BOCC – Page 6 – Beth Tate

BOCC, St. Johns County, Workforce Housing

What Happened at the March 5 St. Johns County Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting

Posted on March 12, 2024 by Beth Tate

Summary of what transpired at the March 5 meeting

Tuesday’s meeting began with a Proclamation, presented by Commissioner Krista Joseph, recognizing Flood Awareness Week in St. Johns County

The Proclamation was accepted by John Brown, St. Johns County Flood Plain Manager (bet you didn’t know we had one!)

St. Johns County has over 122,000 acres in the Special Flood Plain Area and over 110 miles of coast line along the Ocean and St. Johns River.

The County wants to raise awareness for residents to help them prepare and protect against flood damage. By their participation in the National Flood Insurance Program’s Community Rating System, residents are able to purchase flood insurance at reduced rates.

Read more about the Proclamation and learn about the County’s efforts here: Flood Awareness Proclamation

Public Safety Update

Director Martin from SJSO talked about the efforts to combat retail theft rings that operate across multiple jurisdictions. They conducted a traffic stop that resulted in an arrest that included not only stolen merchandise but narcotics and firearms. The Property Crimes Unit continues to work with local retail stores to combat these crime rings.

Acting Fire Chief Sean McGhee highlighted local charity events with participation by fire department personnel; the Battle of the Badges Boxing Match supporting the Police Athletic League (PAL). They also participated in the Guns and Hoses charity hockey tournament.

Learn more about PAL here: St. Johns County PAL

He also shared the sad news about one of our local firefighters, Justin Dudley, who has recently been diagnosed with a brain tumor and is in need of financial support during this time.

You can help support Firefighter Dudley at this link: Support Justin Dudley

Public Infrastructure Update

The Public Infrastructure Update began with updates on traffic signal improvements. The updates are now including if there are developer or impact fee funds helping to pay for the improvements.

Watch the full presentation at this link: Public Infrastructure Update

Some of the significant updates:

Consent Agenda

Commissioner Joseph requested Item 5, PFS AGREE 2023-02 SR 207 Infill Multifamily Proportionate Fair Share Agreement, be moved to the Regular Agenda. This was moved to the Regular Agenda Item 10.

Regular Agenda Items:

Commissioner Dean requested an emergency item be added to the Regular Agenda. There have been complaints from the community about fire and smoke from the Ancient City Wood Recycling Plant near Palencia. Commissioner Dean shared that he had bee in contact with the head of the Department of Environmental Protection about the issue and they were taking steps to address the complaints. The Director of Growth Management, Mike Roberson, shared that the company is operating under a Special Use Permit. All indications at that point were that the company may not be in compliance with the Special Use Permit conditions.

To watch the entire discussion on the Wood Recycling Plant, check this link: Emergency Item – Wood Recycling Plant

At noon, County AdministratorJoy Andrews provided an update that the Fire Marshall, Fire Rescue, and Growth Management staff were on site and the company was being informed of the County’s intent to revoke their permit.

Agenda item 1 – Economic Incentive Request from Acadia Healthcare Company.

This was a request for an Incentive AGreement for Acadia Healthcare Company to be located near the intersection of CR 210 and Moon Bay Parkway.

There was similar confusion on this item as on previous economic incentive items. This was not a request to approve the project, it is already allowed. The item was just to approve the economic incentive package requested.

A bit more about the project. “Acadia is a behavioral healthcare service provider that offers inpatient, outpatient, detoxification, and residential treatment.”

The project is expected to bring 239 direct jobs to the county and generate another 191 jobs indirectly.

The Economic Incentive package would cost the County about $1,648,000 over the initial period. Over a 20 year period the company is expected to pay almost $20 million in Property Taxes.

The materials can be found here: Agenda Item 1 – Acadia

An article in the Jacksonville Business Journal about the development was published here: JAX Business Journal Article – Acadia (subscription required)

Incentive Agreement: 99,000 square ft on CR210 and Moon Bay Parkway 239 High wage jobs. Average annual wage of $75,000 would result in $24.7 million annually in Gross County Product. This is a behavioral health facility that the County worked hard to attract.

This was approved 4-1 with Commissioner Joseph being the no vote.

Agenda Item 2 was the Annual Property Ranking List from the Land Acquisition and Management Program (LAMP) Conservation Board.

You can watch this portion of the meeting here: LAMP Recommendation Discussion

The five parcels recommended are:

Shores Blvd. – The Deltona Corporation
Bishop Estates Rd. – Bailey
5960 Don Manuel Rd. – Masters
8805 A1A South – Galasso
Hawkins Island – Hawkins Family LLC

Materials can be found here: Agenda Item 2 – LAMP Recommendations

After much discussion on how to obtain funds and the need for more funds to support the LAMP program, the list was approved 5-0.

Agenda Item 3 is an Award of a bid for the Shore Drive Trail. As at past meetings, this topic was hotly debated during public comment. The project was first initiated by Commissioner Waldron in 2021. Since that time there have been surveys and public meetings as well as much public comment during Commissioner’s meetings.

The project is construction of an eight foot shared use/multi-use pathway along Shore Drive in the St. Augustine South neighborhood. This trail would connect 2 County Boat Ramps in that area.

Materials can be found here, with pictures and data about the project beginning on page 144. Agenda Item 3

Some details about the project:

Ultimately the bid award was approved 4-1 with Commissioner Joseph voting no.

The Consent Agenda item, PFS AGREE 2023-02 SR 207 Infill Multifamily Proportionate Fair Share Agreement, that was placed at the end of the Regular Agenda was pulled forward to be heard at this time.

This item is the first development being brought forward under the Live Local Act passed in 2023. That Act allows affordable housing to be constructed on land already zoned Commercial Warehouse, without the need for approval by the Commissioners.

The item is to approve the Proportionate Fair Share Agreement that is required for new developments. This one is for 279 multi-family units on 207 near the I-95 interchange.

There was much discussion about the impacts of these developments that do not get approved by the Commissioners. Legally, the Board cannot deny the development being built. Other counties in Florida have sued the State over the Live Local Act. During public comment there were recommendations to join in those lawsuits.

What this issue came down to was, could they deny the build? Not without consequences. The ask was to approve the Proportionate Fair Share Agreement. They could vote no on the PFS but that would only mean the applicant could build without being required to pay for the deficient roads or public infrastructure.

Ultimately it was approved, with Commissioner Joseph voting no, and staff was asked to come back to the Commission with further discussion on the Live Local Act and it’s implications.

Agenda Item 4 was a Rezoning request for the Mills Workforce Housing on Lewis Speedway. The request is to rezone ~24 acres of land for a total of 110 Workforce Housing Units. The project will be built by KB Homes and their representative spoke about the need for more “starter homes” in St. Johns County.

DISCLOSURE: As Chair of the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce Public Policy Committee, I provided a letter of support from the Chamber for this much needed workforce housing project. The letter and my role were referenced in the presentation by Mr. Burnett.

The project is located here.

Materials are here; Agenda Item 4 – Mill’s Place

When this was heard at the PZA Meeting there was concern about the number of units and the length of time they are required to be Workforce Housing price capped. The developer has capped the construction at 110 units and extended the timeframe for the Workforce Housing pricing to 5 years from the county required 2 years.

They also worked with the County to develop a plan to install a round-about to help with traffic calming.

The Roundabout would be located here:

PZA Member Judy Spiegel spoke during Public Comment and stated that although she voted no at the PZA, that with the modifications made by the developer, she now supports the project and would have voted yes with these modifications.

After much discussion, the project was approved 3-2 with Commissioners Joseph and Whitehurst being the No votes.

Agenda Item 5 was an appeal of a PZA approval for the DeArment Residence at 3780 Coastal Highway. A request for a Zoning Variance to allow the construction of a swimming pool with 15 ft. set back instead of the required 25 ft set back was approved by the Planning and Zoning Agency on November 2. Adjacent neighbors have filed an appeal of this approval.

Materials are here: Agenda Item 5

The request to deny the PZA approval was approved 5-0.

Agenda Item 6 was a request to rezone 273 acres from Planned Rural Development and Open Rural to Planned Rural Development for 54 single family homes.

“PRD 2023-01 Honey Branch Farms, a request to rezone approximately 273 acres of land from Planned Rural Development (PRD) and Open Rural (OR) to Planned Rural Development (PRD) to allow for a maximum of 54 single family homes within approximately 27 acres of Development Area, setting aside the remaining approximately 246 acres for Reserve Area; specifically located on unaddressed property on County Road 208 across from Joe Ashton Road.”

Materials are here: Agenda Item 6

With little discussion the project was approved 5-0

Agenda Item 7 –One North Commercial – a request to remove one condition from a previously approved Commercial Intensive zoning. The request was approved 5-0.

Agenda Item 8 was a transfer of $2900 in funds for the Flagler Estates community Redevelopment Area Reserve for a Spring Festival, also approved 5-0.

Agenda Item 9 – An appointment to the Recreational Advisory Committee to fill a vacancy created by an end of term for Bradly Long by renewing Mr. Long’s term was approved 5-0.

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BOCC, St. Johns County, Workforce Housing

What’s Ahead at the March 5 St. Johns County Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting

Posted on March 3, 2024 by Beth Tate

Tuesday’s meeting will begin with a Proclamation recognizing Flood Awareness Week.

Consent Agenda Items of Interest:

Consent Agenda Item 11 is an important one for those who travel US 1 between the northern part of the county and St. Augustine. This is a Resolution to adopt a Purchase and Sale Agreement for property at the southeast corner of US1 and Pine Island Road. This is needed to complete the intersection improvements for this dangerous intersection. Read more at this link: Consent Agenda Item 11

Regular Agenda Items:

Agenda item 1 is an Economic Incentive Request from Acadia Healthcare Company.

This development as located near the intersection of CR 210 and Moon Bay Parkway.

“Acadia is a behavioral healthcare service provider that offers inpatient, outpatient, detoxification, and residential treatment.”

Initially the applicant had requested confidentiality but has since withdrawn that request. “The project scored 7.5 points under the new industry category of the County’s Business Incentive Program, which makes it eligible for expedited permitting and an economic development incentive of up to 100% of fees paid to the County by the Applicant (impact fees), four years ad valorem taxes paid by the Applicant (general County portion) on capital improvements and four years tangible personal property taxes paid by the Applicant (general County portion), which is an 8.3 percent reimbursement on all taxes and fees paid to the County over a 20-year period.”

The materials can be found here: Agenda Item 1

An article in the Jacksonville Business Journal about the development was published here: Jax Business Journal Article – Acadia (subscription required)

Agenda Item 2 is the Annual Property Ranking List from the Land Acquisition and Management Program (LAMP) Conservation Board.

The five parcels recommended are:

Shores Blvd. – The Deltona Corporation
Bishop Estates Rd. – Bailey
5960 Don Manuel Rd. – Masters
8805 A1A South – Galasso
Hawkins Island – Hawkins Family LLC

Materials can be found here: Agenda item 2 – LAMP

Agenda Item 3 is an Award of a bid for the Shore Drive Trail. This has been a highly debated project at past Commissioner meetings and the Community meeting on February 14 had very high attendance with much input from the community both for and against the project.

The project is construction of an eight foot shared use/multi-use pathway along Shore Drive in the St. Augustine South neighbohood. This trail would connect 2 County Boat Ramps in that area.

Materials can be found here, with pictures and data about the project beginning on page 144. Agenda Item 3 – Shore Drive Trail

Agenda Item 4 is a Rezoning request for the Mills Workforce Housing on Lewis Speedway. This project had previously been on the agenda in February but continued to allow for more time to prepare a submittal for a potential roundabout near the property.

The request is to rezone ~24 acres of land for a total of 110 Workforce Housing Units.

Materials are here; Agenda Item 4 – Mills Workforce Housing

Agenda Item 5 is an interesting one. This is an appeal of a PZA approval for the DeArment Residence at 3780 Coastal Highway. A request for a Zoning Variance to allow the construction of a swimming pool with 15 ft. set back instead of the required 25 ft set back was approved by the Planning and Zoning Agency on November 2. Adjacent neighbors have filed an appeal of this approval.

Materials are here: Agenda Item 5 – DeArment Residence

Agenda Item 6 is a request to rezone 273 acres from Planned Rural Development and Open Rural to Planned Rural Development for 54 single family homes.

Materials are here: Agenda Item 6 – Honey Branch Farms

Agenda Item 7 –One North Commercial – This is another interesting request. This property is already Commercial Intensive but has one condition on the property. The request is to remove that condition.

“Request to rezone approximately 1.01 acres of land from Commercial Intensive (CI) with conditions to Commercial Intensive (CI), located northeast of 6236 US Highway 1 North, specifically located at 6241 W. Cypress Drive and unaddressed lots on W. Cypress Drive. The Planning and Zoning Agency heard this request at their regularly scheduled public hearing on February 1, 2024 and recommended approval with a vote of 6 to 1. Agency members and the public discussed the lot sizes, reasoning behind the existing condition, wetlands and flooding in the area.”

The one condition for the Commercial Intensive is from a previous approval of the Commercial Intensive property in 2020:

“1. The uses on the property are limited to buffering and stormwater retention

The Planning and Zoning Agency (PZA) heard the request to rezone the 1.01-acre subject property from RS3 to CI on October 1, 2020 through project REZ 2020-16. During the PZA hearing, discussion was made of the potential development and use of the property in close proximity to the residential properties; this discussion resulted in one (1) added condition to the rezoning to allow only buffering and stormwater retention uses. The Agency unanimously voted to recommend approval of REZ 2020-16 with the added condition. Project REZ 2020-16 went forward to the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) in a public hearing on November 3, 2020; the BCC approved the request with a vote of 5-0; Ordinance 2020-51 was enacted with one (1) condition as listed above.”

Materials are here: Agenda Item 7 – One North Commercial

Agenda Item 8 is a transfer of $2900 in funds for the Flagler Estates community Redevelopment Area Reserve for a Spring Festival.

Agenda Item 9 – Consider an appointment to the Recreation Advisory Committee to fill a vacancy created by an end of term for Bradly Long. Materials are here: Agenda Item 9 – Recreation Advisory Committee

I’m remiss in posting my update on the February 20 BOCC Meeting. I hope to have that published this week.

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BOCC, St. Johns County

What’s Ahead at the February 20 St. Johns County Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting

Posted on February 18, 2024 by Beth Tate

There are no proclamations on the agenda found here: February 20 Agenda

Consent Agenda Items

A couple of items of interest:

Item 20 is a one-time funding agreement with the Florida State Park Foundation for reconstructing Fort Mose at Fort Mose Historic State Park for an amount not to exceed $200,000.

Item 21 is the appointment of 2 residents to the Mid-Anastasia Design Review Board. We usually see such appointments in the Regular Agenda, recently leading to much public comment.

Regular Agenda Items

Agenda Item 1 – Confirmation of Daniel Whitcraft as Facilities Management Director

Mr. Whitcraft was the finalist from over 100 applicants. He joins St. Johns County from Alachua County where he held a similar position.

Read the details here: Agenda Item 1

Agenda Item 2 – Presentation of the St. Johns County Surplus and OPEB Investment Portfolios

“The St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners Investment Policy, Section XVII Reporting, and OPEB Trust Investment Policy, Section XV, requires the Clerk, or designee, to prepare and submit a written report annually on all invested funds to the Board. Included in the report shall be a complete list of all invested funds, the name or type of security in which the funds are invested, the amount invested, the maturity date, earned income, the book value, the market value and the yield on each investment. PFM Asset Management, LLC, is the County’s investment advisor and has prepared the annual reports for the quarter ended September 30, 2023.”

The report can be found at this link: Agenda Item 2 – Investment Portfolios

Agenda Item 3 – Hastings Community Center & Library and New Southwest First Coast Technical College Campus

There is a lot of activity occurring in our Hastings community and this agenda item serves to arrange funding to facilitate several improvements in the area.

There will be 5 motions presented:

The first, authorizing the County Administrator to execute a funding assistance agreement by and between St. Johns County and the School Board of St. Johns County, FL for a capital distribution of a sub award of $7,614,108, from the American Rescue Plan Revenue Fund Budget.

The second, authorizing the Chair of the Board, on behalf of the County, to execute a County Deed conveying the old Hastings High School property to The School Board of St. Johns County, Florida.

The third, accepting the terms, provisions, conditions, and requirements of a Library Construction Grant Agreement between St. Johns County, Florida and the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Library and Information Services; authorizing the County Administrator, or designee, to execute the Agreement on behalf of the County; and recognizing and appropriating the grant within the St. Johns County Fiscal Year 2024 Budget.

The fourth, authorizing and approving the HUD Contract for Loan Guarantee and Note in the principal amount of not to exceed $5,075,000 to finance the costs of the Hastings Community Center and Library Project; and recognizing and appropriating loan proceeds, debt service, and debt service reserve within the St. Johns County Fiscal Year 2024 Budget.

And last, to authorize the transfer of General Fund reserves, in an amount up to $50,000, for the transition and set-up of a temporary library branch in Hastings.

Details are at this link: Agenda Item 3

Agenda Item 4 – County-wide Vulnerability Assessment Presentation of Findings

This is a DRAFT presentation of the findings from this Vulnerability Assessment with the final report anticipated in March, 2024.

Presentation materials can be found here: Draft Vulnerability Assessment

Agenda Item 5 – North Ponte Vedra Beach nourishment update and Contract Award

“SJC Purchasing Division issued a formal Invitation for Bids (IFB #1677), in accordance with SJC Purchasing Policy, to complete the dredge beach restoration of North Ponte Vedra Beach, as specified. Bids were received on February 13, 2024, and the bid tabulation is provided as part of the presentation. Due to the size of the exhibits included in the Bid Documents, they are available upon request from SJC Purchasing. As part of the IFB, Bidders were able to provide bids on two Bid Options: Bid Option A, which provides for completion by or before 10/7/24; and Bid Option B, which provides for completion by or before 3/2/25, in order to provide maximum consideration for cost feasibility by completion time. Staff will issue a Notice of Intent, based upon Board’s approval/denial, which initiates the Protest Period. Provided no Protest is received, Staff will proceed based upon Board’s direction.”

Presentation materials are here: Agenda Item 5

Agenda Item 6 – 2353 State Road 13 North Venue & Events

This item is to appeal the Planning and Zoning Agency denial of a Special Use Permit to allow for indoor/outdoor wedding and special event venue.

The item had been on the agenda for Feb. 6 and was delayed to the 20^th. Details on the appeal are at this link: SR 13 Special Use Permit

Agenda Item 7 – Alternate Bald Eagle Management Plan for the Shiprek Palm Valley Properties

“Bald Eagle Nest SJ-38 is located on Tract A of the Plantation at Ponte Vedra Unit 5 that directly abuts the eastern portion of 4485B Palm Valley Road. This Bald Eagle nest has been confirmed active by St. Johns County since the 2007 nesting season. The properties proposed as part of this request are currently 4 lots of record as defined by Section 12 of the Land Development Code and therefore must adhere to Federal, U.S. Fish and Wildlife, regulations for the protection of the Bald Eagle. The federal regulations include a primary nest protection zone of 330′ and a secondary nest protection zone of 660′. The applicant desires to reconfigure the lots and add an additional lot which would render them no longer lots of record and therefore the full provisions of Section 4.01.10 of the St. Johns County Land Development Code would apply to development of these properties. This would include a 750′ primary nest protection zone and a 1500′ secondary nest protection zone. The request for a non-zoning variance is in accordance with Section 4.10.10.C.4 of the St. Johns County Land Development Code which states an alternative site specific Bald Eagle Management Plan may be development for a Bald Eagle nest when changes to the provisions of Section 4.01.10 are requested, subject to approval by the Board of County Commissioners. The applicant has obtained an approved Incidental Take Permit (ITP) MBPER0032532 from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for the construction no closer than 75 feet from the nest tree.”

Details about this request can be found here: Bald Eagle Management Plan

Agenda Item 8 – ML Conner Rezoning

Request to rezone .85 acres of land from Commercial Neighborhood to Residential Single Family. The property is located at 6297 and 6289 A1A S/6298 & 62288 Costanero Rd.

Agenda Item 9 – LAMP Riverdale CR 13/Atlantic Road property Phase II ESA report update and request for direction from the BOCC

This had been a much-debated LAMP purchase recommendation. A purchase was authorized in 2023. On November 21, 2023 the report to the Board included a concern that there may be environmental issues and an extension of the inspection period and closing date of the purchase was authorized along with authority to obtain a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment of the property.

Based on the results of the report, there are two options being presented Tuesday.

The first is to extend the inspection period and closing date. The second is to terminate the purchase agreement.

Details are here: LAMP Purchase Review

Agenda Item 10 – Appointments to the Housing Finance Authority

The Authority is made up of 7 members with “not less than a majority” knowledgeable in the following fields: commerce, labor, and finance.

There are 2 vacancies and 4 applications. Details are here: HFA Applicants

Agenda Item 11 – Appointments to the Health and Human Services Advisory Council

By statute, the Council is made up of 7 members including 5 professionals from the disciplines in the Health and Human Services and 2 at-large members including but not limited to areas such as business, banking and finance, education, law enforcement, community religious leaders, consumers and other interested parties in the general public.

There are 2 vacancies forHealth and Human Services Professionals and 12 applications. Details are here: HHSAC Applicants

Agenda Item 12 – Interim County Attorney Discussion

“At the February 6, 2024, BCC meeting, the Board of County Commissioners and the County Attorney agreed to separate effective February 9, 2024. The Deputy County Attorney is allowed to perform the duties of the County Attorney for no more than fourteen days without approval by the Board of County Commissioners per Ordinance 2003-64 Section 3. Additionally, the Board subsequently approved a motion authorizing the Chair and the County Administrator to enter into contract negotiations with Rich Komando of Bradley, Garrison & Komando, to serve as the Interim County Attorney. A draft contract will be presented for the Board’s review and consideration.”

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BOCC, St. Johns County

Summary of the February 6 St. Johns County Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting

Posted on February 11, 2024 by Beth Tate

The February 6, 2024 Board of County Commissioner’s meeting began with a Proclamation recognizing February 2024 as Black History Month. The proclamation was accepted by Greg White, Robert Nimmons, Chair of the West Augustine CRA Steering Committee, and Dwala Willis, Vice-Chair of the Steering Committee.

Mr. White gave an interesting acceptance speech worth listening to at this link: Greg White Acceptance Speech

The Second proclamation of the morning commemorated the Life and Legacy of Dr. Otis A. Mason. This proclamation was accepted by Pamela Mason, daughter of Dr. Mason. You can watch that presentation at this link: Dr. Otis Mason Proclamation

The Proclamation and Ms. Mason provides some interesting history of St. Johns County while covering the significant accomplishments of Dr. Mason. It’s well worth the watch.

Read more about Dr. Mason here: Dr. Otis Mason News Story

Public Safety Report

SJSO highlighted this is Teen Dating Violence awareness month and there are resources available through the Sheriff’s department. There was a fundraiser for Big Brother/Big Sisters Tuesday night. And Open Arms Recovery, an organization focused on supporting opioid addiction, is opening an office in St. Johns County in March to help combat the opioid crisis in St. Johns County.

St. Johns County Fire Rescue –highlighted the Rapid Intervention Team Competition in Orlando, January 11 – 12. Two teams from SJC made it to 1^st and 3^rd place overall in the competition.

Clerk of the Court Report included a warning about fraudulent calls to residents claiming the person has missed jury duty and a warrant has been issued for their arrest and demanding payment. This is not how it works. If someone misses jury duty, they are issued a summons by the Clerk of the court. Please contact the Clerk’s office at 904-819-3629 if you have received one of these phone calls.

Public Infrastructure Update

The Public Infrastructure Update focused on the community of Hastings. Watch the full presentation here: Hastings Infrastructure Update

Below are some key slides from the presentation.

Hastings Water Infrastructure Improvements

Repurpose Historic Hastings High School for First Coast Technical College

The Legislative Update was moved to the February 20 meeting to give more time to focus on the many items moving through the legislature now.

Consent Agenda

There was some movement of items on the Consent Agenda Tuesday.

Items 7 and 13 were moved to the Regular Agenda becoming (1a) and (1b) respectively.

As anticipated, during public comment on the Consent Agenda there was commentary about Consent Agenda Item 29, the separation agreement for County Attorney David Migut.

Read the Consent Agenda Item here: Consent Agenda Item 29

The Consent Agenda was approved 4-1 with Commissioner Joseph being the dissenting vote.

Regular Agenda

Agenda Items 2 and 3 were continued to future dates.

The applicant for Agenda item 2 (Mills Creek Workforce Housing) asked to withdraw this item and continue to a time certain. Based on information provided by the Growth Management department this appears to be delayed because of information related to transportation. This was continued to March 5.

The applicant for Agenda Item 3 (Wedding Venue on CR 13) has also requested a continuance and this was continued to February 20.

The Regular Agenda was amended with those changes.

Agenda Item 1 – This was a request to designate the building at 165 Vilano Road as a Local Landmark.

Read the presentation here: 165 Vilano Road Landmark Designation

This item was approved 5-0

Agenda Item 1A – formerly consent agenda item 7 Consent Agenda Item 7

“The Board of County Commissioners has the authority to grant permissive use agreements for the temporary use of County owned property to property owners and/or their contractors. Property owners may request a permissive use agreement to utilize adjacent County property for access, staging and temporary storage to construct improvements or effect repairs to their property. Approval of this Resolution will authorize the County Administrator to execute the Non-Exclusive Permissive Use Agreement as necessary without further Board action, allowing greater flexibility for staff to coordinate the timing of the proposed use with minimal disruption to normal operations and/or typical public use of the property. St. Johns County Real Estate Division and the office of the County Attorney will draft and review all requests prior to issuing the Non-Exclusive Permissive Use Agreement.”

Commissioner Joseph had concerns that someone could take advantage of this agreement without some time parameters in place.

County Administrator Andrews indicated she thought the item was being pulled for a date in the future to give staff time to address the concern about time parameters.

By consensus the item was pulled from the agenda and will be brought back at a time in the future.

Agenda Item 1B – formerly consent agenda item 13 Consent Agenda Item 13

“For the past year, the Utility Department has been working to develop a career path for its staff. The career path is aimed at staff training, retention, development and growth. Over the past 3-5 years, the Utility has not been able to compete with regional, neighboring Utilities such as Clay County, JEA and Palm Coast and consequently lost several of its talents, especially within its technical space. Last year, the Utility initiated a career path for most of its maintenance and treatment plant operators. The program focused on establishing a highly-qualified, highly-trained technical and professional workforce by providing a sequence of training segments wherein employees could develop and grow in their position and be fairly compensated. The program has been a huge success with almost zero turnover. The Utility is now proposing to extend this program to all its remaining divisions. The Utility has also identified a few improvement areas within its organizational structure to consolidate some of its management positions. In the short-term, this proposal will require upgrades to certain positions, however, in the long-run these changes will provide tremendous savings to our operational budget. Funding needed for both, the career path and position upgrades (due to the re-organization) will be provided by existing vacancies, budgeted special pay, savings from budgeted capital vehicles and other budgeted line items that have surplus balances. Consequently, there will be NO FY 2024 budget increase. Over 90 utility department positions will benefit from this program. The Utility department currently serves over 57,500 water customer accounts with an FY 2024 operational budget of approximately $45 million. The Utility Capital Improvement plan for FY 2024 is approximately $280 million. Details of the budget transfers are attached.”

Commissioner Joseph indicated she wanted this to be discussed on the Regular Agenda to highlight good practices in the County budget.

This item was approved 5-0.

Agenda Item 1C – was a “red folder” item seeking approval of a nonexclusive permissive use agreement on behalf of a Parks and Recreation contractor.

This was approved 5-1.

Agenda Item 4 is a Request for a Reconsideration or Waiver of One-Year Time Limit to Reapply for the Deer Run PUD.

What does that mean? The Deer Run PUD request was denied by the Board of County Commissioners on September 19, 2023. Under the Land Development code, the applicant cannot reapply for 1 year after the denial. The applicant is requesting the Board to either reconsider their denial or waive the one-year requirement. Deer Run PUD Request

This request was denied 5 -0

Agenda Item 5 – Proposed Ordinance Amendments for Special Care Housing

This is the first reading of an amendment to the LDC regarding Assisted Living Facilities. This comes at a request made at the September 19, 2023 Board of County Commissioners Meeting. Special Care Housing Ordinance Amendment

Proposed Assisted Living Facilities Ordinance Change

During public comment it appeared some were confusing Assisted Living Facilities with Affordable Housing. Commissioner Whitehurst asked for clarification that this was not about affordable housing. It was confirmed – this is Assisted Living, not Affordable Housing.

The proposed amendment was approved 5-0.

Agenda item 6 – Appointment to the Land Acquisition Management Program (LAMP)

Conservation Board. There is one vacancy on the Board because of the resignation of Jimmy Watson from District 3. There are 3 applications, Lauren Howington, George Spiegel, and Kevin Gamble. LAMP Appointees

After hearing dissenting public comment and much discussion at the Board, Lauren Howington was approved 4-1 with Commissioner Joseph being the No vote.

Watch the discussion/debate here: LAMP Board discussion

Agenda Item 7 – Appointment to the North Coastal Design Review Board

There are 3 vacancies on the North Coastal Design Review Board created by 2 expired terms and an alternate member being appointed as a regular member. There are 3 applications, Sacha Martin, Linda LaCerva, and William Morton.

All 3 applicants were approved unanimously.

Agenda Item 8 – Appointment to the Tourist Development Council

Under Saint Johns County Ordinances, 2 elected municipal officials must serve on the council. This is a request to have St. Augustine Beach City Mayor Dylan Rumrell appointed as the representative for St. Augustine Beach. TDC Appointment

There was some interesting debate about the appointment of Mayor Rumrell. The requirement is that there be 2 municipal officers. The representative from St. Augustine Beach had been former Mayor Donald Samora. The City Manager submitted a letter recommending new Mayor Dylan Rumrell replace Donald Samora on the TDC.

Commissioner Joseph raised concerns that there is a conflict of interest because Mayor Rumrell is head of the Ampitheater who hosts Sing Out Loud and TDC dollars are often allocated to Sing Out Loud.

After hearing public comment echoing similar concerns, Mayor Rumrell spoke and indicated he would recuse himself whenever there was a conflict of interest.

The appointment was approved 4-1 with Commissioner Joseph being the No vote.

Public Comment

During Public Comment, many residents spoke out about the potential move of the historic Canright House from it’s current location to Windswept Acres Park. It appeared this move was a surprise to many local residents.

This item was first brought to the County Commissioners for review in August of 2022. During Commissioners reports on that date, Commissioner Waldron asked for information related to a letter from the St. Johns County Cultural Resource Review Board asking the Canright Houses be identified as a significant structure associated with the Civil Rights Movement. After discussion, the Commissioners approved a letter of support from the Board and to have staff research the potential relocation of the structure from 5480 Atlantic View to Windswept Acres Park. Minutes are here: Board Minutes for the first mention of saving the Canright House

There was more discussion on this topic during Commissioner’s Reports.

Commissioner’s reports

Commissioner Whitehurst began with asking for some clarification on items mentioned during public comment. One item was that the Board had at some time voted to not include Public Comment in the recorded minutes of the meetings. Commissioner Whitehurst did not recall such a vote and asked Administrator Andrews if she had recollection of such a vote. She did not. With further discussion it was clarified that neither recalled any direction to the Clerk of the Court in how to record the minutes.

His second clarification was about the movement of the Canright House. He recalled that perhaps 2 years ago, Commissioner Waldron had seen something about the preservation of the home. He recalled some discussion about bringing this back on a future agenda and there had been a handful of people who had expressed support for moving the house. He noted now they are hearing opposition to the move.

Administrator Andrews shared that they were doing a Public Meeting on Thursday, February 8^th from 5 – 6 to discuss all the facts related to the house. She shared that Commissioner Waldron had been very supportive of saving the building but was concerned about funding the move. The Parks Foundation was able to secure a little over $400,000 from the state to cover the cost of the relocation. The Parks Foundation came back to the Board and received unanimous approval to move forward with the move.

Commissioner Joseph asked if another location could be found for the move of the Canright House. She also asked to look at other counties to see how they take public record and what the do online. She also shared that She will be doing a listening hour at the Ponte Vedra Beach Library on March 26^th at 5:30 PM.

Commissioner Alaimo recognized the St. Johns County Teacher of the Year, Tina Hemby, and the Rookie Teacher of the Year, Aimee Monie. He also highlighted the community meeting on the Canright home on Thursday and is continuing to meet with residents who are concerned about the Shore Drive Trail. There is a Community Meeting on the Shore Drive Trail scheduled for February 14, 5:00 PM at the Southeast Branch Library.

After thanking David Migut for his service as attorney, Commissioner Alaimo made a motion to bring in an external counsel to serve as interim County Attorney while they are recruiting to replace Mr. Migut. He recommended Rich Kommando, who currently serves as the Housing Finance Authority Counsel for the County. His rationale was to have an outside view from someone who does not want the position full time.

During Board discussion about this motion, Commissioner Joseph recommended placing Christine Valliere in the interim role. Mr. Lex Taylor was also recommended as being able to fill the interim role.

A motion was made to authorize the chair and the county administrator to work toward an interim contract for county attorney. The motion was approved 4-1 with Commissioner Joseph being the no vote.

Commissioner Whitehurst commended the Public Works Department for the 1000’ extension of the west bound turn lane on Race Track Road at Veterans Parkway. It greatly improved the safety on that section of Race Track Road.

Commissioner Dean brought up the conference on Beach Preservation where he will be giving the welcoming remarks at the Embassy Suites where the beach renourishment project is just about to get under way.

County Administrator’s report

Administrator Andrews requested a letter of support from the Board for the request to locate the Black History Museum in St. Johns County.

She also provided an update on the lawsuit involving the Clerk of the Court. The County has received a notice from the court that an order of dismissal due to the former IG not responding to the suit.

Additionally, she shared that there are 3 Joint Town Hall meetings to cover the Comprehensive Plan and the Strategic Plan update.

Upcoming meetings will be:

Feb. 20, 6 – 7:30 p.m. at Pacetti Bay Middle School Auditorium, 245 Meadowlark Lane
Feb. 21, 6 – 7:30 p.m. at Southeast Branch Library, 6670 US 1 South
Feb. 22, 6 – 7:30 p.m. at Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A North

Ms. Andrews also expressed appreciation to the board for approving the Publix incentive. She wanted to clarify that this was not an expenditure of taxpayer funds but operates like a rebate. Publix is investing $145 million in the county. The incentive dollars are a rebate back in the amount of $5 million that will help fund that $145 Million investment that is bringing jobs and long term tax revenue to the county.

County Attorney’s Report

Thank you to the Board members and all county employees he has worked with.

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BOCC, St. Johns County

What’s Ahead at the February 6, 2024 St. Johns County Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting

Posted on February 3, 2024 by Beth Tate

The February 6, 2024 Board of County Commissioner’s meeting will open with 2 Proclamations. The first recognizing February 2024 as Black History Month and the second commemorating the Life and Legacy of Dr. Otis A. Mason.

Read more about Dr. Mason here: News coverage of Dr. Mason

Consent Agenda

One item of interest in the Consent Agenda is Item 29, the separation agreement for County Attorney David Migut. It appears this is a “mutual separation.” David Migut separation item. Coming on the heels of legal concerns at the Board of County Commissioners and a lawsuit filed by Commissioner Joseph against the other 4 Commissioners, we can expect to see some commentary about this item.

A second item of interest is Consent Agenda item 31, an Economic Development Agreement with Publix Super Markets. Publix Economic Development Agreement

Publix anticipates creating initially 118 new jobs, expanding to 400 jobs over a nine year period. The Board has previously approved a 9 year incentive request on ad valorem taxes in the amount of $5,821,779. This item is the execution of the formal agreement regarding that incentive.

Regular Agenda

Agenda Item 2 is a hearing for a rezoning application for the Mills Workforce Housing to be located off Lewis Speedway. This was recommended for denial by the PZA with a split vote of 3-3.

Full presentation is here: Agenda Item 2

Agenda Item 3 is an appeal of a Planning and Zoning Agency denial of a Special Use Permit for an event space at 3253 State Road 13 North. This project was denied by the PZA on November 2, 2023 and the applicant is requesting the Board overturn that denial. This project was originally approved by the PZA in March of 2022. Because the applicant did not commence the project within one year of the approval, they had to return to the PZA for approval in 2023. At that meeting it was denied. Thus the applicant is coming forward with their appeal.

The full Presentation is here: 3253 State Road 13 North project

Agenda Item 4 is a Request for a Reconsideration or Waiver of One-Year Time Limit to Reapply for the Deer Run PUD.

Agenda Item 5 – Proposed Ordinance Amendments for Special Care Housing

Agenda item 6 – Appointment to the Land Acquisition Management Program (LAMP)

Agenda Item 7 – Appointment to the North Coastal Design Review Board

Full package is here: Appointment to the North Coastal Design Review Board

Location of the North Coastal Overlay District

Agenda Item 8 – Appointment to the Tourist Development Council

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