Board of County Commissioners
Tuesday, September 29, 2020 Meeting - Follow-Up Memo

Click Here For a pdf Version of the Follow-UP

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To:	Honorable Chairman and Members of the Board
From:	Vincent S. Long, County Administrator
Subject:	Follow-up to County Commission Regular Meeting of September 29, 2020

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The Board met via video conference to conduct the September 29^th regular meeting.  The meeting was held utilizing communications media technology pursuant to the Governor’s Executive Order 20-69, Emergency Management – COVID-19 – Local Government Public Meetings. 

The media and the public could access the meeting in real time on Comcast channel 16, Prism channels 16 and 1016-HD, the Leon County Florida channel on Roku, the County’s Facebook page,  YouTube channel and web site.  

Citizens interested in submitting written public comments in advance of the virtual meeting or interested in registering to provide comments using communications media technology during the virtual meeting could submit the written comments or register to provide comments by 8 p.m. on the day before the meeting in order for written comments to be distributed to the County Commission prior to the meeting and, for those who wished to comment during the meeting, to provide County staff sufficient time to provide instructions to citizens for comment during the virtual meeting. Written comments submitted after the           8 p.m. deadline on the day before the meeting (up until the time of the meeting) were provided to the Commissioners and were also added to the official record and posted on the County webpage.

Citizens wishing to provide input on any item(s) on the published agenda (or a non-agenda subject) for the upcoming virtual meeting could:

• Submit their written comments prior to the meeting using the following link https://leoncountyfl.gov/PublicComments or
• Register to provide comments using communications media technology during the meeting through the registration form using the following link https://www2.leoncountyfl.gov/coadmin/agenda/

Anyone needing assistance with submitting comments for the official record could contact County Administration via email at LCG_PublicComments@leoncountyfl.gov or via phone at 850-606-5300. Please note that Board of County Commissioners Policy 01-05, Article IX., Section E., entitled “Addressing the Commission”, and Article IX., Section F., entitled “Decorum”, remained in full force and effect.

INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance by Chairman Bryan Desloge

AWARDS AND PRESENTATIONS

• Update on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
  (Vincent S. Long, County Administrator)
  • County Administrator Vincent Long provided an overview of the County’s COVID-19 mitigation efforts.
  • Claudia Blackburn, Health Officer for the Florida Department of Health in Leon County, stated that Leon County has a higher COVID rate than the State for the last week, but that the two-week numbers are trending downward.  Most cases are in the 15-24 age group but without hospitalizations.  Testing is robust and turnaround time is approximately 2 days.  32304 has the highest case rate in the County and 32310 second highest then 32308 has the third highest.  She stated that the recommendation for Halloween is for short events, outdoors with 10 or less people with social distancing, and for hand washing.
  • Commissioner Dozier confirmed with Claudia Blackburn that the guidance from Florida Dept. of Health and CDC has not changed, and includes the recommendation to wear masks, social distancing and hand washing.  She also confirmed that everyone should get their flu shot by the end of October.
  • Commissioner Proctor confirmed with Claudia Blackburn that positive cases on college campuses are reflected in the data for Leon County.
  • Commissioner Jackson stated that almost half of the population in 32304 and 32310 are economically disadvantaged and many are essential workers that are disproportionately affected by COVID-19.
  • Commissioner Lindley confirmed with County Attorney that the County’s mask Ordinance fines and fees are suspended by the Governor’s recent order. 
  • County Administrator Long stated that the County is on a downward trend but this is following a peak in positive cases.
  • Chairman Desloge stated that masks are still appropriate even if the fines and fees are suspended. He explained that all virtual public comment will be taken upfront before Consent and General Business.
  • Commissioner Dozier expressed concern about citizens not being able to speak before each agenda item.
  • County Administrator Long explained that virtual public comments are being taken at the beginning of the meeting so that citizens do not have to wait to speak.
  • Chairman Desloge confirmed with the County Administrator that staff would look into the providing citizen comments before the item presented for the next meeting.
    Staff: Admin/MIS – Alan Rosenzweig / Michelle Taylor\
  • Commissioner Maddox reflected on the possibility of allowing citizens more than 3 min. if speaking on multiple items.  He made a motion to move item #24 to first on general business.  Seconded by Commissioner Dozier.
    Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Dozier to adjust the September 29^th agenda to move agenda item #24 to the first item on general business.
    The motion passed 7-0 
     

VIRTUAL PUBLIC COMMENTS

The following Citizens provided virtual comments:

• Danielle Irwin, on Item 11, spoke in support of the proposed fertilizer ordinance and asked that the County work with the City to self-regulate.
• Jody Walthall, on  Item 11, representing the Audobon Society, spoke in support of a stronger fertilizer ordinance with more protection than the proposed ordinance.
• Max Epstein, on Item 11, spoke in support of the County being respectful in handling the possible graveyard in the Miccosukee Greenway and also in support of a stronger fertilizer ordinance.
• Adriene Wright, Ph.D., on Item 13, spoke in support of OEV’s expansion of support to certified firms for the Leon Cares funds.
• Katrina Tuggerson, on Item 13, Capital City Chamber of Commers, spoke in support of the expansion for the CARES funding.
• Dianne Williams-Cox, City Commissioner, on Item 15, spoke in support of celebrating May 20^th Emancipation Day and hoped that the State of Florida would adopt it as a statewide holiday as well as the County.
• Alesha Waller, on a Non-Agendaed Item, spoke in support of the Governor’s opening up to Phase 3.
• Susan McLeod, on a Non-Agendaed Item, spoke in support of a resolution for a free and fair national election and not recognize any government
• Sierra Bush Rester, on a Non-Agendaed Item, Item 11, Item 20 and Item 24, spoke in support of public comment and for 3 minutes for each item; in support of Juneteenth; in support of the proposed fertilizer ordinance; in opposition to entering into Phase 3.
• Chelsea Rimert, on a Non-Agendaed Item and Item 15 & 24, spoke in support of Item #15 Option #2 for a County resolution for Juneteenth; and in support of public comment.
• Jon Rimert, on a Non-Agendaed Item and Item 15, spoke in support of public comment; in support of staying in Phase 2; in support of Option #2 for a County resolution for Juneteenth; and in support of wearing masks.

CONSENT

ACTION TAKEN:  Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Proctor to approve the Consent Agenda.

The motion passed 7-0 

1. Payment of Bills and Vouchers
   (County Administrator/ Office of Financial Stewardship/ Office of Management & Budget)
   The Board approved Option #1:  Approve the payment of bills and vouchers submitted for September 29, 2020 and pre-approve the payment of bills and vouchers for the period of September 30, 2020 through October 12, 2020.
    
2. PULLED - Proposed Public Notice 2021 Tentative Board Meeting Schedule and Proposed 2021 Board Travel Schedule
   (County Administrator/ County Administration)
    
3. Resolution in Support for the Florida Legislature’s Expansion of Medicaid Eligibility
   (County Administrator/ County Administration)

The following Citizen Comment was received via online submission:

• Richard Polangin submitted an online comment in support of the resolution.

The Board approved Option #1:  Adopt the Resolution of support for Medicaid expansion in Florida.
 

4. Request to Schedule the First and Only Public Hearing to Consider a Seventh Amendment to the Southwood Development of Regional Impact Integrated Development Order for December 8, 2020
   (County Administrator/ Development Support & Environmental Management)
   The Board approved Option #1:  Schedule the first and only Public Hearing to consider a seventh amendment to the Southwood Development of Regional Impact Integrated Development Order for December 8, 2020.
    
5. Renewal of the Tallahassee Fire Department Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity
   (County Administrator/ EMS)
   The Board approved Option #1:  Approve the renewal of the Advanced Life Support Non-Transport Certificate of Public Necessity issued to the Tallahassee Fire Department.
    
6. Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act Award for Fiscal Year 2020 from the State of Florida Division of Elections
   (County Administrator/ Office of Financial Stewardship)
   The Board approved Option #1:   Accept and authorize the Leon County Supervisor of Elections to recognize and spend its FY 2020 Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act award in the amount of $315,771, plus 20% matching funds, within the requirements of the Memorandum of Agreement; and

Option #2:      Approve the Resolution and associated Budget Amendment Request

7. Florida Housing Finance Corporation Coronavirus Relief Funding Agreement Amendment
   (County Administrator/ Human Services & Community Partnerships)
   The Board approved Option #1:  Approve the amendment to the CRF Funding Agreement with the Florida Housing Finance Corporation and authorize the County Administrator to execute; and
   Option #2:      Approve the Resolution and associated Budget Amendment Request realizing $170,521 of additional funding from the Florida Housing Finance Corporation.
    
8. Joint Project Agreement with the City of Tallahassee for Utility Upgrades for the Magnolia Drive Phase 4 Trail Project from South Monroe Street to South Meridian Road
   (County Administrator/ Public Works)
   The Board approved Option# 1:  Approve the Joint Project Agreement with the City of Tallahassee for water and wastewater infrastructure relocation or installation in the Magnolia Drive Trail Phase 4 project area (Attachment #1) and authorize the County Administrator to execute.
    
9. Interlocal Agreement with the City of Tallahassee for the Woodville Sewer System Project
   (County Administrator/ Public Works)
   The Board approved Option #1:     Approve the Interlocal Agreement between Leon County and the City of Tallahassee for the Provision of Water and Sewer Service to Woodville Rural Community and authorize the County Administrator to execute.
    
10. Centers for Disease Control Hurricane Relief Crisis Mosquito Control Grant
    (County Administrator/ Public Works)
    The Board approved Option #1:  Accept the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention grant in the amount of $15,000 and authorize the County Administrator to execute any grant documents subject to legal review by the County Attorney; and

Option #2:      Approve the Resolution and associated Budget Amendment Request.
 

Status Reports:  (These items are included under Consent.)

11. PULLED - Status Report on Leon County’s Fertilizer Ordinance
    (County Administrator/ Development Support & Environmental Management)
     
12. Status Report on Potential Unmarked Cemetery within the Miccosukee Greenway
    (County Administrator/ Office of Resource Stewardship)

The Board approved Option #1:  Accept the Status Report regarding a potential unmarked cemetery within Miccosukee Greenway.
 

Consent Items Pulled for Discussion

       2.  Proposed Public Notice 2021 Tentative Board Meeting Schedule and Proposed 2021 Board Travel Schedule
            (County Administrator/ County Administration)

The following Citizen Comment was received via online submission:

• Steven Bohl submitted an online comment in opposition to increasing homeowners taxes.

Pulled from Consent by Commissioner Minor.

• Commissioner Minor stated that he could not support Option #1.
• Commissioner Dozier stated that she could not support Option #1

 

Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Jackson to approve Option #1:  Adopt the proposed Leon County Board of County Commissioners’ Public Notice 2021 Tentative Board Meeting Schedule; and
Option #2:      Approve the proposed Board of County Commissioners’ 2021 Travel Schedule and authorize Commissioners’ travel to the scheduled events.
The motion passed 5-2 with Commissioners Dozier and Minor opposed 

• Commissioner Minor made a motion to allow public comment at workshops.
• Commissioner Maddox clarified with Commissioner Minor that the intent is to allow public input for the workshop item and non-agendaed items.
• County Administrator Long explained that workshops provide the Board the opportunity for discussion without the expectation that a vote would be taken, and that the public input is taken when the ratification item of the actions taken at the workshop is presented at a regular Board meeting.
• Commissioner Minor stated that, since there are fewer meetings scheduled for 2021, it was his hope that allowing public comments at workshops would allow more opportunities for public input.
• Chairman Desloge confirmed with County Administrator that there is only a reduction of one regular meeting from the previous year and, if additional Commission meetings are necessary, another meeting would be scheduled on the 4th Tuesday of the month in addition to or in place of a workshop.

Commissioner Minor moved, seconded by Commissioner Dozier directed staff to bring back an agenda item exploring the option to allow for public comment at future workshops.
The motion passed 7-0 
Staff:  Administration - Heather Peeples
 

11. Status Report on Leon County’s Fertilizer Ordinance
    (County Administrator/ Development Support & Environmental Management)

The following Citizen Comments were received via online submission:

• Max Epstein submitted an online comment in support of updating the Ordinance.
• Peter Kleinhenz submitted an online comment in support of regulating the use of fertilizers.

Commissioner Dozier pulled this item from consent.

• Commissioner Dozier stated her support for updating the ordinance and expressed that additional public comment and more discussion is needed.
• County Administrator confirmed that the item will be brought back as a general business item.

Commissioner Dozier moved, seconded by Commissioner Lindley to approve Option #1 as amended:  Accept the Status Report on Leon County’s Fertilizer Ordinance and direct staff to draft changes to update the Ordinance in accordance with the State Model Ordinance and direct staff to  bring back an agenda item that provides information from Indian River and Alachua County ordinances and includes comments from the County’s Water Resources Committee and Science Advisory Committee.

The motion passed 7-0 

Staff:  DSEM - Barry Wilcox
 

Citizens to be Heard on Non-Agendaed Items
Citizens wishing to provide input on any item(s) on the published agenda (or a non-agenda subject) for the upcoming virtual meeting may: Submit their written comments prior to the meeting using the following link https://leoncountyfl.gov/PublicComments or Register to provide comments using communications media technology during the meeting through the registration form using the following link https://www2.leoncountyfl.gov/coadmin/agenda/

The following Citizen Comments were received via online submission:

• Allen Blay submitted an online comment in support of allowing parents to attend high school cross country events since the participants are minors and in opposition to the mandatory COVID testing for the events.
• Ruth Chase submitted an online comment support of the Board adopting a resolution that L will not consent to any government formed by those who organize and execute a coup of our free and Matthew Hays submitted an online comment in opposition to the mask mandate.
• Michelle & David Logsdon submitted an online comment in support of opening baseball fields to youth sports.
• fair national elections.
• Susan Mcleod submitted an online comment support of the Board adopting a resolution supporting free and fair national elections and rejecting any attempt to negate the valid results.
• Maribel Parzych submitted an online comment in support of opening Leon county School’s athletic fields and facilities
• Elizabeth Walker submitted an online comment in support of allowing parents to attend cross county events and in opposition for COVID testing prior to the meets.

 

General Business

24. ADD-On Status Report and Recommendations on the Leon County COVID-19 Response and Re-opening Plan

(County Administrator/ County Administration)

The following Citizen Comments were received via online submission:

• Paul Arons submitted an online comment in support of Option #1, maintaining Phase 2 of the Leon County COVID-19 Response & Reopening Plan.
• Jocelyne Fliger submitted an online comment in support of the mask mandate to protect seniors and those who are immunocompromised.
• Sheryl Grossman submitted an online comment in support of the mask ordinance.
• Stephanie Henningsen submitted an online comment in support of ending the mask mandate.
• Deneice Howell submitted an online comment in support of allowing parents to attend cross country events and removing the testing requirements for participation.
• Tara Huls submitted an online comment in support of keeping the mask ordinance in place.
• Jeanne Lebow submitted an online comment in support of the mask ordinance.
• Christine Lucas submiited an online comment in support of the mask ordinance.
• Michelle May-Knowles submitted an online comment in support of opening the County ballfields to youth baseball.
• Sarah Mueller submitted an online comment in support of the mask ordinance.
• Sine Murray submitted an online comment in support of keeping the mask ordinance in place.
• Terri Poore submitted an online comment in support of keeping the mask ordinance in place.
• Chelsea Rimert submitted an online comment in support of remaining in Phase 2 and following CDC recommendations.
• Barbara Ross submitted an online comment in support of keeping the mask ordinance in place until there is a vaccine.
• Mandy Rozier submitted an online comment in support of the mask mandate.
• Ron Saff submitted an online comment in support of the mask mandates in lieu of the New York Times listing Tallahassee as a COVID-19 hot spot.
• Tracy Warrington submitted an online comment in support of the mask ordinance.
• Kenneth Williams submitted an online comment in support of supplemental funding for the Leon CARES program.
• Ken Winker submitted an online comment in support of the mask mandate, limited indoor restaurant seating and restrictions on large gatherings.

 

• County Administrator Long provided an overview of the County’s status regarding the gating criteria.  He recommended no changes to the County’s operations, programs, and services at this time and that County business restrictions be consistent with that of the State.
• Chairman Desloge explained that the County did not get the Governor’s executive order until late Friday and County staff worked the weekend putting the agenda item together.   He stated his support of the mask mandate, spectators for cross country events, and opening County facilities for fall sports.  He stated that the City has opened their fields and expressed his support of the County doing the same.
• Commissioner Proctor made a motion to keep the mask mandate and to stay in Phase 2 (Option #2). Commissioner Minor seconded.
• Commissioner Dozier expressed the need for a broader discussion of Phase 2 and Phase 3.  She confirmed that a special meeting would be called for, if needed, when the County meets the gating threshold.  She reflected on the need to clarify the gating criteria and stated her support of youth sports with specific guidelines.
  • County Administrator Long confirmed that, if the County meets the gating criteria, an agenda item would be brought back to the Board.
• Commissioner Maddox stated his support of reopening youth sports.  He made a substitute motion for Option #2 amended to include permitting youth sports with approved mitigation plans submitted by the leagues.
• Commissioner Minor confirmed with County Attorney that fines could not be issued for violations of the mask ordinance while the Governor’s Executive Order is in effect.
• Commissioner Jackson expressed support for permitting fall sports and stated that children in unincorporated Leon County should have the opportunities as the children living in the City limits since the City has opened their facilities.
• Commissioner Lindley stated that she could not support the substitute motion.
• Commissioner Maddox clarified that his substitute motion would only permit local leagues to utilize County fields.
• Commissioner Dozier reflected that there has not been a spike in cases among school aged children since schools reopened and credited Leon County Schools’ protocols.  She stated that the leagues should be enforcing their established guidelines, and  reflected on the possibility of establishing penalties and perhaps an agreement with the County’s partners is in order.
  • County Administrator Long confirmed that County staff would assist with facility changes that support social distancing.  He stated that noncompliance with an agreement may be an issue and deferred to the County Attorney.
• Commissioner Maddox reflected on the possibility of conducting random compliance checks with consequences for violations.
  • County Attorney O’Steen explained that there are many enforcement issues including determining who shuts down the league and/or team, should there be noncompliance with the guidelines.
• Commissioner Dozier reflected on allowing Little League and Pop Warner to open registration for fall sports while the County works on the compliance options.  She stated her support of the motion if the guidelines are in place.
• Commissioner Desloge reflected on the need to open playgrounds, too.
  • County Administrator Long stated that the playgrounds are a complement to the fields and suggested that that they also be opened for consistency.
• Commissioner Minor stated his support of the substitute motion.
• Commissioner Proctor stated that he could not support the motion based on science, and CDC guidance.  He expressed concern regarding possible consequences of resuming fall sports. this.

 

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Desloge to approve Option #2, as amended,  to direct  the County Administrator to revise Phase 2 of the Leon County COVID-19 Response and Re-opening Plan for county operations, programs, and services, to allow fall youth sports and playgrounds to reopen and require leagues to submit mitigation plans, and direct the County Attorney to execute agreements with the leagues whereby the  leagues agree to the responsibilities to include penalties, and delegate to the County Administrator the ability to enforce the agreements and provide updates to the Board.

The motion passed 5-2 with Commissioners Proctor and Lindley opposed

Staff:  County Attorney / Parks & Recreation – Chasity O’Steen / Maggie Theriot / Leigh Davis

• Commissioner Dozier reflected on the availability for rapid testing for cross country participation through the County’s partners and she stated her support of testing.  She reflected on allowing one parent per students as a spectator. 
• Commissioner Jackson stated that Leon County Schools has committed to not competing out of the County.  He stated that there are several testing facilities in Leon County that could assist with the testing.  He confirmed with the County Attorney that the School Board leases Gene Cox stadium from the County and is responsible for determining whether events like the FHSAA Football Championship can be held at the facility.
• Commissioner Maddox made a motion to ask for screenings instead of testing for athletes and allowing spectators at local events at ARP.  Seconded by Commissioner Desloge.
• Commissioner Jackson stated that screenings would be for temperatures of 100 degrees.
  • County Administrator Long confirmed that currently testing is only for the large statewide or major events, not for local events, and spectators are not allowed at either.
• Commissioner Dozier stated her opposition to removing testing for large, statewide events as it would affect the entire community.

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Desloge to modify the COVID-19 safety requirements for local cross country events at County facilities to allow one parent spectator per participant, subject to a health screening including a body temperature of less than 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

The motion passed 7-0 

Staff:  Tourism / Resource Stewardship – Kerri Post / Maggie Theriot

 

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Desloge to modify the COVID-19 safety requirements for statewide cross country events at Apalachee Regional Park by eliminating the negative COVID-19 test requirement and allowing one parent spectator per participant, subject to a health screening including a body temperature of less than 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

The motion passed 5-2 with Minor and Dozier opposed

Staff:  Tourism / Resource Stewardship – Kerri Post / Maggie Theriot

 

13. Status Update and Recommended Enhancements to the Leon CARES Expenditure Plan
     (County Administrator/ County Administration/ Human Services & Community Partnerships/ Economic Vitality)

 

• Commissioner Minor confirmed with County Administrator Long that individuals who have already been approved for Leon CARES would not have to reapply but would just need to prove an additional need.  He also confirmed that businesses that have already applied would automatically receive difference in award amounts. Commissioner Minor made a motion for Options 1-3.
• Commissioner Lindley stated her support of the motion and offered a friendly amendment to add Option #4.
• Commissioner Minor accepted the amendment and added that the recipient must agree to use the dollars for rent/mortgage or utilities.
  • County Attorney O’Steen confirmed that the County could add conditions to the receipt of the funds.
• Commissioner Maddox offered a friendly amendment to all allow individual assistance to be used for childcare and healthcare costs.  He asked if new guidance had come out on microloans and reflected on reserving some funds for micro loans.
  • Commissioner Minor accepted the amendment.
  • County Administrator Long explained that the County has partnered with Early Learning Coalition to offer childcare assistance, and the Board could increase that funding. He stated that he was not aware of any changes regarding microloans but would look into the matter.
  • Commissioner Maddox withdrew his amendment.
• Commissioner Desloge stated his support of Option #4 with the parameters in the motion.
• Commissioner Dozier asked about assistance for child care costs outside of the Early learning program, and if the program with the Early Learning Coalition could be expanded.
  • County Administrator Long confirmed that the County will reach out to the County’s partners to see if a need exists for expanding the program and, should programs be expanded or added, staff will keep the Board apprised through emails.

Staff:  HSCP – Shington Lamy

 

• Commissioner Dozier stated that nonprofits employee a large number of local residents.  She reflected on expanding the small business assistance to include nonprofits (not human services providers) to include the exceptions from the LEAN program.  She proposed a friendly amendment to the motion.
• Commissioner Proctor reflected on including elder care and micro loans.
  • County Administrator Long indicated that Ernst & Young has advised that the micro loan is not a good idea and that the health care reimbursement would need to be explored.
• Commissioner Lindley stated her opposition to adding a recipient agreement and possible audit to Option #4.
• Commissioner Jackson said adding micro loans would minimize the impact on the hardest hit businesses and individuals.

Commissioner Minor moved, seconded by Commissioner Proctor to approve Options #1-#4 including amending the Leon CARES Small Business Assistance program to allow open eligibility to non-profits 501C3 as stipulated in the LEAN program and amending the Individual Assistance program to require recipients agree to use the dollars for rent/ mortgage, utilities or health care, and include that the recipient could be audited.

 

• Commissioner Maddox stated his support of adding the nonprofits to the small business assistance program.  He recused himself from the vote on Option #2 due to the appearance of a conflict, and made a substitute motion for Options #1, #3 & #4.  Commissioner Proctor seconded the motion.

 

• Commissioner Proctor stated his support of increasing the MWSBE supplement to $20,000 and adding elder care.
• Commissioner Dozier stated her support of the substitute motion.
• Commissioner Minor stated that the County would have no control of the funds if Option #4 is approved in the substitute motion.  He stated his support of the original motion.
• Commissioner Lindley stated her support of the substitute motion.

 

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Proctor to approve:
Option #1:  Approve the following enhancements to the Leon CARES Individual Assistance program:

a.   Increase the income threshold from 80% of AMI to 120% of AMI to reach additional households.
b.   Increase the maximum award per from $3,000 to $5,000 per household.

Option #3:  Authorize the County Administrator to reallocate funding between all programs and the Reserve/Replenishment Account as needed to maximize the use and impact of the County’s allocation of CARES Act funding.

Option #4: Authorize direct payments to applicants in place of the current practice of providing payment to applicants’ landlord, mortgage holder, and/or utility provider in the Individual Assistance program

The motion passed 7-0 

 

• Commissioner Dozier made a motion for Option #2 amended to include 501(c)(3) non-profits with the same eligibility criteria as in the Blueprint LEAN grant program.
  Commissioner Dozier moved, seconded by Commissioner Minor to approve Option #2 including amending the Leon CARES Small Business Assistance program to allow open eligibility to nonprofits 501C3 as stipulated in the LEAN program.
• Commissioner Proctor offered a friendly amendment to change the MWSBE award amount to $20,000.
• Commissioner Dozier did not accept the amendment and suggested an agenda item to explore increasing the amount for the next meeting.  She reflected on the possible increase in other categories like Rebounding Business.
  • County Administrator Long stated that now is the optimal time for the Board to make those changes to the Supplemental Awards, as delaying the decision would delay the changes to implement the new guidelines for all the programs.

 

Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Lindley to approve Option #2 as amended:  Approve the following enhancements to the Leon CARES Small Business Assistance program:

a.   Increase the base award and supplemental award amounts as follows:

Baseline Awards:                  1-10 employees: $5,000

                                                11-24 employees: $7,500

                                                25-49 employees: $10,000

                                                50-100 employees: $12,500

Supplemental Awards:         "Hardest Hit" Businesses: $10,000 20,000

                                                MWSBE Businesses: $10,000 20,000

                                                "Rebounding" Businesses: $5,000

b.   Expand eligibility for the “Hardest Hit” supplemental award to include businesses in NAICS Industry Code 71 (Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation).

c.   Reduce documentation requirements for very small businesses meeting the “Hardest Hit” criteria.

d.   Expand allowable documentation for all other businesses to demonstrate COVID-19-related financial impacts.

e.   Open eligibility to non-profits 501(c)(3)’s as stipulated in the Blueprint LEAN program

The motion passed 6-0 with Commissioner Maddox recused from the vote 
Staff:  Administration – Alan Rosenzweig / Andrew Johnson
 

14. Report and Legal Analysis regarding COVID-19 Mitigation Measures
    (County Attorney)

The following Citizen Comments were received via online submission:

• Olivia Cooper submitted an online comment in support of lifting the mask mandate.
• Stephanie Pohler submitted an online comment in opposition of extending the mask ordinance.
• Sandeep Rahangdale submitted an online comment in support of keeping the mask mandate in place.

 

• Commissioner Dozier commended FSU and FAMU for enhancing their COVID-19 guidelines and enforcement.

Commissioner Lindley moved, seconded by Commissioner Maddox to approve Option #1:  Accept the report and legal analysis regarding COVID-19 mitigation measures.
The motion passed 7-0 

 

15. Proposed Revisions to Policy No. 03-16, “Holidays” to Include Juneteenth as a Paid Holiday for Leon County Government Employees
    (County Administrator/ County Administration/ Human Resources)

The following Citizen Comments were received via online submission:

• Anne Gillaim submitted an online comment in opposition of adding Juneteenth as a County holiday and in support of celebrating May 20^th as Emancipation Day in Florida
• Claude Kenneson submitted an online comment in opposition of adding Juneteenth as a County holiday and in support of celebrating May 20^th as Emancipation Day in Florida
• Sandeep Rahangdale submitted an online comment in opposition of adding Juneteenth as a County holiday due to the reduction of workforce.
• Chelsea Rimert submitted an online comment in support of a Board resolution in support of legislation to establish Juneteenth as a state and/or national holiday.
• Kathleen Spehar, Executive Director of the Counil on culture & Arts, submitted an online comment in support of shifting the focus to May 20^th Emancipation Day.

 

• Commissioner Proctor offered a motion to recognize May 20^th as Emancipation Day.
• Commissioner Lindley stated her support of recognizing May 20^th and confirmed with the County Administrator that the item could be addressed at the upcoming Legislative Priorities Workshop.
  Staff:  Administration - Andrew Johnson
• Commissioner Dozier confirmed with the County Administrator that staff would revisit the issue next year on how to commemorate the holiday.       
  Staff:  CMR - Mathieu Cavell
• Commissioner Minor stated his support for the motion.
• Commissioner Maddox offered a friendly amendment to the motion to include a resolution to recognize May 20^th as a State holiday and a resolution in support of Juneteenth as a federal holiday.
• Commissioner Desloge reflected on the need for further discussion should the State declare Juneteenth a holiday.

 

Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Lindley to approve Option #1 as amended: Adopt the proposed revisions to Leon County Policy No. 02-10, “Holidays” to establish Juneteenth (June 19th) May 20^th (Emancipation Day) as a paid holiday for Leon County Government employees; and
Option #2:      Direct the County Administrator to prepare a Resolution in support of legislation to establish Juneteenth May 20^th, Emancipation Day as a state and/or national holiday and Juneteenth as a federal holiday.
The motion passed 7-0          
Staff:  Administration - Andrew Johnson   
 

16. Springs Restoration Grant Amendments for Construction of the Northeast Lake Munson and Woodville Sewer System Projects
    (County Administrator/ Public Works)

• Commissioner Dozier reflected on the need for update on signage at Lake Munson.
  • County Administrator Long confirmed that an update would be provided to the Board.

Staff:  Administration / Public Works – Ken Morris / Brent Pell / Theresa Heiker

 

Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Jackson to approve Option #1:  Approve the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Springs Restoration Grant Amendment for construction of the Northeast Lake Munson Sewer System Project and authorize the County Administrator to execute the grant amendment;Option #2:      Approve the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Springs Restoration Grant Amendment for construction of Phase 1A of the Woodville Sewer System Project and authorize the County Administrator to execute the grant amendment;

Option #3:      Approve the Resolution and associated Budget Amendment Request; and

Option #4:      Authorize the County Administrator to procure a line-of-credit at the appropriate time for current and future Septic to Sewer grants to supplement Blueprint Water Quality funds.

The motion passed 7-0 

 

17. Bid Award for the Leon County Detention Center Exterior Stair Renovation
    (County Administrator/ Purchasing/ Public Works)
    Commissioner Lindley moved, seconded by Commissioner Dozier to approve Option #1:     Approve the bid award to Southland Contracting, Inc., in the amount of $337,008 for the Leon County Detention Center exterior stair renovations and authorize the County Administrator to execute the Agreement.
    The motion passed 7-0 

 

18. Bid Award for Janitorial Services at Leon County Facilities
    County Administrator/ Purchasing/ Office of Resource Stewardship)
    Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Dozier to approve Option #1:   Approve the bid award for janitorial services at Leon County facilities and authorize the County Administrator to execute two agreements subject to legal review by the County Attorney to:  

a.   ACP Facility Services for Groups 3 and 4 in the amount of $203,115.02; and

b.   C&L Associates of Tallahassee, Inc., for Groups 1, 2, and 5 in the amount of $704,542.01.

The motion passed 7-0 

 

19. Full Board Appointment to the Council on Culture and Arts
    (County Administrator/ County Administration)
    Commissioner Dozier moved, seconded by Commissioner Minor to approve Option #1: Appoint one eligible applicant, Kristen Summers, to the Council on Culture and Arts (COCA) for a four-year term ending September 30, 2024, from the slate of three COCA nominees. 
    The motion passed 7-0 

 

SCHEDULED PUBLIC HEARINGS, 6:00 P.M.  

20. Second and Final Public Hearing for Adoption of the FY 2020/2021 Final Millage Rates and Final Budgets
    (County Administrator/ Office of Financial Stewardship)

Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Dozier to approve Option #1:  Adopt, via Resolution, the final FY 2020/2021 Countywide millage rate of 8.3144 mills.
The motion passed 7-0   

Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Maddox to approve Option #2:  Adopt, via Resolution, the final FY 2020/2021 Countywide budget.
The motion passed 7-0 

Commissioner Dozier moved, seconded by Commissioner Maddox to approve Option #3:  Adopt, via Resolution, the final FY 2020/2021 Emergency Medical Services MSTU millage rate of 0.5000 mills.
The motion passed 7-0 

Commissioner Lindley moved, seconded by Commissioner Maddox to approve Option #4:  Adopt, via Resolution, the final FY 2020/2021 Emergency Medical Services MSTU budget.
The motion passed 7-0 

 

21. First and Only Public Hearing to Consider a Proposed Resolution Renouncing and Disclaiming any Right of the County in a Portion of Jack Vause Landing Road and Boat Landing lying within the Lake Talquin State Park
    (County Administrator/ Office of Financial Stewardship)

Commissioner Jackson moved, seconded by Commissioner Proctor to approve Option # 1:  Conduct the First and Only Public Hearing and adopt the Resolution renouncing and disclaiming any right of the County in a portion of Jack Vause Landing Road and the associated boat landing lying within the Lake Talquin State Park.
The motion passed 7-0 

 

22. First and Only Public Hearing Regarding a Proposed Resolution Adopting Inventory List of County-Owned Properties Appropriate for Affordable Housing
    (County Administrator/ County Attorney/ Office of Financial Stewardship)

• Commissioner Proctor confirmed with County Administrator Long that an Affordable Housing Workshop is scheduled and that the affordable housing inventory list will be included in the workshop.
• Commissioner Dozier reflected on the City affordable housing policies in regard to the Southwood Development Order.  She confirmed with the County Administrator that the upcoming Affordable Housing Workshop would include an update on County and City housing policies.

Staff:  HSCP – Shington Lamy

Commissioner Dozier moved, seconded by Commissioner Minor to approve Option #1:  Conduct the first and only public hearing and adopt the Resolution Adopting Inventory List of County Property Appropriate for Use as Affordable Housing.
The motion passed 7-0 

 

23. First and Only Public Hearing to Consider Adopting an Ordinance Amending Section 8-156 of the Code of Laws of Leon County Relating to the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee
    (County Administrator/ County Attorney/ Office of Human Services & Community Partnerships)

Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Desloge to approve Option #1:  Conduct the first and only public hearing and adopt an Ordinance amending Section 8-156 of the Code of Laws of Leon County relating to the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee.

Option #2: Adopt the amended and restated Affordable Housing Advisory Committee Resolution.
The motion passed 7-0 

Option #3: Approve the associated revisions to Board Policy No. 11-2 “Commissioner Membership on Boards, Committees, Councils, and Authorities”.
The motion passed 7-0 

Option #4:  Full Board to appoint Commissioner Maddox to serve on the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee for a term ending December 31, 2022.
The motion passed 7-0 

 

COMMENTS/DISCUSSION ITEMS

Items from the County Attorney

• none

Items from the County Administrator

• none

Discussion Items by Commissioners

Commissioner Desloge

• Thanked staff for their efforts.
• Reflected on the availability of mobile testing on the north side of town, and suggested the possibility of using the library as a site for future mobile testing.
  • County Administrator Long confirmed that staff would look into the matter.

Staff:  HSCP - Shington Lamy

 

Commissioner Dozier

• Reflected on emails asking for a repeal of the mask mandate, and the community approval of the County Ordinance despite the Governor’s recent order.
• Expressed concern regarding collegiality at the Blueprint IA meetings
• Reflected on the upcoming public hearings on the Southwood DRI DO 6^th and 7^th Amendments.  Asked for an update on the stormwater master plan.

Staff:  DSEM - Barry Wilcox

• Confirmed with County Administrator that plans are in place for social distancing during in-person Commission meetings. 
  • County Attorney O’Steen confirmed that if the Governor’s order expires on September 30^th, the Board would be required to have a physical quorum and that the current Board policy would need to be revised should the Board wish to allow telephonic participation.
  • County Administrator Long confirmed that plans are in place for social distancing in the Chambers and a detailed email would be provided to the Board.

Staff:  Administration – Alan Rosenzweig

 

Commissioner Jackson

• Stated that COVID-19 numbers are improving but we cannot become numb to the numbers.

Commended FSU President Thrasher for their COVID-19 mitigation guidelines.

 

Commissioner Lindley

• Thanked those who were submitting comments in support of the mask mandate.
• Requested a proclamation recognizing October as Guardianship awareness month.

Commissioner Lindley moved, seconded by Commissioner Desloge to request a proclamation recognizing October as Guardianship Awareness Month.
The motion passed 7-0 
Staff:  Commission Aide - Debbie Craig

 

Commissioner Maddox

• Expressed the hope that Commissioners could have patience and work together.

 

Commissioner Minor

• Commended Community Media Relations efforts in promoting Leon CARES
• Made a motion asking for an agenda item exploring County membership on the Government Alliance for Racial Equity,

Commissioner Minor moved, seconded by Commissioner Dozier to direct staff to explore the County’s possible membership in the Government Alliance for Racial Equity.
The motion passed 7-0
Staff:  Administration - Wanda Hunter   

 

Commissioner Proctor

• Shared that the next farm share will be held Saturday Oct 24^th at the Gene Cox Stadium
• Reflected on the need for a Children’s Agency, rather than an independent Children’s Service’s Council.

 

RECEIPT AND FILE

• Capital Region Community Development District Audit RFP Committee Meeting Minutes for June 11, 2020

ADJOURN

The meeting adjourned at 9:18 p.m.

 

The next regular meeting of the Board of County Commissioners is tentatively scheduled for
Tuesday, October 13, 2020 at 3:00 p.m.

All lobbyists appearing before the Board must pay a $25 annual registration fee.  
 For registration forms and/or additional information, please contact the Board Secretary
 or visit the County Clerk website at www.leoncountyfl.gov