Board of County
Commissioners
Tuesday, October 13, 2026 Meeting - Follow-Up
Memo
Click Here For a pdf Version of the Follow-UP
| To: |
Honorable Chairman and Members of the Board |
|
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| From: |
Vincent S. Long, County Administrator |
| Subject: |
Follow-up to County Commission Regular Meeting of October 13, 2026 |
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, 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:
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 Elder Dr. Chris A. Burney, Senior Pastor of Greater St. Mark Primitive Baptist Church
Pledge of Allegiance by Commissioner Maddox
AWARDS AND PRESENTATIONS
- Proclamation Recognizing the Chaires Little League Team as the 2026 Florida Little League State Champions
(Vice Chairman O’Keefe)
- Proclamation Recognizing the 40th Anniversary of 1000 Friends of Florida
(Commissioner Maddox)
- Proclamation Recognizing Mr. Darius Jones II for Qualifying to Compete for Team USA at the Under 20 World Athletic Competition
(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.
CONSENT
ACTION TAKEN: Commissioner Minor moved, seconded by Commissioner Welch, to approve the Consent Agenda, except for items #1, #9, and #13, which were pulled for discussion.
The motion passed 6 – 0 with Commissioner Maddox out of Chambers.
- PULLED – Minutes: July 14, 2026 Regular Meeting, August 17, 2026 Public Hearing and August 31, 2026 Special Meeting
(Clerk of Court)
- Payment of Bills and Vouchers
(County Administrator / Office of Management & Budget)
Option #1: Approve the payment of bills and vouchers submitted for October 13, 2026, and the pre-approval of payment of bills and vouchers for the period of October 14, 2026, through November 16, 2026.
- Annual Performance Review for the County Administrator in Accordance with Board Policy No. 11-6, “County Administrator Evaluation and Annual Reporting Process”
(County Administrator / Human Resources)
Option #1: Ratify the annual performance reviews of the County Administrator (Attachments #1 and #2) in accordance with Board Policy No. 11-6, “County Administrator Evaluation and Annual Reporting Process.”
- Ratification of Board Actions Taken at the Workshop on the 2027 State and Federal Legislative Priorities
(County Administrator / County Administration)
Option #1: Ratify the actions taken at the September 22, 2026, Workshop on the 2027 State and Federal Legislative Priorities.
- Fiscal Year-End 2026 Carry Forward Appropriations and Fiscal Year 2026 Year End-Adjustments
(County Administrator / Office of Management & Budget)
Option #1: Authorize the carry forward of FY 2026 appropriations to the FY 2027 budget by approving the associated Resolution and Budget Amendment (Attachment #1);
Option #2: Approve the FY 2026 year-end budget adjustments, and the associated Resolution and Budget Amendment (Attachment #2); and
Option #3: Approve the FY 2027 State of Florida appropriations for the Woodville Sewer System, Backup Generators for Emergency Operations, and Courthouse Security Improvements projects, and authorize the County Administrator to execute the Agreements and approve any modifications, amendments, or associated agreements thereto, all subject to legal review and revision by the County Attorney.
- Proposed Revisions to Policy No. 19-5, Government Capital Asset Policy
(Clerk of Court / Office of Management and Budget)
Option #1: Adopt the revised County Policy No. 19-5, “Government Capital Asset Policy” (Attachment #1).
- Opioid Litigation Settlement Funds for Fiscal Year 2027
(County Administrator / Human Services and Community Partnerships)
Option #1: Accept the $757,030 in direct and State of Florida-allocated opioid litigation settlement funds and authorize the County Administrator to approve and execute the agreement and any necessary modifications, amendments, or associated agreements with Big Bend Community Based Care, LLC, doing business as Northwest Florida Health Network, all subject to legal review and revision by the County Attorney, to utilize settlement funds for the provision of substance abuse treatment services resulting from opioid abuse and the purchase of EMS equipment to address opioid use disorders in the community;
Option #2: Approve the Resolution and associated Budget Amendment necessary to realize the funds into the budget (Attachment #1);
Option #3: Authorize the County Administrator to approve and execute an agreement and any necessary modifications, amendments, or associated agreements with DISC Village, Inc., all subject to legal review and revision by the County Attorney, to provide substance abuse treatment and ancillary services resulting from opioid abuse; and
Option #4: Authorize the County Administrator to approve and execute an agreement and any necessary modifications, amendments, or associated agreements with 2-1-1 Big Bend, Inc., all subject to legal review and revision by the County Attorney, to provide transportation to individuals seeking treatment for substance abuse through the Lyft Transportation Program.
- Child Protection Examinations Agreement with the University of Florida
(County Administrator / Human Services and Community Partnerships)
Option #1: Authorize the County Administrator to approve and execute an agreement with the University of Florida Board of Trustees for the provision of state-mandated child protection examinations for FY 2027, and to approve and execute any necessary modifications, amendments, or associated agreements thereto, all subject to legal review and revision by the County Attorney.
- PULLED – Approval of Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity
(County Administrator / Emergency Medical Services)
- 2025 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Funding Agreement
(County Administrator / Office of Intervention and Detention Alternatives)
Option #1: Approve the Agreement with the City of Tallahassee and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office (Attachment #1) for the implementation of the U.S. Department of Justice 2025 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant, and authorize the County Administrator to execute the Agreement, and any necessary modifications, amendments, or associated agreements thereto, all subject to legal review and revision by the County Attorney; and
Option #2: Authorize the Leon County Sheriff’s Office to realize and spend the $24,215 in 2025 Justice Assistant Grant (JAG) program funds to purchase law enforcement equipment.
- License Agreements between Leon County and Sports Providers and Proposed Revisions to Board Policies No. 11-4, “Background Checks for Sports Providers’ Coaches, Volunteers, and Hired Workers” and No. 06-1 “Use and Scheduling of Parks & Recreation Facilities”
(County Administrator / Office of Resource Stewardship)
Option #1: Approve the following License Agreements between Leon County and the respective Sport Provider, and authorize the County Administrator to execute each agreement, and modify, approve and execute any amendments thereto, subject to legal review and revision by the County Attorney:
- License Agreement with Florida District 20 Little League, Inc. (Attachment #1)
- License Agreement with Big Bend Pop Warner, Inc. (Attachment #2)
- License Agreement with Tallahassee/Leon Babe Ruth League, Inc. (Attachment #3)
- License Agreement with Bold and Gold Sports International, Inc. (Attachment #4)
Option #2: Approve the proposed revisions to Board Policy No. 11-4, “Background Checks for Sports Providers’ Coaches, Volunteers, and Hired Workers” (Attachment #5); and
Option #3: Approve the proposed revisions to the limitation on term length for facility use in Section 10.6 of Board Policy 06-1, "Use and Scheduling of Parks & Recreation Facilities," for the approved License Agreements (Attachment #6).
Procurements:
- Bid Award for the Old St. Augustine Road Sidewalk Project
(County Administrator / Public Works)
Option #1: Approve the bid award for the Old St. Augustine Road Sidewalk Project to M of Tallahassee LLC, the lowest responsible and responsive bidder, and authorize the County Administrator to execute the Agreement (Attachment #1), and any amendments, or associated agreements thereto, subject to legal review and revision by the County Attorney.
- PULLED – Authorization to Negotiate Professional Services Continuing Supply Agreements with Multiple Firms
(County Administrator / Public Works)
- Approval to Purchase a Heavy Equipment Wheel Loader
(County Administrator / Public Works)
Option #1: Approve the purchase of a heavy equipment wheel loader from Beard Equipment Company in the amount of $525,000, utilizing Sourcewell Cooperative Contract No. 011723-JDC, and authorize the County Administrator to execute any associated agreements, or amendments thereto, subject to legal review and revision by the County Attorney.
Status Reports:
- End-of-Year Status Report on the Fiscal Year 2026 Commissioner Discussion Items
(County Administrator / County Administration)
Option #1: Accept the End-of-Year Status Report on the Fiscal Year 2026 Commissioner Discussion Items (Attachment #1).
- Status Report on County Programming and Events to Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the United States
(County Administrator / Tourism)
Option #1: Accept the Status Report on County Programming and Events to Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the United States.
- Fiscal Year 2026 Tangible Personal Property Annual Report
(County Administrator / Purchasing)
Option #1: Accept the FY 2026 Tangible Personal Property Annual Report.
Consent Items Pulled for Discussion
- PULLED – Minutes: July 14, 2026 Regular Meeting, August 17, 2026 Public Hearing and August 31, 2026 Special Meeting
(Clerk of Court)
- This item was pulled from Consent by Commissioner Proctor.
Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Vice Chairman O’Keefe, to approve Option #1.
- Commissioner Proctor requested clarification and an update on the July 14, 2026 meeting minutes, and the direction to staff in seeking a legislation to allow counties to continue to observe specific holidays that are currently not allowed due to section 125.595, Florida Statutes (Senate Bill 1134).
- County Administrator Long confirmed that direction was included in the Legislative Workshop, and action taken at that workshop was ratified as part of the Consent Agenda at today’s meeting.
- Commissioner Proctor noted that David Jolly, a candidate for Florida Governor, spoke recently regarding his intent to disallow this Legislation if elected Governor.
Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Vice Chairman O’Keefe, to approve Option #1: Approve the minutes of July 14, 2026 Regular Meeting, August 17, 2026 Public Hearing, and August 31, 2026 Special Meeting.
The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Clerk of Court – Beryl Wood
- PULLED – Approval of Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity
(County Administrator / Emergency Medical Services)
- This item was pulled from Consent by Commissioner Proctor.
Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Chairman Caban, to approve Option #1.
- Commissioner Proctor asked why the County is being asked to approve this if the City Fire Department is independent from the County.
- Mr. Chad Abrams, Chief of Emergency Medical Services, spoke about the need for Certificates of Public Convenience and Necessity in order to provide the services that are contracted in the Interlocal Agreement.
- Commissioner Proctor also asked about funding amounts listed in the application materials.
- Mr. Shington Lamy, Assistant County Administrator, noted that the financial documentation in the application was submitted in the Summer of 2026, as a requirement to prove that they are a financially viable organization to provide these services.
- Vice Chairman O’Keefe requested confirmation that this agenda item is for the Board to review and approve the Tallahassee Fire Department to continue responding to emergencies in Leon County for the next three years.
- County Administrator Long confirmed that statement.
- Chairman Caban asked how this License would potentially be impacted if the County and the City make changes to the Interlocal Agreement regarding Fire Services.
- Shington Lamy responded that these licenses are established for three years per County Ordinance.
- Commissioner Proctor again noted concern for the financial details in this agenda item.
- Commissioner Maddox asked if this is required to be approved in order to continue services.
- County Administrator Long noted that the financial information is required of applicants to prove that the entity is a viable organization.
Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Chairman Caban, to approve Option #1: Approve the renewal of the Advanced Life Support, First Responder, Non-Transport Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity issued to the Tallahassee Fire Department (Attachment #1).
The motion passed 6 – 1 with Commissioner Proctor in opposition.
Staff: Administration / Emergency Medical Services – Shington Lamy / Chief Chad Abrams
- PULLED – Authorization to Negotiate Professional Services Continuing Supply Agreements with Multiple Firms
(County Administrator / Public Works)
- This item was pulled from Consent by Commissioner Proctor.
Commissioner Cummings moved, seconded by Commissioner Maddox, to approve Option #1.
- Commissioner Proctor noted that the listed contractors lack diversity.
- Vice Chairman O’Keefe asked about the aggregate score summary for roadway contractors listed on page 3 of Attachment #2. He asked if there was specific logic or reasoning not to include the multiple other firms who had scores close to that of the third highest ranked firm which was selected.
- Mr. Nawfal Ezzagaghi responded that there are some instances of contracted services scores being tied at the third rank, and in those instances, staff did select more than three firms.
- County Administrator Long added that based on the amount of work estimated for the year for that particular contracted service, staff identify the number of firms needed in the solicitations and select the highest rated ones.
- Vice Chairman O’Keefe noted that staff answered his questions and there are no changes necessary at this time.
Commissioner Cummings moved, seconded by Commissioner Maddox, to approve Option #1: Authorize the County Administrator, or designee, to negotiate and execute 35 Professional Services Continuing Supply Agreements (Attachment #1), and any amendments thereto, subject to legal review and revision by the County Attorney.
The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Administration / Public Works – Nawfal Ezzagaghi / Brent Pell
General Business
- Proposed Public Notice 2027 Tentative Board Meeting Schedule, Proposed 2027 Travel Schedule, and Proposed Revisions to Board Policy No. 03-16 and Board Policy No. 12-5
(County Administrator / County Administration)
- County Administrator Long introduced the item.
Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Minor, to approve Options #1 through #5.
- Commissioner Proctor noted opposition to this item based on the impacts of Senate Bill 1134 which has altered the list of approved conferences that the Board is allowed to participate in, removing those that have the most impact on District 1 citizens in Leon County.
Commissioner Maddox amended his motion, seconded by Commissioner Minor, to withdraw Option #2.
- Commissioner Maddox thanked Commissioner Proctor for his comments on this agenda item.
- Chairman Caban suggested that individual Commissioners answer to their constituents and should have the authority to travel for Commission related business without having to seek approval from the Board.
- County Attorney O’Steen reminded everyone of Board policy which requires the approval of any Commissioner Travel in advance. If the Board desires to change that policy, they can.
- Vice Chairman O’Keefe noted support of the amended motion. He asked if the NAACP was hosting sessions at NACO, would Commissioners be restricted from participating in those sessions. He requested that staff notify the Board if they find any case law or precedent of another County allowing attendance at these types of conferences in the future.
- County Attorney O’Steen commented that there is no current case law, opinions or advisories on this topic because the law does not take effect until January 1, 2027.
- Commissioner Cummings noted concern for the exclusions of certain conferences on the 2027 Travel Schedule. If the goal of an organization is to advance humanity, the Board should be allowed to participate in those meetings and conferences.
- Commissioner Minor stated that if Option #2 is not approved, every Commissioner would need to request travel approval at a Board meeting prior to that trip occurring.
- Chairman Caban asked if the Board was required to take any action on Option #2.
- County Attorney O’Steen responded that the Board does not have to approve Option #2.
- County Administrator Long provided context for the reasons why the travel policy was established. He added that this process, in part, is a result of an audit finding to ensure that travel is preapproved and deemed an appropriate use of taxpayer funds.
- Commissioner Minor asked for confirmation that any travel requests presented at Board meetings during Commissioner Discussion time would require a unanimous vote.
- County Attorney O’Steen confirmed any travel requests brought up during Commissioner Discussion time would require an agenda item to come back at a future meeting or a unanimous vote for approval.
Commissioner Maddox moved, seconded by Commissioner Minor, to approve Options #1, #3, #4, and #5.
Option #1: Approve Adopt the proposed Leon County Board of County Commissioners’ Public Notice of the 2027 Tentative Board Meeting Schedule (Attachment #1);
Option #3: Approve the proposed revisions to Board Policy No. 0316, “Holidays” (Attachment #2);
Option #4: Approve the proposed 2027 Leon County Government Holiday Schedule (Attachment #3); and
Option #5: Approve the proposed revisions to Board Policy No. 12-5, “Proclamations and Resolutions – Ceremonial Recognition Policy” (Attachment #4), and authorize staff to amend the list of approved proclamations based on approved additions or deletions.
The motion passed 6 – 1 with Commissioner Proctor in opposition.
Staff: Administration – Ken Morris / Lisa Davis
Commissioner Cummings moved, seconded by Commissioner Proctor, to approve Option #2 as amended to add the four conferences that were removed back into the approved travel schedule.
- Commissioner Cummings spoke of the efforts that Leon County has made to be in compliance with Senate Bill 1134, but noted the importance of all four conferences that are not included in the proposed 2027 Travel Schedule.
- Commissioner Minor noted support for the intent of the motion, but added concern for the possible risk to Leon County as a whole if supported by a vote today.
- County Attorney O’Steen responded that the law does not become effective until January 1, 2027. Therefore, the vote of the Board today is not in violation of the law. However, any action taken by the Board after January 1, 2027, could put the County and/or an individual Commissioner at risk.
- Commissioner Maddox suggested the motion be amended to direct the County Attorney to seek confirmation from the Legislature regarding the intent of Senate Bill 1134 and the ability for Commissioners to attend these conferences which represent specific groups of constituents in their jurisdictions.
- County Attorney O’Steen suggested that if the direction is to get an Attorney General Opinion on this matter, she can do so. However, an Attorney General Opinion is not legally sufficient in a court hearing. Also, a county court deciding a case is not binding to other jurisdictions.
Commissioner Cummings did not accept the friendly amendment to pursue an Attorney General Opinion on the matter.
- Vice Chairman O’Keefe noted opposition of the motion as amended. He appreciates the direction of trying to get clarification from the Attorney General, but he suggested that it is not binding.
- Chairman Caban thanked staff and the County Attorney for preparing this information.
Commissioner Cummings moved, seconded by Commissioner Proctor, to approve Option #2 as amended: Approve the proposed 2027 Travel Schedule, and authorize travel for the Commissioners, Commissioner Aides, County Administrator, and County Attorney to the scheduled events, to include:
-
- the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) National Convention;
- the National Urban League Annual Conference;
- the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference; and
- the National Organization of Black County Officials (NOBCO) Annual Economic Development Conference.
The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Administration – Ken Morris / Lisa Davis
- September 2026 Quarterly Economic Dashboard Report
(County Administrator / Office of Economic Vitality)
- County Administrator Long introduced the item.
Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Cummings, to approve Option #1.
- Vice Chairman O’Keefe noted concern for the vacancy rate listed for Leon County. He asked what can be done to address this.
- Mr. Keith Bowers, Director of the Office of Economic Vitality, responded that having a vacancy rate can be considered healthy, in order to allow pursuit of new business growth. Additionally, he noted that the local vacancy rate is below the national average.
Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Cummings, to approve Option #1: Accept the September 2026 Quarterly Economic Dashboard Report (Attachment #1).
The motion passed 7 – 0.
Staff: Administration / Office of Economic Vitality – Nawfal Ezzagaghi / Keith Bowers
- Authorization to Execute New Three-Month Agreement in Support of the Tallahassee-Leon County Commission on the Status of Women and Girls
(County Administrator / County Administration)
- County Administrator Long introduced the item.
The following speaker provided in-person comment:
-
- Ms. Kelly Otte with the Oasis Center for Women and Girls thanked Commissioner Proctor and Commissioner Cummings for their comments on the impacts of Senate Bill 1134. She noted the importance of diverse communities. She asked the Board to approve an agreement similar to what the City approved for the full year.
Commissioner Minor moved, seconded by Commissioner Cummings, to approve Option #1 as amended to explore the prefunding concept and bring an agenda item back before the end of the 2026 Calendar Year.
- Commissioner Minor noted the important work of the CSWG.
- Vice Chairman O’Keefe asked what is stopping the County from approving the entire year of funding for the three months that the CSWG can operate with the currently established charge. He asked for clarification on whether an agenda item is scheduled to be presented to the Board prior to December 31, 2026. He requested a friendly amendment to award a three-month contract in the amount of $68,750 to the CSWG.
- County Attorney O’Steen noted that any contract with CSWG with their current charge can only be in place through December 31, 2026. If the Board wants to provide additional funding for the three-month period, that is permissible.
Commissioner Minor did not accept the friendly amendment.
Vice Chairman O’Keefe made a substitute motion to approve Option #1 as amended to provide the entire annual funding amount to the CSWG for the three-month period.
- Commissioner Proctor noted support for this additional funding in the three-month period.
- Commissioner Welch noted agreement with Commissioner Minor on requiring the updated agreement prior to approving the full funding.
- Commissioner Cummings noted support for the amended motion, but asked for clarification on the budgetary standpoint.
- County Administrator Long responded that the budget is available.
- Chairman Caban noted agreement with Commissioner Welch’s comments, but noted support for this organization and the services they provide to members of the community.
- Commissioner Minor asked for clarification if the substitute motion requires an agenda item to come back to the Board in December.
- Chairman Caban confirmed that the substitute motion does not require an agenda item to come back to the Board in December.
Commissioner O’Keefe made a substitute motion, seconded by Commissioner Proctor, to approve Option #1 as amended: Authorize the County Administrator to execute a three-month contract with The Oasis Center for Women & Girls, Inc., for administrative support provided to the Tallahassee-Leon County Commission on the Status of Women and Girls through December 31, 2026, subject to legal review and revision by the County Attorney, and provide $68,750 to the organization for the three month period.
The motion passed 5 – 2 with Commissioner Welch and Commissioner Minor in opposition.
Staff: Administration – Nicki Hatch
- Approval to Submit an Application for a Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Relief on behalf of Champions Ranch, Inc.
(County Administrator / Office of Management & Budget)
- County Administrator Long introduced the item.
Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Cummings, to approve Options #1, #2, and #3.
- Commissioner Proctor noted excitement and support for this proposal.
- Commissioner Welch thanked staff for facilitating this grant that requires no County match.
- Chairman Caban thanked the Ward family for the investment and the ability to have a successful public/private partnership. He stated that having a storm shelter in this area is vital for individuals in the southern portion of Leon County.
Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Cummings, to approve Options #1, #2, and #3.
Option #1: Authorize the County Administrator to submit the CDBG-DR application to FloridaCommerce as applicant and Subrecipient of record for the special needs shelter project (Attachment #1);
Option #2: Authorize the County Administrator to execute the Pre-Application Agreement, and any modifications or amendments thereto, with Champions Ranch, Inc. (Attachment #2), subject to legal review and revision by the County Attorney and, if FloridaCommerce awards the grant, to negotiate and execute the Post-Award Sub-subrecipient Agreement, the Land Use Restriction Agreement, the Facility Use Agreement, and any related agreements, amendments, exhibits, and closing documents with Champions Ranch, Inc., consistent with the Key Terms in this item and the Pre-Application Agreement, subject to legal review and revision by the County Attorney. Any material deviation from the Key Terms will be brought back to the Board; and
Option #3: Authorize the County Administrator to accept a CDBG-DR award for the project in an amount not to exceed $21.8 million and to execute the Subrecipient Agreement with FloridaCommerce, and any amendments, subject to legal review and revision by the County Attorney.
The motion passed 6 – 0 with Commissioner Maddox out of Chambers.
Staff: Administration / Office of Management and Budget – Mathieu Cavell / Roshaunda Bradley / Eryn Calabro
- Status Report on Leon County’s Authority to Regulate Kratom
(County Attorney)
- County Attorney O’Steen introduced the item and provided a brief introduction to the topic for reference.
The following speakers provided virtual comment:
-
- Ms. Ellen Snelling, Board Chair of the Hillsborough County Anti-Drug Alliance, spoke in support of a ban of Kratom in Leon County.
- Ms. Dana Macdonald spoke of her personal experience losing a 20-year old child due to Kratom.
- Chairman Caban requested a motion for the County Attorney to bring back an agenda item with a proposed ban on the sale of Kratom in Leon County. He noted that there are Kava stores in Leon County that sell leaf Kratom and he wants to see information on all aspects of the sale of these products in Leon County.
Vice Chairman O’Keefe moved, seconded by Commissioner Welch, to direct the County Attorney to bring an agenda item with a proposed ban on the sale of Kratom in Leon County.
- Chairman Caban noted that this is an opportunity to be leaders in protecting Leon County residents and visitors.
- Vice Chairman O’Keefe asked about enforcement options of a potential ban of these products.
- County Attorney O’Steen noted that there are a few enforcement options, and it would depend on what type of ban the Board would like to pursue (Countywide or only the unincorporated area).
- Commissioner Welch stated that most counties in Florida are probably moving toward banning these products in the near future.
- Chairman Caban provided some comments regarding enforcement.
Vice Chairman O’Keefe moved, seconded by Commissioner Welch, directing the County Attorney to prepare an agenda item on a proposed ban of the sale of Kratom in Leon County.
The motion passed 6 – 0 with Commissioner Maddox out of Chambers.
Staff: County Attorney – Chasity O’Steen
- Full Board Appointments to the Tourist Development Council
(County Administrator / County Administration)
- County Administrator Long introduced the item.
Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Cummings, to approve Option #1, selecting Ms. Haley Kamenicky for the Hotelier seat on the TDC, and Option #2, selecting Mr. Russell Daws for the Tourist Industry seat.
- Commissioner Minor noted that Ms. Savage is seeking reappointment to the hotelier seat and requested an amendment to Commissioner Proctor’s motion to reappoint her.
- Chairman Caban advised that both applicants for the hotelier seats are well qualified based on their resume.
- Commissioner Welch noted support for Commissioner Proctor’s motion.
Commissioner Proctor declined the friendly amendment request from Commissioner Minor.
Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Commissioner Cummings, to approve Options #1 and #2.
Option #1: Appoint one eligible applicant, Haley Kamenicky, to the Hotelier seat on the Tourist Development Council for a four-year term ending October 31, 2030, waiving the conflicting employment relationship as disclosed in Form 4A; and
Option #2: Appoint one eligible applicant, Russell Daws, to the Tourist Industry seat on the Tourist Development Council for a four-year term ending October 31, 2030.
The motion passed 6 – 0 with Commissioner Maddox out of Chambers.
Staff: Administration – Lisa Davis
SCHEDULED PUBLIC HEARINGS, 6:00 P.M.
- Second and Final Public Hearing to Adopt an Ordinance to Establish an 18-month Moratorium on Large-Load Customer Facilities, including Large-Scale Data Centers
(County Administrator / Development Support & Environmental Management)
- County Administrator Long introduced the item.
Commissioner Welch moved, seconded by Vice Chairman O’Keefe to approve Option #1: Conduct the second and final public hearing and adopt an Ordinance establishing an 18-month moratorium on large-load customer facilities, including large-scale data centers (Attachment #1).
The motion passed 6 – 0 with Commissioner Maddox out of Chambers.
Staff: Administration / Development Support & Environmental Management – Nawfal Ezzagaghi / Scott Brockmeier
- First and Only Public Hearing to Consider an Ordinance Amending Chapter 8, Article VIII, of the Code of Laws of Leon County, Florida, entitled Local Provider Participation Fund Non-Ad Valorem Assessment
(County Administrator / Office of Management and Budget)
- County Administrator Long introduced the item.
Vice Chairman O’Keefe moved, seconded by Commissioner Proctor, to approve Option #1.
- Commissioner Proctor asked for more information regarding hospitals and this particular funding.
- Mr. Suhail Chhabra, Counsel with Adelanto HealthCare Ventures, L.L.C., provided background as to what the Local Provider Participation Fund is and how it helps residents in Leon County with healthcare services.
- Vice Chairman O’Keefe asked additional clarifying questions about which hospitals are participating in the program and whether or not facilities are not negatively impacted by the proposed changes.
- County Administrator Long confirmed that both local hospitals are participating in this program. Other facilities who are not participating are in support of this program as well, as it would not harm them.
- Mr. Chhabra added that certain facilities such as rehabilitation centers, or specialty care facilities that don’t see the same amount of patient intake, do not need to be included in this program. Therefore, waivers were created for these types of facilities to carve them out of this program.
- Commissioner Proctor asked what the current formula is to calculate the reimbursement amount. He noted support for this agenda item and recommended support from the Board in order for Leon County to maximize the federal reimbursement amount.
- Mr. Chhabra responded that the calculation of the reimbursement amount depends on the total cost report submitted by the facility.
Vice Chairman O’Keefe moved, seconded by Commissioner Proctor, to approve Option #1: Conduct the first and only public hearing and adopt the proposed Ordinance amending Chapter 8, Article VIII, of the Code of Laws of Leon County, Florida, entitled “Local Provider Participation Fund Non-Ad Valorem Assessment” (Attachment #1).
The motion passed 6 – 0 with Commissioner Maddox out of Chambers.
Staff: Administration / Office of Management and Budget – Ken Morris / Roshaunda Bradley
Citizens to be Heard on Non-Agendaed Items
3-minute limit per speaker; Commission may discuss issues that are brought forth by speakers.
COMMENTS/DISCUSSION ITEMS
Items from the County Attorney
Items from the County Administrator
- County Administrator Long provided a brief update on response and recovery efforts related to Hurricane Isaias.
- He also thanked the County team for their response to the recent emergency event related to the electrical fire and explosion near the Courthouse.
Discussion Items by Commissioners
Commissioner Cummings
- Commissioner Cummings moved to waive the rules of the meeting, if necessary, to discuss and approve a tabled agenda item from the September 15th meeting regarding the placement of a commemorative marker on the Courthouse Grounds for Dr. Charles Evans.
- Chairman Caban seconded the motion for discussion.
- Commissioner Proctor noted concern for discussing this agenda item at this time while the family of Dr. Evans are grieving the loss of Dr. Evans’ wife.
- Commissioner Cummings noted support from the family to proceed with the placement of the commemorative marker on Friday since they would all be in town.
- Vice Chairman O’Keefe asked if the rules need to be waived in order to discuss an item that was tabled at a previous meeting. He also asked staff if the commemorative marker can be installed in that short amount of time.
- County Attorney O’Steen noted that the item is being brought up during Commissioner Discussion time and, therefore, would need a unanimous vote to be approved.
- Commissioner Cummings confirmed with the Florida Civil Rights Museum staff that everything is complete with the commemorative marker and is waiting on approval from the Board to be installed.
- Commissioner Proctor asked if there are standard requirements for requests to place commemorative markers on County property.
- County Administrator Long noted County Policy No. 97-3 regarding the naming of County Buildings does not apply to this request. This particular placement of a commemorative marker is within the Board’s discretion to move forward if so desired.
- Vice Chairman O’Keefe noted concern with moving forward with no time to review all the details.
Commissioner Cummings moved, seconded by Chairman Caban, to approve the installation of a commemorative marker for Dr. Charles Evans on Courthouse grounds this Friday, October 18, 2026.
The motion failed 4 – 2 with Commissioner Proctor and Vice Chairman O’Keefe in opposition, and Commissioner Maddox out of Chambers.
- Commissioner Cummings requested a proclamation recognizing the life of Ms. Evans, to be presented to the Evans family at an external event.
Commissioner Cummings moved, seconded by Commissioner Proctor, requesting a proclamation recognizing the life of Ms. Evans, to be presented to the Evans family at an external event this weekend.
The motion passed 6 – 0 with Commissioner Maddox out of Chambers.
Staff: Administration – Regina Glee
Commissioner Minor
- Commissioner Minor thanked County staff and City Utility staff for their quick response and recovery efforts during and after Hurricane Isaias.
- Commissioner Minor requested a proclamation recognizing Ms. Vivian Young for 30 years of dedicated service with 1000 Friends of Florida in promoting environmentally friendly growth management in Leon County and the State of Florida.
Commissioner Minor moved, seconded by Vice Chairman O’Keefe, requesting a proclamation recognizing Ms. Vivian Young for 30 years of dedicated service with 1000 Friends of Florida in promoting environmentally friendly growth management in Leon County and the State of Florida.
The motion passed 6 – 0 with Commissioner Maddox out of Chambers.
Staff: Administration – Regina Glee
Vice Chairman O’Keefe
- Vice Chairman O’Keefe requested information on the fiber optic repairs required after the recent electrical fire.
- Mr. Mathieu Cavell, Director of Community Relations, Resilience, and Innovation, responded that those assessments are still being completed, and an email update will be provided to the Board once the full costs are confirmed.
Staff: Administration – Mathieu Cavell
Commissioner Proctor
- Commissioner Proctor requested information on how much money has been spent on the Airport Gateway Project by Blueprint. He requested a status report on this along with what promises were made to the neighborhoods about improvements.
Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Chairman Caban, requesting a status report on the Airport Gateway Project.
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- County Attorney O’Steen commented that any discussion on Blueprint topics by only Board members without being properly noticed could be potential sunshine violations.
Commissioner Proctor withdrew his motion.
- He requested information from the County Administrator via email on the Airport Gateway Project including funds spent on the project and contract information.
Commissioner Proctor moved, seconded by Chairman Caban, requesting the County Administrator to email the Board information on the Airport Gateway project including funds spent on the project and contract information.
The motion passed 6 – 0 with Commissioner Maddox out of Chambers.
Staff: Administration / Planning, Land Management and Community Enhancement / Blueprint – Nawfal Ezzagaghi / Artie White / Autumn Calder
- He asked for details as to who hires leadership staff for Blueprint.
- County Administrator Long responded that there is an Interlocal Agreement that authorizes the County Administrator and City Manager to hire and fire the Planning, Land Management and Community Enhancement (PLACE) Director. The remaining positions are filled through a competitive selection process. The County Administrator noted that he is currently working with the City Manager to determine what may have been overlooked in the recent hiring process and hopes to have things figured out soon.
- He thanked all the County staff who worked before, during, and after the Hurricane to keep Leon County residents and visitors safe.
Commissioner Maddox
Commissioner Welch
- Commissioner Welch requested a proclamation recognizing Montford Middle School Fall Sports Teams Championships, to be presented in Chambers on December 8, 2026.
Commissioner Welch moved, seconded by Commissioner Minor, requesting a proclamation recognizing Montford Middle School Fall Sports Teams Championships, to be presented in Chambers on December 8, 2026.
The motion passed 6 – 0 with Commissioner Maddox out of Chambers.
Staff: Administration – Regina Glee
- He requested an agenda item on County rights-of-way to include the process for maintaining these areas, the schedule of maintenance, and options for increased service to ensure Leon County rights-of way are as clean and safe as possible.
- Commissioner Minor added support for this topic and asked for a friendly amendment to create a citizen committee to accept public feedback and complaints and organize them for staff coordination.
- Commissioner Welch accepted the friendly amendment and any other suggestions that the Board has related to this topic.
- Chairman Caban noted concern that most of these areas are within the City limits.
Commissioner Welch moved, seconded by Commissioner Minor, requesting a status update on the maintenance of County rights-of-way to include:
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- the current schedule of maintenance;
- options to enhance service levels to ensure Leon County rights-of way are as clean and safe as possible;
- assess the ability to utilize inmates for these maintenance services while providing vocational training;
- review opportunities to allow community service volunteers to assist with maintenance; and
- evaluate the potential establishment of a joint citizen committee to gather input from the public in order to help prioritize problem areas.
The motion passed 6 – 0 with Commissioner Maddox out of Chambers.
Staff: Administration / Public Works / Office of Intervention and Detention Alternatives / Office of Resource Stewardship / Community and Media Relations – Nawfal Ezzagaghi / Shington Lamy / Mathieu Cavell / Brent Pell / Teresa Broxton / Maggie Theriot / Kianna Gilley
Chairman Caban
- Chairman Caban asked for an update from the PLACE Director on Blueprint’s progress toward confirming the Airport Gateway project information with the State as requested by the IA Board.
- Mr. Artie White, Director of PLACE, responded that staff have been working to evaluate the letter provided at the Blueprint meeting and will be coordinating with the state next week to confirm the information.
- Chairman Caban commented that the timeline for this process has already taken too long and suggested that it be completed as soon as possible.
- He requested a motion from the Board to grant the County Administrator the authority to seek and apply for any state grant funding opportunities relevant to improvements for Tharpe Street.
- County Administrator Long noted that staff already have Board direction to do so.
Commissioner Minor moved, seconded by Commissioner Cummings, granting authority to the County Administrator to pursue any state grant funding opportunities relevant to improvements for Tharpe Street.
The motion passed 5 – 0 with Commissioner Maddox and Vice Chairman O’Keefe out of Chambers.
Staff: Administration / Public Works / Office of Management and Budget – Nawfal Ezzagaghi / Brent Pell / Eryn Calabro
- He noted the delay in response from the City regarding the recent electrical fire and explosion on Monroe Street is alarming. He added that it should not take three days for the City to coordinate with County leadership on the cause of the fire.
- He thanked County staff for all the work around the clock over the past few weeks, and looking ahead through the month of October. He added that the Board recognizes the hard work and appreciates all staff efforts.
RECEIPT AND FILE
- Capital Region Community Development District Fiscal Year 2027 Meeting Dates
- Canopy Community Development District Fiscal Year 2027 Meeting Dates
ADJOURN
The next meetings of the Board of County Commissioners are scheduled for
Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. – Fire Rescue Services Workshop
Tuesday, October 27, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. – TMH Community Health Needs Assessment Workshop
Tuesday, November 17, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. – Installation, Reorganization, and Regular Meeting
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.