Tag: AffordableHousing

Posted in BOCC, St. Johns County

Summary of the January 16th St. Johns County Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting

Posted on by Beth Tate

Here’s a high level view of what happened last week!

The morning started with two Proclamations. The first Proclamation was to recognize 100 Years of the St. Augustine Art Association and was presented by Commissioner Whitehurst. Founded January 18, 1924 it is the 13th oldest continually operating Art Association in the United States. The Art Association operates free of charge and has 10,000 visitors annually.

You can learn more about the Art Association at this link: St. Augustine Art Association

The second proclamation of the morning was to recognize Patti Greenough Day. Do you know who Patti Greenough is?

Patti became CEO of EPIC Behavioral Healthcare in 1990. Over the last 33 years she has expanded it from one campus, 14 staff and a $300,00 budget to a multi-behavior healthcare delivery service with 6 campuses across multiple counties, 130 staff and a multimillion dollar budget. Under her leadership they opened a 16 bed critical inpatient detox and residential treatment center to St. Johns county and established other much needed critical substance abuse and mental health disorder programs and services.

Learn more about Epic Behavioral Care and the work Patti has led at this link: EPIC Behavioral Health

Public Safety Update

Director Scott Beaver from the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office focused his report on traffic. While we have sadly had 3 fatalities already this year, in the 2023 statistics we have had a continued drop in traffic incidents overall by 15%. Serious bodily injury incidents dropped by 15% and fatalities dropped by 14%. The Sheriff will continue his aggressive approach to traffic safety and DUI enforcement.

Chief McGhee from St. Johns County Fire Rescue thanked the Commissioners for the 2 new Fire Engines put into service in the West Augustine King Street Area and the Pine Island station.

Clerk of the Court Brandon Patty highlighted that through aggressive money management, the comptroller has generated over $20 Million in earned interest in the 2023 calendar year.

Scott Teckler from Legislative Affairs presented on several bills to watch in the upcoming Legislative session. Slides below detail the bills.

Mr. Teckler recommended the county draft formal opposition to the Community -Based Child Welfare Agencies bill as it would have negative fiscal impact on St. Johns county as well as negative impact on needed child welfare services in the county.

Motion to draft the formal opposition was approved 5-0.

The Consent Agenda was approve with no further discussion or public comment.

Regular Agenda

County Attorney Migut made a recommendation to pull Agenda Item 15 from the Regular Agenda because litigation has been filed and this matter should not be discussed in public at this time.

Because this was a ministerial motion, no public comment was allowed.

What is a ministerial motion? “A duty or act is defined as a ministerial when there is no room for the exercise of discretion and the performance being required is directed by law.” (reference link: https://criminaldefenseattorneytampa.com/appeals/writ-of-mandamus/)

Motion to approve was passed 4:1 (Joseph being the no vote.)

Agenda item 1 – Vermeer Southeast Sales & Service, Inc. Economic Development Incentive Request

This property is located in an area that is designated Industrial on the Future Land Use Map, and was rezoned to that designation at the November 21st Board of county Commissioner’s Meeting, Agenda Item 5.

Previous Blog Post Covering Vermeer Southeast Sales & Service Project

The request on January 16 was for an economic development incentive of $118,784 as they complete the project that was approved in the November 21st meeting. It was not to approve the project to be built.

“The St. Johns County Economic Development Agency has received an application from Vermeer Southeast Sales & Service, Inc. for economic development incentives to develop a total of 32,000 square feet of space located near the intersection of US 1 and International Golf Parkway. The Applicant is a construction equipment merchant primarily selling machinery and parts required to conduct vital agricultural and manufacturing operations, as well as sales of associated parts and services. This project will serve as a regional headquarters for the business. After the Applicant submitted their application, they subsequently withdrew their request for confidentiality. The project scored 5.5 points under the new industry category of the County’s Business Incentive Program, which makes it eligible for expedited permitting and an economic development grant of up to 50% of fees paid to the County by the Applicant (impact fees and water/sewer connection fees), two years ad valorem taxes paid by the Applicant (general County portion) on capital improvements and two years tangible personal property taxes paid by the Applicant (general County portion). Completion of the project is anticipated by the third quarter of 2025. With this schedule, the first annual grant payment would be anticipated during FY27. The total estimated value of the incentive is $118,784. In accordance with Program requirements, the Agency is required to review the application and make a written report to the Board of County Commissioners. Staff recommends support of this incentive application.”

Project Descriptions:

Discussion at the Board and in public comment indicated that people were confused about this Agenda item. Concerns were raised about the location of the project and whether it was appropriate to build this project.

Commissioner Whitehurst emphasized during Board discussion that this is for an economic incentive approval, not to approve the project. The project will be built whether they approve the incentives or not.

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

Agenda Item 2 – 2024 Roadway and Transportation Alternatives List of Priority Projects (LOPP)

Annually the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the North Florida Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) request project priorites from local governments for potential funding in FDOT’s Work Program. There is a Transportation Advisory Group in St. Johns County made up of representatives from local municipalities and concerned citizen’s groups. Assistant Director of Growth Management, Dick D’Souza presented the priority list for approval by the commissioners.

You can watch the presentation by Mr. D’Souza at this link: LOPP Presentation

Note the Sidewalks to Schools list comes from the School Board and is unchanged from 2023.

Commissioner Whitehurst raised a question about the list of Trails. Representative Stevenson had made a request to move the Orangedale to Mickler Trail up on the list. It is currently #5 in the Priority list.

Commissioner Whitehurst also noted that he was recently selected as Chairman of the TPO and invited the public to attend the meetings to hear the discussions about funding of transportation projects. The public is able to ask questions.

Commissioner Whitehurst made the motion to approve the list with the amendment of moving the Orangedale to Mickler Trail to the top 3. This was approved 5-0

The slides may be difficult to read. You can read the full presentation at this link: LOPP Presentation Materials

Agenda Item 3 – Establishment of the Greenbriar CDD

This establishes the CDD for the Greenbriar Helow PUD. Those who are not currently residents of a CDD may not understand the purpose and structure of a CDD.

Location of the proposed CDD boundaries

Purpose of CDDs is explained in this request:

PLANNING DEPARTMENT REVIEW

Florida Statutes Chapter 190 and Part 5.06.00 of the St. Johns County Land Development Code govern procedures, approval and implementation of a Community Development District (CDD). Section 5.06.01 of the Land Development Code provides the intent of a CDD within St. Johns County is to encourage a strong commitment to capital facilities planning, management and financing to ensure the provision of adequate capital infrastructure to serve projected growth without overburdening the general taxpayer. The intent of Florida Statutes Chapter 190 is similar. The Greenbriar CDD proposes to fund improvements to roadways, stormwater, site amenities, landscaping, irrigation, and water/sewer. The Petitioner also requests the County consent to powers to finance, fund, plan, establish, acquire, construct, reconstruct, enlarge or extend, equip, operate and maintain systems and facilities for parks and facilities for indoor and outdoor recreational, cultural, and educational uses, and security, including but not limited to guardhouses, fences and gates, electronic intrusion-detection systems, and patrol cars, as authorized and described in Section 190.012(2), Florida Statutes.

By establishing a CDD, the infrastructure is funded by the property owners within that CDD boundary and not by the general taxpayer across the county.

You can read the full presentation here: Agenda Item 3 – CDD

This was approved 5-0

Agenda Item 4 – Sandy Creek PUD Modification

“Request for a Major Modification to the Sandy Creek PUD (ORD. 2003-67, as amended) to add a secondary access to CR 210; to remove all the currently allowed industrial entitlements; to add additional multi-family and single family units; and to revise the Master Development Plan (MDP) text and map. The Sandy Creek PUD is located on the south side of CR 210 at Sandy Creek Parkway and CR 210.”

“The applicant is requesting a Major Modification to the Sandy Creek PUD (Ordinance 2003-67, as Amended) to do the following: – Add a secondary access to CR 210 by constructing a road off-site connecting Sandy Creek Parkway to Moon Bay Parkway to provide access to a signalized intersection at CR 210. – Remove all currently allowed Light Industrial entitlements (487,000 square feet) – Subdivide the 128.02 acre Light Industrial parcel into two parcels o 36.18 acres will have 310 multi-family units (115 to be transferred from the current multifamily parcel, and 190 new multi-family units) o 92.81 acres will have up to 74 additional single family homes – Subdivide the 50.78 acre multi-family parcel (currently approved into two parcels) o 30.51 acres of the multi-family parcel will remain multi-family, and the allowed entitlements will be reduced from 465 to 320 o 20.27 acres remaining will become a passive park subject to a conservation easement – Revise the MDP text and Map to reflect these changes and areas of new development”

This modification increases the overall dwelling uits from 818 to 1,082 and removes 487,000 sq feet of light industrial entitlements.

This PUD was originally approved in 2003 and has been modified over the years.

Questions were raised about the impact on schools. Commissioner Whitehurst confirmed with County Administrator Andrews the discussion from the recent joint School Board/County Commissioners Meeting that the School Board does have an opportunity to approve or deny the Proportionate Share Agreements. If the School Board denies the Proportionate Share Agreements, the proposal does not move forward to the Board of County Commissioners for approval.

After Commissioner Dean made a motion to approve, Commissioner Whitehurst asked if the applicant would agree to delay construction of the new units until aver the six lane improvements are finished and the second entrance is activated.

The applicant had verbiage prepared that would not go above 383 units until the completion of the six lane expansion fo CR 210 from Trinity Way to Beach Walk Blvd. or 18 months from the date of the Board of County Commissioners approving this modification.

The motion was amended to include those conditions and approved 4-1 with Commissioner Joseph being the no vote.

Read the details here: Sandy Creek PUD

Agenda Items 5 & 6 – 4400 South Francis

“Request to rezone approximately 28.37 acres of land from Open Rural (OR) to Planned Unit Development (PUD) to allow for approximately 100,000 square feet and allow for Community Commercial uses, which also include, the sales, rental, service, repair and storage of vehicles including new or used automobiles, recreational vehicles, boats and related watercraft, motorcycles and residentially scaled farm and garden equipment. Residential uses are not allowed. The property is approximately 28.37 acres and located at 4400 South Francis Road. This application is companion to CPA(SS) 2023-04. The Planning and Zoning recommended approval with a 5-2 vote at its regular December 7 meeting, with Dr. Hilsenbeck and Ms. Spiegel dissenting.”

There were several interesting slides in this presentation.

Evolution of the World Golf Village PUD
WGV Area 1994
WGV Area 2023
Proposed development area bottom right in relations to existing and approved commercial

After public comment and Board discussion, there was a motion from Commissioner Arnold to deny the request and that passed 5-0.

Agenda Item 9 – Second Reading of Proposed Amendments to St. Johns county Ordinance – Beach Code

This was the second reading of proposed changes that are covered in these slides:

The Ordinance changes were approved 5-0

Agenda Item 10 – Second Reading of the St. Johns County Affordable Housing Advisory Committee

This update brings the make-up of the Committee Membership in line with Florida Statutory requriements. At the First Reading Commissioner Joseph objected to the requirements and voted against accepting the change. She again voted no to bringing this county ordinance in compliance with the Florida Statutes. It was approved 4-1.

Agenda Item 11 – Second Reading St. Johns County Golf Cart Ordinance

This Ordinance update was to bring the County Ordinance in line with the updated Florida Statutes (championed by Representative Cyndi Stevenson in 2023.) The update requires drivers of a golf cart who are under the age of 18 to have a valid Learner’s Permit or Driver’s license and anyone over the age of 18 to have a valid government issued ID.

This passed 5-0

Commisioner’s Reports

Commissioners’ Reports

Commissioner Joseph thanked Fresh Market for recently sending sandwiches to an event and thanked Joy Andrews for helping to reschedule games at Davis Park for a large soccer tournament impacted by the heavy storms over the weekend. She will be holding a town hall in Ponte Vedra sometime in March. She also asked that the public keep two Navy Seals lost at sea in their thoughts and prayers. 

Commissioner Alaimo attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for the PAL (Police Athletic League) Sports Complex. The 37 acre complex in Elkton will be able to handle a variety of sports events.

Commissioner Whitehurst asked for Board consensus to ask staff to study the feasibility of incorporating the inclusion of golf cart paths in the intersection improvements already approved by the Legislature. He also asked for additional “Do Not Block the Intersection” signs to be added at CR 210 and east I-95. He also made a motion to waive event fees when the Park Foundation meets to raise monies for parks. The motion carried 5-0. 

Commission Dean shared that 40 years ago, almost to the hour, in 1984 he completed negotiations for the acquisition of Guana River Preserve for roughly $48 million. 

Chairman Arnold honored the loss of Dr. Pat Laurenelle, who was a champion for libraries in the county, and died on Dec. 27, 2023, at age 100.

Attorney’s Report – In the matter of Krista Joseph v. St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners and State’s Attorney R. J. Larizza, he will schedule an Executive Session of the Board of County Commissioners. The subject matter will the specifically the litigation and held in full compliance with Florida law. Commissioner Alaimo asked if she would be in attendance at the meeting. Attorney Migut is in conversation with her attorney on that matter.

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Posted in Affordable Housing, BOCC, St. Johns County

Summary of the December 21 St. Johns County Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting

Posted on by Beth Tate

Tuesday was a surprisingly long day, largely because of Agenda Item 6, the Heritage Park PUD, that had a large number of residents in attendance.

Note: The next Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting will be January 16, 2024.

Tuesday’s meeting began with a Recognition of Vilano Beach Main Street Board for the work they have done revitalizing Vilano Beach.  

A proclamation was presenting declaring January 2024 as Human Trafficking Awareness month.

Regular Agenda Items

Public Safety Update

SJSO Director Tara Wildes provided a PSA about staying safe during the Holidays, including don’t drink and drive. She also shared that a new class of K-9s for Warriors was graduating on Tuesday with 2 dogs graduating at the jail. Inmates have worked with the program providing a needed service training the dogs and learning a skill that they can use upon their release from jail.

Fire Rescue Chief McGhee provided a PSA on charging lithium-ion batteries and recommended that they not be left unattended when charging.

Service Delivery Update

There was a lengthy Service Delivery Update that you can watch here: Service Delivery Update

Highlights included:

Library Services – Food for Fines

Parks and Recreation – the Hastings Christmas Parade, Phone Calls from Santa, and the Treecycling Program

Veterans Services – Marine Corp Toys for Tots, Firefighters for Families

Health and Human Services – Christmas Party with Santa and Mrs. Claus, provided gifts for 160 children in care.

Emergency Management – Adopted a family from Firefighters for Families

Fire Rescue – Firefighters for Families served 295 families

Director Larson shared how the Office of Public Affairs is integrated marketing communications to tell the story of the county. He highlighted how they used the great story of the historic 2023 sea turtle nesting season. Check out the video for that alone!

The Director of Library Services shared St. Johns Reads and distributed copies of the new book for the program, “The Reading List” by Sara Nisha Adams.

Regular Agenda Items

Agenda Item 1 was a presentation from the Prevention Coalition of St. Johns County on their Hidden in Plain Sight Program. This is an adult education program begun this year. The target audience is parents, grandparents and any adult caregivers of teenagers.

Please watch the video here – very informative! Hidden in Plain Sight

They also shared about how they reach out to youth to educate about the dangers of substance abuse.

The mission of the organization is about loving, nurturing, educating, and encouraging people to make better choices.

“Susan Jackson, Executive Director of PACT, has requested the opportunity to do a brief presentation to the Commission on PACT initiatives and to discuss the Hidden in Plain Sight program. The Hidden in Plain Sight trailer will be on site in the County Administration Parking lot for Commissioners and the public to participate. The cargo trailer is staged as a youth’s bedroom designed to provide eye-opening education about dozens of things that could be indicators of risky behaviors or mental health concerns. There is also a slide presentation and backpack demonstration showing parents, grandparents, and adult family members problematic things that may be hidden in plain sight.”

Learn more about this organization here: Prevention Coalition of St. Johns County

Agenda Item 2 – Award of RFP 23-32 Residential Solid Waste, Recycling and Yard Waste Collection Services

This presentation was a recommendation for the awarding of an RFP for Waste Collection services.

There are currently 3 contracts for solid waste collection. Two will expire July 31 of 2024 and one will expire July 31 2029. They will consolidate these contracts into one contract. This agenda item is to approve the award to FCC Environmental Services Florida, LLC.

Materials are found here:  Agenda Item 2

Key slides below:

During Public Comment, two of the competitors spoke. The Waste Management representative asked about the wisdom of changing service during hurricane season and opined that low cost does not always mean best value. The Meridian Waste Management representative asked that the county continue with 2 vendors and award the south part of the county to them.

The motion to award the bid to FCC was approved 4-1 with Commissioner Joseph being the No vote. Staff will return with a recommendation on the funding options.

Agenda Item 3 was a presentation on the Design-Build Services for a New SR 207 Water Reclamation Facility and Associated Improvements

This is to enter into a contract with Jacobs Project Management company to complete Scope 1 of Design-Build for the new 207 Water Reclamation Facility. Materials are here: Agenda Item 3

With no public comment, the motion to approve and the motion to transfer money from reserves was approved 5-0.

Agenda Item 4 – Summer Haven – Study of Summer Haven River and Surrounding Areas and Study of Summer House Erosion Findings, including potential FEMA Category B emergency protective measures.

500+ page presentation is here: Summer Haven Presentation

A motion was made to have staff continue researching and come back to the Board with recommendations on how to proceed with protecting this vital area of the county. It was approved 5-0

Agenda Item 5 – Heritage Park PUD

“MAJMOD 2023-10 Heritage Park PUD, a request for a Major Modification to the Heritage Park PUD (Ord. 2000-4, as amended) to divide Parcel B into two sections (B-1 and B-2); to add 12 multifamily residential units to the allowable uses for Parcel B-2; to remove the use of a 7,200 sq ft daycare facility from the list of allowable uses on Parcel B; to provide parking and design criteria to Parcel B-2 for the proposed 12 multi-family units; and to provide a revised MDP Text and Map, specifically located at 227 Hefferon Drive.”

Read the materials here: Heritage Park PUD

This item turned out to be the most contentious of the day, lasting about 2 hours with much public comment from residents of Heritage Park.

You can watch the video here: Heritage Park PUD Video

The request was denied 5-0.

Agenda Item 6 – the 2023 Affordable Housing Advisory Committee Annual Report

The Chair of the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHAC) presented the report which is required by law to be presented by the end of each year.

Read the full report and recommendations here: AHAC Annual Report

The motion to approve the report was passed with a 4-1 vote, with Commissioner Joseph being the no vote.

Key slides are below:

Commissioner’s Reports

Commissioner Joseph shared her appreciation of the people who spoke in Public Comment supporting her. She wished everyone Happy Hanukkah and Merry Christmas; expressing hope for the New Year.

Commissioner Alaimo congratulated the St. Augustine High School Football team for making it to the finals. Even though they didn’t win, it was a great accomplishment to get there. He also congratulated Dylan Rumrell for being elected as St. Augustine Mayor for the coming year. He asked staff to research the concerns raised during Public Comment about dues paid to the Library Association. And he asked if the staff could be awarded an extra day off for the Holiday in appreciation for their hard work this year. By consensus, the staff will have that extra day off this coming week.

Commissioner Whitehurst wished everyone a Merry Christmas

Commissioner Dean expressed appreciation for the good dialog on Tuesday and the ability to focus on the important elements of the people’s business; the reclamation facility, the solid waste collection, and the eco-system.

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Posted in BOCC, St. Johns County

Look Ahead to the December 19 St. Johns County Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting

Posted on by Beth Tate

Plan ahead for the last County Commissioner’s meeting for 2023!

Tuesday’s meeting will have a Certificate of Recognition acknowledging the Vilano Beach Main Street Board and it’s members along with a Proclamation recognizing January 2024 as Human Trafficking Awareness Month.

Regular Agenda Items

Item 1 on the Regular Agenda is a presentation on the Hidden in Plain Sight Program. Parents of teens will be interested in learning more about this important program.

“Susan Jackson, Executive Director of PACT, has requested the opportunity to do a brief presentation to the Commission on PACT initiatives and to discuss the Hidden in Plain Sight program. The Hidden in Plain Sight trailer will be on site in the County Administration Parking lot for Commissioners and the public to participate. The cargo trailer is staged as a youth’s bedroom designed to provide eye-opening education about dozens of things that could be indicators of risky behaviors or mental health concerns. There is also a slide presentation and backpack demonstration showing parents, grandparents, and adult family members problematic things that may be hidden in plain sight.”

Presentation materials are here: Hidden in Plain Sight

Learn more about this organization here: Prevention Coalition

Agenda Item 2 – Award of RFP 23-32 Residential Solid Waste, Recycling and Yard Waste Collection Services

Currently there are multiple contracts for Residential Solid Waste, Recycling and Yard Waste Collection Services in St. Johns County. The contracts expire July 31, 2024. They will consolidate these contracts into one contract. This agenda item is to approve the award to FCC Environmental Services Florida, LLC.

Materials are found here:  Agenda Item 2

Agenda Item 3 is Design-Build Services for a New SR 207 Water Reclamation Facility and Associated Improvements

This is to enter into a contract with Jacobs Project Management company to complete Scope 1 of Design-Build for the new 207 Water Reclamation Facility. Materials are here: Agenda Item 3

Agenda Item 4 – Summerhaven – Study of Summer Haven River and Surrounding Areas and Study of Summer House Erosion Findings, including potential FEMA Category B emergency protective measures.

500+ page presentation is here: Agenda Item 4

Agenda Item 5 – MAJMOD 2023-10 Heritage Park PUD

“MAJMOD 2023-10 Heritage Park PUD, a request for a Major Modification to the Heritage Park PUD (Ord. 2000-4, as amended) to divide Parcel B into two sections (B-1 and B-2); to add 12 multifamily residential units to the allowable uses for Parcel B-2; to remove the use of a 7,200 sq ft daycare facility from the list of allowable uses on Parcel B; to provide parking and design criteria to Parcel B-2 for the proposed 12 multi-family units; and to provide a revised MDP Text and Map, specifically located at 227 Hefferon Drive.”

Materials are here: Agenda Item 5

Agenda Item 6 – the 2023 Affordable Housing Advisory Committee Annual Report. Full report is here: AHAC Annual Report

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Posted in BOCC

Summary of the November 21 St. Johns County Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting

Posted on by Beth Tate

Tuesday was a busy and interesting day for the County Commissioners!

The day started with the annual Re-Organizational meeting. This is the meeting when the Chair and Vice-Chair for the upcoming year are elected by the sitting Board Members. As anticipated, Commissioner Sarah Arnold, who has served as Vice-Chair for the past year, was elevated to Chair. The question of the morning was who would be selected as Vice-Chair. Commissioner Roy Alaimo was elected to that position.

After a 10-minute recess, allowing the Board time to re-organize on the dais, the Regular meeting began.

Proclamations

A Certificate of Recognition was presented to Westminster St. Augustine receiving the Gold Seal Award for Excellence in Long Term Care.

A Proclamation recognizing national Hospice and Palliative Care Month was presented by Commissioner Whitehurst and received by Haven Hopice.

Public Safety Update

Chief McGhee from the St. Johns County Fire Rescue highlighted the Firefighters for Families charity run by the firefighters. This year they are providing assistance to 293 families (722 children) during the Christmas season. During their recent Golf Tournament at Marsh Creek they raised $7,000 to support the program. Between now and Christmas they will be accepting donations of toys for gifts to the children. They will also be sponsoring gift wrapping days. Watch their social media pages for opportunities to participate.

Director Beaver from SJSO – highlighted that the county is on a projected path to significantly reduce traffic crashes in the county. They will have lots of cars out and about to keep on eye on high traffic areas, like 16 and I-95. They ask for drivers to be vigilant and patient.

Consent Agenda

Administrator Joy Andrews asked to move items Item 5 & 6 from the Consent Agenda to the Regular Agenda and to postpone Consent Agenda Item 9 to a December meeting.

There was some confusion about the deadline to respond to Consent Agenda Item 9 and it was also moved to the Regular Agenda.

Regular Agenda

Agenda Item 1 – Sheriff’s Office Proposed Settlement Agreement to Civil Case

Presented by the SJSO Legal Council, Matt Cline, this item is about the settlement of a civil case filed against St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office on March 25, 2020.  An automobile accident occurred on SR 16 when a deputy sheriff in a marked patrol vehicle pulled in front of a motorcyclist causing serious bodily injury. The net settlement amount is $6.3 million after Sheriff’s Office insurance coverage of $200,000.

This is NOT a request to approve a payment. This is a request to approve the Sheriff to enter negotiations on the settlement.  A “Claims Bill” has been filed in the Florida Legislature, Senate Bill 10.

Mr. Cline did not go into specifics of the case. If a settlement is not reached, this could go to a jury trial and the potential jury pool could have access to discussions in the Commissioner’s meeting.

You can watch the video at this link: SJSO Proposed Settlement

The Florida Legislature Relief Claims Bill is at this link: Relief Claims Bill – Perez

The motion to approve the sheriff to enter negotiations on the settlement was approved 5-0. The matter will come back to the Board for final approval pending the negotiations and the outcome of the Florida Legislature Claims Relief Bill.

Agenda Items 1a and 1b (Formerly Consent Agenda Items 5 & 6)

These items are for the transfer of impact free credits from Twin Creeks DRI to The Fountains and to the 2020 SR 16 PUD.

These items were moved to the Regular Agenda because there are still outstanding comments from staff on the “as builts” that need to be addressed before the credits can be awarded.

Passed 5-0

Agenda item 2 was an exciting presentation from County Administrator Joy Andrews introducing a framework “aimed at enhancing open governance and operational efficiency within the County.”

Included in the presentation was a new organizational chart for the county and descriptions of the new functions.

The presentation demonstrated how Ms. Andrews is working on updating the way the county operates as she institutes transparency and efficiency into the county operations.

Here are a few slides from her presentation:

View the presentation materials here: New Framework

View her presentation here: Andrews Video presentation

Agenda item 3 was an update from the County Consultant hired to coordinate the Comprehensive Plan update.

You can view the presentation here. Consultant presentation video – Comprehensive Plan Update

You can access the Comprehensive Plan Update website here: Inspire County Website You’ll want to bookmark that and refer to the schedule and surveys over the coming months.

Take the Listening survey here: Listen and Learn Survey

Agenda Item 5 – St. Marks Industrial – This request is to rezone 13.26 acres of land from Open Rural to Industrial Warehousing. It was approved by the PZA 5-0. The parcel is designated Industrial on the Future Land Use Map.

The project has an anchor tenant of Vermeer Southeast.

From an article in the Jacksonville Business Journal,

“Headquartered in Orlando, Vermeer Southeast is a full-service dealer of Vermeer industrial equipment across Florida, Georgia and Alabama.

According to its website, the company has Florida store locations in Boynton Beach, Clearwater, Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Miami, Orlando and Pensacola. Georgia locations include Buford, Marietta and Savannah. It Alabama location is in Birmingham. Vermeer Southeast also serves the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, the Cayman Islands and Bermuda as Vermeer Islands.”

Commissioner Dean asked questions about the plans for improving International Golf Parkway because it is a 2 lane road at that access point. Dick D’Souza, Assistant Director of Growth Management provided information that there is an obligation from the St. Johns DRI to improve that roadway and they are close to the “trip count” trigger to start those improvements. The improvements include widening the travel lanes and the shoulders. Additionally, there is a Public Works project to improve the curve on IGP, making it more gradual, to address concerns about the sharp curve and dangerous speeds.

The request was approved 4-1.

Agenda Item 6 – Orchard Park Phase 3

This was a request with a twist. It is the final approval for the Orchard Park PUD with an option to have the county maintain the access road. The motion that was presented and approved 4-1 (Joseph voting no) was for the Homeowner’s Association to maintain the access road, rather than the County.

“APPLICATION SUMMARY This project consists of 23.7 acres and 128 single-family townhome lots. The road rights of way designated as Gentle Fern Drive, Pittman Court and Beach Palm Court are proposed to be dedicated to St. Johns County. Per the Orchard Park II PUD (Ordinance 2022-27), the internal roadways may be publicly owned and maintained, at the County’s sole discretion. Orchard Park Phase 1 & 2 are within the Treaty Ground Planned Unit Development. Phase 3 is an addition to the existing Orchard Park community; however, it accesses directly to Wildwood Drive and does not connect to previous phases. This is the first and only plat within the Orchard Park II Development and has been found to be in compliance with the Orchard Park II Planned Unit Development. This project proposes parking within the right of way; therefore, if the Board of County Commissioners approves this plat with St. Johns County dedicated roads, a maintenance agreement will need to be executed prior to as-built approval in a form acceptable to St. Johns County.”

Agenda Item 7 – FEMA Public Assistance for Hurricanes Ian and Nicole, specifically South Ponte Vedra Beach.

The motion below was approved 5-0.

Agenda Item 9 – First Reading of Proposed Amendment to St. Johns County Ordinance regulating the operation of Golf Carts, Low Speed Vehicles, and Minitrucks within St. Johns County

This was the reading of the change of the county ordinance to align with the new Florida law that went into effect October 1, 2023.

Agenda Item 10 – First Reading of Proposed Amendment to St. Johns County Ordinance regarding St. Johns County Affordable Housing Advisory Committee

Interesting discussion about this amendment. These are statutory categories that the county must include because of State Statutes. Commissioner Joseph expressed concerns about the use of these categories and wanted to change some of them. The attorney explained that because they are required in order to receive SHIP (State Housing Initiatives Partnership) funding, the county cannot change them.

You can learn more about SHIP funding here: SHIP Website

It was also interesting to see members of the public take this opportunity to speak up against Affordable Housing in St. Johns County.

Agenda Item 11 – Proposed Settlement of Southeast Development Partners, LLC v. St. Johns County State Court Litigation

This was a request from the County Attorney’s office:

“St. Johns County (“County”) is currently defendant in Case No. CA23-1265 in the Circuit Court in and for St. Johns County, filed by Southeast Development Partners, LLC (“Southeast”), relating to certain record requests. The County has defended, and continues to defend, its responses as consistent with Florida law. Pursuant to court order, the parties participated in mediation on October 30, 2023, and produced a tentative mediated settlement agreement, subject to approval of the Board of County Commissioners, to avoid the costs and uncertainty of further litigation of this matter. A copy of the mediated settlement agreement is attached to this agenda item for review and consideration. (This proposed settlement does not resolve the pending federal litigation regarding Southeast’s concurrency obligations.)”

Commissioner Arnold expressed concerns that this settlement could set a precedent for other cases. After discussion at the Board, a motion to deny approval of the settlement was approved 4-1 (Joseph being the nay vote.)

Agenda Item 12 – Consider 4 appointments to the Land Acquisition Management (LAMP) Conservation Board.

Commissioner Dean made a motion to reappoint Shorty Robbins, Wayne Flowers, and J. B. Miller to the LAMP Board. This was approved 5-0.

The LAMP Board had recommended appointing Nicole Crosby for the 4th open position on the Board.

Commissioner Dean made a motion to appoint Anila Lahiri for the 4th position. This was approved 4-1 with Commissioner Joseph being the Nay vote.

Consent Agenda Item 9 – A Resolution authorizing the County Administrator, or designee, to terminate the Purchase and Sale Agreement dated September 8, 2023 between 400 Orange Ave, LLC and St. Johns County, Florida.

This item had been pulled from the Consent Agenda and moved to the last item to give staff time to do additional research.

The concern that led to the request to terminate the sales agreement was the discovery of decomposing barrels of agricultural chemicals on the property. This would require an additional environmental study to determine if the county would need to perform clean-up of the property. In addition, they would need to perform a new boundary survey which would have additional cost to the county.

The seller’s representative spoke and they believe the barrels are fertilizer. They are not opposed to an extension of the selling and inspection period for the property.

After discussion and public comment, the Board approved, 4-1, (Joseph voting no) to extend the inspection period and perform a Stage 2 Environmental Study.

Commissioner’s Reports

Commissioner’s Reports got very interesting very fast.

Commissioner Joseph led off with what she called a “public service announcement.” She read from a prepared statement, listing various items that she has championed, then pointed out there is an election in 2024.

She was stopped on a Point of Order raised by Commissioner Dean. Commissioner Dean asked the County Attorney if she could make a political speech during an official County Commissioner Meeting.

I recommend watching the entire exchange at this link: Commissioner’s Reports

There were no Attorney or Administrator reports.

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Posted in BOCC, St. Johns County

What’s on the Agenda for the November 21, St. Johns County Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting?

Posted on by Beth Tate

All regular County Commissioner meetings are the first and third Tuesdays of the Month in the County Auditorium at 500 San Sebastian View.

The BOCC Agenda for November 21 is packed with 12 items, some of which may be lengthy discussion items.

The meeting Tuesday is posted as 2 separate meetings with the first one being the “Reorganizational Meeting” for the Board. This is the normal process of electing the Chair and Vice-Chair for the coming year.

Following the Re-organizational Meeting, they will begin the Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting.

Full Agenda is here: November 21 BOCC Agenda

Consent Agenda

There are 22 items on the consent Agenda. Here are a few of interest:

Consent Agenda item 7 is a lease agreement for additional space for the county to provide services at 16 and N. 5th Street.

Consent Agenda Item 9 is to terminate a sales agreement for land recommended to be purchase through the LAMP program. Consent Agenda Item 9

The purchase and sale agreement was initiated September 8 for 30 acres of land off of 13 South. Within the agreement was a clause that within 90 days of the purchase the buyer could enter the property and assess suitability of the property for use by the County.

“The County has found through inspection of the property, including but not limited to staff visits, a title search and Phase I Environmental Site Assessment that the property is not suitable for the County’s intended use and purposes. It is in the interest of the citizens of St. Johns County to terminate the Purchase and Sale Agreement and request return of the Deposit monies prior to the Inspection Termination Date, as provided in Section 10 of the Purchase and Sale Agreement.”

There was some debate about approving this purchase initially so expect there may be some discussion about this Consent Agenda Item.

Regular Agenda

Agenda Item 1 is to approve a settlement agreement in a lawsuit brought against the County in March of 2020. This is related to an accident where a deputy in a marked car pulled in front of a motorcyclist on SR 16. The net amount, after the insurance coverage, is $6.3 Million.

Agenda Item 2 – Charting Performance: A Framework for Open Governance and Efficiency

“County Administrator Joy Andrews will introduce a framework aimed at enhancing open governance and operational efficiency within the County. A newly developed organizational chart, highlighted changes, and their intended purposes will be provided.”

Agenda Item 3 – Consultant Briefing on the County’s Comprehensive Plan Update

“The County’s Comprehensive Plan is in the process of being updated. The Board of County Commissioners directed that a consultant be hired to assist the county through process. The consultant, Inspire Placemaking Collective, will provide a briefing on the overall process including the schedule.”

Agenda Item 4 – a request to rezone approximately .84 acres of land at 5461 & 5467 A1A S. from Commercial General (CG) to Residential, Single Family (RS-3).

“The Planning and Zoning Agency heard this request at their regularly scheduled public hearing on Thursday, October 5th, 2023, voting to recommend approval of the request by a vote of 5-0. Members of the Agency had questions of the applicant about how the proposed homes would be accessing A1A South.”

Agenda Item 5

REZ 2023-02 St. Marks Industrial Presentation

This is a request to rezone approximately 13.26 acres of land, located south of International Golf Parkway, just west of US 1 North, from Open Rural (OR) to Industrial Warehousing (IW). This was recommended for approval by the Planning and Zoning Agency (PZA) at their Thursday, June 1, 2023 meeting. Since that time, the County learned that a portion of the property was the subject of pending private civil litigation. The applicant has revised their application to remove that portion of the property from the request, reducing the proposed acreage for the site from 15.98 acres to 13.26 acres.

location and compatibility map for St. Mark’s Industrial

Agenda Item 6

PLAT 2023-21 Orchard Park Phase 3

This is the final plat approval for Orchard Park Phase 3.

Materials are here: Orchard Park, Phase 3

Agenda Item 7 – FEMA Public Assistance Category G (Permanent Work) for Hurricanes Ian and Nicole, specifically South Ponte Vedra Beach.

This is an update on use of a FEMA grant to be used to address damage to South Ponte Vedra Beach by Hurricanes Ian and Nicole

See the materials here: South Ponte Vedra Beach FEMA

Agenda Item 8 – Fiscal Year 2023: End of Year Budget Compliance

This is the year end review of the budget and approval of required adjustment entries to ensure compliance with Section 200.6 [Budgetary Control Procedures] of the St. Johns County BCC Administrative Code. This is the process where reserves are transferred to appropriate accounts to cover expenditures or Intra-fund department transfers are approved.

“To accomplish these transfers, the BCC will need to approve the respective transfers for each Department as per the attached schedule. Under Florida Statutes, these adjustments may be made up to 60 days following the end of the Fiscal Year.”

The County CFO will review the items to be approved in the presentation at this link. Budget Reconciliation

Agenda Item 9

First Reading of Proposed Amendment to St. Johns County Ordinance No. 2018-42 regulating the operation of Golf Carts, Low Speed Vehicles, and Mini Trucks within St. Johns County.

At its August 1, 2023 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners authorized the Office of County Attorney to prepare a proposed amendment to Ordinance 2018-42 to conform to recent changes in state law addressing the operation of Golf Carts on all public roads in Florida. The proposed amendment requires anyone 18 years or younger who operates a golf cart to possess a valid learners or driver license and anyone 18 years or older to posses a valid form of identification.

The entire ordinance can be found here: County Golf Ordinance

Agenda Item 10

First Reading of Proposed Amendment to St. Johns County Ordinance 20028-29 regarding St. Johns County Affordable Housing Advisory Committee.

Details are here: AHAC revision

At its September 19, 2023 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners authorized the Office of County Attorney to prepare a proposed amendment to Ordinance 2008-29 to conform to recent changes in state law regarding the composition of the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee. The proposed amendment requires that the committee must consist of one member from the Board of County Commissioners and one representative from at least six of the categories identified in section 420.9076(2), Florida Statues.

The categories are:

a) One citizen who is actively engaged in the residential home building industry in connection with affordable housing.;

b) One citizen who is actively engaged in the banking or mortgage banking industry in connection with affordable housing.;

c) One citizen who is a representative of those areas of labor actively engaged in home building in connection with affordable housing.;

d) One citizen who is actively engaged as an advocate for low-income persons in connection with affordable housing.;

e) One citizen who is actively engaged as a for-profit provider of affordable housing.;

f) One citizen who is actively engaged as a not-for-profit provider of affordable housing.;

g) One citizen who is actively engaged as a real estate professional in connection with affordable housing.;

h) One citizen who actively serves on the local planning agency pursuant to Section 163.3174, Florida Statutes.;

 i) One citizen who resides within the jurisdiction of the local governing bodymaking appointments.;

 j) One citizen who represents employers within the jurisdiction.;

k) One citizen who represents essential services personnel, as defined in the local housing assistance plan.

Agenda Item 11 – This item is a “Proposed Settlement of Southeast Development Partners, LLC v. St. Johns County State Court Litigation”

“St. Johns County (“County”) is currently defendant in Case No. CA23-1265 in the Circuit Court in and for St. Johns County, filed by Southeast Development Partners, LLC (“Southeast”), relating to certain record requests. The County has defended, and continues to defend, its responses as consistent with Florida law. Pursuant to court order, the parties participated in mediation on October 30, 2023, and produced a tentative mediated settlement agreement, subject to approval of the Board of County Commissioners, to avoid the costs and uncertainty of further litigation of this matter. A copy of the mediated settlement agreement is attached to this agenda item for review and consideration. (This proposed settlement does not resolve the pending federal litigation regarding Southeast’s concurrency obligations.)”

This item is interesting, not only because of the litigation and proposed settlement, but a read of the presentation materials is educational in understanding the scrutiny of county employees’ communications. I often hear residents complain about the email responses they get from county representatives or the lack of written response. County officials and employees are subject to Florida Sunshine laws and must be careful how their communications are worded.

As an example, I have heard residents complain that a Commissioner would not commit in an email response that they would vote a certain way on an upcoming rezoning request. By law, they can’t decide on a quasi-judicial matter until it is presented to them at the public hearing. If they have committed to a resident that they will vote for or against a request, they have broken the law, and that email could become evidence if the applicant, or anyone, sues the county over the decision.

Read the details here: Proposed Settlement

Agenda Item 12 – Consider appointments to the Land Acquisition Management Program (LAMP) Conservation Board

“Currently, there are (4) vacancies on the LAMP Conservation Board due to expired terms. Members of the LAMP Conservation Board are required to be registered voters of St. Johns County and have experience or expertise in one or more of the following areas, with at least five of these areas represented at all times: Agriculture, Archaeology, Business/Finance, Eco-Tourism, Education, Engineering, Environmental, History, Parks, Planning, Real Estate, Recreation, Soil/Hydrologic, and Natural Sciences, such as Biology, Botany, Geology and Zoology. “

Included in the packet are (9) applications and a recommendation letter from LAMP: Robin Robbins Dist. 1, Dirk Lobenbruck Dist. 1, Wayne Flowers Dist. 1, Dist. 3, William Miller Dist. 3, Anila Lahiri Dist. 3, Nicole Crosby Dist. 4, Kate Beck Dist. 4, Garrett Colton Dist. 5, Benjamin Brandao Dist. 5.

The LAMP Board recommends the reappointment of Shorty Robbins, Wayne Flowers, and JB Miller. They recommend the new appointment of Nicole Crosby.

Packet details here: LAMP Board Nominations

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