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HomeMy WebLinkAbout_2026 08 10 City Commission Regular Meeting MinutesCITY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, AUGUST 10, 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, August 10, 2026 of the City Commission to order at 6:33 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 Deputy City Clerk Tristin Tarrant, present City Clerk Erin O'Donnell, present Pastor Kyle Stewart provided the invocation which was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Mayor McCann asked if there were any changes to the agenda. No changes were requested, and agenda was adopted as presented. AWARDS AND PRESENTATIONS 100. Recognition of Winter Springs High School Baseball and Softball teams Principal Peter Gaffney and Athletic Director Mike Bradley of Winter Springs High School presented remarks recognizing the 2026 Men's Baseball as State runners-up and Women's Softball teams as State Champions. A group photo was taken with the Commission. 101. Introduction of the Winter Springs Police Foundation Police Chief Tracht introduced the Winter Springs Police Foundation board members. President Dan Grieb, a former Winter Springs police officer, addressed the Commission and introduced other members of the Board. He highlighted the Foundation's mission which focuses on supporting Winter Springs officers and their families through hardship assistance, recognition, and innovative resources for training and equipment and relayed upcoming fundraising events. A group photo was taken with the Commission. INFORMATIONAL AGENDA 200. Not Used PUBLIC INPUT Mayor McCann opened Public Input. Nishchay Gupta, not a Winter Springs resident but high school student in Seminole County, presented an overview of a technology system he is developing for toxic algae bloom monitoring and remediation in lakes and stormwater ponds. The system incorporates nanofiltration, continuous water tracking, and a nanobubble-based remediation treatment. Mayor McCann requested the student's contact information be shared with the Commission for follow- up. Bob Miller, a Winter Springs resident, addressed the Commission regarding Item 502 (FY27 Budget Discussion). As a former Commissioner, he encouraged the Commission to thoroughly review the proposed budget with staff to identify and understand issues prior to final adoption. Mayor McCann closed Public Input. CONSENT AGENDA 300. 2026 Hometown Hero Awards No discussion. 301. Prequalified Firms for Continuing Professional Engineering Services (RFQ 05-26-02 CS) No discussion. 302. Results of the Auditor Selection Committee No discussion. 303. Michael Blake Boulevard Reclaimed Water Main Extension Project Contract Award (RFP# 05-26-01 CS) No discussion. 304. Tuscawilla Neighborhood Sidewalk Project (Zone 8) - Sidewalk Improvements No discussion. 305. The Learning Experience at Blake Commons Final Site Acceptance No discussion. 306. Resolution 2026-09: Temporarily Suspending Sign Regulations No discussion. 307. Approval of the Minutes: Monday, June 22, 2026 City Commission Regular Meeting No discussion. 308. Approval of the Minutes: Monday, July 13, 2026, City Commission Regular Meeting No discussion. 309. Approval of the Minutes: Monday, July 13, 2026 City Commission Budget Workshop No discussion. MOTION TO APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA AS PRESENTED. MOTION BY DEPUTY MAYOR RESNICK. SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER BRUCE. VOTE: BAKER (AYE); BRUCE (AYE); CARUSO (AYE); DIAZ (AYE); RESNICK (AYE) MOTION CARRIED: 5-0. PUBLIC HEARINGS AGENDA 400.840 Dyson Dr —Accessory Dwelling Unit (Conditional Use) Senior Plannerjohn Rabon presented the conditional use application for a detached accessory dwelling unit (ADU) at 840 Dyson Drive. The subject property is approximately 2.48 acres located within the Winter Springs Unit 3 subdivision. The existing residence is 5,756 square feet and is currently zoned low -density residential with no active homeowner's association. The proposed one-story, 3,336-square-foot structure includes a 738-square-foot, one -bedroom, one -bathroom ADU with a full kitchen, a lanai, a half bath inaccessible from the ADU, and five parking bays. The proposed structure's design will also mimic the materials and style of the main house. Staff recommended approval contingent on the execution of a Declaration of Restrictions, signed and included with the application. Commissioner Baker asked about the living space's air-conditioned area, which was confirmed to be 738 square feet, staying within the City's 800-square-foot maximum limit. Mayor McCann noted the property's beautiful neighborhood setting and expressed satisfaction with the home's design matching the surrounding architecture. Mayor McCann opened Public Input for Item 400. No one addressed the Commission. Mayor McCann closed Public Input for Item 400. MOTION TO APPROVE ITEM 400 (CONDITIONAL USE ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT AT 840 DYSON DRIVE) AS PRESENTED. MOTION BY DEPUTY MAYOR RESNICK. SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER CARUSO. VOTE: BRUCE (AYE); BAKER (AYE); RESNICK (AYE); CARUSO (AYE); DIAZ (AYE) MOTION CARRIED: 5-0. REGULAR AGENDA 500. Holiday Lane Acquisition - Grant Funding Approval (HMGP/HMGMP) Finance Director Holly Queen detailed a grant funding approval for acquiring and demolishing a flood -prone parcel on Holiday Lane. The property, having flooded four times since 2004, was also abandoned after significant vandalism. The homeowner opted for acquisition to avoid passing on flood risks. Staff sought Commission approval for the HMGP grant agreement and the HMGMP match application. Commissioner Bruce asked about plans for post -demolition, and staff replied that the land is expected to remain as City -owned green space with potential stormwater use assessment. Commissioner Caruso asked about lower parcel grading for the future, to which staff agreed, noting the proximity location to nearby creeks. MOTION TO APPROVE ITEM 500 (HOLIDAY LANE ACQUISITION GRANT FUNDING) AS PRESENTED. MOTION BY DEPUTY MAYOR RESNICK. SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER CARUSO. VOTE: BAKER (AYE); BRUCE (AYE); CARUSO (AYE); DIAZ (AYE); RESNICK (AYE) MOTION CARRIED: 5-0. 501. Garcia Civil Contractors Office FEDP-2026-0023: Minor Revisions to Final Engineering/Site Plan Director of Community Development Terrilyn Rolle presented minor revisions to the previously approved Final Engineering and Site Plan for the Garcia Civil Contractors Office. Following Commission approval of the site plan in June, and the subsequent submission of site work and building permits, City staff identified alternative utility connection options that would avoid construction within the public right-of-way. The applicant voluntarily submitted revised plans, which were reviewed and approved by the City's engineer for community development. Due to the requirement for Commission approval, staff sought authorization and recommended the changes be approved as submitted. MOTION TO APPROVE ITEM 501 (REVISIONS TO THE GARCIA CIVIL CONTRACTORS OFFICE FINAL ENGINEERING AND SITE PLAN) AS PRESENTED. MOTION BY DEPUTY MAYOR RESNICK. SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER CARUSO. VOTE: RESNICK (AYE); CARUSO (AYE); DIAZ (AYE); BRUCE (AYE); BAKER (AYE) MOTION CARRIED: 5-0. 502. Tentative FY 2027 Budget Discussion City Manager Kevin Sweet addressed the Commission summarizing the outcome of staff's continued budget review following the July 13, 2026 Budget Workshop and subsequent one-on-one meetings with Commissioners. He announced that the budget to be presented at the first public hearing on September 14, would establish the FY 2027 millage rate at the rollback rate of 2.516 mills, down from the initially proposed 2.62 mills. To achieve this, expenditures were reduced by approximately $434,376 primarily through adjustments to project timing, cost allocations, and other operational efficiencies to minimize impact but continue support for our employees. While the rollback rate was described as not ideal due to future financial uncertainties, including the upcoming property tax amendment, he stated that his recommendation best reflects the Commission's sentiment and provides service at the expected level to our residents. During the discussion, Commissioner Bruce expressed appreciation for the rollback rate outcome and raised questions about interest income and the timing of new commercial development appearing on the tax roll, which were addressed by Finance Director Queen. Commissioner Caruso asked about current financial positions and aimed to explore additional budget optimizations from alternative revenue sources. He also reaffirmed his desire to view capital projects allocated for funding in the upcoming budget. Commissioner Paul Diaz emphasized that the rollback rate is just a preliminary step for fiscal restraint and recommended regular financial transparency via fund balance sheets and net position statements presented in each meeting, believing deeper cuts could be achieved through greater resource reallocation. Mayor McCann noted that homestead exemptions and Save Our Homes laws restrict tax increases for long-term homeowners, meaning most rollback benefits would go to commercial properties. Commissioner Baker expressed her appreciation to staff on reworking the budget and supported a motion for approval. MOTION TO DIRECT STAFF TO MOVE FORWARD WITH PREPARING THE FY 2027 BUDGET AT THE ROLLBACK RATE. MOTION BY COMMISSIONER BAKER. SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER BRUCE. VOTE: CARUSO (AYE); DIAZ (NAY); BRUCE (AYE); BAKER (AYE); RESNICK (AYE) MOTION CARRIED: 4-1. Commissioner Bruce sought to better understand Commissioner Diaz's vote against the millage rate, to which he responded he wished the rate had been lowered further, and reaffirmed his stance on greater resource allocation. 503. Consideration of adding annual Memorial Day Event Director of Administrative Services and Operations Brian Dunigan explained a request from the Veterans and Veteran Family Advisory Committee to plan a Memorial Day event for May 2027. Because the Committee's discussion occurred after the FY 2027 budget had already been transmitted, the event had not been budgeted. He further explained that typical costs for a similar event for Veterans Day include police overtime for road closures and park staff on holidays. It was suggested to partner with groups like the VFW to organize and plan the event, while providing free facility space and minimal staffing costs to road closures. The Commission showed support but highlighted the need to sort out financial logistics, coordinate with existing events in cities like Oviedo and Sanford, seek input from first responders, and decide if 2027 or 2028 is feasible. By general consensus of the Commission, staff was directed to begin initial conversations with the Committee, and to provide an update by January 1, 2027. 504. Matters Related to Boards and Committees COMMISSIONER BAKER APPOINTED TERRI BIVONA TO SERVE FOR A FULL TERM ON THE TUSCAWILLA LIGHTING AND BEAUTIFICATION DISTRICT ADVISORY COMMITTEE. SECONDED BY DEPUTY MAYOR RESNICK. MOTION PASSED WITH UNANIMOUS CONSENT. Commissioner Baker inquired about the pending transition from a Code Enforcement Board to a Special Magistrate model. City Manager Sweet confirmed the item is budgeted at $10,000 in the FY 2027 budget and that a formal discussion is planned for the first Commission meeting in September, aiming for a January 1 implementation to match the Code Enforcement Board's customary November -December recess. City Attorney Garganese added that the selection process may involve solicitor qualifications and provided a brief overview of the criteria being considered. The Commission discussed the merits of a volunteer board versus a professional magistrate, such as decision -making consistency and reduced volunteer burden. The Commission conversed about the TLBD vacancies (Seats 1 and 5) and noted upcoming board applications and future appointments. Efforts to publicize the vacancies in Tuscawilla area platforms were directed. Commissioner Bruce also mentioned a vacancy on the Oak Forest Wall and Beautification Committee, inviting interested residents to contact her. 505. New Business Deputy Mayor Resnick highlighted a concern from Parks Advisory Board member Leah Weisman about limited communication from City staff concerning park projects. It was discussed that the goal in restructuring advisory boards was to promote a two-way communication channel between staff and boards. City Manager Sweet was tasked with developing a solution to present back following the budget process. Deputy Mayor Resnick discussed exploring the feasibility of City acquisition Jetta Point, a County -owned parcel in City. City Manager Sweet reported that an appraiser has been engaged by Seminole County and a meeting is scheduled with the County Manager on August 18. Discussed ensued with the Commission on acquisition opportunities and potential future use with the City Manager Sweet and Commission reaffirming their engagement and commitment to the residents. He stressed the importance of keeping communication open and aligned with our neighboring agencies, particularly on topics of development, regional drainage and stormwater concerns, as well as future preservation. Once he has more details, he will report back to Commission. Commissioner Bruce asked if the $20 million SRF loan forgiveness could be considered in future water and sewer rate studies to lessen future rate hikes. City Manager Sweet noted it was too soon to decide due to unresolved issues such as the West Water Reclamation Facility bid, but intended to include such factors in future projections. Commissioner Bruce also suggested involving the St. Johns River Water Management District as an additional grantor in the Highlands conservation easement as an extra layer of protection. City Manager Sweet indicated that project planning considerations would need to be resolved first and that the idea would be explored further. Mayor McCann proposed returning to the established five-minute rule for commissioner comments and asked that City Attorney Garganese and staff review applicable rules and explore a visible timer system for both Commissioners and members of the public. City Attorney Garganese clarified that under Section 2-27 of the City Code, each Commissioner is afforded an initial five minutes to speak on an agenda item followed by additional five-minute increments, and that there is a maximum five-minute limit for Reports unless extended by majority vote. No formal action was taken, but suggestions were noted to explore ways to improve adherence to time regulations. REPORTS 600. City Manager Kevin A. Sweet City Manager Sweet reported that construction of the East Water Reclamation Facility has commenced, advising residents to expect increased traffic on Seneca Boulevard to Davenport Way and at Sam Smith Park during weekday work hours. He also reported that construction of the Trotwood playground and restroom refurbishment project has begun and is expected to take two to three weeks to complete, with portable restrooms available on - site. He noted that striping of recently resurfaced roads on Bear Springs is scheduled to begin August 23. Finally, City Manager Sweet also reported that he and Director Dunigan attended the Florida Municipal Insurance Trust (FMIT) Insurance Summit, where the City received recognition as the 2025 FMIT Hometown Health Award recipient. He thanked Human Resources Manager Debra Love and her team for their efforts in earning this recognition and commitment to the wellness of our employees. 601. City Attorney Anthony A. Garganese City Attorney Garganese welcomed newly appointed City Clerk Erin O'Donnell but had no further report. 602. City Clerk Erin O'Donnell City Clerk Erin O'Donnell expressed her gratitude and appreciation to Interim City Clerk Tristin Tarrant, acknowledging her exceptional efforts in maintaining continuity during the transition period. 603. Seat One Commissioner Paul Diaz No report. 604. Seat Two Commissioner Victoria Bruce Commissioner Bruce reported a well -attended East Water Reclamation Facility groundbreaking as well as reporting on a recent cleanup of Tuskawilla Road conducted in partnership with Seminole County, resulting in improved conditions. Commissioner Bruce also announced that the former Dominick's Restaurant in Tuscawilla will soon reopen as Neighborhood Kitchen from a well-known operator. Finally, she noted that the landscaping and lighting enhancements at Tuscora's entrance were completed and remarked on how closely they matched the approved plans. 605. Seat Three Commissioner Sarah Baker Commissioner Baker reported on the recent CALNO meeting hosted by Sanford. Presentations at the meeting included Sanford's "tiny desk concert" initiative, bringing local musicians to record live performances in City Hall for broadcast on YouTube and podcast platforms. The Seminole County Apopka Habitat for Humanity outlined its model of developing communities and offering free online literacy classes and highlighted a large grant recently received from MacKenzie Scott. She also highlighted that the City of Altamonte Springs is piloting technology to convert wastewater sludge into fossil fuel, potentially worth further exploration. 606. Seat Four Commissioner/Deputy Mayor Cade Resnick Deputy Mayor Resnick reported that Mayor Bates of Altamonte Springs will not seek re-election and recognized her contributions, particularly as the founder of Florida League of Cities University. He reported ongoing work with the Highlands HOA particularly on trail access issues. He then noted water runoff concerns from the Seven Oaks area are being addressed by staff after receiving many constituent concerns about flooding prompted by recent heavy rainfall. He expressed his appreciation to City staff, including Director Clete Saunier and his team, for engaging with residents in the Vistawilla and Seneca Boulevard areas. He also acknowledged the start of the new school year and thanked teachers and school staff. Lastly, he cautioned against extreme budget cuts, emphasizing the need to maintain expected service levels while avoiding neglect of maintenance, which could lead to unfavorable fiscal outcomes as previously experienced. 607. Seat Five Commissioner Mark Caruso Commissioner Caruso welcomed City Clerk Erin O'Donnell and expressed appreciation for Interim City Clerl<Tristin Tarrant. He thanked staff for the prompt public notification on a reclaimed water sprinkler head break. He announced he would be accompanying Seminole County Public Works on a site tour of Jetta Point on August 21 to see drainage conditions firsthand. He also reminded residents to continue to refrain from sending any messages to his Facebook account, as it remains compromised. 608. Mayor Kevin McCann Mayor McCann highlighted that the annual Water Quality Report confirms the city meets or exceeds federal safety standards, with some of the lowest trihalomethane (THM) levels recorded since, crediting commitment to the improvement to ongoing stormwater and infrastructure investments. He announced an informational public meeting on the proposed property tax amendment for August 11, 6:30 PM at Foundry Church on State Road 434, featuring Seminole County Property Appraiser David Johnson who will present a session on the legal and financial impacts for Winter Springs in a neutral and informational manner. PUBLIC INPUT Mayor McCann opened Public Input. Maurice I(aprow, a Winter Springs resident and member of the Code Enforcement Board, urged the Commission to consider the value of a volunteer citizen board in the context of the special magistrate discussion, noting that volunteer boards bring community empathy and at no cost to the city. He also offered a cautionary tale on the long-term consequences of incremental budget reductions. Laurel Ross, representing the Veterans and Veteran Family Advisory Committee, highlighted the differences between the observances surrounding military personnel and emphasized the Committee's desire for a modest, budget friendly Memorial Day event to honor fallen service members, separate from the Veterans Day event. She then inquired about a newly appointed Committee member who did not attend the Committee's last meeting, asking for clarification on how the city would ensure the member's engagement. Leah Weisman, a Winter Springs resident, commented in favor of implementing visible countdown timers for both public speakers and Commissioners, and encouraged the use of plain language in public discussions to improve accessibility for residents without specialized technical backgrounds. Gina Shafer, a Winter Springs resident, thanked the Police Chief and staff for improving safety near City Hall by blocking parking spaces. She supported Commissioner Diaz's call for budget reform and urged all Commissioners and residents to attend the Charter Review Committee due to low public turnout. She raised issues concerning sidewalk tree maintenance, deteriorating tactile paving strips, and reported a video outage during the livestream of the Police Foundation segment of today's meeting. Art Gallo, a Winter Springs resident and Code Enforcement Board member, advocated for a Memorial Day event alongside the continuation of the September 11 ceremonies. He remarked on letta Point, citing nearby HOA concerns about flooding and supported the Commission's collaboration with Seminole County and requested. He offered to facilitate a local representative from his HOA for Commissioner Caruso's site tour. Finally, he expressed his position on keeping the Code Enforcement Board volunteer based and opposed the use of a Special Magistrate. Mayor McCann closed Public Input. ADJOURNMENT Mayor McCann adjourned the meeting at 9:21 p.m. RESPECTFUL SUBMITTED: ql� ERIN O'DONNE , MMC CITY CLERK APPROVED: MAYOR KEVIN McCANN G �Of POP un /959 sl NOTE: These Minutes were approved at the August 24, 2026 City Commission Regular Meeting.