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2018.03.27_TC_Minutes_Workshop TOWN OF HIGHLAND BEACH TOWN COMMISSION WORKSHOP MINUTES Town Hall/Commission Chambers Date: March 27,2018 3614 South Ocean Boulevard Time: 1:30 PM Highland Beach,Florida CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Carl Feldman called the Workshop Meeting to order at 1:30 PM. PRESENT UPON ROLL CALL: Mayor Carl Feldman Vice Mayor Alysen A.Nila Commissioner Rhoda Zelniker Commissioner Elyse Riesa Commissioner Peggy Gossett-Seidman Town Attorney Pamala Ryan Town Manager Valerie Oakes Town Clerk Lanelda Gaskins Pledge of Allegiance: The Pledge of Allegiance was led by the Commission, followed by a moment of silence. Civility Pledge: Town Clerk Gaskins recited the Civility Pledge. 1. ADDITIONS.DELETIONS OR ACCEPTANCE OF AGENDA: A) Vice Mayor Nila requested to delete Item 4C, Board Vacancies and Interviews from the agenda and postpone it to the next meeting since there was an item under New Business, Item 6C: Discussion on Town Advisory Boards Roles and Input on the Agenda. Mayor Feldman explained that the two applicants came to the meeting today to be interviewed for the board vacancies. Discussion ensued. Commissioner Gossett-Seidman asked if the Commission could compromise and interview the applicants after the discussion since they were present at the meeting. Commissioner Riesa agreed with Vice Mayor Nila and was in favor of postponing the Talent Bank Interviews. Town Commission Workshop Minutes Date: March 27,2018 Page 2 of 10 Commissioner Zelniker concurred with Vice Mayor Nila. Mayor Feldman expressed his concerns and was not in favor of putting off the interviews. B) Town Manager Oakes suggested that since there was not a consensus to remove the item from the agenda, the Commission would hear Item 4C, Board Vacancies and Interviews. She explained that the Commission always has the opportunity to place those appointments under Miscellaneous — Items Left Over at the next Town Commission meeting and take action at that time. It was the consensus of the Commission to have Item 4C, Board Vacancies and Interviews remain on this agenda. The Agenda was accepted as presented,which passed unanimously. 2. PUBLIC COMMENTS AND REOUESTS: The following residents provided comments: David Axelrod, Chair of Planning Board John Fitzsimons 3. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS: A) Unlicensed Contractor Presentation by Palm Beach County, Department of Planning, Zoning & Building, Contractors Certification Division Oscar Alvarez, Director Palm Beach County, Department of Planning, Zoning & Building, Contractor's Certification Division gave a PowerPoint presentation highlighting the following: o Mission Statement o Purposes o What is required to become a Licensed Contractor o Regulated trades o List of trades issued licenses o Warning signs Jeremy Dennis, Field Investigator highlighted the following: o Warning Signs o Help yourself o Case Number 2017-19621 —Three(3) unlicensed contractors contracted in Ambassador East o Unlicensed vs Licensed Contractor Advertisement o Contact Information for the Contractors Certification Division Town Commission Workshop Minutes Date: March 27,2018 Page 3 of 10 Mr.Alvarez encouraged the Homeowners Associations to be more active. Commission Discussion: Commissioner Gossett-Seidman commented on contractors charging a fee to bid on a job. Commissioner Riesa asked if it was a requirement to have a license number on the advertisement. Mr. Alvarez replied that it was a requirement. Commissioner Zelniker commented on construction that was done in the Coronado and asked how it was passed. Mr. Alvarez explained that the role of Palm Beach County, Department of Planning & Zoning Building, Contractors Certification Division was to help when there was an unlicensed contractor. Mayor Feldman also provided comments regarding the work that was done in the Coronado as well as his condominium. 4. BOARDS AND COMMITTEES: Town Clerk Gaskins read Board and Committees Items 4A through 4D into the record. A) Board Correspondence: None. B) Board Action Report: None. C) Board Vacancies and Interviews: Financial Advisory Board — Two (2) Vacancies: One Three Year Term and One Unexpired Term Ending May 2018. Talent Bank Application: Neil Eisenband, 1106 Russell Drive was present and gave a brief history of his professional experience. It was the consensus of the Commission to place this item on the April 3, 2018, Regular Meeting Agenda under Miscellaneous—Items Left Over. Board of Adjustment and Appeals: Talent Bank Application: Re-Appointment for a Three Year Term Ending April 2021 Thomas "Tim" Burnich 4505 S. Ocean Blvd. #404 was present and gave a brief history of his background and expressed his interest in serving on the board for a full three-year tern. Town Commission Workshop Minutes Date: March 27,2018 Page 4 of 10 It was the consensus of the Commission to place this item on the April 3, 2018, Regular Meeting Agenda under Miscellaneous Items—Left Over. D) Monthly Meetings and Events: Town Commission Regular Meeting—April 3, 2018— 1:30 PM Planning Board Meeting—April 11, 2018—9:30 AM Town Commission Workshop Meeting—April 24, 2018— 1:30 PM 5. PROPOSED ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS: A) ORDINANCE NO. 18-002 O Town Clerk Gaskins read the title of Ordinance No. 18-002 O into the record. AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN COMMISSION OF THE TOWN OF HIGHLAND BEACH, FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER 30 "ZONING", ARTICLE IV "ZONING DISTRICTS", SECTION 30-68 "SUPPLEMENTAL DISTRICT REGULATIONS"; AMENDING ARTICLE VIII "DEFINITIONS", SECTION 30-131 "DEFINITIONS OF TERMS",TO MODIFY THE REGULATIONS REGARDING STORING OF BOATS ON BOAT LIFTS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR THE REPEAL OF LAWS IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Town Manager Oakes presented this item. Commission Discussion: Commissioner Gossett-Seidman provided comments regarding boats having to be elevated as high as possible with a full tank of gas and heavily roped down during a hurricane. She explained the three different types of boat lifts, their elevations, and the water line and did not understand the nature of this ordinance. Commissioner Riesa asked Valentino Perez, Building Official if he could answer any of the questions posed by Commissioner Gossett-Seidman. Mr. Perez referred this to David Axelrod, Chair of the Planning Board. David Axelrod, Chair of the Planning Board provided an explanation as to the Planning Board's recommendations regarding the boat lifts. Commissioner Zelniker provided comments regarding boat lifts, especially in Bel Lido, which has been an ongoing discussion for several years. There needs to be a guideline as to the height of the boat lifts for aesthetic purposes. Town Commission Workshop Minutes Date: March 27,2018 Page 5 of 10 Vice Mayor Nila mentioned that the ordinance was a good start for the property owners but may need to be finessed a little bit as far as some of the points brought up by Commissioner Gossett- Seidman. Mayor Feldman provided comments regarding the obstruction of views caused by the boat lifts. He stated if the Building Official explained that the ordinance may not be enforced, what was the purpose of having this ordinance? It was the consensus of the Commission to place Ordinance No. 18-002 O on the April 3, 2018, Regular Meeting Agenda. 6. NEW BUSINESS: A) Approval of Town Commission Meeting Minutes: February 27,2018—Workshop Minutes March 6, 2018—Regular Minutes It was the consensus of the Commission to place Item 6A on the April 3, 2018,Regular Meeting Consent Agenda. B) Discussion on Streetscape Project. Town Manager Oakes introduced this item. Commission Discussion: Commissioner Gossett-Seidman was in favor of discussing reconfiguration of the sidewalk, landscaping, signage, and crosswalks after the Swale issues are repaired, and the flooding issues are addressed. She explained that the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) does not have control over the swales in front of single-family homes. They only have control over condominiums and multi-family homes. Commissioner Riesa concurred with Commissioner Gossett-Seidman. She mentioned that the Town needs to get more help from FDOT in a more expedited manner. The flooding issues need to be fixed first. She was in favor of replacing the entire sidewalk rather than do spot repairs and continue to work with FDOT on the flooding issues. She stated the Town deserves to look beautiful. The Planning Board should be involved with the Streetscape Project and work with the Town Commission. Commissioner Zelniker asked that this item not be referred to as the Streetscape Project. She explained that residents need to be involved. The walk path should be tasked to the Planning Board for recommendations to the Commission. She concurred with Commissioner Riesa and she suggested that the walk path be done right. There needs to a vote at the next meeting Town Commission Workshop Minutes Date: March 27,2018 Page 6 of 10 regarding how the Town should proceed with the walk path, spot repairs, or replacing the entire sidewalk. Vice Mayor Nila was in agreement that something has to be done. The issues of the bicycle path, walk path, crosswalks, and flooding need to be addressed. She agreed that the entire walkway should be repaved. Mayor Feldman provided comments regarding the Ad Hoc Citizen Streetscape Committee members. He stated that the Town needs to move forward for the safety of the residents. The overlay was the way we have to go at this time, at a cost of approximately $200,000 to $250,000. Public Works Director Edward Soper provided comments regarding the previous overlay, durability,and maintenance. It was the consensus of the Commission to place this item on the April 3, 2018, Regular Agenda under Miscellaneous—Items Left Over. C) Discussion on Town Advisory Boards Roles and Input. Vice Mayor Nila stated that it is very important that the Chairperson of an advisory board does the initial vetting of a person looking to join an advisory board since the Chair most likely would be looking for something specific for their Board and know what their requirements are. She suggested that there should be two members from each advisory board in attendance at the Town Commission meetings in order to obtain more input and utilize the advisory boards. Commissioner Riesa was in favor of Vice Mayor Nila's suggestion. She provided comments regarding the Beaches and Shores Advisory Board and the reason for disbanding that board. She explained that she was of the opinion that the Beaches and Shores Advisory Board should be reinstated. She referred to a 2003 resolution related to the Beaches and Shores Advisory Board's responsibilities. She mentioned that action needs to be taken regarding the responsibilities such as regulating beach cleaning, reviewing the Town codes, patrolling the beaches, turtle nesting, and other beach-related issues. They need to do research regarding grants and report back to the Town Commission and Town Manager. It is very important that this board be brought back to assist the Town in making the beaches beautiful. Commissioner Gossett-Seidman concurred with Commissioner Riesa. She commented on the fact that there was a great deal of talent amongst the residents, and the Commission should continue to request their help on many different levels. Highland Beach has several architects who can give their input and assist the Town. Commissioner Zelniker commented on the residents wanting to be part of the Highland Beach government. She explained that she would like to reinstate the Code Enforcement Board and task them with reviewing the Town codes, and report back to the Commission. She concurred with Vice Mayor Nila that board members need to participate in the Town Commission meetings and take responsibility. i I Town Commission Workshop notes Mi Date: March 27,2018 Page 7 of 10 Greg Babij, Chair of the Financial Advisory Board was in favor of an advisory board Chairperson vetting a potential candidate before coming to the Town Commission. He provided comments regarding why it may be necessary for the vetting process. Mayor Feldman was not in favor of the Chairperson performing the initial vetting. He spoke about the disbanding of the Beaches and Shores Advisory Board and the start of the new Beaches and Shores Club. The new club was doing some great things and the Commission needs to support them. Vice Mayor Nila reiterated her comments regarding the Chairperson of the different boards and how they need to be more involved. Commissioner Riesa wanted to have the Beaches and Shores Advisory Board and the Code Enforcement Board reinstated so the residents have more of an opportunity to be involved. She asked if the Town Manager could put together individual agenda items relating to the items that have been discussed so the Commission can vote yes or no. Commissioner Gossett Seidman concurred with Commissioner Riesa and Vice Mayor Nila. Commissioner Zelniker was not in favor of the Special Magistrate and wanted the Code Enforcement Board back. Town Manager Oakes addressed the Vice Mayor's goals. She asked what her expectation would be if a chairperson was not in favor of an appointment and did not want any lack of communication with the process. Vice Mayor Nila explained that she wanted to make sure that the Boards have the expertise level that they need. Ultimately the final decision would still be up to the Commission. Mayor Feldman provided comments and explained his thoughts regarding the appointment process. Town Manager Oakes explained that the Commission will still be holding the interviews. They would just be hearing from the Chairperson as to their recommendation. Mayor Feldman commented on the fact that it was not the diplomatic way of appointing members. He was in favor of keeping it as is. Town Manager Oakes had concerns regarding the mandatory attendance of two members because they both could be at the meeting but could not speak due to the Sunshine Law. She asked Vice Mayor Nila if she would be amenable to requiring the Chair of the board attend the meeting and in his absence have either the Vice Chair or another member attend. Vice Mayor Nila was in favor of this. Mayor Feldman asked if the advisory board members would receive compensation for their attendance. The board members receive $25.00 per meeting. Town Commission Workshop Minutes Date: March 27,2018 Page 8 of 10 Vice Mayor Nila indicated that it would be well worth having them at the meetings. Commissioner Zelniker stated that she would like to address this in the near future. She believes in volunteering and not to be paid for their time. It was the consensus of the Commission to place the items discussed on the April 3, 2018, Regular Meeting Agenda under New Business. D) Discussion on Resident Participation. Vice Mayor Nila explained she wanted to hear the voice of the residents. We should thank the residents who come to the meetings and speak during Public Comments. It is imperative that we have public participation and there should be at least one Commission meeting, preferably the Workshop meeting, held in the evening for those residents who work. Commissioner Gossett-Seidman concurred with Vice Mayor Nila. She suggested the evening meeting be held in the fall or spring and not in the summer when people are traveling or up north. She mentioned that resident's emails should be read into the record. Commissioner Riesa addressed a motion she made at a previous meeting to allow the Mayor to read emails or letters from residents who were not available to attend meetings, which was denied. She explained that she would like to make this motion again to see if this Commission would reconsider allowing the residents to have a voice. Commissioner Zelniker concurred with all the statements that have been made. She stated that she believes in open government. The Commission should be allowed to make comments when the public addresses them during Public Comments. Mayor Feldman provided comments regarding reading emails into the record and responding to public comments. Town Attorney Ryan suggested that the Commission should not give a verbal answer if they were not sure that it was correct. Also, there needs to be some type of vetting since some of the emails or letters may not be appropriate to read. It was the consensus of the Commission to place the three items; reading of emails and letters into the record; nightly meetings and responding to public comments on the April 3, 2018, Regular Meeting Agenda under New Business. 7. MISCELLANEOUS—ITEMS LEFT OVER: None. Town Commission Workshop Minutes Date: March 27,2018 Page 9 of 10 8. REPORTS—TOWN COMMISSION: A) Commissioner Peggy Gossett-Seidman recognized former Commissioner George Kelvin for his service. B) Commissioner Elyse Riesa thanked everyone for a fabulous turnout at the Spring Fling Community Event held on March 24, 2018. C) Commissioner Rhoda Zelniker thanked everyone for coming to the meeting. She wished everyone a joyous Easter and Happy Passover. D) Vice Mayor Alysen A. Nila thanked everyone for their participation in the Municipal Election and was very excited to be part of the Town Commission. E) Mayor Carl Feldman mentioned the Spring Fling Community Event held on Saturday, March 24th which was a great success and thanked all the staff and participants. 9. REPORTS—TOWN ATTORNEY PAMALA RYAN: Town Attorney yn had no report. 10. REPORTS—TOWN MANAGER VALERIE OAKES: Town Manager Oakes gave her report on the following: Regarding the plaque for the victims of the Marjorie Stoneman Douglas, Town Manager Oakes drafted a letter for the Mayor's signature to the Superintendent and the Principal of the school to get permission from the families of the victims to place the children's names on the plaque. The Spring Fling was successful. She thanked the staff, volunteers, and vendors. She also thanked the Town Commission for funding this event. She responded to Ira Oaklander's questions and concerns regarding the Fire Rescue and EMS billing practices. The Remineralization Project was completed. The Fire Hydrant Project was completed. FP&L was scheduled to start the LED street lighting conversion project along AIA the week of April 9th. FP&L will be removing the old utility poles in the near future. AT&T is scheduled to transfer their wires from the old poles to the new harden ones on April 30tH Town Commission Workshop Minutes Date: March 27,2018 Page 10 of 10 The Bel Lido Rehabilitation has been awarded. Commencement of the project is to be announced. The bridge will remain open during construction. The flashing LED sign that is to be installed at the south end of Town from FDOT has experienced another delay. 11. PUBLIC COMMENTS AND REQUESTS RELATED TO AGENDA ITEMS DISCUSSED AT MEETING ONLY: The following residents provided comments: John Fitzsimmons John Boden Katherina Braun Greg Babij 12. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business Mayor Feldman called for a motion to adjourn the Workshop meeting. MOTION: Commissioner Zelniker made a motion to adjourn the Workshop meeting at 4:12 P.M. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Riesa,which passed unanimously. APPROVED: L- OFeldman,Mayor , C omsione , Cos is , ATTEST: z an a Gaskins, MM Date