Northport public meetings in 2024

Planning & Zoning Advisory Board

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board will hold a quasi-judicial public hearing on Petition VAC-24-134 to vacate a portion of a platted 20-foot drainage maintenance easement for Lot 13, Block 1345, 26th Addition to Port Charlotte Subdivision. A resolution (2025-R-1) is under consideration. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Public hearing on vacating a portion of a 20-foot drainage maintenance easement for Lot 13, Block 1345 (VAC-24-134)

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board voted 5-0 to recommend approval to the City Commission of Resolution No. 2025-R-1, which would vacate a portion of a platted 20-foot drainage maintenance easement for Lot 13, Block 1345, 26th Addition to Port Charlotte Subdivision. The recommendation was made after a public hearing with no public comment or aggrieved parties. The item now goes to the City Commission for final decision.

• Recommended approval of Resolution No. 2025-R-1 to vacate drainage easement (5-0, 2 absent)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The meeting scheduled for December 19, 2024, was cancelled. The agenda listed discussions on parkland acquisition and the board's annual report.

• Discussion and possible action regarding parkland acquisition (Item 25-1734)
• Discussion and possible action regarding content for the Annual Report (Item 25-1730)
• Review of Parks & Recreation Department items for City Commission meetings (Item 25-1732)

Charter Review Advisory Board

The Charter Review Advisory Board will discuss and possibly vote on recommending that the City Commission place a referendum question on a special election to remove residency requirements for the City Attorney and City Clerk from the City Charter. The board will also consider adding a section to the charter on public comment policy and approving the 2025 annual meeting schedule. Approval of the June 12, 2024 minutes is also on the agenda.

• Discussion and possible action on recommending a referendum to remove residency requirements for City Attorney and City Clerk via Ordinance No. 2024-49
• Discussion and possible action on adding a section to the City Charter regarding public comment policy
• Discussion and possible action on approving the 2025 Annual Meeting Schedule
• Approval of the June 12, 2024 Charter Review Advisory Board minutes

The Charter Review Advisory Board voted 4-1 to recommend amending the City Charter to require the City Clerk and City Attorney to establish residency in North Port within two years of being hired, while keeping other residency requirements unchanged. The board also approved its 2025 annual meeting schedule and took no action on adding a public comment policy to the charter. The recommendation will go to the City Commission for consideration.

• Recommended amending charter to require City Clerk and City Attorney residency within 2 years of hire (4-1)
• Approved 2025 annual meeting schedule (4-0)
• Took no action on adding public comment policy to charter (3-1)
• Approved June 12, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)

Municipal Firefighters Pension Trust Fund Board of Trustees

The Municipal Firefighters Pension Trust Fund Board of Trustees will meet to discuss fund activity and financial reports. The board is reviewing actual expenses as of September 30, 2024, and a Summary Plan Description.

• Review of actual expenses as of September 30, 2024
• Discussion of Summary Plan Description
• Investment report from Mariner Institutional
• Actuarial report from Foster and Foster
• Payment ratification and new invoices for payment

The Municipal Firefighters Pension Trust Fund Board of Trustees approved a 6.75% assumed rate of return for the plan, along with the actuary report, quarterly investment report, actual expenses, and consent agenda items. The board also approved membership renewal to the Florida Public Pension Trustees Association and amended the 2025 meeting schedule, moving the June 25 meeting to June 20. All votes were unanimous (4-0).

• Approved September 20, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved actual expenses as of September 30, 2024 (4-0)
• Approved Foster and Foster Actuary Report (4-0)
• Approved Mariner Institutional Quarterly Report (4-0)
• Approved 6.75% assumed rate of return for the plan (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda including payment ratification, new invoices, and fund activity report (4-0)
• Approved FPPTA membership renewal (4-0)
• Amended 2025 meeting schedule, moving June 25 meeting to June 20 (4-0)

Zoning Hearing

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider an appeal of a development order for the Heron Creek-Parcel K multi-family project. The board will also discuss the 2025 meeting schedule and updates on the Unified Land Development Code.

• Public hearing on Heron Creek-Parcel K multi-family project appeal
• Discussion of 2025 meeting schedule
• Update on Unified Land Development Code changes

The Zoning Board of Appeals denied all nine counts of Petition AZB-24-122, an appeal challenging the Development Order for the Heron Creek Parcel K Multi-Family Project. The board also denied a request to transfer jurisdiction to another body and approved the 2025 meeting schedule. All substantive votes were 3-0 with one abstention and one absence.

• Denied request to transfer jurisdiction (3-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved aggrieved party status for Heron Creek Associates (3-0, 1 abstention)
• Determined Heron Creek Community Association has standing (3-0, 1 abstention)
• Denied Count 1: Lack of Staff Jurisdiction (3-0, 1 abstention)
• Denied Count 2: Violation of Comprehensive Plan and ULDC as to Density (3-0, 1 abstention)
• Denied Count 3: Violation of Comprehensive Plan Policies as to Flood Zones (3-0, 1 abstention)
• Denied Count 4: Violation of Comprehensive Plan Policies as to Compatibility (3-0, 1 abstention)
• Denied Counts 5-9: All remaining counts (3-0, 1 abstention each)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will consider several items including hurricane repair contracts for Blue Ridge Park and Butler Park. The meeting also includes discussions on a referendum regarding borrowing authority for the March 11, 2025, special election.

• Hurricane Ian repairs at Blue Ridge Park: $194,853
• Hurricane Ian repairs at Butler Park: $796,493
• FDOT Highway Traffic Safety Funds subgrant: $120,000
• Public Safety Training Complex contract with JL2 Architecture, LLC: $69,920.00
• Price Boulevard Project R15PW1 budget amendment: $64,221,510

The City Commission voted unanimously to direct staff to include referendum questions on borrowing authority for infrastructure projects and a new police headquarters on a future ballot. They also approved several ordinances, including the 2025 meeting schedule and a $64.2 million budget amendment for the Price Boulevard project. A contract for architectural services for the Public Safety Training Complex was approved 4-1, with Commissioner Petrow dissenting. Two ordinances regarding charter amendments were continued to second reading on December 23, 2024, with the special election date set for May 13, 2025.

• Directed staff to include referendum questions on borrowing for infrastructure and police HQ (5-0)
• Approved $64,221,510 budget amendment for Price Boulevard project (5-0)
• Adopted 2025 meeting schedule ordinance, amended Nov. 25 to Nov. 18 (5-0)
• Approved $69,920 contract for Public Safety Training Complex design (4-1)
• Approved 2025 state and federal legislative priorities (5-0)
• Continued charter amendment ordinances to Dec. 23, 2024, with May 13, 2025 election date (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $120,000 FDOT grant and multiple contracts (5-0)

Art Advisory Board

The Art Advisory Board will discuss and possibly act on future projects, review traffic signal cabinet artwork submissions, and consider approval of the 2025 meeting schedule. The board will also vote on minutes from three prior meetings (May, June, July 2024). No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Approval of May 14, 2024, June 11, 2024 (no quorum), and July 9, 2024 (no quorum) meeting minutes
• Discussion and possible action regarding future projects (priority list attached)
• Review of traffic signal cabinet artwork first and second submissions with supporting forms
• Discussion and possible action on the 2025 annual meeting schedule

City Commission Special Meeting

The North Port City Commission will meet to approve the agenda and hear proclamations recognizing local initiatives and community achievements. The meeting also provides a public comment period for residents to address city business.

• Approval of the meeting agenda
• Presentation of American Heart Association's Well-being Works Better Award
• Proclamation for November 2024 as Career Development Month
• Proclamation for November 2024 as National Entrepreneur Month
• Proclamation for December 2024 as National Write A Business Plan Month

The City Commission met for a special meeting that was largely ceremonial, approving the agenda and presenting awards and proclamations. No substantive policy decisions, ordinances, or contracts were considered or voted on. The meeting adjourned after about 36 minutes.

• Approved meeting agenda as presented (5-0)
• Presented American Heart Association Well-being Works Better Award to Human Resources Department
• Proclaimed November 2024 as Career Development Month
• Proclaimed November 2024 as National Entrepreneur Month
• Proclaimed November 30, 2024, as Small Business Saturday
• Proclaimed December 2024 as National Write A Business Plan Month
• Presented Trick or Treat at City Center People's Choice Trophy to Police Department
• Presented Florida Master Naturalist Certificate to Recreation Supervisor Dillon George

Planning & Zoning Advisory Board

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board will hold public hearings on three quasi-judicial petitions: a final plat for Central Parc at North Port Phase 2, a resolution to vacate a drainage and public easement on the North Port Gateway West plat, and a replat for North Port Commercial. The board will also vote on approving the November 21, 2024 meeting minutes.

• Final plat approval for Central Parc at North Port Phase 2 (Petition PLF-24-145)
• Resolution 2024-R-39 to vacate a 20-foot drainage and public easement on North Port Gateway West lots 1 and 2 (VAC-24-045)
• Replat of North Port Gateway West as North Port Commercial (PLF-24-044)
• Approval of November 21, 2024 meeting minutes

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board voted 5-0 to recommend approval of three quasi-judicial petitions to the City Commission: the Central Parc at North Port Phase 2 final plat, the vacation of a drainage easement on North Port Gateway West, and the North Port Commercial replat. All recommendations were made as presented, with no public comment or opposition. The board also approved the November 21, 2024 meeting minutes.

• Approved November 21, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Central Parc at North Port Phase 2 final plat (5-0)
• Recommended approval of vacation of 20-foot drainage/public easement on North Port Gateway West (5-0)
• Recommended approval of North Port Commercial replat of North Port Gateway West (5-0)

City Commission Workshop

The City Commission will hold a strategic planning session to review and provide feedback on proposed strategic pillars, priorities, and key indicators for the city. Staff will present updates on areas including Safe Community, Quality of Life, Economic Development, Environmental Resiliency, Infrastructure, Governance, and Disaster Response. The commission will also discuss the prioritization process and next steps for the strategic visioning journey.

• Discussion and possible direction on strategic pillars including Safe Community, Quality of Life, Economic Development, Environmental Resiliency, Infrastructure, Governance, and Disaster Response (Item 24-1661)
• Review and discussion of prioritization process for strategic plan (Item 24-1662)
• Review of strategic visioning journey next steps (Item 24-1663)

The City Commission held a strategic planning workshop to review and discuss current and proposed strategic pillars, priorities, and key indicators, including economic development, environmental resiliency, infrastructure, governance, and disaster response. No formal decisions were made; the session was for discussion and possible direction. The commission also reviewed the prioritization process and strategic visioning journey.

• Discussed adding 'Planning' to organizational values
• Reviewed economic development key projects and indicators
• Reviewed environmental resiliency and sustainability priorities
• Reviewed infrastructure and facilities integrity priorities
• Reviewed good governance priorities and indicators
• Reviewed disaster response and recovery management programs
• Discussed prioritization process and 2022-2025 Strategic Plan Vision

City Commission Workshop

The City Commission will hold a strategic planning session to discuss and provide direction on the draft City Attorney position profile, organizational vision, mission, and values statements, and high-performing governance principles. They will also review the Input-Output-Processing Template (IOPT) and prepare for strategic visioning. No ordinances or contracts with dollar amounts are on the agenda.

• Discussion on draft City Attorney position profile brochure
• IOPT (Input-Output-Processing Template) overview and exercises
• High-performing organizational good governance principles
• Preparing for strategic visioning and revising vision, mission, and values statements
• Discussion on strategic pillars, priorities, and key indicators

The City Commission held a strategic planning workshop and reached consensus to place a referendum on the ballot to remove city residency requirements for the City Attorney and City Clerk positions from the City Charter. No formal votes were taken; the rest of the session consisted of presentations and discussions on organizational governance, strategic visioning, and performance indicators. The meeting was procedural and informational, with no other binding decisions made.

• Consensus to proceed with referendum removing residency requirements for City Attorney and City Clerk (no formal vote)
• Reviewed draft City Attorney position profile brochure (discussion only)
• Participated in IOPT strategic styles exercises (informational)
• Discussed good governance principles (informational)
• Discussed strategic vision, mission, and values statements (informational)
• Reviewed strategic pillars, priorities, and key indicators (informational)

Environmental Advisory Board

The Environmental Advisory Board will review its environmental scorecard, discuss retention pond planting regulations, and consider holding a joint meeting with the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. The board will also discuss past memos and future goals.

• Review Environmental Scorecard
• Discuss retention pond planting regulations
• Consider joint meeting with Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
• Review past Environmental Advisory Board memos
• Set future board goals

The Environmental Advisory Board met with four members present and three absent. The board approved the November 4, 2024 meeting minutes as presented. Staff presented an environmental scorecard assessing water quality, air quality, wildlife conservation, and natural resources, with discussion on its official rollout. No other formal decisions were made; several items were discussed without board action.

• Approved November 4, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0, 3 absent)

City Commission Workshop

The City Commission will discuss and provide direction on several items including a draft facility lease policy for city-owned facilities, a debt management advisory committee ordinance, and next steps for the Yorkshire/Raintree interchange with the Florida Department of Transportation. Commissioners will also consider including referendum questions on Longboat Key's March 2025 municipal election and receive quasi-judicial training. No final decisions will be made at this workshop.

• Discussion of Draft Facility Lease Policy for city-owned facilities (Item 24-0530)
• Discussion of Ordinance No. 2024-37 and Policy 2024-01 for Debt Management Advisory Committee (Item 24-1653)
• Discussion of inclusion of referendum questions on Longboat Key's March 2025 election (Item 24-1635)
• Discussion of next steps for Yorkshire/Raintree interchange with FDOT (Item 24-1648)
• Training on quasi-judicial proceedings (Item 24-1567)

The City Commission held a workshop to discuss facility leases, debt management, infrastructure projects, and quasi-judicial procedures. Commissioners reached a consensus to include a referendum question on the March 11, 2025, Town of Longboat Key election ballot regarding the City's authority to borrow money during declared emergencies.

• Consensus reached to add emergency borrowing referendum to March 11, 2025 ballot

Road and Drainage District Governing Body

The Road and Drainage District Governing Body will approve meeting minutes from September and October and establish the schedule for its 2025 regular meetings. The body will also consider a resolution to authorize the purchase of real property on Devonia Circle.

• Approval of September and October 2024 meeting minutes
• Establishing schedule and location of 2025 regular meetings
• Resolution to authorize purchase of property on Devonia Circle

The Road and Drainage District Governing Body approved the purchase of real property on Devonia Circle for stormwater and drainage purposes. The body also established the 2025 regular meeting schedule and approved previous meeting minutes.

• Adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-67 to purchase real property on Devonia Circle (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-61 establishing the 2025 regular meeting schedule (5-0)
• Approved September 11 and September 25, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved October 22, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will hold public hearings on first readings of ordinances, including a $64,221,510 budget amendment for the Price Boulevard project. A resolution to purchase real property on Denargo Road is also up for a vote. The consent agenda includes approvals for a police department contract for pedestrian/bicycle safety enforcement and multiple hurricane repair contracts. General business includes discussion of 2025 state and federal legislative priorities.

• First reading of Ordinance 2024-45 amending the non-district budget for $64,221,510 in bond proceeds for Price Boulevard project
• Resolution 2024-R-68 authorizing purchase of real property on Denargo Road (Lot 5, Block 1817, Port Charlotte Subdivision)
• Consent item: Eighth Amendment to contract with Jon F. Swift, Inc. for $1,105,010 for Hurricane Ian repairs at Narramore Sports Complex
• Consent item: Third Amendment to contract with Ajax Building Company for $677,239.55 for Hurricane Ian repairs at George Mullen Activity Center
• Consent item: Letter of Agreement with University of North Florida for $6,612.70 for police high-visibility enforcement in areas with high pedestrian/bicycle crash rates

The Northport City Commission adopted Ordinance No. 2024-44 to adjust the Fleet Management Fund budget by $460,000 and approved Resolution No. 2024-R-68 to purchase real property on Denargo Road. Commissioners also approved a consent agenda with multiple infrastructure and repair contracts, continued several ordinances to second reading, and made appointments to legislative and local boards.

• Approved consent agenda including various Hurricane Ian repairs and police high-visibility enforcement agreements (5-0)
• Continued Ordinance No. 2024-38 regarding 2025 meeting schedules to second reading as amended (5-0)
• Continued Ordinance No. 2024-45 regarding Price Boulevard Project R15PW1 budget amendments ($64,221,510) to second reading (5-0)
• Continued Ordinance No. 2024-46 regarding board and committee qualifications to second reading (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 2024-44 for Fleet Management Fund budget adjustments of $460,000 (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-68 to purchase real property on Denargo Road (5-0)
• Approved updates for the January 2025 Convocation of Governments regarding Suncoast Technical College and Wellen Park High School (5-0)
• Appointed commissioners to Florida League of Cities Legislative Policy and Advocacy Committees and FY 2024-2025 board assignments (5-0)

Solid Waste District Governing Body

The Solid Waste District Governing Body will consider a consent agenda to approve meeting minutes from June 25, 2024 (4 PM and 5 PM), September 11, 2024, and September 25, 2024. A public hearing will be held on Resolution No. 2024-R-62, which would establish the schedule and location of Solid Waste District regular meetings for the 2025 calendar year. The agenda also includes public comment periods and adjournment.

• Approve minutes from four previous Solid Waste District meetings (June 25, 2024 at 4 PM and 5 PM, September 11, 2024, September 25, 2024)
• Public hearing on Resolution No. 2024-R-62 to set the 2025 regular meeting schedule and location

The Solid Waste District Governing Body approved the consent agenda, including prior meeting minutes, and adopted Resolution 2024-R-62 establishing the 2025 meeting schedule and location. All votes were unanimous (5-0). No public comment was received.

• Approved consent agenda including June 25, 2024 (4 PM and 5 PM), September 11, 2024, and September 25, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-62 setting 2025 Solid Waste District regular meeting schedule and location (5-0)

Fire Rescue District Governing Body

The North Port Fire Rescue District Governing Body will meet to set the schedule and locations for its regular meetings in the 2025 calendar year. The body will also consider the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Resolution 2024-R-60: Establishing the 2025 calendar year meeting schedule and locations
• Approval of meeting minutes from June 25, September 11, and September 25, 2024

The North Port Fire Rescue District Governing Body approved the agenda and consent items, including past meeting minutes. The Commission adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-60, which establishes the schedule and location for regular Fire Rescue District meetings in 2025. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda, including June 25, Sept 11, and Sept 25, 2024 minutes (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-60 establishing 2025 meeting schedule and location (5-0)

Planning & Zoning Advisory Board

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board will meet to approve minutes from October 3, 2024. The board will also discuss and potentially act on changing a June 19, 2025 meeting date to June 18, 2024.

• Approval of October 3, 2024 meeting minutes
• Proposed amendment to the 2025 Meeting Schedule

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board approved minutes from September 5 and October 3, 2024, and changed the 2025 meeting date from June 19 to June 18 to maintain quorum. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved combined minutes of September 5 and October 3, 2024 (6-0)
• Approved changing 2025 meeting from June 19 to June 18 (6-0)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board will discuss and possibly act on holding a joint meeting with the Environmental Advisory Board, consider board member participation as Poinsettia Parade judges, and approve the 2025 annual meeting schedule. The board will also review recent and upcoming Parks & Recreation department agenda items for City Commission meetings and receive updates on department events and accomplishments from September and October.

• Discussion and possible action on a joint meeting with the Environmental Advisory Board (item 24-1485)
• Review and discussion of Parks & Recreation Department agenda items for recent and upcoming City Commission meetings (item 24-1512)
• Discussion and possible action on board member participation as Poinsettia Parade judges (item 24-1553)
• Discussion and possible action on approval of the 2025 annual meeting schedule (item 24-1600)
• Review and discussion of recent and upcoming Parks & Recreation Department events and accomplishments (item 24-1510)

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board approved its 2025 annual meeting schedule. The board also decided to hold a joint meeting with the Environmental Advisory Board to discuss land acquisition and native plantings in parks.

• Approved September 19, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved setting up a joint meeting with Environmental Advisory Board (5-0)
• Approved including land acquisition and native plantings as joint meeting topics (5-0)
• Approved 2025 Annual Meeting Schedule (5-0)

Community Economic Development Advisory Board

The Community Economic Development Advisory Board will meet to receive an update from the Economic Development Division. The board may also take action to approve the meeting schedule for 2025.

• Approval of June 18, 2024 meeting minutes
• Economic Development Division Update
• Approval of the 2025 Annual Meeting Schedule

The Community Economic Development Advisory Board approved its 2025 meeting schedule with modifications. The board also approved the minutes from the June 18, 2024 meeting.

• Approved June 18, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved 2025 annual meeting schedule removing July, August, and September dates (5-0)

City Commission Special Meeting

This is a special meeting focused on the transition of city commission members. The agenda includes announcing the November 5 general election results, recognizing outgoing commissioners, administering the oath of office to a newly elected commissioner, and electing a mayor and vice mayor for the coming term.

• Announcement of November 5, 2024 General Election Results (24-1518)
• Recognition of outgoing commissioners with plaque and statement (24-1520)
• Oath of office for newly elected commissioner and commissioner statement (24-1521)
• Election of mayor and vice mayor (24-1522)

The City Commission certified the November 5, 2024 general election results, including the defeat of a referendum that would have allowed the city to issue up to $15 million in debt without voter approval for emergencies. Newly elected commissioners Demetrius Petrow, Barbara Langdon, and David Duval were sworn in, and Phil Stokes was elected Mayor and Pete Emrich Vice Mayor. The meeting was largely ceremonial and procedural.

• Certified November 5, 2024 election results (unanimous)
• Referendum on $15M debt authority failed (21,610 yes vs 21,916 no)
• Swore in newly elected Commissioners Petrow, Langdon, and Duval
• Elected Phil Stokes as Mayor (unanimous)
• Elected Pete Emrich as Vice Mayor (unanimous)

Historic and Cultural Advisory Board

The Historic and Cultural Advisory Board will meet to approve minutes from September 2024, discuss and possibly approve the 2025 annual meeting schedule, and receive updates on board objectives. The agenda is largely procedural with no proposals for funding, rezoning, or fee changes.

• Approval of September 11, 2024 meeting minutes
• Discussion and possible action on approving the 2025 Annual Meeting Schedule
• Updates on Board objectives and future agenda items

The North Port Historic and Cultural Advisory Board approved its September 11, 2024 meeting minutes and its 2025 annual meeting schedule. The board also received updates regarding board objectives and discussed future agenda items including Myakkahatchee Creek, Warm Mineral Springs, and local history.

• Approved September 11, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved 2025 annual meeting schedule (6-0)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will review several infrastructure contracts and utility agreements. The body is also considering budget adjustments for fleet management and updates to public-private partnership codes.

• Contract with Rick Richards, Inc. for Myakkahatchee Creek Maintenance totaling $3,791,620.11
• Work Assignment with Miller Pipeline, LLC for Inflow and Infiltration Rehabilitation of $599,649.90
• Hurricane Ian repairs at Dallas White Park with Wharton Smith, Inc. for $116,973
• Ordinance to adjust the FY 2023-2024 Non-District Budget Fleet Management Fund by $460,000
• Water supply agreement to provide approximately 2 million gallons of potable water per day to Wellen Park, LLLP and West Villages Improvement District

The City Commission approved a $3.79 million contract for the Myakkahatchee Creek Maintenance Access and Debris Removal Project, along with several other consent agenda items. The commission also adopted an ordinance updating public-private partnership rules and approved two easement resolutions. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved $3,791,620.11 Myakkahatchee Creek debris removal contract (5-0)
• Approved $599,649.90 Miller Pipeline inflow/infiltration work assignment (5-0)
• Approved West Villages Developer Agreement amendment (5-0)
• Approved $116,973 Wharton Smith Hurricane Ian repairs at Dallas White Park (5-0)
• Approved 2024 Utilities Water Supply Agreement with Wellen Park (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-10 on public-private partnerships (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-69 for easement exchange (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-65 for temporary construction easement (5-0)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The North Port City Commission will vote to approve the meeting agenda. It will hold a public comment period and formally welcome new city employees. The Commission will present a Certificate of Appreciation to John Rawlings and issue a proclamation naming November 20, 2024 as National Geographic Information System Day.

• Item 1 – Approval of agenda
• Item 2 – Public comment period
• Item 3 – Welcome of new employees (24-1552)
• Item 4A – Certificate of Appreciation to John Rawlings (24-1490)
• Item 4B – Proclamation of National Geographic Information System Day (24-1459)

The North Port City Commission held a brief regular meeting with no substantive policy decisions. The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda, welcomed new employees, presented a certificate of appreciation to John Rawlings for hurricane response efforts, and proclaimed November 20, 2024, as GIS Day. No public comment was offered, and the meeting adjourned at 4:13 p.m.

• Approved meeting agenda as presented (4-0, McDowell absent)
• Presented Certificate of Appreciation to John Rawlings for hurricane Helene and Milton efforts
• Proclaimed November 20, 2024, as National Geographic Information System Day

Joint Management Advisory Board

The Joint Management Advisory Board will meet on November 5, 2024. It will approve the minutes from the November 28, 2022 meeting (Agenda Item A. 24-1562). The board will discuss possible actions on the Fiscal Year 2024‑2025 event calendar for the North Port Performing Arts Center, board recruitment, a facility needs report, and a meeting with Sarasota County School Board facilities representatives.

• Approve minutes for the November 28, 2022 Joint Management Advisory Board meeting (A. 24-1562)
• Discuss and possible action on the Fiscal Year 2024‑2025 Event Calendar for the North Port Performing Arts Center (A. 24-1563)
• Discuss and possible action on Board Recruitment (B. 24-1564)
• Discuss and possible action on Facility Needs Report (C. 24-1565)
• Discuss and possible action on a meeting between City Staff and Sarasota County School Board facilities representatives (D. 24-1566)

The Joint Management Advisory Board met and approved the minutes from its November 28, 2022 meeting. The board discussed the FY 2024-2025 event calendar for the North Port Performing Arts Center, board recruitment, facility needs, and a potential meeting with Sarasota County School Board facilities representatives, but took no action on these items.

• Approved minutes of November 28, 2022 meeting (3-0)

City Commission Special Meeting

The North Port City Commission will consider a resolution to adopt City Commission Policy No. 2024-01 concerning debt management. The commission will also consider an ordinance to establish the Debt Management Advisory Committee and amend the city code. Both items are scheduled for first and second readings during the special meeting.

• Resolution 2024-R-57: Adopt City Commission Policy No. 2024-01 on debt management
• Ordinance 2024-37: Establish Debt Management Advisory Committee, amending Chapter 4 of the city code
• Approval of agenda
• Public comment period (up to three minutes per person)
• Public hearings on the above items

The City Commission adopted a new debt management policy and established a Debt Management Advisory Committee. Both measures were approved unanimously during a special meeting.

• Adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-57 adopting City Commission Policy No. 2024-01 regarding Debt Management Policy (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 2024-37 establishing the Debt Management Advisory Committee, effective immediately (5-0)
• Approved the meeting agenda (5-0)

Environmental Advisory Board

The Environmental Advisory Board will receive presentations on a creek maintenance project and chemical safety data sheets. The board will also discuss potential actions regarding retention pond planting regulations and previous memos on land acquisition and septic regulations.

• Presentation on North Port Myakkahatchee Creek Maintenance Access Trail and Debris Removal Project
• Presentation on Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for chemicals used by the City
• Discussion and possible action on retention pond planting regulations and incentives
• Review of previous memos regarding septic regulations and land acquisition
• Discussion on holding a joint meeting with the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

The Environmental Advisory Board approved the September 9, 2024, meeting minutes and voted to resubmit previous memoranda regarding conservation easements and land acquisition. The board also agreed to extend the meeting by ten minutes, postponed recommendations to the City Commission until December, and voted to add storm drainage effectiveness to the scorecard and request historical scorecard data.

• Approved September 9, 2024 meeting minutes (8-0)
• Resubmitted conservation easement memorandum (8-0)
• Resubmitted land acquisition memorandum (8-0)
• Extended meeting by ten minutes (8-0)
• Postponed Item No. 23-1089 recommendations to December 2, 2024 meeting (consensus)
• Added storm drainage effectiveness to the scorecard (8-0)
• Provided historical scorecard data to the Board (8-0)

City Commission Workshop

The City Commission is holding a workshop to discuss city business and receive a presentation. The primary agenda item is a demonstration of the Accela Online Permitting Software from Development Services.

• Presentation on Accela Online Permitting Software (Development Services) 24-1543

The City Commission workshop on November 4, 2024, included a presentation on the Accela Online Permitting Software by Development Services Director Alaina Ray. No formal decisions were made; the item was informational only, with discussion and questions from commissioners. The meeting adjourned without any votes or resolutions.

• No formal decisions made; workshop was informational only

Code Enforcement Hearing

The North Port Code Enforcement Hearing on October 24, 2024, addressed numerous cases involving property maintenance, land clearing, and permit violations. The hearing officer found many properties in violation and imposed fines, with several cases involving construction companies for unsafe structures and expired permits. Some cases were dismissed for compliance, and a few were continued to future meetings.

• Imposed $15,000 fine for land clearing at 3306 Ewen Dr. (Robinson Delgado)
• Imposed $15,000 fine for land clearing at 4408 Asteria Ter. (John & Denise Cannon)
• Imposed $5,600 fine for land clearing at 2739 Orchard Cir. (Deivis Espinoza Gonzalez)
• Imposed $250/day fine (no max) for unfit structure at 2690 Nagengast St. (Sierra Lane Capital)
• Imposed $250/day fine (no max) for unsafe structure at 6145 Deming Ave. (Dwell Well Inc)
• Imposed $50/day fine (max $5,000) for expired permit at 5785 Tidwell St. (Estero-RCG Developments)
• Imposed $50/day fine (max $5,000) for no permit on A/C change at 3605 Island Club Dr. A (West Shore Toledo LLC)
• Imposed $10/day fine (max $1,000) for boat on unimproved surface at 4393 Laurina St. (Edward Rodriguez)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will discuss updates to the city's debt management policy and the establishment of a Debt Management Advisory Committee. The body is also reviewing amendments to the city fee schedule and base salary rate formulas.

• Hurricane Ian repairs contracts with Halfacre Construction for Pine Park ($78,097.63), Hope Park ($21,783.93), Atwater Park ($228,103.95), and Environmental Park ($318,101.31)
• Ordinance to amend Development Services Fees to align with the New Unified Land Development Code
• Ordinance to adjust the Base Salary Rate Formula
• Proposed annexation of Ortiz Boulevard
• NeoGov Services Agreement with PowerDMS for an estimated $3,219.45

The City Commission adopted Ordinance 2024-32, amending the city fee schedule to align with the new Unified Land Development Code, including an amendment setting the environmental mitigation fee in lieu of tree mitigation at $8,000 per 15,000 square feet. The commission also approved several other items, including a resolution supporting the West Villages Improvement District legislation, and continued multiple ordinances to second reading. A motion to approve the CISA cybersecurity agreement with a restriction on using the city seal failed, but the agreement was later approved as originally presented.

• Adopted Ordinance 2024-32 (fee schedule) with amendment for $8,000 per 15,000 sq ft tree mitigation fee (4-1)
• Approved Resolution 2024-R-59 (no objection to West Villages Improvement District legislation) (5-0)
• Continued Resolution 2024-R-57 (debt management policy) to second reading with amendment (5-0)
• Continued Ordinance 2024-10 (public-private partnerships) to second reading (5-0)
• Continued Ordinance 2024-37 (debt management advisory committee) to second reading (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-39 (salary formula) with $7,500 base starting Nov 5, 2024, moving to $9,000 in 2025 (4-1)
• Approved CISA cybersecurity agreement as presented (4-1)
• Approved consent agenda with 12 items including Hurricane Ian repair contracts (5-0)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will consider requests to purchase city-owned commercial property and review several infrastructure and service contracts. The body is also deciding on various board appointments and lease amendments for the Family Service Center.

• Discussion of purchase requests for commercial property at 2400 Commerce Parkway
• WebEOC emergency management software subscription for $48,970.81 over three years
• Hurricane Ian repairs at McKibben Park ($72,712.34) and Veteran's Park ($34,375.17)
• Resolution to vacate a portion of the street, tree, and landscape easement for Lot 29, Gran Place Subdivision
• Lease amendments for SPARCC, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast, and Literacy Volunteers of South Sarasota County

The City Commission voted unanimously to direct the City Manager to initiate negotiations for the sale of city-owned commercial property at 2400 Commerce Parkway. The Commission also adopted a resolution to vacate a street, tree, and landscape easement for Lot 29 in Gran Place Subdivision, with an amendment to refund 50% of the vacation costs to the applicant. A 5% salary increase for the City Clerk was approved on a 4-1 vote, with one commissioner dissenting. All other agenda items, including consent agenda items, were approved unanimously.

• Directed City Manager to initiate negotiations for sale of 2400 Commerce Parkway (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-63 vacating easement for Lot 29, Gran Place Subdivision (5-0)
• Amended Resolution 2024-R-63 to refund 50% of vacation costs to applicant (4-1)
• Approved 5% salary increase for City Clerk Heather Faust (4-1)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-64 to participate in joint meeting with Sarasota County Commission (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including 21 items (5-0)
• Approved September 24, 2024 meeting minutes with changes (5-0)

Road and Drainage District Governing Body

The North Port Road and Drainage District Governing Body will vote on a consent agenda item to approve a $3.9 million contract for road rehabilitation in the Biscayne Drive area, funded by federal and local sources. The meeting also includes routine approval of prior meeting minutes and standard public comment periods.

• Approve $3,912,408.79 contract for Road Rehabilitation in Biscayne Drive Area with Preferred Materials, Inc.
• Approve September 24, 2024 meeting minutes
• Discuss approval of September 11, 2024 meeting minutes

The Northport Road and Drainage District Governing Body approved a contract for road rehabilitation in the Biscayne Drive area using American Rescue Plan Act and road bond funds. The board also approved the agenda and the meeting minutes from September 11, 2024, and September 24, 2024.

• Approved the meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved Contract No. 2024-26 for road rehabilitation within the Biscayne Drive Area with Preferred Materials, Inc. for $3,402,094.60 plus a $510,314.19 contingency, totaling $3,912,408.79 (5-0)
• Approved the September 24, 2024 Road and Drainage District Meeting Minutes (5-0)
• Approved the September 11, 2024 Road and Drainage District Meeting Minutes with recommended changes (5-0)

City Commission Special Meeting

The City Commission is meeting to declare a state of local emergency in response to Hurricane Milton and to consider an emergency ordinance related to Hurricane Helene. The meeting will also include public comment periods.

• Emergency Ordinance 2024-42: Declares state of local emergency for Hurricane Milton
• Emergency Ordinance 2024-43: Declares state of local emergency for Hurricane Helene
• Public hearings scheduled for emergency ordinances
• Public comment periods scheduled for the meeting
• City Commission Chambers at 4970 City Hall Blvd

The City Commission unanimously adopted two emergency ordinances declaring a local state of emergency due to Hurricanes Milton and Helene, granting the City Manager authority to take actions under Florida Statutes and suspending standard procedures for procurement and other matters. Both ordinances passed 5-0 with no public comment.

• Adopted Ordinance 2024-42 declaring emergency for Hurricane Milton (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-43 declaring emergency for Hurricane Helene (5-0)

Charter Review Advisory Board

The October 16, 2024 meeting of the Charter Review Advisory Board was cancelled. The agenda included discussion on adding a public comment policy section to the City Charter and approving the 2025 annual meeting schedule.

• Meeting cancelled
• Discussion on adding a public comment policy section to the City Charter
• Discussion on approving the 2025 annual meeting schedule

Community Economic Development Advisory Board

The Community Economic Development Advisory Board scheduled for October 15, 2024 was cancelled. The agenda listed standard procedural items and a discussion on approving the 2025 Annual Meeting Schedule, but no action will occur because the meeting will not be held.

• Discussion and possible action regarding approval of the 2025 Annual Meeting Schedule (Agenda Item 7)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will discuss updating the city fee schedule to align with the new Unified Land Development Code and adopting a new debt management policy. The body is also reviewing several contract amendments for hurricane repairs at city parks.

• Halfacre Construction Company contracts for Hurricane Ian repairs at Pine Park ($78,097.63), Hope Park ($21,783.93), and Atwater Park ($228,103.95)
• Contract for Myakkahatchee Bridge and Observation Deck repairs at Environmental Park ($318,101.31)
• Ordinance to amend Development Services Fees for building, planning, zoning, and natural resources
• Proposed establishment of the Debt Management Advisory Committee
• Discussion on the annexation of Ortiz Boulevard

Art Advisory Board

The North Port Art Advisory Board will review its priority list for future projects and approve the 2025 annual meeting schedule. The board will also discuss a ribbon-cutting for a community mural and review traffic signal cabinet submissions.

• Approval of 2025 Annual Meeting Schedule
• Discussion on Laura Pucci Community Education Mural
• Review of Traffic Signal Cabinet Submissions
• Review of Priority List for Future Projects
• Approval of May, June, and July 2024 Meeting Minutes

Environmental Advisory Board

The Environmental Advisory Board will approve the September 9, 2024 meeting minutes. It will review presentations on Material Safety Data Sheets for city chemicals and an Environmental Scorecard assessing environmental health. The board will consider unfinished business recommendations to the City Commission and new business concerning retention pond planting regulations, potential incentives, and a joint meeting with the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.

• Approval of September 9, 2024 Environmental Advisory Board meeting minutes (Agenda Item 5)
• Presentation on Material Safety Data Sheets for chemicals commonly used by the City (Agenda Item 6A, Ref. 24-1475)
• Presentation on the Environmental Scorecard assessing environmental health (Agenda Item 6B, Ref. 24-1476)
• Unfinished Business: Discussion of recommendations or advisements to the City Commission (Agenda Item 7, Ref. 23-1089)
• New Business: Discussion of retention pond planting regulations and potential incentives (Agenda Item 8, Ref. 23-1515)

City Commission Special Meeting

The North Port City Commission will consider Emergency Ordinance No. 2024-41, which declares a state of local emergency due to Hurricane Milton. The ordinance would give the City Manager or a designee authority to act under Florida Statutes §252.38(3)(A) and suspend standard procurement procedures for emergency goods and services. The meeting also includes routine items such as approval of the agenda and public comment periods.

• Adoption of Emergency Ordinance No. 2024-41 declaring a local emergency for Hurricane Milton
• Granting City Manager authority to act under Fla Stat §252.38(3)(A)
• Suspending standard procurement procedures for emergency goods and services
• Approval of the meeting agenda
• Public comment session

The City Commission unanimously adopted an emergency ordinance declaring a local state of emergency due to Hurricane Milton, granting the city manager authority to take actions under Florida Statutes, including suspending standard procedures for procurement. The commission also unanimously voted to postpone the October 8 regular meeting to October 22 at 10 a.m. No public comment was made.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 2024-41 declaring local state of emergency for Hurricane Milton (5-0)
• Postponed October 8 regular meeting to October 22, 2024 at 10 a.m. (5-0)

City Commission Workshop

The City Commission is holding a workshop to receive a presentation on the 2024 North Port Tree Canopy Assessment. The meeting also includes periods for public comment.

• Presentation regarding 2024 North Port Tree Canopy Assessment (24-1415)

The City Commission held a workshop to receive a presentation on the 2024 North Port Tree Canopy Assessment. No formal legislative actions or votes were taken during this meeting.

• Received presentation on 2024 Tree Canopy Assessment (no vote)

Planning & Zoning Advisory Board

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board will consider a petition to vacate a portion of a 15-foot street tree and landscape easement. The board will also discuss the revised 2025 annual meeting schedule.

• Petition VAC-24-104: Vacating a portion of the 15-foot street tree and landscape easement on Lot 29, Gran Place Subdivision
• Discussion of the Revised 2025 Annual Meeting Schedule

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board recommended approval of Resolution No. 2024-R-63 to vacate a portion of the platted 15-foot street tree and landscape easement on Lot 29, Gran Place Subdivision. The board also approved the revised 2025 annual meeting schedule and continued approval of the September 5, 2024 minutes to the next meeting for corrections.

• Recommended approval of Resolution No. 2024-R-63 to vacate street tree easement (5-0)
• Approved revised 2025 annual meeting schedule (5-0)
• Continued approval of September 5, 2024 minutes to next meeting (5-0)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The North Port City Commission will approve the meeting agenda, hear public comments, and welcome new employees. Commissioners will adopt several proclamations designating October themes such as Manufacturing Month, National Head Start Awareness Month, and Florida Native Plant Month. The meeting also includes presentations of certificates to the first graduating class of North Port University and awards to community volunteers and the Parks & Recreation Department.

• Adopt proclamation proclaiming October 2024 as Manufacturing Month (Item 24-1457)
• Adopt proclamation proclaiming October 2024 as National Head Start Awareness Month (Item 24-1186)
• Adopt proclamation proclaiming October 2024 as Florida Native Plant Month (Item 24-1339)
• Present certificates to the first graduating class of North Port University (Item 24-1377)
• Recognize Joan Morgan with the 2024 Florida Recreation and Park Association Voluntary Service – Individual Award (Item 24-1384)

The City Commission met and approved the agenda as presented, but took no substantive policy or financial actions. The meeting consisted entirely of proclamations, recognitions, and awards, with no public comment and no decisions on ordinances, contracts, or other business.

• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)

Code Enforcement Hearing

The North Port Code Enforcement Hearing is scheduled for September 26, 2024, at 9:00 AM in the City Commission Chambers. The agenda includes the approval of minutes from the August 22, 2024 meeting and a review of 48 compliant cases involving violations of building codes, parking regulations, and debris accumulation.

• Approval of August 22, 2024 Code Enforcement Hearing Minutes
• Review of 48 compliant cases including expired permits and debris accumulation
• Case 24-1376: Approval of minutes
• Case 24-1814: Violation of temporary uses and special events code
• Case 24-2385: Violation of piling and storage of debris code

Fire Rescue District Governing Body

The Governing Body of the North Port Fire Rescue District will hold a public hearing to adopt the final budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2024, and ending September 30, 2025. This action establishes the terms for appropriations and payments for the district.

• Resolution 2024-R-51: Adoption of the Final North Port Fire Rescue District Budget for FY 2024-2025

The North Port Fire Rescue District Governing Body (the City Commission) adopted Resolution 2024-R-51, approving the final district budget for fiscal year October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025. The vote was 5-0 with no public comment or commission discussion. The meeting was brief and procedural, with no other substantive decisions.

• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-51, final FY2024-25 Fire Rescue District budget (5-0)

Solid Waste District Governing Body

The North Port Solid Waste District Governing Body will vote on a resolution to adopt the final budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2024. The agenda also outlines procedures for public comment.

• Public hearing for Resolution 2024-R-53 to adopt the Solid Waste District budget
• Public comment procedures for in-person, online, and voice mail submissions
• Meeting held at City Commission Chambers, 4970 City Hall Blvd

The Solid Waste District Governing Body adopted Resolution 2024-R-53, the final solid waste budget for fiscal year October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025, by a 4-1 vote. Commissioner McDowell dissented, citing inclusion of Payment in Lieu of Fees (PILOF) and increases not benefiting solid waste services. The meeting was otherwise procedural, with no public comment and no other substantive decisions.

• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-53, final Solid Waste budget FY 2024-25 (4-1)
• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)

Road and Drainage District Governing Body

The Governing Body of the North Port Road and Drainage District will hold a public hearing to adopt the final budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2024, and ending September 30, 2025. This budget establishes the terms for appropriations and payments for the district.

• Public hearing for Resolution 2024-R-52 to adopt the Final North Port Road and Drainage District Budget for FY 2024-2025

The North Port Road and Drainage District Governing Body (the City Commission) unanimously adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-52, approving the final district budget for fiscal year October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025. The resolution was introduced by City Manager Fletcher with no commission questions or public comment. The meeting was brief and procedural, with no other substantive decisions made.

• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-52, final FY 2024-25 Road and Drainage District budget (5-0)

City Commission Special Meeting

The North Port City Commission will hold a special meeting to consider two second‑reading ordinances. Ordinance No. 2024-30 adopts the ad valorem millage rate and rolled‑back rate for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2024. Ordinance No. 2024-31 adopts the non‑district budget, capital improvement budget, and related appropriations for the same fiscal year. The meeting also includes public comment periods.

• Ordinance No. 2024-30 – second reading to adopt the ad valorem millage rate for FY 2024‑25
• Ordinance No. 2024-31 – second reading to adopt the non‑district budget and capital improvement budget for FY 2024‑25
• Public comment session (in‑person, online, or voicemail) before the commission votes
• Approval of the meeting agenda
• Adjournment

The City Commission adopted Ordinance 2024-30 setting the ad valorem millage rate and rolled-back rate for FY2025, and Ordinance 2024-31 adopting the non-district budget and capital improvement program. The budget ordinance passed 4-1, with Commissioner McDowell dissenting due to fee increases and fund reallocation. The millage ordinance passed unanimously 5-0. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted Ordinance 2024-30 setting millage rate and rolled-back rate (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-31 adopting FY2025 non-district budget and capital improvement program (4-1, McDowell dissenting)

Road and Drainage District Governing Body

The Governing Body will discuss amending the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 budget to reduce project funding. The meeting also includes a proposal to purchase real property on Irdell Terrace and a contract for right-of-way maintenance.

• Proposed budget reduction of $2,918,947 for Fiscal Year 2023-2024 project budgets
• Proposed purchase of real property on Irdell Terrace (Parcel 1141260522)
• Award request for Bid No. 2024-21 for right-of-way mowing, trimming, and litter removal with TGA Equipment Inc. for an estimated $439,474.00

The Road and Drainage District Governing Body approved a consent agenda including a $439,474 annual right-of-way mowing and litter removal contract with TGA Equipment Inc., and adopted two resolutions: one authorizing the purchase of real property on Irdell Terrace (Resolution 2024-R-25) and another amending the FY 2023-2024 budget to reduce project budgets by $2,918,947 (Resolution 2024-R-43). A motion to direct the City Manager to bring back a future agenda item regarding parkland and Road and Drainage relative to the Irdell Terrace property passed 3-2, with Vice Mayor Stokes and Commissioner Langdon dissenting.

• Approved consent agenda including $439,474 annual mowing contract with TGA Equipment Inc. (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-25 authorizing purchase of Irdell Terrace property (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-43 reducing FY 2023-2024 project budgets by $2,918,947 (5-0)
• Directed City Manager to bring back future agenda item on Irdell Terrace parkland (3-2)

Citizens Tax Oversight Committee

The Citizens Tax Oversight Committee will elect a Chair and Vice Chair. The body will review Surtax III expenditure reports and changes made by the City Commission to infrastructure projects and sales tax allocations for fiscal years 2019 through 2023. The committee may take action to approve a memorandum regarding these reviews for the City Commission.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Review of Surtax III Expenditure Reports for FY 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023
• Review of City Commission changes to infrastructure projects and sales tax proceeds allocations
• Possible approval of a memorandum to the City Commission regarding Surtax III expenditure reviews

The Citizens Tax Oversight Committee approved a memorandum to the City Commission regarding the review of Surtax III expenditure reports for fiscal years 2019-2023. The vote was unanimous (3-0). No action was taken on the election of Chair and Vice Chair, and there was no public comment.

• Approved memorandum on Surtax III expenditure reports FY 2019-2023 (3-0)
• No action taken on election of Chair and Vice Chair

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will hold public hearings to adopt annual utility rate schedules and amend the city-wide fee structure. The body will also discuss a revenue sufficiency analysis for FY 2025 water and wastewater user rates.

• Resolution 2024-R-58: Annual Utility Rate Schedule for water, wastewater, and reclaimed water
• Ordinance 2024-34: Amendments to city-wide fees including police, fire rescue, and solid waste
• Ordinance 2024-36: Budget amendment of $4,350,302 for Hurricane Ian and Environmental Park repairs
• Contract: $2,333,266 for Property and Casualty insurance renewal with Gehring Group
• Contract: $1,000,000 additional for Rostan Solutions, LLC for FEMA reimbursement services

The North Port City Commission approved several major items, including hiring Strategic Government Resources for the City Attorney executive search, adopting the FY 2025 water and wastewater rate technical memorandum, and adopting multiple ordinances updating city fees and budgets. The Commission also approved a 15% salary increase for the City Manager and continued two ordinances to second reading. All votes were unanimous except for the City Manager raise and two ordinance continuations, which passed 4-1 with Commissioner McDowell dissenting.

• Approved SGR recruitment services for City Attorney search (5-0)
• Approved FY 2025 water/wastewater rate technical memorandum (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-58 utility rate schedules with ENR index (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-34 amending city fee structure (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-33 updating fee schedule references (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-35 ratifying prior budgets (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-36 amending FY 2023-24 budget for Hurricane Ian repairs ($4,350,302) (5-0)
• Approved 15% City Manager salary increase (4-1)

Municipal Firefighters Pension Trust Fund Board of Trustees

The Municipal Firefighters Pension Trust Fund Board will approve the June 21, 2024 meeting minutes and hear reports from the actuary, attorney, and investment consultant. New business includes discussion of the Share Plan holdback policy, setting 2025 meeting dates, and reviewing the proposed 2024‑2025 budget and an updated Summary Plan Description. A consent agenda will ratify payments and invoices. Public comment is scheduled before adjournment.

• Approval of the June 21, 2024 meeting minutes (Agenda Item 5)
• Discussion of Share Plan holdback policy (New Business Item A)
• Proposed 2025 meeting dates (New Business Item B)
• Proposed 2024‑2025 budget (New Business Item C)
• Updated Summary Plan Description (SPD) (New Business Item D)

The board approved a share plan holdback policy of 20%, approved the ordinance and impact statement as presented (4-0, with one abstention), and approved the 2024-2025 budget. It also approved the June 21, 2024 minutes, the actuary's report, the investment consultant's report, the consent agenda, and an engagement letter. The board set 2025 meeting dates by consensus.

• Approved share plan holdback policy of 20% (5-0)
• Approved ordinance and impact statement as presented (4-0, Bearse abstained)
• Approved 2024-2025 budget as presented (5-0)
• Approved June 21, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved Foster & Foster actuary report (5-0)
• Approved Mariner Institutional investment report (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including payment ratification, new invoices, and fund activity report (5-0)
• Approved engagement letter as presented (5-0)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board will review recent department updates, upcoming events, and the proposed FY 2025 budget. No formal decisions are scheduled, but the board may discuss budget priorities.

The board approved the minutes from the August 15, 2024 meeting. Members discussed the Parks & Recreation budget, upcoming City Commission agenda items, and future planning topics including the 2026 budget and park preservation.

• Approved August 15, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Commission Special Meeting

The City Commission will hear a presentation on the stormwater drainage system (Item 24-1338) and consider discussion and possible action on a Vulnerability Assessment and Adaptation Plan (Item 24-1230). Public comment will be accepted before the discussions. No decisions are recorded in the agenda; the meeting is for presentation and potential future action.

• Presentation on City of North Port’s stormwater drainage system (Item 24-1338)
• Discussion and possible action on a Vulnerability Assessment and Adaptation Plan (Item 24-1230)
• FDEP Agreement No. 22PLN95 with amendments attached
• Agreement No. 2023-10 – Stantec Consulting attached

The City Commission held a special meeting focused on informational presentations, with no formal votes or decisions taken. Staff presented on the city's stormwater drainage system and on a proposed vulnerability assessment and adaptation plan, followed by discussion and public comment. The agenda was approved unanimously, and the meeting adjourned without any substantive action.

• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Allowed staff additional time to complete stormwater presentation (consensus)

North Port Non-Profits United (NP2)

The North Port Non-Profits United board will review applications and supporting documentation for the 2024/2025 organization cycle. The meeting also includes Sunshine Law training provided by the Office of the City Attorney.

• Review of FY 2024/2025 NP2 organization applications
• Sunshine Law Training presentation by the Office of the City Attorney
• Approval of July 8, 2024 meeting minutes

The North Port Non-Profits United board approved support requests for eight agencies, totaling $13,952.95 of the $20,000 allocated. The motion passed unanimously (5-0). The board also voted to continue approval of the July 8, 2024 minutes to the next meeting, and Sunshine Law training was continued as well.

• Approved $13,952.95 in support for eight agencies (5-0)
• Continued approval of July 8, 2024 minutes to next meeting (5-0)
• Continued Sunshine Law training to next meeting

Historic and Cultural Advisory Board

The Historic and Cultural Advisory Board will consider three possible sites for installing historic markers. The board will also review policy and procedure for the historic preservation program. Public comments will be heard before any action is taken.

• Discussion and possible action on three potential historic marker locations (Agenda Item A. 24-1178)
• Discussion and possible action on policy and procedure for the Historic Preservation Program (Agenda Item B. 24-1180)
• Approval of the August 14, 2024 board meeting minutes (Agenda Item A. 24-1233)

The Historic and Cultural Advisory Board approved the minutes from its August 14, 2024 meeting. The board discussed potential locations for historical markers and a policy for a historic preservation program, but took no formal action on either item. No public comment was received.

• Approved August 14, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0, 1 absent)
• Discussed three possible locations for historical markers (no action)
• Discussed policy and procedure for historic preservation program (no action)

Solid Waste District Governing Body

The Governing Body of the North Port Solid Waste District will hold public hearings to certify non-ad valorem assessment rates and the assessment roll. The body will also consider adopting the tentative budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2024, and ending September 30, 2025.

• Resolution 2024-R-42: Adopting and certifying Non-Ad Valorem Assessment Rates and Assessment Roll for FY 2024-2025
• Resolution 2024-R-49: Adopting the Tentative Solid Waste District Budget for FY 2024-2025

The North Port Solid Waste District Governing Body adopted two resolutions: one confirming non-ad valorem assessment rates and the roll for FY2024-25, and another adopting the tentative district budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2024. Both passed 4-1, with Commissioner McDowell dissenting on each due to assessment increases and fund transfers to balance the general fund. The meeting was procedural, with no public comment on either item.

• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-42 confirming non-ad valorem assessment rates and roll for FY2024-25 (4-1, McDowell dissenting)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-49 adopting tentative Solid Waste District budget for FY2024-25 (4-1, McDowell dissenting)

Fire Rescue District Governing Body

The Governing Body of the North Port Fire Rescue District is holding public hearings to certify non-ad valorem assessment rates and the assessment roll for Fiscal Year 2024-2025. The body will also consider the tentative budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2024.

• Resolution 2024-R-56: Adopting and certifying non-ad valorem assessment rates and the assessment roll for FY 2024-2025
• Resolution 2024-R-47: Adopting the tentative North Port Fire Rescue District Budget for FY 2024-2025

The North Port Fire Rescue District Governing Body unanimously adopted two resolutions: one certifying non-ad valorem assessment rates and the roll for FY2024-25, and another adopting the tentative district budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2024. Both passed 5-0 with no public comment or discussion.

• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-56 certifying non-ad valorem assessment rates and roll for FY2024-25 (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-47 adopting tentative FY2024-25 budget (5-0)

Road and Drainage District Governing Body

The Governing Body will hold public hearings to adopt the tentative budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2024. The body is also deciding on the certification of non-ad valorem and capital improvements assessment rates.

• Resolution 2024-R-44: Adopting and certifying Non-Ad Valorem and Capital Improvements Assessment Rates and the assessment roll for FY 2024-2025
• Resolution 2024-R-48: Adopting the tentative Road and Drainage District Budget for the fiscal year October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025

The North Port Road and Drainage District Governing Body unanimously adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-44, certifying the non-ad valorem assessment rates and roll for fiscal year 2024-2025, and Resolution No. 2024-R-48, adopting the tentative district budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2024. Both resolutions passed 5-0 with no amendments. Discussion on the budget touched on fund balance, FEMA/insurance claims, and reimbursement.

• Adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-44 certifying non-ad valorem assessment rates and roll for FY 2024-2025 (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-48 adopting tentative Road and Drainage District budget for FY 2024-2025 (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda as presented (5-0)

City Commission Special Meeting

The City Commission is holding a special budget meeting to consider first readings of two ordinances. These ordinances address the city's tax rates and the overall spending plan for the upcoming fiscal year.

• Ord. No. 2024-30: Adopting the Ad Valorem Millage Rate and Rolled-Back Rate for FY 2024-2025
• Ord. No. 2024-31: Adopting the Non-District Budget, Capital Improvement Budget and Program for FY 2024-2025

The City Commission voted to move the proposed 2025 non-district budget and the ad valorem millage rate ordinance to second readings. The budget ordinance was amended to include a consensus for staff to create a CIP sheet for the Parks Master Plan using $250,000 from Park Impact Fees.

• Continued Ordinance No. 2024-30 (millage rate) to second reading on Sept. 25, 2024 (5-0)
• Continued Ordinance No. 2024-31 (non-district and capital improvement budget) to second reading on Sept. 25, 2024 (4-1)
• Approved amendment to Ordinance No. 2024-31 to include consensus on Parks Master Plan funding (5-0)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will hold a quasi-judicial hearing on a master plan for Sarasota Memorial Hospital at Sumter. The body will also consider several ordinances regarding city-wide fee changes and budget amendments for hurricane and park repairs.

• Petition DMP-24-080: Sarasota Memorial Hospital (SMH) at Sumter Development Master Plan
• Ord. No. 2024-34: Proposed changes to city-wide fee structures across multiple departments
• Ord. No. 2024-36: Budget amendment of $4,350,302 for Hurricane Ian and Environmental Park repairs
• Contract amendments with Wharton-Smith, Inc. for repairs to Fire Stations 82, 83, and 84 totaling $831,041
• Contract with Vigilant Solutions, LLC for Motorola License Plate Reader products and services

The City Commission approved the Sarasota Memorial Hospital at Sumter Development Master Plan with 23 modifications and 2 conditions, allowing for a medical campus with buildings up to 150 feet tall. The Commission also approved Option 2 for Warm Mineral Springs Park renovations, directing staff to pursue utility extensions, conservation easement negotiations, and Legacy Trail extension funding. Several ordinances and resolutions were adopted or continued, including a $60 million bond authorization and a 10% salary increase for the interim city attorney.

• Approved DMP-24-080 Sarasota Memorial Hospital development master plan with 23 modifications (5-0)
• Approved Warm Mineral Springs Park Phase I Option 2: full restoration of admission building, hybrid spa renovation, cyclorama mothballing (5-0)
• Directed City Manager to pursue running utilities up Ortiz Boulevard to US 41 (5-0)
• Directed negotiation with Conservation Foundation and Gulf Coast Community Foundation for conservation easement on 60 acres adjacent to Warm Mineral Springs (5-0)
• Directed exploration of funding options for Legacy Trail extension to Warm Mineral Springs (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-38 authorizing up to $60M infrastructure sales surtax revenue bonds (4-1)
• Accepted City Attorney Slayton's resignation effective Sept 25, 2024; appointed Deputy City Attorney Golen as Interim City Attorney with 10% salary increase (5-0)
• Directed City Attorney to amend salary code to increase base salary to $7,500 for commissioners (4-1)

Art Advisory Board

The North Port Art Advisory Board will review a priority list of future projects, discuss a ribbon-cutting for a community mural, and approve the 2025 annual meeting schedule. The board will also address traffic signal cabinet submissions and provide updates on various public art installations.

• Approval of 2025 Annual Meeting Schedule
• Discussion on Laura Pucci Community Education Mural
• Review of Traffic Signal Cabinet Submissions
• Updates on North Port Aquatic Center Sponsorship Wall
• Discussion on Price Boulevard Sculpture

Environmental Advisory Board

The Environmental Advisory Board will review recommendations for the City Commission regarding habitat protection and carbon sequestration. The board will also discuss chemical products used by city departments and the Myakkahatchee Creek maintenance project.

• Presentation by Dr. Maranda Kles on North Port history and archaeological sites
• Discussion on the Myakkahatchee Creek Maintenance Access Trail and Debris Removal Project
• Review of MSDS chemical products used by Public Works and Parks and Recreation
• Discussion on retention pond planting regulations and potential incentives
• Approval of the 2025 Annual Meeting Schedule

The Environmental Advisory Board approved its 2025 annual meeting schedule as presented (6-0, with one absent). The board also approved the July 1, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0). A presentation on North Port's history and archaeological sites was given by Dr. Maranda Kles, with discussion but no formal action. Several unfinished business items were discussed without votes, and one new business item was continued to the October 7, 2024 meeting.

• Approved 2025 annual meeting schedule (6-0)
• Approved July 1, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Continued item 24-1159 (previous memos) to October 7, 2024 meeting

City Commission Workshop

The North Port City Commission will hold a workshop to discuss and possibly direct staff on the city's 2025 state and federal legislative priorities and a proposed debt management policy.

• Discussion and direction on 2025 state and federal legislative priorities
• Discussion and direction on proposed projects for 2025 funding requests
• Discussion and direction on a proposed debt management policy
• Review of Ordinance 2024-07 and June 26, 2024 special meeting minutes

The City Commission held a workshop to discuss and provide direction on the 2025 state and federal legislative priorities, proposed projects for funding requests, and a debt management policy. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was for discussion and possible direction only.

• Discussed 2025 state and federal legislative priorities
• Discussed proposed projects for 2025 funding requests
• Discussed debt management policy and debt finance committee

Planning & Zoning Advisory Board

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board will approve the July 2024 meeting minutes and discuss the 2025 meeting schedule. The board will also hold a public hearing on a master plan for Sarasota Memorial Hospital at Sumter.

• Approval of July 2024 meeting minutes
• Public hearing on Sarasota Memorial Hospital development plan
• Discussion of 2025 Annual Meeting Schedule

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board voted 6-0 to recommend approval of Petition DMP-24-080, the Sarasota Memorial Hospital at Sumter Development Master Plan, finding it complies with the Unified Land Development Code. The board also approved minutes from July 11 (as amended) and July 18, 2024. No action was taken on the 2025 annual meeting schedule.

• Recommended approval of DMP-24-080 Sarasota Memorial Hospital at Sumter Development Master Plan (6-0)
• Approved July 11, 2024 meeting minutes as amended (6-0)
• Approved July 18, 2024 meeting minutes as presented (6-0)
• Extended applicant presentation time by 20 minutes (6-0)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will meet to welcome new employees and issue several recognitions. The agenda consists of ceremonial items and public comment periods.

• Recognition of Police Chief Todd Garrison for the William B. Berger Outstanding Chief Executive of the Year Award
• Presentation of the 2024 Greenest Citizen Award to Jake Maurer
• Proclamation for Attendance Awareness Month presented to Beth Duda
• Proclamation for National Forensic Science Week for the Police Department Crime Scene Unit
• Proclamation for National Crime and Intelligence Analyst Appreciation Day for the Police Department Intelligence Unit

The City Commission meeting was largely ceremonial, featuring recognitions, proclamations, and new employee welcomes. No substantive policy decisions were made; the only formal action was unanimous approval of the agenda.

• Approved meeting agenda as presented (5-0)

Code Enforcement Hearing

The North Port Code Enforcement Hearing on August 22, 2024 will consider a series of code violations submitted as case numbers. Items include missing building permits, accumulation of debris, illegal parking in the right‑of‑way, and several properties cited for unsafe structures or expired permits. The Hearing Officer will hear comments from staff, petitioners, and the public before acting on each case.

• Case 24-1138 – No permits for roof work, lanai extension, or rebuilt shed at 4707 Alametos Ter (Chapter 105.1, Florida Building Code).
• Case 24-709 – No fence permit required under Unified Land Development Code at 4189 Acline Ave.
• Case 24-1765 – Structure at 6093 Myrtlewood Rd cited for unsafe exterior walls and roof anchorage, deemed unsafe per International Property Maintenance Code.
• Case 24-1441 – Expired fire alarm (19-4303) and electric work (18-440) permits at 4895 N Toledo Blade Blvd; debris also noted.
• Case 24-1662 – Expired swimming‑pool permit (22 00001322) and dilapidated fence at 2509 NANTUCKET TER.

The Code Enforcement Hearing addressed numerous cases, with most brought into compliance and closed. Several properties were found in violation and fined, including unsafe structures, expired permits, and land clearing without permits. Fines ranged from $10 to $250 per day, with some lump-sum penalties. A trespass appeal was dismissed, and several cases were continued to the next hearing.

• Found 12 trees removed without permit at 1557 Squaw Ln., fined $4,800
• Found unsafe structure at 4413 Scottish Ter., fined $250/day (no max) starting Sept 17
• Found unsafe structure at 2948 Daphne Rd., fined $250/day (no max) starting Sept 17
• Found debris violation at 3418 Johannesberg Rd., fined $25/day (max $2,000) starting Sept 17
• Found abandoned construction site at 1733 Kadashow Ave., fined $250/day (no max) starting Sept 17
• Found land clearing violation at 5652 Bannock Cir., fined $4,400
• Dismissed trespass appeal Case No. 24052636
• Continued Case No. 23-4679 to Sept 26, 2024 meeting

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board will follow standard meeting procedures including public comment, approval of minutes, and updates. No substantive decisions or policy changes are scheduled.

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board approved the July 18, 2024 meeting minutes unanimously. The board elected Vice Chair Jackomin as Chair and Board Member Morgan as Vice Chair, both by unanimous voice vote. No other substantive decisions were made; other items were discussions only.

• Approved July 18, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Vice Chair Jackomin as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Board Member Morgan as Vice Chair (unanimous)

Historic and Cultural Advisory Board

The Historic and Cultural Advisory Board will review minutes from its July 2024 meeting, discuss three potential sites for new historical markers, and consider policy updates for the city’s historic preservation program. The board will also hear an update on plans for a joint meeting with the Art Advisory Board.

• Review minutes from July 10, 2024 meeting (24-1168)
• Discuss three possible locations for historical markers (24-1178)
• Consider policy and procedure updates for historic preservation program (24-1180)
• Update on joint meeting with Art Advisory Board (24-1179)

The Historic and Cultural Advisory Board approved proceeding with three proposed historical marker sites—Turpentine Dock, the Charlotte Harbor and Northern Railroad railbed, and Biscayne Plaza—and will seek city direction on interest and next steps. The board also voted to ask the city whether it is interested in designating certain homes as historical sites for preservation. Both motions passed unanimously by voice vote.

• Approved proceeding with three historical marker sites: Turpentine Dock, CH&N Railroad railbed, Biscayne Plaza (unanimous)
• Approved inquiring if the city is interested in designating certain homes as historical sites (unanimous)
• Approved July 10, 2024 meeting minutes as presented (unanimous)

Art Advisory Board

The North Port Art Advisory Board did not meet on August 13, 2024; the meeting was cancelled. The board’s next steps include discussing future projects, reviewing traffic signal cabinet submissions, and considering a ribbon cutting for a community mural.

City Commission Special Meeting

The City Commission will hold second readings for a series of ordinances, including a comprehensive rewrite of the Unified Land Development Code and a new official zoning map. The body is also considering specific rezoning and pattern plan amendments for the West Villages area.

• Rezoning ± 27.7816 acres south of S. Tamiami Trail (US-41) and east of S. West Villages Parkway to Village classification (Ord. 2024-25)
• Amending the Village E District Pattern Plan for West Villages/Wellen Park (Ord. 2024-26)
• Comprehensive rewrite of the Unified Land Development Code and adoption of a new Official Zoning Map (Ord. 2024-13, 2024-15)
• Amendments to fines for tree protection violations (Ord. 2024-17)
• Creation of a new Canopy Road Zone Designation (Ord. 2024-24)

The Commission adopted Ordinance No. 2024-13, a comprehensive rewrite of the Unified Land Development Code, with amendments including exemptions for existing homes and homes with septic systems from certain tree code sections. The Commission also adopted multiple other ordinances, including rezoning, sign regulations, a new zoning map, and various code updates. Several motions to add further amendments failed, including one to require direct mail notification to property owners about zoning changes.

• Adopted Ordinance 2024-13, ULDC rewrite, as amended (4-1)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-25, rezoning 27.78 acres to Village (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-26, Village E Pattern Plan amendment (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-14, new sign regulations, as amended (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-15, new official zoning map (4-1)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-16 through 2024-24, 2024-28, code updates (5-0 each)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-30, meeting policy amendment (5-0)
• Failed motion to require mail notification of zoning changes (1-4)

Environmental Advisory Board

The North Port Environmental Advisory Board will review and possibly recommend new policies on wildlife habitat protection, tree preservation, and retention pond planting regulations. The board may also advise on carbon sequestration through trees and schedule a joint meeting with the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.

• Discussion on preserving wildlife habitats and promoting trees and natural resources
• Possible action on retention pond planting regulations and incentives
• Review of carbon sequestration significance through tree policies
• Joint meeting planning with Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
• Review of chemical products used by Public Works and Parks departments

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission is meeting to consider an emergency ordinance regarding the threat posed by Hurricane Debby. This action would grant the City Manager authority to take emergency actions and suspend standard procurement procedures for necessary goods and services.

• Emergency Ordinance No. 2024-29: Declaring a State of Local Emergency for Hurricane Debby

The City Commission held an emergency meeting and unanimously adopted Ordinance No. 2024-29, declaring a state of local emergency due to Hurricane Debby. The ordinance grants the city manager authority to take actions under Florida Statutes, including suspending standard procedures for procurement of goods and services. Commissioner Pete Emrich was absent.

• Approved agenda as presented (4-0, Emrich absent)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 2024-29 declaring local emergency for Hurricane Debby (4-0, Emrich absent)

City Commission Special Meeting

The City Commission will discuss funding and preliminary plans for an employee healthcare center using budgeted savings. The body will also consider changes to the city's tribute program, travel expense policies, and land acquisition lists.

• Proposed use of $1,124,773 in budgeted savings for an Employee Healthcare Center
• Removal of single-family lots in the Constitution Drive area from the Sarasota County Land Acquisition List
• Proposed amendments to Development Review, Planning & Zoning, and Natural Resources fees
• Transition of the Tribute Program for tree, bench, and paver donations to an administrative regulation
• Review of City Commission Policy #2021-01 regarding travel expense policy and budget consolidation

The Commission voted 5-0 to direct the City Manager to move forward with preliminary plans for creating and implementing a healthcare center for city employees, using $1,124,773 from budgeted savings. The Commission also approved three sets of workshop meeting minutes and directed staff to revise the tribute program policy. A motion to allow commissioners to combine travel accounts without approval failed, but a separate motion to approve Commissioner McDowell's request to combine her accounts for FY 2023-2024 passed 3-1.

• Approved directing City Manager to proceed with preliminary plans for employee healthcare center (5-0)
• Approved June 27, 2024 budget workshop minutes (5-0)
• Approved June 24, 2024 workshop minutes (5-0)
• Approved June 3, 2024 workshop minutes (5-0)
• Directed staff to revise tribute program policy language and bring back for discussion (4-1)
• Denied motion to allow commissioners to combine travel accounts without approval (2-2, 1 absent)
• Approved Commissioner McDowell's request to combine her travel accounts for FY 2023-2024 (3-1, 1 absent)

City Commission Special Meeting

The North Port City Commission will hold a special meeting to review the 2024 Certification of Taxable Value, proposed millage rates, and public hearing dates. No formal decisions are scheduled; the discussion will inform future actions.

• Discussion of Draft DR 420 Certification of Taxable Value Form
• Review of Draft DR 420 MMP Maximum Millage Levy Calculation Form
• Max Millage Presentation (Item 24-0995)

The City Commission directed the City Manager to submit the 2024 Certification of Taxable Value with a proposed millage rate of 3.7667, and approved September 11 and September 25, 2024, at 5:01 p.m. for the budget public hearings. Both motions passed unanimously (5-0). The meeting was procedural with no public comment.

• Directed City Manager to submit 2024 Certification of Taxable Value with proposed millage rate of 3.7667 (5-0)
• Approved budget hearing dates: September 11, 2024, and September 25, 2024, at 5:01 p.m. (5-0)

City Commission Workshop

The North Port City Commission will hold a workshop to discuss the Fiscal Year 2025 City Manager's Proposed Budget. The meeting includes attachments for various city departments and allows for public comment.

• Discussion of Fiscal Year 2025 City Manager's Proposed Budget
• Public comment on any subject pertaining to city business
• Attachments for Fire, Police, Public Works, and other departments
• Hybrid meeting format using Communications Media Technology
• Public comment submission via in-person, online, or voice mail

The City Commission held a workshop to review the Fiscal Year 2025 City Manager's Proposed Budget, with presentations and discussions on each department's budget. No formal decisions were made; the workshop was for discussion and possible direction only. The commission approved the use of Communications Media Technology for Commissioner Emrich's hybrid attendance.

• Approved use of CMT for hybrid meeting (4-1)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The North Port City Commission will meet on July 23, 2024, to act on routine items including land acquisitions, grant applications, lease amendments, and contract amendments. The meeting includes a public comment period and a consent agenda with multiple approvals, followed by a zoning change proposal for 27.78 acres south of S. Tamiami Trail.

• Approve $30.4M construction contract for new Utilities Administration and Warehouse Facilities
• $10.3M Resilient SRQ grant application for Myakkahatchee Creek Bridge reconstruction over Price Boulevard
• Approve $20,615 amendment to Cranberry/Hillsborough intersection lighting design contract
• Approve $28.9M utilities building contract with Seagate Development Group, LLC
• Rezone ±27.78 acres south of S. Tamiami Trail (US-41) from No Zoning Designation District (NZD) to a new zoning designation

The City Commission adopted the comprehensive plan update (Ordinance 2024-09) 4-1, amended to add protections for Heron Creek Golf Course and rename density corridors to intensity corridors. The commission also approved placing a charter amendment on the November ballot to allow the city to issue debt without voter approval in certain circumstances (Ordinance 2024-07). Numerous other ordinances were continued to second reading on August 6, 2024.

• Adopted comprehensive plan update Ordinance 2024-09 (4-1)
• Approved referendum on charter amendment for debt issuance without voter approval (5-0)
• Approved $30.4M construction contract for North Port Utilities Administration and Warehouse Facilities (consent)
• Approved $10.3M grant application for Myakkahatchee Creek Bridge reconstruction (5-0)
• Approved $359K preconstruction contract for new Police Headquarters (consent)
• Continued ULDC rewrite Ordinance 2024-13 to second reading (4-1)
• Continued sign regulations Ordinance 2024-14 to second reading (5-0)
• Directed staff to bring back ordinance on fines and liens settlement (5-0)

Road and Drainage District Governing Body

The Governing Body of the North Port Road and Drainage District is meeting to discuss a budget amendment for hurricane financial recovery. The body will also consider the approval of minutes from June 2024 meetings.

• Resolution No. 2024-R-37: Amending the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 budget by $1,000,000 for Hurricane Financial Recovery Assistance
• Approval of June 25, 2024 Road and Drainage Meeting Minutes
• Approval of June 25, 2024 Road and Drainage Special Meeting Minutes

The North Port Road and Drainage District Governing Body approved a $1,000,000 budget amendment for Fiscal Year 2023-2024 to support Hurricane Financial Recovery Assistance. The board also approved the consent agenda, including meeting minutes from June 25, 2024, and accepted Commissioner Emrich's remote participation via CMT due to a medical condition. No public comment was received.

• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-37 amending FY 2023-2024 budget by $1,000,000 for hurricane recovery (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including June 25, 2024 regular and special meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (4-0, Emrich absent)
• Accepted use of CMT for hybrid meeting (4-1, McDowell opposed)

Planning & Zoning Advisory Board

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board will hold public hearings to consider three amendments to the Unified Land Development Code. These proposals include repealing and replacing multiple chapters of the code and adopting a new official zoning map.

• Ordinance No. 2024-13: Repealing all ULDC chapters except Chapter 29 and creating new Chapters 1-4, 6, and Appendix A
• Ordinance No. 2024-14: Repealing Chapter 29-Sign Regulations and creating New Chapter 5-Signs
• Ordinance No. 2024-15: Repealing Ordinance No. 2010-15 and the Official Zoning Map to adopt a new Official Zoning Map

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board voted 5-0 to recommend approval of three ordinances that rewrite the Unified Land Development Code (ULDC), replace the sign regulations, and adopt a new Official Zoning Map. The recommendations will go to the City Commission for final action. No public comment was heard on any of the three items.

• Recommended approval of Ordinance 2024-13, ULDC rewrite (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Ordinance 2024-14, new sign regulations (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Ordinance 2024-15, new Official Zoning Map (5-0)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board will hold a routine meeting to approve past minutes, hear a presentation on potential parkland acquisition, and discuss future agenda items for the Sarasota County Parks Advisory and Recreation Council and North Port University. No formal decisions are scheduled.

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board unanimously supported funding a new Parks and Recreation Master Plan after a presentation on parkland acquisition and future planning. The board also approved the May 16, 2024 meeting minutes as presented. Other items were discussed but no further decisions were made.

• Approved May 16, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Supported funding for new Parks and Recreation Master Plan (unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Advisory Board

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board will review several petitions including land rezonings and easement vacancies. Key items involve a large acreage rezoning and pattern plan amendment related to the Sarasota Memorial Hospital at Wellen Park project.

• Rezoning ± 27.7816 acres from No Zoning Designation District to Village Classification (REZ-24-079)
• Amending the Village E Village District Pattern Plan for Wellen Park (VPA-24-078)
• Vacating a portion of a 20-foot maintenance easement on Lot 2, Block 1604 of the 32nd Addition (VAC-24-039)
• Vacating a 10-foot utility and drainage easement on Lot 11, Block 1391 of the 28th Addition (VAC-24-042)

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board recommended approval for a rezoning request and a Village District Pattern Plan amendment for Sarasota Memorial Hospital at Wellen Park. The board also recommended vacating two separate maintenance and utility easements.

• Recommended approval to rezone ± 27.7816 acres for Sarasota Memorial Hospital from No Zoning Designation District to Village Classification (Unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Village E VDPP Amendment for Sarasota Memorial Hospital, including staff conditions and a request for the City Commission to lower open space from 5% to a range of 0-5% (Unanimous)
• Recommended approval to vacate a portion of the rear 20-foot maintenance easement on Lot 2, Block 1604 of the 32nd Addition to the Port Charlotte Subdivision (Unanimous)
• Recommended approval to vacate the rear 10-foot utility and drainage easement on Lot 11, Block 1391 of the 28th Addition to the Port Charlotte Subdivision (Unanimous)
• Approved June 20, 2024 meeting minutes with one correction (5-0)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will conduct a regular meeting including public comment and the welcome of new employees. The agenda includes multiple proclamations and recognitions for city departments and officials.

• Proclamation of July 2024 as Parks and Recreation Month
• Proclamation of August 4th through August 10th, 2024, as National Health Center Week
• Awards for the North Port Communications Division and Police Department staff
• Recognition of Police Chief Todd Garrison for the William B. Berger Outstanding Chief Executive of the Year Award

The City Commission approved the meeting agenda and presented proclamations for Parks and Recreation Month and National Health Center Week. The Commission also presented awards to the Communications Division and North Port Police Department.

• Approved use of CMT for hybrid meeting (4-1)
• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Presented proclamation for July 2024 Parks and Recreation Month
• Presented proclamation for National Health Center Week (August 4-10, 2024)
• Presented Florida Municipal Communicators Association awards to Communications Division and Police Department
• Continued recognition of Police Chief Todd Garrison to September 5, 2024

Historic and Cultural Advisory Board

The Board will receive training regarding the Sunshine Law and advisory board procedures. Members will also discuss the election of a Chair and Vice Chair and consider approving the 2024 annual meeting schedule.

• Sunshine Law Training presentation
• Advisory Board Training presentation
• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Approval of 2024 Annual Meeting Schedule

The Historic and Cultural Advisory Board elected Board Member Sterner as Chair and Board Member Klinkhamer as Vice Chair, both by 4-0 votes. The board reached consensus to hold meetings on the 2nd Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. and voted to add two items to its next agenda: identifying up to three city locations for possible historical markers, and requesting staff information on historic preservation policy and procedure. The meeting also included Sunshine Law and advisory board training presentations; no public comment was offered.

• Appointed Board Member Sterner as Chair (4-0)
• Appointed Board Member Klinkhamer as Vice Chair (4-0)
• Consensus to hold meetings on the 2nd Wednesday at 5:30 p.m.
• Approved adding to next agenda: identifying up to three city locations for possible historical markers (4-0)
• Approved requesting staff liaison provide policy and procedure information for a historic preservation program (4-0)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will consider a referendum question regarding city debt authority. The agenda also includes several contract amendments for Hurricane Ian repairs and infrastructure transfers.

• Referendum on amending the City Charter to authorize issuing debt without prior voter approval
• $2,072,007 for Hurricane Ian repairs at the Morgan Family Community Center
• $611,883 for Hurricane Ian repairs at the North Port Aquatic Center
• $124,350 for Hurricane Ian repairs at the Butler Park Kayak Launch
• $124,077 for Hurricane Ian repairs at the Blue Ridge Park Kayak Launch

The City Commission approved a budget amendment for kayak launch and utilities building repairs. They also approved several Hurricane Ian repair contracts and two land development petitions. A proposed referendum regarding city debt was continued to a second reading.

• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-27 amending budgets for kayak launch and utilities building by $13,195,681 (5-0)
• Approved $2,072,007 for Morgan Family Community Center Hurricane Ian repairs (5-0)
• Approved $611,883 for North Port Aquatic Center Hurricane Ian repairs (5-0)
• Approved $124,350 for Butler Park Kayak Launch Hurricane Ian repairs (5-0)
• Approved $124,077 for Blue Ridge Park Kayak Launch Hurricane Ian repairs (5-0)
• Approved Final Plat for Sunstone Village F5 Phase 3 (5-0)
• Approved Replat and Renaming of Tract B, Suncoast Plaza III to SIG North Port (5-0)
• Continued Ordinance 2024-07 regarding a debt referendum to second reading (5-0)

Art Advisory Board

The Board will discuss potential future projects and a priority list. Members will also consider a ribbon cutting for the Laura Pucci Community Education Mural.

• Discussion of Future Projects Priority List (24-0694)
• Discussion of Ribbon Cutting for Laura Pucci Community Education Mural (24-0834)
• Update on North Port Aquatic Center Sponsorship Wall
• Update on Senior Center Community Education Mural
• Update on Price Boulevard Sculpture and Peace Pole Project

The meeting was called to order and immediately adjourned because a quorum was not present. No substantive decisions were made.

Environmental Advisory Board

The Board will discuss recommendations for wildlife, habitat, and tree preservation. Items include potential incentives for retention pond planting and the significance of trees for carbon sequestration.

• Presentation of the 2024 North Port Tree Canopy Assessment
• Discussion on retention pond planting regulations and potential incentives
• Discussion on trees for carbon sequestration
• Review of Myakkahatchee Creek Maintenance Access Trail and Debris Removal Project
• Review of MSDS chemical products used by Public Works and Parks and Recreation

The Environmental Advisory Board met on July 1, 2024, with five of six members present. The only formal decision was approval of the May 30 and June 3, 2024 meeting minutes. The board held discussions on wildlife and habitat recommendations, retention pond planting rules, tree carbon sequestration, a joint meeting with the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, chemical product presentations, and the Myakkahatchee Creek trail project, but the minutes record no motions or votes on these items. A presentation on the 2024 North Port Tree Canopy Assessment was also given.

• Approved May 30 and June 3, 2024 Environmental Advisory Board meeting minutes (5-0, one absent)

City Commission Workshop

The City Commission will review a presentation regarding existing park system service areas and future planning. The Commission will also discuss possible directions for a new recognition program involving banner installations on city infrastructure.

• Presentation regarding 2024 Park System Planning and Parks & Recreation Master Plan
• Discussion of options for a recognition program using banner installations on designated city infrastructure

At a July 1, 2024 workshop, the North Port City Commission reached consensus directing the City Manager to bring funding options for a parks master plan, including the Italy Ave property, to the July workshop for further discussion. The commission also reached consensus not to move forward at this time with a proposed recognition program honoring individuals through banner installations on designated city infrastructure. The meeting was a workshop; no binding votes on these items were recorded beyond a procedural motion allowing Commissioner Emrich to attend via communications media technology, which carried 4-1.

• Consensus: direct City Manager to bring parks master plan funding options, including Italy Ave property, to July workshop
• Consensus: do not move forward with banner recognition program at this time
• Approved use of CMT for hybrid meeting attendance by Commissioner Emrich (4-1, McDowell dissenting)

Code Enforcement Hearing

The City of North Port Code Enforcement Hearing on June 27, 2024, will review 39 cases involving property code violations. The hearing officer will hear comments from staff, petitioners, and the public before acting on each case. Violations include expired permits, prohibited parking, debris accumulation, and unpermitted structures.

• Expired building permits at 6395 Tropicaire Blvd, 7027 De Brita Rd, 1162 Oregon Ln, 3224 Zoratoa Ave
• Unpermitted fences at 6354 Scorpio Ave, 2476 Wurtsmith Ln, 6433 Myrtlewood Rd
• Prohibited right-of-way parking at multiple addresses including 1431 Nora Ln, 2806 Chickasaw Ave, 2027 Wheeling Ave
• Debris accumulation at 3630 Parade Ter, 8130 Fay Ave, 3511 Matador Rd
• Unpermitted roof at 8130 Fay Ave and unpermitted pool at 1601 Logsdon St

At the June 27, 2024 Code Enforcement Hearing, Hearing Officer Toale found two land-clearing violations at 2695 and 2645 Commerce Parkway and imposed fines of $43,000 and $42,000. Most other cases on the agenda were reported brought into compliance with no further action, and several violations were dismissed. Fines of $10-$25 per day with maximums of $1,000-$2,000 were imposed in a handful of first- and second-hearing cases, and two cases were continued to September 26, 2024.

• Imposed $43,000 fine for land clearing at 2695 Commerce Parkway (Case 23-1823)
• Imposed $42,000 fine for land clearing at 2645 Commerce Parkway (Case 23-1824)
• Approved May 23, 2024 Code Enforcement Hearing minutes as presented
• Dismissed violation for vehicle parked on property with no principal structure at 1593 Hollister Ave; continued case to Sept 26, 2024
• Dismissed expired-permit violation at 5246 Cillette Ave
• Dismissed debris and right-of-way parking violations at 1501 Dexter Rd; imposed fine for no active business tax receipt
• Imposed $25/day (max $2,000) fines for debris and silt-fence violations at 3418 Johannesberg Rd, starting Aug 17, 2024
• Imposed $25/day (max $2,000) and $10/day (max $1,000) fines at 3063 Briarcliff Ave, starting Aug 17, 2024

City Commission Workshop

The City Commission will continue its budget workshop. The meeting includes discussions regarding Capital Improvement Program items for several city departments.

• CIP Parks and Recreation Department (G. 24-0873)
• CIP Utilities Department (H. 24-0874)
• CIP Fire Department (I. 24-0875)
• CIP Police Department (J. 24-0876)
• CIP All Others (K. 24-0877)

At a June 27, 2024 workshop, the North Port City Commission reviewed Capital Improvement Project (CIP) sheets for Parks and Recreation, Utilities, Fire, Police, and other departments. The commission reached consensus to remove CIP No. P25CMP (Canal and Creek Master Plan Phase II) and CIP No. R25SHV (Spring Haven Roadway Extension) from the CIP sheets, reallocating the Spring Haven money as Road and Drainage sees fit. It also directed the City Manager to work with staff to bring back a detailed proposal for an unimproved lot registration and annual fee, with Commissioner McDowell dissenting. No formal ordinances or contracts were approved; the meeting was a workshop and ended at 4:15 p.m.

• Consensus to remove CIP No. P25CMP (Canal and Creek Master Plan Phase II) from CIP sheets
• Consensus to remove CIP No. R25SHV (Spring Haven Roadway Extension) from CIP sheets and reallocate money as Road and Drainage sees fit
• Consensus to direct City Manager to bring back a detailed proposal on unimproved lot registration and annual fee (McDowell dissenting)
• Approved use of Communications Media Technology (CMT) for hybrid meeting (4-1, McDowell no)

City Commission Special Meeting

The City Commission will meet to discuss and potentially act on a charter amendment related to the city's bonding authority. The discussion includes reviewing draft ordinance 2024-07 and the North Port Debt Management Policy.

• Charter Amendment Language Related to the City’s Bonding Authority
• Draft Ord 2024-07 - Charter Referendum
• Draft North Port Debt Management Policy v1

The City Commission directed staff to include specific language in a proposed charter referendum regarding the city's bonding authority. Decisions focused on debt caps, payment sources, and the adoption process for a new Debt Management Policy.

• Approved $15 million principal cap per non-emergency project for referendum language (5-0)
• Approved adding language specifying debt payable from funds other than property taxes (5-0)
• Rescinded prior direction regarding bond counsel presence at first reading of Charter Referendum (5-0)
• Approved language stating non-emergency debt issuance cannot be conducted via emergency ordinance (5-0)
• Approved language stating Debt Management Policy will be adopted via Resolution with two readings (4-1)
• Approved scheduling a debt policy workshop in September with final adoption before November referendum (5-0)

Zoning Hearing

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider a petition for a rear setback variance at a single-family residence. The board will also elect a Chair and Vice Chair and receive Sunshine Law training.

• Variance request (VAR-24-085) for a 19 foot-4-inch rear setback at 2567 Averland Loop
• Election of Board Chair and Vice Chair
• Sunshine Law Training presentation by the Office of the City Attorney

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved Petition No. VAR-24-085, a rear setback variance allowing a 19 foot-4-inch rear setback where a 25-foot minimum is normally required for a single-family residence at 2567 Averland Loop. The board also re-elected Nolan Deming as Chair and Matthew Koratich as Vice Chair, and approved minutes from its March 27, 2024 meeting. A Sunshine Law training presentation was given by the Office of the City Attorney. Two of six board members were absent for all votes.

• Approved rear setback variance VAR-24-085 at 2567 Averland Loop (19 ft 4 in instead of 25 ft required) (4-0, 2 absent)
• Re-elected Nolan Deming as Chair (4-0, 2 absent)
• Re-elected Matthew Koratich as Vice Chair (4-0, 2 absent)
• Approved minutes of the March 27, 2024 Zoning Board of Appeals meeting (4-0, 2 absent)

Solid Waste District Governing Body

The North Port City Commission, acting as the Solid Waste District Governing Body, will hold a special meeting on June 25, 2024. The agenda features a public hearing on Resolution 2024-R-14, which proposes establishing not-to-exceed non-ad valorem assessment rates for the district for fiscal year 2024-2025. The meeting will also include standard public comment periods and procedural items.

• Public hearing on Resolution 2024-R-14 to set not-to-exceed solid waste assessment rates for FY 2024-2025
• Special meeting scheduled for 5:01 PM at 4970 City Hall Blvd
• Standard public comment procedures for in-person, online, and voicemail submissions

The Northport Solid Waste District Governing Body approved a resolution establishing not-to-exceed non-ad valorem assessment rates for Fiscal Year 2024-2025. The board also approved the use of Communications Media Technology for a hybrid meeting and adopted the meeting agenda.

• Approved use of Communications Media Technology (4-1)
• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-14 establishing not-to-exceed non-ad valorem assessment rates for FY 2024-2025 (5-0)

Road and Drainage District Governing Body

The governing body will hold a public hearing regarding a resolution to establish not-to-exceed non-ad valorem assessment rates. This action pertains to the North Port Road and Drainage District for the upcoming fiscal year.

• Public hearing for Resolution No. 2024-R-15 establishing non-ad valorem assessment rates for Fiscal Year 2024-2025

The North Port Road and Drainage District Governing Body adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-15, which establishes not-to-exceed non-ad valorem assessment rates for the district for fiscal year 2024-2025. The vote was 5-0. The meeting also approved the agenda and allowed Commissioner Emrich to attend via communications media technology; there was no public comment at any point.

• Adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-15 setting not-to-exceed non-ad valorem assessment rates for FY 2024-2025 (5-0)
• Approved use of Communications Media Technology so Commissioner Emrich could attend the hybrid meeting (4-1, McDowell no)
• Approved the agenda as presented (5-0)

City Commission Workshop

The City Commission will discuss and potentially provide direction regarding the City Manager's recommended budget for Fiscal Year 2025. The discussion includes presentations on various department budgets and Capital Improvement Programs.

• FY 2025 City Manager's Recommended Budget
• Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Public Works Department
• Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Parks and Recreation Department
• Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Utilities Department
• Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Fire Department

The City Commission held a workshop to review the City Manager's recommended budget and various departmental capital improvement programs. Commissioners reached consensus on specific funding directives for the Fire and Development Services departments and approved a new capital project for the Legacy Trail. The meeting was continued to June 27, 2024, to address remaining agenda items.

• Approved use of Communications Media Technology for hybrid meeting (4-1)
• Directed City Manager to fund Budget Proposal 2821 for radio equipment
• Directed removal of Budget Proposal 2913
• Directed creation of CIP for Activity Center 6 & 10 Master Plan ($200,000)
• Directed creation of Legacy Trail connection CIP ($125,000)
• Continued meeting to June 27, 2024 (5-0)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The North Port City Commission will hold a public hearing on a proposed ordinance that amends the construction traffic road fee, which funds local road maintenance and construction. Commissioners will also hear a request to accept the transfer of water and wastewater infrastructure from Wellen Park Golf and Country Club. Additionally, the commission will discuss and potentially adopt the 2022-2025 Strategic Vision Plan to guide future city services and development.

• First reading of Ordinance 2024-11 amending the construction traffic road fee
• Public hearing on accepting water and wastewater infrastructure transfer from Wellen Park Golf and Country Club
• Approval of $337,233.00 work assignment for the Stockton Avenue Extension across the MacCaughey Waterway
• Approval of $89,170.00 agreement for the School Resource Officer Program
• Discussion and possible action on the 2022-2025 Strategic Vision Plan

The North Port City Commission approved the consent agenda with multiple engineering and IT contracts, adopted a resolution vacating an easement with an amended fee refund, and accepted utility infrastructure for Wellen Park Golf and Country Club. Commissioners also continued a construction traffic road fee ordinance to a second reading and adopted the 2022-2025 Strategic Vision Plan as amended.

• Approved hybrid meeting participation for Commissioner Emrich (4-1)
• Approved consent agenda excluding Item 24-0775 (5-0)
• Approved Amendment No. 1 for temporary traffic signals excluding Sumter Boulevard, Item 24-0775 (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-19 vacating an easement with an amended fee refund for the cost of vacation (4-1)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-26 accepting water and wastewater infrastructure for Wellen Park Golf and Country Club, Phase 1A (5-0)
• Continued Ordinance No. 2024-11 regarding construction traffic road fees to second reading on July 23, 2024 (5-0)
• Adopted the 2022-2025 Strategic Vision Plan as amended regarding Quality-of-Life Indicator 3.2 (5-0)

Solid Waste District Governing Body

The Solid Waste District Governing Body will review the May 28, 2024 meeting minutes. The body is also considering the utilization of the Sarasota County Landfill for waste disposal in fiscal year 2025.

• Utilization of the Sarasota County Landfill for FY25 with an estimated budgeted amount of $2,944,730.00
• Approval of May 28, 2024 Solid Waste District Meeting Minutes

The Solid Waste District Governing Body approved the use of the Sarasota County Landfill for city waste disposal in fiscal year 2025. The board also approved the minutes from the May 28, 2024, meeting.

• Approved use of Sarasota County Landfill for FY 2025 (5-0)
• Approved $2,944,730 budget for landfill disposal (5-0)
• Approved May 28, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved hybrid meeting participation for Commissioner Emrich (4-1)

Road and Drainage District Governing Body

The City Commission will hold public hearings to discuss and vote on a property purchase on Wenona Drive and a streetlight maintenance contract for U.S. Highway 41. Streetlight maintenance on U.S. Highway 41 ensures roadway lighting for traffic safety, while the water monitoring program tracks precipitation and water levels to support local drainage operations. The commission will also approve a $36,280 U.S. Geological Survey agreement for that monitoring and routine meeting minutes via consent agenda.

• Public hearing on purchasing Lot 5 on Wenona Drive (Parcel ID 1121245705)
• Public hearing on a contract for 352 streetlights on U.S. Highway 41 for FY 2024-2025
• Consent agenda approval of a $36,280 U.S. Geological Survey water monitoring agreement
• Approval of meeting minutes from February 27 and May 28, 2024

The Governing Body approved a $36,280 water monitoring agreement and authorized the purchase of real property on Wenona Drive. Additionally, the board approved a state agreement for the maintenance of 352 streetlights on U.S. Highway 41 for the 2024-2025 fiscal year.

• Approved hybrid meeting participation for Commissioner Emrich (4-1)
• Approved USGS water resource investigation agreement for $36,280 (5-0)
• Approved Feb 27 and May 28 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-21 for Wenona Drive property purchase (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-23 for U.S. 41 streetlight maintenance (5-0)

Fire Rescue District Governing Body

The Fire Rescue District Governing Body will hold a public hearing regarding new assessment rates. The body will also review the January 23, 2024, meeting minutes for approval.

• Public hearing for Resolution 2024-R-28 establishing not-to-exceed non-ad valorem assessment rates for Fiscal Year 2024-2025
• Approval of January 23, 2024, Fire Rescue District meeting minutes

The North Port Fire Rescue District Governing Body adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-28, establishing not-to-exceed non-ad valorem assessment rates for Fiscal Year 2024-2025. The resolution was read by title only, with no commission discussion and no public comment, and passed 5-0. The board also approved the January 23, 2024 Fire Rescue District meeting minutes on the consent agenda and approved the meeting agenda. The meeting adjourned at 5:10 p.m.

• Adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-28 setting not-to-exceed non-ad valorem assessment rates for FY2024-25 (5-0)
• Approved the January 23, 2024 Fire Rescue District meeting minutes on the consent agenda (5-0)
• Approved the meeting agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved use of Communications Media Technology for a hybrid meeting due to Commissioner Emrich's medical condition (4-1, McDowell no)

City Commission Workshop

The City Commission will discuss and potentially provide direction regarding the City Manager's recommended budget for Fiscal Year 2025. The discussion includes reviews of GovMax worksheets, fund balance reports, and a community budget input memo.

• FY 2025 City Manager's Recommended Budget presentation

At a June 24, 2024 workshop, the North Port City Commission reviewed the Fiscal Year 2025 City Manager's Recommended Budget department by department. No budget was adopted; the commission reached consensus on several items, including absorbing a 1.3% increase in self-funded health care costs, not funding National League of Cities membership or challenge coins, funding Information Technology Budget Proposal 27-49 at $75,600, and reducing the City Manager's contingency fund from $150,000 to $100,000. The commission also voted 4-1 to allow Commissioner Emrich to attend the hybrid meeting via Communications Media Technology.

• Approved use of CMT for Commissioner Emrich to attend hybrid meeting (4-1, McDowell no)
• Consensus to absorb the 1.3% increase in self-funded health care costs 100%
• Consensus to not fund National League of Cities membership
• Consensus to not fund challenge coins
• Consensus to fund Information Technology Budget Proposal 27-49 in the amount of $75,600
• Consensus to reduce City Manager's contingency fund from $150,000 to $100,000
• No final action taken on FY2025 recommended budget; direction only

Municipal Firefighters Pension Trust Fund Board of Trustees

The Municipal Firefighters Pension Trust Fund Board of Trustees will meet to review the fund’s financial activity from March to June 2024. The agenda is primarily procedural, covering the approval of past minutes, quarterly consultant reports, and routine payment ratifications. The board will also discuss updates on trustee terms and receive a staff report from the plan administrator.

• Approval of the March 22, 2024 meeting minutes
• Quarterly reports from investment consultant Mariner Institutional and board attorney Donnelly & Gross
• Update on trustee terms
• Consent agenda items including payment ratification and the fund activity report for March 16 – June 14, 2024
• Staff report and discussion by Plan Administrator Ferrell Jenne

The North Port Municipal Firefighters Pension Trust Fund Board of Trustees approved the March 22, 2024 meeting minutes, accepted the quarterly investment report, and directed the board actuary to analyze including previously excluded members in the share plan and 13th check retroactively. The board also approved the consent agenda, including payment ratifications, new invoices, and the fund activity report, as well as the implementation of the pension portal.

• Approved March 22, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted quarterly investment report from Mariner Institutional (unanimous)
• Directed board actuary to provide analysis on including previously excluded members in the share plan and future distributions retroactively (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including payment ratification, new invoices, and fund activity report (unanimous)
• Approved pension portal as presented (unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Advisory Board

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board will hold quasi-judicial public hearings regarding two land petitions. The board will consider a replat and renaming for Suncoast Plaza III and a petition for Sunstone Village F5 Phase 3.

• Petition PLF-23-255: Tract B, Suncoast Plaza III, Replat and Renaming of Subdivision to Sig North Port
• Petition PLF-24-054: Sunstone Village F5 Phase 3

The Northport Planning and Zoning Advisory Board approved the minutes from its June 6, 2024 meeting and recommended approval of two separate replat and subdivision petitions for the City Commission. The board reviewed Petitions PLF-23-255 for Suncoast Plaza III and PLF-24-054 for Sunstone Village F5 Phase 3 during quasi-judicial public hearings.

• Approved June 6, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Petition PLF-23-255, Tract B, Suncoast Plaza III replat and renaming to Sig North Port with utility easement relocation (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Petition PLF-24-054, Sunstone Village F5 Phase 3 Final Plat (5-0)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board will review a presentation regarding parkland acquisition for future planning. The board will also discuss items for the Sarasota County Parks Advisory and Recreation Council and potential participation with North Port University.

• Presentation on parkland acquisition for future park planning
• Discussion of items for the Sarasota County Parks Advisory and Recreation Council
• Discussion regarding board participation with North Port University

Community Economic Development Advisory Board

The Board will review the May 21, 2024, meeting minutes and discuss a proposed summer schedule. The agenda also includes an update from the Economic Development Division regarding the Child Care Tax Credit.

• Approval of May 21, 2024, meeting minutes
• Discussion and possible action regarding Summer Schedule
• Economic Development Division update on Child Care Tax Credit

The Community Economic Development Advisory Board approved the May 21, 2024 meeting minutes. The board also voted to cancel its scheduled meetings for July 16 and August 20, 2024.

• Approved May 21, 2024 meeting minutes (8-0)
• Canceled July 16, 2024 and August 20, 2024 meetings (8-0)

Charter Review Advisory Board

The Board will review and potentially act on modifications to its annual goals. These changes are based on feedback received during the March 19, 2024 joint meeting with the Commission.

• Modification of Annual Goals based on Commission feedback
• Approval of February 21, 2024 minutes
• Approval of April 17, 2024 minutes

The board approved the meeting minutes from February 21, 2024, and April 17, 2024. Members discussed board goals, the meeting schedule, and public comment policy, but no formal actions were taken on these items.

• Approved February 21, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved April 17, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will consider several consent agenda items including police and fire facility agreements. The meeting also includes public hearings for land replats and discussions regarding the Spring Haven Roadway Expansion Project.

• Police Headquarters: $5,350,768.00 total fee for Schenkel & Shultz, Inc. design services
• Fire Station 81 Remodel: $167,655.92 contract with Wharton Smith, Inc.
• Fire Rescue Station 81: $1,277,638.00 agreement for engineering and architectural services
• Imagine School at North Port: $178,340.00 School Resource Officer Program agreement
• U.S. Department of Justice Grant: $200,000.00 application for law enforcement mental health projects

The North Port City Commission approved the consent agenda with two items pulled, approved replats and utility easements, and renamed several activity centers. Commissioners also directed staff to create a conservation easement for the Spring Haven Roadway expansion area, explore purchasing private properties using Environmentally Sensitive Lands funds, and bring back a draft ordinance and debt management policy for a future charter amendment on bonding authority.

• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda with two items pulled (5-0)
• Approved 5-cent local option gas tax interlocal agreement as amended (5-0)
• Approved 6-cent local option gas tax interlocal agreement as amended (5-0)
• Approved Replat of Tract F, Second Addition to North Port Charlotte Estates, Kamsler Acres Petition PLF-23-185 (5-0)
• Approved Sunstone Village F3, Wellen Park Final Plat Petition PLF-23-256 (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-20 accepting a non-exclusive access and utility easement (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-22 renaming Activity Centers 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 (5-0)

Art Advisory Board

The Board will discuss and take possible action regarding a priority list for future projects. The meeting also includes discussion on a ribbon cutting for the Laura Pucci Community Education Mural.

• Discussion of Future Projects Priority List (24-0694)
• Ribbon cutting for Laura Pucci Community Education Mural (24-0834)
• Update on North Port Aquatic Center Sponsorship Wall
• Update on Senior Center Community Education Mural
• Update on Price Boulevard Sculpture and Peace Pole Project

The meeting was called to order and immediately adjourned because a quorum was not present. No substantive decisions were made.

Planning & Zoning Advisory Board

The Board will consider a petition to vacate a portion of a rear maintenance easement for a lot in the 26th Addition to Port Charlotte Subdivision. Additionally, the Board will discuss the draft of the Unified Land Development Code.

• Petition VAC-24-031: Vacating a portion of the rear maintenance easement for Lot 13, Block 1328, 26th Addition to Port Charlotte Subdivision
• Discussion regarding draft of the Unified Land Development Code (Chapters 1-6 and Appendix)

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board recommended approval of a petition to vacate a portion of a maintenance easement for a specific lot. The board also directed staff to send a memorandum to the City Commission recommending changes to the Unified Land Development Code, specifically relaxing hours of operation for certain districts and limiting neighborhood meeting requirements. Additionally, the board approved a special meeting for July 18 and cancelled the regular August meeting.

• Approved May 16, 2024 minutes with amendment (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Resolution No. 2024-R-19 to vacate easement portion for Lot 13, Block 1328 (4-0)
• Directed staff to recommend relaxing ULDC hours of operation to 5 a.m.-midnight and limiting neighborhood meetings to high-impact developments (3-1)
• Scheduled Special Meeting for July 18, 2024 and cancelled August 15, 2024 Regular Meeting (3-1)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The North Port City Commission will conduct a regular meeting including public comment and the welcome of new employees. The agenda includes various city proclamations, recognitions, and awards for city departments and staff.

• Proclamation: National Waste and Recycling Workers Week (June 16-22)
• Proclamation: Code Enforcement Officer’s Appreciation Week (June 3-7)
• Certificate: Mental Health America’s Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health (Platinum Level)
• Recognition: Parks & Recreation Department as a National Gold Medal Award Finalist
• Award: Hero of the Day Life Saving Award for Joshua Presson

The City Commission approved the meeting agenda and recognized various city departments and employees through proclamations and awards. No other substantive legislative actions were taken during the meeting.

• Approved the agenda as presented (4-0)
• Accepted the use of Communications Media Technology for a hybrid meeting (4-0)

Environmental Advisory Board

The Environmental Advisory Board is holding a joint meeting with the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. The board will discuss recommendations regarding community gardens, wildlife habitat protection, tree planting, and retention pond regulations to advise the City Commission.

• Implementation of additional community gardens
• Preservation of wildlife, habitat, trees, and public space beautification
• Retention pond planting regulations and potential incentives
• Significance of trees for carbon sequestration
• Unified Land Development Code (ULDC) Draft Chapter 6 Natural Resources

The Environmental Advisory Board voted to support the Unified Land Development Code Draft Chapter 6 regarding natural resources. The board also decided to send a draft memorandum to the City Commission concerning carbon sequestration.

• Approved April 1, April 22, and May 6 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Decided not to take action on additional community gardens
• Approved sending carbon capturing draft memorandum to Commission
• Approved support for Unified Land Development Code Draft Chapter 6 (6-0)

City Commission Workshop

The City Commission will discuss and potentially provide direction regarding the draft of the Unified Land Development Code. The discussion includes ULDC Chapters 1-6, the Appendix, and a draft zoning map.

• Discussion regarding Draft of the Unified Land Development Code (24-0798)
• Review of ULDC Chapters 1-6 and Appendix
• Review of Draft Zoning Map

The City Commission held a workshop to discuss the draft Unified Land Development Code (ULDC). No final votes were taken on the code itself, but commissioners reached consensus on several procedural and zoning changes, including administrative approval for conforming projects, a $500 appeal fee, and specific notification radii. The meeting also included public comment largely opposing the ULDC and rezoning.

• Consensus to approve new projects administratively if 100% conforming to ULDC
• Consensus to require community meetings before administrative approval for most new projects
• Consensus to set appeal process cost at $500 instead of $750
• Consensus to have Commission hear site development/infrastructure plan appeals, not Zoning Hearing Officer
• Consensus to remove buffer and parking from minor variance list; require Commission approval
• Consensus to set notification radius at 1350 sq ft for rezones/waivers and 1200 sq ft for neighborhood meetings
• Consensus to notify agricultural properties within 1-mile radius for rezones/waivers
• Consensus to prohibit delivery/operations between 10pm and 5am in COR and CT zones

Environmental Advisory Board

The Environmental Advisory Board will review a presentation regarding the draft Chapter 6 Natural Resources of the Unified Land Development Code (ULDC). This item is scheduled as a presentation to the Board.

• Presentation of ULDC Draft Chapter 6 - Natural Resources

The board received a presentation on the draft Chapter 6 Natural Resources of the Unified Land Development Code. The session consisted of a presentation and discussion; no formal votes or decisions were recorded.

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will review several agreements including a $325,000 project for the Ponce de Leon Pathway. The meeting includes discussions on the Gateway Activity Center Master Plan and the Spring Haven Roadway Expansion Project.

• $325,000 subrecipient agreement for Ponce de Leon Pathway Project
• $42,662.40 contract amendment for Jessamine House demolition
• $5,754,871.26 SAFER grant application for 18 firefighters
• Gateway Activity Center Master Plan presentation
• First reading of Ordinance No. 2024-09 regarding the City Comprehensive Plan

The City Commission voted 5-0 to direct the City Manager to halt demolition of all three buildings at Warm Mineral Springs and 5-0 to prepare separate restoration cost estimates. It endorsed the Gateway Activity Center Master Plan as presented, with a 5-0 amendment specifying the May 10, 2024 draft. The Commission continued the Comprehensive Plan ordinance (2024-09) and the transportation impact fee ordinance (2024-12) to later readings, and approved a consent agenda including a $325,000 Ponce de Leon Pathway agreement and a $5,754,871.26 SAFER grant application.

• Approved consent agenda as presented (5-0), including $325,000 Ponce de Leon Pathway agreement and $5,754,871.26 SAFER grant application for 18 firefighters
• Approved Wellen Park Village E, Tract 3 Replat, Petition PLF-23-258 (5-0)
• Endorsed Gateway Activity Center Master Plan as presented, amended to cite the May 10, 2024 draft (5-0)
• Directed City Manager to halt demolition of all three buildings at Warm Mineral Springs (5-0)
• Directed City Manager to prepare separate restoration cost estimates for all 3 buildings, water/sewer, and sanitation, amended to include flood mitigation and hardening costs (5-0)
• Directed City Manager to explore additional insurance options, including historic designation insurance (5-0)
• Directed City Manager to coordinate a special meeting with Sarasota County and state elected officials on Warm Mineral Springs (4-1, Langdon dissenting)
• Failed: motion to pursue a management company for Warm Mineral Springs operations (1-4)

Solid Waste District Governing Body

The Solid Waste District Governing Body will meet to discuss a proposed real property purchase. The agenda includes a public hearing regarding land located on Silverleaf Road.

• Public hearing for Resolution 2024-R-13: Purchase of real property at Lot 23, Block 2276, Forty-Seventh Addition to Port Charlotte Subdivision on Silverleaf Road
• Approval of the November 28, 2023 Solid Waste District Meeting Minutes

The Governing Body approved the purchase of a real property lot on Silverleaf Road. The board also approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from November 28, 2023.

• Approved Resolution No. 2024-R-13 to purchase real property on Silverleaf Road (5-0)
• Approved November 28, 2023 Solid Waste District Meeting Minutes (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)

Road and Drainage District Governing Body

The Road and Drainage District Governing Body will meet to review the agenda and public comments. The meeting includes a consent agenda item regarding a state agreement for traffic signal maintenance.

• Amendment No. 9 to the State of Florida Department of Transportation Traffic Signal Maintenance and Compensation Agreement for U.S. 41
• Approval of the March 26, 2023 Road and Drainage District Meeting Minutes

The Northport Road and Drainage District Governing Body met on May 28, 2024, and approved the meeting agenda along with a consent agenda containing two items. The approved items included an amendment to a traffic signal maintenance agreement with the Florida Department of Transportation and previous meeting minutes from March 26, 2023. The meeting was adjourned at 4:06 p.m.

• Approved the use of Communications Media Technology for Commissioner Emrich (5-0)
• Approved the meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved the consent agenda (5-0)
• Approved State of Florida Department of Transportation Amendment No. 9 for U.S. 41 traffic signal maintenance
• Approved March 26, 2023 Road and Drainage District Meeting Minutes

Code Enforcement Hearing

The City of North Port Code Enforcement Board is reviewing multiple compliance cases. These items include issues regarding expired building permits, prohibited parking in the right-of-way, and accumulation of debris.

• Case 24-0686: Permit required for driveway or culvert pipe at 2805 Brewster Rd
• Case 23-4120: Accumulation of debris at 5404 Gabo Rd
• Case 24-70: Expired permits for irrigation and roof shingle work
• Case 24-242: Vehicles driving through and damaging City right-of-way at 1553 S Cranberry Blvd
• Case 24-752: Excessive vehicle count and inoperable vehicles at 8074 Boca Grande Ave

Hearing Officer Toale issued several fines for land clearing, expired permits, and debris accumulation. Multiple cases were found to be in compliance and dismissed, while others were continued to the June 27, 2024 meeting. A trespass appeal for the North Port Aquatic Center was denied.

• Imposed $15,000 fine on Burke Group LLC for land clearing at 1593 Hollister Ave
• Imposed $2,400 fine on Russell Drischel for land clearing at 7007 Hampshire Cir
• Imposed $10/day fine (max $5,000) on Corey Reeder for right-of-way work without permit
• Imposed $50/day fine (max $5,000) on Hexagon Developers LLC for expired permit
• Imposed $25/day fine (max $2,000) on Vadim Olimpiyuk for shed on property without principal structure
• Denied trespass appeal Case No. 24027726 (6205 W. Price Blvd)
• Found 42 cases brought into compliance with no further action required
• Continued 7 cases to the June 27, 2024 meeting

Community Economic Development Advisory Board

The Community Economic Development Advisory Board will review the April 16, 2024 meeting minutes. The agenda includes a presentation of the BTR Report by John Schicitano.

• Approval of April 16, 2024 meeting minutes
• BTR Report presentation by John Schicitano

The Community Economic Development Advisory Board approved the minutes from its April 16, 2024 meeting. Staff presented data on business tax receipts, local growth, and new business openings, including a discussion on the upcoming Costco. The board also identified future agenda topics such as the Unified Land Development Code and Warm Mineral Springs.

• Approved April 16, 2024 meeting minutes (8-0 vote, 3 absent)
• Received presentation on business tax receipts and local growth
• Discussed business retention and expansion efforts
• Identified future agenda items: ULDC Section 5, Warm Mineral Springs, entrepreneur study

Planning & Zoning Advisory Board

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board will review several petitions including a replat for Kamsler Acres and a final plat for Sunstone Village F3. The board will also consider an ordinance to amend the Comprehensive Plan regarding the Unified Land Development Code rewrite.

• Replat of Tract F, Second Addition to North Port Charlotte Estates, Kamsler Acres (PLF-23-185)
• Final Plat for Sunstone Village F3, Wellen Park (PLF-23-256)
• Amendment to the Comprehensive Plan for the Unified Land Development Code Rewrite (Ordinance No. 2024-09)

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board recommended approval of two plat petitions and a Comprehensive Plan amendment to facilitate a Unified Land Development Code rewrite. The board also approved the minutes from the May 2, 2024 meeting.

• Approved May 2, 2024 meeting minutes with one correction (7-0)
• Recommended approval of Kamsler Acres replat, Petition PLF-23-185 (7-0)
• Recommended approval of Sunstone Village F 3, Wellen Park Final Plat, Petition PLF-23-256 (7-0)
• Extended public comment time to 5 minutes (7-0)
• Recommended approval of Ordinance No. 2024-09 to amend the Comprehensive Plan (4-3)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Board will review minutes from the April 18, 2024 meeting. The agenda includes a presentation regarding community policing and a homeless outreach team. Members will also discuss the Sarasota County Parks Advisory and Recreation Council.

• Presentation on Community Policing (Homeless Outreach Team)
• Review of the Sarasota County Parks Advisory and Recreation Council
• Review of Parks & Recreation Department agenda items for City Commission meetings
• Discussion of recent and upcoming Parks & Recreation Department events

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board approved its April 18, 2024 minutes and heard a presentation on community policing and the Homeless Outreach Team. The board reached consensus to continue item 24-0690, a review of the Sarasota County Parks Advisory and Recreation Council, to its June 20, 2024 meeting. Board Member Morgan was made acting chair after Vice Chair Jackomin left at 6:54 p.m. The meeting adjourned at 7:31 p.m.

• Approved April 18, 2024 Parks and Recreation meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Continued review of Sarasota County Parks Advisory and Recreation Council (item 24-0690) to June 20, 2024 by consensus
• Named Board Member Morgan acting chair for the remainder of the meeting (unanimous voice vote)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will review a resolution to amend the capital improvement budget by over $20 million for projects including a new police headquarters and emergency operations center. The agenda also includes public hearings on two replat petitions and a first reading of an ordinance to amend the city's comprehensive plan.

• Resolution 2024-R-17: $20,359,097 budget amendment for police headquarters, public art, and emergency operations center
• Ordinance 2024-09: First reading to amend the City Comprehensive Plan
• Letter of Intent: Purchase of 2 million gallons per day of water supply from PRMRWSA
• Petition PLF-23-080: Fellowship Replat for South Biscayne Commons
• Change Order No. 2: $74,292 increase for a water study project with Black & Veatch Corporation

The City Commission adopted a resolution amending the FY 2023-2024 budget by $20,359,097 to fund a police headquarters design, public art, and other capital projects. Two replat petitions for new subdivisions were approved, and a water supply agreement amendment was authorized. The first reading of a major Comprehensive Plan ordinance was continued to May 28, while a motion to invite Sarasota County to a joint meeting on Warm Mineral Springs failed.

• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-17 amending budget by $20,359,097 (4-0)
• Approved Fellowship Replat petition PLF-23-080 (4-0)
• Approved Heron Creek Place Phase 2 Replat petition PLF-23-214 (4-0)
• Approved Letter of Intent to purchase 2 million gallons/day water from Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority (4-0)
• Approved Third Amendment to Sabal Trace water/wastewater developer agreement (4-0)
• Continued first reading of Comprehensive Plan Ordinance 2024-09 to May 28 (4-0)
• Failed motion to invite Sarasota County to joint Warm Mineral Springs meeting (1-3)
• Failed motion to evaluate City sponsorship of Peace Pole Project (0-4)

Art Advisory Board

The Board will discuss potential actions regarding board goals and a Traffic Signal Control Box Artwork Program. Members will also consider a ribbon cutting event for the Harvey Mural located on the first floor of City Hall.

• Discussion of Board Goals (24-0694)
• Traffic Signal Control Box Artwork Program (24-0682)
• Harvey Mural ribbon cutting event at City Hall (24-0693)
• Update on the North Port Aquatic Center Sponsorship Wall (22-2616)

The board approved the minutes from the April 9, 2024 meeting. Other agenda items regarding future projects, traffic signal control box artwork, and a mural ribbon cutting were discussed, but no formal actions were taken.

• Approved April 9, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)

City Commission Workshop

The City Commission will discuss and potentially provide direction regarding the draft of the Unified Land Development Code Chapter 6 - Natural Resources. This item includes a presentation on the proposed chapter.

• Discussion of ULDC Chapter 6 - Natural Resources (Item 24-0638)

The City Commission held a workshop to review the draft Unified Land Development Code Chapter 6 on Natural Resources. They approved the use of hybrid meeting technology for a commissioner attending remotely. The commission reached consensus on specific language changes for wetland protection and tree relocation but did not vote to adopt the code.

• Approved use of communications media technology for hybrid meeting (5-0)
• Reached consensus on wetland mitigation language in section 6.8.5
• Reached consensus to include tree relocation option in draft
• No public comment received

Environmental Advisory Board

The Board will review a draft of the Unified Land Development Code regarding natural resources. Members will also discuss several recommendations for the City Commission, including community gardens, wildlife protection, and tree preservation.

• Presentation of Draft Chapter 6 Natural Resources for the Unified Land Development Code
• Discussion on implementation of additional community gardens
• Recommendations regarding wildlife, habitat protection, trees, and public space beautification
• Discussion on retention pond planting regulations and potential incentives
• Discussion on the significance of trees for carbon sequestration

The meeting was called to order and immediately adjourned because a quorum was not present. No substantive decisions were made.

City Commission Regular Meeting

The North Port City Commission meeting focuses on welcoming new employees and presenting several official proclamations. These recognitions cover various professional weeks, including National Public Works Week and EMS Week.

• Presentation of proclamations for National Public Works Week and EMS Week
• Recognition of Dee Dee Gozion as an advocate for the North Port Art Center
• Proclamation for Drowning Prevention Awareness Month
• Welcome of new employees

The City Commission approved the meeting agenda. The remainder of the session consisted of welcoming new employees and presenting seven proclamations recognizing various city departments and a community advocate.

• Approved the agenda (3-0)

Planning & Zoning Advisory Board

The Board will consider a plat replat for Wellen Park Village E, Tract 3. Members will also review an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan and discuss draft updates to the Unified Land Development Code regarding natural resources.

• Petition PLF-23-258: Wellen Park Village E, Tract 3 Replat
• Petition CPAL-24-057: Comprehensive Plan amendment for ULDC rewrite (Ordinance No. 2024-09)
• Discussion of Unified Land Development Code Chapter 6 - Natural Resources

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board recommended approval of the Wellen Park Village E, Tract 3 Replat and a new sign code. The board also recommended approval of ULDC Chapter 6 regarding Natural Resources, while continuing a Comprehensive Plan amendment to a later date.

• Recommended approval of Wellen Park Village E, Tract 3 Replat (7-0)
• Recommended approval of the sign code as presented (7-0)
• Recommended approval of ULDC Chapter 6 Natural Resources (6-1)
• Continued Comprehensive Plan Amendment CPAL-24-057 to May 16, 2024 (7-0)
• Approved April 18, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)

Code Enforcement Hearing

The Code Enforcement body will review various case files involving building permit requirements, prohibited parking, and accumulation of debris. The agenda includes compliant cases, continued cases, and first hearing cases regarding property maintenance and land clearing.

• Review of unpermitted sheds, water heaters, and structures
• Violations for vehicles or trailers parked in the City Right-of-way
• Cases involving accumulation of debris and trash on properties
• Land clearing violations at 1593 Hollister Ave, 3923 Partridge Ave, 6333 Alhambra Ave, and 6307 Alhambra Ave
• Trespass appeals for 1602 Kramer Way and 6207 W. Price Blvd

Hearing Officer Toale dismissed a land clearing violation at 3923 Partridge Ave but imposed $15,000 fines on two properties at 6333 and 6307 Alhambra Ave for unauthorized clearing. Several other cases involving debris, parking, and unpermitted structures resulted in daily fines or were continued to a future hearing. Two trespass appeals were denied.

• Case 24-516 (3923 Partridge Ave) land clearing violation dismissed
• Case 24-707 (6333 Alhambra Ave) land clearing violation fined $15,000
• Case 24-717 (6307 Alhambra Ave) land clearing violation fined $15,000
• Case 23-4679 (3747 Tree Ct) unpermitted structures fined $25/day (max $2,000) and camper fined $10/day (max $1,000)
• Case 23-4120 (2805 Brewster Rd) unpermitted driveway/culvert fined $10/day (max $5,000)
• Case 23-2099 (7270 Hiawatha Ter) unpermitted fence fined $25/day (max $2,000)
• Trespass appeal Case 24010965 (1602 Kramer Way) denied
• Trespass appeal Case 24014244 (6207 W. Price Blvd) denied

City Commission Special Meeting

The City Commission will discuss financing options and bonding authority for city projects. This includes reviewing recommendations for charter amendment language and how to proceed with the North Port Police Department Headquarters project.

• Financing options for the North Port Police Department Headquarters project
• Charter Amendment language regarding the City's bonding authority
• Review of unfunded capital improvement projects for the next fifteen years

At a special meeting on April 23, 2024, the North Port City Commission directed the City Manager to bring back charter amendment language for the November election to allow city borrowing authority. A motion to put a police headquarters bond referendum on the November 2024 ballot failed 2-3. The commission also voted to rescind prior direction to place the bond referendum on the August 2024 ballot, and decided not to pursue permissive referendums at this time. Other actions included directing an economic development study and a comprehensive long-term Capital Improvement Plan.

• Directed City Manager to bring back charter amendment language for November election to allow city borrowing authority (5-0)
• Directed City Manager to complete economic development study and financial condition analysis by end of calendar year (4-1, McDowell dissenting)
• Directed City Manager to prepare comprehensive long-term Capital Improvement Plan covering all city services (5-0)
• Decided not to pursue permissive referendums as an option at this time (5-0)
• Motion to proceed with bond referendum language for Police Department Headquarters on November 2024 ballot failed (2-3)
• Rescinded prior direction to place Police Headquarters bond referendum on August 2024 ballot (4-1, Emrich dissenting)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will review the Draft Activity Center 3 (Gateway) Master Plan. The agenda includes several consent items regarding infrastructure grants, park improvements, and city contracts.

• Engineering services for Dallas White Park multi-purpose sports field: $109,420.00
• Construction services for Dallas White Park maintenance office/workshop: $1,980,968.00
• Resilient SRQ Community Development Block Grant for Myakkahatchee Creek Bridge: $12,314,000.00
• Resilient SRQ Community Development Block Grant for Price Boulevard Widening Phase II: $50,310,000.00
• Assistance to Firefighters Grant for personal protective equipment: $808,655.04

The City Commission approved several grant applications for infrastructure and emergency services, including a $50.3M application for Price Boulevard widening. The Commission denied a $5.9M grant application for the Spring Haven Roadway Expansion but scheduled it for future discussion. Two ordinances and one resolution were adopted regarding city annexation and the Historic and Cultural Advisory Board.

• Approved $50.3M grant application for Price Boulevard Widening Phase II (5-0)
• Denied $5.9M grant application for Spring Haven Roadway Expansion (5-0)
• Approved $12.3M grant application for Myakkahatchee Creek Bridge reconstruction (5-0)
• Approved $1.98M contract amendment for Dallas White Park maintenance space (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 2024-08 to annex ± 1.7716 acres (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 2024-06 and Resolution No. 2024-R-08 regarding Historic and Cultural Advisory Board (5-0)
• Approved $109,420 engineering services for Dallas White Park sports field (5-0)
• Directed City Manager to provide pesticide MSDS sheets to Environmental Advisory Board (5-0)

Environmental Advisory Board

The Environmental Advisory Board will discuss the significance of trees for carbon sequestration to advise the City Commission. The meeting also includes a presentation regarding Chapter 6 Natural Resources of the Unified Land Development Code draft.

• Discussion on tree significance for carbon sequestration
• Presentation of Draft Chapter 6 Natural Resources of the Unified Land Development Code (ULDC)

The meeting was called to order and immediately adjourned because a quorum was not present. No substantive decisions were made.

City Commission Workshop

The City Commission will discuss the draft of Unified Land Development Code Chapter 5 regarding sign regulations. The meeting also includes discussion regarding possible direction for single-family development in Activity Center 6 (Yorkshire).

• Draft of ULDC Chapter 5 Sign Regulations
• Single-Family Development in Activity Center 6 (Yorkshire)

The City Commission held a workshop to discuss sign regulations and single-family development in Activity Center 6 (Yorkshire), reaching several consensus points to guide staff. The Commission also approved allowing a hybrid meeting with a commissioner participating via Communication Media Technology by a 5-0 vote.

• Approved use of Communication Media Technology for a hybrid meeting (5-0)
• Reached consensus on modified Option 2 allowing single-family homes in Activity Center 6 South of I-75 except near Yorkshire Street
• Reached consensus to not require removal of nonconforming signs
• Reached consensus to allow no more than the 15 existing billboards on I-75
• Directed City Attorney to provide a legal opinion on issuing permits for event signs in rights-of-way
• Directed City Attorney and staff to work on viable options for event signage
• Reached consensus to allow fence signs on private property

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Board will consider a potential joint meeting with the Environmental Advisory Board and items for the Sarasota County Parks Advisory and Recreation Council. Members will also review department updates, upcoming events, and social media performance reports.

• Purchase of Kirk Park adjacent property (24-0573)
• Joint meeting with the Environmental Advisory Board (24-0572)
• Items for Sarasota County Parks Advisory and Recreation Council (24-0561)
• Social media performance reports from October 2023 through March 2024 (24-0562)

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board unanimously recommended adding two properties on Porto Bello Avenue adjacent to Kirk Park to the Sarasota County property acquisition list. The board also approved a joint meeting with the Environmental Advisory Board for June 3, 2024. No items were presented to the Sarasota County Parks Advisory and Recreation Council.

• Approved March 21, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Recommended adding Porto Bello Avenue properties to Sarasota County acquisition list (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved joint meeting with Environmental Advisory Board on June 3, 2024 (unanimous voice vote)
• Discussed no items to present to Sarasota County Parks Advisory and Recreation Council

Planning & Zoning Advisory Board

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board will consider two quasi-judicial plat petitions. Staff will also present a discussion regarding Chapter 5, Signs, of the draft Unified Land Development Code update.

• Petition PLF-23-214: Heron Creek Place, Phase 2
• Petition PLF-23-080: Fellowship Re-plat
• Draft Unified Land Development Code (ULDC) Update: Chapter 5, Signs

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board unanimously recommended approval of two plat petitions: Heron Creek Place Phase 2 and the Fellowship Re-plat. The Board also discussed draft updates to the Unified Land Development Code regarding signs, reaching consensus to limit billboards to the 15 currently existing and to set sunset dates for nonconforming signs.

• Approved March 21, 2024 minutes with amendment (7-0)
• Recommended approval of Petition PLF-23-214, Heron Creek Place Phase 2 (7-0)
• Recommended approval of Petition PLF-23-080, Fellowship Re-plat (7-0)
• Consensus reached to set sunset dates on nonconforming signs
• Consensus reached to limit billboards to 15 existing permits (Patricoski dissenting)

Charter Review Advisory Board

The Board will discuss a proposed amendment to Article I of the City Charter regarding the use of permissive referendums for certain types of debt. The meeting also includes discussion regarding future goals and topics.

• Proposed amendment to Article I of the City Charter regarding permissive referendums
• Discussion of future board topics and goals
• Approval of February 21, 2024, meeting minutes

The board did not have a quorum present. No substantive decisions were made, and the meeting was adjourned one minute after it was called to order.

City Commission Special Meeting

The City Commission will hold a strategic planning session. The meeting includes discussion and possible action regarding the review and approval of the updated Aligned Strategic Plan.

• Review and approval of the Updated Aligned Strategic Plan (24-0586)

The City Commission held a special meeting to review the draft Strategic Plan presented by consultant Doug Thomas. Commissioners discussed various goals and projects but did not vote to approve or adopt the plan. The meeting adjourned without any substantive decisions on the strategic plan.

• Agenda approved (4-0, one commissioner absent)
• Strategic Plan discussed but no action taken

Community Economic Development Advisory Board

The Board will review the March 19, 2024 meeting minutes for approval. The agenda also includes a presentation regarding economic development by Sarasota Commissioner Rainford.

• Approval of March 19, 2024 meeting minutes
• Economic Development presentation by Sarasota Commissioner Rainford

The board approved the minutes from the March 19, 2024 meeting. Sarasota Commissioner Rainford gave a presentation on economic development and various regional projects, followed by a board discussion on housing and infrastructure.

• Approved March 19, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will discuss proposed changes to the city fee structure, including building and solid waste fees. The agenda includes several large-scale procurement requests for wastewater treatment and water solutions, as well as a land annexation ordinance.

• Sole source purchase of replacement screens and augers for Pan American Wastewater Treatment Plant: $538,622.00
• Engineering services for Boca Chica Park development: $109,745.00
• Sole source purchase of lift station pumps and control panels: $691,500.00
• Annexation of approximately 1.7716 acres of property via Ordinance 2024-08
• Budget amendment for ten police officers and a $2,309,180 increase to the Fire Impact Fee

The City Commission adopted a Long-Term Disaster Recovery and Resilience Strategy and approved a budget amendment adding $2,309,180 for ten new police officers and Fire Impact Fee contributions to Wellen Park. The Commission also approved a 5% salary increase for the City Clerk after rejecting a 3% increase, and continued discussions on annexation, park engineering, and fee structures to a future meeting.

• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-12 for Long-Term Disaster Recovery Strategy (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-16 adding $2,309,180 for police and Wellen Park fees (5-0)
• Approved 5% salary increase for City Clerk (5-0)
• Rejected 3% salary increase for City Clerk (1-4)
• Approved Boca Chica Park engineering services for $109,745 (4-1)
• Approved sole source purchase for wastewater plant parts for $538,622 (consent)
• Approved sole source purchase for lift station pumps for $691,500 (consent)
• Continued annexation Ordinance 2024-08 to second reading on April 23 (5-0)

Art Advisory Board

The Board will discuss several art-related items including a proposed sculpture and the painting of city utility boxes. Updates are scheduled regarding artwork placement near Heron Creek and various mural proposals.

• Proposed sculpture requested by Ms. Eva Rathgeber
• Painting of the City's Utility Boxes
• 65th Anniversary and Community of Unity Themed Project
• Peace Pole Project
• North Port Aquatic Center Sponsorship Wall update

The Board requested Commission approval to proceed with the Peace Pole Project for the City's 65th Anniversary. Additionally, the Board requested that the Parks and Recreation Department review a proposed sculpture.

• Approved March 12, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Requested Parks and Recreation Department review a sculpture proposal (unanimous)
• Requested Commission approval to proceed with the Peace Pole Project (unanimous)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The April 4, 2024, North Port City Commission meeting includes procedural matters and several ceremonial proclamations. No ordinances, contracts, or rezonings are scheduled for this session.

• Proclamation for Child Abuse Prevention Month
• Proclamation for Florida Volunteer Month
• Proclamation for National Public Safety Telecommunications Week
• Proclamation for National Arbor Day
• Proclamation for International Bat Day

The City Commission approved the meeting agenda. The session primarily consisted of welcoming new employees and presenting various proclamations and certificates of appreciation to community members.

• Approved the agenda (4-0)

City Commission Joint Meeting

The North Port City Commission is meeting with the North Port Area Chamber of Commerce to discuss potential action regarding the Police Department Headquarters Project. The discussion focuses on whether to use surtax funds to finance this project.

• Discussion and possible action regarding using surtax funds for the Police Department Headquarters Project (24-0542)

The City Commission held a joint meeting with the North Port Area Chamber of Commerce on April 2, 2024, to discuss using surtax funds for the Police Department Headquarters project. Commissioners discussed funding options, the Price Boulevard widening project, and which projects were on or off the surtax list, but took no vote on the surtax or headquarters funding itself. The commission voted 5-0 to direct the City Manager to provide the Chamber and Christine Robinson a tentative list of unfunded or half-funded projects, including funding allocations and a Capital Improvement Project sheet if available. The commission also voted 5-0 to allow Commissioner Emrich to attend via communication media technology for a hybrid meeting.

• Approved agenda as presented (3-0; Emrich and Langdon absent at vote)
• Accepted use of communication media technology for a hybrid meeting (5-0)
• Directed City Manager to give Chamber and Christine Robinson tentative list of unfunded/half-funded projects with funding allocations and CIP sheet if available (5-0)
• No action taken on using surtax funds for the Police Department Headquarters project

Environmental Advisory Board

The Environmental Advisory Board will discuss implementing additional community gardens and providing recommendations for wildlife and habitat protection. The board will also consider advising the City Commission on retention pond planting regulations and potential incentives.

• Implementation of additional community gardens
• Recommendations for wildlife, habitat protection, and tree planting
• Retention pond planting regulations and potential incentives
• Review of outstanding past memos

The board approved a joint meeting with the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board to discuss community gardens. Additionally, the board directed a member to draft a memorandum regarding the purchase and sale of park land.

• Approved March 4, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved joint meeting with Parks and Recreation Advisory Board regarding community gardens (unanimous)
• Directed Board Member Clayton to draft memorandum to Parks and Recreation Advisory Board on purchase and sale of park land (unanimous)

City Commission Special Meeting

The North Port City Commission will discuss and consider possible actions regarding funding sources for the Police Department Headquarters project. The discussion includes reviewing projects in the 2024-2028 Capital Improvement Plan and the Surtax IV Project List to identify resources for design and construction.

• Funding options for the Police Department Headquarters project
• Review of projects in the 2024-2028 Capital Improvement Plan
• Review of Surtax IV Project List

The City Commission discussed various funding options, including bonds and surtax projects, for the Police Department Headquarters. The Commission decided to use general fund balance money to finalize the project's design.

• Approved use of communications media technology for hybrid meeting (4-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved the agenda (5-0)
• Instructed staff to use $4,000,000 from the general fund balance to complete the Police Department Headquarters design to 100% (5-0)

Code Enforcement Hearing

This hearing addresses multiple cases involving unpermitted structures, prohibited parking, and debris accumulation. The agenda includes new, continued, and second-hearing cases regarding property maintenance and right-of-way usage.

• Approval of February 22, 2024, Code Enforcement Hearing minutes
• Case 24-0437: Unpermitted shed at 1266 Billy Ct
• Case 23-4974: Derelict vehicles at 3686 N Cranberry Blvd
• Case 23-5216: Expired building permit at 4926 Escalante Dr
• Case 23-5347: Debris and unpermitted structures at 6315 Beedla St

The Code Enforcement Hearing Officer found multiple properties in violation of city codes regarding parking, debris, and structures, imposing fines ranging from $50 to $500 per day. Several cases were continued to future hearings for further review, while 18 cases were resolved as compliant with no further action. A parking ticket appeal was dismissed.

• Dismissed parking ticket appeal Case No. 24-007155
• Imposed $500/day fine (max $25,000) on Case No. 24-95 for repeat violations at 7511 Perennial Rd
• Imposed $50/day fine (max $5,000) on Case No. 23-5221 for expired permit at 5111 Richmond Ter
• Found Case No. 23-2107 in violation of fire prevention codes at 1350 Bobcat Trl; fine imposed
• Found Case No. 23-2109 in violation of fire prevention codes at 1400 Bobcat Trl; fine imposed
• Found Case No. 23-310 in violation of land development code at 6770 Flavia Ct; fine imposed
• Found Case No. 23-4186 in violation of land development code at 7314 Largeleaf St; fine imposed
• Continued Case No. 24-409 to April 25, 2024 hearing

Zoning Hearing

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider a petition for a front setback variance at 6970 Beckwith Avenue. The board will also discuss the 2024 meeting schedule and the 2023 Annual Report to the City Commission.

• Front setback variance for 6970 Beckwith Avenue (Petition VAR-24-007)
• Approval of the 2024 Meeting Schedule
• Discussion of the 2023 Annual Report to City Commission

The Northport Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variance allowing a single-family residence at 6970 Beckwith Avenue to encroach 1.88 feet into the required 25-foot front setback. The Hearing Officer determined that all five criteria for granting a variance under the Unified Land Development Code were met based on evidence presented. The Board also approved its 2024 meeting schedule and 2023 annual report.

• Approved variance VAR-24-007 for 1.88 ft front setback encroachment at 6970 Beckwith Avenue
• Approved 2024 Zoning Board of Appeals meeting schedule
• Approved 2023 Zoning Board of Appeals annual report
• Approved minutes from August 23, 2023 and February 28, 2024 meetings

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will consider quasi-judicial petitions for Lakespur at Wellen Park Phase 3 and Wellen Park Downtown Phase 2. The meeting also includes a second reading of an ordinance regarding residential and non-residential exterior maintenance standards.

• Work assignment with Stantec Consulting Services Inc. for $168,080.00
• LexisNexis Solutions software subscription for $5,897.25 annually
• OpenGov Community Feedback software agreement for $2,140.00 annually
• Public hearing for Lakespur at Wellen Park Phase 3 Final Plat
• Public hearing for Wellen Park Downtown Phase 2 Final Plat

The City Commission approved final plats for Lakespur at Wellen Park Phase 3 and Wellen Park Downtown Phase 2. The board also adopted an ordinance updating residential and non-residential exterior maintenance standards and authorized funding for a new public artwork installation.

• Approved Lakespur at Wellen Park Phase 3 Final Plat (4-0)
• Approved Wellen Park Downtown Phase 2 Final Plat (4-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-01 updating International Property Maintenance Code standards (4-0)
• Approved $168,080 contract with Stantec Consulting Services Inc. for water infrastructure risk assessment (4-0)
• Approved installation of artwork by Mike Halligan not to exceed $45,000 (4-0)
• Approved Interlocal Agreement for trespass authority at County owned parks (4-0)
• Approved appointment of Patricia Richardson to Art Advisory Board and Deanna Broes to Environmental Advisory Board (4-0)
• Directed City Manager to consult bond counsel on Police Department Headquarters funding (4-0)

Road and Drainage District Governing Body

The governing body will consider a resolution to amend the fiscal year 2023-2024 budget for road rehabilitation. The meeting also includes discussion regarding North and South Tamiami Trail Access Road projects and several professional surveying service agreements.

• Resolution 2024-R-11: Amending the 2023-2024 budget for road rehabilitation by $2,200,000
• Discussion of North and South Tamiami Trail Access Road Projects
• Approval of multi-award continuing services agreements for professional surveying services with seven companies

Municipal Firefighters Pension Trust Fund Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will discuss benefit estimates and the possible addition of excluded members to the Share Plan. The meeting includes reports from the board custodian and investment consultant. The board will also review fund activity from December 9, 2023, through March 15, 2024.

• Discussion regarding benefit estimates
• Possible action on adding excluded members to the Share Plan
• Review of trustee term expiration
• Fund Activity Report for December 9, 2023 – March 15, 2024
• Approval of December 15, 2023 meeting minutes

The Board unanimously approved a consent letter for investment consultant AndCo following their acquisition. They also voted to reappoint Board Member Scott Duff for another term, pending City Commission approval. Routine payments, invoices, and fund activity reports were approved on the consent agenda.

• Approved AndCo consent letter (unanimous voice vote)
• Reappointed Board Member Scott Duff to trustee term, pending City Commission approval (unanimous voice vote)
• Extended public comment time by 10 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved December 15, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved consent agenda including payment ratification, new invoices, and fund activity report (unanimous voice vote)

Planning & Zoning Advisory Board

The Board will consider a petition for the voluntary annexation of the Warm Mineral Springs Motel via Ordinance No. 2024-08. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from the March 7, 2024, meeting and a presentation on quasi-judicial proceedings training.

• Public hearing for Warm Mineral Springs Motel voluntary annexation (Petition ANX-23-190)
• Approval of March 7, 2024, Planning and Zoning Advisory Board meeting minutes
• Presentation on quasi-judicial proceedings training by the Office of the City Attorney

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board recommended the approval of Ordinance No. 2024-08 for the voluntary annexation of the Warm Mineral Springs Motel. The board also approved the minutes from the March 7, 2024 meeting and received training on quasi-judicial proceedings.

• Recommended approval of Ordinance No. 2024-08 for Warm Mineral Springs Motel annexation (6-0)
• Approved March 7, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board will review items from the Sarasota County Parks Advisory and Recreation Council. The meeting also includes discussion regarding parkland acquisition and recent department accomplishments.

• Review of Sarasota County Parks Advisory and Recreation Council items
• Discussion and possible action regarding parkland acquisition
• Review of February accomplishments
• Review of upcoming City Commission agenda items

The Board voted unanimously to recommend against selling any parklands. Members also discussed parkland acquisition programs, funding, and measurement methodology.

• Recommended opposing the selling of any Parklands (Unanimous)
• Approved February 15, 2024 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

City Commission Joint Meeting

The City Commission and Charter Review Advisory Board will meet for discussion and possible action regarding the 2024 goals annual report. The meeting also includes scheduled periods for public comment.

• Discussion of the Charter Review Advisory Board 2024 Goals Annual Report

The City Commission and Charter Review Advisory Board held a joint meeting to discuss goals for 2024. The session consisted of discussions regarding the city charter, commission pay, and government structure, but no formal actions were taken on these items.

• Approved the meeting agenda (4-0)

City Commission Workshop

The City Commission is meeting to discuss the budget assumptions, projections, and priorities for Fiscal Year 2024-2025. This workshop item is intended to provide direction regarding the upcoming budget cycle.

• Discussion of Fiscal Year 2024-2025 budget assumptions, projections, and priorities

The City Commission held a workshop to review budget projections, fund balance changes, and revenue estimates for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The session consisted of presentations and discussions; no formal votes or decisions were recorded.

Community Economic Development Advisory Board

The Community Economic Development Advisory Board will hold elections for Chair and Vice Chair. The meeting includes a presentation from the Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County and an update from the Economic Development Division. The board will also review the February 20, 2024, meeting minutes.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Approval of FY2023 Memorandum
• Presentation by Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County
• Economic Development Division update

The Community Economic Development Advisory Board elected a new Chair and Vice Chair. The board also approved the February 2024 meeting minutes and the 2023 Annual Report Memorandum.

• Approved February 20, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Vice Chair Burroughs as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Chair Panikiw as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Annual Report Memorandum (unanimous)

Art Advisory Board

The Board will discuss several art projects, including artwork near Walgreens in Heron Creek and a proposed memorial sculpture. Members will also receive updates on murals planned for City Hall and the Community Education Center.

• Artwork placement near Walgreens in Heron Creek
• Proposed memorial sculpture requested by Ms. Eva Rathgeber
• Painting of city utility boxes
• City's 65th Anniversary and Community of Unity themed project
• Mural updates for City Hall and the Community Education Center

The Art Advisory Board unanimously approved the minutes from the February 13, 2024 meeting. The board received a training presentation on Sunshine Law requirements for public meetings. Several ongoing art projects, including a sculpture near Walgreen’s and utility box painting, were discussed for status updates but no new actions were taken.

• Approved February 13, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Received Sunshine Law training presentation from City Attorney's Office
• Discussed status of artwork placement near Walgreen’s in Heron Creek
• Discussed status of proposed sculpture requested by Eva Rathgeber
• Discussed status of painting city utility boxes
• Discussed status of 65th Anniversary Community of Unity project
• Updated on proposed City Hall mural and Community Education Center mural

Planning & Zoning Advisory Board

The Board will hold quasi-judicial public hearings to consider two development petitions within the Wellen Park area. The meeting also includes a training presentation on quasi-judicial proceedings from the Office of the City Attorney.

• Petition PLF-23-259: Wellen Park Downtown Phase 2
• Petition PLF-23-251: Lakespur at Wellen Park Phase 3
• Approval of February 15, 2024 meeting minutes
• Quasi-Judicial Proceedings Training presentation

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board recommended approval for two development plats to the City Commission. The board also approved previous meeting minutes and postponed a training presentation.

• Recommended approval of Wellen Park Downtown Phase 2 Plat (PLF-23-259) (6-0)
• Recommended approval of Lakespur at Wellen Park Phase 3 Plat (PLF-23-251) (6-0)
• Approved February 15, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Continued Quasi-Judicial Proceedings Training presentation to a future meeting (6-0)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will hold a regular meeting including the welcome of new employees and public comment. The agenda also includes a proclamation for Government Finance Professionals Week.

• Welcome of new employees
• Proclamation of March 18, 2024, through March 22, 2024, as Government Finance Professionals Week

The North Port City Commission held a regular meeting on March 7, 2024, approving the agenda as presented on a 4-0 vote (Commissioner Emrich not present for that vote). The commission welcomed new employees and presented a proclamation declaring March 18-22, 2024, Government Finance Professionals Week. Public comment included remarks on the League of United Latin American Citizens and concerns about traffic and accidents. The meeting adjourned at 4:20 p.m. with no other substantive decisions recorded.

• Approved the agenda as presented (4-0; Commissioner Emrich not present for the vote)
• Presented a proclamation declaring March 18-22, 2024, Government Finance Professionals Week to the City of North Port Finance Department

City Commission Special Meeting

The City Commission will hold a presentation, discussion, and possible action regarding the development and construction of the Police Station Headquarters and the Emergency Operations Center (EOC). This item includes updated supplemental information for the project.

• Development and construction of the Police Station Headquarters and Emergency Operations Center (EOC)

The City Commission directed the City Manager to proceed with a $122 million growth to 2065 plan for a new Police Station Headquarters and Emergency Operations Center. The Commission also authorized the completion of site and construction plans and requested a review of lease buyback options.

• Approved $122 million growth to 2065 plan for Police Headquarters and EOC (4-1)
• Approved directing City Manager to complete site, drainage, and construction plans at 100% (5-0)
• Approved funding plan for additional services for Police Headquarters plans not to exceed $4 million (5-0)
• Approved scheduling a meeting with the Chamber of Commerce for project input (5-0)
• Approved review of lease buyback alternative for Police Headquarters construction (5-0)
• Motion to bring 100% plans back to Commission prior to bidding failed (no second)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will review ordinances for rezoning 262 acres and annexing land near South Tamiami Trail. The agenda also includes a $4.5 million budget amendment for road rehabilitation and park maintenance projects. Additionally, commissioners will discuss future development for Warm Mineral Springs Park.

• Rezoning ±262.34 acres east of Toledo Blade Boulevard to multi-family residential
• $1,298,000.28 contract amendment for Police Department Headquarters repairs
• $4,502,551 budget amendment for road rehabilitation and park maintenance
• Annexation of ± 2.491 acres at North River Road and South Tamiami Trail
• Hurricane Idalia grant agreement with the Florida Division of Emergency Management

The City Commission approved the rezoning of approximately 262 acres to a Residential Multi-Family District despite some opposition. The board also approved a budget amendment for park and road projects and authorized several land annexations and flood map updates.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 2024-05 rezoning ±262.34 acres to Residential Multi-Family District (3-2)
• Approved $1,298,000.28 contract amendment for Police Department Headquarters repairs (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 2024-02 annexing ±2.491 acres at North River Road and South Tamiami Trail (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 2024-04 updating FEMA flood insurance rate maps (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-10 amending budgets for Warm Mineral Springs and road projects (5-0)
• Approved disposition of surplus fleet assets (4-1)
• Directed City Manager to research costs for Warm Mineral Springs Option 1 demolition and basic construction (4-1)
• Directed City Manager to revise residential and home-based business parking regulations (4-1)

City Commission Workshop

The City Commission will receive an update regarding the enforcement of regulations for trespassing on public property and the activities of the Homeless Outreach Team. The meeting also includes a presentation on city brand history and the rebranding process.

• Update on trespassing enforcement and homeless outreach efforts
• Presentation on City Brand History and Rebranding Process

The City Commission held a workshop to receive presentations on homeless outreach enforcement and the city's rebranding process. No formal votes or decisions were recorded during the meeting.

Environmental Advisory Board

The Environmental Advisory Board will consider advising the City Commission on implementing additional community gardens. The meeting also includes discussions regarding wildlife habitat protection, an environmental health scorecard, and retention pond planting regulations.

• Implementation of additional Community Gardens
• Wildlife, habitat protection, and tree planting recommendations
• Creation of a City Environmental Health Scorecard
• Retention Pond Planting Regulations and Potential Incentives
• Sunshine Law Training presentation

The board approved the minutes from the February 5, 2024 meeting. Several items of unfinished business were discussed, including community gardens and environmental scorecards, but no formal actions were taken on those items.

• Approved February 5, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)

Zoning Hearing

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold an election for Chair and Vice Chair positions. The board will also discuss the 2024 meeting schedule and the 2023 Annual Report to the City Commission.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Discussion of the 2024 Meeting Schedule
• Discussion of the 2023 Annual Report to City Commission
• Sunshine Law Training presentation

The North Port Zoning Board of Appeals met on February 28, 2024, but only three of six members were present, so there was no quorum. The meeting was called to order at 6:15 p.m. and adjourned at 6:15 p.m. with no substantive decisions made. Agenda items on the minutes, Sunshine Law training, election of chair and vice chair, the 2024 meeting schedule, and the 2023 annual report were listed but not acted on. The minutes do not record any votes or outcomes for those items.

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will consider several consent agenda items including construction and engineering contracts. The meeting also includes public hearings for various plats, a rezoning ordinance, and two annexation ordinances.

• Contract for Public Works Facility Phase II with Sweet Sparkman Architects, Inc. ($211,265.00)
• Contract for Public Works Facility Phase II with Ajax Building Company, LLC (not to exceed $30,790.00)
• Road Rehabilitation Project amendment for Toledo Blade Boulevard, South Salford Subdivision, Tihal Terrace, and Hampshire Circle ($4,395,335.10 total)
• Price Boulevard - Phase I Widening Project engineering services with AECOM Technical Services, Inc. ($4,218,161.04)
• Rezoning of ±262.34 acres east of Toledo Blade Boulevard to Residential Multi-Family District (Ordinance 2024-05)

The City Commission approved a $4.4 million road rehabilitation contract that adds four new road segments, with Commissioner McDowell dissenting over the Toledo Blade project and environmentally sensitive land. The commission also approved three final plats, including Wellen Park Downtown Phase 3 and Palmera at Wellen Park, and advanced a rezoning of about 262 acres east of Toledo Blade Boulevard to Residential Multi-Family by continuing it to a second reading on March 5, 2024. Two annexation ordinances and a FEMA flood map ordinance were also continued to March 5. The commission directed the artist to remove the City Seal from a mural at the North Port Aquatic Center, with Mayor White dissenting.

• Approved $4,395,335.10 road rehabilitation contract with Preferred Materials, Inc. for four new segments (4-1, McDowell dissenting)
• Approved Woodlands Commercial Park Phase 1 re-plat (5-0)
• Approved Wellen Park Downtown Phase 3 final plat (5-0)
• Approved Palmera at Wellen Park Phases 1A-1D final plat (5-0)
• Continued rezoning of ±262.34 acres to Residential Multi-Family to second reading on March 5, 2024 (4-1, Emrich dissenting)
• Continued annexation of ±2.491 acres at North River Road and South Tamiami Trail to second reading on March 5, 2024 (5-0)
• Continued FEMA flood map ordinance to second reading on March 5, 2024 (5-0)
• Adopted annexation of ±6.89 acres (5-0)

Road and Drainage District Governing Body

The governing body will consider a resolution to authorize the purchase of real property on Targee Avenue. Members will also discuss prioritized project funding applications through the Sarasota-Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization.

• Approval of cellular tower construction, tower lease, and land lease at 3195 Chickasaw Avenue
• Resolution 2024-R-7: Authorization to purchase real property on Targee Avenue (Lot 43, Block 369)
• Discussion of funding applications for Price Boulevard Bridge Replacement
• Discussion of funding applications for I-75 Interchange Improvements
• Discussion of funding applications for Toledo Blade Boulevard Extension and Price Boulevard Extension

The North Port Road and Drainage District Governing Body approved a prioritized list of project funding applications through the Sarasota-Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization on a 4-1 vote, with Commissioner McDowell dissenting over funding outside its jurisdiction. The board also approved a cellular tower construction and lease agreement at 3195 Chickasaw Avenue, accepted the January 23, 2024 meeting minutes, and adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-7 authorizing the purchase of a property on Targee Avenue. All other items passed unanimously with no public comment.

• Approved prioritized list of project funding applications through the Sarasota-Manatee MPO (4-1, McDowell dissenting)
• Approved cellular tower construction, tower lease, and land lease with 1 Source Towers II, LLC at 3195 Chickasaw Avenue (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2024-R-7 authorizing purchase of property on Targee Avenue, Lot 43, Block 369, 10th Addition to Port Charlotte Subdivision (5-0)
• Approved the January 23, 2024 Road and Drainage District meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved the meeting agenda as presented (5-0)

City Commission Workshop

The City Commission will discuss options for the new Police Department Headquarters project, including cost and size. They will also consider potential referendum language regarding bond authority and processes for the Unified Land Development Code rewrite.

• Discussion of New Police Department Headquarters options, costs, and funding
• Potential referendum language to amend City Charter Section 1.02(b) regarding bond authority
• Processes and procedures for adoption of the Unified Land Development Code (ULDC) rewrite

At a February 26, 2024 workshop, the North Port City Commission reached consensus to pursue a $122 million police department headquarters, subject to change pending future information. Commissioners also directed staff to explore an August referendum on charter changes for issuing general obligation and revenue bonds, and directed the City Attorney to analyze how government impact fees can be used for the police station. No formal votes were recorded; all outcomes were consensus directions to staff.

• Consensus to pursue $122M North Port Police Department Headquarters, subject to change pending future information
• Consensus to direct Staff to look into the possibility of an August referendum
• Consensus to direct the City Attorney to conduct a legal analysis on the usage of government impact fees and how it relates to the North Port Police Department Station
• Consensus to direct staff to review permissive referendums and/or send to the Charter Review Advisory Board for review, with legal review provided to Commission
• Consensus to direct staff to update draft charter language to include who is given the authority to issue permissible debt
• Consensus requested to remove 'but not limited to' in section 2(a)(ii)
• Consensus requested for the Engineering News-Record construction cost index to be every 3 years averaged opposed to every year
• Consensus requested to direct staff to include 'no general obligation debt must be approved by the majority of the voters' and to add language that general obligation debt must be approved by the voters

Code Enforcement Hearing

The Code Compliance Hearing will address various cases involving debris accumulation, improper parking in rights-of-way, and expired building permits. The board will also hear first-time cases regarding unpermitted structures and land clearing across several North Port properties.

• Review of an expired water heater permit at 4437 Gorgas St
• Case involving debris accumulation and improper waste container storage at 6520 Elmwood Rd
• Report of a large pothole behind Circle K Stores Inc at 13280 Tamiami Trl
• Hearing on unpermitted structures, including a shed at 2223 Armenia Rd
• Review of vehicles parked in the city right-of-way at various locations

Hearing Officer Toale ruled on numerous code enforcement cases, finding several properties in violation for issues like debris accumulation, improper parking, and missing permits. Fines ranging from $10 to $5,300 were imposed on specific properties, while many other cases were resolved by bringing them into compliance. Several cases were continued to the next hearing in March 2024 for further review.

• Case 23-5205 (4891 Almanac St): Fined $5,300 for land clearing violation
• Case 23-5324 (2329 Sultan Ave): Fined $1,200 for land clearing violation
• Case 23-5323 (2337 Sultan Ave): Dismissed due to incorrect violation code
• Case 23-538 (1634 Ronald St): Fined $25/day (max $2,000) for illegal shipping container
• Case 23-4186 (7314 Largeleaf St): Fined $25/day (max $2,000) for fence on undeveloped lot
• Case 23-4703 (1266 Billy Ct): Fined $10/day (max $1,000) for parking and $50/day (max $5,000) for unpermitted shed
• Case 23-5065 (2800 Pan American Blvd): Fined $50/day (max $5,000) for unpermitted remodel
• Multiple cases (e.g., 23-4620, 23-4890, 23-5025): Fined $10/day (max $1,000) for debris or parking violations

Charter Review Advisory Board

The Board will elect a Chair and Vice Chair for 2024. Members will also discuss a potential joint meeting with the City Commission and proposed updates regarding Sarasota County Charter sections and a Commission job description.

• Election of 2024 Chair and Vice Chair
• Request for a joint meeting with the City Commission
• Sarasota County Charter Section 5.3 and 5.4 inclusion discussion
• Adding language to create a Commission job description

The board elected its Chair and Vice Chair for 2024 and voted to schedule a joint meeting with the City Commission. The board decided to take no action on proposals regarding fee-based compensation or creating a commission job description.

• Approved December 20, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Elected Board Member Justice as Chair (4-0)
• Elected Board Member Garren as Vice Chair (4-0)
• Approved scheduling a Joint Meeting with the City Commission (4-0)
• Decided to take no action on Sarasota County Charter Section 5.3 compensation language (4-0)
• Decided to take no action on adding a Commission job description to the City Charter (4-0)

Community Economic Development Advisory Board

The Community Economic Development Advisory Board will approve the January 16, 2024, meeting minutes. The board will also hear updates regarding marketing, outreach, and community events.

• Approval of January 16, 2024, meeting minutes
• Sunshine Law Training presentation by the Office of the City Attorney
• Updates on marketing and outreach
• Updates on community event, economic development and utilities

The board approved the minutes from the January 16, 2024 meeting. Members received Sunshine Law training and discussed updates regarding the annual presentation to the Commission, marketing outreach, and community events.

• Approved January 16, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)

Planning & Zoning Advisory Board

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board will review multiple quasi-judicial petitions regarding land plats. The meeting also includes a discussion on the 2023 Annual Report and an update to flood damage prevention regulations.

• Re-Plat Woodlands Commercial Park, Phase 1 (PLF-23-127)
• Wellen Park Downtown Phase 3 (PLF-23-201)
• Palmera at Wellen Park Phases 1A, 1B, 1C & 1D (PLF-23-245)
• US 41 & Tamiami Trail via D. Ordinance No. 2024-02 (ANX-23-129)
• Amending Unified Land Development Code regarding NFIP effective dates (TXT-23-270)

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board recommended approval of three development plats and two ordinances to the City Commission. The board also approved its 2023 Annual Report and the previous meeting's minutes.

• Recommended approval of Woodlands Commercial Park, Phase 1 Plat (6-0)
• Recommended approval of Wellen Park Downtown Phase 3 Plat (6-0)
• Recommended approval of Palmera at Wellen Park Phases 1A, 1B, 1C and 1D (6-0)
• Recommended approval of Ordinance No. 2024-02 regarding US 41 & Tamiami Trail (6-0)
• Recommended approval of Ordinance No. 2024-04 updating flood damage prevention regulations (6-0)
• Approved 2023 Annual Report as amended (6-0)
• Approved February 1, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The board will review the Annual Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Report and a FY 2023 presentation. Members will also receive Sunshine Law training. Additionally, the board will discuss recent department accomplishments and upcoming City Commission agenda items.

• Approval of January 18, 2024 meeting minutes
• Annual Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Report discussion
• Sunshine Law Training presentation
• Sarasota County Parks Advisory & Recreation Council Meeting items
• Review of recent Parks & Recreation Department accomplishments

The board approved the format and presentation for its annual report to the City Commission. Members also received Sunshine Law training from the Office of the City Attorney.

• Approved January 18, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved annual report format to the City Commission (unanimous)
• Approved Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Annual Report Presentation (unanimous)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will discuss reallocating $2,000,000 in Coronavirus recovery funds from the Fire Station 81 Remodel Project to a Road Rehabilitation Project. The agenda also includes public hearings regarding property annexation and new maintenance standards for non-residential buildings.

• Reallocation of $2,000,000 in Coronavirus funds from Fire Station 81 to road rehabilitation
• USDA grant agreement of $1,794,049.98 for Myakkahatchee Creek maintenance and debris removal
• Ordinance for the annexation of approximately 6.89 acres of Sarasota County property
• Adoption of new exterior maintenance standards for non-residential properties
• $35,082.88 agreement to upfit a police community outreach vehicle

The North Port City Commission approved a 10-item consent agenda, including a $1,794,049.98 USDA grant for Myakkahatchee Creek maintenance and debris removal, a $25,000 police foundation grant, and termination of the Warm Mineral Springs Park site access agreement. The commission approved the Manasota Beach Road Extension Plat No. 1 (PLF-23-158) and adopted Resolution 2024-R-09 partially terminating easements. Ordinance 2024-03 (6.89-acre annexation) was continued to a February 27 second reading, and Ordinance 2024-01 (property maintenance standards) was continued to a March 26 second reading with direction to add residential properties to the title block. The commission also approved an amendment to the City Clerk's employment agreement and the January 23, 2024 meeting minutes.

• Approved consent agenda including $1,794,049.98 USDA grant for Myakkahatchee Creek maintenance and debris removal (5-0)
• Approved Manasota Beach Road Extension Plat No. 1, Petition PLF-23-158 (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-R-09 partially terminating grants of easements in Sections 28, 29, 32, and 33 (5-0)
• Continued Ordinance 2024-03 (±6.89-acre annexation) to second reading on February 27, 2024, removing and replacing the Revised Official Zoning Map on page 19 (5-0)
• Continued Ordinance 2024-01 (property maintenance standards) to second reading on March 26, 2024, directing Charter Officers to add residential properties in the title block and throughout the document (5-0)
• Approved first amendment to the City Clerk's Employment Agreement (5-0)
• Approved January 23, 2024 Commission Regular Meeting minutes with recommended changes (5-0)
• Approved agenda as presented, with Commissioner McDowell dissenting (4-1)

Art Advisory Board

The North Port Art Advisory Board will discuss and possibly approve several public art initiatives that affect neighborhoods and city buildings, including artwork near a Heron Creek Walgreens, painted utility boxes, and murals at City Hall and the Community Education Center. The board will also review a memorial sculpture request, updates on the city’s 65th anniversary project, and its annual report.

• Discussion on placing artwork near Walgreen’s in Heron Creek
• Proposal to paint City utility boxes
• Review of a memorial sculpture requested by Ms. Eva Rathgeber
• Updates on murals at City Hall, the Community Education Center, and the Senior Center
• Review of the Art Advisory Board’s annual report and 65th anniversary project plans

The Art Advisory Board approved the minutes of its January 9, 2024 meeting by unanimous vote. The rest of the meeting consisted of discussion-only items on artwork placement, utility box painting, a proposed sculpture, the city's 65th anniversary project, and the board's annual report; no decisions or votes were recorded on those items. A scheduled Sunshine Law training was not presented because the presenter was absent.

• Approved January 9, 2024 Art Advisory Board meeting minutes (unanimous)
• No action taken on artwork placement near Walgreen's in Heron Creek (discussion only)
• No action taken on painting the city's utility boxes (discussion only)
• No action taken on proposed sculpture requested by Ms. Eva Rathgeber (discussion only)
• No action taken on city's 65th anniversary and Community of Unity themed project (discussion only)
• No action taken on the Art Advisory Board's annual report (discussion only)
• Sunshine Law training not presented; presenter absent

Environmental Advisory Board

The Environmental Advisory Board will consider several items regarding city natural resources. Discussions include the implementation of additional community gardens and new recommendations for wildlife and tree protection. The board will also review a scorecard for environmental health and regulations for retention pond planting.

• Implementation of additional community gardens
• Recommendations for wildlife, habitat, and tree protection
• Creation of an Environmental Health, Water, Trees, and Air Quality Scorecard
• Retention pond planting regulations and potential incentives

The Environmental Advisory Board approved the January meeting minutes and requested that Chapter 6 of the Unified Land Development Code be presented to the board before it is adopted. One item regarding retention pond planting regulations was continued to the March meeting.

• Approved January 8, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Continued Item 23-1515 regarding retention pond planting regulations to March 6, 2024 (unanimous)
• Requested Chapter 6 of the Unified Land Development Code be presented to the board prior to adoption

Planning & Zoning Advisory Board

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board will review a quasi-judicial public hearing regarding a zoning petition. The board will also consider the approval of meeting minutes from January 4 and January 18, 2024.

• Public Hearing for Petition REZ-23-137 (Toledo Blade 320 RMF via Ordinance No. 2024-05)
• Approval of January 4, 2024, meeting minutes
• Approval of January 18, 2024, meeting minutes

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board recommended approval of Ordinance No. 2024-05 to rezone the Toledo Blade property. The board found the request consistent with the City of North Port Comprehensive Plan and the Unified Land Development Code.

• Approved January 4 and January 18, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Recommended approval of Ordinance No. 2024-05 for rezoning Petition REZ-23-137 (6-0)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will conduct a regular meeting including the welcome of new employees. The agenda includes several presentations of proclamations for citizens and local organizations.

• Proclamation honoring Nina Kucipak as a Centenarian Citizen
• Proclamation declaring March 1, 2024, as Employee Appreciation Day
• Proclamation honoring Gertrude “Ann” Samhuber as a Centenarian Citizen
• Proclamation recognizing the North Port Area Little Leagues 50th Anniversary

The City Commission approved the meeting agenda. The session consisted primarily of welcoming new employees and presenting four proclamations honoring citizens and organizations.

• Approved the agenda (5-0)
• Presented proclamation honoring Nina Kucipak as a centenarian
• Presented proclamation proclaiming March 1, 2024, as Employee Appreciation Day
• Presented proclamation honoring Gertrude “Ann” Samhuber as a centenarian
• Presented proclamation recognizing North Port Area Little Leagues 50th Anniversary

Code Enforcement Hearing

The Code Compliance Hearing will address several cases involving unpermitted structures, debris accumulation, and expired permits. The agenda includes reviews of residential and commercial properties regarding safety and city code adherence.

• Unpermitted backyard deck and pool at 7516 Joppa St
• Unsafe structure with a crumbling exterior wall at 5237 Simrak St
• Debris accumulation in the city right-of-way at 4648 Adderton Ave
• Sidewalk obstructions from overgrowth at 4950 White Ibis Dr
• Unpermitted fence installation at 6681 Mara Ct

Hearing Officer Toale found several properties in violation of city and building codes, imposing daily fines for debris, expired permits, and fire safety issues. Twenty-two cases were closed as compliant, and one case regarding a directional sign was dismissed.

• Fined Cloud Ten Marketing Group $10/day (max $1,000) for fallen fence blocking sidewalk
• Amended order for Cloud Ten Marketing Group: $10/day fine (max $1,000) for expired permits
• Amended order for Cloud Ten Marketing Group: $10/day fine per violation (max $1,000 each) for fire code violations
• Dismissed case against Duck Key Owners Assn Inc regarding directional entry sign
• Fined Woodrow A Stewart $10/day (max $1,000) for debris and yard waste trailer
• Fined Jason L Mead and Bonnie J Scates $10/day (max $1,000) for vehicle parked in front yard
• Fined Circle K Stores Inc $25/day (max $2,000) for alley pothole
• Imposed fines for debris and waste container violations at 2762 Yamada Ln and 4081 Heaton Ter

Fire Rescue District Governing Body

The Fire Rescue District Governing Body is reviewing an equipment proposal from Ten-8 Fire & Safety, LLC. The proposal outlines the intent to procure two New Pierce Enforcer Pumpers and one New Pierce Enforcer Ladder Truck. The estimated cost for this procurement is $3,452,242.00.

• Equipment proposal with Ten-8 Fire & Safety, LLC for two New Pierce Enforcer Pumpers and one New Pierce Enforcer Ladder Truck
• Estimated cost of $3,452,242.00 for fire rescue equipment procurement
• Approval of the November 28, 2023, Fire Rescue District Meeting Minutes

The Fire Rescue District Governing Body approved its consent agenda, including an equipment proposal with Ten-8 Fire & Safety, LLC to procure two new Pierce Enforcer pumpers and one new Pierce Enforcer ladder truck at an estimated cost of $3,452,242.00. The approval is an intent to procure at a future date, not a final purchase. The board also approved minutes from its November 28, 2023 meeting. Mayor Alice White was absent; four commissioners voted yes on both agenda and consent items.

• Approved agenda as presented (4-0, Mayor White absent)
• Approved consent agenda as presented (4-0, Mayor White absent)
• Approved November 28, 2023 Fire Rescue District meeting minutes on consent
• Approved equipment proposal with Ten-8 Fire & Safety, LLC for intent to procure two Pierce Enforcer pumpers and one Pierce Enforcer ladder truck, estimated $3,452,242.00, on consent

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will consider several ordinances regarding future land use, residential rezoning, and water supply plans. The agenda also includes a sole source purchase for public safety radios and various administrative reports.

• Sole source purchase of replacement public safety radios from Motorola Solutions, Inc. for $2,415,455.63
• Ordinance to change future land use from Low Density Residential to Medium Density Residential near Hillsborough Boulevard
• Ordinance to rezone ± 18.63 acres from Residential Single-Family to Residential Multi-Family
• Ordinance regarding the City of North Port 10-Year Water Supply Facilities Work Plan
• Ordinance updating parking violation procedures and prohibiting storage in public rights-of-way

The North Port City Commission approved two ordinances changing the future land use and zoning of an 18.63-acre parcel north of Hillsborough Boulevard and west of Toledo Blade Boulevard from low-density residential/single-family to medium-density residential/multi-family. It also approved the Serenity Multi-Family Development Master Plan with a 650-square-foot minimum unit size and utility-related conditions. The commission approved a $2,415,455.63 sole-source purchase of replacement public safety radios from Motorola Solutions and adopted a 10-year water supply plan and updated parking violation rules. A nighttime construction noise variance for the Toledo Blade Boulevard rehabilitation project was approved for January 24 through February 29, 2024.

• Adopted Ordinance 2023-31 changing future land use from Low Density Residential to Medium Density Residential for ±18.63 acres (4-1, McDowell dissenting)
• Adopted Ordinance 2023-32 rezoning ±18.63 acres from Residential Single-Family (RSF) to Residential Multi-Family (RMF) (4-1, McDowell dissenting)
• Approved Serenity Multi-Family Development Master Plan DMP-23-121 with 650 sq ft minimum unit size and utility conditions (5-0)
• Approved sole-source purchase of replacement public safety radios from Motorola Solutions, Inc. for $2,415,455.63 (consent agenda, 5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2023-27 adopting the 10-Year Water Supply Facilities Work Plan (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2023-34 updating parking violation penalties, procedures, and fees (5-0)
• Approved nighttime construction noise variance/special exception for Toledo Blade Boulevard rehabilitation, January 24–February 29, 2024 (5-0)
• Directed City Clerk to schedule a joint meeting with the Charter Review Advisory Board (5-0)

Road and Drainage District Governing Body

The governing body will consider a work assignment for architectural services and an amendment to a debris monitoring agreement. The Commission will also discuss conducting a traffic study analysis near Talon Bay Drive.

• Second Amendment to Nonexclusive Agreement No. 2019-49 with Rostan Solutions, LLC
• Work Assignment No. 2023-09PW for Plunkett Raysich Architects, LLP in the amount of $196,190.00
• Traffic Study Analysis for the area around Talon Bay Drive

The Road and Drainage District Governing Body approved its agenda and consent agenda, including a $196,190.00 work assignment to Plunkett Raysich Architects, LLP for architectural services on the Public Works Road and Drainage District Operations Building. A motion to direct the City Manager to include a Traffic Impact Study for Talon Bay traffic impacts in the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 budget failed 1-4, with only Commissioner McDowell voting yes. Mayor White was absent at roll call and arrived at 4:10 p.m. There was no public comment.

• Approved the agenda as presented (4-0, Mayor White absent)
• Approved the consent agenda as presented (4-0, Mayor White absent)
• Approved Second Amendment to Nonexclusive Agreement No. 2019-49 for Disaster Debris Monitoring Services and Financial Recovery Management with Rostan Solutions, LLC (consent agenda)
• Approved Work Assignment No. 2023-09PW with Plunkett Raysich Architects, LLP for $196,190.00 for architectural services on the Road and Drainage District Operations Building (consent agenda)
• Approved the November 28, 2023 Road and Drainage District meeting minutes (consent agenda)
• Denied a motion to direct the City Manager to include a Talon Bay Traffic Impact Study in the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 budget (failed 1-4)

City Commission Joint Meeting

The City Commission is participating in a joint meeting with several local government entities. The agenda focuses on goals, history of successful joint use collaboration, and affordable housing.

• Discussion on Affordable Housing
• History of Successful Joint Use Collaboration
• Presentations by city and county managers

The meeting consisted of updates and discussions between the City of North Port, City of Sarasota, City of Venice, Town of Longboat Key, Sarasota County, and the School Board of Sarasota County. No substantive decisions, votes, or approvals were recorded.

Planning & Zoning Advisory Board

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board will hold public hearings on two petitions. These include a request regarding Flash Investors on River Road and a plat for the Manasota Beach Road Extension. The board will also review minutes from December 2023 meetings.

• Petition ANX-23-175, Flash Investors - River Road via Ordinance No.2024-03
• Petition PLF-23-158, Manasota Beach Road Extension, Plat No. 1
• Approval of December 7 and December 21, 2023 meeting minutes

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board recommended approval for two petitions involving land annexation and a road extension plat. The board also approved minutes from two previous December 2023 meetings.

• Recommended approval of Ordinance No. 2024-03 for Flash Investors - River Road annexation (6-0)
• Recommended approval of Manasota Beach Road Extension, Plat No. 1, Petition No. PLF-23-158 (6-0)
• Approved December 7, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved December 21, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Directed staff to provide a draft rewrite of Chapter 3 of the Unified Land Development Code regarding encroachments

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Board will conduct an election for a Chair and Vice Chair. Members will also discuss the annual advisory board report, recent department events, and upcoming City Commission agenda items.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Annual Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Report
• Review of recent and upcoming Parks & Recreation Department events
• Unified Land Development Code updates and map review

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board elected a new Chair and Vice Chair. The board approved the presentation of the 2023 Annual Report and voted to support changes to the Unified Land Development Code.

• Elected Celeste Jameson as Chair (unanimous voice vote)
• Elected Paul Jackomin as Vice Chair (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved 2023 Annual Report presentation for a Commission meeting (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved support for the Parks and Recreation part of the Unified Land Development Code change (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved December 21, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)

Community Economic Development Advisory Board

The Board will review updates regarding economic development dashboards, KPIs, and metrics. Members will also receive an overview of the Business Retention and Expansion Program. The agenda includes approval of minutes from the November 21, 2023 meeting.

• Approval of November 21, 2023 meeting minutes
• Economic Development Dashboard and KPIs update (24-0067)
• Overview of Business Retention and Expansion Program (24-0068)

The board approved the minutes from the November 21, 2023 meeting. Members discussed the annual report, economic development metrics, and the Business Retention and Expansion Program. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved November 21, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)

Art Advisory Board

The Art Advisory Board will discuss several public art projects, including a proposed memorial sculpture and the painting of city utility boxes. The board will also receive updates on mural proposals for City Hall and the Community Education Center. Additionally, members will elect a new Chair and Vice Chair.

• Proposed memorial sculpture requested by Eva Rathgeber
• Painting of city utility boxes
• Artwork placement near Walgreens in Heron Creek
• Update on City Hall first-floor mural proposal
• Election of Board Chair and Vice Chair

The board elected its leadership for the term and approved the minutes from the December 19, 2023 meeting. Several art projects were discussed, including utility box painting and a memorial sculpture, but no formal actions were taken on those items.

• Approved December 19, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Vice Chair Rathgeber as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Board Member Kang as Vice Chair (unanimous)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission will review several quasi-judicial items including development master plans and land use amendments. The agenda also includes various contract approvals for city services, water treatment, and park facilities.

• Ratification of $24,196.00 purchase order for temporary fencing at Warm Mineral Springs Park
• Ratification of $115,000.00 purchase order for temporary buildings at Warm Mineral Springs Park
• Contract with Jay’s Fencing, LLC for up to $100,000 as-needed and two work assignments totaling $198,287.00
• Award of $130,500.00 estimated annual amount for calcium chloride for the water treatment plant
• Work assignment of $349,480.00 with Black and Veatch Corporation for water supply evaluation

The City Commission approved the Solana RV Resort Development Master Plan and the Talon Bay Self Storage plan. It also approved the Central Parc Phase 1 Plat and a carwash development. Two ordinances regarding residential rezoning were continued to a second reading.

• Approved Solana RV Resort Development Master Plan with 16 conditions (5-0)
• Approved Talon Bay Self Storage Development Master Plan (4-1)
• Approved Central Parc Phase 1 Plat (5-0)
• Approved Fellowship Replat (Tommy’s Carwash) with modifications (5-0)
• Continued residential rezoning Ordinance No. 2023-31 to second reading (4-1)
• Continued residential rezoning Ordinance No. 2023-32 to second reading (4-1)
• Approved $165,000 budget amendment for AC and generators at Morgan Family Community Center (5-0)
• Approved $349,480 contract for North Port Water Supply Evaluation (5-0)

City Commission Workshop

The City Commission will discuss potential pre-payment plan options for the Water and Wastewater Expansion Project. The commission will also review a study regarding the city's fee structure and assessments. Additionally, the Natural Resources Division will present its 2024 recycling campaign.

• Pre-payment plan options for Water and Wastewater Expansion Project
• City Fee Structure and City Fees Study
• 2024 Recycling Campaign presentation
• Quasi-Judicial Proceedings training

The City Commission reached a consensus to have the City Manager conduct a fee study analysis of all fees listed in Appendix A. The meeting also included presentations on the Natural Resources Division, the 2024 Recycle Right Campaign, and quasi-judicial proceedings training.

• Consensus reached to direct City Manager to conduct fee study analysis of all fees listed in Appendix A

Environmental Advisory Board

The Environmental Advisory Board will discuss several items regarding city resources and natural protections. Topics include community garden implementation, wildlife habitat preservation, and the creation of an environmental health scorecard.

• Implementation of additional community gardens
• Preservation of wildlife, habitat, trees, and public space beautification
• Creation of a City Environmental Health, Water, Trees, and Air Quality Scorecard
• Pesticide usage for pollinators
• Retention pond planting regulations and potential incentives

The board elected a Chair and Vice Chair and voted to submit a memorandum to the City Commission regarding pesticide usage for pollinators. Several other items regarding community gardens, wildlife preservation, and environmental scorecards were continued to February 5, 2024.

• Approved December 4, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Voted to submit memorandum to Commission regarding pesticide usage for pollinators (unanimous)
• Elected Vice Chair English as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Board Member McGowan as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Continued community gardens item 23-0742 to February 5, 2024 (unanimous)
• Continued wildlife and habitat protection item 23-1089 to February 5, 2024 (unanimous)
• Continued environmental scorecard item 23-1513 to February 5, 2024 (unanimous)
• Continued retention pond planting item 23-1515 to February 5, 2024 (unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Advisory Board

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board will hold quasi-judicial public hearings regarding petitions for US 41 & Tamiami Trail and Panacea Commercial Park Phase 1. The board will also elect a new Chair and Vice Chair.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Petition ANX-23-129 at US 41 & Tamiami Trail
• Petition VAC-23-135 for Panacea Commercial Park Ph 1

The Planning & Zoning Advisory Board recommended approval for two land-use petitions to the City Commission. The board also elected its Chair and Vice Chair for the term.

• Elected Linda Waugh as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Phillip Ludos as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Ordinance No. 2024-02 (US 41 & Tamiami Trail) with title amendment to change Tamiami Trail to North River Road (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Resolution No. 2024-R-06 (Panacea Commercial Park Ph 1) to the City Commission (unanimous)
• Continued approval of December 21, 2023 meeting minutes to January 18, 2024 (unanimous)

City Commission Special Meeting

The City Commission will discuss feedback from former members regarding the current powers and duties of the Historic and Cultural Advisory Board. The discussion may include future application processes for board members.

• Discussion regarding input and feedback from former Historic and Cultural Advisory Board members on current duties

The Commission voted to amend the membership and term limits of the Historic and Cultural Advisory Board. Additionally, officials were directed to develop a potential Research Archivist position for the 2024/25 budget.

• Directed City Clerk and City Attorney to amend Section 4-191 to remove Items 1-10 and limit board membership to seven members (4-1)
• Set Historic and Cultural Advisory Board term limits to five years, allowing prior members' terms to reset upon adoption (4-1)
• Directed Charter Officers to create a potential Research Archivist job description for FY 24/25 budgetary consideration (5-0)

City Commission Regular Meeting

The City Commission meeting includes the presentation of several recognitions. This includes certificates for individuals who decorated City Hall and a proclamation regarding Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Week.

• Certificate of Appreciation to Donna Suggs
• Certificate of Appreciation to Michelle Kossel
• Proclamation of January 21 through 27, 2024 as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Week

The City Commission approved the meeting agenda. The commission presented certificates of appreciation to Donna Suggs and Michelle Kossel and a proclamation for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Week.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Presented Certificates of Appreciation to Donna Suggs and Michelle Kossel
• Presented Proclamation for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Week to Lindsey Bell