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NORTH PALM BEACH COUNCIL MEETING 10/09/08 Council wraps up major projects in NPB
Village ‘closes out’ Prosperity
By Denise Jaegers
WeekDay Staff Writer After years of
controversy and red tape, the Prosperity Farms Road Beautification
Project is finally at an end, with the final payment of $5,849 to McCabe
Brothers Construction. On May 22 this year, the Council awarded a bid to
McCabe Brothers for the purchase and installation of trees requested by
County Commissioner Karen Marcus to complete the landscape plans for
Prosperity Farms Road. At the time, the
Village had $65,000 remaining in the Prosperity Farms Road
Beautification Project account.
McCabe Brothers did the job for $58,490.
“The Village has received the Engineer’s final inspection,
certificates for payment, along with all other required documentation,”
said Village Manager Jimmy Knight in his memo to Council.
Elated this project was
finally completed, the Council voted unanimously to authorize the final
payment to McCabe Brothers. Council also
unanimously authorized final closeout of Phase I of the Although the Village
budgeted $200,000 for this project, the bid was originally awarded to
CEM Enterprises for $120,000.
Additional work and material were necessary once the jobs had
begun, however, at an added cost of $19,598.30.
This brought the total cost for Phase I to $139,773.13. In other action,
Council:
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving a second amendment to the
agreement for Consultant Services with TBE Group, Inc. to extend the
term of the agreement and authorize construction phase services, during
the demolition activities and construction of
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution authorizing the Mayor and Village Clerk
to Execute a Bill of Sale and Easement Deed to Seacoast Utility
Authority, relating to the reclaimed water system.
The ten-year agreement between the Village and SUA for the use of
reclaimed water authorizes a request for 300,000 gallons per day.
·
Unanimously approved first reading of an ordinance amending the Code by
repealing Division 3, Abandoned, Inoperative and Junked Property; and
Article IV, Weeds and Brush, of Chapter 14, Health and Sanitation, and
adopting a new Article IV, Abatement of Public Nuisances on Private
Property.
·
Unanimously approved first reading of an ordinance amending the Code to
increase the annual commercial use property waste disposal fees, as
adopted by the Palm Beach County Solid Waste Authority.
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NORTH PALM BEACH COUNCIL MEETING 09/25/08 Council adopts budget, approves $307,000 for outsourcing Parks &Rec. maintenance
In view of extreme budget cuts and
employee terminations, Village Manager says he won’t accept a raise this
year
By Denise Jaegers
WeekDay Staff Writer
A handful of citizens made one last
attempt Thursday to persuade Council members to “revisit” their recent
decision to eliminate eight positions in the Parks and Recreation
grounds maintenance department.
One of the residents
insisted the workers help keep unsavory characters off the property,
stating they usually leave when they see the Village vehicles pulling up
to perform maintenance duties.
“Sometimes there are drug dealers, child molesters and other ‘not
so nice’ people loitering in the parks,” she said.
“These guys help keep our children safe, because when they
arrive, the bad people leave.” But Village Manager
Jimmy Knight responded by advising it is the responsibility of the
Public Safety Department to protect the residents and enforce the law,
not the Parks maintenance workers.
“We will not be compromising the safety of our residents and
children,” he assured the public. Mayor William Manuel
made one last statement before the vote was taken to approve the budget.
“Every department had cutbacks, not just the Parks and Recreation
Department,” he stressed.
“This was a tough situation, but it was mandated in order to put
together a budget for this year.” With that, the Council
voted unanimously to adopt the budget for Fiscal Year 2008-2009, and set
the millage rate at 6.6977; or $6.6977 per thousand dollars of taxable
assessed property value.
This millage rate is 0.512% less than the rolled back rate of 6.7322.
After making this
difficult, but unavoidable decision, the council voted unanimously to
approve a contract with Total Maintenance Building Services, Inc. for
the landscaping and maintenance duties within Village Parks for the next
year. The cost will be no
more than $307,483.68 – and will save the Village about $150,000 the
first year, according to Knight, who stated the Village will save about
$700,000 three years into this contract.
This information was of little comfort to the eight workers in
the audience who lost their jobs as of September 30, however. It became apparent
later on in the meeting, how the Village Manager felt about letting go
some employees who have been with the Village for over 20 years.
“As you know, it is
that time of year again, when you do your Performance Evaluations for
the Village Manager,” he said with considerable emotion to the Council.
“I just want to inform you now, that I will not be accepting a
raise, should you decide to retain me for another year as the Village
Manager.” The council
solemnly nodded in agreement.
In other action,
Council:
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving a contract with D.S. Eakins
Construction Corp. to replace the
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution accepting the proposal of Clint Mosier
Court Maintenance and Repair, Inc. for tennis court maintenance
services.
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving a Local Agency Program
Agreement with the Florida Department of Transportation relating to
improvements in · Unanimously adopted a resolution authorizing a supplementary deficit assessment payment to the South East Risk Management Association. |
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NORTH PALM BEACH COUNCIL MEETING 9/11/08 Citizens protest as Council trims budget by
cutting Parks & Rec. positions, eliminating separate Children’s Library
Eight full-time workers laid off in Parks
& Recreation; Children’s Library moved upstairs to adult library,
Children’s Librarian takes early retirement
By Denise Jaegers
WeekDay Staff Writer
Several members of the Village’s Library
Board addressed the Council during last Thursday’s meeting, expressing
their displeasure with its decision to eliminate the Children’s
Librarian position, and move the Children’s Library upstairs, as part of
the regular adult library. One board member told
the council she was deeply concerned about the Village cutting costs
where the children were concerned.
She also noted that the adult patrons would not find such a
quiet, relaxing library atmosphere with kids running around and being
noisy upstairs. Another
board member stated the Council’s decision to create computer and office
space “at the expense of our children would be a tragedy.”
Children’s Librarian
Mary Ann Caruso opted to accept the Village’s offer of an early
retirement, and last week the children she has grown to love turned out
to give her a surprise party, to show appreciation for her devotion.
It was an emotional farewell for the Children’s Librarian, who
will not be replaced, due to the budget cuts that took place in recent
weeks. Another area where the
Village decided to trim costs was the Parks and Recreation Department,
where eight full-time employees were laid off.
One of the citizens complained to the Council that their action
regarding the “privatization” of the Parks & Recreation maintenance
duties was a poor decision on their behalf.
She was applauded and cheered by the eight disgruntled employees
who sat in attendance. Mayor William Manuel
responded to her comments, expressing a sincere apology to those who are
losing their jobs. “This was
a painful decision during our budget workshops, but we had no choice,”
said he. The employees were
not satisfied with the Mayor’s remarks, and abruptly left the chambers
grumbling loudly and bitterly. On that note, the
Council unanimously approved first reading of the ordinance to adopt a
tentative millage rate of 6.6977; and to adopt the budget for Fiscal
Year 2008-2009. The public
was again reminded that the State’s Property Tax Reform legislation this
year has left many municipalities no other choice but to trim costs and
sacrifice services. Since the
administration and Council strongly resisted the elimination of staff
positions in the Public Safety or Public Works Departments, the
Recreation Department and Library took the biggest hits.
Council reiterated they were not happy about making these cuts,
but were left no other choice in this harsh and relentless economic
climate. In other action
Council:
·
Unanimously approved and enacted second reading of an ordinance annexing
Live Oak Plaza, located on the west side of Alternate A1A south of
Richard Road. Vice Mayor
David Norris again recused himself from this vote, stating Foster’s Pub
was one of his firm’s clients.
Attorneys for Fosters Pub and the new Mercedes dealer developer
were present once again, with Foster’s Attorney Gorman requesting 60-90
days before the Village enacts this ordinance.
Attorney
·
Unanimously approved and enacted second reading of an ordinance adopting
a small-scale Comprehensive Plan amendment to amend the future land use
designation of 2.62 acres, aka Live Oak Plaza.
Vice Mayor Norris again recused himself from this vote, for the
same reason as stated above.
·
Unanimously approved and enacted second reading of an ordinance rezoning
Live Oak Plaza from County CG Zoning District to Village C-2
(Commercial) Zoning District.
Vice Mayor Norris again recused himself from this vote, for the
same reason as stated above.
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving an application for a State
Aid to Libraries Grant.
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving a contract award to Dominica
Recreation Products, Inc. for playground equipment in an amount not to
exceed $25,887.06.
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution accepting the bid of Devland Site
Development, Inc. for the demolition and removal of the wastewater
treatment facility at
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution accepting the bid of Allstate Windows &
Kitchens for the replacement of glass windows and doors at the Community
Center in an amount not to exceed $49,614.26.
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving the endorsement of the |
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NORTH PALM BEACH COUNCIL MEETING 8/28/08 Council approves ordinance to annex Live Oak
Plaza
Foster’s Pub requests exception to remain
open until 5 am, after ordinance is enacted at second reading in Oct.
By Denise Jaegers
WeekDay Staff Writer
An attorney representing Foster’s Pub in Once the Village enacts
the ordinance at second reading in October, the property will have to
adhere to the code, which prohibits alcohol being sold after 2 am.
Foster’s Pub remains open until 5 am, with a large amount of its
revenue depending upon “after hours” customers, as the attorney pointed
out. “If Foster’s has to
close at 2 am, they will be forced to lay off some of their staff, and
lose a lot of business during these already difficult financial times,”
he noted. The Council was
concerned about allowing a special exception for Foster’s, which would
set a precedent for other businesses to request remaining open past 2 am
for the purpose of selling alcohol.
In addition, the increased number of police calls between the
hours of 2 and 5 am would put an extra burden on the Village’s police
force, stated Village Manager Jimmy Knight.
Foster’s attorney
insisted the number of police calls on record were not accurate for
Foster’s Pub, however, as some of them were incorrect addresses.
Also, some of the 911 calls were for minor incidents outside in
the parking lot, such as a passenger disputing a fare for a cab.
Knight was quick to point out that the Village’s Public Safety
responds to every call, no matter how trivial, and the increased
activity puts the same amount of strain on the police force. Vice Mayor David Norris
advised he would not be voting on this matter, as Foster’s Pub is a
client of his law firm.
First reading of the ordinance passed 4-0, with Norris recusing himself.
Further communications regarding the exception will be ongoing
between the Village Attorney and Foster’s attorney, prior to second
reading of the ordinance at the next meeting on October 9. In other action,
Council:
·
Approved,
4-0, first reading of an ordinance adopting a small scale Comprehensive
Plan amendment to amend the future land use designation of the 2.62 acre
parcel of property (Live Oak Plaza) located on the west side of
Alternate A1A south of Richard Road.
(Norris recused himself from voting on this item, for the same
reason mentioned above.)
·
Approved,
4-0, first reading of an ordinance rezoning the 2.62 acre parcel of
property known as Live Oak Plaza located on the west side of Alternate
A1A south of Richard Road from County CG Zoning District to Village C-2
(Commercial) Zoning District.
(Norris again recused himself from voting on this item, for the
same reason above.)
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving a Financial Assistance
Agreement with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for
grant funds to replace the
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving a minor modification to the
Harbour Isles Planned Unit Development (PUD) to provide for a reduced
front setback on
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution authorizing execution of a Deed of
Conservation Easement in favor of the South Florida Water Management
District relating to
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution amending Policy 07-002 “Retiree
Insurance Benefits.”
·
Unanimously authorized final payment to Kirchman Construction in the
amount of $16,096.45 in accordance with Village policies.
Village Manager Jimmy Knight advised there would be a grand
opening of the renovated facility sometime in October.
·
Unanimously approved and enacted second reading of an ordinance adopting
a large-scale Comprehensive Plan Amendment to assign the Domani Parcel a
future land use designation of high density residential.
·
Unanimously approved and enacted second reading of an ordinance granting
to Florida Power & Light Company a non-exclusive electric franchise for
30 years. |
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NORTH PALM BEACH COUNCIL MEETING 7/24/2008 Village sets tentative rate of 6.73 mills for
Fiscal Year 2008-2009
Millage rate up from 6.19
mils last year
By Denise Jaegers
WeekDay Staff Writer Although
nothing was mentioned during the agenda item regarding the hike since
last year, the Village is following the trend set by neighboring
municipalities, who have warned residents to expect a millage rate
increase due to the state’s property tax reform legislation approved by
voters this year. “One way
or another, residents are going to be paying to make up for the tax cuts
in The first public hearing on the tentative budget and proposed millage rate will take place on Thursday, September 11, at 7:30 pm. This will be the maximum rate, officials noted, from which the millage could possibly go down. In other
action, Council:
·
Unanimously accepted and
enacted guidelines for awarding gift rounds of golf at the North Palm
Beach Country Club to non-profit organizations.
The Village golf course receives between 50-100 requests per
season for foursome gift rounds, and this will set a maximum of 12 gift
rounds (foursomes) per fiscal year.
·
Unanimously approved first
reading of an ordinance granting to Florida Power & Light a
non-exclusive electric franchise.
Currently there is a franchise agreement between the Village and
FPL that expires in July 2010.
The current
agreement requires that FPL pays a 6% franchise fee with an offset for
ad valorem taxes and non-ad valorem tax assessments paid by FPL each
year. The new agreement
calls for FPL to pay a 5.9% franchise fee with no deductions for ad
valorem property taxes or non-ad valorem assessments, thereby increasing
the Village’s total revenues from FPL by $50,000 annually.
FPL is also
required to pay the Village to repair any portion of public right-of-way
that is damaged or impaired because of the installation, inspection or
repair of FPL’s facilities.
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NORTH PALM BEACH COUNCIL
MEETING 6/12/2008 Council
approves Employee ‘Buy Out’ Proposal for Village staff with 25 years
tenure
Village Manager
advises 13 employees are eligible for elective buy out, which must be
accepted by Aug. 1, 2008
By Denise
Jaegers
WeekDay Staff
Writer
Village Manager Jimmy Knight presented a proposal to Council members at
the end of last Thursday’s meeting, for long-tenured employees to
voluntarily vacate their positions by offering them a “buyout” proposal.
“Due to the tax
reforms passed recently with Amendment 1 and the double digit
devaluation of property values here in the Village, your Administration
is facing a challenging budgetary process for Fiscal Year 2008/09,” said
Knight in his memo to Council.
“In order to meet the demands of decreasing revenues and rising
operating costs, the Administration is seeking alternate methods to trim
costs wherever possible. “Since personnel costs represent over 70% of the Village’s annual budget, the Administration will undoubtedly have to make cuts in this area in order to deliver a balanced budget,” Knight stated. “The Administration is seeking Council authorization to allow the Village Manager to offer ‘buyouts’ to certain employees as an additional means of reducing employment costs.”
The proposed
“buyouts” would be offered to full-time employees with 25 years of
service or more, as of September 30, 2008; and to full-time employees
who are fully-vested and eligible for normal retirement benefits.
The “buyouts” would be offered unilaterally to all employees
meeting these criteria, and would not be mandatory, explained Knight.
The “buyout”
proposal would entail 100% payout of all accumulated leave balances; and
three years of continuing 100% employer-paid premiums for single
coverage on the Village’s lowest cost medical insurance plan
or the cash equivalent
of said coverage paid at the current years’ rate (times three years).
There are currently 13 employees who qualify for the proposed buyout,
Knight added.
“The
Administration believes that offering ‘buyout’ proposals to
long-standing employees prior to engaging in layoffs will send the
appropriate message to Village employees:
that the Village of North Palm
Beach recognizes the value of its employees,” stressed Knight in his
memo.
After
considerable discussion, including what effect this action will have on
the pension plans already in place, Council members reluctantly agreed
to Knight’s recommendation, and unanimously adopted the resolution.
In other
action, Council:
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving a contract with D.S. Eakins
Construction Corp. for repair of a storm drain system located at 727
Hummingbird Way, at a cost not to exceed $83,600.
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving a contract with D.S. Eakins
Construction Corp. for repair of a storm drain system located on North
Pepperwood Circle, at a cost not to exceed $45,110.
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving a contract award to Charles
S. Whiteside, Inc. for the replacement of designated sidewalks within
the Village in an amount not to exceed $46,740.
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving an agreement with Peacock &
Lewis Architects and Planners, Inc. for design of the Village Tennis
facility. · Unanimously adopted a resolution approving a contribution to the Let Us Vote Political Action Committee in the amount of $13,800 and approving a budget amendment transferring the funds from the Council Contingency account to the Council - Donations Expenses account. |
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NORTH PALM BEACH COUNCIL MEETING 5/22/08 Village approves $13,000 to join ‘Let Us Vote’
PAC
County-wide Political Action Committee
mission is to place charter amendment on 2008 Presidential ballot
By Denise Jaegers
WeekDay Staff Writer
Palm Beach Mayor Jack McDonald gave a
presentation on the committee he chairs, the “Let Us Vote” PAC
(Political Action Committee), at the start of last Thursday’s Initiated in 2007, the
“Let Us Vote” PAC consists of a number of The committee is also
raising funds to promote public service announcements prior to the
election, according to Mayor McDonald, who urged the Village to join the Following Mayor
McDonald’s presentation and invitation to join the PAC, Mayor Bill
Manuel made a motion that the Village contribute to the “Let Us Vote”
PAC, and become part of the drive.
The remaining council members agreed the $13,000 would be well
spent, in order to ensure the proposed charter amendment will be placed
on the 2008 ballot. In other action, the
Council:
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving a Continuing Contract for
Professional Engineering Services with Wantman Group, Inc.
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving an Interlocal Agreement with
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving the sole source of radios,
dispatch consoles and related equipment and services from Motorola, Inc.
in the total amount of $270,417.44 and approving a budget amendment to
appropriate $191,622 from the undesignated, unreserved fund balance.
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving a contract with McCabe
Brothers Construction, Inc. for Phase IV (the final phase) of the
Prosperity Farms Road Beautification Project in an amount not to exceed
$58,490.
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving a contract with Charles S.
Whiteside, Inc. for overlay paving of designated Village streets, at a
cost not to exceed $247,176.
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving an amendment to the Sanctuary
Cove Phase II Planned Unit Development (PUD) to allow extension of the
existing pier. |
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NORTH PALM BEACH COUNCIL MEETING 5/08/08 Council hires new Village Engineering firm,
lets go SFRN
Wantman Group will replace Engenuity Group
(formerly SFRN) as Village Engineer
By Denise Jaegers
WeekDay Staff Writer
The
Village’s contract with Engenuity Group (formerly SFRN) will expire on
May 24, and 18 firms had recently submitted applications to contract for
the Village to provide engineering services.
An Evaluation Committee
including the Public Works Director and the Community Development
Director had reviewed all the submittals, and short-listed their top
four candidates for the job:
Wantman Group, Inc.; Engenuity Group, Inc.; TBE Group, Inc.; and A&B
Engineering, Inc. After hearing all the
presentations by the top four firms, Council took a vote and selected
Engenuity Group and Wantman Group as a tie for first.
A second vote was taken on these two firms, and Wantman Group won
the vote. Former NPB
Councilman Robert Rennebaum and Charles Isiminger are listed among the
engineers working for Wantman Group.
In other action,
Council:
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution accepting the bid of CEM Enterprises
Inc. for repairs to the
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving the sole source purchase of
WebTrac Basic Edition software from Vermont Systems at a total cost not
to exceed $12,223.
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution amending the 2007-2008 Budget to
transfer $250,000 from the unreserved, undesignated fund balance to Park
Maintenance – Construction & Major Renovation to fund improvements to
the Community Center.
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving a contract with D.S. Eakins
Construction Corporation for the repair of storm drain systems located
in the front of 905 and |
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NORTH PALM BEACH COUNCIL
MEETING 4/24/08 Old Port
Cove residents protest ‘spot zoning’ decision for twin towers 18-story
Kolter Project
Village amends
Comprehensive Plan to assign Domani Parcel a future land use designation
of ‘high density residential’
By Denise
Jaegers
WeekDay Staff
Writer
Old Port Cove condominium residents and Property Owners Association
members addressed the Village Council at last Thursday’s meeting,
expressing their concerns and protestations during the Public Hearing on
adopting a large-scale Comprehensive Plan Amendment to assign the Domani
Parcel a future land use designation of “high density residential.”
The President
of the Property Owners Association advised Council he was there
representing 186 owners who are “adamantly opposed” to the Kolter
Properties plans for erecting two 18-story towers on the Domani Parcel.
Among their concerns were the height restrictions of four stories
on US Highway One; and the heightened traffic which will result from the
project.
In 2005, Kolter Properties purchased approximately 7.0 acres from the
Passionist Monastery of Our Lady to redevelop the property and construct
multi-family dwelling units.
The property is located on the east side of US Highway One,
approximately one mile south of
PGA Boulevard.
This parcel was originally zoned as C-1 Commercial District, with a
Special Policy 5.2, which has limited residential density of eleven 11
units per acre. At
that time, the developer requested for a Zoning Change from C-1
Commercial Neighborhood to R-3 Multi-Family Residential and Residential
Planned Unit Development RPUD.
On July 14, 2005 Council granted approval, allowing a total of 77 units
69 condominiums and 8 town homes for this site.
The developer had initiated a Large-Scale Comprehensive Plan
Amendment to remove a seven-acre parcel Domani Parcel from Special
Policy 5.2 and to assign the Domani Parcel a future land use designation
of high density residential.
This would increase the number of units from 77 to 168. Florida Statute
Number 163 allows up to 24 units per acre which is also consistent with
the Village’s Comprehensive Plan and the approved Phase I of the US
Highway One Corridor Study.
Councilman Edward Eissey expressed he had his own concerns with this
number, however, as he felt 24 units per acre was too high for this
location.
The Council unanimously approved first reading of the ordinance, which
the Village Attorney advised is merely asking the question, “is this an
appropriate parcel for this use?” The Village Consultant will transmit a
copy of the Large-Scale Comprehensive Plan to the State Department of
Community Affairs (DCA) for their review and approval, which may take up
to 100 days to come back.
In other action, Council:
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution approving an Interlocal Cooperation
Agreement with Palm Beach County for participation in the Urban County
Program to access CDBG and Home Investment Partnership program funds.
·
Unanimously adopted a resolution appointing members to Village Boards.
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NORTH PALM BEACH COUNCIL MEETING 03/27/08 Council
appoints Manuel as Mayor
Annual Financial
Report reveals Village is ‘in a very good position, financially’
By Denise
Jaegers
WeekDay
Staff Writer
Outgoing
Mayor and newly re-elected Councilman Edward Eissey wasted no time in
nominating William Manuel for Mayor at the start of Thursday’s North
Palm Beach Council meeting.
There were no other nominations, and the motion carried
unanimously.
Following
the Mayoral appointment, Manuel nominated David Norris as Vice Mayor,
and the motion carried unanimously.
Norris then nominated Dr. Darryl Aubrey as President Pro Tem, and
the motion carried unanimously.
Manuel was
elected to the Village Council in March, 2006, and served as President
Pro Tem during his first year in office.
He also represents the Village on the Florida League of Cities
Home Rule Administration Council, the Palm Beach County League of
Cities, and the Northlake Boulevard Corridor Task Force.
Following
the nomination of officers and swearing in by the Village Clerk, Mayor
Manuel took the gavel and conducted the following council business:
Unanimously
adopted a resolution approving a Medical Insurance “Opt-Out” policy
allowing eligible full-time employees with alternate insurance to waive
Village Group medical coverage and receive an “opt-out” incentive.
·
Unanimously
approved first reading of an ordinance amending the code Section
entitled “Public Sites and Open Spaces”, to allow monetary contributions
from developers in lieu of land dedication to be utilized for the
construction and expansion of any public facility designed to mitigate
the impacts of the subdivision.
·
Unanimously
adopted a resolution accepting the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report
and authorizing filing of the report with the State.
The independent auditing firm of Nolton, Holt & Miner, P.A.
advised Council they believe the Village is in “a very good position,
financially,”; with the Reserve still holding 42% of the 2008 budget.
· Unanimously adopted a resolution approving a Florida Department of Environmental Protection Land and Water Conservation Fund Program Project Agreement for Anchorage Park. The $200,000 grant will be the last received for Phase I of the Anchorage Park project, advised Village Manager Jimmy Knight. |
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NORTH PALM BEACH COUNCIL MEETING 2/28/08 Council approves discounted Summer golf memberships at NPBCC Up to 50 residents & non-residents will be able to purchase 22 weeks for $700 By Denise Jaegers WeekDay Staff Writer After considerable discussion regarding fees, the Village Council voted 4-1 Thursday to establish a price of $700 for up to 50 residents and non-residents who may wish to purchase a summer membership at the North Palm Beach Country Club. Vice Mayor William Manuel cast the lone dissenting vote, after failing to convince his fellow council members to lower the fee to $300-400, in order to encourage more players during the slow summer season. Councilman David Norris was the first to disagree with Manuel. “I guarantee you, you’re going to create a problem with the existing members, if you lower the summer membership fee to such a cheap rate,” he said. Current annual single membership rates at the NPBCC Nicklaus Signature course are about $3,500 for non-residents; and $2,300 for residents. Village Manager Jimmy Knight suggested a compromise, by giving those who purchase a summer membership the option of applying $200 of it towards an annual membership fee, should they enjoy playing the course all summer and decide to go ahead and join on a year-round basis. The Council was fine with that suggestion, providing there were spaces available for new members during next October’s renewal process. Typically, 160 members go north for the summer, and return in October/November, when they must decide whether to renew their memberships, according to Knight. In other action, Council: · Unanimously adopted a resolution accepting the bid of $38,000 from Big Fun, Inc. for Heritage Day amusement rides and authorizing the execution of an agreement. · Unanimously adopted a resolution accepting the bid of Zambelli Fireworks Internationale for $20,000 worth of July 4, 2008 fireworks display, and authorizing the execution of an agreement. · Unanimously adopted a resolution approving a Project Agreement with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for a Recreational Trails Program grant for Anchorage Park and approving a budget amendment to appropriate matching funds in the amount of $200,000. · Unanimously adopted a resolution amending resolutions 2007-30 and 2007-34 to change the funding source for lease payments and related expenses for the temporary tennis facility from the Country Club Budget to the General Fund Budget. · Unanimously approved and enacted second reading of an ordinance which will “restrict lodging or camping in specified areas of the Village not intended for such purposes.” |
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NORTH PALM BEACH COUNCIL MEETING 2/14/08 Village about to enact ordinance ‘to restrict lodging or camping’ Public Safety Department needs tool to prevent transients from ‘establishing temporary living quarters’ by Denise Jaegers WeekDay Staff Writer Village Manager Jimmy Knight asked Council members to approve first reading of an ordinance which will “restrict lodging and camping in specified areas,” during Thursday’s North Palm Beach Council meeting. “The Department of Public Safety has discovered that persons are establishing temporary living quarters within publicly and privately owned spaces that are not intended for such purposes,” said Knight in his memo to Council. “Officers have located persons lodging under bridges, in meter rooms, on park benches and various other locations throughout the Village. It has also been noted that during the winter months, there tends to be an influx of persons that are carrying their belongings with them and will be looking for places to lodge, many times within an open air environment,” he added. “While it is safe to say that most persons that lodge in the open are not criminals, there have been reported crimes in areas where evidence of clothing and bedding have been found,” Knight continued. “In the best interest of the Village’s residents and citizens, the Public Safety Department is desirous of the Village Council adopting an ordinance to prohibit such actions.” Knight advised passing this ordinance would allow PSD officers to spend time on true crime issues, and not have to respond to or self-initiate contacts with suspicious persons. “It would limit the potential for crimes that may occur when persons with no ties to the community are living in areas that are not a suitable location; and it would help prevent unhealthy living conditions as these persons are in need of sanitary facilities that are not available to them while lodging in the open,” he added. Although the Council unanimously passed first reading of the ordinance, Vice Mayor William Manuel noted the Village did not wish to appear insensitive to the needs of the homeless, and suggested staff look into locating lodging in the area which would accommodate them temporarily. In other action, Council: · Unanimously adopted a resolution appointing Jim Peters as a 2nd alternate member to the Golf Advisory Board. · Unanimously adopted a resolution authorizing the application for a State of Florida Library Services and Technology Act Grant to fund a new Library automation system, and authorizing the execution of agreements necessary to accept LSTA Grant Funds. · Unanimously adopted a resolution approving the sole source purchase of a reclaimed metering control panel from Data Flow Systems to facilitate the use of reclaimed water. · Unanimously approved and enacted second reading of an ordinance amending the Domani PUD (Planned Unit Development), by approving a funding agreement with Domani Development, LLC to adopt a revised schedule for payment of the required monetary contribution. · Unanimously adopted a resolution approving an annual Support and License Agreement with Tyler Technologies, Inc., MUNIS division, for a Finance Department accounting software system. · Unanimously accepted and authorized a Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release between Florida Blacktop, Inc., Hartford Casualty Insurance Company, and the Village. The Village has agreed to pay $250,000 to Florida Blacktop for work performed on Prosperity Farms Road, as a result of a lawsuit filed in 2006 by the company for “non-payment and perforance delays”. “The Village’s position was, and continues to be, that Florida Blacktop failed to fulfill the necessary and required specifications as spelled out in their contractual agreement during the Prosperity Farms Road Beautification Project,” said Knight in his memo to Council. “However, the judicial process is anything but predictable.” |
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NORTH PALM BEACH COUNCIL MEETING 1/24/08 Village awards contract for installation of reclaimed water line to NPBCC golf course Contractor to lay 1,300 feet of 12-inch pipe at a cost of $198,178 By Denise Jaegers WeekDay Staff Writer In response to the tighter SFWMD watering restrictions in force and effective indefinitely, North Palm Beach Council members voted unanimously last Thursday to adopt a resolution approving a contract award to install a reclaimed water supply line to the North Palm Beach Country Club golf course. Within 45 days, D.S. Eakins Construction Corporation will lay 1,300 feet of pipe, at a cost of $198,178. The 12-inch diameter pipe will move 300,000 gallons of reclaimed water in about 18 hours, to irrigate the $5 million golf course, according to Village Manager Jimmy Knight. The Council also authorized, 4-1, a final payment of $10,482 to Delray Garden Center to close out that contractor involved in the Prosperity Farms Road Beautification Project. Of the $1,305,000 spent thus far on the project, the Village has been reimbursed over $954,000 by Palm Beach County, said Knight. (Council member T.R. Hernacki cast the lone dissenting vote in this action.) In other action, Council: · Unanimously approved first reading of an ordinance amending the Domani PUD (Planned Unit Development) by approving a funding agreement with Domani Development, LLC, to adopt a revised schedule for payment of the required monetary contribution. The next payment should be approximately $250,000, according to Knight, who expressed a desire to earmark the funds for the Recreation Department to build a new tennis facility at the NPBCC. · Unanimously adopted a resolution accepting the proposal of The Standard to provide Village employees with life, accidental death and dismemberment, long term disability, and supplemental life insurance policies. · Unanimously adopted a resolution urging members of the Florida Legislature to support key legislative issues identified by the Florida League of Cities. · Unanimously approved and enacted second reading of an ordinance amending the code to allow floating docks “in Lake Worth and the Atlantic Ocean”, to accommodate Old Port Cove. Residential floating docks shall have a minimum width of 6 feet and a maximum width of 10 feet. · Unanimously approved and enacted second reading of an ordinance amending the “Elections” chapter to remove superseded language and otherwise conform to state law. |
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NORTH PALM BEACH COUNCIL MEETING 1/10/08 Council approves ‘Gray Water’ agreement with Seacoast Utilities to save NPBCC golf course With tightened water restrictions starting this week, Village will use 300,000 gallons of Reclaimed Water per day, at a cost of nearly $2,000 per month By Denise Jaegers WeekDay Staff Writer In response to the South Florida Water Management District’s (SFWMD) heightened water restrictions that came into effect on Tuesday, Village Council members unanimously voted last Thursday to approve an agreement with Seacoast Utilities Authority (SUA) for 300,000 gallons of “gray water” per day to keep the NPBCC golf course watered. “Currently the Village relies on a single source of water supply with an intake on the C-17 Canal and a long pipeline to the irrigation pond located in the southeast quadrant of the NPBCC golf course,” advised Village Manager Jimmy Knight in his memo to Council. That water use permit is scheduled to expire March 10, 2008, however. Although the Village is attempting to renew their permit to use water from the C-17 Canal, staff has learned that reclaimed water must be used in place of higher quality water sources, unless it is demonstrated that its use is not environmentally, economically or technically feasible. A response letter sent to SFWMD on December 10 challenging the quality of reclaimed water and the economic feasibility due to the outlay of funds by the Village was not “warmly embraced” by the District, however, according to Knight. Several water source options to supply irrigation to the NPBCC have been explored by staff and the Village Engineer (SFRN), advised Knight. “However, the utilization of reclaimed water appears to be the most viable choice, chiefly because reclaimed water would not be impacted by the imposed mandatory water restrictions which have been felt here in South Florida over this past year,” he noted. Council members agreed by consensus to continue attempts to challenge the SFWMD ruling, but still approved the agreement for gray water from SUA in order to protect the Village’s $5 million asset at the NPBCC. According to the agreement, Seacoast will deliver, (upon demand) a maximum of 300,000 gallons of reclaimed water per day for irrigation, at a current cost of $1,937.40 per month, plus an additional .25 per 1,000 gallons delivered as needed. In other action, Council: · Unanimously adopted a resolution approving an Interlocal Agreement with the Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County for delivery of designated facilities and for a municipal recycling program. · Unanimously adopted a resolution approving a long range strategic plan for the Village Library and authorizing the filing of supplemental documents in support of the Village’s State Aid to Libraries Grant application. · Unanimously adopted a resolution approving an emergency repair contract award to D.S. Eakins Construction Corporation for repair of a storm drain pipe on Eastwind Drive, in an amount not to exceed $16,200. · Unanimously adopted a resolution supporting Resolution 2007-12 of the Florida League of Cities, which urges citizens to consider the consequences of the proposed constitutional amendment concerning property taxes. · Unanimously approved first reading of an ordinance amending the code section entitled, “Boats, Docks and Waterways” to allow floating docks in Lake Worth and the Atlantic Ocean. · Unanimously approved first reading of an ordinance amending the code section entitled, “Elections”, to remove superseded language and otherwise conform to state law. · Unanimously approved an application for Similar Uses Special Permit to allow Scott G. Duff, DMD to operate a dental assistant school at 712 US Highway One, conditioned upon a maximum occupancy of 14 people and in accordance with Village policy. · Unanimously approved and enacted second reading of an ordinance amending the code section entitled, “Pensions and Certain Other Benefits for General Employees” to authorize early retirement for terminated vested participants. · Unanimously approved and enacted second reading of an ordinance amending the code section entitled “Buildings and Building Regulations” by increasing the maximum height of flag poles and maximum size of flags within specified zoning districts and providing for non-conforming status. The new language states the maximum height of a flag pole within the R-1 single family dwelling district and the R-2 multiple family dwelling district shall be 20 feet; and the maximum height of a flag pole within the R-3 apartment dwelling district and all non-residential zoning districts shall be 35 feet. |
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NORTH PALM BEACH COUNCIL MEETING 12/13/07 Village adopts ‘Notice of Intent’ to proceed with special assessments for residents Council says if State forces their hand with property tax reform measures, citizens may have to pay for Fire Protection, Solid Waste services By Denise Jaegers WeekDay Staff Writer Village Council members unanimously adopted two resolutions Thursday, to use the uniform method of collecting non-Ad Valorem special assessments levied within the incorporated area of North Palm Beach for fire protection and solid waste services. Village Manager Jimmy Knight advised this was just a preliminary step to proceed with the development of these programs, which requires a “Notice of Intent” as one of the legal prerequisites. Staff is hoping the State will not force them to resort to special assessments. If the proposed tax reform measures are enacted, however, the Village will need to seek other revenue alternatives in order to maintain the existing level of services provided to Village residents, stated Knight in his memo to Council. Resident Kim Pollard asked the Council if any actual numbers had been assigned to the fees, and if the residents would have a chance to protest the special assessments before they were enacted. Both the Village Manager and Village Attorney advised there would be plenty of opportunity for the residents to give their input, should the Village opt to proceed with the special assessments. “This is not a ‘fait accompli’,” stated Village Attorney Leonard Rubin. “It’s not a done deal, just a precautionary move,” added Vice Mayor William Manuel. Another controversial action unanimously approved and enacted was second reading of the ordinance restricting overnight parking of specified vehicles in residential zoning districts. This convoluted ordinance includes commercial and recreational vehicles, such as “swamp buggies”. Resident Donna Kramer stood up to tell Council she feels this ordinance is “unconstitutional” – prohibiting the “working man” from parking his work vehicle in his own driveway. Council advised one solution would be to park the work vehicle in the garage, so it can’t be seen from the street. Councilman Darryl Aubrey voted in favor of the ordinance, even though he’s “been unhappy with it since the beginning,” and believes “it’s going to have to be revisited in six months.” In other action, Council: · Unanimously approved and enacted second reading of an ordinance rezoning a 1.2 acre parcel of land located at 872 US Highway One on the east side of US Highway One, south of Yacht Club Drive from C-A Commercial Zoning District to C-1A Limited Commercial Zoning District. · Unanimously approved and enacted second reading of an ordinance providing for the creation of a Golf Advisory Board and dissolving the Country Club Advisory Board. · Unanimously approved and enacted second reading of an ordinance increasing the annual commercial use property waste disposal fees to reflect increased rates established by the Palm Beach County Solid Waste Authority. · Unanimously approved first reading of an ordinance increasing the maximum height of flag poles and maximum size of flags within specified zoning districts and providing for non-conforming status. · Unanimously approved first reading of an ordinance authorizing early retirement for terminated vested participants in the General Employees Pension Plan. · Unanimously adopted a resolution establishing the duties of the new Golf Advisory Board. · Unanimously adopted a resolution approving an amendment to the Agreement for Consultant Services with TBE Group, Inc., extending the term and authorizing expanded services for Anchorage Park redevelopment project Phase I at a cost not to exceed $136,800. · Unanimously adopted a resolution accepting the proposal of Total Maintenance Building Services, Inc., for mowing and landscape maintenance of Village properties and authorizing execution of an agreement. · Unanimously adopted a resolution approving the purchase of one Freightliner M2 garbage truck in the amount of $134,998 for Public Works; and declaring an existing garbage truck as surplus, authorizing its disposal. · Unanimously adopted a resolution approving the purchase of one Dodge Durango in the amount of $19,046 for Public Works; and declaring one Chevrolet Blazer as surplus, authorizing its disposal. · Unanimously adopted a resolution approving the purchase of one Dodge Durango and two Chevrolet Colorado pickup trucks in an amount not to exceed $49,512 for the Building Department; and declaring one Chevrolet Blazer and two Chevrolet S10 pickup trucks as surplus, authorizing their disposal. · Unanimously adopted resolution approving the purchase of one Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck in an amount not to exceed $15,483 for Code Enforcement; and declaring one Chevrolet S10 pickup truck as surplus, authorizing its disposal. · Unanimously adopted a resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2007-2008 Budget to identify the receipt of County EMS grant funds, and approving the purchase of EMS training aids. · Unanimously authorized final payment to Palm Beach Marine in the amount of $61,473.25 for replacement of the Anchorage Park seawall, in accordance with Village policy. · Unanimously authorized final payment to Charles S. Whiteside, Inc., in the amount of $158,264 for golf cart pathway construction at the NPBCC, in accordance with Village policy. · Was advised by the Village Manager that the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) announced Thursday that tighter water restrictions would go into effect on January 15, 2008, including mandatory reduction of golf course watering by 45% for at least one year. |
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NORTH PALM BEACH COUNCIL MEETING 11/7/07 New ordinance restricts Commercial Vehicle parking in residential neighborhoods Revised code prohibiting overnight parking described as an ‘enforcement nightmare’ by Councilman Aubrey By Denise Jaegers WeekDay Staff Writer Village Council members debated one agenda item for nearly 45 minutes during Wednesday’s special North Palm Beach Council meeting, before finally approving first reading, with considerable revisions. Councilman T.R. Hernacki had a lot of concerns regarding the new ordinance restricting overnight parking of commercial vehicles in residential zoning districts, even though he was the one who initially requested the code be rewritten regarding this issue on June 14. Since Hernacki’s request, the subject has been workshopped several times, and finally went to the Planning Commission on October 2. The Board subsequently made extensive language recommendations. The new ordinance prohibits overnight parking of the following commercial vehicles within the residential district of the Village: tractor trailers and semi-tractor trucks; tow trucks, wreckers or flat bed vehicle carriers; commercial buses, school buses or vans accommodating over 16 passengers; dump trucks; construction equipment vehicles; step vans and panel trucks for the commercial sale of food and beverages; more than one taxi or car service vehicle; stretch limousines; boom or bucket trucks; swamp buggies and half-tracks; and any vehicle that exceeds the roof height of the principle building on the lot. The rest of the ordinance was so convoluted; Councilman Darryl Aubrey described it as, “unduly complicated”, and “an enforcement nightmare. We made a mountain out of a molehill,” he added. The council agreed to extend the date for violators to come into compliance to 180 days (six months), once the ordinance goes into effect after second reading. They also conceded any vehicles in violation that were concealed in back yards and garages, and not visible from the street, would be allowed to stay. In addition, if a cover that fits the vehicle is used, that resident will not be in violation. In other action, the Council: · Unanimously approved first reading of an ordinance rezoning a 1.2 acre parcel of land located at 872 US Highway One on the east side of US One, south of Yacht Club Drive from C-A Commercial Zoning District to C-1A Limited Commercial Zoning District. · Unanimously approved first reading of an ordinance providing for the creation of a Golf Committee and dissolving the Country Club Advisory Board. · Unanimously approved first reading of an ordinance to increase the annual commercial use property waste disposal fees to reflect increased rates established by the Palm Beach County Solid Waste Authority. · Unanimously adopted a resolution approving an amendment to extend the Professional Service Agreement with Michael Redd & Associates for construction administration services, related to Phase II of the Northlake Boulevard Streetscape Project. · Unanimously adopted a resolution authorizing an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2006-2007 General Fund Budget to transfer and reallocate funds among various departments. · Unanimously adopted a resolution authorizing and directing payment of $59,491.69 to the Police and Fire Pension Plan to fund the Village’s required contribution for Fiscal Year 2006-2007. |