City of Sarasota Minutes of the Board of Rules and Appeals February 16, 2011 at 3:00 p.m. I. CALL MILETING TO ORDER The Board of Rules and Appeals meeting of February 16, 2011 was called to order by Co-Secretary Larry Murphy, due to the absence of Chairman Ralph Hardesty and Secretary Glenn Bliss, at 3:07 p.m., in room 112 at the City ofSarasota, 1565 1st Street, Sarasota, FL 34236. Board Present: Ellen Berman, William Blough, Scott Crawford, Michael Epstein, Karl Hees, Larry Luther, Charlotte Ryan, Margie Smith, Tom Wessel. Board Absent: Donald Baine, Ralph Hardesty Public Present: None II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES The minutes of November 17, 2010, a motion was made by Larry Murphy, seconded by Ellen Berman and were adopted as presented by a unanimous vote. III. PRESENTATION OF TOPICS BY THE PUBLIC - None IV. PRESENTATIOIN OF TOPICS BY BOARD MEMBERS There were not any scheduled presentation, however Board Member Ellen Berman did asked for the meaning of this topic and if it is for anything they wanted to bring up. Co-Secretary Larry Murphy explained that yes it is there for that reason and that the Board is here to listen if there is something a member wants to present. V. PRESENTATION OF TOPICS BY ADMINISTRATION OR CITY ATTORNEY Deputy City Auditor and Clerk Karen McGowan gave an extensive review of the Florida Government in the SunShine Law. Handouts ofthe Florida Statue regarding public records and open meetings were given to all board members. She explained that the law governs public access to meetings as well as records. Also explained was that all advisory boards appointed by the commission, as well as the commission itself are subject to Florida Government in the SunShine law. Additional discussion was held regarding potential violations, the Florida Statutes and highlights of the SunShine Manual. After review, various questions were asked from Board members to Deputy City Auditor and Clerk Karen McGowan and City Attorney Whitney Coyne regarding violations and conçerns of the SunShine Law. City Attorney Whitney Coyne gave discussion regarding Unlicensed Contractors in stating that it doesn't come before the Board. The Board's primary jurisdiction is over contractors, licensed and registered contractors and to discipline those contractors. Board Member Ellen Berman asked questions regarding Chapter 489 at which Attorney Coyne referenced City Code Section 11-9 (5) regarding the board discipline. Co-Secretary Larry Murphy discussed that we have a contact in Fort Myers that runs the unlicensed activities for the Department of Business and Professional Regulations. They will do periodic stings throughout the state. And that this is our recourse for unlicensed contractors. Attorney Coyne asked if there was any additional questions from the last meeting, as some members had concern over personal liability for things they do with the Board. A brief discussion was held regarding this subject. VI. SCHEDULED MEETING The Board set the next meeting to be held on Wednesday, May 18H, 2011. VIII. ADJOURNMENT There being no more business to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent. Glenn Bliss, Secretary Ralph Hardesty, Chairman