DeFuniak Springs City Council Meeting Minutes Council Chambers January 8, 2024 1. Call to Order Mayor Bob Campbell called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM. Present: Mayor Bob Campbell; Mayor Pro-Tempore Todd Bierbaum (Seat 1); Councilmember Josh Sconiers (Seat 2); Councilmember Amy Heavilin (Seat 3); Councilmember Henry D. Ennis (Seat 4); and Councilmember Anthony Vallée (Seat 5). Absent: Also, present were Interim City Manager Micheal Barker, City Attorney Clay Adkinson, City Clerk Koby Townsend, Finance Director Morgan Hulion 2. PRESENTATION AND/OR PROCLAMATION 3. CONSENT AGENDA A. Additions/Deletions to the Consent Agenda B. Approval of the Consent Agenda A motion was made to approve the consent agenda by Councilmember Sconiers and seconded by Councilmember Vallee; the motion passed without objection. 4. REGULAR AGENDA A. Additions/Deletions to the Regular Agenda B. Approval of the Regular Agenda Mr. Barker stated that he would like to add C3 Server Weather Information. A motion was made to approve the regular agenda with the requested changes by Councilmember Bierbaum and second by Councilmember Sconiers; the motion passed without objection. : C. City Manager M. Barker 1. Purchase of Utility Natural Gas Meters 2. Purchase ofUtility Water Meters Mr. Barker stated on the Purchase ofUtility Natural Gas Meters. : Mr. Barker stated that there are funds in natural gas and water budget for the purchases. January 8, 2024, Regular Meeting 1 A motion was made to approve the Purchase of Utility Natural Gas Meters and water meters by Councilmember Bierbaum and seconded Councilmember Ennis; the motion passed without objection. C3 Server Weather Information Mr. Barker presented on Sever Weather Information. A motion was made to delay opening City Hall till 12:00 PM by Councilmember Bierbaum and seconded by Councilmember Sconiers; the motion passed without objection. D. Human Resources Director J. Chance 1. City Manager Position Mrs. Chance presented on the City Manager position. She stated that she had sent all the information regarding the candidates to Mrs. Heavilin. Mrs. Heavilin asked how many qualified applicants there were. Mrs. Chance responded that there were 17 total applicants. She noted that only one applicant was a city resident. Mrs. Heavilin inquired why Mr. Still did not meet the minimum requirements. Mrs. Chance replied that, to her understanding, it was because he was a county commissioner. She explained that county commissions typically have items brought to them, as opposed to managing departments directly. Mr. Heavilin asked Mrs. Chance for her opinion about Mrs. Bell. Mrs. Chance stated that Mrs. Bell has less than three years of experience as a City Manager and had served as a Town Manager in a city smaller than the one in question. Mayor Campbell asked if there was anything the council wanted to do. Mrs. Heavilin said that she had taken the information provided by Mrs. Chance and created a ranking system. Mrs. Heavilin then asked if federal government experience should be given weight in the selection process. Mr. Adkinson stated that, currently, federal government experience is not considered equivalent to local government experience. January 8, 2024, Regular Meeting 2 Mayor Campbell asked for recommendations from the council. Mrs. Heavilin asked ifMr. Stilts had the experience required to perform the job. Mrs. Chance stated that, based on his résumé, he did not write policies, though he did approve them. Mrs. Chance then asked ift the council was satisfied with the proposed interview questions. Mayor Campbell stated that they could bring the matter back at the next meeting. Mrs. Heavilin stated that she did not believe it was necessary to wait. Mrs. Chance asked ifthe council had reviewed the interview questions. Mr. Heavilin asked how many applicants met the minimum qualifications. Mrs. Chance explained which applicants were qualified. Mrs. Heavilin asked which ofthe applicants met all three core requirements. Mrs. Chance answered that Mr. Sunday was the only applicant she recommended. Mrs. Heavilin and Mrs. Chance continued to discuss applicant qualifications. Mr. Vallee stated that he had not yet had a chance to review all the résumés. He noted that only one applicant appeared to meet all oft the qualifications. Mrs. Heavilin stated that Mr. Stalts should still be reviewed by the council. Mr. Vallee asked if Mrs. Heavilin was proposing that they proceed with interviewing only one candidate. He also asked when the application process had closed. Mrs. Chance answered that it closed on January 3rd. Mrs. Heavilin stated that this is not a new issue and should not be treated as an emergency. She recommended that they offer Mr. Stan Sunday an interview. * Mr. Vallee asked whether the application process could be reopened to allow for more applicants. Mr. Adkion replied that the application can remain open, and that it is up to the council. January 8, 2024, Regular Meeting 3 Mr. Vallee stated that he did not see the point ofi interviewing just one applicant. Mrs. Heavilin responded that they should interview the one qualified applicant. - Mr. Vallee asked what would happen with the other applicants. Mrs. Heavilin stated that she believed Mr. Stalts might meet the qualifications but would leave that determination up to Julie (Mrs. Chance). A motion was made to interview Stanley Sunday for the City Manager position by Councilmember Heavilin; the motion failed for the Iack of a seconded. A motion was made to reopen the application window till the February 31, 2025 by Councilmember Vallee and seconded by Councilmember Ennis; the motion passed with Councilmember Heavilin voting nay. Mark Hamley, Citizen of DeFuniak Springs stated that the council should make sure that they read the applicant that they currently hâve. Kim Wennerberg asked how this is being advertised. Mrs. Chance answered it is being advertised in the local New Paper, indeed, social media, and the City Website. Dan Cosson, Citizen of DeFuniak Springs asked if the clock runs out on this and we have not decided who the next city manger can be can Koby be the next Interim City Manager. Mayor Campbell stated that this will not be up to him to decide. Mr. Cosson asked why Glenn Blacken was overlooked. E. Planning Director C. Wallace 1. 2024-SA-01 - Ranny Randolph is requesting Special Approval to operate a service station in a C-1, Commercial district located on Hwy 331 South Mr. Wallace presented item 2024-SA-01, stating that Ranny Randolph is requesting special approval to operate a service station in a C-1 Commercial District located on Highway 331 South. Mr. Wallace noted that Mr. Randolph was present at the meeting to answer any questions the Council may have. Mr. Randolph apologized for not attending the previous meeting. January 8, 2024, Regular Meeting 4 Mr. Vallee expressed concerns about the protection of nearby wetlands and emphasized the importance of preserving them. Mr. Randolph responded by stating that there has never been an incident involving a spill at his facilities. He explained that they follow a process designed to prevent oil spills and operate a very clean facility. Mr. Bierbaum raised concems about the cumulative impact of vehicles entering and exiting the service station. He noted that oil from vehicles can eventually leak and contaminate the surrounding area. Mr. Randolph acknowledged that there is no retention pond currently on the site but mentioned that in past projects, certain cities have required them to construct retention ponds. Mr. Wallace pointed out that a stormwater pond is indicated in blue on the site plan. He clarified that land development regulations govern the design and functionality of such ponds, and that the City requires an engineering review of all stormwater retention systems. L Mr. Randolph added that all fuel storage and handling are contained within the walls of the building. Mr. Bierbaum clarified that his conçern is not with interior containment but with oil dripping from cars in the parking and service areas. Mr. Vallee requested that an additional pond be added to the south side of the property. Mr. Wallace concluded by stating that the proposal can be brought back to the Council before the issuance ofthe development order. A motion was made to issue special approval contingent on engineering plans being submitted as part of the development order process to address additional wet land protection to avoid against run off and contamination by Councilmember Bierbaum and seconded by Councilmember Vallee; the motion passed without objection. 5. PUBLIC HEARING / ORDINANCES A. Planning Director C. Wallace 1. Ist Reading - 2023-SSA-05, Kevin Crystal, on behalf of PS37 Properties has requested a small-scale map amendment to the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) changing the designation from Walton County Residential to Medium Density Residential Mr. Adkinson swore in staff and applicates on items listed under public hearing. Mr. Wallace presented on the 1st Reading - 2023-SSA-05, Kevin Crystal, on behalf of PS37 Properties has requested a small-scale map amendment to the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) changing the designation from Walton County Residential to Medium Density Residential. January 8, 2024, Regular Meeting 5 A motion was made to approve the 1st Reading - 2023-SSA-05, Kevin Crystal, on behalf of PS37 Properties has requested a small-scale map amendment to the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) changing the designation from Walton County Residential to Medium Density Residential by Councilmember Bierbaum and seconded by councilmember Vallee; the motion passed without objection. 2. 1st Reading - 2024-SSA-01, Luke Andrews Investments LLC request to amend the Future Land Use Map changing the designation from Low Density Residential to Commercial for a 0.3+/- acre parcel Iocated on Highway 331 South Mr. Wallace presented on the 1st Reading - 2024-SSA-01, Luke Andrews Investments LLC request to amend the Future Land Use Map changing the designation from Low Density Residential to Commercial for a 0.3+/- acre parcel located on Highway 331 South. A motion was made to approve Ist Reading - 2024-SSA-01, Luke Andrews Investments LLC request to amend the Future Land Use Map changing the designation from Low Density Residential to Commercial for a 0.3+/- acre parcel located on Highway 331 South by Councilmember Bierbaum and seconded by Councilmember Sconiers; the motion passed without objection. 3. 1st Reading - 2024-RZ-01, Luke Andrews Investments LLC request to amend the Zoning Map from R-2, Multi-Family Residential to C-2, Commercial for property located on Highway 331 South Mr. Wallace presented on the Ist Reading - 2024-RZ-01, Luke Andrews Investments LLC request to amend the Zoning Map from R-2, Multi-Family Residential to C-2, Commercial for property located on Highway 331 South. A motion was made to approve the Ist Reading - 2024-RZ-01, Luke Andrews Investments LLC request to amend the Zoning Map from R-2, Multi-Family Residential to C-2, Commercial for property located on Highway 331 South by Councilmember Vallee and seconded by Councilmember Heavilin; the motion passed without objection. 4. 1st Reading - 2024-SSA-02, Michael McCormick, on behalf of Imprimis LLC, is requesting to amend the Future Land Use Map from Commercial to MDR, Medium Density Residential for a 14.39+/- acre parcel located on the southwest cormer of Walton Rd and Highway 83 N Mr. Wallace presented on the 1st Reading - 2024-SSA-02, Michael McCormick, on behalf of Imprimis LLC, is requesting to amend the Future Land Use Map from Commercial to MDR, Medium Density Residential for a 14.39+/- acre parcel located on the southwest corner of Walton Rd and Highway 83 N. January 8, 2024, Regular Meeting 6 A motion was made to approve the 1st Reading - 2024-SSA-02, Michael McCormick, on behalf of Imprimis LLC, is requesting to amend the Future Land Use Map from Commercial to MDR, Medium Density Residential for a 14.39+/-: acre parcel Iocated on the southwest corner of Walton Rd and Highway 83 N by Councilmember Bierbaum and seconded by Councilmember Ennis; the motion passed without objection. 5. 1st Reading - 2024-RZ-02, Michael McCormick, on behalf of Imprimis LLC, has requested a rezoning changing the designation from C-2, Commercial to R-2, Multifamily Residential for a 14.39-+/- acre parcel located on the southwest cormer of Walton Rd and Highway 83 N Mr. Wallace presented on the 1st Reading - 2024-RZ-02, Michael McCormick, on behalf of Imprimis LLC, has requested a rezoning changing the designation from C-2, Commercial to R-2, Multifamily Residential for a 14.39-/- acre parcel located on the southwest corner of Walton Rd and Highway 83 N. A motion was made to approve the 1st Reading - 2024-RZ-02, Michael McCormick, on behalf of Imprimis LLC, has requested a rezoning changing the designation from C-2, Commercial to R-2, Multifamily Residential for a 14.39+/- acre parcel located on the southwest corner of Walton Rd and Highway 83 N by Councilmember Bierbaum and seconded by Councilmember Ennis; the motion passed without objection. 6. 1st Reading - 2024-CP-01, A proposed Comprehensive Plan Text Amendment establishing a new Downtown Business District land use category Mr. Wallace presented on the 1st Reading - 2024-CP-01, A proposed Comprehensive Plan Text Amendment establishing a new Downtown Business District land use category. A motion was made to approve the 1st Reading - 2024-CP-01, A proposed Comprehensive Plan Text Amendment establishing a new Downtown Business District land use category by Councilmember Sconiers and seconded by Councilmember Bierbaum; the motion passed without objection. Mr. Bierbaum stated that this is being created in order to maintain our downtown area and avoid impacting other parts oft the city. Mr. Wallace stated that he will transmit this to the state ofFlorida. B. Community Redevelopment Agency Executive Director, J. Ervin 1. Request to Adopt the 2023 Redevelopment Plan Update through Public Hearing. Mr. Ervin presented on the Request to Adopt the 2023 Redevelopment Plan Update through Public Hearing. January 8, 2024, Regular Meeting 7 A motion was made to adopt the 2023 Redevelopment Plan Update through Public Hearing by Councilmember Bierbaum and seconded by Councilmember Sconiers; the motion passed without objection. 6. REQUEST TO BE ON THE AGENDA A. City Beautification and Tree Board Chair, Kim Wennerberg - Dog Park Task Force Mrs. Wennerberg gave a presentation on the Dog Park Task Force. She stated that she wants to engage with the public in order to create the task force and emphasized the importance of community involvement in the planning process. Mrs. Wennerberg also requested guidance from the City Council on how best to move forward and asked how they would prefer the task force to be formed. Mayor Campbell responded that he would like to avoid having the task force fall under Florida's Sunshine Law, as that would limit informal communication among its members. Mr. Adkinson stated that a list of volunteers should be compiled, and care should be taken to ensure there are no conflicts. He added that the task force should be structured in a way that avoids conflict with the Florida Sunshine Law. 7. CITIZEN COMMENTS Uriah Mathew with the Walton County Economic Alliance stated that Walton and Okaloosa counties received a front-page advertisement in an economic development publication. Mr. Mathew provided an update on current activities within the Economic Development Alliance (EDA). He also gave an update on the different boards under the EDA and their memberships. Lisa Sorrows, a citizen of DeFuniak Springs, asked for clarification on the Dog Park Task Force. Mr. Cosson stated that he saw two water pipes exposed around the lake. He asked ift the pipes were related to stormwater runoff from city streets. Mayor Campbell confirmed that they were. Terry Coxx, a citizen of DeFuniak Springs, stated that she believes the city is moving in the right direction. Mrs. Coxx also said that the city should evaluate the current city manager to determine if he would be a good candidate for the permanent position. Kelly Bird, a citizen of DeFuniak Springs, submitted a public records request for the list of applicants for the city manager position, as well as the evaluation matrix. January 8, 2024, Regular Meeting 8 Malinda Henderson, also a citizen of DeFuniak Springs, stated that there is a group ofretired city managers who are willing to serve on a short-term interim basis. Donald Graham, Citizen of Defuniak Springs stated that Mr. Barker was responsible for 911 and sidewalks on Walton road. Mr. Graham stated that we are wasting our time and should vote the Mr. Barker into the job as permanent city manager. 8. CITY ATTORNEY Mr. Adkinson had no comments. 9. LEGSITIVE REQUESTS A. Councilmember A. Vallee 1. FDOT Transportation Alternatives Program Grant Opportunity Mr. Vallee presented information on the FDOT Transportation Alternatives Program Grant ) Opportunity. He explained that the grant is intended for small-scale transportation-related projects. Mr. Vallee noted that this is a competitive grant, with only $3 million available across 16 counties. 2. Changes to the TPO Needs List Mr. Vallee gave a presentation on the Changes to the TPO Needs List. He explained that they are requesting clarification on certain items that may need to be removed or revised on the list. Mr. Vallee noted that most ofthe projects on the list are pedestrian-based. He asked if anyone had information regarding the 19th Street sidewalks, but no one responded. Mr. Vallee then asked whether the Council would like to keep some of these projects on the list or consider removing them. He also provided information on the Highway 83 realignment project. Mrs. Heavilin asked how the realignment would impact the changes recently made on Walton Road. Mr. Vallee responded that the realignment would run south ofthat area. Mr. Bierbaum stated that the Council should consider removing the two projects that run through the neighborhood. January 8, 2024, Regular Meeting 9 Mrs. Heavilin commented that she is not knowledgeable enough on the issue to make a definitive decision. 3. Baldwin On-Street Parking Mr. Vallee gave a presentation on Baldwin On-Street Parking. He stated that there currently appears to be on-street parking in that area and noted that the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) has been actively reviewing parking needs downtown. Mr. Vallee proposed conducting a study and implementing additional parking along Baldwin Avenue. Mrs. Heavilin asked whether this initiative is included in the current budget. Mr. Vallee responded that it is part oft the ongoing study. A motion was made to study the implementation of additional parking along Baldwin Avenue and the portion of Circle Drive where it parallels Baldwin avenue by councilmember Vallee and seconded by Councilmember Bierbaum; the motion passed with councilmember Heavilin voting nay. Mr. Vallee stated that any costs associated with this would need to come back before the Council for approval. 4. Downtown Alley Study, Next Steps Mr. Vallee stated that this item will be continued to the next meeting. Mr. Adkinson noted that no motion is needed at this time. Mr. Barker stated that they recommend installing several drains. Mr. Barker also said that he believes the next step should be adding drainage before taking any further action on the alleys. Mr. Vallee added that while there are drainage issues, there are also cleanup issues that need to be addressed. 5. Update of Water Rate Review and Evaluation Mr. Barker stated that staffi is still working on this. Mrs. Hulion said that the goal is to have it ready for the budget process. January 8, 2024, Regular Meeting 10 6.1 Deputy City Manager Mr. Vallee presented the idea of establishing a Deputy City Manager position. He stated that the goal is to maintain continuity in leadership, especially when the City Manager is unavailable. Currently, staff faces limitations in getting documents signed or decisions made in the City Manager's absence. Mrs. Heavilin expressed concerns about the proposal, primarily noting that there is no funding allocated for this position. She stated that it feels like a stalling tactic intended to keep someone in their current position. She emphasized that this decision should not be rushed and should be discussed during the budget process. She clarified that she is not opposed to the idea of a Deputy City Manager in principle, but she disapproves oft the timing and how it was brought forward. Mr. Vallee responded that this is a genuine attempt to create continuity within city leadership. He stated, "A business can't succeed without continuity in leadership." He added that calling the effort dishonest was insulting and reiterated that he is trying to plan for success. Mr. Vallee noted that in the past, the position sparked debate over who would appoint the Deputy. He also mentioned the need for project management at the airport. Mrs. Heavilin responded that this need has been known for over a year and reiterated that the discussion should have occurred during the budget planning process. She again stated that she supports the idea but disagrees with how and when it's being introduced. Mr. Vallee apologized for not raising the issue sooner. Mr. Sconiers commented that city employees have been through significant change, and continuity is essential. He said that the appointment process for the Deputy City Manager should be clearly decided. He also reminded the Council that their role is to make decisions for the city's future, not just as individuals. January 8, 2024, Regular Meeting 11 Mr. Bierbaum stated that there is a lot to unpack in the discussion. He emphasized that placing items on the agenda is intended to allow for these important conversations. He noted that the City Charter is clear and that the Council worked on it for nine months, resulting in a strong and impressive charter. He explained that under the charter, the hiring of a Deputy City Manager falls under the City Manager's authority, not the Council's. Mr. Bierbaum expressed support for Mr. Vallee's idea and stated that it is the right path forward for the city. He added that the Finance Director position serves as a check and balance on the City Manager's power. Mayor Campbell commented that it feels like no progress is being made on the issue. Mr. Bierbaum disagreed, saying that the Council has been actively discussing this on every agenda. Mr. Vallee reiterated that the city needs a stable and established leadership position, noting that when a new City Manager arrives, they currently rely on assistants for updates. Mayor Campbell responded that he is a believer in building leadership from the ground up, referencing his own leadership style. Mrs. Heavilin closed the discussion by stating that she does not believe such a decision should be made in a rushed situation. A motion was made to reestablish the position of Deputy City Manager by Councimember Vallee and seconded by Councilmember Ennis; the motion passed with Councilmember Heavilin voting nay. Mark Hamley, a citizen of DeFuniak Springs, stated that he does not believe this is the right decision at the moment. Mrs. Henderson stated that she does not believe the Deputy City Manager position is included in the City Charter. Mr. Cosson commented that the city already has someone functioning as a Deputy City Manager, just not in title. He added that Public Works is the cornerstone of city government. January 8, 2024, Regular Meeting 12 He asked if Mr. Barker can appoint himself as Deputy City Manager, to which Mr. Adkinson replied absolutely not. Mrs. Wennerberg said that the optics are not good ifthis moves forward now. Mr. Hamley stated that he likes the current charter and believes the Council should think very carefully before making any changes to it, considering the hard work that went into it. Mr. Cosson commented that the only reason the 5-0 vote is being questioned is because it does not align with what some want. Mr. Vallee said he does not understand how going to the people is political. Mr. Adkinson then read the ordinance. 10. EXECUTIVE COMMENTS Mr. Barker state that the way Christmas Reflection items were stored last year made setting up more difficult. Mr. Barker state that we have to schedule a special meeting regarding the airport. Mr. Barker stated that the smoke testing has been completed. 11. COUNCIL COMMENTS Mr. Sconiers stated that the city employees did a great job at Christmas Reflections. Mayor Campbell stated that it is amazing how many employees have volunteered. Mrs. Heavilin asked when the RFQ for auditing services is going to be going out. Mrs. Adkinson stated that it should be out for advertising already. 12. ADJOURNMEN Meeting Adjourned 8:15 PM. Approved: 5e Lkeh Bob Campbell, Mayor ATTEST: Minutes taken by Rafael Ali CORPORAT City Clerk' SEAL January 8, 2024, Regular Meeting 14 1901 1111 Mrs. Heavilin stated that she votes no on the proposal, citing that the position was not budgeted and the process feels rushed. 7. Charter Referendum to Amend Section 11.01.A = Appointment and Qualifications of City Manager Mr. Vallee presented on the Charter Referendum to Amend Section 11.01.A = Appointment and Qualifications of the City Manager. He emphasized that the city must move forward together and requested feedback from the Council. Mr. Vallee stated that this issue should be put in the hands of the people to decide through a referendum. Mr. Adkison added that the Council has before them a draft of how the language referendum would appear. He also noted that Mr. Townsend would need to coordinate with the Supervisor of Elections to determine the appropriate date. A motion was made to hold 1st reading for the Charter Referendum to Amend Section 11.01.A. = Appointment and Qualifications ofCity Manager by Councilmember Vallee and seconded by Councilmember Ennis; the motion passed with Councilmember Heavilin voting nay. Mrs. Heavilin stated that the public decided on the charter a while back and revised it, and she believes the public should have the chance to review the entire charter again with the Council and community. She also expressed that if a special election is required, she would like more time to provide input. Mr. Vallee said he does not understand how letting citizens vote circumvents any process. Mrs. Heavilin reiterated that this should not be rushed. She also mentioned that the Council is overlooking people with good federal experience. Mr. Adkinson responded that this is not addressed in the charter. He added that after speaking with the Supervisor of Elections, the referendum process can be turned around fairly quickly. Mrs. Heavilin asked if Mr. Vallee would be willing to modify the motion to,allow more time for public input. 1s * * Mr. Sconiers stated that this is a hot topic and that he believes it should be put to aj public vote. January 8, 2024,-Regular Meeting 13 #*