Tag: StJohnsCounty

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, St. Johns County

Summary of the December 5 St. Johns County Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting

Posted on by Beth Tate

A day with a light Agenda turned out to be very eventful!

The morning began on a positive note with a Presentation in Remembrance of Paul Waldron, ”Beloved District 3 County Commissioner.

While a video honoring Commissioner Waldron’s life played on the monitors, all Commissioner’s gathered for the presentation. There were several former and current county employees in the audience.

Commissioner Whitehurst introduced former District 2 Commissioner Jeb Smith, who read a touching tribute to Commissioner Waldron. The Waldron family was present to accept the proclamation.

Watch the video here: Paul Waldron Day Celebration

Public Safety Update

Director Jason Caban represented SJSO for the reminded the public that amongst the Holiday shopping there is a rise in scams and frauds.  He urged the public to be aware of potential fraud if someone is asking you for personal or banking information or asking you to pay for something with gift cards. He also noted there will be an increase in patrols in heavily trafficked areas.

Acting Chief McGhee  from the Fire Rescue shared that the current fire fighter recruitment class is entering it’s final week of training and will be graduating on December 15.

Clerk of the Court Brandon Patty continued with the fraud and scam theme and reminded residents that they can sign up for free fraud alerts related to their property. The link to sign up for these alerts is here: Fraud Alerts – Clerk of the Court

The Public Infrastructure team provided a brief update on the 24 on-going Infrastructure Projects.

slide from presentation

Watch here: Infrastructure Projects

Video of 2209 Construction: 2209 Construction

Legislative Affairs updates included that the Governor submitted his budget recommendations for 2024 – 2025. Senator Hutson had mentioned at the Joint Meeting with the School Board a bill he was proposing to help with school construction. That bill is SB 7002 and is in play now. It removes some of the requirements on school construction thus lowering costs. Watch here: Legislative Affairs Update

update on SB 7002
House Beach Restoration Projects

Consent Agenda was passed with no comment from the Commissioners or the pubilc, a rare thing.

Agenda Items

Agenda Item 1 – Approval of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between St. Johns County and Twin Creeks Development Associates, LLC and Award of IFB No: 23-94 CR 210 Widening from Trinity Way to Beachwalk Boulevard

This is a resolution to a long standing concern about the widening of CR 210. The developer was responsible for widening to a 4 lane road. Since that first commitment, the county determined CR 210 needs to be a 6 lane road to accommodate the traffic flow.

This MOU brings the project to a point that construction can begin. Watch the presentation here: Twin Creeks MOU video

There were 3 motions – 1) approving a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between St. Johns County and Twin Creeks Development Associates LLC and Twin Creeks Ventures, LLC regarding a good faith dispute about the widening of CR 210. 2) a motion to award the bid for the widening to Watson Civil Construction and 3) to transfer the $2,100,000 from the Transportation Trust Fund to pay for the project. Approved 5-0

Agenda Item 2 – Request for a Major Modification to the Twin Creeks PUD to add a new access connection point along CR 210 West for the Light Industrial parcel located to the south.

This was approved with little discussion, 5-0.

Agenda Item 3- Request for a Major Modification to the Race Track Road PUD to revise commercial and office square footage to accommodate construction of a Personal Property Mini-Warehouse (Self-Storage) facility, which is an allowable use within the PUD.

This item requested a waiver for the distance from residential to the personal storage warehouse and changed the sq. footage allowance to allow a bigger warehouse. A personal storage warehouse could already be built on the site with no approval required.

The location selected for the building allows the developer to retain all existing trees in the development. They will also plant additional trees for screening of the back of the building.

Benefits presented were lower traffic counts than if another doctor’s office or restaurant were to be built there (both currently allowable uses.)

Concerns were raised about traffic. The traffic engineer walked through the traffic counts to demonstrate it would be lower traffic than other uses in the development.

Disclaimer: I spoke and noted that there is another self storage warehouse directly across the street from Durbin Creek Elementary. Having watched the traffic at that location for the months since this project was announced, I had noted there is rarely any traffic at the self-storage building which supports the premise of low traffic counts.

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

You can watch the presentation here: Race Track Road PUD

Agenda items 4, 5, and 6 were approve with little comment.

Agenda Item 4 – Bennett Road Easement – Non -zoning variance requested to allow access for 1 additional home on Bennett Road. Approved 5-0

Agenda Item 5 – Big Pine Drive – Request for use of an existing non-paved roadway to access a non-residential development. Approved 4-1 (Joseph)

Agenda Item 6 – Villages of St. Augustine – request to add Class III Geriatric Acute Care Psychiatric Specialty Hospital for seniors 55 and older as an allowed use within the PUD. Approved 5-0

Agenda Item 7 – Appointments to the Recreation Advisory Board – Marithza Ross was reappointed to the Recreation Advisory Board 5-0

Agenda Item 8 – Appointments to the Planning and Zoning Agency – Dr. Richard Hilsenbeck was reappointed 5-0. Meagan Perkins was reappointed 4-1 (Joseph)

Commissioner’s Reports

Commissioner Joseph took the opportunity to congratulate her husband, Dr. Ron Joseph. He and his sister were elected to the US Hall of Fame for Figure Skating earlier in the week. A short video was played showing their 1964 performance. Commissioner Joseph noted that they are still the only US Jewish Olympic medalists.

Commissioner Alaimo has been meeting with residents of Shore Drive and listening the their concerns about the proposed trail. He also sent congratulations to the St. Augustine High School football team as they head to the State Championship game this weekend.

Commissioner Whitehurst spent a few moments acknowledging the passing of Sgt. Major Ray Quinn and shared some lessons learned from Sgt. Major Quinn, who had also served as Commissioner in St. Johns County. Sgt. Major Quinn had been a source of wisdom for Commissioner Whitehurst when he was elected.

Commissioner Dean‘s comments were of a more somber nature. By now you may have seen some of the media coverage of his comments.

Note that this blogger tries to maintain an objective note and provide information that you can use to form your own opinions. In that vein, I will share what Commissioner Dean stated and provide a link to the video so you can watch for yourself.

Commissioner Dean made it clear that this was an uncomfortable position. He said he “does not enjoy doing it” but felt compelled to act on what had occurred at the last Commissioner’s Meeting (November 21.) He made reference to Commissioner Joseph giving a “several minute campaign speech” which he interrupted on a Point of Order. Commissioner Dean believes this speech may have violated Florida Election Law. Specifically, he mentioned Florida Statute 104.31.

You can read Statute 104.31 here: Florida Statute 104.31

Commissioner Dean presented a 2 part motion. First to censure Commissioner Joseph for her comments and second to ask the Chairwoman to seek outside counsel who could come back to the commission with a recommendation about what should be done, if anything.

After hearing Public Comment, the Commissioner’s voted 4-1 (Joseph being the no vote) to censure Commissioner Joseph and to hire outside counsel to determine if there has been a violation of Florida Election law.

Please watch Commissioner Dean’s Comments and discussion at this link.

County Attorney’s Report – Mr. Migut discussed the Election Canvassing Board. By law, the Canvassing Board is composed of a County Court Judge, the Supervisor of Elections, the Chair of the County Commissioners and one alternate.  A Commissioner cannot serve as alternate if there is a conflict of interest.

Because 3 Commissioners (Alaimo, Whitehurst, Dean) have indicated they will run for re-election in 2024, they are disqualified from serving on the Canvassing Board.

Commissioner Joseph indicated her intent to endorse a candidate for President and for the Primary and General elections in St. Johns County. That disqualifies her from serving on the Canvassing Board.

Commissioner Whitehurst was selected to serve as the representative to the Canvassing Board for the Presidential Preference election.

The Circuit Judge will select an alternate for the Primary and General elections.

Attorney Migut also brought up that there are Rules and Policies that prohibit campaigning in county buildings. These Rules and Policies are located in a number of different places. Mr. Migut asked for Board consensus to bring all the different rules into a central document for ease of reference.

The Chair of the Board of County Commissioner’s serves on the Canvassing Board. There are 2 elections in 2024 that will need an alternate member of the Board of Commissioners to serve on the Canvassing Board; the Presidential Preference and the combined Primary/General Election. Because of conflicts of interest, none of the other 4 Commissioners can serve. Commissioner Joseph is endorsing candidates in both elections and the other 3 Commissioners are up for election. Commissioner Whitehurst was selected to serve on the Canvassing Board for the Presidential Preference election. The Circuit Judge will need to appoint an alternate for the combined Primary/General election. By consensus, Attorney Migut will bring together all the various rules around campaigning in public buildings into one central document for ease of access.

County Attorney’s discussion on Canvassing Board

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Posted in BOCC, St. Johns County

Look Ahead to the December 5 St. Johns County Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting

Posted on by Beth Tate

Tuesday’s meeting has several Infrastructure related items on the Agenda and one very special presentation.

The full agenda can be found here: BOCC Agenda

In the opening portion of the meeting, there will be a “Special Presentation in remembrance of Paul Waldron, beloved District 3 County Commissioner.”

Certainly Commissioner Waldron was well known and loved , not only in District 3, but across the County. Commissioner Waldron was a wealth of knowledge and happy to share and educate all of us. I anticipate a full-house for this Presentation.

Consent Agenda

There are 35 items in the Consent Agenda for Tuesday. Some highlights:

Consent Agenda Items 6 and 7 are related to construction easements needed for the CR 210 Widening project from Cimarrone Blvd. to Greenbriar Rd. and construction of a portion of County Road 2209 between International Golf Parkway (IGP) and Silverleaf Parkway

Consent Agenda Item 18 is of interest to those who travel US 1 often. This is the much needed “State Funded Grant Agreement from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) for Pine Island Road Intersection Improvements”

“The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and County have identified the need for a signalized intersection at US 1 and Pine Island Road. The FDOT has allocated $2,000,000 for the County to use for design, permitting, construction. post design services and construction engineering inspection (CEI) for improvements at the US1/Pine Island Road intersection, including re-aligning Pine Island Road, signalizing the intersection, adding railroad signal preemption, adding a northbound right-turn lane, and incorporating a multi-use trail-head as feasible. The County has also budgeted $1,900,000 for this project. These funds are currently identified in the FY 2024 budget.”

Consent Agenda Item 19 is another intersection improvement, “State Funded Grant Agreement from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) for Intersection Improvements of SR A1A corridor.”

“The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has identified the need for intersection improvements on the SR A1A corridor. The FDOT has allocated $6,000,000 for the County to use for design, construction and construction engineering and inspection (CEI) for the intersection improvements on SR A1A corridor. These funds are currently identified in the FY 2024 budget.”

Regular Agenda Items

Agenda Item 1 – Approval of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between St. Johns County and Twin Creeks Development Associates, LLC and Award of IFB No: 23-94 CR 210 Widening from Trinity Way to Beachwalk Boulevard

“The Board of County Commissioners approved the Twin Creeks Development Order on August 9, 2005 that was amended on August 18, 2015 and September 1, 2021. Since the approval of the Development Order a good faith dispute has arisen in relation to the responsibility for the widening of the Gap on CR 210 and the financial responsibility for such widening. In an effort to resolve this dispute this Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) sets forth their common understanding and interpretation as to the manner in which construction of the 6-Lane Roadway will be performed. The purpose of the project is to complete the 6-lane widening of County Road 210 from Trinity Way to Beachwalk Boulevard, and includes improvements of the roadway, drainage, signage, pavement markings and maintenance of traffic. The Purchasing Department issued an Invitation for Bids (“IFB”) in accordance with SJC Purchasing Policy, and four (4) bids were submitted, with the lowest, responsive, responsible bid being submitted by Watson Civil Construction, Inc, at the lump sum bid price of $12,586,631.05 for the Base Bid and Alternate #1 for the Temporary Traffic Control Plan. Local Preference did not apply in this instance as the low bidder is a Local Business. Additional funding in the amount of $2,100,000 from Transportation Trust Fund Reserves is needed to award the contract. The Memorandum of Understanding provides a resolution of a good faith dispute concerning the responsibility for the widening of the gap on CR 210 from the western boundary of the DRI to C.E. Wilson Road and the financial responsibility for such widening. Staff recommends Board approval to award IFB No: 23-94 to Watson Civil Construction, Inc, and to execute a contract in substantially the same form and format as attached for completion of the project as specified in the IFB. Due to the size of the Exhibits and Attachments, they are available upon request from Jaime Locklear”

Details of the background are here: Twin Creeks MOU

Agenda Item 2 – New Twin Creeks Light Industrial Access

This is a request for a new access connection point along CR 210 West. This was recommended unanimously for approval by the PZA on November 2.

Details are here: Twin Creeks Light Industrial Access

Agenda Item 3 – Race Track Road PUD

This is a request for a modification to the Race Track Road PUD to allow a Personal Property Mini-Warehouse facility, an allowable use in the existing PUD. This request is to modify the square footage allocated for the warehouse facility. The PZA recommended this for approval on October 19 with a 5-1 vote.

Details on this PUD are here: Race Track Road PUD

Location of Race Track Road PUD

Agenda Items 4 & 5 are Non-Zoning variance approvals for changes to easements and private roadways.

Agenda Item 6 – Villages of St. Augustine – adding a Class III Geriatric Acute Care Psychiatric Specialty Hospital for seniors 55 and older as an allowed use within the PUD. The PZA recommend approval on October 19 with a 6-0 vote.

Agenda Item 7 – Appointment to the Recreation Advisory Board – The District 4 representative resigned. The Board is recommending Marithza Ross to fill that position.

Agenda Item 8 – Appointments to the Planning and Zoning Agency – 2 positions on the PZA have expired. The PZA is recommending the reappointment of Dr. Richard Hilsenbeck and Meagan Perkins .

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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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