling on it. So, I think my thoughts are um
so I've made this comment before regarding the legacy agencies and I'll I'll make it again. You know, I think that the legacy agencies need a specific bucket. Now, maybe that 145,000 comes out of the 347 and it reduces the
overall budget that way. Um maybe you increase the overall. I'm not calling for that one way or the other. I'm just stating the legacy projects are there because they are, and not to disparage any other entity that's
applied, but they are the tried andrue entities that we've dealt with for years if not decades. And for example, to to kind of solidify that point, if the committee came back and they said, you know, we want to give
uh we know 45,000 was requested by Boys and Girls Club, we're going to give them 20,000. And they came back and they said, you know what, Meals on Wheels, they asked for 20. We're not going to give them anything this year. I'd be willing to bet my entire
commission salary, which isn't very much, that we are not going to allow that as a commission. we would come back and say, "No, these are important to our community and they need to be funded." I mean, boys, that Meals on Wheels was a prime example
just a couple years ago. They they missed the deadline and the commission came together and said, "No, Meals on Wheels is a valuable asset to this community. They provide meals to to the people who need them. They need to be funded." So that again is why I just
think that the legacy agencies, we need to call the spade a spade and they need a specific bucket of money to work from. Then if we want to have a remaining budget for the rest of the um applicants, that's fine. And the
committee can make those recommendations and they can make a recommendation that exceeds the budget and we can approve that or we can turn that down. Um that that's my my feeling on on the
legacy piece of it. And you know I I get the fact that yes, the legislature is saying, "Well, we're going to get rid of your property taxes. Maybe they will, maybe they won't." Bottom line is they haven't yet. And we're not working on a budget that would be impacted by those
property taxes going away yet. We're we're here. that if if they voted if the if they put that on the ballot and the voter voted no on November, that's not happening until, you know, at least a year out. Um, so I, you know, it
gives me a little heartburn to say, well, let's, you know, let's pull back or because this might happen or that might happen. This, this is where we're at now. I can promise you if property taxes are cut out of the state of Florida, we're going to come up here and have a whole lot of more discussions on
how are we funding this, what goes away, this goes away, that goes away. And those those are just discussions that I think come at a later day, not on a on a whatif. Um, not sure if that gave any clarity as to
what the overall budget should be because I think you got one one far over here, you got one in the middle, and you got one on the far far left. So, I I don't know that uh that we're going to get to a consensus tonight. So, if we don't get it to a consensus tonight,
then I would say that you you move forward with the last year's budget and make the decisions there. And and then >> I don't think we have an issue with the legacy or I don't have >> Well, that's what I'm saying is and that and that's why I'm >> but I'm saying the newer ones, you know, I think some of those have to be
definitely looked at seriously. >> So why don't we just go ahead and commit 145,000 to the legacy. >> That's okay with me. >> And reduce the 347, >> right? >> And say this is the money you've got to work with. If that's the consensus of the commission, we can take them and give
that to the direction to the committee. Again, when it comes back to you all, you can make if you want to cut them further or increase them further, you've got the certainly the authority and power to do so, but it gives them a chance to at least >> carry out their mission. >> You know, I I think it's it's important
to do as much as we're able to do. I uh you know, as one who worked and has worked in in some of these areas and and I'm aware of many of these organizations, um this is an aid or a help to many of them. They don't they don't just necessarily survive on this. You know,
they're not perhaps going to go away if they don't receive it, but is a benefit or a blessing to those organizations that are trying to do some good work in our city. And it's a benefit to the city because we can't do all of this. So we got organizations that are basically
putting themselves out there willing to do it. And I think at least we can, you know, uh, as leaders say, hey, this is important in our community. There are people who are desperate need of of these services and these people are willing to provide
it and even at their own personal costs and organizations as well. And uh, so I I want to be on the side of of saying let's do more. I'm not I'm not I'm not definitely looking to do less. I think that we're blessed. Uh our city is
growing. Uh needs are even uh I think even more imperative now. Uh we're dealing with a lot of issues uh with reportability for a lot of people. Gas prices are high. Other things that are going on that we all are aware of. Uh sometimes we got to think about those
who are on the margin and that's that's who they're speaking to. That's who they're really dealing with. a lot of people who are on the margin. And so, uh, and I'm always going to be a champion for those who who are, uh, in that group because I think that, uh,
that's what we're called to do. And I think that speaks well of us as a as a board as well as a, uh, as a city itself. So, um, I definitely don't want to cut anybody. I want to see us, you know, try to do what we can to, you
know, make it happen and, uh, keep these things as viable as possible. So, I I I'll get to Commissioner Mercer just Commissioner Davis one second. Um, so I I mentioned this before and I got lost
laughed off the stage up here, but you know, if we set 145,000 up for legacy and you had 347 set aside specifically for all the other You say, "Well, where where would we get the other $145,000 from?" I mean, I
there's $30 million in a reserve fund right now that's earning what 3% probably. That's about $900,000 a year that's not budgeted. I don't believe we budget on on gain interest gain. So, I mean, the money's there if if the if the
commission wants to use it for that purpose. So, I I would still stand by that. But, you know, again, I got laughed off the stage last time I mentioned it. So, >> with that, Commissioner Davis, >> um, do we have any parameters on what
this money can be spent on? I know at the state you can't request money that would go towards salaries or any kind of compensation. Do we have the same kind of limitations here? >> We do not. We ask them to outline exactly what they're going to spend it on in their proposal and in their the way that they break down the budget. It
would show us that. Um, so it can certainly be a factor that's considered when the um, applications are reviewed, but we don't strictly have any guidelines on that. >> All right. Thank you. I'll be looking very carefully. >> So, let me let me ask let me make sure
real clear. Okay. So, if we >> Okay. So last year we gave out uh 352,000 >> 34761 >> 347 >> 71 and that included the legacies.
>> Yes sir. >> Yes. So, a breakdown of that again, $145,000 went to the six agencies I mentioned. That left the balance of $22,761 that went to the other agencies. >> So, 202 and so
the uh if we if we looked at the agencies that we funded last year at the same level, what would that come to? We fund them at the same level they were at last year.
>> 2761. >> Well, I don't know that I'm prepared to >> I'm sorry. >> Run that number for you because not everybody that applied last year and was funded came back this year. >> No, no, no. I'm saying the one if if we just I was trying to look at the figure
that the agencies that were funded last year, if we funded them at that same level, what would that amount be? in including the legacy applicants or not including >> not including the legacy. >> So not including the legacy applicants.
Your returning applicants requested 372700. >> I understand that. But I'm saying what did we give those returning? I'm sorry. >> It would be like 2027, right? I mean it' be 14. >> No, because they didn't all reapply. But
I can tell you give me just a second. You have the spreadsheet. >> Well, yeah. I I mean I don't >> it'd be it'd be no greater than 202761. You just if you think look back at the chart we gave you the other night. It's everything that's in yellow on that
chart. Um I mean I can >> it's 169261 >> 169261 >> which is uh less than the 202 >> 200 because some did not return >> right >> so if if I'm just
you know I'm just looking at some simple math uh if we did the legacies and funded everybody else the returning their level. We still would have what about 2021 169
>> about 33,000 >> about 33,000 for the new agencies? 335. >> 335. >> Do you recall what the percentage increase was that we increased last year? Was it 10%?
>> I think it was 10% if I'm not mistaken. >> Overall, >> yeah, that's how we got to the 347. >> That' make it easy. >> So, increase the 347 to 10% and and set the legacies in their own bucket. Yeah,
>> works. >> And that that again is just giving them guidance. It's not saying >> that we're going to move forward with this. We can still go back and reduce it, but that's just giving the committee guidance to move forward with. >> Yeah, I'm I'm fine with that. Um I'll have time to do some due diligence
before them, so that's fine. So that would set your total funding for all applications at $382,537. >> 382 >> 382537 >> minus the 145 for legacy.
>> Back out the 145 and you've got whatever that number is. >> Okay. And just just for Chad's uh Commissioner Davis's benefit, uh there have been times
where we actually reduce the legacies by 50%. Because of the economic challenges that we were facing with with the budget. So we we we did do that.
>> And what this potentially does, It makes it more of a percentage across the board decrease. If if the committee comes with us with this one thing and then we feel differently, then it it's probably easier to say let's decrease every what
what their recommendation by X percent was. They do come in under budget sometimes. Haven't seen it very often, but it is possible. Then come in over budget, too. Um, so I think you've got your guidance uh from us on this and
with a caveat they're welcome to come in under budget. >> Okay, so let me just run these numbers here for you real quick. So your budget is 382 537 with 145,000
for those agencies that we mentioned. That leaves a a a funding level of $237,537 that they'll have to work with to consider new applications. And as you said, if they come in less than that,
Miss Calgreas, you can help me reiterate that to your committee members that that's the direction. The last um question I would have for you all, and this is this is probably just as hard, is is there any specific area
of service that you're most interested in seeing dollars go towards? >> For for me, it's kids. That's getting them fed, getting them housed, getting them a good structure. That's
that's for me number one. And I agree with that and the elderly. >> Well, and for the homeless, you know, and u I know uh Barry's on the committee
and I think he was in this at one the mission was in here one time. He came out of it and u but I think that uh in that situation. We're dealing with children of course
uh throughout P County particularly here in Winter Haven because we do have a number of children who are homeless and uh you know what you look for example Kid Pack for example is one of those you
know feeding kids u there are a lot of other organizations that partner with schools to help children u that don't even apply for this stuff. Y'all know that, too. And uh but these are just some that that we are at least come forward to ask for some
assistance, some help. I I don't know if one group is is is really more important than another one. I think all of them are important. So, I mean, it's kind of hard for me to to make that determination sometimes. I think that uh you know if you're an elderly person and you need food or child that needs food,
you know, do what you can do. >> And for me, it's it's not a particular topic. It's going to be the organizations that seem to be the most fiscally responsible. Um I I trust the committee to look through all of that to
make some judgment calls on who they think is using the money the best and making sure that it's having the most impact, most return on investment. So that would be my guidance. >> Thank you. >> Okay.
Thank you. That's one of the toughest toughest conversations we have all year trying to figure that out. appreciation to Katrina uh for uh all the work that you have really put into this to really help uh help those organizations one be
in compliance and uh to you know so they can at least you know be eligible to be funded and uh and and I think it's important that you know you've taken that effort and that time to do that because you understand the importance of what they're trying to
do. So, I appreciate you for doing that. Thank you so much. >> Thank you, sir. And I will definitely pass that along to my team who spent a lot of hours on this as well. >> Thank you. The whole team. >> Last item I have for you, commissioners. Um, you may see some construction
occurring downtown in the area of South Central Park. Um, this is the culmination of a significant gift to the citizens of Winter Haven today and for many years to come from Mr. Tom Ult. Uh,
it's my understanding. I'm going to look to Andy. The carolon is being delivered tomorrow and will be installed in that um work you see in South Central Park and we'll probably be playing music before we know it. And so just something
to watch for. We'll have quite a bit of activity down around South Central Park tomorrow and some closure of some parking spaces so they can safely install that uh that artwork. So something exciting and to be celebrated here in the very near future.
>> Completion wise, you think? >> Andy, when do you think we'll be you come to the podium when we'll be completed with everything at that site? Uh completion is slated for about middle May and the Carolon may be ringing.
You may hear it testing tomorrow even. So >> cool. >> Oh wow. >> Andy, what's the uh size of that thing? >> It's about 24 feet high and it has 24
bells. as a just I think it's two two notes shy of of two octaves. >> Is it is it somehow protected in some way from vandalism or or >> Yes, the uh the structure that it's being built around it is about a five
foot um it's meant to be a decorative 5 foot fence a barrier and the lowest bell is about 9 ft off the ground. >> Oh, okay. So it it and that's all contained within that uh small footprint of where the uh the decorative fence is.
And then the panels that have the controller will be locked and and are are weatherproof and uh very hardy. >> Is that remote? >> Uh the panels are in South Central Park. It actually has uh several um pre um it
has a large a large uh catalog of different um hymns or or songs that could be played. We're we're going to learn that tomorrow. So, and >> can we test it out with the war chant? >> Pardon me? >> The war chant.
>> I don't know. >> See if that's in the catalog. >> Okay. The other things that we need to work out, commissioners, and this is again something brand new to us, is the timing, when that plays, how often it plays. Certainly, um, you don't want that going
off at 2:00 in the morning. Um, but during the day, what's the cycle of that so that it's attractive and it it draws people's attention without being every half hour you hear it going off because
then that gets lost. Is there thoughts on what that >> We're still discussing that >> lunch time. >> So, is it necessary that it would have to go 24 hours? >> No, it would not go 24 hours. Uh, no no offense to no offense to my my my clergy
folk, but I live right next door to a church that has bells that go off. Um, I think what we'll be looking at is nothing earlier than 9:00 a.m. and nothing really past sunset. uh just being consist considerate of
those that are uh residential in that area and certainly the opportunity to adjust that when we have special events and stuff. Um and and likely not every hour on the hour either because you in downtown Winter Haven every hour on the
hour you're going to hear a number of different bells going off and it just gets lost within that. So >> but I'm assuming the volume can be controlled. Is that correct? These are bells like at B tower like a small Carolon version. So it's when the
bell is clapped it's uh it's clapped. >> There's not there's not much of a bite. >> There's no soft touch. >> I don't believe there is. But again we'll >> So that's all I have this evening. Thank you. >> I can't wait to see it.
seen a picture of it. I've seen a picture, but I'm excited. This be really cool. >> Deputy city manager. >> Nothing this evening, sir. Thank you. >> City clerk. >> Nothing this evening. >> Deputy city clerk not here. >> All right. With that,
>> we'll uh we'll adjourn. So move. All right, Bill's loving me.