Board of County Commissioners
Tuesday, December 14, 2021 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 December 14, 2021

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The meeting was held in the Leon County Courthouse, County Commission Chambers, Fifth Floor, located at 301 S. Monroe Street   Tallahassee, Florida 32301.

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

Citizens wishing to provide input on any item(s) on the published agenda (or a non-agenda subject) for the meeting could share public comment by using one of the following options:

• In-person at the meeting; 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/.    

Citizens wishing to provide virtual comment must register by 8 p.m. on the day before the meeting to provide County staff sufficient time to provide instructions to citizens for comment during the meeting.  Anyone needing assistance with registration may contact County Administration at 850-606-5300.

Please note that Board of County Commissioners Policy 01-05, Article IX., Section E., titled “Addressing the Commission”, and Article IX., Section F., entitled “Decorum”,  remained in full force and effect.

INVOCATION & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Invocation by Pastor Wade Moran with Emerge Church

Pledge of Allegiance by Commissioner Welch

AWARDS AND PRESENTATIONS

• Proclamation Recognizing December as National Drunk & Drugged Driving (3D) Prevention Month
  (Commissioner Jackson)
  • Kristen Allen, Affiliate Executive Director for Mothers Against Drunk Driving, thanked the Board for its support.
     
• Proclamation Recognizing the AmeriCorps Members Working in Leon County
  (Commissioner Maddox)
  • The AmeriCorps team leader thanked the Board, the Tallahassee Food Network and other community partners for the opportunity.
     
• Proclamation Recognizing Civil Rights Activists Robert and Trudie Perkins
  (Chairman Proctor)
  • The family of Robert and Trudie Perkins thanked the Board.
     
• Presentation of $55,000 Donation from the Friends of the Leon County Library
  (Ms. Dale Grigas, President of the Friends of the Library Board of Directors)
  • Ms. Dale Grigas, President of the Friends of the Library Board of Directors, provided an overview of the Friends fundraising and purchases for the Library.  She presented the check to Debra Sears and Chairman Proctor who thanked them for the generous donation.
     
• Proclamation Recognizing the Retirement of Debra Sears, Leon County Library Director
  (Chairman Proctor)
  • Debra Sears, Leon County Library Director, thanked the Board and County staff for its support.
  • Chairman Proctor and Commissioners Dozier and Minor thanked Debra Sears for her years of service.
     
• Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Update
  (Vincent S. Long, County Administrator and Claudia Blackburn, Health Officer for the Florida Department of Health in Leon County)   
  • County Administrator Long provided an overview of the recently passed legislation and expressed that the County no longer requires employees to be vaccinated in order to comply with the new law; and provided an overview on the recent omicron COVID variant.
  • Claudia Blackburn, Health Officer for Florida Department of Health – Leon County provided an overview of the current COVID cases, positivity rate, testing sites, vaccination rates, omicron variant, hospital admissions, boosters, pediatric recommendations, and monoclonal antibody treatment.
     
• Proclamation Recognizing the Retirement of Claudia Blackburn, Health Officer for Florida Department of Health – Leon County
  (Commissioner Dozier)
  • Claudia Blackburn, Health Officer for Florida Department of Health – Leon County thanked the Board and County staff for their support.
  • Commissioners Welch, Jackson, Maddox, Minor and Cummings, County Administrator Long and Chairman Proctor commended Ms. Blackburn for her service.
     
• Presentation on the Anatomy of the Homicide Project
  (Sheriff Walt McNeil)
  • Chairman Proctor commended the Sheriff for the report.
  • Sheriff Walt McNeill provided a brief overview of the report and introduced the writer of the report, Sara Bourdeau, Research, Planning and Project Administrator Leon County Sheriff’s Office.
  • Sara Bourdeau provided an overview of the Anatomy of the Homicide Project report which analyzes local murders between 2015-2020 in order to develop an understanding of the commonalities between the people, conditions and circumstances contributing to homicides in the capital city and the county.
  • Sheriff McNeill provided an overview of the report’s recommendation including the development of a joint Sheriff/City/County working group on the Status of Men and Boys. 
  • Chairman Proctor expressed the need to address mental health issues related to crimes, and stated his support of the Sheriff’s efforts.
  • Commissioner Maddox commended the Sheriff for his innovations in tackling crime in our community.  He commended the report and stated his support of the establishment of the joint Council on the Status of Men and Boys.  He reflected on the need to include Leon County Schools, representatives from the affected zip codes, and possibly the Chief Judge.  Commissioner Maddox requested a motion to create the Council on Men and Boys.
  • Commissioner Jackson made the motion, seconded by Commissioner Cummings.  He reflected on the report and the need for early intervention.
  • Commissioner Cummings commended the report and expressed the need for joint action to address the issues.  She reflected on the focus of the Children’s Services Council.
  • Commissioner Welch commended the report and reflected on the underlying fear and anger in the affected areas, and lack of a support system.  He stated his support of the motion.
  • Commissioner Dozier commended the report and expressed the need for strategic partners.  She questioned if the proposed working group should be structured like the Commission on the Status of Women & Girls.  She reflected on alternative structures and suggested that Council be staffed by the City and County.
    • • Sheriff McNeill expressed the need for the Council to have data driven decision making and measurable outcomes.
  • Commissioner Minor commended the report and reflected on the multi-dimensional nature of crime and poverty issues.  He stated his support of the motion.

Commissioner Jackson moved, seconded by Commissioner Cummings to direct staff to provide an agenda item to consider the establishment of the Council on the Status of Men and Boys, in conjunction with the Sheriff’s office, the City of Tallahassee, and Leon County Schools, with the purpose to address the issues brought forth in the Anatomy of the Homicide Project report.

The motion passed 7-0

Staff:   Administration / Human Services & Community Partnerships - Andrew Johnson / Shington Lamy

• ADDED - Update on the Florida Legislative Redistricting Process
  (Andrew Johnson, Assistant to the County Administrator and Dr. Jeffrey Sharkey, Capitol Alliance Group)
  • Chairman Proctor stated that the Florida Legislature session convenes on January 11^th and that he requested the presentation on the projected Florida senate and congressional districts.
  • Andrew Johnson, Assistant to the County Administrator, provided an update on Florida’s legislative redistricting process.  He explained that changes in the Florida Senate map proposals are minor, and the most changes would occur in the map proposals for the Florida House of Representatives.
  • Dr. Jeffrey Sharkey, Capitol Alliance Group, provided an overview of projected redistricting and the effects on geographic and political interest areas.
  • Chairman Proctor expressed concern for the possibility of Representative Shoaf representing residents in 32304 in Leon County District 1.
  • Commissioner Minor stated that he spoke to legislative redistricting sub-committee members in December and expressed the need for an urban core focus for 32304.  He noted that the Wakulla Board of County Commissioners stated their support of House Map 7 in a letter approved at its December 13th meeting.  He made a motion for a resolution to reject the proposed House Map 5 and in support of House Map 7 or something similar, which would preserve the existing character of House Districts 7 and 9. 
  • Commissioner Welch stated his support of the motion.
  • Commissioner Dozier reflected on the need for a resolution or letter and confirmed with the County Attorney that a resolution is allowable.

Commissioner Minor moved, seconded by Commissioner Dozier to approve a resolution to reject the proposed Florida House of Representative redistricting Map 5 and in support of Map 7, generally.

The motion passed 7-0  

Staff:  Administration – Andrew Johnson

 

CONSENT  

ACTION TAKEN:  Commissioner Welch moved, seconded by Commissioner Dozier to approve the Consent Agenda.
The motion passed 7-0              

1. Minutes:  September 28, 2021, Legislative Workshop; September 28, 2021, Public Hearing; and October 12, 2021, Regular Meeting
   (Clerk of Court) 
   The Board approved Option #1:  Approve the minutes of the September 28, 2021 Legislative Workshop, September 28, 2021 Public Hearing and October 12, 2021 Regular Meeting.

2. 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 December 14, 2021 and pre-approve the payment of bills and vouchers for the period of December 15, 2021 through January 24, 2022.
    
3. Commissioner Appointments to the Library Advisory Board
   (County Administrator/ County Administration)
   The Board approved Option #1:  Ratify individual Commissioner appointments of citizens to the Library Advisory Board:
   a.   Commissioner Welch appoints Richard Murphy for a two-year term ending December 31, 2023.
   b.   Commissioner Jackson appoints Dr. Cheron Davis for a two-year term ending December 31, 2023.
   c.   Commissioner Cummings appoints Jennifer Etheridge for a two-year term ending December 31, 2023.
    
4. 2022 Citizen Engagement Series, Club of Honest Citizens, and Village Square Events
   (County Administrator/ Community & Media Relations)
   The Board approved Option #1:  Approve the continued relationship with the Village Square and Club of Honest Citizens program, and authorize the County Administrator to execute an agreement, in a form approved by the County Attorney; and
   Option #2:      Approve the tentative schedule of events for the 2022 Citizen Engagement Series, Club of Honest Citizens, and Village Square events.

5. Aquifer/Wellhead Protection Program Interlocal Agreement
   (County Administrator/ Development Support & Environmental Management)
   The Board approved Option #1:  Approve the Aquifer/Wellhead Protection Program Interlocal Agreement between Leon County and the City of Tallahassee (Attachment #1) and authorize the Leon County Administrator to execute the Agreement, subject to legal review by the County Attorney.
    
6. Request to Schedule Two Public Hearings to Consider an Amendment to the Park Place Development Agreement for January 25, 2022 and February 8, 2022
   (County Administrator/ Development Review & Environmental Management)
   The Board approved Option #1:  Schedule two public hearings to consider an amendment to the Park Place Development Agreement to extend the term of the Agreement, for January 25, 2022 and February 8, 2022 at 6:00 p.m.
    
7. PULLED - Request to Schedule the First and Only Public Hearing to Consider an Ordinance Amending Article IV of Chapter 10 of the Leon County Code of Law, Entitled “Closed Basins and Standards” for January 25, 2022
   (County Administrator/ Development Support & Environmental Management)
    
8. EMS Recruitment and Retention Strategies
   (County Administrator/ County Administration/ Emergency Medical Services)
   The Board approved Option #1:   Authorize the creation of the EMT to Paramedic Trainee Program as discussed in this item and approve associated revisions to Section VI of the Leon County Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual;
   Option #2:      Authorize the implementation of shift incentive stipends as discussed in this item and approve associated revisions to Section V of the Leon County Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual; and
   Option #3:      Approve the associated Budget Amendment and Resolution.
    
9. FY 2021 Carry Forward Adjustments
   (County Administrator/ Financial Stewardship/ Office of Management & Budget)
   The Board approved Option #1:   Authorize the additional carry forward adjustments of FY 2021 appropriations to the FY 2022 budget by adopting the Resolution and associated Budget Amendment Request. 
    
10. Approval of Resolution and Interlocal Agreement with Public Agencies to Authorize the Future Refunding of Orange County Health Facilities Authority Revenue Bonds Series 2016 for Presbyterian Retirement Communities and Future Conduit Financing
    (County Administrator/ Office of Financial Stewardship)
    The Board approved Option #1:  Approve the Resolution and Interlocal Agreement to authorize the future refunding of the Orange County Health Authority Revenue Bond Series 2016 and future conduit financing.
     
11. Federal Communications Commission Emergency Connectivity Fund Grant
    (County Administrator/ Library)
    The Board approved Option #1:  Authorize the acceptance of the Federal Communications Commission Emergency Connectivity Fund grant in the amount of $78,998 and authorize the County Administrator to execute all related grant documents, subject to legal review by the County Attorney; and

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

12. Acceptance of  $55,000 Donation from the Friends of the Library
    (County Administrator/ Library)
    The Board approved Option #1:  Accept the $55,000 donation from the Friends of the Library and approve the Resolution and associated Budget Amendment Request.
     
13. Florida Humanities’ Community Project Grant
    (County Administrator/ Library)
    The Board approved Option #1:  Authorize submission of the Florida Humanities’ Community Project Grant application for the Leon County Library Outdoors programs.
     
14. National Endowment for the Arts "Big Read" Grant Application for 2023
    (County Administrator/ Library)
    The Board approved Option # 1:  Authorize the submission of the National Endowment for the Arts “The Big Read” grant proposal.
     
15. Acceptance of a Comprehensive Plan Amendment Application for the 2022 Comprehensive Plan Amendment Cycle
    (County Administrator/ PLACE/ Planning)
    The Board approved Option #1:  Approval to waive the application deadline and accept the application for the proposed large-scale map amendment for the D.R. Horton Southwood Plantation Road property in the 2022 Comprehensive Plan amendment cycle.
     
16. Resolution in Support of a Florida Department of Transportation - Safe Routes to Schools Grant Application to Construct Sidewalks on Three County Roads
    (County Administrator/ Public Works)
    The Board approved Option #1:  Adopt the Resolution in support of Florida Department of Transportation - Safe Route to School  Grant Application to construct sidewalks on Westway Road between Crawfordville Road and Capital Circle SW, Shumard Drive between Canyon Creek Road and Bur Oak Drive, and Sherborne Road between Old Bainbridge Road and Rockingham Road.
     
17. Status Report on Flooding Conditions Along the Alford Arm Tributary South of Mahan Drive
    (County Administrator/ Public Works)
    The Board approved Option #1:  Accept the status report on flooding conditions along the Alford Arm Tributary south of Mahan Drive. 

18. United States Environmental Protection Agency “Water and You, Clean Water Campaign” Grant Amendment
    (County Administrator/ Public Works)
    The Board approved Option #1:  Approve the United States Environmental Protection Agency Section 319(h) Grant Amendment for the “Water and You, Clean Water Campaign” Project and authorize the County Administrator to execute the Amendment.
     
19. Proposed Building Sustainability Policy
    (County Administrator/ Resource Stewardship/ Public Works)
    The Board approved Option #1:  Adopt the proposed Building Sustainability Policy, subject to legal review by the County Attorney.
     
20. REMOVED - Appointment of the Leon County Health Department Administrator
    (County Administrator/ County Administration)

Procurements:  (These items are included under Consent.)

21. Acceptance of Bid to Sell County Property at Proctor and Thomasville Road and Authorization to Proceed with the Purchase of 50 acres for the new Northeast Park Location on Centerville Road
    (County Administrator/ Office of Financial Stewardship)
    The Board approved Option #1:  Authorize the County Administrator to execute the purchase and sale agreements and any other documents necessary to complete the sale of the Proctor/Thomasville Roads property and to purchase the Centerville Road property south of Roberts Road in a form substantially similar to Attachments #1 and #2, subject to legal review by the County Attorney; and
    
    Option #2:   Approve the Resolution and associated Budget Amendment to provide the necessary budget for the land transactions.
     
22. FY 2022 Insurance Coverages
    (County Administrator/ Office of Financial Stewardship)
    The Board approved Option #1:  Approve the FY 2022 insurance coverages and authorize the County Administrator to place insurance coverages for Property, Excess Workers’ Compensation, and General Liability as specified in renewal Option 1.             

•     Property and Flood Insurance (total insured value $374,851,940):   Zurich, $724,480
•     Excess Workers’ Compensation: Florida Municipal Insurance Trust, $290,590
•     General Liability (including Public Official, Employment Practices Liability, Excess Liability, Auto and Medical Malpractice): Travelers, $664,815, and Lloyds of London, $9,317
•     Cyber Security:  ACE American Insurance Inc., Co. Chub, $30,908
•     As the broker of record, authorize Brown & Brown to place Pollution, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Crime, and Aviation liability coverages.

23. Approval of the Award for the Leon County Sheriff’s Detention Center Audible Fire Alarm Repairs and Upgrades Project 
    (County Administrator/ Purchasing/ Resource Stewardship)
    The Board approved Option #1:     Approve the Award to Honeywell for the Detention Center Audible Fire Alarm Repairs and Upgrades Project utilizing cooperative purchasing from GSA Contract # 47QSWA18D0057 in the amount of $454,660, and authorize the County Administrator to execute the Agreement, subject to legal review by the County Attorney.
     
24. Authorization to Negotiate Solid Waste Consulting, Engineering, and Related Services for the Leon County Landfill Closure
    (County Administrator/ Purchasing/ Public Works)
    The Board approved Option #1:  Authorize staff to negotiate the consulting, engineering and related service fees with HDR Engineering, Inc., if negotiations are unsuccessful, authorize staff to negotiate with the second ranked firm for the project, and authorize the County Administrator to execute the Agreement subject to legal review by the County Attorney.

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

25. Status Report on the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Build Back Better Act
    (County Administrator/ County Administration)

The Board approved Option #1:  Accept the status report on the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Build Back Better Act.

Option #2:  Approve the Resolution in support of the Florida Association of Counties’ “ACCESS 67” initiative.

26. PULLED - Status Report on the Cultural Resource Review Process
    (County Administrator/ PLACE/ Development Support & Environmental Management)
     
27. Annual Affordable Housing Advisory Committee 2021 Report and Proposed Revisions to the Leon County 2021-2023 State Housing Initiatives Partnership - Local Housing Assistance Plan
    (County Administrator/ Human Services & Community Partnerships)
    The Board approved Option #1:  Accept the 2021 Affordable Housing Advisory Committee Annual Report of Recommendations; and

Option #2:      Approve the proposed revisions to the 2021 – 2023 Leon County State Housing Initiatives Partnership-Local Housing Assistance Plan and adopt the associated Resolution

28. November 2021 Quarterly Economic Dashboard
    (County Administrator/ PLACE/ Office of Economic Vitality)
    The Board approved Option #1:  Accept the November 2021 Economic Dashboard Report.
     
29. Annual Sidewalk Program Implementation Status Report
    (County Administrator/ Public Works)
    The Board approved Option #1:  Accept the FY 2021 annual status report on the Sidewalk Program implementation;

Option #2:      Direct staff to include the following sidewalks in the Approved Sidewalk List for community enhancements:

a.   Tier 1: Old St. Augustine Road - Capital Circle SE to 1,700 feet east of Southwood Plantation Road.

b.   Tier 2: Ben Brush Trail - City limits to Pimlico Drive; Bull Headley Road- Bannerman Road to Manor House Drive

c.   Tier 3: Swatts Road - Old Bainbridge Road to City limits; Avondale Way - Buck Lake Road to the end; Cypress Circle - Autumn Woods Way to the end; Louvinia Drive - Old St. Augustine Road to Augustwood Lane; Old St. Augustine Road - April Road to Williams Road; Kingman Trail - Pimlico Drive to Majestic Prince Trail

Option #3:      Direct staff to proceed with the construction of the Woodville Highway (Natural Bridge Road to Hickory Lane) Safe Routes to School sidewalk project for an estimated cost of $170,000.

30. Annual Street Lighting Program Status Report
    (County Administrator/ Public Works)
    The Board approved Option #1:  Accept the FY 2021 status report on the Street Lighting Program.
     
31. Overview of the County’s Road Maintenance, Repair and Stabilization Programs for Private Roads and an Update on the Southwood Estates and the Southwood Unrecorded Neighborhoods
    (County Administrator/ Public Works)
    The Board approved Option #1:  Accept the overview of the County’s Road Maintenance, Repair and Stabilization Programs and the status update on Southwood Estates and the Southwood Unrecorded Neighborhoods.
     
32. Annual Sustainability Program Status Report
    (County Administrator/ Resource Stewardship)
    The Board approved Option #1:   Accept the annual status report on the County Sustainability Program.

Consent Items Pulled for Discussion

7.   Request to Schedule the First and Only Public Hearing to Consider an Ordinance Amending Article IV of Chapter 10 of the Leon County Code of Law, Entitled “Closed Basins and Standards” for January 25, 2022
     (County Administrator/ Development Support & Environmental Management)

• Pulled from Consent by Commissioner Dozier.
• Commissioner Dozier stated that the Water Resource Committee has not reviewed this item and reflected on the need for that review before the public hearing.  She made a motion for Option #1 amended to schedule the public hearing for February instead of January.

Commissioner Dozier moved, seconded by Commissioner Maddox to approve Option #1 as amended:  Schedule the first and only Public Hearing to consider adopting an Ordinance amending Article IV of Chapter 10 of the Leon County Code of Laws, entitled “Closed Basin and Standards” for February 8January 25, 2022 at 6:00 p.m., and direct staff to present the item to the Water Resources Committee for review before the public hearing.
The motion passed 7-0
Staff:  Administration  / DSEM – Ken Morris / Barry Wilcox

26. Status Report on the Cultural Resource Review Process
(County Administrator/ PLACE/ Development Support & Environmental Management)

• Pulled from Consent by Commissioner Dozier.
• The following citizens provided in-person comments:
  • Mary Glowacki, Treasury of the Tallahassee Historical Society, spoke in support of an archaeological position as a City/County staff member.
  • Lonnie Mann, Panhandle Archeological Society of Tallahassee, spoke in support of an archaeological position as a City/County staff member.
• Commissioner Dozier reflected on the recent work reclaiming African-American cemeteries in the area and stressed the need for collaboration with the City to preserve archaeological sites.  She confirmed with Barry Wilcox, DSEM Director, that training could be made available to County staff who will be reviewing the plans in the interim.  She stated her support of a permanent archaeological staff position.

Commissioner Dozier moved, seconded by Commissioner Welch to approve Option #1 as amended:  Accept the status report on the adjusted Cultural Resources Review Process and direct staff to work with partners to develop archeological training for those reviewing plans on an interim basis; and to continue discussions with the City on a jointly funded permanent archeological position.
The motion passed 7-0
Staff:  Administration / DSEM – Vincent Long / Ken Morris / Barry Wilcox

 

Citizens to be Heard on Non-Agendaed Items

3-minute limit per speaker; there will not be any discussion by the Commission.

• • The following citizens provided in-person comments:
    • Stanley Sims reflected on the Sheriff’s Anatomy of the Homicide Project report and economic challenges faced by minority youths and homeless individuals.
    • Robert Blacklidge, Executive Director of Domi Station, requested the Board’s support for renovations of the County building on Railroad Avenue that houses Domi Station, and asked that it be considered at the Board’s January 25^th meeting.
    • Gary Hudson spoke in regard to WastePro trucks spilling hydraulic oil on his neighborhood streets.
      • Chairman Proctor confirmed that staff will follow-up with the citizen.

Staff:  Resource Stewardship – Maggie Theriot
 

General Business

33. Consideration of Policy Options to Address Public Health and Safety Issues Related to Homelessness
    (County Administrator/ County Attorney/ County Administration)

• The following citizen provided an in-person comment:
  • Karen Woodall spoke in opposition to an ordinance, and in support of additional services such as port-o-lets throughout the community and additional transitional housing.
• Chairman Proctor passed the gavel to Commissioner Maddox.
• Commissioner Dozier commended the agenda item, stated her support of Option #1, and expressed opposition to an ordinance.  She made a motion for Options #1 (accept the report ) and #5 (the Sheriff’s recommendation including funding two HOST deputies and deferring the drafting of an ordinance pending a Summer 2022  status report on the effectiveness of the HOST deputies), seconded by Commissioner Jackson.  She stated the need for more permanent support housing.
• Commissioner Welch stated his support of Options #1, #2 and #3.  He reflected on the County’s duty to assist the homeless with food, shelter, mental health services and substance abuse services, and to provide a safe and stable situation.  He stated that he supports giving the County Attorney and County Administrator the opportunity to draft an ordinance that may help to prevent individuals from living in a dangerous unsafe situation.
• Commissioner Maddox questioned how drafting an ordinance will help to house the individuals and reflected on those individuals who decline the assistance.
  •  
• Commissioner Minor reflected on the complexity of the issue and the amount of funding the City and County are investing into homeless services.  He stated his support of Options #1 and #5.
• Commissioner Maddox asked to the County Attorney to elaborate on the process to draft an ordinance consistent with federal law.
  • County Attorney O’Steen stated that many of the issues are matters of individual rights and therefore there is a fine line to be considered when drafting an ordinance.
  • County Administrator Long stated that the issue of homeless has not been addressed successfully at the federal or state level, so local governments are forced to pursue “Band-Aid” solutions as there will never be enough resources locally to meet the need.  He explained that addressing the issue from a regulatory standpoint would provide the County with a last resort option in the instances where a services-first approach has failed.
• Commissioner Cummings stated her support of Options #1, #2 and #3.
• Commissioner Jackson confirmed with the County Administrator Long that the $490,817 expenditure in Option #3 and #5 is acceptable under the American Rescue Plan Act.  He reflected on the issues of homeless individuals loitering, littering and creating unsafe conditions.   He stated his support of Options #1 and #5.
• Chairman Proctor offered a substitute motion for Options #1, #2 and #3, seconded by Commissioner Welch.
• Commissioner Jackson stated that he could not support the substitute motion, and reiterated his support of the Sheriff’s recommendations of Option #5.
• Commissioner Maddox stated his support of Option #5.
• Commissioner Dozier expressed that the County can not compel individuals to accept services, and that the County is building trust and connecting individuals to services.  She confirmed with the County Attorney that an officer must witness an individual defecating or urinating in order to enforce an ordinance if the penalty is the equivalent of a second degree misdemeanor.  She reflected that the issue is extremely complicated and stated her support of the Sheriff’s recommendation of Option #5.
• Commissioner Minor reflected on the new homelessness services that have been implemented in the last year to build trust and capacity.   He stated he could support Options #1, #2 and #3, but also stated his support of the Sheriff’s recommendation of Option #5.

 

Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Welch to approve Option #1: Direct staff to develop a draft ordinance to repeal Chapter 11, Article VIII of the Code of Laws of Leon County;

Option #2:  Direct staff to develop a draft ordinance to address any or all of the following:

a.   Camping or sleeping in certain public areas, or constructing or maintaining any tent, structure, or other objects intended to be used for camping or sleeping in certain public areas (including whether such an ordinance should apply countywide or only in the unincorporated area);

b.   Soliciting of any kind in medians (in the unincorporated area only, similar to the City’s ordinance that addresses within City limits); and/or

c.   Urinating or defecating in certain public areas (including whether such an ordinance should apply countywide or only in the unincorporated area).

Option #3:  Approve the reallocation of $490,817 in funding from the County’s allocation of Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Funds under the American Rescue Plan Act to the Leon County Sheriff’s Office budget to support two additional deputies dedicated to homelessness response and approve the associated Budget Amendment and Resolution.

The motion passed 4-3 with Commissioners Dozier, Jackson and Maddox in opposition

34. Community Human Services Partnership Uniform Performance Measures
    (County Administrator/ Human Services & Community Partnerships)

• Commissioner Dozier thanked the partners who worked with staff to develop the report.  She confirmed with Shington Lamy, Director of Human Services & Community Partnerships, that an agenda item will be brought back to the Board in the spring that will also include the  ratification of the CHSP Citizen Review Team membership.                                                                                                                                          

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Welch to approve Option #1:  Approve the uniform performance measures as developed by the FSU Askew School of Public Administration and Policy for the Community Human Services Partnership’s upcoming two-year funding cycle (FY 2023 and FY 2024); and

Option #2:      Authorize the County Administrator to develop a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Tallahassee and the Children’s Services Council of Leon County to partner on opportunities to collaborate and coordinate on the funding, program delivery, program evaluation, and outcome measures for children and family services, for consideration by the Board at a future meeting.
The motion passed 7-0

35. Allocation of Leon County Emergency Rental Assistance Program Funding
    (County Administrator/ Human Services & Community Partnerships)

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Welch to approve Option #1:  Ratify the County Administrator’s request of $11 million in additional Emergency Rental Assistance 1 funding and approve utilizing any awarded funds to conduct recertifications for previously awarded applicants, relocation assistance and housing stability services for eligible Leon County residents and approve the Resolution and associated budget amendment; and

Option #2:      If the County is not awarded the full $11 million in additional Emergency Rental Assistance 1 funding, authorize the County Administrator to utilize $2.4 million in Emergency Rental Assistance 2 funds to conduct recertifications for previously awarded applicants, relocation assistance and housing stability services for eligible Leon County residents.

The motion passed 7-0

36. Acceptance of the Citizens’ North Monroe Corridor Task Force Final Report
    (County Administrator/ PLACE/ Planning)

• The following citizen provided an in-person comment:
  • Marcus Thompkins thanked the Board for allowing him to serve on the Task Force and encouraged the Board to continue the Task Force or to create a new committee to follow-up on the Task Force recommendations.
• Commissioner Minor recognized the citizens who served on the Task Force, and thanked them and staff for their efforts.  He reflected on the approved Blueprint funding for the North Monroe Gateway Project.

Commissioner Minor moved, seconded by Commissioner Maddox to approve Option #1:   Accept the Citizens’ North Monroe Corridor Task Force Final Report and staff recommendations as follows:

a.         Corridor Improvements:

i.       Provide Blueprint staff the Task Force’s Final Report for future consideration as part of the North Monroe Gateway Project.
ii.      Evaluate a new strategic initiative for the County to explore operating a Welcome Center near I-10 (not specific to any interchange).
iii.     Direct staff to coordinate with the City and FDOT to schedule the necessary restriping and pavement markings along the North Monroe Corridor.
iv.     Continue to encourage and support efforts by FDOT to install landscaping along the North Monroe Street corridor. 
v.      Support FDOT’s request of StarMetro to slightly relocate the bus stop at the School of Math and Sciences on North Monroe Street to preserve sight distance for the school entrance/exit and upgrade the bus stop to include a bench and shelter.
vi.     Encourage StarMetro to incorporate other North Monroe Street bus stops north of I-10 in its Capital Improvement Program for upgrades including shelters and benches.
vii.    Direct staff to request FDOT to mitigate the gaps in continuous sidewalk access along North Monroe Street in support of local residents and businesses. 
viii.   Direct staff to work with the consultant selected for the Land Use Element Update to examine retail land uses and possible amendments to the Lake Protection Land Use Map along the North Monroe Street corridor.

b.         Crime and Human Trafficking:

i.       Direct staff to prepare a Proclamation in support of Human Trafficking Awareness Month (January) to be signed by the Chairman and to identify opportunities for County engagement next month.
ii.      Continue to support the Survive and Thrive Advocacy Center pilot program to educate and train business owners and residents to recognize and respond to human trafficking.
iii.     Encourage the Human Services Street Outreach Team to participate in Survive and Thrive Advocacy Center’s human trafficking awareness training.
iv.     Request the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation assess the compliance of public lodging establishments in Leon County for meeting state requirements for human trafficking awareness training and signage.
v.      Direct staff to identify tactics to help educate and inform citizens and businesses on the North Monroe Street corridor of the programs offered by local law enforcement agencies and encourage use of these programs to deter crime.

c.         Homelessness

i.       Continue to support the Street Outreach Teams efforts to provide housing to unsheltered individuals and families including emergency shelter, hotel vouchers, and diversion services. 
ii.      Direct staff to facilitate the creation of a one-page shareable resource guide for businesses and residents through coordination with Big Bend Continuum of Care, Big Bend 211, Salvation Army, and Survive and Thrive Advocacy Center.
iii.     Consider funding the two Homelessness Outreach Street Team Deputies, as provided in a separate agenda item, to address homeless individuals that are disrupting businesses or trespassing and camping in neighborhood

The motion passed 6-0 with Commissioner Welch out of Chambers

37. Appointment of Commissioners to the Canvassing Board
    (County Administrator/ County Administration)

• County Attorney O’Steen presented the criteria to serve on the Canvassing Board.
• Commissioner Jackson confirmed with the County Attorney that attending a fund raiser for a candidate would disqualify a Commissioner.
• Commissioner Dozier encouraged the three other eligible Commissioners to consider serving, since she would not be able to serve after Board’s reorganization in 2022 since she is not seeking re-election.
• Commissioner Welch confirmed with the County Attorney O’Steen that a Commissioner could donate to a candidate and still be eligible to serve.  He questioned that if he supported a candidate who does not currently have opposition, on social media would that disqualify him.  He confirmed with the County Attorney that he is eligible to serve as long as the candidate does not have opposition.  He made a motion for Option #1.
  • County Attorney O’Steen recommended requesting an opinion from the Division of Elections office on if social media activity constitutes being an active participant in the campaign or candidacy of any candidate who has opposition in the election being canvassed.
• Commissioner Cummings confirmed that she attended a fundraiser for a candidate in a contested race, therefore she is ineligible.
• Commissioner Dozier suggested that information regarding appointments to the Canvassing Board be brought to the Board two years in advance of an upcoming election.
  • County Administrator Long confirmed that notification will be sent to the Board well in advance of future elections.

Staff:  Administration – Heather Peeples

 

Commissioner Welch moved, seconded by Commissioner Dozier to approve Option #1: Full Board to appoint one Commissioner, Brian Welch, as a replacement for the Chairman on the Canvassing Board, for a one-year term; and
Option #2:      Full Board to appoint one Commissioner, Jimbo Jackson, as the Substitute member for the Canvassing Board for a two-year term ending December 31, 2023.      
The motion passed 7-0

38. Full Board Appointment of Commissioners to Authorities, Boards, Committees and/or Councils
    (County Administrator/ County Administration)

Commissioner Dozier moved, seconded by Commissioner Welch to approve Option #1:  Full Board to appoint the following:

a.   Full Board to reappoint one Commissioner, Rick Minor,  to the Big Bend Continuum of Care for a two-year  term ending December 31, 2023.

The motion passed 7-0
 

Commissioner Minor   moved, seconded by Commissioner Maddox to approve Option #1:  Full Board to appoint the following:

b.   Full Board to reappoint three Commissioners, Kristen Dozier, Rick Minor and Nick Maddox, to the Capital Region Transportation Planning Agency for a two-year term ending December 31, 2023.

The motion passed 7-0

 

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Dozier to approve Option #1:  Full Board to appoint the following:

c.   Full Board to reappoint one Commissioner, Jimbo Jackson, to the Juvenile Justice Circuit 2 Advisory Board for a two-year term ending December 31, 2023.

The motion passed 7-0

 

Commissioner Dozier moved, seconded by Commissioner Cummings to approve Option #1:  Full Board to appoint the following:

d.   Full Board to reappoint one Commissioner, Brian Welch, to the Leon County Educational Facilities Authority for a two-year term ending December 31, 2023.

The motion passed 7-0

 

Commissioner Dozier moved, seconded by Commissioner Welch to approve Option #1:  Full Board to appoint the following:

e.   Full Board to reappoint one Commissioner, Nick Maddox, to the Workforce Development Consortium, Region 5, for a two-year term ending December 31, 2023.

The motion passed 7-0

39. Full Board Appointments to the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee, the Early Learning Coalition of the Big Bend, and the Joint City/County Bicycling Workgroup
    (County Administrator/ County Administration)

Commissioner Welch moved, seconded by Commissioner Dozier to approve Option #1:  Appoint one citizen, Rachel Stevens, to the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee for the remainder of the unexpired term ending March 31, 2023.;

The motion passed 7-0

Commissioner Jackson moved, seconded by Commissioner Proctor to approve Option #2: Appoint one citizen, Kim Sims, to the Early Learning Coalition for a four-year term ending on December 31, 2025.

The motion passed 7-0\

Commissioner Dozier moved, seconded by Commissioner Proctor to approve Option #3:  Appoint two citizens, Robert Feuerstein and Justin Pogge, to the Joint City/County Bicycling Workgroup for three-year terms ending December 31, 2024. 

The motion passed 7-0
 

SCHEDULED PUBLIC HEARINGS, 6:00 P.M.    

40. First and Only Public Hearing to Consider Adopting a Proposed Ordinance Adjusting the Boundary Lines for the Single-Member Leon County Board of County Commissioners’ Districts 
    (County Administrator/ County Administration)
    Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Welch to approve Option #1:  Conduct the first and only public hearing and adopt the proposed Ordinance adjusting the boundary lines for the Single-Member Leon County Board of County Commissioners’ Districts.

The motion passed 7-0
 

41. First and Only Public Hearing to Consider Adopting an Ordinance Authorizing the Automatic Renewal of the Low-Income Senior Property Tax Exemption
    (County Administrator/ County Administration)
    Commissioner Dozier moved, seconded by Commissioner Minor to approve Option #1:  Conduct the first and only public hearing and adopt the proposed Ordinance amending Section 11-423 of the Leon County Code of Laws to authorize the automatic renewal of the additional homestead exemption for low-income persons 65 or older.

The motion passed 7-0
 

42. First and Only Public Hearing to Consider a Proposed Resolution Adopting Inventory List of County-Owned Properties Appropriate for Affordable Housing
    (County Administrator/ Human Services & Community Partnerships/ Office of Financial Stewardship)
    Commissioner Dozier moved, seconded by Commissioner Welch to approve Option #1:  Conduct the first and only public hearing and adopt the Resolution adopting the Inventory List of County-Owned Properties Appropriate for Use as Affordable Housing.

The motion passed 7-0
 

43. First and Only Public Hearing to Consider Adopting a Resolution of Intent to Use the Uniform Method for the Levy, Collection and Enforcement of Non-Ad Valorem Assessments for the Purpose of Collecting the Full Amount of all Charges Related to Sewer Service Imposed on Certain Real Property Located in Annawood
    (County Administrator/ Public Works)

• Chairman Proctor reflected on the possibility of the non-ad valorem assessment being burdensome to the homeowner.  He also expressed concern regarding the County’s role in collecting the assessment for the City of Tallahassee utilities.

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Dozier to approve Option #1:  Conduct the Public Hearing and adopt the Resolution of Intent to Use the Uniform Method of Levy, Collection and Enforcement of Non-Ad Valorem Assessment for the Purpose of Collecting the Full Amount of all Charges Related to Sewer Service Imposed on Certain Real Property Located in Annawood.

The motion passed 6-1 with Chairman Proctor opposed
 

44. First and Only Public Hearing to Consider Adopting a Proposed Ordinance Amending the Official Zoning Map to Change the Zoning Classification from Rural Zoning District to Bradfordville Hills Planned Unit Development (PUD) Zoning District for 162 Acres Located on the West Side of Thomasville Road, including 6920 Lawton Chiles Lane
    (County Administrator/ PLACE/ Planning)

• County Attorney O’Steen asked the Commissioners to disclose any ex parte communications that had not already been disclosed and made a part of the record.
  • Commissioner Jackson and Maddox disclosed that they were contacted by Mr. Ed Murray asking for support of the rezoning.
• Commissioner Welch stated his support of the rezoning and the development.
• Commissioner Proctor confirmed with Barry Wilcox, Director of Development Support & Environmental Services, that this development would have sewer connections.  He expressed his disapproval that citizens in existing southside communities still do not have access to sewer services through the City.

Commissioner Welch moved, seconded by Commissioner Dozier to approve Option #1: Conduct the first and only public hearing and adopt the proposed Ordinance, thereby amending the Official Zoning Map to change the zoning classification from the Rural zoning district to the Bradfordville Hills PUD zoning district, based on the findings of fact and conclusions of law of the Planning Commission, the information contained in this report, and any evidence submitted at the hearing hereon.

The motion passed 6-1 with Chairman Proctor opposed
 

45. First and Only Public Hearing to Consider Adopting a Proposed Ordinance Amending the Official Zoning Map to Change the Zoning Classification from the Open Space (OS) Zoning District to the Government Operational (GO) Zoning District for 9.97 Acres Located at 3465 Capital Circle SW
    (County Administrator/ PLACE/ Planning)

• The following citizen provided an in-person comment:
  • Sean Marston, representing the applicant, spoke in support of the rezoning.

Commissioner Dozier moved, seconded by Commissioner Maddox to approve Option #1: Conduct the first and only public hearing and adopt the proposed Ordinance, thereby amending the Official Zoning Map to change the zoning classification from the Open Space (OS) zoning district to the Government Operational (GO) zoning district, based on the findings of fact and conclusions of law of the Planning Commission, the information contained in this report, and any evidence submitted at the hearing hereon.

The motion passed 7-0
 

Citizens to be Heard on Non-Agendaed Items
3-minute limit per speaker; Commission may discuss issues that are brought forth by speakers.

• none

COMMENTS/DISCUSSION ITEMS

Items from the County Attorney

• County Attorney O’Steen informed the Commissioners regarding the terms of a proposed settlement of the Florida Department of Health Notice of Violation case related to the Vaccination Requirement Policy.  Health has agreed to enter into a settlement agreement based upon the following terms: 1) the County has rescinded the Vaccination Requirement Policy effective November 18, 2021 in compliance with the law passed in special session (HB 1, section 3), and 2) the County will consider for re-employment any employee who was terminated on October 2, 2021 for not complying with the Vaccination Requirement Policy; failure to comply with the Policy and their vaccination status will not be considered.  The County Attorney recommended approval of the proposed settlement.

Commissioner Dozier moved, seconded by Commissioner Minor to approve the settlement of the Florida Department of Health Notice of Violation case as proposed.

The motion passed 7-0
Staff:  County Attorney – Chasity O’Steen
 

Items from the County Administrator

• Thanked the County Attorney for her work on the settlement.

Discussion Items by Commissioners

Commissioner Cummings

• Announced that the Children’s Services Council has selected its first director, Cecka Rose Green.

Commissioner Dozier

• Reflected on needed modifications to the County building that houses Domi Station and requested an agenda item for January 2022.

Commissioner Dozier moved, seconded by Commissioner Minor to direct staff to provide an agenda item exploring options to modify the space in County building housing Domi Station, for the Board’s January 25, 2022 meeting.

The motion passed 7-0
Staff:  Admin / OEV / Resource Stewardship  – Ken Morris / Cristina Paredes / Maggie Theriot

• Reflected on the need for the StarMetro bus route to be extended to the new Amazon Fulfillment center and stated the City expressed interest in extending service during the CRTPA retreat.
• Reflected on the need to explore possible funding opportunities available through Florida Fish & Wildlife to do clean-up of the Alford Arm Tributary to prevent future flooding.
• Commended staff for the Winterfest parade.

Commissioner Jackson

• Commended the Fort Braden Middle School soccer team for the third consecutive win of the 1A Leon County School championship.

Commissioner Maddox

• Recognized Pamela Monroe as the County’s new Library Director.

Commissioner Minor

• Thanked the Board and staff for the Citizens North Monroe Task Force report.
• Commended the Downtown Heritage Trail event held on Saturday, December 11^th.
• Commended the Gingerbread Housing Contest at the Library

Commissioner Proctor

• Requested a proclamation recognizing the FSU women’s soccer team for winning the NCAA National Championship.

Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Dozier to approve a proclamation recognizing the FSU women’s soccer team  winning the NCAA National Championship.

The motion passed 7-0
Staff:  Commission Aide – Rayshell Holmes

• Reflected on the need to discuss Medicaid expansion at the Board’s upcoming retreat, and also to discuss the $2.3 billion in federal education aid that the State of Florida refused to apply for.

Staff:  Administration – Andrew Johnson / Nicki Paden

Commissioner Welch

• Commended staff for the agenda item approving the purchase of the parcel for the new Northeast Park.
• Commended a recent fundraising event for Representative Tant’s organization, Keys to Exceptional Youth Success.
• Reflected on his opportunity to tour the Leon County Detention Facility with Sheriff McNeill and his staff.
• Commended staff for Veterans Day parade and Operation Thank You.
• Commended staff for the Division 1 cross county championship at the Apalachee Regional Park.
• Requested a proclamation recognizing the Bradley’s Country Store’s 50^th Fun Day held on November 20, 2021, to be presented at the Board’s January meeting.

Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Dozier to approve a proclamation recognizing the 50^th annual fun day at Bradley’s Country Store.

The motion passed 7-0
Staff:  Commission Aide – Kyle Frost

RECEIPT AND FILE

• none

ADJOURN

The meeting adjourned at 9:43 p.m.

The Board of County Commissioners Annual Retreat is tentatively scheduled for
Monday, January 24, 2022 at 9:00 a.m.

The next regular meeting of the Board of County Commissioners is tentatively scheduled for
Tuesday, January 25, 2022 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