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HomeMy WebLinkAbout00-2026 05 11 City Commission Regular Meeting MinutesCITY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, MAY 11, 2026 CITY HALL —COMMISSION CHAMBERS 1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434, WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA CALL TO ORDER Mayor Kevin McCann called the Regular Meeting of Monday, May 11, 2026 of the City Commission to order at 6:32 p.m. in the Commission Chambers of the Municipal Building (City Hall, 1126 East State Road 434, Winter Springs, Florida 32708). Roll Call: Mayor Kevin McCann, present Deputy Mayor Cade Resnick, present Commissioner Paul Diaz, present Commissioner Victoria Bruce, present Commissioner Sarah Baker, present Commissioner Mark Caruso, present City Manager Kevin Sweet, present City Attorney Anthony Garganese, present City Clerk Christian Gowan, present Representatives of the Hindu Society of Central Florida provided the invocation which was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Mayor McCann asked if there were any changes to the agenda. AWARDS AND PRESENTATIONS 100. Proclamation Recognizing National Public Works Week Mayor Kevin McCann read a proclamation designating the week of May 17-23, 2026 as National Public Works Week in the City of Winter Springs. Clete Saunier, Director. Public Works and Utilities Department accepted the proclamation on behalf of his department and commended his team. 101. Proclamation Recognizing Lieutenant Colonel Charles H. Buehring Mayor Kevin McCann read a proclamation honoring Lieutenant Colonel Charles H. Buehring, United States Army, who was raised in Winter Springs and killed in action on October 26, 2003, in Baghdad, Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. The proclamation recognized his Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and the military's naming of Camp Buehring in Kuwait in his honor, and called upon all residents to reflect upon his sacrifice as Memorial Day approaches. 102. PFM Asset Management LLC Presentation on the Highlights of the Most Recent Quarterly Investment Report for the Period Ending 3/31/2026 Holly Queen. Director, Finance Department introduced Sean Gannon with PFM Asset Management LLC, who presented the quarterly investment report for the period ending March 31, 2026, reviewed the portfolio performance, and noted that PFM maintained active communication with city staff regarding cash flow and capital expenditure needs. ADD -ON ITEM: Presentation from the Hindu Society of Central Florida Representatives of the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) presented an overview of their community engagement programs, including the Guru Vandana teacher appreciation ceremony, the Sewa Diwali food drive, quarterly highway cleanup on East Lake Drive, and the Raksha Bandhan friendship bracelet ceremony with first responders. Mayor Kevin McCann remarked on the moving nature of the Guru Vandana event, which he attended, and noted the society's commitment to community service and interfaith connection. INFORMATIONAL AGENDA 200. Not Used PUBLIC INPUT Mayor McCann opened Public Input. Joan Jansen, Winter Springs thanked Public Works staff for their service to the city and then spoke with regard to the proposed fuel tax interlocal and noted she was opposed with giving up the city's share of the funds. Ms. Jansen also asked about the ILA with the Supervisor of Elections and if this was a standard agreement. Jesse Phillips, Winter Springs, spoke regarding an "emerging affordability crisis" and the need for leadership to address this issue. Mr. Phillips also spoke about Live Local and the need to lower utility rates. Linda Freeburn, Winter Springs spoke briefly about utility rates and asked that the city not approve any interlocal with the County related to the proposed airport connector on SR 417. She also noted environmental concerns and her opposition to the 5-cent gas tax in general. Leah Weisman, Winter Springs spoke in opposition to the proposed Lake Jesup Boardwalk. Gina Shafer, Winter Springs spoke about work needed at Trotwood Park restrooms, further spoke in opposition to the distribution of the five -cent gas tax revenue, and finally asked that the Commission reconsider Eagle Nest Park. Art Gallo, Winter Springs spoke regarding Item 500, didn't know if the connector road and sports complex were things that Seminole County could afford and noted that he was open to further discussions between the City and County to find a mutually beneficial situation. Mayor McCann closed Public Input. CONSENT AGENDA 300) Approval of Permit Agreement with Specialty Pop Up Events LLC for Trotwood Park Farmers Market No discussion. 301) Approval of Memorandum of Agreement with Supervisor of Elections for Seminole County City Clerk Christian Gowan confirmed that the Memorandum of Agreement with the Seminole County Supervisor of Elections was substantially consistent with prior agreements and noted the primary change related to petition payment timing, requiring candidates to pay at the time of qualifying rather than being invoiced. City Attorney Anthony Garganese and City Clerk Christian Gowan further noted that entering into this agreement avoided the city having to independently administer elections and potentially hire additional staff. 302) Approval of the Minutes: Monday, April 27, 2026 City Commission Regular Meeting No discussion. "MOTION TO APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA." MOTION BY DEPUTY MAYOR RESNICK. SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER BRUCE. DISCUSSION. VOTE: BAKER (AYE); BRUCE (AYE); CARUSO (AYE); DIAZ (AYE); RESNICK (AYE) MOTION CARRIED: 5-0. PUBLIC HEARINGS AGENDA 400. First Reading of Ordinance 2026-01: Updating the Stormwater Utility Rates MOTION TO READ BY TITLE ONLY. MOTION BY DEPUTY MAYOR RESNICK. SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER BAKER. MOTION PASSED WITH UNANIMOUS CONSENT. Mr. Saunier introduced the item, providing context that the stormwater rate study represents the third and final goal of a multi -year effort launched after Hurricane Ian to inventory, assess, and fund the city's stormwater infrastructure. Consultants Julia Felter of Kimley-Horn, David Hamstra of Pegasus Engineering, and Joe Williams of Raftelis presented the findings. The presentation detailed the city's inventory of over 300 stormwater ponds, classified as public (43), hybrid (88), private (175), FDOT (12), and Seminole County (35) and reviewed the responsibilities of the city related to public and hybrid ponds. A new ten -zone maintenance map was also introduced which would assist in management of pond maintenance. For Mr. Williams presented the financial forecast and noted the current stormwater rate of $10.00 per Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU) per month generated approximately $2 million annually, barely covering existing operations. Mr. Williams then reviewed the proposed rate schedule increases beginning with a rate of $15.00/ERU in FY2027 and further phased increases reaching just over $20.00/ERU by FY2029-2030. Mr. Williams noted that the rate study incorporated the addition of a second stormwater crew ,new equipment, and a phased hybrid pond maintenance program targeting up to six ponds per year. Major capital projects identified in the recently adopted Stormwater Master Plan were proposed to be funded through the third and fourth generation penny sales tax rather than through stormwater rates. City Manager Kevin Sweet emphasized that the stormwater enterprise fund had historically been subsidized by general fund transfers and has operated in a structural deficit. He noted the city's stormwater crew was significantly undersized compared to neighboring Oviedo, and that costs of delay could be far greater than the cost of timely investment. Discussion followed on the burden on residents during a period of economic hardship, the need to reduce administrative costs within the utility fund before additional rate increases, a potential 5-to-1 matching commitment in which the city would contribute $5 million in budget cuts for every $1 million in new rate revenue, the need to communicate clearly with residents, and previous consequences of deferred action. Mayor McCann opened the Public Hearing for Item 400. Art Gallo, Winter Springs noted a meeting with City Manager Sweet and valuable information learned regarding the need for more stormwater investment. Mr. Gallo suggested the first incremental raise should be approved and evaluated as we go forward if further rote increases are necessary. Mr. Gallo further reviewed an email that went out and wrong information being shared by some community organizations. Leah Weisman, Winter Springs noted she had been in the city since 1995, acknowledged work that needed to be done, but suggested the rates be raised more slowly. Karen Meyer, Winter Springs thought the rate should be raised now to avoid future issues. Erin Ash, Winter Springs asked that money be spent on water issues within the community to prevent flooding rather than other projects such as the proposed Seminole Connector. Joan Jansen, Winter Springs agreed with previous comments, thought an increase was necessary at this time and adjustments could be made in the future as needed. John Pagano, Winter Springs asked a question regarding what prompted the need for increased stormwater rates. Kyle Stewart, Winter Springs thanked staff and consultants for the detailed information, encouraged passage of this increased rate, and also encouraged finding money from other sources where possible to make this more affordable for residents. Linda Freeburn, Winter Springs noted that with any rate increase it was important to look how the money was spent and noted she was in favor of stormwater expenditures and improvements over the proposed connector road. Mayor McCann closed the Public Hearing for Item 400. MOTION TO APPROVE ORDINANCE 2026-01 ON FIRST READING, UPDATING THE STORMWATER UTILITY RATES AS PROVIDED IN SECTION 19-164(A) FOR THE PROPOSED FOUR-YEAR PHASED SCHEDULE. MOTION BY COMMISSIONER BRUCE. SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER BAKER. DISCUSSION. VOTE: BAKER (AYE); BRUCE (AYE); CARUSO (NAY); DIAZ (NAY); RESNICK (AYE) MOTION CARRIED: 3-2. REGULAR AGENDA 500) Seminole County Interlocal Agreement Local Fuel Tax — Seminole Connector Project Seminole County Commissioner Bob Dallari, County Manager Darren Gray, and Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX) Executive Director Michelle Maikisch presented the proposed interlocal agreement, requesting the City of Winter Springs contribute its allocation of the new 5-cent local option fuel tax toward the estimated $200 million construction of the Seminole Connector (State Road 452) project for the first ten years of the tax's collection. It was noted the city's contribution would total $2.6 million and Mr. Gray noted approval by the cities of Lake Mary and Sanford. It was also noted that any grants or federal appropriations received for the project would proportionately reduce city contributions. Discussion followed on tangible benefits Winter Springs would receive, economic benefits to Winter Springs, the airport's lack of contribution, and long-term economic significance of the Sanford Airport with potential for large- scale logistics and cargo development that could benefit Winter Springs and the entire region. No vote was taken. The Commission expressed willingness to continue the dialogue and requested that county and city staff work together to identify shared projects and specific benefits to Winter Springs before any commitment is made. 501) Naming Rights and Sponsorship Agreements for Eagle Nest Park Brian Dunigan. Director, Administrative Services and Operations presented a proposal to develop a small pocket park on a portion of city -owned property at the corner of Michael Blake Boulevard and the Cross Seminole Trail, with a focus on water conservation education, Florida native landscaping, and stormwater best practices. The proposed park would occupy approximately a 65-by-65-foot area within a roughly one-third acre parcel, preserving the remainder as open green space. Mr. Dunigan further noted that all construction costs were proposed to be funded through external contributions totaling $37,500, including a $20,000 contribution from the Wharton -Smith Foundation for five-year naming rights, a $5,000 in -kind landscaping contribution from Nature's Care, and $2,500 contributions each from Waste Pro, Carollo, I<imley-Horn, Empire Pipe and Supply Company, and Pat's Pumps and Blowers. Discussion followed on continuing maintenance costs, inclusion of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee in future projects, and potential loitering concerns. MOTION TO APPROVE ITEM 501 [NAMING RIGHTS AND SPONSORSHIP AGREEMENTS FOR EAGLE NEST PARK]. MOTION BY DEPUTY MAYOR RESNICK. SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER BRUCE. DISCUSSION. VOTE: BAKER (AYE); BRUCE (AYE); CARUSO (AYE); DIAZ (AYE); RESNICK (AYE) MOTION CARRIED: 5-0. 502) Appointment of Interim City Clerk MOTION TO APPOINT TRISTIN (TARRANT) AS INTERIM CITY CLERK WITH COMPENSATION SET ATTHE MINIMUM PAY GRADE OF THE CITY CLERK CLASSIFICATION. MOTION BY DEPUTY MAYOR RESNICK. SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER DIAZ. DISCUSSION. VOTE: BAKER (AYE); BRUCE (AYE); CARUSO (AYE); DIAZ (AYE); RESNICK (AYE) MOTION CARRIED: 5-0. 503) New Business Commissioner Bruce brought to the Commission's attention a Florida Department of Environmental Protection Innovative Technology Grant for algae bloom remediation, noting that the City of Winter Park recently received $2 million from the program. She suggested the Oak Forest Pond, which experienced a fish kill, could be a strong candidate for a future application and described nanobubble technology as a promising treatment method. Commissioner Baker proposed that the Commission issue a declaration in recognition of June as a month of respect, inclusion, and community for all residents. Following discussion, a consensus of at least three commissioners was established to bring forward a declaration at the June 8, 2026 regular meeting, at which point individual commissioners may choose whether to sign. Deputy Mayor Resnick requested that staff evaluate the condition of restrooms at city parks, referencing public comments made earlier in the meeting. REPORTS 600. City Manager Kevin A. Sweet City Manager Kevin Sweet reported that two of the four reclaim water filters have been restored following and were expected to come online by midweek, with the remaining filters to be repaired and monitored by end of week. He also reported that NRCS-funded pond sediment removal for Deer Run, Tioga Court, and the Solary Canal Pond is scheduled to begin May 18 and is expected to take two to four weeks. 601. City Attorney Anthony A. Garganese No report. 602. City Clerk Christian Gowan City Clerk Christian Gowan, noting this was his final Commission meeting, reflected on seven years of service to the city, highlighted modernization accomplishments in the city clerk's office including agenda management software, digital archives, and public records systems, and expressed gratitude to staff and commissioners. He reported that the charter review process is progressing and the first meeting will be scheduled shortly. 603. Seat Three Commissioner Sarah Baker Commissioner Sarah Baker reported attending the CALNO meeting hosted by Oviedo, at which the City of Oviedo presented its stormwater master plan. She noted that Oviedo issued a note to fund initial large stormwater projects and faces several years of rate increases that will ultimately exceed Winter Springs' proposed rates. 604. Seat Four Commissioner/Deputy Mayor Cade Resnick Deputy Mayor Cade Resnick reported spending recent weeks meeting with community groups regarding stormwater, noted broad resident concern about prudent use of funds and personal safety. He reflected on the difficulty of authorizing rate increases and expressed his commitment to doing what is necessary to protect the community from future flood damage. 605. Seat Five Commissioner Mark Caruso Commissioner Mark Caruso thanked City Clerk Christian Gowan for his service. He recognized Police Appreciation Week and thanked the Police Department. He reported visiting the city's senior center and noted several issues that require attention, requesting city staff follow up. He announced the Wesley Seth Foundation barbecue on Saturday, noting he would participate in the dunk tank from 1:00-2:00 PM. 606. Mayor Kevin McCann Mayor Kevin McCann highlighted upcoming Memorial Day observances, including ceremonies at the American Legion in Oviedo at 11:00 AM and at the VFW Post at 1:00 PM. He noted that the local VFW post has been recognized as the number one post in the Southeast United States. He reported attending a series of faith -based community events over recent weeks, including the Hindu Society's Guru Vandana ceremony, a Constitution bus event marking the 250th anniversary, a teachers forum, and the National Day of Prayer at City Hall. 607. Seat One Commissioner Paul Diaz No report. 608. Seat Two Commissioner Victoria Bruce No report. PUBLIC INPUT Mayor McCann opened Public Input. Art Gallo, Winter Springs suggested that as part of ongoing negotiations with Seminole County, the city seek county assistance in expediting the widening of SR 434 on the east side of Winter Springs. Mayor McCann closed Public Input. ADJOURNMENT Mayor McCann adjourned the meeting at 11:44 p.m. RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED: i .S f7Y1 arra ri CHRISTIAN D. GOWAN, MPA, CIVICr CITY CLERK o� W inter S Cr �°Cp°ra �p '. tlN APPROVED: �959 MAYOR KEVIN McCANN o% County,F�o NOTE; These Minutes were approved at the June 8, 2026 City Commission Regular Meeting.