BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
GULF COUNTY, FLORIDA
AGENDA JUNE 23, 2020 TIME / PAGE NO.
1. Meeting Called to Order 9:00 a.m,
2. Pledge and Invocation
3. Consent Agenda 4-147
4. County Staff Business
5. Board Business
6. Quasi-Judicial Hearing - Review & Consideration of P.D.R.B.
Applications . 148
- Variance Request — Ralph & Elizabeth Matthews * Parcel ID
#03798-550R * Section 31, Township 6 South, Range 11 West
- Variance Request - Bob & Ginny Legette * Parcel ID #03798-
655R * Section 31, Township 6 South, Range 11 West
- Variance Request - Melody Noel & Jeffery Bonner * Parcel ID
#06314-055R * Section 23, Township 9 South, Range 11 West
- Preliminary Plat Approval — Indian Pass Shores ~ Peach Concepts
19, LLC * Parcel ID #03187-009R * Section 21, Township 9 South,
Range 10 West
7. Public Hearing — Amending Comprehensive Plan Ordinance 149
Small-Scale Map Land Use Map Amendment * Parcel ID #03072-050R
8 Public Hearing - Abandonment County Right-of-Way Resolution 150
Starfish Avenue & Adjacent to Nutmeg Street * Beacon Hill Subdivision
9. Public Hearing - Amending Comprehensive Plan Ordinance : 150
Land Use Element, Housing Element, Sewer, Solid Waste, Capital
Improvements Element & Economic Development Element
10. Bid Award
#1920-31 * Sale Vacant Lots Located at 1002 Marvin Avenue 151
11. Administrative Report & Update
12. Public Comment
F.S. 286.0105:
If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the board, agency or commission, with respect to any
matter considered at such meeting or hearing, he will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such
purpose, he may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes
the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.
“Please note the Administration and Courthouse Complex have been closed by Emergency Declaration
as of March 18", the meeting will be streamed live to the public at http /www.qulfcounty-fl gov"*CONSENT AGENDA
June 23, 2020
4. Approval of Checks & Warrants for April 2020 and May 2020 which are
incorporated herein by reference, pursuant to Chapter 136.06 F.S.
2. Minutes - February 25, 2020 - Regular Meeting 1-14
—March 10, 2020 - Special Meeting 15-18
~ March 18, 2020 - Emergency Meeting 19:37
~ April 7, 2020 - Special Meeting : : 38-45
April 16, 2020 - Special Meeting 46-49
— April 28, 2020 - Regular Meeting 50-58
— April 30, 2020 - Special Meeting 59-64
~ May 12, 2020 - Emergency Meeting 65
— May 21, 2020 - Special Meeting 66-68
— May 26, 2020 - Regular Meeting 69-80
— June 3, 2020 - Special Meeting 81-84
3. Agreement - CareerSource Gulf Coast (Memorandum of Understanding &
Infrastructure Funding Agreement * between CareerSource
Gulf Coast & FL Department of Economic Opportunity * Workforce
Innovation & Opportunity Act) 85-108
~ CareerSource Gulf Coast (Memorandum of Understanding & Infrast-
ructure Funding Agreement * between CareerSource Gulf Coast
& FL Department of Education * Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
* Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act * 1A-776 A1). : 109
~ CareerSource Gulf Coast (Memorandum of Understanding &
Infrastructure Funding Agreement * between CareerSource
Gulf Coast & Gulf Coast State College * Workforce Innovation
& Opportunity Act) 110
— CareerSource Gulf Coast (Memorandum of Understanding &
Infrastructure Funding Agreement * between CareerSource
Gulf Coast & Haney Technical Center * Workforce Innovation
& Opportunity Act) 1
~ CareerSource Gulf Coast (Memorandum of Understanding &
Infrastructure Funding Agreement * between CareerSource
Gulf Coast & The National Caucus on Black Aged, Senior
Community Service Employment Program * Workforce Innovation
& Opportunity Act) 112
~ CareerSource Gulf Coast (Memorandum of Understanding &
Infrastructure Funding Agreement * between CareerSource
Gulf Coast & Tri-County Community Council, Inc. * Workforce
Innovation & Opportunity Act) 113,
—FL Division of Emergency Management (CARES Act Funding * Y2309) 414
—Medpro (Ambulance Patient Transport Equipment Service) . 115-1194.
5.
6.
a
Bids — Gulf County T.D.C. (Advertise to Receive Sealed Bids * ADA Mats for
County Beach Accesses)
— Grant Department (Advertise to Receive Sealed Bids * Resurfacing
County Road 387/Doc Whitfield Road)
Budget Amendment #2 — General Fund (Amend FY2019-20 Budget for General
Fund for Line Item Adjustments)
— Budget Amendment #3 - T.D.C. Fund (Amend the FY2019-20 Budget for
T.D.C. Fund for Line Item Adjustments)
— Budget Amendment #4 — St. Joseph Fire Control District Fund (Amend
FY2019-20 Budget for St. Joseph Fire Control District for Line
Item Adjustments)
Grant - Agreement (National Park Service * Salinas Park Gulf Side * Survey
& Engineer Drawings, in the amount of $20,000.00, contingent
upon OMB's review)
= Modification Agreement (FL Division of Emergency Management *
Emergency Management Performance Grant * FY2020-21 *
G0167 * in the amount of $54,474.00)
~ Modification Agreement (FL Division of Emergency Management *
Emergency Management Performance Grant * FY2020-21 *
GS0138 * COVID-19 Supplemental * in the amount of $8,007.15)
~ Modification Agreement (FL Division of Emergency Management *
Emergency Preparedness Grant * FY2020-21 * A0115 * in the
amount of $105,808.00)
— Extension Request (FL Department of Transportation * Resurfacing
County 387/Doc Whitfield Road * G1000 * New Completion
Date June 30, 2021)
— Extension Request (FL Department of Transportation * Beautification
Grant * Veterans’ Memorial Beacon Hill Park * GOT72 * New
Completion Date December 31, 2020)
Inventory - BOCC (Asset Transfer to Public Works * Asset #15-51 * 2007
Chevrolet Impala * VIN #1G1WB58K379400473)
— E-911 (Asset Disposal * Asset #95-56 * Microsoft Surface Pro 3 * Serial
#008972252853)
— IT Department (Asset Disposal * Asset #16-108 * Microsoft Surface
Book * Serial #025120484157 & 051345384154)
— City of Wewahitchka (Asset Transfer to Stone Mill Creek Fire Department
* 4981 Ford 350 Fire Truck * VIN #1FDKF37Z4BNA81700)
131-
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
130
133
134
135
13610.
1
12
Invoice — FL Department of Revenue (Reemployment Assistance Program * Tucker
B. Smith * in the amount of $34.86) 137-138
Map — Building Department (Gulf County Updated Wind Speed Map) 139-140
Policy — Annual Leave (Allow Employees to Sale 80 Hours Annual Leave from
June 1, 2020 until December 31, 2020 * Must be Signed off on
by Department Head & Approved by County Administrator) 141
Proposal ~ Dewberry (Topo Survey for Salinas Park Gulf Side, contingent upon
receiving National Park Service Grant Funds) 142
Resolution — Amending FY2019-20 Budget (Unanticipated Grant Revenues
in the General Grants Fund) 143
— Amending FY2019-20 Budget (Unanticipated Grant Revenues in the
BP & RESTORE Act Fund) 144
~ Amending FY2019-20 Budget (Unanticipated Revenues in the
Disaster Fund) 145-148
— Amending FY2019-20 Budget (Unanticipated Grant Revenues in the
H.H.R.P. Fund) 147FEBRUARY 25, 2020
REGULAR MEETING
PORT ST. JOE, FLORIDA
The Gulf County Board of County Commissioner met this date in regular session with the
following members present: Chairman Sandy Quinn, Jr., Vice Chairman Jimmy Rogers,
and Commissioners David C. Rich, Ward McDaniel, and Phil McCroan.
Others present were: County Attorney Jeremy Novak, Deputy Clerk Leanna Roberts,
County Administrator Michael L. Hammond, County Assistant Administrator Warren
Yeager, Jr., Deputy Administrator Kari Summers, Building Official Brad Bailey, County
Consultant Don Butler, Code Enforcement Officer Trevor Seay, Gulf County E.D.C.
Director Jim McKnight, Emergency Management Staff Assistant Rachel Jackson, £9-1-1
Coordinator Ben Guthrie, Gulf County E.M.S, Director Jody Daniels, Dewberry/County
Engineer Clay Smallwood, Ill, G.I.S. Coordinator Jessica Susich, Grant Administrator
Kaci Rhodes, Human Resource Director Brett Lowry, Office of Management & Budget
Director Sherry Herring, Mosquito Control Director Austin Horton, County Planner Lee
Collinsworth, Public Works Director Mark Cothran, Assistant Public Works Director
Raymond Hart, Sheriff Mike Harrison, T.D.C. Executive Director Kelli Godwin, and
Veterans’ Service Office Director & S.H.I.P. Director Joe Paul
Sheriff Harrison called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m., E.T.
Chairman Quinn opened the meeting with prayer and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to
the Flag,
CONSENT AGENDA
Chairman Quinn called for public comment regarding the Consent Agenda. Lissa Dulany,
of Cape San Blas appeared before the Board to inquiry pages 25-26 of the Consent
‘Agenda regarding the comprehensive plan; discussion her concerns regarding only one
public hearing and the plan not being available to view online. County Attorney Novak
reported that the final hearing is on the Agenda for today’s meeting. Ms. Dulany discussed
her concerns regarding the 50 foot limit from a volunteer fire fighter safety perspective.
County Administrator Hammond discussed the three (3) habitable fioor limit; stating that
the County has never had an actual height limit. He discussed the Eglin height restriction;
reporting that the entire County was included in this restriction, but now with this proposed
change, it only takes in the Eglin zone, as requested. County Commissioner McCroan
stated that he will be proposing a height cap. After discussion by Planner Collinsworth,
Chairman Quinn called for any additional public comment. There being no further public
comment, Chairman Quinn called for a motion to accept the Consent Agenda
Commissioner McDaniel then so moved to accept as presented. Commissioner Rich
seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public
comment, the motion passed unanimously, as follows:2
Approval of Checks & Warrants for January, 2020 which are incorporated herein
by reference, pursuant to Chapter 136.06 F.S.
Minutes - November 26, 2019 - Regular Meeting
— December 9, 2019 - Special Meeting
~ January 8, 2020 - Special Meeting
~ January 28, 2020 - Regular Meeting
— February 6, 2020 - Special Meeting
Grant - Agreement (FL Department of Health * Opioid Antagonists * E.M.S
HEROS/Helping Emergency Responders Obtain Support
Program
— Extension Request (FL Department of Transportation * S.C.0.P./Small
County Outreach Program * County Road 382/Industrial Road *
New Completion Date June 30, 2020)
Inventory — Gulf County Health Department PSJ (Asset Return to Gulf County
* Asset #130-459 * 2006 Tropical Flat Trailer * VIN #SNHUFT21-
46U208744)
— South Gulf 501C (Asset Donation/Asset Transfer to South Gulf Fire
Department * 2020 Toyota Tacoma 4X4 * VIN #5TFSZS5AN-
3LX212893)
Plan — CareerSource Gulf Coast (Revisions to Career Source Gulf Coast Bylaws)
Resolution - Supporting the Designation of Rural Area of Opportunity, as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2020-05
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF
GULF COUNTY, FLORIDA, EXPRESSING ITS SUPPORT THAT THE
DESIGNATION OF RURAL AREA OF OPPORTUNITY (RAO),
CONTINUES TO APPLY TO THE NORTHWEST FLORIDA REGION
INCORPORATION THE AREA WITHIN THE BOUNDARIES OF THE
COUNTIES OF CALHOUN, FRANKLIN, GADSDEN, GULF, HOLMES,
JACKSON, LIBERTY, WAKULLA AND WASHINGTON, THE AREA
WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS OF THE CITY OF FREEPORT AND WALTON
COUNTY NORTH OF THE CHOCTAWHATCHEE BAY AND THE
INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY, (INCLUDING THE CITIES, TOWNS AND
COMMUNITIES WITHIN EACH); AND THE CONTINUATION OF ALL
REGIONAL RURAL DEVELOPMENT GRANT FUNDING FOR THE
NORTHWEST FLORIDA BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL,
INCORPORATED, D/B/A OPPORTUNITY FLORIDA, THROUGH FUNDS
APPROPRIATED BY THE FLORIDA LEGISLATURE ANDADMINISTERED THROUGH FLORIDA'S DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC
OPPORTUNITY, AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE NO
LATER THAN JULY 8, 2020.
“Complete Resolution on file with Clerk*
(End)
UPDATE — GULF CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION
GCI Warden Scott Payne appeared before the Board to provide an update regarding the
correctional facility. He reported that the count as of today is 799 and the Main Unit and
263 at the Forestry Camp. Warden Payne discussed his concems regarding the plumping
issues and vacancy in employment. County Administrator Hammond discussed the
Possibility of workforce housing for correctional officers; reporting that there will be
matching funds. Discussion followed regarding employee recruitment.
UPDATE — GULF COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT
Gulf County Health Department Director Sarah Hinds appeared before the Board to
introduce Hunter Bailey as the new preparedness planner for Gulf County; discussing his
responsibilty in this role. Jessie Pippin, of the Gulf County Health Department appeared
before the Board to report the Community Health Improvement Partners of Gulf County
(C.H.LP.) have selected four (4) priorities, for this cycle to focus on: 1. access to care; 2.
mental health and substance abuse; 3. physical activity and; 4. socioeconomics. She also
reported that the next meeting is March 3, 2020 at the Gulf County Health Department;
inviting the public to attend.
PUBLIC HEARING ~ ALLEYWAY ABANDONMENT / OAK GROVE SUBDIVISION
Pursuant to advertise to hold a Public Hearing to consider an alleyway abandonment in
the Oak Grove Subdivision, between Jackson Street and McKinnon Street, Chairman
Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment, Chairman Quinn
closed to the public. County Attorney Novak stated if no questions from the Board, then
staff would ask for the Board to consider of adoption of this abandonment. Chairman
Quinn called for a motion to adopt. Commissioner McCroan so moved. Commissioner
McDaniel seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being
No public comment, the motion passed unanimously. County Attorney Novak stated for
the record this will be ratified through resolution, that resolution will then be provided to
the Clerk’s Office to be publicly recorded. He reported that this resolution will be properly
advertised, as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2020-06
A RESOLUTION OF THE GULF COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS WHEREBY GRANTING THE ABANDONMENT OF
SAID ROADWAYS AND RIGHT OF WAYS COMMONLY REFERRED TO
AS JACKSON STREET AND MCKINNON STREET WITH THE CROSS
STREETS OF IOLA STREET AND MADISON STREET IN OAK GROVE.
(End)4
PUBLIC HEARING ~ ALLEYWAY ABANDONMENT / WIMICO SUBDIVISION
Pursuant to advertise to hold a Public Hearing to consider two (2) alleyway abandonments
in the White City area, between Searcy Street and Stebel Drive and Cedar Street and
Stebel Drive within the Wimico Subdivision. Chairman Quinn called for public comment
There being no public comment, Chairman Quinn closed to the public. County Attorney
Novak stated that if no questions from the Board then he would ask Board to consider it
for adoption; reporting that staff will move forward on a resolution and to advertise.
Chairman Quinn called for a motion to move forward. Commissioner Rogers so moved.
Commissioner Rich seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment
There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously, as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2020-07
A RESOLUTION OF THE GULF COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS WHEREBY GRANTING THE ABANDONMENT OF
SAID ROADWAYS AND RIGHT OF WAYS COMMONLY REFERRED TO
AS THE TERMINUS OF SEARCY STREET AND ADJACENT TO STEBEL
DRIVE IN WHITE CITY AND THE TERMINUS OF CEDAR STREET AND
ADJACENT TO STEBEL DRIVE IN WHITE CITY.
(End)
REQUEST FOR FUNDS - CRIME PREVENTION / GULF COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
OMB Director Herring requested Board approval of a reimbursement from the crime
prevention fund to the Gulf County Sheriff's Office, in the amount of $457.64 . Commissioner McDaniel so moved. Commissioner
Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being
no public comment, the motion passed unanimously
AGREEMENT — FL DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Public Works Director Cothran presented a Wildfire Hazard Mitigation Agreement with
Forestry Division (FL Department of Agriculture) for consideration; reporting that this area
will encompass the West portion of Beacon Hill Park (Veterans’ Memorial Beacon Hill
Park). Commissioner McDaniel so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion
Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion
passed unanimously.
REQUEST TO ADVERTISE FOR SEALED BIDS ~ EASTERN SITE LIGHTING
Grant Administrator Rhodes appeared before the Board to submit a request to advertise to receive sealed bids for Eastern
(Shipbuilding) Site Lighting for the PORT Grant. Commissioner McCroan so moved
Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment.
There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously.FUNDING ALLOCATION ~ DEO HURRICANE MICHAEL GRANT
Grant Administrator Rhodes submitted a request to the Board for approval to use the
remaining funds, in the amount of $150,000.00, from the DEO (Department of Economic
Opportunity) Hurricane Michael Grant to be spent on: 1. parking lot repair at Salina's
Park Bayside; 2. purchase two (2) emergency generators for Wetappo and Dalkeith Fire
Departments and; 3. purchase two (2) for County Radio Control Room located at Duke
Energy Tower and Insite, Inc. Tower and permission to advertise for procurement
services if necessary . Commissioner Rich so
moved. Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public
comment, There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously.
REQUEST TO ADVERTISE FOR SEALED BIDS ~ BEAUTIFICATION / VETERANS’
MEMORIAL BEACON HILL PARK
Grant Administrator Rhodes submitted a request to advertise to receive sealed bids for
landscaping for the D.O.T. (FL Department of Transportation) Beautification Grant at
Veterans’ Memorial Beacon Hill Park
Commissioner Rogers so moved. Commissioner McDaniel seconded the motion.
Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion
passed unanimously
REQUEST TO APPLY - S.C.R.A.P. GRANT APPLICATION / BORDERS ROAD
Grant Administrator Rhodes submitted to the Board a request for approval to submit a
grant application to D.O.T. (FL Department of Transportation) S.C.R.A.P. (Small County
Road Assistance Program) for Borders Road; also requesting approval for the Chairman
to sign any necessary documents .
Commissioner McDaniel so moved. Commissioner Rich seconded the motion. Chairman
Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed
unanimously.
REQUEST TO APPLY — BRIDGE REPAIR APPLICATIONS / VARIOUS ROADS
Grant Administrator Rhodes submitted before the Board a request to apply for a D.O.T.
(FL Department of Transportation) S.C.0.P. (Small County Outreach Program) Bridge
Repair Grant Application for Lake Grove Road, County Road 30B, Pleasant Rest Road,
and County Road 30A, and to allow the Chairman permission to sign all necessary
documents , Commissioner McCroan made
the motion. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion.
REQUEST TO APPLY P. APPLICATION / VARIOUS ROADS
Grant Administrator Rhodes submitted a request before the Board to apply for an
S.C.O.P. (Small County Outreach Program) grant application with D.O.T. (FL Department
of Transportation) for Lake Grove Road Loop and Rutherford Road and to allow the
Chairman to sign any necessary documents .
Commissioner Rish so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman
Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed
unanimously.FUNDING ALLOCATIONS — DEO RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE GRANT
Grant Administrator Rhodes presented before the Board a request to ratify an amended
DEO (Department of Economic Opportunity) Rural Infrastructure Grant Application ; reporting that the EDA disallowed the cost
associated with water and electric, totaling $261,789.26. She requested Board approve
a change, lowing the EDA (Economic Development Administration) application and
raising the DEO (Department of Economic Opportunity) grant amount. Commissioner
Rogers so moved. Commissioner Rich seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for
public comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously.
STATUS REPORT - GULF COUNTY E.M.S.
E.MSS. Director Daniels appeared before the Board to present the monthly status report
. He thanked South Gulf, Beaches, and
Overstreet Fire Departments for participating in a first responder's course.
UPDATE - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
E.D.C. Director McKnight appeared before the Board to provide an update regarding
economic development; discussing the amendment to the DEO grant, SkyBorne Project,
Biofuel Project, and the Boot Camp Project at the college. Upon inquiry by Chairman
Quinn, E.D.C. Director McKnight reported that the nursing application to Triumph (Board)
has been approved and the first class starts in August, 2020.
RADIO TOWER COMMUNICATIONS
9-1-1 Coordinator Guthrie appeared before the Board to report that the week of March 9,
2020 installation will begin at the St. Joe site and by Wednesday start installation at the
North end of the County. He stated by the end of week the County should have radio
system and paging operational. Commissioner McDaniel discussed his concerns
regarding the delays.
COUNTY BUILDING REPAIRS ~ NORTH END OF THE COUNTY
‘Commissioner McDaniel reported that the County is waiting on the final inspection for the
County building repairs (due to Hurricane Michael) at the North end of the County. He
reported that PanCare's side of the building is complete and the fire departments are
complete.
ROAD WORK - CR 382/ CR 386 / DOC WHITFIELD ROAD
Commissioner McDaniel discussed his concerns regarding the delays to the road work
on County Road 382 (Industrial Road), County Road 386 (Overstreet Road), and Doc
Whitfield Road.
ROAD CLOSURES - RIVER FLOODING
Commissioner Rich requested that Public Works Director Cothran report on which roads
are closed due to the recent river flooding. Public Works Director Cothran reported that
Public Works has posted a road close sign on Byrd Parker (Drive) and will keep staging
the signs further back as the water rises. County Administrator Hammond discussed
safety concems regarding this road; stating that people that need to get to their homes
67
need to take the long way around. Sheriff Harrison reported that Search and Rescue are
monitoring and the signs will be pulled back and close Lake Grove Road
HEIGHT RESTRICTION - GULF COUNTY
Commissioner McCroan motioned that Gulf County put a cap on the height of 60 (sixty)
foot total. Commissioner McDaniel seconded the motion. County Administrator requested
that the following be added to the motion. County Commissioner McCroan stated he
agrees to exempt industrial, manufacturing, and towers to be added to his motion. County
Administrator Hammond clarified this would be to the top of the roof. County
Commissioner McCroan said yes. After discussion by County Commissioner McCroan,
County Administrator Hammond reported that the Board will have to do this through
regular ordinance public hearing to amend the LDR (Land Development Regulations), but
can start the process based on this (motion). Chairman Quinn called for public comment.
E.D.C. Director McKnight appeared before the Board to inquiry if this will include industrial
buildings. County Commissioner McCroan stated no, they are exempt. Chairman Quinn
called for additional public comment. There being no further public comment, the motion
passed unanimously.
COUNTY BUILDING REPAIRS ~ SOUTH GULF FIRE DEPARTMENT
County Commissioner McCroan inquired if any work has begun on the South Gulf Fire
Department building. County Administrator Hammond reported that staff cut the
contractor (Highland Wake) lose 4-5 weeks ago and has issues a notice to proceed.
County Administrator Hammond inquired if Building Official Bailey had an update on Cape
Fire Station One (South Gulf Fire Department). Building Official Bailey appeared before
the Board to report that staff has meet with the contractor to discuss the insurance quotes.
County Commissioner McCroan requested that Building Official Bailey bump up the
contractor; reporting that this Station is criteria. Building Official Bailey stated that he will
follow up with the contractor today. County Administrator Hammond stated that he will
have County Attorney Novak contact the contractor as well
PUBLIC HEARING ~ FIVE YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT SCHEDULE
Pursuant to advertise to hold a public hearing to consider adoption of a proposed
ordinance regarding the five year capital improvement schedule, Planner Collinsworth
reported that this is the first public hearing; providing the Board a copy of the proposed
schedule . He reported that items have
been added concerning grants and new projects, but waiting on feedback from the City
regarding their project list. Planner Collinsworth stated that if the Board has anything to
add to notify him before the next scheduled public hearing. Chairman Quinn called for
public comment, Lissa Dulany, of Cape San Blas appeared before the Board to inquire
where the public could obtain a copy to review. Planner Collinsworth stated that if it is not
online, then his department can provided a copy. Chairman Quinn called for additional
public comment. There being no further public comment. Chairman Quinn then closed to
the public. County Attorney Novak reported that the second (final) public hearing will be
held on March 24, 2020PUBLIC HEARING ~ COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Pursuant to advertise to hold a public hearing to consider adoption of a proposed
comprehensive plan ordinance, County Consultant Butler appeared before the Board to
present the proposed changes to the Comprehensive Plan . Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public
comment, Chairman Quinn closed to the public. Chairman Quinn then called for a motion
to adopt the Plan as presented. Commissioner McDaniel made the motion to adopt the
Comprehensive Plan. Commissioner Rich seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called
for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously.
ANNEXATION REQUEST ~ CITY OF PORT ST. JOE
County Administrator Hammond stated that the County has received a (annexation small
scale map amendment * Parcel ID #03072-050R) request from the City (of Port St. Joe)
regarding a piece of property close to the (Scared Heart) hospital on the other side of the
road; recommending that the Board reject. He discussed his concerns regarding this
annexation request; stating that there is no benefit to the County to turn this over to the
City. Commissioner McCroan inquired to the size of the parcel. County Administrator
Hammond stated that he can't tell by the size of the advertisement, but appears to be in
the range of five (5) acres. After discussion, Commissioner McDaniel motioned to go
along with the County Administrator Hammond's recommendation that the Board reject
the small scale map annexation, rejecting the City’s request. Commissioner Rich
seconded the motion. County Administrator Hammond requested permission to add to
this; stating that this will inevitably wind up in court, forcible stop them through an
injunction, He stated that is what they are voting on, that is what he is recommended that
the Board do; noting that at some juncture if the City does not back-off, then the County
will have to take them to court to stop them and this is what he is suggesting. County
Commissioner McCroan stated that with the City's restrictions, they could go to a
maximum of forty (40) units per acre. Chairman Quinn inquired if it was possible to reach
out to the City to see what their plans are. County Administrator Hammond stated that no
matter what the plans are today, once it is annexed, the County will lose control to say
anything. Discussion followed regarding restrictions and density. County Commissioner
McCroan stated he agrees with Chairman Quinn in reaching out to the City. Chairman
Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment. The motion passed
unanimously.
T.D.C. FUNDING REQUES: ITY OF PORT ST. JOE
County Administrator Hammond reported that the County has received a funding request
from the City (of Port St. Joe) to be paid from T.D.C. Funds (Fifth Penny) for tennis court
lights and resurfacing on the Lamar Faison Fields, bathrooms at the Washington Gym,
and for a softball field at Peters Park; stating he has serious questions whether if would
be legal to spend $150,000.00 on the tennis court lighting and resurfacing. Upon inquiry
by Chairman Quinn, County Attorney Novak discussed the newly adopted Ordinance with
the 5" (fifth) Penny goes towards the parks and recreation; stating specify for projects
that the Board deems appropriate to form heads in beds. Chairman Quinn reported that
the $50,000.00 for the Washington Gym bathrooms may be coming from another funding
source, the County has added this project to help restore this building (through a grant),9
and another agency is looking into funding as well. He and Commissioner McCroan
discussed their concerns regarding the condition of the 10" (tenth) Street Park. County
Attorney Novak stated for the record in 2013-2014 when the Board initiated the first time
around on the Ordinance for the fifth (5) penny and now the Board has renewed it, the
discussion today and the request from the City (of Port St. Joe) it goes back to a
fundamental request, which is, whatever the request is to put on City property and parks
it goes back to the T.D.C., Kellie (Godwin), and her team and before her was outings and
tournaments coming to Gulf County, bringing other teams here and that was the bases
on what the Board was going to improve a Field of Dreams first, and then after the study
it was deemed appreciate by the Board to bring it in 10" Street Park. He stated that under
this request there are three other parks, and the bases under the Statute is that it would
draw other families, kids, teams here and there has been no discussion on what the
impact of tourism would be with these other parks. County Administrator Hammond stated
that the County cannot do general maintenance of County or City Parks with this money,
it is not legal to do it that way. He reported that T.D.C. Director Godwin has information
regarding expenditures to the City if the Board would like for her to present. Chairman
Quinn had no objection. T.D.C. Director Godwin presented a report to the Board regarding
expenditures spent in 2019 and 2018 where the City of Port St. Joe benefited. After
discussion by County Administrator Hammond, Commissioner McDaniel motioned to
deny the request for T.D.C. Funding. Commissioner Rich seconded the motion. After
discussion by Commissioner McCroan regarding 10" Street Park, Commissioner
McDaniel stated for the record that the 10" Street Park still needs help and that is a good
and ligament project, a good T.D.C. project. Chairman Quinn stated that the County still
has to have a conversation with the City somehow and if the County could find some
funding, it doesn’t have to be tied to T.D.C. funds to help with dugouts or whatever; inquiry
if County Administrator Hammond could find the Board some funds to help. County
Administration Hammond stated that he is in support of 10 Street Park, but the problem
is going to be what the City's settlement agreement is regarding the lawsuit. He stated
that he will find some money to fix the dugouts and make the fence presentable, but it
won't be fifth (5 penny) money. Commissioner McCroan stated that he is not saying give
the City the money, he is saying let the County find the money and let Public Works
Director Cothran do the work. County Administrator Hammond stated that the County
cannot go into a City Park and fix stuff without them blessing it. After further discussion,
Chairman Quinn directed County Attorney Novak to reach out to the City to see if they
will bless the help the County is willing to offer for the 10 Street Park. E.D.C. Director
McKnight appeared before the Board to discuss looking into applying for a State
tournament that would put heads in beds and this could be away to identify some work
that could be done that would qualify for T.D.C. dollars.
ROAD ACCESS TO WATERMARK WAY
William Amette, Ill, of Marianna appeared before the Board to discuss a letter he
submitted to the Board requesting assistance to road access to Watermark Way ; reporting that nothing has been done to these roads
other than use of some of the easements to run water and sewer down to some property
of William Carr. He requested legal access to properties in this subdivision. County
Administrator Hammond recommended to the Board that we these folks, as they are
910
accessing property through a valuable gulf view Highway 98 lot, and if the owner sold this
lot, then they would not have access to their property. He reported that the County has a
policy that we don't go in and build roads on unbuilt subdivisions; stating that there are
structures in the County's right-of-way that legal and code enforcement will have to have
removed, but suggested that the Board allow Public Works to cut the trees and clear the
right-of-way, then the property owners will be responsible for their own road and
maintenance. Chairman Quinn stated he has no objection; calling for a motion from the
Board to help clear it open. Commissioner Rogers so moved. Commissioner McCroan
seconded the motion; stating that the County will not be responsible for paving or
maintaining that road. County Administrator Hammond stated that the County will not be.
responsible for rocking it, that the County will get it cleared and then the property owners
will do their own. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public
comment, the motion passed unanimously.
OPENING BID #1920-14 — ODENA LANDING IMPROVEMENTS
Deputy Clerk Roberts opened the sealed bids for Bid #1920-14 for the Odena Landing
Improvements , as Deputy
Administrator Summers read aloud the prospective bids: 1) North Florida Construction,
Inc., in the amount of $251,653.00; 2) Live Flyer, Inc., in the amount of $241,491.00: 3)
Anderson Marine, in the amount of $200,100.00 and; 4) H. G. Harders & Son, Inc., in the amount of
$217,410.00. County Administrator Hammond requested permission to turn these bids
over to County Engineer Smallwood and Grant Administrator Rhodes to review. Chairman
Quinn had no objections.
OPENING BID #1920-15 — WHITE CITY BOAT RAMP IMPROVEMENTS
Deputy Clerk Roberts opened the sealed bids for Bid #1920-15 for the White City Boat
Ramp Improvements, as Deputy Administrator Summers read aloud the prospective bids:
1) North Florida Construction, Inc., in the amount of $315,327.00; 2) Anderson Marine, in
the amount of $242,300.00 and; 3) H. G. Harders & Son, Inc., in the amount of
$285,640.00. County Administrator Hammond discussed turning these over for review as
well. Chairman Quinn had no objection
OPENING BID #1920-16 - DOCK BOLLARDS
Deputy Clerk Roberts opened the sealed bids for Bid #1920-16 for dock bollards (for
Easter Shipbuilding), as Deputy Administrator Summers read aloud the prospective
bids: 1) Technology International, inc., in the amount of $47,280.00 and; 2) Live Flyer,
Inc., in the amount of $48,448.00. County Administrator Hammond requested that staff to
the same thing; stating that this will be paid out of D.O.T. grant for the Eastern Mill Site.
The meeting did then recess at 11:03 a.m., E.T.
The meeting did reconvene at 11:11 a.m., E.T.
1011
QUASI-JUDICIAL HEARING - REVIEW & CONSIDERATION OF _P.D.R.B.
RECOMMENDATIONS
VARIANCE REQUEST - LEONARD & SANDRA HOHN
Planner Collinsworth presented a variance request from Leonard and Sandra Hohn,
Parcel ID #03817-001R; reporting that the P.D.R.B. Recommended, by 3-0 vote, to
approve this variance. Chairman Quinn called for anyone wishing to speak on this time
to step forward. No one stepped forward. Chairman Quinn called for any objections to the
waiving of the Quasi-Judicial Hearing. There being none, Commissioner McDaniel
motioned to waive, Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called
for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously
Chairman Quinn inquired if there was anyone present to represent the applicant. Planner
Collinsworth stated that he does not believe anyone is present. Upon inquiry by Chairman
Quinn, Planner Collinsworth stated that it is staff's recommendation to approve the
variance. Commissioner McDaniel motioned to approve. Commissioner Rich seconded
the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment,
the motion passed unanimously.
WORKSHOP
County Administrator Hammond discussed attending a C.D.B.G.R. (Community
Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery) workshop; reporting that they are hooked
on if you make $9.40 per hour or more, then you will not be eligible for this money, but
they do have three (3) pots that the County requested with a potential to matching. He
discussed his concerns of the possibility of this (funding) extending to Leon County.
UPDATE ~ BERM PROJECT
County Administrator Hammond reported that the County is still waiting on the final hurtle
on the Berm Project, but ready to move forward.
MEETINGS ~ HAZARD MITIGATION
County Administrator Hammond reported that there will be more meetings regarding
hazard mitigation, and he has agreed to contract with Langton to write those. He stated
that the generator was removed from the list, but all other projects are still on.
UPDATE - EGLIN PROPERTY
County Administrator Hammond stated that Assistant Administrator Yeager is meeting
with Eglin on site today to discuss the Eglin property base (Cape San Blas) and hope to
move forward with the County getting control of this project to stop beach erosion.
H.H.R.P. FUNDS & ALLOCATIONS
County Administrator Hammond presented a memorandum to the Board for consideration
(regarding the H.H.R.P. Funds and
allocations). Commissioner McCroan so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the
motion, Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment, the
motion passed unanimously
1112
LIMITED MAINTENANCE AGREEMENTS - EMERGENCY WATERSHED
PROTECTION
County Administrator Hammond presented a memorandum for the Board to consider requesting him permission to sign the limited
maintenance agreements, as Public Works Director Cothran presents them, for the
Emergency Watershed Protection Projects. Commissioner Rogers so moved
Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion, Chairman Quinn called for public
comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously.
AGREEMENT — WESTSCAPES / COUNTRY CLUB GOLF COURSE
County Administrator Hammond presented a memorandum requesting permission to sign the Westscapes Agreement for the Country
Club (Bid #1819-52 * Country Club Golf Course Greens Design Consulting).
Commissioner Rogers so moved. Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion
Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion
passed unanimously. County Administrator Hammond stated that the Country Club is
doing great, and he has turned this project completely over to T.D.C. and Assistant
Administrator Yeager. He reported that the play and revenue is up. Commissioner
McDaniel discussed looking into providing more parking; requesting that Public Works
Director Cothran put this on his list for more parking
PUBLIC HEARING ~ COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
County Attorney Novak stated that the Board will also need to adopt the ordinance by
title. He then read the proposed ordinance by title for the Board to consider; requesting
that the Board amend their motion. Commissioner McDaniel agreed to amend his motion
to add the Ordinance by title. Commissioner Rich second still stands. Chairman Quinn
called for public comment in amending this motion. There being no public comment, the
motion passed unanimously, as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-01
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN OF GULF
COUNTY, FLORIDA BY AND THROUGH PROCEDURES AS REQUIRED
BY CHAPTER 163, FLORIDA STATUTES. TEXT CHANGES WERE
MADE TO THE LAND USE ELEMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT, SEWER,
SOLID WASTE, WATER AND DRAINAGE ELEMENT, COASTAL
MANAGEMENT ELEMENT, CONSERVATION ELEMENT, RECREATION
AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT, _INTERGOVERNMENTAL
COORDINATION ELEMENT, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS ELEMENT
AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT; AND PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY AND EFFECTIVE DATE.
*Complete Ordinance on file with Clerk*
(End)
1213
F.E.M.A. REIMBURSEMENTS — AGREEMENTS
County Attorney Novak stated that under the code of regulations, Section 200, the County
as a subrecipient is required to incorporate those C.F.R. amendment language in the
agreements in order to receive F.E.M.A. reimbursement. He reported that staff has added
this language to the newest contracts (agreements), but will need to amend the older
agreements. County Attorney Novak requested permission from the Board to prepare an
amendment to the beach raking services agreement (Coastal Parasail, Inc. * Bid #1819-
04), contingent upon attorney review. He reported that at the next meeting he will provide
a list of agreements to request permission to amend in order to secure (F.E.MA.)
reimbursement. County Attorney Novak requested approval for beach raking today.
Commissioner Rogers so moved. Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion
Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion
passed unanimously.
BID_#1819-34 - C.D.B.G. & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GRANT WRITING
SERVICES
County Administrator Hammond discussed many surrounding Counties and Cities
wanting to piggy-back Gulf County's bid with Chris Gouras (Gouras & Associates * Bid
#1819-34 * C.D.BG. and Economic Development Grant Writing Services);
recommending that the Board allow them to do this. Commissioner McCroan so moved.
Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment.
There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously
RESOLUTION NO. 2020-03 - C.D.B.G.R. PROPERTY LIST
County Administrator Hammond reported that Deputy Administrator Summers has been
sending Resolution No. 2020-03 around and many of the local folks are going to follow
with this Resolution regarding the County's properties for C.D.B.G.R. (Community
Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery)
AWARD BID #1920-14 — ODENA LANDING IMPROVEMENTS
County Engineer Smallwood appeared before the Board to report that the low-bidder for
Bid #1920-14 for the Odena Landing Improvements was Anderson Marine; noting that
the bidder had a math error with their actual bid coming in at $210,100.00. He
recommended that the Board allow staff to negotiate, as the bid is a little over the grant
amount. County Administrator Hammond requested it be contingent upon getting down
to the grant amount and authorizing him to execute the contract (agreement),
Commissioner McCroan so moved, Commissioner Rogers second the motion. Chairman
Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed
unanimously
TABLE BID #1920-15 - WHITE CITY BOAT RAMP IMPROVEMENTS
County Engineer Smallwood reported that the low-bidder for Bid #1920-15 White City
Boat Ramp Improvements was Anderson Marine; recommended that the Board table this
bid in order to brainstorm a new way forward, as the bid amount is double the grant
amount. Commissioner Rogers so moved to table. Commissioner McDaniel seconded
the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment,
1314
the motion passed unanimously. County Administrator Hammond reported that staff may
have an altemate plan before the next Board meeting
AWARD BID #1920-16 — DOCK BOLLARDS
County Engineer Smallwood stated that Technology International, Inc. was the low-bidder
of Bid #1920-16 for the purchase of Dock Bollards for Eastern Shipbuilding;
recommending that Eastern (Shipbuilding) be allowed to have some buy-in, County
Administrator Hammond requested the Board make the motion contingent upon D.O.T.
signing off and Eastern (Shipbuilding) and if both agree, then allow him to execute.
Chairman Quinn had no objection; calling for the motion. Commissioner McCroan made
the motion. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public
comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously.
There being no further business, and upon motion by Commissioner Rogers, second by
Commissioner Rich, and unanimous vote, the meeting did then adjourn at 11:29 a.m.,
ET.
SANDY QUINN, JR.
CHAIRMAN
ATTEST:
REBECCA L. NORRIS
CLERK OF COURT
1415
MARCH 10, 2020
SPECIAL MEETING
PORT ST. JOE, FLORIDA
The Gulf County Board of County Commissioners met this day in special session with the
following members present: Chairman Sandy Quinn, Jr., Vice Chairman Jimmy Rogers,
and Commissioners David C. Rich, Ward McDaniel, and Phil McCroan
Others present were: County Attorney Jeremy Novak, Clerk Rebecca L. Norris, Clerk
Director of Finance & Management Rhonda Woodward, Deputy Clerk Leanna Roberts,
County Administrator Michael L. Hammond, County Assistant Administrator Warren
Yeager, Jr., Deputy Administrator Kari Summers, Building Official Brad Bailey, Code
Enforcement Officer Trevor Seay, Gulf County E.D.C. Director Jim McKnight, Emergency
Management Director Marshall Nelson, E9-1-1 Coordinator Ben Guthrie, Gulf County
E.MS. Director Jody Daniels, Grant Administrator Kaci Rhodes, Human Resource
Director Brett Lowry, Office of Management & Budget Director Sherry Herring, Mosquito
Control Director Austin Horton, County Planner Lee Collinsworth, Public Works Director
Mark Cothran, Assistant Public Works Director Raymond Hart, Sheriff's Department
Captain Chris Buchanan, T.D.C. Executive Director Kelli Godwin, and Veterans’ Service
Office Director & S.H.ILP. Director Joe Paul
Chairman Quinn called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m., E.T.
Chairman Quinn led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag
LOCAL STATE OF EMERGENCY — RIVER FLOODING
County Administrator Hammond requested that Emergency Management personnel
appear before the Board to provide an update (river flooding); noting the Board would
need to consider declaring a Local State of Emergency. E9-1-1 Coordinator Guthrie
appeared before the Board to provide an update regarding the river flooding; reporting
that the river crested last night at Blountstown at 25.41 feet but will take a day or two (2)
for this high water level to reach to Gulf County. He presented the Apalachicola River
reading to the Board for review; discussing road closures and checkpoints. There was
further discussion by E9-1-1 Coordinator Guthrie and Sheriff Harrison regarding
checkpoints and road closures due to the river flooding
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT & UPDATE
9-1-1 Coordinator Guthrie reported that tomorrow morning the radio contractor (Mobile
Communication of America) will start installation in Wewahitchka (radio tower); stating
that there will be some interruptions in radio abilities during the day.
1516
LOCAL STATE OF EMERGENCY ~ RIVER FLOODING
Public Works Director Cothran discussed the marking of the roads and road closures. He
reported that pallets of water have been delivered to Howard Creek Fire Department,
Dalkeith Fire Department, and the City of Wewahitchka yard; stating that sandbags are
located at the City of Wewahitchka yard. County Administrator Hammond requested the
Board declare a Local State of Emergency with the County Attomey to provide the
documentation for the Chairman to sign. Commissioner Rogers so moved. Commissioner
Rich second the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no
Public comment, the motion passed unanimously. County Administrator Hammond
discussed working with the Sheriff's Office regarding road closures.
HLH.R.P. | S.HLLP.
S.H.LP. Director Paul appeared before the Board to report that the Florida House and
Senate fully funded the housing program for the State of Florida; stating the S.H.LP.
Program will receive $225 million (Statewide) and the balance of the H.H.R.P. money
total which is $30 million for the State being funded.
S.H.LP. Director Paul reported that Lydia Burrows has the opportunity to purchase her
F.E.MA. trailer and requested permission to use purchase assistance funds to purchase
the land to place the trailer on. He requested permission to use the $50,000.00 to
purchase the land for Ms. Burrows, not to exceed the $50,000.00 including closing cost.
County Administrator Hammond discussed the Board’s policy; noting it could be half up
to $50,000.00. He explained, in theory, the total package would have to be $100,000.00
for the applicant to receive $50,000.00. Upon inquiry by County Administrator Hammond,
S.H.LP. Director Paul stated that the F.E.M.A. trailer cost is $11,699.80. Discussion
followed regarding the lot and the trailer purchase. S.H.I.P. Director Paul stated the
County would hold the mortgage on the lotland for ten (10) years, Upon inquiry by
Commissioner McDaniel, S.H.1.P. Director Paul stated that the applicant is in the low
category, which authorizes her up to $50,000.00 for purchase assistance. After further
discussion, County Administrator Hammond discussed tabling this matter to allow
S.H.L.P. Director Paul to do some more research; discussing it again at the next meeting
to be held in two (2) weeks. Commissioner McCroan was in agreement. The Board had
no objection to table.
S.HLP. Director Paul presented a memorandum , recommending the Board accept the four (4) applications (H.H.R.P. Funding),
hold a lottery drawing for the applicants in each district, thirty (30) minutes before the next
Board meeting. Commissioner Rogers so moved. Commissioner McCroan seconded the
motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment, the
motion passed unanimously
S.H.LP. Director Paul reported that the Board approved the purchase of a mobile home
for Sarah Kemp, in the amount of $8,676.07; stating that the actual approval was to spend
$34,704.29 of the original bid for the mobile home. He reported that he has received three
quotes to move the trailer; one in the amount of $15,000.00, the second for $10,000.00,
and the third was a verbal quote for $5,000.00 but they were not an approved mobile
1617
home mover. He recommended the Board allow staff to spend the $10,000.00 (H.H.R-P.
Funding) for Lolley Mobile Home Services, LLC to move, set up, tie-down, and hook-up
electric, water and sewer for Sarah Kemp. County Administrator Hammond stated that
this is being presented before the Board due to it being outside of what the Board
approved last time: requesting the Board suspend their policy due to time restraints or the
Board can authorize him, or the Board can approve this request today. Chairman Quinn
called for a motion to suspend the Bid Policy. Commissioner Rogers so moved.
Commissioner Rich seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment
There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously. Commissioner Rogers
inquired whether a motion was needed to allow you to sign. With County Administrator
Hammond and S.H..P. Director Paul affirming a motion was needed, Commissioner
McCroan so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called
for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously.
S.H.LP. Director Paul recommended the Board reject Bid #1819-08; S.H.I.P. Project for
Keesha Hamilton, Bid #1819-18; S.H.I.P, Project for Coretha Turner, and Bid #1819-46;
S.H.L.P. Project Jennifer Bailey, noting these applicants do not qualify for funding
Commissioner McDaniel so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion
Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion
passed unanimously.
S.H.LP. Director Paul recommended the Board award Bid #1920-17; S.H.I.P. Project for
Bernice Vann to the sole-bidder, Raymond Driesbach, LLC, in the amount of $34,145.00
Commissioner McCroan so moved. Commissioner McDaniel seconded the motion
Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion
passed unanimously.
INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT — JACKSON COUNTY & GULF COUNTY
Emergency Management Nelson appeared to request the Board approve an Interlocal
agreement with Jackson County regarding the use of each county's (Emergency
Management) facility as secondary (alternate) locations, if necessary. He stated that there
will be one (an agreement) coming from Calhoun and Washington County at a later date.
County Administrator Hammond recommended approving, contingent upon County
Attorney review. Commissioner McCroan so moved. Commissioner McDaniel seconded
the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment,
the motion passed unanimously
CERT GRANT
Emergency Management Nelson reported that staff applied for a CERT (Community
Emergency Response Training) Grant and it has been awarded but recommend they not
accept this grant due to the low amount of funding and the amount of work involved.
Commissioner McDaniel motioned to deny the (CERT) Grant, Commissioner McCroan
seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public
comment, the motion passed unanimously.
1718
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT & UPDATE
County Administrator Hammond discussed meeting with FWC and the Department of
Interior; stating that both meetings were positive,
County Administrator Hammond requested permission from the Board to submit a letter
to Senator Gainer regarding the Triumph allocations for the eight (8) Counties; presenting
a memorandum of his request to the Board for consideration . Commissioner McCroan made the motion. Commissioner Rogers
seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public
comment, the motion passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond presented a memorandum to the Board requesting to move forward with the design of seven (7) boat
slips (at the White City Boat Landing) that the County would rent; running it through the
T.D.C. Commissioner Rogers so moved. Commissioner Rich seconded the motion.
Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion
passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond stated that he was hoping to obtain an update from the
Health Department regarding the COVID-19 (pandemic), but Gulf County Health
Department Director Hinds is not present. Someone from the audience reported that she
had to leave due to a conference call
Commissioner McDaniel discussed his concems regarding the County cleaning property
and placing a lien on it; stating the Board may need to look at another alternative;
suggesting they place the charge to their property tax bill. He stated that this matter needs
to be addressed in looking at ways to get properties cleaned up. Commissioner Rich
discussed working with Code Enforcement to address the worst first (properties); stating
that the County is asking for everyone's help in cleaning up their own place. After
discussion, County Attorney Novak discussed working with staff and coming back before
the Board on March 24" with proposed policy recommendations.
There being no further business, and upon motion by Commissioner McCroan, second
by Commissioner Rogers, and unanimous vote, the meeting did then adjourn at 9:39 a.m.,
ET.
SANDY QUINN, JR.
CHAIRMAN
ATTEST:
REBECCA L. NORRIS
CLERK OF COURT
1819
MARCH 18, 2020
EMERGENCY MEETING
PORT ST. JOE, FLORIDA
The Gulf County Board of County Commissioners met this date in emergency session
with the following members present: Chairman Sandy Quinn, Jr., Vice Chairman Jimmy
Rogers, and Commissioners David C. Rich, Ward McDaniel, and Phil McCroan.
Others present were: County Attorney Jeremy Novak, Clerk Rebecca L. Norris, Clerk
Director of Finance & Management Rhonda Woodward, Deputy Clerk Elaine Bland,
County Administrator Michael L. Hammond, County Assistant Administrator Warren
Yeager, Jr., Deputy Administrator Kari Summers, Building Official Brad Bailey, Code
Enforcement Officer Trevor Seay, Emergency Management Director Marshall Nelson,
E9-1-1 Coordinator Ben Guthrie, Emergency Management Staff Assistant Rachel
Jackson, Gulf County E.M.S. Director Jody Daniels, Grant Administrator Kaci Rhodes,
Human Resource Director Brett Lowry, County Jail Captain Evette Farmer Brown, Office
of Management & Budget Director Sherry Herring, Mosquito Control Director Austin
Horton, County Planner Lee Collinsworth, Property Appraiser Mitch Burke, Public Works
Director Mark Cothran, Assistant Public Works Director Raymond Hart, Sheriff Mike
Harrison, Sheriff's Office Lieutenant Tim Wood, Supervisor of Elections John Hanlon, Tax
Collector Shirley Jenkins, T.D.C. Executive Director Kelli Godwin, Veterans’ Service
Office Director & S.H.LP. Director Joe Paul, and VSO/S.H.I.P./Central Services Director
Lynn Lanier
Sheriff Harrison called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m., E.T.
Chairman Quinn opened the meeting with prayer and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to
the Flag.
EMERGENCY DECLARATION
County Attorney Novak presented and read
the proposed local state of emergency to the Board for consideration. He reported that
the Attorney General's Office is working with the Executive Office of the Governor
regarding Sunshine Regulations and Statutory requirements for the Board to meet
Commissioner McCroan so moved. Commissioner McDaniel seconded the motion
Chairman Quinn called for public comment. Gulf County Health Department Director
Sarah Hinds appeared before the Board to provide an update regarding COVID-19;
providing material regarding this virus
Chairman Quinn called for any additional public comment. There being no further public
comment, the motion passed unanimously.
1920
BOCC MEETING SCHEDULE
Chairman Quinn stated that with the Emergency Declaration being adopted, he will go
ahead and address items that were on next week's regular agenda today and will call a
special meeting if needed. Chairman Quinn called on staff that may have a matter to
discuss pertaining to the Emergency Declaration. There were no matters brought before
the Board. County Administrator Hammond recommended the Board close, effective end
of business today, all County buildings to public access and send non-essential personnel
home until further notice; reporting that the Judiciary is doing the same and will handle
essential court matters either telephonically or electrically. Commissioner McDaniel so
moved. Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public
comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously. County
Administrator Hammond discussed coordinating with the Constitutional Officers who wil
be working in their offices; noting the Sheriff's Office will be pretty much normal
(essential), the County Jail has been shut-down to any visitation and will be screening
new inmates coming in, doing call ins for those on probation, the Building Department will
continue to do building inspections and sell permits online, but interaction within the
Administration Building will be limited, and the Veterans will be serviced over the
telephone.
BOCC REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
County Administrator Hammond recommended the Board move forward with Lydia
Burrow’s application; stating that S.H.I.P. Director Paul's estimate is $109,000.00. He
stated she is eligible up to $50,000.00 on the low (income category) and under the disable
situation. Commissioner McCroan so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the
motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment, the
motion passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond discussed the Board’s current policy regarding H.H.R.P-
Funds being capped at $40,000.00 for the very low income category toward the purchase
of mobile home; noting the cost of the trailer together with set up cost is sometimes
exceeding this limit. He requested that out of the non-distributed money that was left in
that pot, that the Board increase it from $40,000.00 to $41,000.00; reporting the extra
$1,000.00 would be used for electrical, plumbing, etc, County Administrator Hammond
stated that not all recipients would need the additional $1,000.00 for electrical or
plumbing, etc. Commissioner McDaniel so moved on the $41,000.00. Commissioner Rich
seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment, There being no public
comment, the motion passed unanimously
BOCC MEETING SCHEDULE
County Administrator Hammond inquired about the earlier motion and whether it covered
the cancellation of the March 24" Board meeting . Chairman Quinn stating no then called for a motion to
cancel the meeting. Commissioner Rich so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the
motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment, the
motion passed unanimously.
2021
BOCC REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
County Administrator Hammond presented a refund request from the Gulf County Tax
Collector ; recommending Board approval
(Parcel ID #030741-020R, in the amount of $496.61). Commissioner Rogers so moved
Commissioner Rich seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment.
There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond presented a request from the Gulf County Sheriff's Office
for reimbursement in the amount of $2,250.00
from Crime Prevention Funds; recommending approval, Commissioner McDaniel so
moved. Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public
comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously,
County Administrator Hammond presented a recommendation from the Insurance
Committee to renew (Agent of Record) Todd Torgersen's contract (agreement) reflecting no rate increase; recommending approval
Chairman Quinn called for a motion. Commissioner Rich motioned to renew this contact
with no increase. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for
public comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond presented a request to participate in the JAG (Justice
Assistance Grant) for the Sheriff's Office and Police Department . Upon Chairman Quinn's call for a motion to accept, Commissioner
McDaniel so moved. Commissioner Rich seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called
for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond presented a request , from Human Recourse Director Lowry to allow them to tear-down the old
Overstreet Fire Department that was damaged (Hurricane Michael) with any proceeds
from the scrape metal to go back into the fire department budget. Commissioner Rogers
30 moved. Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion. After discussion by
Commissioner McDaniel, Chairman Quinn called for public comment, There being no
public comment, the motion passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond presented a request from Tony Gray to enter into the
DROP , with a resignation effective date of
March 31, 2020 and not past April 1, 2025; recommending approval. Commissioner
Rogers seconded the motion. Commissioner Rich seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn
called for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed
unanimously
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT & UPDATE
County Administrator Hammond reported that hopefully by Monday, the County will have
a drop box specifically to take tax payments for the Tax Collector at the front door of the
Courthouse; stating once installed it will be posted on the County's website
2122
BOCC MEETING SCHEDULE
County Administrator Hammond discussed holding a special meeting, unless the State
waives the rule, to open infrastructure bids on April 7, 2020. Commissioner McDaniel so
moved for the meeting. Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn
called for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed
unanimously.
BOCC REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
Chairman Quinn called for Matthew Birmingham to appear before the Board. County
Administrator Hammond stated that Blake Rish is present and may be here to speak on
his behalf. Blake Rish, on behalf of Joe Macri appeared before the Board to discuss a
letter submitted by Mr. Macri requesting
clarification on an Ordinance; stating that he is looking to purchase a hovercraft with little
to no impact on the Bay. He requested clarification that a hovercraft is not an amphibious
aircraft. After discussion, County Administrator Hammond discussed Ordinance 2006-13;
stating that in his opinion they would not be violating this Ordinance. After further
discussion, County Administrator Hammond suggested the Board give them the okay;
noting it is not a violation of the Ordinance and the County has no objections of them
running this service. Upon inquiry by Chairman Quinn, County Administrator Hammond
recommended the County allow them to run this service and give them the opinion that it
will not be a violation of this Ordinance (#2006-13). Chairman Quinn called for a motion
that the Board will allow them to move forward and is not a violation of the County
Ordinance. Commissioner McDaniel made the motion. Commissioner Rich seconded the
motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment, the
motion passed unanimously
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT & UPDATE
Commissioner McDaniel reported that the property owner at 418 Nutmeg Street (corner
of Nutmeg Street and Starfish Avenue) recently requested a setback from the Building
Department. He stated that Starfish (Avenue) doesn't exist, this being a swamp; noting
the end of it toward Beacon Hill has already been abandoned. Commissioner McDaniel
ask for approval to allow Planner Collinsworth to intervene on this and provide an update
to the Board. Planner Collinsworth provided a packet to the Board for review ; stating that the South end of Starfish Avenue is a
50-55 ({ifty to fifty-five) foot stretch of swamp and the road leads to nowhere. He stated
this road is unimproved and cannot be improved because of the swamp; noting the
property directly to the South abuts to the water. Planner Collinsworth reported that Mr.
(Joel) Davis requested the County to abandon this section (instead of having a 20 foot
setback off Starfish which can never be improved) so he can have a regular 7.5 foot
setback. He recommended to vacate that section of the road at the corner of Starfish
Avenue and Nutmeg Street with Commissioner McDaniel adding that it will not land-lock
anyone. Discussion followed regarding the property owner requirement to submit an
application and appropriate fees for the abandonment request and the process to move
forward. Commissioner McDaniel made the motion. Chairman Quinn stated no motion is
needed. Commissioner McDaniel withdrew his motion. The Board had no objection with
2223
the property owner submitting an application and fees to request the abandonment of this
roadway.
BOCC REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
County Administrator Hammond recommended low bidder for Bid #1920-18 H.H.R.P.
Rehabilitation Strategy Administration Services, to A1 Coastal Home Inspections, in the
amount of $64,000.00 ($2,000.00 per inspection). Commissioner McCroan so moved
Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment.
There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously. County Administrator
Hammond stated for the record that there were two (2) bids, A1 (Coastal Home
Inspections) which was the low and the Methodist Church (Alabama-West Florida
Conference of the United Methodist Church) for $72,000.00.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT & UPDATE
Assistant County Administrator Yeager requested permission from the Board to execute
a six (6) month extension at a reduced rate (F.E.M.A. housing R.V. Park) at the Veterans’
Memorial Beacon Hill Park (Hurricane Michael). He recommended that the Board go
ahead with this extension. Chairman Quinn entertained a motion. Assistant County
Administrator Yeager added; giving the Chairman authorize to sign. Commissioner Rich
so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn callled for public
‘comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously
Public Works Director Cothran reported that the County will be looking at closing some of
the County parks bathrooms due to the reduction of staff (due to COVID-19); a list to be
provided to the Board
T.D.C. Director Godwin reported that the T.D.C. has paused all the marketing campaigns,
not encouraging visitors to come to Gulf County right now but acknowledged that some
are still coming on their own to self-isolate. She stated that they will work closely with
Public Works Director Cothran regarding the parks.
Sheriff Harrison appeared before the Board to report that based on his conversation with
‘School Superintendent Norton the schools are going to implement a feeding program for
the children; requesting the School's use of the fire departments to distribute the brown
bag luncheons. County Administrator Hammond had no objections, as long as it takes
place outside of the building. Chairman Quinn stated no need for a motion, that the Board
has no objections to this request.
E9-1-1 Coordinator Guthrie appeared before the Board to request permission to submit
two (2) grants; 911 Annual Maintenance Grant and 911 GIS Evaluation Grant
Commissioner McDaniel so moved, OMB Director Herring requested this be contingent
upon her review before submittal. Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion. Upon
inquiry by Chairman Quinn regarding whether Commissioner McDaniel had any objection
(to OMB Director Herring's request), Commissioner McDaniel stated that he had no
objection. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment,
the motion passed unanimously.
2324
County Administrator Hammond recommended that the Board take a recess, not adjourn
the meeting
BOCC MEETING SCHEDULE
County Administrator Hammond stated that Public Hearings that have been scheduled
will be continued; reporting the County Attorney is working with the State on how to
address Public Hearings in the future, if this (pandemic) drags on for more than a few
weeks.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT & UPDATE
Commissioner McDaniel stated that if there is anything the Gulf County E.M.S. needs
that's not within his normal purchasing (equipment/supplies) to work with the E.0.C, and
the Health Department to get those.
The meeting did recess at 9:44 a.m., E.T. on March 18, 2020.
The meeting then reconvened at 6:00 p.m., E.T. on March 20, 2020.
The following Board members were present: Chairman Sandy Quinn, Jr., Vice Chairman
Jimmy Rogers, and Commissioners David C. Rich, Ward McDaniel, and Phil McCroan.
Others present were: County Attorney Jeremy Novak, Clerk Rebecca L. Norris, Clerk
Director of Finance & Management Rhonda Woodward, County Administrator Michael L.
Hammond, County Assistant Administrator Warren Yeager, Jr., Deputy Administrator Kari
‘Summers, Emergency Management Director Marshall Nelson, E9-1-1 Coordinator Ben
Guthrie, Gulf County E.M.S. Director Jody Daniels, County Jail Captain Evette Farmer
Brown, Office of Management & Budget Director Sherry Herring, Parks & Recreational
Director Billy Traylor, Public Works Director Mark Cothran, Sheriff Mike Harrison, Sheriff's
Department Captain Chris Buchanan, Sheriff's Department Lieutenant Tim Wood, and
T.D.C. Executive Director Kelli Godwin.
Chairman Quinn opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE
County Attorney Novak discussed public businesses, the sale of alcohol, restaurants and
gyms under the Governor's adopted Executive Order 20-71, and Executive Order 20-69
which addresses local governments holding public meetings.
COMMISSIONERS ~ BOARD BUSINESS
Each Commissioner shared their concerns regarding the Gulf County beaches during
COVID-19. Sheriff Harrison appeared before the Board to discuss the public on the
beaches and his concern with the public coming from surrounding Counties due to their
beaches being closed. After discussion, County Administrator Hammond discussed the
Governor's closing of restaurants and the reduction of the stock market; recommending
the Board close the beaches in week intervals from Friday to Friday, but allow fisherman
to continue to make a living, After discussion by County Attorney Novak, T.D.C. Director
2425
Godwin reported that Mexico Beach is not closed. Commissioner Rich discussed the
beaches within the County; suggesting that the Board keep one of the beaches open,
Indian Pass Beach and maybe St. Joe Beach. He requested the Board discuss and review
the matter further before making a decision. Gulf County Health Department Sarah Hinds
appeared before the Board to discuss the Executive Order regarding mass gatherings.
Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There was no public comment. Commissioner
McDaniel motioned to close. McCroan seconded the motion. After discussion, Chairman
Quinn asked if Commissioner McDaniel was in agreement with adding to his motion that
the Board come back in seven (7) days to reevaluate the beach closure. Commissioner
McDaniel amended his motion to add the seven (7) days, as recommended by the County
Administrator, effective immediately. Commissioner McDaniel requested that the motion
be read back for the record. Clerk Norris read the motion as follows: Commissioner
McDaniel moved to close the beaches and Commissioner McCroan second, there was
an addition to the motion to limit the closure to seven (7) days based on the
recommendation by County Administrator Hammond, and that the Board will come back
in seven (7) days to reevaluate. Upon inquiry by T.D.C. Director Godwin regarding
whether the motion included WindMark Beach, Commissioner McDaniel stated his motion
is for all beaches. County Administrator Hammond stated the County had the beach
(WindMark Beach) and the beach is in the County. County Attorney Novak provided his
opinion that there is no room for interruption, if the Board is closing the Beaches to the
Public, it is for public health and safety and the Board has that authority. Chairman Quinn
called for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed
unanimously.
County Attorney Novak stated that itis staff's recommendation that the Board adopt an
Emergency Ordinance during this meeting. He then read the proposed ordinance to the
Board for consideration. Chairman Quinn called for a motion to accept the Emergency
Ordinance. Commissioner McCroan so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the
motion. After discussion by Chairman Quinn, he then called for public comment. There
being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously, as follows:
EMERGENCY ORDINANCE NO. 2020-02
AN EMERGENCY ORDINANCE OF GULF COUNTY, FLORIDA;
RECOGNIZING THE A NATIONAL, STATE AND LOCAL STATE OF
EMERGENCY DUE TO COVID-19 (NOVEL CORONAVIRUS DISEASE);
CLOSING BEACHES WITHIN GULF COUNTY, FLORIDA; PROVIDING
FOR CONFLICTS, REPEALER, SEVERABILITY AND MODIFICATIONS
THAT MAY ARISE FROM CONSIDERATION AT EMERGENCY
MEETING; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION AND AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
*Complete Ordinance on file with Clerk*
(End)
2526
County Administrator Hammond recommended that if the Board has no other business,
that they recess until further information is available from the State
The meeting did recess at 6:37 p.m., E.T. on March 20, 2020.
The meeting did then reconvene at 1:00 p.m., E.T. on March 26, 2020.
The following Board members were present: Chairman Sandy Quinn, Jr., Vice Chairman
Jimmy Rogers, and Commissioners David C. Rich, Ward McDaniel, and Phil McCroan.
Others present were: County Attorney Jeremy Novak, Clerk Rebecca L. Norris, Deputy
Clerk Leanna Roberts, County Administrator Michael L. Hammond, County Assistant
Administrator Warren Yeager, Jr., Deputy Administrator Kari Summers, Emergency
Management Director Marshall Nelson, Gulf County E.M.S. Director Jody Daniels, Office
of Management & Budget Director Sherry Herring, County Planner Lee Collinsworth,
Property Appraiser Mitch Burke, Property Appraiser Office IT Tech Dennis Barfield, Jr.,
Public Works Director Mark Cothran, Sheriff Mike Harrison, Sheriff's Department
Lieutenant Tim Wood, Tax Collector Shirley Jenkins, T.D.C. Executive Director Kelli
Godwin, and Veterans’ Service Office Director & S.H.|.P. Director Joe Paul
Chairman Quinn opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Chairman Quinn discussed a letter that was (recently) sent out; stating that even though
the letter was signed by himself, the letter was from the Board of County Commissioners.
He then requested that County Attorney Novak read the letter into the record . Upon reading of this letter, Chairman Quinn stated
that he requested the County Attorney draft a resolution. County Attorney Novak reported
that this facility is closed to the public by the County's Emergency Declaration and stated
for the record that the people in attendance today are either media or essential personnel.
He then provided a proposed resolution to the Board for consideration . County Attorney Novak stated for the record that this is a
reconvened meeting (from the March 20" Emergency meeting) and Notices were properly
posted in compliance with Florida Statute. He then read the proposed resolution for the
Board to consider. Members of the Board discussed their concerns regarding the COVID-
19 pandemic. Upon inquiry by Commissioner Rogers, E.M.S. Director Daniels appeared
before the Board to discuss the procedure of (transporting) potential positive COVID-19
patients. Upon inquiry by Chairman Quinn regarding whether E.M.S. has the proper
equipment, E.M.S. Director Daniels stated he is okay right now, but has placed an order
through the E.0.C. County Administrator Hammond discussed the closure of Gulf County
beaches and with Mexico Beach remaining open; noting it is attracting spring breakers
from Panama City Beach. He stated that the County needs to be careful about exposing
Gulf County E.M.S. from the influx of outsiders. He stated the County needs to tell Mexico
Beach either they get in line with the rest of the Panhandle of Florida or Gulf County will
have to suspend E.M.S. services. County Attorney Novak discussed an Interlocal
Agreement with Mexico Beach regarding E.M.S. services; stating he will reach out and
2627
put Mexico Beach on notice that Gulf County will have to suspend the Interlocal
(agreement) and support services if we cannot seek cooperation and limit exposure to
our Gulf County's E.M.S. workers and limited resources. He noted that would require
Board action, after consideration of the proposed resolution before them. After discussion
by Commissioner McCroan and Chairman Quinn regarding communications from
residents and property owners, Commissioner McDaniel motioned to adopt this
Resolution. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for
public comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously, as
follows
RESOLUTION NO. 2020-08
A RESOLUTION OF THE GULF COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSION, STATE OF FLORIDA, PURSUANT TO GULF COUNTY'S
LOCAL STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARATION AND ITS IMPACT ON
LOCAL MATERIAL AND HUMAN RESOURCES INCLUSIVE OF
EMERGENCY RESPONSE PERSONNEL AND HEALTH AND MEDICAL
CARE SERVICE PROVIDERS; AND DECLARING SELF QUARANTINE
GUIDELINES FOR VISITORS TO GULF COUNTY.
*Complete Resolution on file with Clerk*
(End)
County Attorney Novak discussed the need for two other votes of the Board, the first
being the Interlocal Agreement with Mexico Beach for E.M.S. (services) and the second,
under your Emergency Ordinance No. 2020-02, a seven (7) day renewal to continue to
closure of the beaches under the Emergency Declaration.
Chairman Quinn discussed reaching out to Mexico Beach regarding the Interlocal
Agreement; giving staff the authority to suspend services. County Attorney Novak stated
that he will work with Administration, reach out to City of Mexico Beach, and notify them
of the Board's action; requesting the Board to include in the motion the authorization of
Administration to suspend services until a further date, if necessary. Chairman Quinn
called for a motion to reaching out with this Interlocal (Agreement). Commissioner Rogers
30 moved. Commissioner McDaniel seconded the motion for discussion. Commissioner
McDanie! discussed the need to possibly reach out to Governor DeSantis (on beach
closures); noting that Mexico Beach has no available services (restaurants, fuel stations,
food sources, etc.) to meet the need of their visitors. County Administrator Hammond
expressed concerns of out of town/state visitors and not having the medical facility
resources to meet their needs in addition to our locals. Commissioner McDaniel stated
his second stands. Chairman Quinn called for public comment, There being no public
comment, the motion passed unanimously.
Chairman Quinn called for a motion for a seven (7) day renewal to keep the beaches
closed. County Administrator Hammond interjected saying that he will recommend when
the crisis passes, to reopen; reporting that Bay County has given a 14 (fourteen) day
2728
(beach closure); recommending that Gulf County stay in line (with Bay County)
Commissioner McDaniel motioned for 14 (fourteen) days. Commissioner McCroan
seconded the motion. After discussion by Commissioner Rogers, Chairman Quinn called
for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously.
COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Gulf County Health Department Director Sarah Hinds and Health Department Nurse Ann
Bames appeared before the Board to provide an update regarding the COVID-19
pandemic. Commissioner McDaniel stated if there is anything that the Board can do to
help the Health Department to please contact Administration. Commissioner McCroan
inquired about safeguards cashiers should do to protect themselves. Gulf County Health
Department Director Hinds discussed maintaining social distancing and cleaning
surfaces; reporting they will make contact with local grocery store workers. Commissioner
Rich requested that Health Department Director Hinds discuss the kiosks. She reported
that kiosks have been installed at Piggly Wiggly and Rich’s IGA to provide up to date
information to the public.
COMMISSIONER — BOARD BUSINESS
County Administrator Hammond discussed setting up something going forward regarding
holding Board meetings where the public can submit questions or comments via text or
email. He reported that the next regularly scheduled meeting is April 7, 2020 at 9:00 a.m.,
ET.
ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATE & REPORT
Assistant County Administrator Yeager appeared before the Board to address an
equipment lease that the Board gave the okay to proceed on back in January; requesting
permission for the Chairman to sign all documents regarding this equipment lease
Commissioner Rogers so moved. Commissioner Rich seconded the motion. Chairman
Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed
unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond discussed the need for the approval of Change Order #2
(with Raymond Driesbach, LLC) for a S.H.I.P. Project, an increase of $9,586.00 for Mary
A. Williams (Bid #1718-17); reporting this is S.H..P. money and Disaster Fund money.
Chairman Quinn called for a motion. Commissioner Rogers so moved. Commissioner
McCroan seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being
no public comment, the motion passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond discussed Bid #1920-19 for Demolition and Haul Off for
Site Preparation for 214 Hill Circle, Wewahitchka, using H.H.R.P. Funding; reporting two
(2) bids were received and recommended the low bid to RB's Tractor Work and Hauling
in the amount of $3,200.00. Commissioner McDaniel so moved. Commissioner Rich
seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public
‘comment, the motion passed unanimously.
2829
County Administrator Hammond recommended to award Bid #1920-20 for Demolition and
Haul Off for Site Preparation for 548 Canning Drive, Wewahitchka, using H.H.R.P.
Funding to low bidder, RB's Tractor Work and Hauling, in the amount of $3,800.00
reporting that three (3) bids were received. Commissioner McDaniel so moved
Commissioner Rich seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment.
There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously
County Administrator Hammond reported that the County received a $1.6 million
insurance settlement check today (claims due to Hurricane Michael); giving kudos to
Lance (Watson) with Southeastern Consulting Engineers, and our private adjuster.
COMMISSIONER - BOARD BUSINESS
Chairman Quinn discussed receiving much support regarding decisions made by the
Board (during the COVID-19 pandemic); thanking the public for their support. County
Administrator Hammond discussed receiving messages regarding beach rentals; stating
he is extremely sympathetic, but the County is exercising caution for the locals and life
safety. County Attorney Novak personally thanked the essential personnel for leaving
their families to go to work each day, putting themselves on the front line.
The meeting did then recess at 2:02 p.m., E.T.
The meeting reconvened at 9:01 a.m., E.T. on April 2, 2020.
The following Board members were present: Chairman Sandy Quinn, Jr., Vice Chairman
Jimmy Rogers, and Commissioners David C. Rich, Ward McDaniel, and Phil McCroan
Others present were: County Attorney Jeremy Novak, Clerk Rebecca L. Norris, Deputy
Clerk Leanna Roberts, County Administrator Michael L. Hammond, County Assistant
Administrator Warren Yeager, Jr., Deputy Administrator Kari Summers, Building Official
Brad Bailey, Gulf County E.D.C. Director Jim McKnight, E9-1-1 Coordinator Ben Guthrie,
Gulf County E.M.S. Director Jody Daniels, G.I.S. Coordinator Jessica Susich, Public
Works Director Mark Cothran, Sheriff Mike Harrison, and Veterans’ Service Office
Director & S.H.I.P. Director Joe Paul.
Chairman Quinn opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Chairman Quinn opened the floor to members of the Board for their thoughts on extending
the Emergency Order; entertaining a motion if they were in favor. Commissioner
McCroan made the motion. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn
called for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed
unanimously
County Administrator Hammond discussed the need to tighten down a little more; making
it clear that all essential personnel, including contractors, grass cutters, grocery stores,
and all businesses that people need to get through their normal daily lives to take care of
2930
themselves is going to be open, but stressed that this is a stay at home order for those
that are not essential and those not going to and from doing things that are essential, He
encouraged people that are not from Gulf County to return to their home States or
communities and shelter in place; noting when the crisis is over, they will be welcomed
back. County Administrator Hammond reported that the County is receiving complaints
of visitors still coming to vacation rentals and VRBO's (Vacation Rentals by Owner);
reporting the Governor's Executive Order was sent last week and people were checking
in on Saturday, putting our citizens at risk, He stated that a list will be submitted to the
appropriate State authorities for those violating this Order.
County Administrator Hammond stated the County has tried to keep essential personnel
and government functioning, but its time for the Board to order the Courthouse be closed
He then recommended the Board do this at 12:00 p.m., E.T. today; discussing specific
government purposes and noted there are certain things (essential court services and
issuing checks for the County) the Clerk must do. Upon inquiry by Commissioner
McCroan on whether his recommendations included the Elections Office, County
Administrator Hammond stated yes. He reported that each Constitutional Officer has the
authority to determine what is essential for their offices and there may be one employee
working in some of these offices or phones forwarded; noting that as far as the buildings
and the regular office hours go, it would include them all; knowing that each Constitutional
Officer has the Constitutional authority to make decisions that affect their offices
individually. After discussion by Commissioner McCroan, County Administrator
Hammond reported that the Building Department will probably not sell new house permits
for a week or two (2), but will continue to do inspections. County Administrator Hammond
reported that the Chairman gave direction to both Libraries (Port St. Joe and
Wewahitchka) to stop interaction with the public. Chairman Quinn stated that he made
the decision to shut down the County owned building (St. Joe Library). County
‘Administrator Hammond reported that the County boat ramps are open, but the Country
Club (Golf Course) will close today at 5:30 p.m., E.T. County Attorney Novak discussed
drafting the language; having the Order ready for the Chairman to sign today.
ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATE & REPORT
Commissioner McDaniel stated that he received calls from the Division of Forestry
regarding a burn ban for Gulf County; reporting that it is dry. Commissioner McDaniel
motioned to implement a burn ban for Gulf County until further notice; adding to his motion
that Administration personnel notify the news media. Commissioner McCroan seconded
the motion, County Administrator Hammond requested the Board allow him or the
Chairman the authority to extend it, or take it down, when the County received measurable
rain. After Commissioner McDaniel discussed his concerns regarding the burn ban,
Chairman Quinn asked if he had any objection to adding to his motion the authority to
allow County Administrator Hammond or the Chairman to extend or end (the burn ban).
Commissioner McDaniel agreed to add this to his motion. Chairman Quinn called for
public comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously
3031
Upon inquiry by Chairman Quinn regarding the need for a motion to close the Courthouse,
County Administrator Hammond confirmed the need for a motion; requesting that all the
items be codified: 1) if you are not local, go home; 2) if you are not doing essential item
or going about your necessary things, you need to stay in your house; and 3) don’t
congregate. Upon inquiry by Commissioner Rich regarding the time for the closure,
County Administrator Hammond stated it needs to be reviewed weekly: reporting the
Board will have another meeting next Tuesday, but as soon as the crisis is over, it can be
lifted. He suggested to review it weekly if the Board had no objection. Commissioner
McDaniel inquired of the Chief Judge's role in closing the Courthouse. Clerk Norris
reported that the Chief Judge must keep the Courts open and that would include her as
support service to the Chief Judge (Judiciary), but will be closed to the general public,
except for essential court services. Commissioner McDaniel made the motion. Chairman
Quinn called for clarification of the motion; asking if the County Administrator Hammond
wants to include the closure of the Courthouse. County Administrator Hammond also
recommended the Board instruct all non-Gulf County residents to go home. County
Attorney Novak stated that there will be an Executive Order by the Board to include this
language. Upon inquiry by Chairman Quinn, Commissioner McDaniel had no objection to
adding this to his motion. Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn
called for public comment. S.H.L.P. Director Paul appeared before the Board to inquire if
he can move forward with the bids that were awarded today (Bid #1920-19 & Bid #1920-
20). County Administrator Hammond stated that everything that has been pre-approved,
signed off by him or the Clerk's Office, will continue and they will be inspected and
installed. Chairman Quinn called for additional public comment. There being no further
comment, the motion passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond discussed the Board's approval of a Change Order for
Mary A. Williams (Bid #1718-17) and the need to clean up the dollar amount; reporting
that the increase is $638.05 for additional cost for closing, for a total of $9,587.00. S.H.LP.
Director Paul spoke from the audience; stating plus the $600.00. Clerk Norris reported
the total amount is over $10,000.00. County Administrator Hammond requested the
Board to approve the amount of the closing and change order. Commissioner McDaniel
so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public
comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond reported that the Board will hold a meeting Tuesday
(April 7, 2020) at 9:00 a.m., E.T.; stating there are some bids that will need to be opened
during this meeting and a P.D.R.B. variance request. He reported that the IT Department
set up a way for the public to submit questions or comments regarding this agenda, which
can be found on the County's website and will be placed on the Public Notice. County
Attorney Novak reported that there will not be a public comment on next week's agenda,
as the public comment will be specifically for action items of the Board at this special
meeting
COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Sheriff Harrison appeared before the Board to report that his Port St. Joe Office lobby will
be closed, the Substation is currently closed, but all employees are essential and will
3132
continue to work. Upon inquiry by Sheriff Harrison, County Administrator Hammond
reported that Public Works will be open to emergency vehicles, which will be the Sheriff's
and E.M.S., but most of Public Works will be shut down. Sheriff Harrison reported that the
public needs to be made aware that he nor the County has the authority to close the
walking path on C-30, as this is owned by the State. He stated that he will maintain
security at the Courthouse for the staff that will remain, Commissioner McDaniel asked if
dispatch could ask extra questions (due to the COVID-19). Sheriff Harrison stated that
these new procedures have been put into place for three (3) weeks now.
County Jail Warden Hammond reported that County probation is being done by telephone
and individuals can pay online or use the drop box to make payments; stating that he is
not violating (probation) due to nonpayment during this time. He stated that at some
juncture defendants will need to catch up on their payments; discussing the Clerk's Court
System is based on fees, encouraging them to make the payments if possible. County
Jail Warden Hammond discussed the procedures at the County Jail due to the COVID-
19 pandemic. Clerk Norris reported that anyone that needs to pay a fine can pay by
phone, online, mail it, or place in the drop box located in the front of the Courthouse
County Attorney Novak reported that it is a second degree misdemeanor violation of any
Executive Order of the Governor, punishable up to sixty (60) days imprisonment and a
$500.00 fine. He discussed the language in the Ordinances and Declarations stressing
the protection the people of Gulf County
The meeting did then recess at 9:36 a.m., E.T.
The meeting reconvened at 11:05 a.m., E.T. on April 21, 2020.
The following Board members were present: Chairman Sandy Quinn, Jr., Vice Chairman
Jimmy Rogers, and Commissioners David C. Rich, Ward McDaniel, and Phil McCroan
Others present were: County Attorney Jeremy Novak, Clerk Rebecca L. Norris, Deputy
Clerk Leanna Roberts, County Administrator Michael L. Hammond, County Assistant
Administrator Warren Yeager, Jr., Deputy Administrator Kari Summers, Public Works
Director Mark Cothran, Assistant Public Works Director Raymond Hart, and Sheriff's
Department Lieutenant Tim Wood.
Chairman Quinn opened the meeting with prayer and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to
the Flag
COVID-19 EMERGENCY DECLARATION & RESPONSE
Chairman Quinn called for a motion to extend the Emergency Declaration. Commissioner
McCroan so moved. Commissioner McDaniel seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn
called for public comment or emails on this matter. There being none, the motion passed
unanimously.
3233
PUBLIC MEETING PROCEDURES POLICY UNDER EMERGENCY DECLARATION &
RESPONSE
County Attorney Novak presented the proposed public meeting procedure policy for the
Board to consider ; reading the rules into the
record. Chairman Quinn reported that Commissioners Rogers and Rich are present today
for the record (because of social distancing, they are not seated within the view of the
video camera). Commissioner McDaniel so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the
motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being none, the
motion passed unanimously.
ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATE & REPORT
Gulf County Health Department Director Sarah Hinds appeared before the Board to
provide a COVID-19 update to the Board. Upon motion by Commissioner McDaniel,
second by Commissioner McCroan, and unanimous vote, the Board motioned to extend
time. She continued with Commissioner Rogers inquiring of the one (1) positive case in
Gulf County and whether it has been cleared. Gulf County Health Department Director
Hinds reported that the case in Gulf County is no longer infectious for COVID-19.
County Administrator Hammond discussed the intent of taking emails on action items
from the Board meetings, but stated they have received some emails in the last day of
two (2) that are germane to what they will be discussing at today's meeting but the County
Attorney feels they are appropriate to read into the record. County Attorney Novak stated
that once the Board votes on the beach closure, he will then read the emails pertaining
to the subject into the record.
Assistant County Administrator Yeager appeared before the Board to report that
Okaloosa County has implemented a plan and will be opening their beaches May 1, 2020.
He recommended the Board follow something along those lines and implement
something similar to that of Mexico Beach and Okaloosa County; opening the beaches
from 6:00 am. E.T. to 9:00 am., E.T., and 5:00 p.m., E.T. to 8:00 p.m., E.T. with no
restrictions on regular use of the beach. He encouraged social distancing of 10 (ten)
people or less. Commissioner McCroan reported that Bay County is going to open their
beaches beginning Friday at 6:00 a.m., C.T. After discussion by members of the Board,
‘Commissioner McDaniel stated that the time restrictions are for the time zone in which
you are in. After discussion by Commissioner Rogers, Assistant County Administrator
Yeager stated that staff will be monitoring and looking to receive further guidelines as the
Governor continues his task force. Chairman Quinn called for a motion to reopen the
beaches from 6:00 am., E.T. to 9:00 am., E.T., and 5:00 p.m., ET. to 8:00 p.m., ET.
Commissioner McCroan so moved. Commissioner McDaniel seconded the motion.
Chairman Quinn discussed making sure the residents abide by these set times and follow
the CDC guidelines. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. Gulf County Health
Department Director Hinds appeared before the Board to discuss tips and guideless while
utilizing the beaches. Upon inquiry by County Attorney Novak regarding the effective date,
Commissioner McCroan agreed to the effective date as of 5:00 p.m. today. Chairman
Quinn called for emails. County Attorney Novak then read the following emails: 1.
Michelle Evans, of St. Joe Beach regarding use of the beaches for the benefit of
3334
recreation and exercise in the mornings and evenings; 2. Leisa Gruenewald, of Money
Bayou asking why the beaches are closed, but the pickleball courts are still open;
requesting they open the beaches immediately; 3. Bruce Kuhse, of Cape San Blas
requesting the Board open the beaches to limited access and activities; 4. Mike Seningen
requesting to see the County's suggested pian of best practices to relay fears yet allow
short term rental activity to co-exist; 5. Jordan Gunnell, of Sandy Shoes Vacation Rentals
suggesting to open beaches with social distancing but not put timelines on access that
can cause overcrowding during these specified times; 6. Pete and Celita Allen requesting
the hours for beach access be pushed back one (1) hour, as Bay County; 7. Pat Hardman,
of Cape San Blas requesting the effective date; and 8. Brenda Murphy thanked the Board
for all they have done to protect Gulf County and looks forward to the limited opening of
the beaches today . After discussion by
members of the Board, the motion passed unanimously. County Administrator Hammond
reported that the vacation rental ban is still in effect by the Governor.
County Administrator Hammond discussed the Courthouse opening with limited access
on May 4, 2020; reporting that he will be meeting with the Constitutional Officers. He
requested a motion of the Board to reopen, on a limited basis, with social distancing.
Commissioner McDaniel so moved for the opening. Commissioner Rogers seconded the
motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails regarding opening the
Courthouse on May 4, 2020 on a limited basis. There being none, the motion passed
unanimously,
Assistant Public Works Director Hart appeared before the Board to provide an update to
the Board regarding the progress on the repair of damage caused by the waterline rupture
at the Courthouse. Commissioner McDaniel discussed the workers; asking for the
percentage of completion before the opening on May 4, 2020. Assistant Public Works
Director Hart reported between the drywall workers and the painters it will be twenty (20)
days. County Administrator Hammond reported that the (County) insurance company has
been paying the contractors directly; requesting in the event the Board needs to declare
an emergency, then allow staff to procure these contractors. He requested a motion of
the Board to allow him the authority to handle this under an emergency basis.
‘Commissioner McCroan so moved. Commissioner Rich seconded the motion. Chairman
Quinn called for public comment. Clerk Norris appeared before the Board to discuss the
Courthouse, its damage; thanking County staff working on this matter and assisting the
Clerk's Office during this time. Chairman Quinn called for any emails. There being none,
the motion passed unanimously
County Administrator Hammond presented to the Board a request to waive their policy
regarding preparing an Agenda and Information Packets for the April 28, 2020 meeting
due to the problems with the facility at the
Courthouse and COVID-19. Commissioner Rogers so moved. Commissioner McDaniel
seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being
none, the motion passed unanimously
3435
County Administrator Hammond presented a memorandum to the Board ; recommending the creation of a county engineer position,
effective June 1, 2020. Commissioner McCroan so moved. Commissioner McDaniel
seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being
none, the motion passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond presented a request to the Board from the Grant
Department ; to join this cooperative (U.S
Commodities Omnia Partners) to purchase site lighting and electrical material from
Graybar, in the amount of $201,005.65 under U.S. Communities, to be funded by D.O.T.
(Department of Transportation) Grant. Commissioner McDaniel so moved. Commissioner
Rich seconded the motion. After discussion about the Mooring Bollards and the funding
and timeline for that project, Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There
being none, the motion passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond presented a proposed budget resolution to the Board for consideration. Commissioner Rogers so
moved. Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion. Upon inquiry by Commissioner
McDaniel, County Administrator Hammond assured the Board there was adequate
funding. Upon inquiry by Commissioner McCroan, County Administrator Hammond gave
an update on the South Gulf County Fire Department facility repair project. Chairman
Quinn called for emails. There being none, the motion then passed unanimously, as
follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 2020-09
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners of Gulf County, Florida, has
revenues and use of reserves in the St. Joseph Fire Control District Fund; and
WHEREAS, said reserves are necessary for approved capital outlay expenditures
in Fiscal Year 2019-20;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, as follows:
The 2019-20 Fiscal Year Budget is to be amended, as follows.
St. Joseph Fire Control District Fund
Original Increase! Amended
Budget Decrease) Budget
Expenditures
10652202 531000 Professional Services 600 (600) 0
10652202 534000 Other Services 0 300 300
10652202 §40000 Travel & Per Diem 300 (300) 0
10852202 641000 Communications Services 1,100 800 1,900
10652202 $46001 Repair & Maint- Build & Gnd 5,000 (4,000) 1,000
10652202 §46002 Repair & Maint- Equipment 6,000 (4,000) 2,000
10852202 551000 Office Supplies 200 (200) 0
3536
10652202 552000 Operating Supplies 9,000 (7,000) 2,000
10652202 552002 Oper Supp- Tools & Small Equip 900 (500) 400
10652202 555000 Training 100 (100) 0
10652202 564000 Machinery & Equipment 0 302,741 302.741
Reserves:
10699700 599003 SJFC Resv- Highland View 287,141 (287,141) 0
THIS RESOLUTION ADOPTED by the Gulf County Board of County
Commissioners, this 28" day of April, 2020.
(End)
County Administrator Hammond reported that small business money is flowing: stating
that these businesses are working through local banks to obtain funds to cover payroll,
rent, and utilities.
County Attorney Novak reported and read emails received after the vote was carried
regarding the beach hours: 1.Lissa Dulany, of Cape San Blas who asked whether beach
driving is included (in the opening of the beaches). Members of the Board agreeing that
normal activities are allowed; 2. Mark Hendrix regarding restricted beach hours. County
Attorney Novak reporting the Board will continue to revisit and monitor this matter on a
daily basis. County Administrator Hammond reported that the County's beach closure
expires on April 30, 2020, unless the Board decides to extend it
The meeting did then recess at 12:07 p.m., E.T. on April 21, 2020.
The meeting reconvened at 9:36 a.m., E.T. on June 3, 2020
The following Board members were present: Chairman Sandy Quinn, Jr., Vice Chairman
Jimmy Rogers, and Commissioners David C. Rich, Ward McDaniel, and Phil McCroan.
Others present were: County Attorney Jeremy Novak, Clerk Rebecca L. Norris, Deputy
Clerk Leanna Roberts, County Administrator Michael L. Hammond, Deputy Administrator
Kari Summers, County Engineer Clay Smallwood, III, Mosquito Control Director Austin
Horton, Public Works Director Mark Cothran, Assistant Public Works Director Raymond
Hart, and Sheriff Mike Harrison
COVID-19 EMERGENCY DECLARATION & RESPONSE
County Administrator Hammond recommended the Board adjourn the Emergency
Meeting; stating if there is a need for a special meeting it will be called moving forward.
3637
Upon motion by Commissioner McDaniel, second by Commissioner McCroan, and
unanimous vote, the meeting did then adjourn at 9:37 a.m., E.T
SANDY QUINN, JR.
CHAIRMAN
ATTEST:
REBECCA L. NORRIS
CLERK OF COURT
3738
APRIL 7, 2020
SPECIAL MEETING
PORT ST. JOE, FLORIDA
The Gulf County Board of County Commissioners met this date in special session with
the following members present: Chairman Sandy Quinn, Jr., Vice Chairman Jimmy
Rogers, and Commissioners David C. Rich, Ward McDaniel, and Phil McCroan.
Others present were: County Attorney Jeremy Novak, Clerk Rebecca L. Norris, Deputy
Clerk Leanna Roberts, County Administrator Michael L. Hammond, County Assistant
Administrator Warren Yeager, Jr., Deputy Administrator Kari Summers, Building Official
Brad Bailey, Gulf County E.D.C. Director Jim McKnight, Gulf County E.M.S. Director Jody
Daniels, Dewberry/County Engineer Clay Smaliwood, Ill, Grant Administrator Kaci
Rhodes, County Planner Lee Collinsworth, Public Works Director Mark Cothran, Sheriff
Mike Harrison, and Veterans’ Service Office Director & S.H.1.P. Director Joe Paul
Chairman Quinn called the meeting to order at 9:05 a.m., E.T.
Chairman Quinn opened the meeting with prayer and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to.
the Flag
PUBLIC COMMENT
County Administrator Hammond reported that Deputy Administrator Summers is
monitoring the email list (for public comment); stating for any action item the Chairman
will give pause for comment before the question is called to move forward
OPENING BID #1920-21 ~ MOORING BOLLARDS / EASTERN SHIPBUILDING
Deputy Clerk Roberts opened sealed bids for Bid #1920-21 for the mooring bollards for
Easter Shipbuilding, as Grant Administrator Rhodes read aloud the prospective bids: 1
Shoreline Foundation, Inc., in the amount of $1,493,830.00 with an alternate of
$909,830.00; 2. Infrastructure and Industrial Constructors Southeast, Inc., in the amount
of $1,525,000.00 with an alternate of $1,154,000.00; 3. Superior Construction, in the
amount of $1,597,400.00 with an alternate of $1,158,160.00; 4. Gulf Coast Utility
Contractors, in the amount of $1,799,000.00 with an alternate of $1,838,750.00; and 5.
H. G. Harders and Son, Inc., in the amount of $1,588.404.00 with an alternate of
$870,156.00. County Administrator Hammond requested that County Engineer
Smallwood and Grant Administrator Rhodes review these bids and bring back a
recommendation. Chairman Quinn had no objection; directing staff to turn the bids over
to County Engineer Smallwood and Grant Administrator Rhodes to review.
3839
OPENING BID #1920-23 - RESURFACE & WIDENING COUNTY ROAD 386
Deputy Clerk Roberts opened the sealed bids for Bid #1920-23 for the resurfacing and
widening of County Road 386 (Overstreet Road), as Grant Administrator Rhodes read
aloud the prospective bids: 1. C. W. Roberts Contracting, Inc., in the amount of
$9,880,751.46; 2. Roberts & Roberts, Inc., in the amount of $10,242,560.23; 3. Capital
Asphalt, Inc. submitted a No Bid; and 4. GAC Contractors, Inc. Deputy Clerk Roberts
stated that she received an email from County Engineer Smallwood regarding this bid;
reporting that there is an amount written on the outside of the envelope that is to be
deducted from the base bid listed inside the envelope. Upon request by County
Administrator Hammond, County Engineer Smallwood appeared before the Board to
state that he is not sure of the purpose; reporting that the Contractor called and he just
passed the information on. Grant Administrator Rhodes stated the amount of this bid less
the noted deduction is $9,650,000.00. County Administrator Hammond requested that
County Attorney Novak sit with Grant Administrator Rhodes and County Engineer
‘Smallwood to review these bids and bring back a recommendation later on in the meeting
Chairman Quinn had no objections.
QUASI-JUDICIAL HEARING — REVIEW & CONSIDERATION OF P.D.R.B.
VARIANCE REQUEST — RICHARD PETERS.
Planner Collinsworth presented a variance request from Richard Peters, Parcel ID
#03816-505R; reporting that the P.D.R.B. recommended, by a 4-0 vote, to deny the
variance. Chairman Quinn called for comment for anyone wishing to speak regarding this
item. County Attorney Novak stated for the record that under the Governor's Executive
Order regarding public meetings, the Board is keeping their distance: reporting the media
is present today, the meeting is live streaming, and the Board is taking questions through
available technology. He stated that the building is closed and Mr. (Richard) Peters is
present and has a right to be heard regarding his (variance) application. Chairman Quinn
asked if there were any objections to waiving the Quasi-Judicial Hearing. There being no
objection, Commissioner McDaniel motioned to waive. Commissioner McCroan
seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public
comment or emails, the motion passed unanimously. Richard Peters, of St. Joe Beach
appeared before the Board to request approval of his variance request; stating he needs
to put a carport, a temporary structure, on the concrete pavers for three years while he
goes through the process of purchasing and preparing the property adjacent to his.
Planner Collinsworth discussed the design of the subdivision and the twenty foot (20)
setback requirement from the egress and ingress easement; reporting that if this variance
was approved, then every bit of the carport would go into the setback all the way up to
the road. He reported that the P.D.R.B. denied this request due to the fact that they have
never allowed up to more than half into a setback anyway, and this whole structure would
be in the setback, plus the thirty (30%) percent impervious area as well; stating that these
are some of the reasons why this variance request was denied by the P.D.R.B. Upon
inquiry by Chairman Quinn, Planner Collinsworth stated that the P.D.R.B. denied the
(variance) request, by 4-0 vote. County Attorney Novak discussed Mr. Peters purchasing
the adjacent property; stating that with this purchase it does not change what the County
requirements are, in terms of setbacks. After discussion by Mr. Peters regarding his
property, County Attorney Novak stated for the record that Mr. Peters is purchasing the
3940
adjacent property, but that may factor into whether or not he goes through with it, based
on what the Board decides today. Planner Collinsworth stated that Mr. Peters did not give
access to the land owners down the road; reporting that it is a plated private road in that
subdivision. He also reported that it is not a utility easement, it is an egress/ingress
easement with utilities in it. Following discussion, County Attorney Novak noted there are
no emails (public comment) at this time. Commissioner McDaniel discussed the location
and the variance request. County Attorney Novak then read Section 34 of the LOR (Land
Development Regulations). Commissioner McDaniel motioned to deny this request, to go
along with the P.D.R.B. recommendation. Commissioner Rich seconded the motion
Chairman Quinn called for public comment from the audience and emails. There being
none, the motion passed unanimously. County Attorney Novak discussed obtaining a
‘motion to waive the reading. Commissioner McDaniel motioned to waive. Commissioner
McCroan seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails.
There being none, the motion passed unanimously. County Attorney Novak requested a
motion to accept the recommendations and the findings of the P.D.R.B. that substantial
and competent evidence, competence and proper notice requirements were met
PRELIMINARY/FINAL PLAT — HIGH AND TIGHT HOLDINGS, LLC
Planner Collinsworth presented a Preliminary/Final Plat for The Bay Club from High and
Tight Holdings, LLC, Parcel ID #06248-096R. Chairman Quinn called for comment for
anyone wishing to speak on this item. Jack Husband, representing High and Tight
Holdings, LLC appeared before the Board. Chairman Quinn called for objections to the
waiving of the Quasi-Judicial Hearing. There being no objection, Commissioner McDaniel
$0 moved to waive. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called
for public comment. There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously
County Attorney Novak reported there are no emails regarding the motion. Mr. Husband
summarized the details of the proposed development; reporting they have received the
water and sewer permits from D.E.P. (Department of Environmental Protection). He
stated that all the permits and final construction plans have been turned into the County
Planner Collinsworth reported that the P.D.R.B. recommend by 4-0 vote to approve,
contingent upon receipt of a letter of their escrow account before the D.O. (development
order) is issued. Chairman Quinn inquired about whether there were any emails regarding
this matter. Deputy Administrator Summers stated there were no emails received
‘Commissioner McCroan inquired for the record if there were any variances or anything
on this property. Planner Collinsworth reported there were none and the property owner
has not applied for any; confirming that all requirements have been met. He stated that
this is one that exceeds the number of lots that could be approved by just the P.D.R.B.
the TAC. (Technical Advisory Committee), and Planning Department; noting it must
come before this Board for approval because it is a final plat. Upon inquiry by Chairman
Quinn, Planner Collinsworth stated that the P.D.R.B. voted 4-0 to approve the
preliminary/final plat. County Attorney Novak read the LDR (Land Development
Regulations) requirement for Board consideration. Chairman Quinn called for a motion to
accept the P.D.R.B. recommendation. Commissioner McDaniel motioned to approve.
Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for any emails
comments. Deputy Administrator Summers stated there were no emails. Chairman Quinn
called for public comment. There being none, the motion then passed unanimously.
4041
County Attorney Novak requested a vote of the Board on the bottom of page two (2)
(BOCC Subdivision - Preliminary/Final Plat Public Hearing and Findings form), which is
the findings and action of this Board regarding the application for final plat approval,
contingent upon the conditions of the Planning Department for the issuance of the
development order. Chairman Quinn inquired of the wishes of the Board on whether to
approve, deny or table. Commissioner McDanie! motioned to approve. Commissioner
Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment and emails.
Deputy Administrator Summers stated there were no emails. There being no comments,
the motion passed unanimously.
LOCAL STATE OF EMERGENCY ~ BEACH CLOSURE EXTENSION
County Administrator Hammond recommended the Board extend the beach closure;
suggesting it be extended to April 30, 2020; addressing it again at a future meeting.
Commissioner McCroan discussed his concerns with travelers and rentals
Commissioner Rogers discussed the matter at the Highland View Boat Ramp area;
stating the Board needs to figure a way to close this off to the public. Sheriff Harrison
appeared before the Board to discuss calls received regarding travelers coming into the
County; stating they are addressing them on a case by case basis. He discussed the
problems at the Highland View Boat Ramp; reporting that people are accessing the park
to get to the City Beach, which is dangerous when crossing the rock and is in violation of
the Board's Beach Closure Ordinance (#2020-02). Sheriff Harrison requested the Board
to consider closing the park, but still allowing access to the two (2) businesses and for the
construction workers working on the boat ramp. Chairman Quinn discussed his concerns
regarding people swimming in this area and an easy way to close this park. Upon inquiry
by Commissioner Rogers, County Attorney Novak discussed the Governor's Executive
Order and the Board's Local Declaration; stating the Board has the ability to close the
(Highland View) Park or (Highland View) Boat Ramp. After discussion, County
Administrator Hammond discussed cutting off (access) at Angel Fish (Road) using
barricades. Chairman Quinn called for a motion to close the Park (Highland View Park).
Deputy Administrator Summers reported that there is an email in reference this subject.
She then read the email aloud from Pat Strader requesting approval up to $24,000.00 (Bid #1819-52 Country
Club Golf Course Greens Design Consulting) and the Chairman's signature on the
Change Order. Commissioner McDaniel so moved for the change order. Commissioner
Rich seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There
being none, the motion passed unanimously.
CHANGE ORDER #2 ~ RESURFACING COUNTY ROAD 382
Grant Administrator Rhodes appeared before the Board to present Change Order #2 for
consideration for the resurfacing and widening
of County Road 382 (Industrial Road * Bid #1819-31), extending the time of this project
to May, 2020 with Roberts & Roberts, Inc. Commissioner McCroan so moved
Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment
or emails. There being none, the motion passed unanimously.
4344
CHANGE ORDER #2 ~ WAREHOUSE / EASTERN SHIPBUILDING
Grant Administrator Rhodes presented Change Order #2 with Birkshire Johnstone, LLC for the Board to consider for the warehouse at
Eastern Shipbuilding (Bid #1819-25), an increase of $288,746.95. After discussion,
Commissioner McDaniel so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion
Chairman Quinn called for emails or public comment. There being no the motion passed
unanimously.
ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATE & REPORT
Public Works Director Cothran appeared before the Board to report that a waterline burst
late Sunday night/early moming Monday in the Courthouse, running about six hours all
on the north side. He stated that a meeting is scheduled today with the Insurance
Company, the Engineer (Southeastern Consulting Engineers, Inc.), and a water mitigation
company to do a walk through
Chairman Quinn requested that County Attorney Novak provide information regarding the
Interlocal Agreement. County Attorney Novak stated from the motion earlier, his direction
is for him and County Administrator Hammond to reach out to the City (of Port St. Joe)
and work with them to try and find a resolution to future density requirements that is
consistent between the County and City (of Port St. Joe); reporting that the vote of the
Board is in opposition to future voluntary or involuntary annexation when there is high
density involved until an agreement is reached, which is the removal of R3 and R4
designation. Commissioner McCroan discussed having County Attorney Novak attend
the City of Port St. Joe's city meeting to be held today. Chairman Quinn had no objection.
Grant Administrator Rhodes appeared before the Board to request the Board reject Bid
#1920-22 for the purchase and installation of generators and to rebid the purchase and
installation separately. After discussion, Commissioner McDaniel so moved to reject and
rebid. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public
comment or emails. There being none, the motion passed unanimously.
County Attorney Novak presented an easement with Duke Energy regarding the Golf Course (Country Club) to install some power
poles at the facility; requesting Board approval to allow the Chairman to sign. He stated
that it will be provided to their attorneys to have recorded (in the Official Records)
Commissioner Rich so moved. Commissioner McDaniel seconded the motion. Chairman
Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being none, the motion passed
unanimously.
County Attorney Novak reported that Commissioner McDaniel requested he review
options regarding code enforcement; presenting a legal memorandum regarding a special
tax assessment for code enforcement to the Board for review . He reported that the County can place special tax assessments on
properties for code violations and associated cost cleanups, as long as the County meets
a two (2) prong tests: 1. demonstrate the property burden by the assessment derives
special benefit from the service provided; and 2. the assessment is properly apportioned;
4445
requesting instructions and authorization from the Board to move forward with preparing
a notice of a proposed ordinance. Commissioner McDaniel so moved to move forward.
Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion. After discussion, Chairman Quinn called
for public comment or emails. There being none, the motion passed unanimously.
Public Works Director Cothran appeared before the Board to request permission to
advertise to receive sealed bids for the guardrail replacement on Howard Creek Road
(County Road 387 * Doc Whitfield Road). Commissioner Rogers so moved.
Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public
comment or emails. There being none, the motion passed unanimously.
There being no further business, and upon motion by Commissioner McCroan, second
by Commissioner Rogers, and unanimous vote, the meeting did then adjourn at 10:55
am., E.T.
SANDY QUINN, JR.
CHAIRMAN
ATTEST:
REBECCA L. NORRIS
CLERK OF COURT
4546
APRIL 16, 2020
SPECIAL MEETING
PORT ST. JOE, FLORIDA
The Gulf County Board of County Commissioners met this date in special session with
the following members present: Chairman Sandy Quinn, Jr., Vice Chairman Jimmy
Rogers, and Commissioners David C. Rich, Ward McDaniel, and Phil McCroan
Others present were: County Attorney Jeremy Novak, Clerk Rebecca L. Norris, Deputy
Clerk Leanna Roberts, County Administrator Michael L. Hammond, County Assistant
‘Administrator Warren Yeager, Jr., Deputy Administrator Kari Summers, Dewberry/County
Engineer Clay Smallwood, Ill, Public Works Director Mark Cothran, and Sheriff Mike
Harrison.
Sheriff Harrison called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m., E.T.
Chairman Quinn led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag
PUBLIC MEETING PROCEDURES POLICY
County Attorney Novak discussed surrounding Counties implementing new meeting
procedures due to the pandemic (COVID-19) and the Governor's Executive Order 20-69;
noting those in attendance at today’s meeting. He requested permission to finalize a
hybrid remote public meeting procedure rule that will be presented for consideration at
the next meeting. County Attorney Novak discussed the highlights of the proposed
meeting policy and how public participation and comment can be made . Upon inquiry by Commissioner McDaniel regarding
future modification of the policy, County Attomey Novak reported the policy will be
suspended once the pandemic (COVID-19) and Emergency Declaration is over, but may
need to be amended over time as the pandemic continues. Commissioner McDaniel so
moved. Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion. Deputy Clerk Roberts called for
clarification of the motion. County Attorney Novak clarified the motion; stating it is to
authorize the County Attorney and Administration to bring back to the Board a final
proposed meeting policy for consideration. Chairman Quinn called for public comment
There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously.
ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW & REPORT — RFP #1920-23
County Attorney Novak discussed Bid #1920-23 (resurface and widening of County Road
386/Overstreet Road); presenting to the Board a packet regarding this bid . He gave a summary on the advertisement of the Notice to
Receive Sealed Bids, the bid specifications provided by Dewberry Engineers, and the
timeline regarding the opening of these bids. County Attorney Novak reported that it was
recommended and awarded to GAC (Contractors, Inc.) at the April 7, 2020 Special
Meeting. He then recommended the Board reject this bid (#1920-23 * resurface and
4647
widening County Road 386/Overstreet Road); noting the County's Procurement Policy
and Florida Statute 336.44(5) provides the Board the right to reject any and all bids
County Attorney Novak stated that staff's recommendation is to reject all bids and go back
out through the County Engineer and re-advertise (the project) at the earliest possible
date. County Administrator Hammond reported there will be a mandatory pre-bid meeting
(conference); noting this will be placed in the advertisement and in the bid specifications.
Commissioner McDaniel discussed making the motion to award this bid (#1920-23), but
after further review, motioned to reject the bid and go back out for rebid on this project.
Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion for discussion. After discussion,
Commissioner McCroan stated his second stands. County Attorney Novak
acknowledged, for the record, the attendees present representing GAC Contractors and
C. W. Roberts Contracting, Inc. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. Bob Flowers,
President of C. W. Roberts Contracting appeared before the Board to state that with the
rejection of the bid, their bid protest is mute and they will be in attendance at the
mandatory pre-bid meeting. Chairman Quinn called for additional public comment or
emails. There being no further public comment, the motion passed unanimously.
BID PROTEST HEARING RFP #1920-23 - C. W. ROBERTS
Chairman Quinn inquired from Mr. Flowers whether the bid protest was a mute-point at
this time therefore, this item can be scratched off. From the audience, Mr. Flowers,
President of C. W. Roberts Contracting, Inc. confirmed that to be correct. County Attorney
Novak inquired if it is relevant to state, for the record, that C. W. Roberts Contracting, Inc.
has rescinded the bid protest. From the audience, Legal Representative for C. W. Roberts
Contracting, Inc. confirmed the bid protest to be rescinded.
COVID-19 EMERGENCY DECLARATION & RESPONSE
County Attorney Novak requested the Board make a motion to extend the Emergency
Declaration for an additional seven (7) days; stating any action of the Board today can be
incorporated in this Order. Chairman Quinn called for a motion to extend. Commissioner
McCroan so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called
for public comment or emails. There was no comment, Commissioner Rogers inquired if
the burn ban would be included in this Order. County Administrator Hammond stated that
he will speak on this matter later. There being no opposition, the motion passed
unanimously. County Attorney Novak inquired whether the Board had any other COVID(-
19) responses that would need to be added to this Order. County Administrator Hammond
recommended the Board rescind the burn ban effective immediately; reporting the County
has had measurable rain in the last week. Commissioner McDaniel so moved to go with
the County Administrator's recommendation on the burn ban being lifted, effective
immediately, going back to the normal rules. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion
Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being none, the motion
passed unanimously
County Administrator Hammond reported the City (of Port St. Joe) is in the process of
making the Marina on 5" (Fifth) Street open to Gulf County residents only; making it
effective on Tuesday. He reported they (City of Port St. Joe) have requested the County
do the same thing at Indian Pass and White City (boat ramps) for Gulf County residents
4748
only; recommending the Board do this through April 30, 2020. After discussion.
Commissioner Rogers so moved. Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion.
Chairman Quill called for any emails. Deputy Administrator Summers reported there is
one email public comment; reading the email into the record from J. Fagan . County Administrator Hammond stated that this
does not affect residents (of Gulf County). Chairman Quinn called for any more emails.
Deputy Administrator Summers reported that there are no further emails. The motion
then passed unanimously.
ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATE & REPORT
County Administrator Hammond discussed the need to plan for reopening the
Courthouse; suggesting Monday, May 4, 2020; limiting access to one person in each
office at the time. He discussed their plan to install plexiglass barriers along the cabinets
(customer counters) in each office. County Administrator Hammond addressed the flood
damage to the Courthouse (due to the waterline breaks); stating it will be a push to get it
ready to open on May 4, 2020, but it is something to work toward as a first step,
acknowledging this will all be dependent upon the Governor's Stay at Home Order that is.
set to expire on April 30, 2020. County Administrator Hammond discussed the possibility
of reopening the beaches and boat ramps on May 1, 2020, and the need to have a
coordinated plan with surrounding Counties for reopening. Assistant Administrator
Yeager appeared before the Board to discuss a request from Okaloosa County for the
Board to review and comment on their draft plan; presenting Okaloosa Counties proposed
plan to the Board . He requested permission
to allow staff to respond to Okaloosa County and work with surrounding Counties on an
appropriate coordinated plan to reopen. County Administrator Hammond suggested staff
work on this today and through the weekend with plans to reconvene the emergency
meeting next week to consider the implementation of something (a plan). Following
discussion by County Administrator Hammond regarding possible permissible activities
on the beach, Sheriff Harrison appeared before the Board to request that the Board
concentrate more on the hours and not so much on the activity; noting it is hard to enforce
the activity aspect. Commissioner McDaniel and Chairman Quinn both voiced agreement
with concentrating on hours and not activity at this point.
County Administrator Hammond reported that a Budget Committee meeting with the
Constitutional Officers is scheduled on May 7, 2020 at 9:00 a.m., E.T. with Commissioner
McDaniel being the Chairman of this committee. County Administrator Hammond stated
other members of the Board can attend because it is a public meeting that will be noticed
and live-streamed
County Attorney Novak reported that an email had been received from CCA (Coastal
Community Association) President Pat Hardman requesting consideration for local
citizens limited use of the beach for walking, exercising, and fishing. County Attorney
Novak having read the email, noting the Board would not be taking action on this today.
4849
County Attorney Novak stated for the record that the all members of the Board are present
at today's meeting, but due to social distancing, Commissioners Rich and Rogers are
sitting in areas that are out of view of the front camera
Commissioner McDaniel discussed his concerns regarding County Road 386 and Doc
Whitfield Road (County Road 387); suggesting the Board strongly consider looking at
another engineering firm besides Dewberry. He stated this is no reflection of County
Engineer Smallwood. Commissioner McCroan commended County Engineer Smallwood
for the work he has done for Gulf County. Chairman Quinn echoed that of members of
the Board. County Administrator Hammond offered to reach out to the big boss (of
Dewberry); discussing his concerns regarding County Road 386 (Overstreet Road) and
the lack of help since the company (Preble-Rish, Inc.) sold (to Dewberry). Commissioner
McDaniel stated to send them (Dewberry) a letter that they are on notice.
County Administrator Hammond discussed Assistant Administrator Yeager working with
other Counties and Triumph members to get some money from Triumph; stating that staff
would like to present a plan to the Board in the event this money comes though, a portion
of that money as a grant program for Gulf County businesses that have two (2) or more
employees. Commissioner McCroan and Chairman Quinn stated that this is a good idea
County Administrator Hammond stated that Assistant Administrator Yeager will continue
working on this project and bring a report back before the Board
There being no further business, and upon motion by Commissioner McCroan, second
by Commissioner Rogers, and unanimous vote, the meeting did then adjourn at 9:47 a.m.,
ET.
SANDY QUINN, JR.
CHAIRMAN
ATTEST:
REBECCA L. NORRIS
CLERK OF COURT
4950
APRIL 28, 2020
REGULAR MEETING
PORT ST. JOE, FLORIDA
The Gulf County Board of County Commissioners met this date in regular session with
the following members present: Chairman Sandy Quinn, Jr., Vice Chairman Jimmy
Rogers, and Commissioners David C. Rich, Ward McDaniel, and Phil McCroan
Others present: County Attorney Jeremy Novak, Clerk Rebecca L. Norris, Deputy Clerk
Leanna Roberts, County Administrator Michael L. Hammond, County Assistant
Administrator Warren Yeager, Jr., Deputy Administrator Kari Summers, Gulf County
E.D.C. Director Jim McKnight, Dewberry/County Engineer Clay Smallwood, I!!, Grant
Administrator Kaci Rhodes, Office of Management & Budget Director Sherry Herring,
Public Works Director Mark Cothran, Assistant Public Works Director Raymond Hart, and
Sheriff Mike Harrison.
Sheriff Harrison called the meeting to order at 9:05 a.m., E.T.
Chairman Quinn opened the meeting with prayer, and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to
the Flag,
STAFF DEPARTMENT REPORTS
County Attorney Novak discussed the opening of bids at today's meeting; reporting that
the data will be provided to the Board after all bids are opened. Clerk Norris stated the
following bids will be opened today: 1. Bid #1920-24 * Resurfacing of Pineda Street; 2.
Bid #1920-26 * Install Generators; 3. Bid #1920-27 * Replace Guardrail on County Road
387 (Doc Whitfield Road); and 4. Bid #1920-28 * CEI Services for County Road 386
(Overstreet Road) and Pineda Street. Upon inquiry by Commissioner McDaniel regarding
timeliness or discrepancies, Clerk Norris reported that all bids were received on time and
in order.
County Attorney Novak requested a motion of the Board to extend, for an additional seven
(7) days, the Local State of Emergency due to COVID-19 . Commissioner McDaniel so moved for the seven (7) day extension,
Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment
or emails. There being none, the motion passed unanimously.
County Attorney Novak presented Local State of Emergency Extension #1 regarding the
Gulf County Courthouse Waterline Rupture and Flooding Event for the Board to consider
. Commissioner Rogers so moved.
Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for any emails
from the public regarding the extension of the Courthouse. There being none, the motion
passed unanimously. Assistant Public Works Director Hart appeared before the Board to
5051
provide an update regarding the repairs to the Courthouse due to the waterline rupture
Commissioner McDaniel inquired whether all the plumbing had been addressed
Assistant Public Works Director Hart reported that it had not as of yet; stating he would
like to shut the water off tomorrow, if this does not put the County Jail in a bind, and finish
working on the plumbing. County Administrator Hammond stated that things should be
ready to go by Monday (opening the Courthouse to limited public access)
County Administrator Hammond requested the Board pause due to receiving reports of a
problem with the meeting's live-steam (video).
Chairman Quinn then recess the meeting at 9:15 a.m., ET.
Chairman Quinn reconvened the meeting at 9:16 a.m., E.T.
Chairman Quinn reported for those having difficulties with the live-stream, they will need
to refresh the browser.
COMMISSIONER BOARD BUSINESS
Commissioner Rich discussed the minor flooding in District |; reporting the river should
be on the decrease as of today.
ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATE & REPORT
County Administrator Hammond presented a proposed budget amendment #1 for the
Board to consider . Chairman Quinn called for
a motion. Commissioner McCroan so moved. Commissioner McDanie! seconded the
motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being none, the
motion passed unanimously, as follows:
Budget Amendment #4
General Fund
Current Increase/ Amended
Budget Decrease) Budget
Expenditures:
Supervisor of Elections
00151900 564000 Machinery & Equipment 7,500 (7,500) 0
00151900 591000 Superv of Election-Oper 330,889 28,817 359,706
Veterans Services
(00185300 512000 Regular Salaries & Wages 40,490 (19.517) 20,973
00155300 521000 FICA Taxes (SS Mtch) 2,515 (600) 1,915
00155300 522000 Retirement Contr 3,395 (600) 2,795
00155300 523000 Life & Health Ins 3,980 (600) 3,380
This Budget Amendment duly approved and adopted by the Gulf County Board of County
Commissioners at their regular meeting on the 28" day of April, 2020.
(End)
5152
County Administrator Hammond presented and recommended Board approval of an
extension to an Interlocal Agreement with Jackson County with Emergency Management
, Commissioner Rich so moved. Commissioner
Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There
being none, the motion passed unanimously
County Administrator Hammond presented a request to accept an amendment from DEO
(Florida Department of Economic Opportunity), DLO14 for the remaining infrastructure money from the Legislature (State grant money
from Hurricane Michael); reporting it will be spent on paving the loop at Salina’s Park
Bayside, and generators for the two (2) fire departments and two the (2) radio
(communication) towers. After discussion, Commissioner McCroan made the motion.
Commissioner McDaniel seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public
comment or emails. There being none, the motion passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond presented a request for funds from the Gulf County
Sheriff from the Crime Prevention Trust Fund, in the amount of $150.00 ; recommending Board approval. Commissioner McDaniel so
moved, Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public
comment or emails. There being none, the motion passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond presented and recommended approval of a request from
St, Joseph Bay (Country Club) Golf Club Director Jordon Amold to purchase irrigation
equipment with Jerry Pate (Turf and Irrigation); stating this is a sixty (60) month lease with
a purchase option at the end. Upon inquiry by Commissioner McCroan, Assistant
Administrator Yeager appeared before the Board to report that the request says irrigation
equipment, but this particular equipment is what the Board already approved to purchase.
He stated the equipment is mostly lawnmowers and equipment for the upkeep (of the
grounds); noting the lease purchase is through is a company that does this a lot with
Public entities. He stated that because of COVID-19 and Hurricane Michael the company
let the County pay a litle bit of interest and deferred payment until January 1, 2021 . Chairman Quinn called for a motion.
Commissioner McCroan so moved. Commissioner Rich seconded the motion. Chairman
Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being none, the motion passed
unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond presented a memorandum recommending the Board not replace the Butler Bay Bridge that washed
out during the Hurricane (Michael); stating it is time to decide whether to replace the
bridge or move the money to another project. Upon inquiry by Chairman Quinn regarding
the plan should the County not replace it, County Administrator Hammond stated that it
is currently blocked off; explaining there is one (1) piece of property on the other side that
was of issue prior to the market bust. He reported the State has the right-of-way when
that road (Butler Bay Road) cuts off that may allow some public access but there is no
access past the bridge. County Administrator Hammond stated there is no real benefit to
the County or the public to spend a milion dollars ($1,000,000.00) to replace the bridge.
5253
Commissioner McCroan stated he is not in favor of giving away this road, but at any point
in time the County can do something regarding public access then he would like to look
at that. County Administrator Hammond stated that the County not replacing the bridge
does not mean they are giving the road away; reporting the County's right-of-way is not
very far from the foot of the bridge on the Bay side. Commissioner Rogers stated there is
not access all the way down to the Bay as originally thought. He stated the County owns
only the right-of-way, not on down to the water; reporting that is private property after
crossing over the bridge and fixing the road will not give public access to the Bay. Upon
inquiry from Commissioner McDaniel regarding property owners’ access and concems
over being land-locked, County Administrator Hammond stated it will be the property
owner's responsibility to gain access to their property. After discussion by County
Administrator Hammond regarding the lay-out of the parcels, Chairman Quinn called for
a motion to consider not replacing the Butler Bay Bridge at this time. Commissioner
McDaniel motioned not to replace. Commissioner Rich seconded the motion. Chairman
Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being none, the motion passed
unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond presented a request to approve the Department of Revenue Child Support Program Agreement
(Service of Process), CSU23; recommending Board approval, contingent upon County
Attorney review. Commissioner McCroan so moved. Commissioner Rich seconded the
motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being none, the
motion passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond presented a request to advertise to receive sealed bids
for the sale of the 10" Street and Marvin Avenue property (1002 Marvin Avenue, Port St.
Joe); recommending a minimum bid of $60,000.00 . Upon inquiry by Commissioner McDaniel, County Administrator Hammond
confirmed that itis two (2) lots and the minimum bid of $60,000.00 would be for both lots;
reporting the funds will go back into the fund that it was originally paid from (T.D.C. Fund)
Chairman Quinn called for a motion to move forward with this. Commissioner Rogers so
moved. Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion for discussion. After discussion,
Commissioner McCroan stated his second stands. Chairman Quinn called for public
comment or emails. There being none, the motion passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond discussed concerns regarding the County losing their
QLM (Quality Labor Management) staff as of tomorrow due to a problem with the money.
Public Works Director Cothran appeared before the Board to discuss the funding from the
Federal and State levels; stating originally there were concerns that the forty plus (40+)
employees the County currently has would be laid off or furloughed tomorrow until the
funds can be worked out. He stated that after further discussions the funds have been
worked out for a short period of time, a month or six (6) weeks. Public Works Director
Cothran discussed working with Kim Bodine (CareerSource Gulf Coast) to obtain an
agreement between the local Workforce Development Board and DEO (Department
Economic Opportunity); requesting approval to work with County Attorney Novak. County
Administrator Hammond requested the Board to approve sending a letter to Secretary
5354
Scallion requesting they continue the program. Chairman Quinn stated these QLM
workers have been a blessing to our community and he is in support of sending a letter
to continue the program. Following discussion by Commissioner Rogers in support of this
program, Chairman Quinn called for a motion. Commissioner Rogers so moved
Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public
comment or emails. There being none, the motion passed unanimously. County
Administrator Hammond stated there is a potential problem with DEO (Department of
Economic Opportunity) trying to take back the authority over the County's contract. Public
Works Director Cothran stated the agreement between DEO and the Workforce
Development is one sided, it's all for
the DEO and restricts a lot of what the local (component) can do. He reported other
Counties are commenting and weighing in regarding home rule and having a say-so as it
relates to employees. County Administrator Hammond suggested the Board allow County
Attorney Novak to review this agreement and strike-through some of the language in the
contract. He also suggested sending a letter, and to meet with Senator Montford and
Representative Shoaf on this. After discussing other concerns with DEO, County
Administrator Hammond expressed the need to speak to the Governor's Office, through
the help of the County's Representatives, to address top-to-bottom problems with DEO.
County Administrator Hammond stated the Board needs to respond, through the County
Attorney, on these regulations and strike-through with this contract, but going forward,
need to meet with the County's Delegation to discuss DEO (Department of Economic
Opportunity). Chairman Quinn called for a motion to move forward. Commissioner
McDaniel so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called
for public comment or emails. There being none, the motion passed unanimously.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING
Grant Administrator Rhodes read aloud the bids that were opened at today’s meeting, as.
follows: Bid #1920-24 for the Resurfacing Pineda Street; 1. C. W, Roberts Contracting,
Inc., in the amount of $213,177.99; 2. American Sand and Asphalt Paving, in the amount
of $246,741.90; 3. Gulf Coast Utility Contractors, in the amount of $185,395.35; 4. GAC.
Contractors, Inc., in the amount of $185,000.00; 5. Roberts and Roberts, inc., in the
amount of $195,835.31; and 6. Pigott Asphalt and Sitework, LLC, in the amount of
$239,527.00. County Administrator Hammond requested the Board table these (bids);
recommending the Board hold a special meeting on Thursday to allow County Engineer
Smallwood time to review them. Chairman Quinn entertained a motion to table.
Commissioner McDaniel motioned to table. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion
Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails, There being none, the motion
passed unanimously.
Grant Administrator Rhodes read aloud the bids received for Bid #1920-26 for the
installation of generators, as follows: 1. Kenny Strange Electric and Services Co., Inc.
(sole bidder), in the amount of $26,046.00. County Administrator Hammond
recommended to the Board to table until Thursday; reporting a recommendation will be
presented to the Board for the purchase generator bid (#1920-25) that was opened
yesterday. Commissioner McDaniel so moved. Commissioner McCroan seconded the
5455
motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being none, the
motion passed unanimously
Grant Administrator Rhodes then reported that no bids were received for Bid #1920-27
for the guardrail replacement on County Road 387 (Doc Whitfield Road). County
Administrator Hammond requested the Board declare this as an emergency; allowing the
County to accept the lowest and best quote in order to get this done; noting this to be the
Deep Slough Bridge. He reported that the person's insurance that had the wreck is paying
up to $50,000.00 for the repair on this project. Public Works Director Cothran appeared
before the Board to state that people did come and pick up bids, but he’s not sure why no
bids were received; discussing his concerns on getting this project completed in a timely
manner. After discussion, County Attorney Novak stated the motion would be to suspend
the County's Procurement Policy with the County Administrator's recommendation,
declaring it an emergency and public health and safety issue; giving the County the
authority to secure quotes to purchase and install this guardrail. Chairman Quinn called
for the motion. Commissioner Rich so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the
motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being none, the
motion passed unanimously.
Grant Administrator Rhodes reported there was a sole-bidder for the Request for
Qualifications (RFQ), Bid #1920-28 for the CEI (Construction Engineering and Inspection)
Services for County Road 386 (Overstreet Road) and Pineda Street; being Southeastern
Consulting Engineers, Inc. County Administrator Hammond recommended the Board
table until Thursday; stating sometimes D.O.T. (Department of Transportation) requires
three (3) bidders. He reported that before Thursday's meeting, staff will get permission or
denial from D.O.T. regarding this bid; requesting to add to the motion that in the event
D.O.T. will not accept one (1) bidder, then the County will need to rebid. County
‘Administrator Hammond recommended the Board table and if D.0.T. does not accept this
bid, then give staff the authority to rebid. Commissioner McDaniel so moved.
Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment
or emails. There being none, the motion passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond reported that the County Attorney has emails to
discuss/read that came in between the last meeting and today. County Attorney Novak
discussed policy regarding the public identifying who they are and their address; stating
that once the sender identifies who they are, staff will receive them as public comment
and will read them into the record. He noted that when someone does not identify who
they are they are not compliant with the County's Speaking Ordinance (#2013-07) and,
therefore it will not be read into the record. County Attorney Novak encouraged the public
to put their name and address on those comments so that they can be read into the
record, He then read emails from the public, as follows: Bill Boyette, of Cape San Blas
asked for clarity on the opening and use of
the Indian Pass boat ramp. Lydia Burns, of Chicago commended the Commission on their response to the COVID-19
pandemic and offered suggestions regarding safely opening for economic purposes.
Ryan Keterman inquired about parks
5556
and whether they are open for use, specifically Salinas Park. Kenny Moore requested the Board consider extending the time
to 9:00 p.m. that one can be on the beaches in the evening. Bob and Mary Amann, of
South Cape asking when they can return to
their Cape home from their Colorado home, where they spend the winter. Jenny Richie
regarding more testing and concerns over
some stores not following the CDC guidelines. County Attorney Novak reported two
emails were received anonymously, which were not read aloud. Regarding some of the
questions in the emails, County Attorney Novak stated he would respond on behaif of the
Board as the County Attorney.
STAFF DEPARTMENT REPORTS
E.D.C. Director McKnight appeared before the Board to provide an update regarding
economic development within Gulf County. Commissioner McCroan inquired about the
Skyborne Project. E.D.C. Director McKnight stated the grants are moving forward on this
project. He reported that he is currently working on a complete business list for Gulf
County. Commissioner McDaniel discussed the municipalities requiring an occupational
license; stating the County needs to look at this as a way to know what is going on within
the County. Following discussion, Commissioner McCroan discussed going to the Florida
Business and Professional Regulations for a list of businesses within the County. County
Administrator Hammond discussed reaching out to our representatives on the Triumph
board; stating it is imperative that they move forward giving Gulf County the 4% (four
percent). He recommended it be split between the School Board and the Municipalities,
setting up a fund to rebate the taxes for local business that employee two (2) or more
people with a minimum and maximum of $2,500.00.
ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATE & REPORT
County Administrator Hammond reported that various State agencies are fighting to get
the CARES Act clarified; stating that as it is now none of the Federal bailout money will
be flowing in Northwest Florida, as none of the County's or Cities are eligible for direct
payment.
County Administrator Hammond requested that the Board cancel a special meeting that
was scheduled for May 5, 2020
Clerk Norris discussed the CARES Act; stating if a local County (or City) that has a
population less than 500,000 is to get any consideration for funding they must apply
through the State of Florida who gets the (approximate) eight (8) billion; noting the
process for applying is unknown at this time.
Upon inquiry by Commissioner McCroan regarding the next Triumph meeting, County
‘Administrator Hammond stated that it will be held as a virtual meeting on Thursday.
County Administrator Hammond discussed the meeting for May 5, 2020 that was set for
the purpose of opening the County Road 386 (Overstreet Road) bid; noting the bid
deadline has been extended. He requested the Board to cancel the May 5, 2020 special
5657
meeting and call a special meeting for May 21, 2020 to open this bid. Commissioner
McDaniel motioned to cancel the May 5, 2020 meeting as recommended and call a
special meeting on May 21, 2020 at 9:00 a.m., E.T, Commissioner Rogers seconded the
motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being none, the
motion passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond recommended the Board hold a special meeting
Thursday, April 30, 2020; reporting that the beach closure ends on April 30, 2020 and the
Board will need to address boat ramps and other things of that nature. He stated the
Courthouse and County facilities are in line to open with limited access on May 4, 2020
After discussion regarding a set time, Commissioner McDaniel motioned to hold a special
meeting on Thursday, April 30, 2020 at 4:00 p.m., E.T. Commissioner McCroan seconded
the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being none, the
motion passed unanimously
County Engineer Smallwood appeared before the Board to report that there is a
mandatory pre-bid meeting tomorrow at the Dewberry Office at 10:00 a.m., E.T. for the
(County Road 386/Overstreet Road * Bid #1920-29)
County Administrator Hammond presented Clay Smallwood, Ill as the new County
employee, taking the position of in-house County engineer starting on June 1, 2020.
Members of the Board welcomed Mr. Smallwood.
Sherriff Harrison appeared before the Board to request permission from the Board to
allow the Second Harvest Food Bank to use the Honeyville Park to distribute food; noting
previous sites have caused traffic problems. After discussion, County Administrator
Hammond discussed his concerns regarding traffic backing up on State Highway 71 if
this site is used. Sheriff Harrison stated that the food distribution will be held on Saturday,
May 9, 2020. Commissioner Rich stated a one-time use would be great, but discussed
his concerns regarding their continued use of the facility that could possibly impede the
use of the park and community center for special events once things start opening back
up; recommending the use of the high school parking area. Sheriff Harrison stated that
once the School Board completes the roofing project, this could be an area to use for
future distributions; requesting Honeyville be used this one time. Members of the Board
had no objections for the one time use. Chairman Quinn directed County Administrator
Hammond to make it happen.
5758
There being no further business, and upon a motion by Commissioner McDaniel, second
by Commissioner McCroan, and unanimous vote, the meeting did then adjourn at 10:18
am,, ET.
SANDY QUINN, JR.
CHAIRMAN
ATTEST:
REBECCA L. NORRIS
CLERK OF COURT
5859
APRIL 30, 2020
SPECIAL MEETING
PORT ST. JOE, FLORIDA
The Gulf County Board of County Commissioners met this date in special session with
the following members present: Chairman Sandy Quinn, Jr., Vice Chairman Jimmy
Rogers, and Commissioners David C. Rich, Ward McDaniel, and Phil McCroan
Others present were: County Attorney Jeremy Novak, Clerk Rebecca L. Norris, Deputy
Clerk Leanna Roberts, County Administrator Michael L. Hammond, County Assistant
Administrator Warren Yeager, Jr., Deputy Administrator Kari Summers, Gulf County
E.D.C. Director Jim McKnight, Dewberry/County Engineer Clay Smallwood, ill, Public
Works Director Mark Cothran, Assistant Public Works Director Raymond Hart, and Sheriff
Mike Harrison.
Sheriff Harrison called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m., E.T.
Chairman Quinn opened the meeting with prayer and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to
the Flag
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS & BID AWARDS
BID #1920-24 — RESURFACING PINEDA STREET
County Engineer Smallwood appeared before the Board with a recommendation to award
Bid #1920-24 for the resurfacing of Pineda Street to the lowest, responsive bidder, GAC
Contractors, Inc., in the amount of $185,000.00; reporting that D.O.T. (Department of
Transportation) reviewed these (bids) and concur with the award. Chairman Quinn called
for a motion. Commissioner Rogers so moved. Commissioner Rich seconded the motion.
Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being none, the motion
passed unanimously.
BID #1920-28 - CEI SERVICES FOR COUNTY ROAD 386 & PINEDA STREET
County Administrator Hammond reported that D.O.T. (Department of Transportation) will
require the County to have three responsive bids; therefore, staff will readvertise this bid.
BID #1920-25 - PURCHASE GENERATORS.
Public Works Director Cothran appeared before the Board with a recommendation to
award Bid #1920-25 for the purchase of (4) four generators to Kenny Strange Electric and
Services Co., Inc., in the amount of $69,954.00. Chairman Quinn called for a motion.
Commissioner McDaniel so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. County
‘Administrator Hammond reported that this is not the low bid, but itis the most responsive,
best bid. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being none, the
motion passed unanimously.
5960
BID #1920-26 ~ INSTALLATION OF GENERATORS
Public Works Director Cothran recommended to award Bid #1920-26 for the installation
of four (4) generators to Kenny Strange Electric and Services Co., Inc., in the amount of
$26,046.00 (sole-bidder). Chairman Quinn called for a motion. Commissioner McDaniel
so moved. Commissioner Rich seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public
comment or emails. There being none, the motion passed unanimously
ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATE & REPORT
Public Works Director Cothran requested the Board allow the Chairman to sign an
amendment to the Small County Solid Waste
Management Grant (Change Order #1 * SC012). Chairman Quinn calling for a motion,
Commissioner McCroan so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion
Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being none, the motion
passed unanimously.
COVID-19 EMERGENCY DECLARATION & RESPONSE
County Attorney Novak discussed the Governor's comments last night and the
implementation of Phase | of the new plan; requesting the Board provide for an extension
of the Emergency Delectation . Chairman
Quinn called for a motion to extend for seven (7) days. Commissioner McCroan stated
that he just received a message that there is no live-streaming.
Chairman Quinn then recessed the meeting at 4:07 p.m., E.T.
Chairman Quinn reconvened the meeting at 4:07 p.m., E.T.
Chairman Quinn encouraged those watching to refresh their browser if they have issues
with the live-stream.
Chairman Quinn called for a motion to extend for seven (7) days (COVID-19 Emergency
Declaration & Response). Commissioner McCroan so moved. Commissioner Rogers
seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being
none, the motion passed unanimously.
Upon inquiry by Chairman Quinn, County Attorney Novak reported that the Board closed
the beaches through April 30, 2020; noting the Emergency (Declaration) Order (20-01)
will expire today at midnight unless the Board takes further action. Chairman Quinn
inquired whether members of the Board had any questions or concerns with the beach
(closure order) expiring tonight at midnight. No member of the Board had any questions
or comments regarding this matter. Chairman Quinn stated that there being no objections,
the Board will let it expire
Commissioner McDaniel and County Administrator Hammond discussed the beaches
going back to normal with no restrictions; reporting that all beaches, except Eglin Beach,
is open 24/7 (twenty-four hours/seven days a week). Chairman Quinn reminded the public
of the CDC guideline restrictions that are stil in place; stating there are no time or activity61
restrictions on the beaches. County Administrator Hammond discussed the beaches
opening back up under the normal restrictions, as with removal of the burn ban; reporting
that a beach driving permit is still required to drive on the beaches, in designated areas
and everyone still has to follow the rules on Eglin Beach with pets and follow the normal
rules. Sheriff Harrison reported that turtle season opens tomorrow. Upon inquiry by
Commissioner Rogers regarding whether the State Park is open, Sheriff Harrison
reported that they (State Park) are still closed. County Administrator Hammond reported
the State Park is still under construction and is currently closed
County Administrator Hammond requested a vote of the Board if they planned to drop the
ban or restrictions on the boat ramps. Chairman Quinn called for discussion from
members of the Board regarding the boat ramps. Chairman Quinn discussed concerns
regarding the opening of the boat ramps without restrictions; stating he prefers to keep it
as is (open to locals or residents only) until the Governor (DeSantis) allows the ban on
vacation rentals to expire, Commissioner McCroan discussed his concerns with restricting
out-of-state property owners that are already here access to the boat ramps.
Commissioner Rogers asked for the Sheriff's input, as he will be the one enforcing it.
Sheriff Harrison stated his office will continue to enforce whatever the Board wishes;
discussing the possibilty of lighting it up some to allow Florida residents or property
owners. Commissioner McDaniel discussed the pros and cons of opening the boat ramps
back up. From the legal side, County Attorney Novak discussed the Emergency
Declarations and Ordinances issued by the County to close the beaches and restrict
access to the boat ramps; drawing the Board back to the foundation on which they made
the decision, the practical application, the narrowly tailored restrictions, and the fairness
and the demand. He reported that when considering whether to allow out-of-State or out-
of-the-area visitors, without the demand or when the public health and safety risk are not
there, and the travel restrictions (set by the State) are still in place, the Board is still
fuffiling that need to protect citizens. County Administrator Hammond discussed the use
of the boat ramp; stating the Board needs to either enforce what is in place, drop the
restriction, or make it more lax to just Florida residents only. He requested direction from
the Board regarding this matter. Commissioner Rich stated that he is in support of
dropping the restriction and eliminate the need for enforcement; encouraging the public
to follow the rules, have some personal responsibility, and follow the CDC guidelines.
Commissioner McCroan discussed lifting the restriction and see how things go this
weekend; stating the Board can readdress it, if needed. He then made that a motion
Chairman Quinn clarified the motion is to lift the boat restrictions. Commissioner Rich
seconded the motion. Following discussion and inquiry by County Administrator
Hammond regarding the effective date, Commissioner McCroan had no objections to the
effective date being tomorrow. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails.
County Attorney Novak read two (2) emails from Becky Babcock, of Port St. Joe regarding property owners use of
boat ramps; requesting the Board allow access to all public facilities for residents and
property owners. Commissioner McCroan reiterated that whether a renter or not, anyone
coming from out-of-state must quarantine for 14 (fourteen) days, per (Executive order)
the Governor. Chairman Quinn called for any additional emails. There being none, the
motion passed unanimously.
6162
ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATE & REPORT
Assistant County Administrator Yeager appeared before the Board to present two (2)
agreements with MRD Associates; the first
being for the Sea Turtle and Escarpment Monitoring (2020-8.1), for a total of $44,800.00
for the year. He reported that this will be paid at 38% (thirty-eight percent) by the State
with the County paying the other 62% (sixty-two percent). Following discussion,
Commissioner McDaniel so moved to approve. Commissioner McCroan seconded the
motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being none, the
motion passed unanimously.
Assistant County Administrator Yeager stated the second agreement (with MRD
Associates) is 2020-8.2 for the Shorebird Monitoring Services, in the amount of $8,500.00
with the County share being $5,270.00; to be paid from T.D.C. . Chairman Quinn called for a motion. Commissioner McDaniel so
moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public
comment or emails. There being none, the motion passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond reported that the State of Florida is the entity, the
Governor in particular, that set the short-term rental ban; noting it has been extended by
Executive Order #20-111 through May 4, 2020 with indications that it may be extended
again through the middle of the month (May, 2020). He stated that a lot of people are
reporting those who are cheating or non-compliant and those complaints are being
passed on to D.B.P.R. (Department of Business and Professional Regulations); reporting
that it is illegal, by the Order of the Governor of the State of Florida, to do short-term
rentals anywhere in the State of Florida until May 4, 2020 and will most likely be extended
through the middle of the month.
County Administrator Hammond reported that the Triumph board did not take up the
County's request; stating this Board needs to continue forward with the eight (8) Counties
as planned to meet and to discuss this further. He discussed the need for Triumph to
release the Counties money now; stating each of the Counties have been promised
around $65 million over a period of time and the need to get that money into communities
is now. Upon inquiry by Commissioner McCroan, County Administrator Hammond
explained how the allocation of money over time was scheduled. E.D.C. Director
McKnight appeared before the Board to report that the College's Military Boot Camp
Unmanned Systems was given final approval by the Triumph board today, and the
Emergency Response System (a $5 million Triumph commitment) was given a
conceptual approval today, but the terms will need to be worked out
County Administrator Hammond reported the Courthouse will tentatively re-open on
Monday (May 4, 2020); stating that not all the offices may not be fully accessible. Clerk
Norris appeared before the Board to discuss the renovations to the Courthouse due to
the waterline rupture; reporting there will be limited access and social distancing, allowing
one person (customer) per office, except for the Tax Collector's Office who will be
accepting two or three. Upon inquiry by Commissioner McCroan regarding installation of
the shields, Commissioner McDaniel stated they are in place in the Property Appraiser’s
6263
and Tax Collector's Offices. Assistant Public Works Director Hart stated (from the
audience) that sixteen (16) shields have been installed
County Administrator Hammond reported that the first Budget Committee meeting is
scheduled for May 7, 2020 at 9:00 a.m., E.T. and will be held in the Board Room; stating
that members of the Board are not required to attend but are invited.
County Administrator Hammond stated that a few emails have come in the interim that
County Attorney Novak will need to read. County Attorney Novak then read the emails.
Jim White, of Port St. Joe commending the
Board for their action and good work related to COVID-19. Bruce Kushe offered suggestions for improvement as a result of
technology limitations that have hindered the publics ability to clearly hear and understand
the live-stream meetings. Skip Icoff
addressed the short term rental ban and requested a 50% reduction in property taxes due
to the general mismanagement of the current situation. County Attomey Novak addressed
the Board regarding the rental ban; stating it is an Executive Order of Governor DeSantis
(not Gulf County) and pursuant to his Order itis (1) illegal for anyone to check people in
and, (2) the D.B.P.R. (Department of Business and Professional Regulation) shall revoke
the vacation rental license of any party that violates this Order
Sheriff Harrison called for a clarification of an effective date and time on the opening of
the beaches and the opening of the boat ramps. Chairman Quinn stated the (access
restrictions) beaches expires tonight. The beaches and boat ramps will open on May 1,
2020
Chairman Quinn discussed his concerns regarding the email pertaining to the ban on
rentals; stating the County is following direction from the (U.S.) President on down to the
(FL) Governor in doing their best to keep people safe. County Attorney Novak discussed
the recent approved Public Meeting Procedure Policy; stating the County will continue to
work toward the terms of live-streaming, Notices, and making information as accessible
as possible to the public. Commissioner McCroan stated this Board stands behind the
decisions it's made to protect the health and safety of the people.
After discussion by members of the Board, County Administrator Hammond expressed
concern regarding the struggles of small business owners; stating that had visitors been
allowed into Gulf County, there would have been an even greater lack of supplies to
support the local residents. Members of the Board additionally discussed the lack of
supplies in the grocery stores within the County (during the COVID-19 pandemic)
Commissioner McDaniel discussed his concerns regarding the Triumph board in
releasing Gulf County's money.
6364
There being no further business, and upon motion by Commissioner McDaniel, second
by Commissioner McCroan, and unanimous vote, the meeting did then adjourn at 4:50
pm. ET.
‘SANDY QUINN, JR.
CHAIRMAN
ATTEST:
REBECCA L. NORRIS
CLERK OF COURT
6465
MAY 12, 2020
EMERGENCY MEETING
PORT ST. JOE, FLORIDA
The Gulf County Board of County Commissioners met this date in an emergency session
with the following members present: Chairman Sandy Quinn, Jr., Vice Chairman Jimmy
Rogers, and Commissioners Ward McDaniel, and Phil McCroan. Commissioner David C
Rich was present via telephonic.
Others present were: Deputy Clerk Leanna Roberts, County Administrator Michael L.
Hammond, Deputy Administrator Kari Summers, Emergency Management Director
Marshall Nelson, Office of Management & Budget Director Sherry Herring, Public Works
Director Mark Cothran, Assistant Public Works Director Raymond Hart, and Sheriff Mike
Harrison
Chairman Quinn called the meeting to order at 10:00 a.m., E.T.
Chairman Quinn led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
BURN BAN
County Administrator Hammond proposed an emergency order regarding a County-wide burn ban; reading the highlights of the ban
for the Board to consider. He stated that once approved it will be effective immediately.
Commissioner Rogers reported that the Division of Forestry said the County needs ten
inches (10") of rain to be safe. County Administrator Hammond reported that
Commissioner Rich is present today via telephone. Chairman Quinn called for a motion.
Commissioner McCroan so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion.
Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being none, the motion passed
unanimously.
There being no further business, and upon motion by Commissioner McDaniel, second
by Commissioner Rogers, and unanimous vote, the meeting did then adjourn at 10:04
am.,E.T.
SANDY QUINN, JR.
CHAIRMAN
ATTEST:
REBECCA L. NORRIS
CLERK OF COURT
65MAY 21, 2020
SPECIAL MEETING
PORT ST. JOE, FLORIDA
The Gulf County Board of County Commissioners met this date in special session with
the following members present: Chairman Sandy Quinn, Jr., Vice Chairman Jimmy
Rogers, and Commissioners David C. Rich, Ward McDaniel, and Phil McCroan.
Others present were: Clerk Rebecca L. Norris, Clerk Director of Finance & Management
Rhonda Woodward, Deputy Clerk Leanna Roberts, County Administrator Michael L.
Hammond, County Assistant Administrator Warren Yeager, Jr., Deputy Administrator Kari
Summers, Emergency Management Director Marshall Nelson, Dewberry/County
Engineer Clay Smallwood, Ili, Grant Administrator Kaci Rhodes, Office of Management
& Budget Director Sherry Herring, Public Works Director Mark Cothran, Assistant Public
Works Director Raymond Hart, and Sheriff Mike Harrison.
Sheriff Harrison called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m., E.T.
Chairman Quinn opened the meeting with prayer and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to
the Flag
COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE
County Administrator Hammond requested the Board extend the Local State of
Emergency for seven (7) days (due to
COVID-19). Commissioner McDaniel so moved. Commissioner McCroan seconded the
motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment. There being no public comment, the
motion passed unanimously.
OPENING BID #1920-29 ~ RESURFACING COUNTY ROAD 386
Deputy Clerk Roberts opened sealed bids for Bid #1920-29 for the resurfacing and
widening of County Road 386 (Overstreet Road), as Grant Administrator Rhodes read
aloud the prospective bids: 1. C. W. Roberts Contracting, Inc., in the amount of
$9,893,420.74; 2. Roberts and Roberts, Inc., in the amount of $9,528,539.43 and; 3. GAC
Contractors, Inc., in the amount of $9,292,786.51. County Administrator Hammond
requested to table these bids for staff review and bring back a recommendation at the
Tuesday (May 26, 2020) meeting. Chairman Quinn called for a motion to table.
Commissioner McCroan so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion.
Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being no public comment,
the motion passed unanimously.
6667
OPENING BID #1920-30 - CEI SERVICES / COUNTY ROAD 386 & PINEDA STREET
Deputy Clerk Roberts then opened sealed bids for Bid #1920-30 for CEI (Construction,
Engineering and Inspection) Services for County Road 386 (Overstreet Road) and Pineda
Street; reporting that these bids are a Request for Qualifications, therefore no dollar
amount will be given, as follows: 1. Southeastern Consulting Engineers, Inc. and; 2
DRMP. County Administrator Hammond requested the Board table this bid and staff will
bring a recommendation at the next meeting. He stated a request will be made to D.O.T.
(Department of Transportation) to waive the three (3) bidder minimum requirement, noting
this is the County's second time advertising this service. Chairman Quinn called for a
motion to table. Commissioner McDaniel so moved. Commissioner Rich seconded the
motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment and emails. There being none, the
motion passed unanimously.
ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATE & REPORT
County Administrator Hammond recommended the Board raise the Administrator's ability
to sign agreements for professional services and other contracts, up to $200,000.00.
Commissioner Rich so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman
Quinn called for public comment. Clerk Norris inquired whether the $200,000.00 would
be for both contracts and agreements, following the proper bidding process. County
Administrator Hammond stated that only if a bid is required; noting right now he can
choose professional services contracts with the advice of the Board, without advertising
He discussed placing a letter in the upcoming Consent Agenda regarding signature
authority on contracts, explaining this request is regarding professional services. The
motion then passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond discussed submitting the (reopening short-term vacation
rentals) Plan (to the State); stating that he will be bringing recommendations before the
Board going forward due to the State giving the County the responsibility regarding the
policy and cleaning (due to COVID-19). He discussed his concerns regarding some
homeowners not paying sales tax or bed tax on short-term rentals.
Assistant County Administrator Yeager appeared before the Board to discuss the CARES
ACT money; stating that the Small County Coalition is working with the small rural
Counties on this project. He suggested that the Board may want to send a letter to the
Governor (DeSantis) requesting they disperse the prorated share with limited restrictions
‘on the money.
Assistant County Administrator Yeager discussed drafting a letter to submit to the
Triumph board, at the request of Representative Shoaf, regarding funding
Chairman Quinn thanked staff involved in getting the (reopening short-term vacation
rentals) Plan submitted,
6768
Commissioner McDaniel discussed the Small County Coalition; reporting that Gulf
County's share is $718,000.00, City of Port St. Joe is entitled $205,000.00 and City of
‘Wewahitchka §118,000.00. He stated that the County needs to reach out and get this
money and nofify the Municipalities
Upon inquiry by Chairman Quinn regarding whether Assistant County Administrator
Yeager needed a motion for the letters to the Governor and the Triumph board, Assistant
County Administrator Yeager requested approval for the Chairman to sign these two (2)
letters. Chairman Quinn called for a motion that the Board move forward with a letter to
the Governor and the Triumph board. Commissioner McDaniel so moved. Commissioner
Rich seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There
being none, the motion passed unanimously.
County Administrator Hammond reported that he will need to meet with each member of
the Board individually regarding an economic development opportunity
County Administrator Hammond reported that there is an email regarding the burn ban
Deputy Administrator Summers read the email from Pat Hardman, of Cape San Blas
requesting restricted use of fireworks and
bonfires. Commissioner McCroan stated that this falls under the burn ban. County
Administrator Hammond stated that the Order covers everything, except contained grills.
He reported that charcoal or gas grilling is allowed, any other outdoor burning of any kind,
including fireworks and bonfires on the beach are illegal
Chairman Quinn discussed sending letters to Representative Shoaf, D.B.P.R. Secretary
Beshears, and Governor DeSantis thanking them for all they have done. County
Administrator Hammond stated that staff will draft these letters and present them at
Tuesday's (May 26, 2020) meeting
There being no further business, and upon motion by Commissioner McDaniel, second
by Commissioner McCroan, and unanimous vote, the meeting did then adjourn at 9:20
am., ET.
SANDY QUINN, JR.
CHAIRMAN
ATTEST:
REBECCA L. NORRIS
CLERK OF COURTMAY 26, 2020
REGULAR MEETING
PORT ST. JOE, FLORIDA
The Gulf County Board of County Commissioner met this date in regular session with the
following members present: Chairman Sandy Quinn, Jr., Vice Chairman Jimmy Rogers,
and Commissioners David C. Rich, Ward McDaniel, and Phil McCroan,
Others present were: County Attorney Jeremy Novak, Clerk Rebecca L. Norris, Deputy
Clerk Leanna Roberts, County Administrator Michael L. Hammond, County Assistant
Administrator Warren Yeager, Jr., Deputy Administrator Kari Summers, Building Official
Brad Bailey, Gulf County E.M.S. Director Jody Daniels, Dewberry/County Engineer Clay
Smallwood, Ill, Grant Administrator Kaci Rhodes, Office of Management & Budget
Director Sherry Herring, County Planner Lee Collinsworth, Public Works Director Mark
Cothran, Assistant Public Works Director Raymond Hart, Sheriff Mike Harrison, T.D.C.
Executive Director Kelli Godwin, and Veterans’ Service Office Director & S.H.1.P. Director
Joe Paul.
Sheriff Harrison called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m., E.T.
Chairman Quinn opened the meeting with prayer and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to
the Flag
COVID-19 PANDEMIC — MEETING PROCEDURES
Chairman Quinn noted that Board meetings are not quite back to normal due to the
pandemic (COVID-19); advising those watching via live-stream to email any questions or
concems they might have, and they will be addressed
CONSENT AGENDA
Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails regarding the Consent Agenda.
There being none, Commissioner McDaniel so moved to accept as presented.
Commissioner Rich seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or
emails. There being none, the motion passed unanimously, as follows:
1. Approval of Checks & Warrants for February, 2020 and March, 2020 which are
incorporated herein by reference, pursuant to Chapter 136.06 F.S.
2. Agreement - Dewberry Engineers, Inc. (NRCS Disaster Recovery Engineering &
Monitoring Services * Resubmit for Hammond to sign)
— CareerSource Gulf Coast (Request for Extension to Provide Direct
Services * Local Workforce Board Development)
6970
—FL Department of Health (Operation of the Gulf County Health Department
* Year 2019-20)
3. Change Order ~ Roberts & Roberts, Inc. (#14 * 2015-16 Road Bond Project *
Bid #1516-12 * increase in the amount of $53,350.00)
4. Grant - Accept Grant Award (FL E911 Board * Spring 2020 Rural County Grant
* #20-04-11 * E911 System Maintenance & Map Maintenance * in
the amount of $37,292.99)
— Grant Agreement (FL Division of Emergency Management * Emergency
Preparedness Grant * FY2020-21 * A0115 * in the amount of
$105,808.00)
— Grant Agreement (FL Division of Emergency Management * Emergency
Management Performance Grant * FY2020-21 * G0167 * in the
amount of $54,474.00)
— Grant Agreement (FL Division of Emergency Management * Emergency
Management Performance Grant * FY2020-21 * GS0138 * COVID-
19 Supplemental * in the amount of $8,007.15)
— Grant Extension (FL Department of Transportation * Beautification Grant
for Veterans’ Memorial Beacon Hill Park * Pi#442787-1-74-01 * New
Completion Date December 30, 2020)
5. _ Inventory — Health Department PSJ (Asset Disposal * Asset #130-356 * CRA
Ellipse Light * Serial #1173 * Asset #130-157 * CRA Ellipse Light
* Serial #1174 * Asset #130-158 * CRA Ellipse Light * Serial
#1175 * Asset #130-366 * Cavitron SPS Scaler * Serial #124-
08518 * Asset #130-406 * Midmark 404 Exam Table * Serial
#AX069957130 * Asset #130-408 * Midmark 404 Exam Table *
Serial #QK012504 * Asset #130-466 * Fellows Power Shredder
* Serial #38325 * Asset #130-470 * Wallach Crysurg Gun * No
Serial # Provided * Asset #130-539 * Vital Signs Spot Monitor *
Serial #20080142 * Asset #130-597 * Welch Allyn Medical
Equipment * Serial #200907763 * Asset #130-703 * Medical
Equipment Biosonic * Serial #101222041 * Asset #130-704 *
Welch Allyn Spot Vital Pulse * Serial #201106950 * Asset #130-
705 * Vision Screener * Serial #1029601499 * Asset #130-711 *
Elipar $10 Curling Light * Serial #939112011687 * Asset #130-
715 * Arbua 650 Controller * Serial HARBUAARO004827 *
Asset #130-717 * Hewlett Packer Copier * Serial #CNGXH16070)
7071
— Health Department Wewahitchka (Asset Disposal * Asset #120-093 * Pro
Sonic 1000 * Serial #070912304F * Asset #120-130 * Host Carpet
Cleaner * Serial #46437 * Asset #120-132 * Konic Copier * Serial
#WY 1085967 * Asset #120-133 * Audio Meter * Serial #GS32187 * Asset
#120-93 * Welch Allyn * Serial #200906310)
~ Maintenance PSJ (Asset Disposal * Asset #25-187 * 2006 Calibur Trailer
VIN #1TTEF652064040036)
— Public Works (Asset Disposal * Asset #70-822 * 52" Hustler Raptor *
Serial #14044629)
- South Gulf 201C (Asset Donation to South Gulf Fire Department * 2020
CAM AM Defender HD10 Model 8LKC * VIN #3JBUBAP41KK-
000047)
~ South Gulf Fire Department (Asset Transfer to Public Works * Asset
#295-101 * 2012 Red Ford F250 Pickup * VIN #1F TBF2B69-
CEAS9088)
6. Policy - County Administrator (Chairman or County Administrator Sign Any &
All Agreements & Contracts that are approved by the Board)
—H.H.R.P, (Award to Low Bidder from within Five Certified Contractors *
Not to be Advertise in the Local Media * Bids to be Opened by the
S.H.LP.[H.H.R.P, Office together with the Building Department
and a Representative of A-1 Coastal Home Inspections * Award
to Low Bidder by Signature/Approval of County Administrator
Michael Hammond)
7. Request - BOCC Chairman (Authorization & Consent for Chairman Quinn &
Assistant County Administrator Yeager to Negotiate & Finalize
Execution of County Administrator Professional Services
Agreement, contingent to final attorney review)
— OMB (Use Remaining Grant & Aid Funds for Courthouse Facility Projects
as Approved by Chief Judge, in the amount of $9,277.45 for lighting
& ceiling upgrades)
= Mosquito Control (Receive & Apply FL Department of Health's Crisis,
CoAg & Cleanup Project Funding to Aid in Community Cleanup
Associated with Hurricane Michael * Order BEEAAB * Waive Board's
Procurement Policy for Monies Spent due to the Critical Delivery
Schedule)
7172
— Gulf County Health Department (One Time Hold Back of Board Funds, in
amount of $3,000.00 * Purchase Items such as Logo Shirts)
(End)
FISH TOURNAMENT — BEACON HILL VETERAN’S MEMORIAL PARK
County Attorney Novak requested a vote of the Board to approve a fundraiser to be held
at the Beacon Hill Veterans’ Memorial Park by M.B.A.R.A. (Mexico Beach Artificial Reef
Association) on August 28, 2020, and to allow the County Planning Department to sign-
off on the State's DBPR ABT-6003 Application (Division of Alcoholic Beverages and
Tobacco Application for Temporary Permit or Special Sales License) , Upon inquiry by Commissioner McDaniel regarding whether
they are required to carry liability insurance, County Attorney Novak reported that they
are, under the County's policy, and will have to submit proof of insurance coverage.
Chairman Quinn calling for a motion. Commissioner Rogers so moved. Commissioner
Rich seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There
being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously.
APPLICATION — H.H.R.P. FUNDING
S.H.LP. Director Paul appeared before the Board to state that the second round of
H.H.R.P. Funding is in and staff is working through applications. He reported that Grady
McDaniel, of District | was selected from the first round of funding for a one (1) bedroom
trailer but has two (2) children and will soon have a third (3) child living in his home.
S.H.LP. Director Paul then discussed applicant Carol Finch, of District | from the first
round of funding; reporting that she is raising two (2) children and a one (1) bedroom will
not help her. He also reported that Encore received a $600,000.00 grant which must be
spent on stick-built homes: stating that if he can get Board approval today for the
$40,000.00 that is obligated to each of these applicants, they can get a stick-built home
that will meet all the codes for Gulf County. S.H.I.P. Director Paul stated that Ms. Finch
will receive a two (2) bedroom home, approximately $85,000.00, and Mr. McDaniel will
receive a three (3) bedroom home, approximately $98,000.00. He requested that the
County cut a check to Encore for the $40,000.00 for each applicant. S.H.I.P. Director Paul
discussed the requirements for disabled and very low-income applicants. He requested
the Board to approve; giving the funding of $40,000.00 (for each applicant).
Commissioner McDaniel inquired if the $40,000.00 will be a supplement to the three (3)
bedroom, in the amount of $98,000.00. S.H.I.P. Director Paul stated that Encore will put
it in their construction account, and will go through the permitting process and inspection
by the Building Department. He reported that both applicants are in the very low income
category, and Mr. Finch also qualifies under the disabled category. S.H.I.P. Director Paul
confirmed the maximum amount these applicants will receive is $40,000.00, and will not
receive the additional $1,000.00 for sitework. Upon inquiry by Commissioner McCroan on
whether there needs to be a policy change, County Attorney Novak requested from the
Board an opportunity to work with S.H.I.P. Director Paul in order to review it in detail, and
bring it back to the Board to be ratified. He asked the Board for a verbal vote regarding
the suggested recommendations of S.H.I.P. Director Paul as presented to the Board;
giving the ability to go back and memorialize it, together with any needed modifications
Commissioner McCroan made the motion. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion
7273
Chairman Quinn called for public comment and emails. There being none, the motion
passed unanimously.
STATUS REPORT — GULF COUNTY E.M.S.
EMS. Director Daniels appeared before the Board to present the monthly status report
for Gulf County E.M.S. .
SPEED LIMIT - U.S. HIGHWAY 98 / SUNSET VILLAGE
Commissioner Rogers requested that Ralph Roberson appear before the Board to
discuss a project that they have been working on for quite some time. Ralph Roberson,
representing Sunset Village Homeowner's Association appeared before the Board to
discuss the entrance coming out of the community (Sunset Village Subdivision) onto U.S.
Highway 98 into a curve; reporting that the speed limit currently is 55 mph. He stated that
it causes an issue going in or out (of the subdivision) due to the limited site distance:
reporting that this is a no passing zone. Mr. Roberson requested that the 45 mph speed
zone (limit) that is currently posted in St. Joe Beach be extended beyond the entrance
into Sunset Village. He discussed his concerns regarding traffic safety and safety of
children crossing the highway on their bicycles. Commissioner McDaniel stated that this
a State road and the County doesn't have the ability to make a change, but could make
a recommendation to D.O.T. (Department of Transportation) if the Board agrees. After
discussion by Commissioner McDaniel and Mr. Roberson regarding his request,
Commissioner McCroan discussed his concems regarding traffic congestion in this area
Following Commissioner McCroan’s comments about the turn lanes, Mr. Robinson
reported there is one (1) turn lane each coming from Port St. Joe into the WindMark
parking lot and Sunset Village, but no turn lane into Sunset Village from St. Joe Beach;
noting there is space for it. He discussed slowing the speed limit in conjunction with
placing a turn lane into Sunset Village from St. Joe Beach would help. Commissioner
McCroan stated he would be in support of putting in a turn lane, but discussed concerns
regarding reducing the speed limit that could create a bottle-neck all the way to Port St.
Joe; adding concerns with children crossing U.S. Highway 98. County Administrator
Hammond stated there is enough room for a turn lane and they (Sunset Village
Homeowner's Association) want to make that request as well; reporting this subdivision
was put in prior to the road being moved. He stated the curve came about when the road
moved; noting this will go away once the bypass is complete behind St. Joe Beach
Depending on the Board wants to do about the speed limit, County Administrator
Hammond suggested the Board may also want to request the tum lane, and for D.O.T.
(Department of Transportation) to move forward with building the bypass. Commissioner
McDaniel suggested the County send a request to D.O.T. to let their engineers review
this matter, and make a recommendation to the Board. Chairman Quinn agreed. Upon
inquiry by County Administrator Hammond regarding whether the Board is requesting a
speed and turn lane evaluation for this area, Chairman Quinn said yes. With County
Administrator Hammond's request for the Board to encourage D.0.T. to move forward
with the bypass, Chairman Quinn and Commissioner McDaniel had no objections.
Chairman Quinn called for a motion to move forward. Commissioner Rogers so moved.
Commissioner McDaniel seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public
7374
comment or emails. There being none, the motion passed 4 to 1, with Commissioner
McCroan voting no
MEMORIAL DAY
Commissioner McCroan recognized Ralph Macomber as a 98 year old veteran that
served in World War It
SHORT-TERM RENTALS
Commissioner McDaniel discussed emails received regarding short-term rentals;
reporting this was strictly under the control of the Governor of the State of Florida. He
stated that Gulf County followed the Governor's guidelines, once the Governor gave the
green light, staff come in on their off days to draft a plan to submit to the State; noting
Gulf County was one of the first County's to receive approval to reopening short-term
rentals, Commissioner McDaniel thanked the Board, staff, and State Representatives for
all they have done.
2020 CENSUS
Chairman Quinn encouraged the public to complete the 2020 Census; reporting that it
has been extended.
INVITATION - BEACON HILL VETERANS’ MEMORIAL PARK
Chairman Quinn read an invitation letter from the Honor Walk Committee ; inviting the Board and County staff to attend the installation
of the monuments and flag poles for the Honor Walk on May 27, 2020 at the Beacon Hill
Veterans’ Memorial Park
QLM EXTENDED
Chairman Quinn inquired if the QLM (Quality Labor Management) has been extended.
Following no response from staff, Chairman Quinn stated that a letter has been sent to
encourage the extension of this program
QUASI-JUDICIAL HEARING - REVIEW & CONSIDERATION OF _P.0.R.B.
RECOMMENDATIONS
‘SMALL-SCALE LAND USE MAP AMENDMENT ~ TERAMORE DEVELOPMENT, LLC
Planner Collinsworth presented a small-scale land use map amendment from Teramore
Development, LLC, Parcel ID #03072-050R; reporting the developer is requesting a
change of a five (5) acre parcel from agricultural to mixed-commercial residential.
Chairman Quinn called for anyone wishing to speak on this item to step forward. He then
called for any objections to waiving the Quasi-Judicial Hearing. A lady from the audience
stepping forward stated she has no objections. Commissioner McDaniel so moved to
waive. Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public
comment. There being none, the motion passed unanimously. Allara Mills Gutcher,
consultant for Teramore Development appeared before the Board to discuss the request
and the proposed project. Commissioner McDaniel discussed the use of two (2) acres for
a Dollar General; asking what the plan is for the other three (3) acres. Ms. Gutcher stated
that there is no plan at this time for the other three (3) acres; reporting that the current
7475
property owner will retain the three (3) acres. She stated that the request is for the change
to the five (5) acre parcel and then Teramore Development will purchase two (2) acres.
Planner Collinsworth discussed the property owner changing the whole parce! while the
contract for the sale for the two (2) acres is being drawn up; stating there was some back
and forth with the City (of Port St. Joe) on whether or not to annex, but the County has
agreed as long as they do not change density there would be no use to annex into the
City (of Port St. Joe). He reported the parcel can handle the development that is going in,
but may have an issue with the direction of the delivery trucks. Planner Collinsworth stated
that the Planning Department has no issues with it, as long as the annexation is not a
factor. Upon inquiry by Chairman Quinn, Planner Collinsworth reported that P.D.RB.
voted, 4-0, to approve the small-scale map amendment; stating this is the second hearing,
first one being at the P.D.R.B. meeting held last week. He stated that if the Board
approves (this request), then staff will have the proposed ordinance ready for
consideration at the next Board meeting. County Attorney Novak stated that if there are
not further comments, then he will present and read the small-scale map amendment
form by title for the Board to consider ,
Chairman Quinn called for public comments or emails. Chris Qualheim, of Teramore
Development appeared before the Board to state for the record that the building will be
10,840 square feet, not the 9,100. Planner Collinsworth stated as long as the developer
can meet their impervious area and stormwater (requirements) for the size of the building,
they have enough room. County Attorney Novak reported that the Quasi-Judicial Hearing
has been waived, therefore the Board is in a Public Hearing and this is the second, first
being held on May 18, 2020. He then read the formal reading of the P.D.R.B.
recommendations, which was a 4-0 vote to approve. Commissioner McCroan so moved
to approve. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for
public comment or emails. There being none, the motion passed unanimously.
VARIANCE REQUEST - MARGARET COLLINS
Planner Collinsworth presented a variance request from Margaret Collins, Parcel 1D
+#03623-050R; reporting P.D.R.B, voted 4-0 to deny the variance. Chairman Quinn called
for anyone to speak on this item to step forward. No one stepped forward. Chairman
Quinn called for any objection to waiving the Quasi-Judicial Hearing. There being none,
Chairman Quinn called for a motion to waive. Commissioner McDaniel motioned to waive,
Commissioner McCroan seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public
comment and emails. There being none, the motion passed unanimously. Planner
Collinsworth reported that the P.D.R.B. voted 4-0 to deny due to the impervious area, the
building footprint would stil allow for the maximum size of the building for the area. He
stated that there is no need for a variance; reporting that the property owner is going to
sale the lot before it is built. County Attorney Novak stated that if there are no further
comments, he will read the template form regarding variances. Chairman Quinn inquired
if the Board had any objections to the waiving of the formal reading. There being none,
Chairman Quinn called for a motion to waive the formal reading. Commissioner McDaniel
80 moved to waive. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called
for public comment. There being none, the motion passed unanimously. County Attorney
Novak stated that P.D.R.B. recommend, by 4-0 vote to deny; requesting the Board to
adopt this form in accepting the recommendations and findings of P.D.R.B., authoring the
7576
Chairman and County Planner to sign off on the denial. Commissioner McDaniel
motioned to deny the application on the recommendation of the P.D.R.B. Commissioner
McCroan seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails.
There being none, the motion passed unanimously. County Attorney Novak stated for the
record that Ms. Collins’ application, the findings of the P.D.R.B., Planner Collinsworth’s
testimony, and comments from this Board will be added as substantial competent
evidence in denial of that variance.
AWARD BID #1920-29 ~ RESURFACE COUNTY ROAD 386
Grant Administrator Rhodes appeared before the Board to state that based on Dewberry's
review, as well as County staff, they are requesting the Board to award Bid #1920-29 for
the widening and resurfacing of County Road 386 (Overstreet Road) to GAC Contractor,
as the lowest responsive bidder, in the amount of $9,292,786.51, contingent upon D.0.T.
(Department of Transportation) approval. Chairman Quinn called for a motion to award.
Commissioner McDaniel so moved. Commissioner Rich seconded the motion. After
discussion by Commissioner McDaniel, Commissioner McCroan inquired for the record
that all bids are apples to apples. County Administrator Hammond stated that staff
believes that they are; reporting that the County saved $358,000.00 between this bid. He
stated that having the mandatory pre-bid conference explained some concems and save
some money; reporting that moving forward staff should have a mandatory pre-bid
conference on these types of bids. County Administrator Hammond requested to add to
the motion, allowing all contract documents to be executed by him or the Chairman.
Commissioner McDaniel agreed to include to this motion. After discussion, Chairman
Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being none, the motion passed
unanimously.
AWARD BID #1920-30 — CEI SERVICES COUNTY ROAD 386 & PINEDA STREET
Upon recommendation by Grant Administrator Rhodes, Commissioner McCroan
motioned to award Bid #1920-30 for CEI (Construction Engineer Inspection) Services for
County Road 386 (Overstreet Road) and Pineda Street to Southeastern Consulting
Engineers, Inc., the highest ranked firm and to begin negotiations; allowing the Chairman
or County Administrator Hammond to sign any necessary documents. Commissioner
McDaniel seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails.
There being none, the motion passed unanimously.
REQUEST EXTENSION ~ PORT CITY TRAIL PROJECT.
Grant Administrator Rhodes requested approval from the Board to submit a request (to
Department of Environmental Protection) for an additional year extension for the Port City
Trail, and upon approval to give the authority for the Chairman to sign Amendment #2 for
this extension. Commissioner McCroan made the motion. Commissioner Rich seconded
the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment and emails. There being none, the
motion passed unanimously
7677
POLICY - VACATION RENTALS
County Administrator Hammond requested the Board consider adopting an ordinance to
regulate vacation rentals. He discussed the required cleaning component and policy
regarding short-term rentals, reporting the County does not know who all these service
providers are, County Administrator Hammond recommended the Board regulate it as a
safety component to ensure the minimum safety requirements (under the plan) are being
followed; discussing the need to know who the providers are and that they are on level
playing field with those that are in the business that pay their sales and bed taxes. He
recommended the Board require everyone who has a vacation rental to register each
vacation rental annually, requiring a $100.00 fee that will be administered through the
T.D.C. He stated the registration fee will be $25.00 and a $75.00 fee for the Building
Department to perform an annual inspection. County Administrator Hammond also stated
if the Board agrees, he will have the County Attomey draft an ordinance to be presented
at the June meeting for their consideration. Commissioner McDaniel stated the Board
needs to look further into this; discussing the County requiring an occupational license.
Commissioner McCroan stated that he would ask the Board to not include the
construction industry because they are an entity to themselves, already being registered
with the County and on the record. He discussed his concerns regarding properties being
rented under the table that have been discovered during the COVID-19 (pandemic) and
the loss of bed tax the County is not collecting on these rentals. Chairman Quinn
discussed emails regarding the rentals; stating that if locals must follow the rules, then
those who do not live here need to follow the rules as well. He stated he is in support of
regulating this. County Administrator Hammond stated if the Board wishes to move
forward, then allow him and County Attorney Novak to draft an ordinance and advertise
for consideration for the next meeting; stating the County will regulate vacation rentals
through the T..C. and regulate other business, not construction related, through the
Building Department. County Attorney Novak stated that staff can come back with a
strong proposal and can be modified by the Board once presented. Planner Collinsworth
reported the only construction business that are regulated through the Building
Department are those that are licensed by the State, for example, HVAC, Plumbers, and
etc., but other construction trades, such as, framers, siding, and all those are not
Commissioner McCroan stated that he is fine with those businesses that are not
(regulated by the State); reporting that he was referring to businesses that are properly
licensed. County Attorney Novak stated that those who are State regulated and receive
a State certificate (license) would be exempt under the proposed ordinance. Chairman
Quinn called for a motion to move forward. Commissioner McDaniel motioned to allow
the County Administrator and County Attorney to move forward with this ordinance.
Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment.
Chairman Quinn called for public comment and emails. There being none, the motion
passed unanimously.
HAZARDOUS MITIGATION PROJECTS — HURRICANE MICHAEL
County Administrator Hammond discussed the ranking of projects for the FEMA
Hazardous Mitigation Grant Program (H.M.G.P.); stating the Board needs to approve the
submission of the entire list. He reported that at the advice of the consultant (Langton
Associates) the County submitted more projects than what was ranked. County
7778
Administrator Hammond requested Board approval to ratify the submission of the entire
list from the H.M.G.P. committee with the rankings that the Board already approved
Commissioner MeCroan requested a list of the projects. County Administrator Hammond
stated that he does not have the total list, but provided the Board with the rankings
previously approved by the Board. Commissioner McDaniel discussed the need for a
fueling system for the County. Chairman Quinn called for a motion to resubmit this list.
Commissioner Rich so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman
Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being no public comment, the motion
passed unanimously.
BID #1920-06 - HONEYVILLE BORROW PIT
County Administrator Hammond reported that the County negotiated with Roberts and
Roberts, Inc. on the sand contract (Bid #1920-06 * Honeyville Borrow Pit); requesting the
Board approve this contract (agreement) for the extraction of sand from the (Honeyville
Borrow) Pit that will be used primarily for the emergency berms and the vegetative island.
Commissioner McCroan requested an update regarding this project. Assistant
Administrator Yeager appeared before the Board to provide an update regarding the berm
projects and vegetative islands along the southem border of Cape San Blas.; stating the
County is working with FWC (Fish and Wildlife Commissioner) to obtain permits. He
reported that these projects should be ready to bid in October for all three (3) beaches.
Assistant County Administrator Yeager discussed the $5 million grant from N.F.W.F.
(National Fish and Wildlife Foundation); reporting the County will use a State grant as
matching funds which should be ready in two (2) months. Chairman Quinn called for a
motion to accept the sand contract. Commissioner McCroan so moved. Commissioner
Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment and emails.
There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously.
COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR ORDINANCE
County Administrator Hammond stated that the County Administrator Ordinance (#2014-
02) needs to be updated; requesting permission from the Board to work with the County
Attorney and advertise a proposed ordinance for the next meeting. Commissioner
McDaniel so moved. Commissioner Rogers seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called
for public comment or emails. There being none, the motion passed unanimously.
LETTER - CARES ACT
Upon request by County Administrator Hammond, Commissioner McDaniel motioned for
the Chairman to submit a letter to the Governor requesting the allocation of monies from
the (COVID-19) CARES Act. Commissioner Rich seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn
called for public comment and emails. There being none, the motion passed unanimously.
EMERGENCY MEETING — MARCH 18, 2020
County Administrator Hammond stated that at the end of the meeting he will need the
Board to recess or end this meeting and reconvene the emergency meeting in order to
adjourn the meeting (that began on March 18, 2020) for the minutes.
7879
GOLF CARTS - ST. JOE BEACH MULTI-USE PATH
County Attorney Novak read an email regarding golf carts on the pathway at Beacon Hill
Veterans’ Memorial Park and St. Joe Beach from Gretchen Mayes, of St. Joe Beach
. County Administrator Hammond discussed
the grant application for this project ; reporting that this was a State funding project, and once it was complete the County
was given ownership, and required to maintain the multi-use path for pedestrians, golf
carts, and bicyclists. He discussed the modifications made to the project, reducing the
width and extending the path all the way to the County line; stating the County does own
it, although paid for with State money, and it was supposed to be a multi-use path. Sheriff
Harrison appeared before the Board acknowledging his conversation with Ms. Mayes
regarding this matter; reporting that since this phone call, patrol has been increased in
this area and citations have been written. He stated that his understating was that when the width was modified,
that golf carts were omitted from using this path; asking if itis stil listed as a golf cart
(path). County Administrator Hammond stated that it is a multi-use path according to the
application and it being the County's. He also stated that the Board needs to determine if
itis a sidewalk or multi-use path; noting it was paid for as a multi-use path. Commissioner
McCroan inquired from County Attorney Novak, being that it is on State right-of-way,
whether the County must abide by State law. County Attorney Novak requested the
opportunity to review this matter further and bring his findings back to each member of
the Board; reporting that this path is owned by the County and the jurisdiction, authority,
and rule is up to the Board, County Administrator Hammond stated that the intent was for
allof this to be County right-of-way once the bypass is complete, and there was supposed
to be a cross-walk at Beacon Hill Veterans’ Memorial Park for golf carts to cross, as well
as at WindMark Beach Access or Pier. After further discussion by members of the Board
and staff regarding State right-of-way, how the path was modified, and it's intended
purpose as a multi-use path, Sheriff Harrison stated that they will revert back to issuing
warnings until the Board reaches a decision. County Attorney Novak read from page 5,
section 3(d) of the 2011 D.0.T. form which states, Gulf County will continue to own and
maintain the project. He advised that he will research this matter and come back to the
Board with an answer.
REJECT BID #1920-01 - GOLF CARTS CHEMICAL TREATMENTS & PRODUCT
Assistant County Administrator Yeager appeared before the Board to request the Board
reject Bid #1920-01 for chemicals and product for the Golf Course (St. Joseph Bay
Country Club). Commissioner McCroan so moved. Commissioner Rich seconded the
motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails. There being none, the
motion passed unanimously
PARK FUNDING — CITY OF WEWAHITCHKA
Assistant County Administrator Yeager stated that the City of Wewahitchka is requesting
permission to use the designated park funds (allocated by the County to the Cities) to
purchase property to extend Lake Alice Park. County Attorney Novak reported that the
use of the funds to purchase property is permissible; requesting the Board provide their
blessing. Commissioner Rich so moved on the blessing of the purchase. Commissioner
79McDaniel seconded the motion. Chairman Quinn called for public comment or emails.
There being no public comment, the motion passed unanimously
EMERGENCY MEETING - MARCH 18, 2020
County Administrator Hammond requested direction from Clerk Norris on how to address
the adjournment of the emergency meeting called on March 18, 2020. Clerk Norris
appeared before the Board to inquire from County Attorney Novak if the emergency
meeting could be reconvened without posting a notice. County Attorney Novak stated that
the County would need to come back after a notice is properly posted. County
‘Administrator Hammond suggested that this item be placed on the next agenda meeting.
There being no further business, and upon motion by Commissioner McDaniel, second
by Commissioner McCroan, and unanimous vote, the meeting did then adjourn at 10:43
oo
SANDY QUINN, JR.
CHAIRMAN
ATTEST:
REBECCA L. NORRIS
CLERK OF COURT
8081
JUNE 3, 2020
SPECIAL MEETING
PORT ST. JOE, FLORIDA
The Gulf County Board of County Commissioners met this date in special session with
the following members present: Chairman Sandy Quinn, Jr., Vice Chairman Jimmy
Rogers, and Commissioners David C. Rich, Ward McDaniel, and Phil McCroan.
Others present were: County Attorney Jeremy Novak, Clerk Rebecca L. Norris, Deputy
Clerk Leanna Roberts, County Administrator Michael L. Hammond, Deputy Administrator
Kari Summers, County Engineer Clay Smallwood, Ill, Mosquito Control Director Austin
Horton, Public Works Director Mark Cothran, Assistant Public Works Director Raymond
Hart, and Sheriff Mike Harrison.
Sheriff Harrison called the meeting to order at 9:01 a.m., E.T.
Chairman Quinn opened the meeting with prayer and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to
the Flag
COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE
County Attorney Novak requested the Board to continue the extension of the declaration