2020.01.21_TC_Minutes_Regular • TOWN OF HIGHLAND BEACH
TOWN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
Town Hall/Commission Chambers Date: January 21, 2020
3614 South Ocean Boulevard Time: 1:30 PM
Highland Beach, Florida
1. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Zelniker called the meeting to order at 1:31 P.M.
2. PRESENT UPON ROLL CALL
Commissioner Evalyn David
Commissioner Barry Donaldson
Commissioner Peggy Gossett-Seidman
Vice Mayor Greg Babij
Mayor Rhoda Zelniker
Town Attorney Leonard Rubin
Town Manager Marshall Labadie
Town Clerk Lanelda Gaskins
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Commission led the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a moment of silence.
4. ADDITIONS. DELETIONS, AND APPROVAL OF THEAGENDA
MOTION: Commissioner David moved to accept the agenda as presented. Commissioner
Gossett-Seidman seconded the motion, which passed (5-0) unanimously.
5. CIVILITY PLEDGE
Town Clerk Gaskins recited the Civility Pledge.
We will be respectful of one another even when we disagree
We will direct all comments to the issue
We will avoid personal attacks
"Politeness costs so little."
By: Abraham Lincoln
6. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS
A. None.
Town Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
January 21,2020 Page 2 of 19
7. PUBLIC COMMENTS AND REQUESTS NON-AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
Mr. Tim Burnich of 4505 S Ocean Blvd read section 12-2 Construction Site Cleanliness
Construction Site Safety, paragraph A into record and discussed an issue he was having with sand
being blown onto his property from a neighbor's yard.
Mr.Allen Goldstein of 4408 Intracoastal Drive provided comments about an incident that occurred
in January near the Delray Sands, where two gentlemen screamed anti-Semitic propaganda while
his son and granddaughter were nearby and witnessed the act.
Mayor Zelniker provided comments concerning the incident.
Mr.John Shoemaker of Highland Beach Club commented that he had been getting input regarding
homelessness in the state and the area. The issue of Milani Park came up and he said he believed
the park may become a repository for the homeless. He proceeded to remark that he had seen
homeless persons in the area and that many of them were in the Mangroves and under the bridges.
He said that when he went to the Ranger Station(City of Boca Raton owned park),he asked a park
personnel if she had a policy and she was unaware. He said in his research of other municipalities
policies regarding homelessness, he was surprised to find that there was little being done with the
homeless issue.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman stated that she concurred with Mr. Shoemaker's statement. She
provided comments about homelessness at an abandoned garage at a park (park not specified).
She said she knew that there was a situation between the Cities of Delray and Boynton Beach
regarding homelessness on a pocket of land. The land was not being taken care of in accordance
to County codes and was subsequently turned over to the City of Delray Beach. She stated that
maybe the Town should check into it.
Commissioner David asked Town Manger Labadie if the Town could contact County personnel to
ask if they could clean up the area and drain the swamp on the other side of the street. She said
that the County should be held to the same standard as everyone else.
Commissioner Donaldson explained that homelessness is a complexed issue. He said, in the past,
he worked with people who could not get assistance, and that homelessness was a symptom of an
underlying problem,sometimes sets of problems. Solving the issue had to be met through a variety
of approaches. He said that he had nothing but sympathy for people that found themselves in such
situations. He stated that he wished he had better answers and not to lose sight of the fact that
people were involved.
Vice Mayor Babij had no comments.
Mayor Zelniker stated that homelessness was a problem that had to do with society and how society
handled it. She gave comments about group homes and state involvement. She said people must
have sympathy for homeless people and that everyone had to get involved, as it related to the
government and state. She stated that an eye must be kept on the matter.
Town Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
January 21, 2020 Page 3 of 19
8. ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mayor Zelniker read the following announcements.
A. Board Vacancies
1. Board of Adjustment& Appeals Three vacancies for a three-year term
2. Code Enforcement Board One vacancy for an unexpired term ending
July 1, 2020,
One vacancy for an unexpired term ending
August 1, 2021,
One vacancy for an unexpired term ending
May 28,2022
3. Financial Advisory Board One upcoming vacancy for an unexpired term
ending April 30, 2022
B. Meetings and Events
Town Commission Meeting February 4, 2020 1:30 PM
Planning Board Meeting February 13, 2020 9:30 AM
Town Commission Meeting February 18, 2020 1:30 PM
Town Hall Closed: February 17, 2020—in Observance of Presidents' Day
C. Board Action Report
1. Natural Resources Preservation Board
2. Census Complete Count Committee
3. Financial Advisory Board
Town Manager Labadie explained that he hada report from Mr. Stern and read it into the record.
Town Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
January 21,2020 Page 4 of 19
9. ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
A. RESOLUTION NO. 20-003 / FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION —
DISTRICT FOUR MAINTENANCE MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT
A RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COMMISSION OF THE TOWN OF HIGHLAND
BEACH, FLORIDA, APPROVING AN AGREEMENT WITH THE FLORIDA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR THE INSTALLATION AND
MAINTENANCE OF IMPROVEMENTS ON STATE ROAD AlA; AUTHORIZING THE
TOWN MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT ON BEHALF OF THE TOWN;
AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Mayor Zelniker read the title into record.
Town Manager Labadie introduced the item and discussed various improvements that needed to
be made on State Road A IA.
Commissioner David asked if there were any cons to signing the agreement. Town Manager
Labadie advised that if the Town signed it, they get a permit. If they did not sign it, then they
would not get a permit. He stated that the agreement spelled out the maintenance responsibilities.
Commissioner Donaldson had questions regarding the timing on the installation and on lighting.
He asked if there were previsions made so that they may be removed or reinstalled pending any
future work. Town Manger Labadie explained that there were two option that were Florida
Department of Transportation (FDOT) approved. He said that the lights and the Solar Powered
System Components could always be salvaged and moved out and went over some of the items
that would not be recovered.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman asked what the cost would be for replacement of the items that
would be lost. Town Manager Labadie stated that over the first couple of years there should not
be any loss except maybe randomly but explained that many parts would have a one-year labor
and material warranty. He advised that having some indirect contact with the City of Deerfield
Beach, it was discovered that because of the salt atmosphere, the lights did not last the estimated
timeline and would probably require a budget of a few thousand dollars, for replacement if that
status was reached.
Vice Mayor Babii asked if a 50-year agreement to maintain that was pretty standard. Town
Manager Labadie stated yes and provided more information on additional items and
improvements.
Town Attorney stated that FDOT agreements were standard and would not be changed.
Mayor Zelniker stated that the Town had been working on this for many years, and that it was very
dangerous at night, due to the lack of good lighting and that the Town was very lucky that no one
had been hurt. She said that the residents need good lighting when crossing the street at night and
flashing lights during the day.
Town Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
January 21, 2020 Page 5 of 19
MOTION: Commissioner David moved to adopt Resolution No. 20-003; Commissioner
Donaldson seconded the motion,which passed(5-0) unanimously.
B. RESOLUTION NO. 20-004/AUTHORITY TO ACCESS SAFE DEPOSIT BOXES
A RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COMMISSION OF THE TOWN OF HIGHLAND
BEACH, FLORIDA, GRANTING AUTHORITY TO THE TOWN MANAGER AND THE
TOWN FINANCE DIRECTOR TO MANAGE, MAINTAIN, AND ACCESS ALL SAFE
DEPOSIT BOXES UTILIZED BY THE TOWN; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Mayor Zelniker read the title into record.
Town Manager Labadie introduced the item and stated that Finance Director Matthew Lalla
obtained information from PNC Bank confirming that there were two safe deposit boxes belonging
to the Town. He advised that the keys had been located,but the boxes could not be accessed until
the signatures were updated. He said that at this time,the contents of the boxes were still unknown.
Commissioner David asked if there was a reason for the Town to keep the safety deposit boxes
once the Town had gained access to them.
Commissioner Donaldson thanked Finance Director Lalla for locating the boxes and made
additional comments pertaining to what should happen if the Town decided to keep the contents
in the safety deposit boxes.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman did not have any comments.
Vice Mayor Babij did not have any comments.
Mayor Zelniker stated that it was found about three years ago that the signatures were never
changed. She reminded everyone to update the signature cards for the banks when new personnel
are hired. She opened public comments.
Ms. June Kerr of Beachwalk East asked if the public would be notified of the box contents. She
was advised that they would be.
MOTION: Vice Mayor Babij moved to adopt Resolution No. 20-004, Commissioner Gossett-
Seidman seconded the motion, which passed(5-0) unanimously.
10. CONSENT AGENDA
A. There were no Consent Agenda items.
11. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. There were no Unfinished Business items.
Town Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
January 21,2020 Page 6 of 19
12. NEW BUSINESS
A. Advisory Boards and Committees Interviews and Consideration to Nominate One Member to
serve on the Planning Board for an unexpired term ending September 1, 2022:
Board Applications:
Michael Cherbini - Subdivision: Toscano South
Bryan Perilman- Subdivision: Toscano South
Roger Brown - Subdivision: Bel Lido
The aforementioned applicants were present at the Commission meeting.Town Commission asked
each applicant a series of questions regarding their interest and professional experiences.
Major Zelniker asked Michael Cherbini to come to the podium and tell the Commission why he
was interested in serving on the Planning Board.
Mr.Michael Cherbini of Toscana South explained that he became a full-time resident last year and
have lived in Highland Beach for 14 years. He stated that he is a retired engineer and business
owner.
INTERVIEW:
Commissioner David asked Mr. Cherbini what type of Engineer he was. Mr. Cherbini explained
that he was a Mechanical Engineer and provided background information about his professional
experiences as an engineer and business owner. Commissioner David asked what specific benefits
he saw himself bringing to the Planning Board. Mr. Cherbini replied that he had construction and
design work experience. Mainly he worked on reconstruction of old homes projects.
Commissioner Donaldson asked Mr. Cherbini how long he had lived in Highland Beach. Mr.
Cherbini responded that he has lived in Highland Beach for as long as Toscana South had been
built. He stated that he has been a full-time resident for about two years.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman asked Mr. Cherbini to describe his line of work in New York,and
to elaborate on what he had been doing. Mr. Cherbini stated that he was responsible for mostly
blueprints and estimates.
Vice Mayor Babij asked Mr. Cherbini what location of Grumman he had worked for. Mr. Cherbini
advised that he worked in Plants 3 and 5.
Mayor Zelniker had no further questions to ask of Mr. Cherbini and asked Bryan Perilman to
please come to the podium, state his first and last name, and tell the Commission why he was
interest in serving on the Planning Board.
Mr. Perilman provided background information about himself including his time on the Board of
Adjustments and Appeals, as Chairperson of the Board.
Town Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
January 21, 2020 Page 7 of 19
Commissioner David asked what specific benefits he saw himself bringing to the Planning Board.
Mr. Perilman replied that he was familiar with the operation of government and that his
background was in government. He provided information of his various government jobs and
experiences.
Commissioner Donaldson stated that they were on the same board and that he was familiar with
his demeanor and believed he would be a great addition to the board.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman thanked Mr. Perilman for applying to participate on the board
then asked him how familiar he was with the Town's codes.Mr. Perilman discussed having to deal
with building regulations and that he was able to find out what could and could not be done.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman asked about his boating experience. Mr. Perilman responded
about the experience he had with boating.
Vice Mayor Babii had no questions.
Mayor Zelniker had no questions to ask Bryan Perilman and ask Roger Brown to please come to
the podium, state his first and last name, and tell Commission why he was interested in serving on
the Planning Board.
Mr. Brown provided some background information about himself and explained his experience.
Commissioner David asked Mr. Brown what Foreign Country did he work in. Mr. Brown replied
Russia. Commissioner David asked what benefits he would bring to the board that differed from
the other two applicants. Mr. Brown replied that he had long term experience with construction
and architecture, as well as management experience with before mentioned projects.
Commissioner Donaldson asked Mr. Browns what his vision into the future looked like. Mr.
Brown stated that he believed that keeping home values up and rising is important as well as
looking for the betterment of all is important as well,and that what he brings to the table is common
sense.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman asked Mr. Brown to expand his experience building bridges and
roads. Mr. Brown explained his experience more in-depth. Commissioner Gossett- Seidman asked
him what made him decide to move to Highland Beach. Mr. Brown stated that whenever he would
come over the Spanish River Bridge, he felt like he was on holiday. When the opportunity
presented itself, he bought a house.
Vice Mayor Babii had no questions.
Mayor Zelniker asked Mr. Brown if he had any advice for bringing the older condos up to code.
He stated that maintaining the value and safety of the condos is what is important. Public comment
was opened.
Doug Hillman of Dalton Place provided comment about the importance of the Advisory Boards
and that he was thrilled about the quality of the people applying for the boards and thanked them
Town Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
January 21,2020 Page 8 of 19
all for their interest. He also encouraged the candidates that would not be chosen to look into other
boards.
Ms. June Ken stated that while the past experience was impressive, wonders if anyone had
experience in sustainability, both on infrastructure and the residential construction. She later
clarified her question by providing more concrete examples of what she was asking.
Mayor Zelniker provided additional explanation for the applicants to answer.
Mr. Brown explained that he did not see Solar Power as a value financially. He advised that there
was a serious issue with rising tides. He stated that he had put in an elevated seawall and seawall
cap at his own home. He highlighted some of the issue that occurred, during rising tides. He also
stated that the Town needed to get ahead and be proactive to help the community.
Mayor Zelniker commented that everyone is aware of the many issues facing the Coastal
Communities and that the Town Manager was involved in a Resiliency Program.
Mr. Perilman stated that climate change is a big problem and is a problem for the community and
it involved local,county,state,and federal input.He stated that he believed there should be a board
that worked with other governmental entities. He stated the Town needed to be moving in a
direction to save the Barrier Islands and Costal Lands and that if the Planning Board were to get
involved with that, he would be on board to do something positive that resulted in saving our
communities.
Mr. Cherbini commented that the Town would have to change many codes and issues with state,
county,and Town seemed to have a lot of emphasis on how things will be sustained 20 years from
now. He mentioned that he had some experience with permeable concrete up north. He stated that
a person must get the permission of the Army Corp of Engineering to add to a seawall to bring it
up to a certain height and without permission, nothing could be done. He spoke about what he
thought could and could not be done about solar energy.
David Axelrod of 3747 SOB Chairperson of the Planning Board advised that he felt that all three
candidates were excellent and that he had made his recommendation. He also advised that there
were three vacancies on other boards that the candidates might be interested in applying for.
Commission Discussion:
Vice Mayor Babij advised that all three candidates were great. He said that Roger Brown would
be the best candidate, and would be a great addition to the board, as no other board member lived
in a single-family home, on waterfront property. He also discussed other skills of Mr. Brown's.
Commissioner David advised that all three candidates brought different experiences and thought
that someone with direct knowledge of private homes would be the best suited candidate.
Town Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
January 21,2020 Page 9 of 19
Commissioner Donaldson advised that in the past, he had spoken about the need to mix up the
Planning Board. He said he did not believe the Town had a good representation across the board
and that it was a tough decision,but he felt that Mr. Brown was the right person to fill the vacancy.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman asked what the term limits were of other Planning Board
Members. She said that she was advised that the terms were pretty new and asked if there were
other boards vacancies the candidates could join.
Mayor Zelniker stated that she would like a closed ballot vote.
Town Clerk Gaskins distributed Appointment Ballots to each Commissioner for their selection of
a candidate. Town Clerk Gaskins announced the unanimous selection,as candidate Roger Brown.
MOTION: Commissioner David moved to appoint Roger Brown to the Planning Board to
serve an unexpired term ending September 1, 2022. Vice Mayor Babij seconded
the motion,which passed unanimously.
B. Approval and Authorize the Mayor to Execute a Custody Agreement between the Town of
Highland Beach and PNC Financial Services Group, Inc., (dba PNC Institutional Asset
Management)to provide Third-Party Custody Services for the Town's Investment Portfolio.
Mayor Zelniker read the title of Item 12B.
Matthew Lalla, Finance Director introduced the item. He discussed the Town investment policies,
requirements and recommended that Commission authorize the agreement.
Vice Mayor Babiiasked Finance Director Lalla if he had checked with money market companies,
and if yes,would they be ok with this. He said he was advised that it was very common. He stated
that when he and the previous Finance Director looked into it, they could not find any money
markets that were willing to allow them to use third-party intermediary. He said that many were
getting to the point where they would be over time. He advised that this should be vetted before it
was put into place. Finance Director Lalla responded that if that happened, it would be switch to
a different firm or the requirement would be removed from the investment policy.
Commissioner Donaldson asked who was the runner up and if the Town looked at another
establishment. He was advised that it is more common to administer and facilitate with the same
institution that the Town already does their banking with(PNC).
Commissioner David asked if it would cost the Town more than what the cost is now. She said
she was advised that it would be approximately $10,000 per year and would be taken from the
interest earnings paid by the Town. She asked if the Town Manager's name could be included on
page 10 of the PNC Intuitional Assets Management document. She said she was advised that
anything done in the financial organization require two party authorizations. Finance Director
Lalla advised that he could have the Mayor and Vice Mayor's names listed on the document as
well.
Town Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
January 21,2020 Page 10 of 19
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman stated that she believed it to be standard that a Mayor or
Commissioner's name be included as signees. She asked if it could be amended to included either
of their names. She said that she was advised that once it was executed, the Mayor, Vice Mayor
and Town Manager would be included then asked about other options. She was advised that
although Finance Director Lalla had not look into other options,the price point was very good and
that she would feel more comfortable receiving different options in writing.
Vice Mayor Babii added that many banks refuse this unless the accounts are very large as they do
not tend to make money on it.
Finance Director Matt Lalla stated that the minimum for this bank was $75.000,000 and the Town
had about $15,000,000.
Mayor Zelniker opened the item for public comments.
Mr. John Ross of Casuarina explained that everything that comes up is sole source. He stated that
the Town should not spend money on a say so. He said to ask a couple of people what they would
charge the Town. He suggested the Town should wait until the safety deposit boxes were opened
first.
Mr. Kosovsky asked if there was anything in the Ordinances that required competitive bidding or
could they continuously, without verifying, accept sole source. He questioned if it went against
the Town policy, to decide on a sole source without putting it up for bid.
Town Manager Labadie explained that the Town has a Purchasing Policy, which provided
additional information on operative bidding, as well as unilateral contract provisions.
MOTION: Commissioner Gossett-Seidman moved to ask Finance Director Mathew Lalla to
pursue two or three other facilities to see what their bids might be,including moving
all of the Towns accounts over as well as adding the additional signatures after
reviewing the safety deposit boxes. Vice Mayor Babii seconded the motion. The
motion carried 4 to 1, with Commissioner Donaldson dissenting.
C. Discussion on Public School Bus Shelters along State Road AlA in conjunction of the
Proposed Florida Department of Transportation RRR Improvement Project.
Commissioner Donaldson.
Mayor Zelniker read the title of Item 12C.
Commissioner Donaldson introduced this item and gave a PowerPoint presentation highlighting
the following:
• The lack of Outreach for Children living in Highland Beach
• The Vicinity of Existing School Bus Stops: Toscana;Highland Beach Drive, Bel Air Drive
and Boca Cove Lane
Town Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
January 21,2020 Page 11 of 19
Commissioner Donaldson also discussed the various efforts that could be taken to make
improvements.
Commissioner David asked if anyone requested it and that she was concerned with homelessness
that the bus shelter might attract.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman advised that she had never been asked by parents for a bus stop
and expressed of her past experience with school children. She stated that this was premature
timing.
Vice Mayor Babii concurred with Commissioners David and Gossett-Seidman statements. He
stated that he would like to first see a strong demand for it.
Mayor Zelniker explained that she is more concerned with when the children are dropped off the
school bus on the ocean side of the road in front of Toscana. She stated Police Chief Hartmann
usually have a police vehicle follow the buses. She stated that it was something nice for the future
and the Town should start thinking about something nice for the children.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman explained that the bus stops were fluid and that the schools pay
attention to where the majority of the students live and adjusted the bus stops accordingly. She
stated that when thinking about placing permanent bus stops around the Town,that should be kept
in mind.
Mayor Zelniker opened the item for public comment.
Mr. Kosovsky questioned the number of school children the shelters would serve and where they
would be located.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman explained that in 2007, the Sun Sentinel did a story on the rising
number of families living in Highland Beach.
Commissioner David discussed crossing guards and the fact that cars must stop when school buses
come to a stop.
Police Chief Hartmann provided comments about school buses and the safety of the children.
Mr. Douglas Hillman of Dalton Place noted it was time to move on since it was consensus of the
Commission not to move forward. He said the Police Chief Hartmann stated that there were no
pedestrian safety issues.
Town Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
January 21,2020 Page 12 of 19
Mayor Zelniker read the title of Item 12D.
D. Discussion on Protecting the Coral Reefs System in Highland Beach including Yamato
Rock and the Three Reef Systems according to Florida's Coral Reef Protection Act.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman introduced the item. She stated she was presenting it to everyone
to build on Douglas Hillman's prior presentation, in that she wanted to ensure that everyone knew
that there were specific laws that govern the Reefs Systems. She discussed the three Reef Systems,
Marine Life and the Florida Coral Reef Protection Act. She advised that the Town had to be
careful and cognizant of who works in Highland Beach, due to its complex nature. She said the
three South Florida Newspapers(Miami Herald, Sun Sentinel and Palm Beach Post)had formed a
liaison three years ago to work together and shares editorials concerning the protection of the
Reefs. She advised the Commission and the public to keep vigilant about the Coral Reefs.
Commissioner Donaldson thanked Commissioner Gossett-Seidman for bringing up the subject
before Commission and stated that it was great that there were federal funds to protect the Reefs
and spoke of the Reefs importance. He also discussed the parking lot and the Coral Reefs
Protection Act.
Vice Mayor Babii questioned whether the Town should consider a one-time consultation with an
Environmental Law Firm to find out available alternatives.
Mr. Hillman responded yes and that he sees value in seeking out consultation. He said he believed
that the Town should go after this with multiple plans. He stated that it is best to find the right
consultant firm. He asked Commission Donaldson to expand on the Coral Reef Protection Act.
Commissioner Donaldson advised that there were provisions and provided further explanation.
Mr.Hillman provided additional comments on protecting the coral reefs. He stated that he thought
it was worthwhile to look at.
Mayor Zelniker provided comments about prior beach nourishment from neighboring
municipalities in the past and stated that there were Coral Reefs in the past. She stated that if there
were Coral Reefs, then there would be no need to be building seawalls. She stated that it was
unfortunate that during beach re-nourishment in Boca and Delray, sand was being taken from
Highland Beach.
Commissioner David asked Commissioner Gossett-Seidman were there specific things that could
be done to protect the Coral Reef System.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman explained public awareness would be of assistance, as well as
providing additional pictures and information on past history of the Reefs. She discussed having
the Natural Resources Preservation Board becoming involved with the Reefs issue.
Mayor Zelniker opened the item for public comments.
Town Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
January 21,2020 Page 13 of 19
June Kerr stated that she usually swims the length. She mentioned that instead of paying towards
a Man-made Reef to allow an educational group to get a hold of it for research.
Mr. Ross provided comments on Vice Mayor Babij' s suggestion to consult with a Legal
Environmental Law Firm. He stated that he did not see a downside in having a consult. He also
stated that it would be a great idea to see what services a firm could provide now and in the next
five years.
Mr.Hillman stated that there was a need to discuss the scope of the environmental attorney's work
in greater detail. He said it is not just the beach and Yamato Rock that it was also the on the west
side where there is a problem with flooding and water run off along Al A. He stated that it would
need to be done before his swearing in date, so that he might be able to assist with it.
Mr. Greenwald stated that this is a process and the input should start now. He said it was not a
Highland Beach issue; it was a County issue. He said that the Town needed an action plan to
determine how to deal with the County. He said from a governance standpoint there were different
ways to do that. He discussed starting with an integrated plan from the Town Manager with the
Commissions endorsement. He stated that there could be various elements with that plan. He said
that there needed to be input from various boards on what is needed to be seen on the final product.
To start with a plan and not piece the plan together.
Mr. Peter Kosovsky of Villa Nova explained that there were several moving parts to Milani Park.
He stated that the Town must ask themselves what they do we want to accomplish and how do we
want to accomplish it. He mentioned having a Memorial Park that fits with the community. He
suggested to pick a law group that is a heavy hitter who can get the job done with the proper
connections.
Public comments were closed.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman read Item 9 in the Florida Statute in order to answer Douglas
Hillmans question. She mentioned the need to find out if federal law trump's state law.
Commissioner David had no comments.
Commissioner Donaldson advised that the Town moves ahead slowly and kept options opened.
He mentioned the Town taking Commissioner Weinroth up on his offer of a sit-down meeting. He
stated that Town needed to see what the County was thinking first that a plan was needed to find
out what resources were needed to get there and what the options were.
Town Manager explained that the Town cannot proceed without a vision. He stated that he is not
sure what to ask for or where to start. The Town needed to figure out what they were willing to
accept. He stated that he thought they could get to a scaled down version,but not to a point where
nothing is done. The Town will need an attorney. He advised that this is not just a Manager or
Commission issue, it is a community issue.
Town Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
January 21,2020 Page 14 of 19
Vice Mayor Babij asked what would be the next step. Town Manger Labadie advised a survey of
what the residents see Milani Park as.
Commissioner Donaldson explained that the Town did not want to overlook the RFP process.
Town Manager Labadie explained that the County is two years out. He also provided comments
about the Town's settlement agreement and the 46 stipulations listed in the agreement.
Mr.Hillman explained that involving a law firm was plan B.He elaborated on what Town Manager
Labadie explained. The Town had to know the audience before knowing what to ask for. The
Town have to go to the public with ideas and talked about the possibility of focus groups.
Mayor Zelniker explained the Town Charter and stated that the Town is a weak Mayor and strong
Town Manager. She advised that whatever is done, will be open to the County as the County
cannot use County tax money to keep something private in Highland Beach. She said to let the
public give their feedback.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman stated that she would like the Town Manager to do some footwork
on the issue.
E. Update from the 2020 Census Complete Count Committee
Mayor Zelniker read the title of Item 12E.
Town Manager Labadie introduced the item advising that there was a meeting on January 15,2020.
He stated that there were suggestions made to get the word out about the Census and Census
expectations.
Commissioner David stated that she believed it to be a reasonable amount of money for a Town
of this size and to get as many people counted,would make a big difference. She said that it is not
where you vote, it is where you are when you fill out the Census.
Commissioner Donaldson commented that Census is vitally important, and the wealth of data is
fabulous. He said he supported moving ahead.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman commented that it was extremely important to get a rate count.
Vice Mayor Babij commented that he concurred with the previous Commissioners comments.
Mayor Zelniker asked if people had to be homesteaded to fill out the Census.
Terisha Cuebas, Assistant to the Town Manager explained that where the person is at the time,
they receive the Census... and that where a person lay their head on April 1, 2020, is where they
complete the questionnaire.
Town Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
January 21,2020 Page 15 of 19
MOTION: Commissioner David moved to authorize the spending of money as presented. Vice
Mayor Babij seconded the motion, which passed(5-0) unanimously.
F. Discussion of the Draft Parking Ordinance and Comments Received from The Public.
Mayor Zelniker read the title Item 12F.
Town Manager Labadie introduced the item and explained that it had nothing to do with the
construction handbook,as those codes that relate to construction related activity remain untouched.
He stated that this was not a first reading that it was the response of the Commission,him and the
Chief of Police to come back with a clean first reading draft. He elaborated on the current Parking
Ordinance and the additional provisions that was up for discussion.
Vice Mayor Babij referred to Section 16-7. (a)and asked if Dr. Pam would be fined if she parked
her commercial vehicle between the hours of 6:00 PM to 8:00 AM, on Sundays or legal holidays
in her driveway, even if it is obstructed from public view. He said the wording stated under no
circumstances. Chief Hartmann advised that if it was not visible from the roadways there would
be an exception.
Town Attorney Rubin explained that the wording in this section needed to be cleaned up.
Vice Mayor Babij provided comments about vendors parking in driveways, stating that many
companies require their drivers stay out of driveways,as it cost them too much money in damages
could result in hitting parked vehicles or trucks spills. He said it was important to have the vendor
and guest parking on the street.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman explained that the Bel Lido Association sent out seven questions
and 35 responded. Eighty percent (80%) does not want street parking for guest of residents. She
gave a breakdown of other factions within the community and mentioned the federal law for
mailboxes.
Commissioner Donaldson advised that he did not mind giving it a little more time and that he
would defer to the Commissioner that live in the neighborhoods. He explained that he would not
like for this to go to the next set of Commissioners.
Commissioner David asked how many homes were part of the association and were affected by
this. Commissioner Gossett-Seidman and Vice Mayor Babij explained that as a practical matter,
it lowers the value of the homes and that if the realtor did not tell the buyer about the parking, it
could create major issues. The ordinance has to have reasonable conditions and restrictions.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman stated that guest needed to be able to park on the street when they
do not have access to the driveway.
Vice Mayor Babij explained that a no parking rule is a very bad idea.
Town Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
January 21,2020 Page 16 of 19
Mayor Zelniker stated that her, Town Manager Labadie and Chief Hartmann had come up with a
great plan.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman explained that the HOA meeting will be held on Thursday,
February 27, 2020.
Mayor Zelniker gave comments about parking cars on the streets. She suggested that since that the
HOA would be meeting on February 27h, the Commission could print some materials and
distribute the information at the meeting to show the people what was in mind. She suggested
Chief Hartmann, Town Manager Labadie and Mayor Elect Hillman to attend the meeting. Town
Manager Labadie explained that the HOA meeting was private, but if an invitation was extended,
he will attend. She said that someone from the Censes Committee should also attend the meeting.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman advised that she felt a certain tendency that it was a little water
down version of what they had prior. She said that 80%of people saying no,took her by surprise.
She said that it reflected on the homes being larger, and less parking. She said that she did not
know of one single-family home that could not fit up to four vehicles in the driveway and that the
homes were on larger lots.
Vice Mayor Babi1 asked if the Commission could get all the responses from the residents for
comparison because some of the responses he received, were directly from emails that went to the
Homeowner's Association. Discussion followed about the 80%, Bel Lido Drive, Homeowner
Associations being an optional association, and membership and data.
MOTION: Commissioner Gossett-Seidman made a motion to have the Chief of Police and the
Town Manager be in attendance at the forthcoming February 27th meeting at which
time there would be a discussion with over 100 homeowners and that they can bring
back the results. Discussion ensued as follows:
Commissioner Donaldson asked if there could be a motion to table the item until March(crosstalk).
Commissioner David explained that the motion was quite wordy.
Mayor Zelniker opened the item for public comments.
Mr. Goldstein explained that he is a part of the Bel Lido Association and that the homeowner
association(HOA)has a meeting once a year and spoke about the email he received. He mentioned
that he was surprised that Commissioner Gossett-Seidman believed there was a problem. He said
that there were only about two or three vocal residents that made complaints and that the Ordinance
was fine.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman provided comments about a Boat Parade that she had for the
neighbors and stated the police were notified in advance. She advised that there had been funerals,
weddings, proms, party, etc. and people usually parked correctly. She stated she would like to see
the questionnaires that were not provided in a timely fashion.
Town Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
January 21,2020 Page 17 of 19
Mr. Hillman explained that this has been ongoing for more than a year and that it should be at the
board level. He said he did not understand why it was at Commission level and that there were
different segments of population on the Island, due to different streets and different needs and
wants. He discussed the possibility of different requirements of different street segments, as the
population is diverse. He urged Commission to resolve the matter. Discussion followed about the
people living on that street having input on what they wanted, how to obtain the surveys from the
people who were not members of the HOA, and on voluntary HOA membership.
Carol Goldstein of 4408 Intracoastal Drive comment about the survey and about Ron Brown's
mistake in counting the votes.
Commissioner David suggested that the motion be tabled until after the Board and Unit Owner's
meeting at the Bel Lido Association (crosstalk). Town Attorney Rubin explained that a motion
was not necessary (unintelligible and crosstalk)to send to the HOA.
Vice Mayor Babij called Chief Hartmann to the podium to asked him if a proper survey at the
HOA meeting would be done. Chief Hartmann(inaudible). Vice Mayor Babij advised that he had
not received Ron Brown survey. Town Manager Labadie stated that it should be one question with
a show of hands with people being either for or against guest parking.
MOTION: Commissioner David moved to Table the item.Commissioner Donaldson seconded
the motion. The motion carried 4 to 1, with Vice Mayor Babij dissenting.
Discussion followed about tabling the item being brought back to Commission in March.
Mayor Zelniker opened this item for public comments. There were no public comments.
MOTION: Vice Mayor Babij made a motion to clean up the language and to move the item to
a first reading. Commissioner David seconded the motion. The motion carried 4 to
1 with Commissioner Gossett-Seidman dissenting. (unintelligible)
Mayor Zelniker advised when the meeting was attended to give people the copies at that time.
13. PUBLIC COMMENTS AND REQUESTS—AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
Mr. Allen Goldstein explained that the association does not represent him. He said that it is up to
the Commission to do what is proper for the residents and it should be the Commission decision
not that of the homeowners. Mayor Zelniker stated that what the Commission was trying to do
was get the opinions of the people who live there and was affected by this.
Mr. Roger Brown of 4314 Tranquility Drive commented that he had not received the survey;
however,he did receive emails from Bel Lido Isle. He said he was against banning parking on the
streets that it was a burden to the Police Department. He said that he is not allowing commercial
vehicles to park in his driveway either and that it would be a horrible mistake to enforce it.
Discussion followed about the survey and not obtaining quality feedback from it.
Town Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
January 21,2020 Page 18 of 19
14. TOWN COMMISSION REPORT
A. Commissioner David did not have anything to report.
B. Commissioner Donaldson mentioned he attended the Financial Advisory Board meeting and
hoped the discussion on the Fire-rescue Contract had been put to rest. He stated that he hoped
it would be placed on the backburner until the contract was ready to be examined.
C. Commissioner Gossett-Seidman provided an update Regarding Legislative Days. She stated
that she had a two paged typed form for anyone interested. She stated it was the League of
Cities opening week at the Legislature meetings. She discussed the committees and
subcommittees that would meet on both sides of the Legislature. She also discussed the first
and second readings and when they were to take place or had already taken place. She provided
additional information on other discussions that had taken place.
D. Vice Mayor Babii asked the Town Manager to work with Commissioner Gossett-Seidman to
get all the responses from the Bel-Lido Association and distribute to the Commissioners.
E. Mayor Rhoda Zelniker stated that she did not have anything to report.
15. TOWN ATTORNEY'S REPORT
Town Attorney Torcivia had no report.
16. TOWN MANAGER'S REPORT
Town Manager Labadie stated that Collective Bargaining season with the two Unions starts
tomorrow,the Audit Perpetrations had started, and the Water Sewer Study was underway as well.
He discussed the five RFPs that were going to take place. He mentioned the Census and making
sure residents were counted.
Mayor Zelniker stated that there was a question about who owned the sewer pipes. Town Manager
Labadie advised that the Town owns the pipes and that the waste was routed to Delray Beach for
processing.
Commissioner Gossett-Seidman made a comment about an email she received about two cars that
were covered in blue from Spanish River Bridge. She said that FDOT had been notified.
Town Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
January 21, 2020 Page_19_of 19
17.ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor Zelniker adjourned the meeting at 5:09 PM.
APPROVED at the--May 5? 2020 Virtual Town Commission ing.
-- - - Douglas fhlt6an, Mayor
ATTES Transcribed by Ganelle Thompson
Administrative Support Specialist
May 5, 2020
Lan Ida Gaskins, M�1C, Date
Town Clerk
baw: 05/01/2020
Ig: 05/06/2020