Board of County Commissioners
Tuesday, December 9, 2025 Meeting - Follow-Up Memo

The meeting was held in the Judge Augustus D. Aikens, Jr. Leon County Courthouse, Commission Chambers, 5th 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 have registered by 8:00 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”, shall remain in full force and effect.

INVOCATION & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Invocation by Reverend Sylvia Jones, Mount Zion AME Church Pledge of Allegiance by Commissioner Minor

AWARDS AND PRESENTATIONS

• Proclamation Recognizing the Fairview Middle School Football Team as Division I Champions
  (Commissioner Maddox)
   
• Proclamation Recognizing Miss Juneteenth Florida USA, Corrin Hobbs
  (Commissioner Maddox)

CITIZENS TO BE HEARD ON CONSENT AND NON-AGENDAED ITEMS

3-minute limit per speaker; there will not be any discussion by the Commission. The following speaker provided virtual comment:

• Ms. Carmen Lyttle-Nguessan spoke on growth in the community without the services of fiber internet and natural gas utilities being made available to residents.

The following speaker provided in-person comment:

• Ms. Jennifer Dahm spoke regarding consent agenda item #12. She noted opposition to providing public funds for The Village Square.

CONSENT

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

• Commissioner O’Keefe asked if there is any additional information regarding the contract for The Village Square.
  • Mr. Mathieu Cavell, Director of Community Relations and Resilience, responded with information about what the funding from Leon County is used for related to agenda item #12.
• Commissioner Minor noted the importance of the community efforts coordinated by The Village Square.

The motion passed 7 – 0.

1. Minutes: September 23, 2025 Public Hearing and October 14, 2025 Regular Meeting
   (Clerk of Court)
   Option #1: Approve the minutes of September 23, 2025 Public Hearing and Special Meeting and October 14, 2025 Regular Meeting.
    
2. Payment of Bills and Vouchers
   (County Administrator / Office of Management & Budget)
   Option #1: Approve the payment of bills and vouchers submitted for December 9, 2025, and the pre-approval of payment of bills and vouchers for the period of December 10, 2025, through January 26, 2026.
    
3. Fiscal Year 2025 Carry Forward Adjustments
   (County Administrator / Office of Management & Budget)
   Option #1: Authorize the carry forward adjustments of FY 2025 appropriations to the FY 2026 budget by approving the Resolution and associated Budget Amendment (Attachment #1).
    
4. Commissioner Appointments to the Code Enforcement Board, the Library Advisory Board, and the Public Safety Coordinating Council
   (County Administrator / Administration)
   Option #1: Ratify Chairman Caban’s appointment of Carson Rowe to the Code Enforcement Board for the remainder of a three-year term ending July 31, 2026;
   Option #2:    Ratify Chairman Caban’s reappointment of Elizabeth Jackson to the Library Advisory Board for a two-year term ending December 31, 2027;
   Option #3: Ratify Commissioner Minor’s reappointment of David Low to the Library Advisory Board for a two-year term ending December 31, 2027;
   Option #4:    Ratify Commissioner Welch’s appointment of David Schubert to the Library Advisory Board for a two-year term ending December 31, 2027;
   Option #5 Ratify Commissioner Cummings’ appointment of Mike Kay to the Library Advisory Board for a two-year term ending December 31, 2027;
   Option #6 Ratify Chairman Caban’s reappointment of Nancy O’Farrell to fill Seat Category k. (representative from a community group who works with offenders & victims) on the Public Safety Coordinating Council for a four-year term ending December 31, 2029; and
   Option #7 Ratify Chairman Caban’s appointment of Patrick Mahoney to fill Seat Category k. (representative from a community group who works with offenders & victims) on the Public Safety Coordinating Council for a four-year term ending December 31, 2029.

5. Request to Schedule the First and Only Public Hearing for an Ordinance to Establish a Boating-Restricted Area on Lake Iamonia for January 27, 2026
   (County Administration / Development Support & Environmental Management)
   Option #1: Schedule the first and only public hearing on January 27, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., for an ordinance to establish a boating-restricted area within the pass between Strickland Arm and Lake Iamonia (Attachment #1), and direct staff to coordinate with FWC for the installation of the associated regulatory waterway markers upon adoption of the ordinance.
    
6. Consideration of an Amendment to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Permitting and Compliance Assistance Program Contract for the Petroleum Storage Tank Regulation Program for Fiscal Year 2017 – 2027
   (County Administration / Development Support & Environmental Management)
   Option #1: Approve an amendment to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Permitting and Compliance Assistance Program Contract for the Petroleum Storage Tank Regulation Program (Attachment #1) for execution by the County Administrator with an effective date upon signature, and authorize the County Administrator to execute any future agreements and amendments, subject to legal review by the County Attorney.
    
7. Proposed Resolution in Support of the Florida Department of Transportation Safe Routes to School Grant Application for the Construction of a Sidewalk on Buck Lake Road
   (County Administrator / Public Works)
   Option #1: Adopt the Resolution in support of a Florida Department of Transportation Safe Routes to School Grant Application to construct a sidewalk on Buck Lake Road between Walden Road and Alameda Drive (Attachment #1).
    
8. Proposed Resolution in Support of the Florida Department of Transportation Grant Application for Design and Construction of the Shelfer Road Sidewalk Project
   (County Administrator / Public Works)
   Option #1: Adopt the Resolution in support of the Florida Department of Transportation’s Transportation Alternatives Set-Side Grant Application to construct the Shelfer Road Sidewalk Project (Attachment #1).
    
9. Interlocal Agreement with the Florida Department of Transportation for Services Related to the Stormwater Element of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Program Requirements (County Administrator / Public Works)
   Option #1: Approve the Interlocal Agreement between Leon County and the FDOT for Services Related to the Stormwater Element of NPDES Program Requirements (Attachment #1), and authorize the County Administrator to execute the Interlocal Agreement, and to approve and execute future amendments, subject to review by the County Attorney; and
   Option #2: Adopt the Resolution authorizing the Interlocal Agreement with the FDOT for Services Related to the Stormwater Element of NPDES Program Requirements (Attachment #2).

Procurements:

10. Approval for the Purchase of Two Replacement Hardware Devices for Data Backup
    (County Administrator / Office of Information Technology)
    Option #1: Approve the purchase of two data backup devices from Insight Public Sector, Inc. utilizing OMNIA/Cobb County Contract #23-6692-03 (Attachment #1), for a total amount not to exceed $486,980.

11. Fiscal Year 2026 Insurance Coverages
    (County Administrator / Risk Management)
    Option #1: Approve the FY 2026 insurance coverages and authorize the County Administrator to place insurance coverages for Property and Excess Workers’ Compensation, and General Liability as specified in Renewal Option 1 (Attachment #1):

• • Property and Flood Insurance: Zurich American Insurance Company, $720,008 with flood insurance; and Wright National Flood Insurance Company, $2,768 for Woodville Community Center and Branch Library, which has a small portion of the parcel within a FEMA mapped flood zone.
  • Inland Marine Insurance: XL Specialty Insurance Company, $115,520.
  • General Liability (including Public Official, Employment Practices Liability, Umbrella, Auto and Medical Malpractice): The Phoenix Insurance Company (Travelers), $1,198,060 and Lloyds of London, $10,710.
• • Excess Workers’ Compensation: Safety National Casualty Corp, $217,443 and Fortegra Specialty Ins. Co., $149,536.
  • Cyber Security Insurance: Chubb, ACE American Insurance Company, $57,826.
  • As the broker of record, authorize Brown & Brown to place Pollution, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Aviation, Crime and Drone liability coverages, $176,579.

Status Reports:

12. 2026 Citizen Engagement Series, Club of Honest Citizens, and The Village Square Events
    (County Administrator / Community and Media Relations)
    Option #1: Approve the 2026 Citizen Engagement Series, Club of Honest Citizens, and The Village Square proposed tentative events.
     
13. 2025 Annual Affordable Housing Advisory Committee Report of Recommendations
    (County Administrator / Human Services and Community Partnerships)
    Option #1: Accept the 2025 Annual Affordable Housing Advisory Committee Report of Recommendations (Attachment #1); and
    Option #2: Adopt the Resolution approving the proposed revisions to FY 2024 – 2026 Leon County State Housing Initiatives Partnership Local Housing Assistance Plan (Attachment #2).
     
14. Annual Status Report on the Minority, Women, and Small Business Enterprise Fiscal Year 2024 Expenditures for Leon County
    (County Administrator / Office of Economic Vitality)
    Option #1: Accept the Annual Status Report on the Minority, Women, and Small Business Enterprise Fiscal Year 2024 Expenditures for Leon County.
     
15. Status Report on the Alternative Mobility Funding System Study
    (County Administrator / Planning)
    Option #1: Accept the Status Report on the Alternative Mobility Funding System Study and maintain the existing transportation concurrency management system.

CONSENT ITEMS PULLED FOR DISCUSSION

• • NONE

16. Leon Arms Affordable Housing Rental Development and Housing Finance Authority of Leon County Plan of Financing
    (County Administrator / Human Services and Community Partnerships)

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Welch, to approve Options #1 and #2.

• • Commissioner Proctor asked why local contractors are not getting an opportunity to receive any of the funding associated with this item and how many units are being created by this project.
    • Mr. Shington Lamy responded with the goals of the projects and noted that they will include the use of local vendors.
  • Vice Chairman O’Keefe asked who would pay back the bonds for the Leon Arms project.
    • Mr. Lamy responded that the developers are required to pay back the bonds and that there would be no liability or obligation to the County.

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Welch, to approve Option #1: Approve the Resolution authorizing the Housing Finance Authority of Leon County to issue $15,000,000 in Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds for the Leon Arms project (Attachment #1); and

Option #2: Adopt the Resolution approving the Housing Finance Authority of Leon County, Florida’s Plan of Financing (Attachment #2).

The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Administration / Human Services and Community Partnerships – Shington Lamy / Abigail Thomas

17. Proposed Enhancements to the Community Human Services Partnership (CHSP)
    (County Administrator / Human Services and Community Partnerships)

Commissioner Welch moved, seconded by Commissioner Proctor, to approve Options #1 and #2.

• • Commissioner Welch thanked staff for the proposal to better align funds for the community.
  • Commissioner Proctor requested a copy of the CHSP Procedures Manual to review the information regarding appeals.

Staff: Administration / Human Services and Community Partnerships – Shington Lamy / Abigail Thomas

• • Chairman Caban noted opposition to this item and suggested a workshop for all parties to discuss any potential impacts.
  • Commissioner Minor noted that a supportive vote for this proposal is not a reduction to children’s services in Leon County.
  • Commissioner Cummings expressed support of Commissioner Proctor’s recommendation to modify Option #2 to be contingent on potential property tax funding changes. She suggested postponing the approval of the MOU until after Legislative Session ends in March of 2026.

Commissioner Cummings made a substitute motion, seconded by Commissioner Proctor, to approve Option #1 and postpone Option #2 until March 2026 when the Legislative Session is finalized.

• • Chairman Caban requested a friendly amendment to the substitute motion asking for a status report on programs that were funded by CSC Leon when the item is brought back to the Board in March of 2026.
  • Commissioner Cummings accepted the friendly amendment.
  • Commissioner Welch noted support for Option #1 and is willing to follow the recommendation of Commissioner Cummings based on her experience with this subject matter.
  • Commissioner Proctor suggested that all contracts with vendors should have a caveat that the funding is contingent upon property tax dollars. He suggested that accountability measures should be applied to the CSC funding for children’s services.
    • County Attorney O’Steen noted that there is already a clause in all Leon County contracts related to budget availability.

Commissioner Cummings made a substitute motion, seconded by Commissioner Proctor, to approve Option #1: Approve the proposed realignment of Leon County funding in the Community Human Services Partnership for line-item funding to the emergency homeless shelters; and

Direct the County Administrator to bring back Option #2 in March 2026 to include a status report on which organizations have been funded by CSC Leon.

• • • Option #2: Authorize the County Administrator to amend and execute a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Tallahassee on the Community Human Services Partnership to establish minimum funding awards, eliminate funding caps, and perform administrative updates, subject to legal review by the County Attorney.

The motion passed 5 – 1 with Vice Chairman O’Keefe in opposition and Commissioner Maddox recusing himself due to the appearance of a conflict related to his position as CEO of Family Promise of the Big Bend.
Staff: Administration / Human Services and Community Partnerships – Shington Lamy / Abigail Thomas

18. Contract Award on the Evaluation of Fire Service
    (County Administrator / Emergency Medical Services)

• • County Administrator Long introduced this item. The following speakers provided in-person comment:
    • Mr. Daniel Wouters commended Leon County for the services currently being provided for emergencies and fire services. He noted opposition to funding separate fire services.
    • Mr. Christopher Godwin spoke in support of a recalibration of fire services for all of Leon County.

Vice Chairman O’Keefe moved, seconded by Commissioner Proctor, to approve Options #1 and #2.

• • Vice Chairman O’Keefe asked if the vendor recommended by staff has worked with the City of Tallahassee within the last few years. He noted that this item is an effort to identify a back-up option in case there is no opportunity to renegotiate with the City of Tallahassee for consolidated fire services.
    • County Administrator Long responded that this vendor has been used in the past by the County and City on a joint project, but not in recent years.
  • Commissioner Minor agreed that the citizens of Leon County are best served by a consolidated fire service. He noted support for the staff recommendation to have the data necessary to ensure the best decision can be made for all citizens of Leon County. He thanked staff for the well-prepared proposal.
  • Commissioner Proctor noted the importance of gathering the information as outlined in the proposal.
  • Commissioner Welch echoed comments from other Commissioners and noted the importance of being fiscally responsible for the citizens of Leon County for services to be provided.
  • Commissioner Maddox recognized former Mayor of the City of Tallahassee, Dot Inman-Johnson. He spoke of the concern from some residents on the method of collection for this fee moving to the property tax bill rather than a utility bill as was previously allowed. He asked the County Attorney if the Board had the authority to change the method of collection of these fees. He requested an amendment to the motion to change the method of collection to go back to the utility bill rather than the property tax bill.
    • County Attorney O’Steen responded that the Board has the authority to amend ordinances related to the method of collection of these fees in future fiscal years.
  • Chairman Caban noted that any request related to changing the method of collection should be made as a separate motion.
  • Chairman Caban asked several questions regarding the City’s cooperation in providing information requested by the Board related to this topic. He suggested that the calculation of fire service fees needs to be evaluated to know if it is fair or equitable.
    • County Attorney O’Steen responded that the City has only provided partial or incomplete information in response to the requests by the County.
  • Commissioner Maddox asked if there is a way to evaluate methods of collection as part of the study from the contractor.
    • County Administrator Long advised that method of collection will be part of the report.

Vice Chairman O’Keefe moved, seconded by Commissioner Proctor, to approve Option #1: Approve the contract award to Fitch & Associates, LLC, for consulting services to evaluate alternative models and cost-effective options for fire service in unincorporated Leon County and authorize the County Administrator to execute the agreement, and any amendments thereto, subject to legal review by the County Attorney (Attachment #1); and

Option #2: Approve the Budget Amendment appropriating funds from the General Fund Contingency account (Attachment #2).

The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Administration / Emergency Medical Services – Shington Lamy / Chief Abrams

19. Status Report on County-City Consolidation in Florida
    (County Administrator / Administration)

• • County Administrator Long introduced this item.

The following speaker provided in-person comment:

• • • Ms. Dot Inman-Johnson spoke in support of consolidation even though she has opposed it every other time it has been presented in the past. She noted support based on the change that has taken place in this community.

Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Cummings, to approve a non-binding advisory referendum to gauge public interest in the possibility of consolidation for November 3, 2026.

• • Commissioner Proctor noted the potential savings that could be gained by a consolidation of governments and the need for transparency.
  • Commissioner Welch stated that he could be supportive of a non-binding advisory referendum on the November 2026 ballot, but there are restrictions to the total number of characters allowed on the ballot which could cause issue with relaying the information to the public.
  • Vice Chairman O’Keefe asked if the Legislature has the authority to initiate a consolidation plan. He noted concern for this type of process. He suggested that now is not the time to move forward with consolidation discussions.
    • County Administrator Long confirmed that the Legislature can act on a consolidation plan if one is presented to them with a request from a County or City if it is filed by the deadline for consideration.
  • Commissioner Cummings noted her history of opposing consolidation of governments in Leon County. She noted the need to have a significant amount of data before supporting this concept moving forward.
  • Commissioner Minor noted his past research on consolidation showing mixed results of efficiencies. He added concern regarding the motion.
  • Commissioner Maddox suggested that putting a straw poll out without a plan is disingenuous to the citizens. He added that there are more important things that require the attention of the Board at this time and he cannot support the motion.
  • Chairman Caban commented that the best way to get public input is to support the motion on the floor. He provided several points of why he would support consolidation as a concept. He provided a handout of information to the Board to highlight the unincorporated properties that have been annexed into the City over time.
  • Commissioner Maddox asked how many of these annexations are voluntary.
    • County Attorney O’Steen noted that most of the annexations listed on the map were voluntary.
  • Commissioner Welch noted support for the motion to determine citizen interest.
  • Commissioner Cummings asked whether there are any campaign restrictions if the Board were to approve a straw ballot question for voter referendum.
    • County Attorney O’Steen provided legal guidance on activities that are prohibited and funding restrictions regarding the topic.

Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Cummings, to direct the County Administrator to prepare ballot language for Board consideration to proceed with a non-binding referendum to gauge public interest in the possibility of consolidation for November 3, 2026.

The motion passed 5 – 2 with Vice Chairman O’Keefe and Commissioner Maddox in opposition.
Staff: Administration / County Attorney – Ken Morris / Mathieu Cavell / Chasity O’Steen

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

• • County Administrator Long introduced this item.

Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Cummings, to approve Option #1: Appoint Commissioner Maddox as the Substitute Member for the Canvassing Board for a two-year term ending December 31, 2027.

The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Administration – Lisa Davis

Chairman Caban appointed Commissioner Welch as the Alternate Member for the Canvassing Board for a two-year term ending December 31, 2027.
Staff: Administration – Lisa Davis

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

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Minor, to reappoint all current members of the specific Authority, Board, Committee, and/or Council as listed in Options #1 through #5.

• • Chairman Caban requested another interested Commissioner be appointed to the Juvenile Justice Circuit 2 Advisory Board.
  • Commissioner Cummings spoke with interest in serving on the Juvenile Justice Circuit Advisory Board.

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Minor, to approve Option #1: Appoint Commissioner Minor to the Big Bend Continuum of Care Board for a two-year term ending December 31, 2027.
The motion passed 7 – 0.

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Minor, to approve Option #2: Appoint Commissioner Maddox, Commissioner Minor, and Vice Chairman O’Keefe to the Capital Region Transportation Planning Agency Board for a two-year term ending December 31, 2027.
The motion passed 7 – 0.

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Minor, to approve Option #3: Appoint Commissioner Cummings to the Juvenile Justice Circuit 2 Advisory Board for a two-year term ending December 31, 2027.
The motion passed 7 – 0.

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Minor, to approve Option #4: Appoint Commissioner Welch to the Leon County Educational Facilities Authority for a two-year term ending December 31, 2027.
The motion passed 7 – 0.

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Minor, to approve Option #5: Appoint Commissioner Maddox to the Workforce Development Consortium, Region 5, for a two-year term ending December 31, 2027.
The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Administration – Lisa Davis

22. Full Board Appointment to the Early Learning Coalition of the Big Bend
    (County Administrator / Administration)
    Commissioner Cummings moved, seconded by Commissioner Welch, to approve Option #1: Appoint Brooke Brunner to the Early Learning Coalition for a four-year term ending on December 31, 2029.

The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Administration – Lisa Davis

SCHEDULED PUBLIC HEARINGS, 6:00 P.M.

23. First and Only Public Hearing to Consider an Ordinance Amending Chapter 13, Section 13-58, of the Leon County Code of Laws, entitled Consumption of Alcohol, Intoxication and Public Nuisances
    (County Administrator / Office of Resource Stewardship)
    Commissioner Minor moved, seconded by Commissioner O’Keefe, to approve Option #1: Conduct the first and only public hearing and adopt the Ordinance (Attachment #1) amending Chapter 13, Section 13-58, of the Leon County Code of Laws, entitled “Consumption of Alcohol, Intoxication and Public Nuisances”; and
    Option #2: Adopt the revised Parks and Recreation Usage Policy 06-1, “Use and Scheduling of Parks & Recreation Facilities” (Attachment #4).

The motion passed 6 – 0 with Commissioner Proctor out of chambers.
Staff: Administration / Office of Resource Stewardship – Nawfal Ezzagaghi / Maggie Theriot

24. First and Only Public Hearing to Consider Adoption of the Annual Update to the Tallahassee-Leon County Comprehensive Plan Capital Improvements Schedule
    (County Administrator / Planning)

• • County Administrator Long introduced this item.

Commissioner Cummings moved, seconded by Commissioner Welch to approve Option #1: Conduct the first and only public hearing and adopt the Ordinance updating the Tallahassee-Leon County Comprehensive Plan Capital Improvements Schedule (Attachment #1).

The motion passed 6 – 0 with Commissioner Proctor out of chambers.
Staff: Administration / Planning – Nawfal Ezzagaghi / Michael Alfano

25. Adoption Public Hearing on the Comprehensive Plan Update
    (County Administrator / Planning)

• • County Administrator Long introduced this item. The following speakers provided in-person comment:

• • • Mr. Craig Stevens spoke regarding the importance of land conservation, especially cemetery lands in Leon County. He noted concern for Meridian Road improvements that may cause danger to the cemetery.

Commissioner Minor moved, seconded by Commissioner Maddox, directing staff to meet with the individuals who spoke regarding protections for Carr Cemetery.

The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Administration / Development Support and Environmental Management – Nawfal Ezzagaghi/ Scott Brockmeier

• • • Ms. Althemese Barnes spoke regarding protections for cemeteries in Leon County and specifically the Carr Cemetery.
    • Reverend Rebecca Dickey spoke regarding the Carr Cemetery located on Bannerman Road and Orchard Pond Road and the need for protection of this historical site.
    • Mr. Roland Woodburry, echoed the comments of previous speakers requesting protections for the Carr Cemetery.
  • Commissioner Proctor asked for information on what a meeting with these individual speakers and County staff would entail.
    • County Administrator Long advised what the meeting would entail.
    • Ms. Vivian Young, Special Projects Director with 1000 Friends of Florida, shared the mission statement of the organization and spoke regarding numerous concerns of the proposed Comp Plan. She offered several suggested changes.
    • Mr. Anthony Gaudio spoke regarding individuals not receiving notice of proposed changes to properties. He recommended that if changes are desired by individual property owners, there is a process for those requests, which would allow notification to adjacent properties.
    • Ms. Carrie Gaudio commented with concern of the transparency of this process and she requested that any property changes be managed via other methods that allow notification to affected parties.
    • Mr. Roy Knight suggested that the best plan be considered and approved by the Board since this will be in place for 30 years and added that the proposal today does not take into consideration the health and welfare of individuals who need open space and less traffic.
    • Ms. Randi Denker thanked staff for providing information and answering her questions throughout this process. She disagrees with the recommendation to increase the amount of land in the Urban Services Area (USA).
    • Dr. David Handy commented on impacts to the Old St. Augustine Road tree canopy. This roadway cannot be widened and cannot support additional traffic from potential future developments.
    • Ms. Jan Keshen spoke in opposition to an increase in the USA near Old St. Augustine Road.
    • Mr. Daniel Hallinan, Jr. echoed the comments regarding opposition to expansion of the USA along the Old St. Augustine Road.
    • Mr. Danny Jones spoke in opposition to the Southwood Plantation Development because of the impact to the Old St. Augustine Road tree canopy and increased traffic flow on this road.
    • Mr. Mark Mahoney echoed the concerns from previous speakers regarding expansion of the USA around Old St. Augustine Road. He requested the Board consider voting no on the proposed Comp Plan Update.
    • Ms. Wendy Grey, on behalf of the Alliance of Tallahassee Neighborhoods, thanked staff for working to address several requests for updates to the proposal already. She asked for additional amendments related to two new categories.
    • Mr. Steve Leitman spoke regarding the costs of expanding the USA.

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Welch, to approve Option #1.

• • Commissioner Maddox asked for clarification from staff on several issues brought up by speakers. He thanked staff for completing the planning that they have been asked to do by this Board and previous Boards and community groups.
    • Mr. Michael Alfano, Director of Planning, provided clarification to the questions asked by Commissioner Maddox.
    • Mr. Artie White, Director of Planning, Land management and Community Enhancement, added additional details in response to the questions by Commissioner Maddox.
  • Vice Chairman O’Keefe asked several questions. He noted that the property located off Old St. Augustine Road is a single owner property and should not be included in this Comprehensive Plan Update. Rather, the owner should submit an application as an individual landowner which would require data specific to that property and any potential impacts to the environment and the infrastructure currently in place.
    • Mr. Alfano responded to the questions.

Vice Chairman O’Keefe made a substitute motion, seconded by Commissioner Proctor, to approve Option #1 as amended to remove the areas of four parcels (31-12-20-012-000-0; 31-11-20-001-000-0; 31-11-20-022-000-0; and 32-07-20-401-000-0) proposed to be added to the USA along Old St. Augustine Road.

• • Commissioner Welch spoke about the process of engagement with citizens on this topic since May of 2025.
  • Commissioner Proctor spoke regarding the concern of several citizens for protection of the Carr cemetery. He commented that the property off Old St. Augustine Road should have been removed from the Comp Plan Update a long time ago. He suggested that the noticing requirement should have been applied to the property off Old St. Augustine Road. He suggested that future growth should be focused on the Federal Lands in the southern portion of the County.
  • Commissioner Minor asked a citizen who was involved in the original citizen group who evaluated growth in Leon County to provide her feedback on that group’s recommendations. He then asked staff questions. He agreed that when growth is managed in the right way, it can have a lot of positives for the community. He noted support for the substitute motion on the floor.
    • Ms. Wendy Gray spoke of her experience on the original group that was involved in recommending the USA expansion near Southwood.

Vice Chairman O‘Keefe made a substitute motion, seconded by Commissioner Proctor, to approve Option #1 as amended: Conduct the adoption public hearing and adopt the proposed ordinance (Attachment #1), thereby adopting the proposed Land Use and Mobility Element and Glossary revisions to the Tallahassee-Leon County Comprehensive Plan, subject to the City Commission’s adoption of the proposed amendments in accordance with Policy 1.8.1 of the Intergovernmental Coordination Element, removing the areas of four parcels (31-12-20-012-000-0; 31-11-20-001-000-0; 31-11-20-022-000-0; and 32-07-20-401-000-0) proposed to be added to the USA along Old St. Augustine Road.

The motion passed 4 – 3 with Commissioners Welch, Maddox and Chairman Caban in opposition.
Staff: Administration / Planning – Nawfal Ezzagaghi / Michael Alfano
 

26. First and Only Public Hearing to Consider Adopting a Resolution of Intent to Utilize 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 Woodville Septic-to-Sewer System Phase 1 Project Area
    (County Administrator / Public Works)

Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Cummings, to approve Option #1: Conduct the first and only public hearing and adopt the Resolution of Intent to Utilize the Uniform Method of Collection for the Levy, Collection, and Enforcement of Non-Ad Valorem Assessments for the purposes of collecting the full amount of all charges related to sewer service imposed on certain real property located in the Woodville Septic-to-Sewer System Phase 1 Project Area.

The motion passed 6 – 1 with Chairman Caban in opposition.
Staff: Administration / Public Works – Nawfal Ezzagaghi / Brent Pell

CITIZENS TO BE HEARD ON NON-AGENDAED ITEMS

3-minute limit per speaker; Commission may discuss issues that are brought forth by speakers.

• • Ms. Jennifer Dahm requested the ability for County residents to vote in City elections.
    • County Attorney O’Steen responded that it is not legal for unincorporated County residents to vote for City elections.

COMMENTS / DISCUSSION ITEMS

Items from the County Attorney

• • None.

Items from the County Administrator

• • He invited Ms. Kerri Post, Director of Tourism, to provide a brief update on the World Cross Country Championships that will take place on January 10, 2026.

Discussion Items by Commissioners

Commissioner Cummings

• • Commissioner Cummings requested a proclamation recognizing the efforts of the NAACP and Senior Bishop A.J. Richardson promoting civil rights to be presented at an event hosted in conjunction with the Council on Culture and Arts to unveil a new Civil Rights mural this Saturday.

The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Administration – Regina Glee

• • Commissioner Cummings requested a proclamation recognizing the 93rd birthday of Mr. Wesley Sheffield to be presented at the celebration event scheduled for next Sunday.

Commissioner Cummings moved, seconded by Commissioner Maddox, to approve a proclamation recognizing the 93rd birthday of Mr. Wesley Sheffield.

The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Administration – Regina Glee
 

Commissioner Minor

• • Commissioner Minor spoke of the loss of several community members who had a big impact on making Leon County a great community. He offered condolences to the families of Mr. Bill Cotterell, Mr. Chuck Goodheart, and Mr. Bob Lotane.
  • He spoke of the recent success of the Amtrak Mardi Gras Route and looks forward to utilizing that information going into Legislative Session.
  • He wished Mr. Artie White a happy birthday.
     

Vice Chairman O’Keefe

• • Vice Chairman O’Keefe requested a proclamation recognizing the 25th Anniversary of Bella Bella to be presented in Chambers.

Vice Chairman O’Keefe moved, seconded by Commissioner Minor, to approve a proclamation recognizing the 25th Anniversary of Bella Bella.

The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Administration – Regina Glee

• • He requested a proclamation recognizing the 40th Anniversary of the Challenger Space Shuttle disaster to be presented at the Challenger Learning Center.

Vice Chairman O’Keefe moved, seconded by Commissioner Minor, to approve a proclamation recognizing the 40th Anniversary of the Challenger Space Shuttle disaster.

The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Administration – Regina Glee

• • He requested a proclamation recognizing the Shady Grove Primitive Baptist Church Voices of Victory album which was recently nominated for a grammy award.

Vice Chairman O’Keefe moved, seconded by Commissioner Cummings, to approve a proclamation recognizing the Shady Grove Primitive Baptist Church Voices of Victory album which was recently nominated for a grammy award.

The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Administration – Regina Glee

• • He requested a proclamation recognizing January 18 – 24, 2026, as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Week to be presented at their upcoming event.

Vice Chairman O’Keefe moved, seconded by Commissioner Proctor, to approve a proclamation recognizing January 18 – 24, 2026, as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Week.

The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Administration – Regina Glee
 

Commissioner Welch

• • Commissioner Welch requested a proclamation recognizing the FSU Women’s Soccer Team for winning their 5th National Championship.

Commissioner Welch moved, seconded by Commissioner Proctor, to approve a proclamation recognizing the FSU Women’s Soccer Team for winning their 5th National Championship.

The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Administration – Regina Glee
 

Commissioner Maddox

• • Commissioner Maddox requested a proclamation recognizing the Fairview Middle School Girls Basketball Team as Division I-A Champions.

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Cummings, to approve a proclamation recognizing the Fairview Middle School Girls Basketball Team as Division I-A Champions.

The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Administration – Regina Glee

• • He requested a proclamation recognizing the Raa Middle School Girls Basketball Team as undefeated Division II Champions.

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Vice Chairman O’Keefe, to approve a proclamation recognizing the Raa Middle School Girls Basketball Team as undefeated Division II Champions.

The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Administration – Regina Glee

• • He requested a proclamation recognizing the 10th Anniversary of ‘Conversations with Nicole’ in March of 2026, to be presented at the end of February.

Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Cummings, to approve a proclamation recognizing the 10th Anniversary of ‘Conversations with Nicole’.

The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Administration – Regina Glee
 

Commissioner Proctor

• • Commissioner Proctor requested an agenda item from the County Administrator to identify opportunities for service agencies to be co-located at the County Health Department buildings on Old Bainbridge Road and Orange Avenue.