MINUTES OF THE REGULAR SARASOTA CITY COMMISSION MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 16, 1996, AT 6:00 P.M. PRESENT: Mayor Mollie Cardamone, Vice Mayor Gene Pillot, Commissioners Jerome Dupree, David Merrill, and Nora Patterson, City Manager David Sollenberger, City Auditor and Clerk Billy Robinson, and City Attorney Richard Taylor ABSENT: None PRESIDING: Mayor Mollie Cardamone The meeting was called to order in accordance with Article III, Section 9 of the Charter of the City of Sarasota at 6:00 p.m. City Auditor and Clerk Robinson gave the Invocation followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. 1. PRESENTATION RE: EMPLOYEE OF MONTH, AUGUST 1996, SERGEANT ALFREDA S. JACKSON, PUBLIC SAFETY/POLICE SERVICES BUREAU #1 (0040) through (0192) City Manager Sollenberger requested that Russell Pillifant, Deputy Chief, and Sergeant Alfreda Jackson, Sarasota Police Department, come before the Commission. City Manager Sollenberger stated that Sergeant Jackson has made a significant impact in the local community by building the Nuisance Abatement Program into a well-developed and effective crime tool. Deputy Chief Pillifant stated that Sergeant Jackson, a seven-year employee with the Sarasota Police Department, was nominated by neighborhood task teams who extolled Sergeant Jackson's exemplary performance as Administrator for the Nuisance Abatement Program; that Sergeant Jackson molded the Program with a diligent, congenial, and professional attitude while counseling neighborhood watch groups in crime prevention methods; that Sergeant Jackson's strong desire to make all City neighborhoods safe from crime has helped develop the Nuisance Abatement Program into a viable tool fighting crime in City neighborhoods; that thanks are expressed to Sergeant Jackson for providing an exemplary level of customer service and setting a standard of excellence for her successors. Mayor Cardamone stated that a letter written to Sergeant Jackson from the City Manager contains the following quote: You built the Nuisance Abatement Program from scratch into a well-developed and effective crime tool. Your research of cases and knowledge of case specifics ensures that the Nuisance Abatement Board. has all of the relevant facts with Book 40 Page 13634 09/16/96 6:00 P.M. Book 40 Page 13635 09/16/96 6:00 P.M. which to make the best decision. You have a sincere desire to improve our neighborhoods and make them a safe and enjoyable place in which to live. Mayor Cardamone stated that congratulations are expressed for Sergeant Jackson's recent promotion to sergeant. Mayor Cardamone presented Sergeant Jackson with a City-logo watch, a plaque, and a certificate as the August 1996 Employee of the Month in appreciation of her unique pertormance with the City of Sarasota; and congratulated her for her outstanding efforts. Sergeant Jackson stated that thanks is expressed for the honor which is shared with the neighborhood residents, Police Department Staff, and members of the Nuisance Abatement Board who care about the City and without whom the recognition would not have been possible. Sergeant Jackson recognized her husband, Booker; and children, Alicia, Brian, and Jason who were present in the audience. 2. PRESENTATION RE: APPRECIATION AWARD TO THE DOWNTOWN ASSOCIATION OF SARASOTA FOR ITS CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE DOWNTOWN AREA IN HONOR OF ITS 22 YEARS OF SERVICE #1 (0193) through (0275) Mayor Cardamone requested that Paul Thorpe, Executive Director, Craig Harrison, outgoing President, and Christine Jennings, newly-elected President, the Downtown Association of Sarasota, come before the Commission. Mayor Cardamone read a plaque in its entirety expressing thanks to the Downtown Association of Sarasota for 22 years of outstanding service to the City and merchants of Sarasota; recognizing the Downtown Association's role in the successful, nationally recognized revitalization of Downtown; and expressing appreciation for the Downtown Association's promotion and coordination of special events and programs attracting new business to maintain a thriving, vibrant, and wonderful Downtown. The City Commission recessed at 6:10 p.m. into the special session of the Community Redevelopment Agency and reconvened as the City Commission at 7:04 p.m. 3. CHANGES TO THE ORDERS OF THE DAY - APPROVED #1 (0302) through (0332) City Auditor and Clerk Robinson presented the following Changes to the Orders of the Day: A. Add under Consent Agenda No. 1, Item No. III A-14, Approval Re: Integrated Disbursement and Information System (IDIS), per the request of Housing and Community Development Director Hadsell B. Add under New Business, Item No. VIII-2, Approval Re: Land Development Regulations Project Schedule, per the request of Deputy Planning and Development Director Taylor Mayor Cardamone asked if the Commission had any objections to the Changes to the Orders of the Day. Mayor Cardamone stated that hearing no objections, the Changes to the Orders of the Day are approved by unanimous consent. 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: MINUTES OF THE REGULAR CITY COMMISSION MEETINGS OF AUGUST 19, 1996, AND SEPTEMBER 3, 1996 - APPROVED (AGENDA ITEM I) #1 (0335) through (0342) Mayor Cardamone asked if the Commission had any changes to the minutes. Mayor Cardamone stated that hearing no changes, the minutes of the regular City Commission meetings of August 19, 1996, and September 3, 1996, are approved by unanimous consent. 5. CONSENT AGENDA NO. 1: ITEM NOS. 1, 2, 3.4 5,678.9 10, 11, 12, 13, AND 14 = APPROVED (AGENDA ITEM III-A) #1 (0345) through (0371) 1. Approval Re: Authorize the Administration to negotiate professional services contracts (R.F.P. #96-61) with the following four firms: 1) Tindale Oliver & Associates, Inc., Tampa, Florida, 2) Dames & Moore, Tampa, Florida, 3) Tampa Bay Engineering, Inc., Clearwater, Florida, and 4) Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc., Tampa, Florida, to provide traffic consulting engineering services on an as need basis 2. Approval Re: Mote Marine Improvements for the manatee tank at the Mammal Rehabilitation Center 3. Approval Re: Award of contract and authorize the Mayor and City Auditor and Clerk to execute a contract with Gator Asphalt Co., Bradenton, Florida, (Bid #96-99) in the amount of $288,808.70 for pavement milling and resurfacing of City streets 4. Approval Re: Authorize the Mayor and City Auditor and Clerk to execute the First Amendment to Agreement for Engineering Services with Wilson, Miller, Barton and Peek, Inc., (R.F.P. #95-56) to design the potable water Book 40 Page 13636 09/16/96 6:00 P.M. Book 40 Page 13637 09/16/96 6:00 P.M. distribution system improvements including two alternatives for an emergency interconnection with the Manatee County water system 5. Approval Re: Authorize the Mayor and city Auditor and Clerk to execute the Municipal Services and Pre-Annexation Agreement between the City of Sarasota and Eugenia Moroski and Emerich Moroski for Site 10-3, located at 2231 Bee Ridge Road 6. Approval Re: Authorize the Mayor and City Auditor and Clerk to execute the Municipal Services and Pre-Annexation Agreement between the City of Sarasota and Albert F. Chennault for Site 11-9, located at 3930 Brown Avenue 7. Approval Re: Authorize the Mayor and City Auditor and Clerk to execute the Municipal Services and Pre-Annexation Agreement between the City of Sarasota and William P. Moran for Site 11-25, located at 1807 Hanson Street 8. Approval Re: Authorize the Mayor and City Auditor and Clerk to execute the Municipal Services and Pre-Annexation Agreement between the city of Sarasota and Paula F. Kerxton for Site 11-30, located at 3850 Flores Avenue 9. Approval Re: Authorize the Mayor and City Auditor and Clerk to execute an Agreement between the City of Sarasota and Sarasota Welfare Home, Inc. for the future dedication of rights-of-way on 17th Street and Orange Avenue 10. Approval Re: Final Site and Development Plan approval for Petition 95-PSD-L, Judicial Center 11. Approval Re: Authorize the Mayor and City Auditor and Clerk to execute the New Wave Communication, L.P. Assignment and Assumption of Lease Agreement to Jacor Broadcasting of Sarasota, Inc. 12. Approval Re: Set for public hearing proposed Ordinance No. 96-3967, amending Chapter 37 of the Sarasota City Code, Water and Sewers, by extending the transfer of impact fee credit for affordable housing organizations to enter into a density transfer agreement with the City to be recorded in the official records of Sarasota County and the City so as to put the public on notice of the impact fee credit transfer; providing for automatic repeal after three years; repealing ordinances in conflict; etc. 13. Approval Re: Cultural Institutions Program Grant funds of $205,834 awarded to the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall for fiscal year 1996-97 14. Approval Re: Integrated Disbursement and Information System (IDIS) On motion of Vice Mayor Pillot and second of Commissioner Dupree, it was moved to approve Consent Agenda No. 1, Item Nos. 1 through 14. Motion carried unanimously (5 to 0): Dupree, yes; Merrill, yes; Patterson, yes; Pillot, yes; Cardamone, yes. 6. CONSENT AGENDA NO. 2: ITEM NO. 1 (RESOLUTION NO. 96R-921) = ITEM NO. 2 (RESOLUTION NO. 96R-923) -= ITEM NO. 3 (RESOLUTION NO. 96R-924) = ITEM NO. 4 (RESOLUTION 96R-925) = ITEM NO. 5 (RESOLUTION NO. 96R-926) - ITEM NO. 6 (RESOLUTION NO. 96R-927) = ITEM NO. 6 (RESOLUTION NO. 96R-928) - ITEM NO. 8 (RESOLUTION NO. 96R-929) - ITEM NO. 9 (RESOLUTION NO. 96R-930) - ADOPTED (AGENDA ITEM III-B) #1 (0372) through (0523) City Auditor and Clerk Robinson read proposed Resolution Nos. 96R-921, 96R-923, 96R-929, and 96R-930 by title only, and Resolution Nos. 96R-924, 96R-925, 96R-926, 96R-927, and 96R-928 in their entirety. 1. Adoption Re: Proposed Resolution No. 96R-921, accepting abatement of nuisance and cost reports pertaining to the removal of accumulations of junk, rubbish, trash or other offending matter; directing the assessment of a lien against the property described in each abatement report for the amount stated therein; etc. (Title Only) 2. Adoption Re: Proposed Resolution No. 96R-923, accepting reports of abatement of nuisances, and costs incurred, pertaining to the demolition of buildings or structures in accordance with the Standard Unsafe Building Abatement Code as adopted by the City; directing the assessment of liens against the real property upon which such costs were incurred; providing for the recording of said assessments in the City's "Assessment Book for Local Improvements" and in the official records of the Clerk of Circuit Court in and for Sarasota County; providing for the accumulation of interest on said liens; etc. (Title Only) 3. Adoption Re: Proposed Resolution No. 96R-924, appropriating $7,800 from the Unappropriated Fund Book 40 Page 13638 09/16/96 6:00 P.M. Book 40 Page 13639 09/16/96 6:00 P.M. balance of the General Fund to fund a legal ad for the City Charter; etc. 4. Adoption Re: Proposed Resolution No. 96R-925, appropriating $3,000 from the Special Law Enforcement Trust Fund (forfeitures) to fund the purchase of furniture for the Gillespie Park Substation; etc. 5. Adoption Re: Proposed Resolution No. 96R-926, appropriating $26,684.16 from the Special Law Enforcement Trust Fund (forfeitures) to fund the rent of an off-site location for the Vice/Narcotics Section; etc. 6. Adoption Re: Proposed Resolution No. 96R-927, appropriating $65,164.15 from the Special Law Enforcement Trust Fund (forfeitures) to fund the purchase of computer hardware and software for a pilot office automation project; etc. 7. Adoption Re: Proposed Resolution No. 96R-928, appropriating $10,000 from the Unappropriated Fund balance of the General Fund to provide additional funds for the hiring of a consultant for the Ringling Causeway Bridge Replacement Design, approved by the City Commission on June 3, 1996; etc. 8. Adoption Re: Proposed Resolution No. 96R-929, adopting the revised position Classification/Compensation Plan; authorizing employees, for whom collective bargaining is not required, except as provided herein, an increase in the base rate of pay as provided herein, effective October 2, 1996, authorizing the City Manager to continue to administer the Classification/compensation Plan requirements; providing additional compensation for longevity; etc. (Title Only) 9. Adoption Re: Proposed Resolution No. 96R-930, authorizing the salaries of the City Manager and City Auditor and Clerk, effective October 2, 1996, determining which officers shall give bond and the amounts thereof; providing additional compensation for longevity; etc. (Title Only) On motion of Vice Mayor Pillot and second of Commissioner Dupree, it was moved to adopt Consent Agenda No. 2, Item Nos. 1 through 9, inclusive. Mayor Cardamone requested that City Auditor and Clerk Robinson proceed with the roll-call vote. Motion carried unanimously (5 to 0): Cardamone, yes; Dupree, yes; Merrill, yes; Patterson, yes; Pillot, yes. Mayor Cardamone requested city Auditor and Clerk Robinson to explain the public hearing process. City Auditor and Clerk Robinson stated that at this time petitioners have 15 minutes to address the Commission and 5 minutes for rebuttal; that any citizen who has signed up to speak has 5 minutes. All individuals wishing to speak during the public hearings were requested to stand and were sworn in by City Auditor and Clerk Robinson. 7. PUBLIC HEARING RE: PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 96R-913, CERTIFYING TO THE COUNTY PROPERTY APPRAISER OF SARASOTA COUNTY THE RATES OF MILLAGE TO BE LEVIED BY THE CITY OF SARASOTA FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 1996; ESTABLISHING THE GENERAL FUND OPERATING MILLAGE AT 3.7105 WHICH IS 27.91 PERCENT LOWER THAN THE ROLLED-BACK MILLAGE RATE OF 5.1467; ESTABLISHING THE DEBT SERVICE MILLAGE AT 1.084; ETC. (TITLE ONLY) - ADOPTED (AGENDA ITEM IV-2) AND 8. SECOND PUBLIC HEARING RE: PROPOSED ORDINANCE NO. 96-3964, ADOPTING A BUDGET FOR THE CITY OF SARASOTA FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 1996, AND ENDING ON SEPTEMBER 30, 1997: SAID BUDGET TO INCLUDE THE GENERAL FUND, SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS, DEBT SERVICE FUNDS, ENTERPRISE FUNDS, INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS, THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN: PROVIDING FOR CURRENT EXPENSES AND CAPITAL EXPENDITURES OF THE WATER AND SEWER UTILITY SYSTEM OF THE CITY OF SARASOTA, EACH BEING SPECIFICALLY IDENTIFIED HEREIN; ASSESSING AND LEVYING AD VALOREM TAXES FOR CALENDAR YEAR 1996; SPECIFYING THE AD VALOREM TAX MILLS TO BE LEVIED AND ASSESSED FOR PURPOSES OTHER THAN BONDED-DEBT SERVICE; SPECIFYING THE AD VALOREM TAX MILLS LEVIED AND ASSESSED FOR BONDED-DEBT SERVICE; MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FROM THE AD VALOREM TAX REVENUES COLLECTED: IDENTIFYING THE BUDGETS AND AMOUNT OF THE AD VALOREM TAX REVENUES WHICH ARE APPROPRIATED FOR THE PURPOSES ENUMERATED HEREIN: APPROPRIATING MISCELLANEOUS: REVENUES AND SURPLUS REVENUES FOR THE PURPOSES STATED; INSTRUCTING THE FINANCE DIRECTOR TO KEEP ACCOUNTS sO AS TO ASSURE THE PROPER UTILIZATION OF FUNDS APPROPRIATED TO A PARTICULAR USE OR PURPOSE; APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR OTHER EXPENSES AND EXPENDITURES: PROVIDING FOR THE DESIGNATION OF A RESERVATION OF FUND BALANCE FOR ENCUMBRANCES AND THE REAPPORTIONING OF FUNDS AT THE END OF FISCAL YEAR 1996-97; PROVIDING THAT A NET SURPLUS, AFTER REAPPORTIONING OF FUNDS, SHALL BE AVAILABLE FOR APPROPRIATION FOR THE ENSUING FISCAL YEAR: APPROPRIATING ALL FUNDS RECEIVED FROM THE STATE OR FEDERAL GOVERNMENT FOR USES AUTHORIZED BY APPLICABLE LAW; APPROPRIATING ALL MISCELLANEOUS REVENUES NOT OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED IN THIS ORDINANCE AND SURPLUS REVENUES FROM EACH REVENUE SOURCE FOR OPERATING Book 40 Page 13640 09/16/96 6:00 P.M. Book 40 Page 13641 09/16/96 6:00 P.M. EXPENSES OF THE CITY OF SARASOTA UP TO AND INCLUDING THE TOTAL AMOUNTS APPROPRIATED HEREBY OR AS MAY BE SUBSEQUENTLY PROVIDED BY THE CITY COMMISSION: RESTRICTING THE USE OF DEBT SERVICE TAXES ONLY FOR THE PURPOSES FOR WHICH APPROPRIATED: INSTRUCTING THE FINANCE DIRECTOR TO PROCEED TO COLLECT ALL REVENUES DUE THE CITY OF SARASOTA, INCLUDING AD VALOREM TAXES LEVIED HEREBY AND INITIALLY COLLECTED BY THE TAX COLLECTOR FOR SARASOTA COUNTY, FLORIDA; AUTHORIZING THE FINANCE DIRECTOR TO PAY OUT MONIES COLLECTED PURSUANT TO THIS ORDINANCE FOR THE PURPOSES STATED; REQUIRING PAYMENTS ON WARRANT OF THE CITY AUDITOR AND CLERK, COUNTERSIGNED BY THE CITY MANAGER, WHEN REOUIRED BY THE CHARTER OF THE CITY OF SARASOTA; APPROPRIATING FUNDS RECEIVED FROM THE TREASURER OF THE UNITED STATES AND ANY BALANCE REMAINING AT THE END OF ANY FISCAL YEAR AS FUNDING UNDER THE HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT OF 1974, AS AMENDED; PROVIDING FOR THE SEVERABILITY OF THE PARTS HEREOF IF DECLARED INVALID; ETC. (TITLE ONLY) - ADOPTED (AGENDA ITEM IV-1) #1 (0524) through (0813) Gibson Mitchell, Director of Finance, came before the Commission and stated that this is the second required public hearing on Ordinance No. 96-3964 which adopts the City of Sarasota budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 1996/97; that proposed Resolution No. 96R-913 certifies to the Property Appraiser and the Tax Collector the millage rates to be levied by the City of Sarasota for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 1996, and ending September 30, 1997, and must be read and adopted prior to the final reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 96R-913; that Resolution No. 96R-193 certifies the following: Debt Service for 1990 0.7910 mill Refunding Bonds Debt Service for 1994 0.2930 mill Refunding Bonds General Fund Operation 3.7105 mills 4.7945 mills Mr. Mitchell stated that the General Fund Budget, as proposed, requires a decrease in the current operating millage of 5.339 mills to 3.7105 mills, a 30.5 percent decrease; that this millage will yield a net ad valorem tax revenue for the General Fund of $9,724,910; that the voted debt service millage is calculated at 1.084, down from the current level of 1.160, a 6.55 percent decrease, for a total millage of 4.7945 which is a decrease of 1.7045 millage from last year; that the Truth in Millage (TRIM) Bill requires that the millage rate for ad valorem taxes be measured in terms of an increase of decrease from the rolled-back rate; that the rolled-back rate is the millage rate necessary to yield the same ad valorem tax revenue generated in FY 1995-96; that the rolled-back rate is 5.1467 mills; that the proposed millage rate of 3.7105 mills is a 27.91 percent decrease from the rolled-back rate. Vice Mayor Pillot stated that the Finance Department did an excellent job in producing a clear, concise, thorough, and readable budget; that the quality of the Finance Department should be recognized and the public made aware of the efforts undertaken to present a budget which can be easily understood; that thanks and appreciation are expressed to the Finance Department. Mayor Cardamone opened the public hearing. There was no one signed up to speak and Mayor Cardamone closed the public hearing. City Manager Sollenberger stated that the Administration recommends adopting proposed Resolution No. 96R-913. City Auditor and Clerk Robinson read proposed Resolution 96R-913 by title only. On motion of Commissioner: Patterson and second of Vice Mayor Pillot, it was moved to adopt proposed Resolution No. 96R-913. Mayor Cardamone requested that City Auditor and Clerk Robinson proceed with the roll-call vote. Motion carried unanimously (5 to 0): Dupree, yesi Merrill, yesi Patterson, yes; Pillot, yes; Cardamone, yes. City Manager Sollenberger stated that the Administration recommends adopting proposed Ordinance No. 96-3964. City Auditor and Clerk Robinson read proposed Ordinance No. 96-3964 by title only. On motion of Commissioner Patterson and second of Commissioner Merrill, it was moved to adopt proposed Ordinance No. 96-3964. Mayor Cardamone requested that City Auditor and Clerk Robinson proceed with the roll-call vote. Motion carried unanimously (5 to 0): Merrill, yes; Patterson, yes; Pillot, yes; Cardamone, yes; Dupree, yes. 9. CITIZENS INPUT CONCERNING CITY TOPICS (AGENDA ITEM VI) #1 (0814) through (0948) Edward Harding, 417 North Briggs Avenue, #709 (34237), came before the Commission and stated that his grandfather once owned a horse and wagon garbage collection business; that information was furnished to the City Manager one month ago regarding a method of Book 40 Page 13642 09/16/96 6:00 P.M. Book 40 Page 13643 09/16/96 6:00 P.M. solid waste collection, currently used in New York and Chicago, which would cut costs in half by allowing garbage, yard waste, and recycles to be picked up by one truck once per week. Mr. Harding continued that many senior citizens have difficulty pushing the City's trash receptacles to the curb; that recyclable bins are heavy when filled with paper or cans; that the paper must be disposed of as rubbish when the bins are left out overnight in rainy weather. Mr. Harding further stated that all garbage should be placed in white bags; that paper and recyclables should each be placed in separate bags of different color; that the bags, which can be closed, would provide a more sanitary and cost-efficient method of waste disposal; that the Administration should contact the waste disposal departments of New York and Chicago for further information; that the first duty of the Commission is to set policy making the City as efficient as possible. 10. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: APPROVAL RE: CLOSED LOOP TRAFFIC SIGNAL SYSTEM (AGENDA ITEM VII-1) #1 (0949) through (1407) Asim Mohammed, Assistant City Engineer, and Joseph Pizzalato, Traffic Control Systems Technician IV, came before the Commission. Mr. Mohammed distributed copies of and presented slides explaining the Closed-loop Operations for Maximizing Efficient Transportation (COMETS), a sophisticated traffic signal management system. Mr. Mohammed stated that the Engineering Department and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), in a joint presentation, explained the Closed Loop System to the Commission in April 1996; that the Commission directed the Administration to prepare a management plan ensuring safe and efficient functioning of the System at the May 20, 1996, regular Commission meeting; that the Engineering Department has worked in cooperation with the City's Public Works Department and FDOT. Mr. Mohammed stated that the following functions are performed by the Closed Loop System: 1. Signalized intersections are monitored from a centralized control center located at City Hall. 2. Multiple signal timing plans are selected for different times of the day based on changes in traffic conditions. 3. A specific group of signals are controlled for a special condition such as a special event or heavy beach traffic. 4. Voice communications can be directed from any intersection to the control center. Mr. Mohammed stated that maximizing movement of through traffic on main arteries is the guiding principle of COMETS; that the system is composed of 11 timing sections which are a group. of traffic signals with similar characteristics; that once a section has been entered, drivers will be able to travel straight through without stopping at a red light; that an individual driving north on U.S. 41 should be able to travel from Bee Ridge Road to Orange Avenue without stopping. Commissioner Merrill asked if a driver would first have to be stopped at a red light at Bee Ridge Road, and then proceed with the green light, in order to travel straight through? Mr. Mohammed stated that a driver reaching any intersection in the time section at the beginning of the green-light phase will be able to travel straight through to Orange Avenue; however, a red light may be encountered at one of the subsequent intersections if, for example, the Siesta Drive intersection is crossed at the end of a green-light phase; that the driver will then be able to travel straight through once the red light turns green. Commissioner Merrill asked if a driver will be able to travel straight through from any intersection in the timing section after the traffic signal in that intersection turns green? Vice Mayor Pillot stated that the speed limits must be maintained. Mr. Mohammed stated that is correct. Mayor Cardamone stated that a driver turning right on a red light into the timing section can continue to travel straight through with the traffic; that the system truly works. Mr. Mohammed stated that a driver entering an intersection in the middle or end of a green light may be required to stop at a red light at a subsequent intersection; however, the driver will be able to travel straight through the remaining intersections in the timing section without stopping once the signal turns green. Mayor Cardamone stated that traffic congestion slowing cars to below the designed speed limit may interfere with straight-through travel. Mr. Mohammed stated that a driver traveling in traffic congestion during the peak hours in the morning and evening may encounter a red light as the designed speed limit cannot be maintained. Book 40 Page 13644 09/16/96 6:00 P.M. Book 40 Page 13645 09/16/96 6:00 P.M. Commissioner Merrill asked if the designed speed limit varies during the day to accommodate congestion during peak hours? Mr. Mohammed stated that traffic signals in the U.S. 41 timing section are synchronized for traffic moving at the 40 miles per hour (mph) speed limit; that the timing patterns vary during the day; that different timing patterns dependent upon volume of traffic are designed for 10 a.m., 4 p.m., and after 10 p.m. Commissioner Dupree asked if straight-through travel can be expected during the 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. peak hours? Mr. Mohammed stated that the City has purchased and installed equipment enabling Staff to drive the streets in the timing section and document the number of stops and delays encountered; that straigat-chrough travel during peak hour traffic should be achieved for every artery in the system within two years. Commissioner Patterson asked if the system works in only one direction during a specific time period? Mr. Mohammed stated that south U.S. 41 is coordinated favorably for the north-bound direction during the morning peak hour when traffic moves towards Downtown. Commissioner Patterson asked if south-bound traffic will be stopped at every red light in the morning. Mr. Mohammed stated that they would not be. Commissioner Patterson stated that the Signal Timing Sections Map does not indicate traffic signals for Fruitville Road in Downtown; and asked if a timing section has been designed? Mr. Pizzalato stated that the Signal Timing Sections Map does not indicate traffic signals Downtown as approximately three dozen signals exist within that timing section and the scale of the map is too small to portray all the traffic signals. Commissioner Patterson asked if Downtown Fruitville Road traffic signals are being synchronized. Mr. Pizzalato stated yes. Mr. Mohammed stated that Fruitville Road traffic signals are included in the Downtown Timing Section. Mayor Cardamone stated that the traffic signal at Waldemere Street causes southbound traffic to back up into the Bahia Vista Street intersection during peak hours; and asked the cause of the chronic congestion? Mr. Mohammed stated that all traffic in the Waldemere Street/U.S. 41 intersection stops when a pedestrian pushes a button triggering the traffic signals at all four approaches to turn red; that the City and FDOT are trying to find a way to remove all-four pedestrian stops without endangering pedestrians. Mr. Pizzalato stated that FDOT has included the Waldemere Street traffic signal problem in the south Tamiami Trail project scheduled for November. Mr. Mohammed stated that south U.S. 41 is not yet properly functioning as all the sensor loops, the device which senses the number of traveling vehicles, were removed when the road was repaved; that the sensor loops should be reinstalled and the system operating efficiently in November. Mr. Mohammed continued that the public will be encouraged to call or write the City regarding traffic problems; that a computerized maintenance recording system will enable residents to leave their name, telephone number, and the nature of the traffic problem which will be studied by the City to determine a solution; that a maintenance system coordinated with the Public Works Department ensures the proper Eunctioning of traffic signalization equipment. Mayor Cardamone stated that Downtown traffic signals, synchronized for weekday traffic flow, cause drivers to sit for long periods of time during the weekend when no traffic exists. Mr. Pizzalato stated that a lower cycle length or a free operation process could be implemented. Mr. Mohammed stated that removing the synchronization from Downtown traffic signals will allow traffic to move freely during the weekend. 11. NEW BUSINESS: APPROVAL RE: REQUEST OF FLORIDA WEST COAST SYMPHONY, INC. TO LEASE PROPERTY IN THE CIVIC CENTER AREA = APPROVED (AGENDA ITEM VIII-1) #1 (1409) through (1630) City Manager Sollenberger requested that representatives of the Florida West Coast Symphony, Inc. come before the Commission. Laurence R. Saslaw, President, Gretchen Serrie, Executive Director, and Dr. Brian Murphy, Immediate Past President, Florida West Coast Symphony, Inc., came before the Commission. Mr. Saslaw stated that the City granted the Florida West Coast Symphony a lease on land in the Civic Center for a rehearsal hall over 40 years ago; however, the functions of the rehearsal hall have since expanded into educational programs; that the Symphony, Book 40 Page 13646 09/16/96 6:00 P.M. Book 40 Page 13647 09/16/96 6:00 P.M. having overgrown the existing facilities, reached an agreement to share space in a building proposed for construction by the Sarasota Ballet of Florida; that the Ballet's move to the Asolo Center for the Performing Arts leaves the Symphony short of space. Mr. Saslaw continued that the Florida West Coast Symphony, Inc., sponsors six youth orchestras, provides music education to over 300 children, and conducts performances for 8,000 children each year; that a music festival sponsored by the Symphony, featuring internationally prominent young musicians each June, is also constrained by space; that the Symphony desires to construct an educational wing on City-owned land adjoining the current Symphony center, and leased previously to the Sarasota Ballet of Florida. Ms. Serrie stated that the Florida West Coast Symphony, Inc., understands the Commission's concerns regarding the placement of the proposed facility a sufficient distance from the water's edge; that the Symphony which has demonstrated proper stewardship of the City's property for 48 years promises to maintain the same level of stewardship in the future. Dr. Murphy stated that his daughter began studying violin as a small child in a program provided by the Florida West Coast Symphony, Inc., continued in the program until she was eighteen, and is now attending the New England Conservatory of Music; that the Symphony has helped many young people to develop talents which eventually enable them to become accomplished pertormers. City Manager Sollenberger stated that leasing the property to the Florida West Coast Symphony, Inc., is compatible with the Civic Center Master Plan; that the Symphony's proposed use strengthens the City's cultural presence which is the essence of the community; that this lease will require termination of the City's lease with the Sarasota Ballet of Florida and a settlement concerning site restoration. City Manager Sollenberger continued that the Administration recommends approval of the Administration entering into discussion with the Florida West Coast Symphony, Inc. for purposes of negotiating a lease to present to the Commission for final action. On motion of Vice Mayor Pillot and second of Commissioner Patterson, it was moved to approve the Administration's recommendation. Mayor Cardamone stated that thanks is expressed for the one-to-one presentation provided by the Florida West Coast Symphony, Inc. in her office. Mayor Cardamone called for a vote on the motion. Motion carried unanimously (5 to 0): Dupree, yes; Merrill, yes; Patterson, yes; Pillot, yes; Cardamone, yes. 12. NEW BUSINESS: APPROVAL RE: LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS PROJECT SCHEDULE - DIRECTED THE ADMINISTRATION TO CONSULT WITH THE PLANNING BOARD/LOCAL PLANNING AGENCY TO DETERMINE SCHEDULE (AGENDA ITEM VIII-2) #1 (1633) through (1809) Michael Taylor, Deputy Director, Department of Planning and Development, came before the Commission and stated that a preliminary draft of the Land Development Regulations (LDRS) will be presented to the Commission on December 9, 1996 for review and comment; that two alternative schedules have been provided for the subsequent adoption of the Land Development Regulations (LDRS) i that the Planning Department will make the necessary revisions to the draft in January 1997 prior to the public hearings for adoption. Mr. Taylor continued that the Commission is requested to determine the schedule for the public hearings at which adoption of the document will be addressed; that two alternative schedules have been provided to achieve adoption of the LDRS by March 1997. Commissioner Patterson asked if the proposed dates fall on Monday evenings? City Auditor and Clerk Robinson stated that February 19, 1997, is on a Wednesday and March 10, 1997, and March 17, 1997, are Monday evenings. Mayor Cardamone stated that the Alternative 1 schedule indicates the Planning Board/Local Planning Agency (PBLP) will hold a public hearing" independent of the Commission on February 19, 1997, and then the Commission will hold public hearings on March 10, 1997, and March 17, 1997; that the Alternative 2 schedule eliminates the independent PBLP public hearing and schedules a joint public hearing with the Commission and PBLP on February 19, 1997, and a second public hearing for second reading of the proposed ordinance with the Commission on March 10, 1997. Mr. Taylor stated that the Alternative 1 schedule provides an independent PBLP public hearing on February 19, 1997; that Alternative 2 will bring both the Commission and the PBLP together for a joint public hearing on February 19, 1997; that the PBLP is required to make a finding of consistency with the City's Comprehensive Plan, confirming the two documents are in harmony. Mayor Cardamone asked if the City Attorney finds the joint meetings to be legally proper? City Attorney Taylor stated yes. Book 40 Page 13648 09/16/96 6:00 P.M. Book 40 Page 13649 09/16/96 6:00 P.M. Commissioner Patterson asked if the PBLP's preference has been determined? Mr. Taylor stated no; that the PBLP will be contacted if the Commission so directs. Commissioner Patterson stated that the PBLP may prefer to hold an independent public hearing at which a vote separate from the Commission's can be cast and at which PBLP input on the LDRs could be developed for presentation to the Commission; that the PBLP should be contacted to determine which schedule is preferred. Mr. Taylor stated that the PBLP would most likely prefer to hold an independent public hearing. Commissioner Patterson stated that the PBLP should be advised to freely choose either alternative schedule; that the Commission has no strong feeling regarding the issue. Mayor Cardamone stated that there is a consensus of the Commission to accept the schedule selected by the Planning Board/Local Planning Agenay for adoption of the Land Development Regulations (LDRS). 13. REMARKS OF COMMISSIONERS, ANNOUNCEMENTS AND ITEMS FOR NEXT AGENDA - : DIRECTED ADMINISTRATION TO REPORT BACK REGARDING TRIMMING OF BAYFRONT CUBAN LAURELS; DIRECTED ADMINISTRATION TO INCLUDE ATTAINABLE GOALS FOR CRIME REDUCTION IN CRIME PLAN UPDATE (AGENDA ITEM X) #1 (1810) through (2017) COMMISSIONER DUPREE: A. stated that at the September 3, 1996, regular Commission meeting, he had reported problems with recylcling collection; that thanks is expressed to representatives of Browning Ferris Industries (BFI) who have since resolved the problems. COMMISSIONER PATTERSON: A. stated that trees blocking the view on the Bayfront were introduced as an issue during the Commission's informal discussion meeting on Saturday, September 14, 1996; that two large, gorgeous Cuban Laurels have grown together; that Staff should investigate the possibility of cutting the two trees apart which would not sacrifice any shade, creating perhaps a more shapely tree, and providing some view. Mayor Cardamone stated that she supports the suggestion. Vice Mayor Pillot stated that he supports the suggestion; that he also inspected the trees after the informal discussion meeting and would prefer the trees not be excessively pruned. B. stated that Commissioner Merrill suggested the Police Department should present a report to the Commission indicating attainable goals for the reduction of crime; that Commission support is requested to ask the Police Department for such a report. Mayor Cardamone stated that the Commission was believed to be requesting an update of the existing crime plan. City Manager Sollenberger stated that an update of the existing crime plan was presented to the Commission in April 1996; that providing attainable goals for crime reduction is in harmony with the City's overall goals; that John Lewis, Chief of Police, Police Department, will be requested to include attainable goals for crime reduction in the next update of the existing crime plan. 14. ADJOURN (AGENDA ITEM XII) #1 (2017) There being no further business, Mayor Cardamone adjourned the regular meeting of September 16, 1996 at 7:50 p.m. htsele MOLLIE C. CARDAMONE, MAYOR ATTEST: illE e Rabengori BILIV/ECROINSON, CITY AUDITOR AND CLERK Book 40 Page 13650 09/16/96 6:00 P.M.