Be HOWEMNTHEHULS Town Council Meeting January 27, 2025 at 6:00 PM Howey-in the-Hills Town Hall 101 N. Palm Ave., Howey-in-the-Hils, FL34737 MINUTES Mayor Wells called the Town Council Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Mayor Wells led the attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance to1 the Flag. Councilor Reneé Lannamai delivered an invocation. ROLLCALL Acknowledgement of Quorum MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Graham Wells STAFF PRESENT: Mayor Pro Tem Tim Everline I Councilor. Jon Arnold I Councilor Reneé Lannaman Councilor David Miles] Sean O'Keefe, Town Manager/ Tom Wilkes, Town Attorney Morgan Cates, Public Services Director Rick Thomas, Police Chief] John Brock, Deputy Town Manager/Town Clerk AGENDA/ APPROVALREVIEW Motion made by Councilor Miles to approve the meeting's agenda; seconded by Councilor Lannaman. Yea: Mayor Pro Tem Everline, Councilor Arold, Councilor Lannaman, Councilor Miles, Mayor Wells Motion approved unanimously by voice vote. Voting Nay: None CONSENT AGENDA Routine items are, placed on the Consent Agenda to expedite the meeting. IfTown CouncilSiffwish to discuss any item, the procedure is as follows: (1)1 Pull the item(s), from the Consent Agenda; (2) Vote on the remaining 1. The approval of the minutes and ratification and confirmation ofa all Town Council actions at the 2. The approval of the minutes and ratification and confirmation ofa all Town Council actions at the 3. The approval of the minutes and ratification and confirmation ofa all' Town Council actions at the item(s); and (3). Discuss each pulled item and vote. November: 25, 2024, Town Council Meeting. December 09, 2024, Town Council Meeting. January 13, 2025, Town Council Meeting. 1Page 4. Consideration and Approval: Resolution 2025-001 -] Rules of Order Mayor Wells explained that there were two changes in the. January 13, 2025, Town Council Minutes. The first change was that CouncilorLamnamai. wasi incorrectly listed as attending the meeting remotely via Zoom, when in fact shel had attending the meeting inj person. The second change dealt with the fact that Mayor Wells had asked the Town Clerk to add more information about the Library Directors introduction as thel beginning oft the meeting. The Town Clerk had made both ofthose changes and had added the revised minutes to the meeting packet. Motion made by Councilor Miles to approve the Consent Agenda; seconded by Councilor Arnold. Motion Yea: Mayor Pro Tem Everline, Councilor Amold, Councilor Lannaman, Councilor Miles, Mayor Wells approved unanimously by roll call vote. Voting Nay: None PUBLICI HEARING 5. Discussion: Community Development Block Grant - Disaster Recovery (CDBG-I DR) Application Mayor Graham Wells opened the public hearing regarding the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) application for funding. Town Manager, Sean O'Keefe, introduced Public Services Director, Morgan Cates, to provide details on the grant application. Mr. Cates explained that the Town had previously applied for FEMA and FDEM grants to fund two lift station bypass generators. While the first lift station project has received its contract, the second is still awaiting finalization despite approval. The CDBG-DR grant, administered through Florida Commerce, would cover the' Town's25% funding share required for thel FEMA grant, effectively reducing the Councilor Miles inquired about the legality of using federal CDBG-DR funds to cover the local share of another: federal grant. Mr. Cates and Mr. O'Keefe confirmed that the CDBG-DR program was designed fori this purpose, with application forms specifically requesting details on. FEMA funding. Town Attorney, Tom Wilkes, added that Congress likely established the program to backfill funding gapsi in Councilor Miles also questioned the cost disparity between the two lift stations, noting that Lift Station #2's] project was significantly higher. Mr. Cates explained that additional funds were requested to replace outdated pumps at the second station, which were difficult to maintain and repair. Discussion continued regarding the long-term viability of the upgrades, with Mr. Cates confirming that, once completed, the lift stations would have reliable, on-site backup generators to operate during power for Funding Town's cost for both projects from $339,334 to zero. FEMA projects. outages. Mayor Wells opened Public Comment for this item only. attempting to get this grant for the Town. and that this grant was a good idea for1 the Town. Tom Ballou, 1005 N. Tangerine Ave. - Mr. Ballou thanked the Town'ss staff for their diligent work in Marie V. Gallelli, 1104' Tangerine Ave. - Mrs. Gallelli thanked the Town's staff fori their hard work, Martha! MacFarlane, 63 Camino Real - Former Mayor, Mrs. MacFarlane, raised concerns about Howey-in-the-Hills eligibility for CDBG funding, noting that previous applications were denied due to 2/Page insufficient public input and income-level disqualifications. Mr. O'Keefe explained that this particular CDBG-DR grant allows for "urgent need" in addition toj just income levels, as the lift stations are Councilor Miles stated that the Town almost had an overflow event at the Talichet lift station (during a hurricane this year) and that the in-place generators that this project would supply would free up the mobile generator for use with the' Talichet lift stations during emergencies such as hurricanes. essential for disaster preparedness. Mayor Wells closed Public Comment fori this item. Motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Everline to approve the Town'ss submission of the application for this CDBG-DR grant; seconded by Councilor Lannaman. Motion approved unanimously by roll call vote. Voting Nay: None OLD BUSINESS None NEW BUSINESS Yea: Mayor Pro Tem Everline, Councilor Amold, Councilor Lannamar, Councilor Miles, Mayor Wells 6. Consideration and Approval: HALFF 12" Change Order Mayor Graham Wells introduced the agenda item regarding the consideration and approval ofa 12-inch Town Manager, Sean O'Keefe, provided an overview, explaining that Halff has been working on the Water Treatment Plant No. 3 project, which includes Wells No. 5 and No. 6. As part oft their work, Halff conducted an analysis ofthe Town's overall water system and developed ai new Water) Master Plan. During this review, it was determined that the existing 8-inch water main connecting the Town'st two Water Treatment plants was inadequate and should be upgraded to a 12-inch water main to ensure proper integration with the system and to support the Town'si infrastructure needs. Mr. O'Keefe clarified that this $162,480 change order represents an extension ofHalff's existing agreement and will cover the design work necessary fort the 12-inch water main interconnection at the site. He noted that this upgrade is essential due to aging infrastructure and potential failure risks, particularly concerning fire suppression. He referenced page 30 oft the master plan, which highlights Councilor Lannaman inquired about the source oft the funding for the change order. Mr. O'Keefe stated that the funds would come from the unallocated fund balance oft the Waterl Impact Fee Fund. He further assured that sufficient funds would remain, estimating that approximately $800,000 would still be available across the Water Impact Fee Fund and the Water Utility Fund. Mayor Wells reinforced that the impact fee fund would not be depleted, nor would the general fund be required to cover the cost. Councilor Miles raised concerns regarding the proposed pipeline route. He noted that the current path involves North Dixie. Avenue, which underwent a $400,000 reconstruction less than two years ago. He suggested an alternative route that would extend thej pipeline two blocks further down Palm Avenue water main change order. concerns about critical failure potential. before connecting at Pine. Avenue to avoid damage to the newly paved road. 3Page Mr. Troy Mitchell, ai representative from Halff, explained that the selected route was chosen fori its efficiency and alignment with existing infrastructure. However, he stated that the project team would Further discussion addressed the phasing oft the 12-inch water main upgrade. Mr. Mitchell clarified that only Phase 1-the interconnection between the two water treatment plants-would be the Town's responsibility. The remaining phases would be developer-driven and funded through impact fee credits, ensuring that future development projects bear the financial responsibility for additional pipeline Councilor Miles also requested that Halff update the project's maps to reflect the most current Interlocal Service Boundary Agreement (ISBA). Mr. O'Keefe acknowledged that the ISBA maps in the master Councilor Miles then inquired whether the existing 8-inch pipe would remain in service. Mr. Mitchell explained that some sections would likely be left in place to support six-inch lateral connections, but the new 12-inch pipe would serve as the primary conduit between the water treatment plants. Mayor Wells opened Public Comment for this item only. Seeing no public comment, Mayor Wells Motion made by Councilor Lannamai to approve the Halff 12" Change Order; seconded by evaluate Councilor Miles' suggestion to determine feasibility. extensions. plan were outdated and agreed to update them accordingly. closed Public Comment for this item. Councilor Arnold. Motion approved unanimously by roll call vote. Voting Nay: None Board of Trustees Yea: Mayor Pro Tem Everline, Councilor Arnold, Councilor) Lannaman, Councilor Miles, Mayor Wells 7. Consideration Approval: Resolution 2025-002-1 Endorsing Mayor Wells Nomination to thel FMIT Mayor Graham Wells introduced the final item of new business, Resolution 2025-002, which seeks to formally endorse his nomination to the Florida Municipal Insurance Trust (FMIT) Board ofTrustees. Town Manager, Sean O'Keefe, provided background on the resolution, stating that it would secure the Town Council's official endorsement ofl Mayor Wells' nomination and authorize Town staff to submit Councilor! David Miles asked Mayor Wells ifl he was willing to accept the nomination, to which Mayor Councilor. Miles then made ai motion to approve Resolution 2025-002, which was seconded by the necessary documentation to the Florida League of Cities. Wells stated that he would. Councilorlannamai. Mayor Wells opened Public Comment for this item only. Marie V. Gallelli, 1104 North Tangerine Ave. - Mrs. Gallelli inquired about the benefit to the Town ofhaving a representative on the FMIT Board. Mayor Wells explained that, while larger cities typically dominate board representation, having a delegate from Howey-in-the-Hills: could provide a voice for smaller municipalities like Astatula, Montverde, and Umatilla, ensuring that their interests are represented. He acknowledged that his nomination was not guaranteed tol be accepted but felt that advocating for small-town participation was worthwhile. 4Page Town Clerk, John Brock, further clarified that FMIT serves municipalities that use the Florida League ofCities' insurance programs (such as the Town ofHowey-in-the-Hills). Having ai representative from Howey-in-the-Hills on the board would increase the Town'sv visibility and was good for small municipalities. Mr. Brock also noted that FMIT covers all travel and lodging expenses for board members, ensuring no cost tot the Town for Mayor Wells' participation. Mayor Wells closed Public Comment for this item. Motion made by Councilor Miles to approve Resolution 2025-002; seconded by Councilor Lannaman. Motion approved unanimously by roll call vote. Voting Nay: None DEPARTMENT REPORTS 8. Town Manager Yea: Mayor Pro Tem Everline, Councilor Arnold, Councilor Lannaman, Councilor Miles, Mayor Wells Town Manager Sean O'Keefe provided an update on ongoing projects and upcoming initiatives. He expressed enthusiasm fori the progress made during the meeting and highlighted that staff continues to Mr. O'Keefe reported that the Town is actively engaging with property owners ini the North Citrus area Additionally, Mr. O'Keefe commended the significant efforts ofTown staffovert the past two weeks in preparing for the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) Workshop, scheduled for. January 28, 2025, at 2:00 PMi in' Town Hall. He emphasized that all related documents were available online for public review and Mr. O'Keefe also noted thej presence oft three new council members, stating that their participation is expected to bring fresh perspectives and insights into the planning process. He welcomed public engagement and reiterated that the CIP workshop serves as an important foundation for future make steady advancements on various Town projects. and is currently reviewing the second round of plat submissions for that area. encouraged: residents to attend the workshop. infrastructure planning and development. COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS 9. Mayor Pro Tem Everline Mayor Pro Tem Everline stated that hel had a good experience ati the recent Florida League of Cities (FLC)training. Mayor Pro Tem Everline stated that the experience was worthwhile, notj just for the training, but also fort thei networking. 10. Councilor Arnold None 11. Councilor Miles Councilor Miles provided an update on the Watermark Planned Unit Development (PUD) amendment, noting that he and other council members received a draft document from Watermark'sa attorey. He found the proposal to be well-prepared and commended the developer for adhering to the Comprehensive Plan changes adopted by the Council last year. While the amendment adds several acres 5Page tot the development, he noted that all additional housing units comply with the quarter-acre lot minimum Councilor Miles suggested that three to four acres of open space near the old town dump site be deeded to the Town rather than to thel Homeowners' Association. He stated that, while there is no definitive plan for aj park in that area, it would be beneficial to expand the Town'se existing five-acre parcel to Regarding road infrastructure, Councilor Miles observed that the revised plan no longer includes the previously approved Revels Road relocation, likely saving the developer approximately $1 million. He emphasized the importance ofe ensuring that the developer contributes to the planned traffic circle at the Revels Road and Mission Rise: intersection. Additionally, he requested that the developer upgrade Revels Road- --which is a' Town-owned road- at least up to1 the second entrance ofthe development. He also suggested evaluating an alternative entrance off State Road 19 directly into Phase 3 ofthe Councilor Miles expressed concern that Watermark is proposing only one pool and cabana area fora 300-home development. He suggested the addition ofa second recreational facility, possibly including a Regarding PUD compliance with Town codes, hei identified several discrepancies in the proposal: requirement fort that zoning classification. provide greater flexibility for future use. community. community center for residents. Garage Size: The minimum two-car garage size in the draft document is smaller than the current Lot Coverage: The maximum lot coverage ini the proposal is 60%, which exceeds the 55% Model Repetition: The proposal allows for three identical houses within a 300-foot block face, which he considers excessive given that only four houses would: fit within that distance. Utility Infrastructure: The agreement does not explicitly require the transfer of all water, wastewater, and reclaimed water infrastructure to the Town, which he would like to see added. Tree Standards: The proposal still lists 2-inch-caliper street trees, whereas the Town recently Natural Gas Availability: He suggested that all new developments within the Town be required Councilor Miles also inquired about the wastewater agreement between the Town and the Central Lake Community Development District (CDD). Town Manager, Sean O'Keefe, confirmed that all Council- requested changes were accepted, and the agreement is awaiting final legal descriptions before signing. Town Attorney, Tom Wilkes, added that the Mission Rise legal description is being removed since that development isi no longer vested, and the: final agreement will soon be ready fori the Mayor and' Town Clerk to sign. Councilor Miles requested that Council members be notified once the documenti is In closing, Councilor Miles stated that he would be absent from the February 10th meeting due to Town code requires. standard typically approved for similar communities. increased the standard to 3-inch-caliper trees. too offer natural gas service to residents. completed. international travel and requested an excused absence. 12. Councilorlannamai. Councilorlannamana raised concerns regarding GFL's (Green for Life Environmental) waste collection service, specifically regarding fuel spills on Town roads. She reported that a GFLtruck leaked hydraulic fluid on Bellissimo and Venezia roads and, during al heavy rain event, the spill was observed entering the stormwater system. She noted that two residents had stated that they reported the issue to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), prompting GFL1 to send al hazmat team to clean up the 6Page contamination. However, she emphasized that road damage caused by GFL's trucks is becoming a Beyond the spills, Councilor Lannaman highlighted inconsistent service by GFL, stating that the company frequently operates at irregular hours, skips scheduled pickups, and has trucks that break down and remain in place for extended periods. She noted that residents have expressed frustration with these ongoing issues. Additionally, she raised concerns about the $20j per bulk item pickup fee, questioning whether GFL ist truly serving the Town's best interests. She requested a review oft the Town' 's waste Public Services Director, Morgan Cates, acknowledged the concerns and thanked Councilor Lannaman forj providing videos oft thel hydraulic fluid spill. He encouraged residents to report any broken-down trucks directly to' Town staff, as GFL had not always notified the Town when breakdowns occur. While the videos provided evidence of oil sheens on the road, proving that GFL was the source of1 thel leak remains challenging. Mr. Cates confirmed that hel had contacted GFL: management but had yet to receive ai response. Hei intends to escalate the issue and request ai meeting with GFL's supervisors. Regarding road damage, Mr. Cates noted that diesel and gasoline leaks significantly degrade asphalt, while hydraulic fluid may have al lesser impact. However, he reiterated that any damage to Town roads must be repaired and that GFL had been previously instructed to clean up spills in other areas, such as Cypress. In thej past, he had requested that GFL equip all trucks with spill kits to contain leaks immediately, but he was unsure whether they had implemented this measure. He encouraged residents Councilor. Lannaman expressed appreciation: for Mr. Cates' responsiveness and noted that she had Town Manager, Sean O'Keefe, clarified that the $20j per bulk item charge was negotiated in the most recent contract to keep overall collection costs lower. The fee is based on cubic yardage ($20 per cubic yard), which typically equates to al large appliance. Councilor Lannaman responded that some: residents were reportedly being charged per item, citing an example where two office chairs would cost $401 to dispose of. She requested clarification from GFL on whether the feei is indeed per cubic yard, as Councilorlannamana inquired about updates on street sign replacements throughout the Town. Mr. Cates stated that he has been in contact with vendors and is working with the City ofTavares' supplier to obtain new signs at a cost-effective rate. Mr. Cates had already assessed the signs and posts in need of replacement and had replaced stop signs in Venezia, which had become aged and damaged. Councilor) Lannaman also asked whether the State could replace the Venezia Boulevard sign facing State Road 19, but Mr. Cates confirmed that this was the Town's responsibility. Councilor Miles requested that the replacement signs on Camellia Avenue be spelled correctly, which was acknowledged Councilor! Lannaman referenced ai recent update from Councilors Everline and Amold regarding the MPO (Metropolitan Planning Organization): meeting, which discussed potential traffic improvements. She expressed interest in applying for aj pedestrian safety enhancement at the Palm Avenue intersection, where residents have reported vehicles failing to yield to pedestrians at the existing flashing crosswalk. Mr. O'Keefe confirmed that a safety resolution passed by the Council was the first step in advocating fori improvements. Councilor Arnold added that the MPO views crosswalks as a safety issue rather than significant issue, particularly in Venezia, where the pavement is deteriorating. collection contract and suggested exploring alternative service providers. to report future incidents promptly. directed affected residents to contact him directly regarding concerns. stipulated int the contract. by Mayor Pro' Tem Everline. at traffic issue, which may expedite thej process. 7IPage Councilor Everline noted that Florida Department ofTransportation (FDOT) plans to resurface the area in 2026 and will conduct a study before thej project begins to determine whether the crosswalk needs enhancements, including potential signalization. Councilor Lannaman expressed support fort this Councilor Miles raised concerns regarding the' Town's s electricity franchise agreement with Duke Power, which is set to expire in May 2027. He noted that Duke'st tree-trimming contractors have significantly damaged trees in the area and suggested that future franchise negotiations include a requirement for burying all electric lines underground within the Town. He emphasized that this would reduce storm-related outages, enhance aesthetics, and align with current underground utility Town Manager, Sean O'Keefe, stated that he had already discussed the topic with Duke Power representatives, whoi indicated that aj phased undergrounding approach may have been included inj past agreements, though it does not appear int the current contract. Councilor Miles suggested a five-year implementation period and reiterated that such an initiative could ultimately save. Duke money while initiative and thanked! her colleagues for their efforts. requirements for new developments. improving reliability and preserving trees. 13. Mayor Wells Mayor Graham Wells provided an update on the Institute for Elected Municipal Officials I (IEMO) training that he, along with two other council members, attended. He described the training as highly beneficial, aside from one session, and encouraged other council members, particularly newly elected He noted that the next IEMO: II training session is scheduled for April and suggested that interested members visit the Florida League of Cities website to review the course agenda. It was clarified that attendees must complete the first-level course before advancing to additional training. officials, to consider attending future sessions. PUBLICC COMMENTS Any person wishing to address the Mayor and Town Council and who is not on the agenda is asked to speak their Marie V. Gallelli, 1104 N Tangerine Ave. - Mrs. Gallelli inquired about the status of the Thompson property. Mrs. Gallelli also asked about the Citrus Road work and whether it could be coordinated with the temporary closure ofthel Howey Mansion in. July to minimize disruptions. Mr. O'Keefe responded that the projecti is expected to be completed much sooner, with an anticipated completion by April. He noted that the Town is Ms. Gallelli also raised concerns about GFL's waste collection services, specifically regarding: name and address. Three (3) minutes is allocated per speaker. Town Manager Sean O'Keefe stated that there were: no new updates. waiting on ai few final signatures before moving forward with construction. Inconsistent yard waste pickups, which were previously scheduled for Thursdays but now vary. Delays ini regular trash collection, sometimes shifting from Monday to Tuesday. Uncollected hurricane debris on Temple and Laurel, which was reportedly placed out int time for scheduled pickups. She also requested confirmation that GFL trucks are equipped with spill kits to address hydraulic fluid leaks. Lastly, Mrs. Gallelli expressed opposition to acquiring additional acreage near the former town dump site. She concluded by thanking the Council for ensuring that microphones are used effectively, as many in the audience have difficulty hearing discussions. 8Page Martha MacFarlane, 63 Camino Real - Mrs. MacFarlane requested a copy oft the report from the recent Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) meeting, attended by Councilor. Arold and Mayor Pro Tem Everline. Mrs. MacFarlane expressed appreciation for the progress madei in addressing concerns at al key intersection and Mrs. MacFarlane also voiced support for Councilor Lannaman's concerns regarding GFL's hydraulic fluid spills, stating that the issue is widespread throughout town. Mrs. MacFarlane noted that her neighborhood recently re- sealed its roads, but GFLI trucks left hydraulic: fluid stains almost immediately. Mrs. MacFarlane reported sending photographic evidence to the Town to address the issue and criticized GFL's claims that the leaks are: merely Town Manager, Sean O'Keefe, and' Town Clerk, John Brock, directed Ms. MacFarlane to the Council meeting packet from January 13, 2025, meeting where a summary oft the MPO: meeting was already documented. requested that the report bei included in future Council packets. water runoff, stating that the pink-colored fluid is clearly hydraulic fluid. Mrs. MacFarlane thanked the Council for the information. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to discuss, a motion was made by Councilor Miles to adjourn the meeting; Councilor Lannamai seconded the motion. Motion was approved unanimously by voice vote. The Meingasfpcxt724, p.m.1 Attendees: 27 RROR C ATTESD Mayor Wells fas John-Brock, Town Clerk 9Page