Commission Meeting Minutes

Draft Minutes of the October 18, 2021, 6 p.m. Commission Meeting

The regular meeting of the Lady Lake Town Commission was held in the Commission Chambers at Lady Lake Town Hall, 409 Fennell Blvd., Lady Lake, Florida, with Mayor Ruth Kussard presiding. The meeting convened at 6 p.m.

A. Call to Order

Mayor Ruth Kussard

B. Invocation

By Reverend Dr. Paul Harsh of the First Baptist Church of Lady Lake

C. Pledge of Allegiance

D. Roll Call

Commissioner (Ward) Present
Hannan (Four) YES
Kussard (One) YES
Holden (Two) YES
Vincent (Three) YES
Rietz (Five) YES

STAFF PRESENT

Derek Schroth, Town Attorney; Bill Lawrence, Town Manager; Thad Carroll, Growth Management Director; C.T. Eagle, Public Works Director; Mike Burske, Parks and Recreation Director; Wendy Then, Senior Planner; Chief Robert Tempesta, Deputy Chief Jason Brough, and Lieutenant Nelson Vargas, Lady Lake Police Department; Nancy Wilson, Deputy Town Clerk; and Nancy Slaton, Town Clerk

1. Minutes — October 4, 2021 — Commission Meeting

Mayor Kussard asked if the Commissioners had any questions regarding the consent items.

Commissioner Hannan requested that Item E-2 be pulled.

Commissioner Rietz motioned to approve Consent Item E-1. Commissioner Hannan seconded the motion. The motion passed by a vote of 5 to 0.

2. Consideration of Approval for the Parks and Recreation Department to Invest $1,000.00 of Tree Bank Funds to Remove Tree Limbs from a Tree on Town Property that are Overhanging Buildings on the Neighboring Property (Mike Burske) The background summary for this agenda item is on file in the Clerk’s Office.

Commissioner Hannan asked why an outside firm is being used to do this work instead of Town staff.

Mr. Burske replied that his department is short-staffed at this time, and the estimate for the work is inexpensive. He also stated staff is unable to use a bucket truck to get to the overhanging limbs, and the trees will have to be climbed. Staff does not have that ability.

Commissioner Holden motioned to approve Consent Item E-2. Commissioner Hannan seconded the motion. The motion passed by a vote of 5 to 0.

F. New Business

3. Review of the Completed Design Plans for the Walking Trail/Park on Old Dixie Highway (Mike Burske)

Parks and Recreation Director Mike Burske presented the background summary for this item.

This proposal has a bathroom, lighting, electrical outlets at the light poles, water faucets, drinking fountains, ADA accessibility parking, four picnic table shelters, and reinforcement of the path for vehicles on the southern end of the project. This property will be able to host events such as Art-in-the-Park.

Mr. Steve Cockerham of Neel-Schafer Engineering reviewed a Power Point presentation showing the design of the walking trail/park and amenities to be included.

Mayor Kussard asked if there were any questions or comments from the Commissioners.

Commissioner Hannan asked why this presentation was not in the packet. He stated he is concerned about the cost of the bathroom.

Mr. Burske replied that this presentation was created by the engineering firm, Neel Schafer, and he did not have it in time to include in the packets.

Mayor Kussard stated she originally brought up the idea of a restroom after some of her constituents brought up the subject. She stated the closest existing bathroom would be a long walk from this trail.

Commissioner Vincent asked whether a bathroom may be required by ADA guidelines.

Mr. Cockerham stated he is not aware of a bathroom requirement, but the proposed bathroom would be ADA compliant.

Commissioner Rietz confirmed that the proposed lighting is LED; and he commented that solar power lights may work better without so much wiring needed.

Mr. Cockerham stated that tree cover may be a deterrent to solar power recharging, and that LED lights are low maintenance and energy efficient.

Commissioner Rietz asked if the walkway would be soft and/or absorbent for ease of walking.

Mr. Cockerham replied that the walkway will be asphalt due to costs.

Mayor Kussard and Commissioner Vincent stated they were in favor of this design plan.

Commissioner Hannan stated he is not in favor of the proposal.

Mayor Kussard stated the longer the Town waits to get this done, the more it will cost.

Commissioner Rietz asked about the cost of the pre-made restroom versus a site-built restroom.

Mr. Cockerham stated that the pre-fab restroom would be less expensive.

Town Manager Bill Lawrence noted that the funding mechanism for this project is already set aside utilizing dedicated parks and recreation impact fees.

Commissioner Rietz asked why there was such a difference from 2019 to 2021 estimates.

Mr. Burske replied that the price comparison difference is due to the design estimate being completed by the professional engineer, rather than staff’s estimate.

After further discussion, there was a 4 to 1(Hannan) consensus of the Commissioners for staff to proceed with the plans as presented.

4. Consideration of Request to Provide Water and Sewer Utility Service to Lake Sumter Villas In Sumter County for Property Located on the West Side of Cherry Lake Road (C.R. 100) and South of County Road 466, in Unincorporated Sumter County (Thad Carroll)

Growth Management Director Thad Carroll presented the background summary for this item.

At this time, Mr. Scott Culp of Atlantic Housing Partners has requested to come back before the Town Commission for consideration to service an 18.23-acre property located west of Cherry Lake Road in unincorporated Sumter County. The property is outside of the Town’s utility service area, and the capacity being sought by the developer is not accounted for in the current CUP allocation. The present Future Land Use and Zoning classification of the property allows for a maximum of six units per acre., or 109 units. Mr. Culp’s new proposal suggests building 41 single-family detached homes with attached accessory dwelling units (ADU’s) equaling 82 total residential units.

Mr. Culp reviewed a Power Point presentation showing their proposed development on their property located on CR 100 south of the CR 466 intersection for 41 single family dwelling units with 41 attached accessory dwelling units.

Mayor Kussard disclosed that she met with the developers and Town staff on August 3rd. She stated this was brought before the Commission in March as a conceptual presentation. She stated her concern that there are other Sumter County properties in this area, and this may set a precedent if the Commission approves servicing this development. Mayor Kussard stated that if the Town had to request additional consumptive use allocations in the future because of this, it could be at great cost to the Town. She stated St. Johns could consider the Town as not being a good steward of its allocation. She read a statement expressing her concern, and stated that she is not in favor of this.

Mr. Culp stated that they would agree to conform to the Town’s design standards if this was approved.

Commissioner Hannan noted that staff is not recommending a motion in this instance and is putting the burden on the Commission. He stated he is on the fence, although he believes the Town could handle it. He stated he is in favor of it.

Commissioner Rietz stated he spoke with Mr. Carroll earlier and understands that St. Johns could reduce the amount of consumptive use if the Town does not use what is allocated. He stated that he does not believe this will be a problem and the developer will be paying a premium to the Town for the use of its water.

Public Works Director C.T. Eagle stated the Town’s allocation was reduced at one time when the reuse system was coming on board. He stated there is infrastructure available on CR 466; a 12 inch water main that could be extended. He stated the Town’s consumptive use permit comes up for renewal in 2026. If this was approved, this may trigger an earlier review of the Town’s consumptive use permit.

Mr. Carroll replied to a comment by Commissioner Rietz regarding traffic impact, stating there would not be any impact to the roadway despite who services their water. The developer will have to go through Southwest Florida Water Management District for permission to drill a well if this request is turned down, and the Town will have no say in the look of the development.

Commissioner Holden stated that the Town is not in the business of developments in Sumter County. He stated they should stick to the Town of Lady Lake and Lake County.

Commissioner Vincent asked why the developer is not going to The Villages. He stated he does not want to give away the Town’s capacity and he is opposed to this.

Mr. Culp replied that The Villages cannot provide services; they would have to construct a well if the Town does not approve this request.

Mr. Lawrence noted that he directed staff not to make a recommendation, and to leave it up to the Commission.

After further discussion, Mayor Kussard asked for a motion.

Commissioner Vincent motioned to deny the request to provide water and sewer utility service to Lake Sumter Villas in Sumter County. Commissioner Holden seconded the motion. The motion to deny passed by a vote of 5 to 0.

5. Consideration of Request of Extension to the Current Memorandum of Understanding MJM 09/19‐001 (MOU) to Meet Fire Flow Requirements for the Currently Built Sales Center and Administrative Buildings of Water Oak Country Club Estates, which is Set to Expire on October 20, 2021 (Thad Carroll)

Growth Management Director Thad Carroll presented the background summary for this item.

On October 5, 2021, a justification statement was submitted by Daniel R. Gibbs, PE of Atwell stating that, “Due to impacts and uncertainty from the Covid-19 pandemic, many Sun Communities expansions were paused in order for Sun to focus on core business, resulting in a delay to the construction of the phase where the Water Treatment Plant is located. The pandemic has also greatly increased engineering and approval times, construction costs, and material availability, as well as a continuing backlog as additional stakeholders recover from the Covid pandemic.” Mr. Carroll stated the applicant is present if there are any questions.

Mayor Kussard asked if there were any questions or comments from the Commissioners.

Commissioner Holden stated that the water pressure is important, and they need to get it right.

Commissioner Rietz asked why the extension is necessary.

Shirley Woodworth of Sun Communities replied that Covid has been an issue and they paused a lot of their expansion across the country. She stated there is not enough pressure to get the water to the two buildings. She stated the full expansion is needed to resolve the problem.

Mr. Carroll stated this request for an extension is in lieu of installing the sprinkler system. He recommended granting the extension so they can set the two wells on the back side of the property.

Commissioner Vincent referred to a letter from Mr. Gibbs dated October 5th. He asked how the pandemic affected this. He asked how many more homes will be installed in the existing community and the expansion. He questioned how the water pressure will be maintained.

Ms. Woodworth stated the entire project was put on hold. She stated there are a little over 20 lots in the existing community where homes can be installed, and 29 homes are proposed in the first expansion.

Commissioner Vincent continued with complaints regarding fire hydrant and other issues in Water Oak.

Commissioner Rietz stated he would be in favor of extending the MOU for 18 months with updates provided by Sun Communities on the status every six months.

Mr. Carroll put on the record that the fire inspector has reduced the occupancy of the sales center from a maximum of 29 persons to a maximum of 20 persons.

After further discussion, Mayor Kussard asked for a motion.

Commissioner Vincent motioned to approve the request to extend the current Memorandum of Understanding MJM 09/19‐001 (MOU) for three months to show cause regarding meeting fire flow requirements for the currently built Sales Center and administrative buildings of Water Oak Country Club Estates. Commissioner Rietz seconded the motion. The motion passed by a vote of 5 to 0.

G. Town Attorney's Report

6. Ordinance 2021-13 (Second and Final Reading)— Amending the Town’s Future Land Use Comprehensive Plan; Incorporating a Property Rights Element (Thad Carroll)

Town Attorney Derek Schroth read the title of the ordinance.

Growth Management Director Thad Carroll presented the background summary for this agenda item. A new law requiring that each local government must adopt a property rights element into its Comprehensive Plan became effective on July 1, 2021. The draft ordinance being considered was prepared by the “1000 Friends of Florida” organization and was modified to fit the Town’s needs. If the Town does not adopt a private property rights element, the Department of Economic Opportunity will not conduct reviews of subsequent Comprehensive Plan amendments which could result in not having the ability to amend the future land use classification of property that, in turn, could have a negative economic impact in Lady Lake.

Mayor Kussard asked if the Commissioners or anyone from the public had any comments or questions.

Upon a motion by Commissioner Hannan and a second by Commissioner Rietz, the Commission approved the Second and Final reading of Ordinance 2021-13, by the following roll call vote:

Commissioner Vote
Hannan YES
Kussard YES
Holden YES
Vincent YES
Rietz YES

7. Ordinance 2021-14 (Second and Final Reading) — Small Scale Comprehensive Plan Amendment – Green Leaf Development, LLC — Change the Future Land Use Designation from Lady Lake Other Institutional Facilities (OIF) to Lady Lake Commercial General – Retail Sales and Services (RET); for Property Owned by R.K. Dunn, LLC; being Approximately 16.32 Acres; Referenced by Alternate Key Numbers 2700297 and 2808683, within Lake County, FL (Thad Carroll)

Town Attorney Derek Schroth read the title of the ordinance.

Growth Management Director Thad Carroll presented the background summary for this agenda item. The existing Future Land Use designation is Lady Lake Other Institutional Facilities, and the proposed Future Land Use designation is Lady Lake Commercial General – Retail Sales or Services. The applicant is requesting the Future Land Use amendment to construct an adult living facility, hotel, restaurant, medical offices, personal services, dry cleaning, et al, to satisfy commercial needs of residential growth. The conversion from PFD to PUD will minimize impacts to surrounding properties. The impacts on other Town services were also outlined.

Mayor Kussard asked if the Commissioners or anyone from the public had any comments or questions. Hearing none, she asked for a motion.

Upon a motion by Commissioner Holden and a second by Commissioner Hannan , the  Commission approved the Second and Final reading of Ordinance 2021-14, by the following roll call vote:

Commissioner Vote
Hannan YES
Kussard YES
Holden YES
Vincent YES
Rietz YES

8. Ordinance 2021-15 (Second and Final Reading) — Rezoning – Green Leaf Development, LLC — Change the Zoning Designation from Lady Lake Public Facilities District (PFD) to Lady Lake Commercial Planned Unit Development (PUD) for Property Owned by R.K. Dunn, LLC; being Approximately 16.32 Acres; Referenced by Alternate Key Numbers 2700297 and 2808683, within Lake County, FL (Thad Carroll) 

Town Attorney Derek Schroth read the title of the ordinance.

Growth Management Director Thad Carroll presented the background summary for this agenda item. Owner and developer R.K. Dunn is requesting the rezoning of his property consisting of two commercial vacant parcels along South Highway 27/441. The rezoning request is for the 16.32 acres from Lady Lake Public Facilities District to Lady Lake Commercial Planned Unit Development. Landscape Buffer Class “A” has been proposed and the owner will be responsible for the cost and installation of any required on-site and off-site infrastructure improvements. He stated the applicant is present to answer questions.

Mayor Kussard asked if the Commissioners or anyone from the public had any comments or questions.

Commissioner Rietz asked if the developer has an interest in the parcel due west of this parcel, as it appears it will be landlocked.

Mr. Carroll replied that they do not, and the parcel due west has access through Skyline. He showed this on the property map.

Upon a motion by Commissioner Holden and a second by Commissioner Hannan, the Commission approved the Second and Final reading of Ordinance 2021-15, by the following roll call vote:

Commissioner Vote
Hannan YES
Kussard YES
Holden YES
Vincent YES
Rietz YES

9. Ordinance 2021-17 (Second and Final Reading) — Annexation — Gelcorp, Inc. — Voluntarily Annexing Property Owned by A. Papish, Inc. and Connie Hecht; being Approximately 26.77 Acres; Referenced by Alternate Key Numbers 3337956, 1698626, 1279712, and 1279640, within Lake County, FL (Thad Carroll)

Town Attorney Derek Schroth read the title of the ordinance.

Growth Management Director Thad Carroll presented the background summary for this agenda item. The property owners filed an application to annex four vacant parcels at 525 County Road 466, totaling 26.77 acres, from unincorporated Lake County into the Town of Lady Lake. This property is contiguous with Lady Lake’s existing boundary and would be served by the Town’s Water, Sewer and Reuse facilities. He stated the applicant is present to answer questions.

Mayor Kussard asked if the Commissioners or anyone from the public had any comments or questions. Hearing none, she asked for a motion.

Upon a motion by Commissioner Hannan and a second by Commissioner Rietz, the Commission approved the Second and Final reading of Ordinance 2021-17, by the following roll call vote:

Commissioner Vote
Hannan YES
Kussard YES
Holden YES
Vincent YES
Rietz YES

10. Ordinance 2021-18 (Second and Final Reading) — Small Scale Comprehensive Plan Amendment — Gelcorp, Inc. —Change the Future Land Use Designation from Lake County Urban Medium Density to Lady Lake Commercial General – Retail Sales and Services (RET) for Property Owned by A. Papish, Inc. and Connie Hecht; being Approximately 26.77 Acres; Referenced by Alternate Key Numbers 3337956, 1698626, 1279712, and 1279640, within Lake County, FL (Thad Carroll)

Town Attorney Derek Schroth read the title of the ordinance.

Growth Management Director Thad Carroll presented the background summary for this agenda item. The current land use for the property is Lake County Medium Urban Density that provides a range of residential development at a maximum density of seven dwelling units per one buildable acre, in addition to other uses. The proposed land use is Lady Lake Commercial General – Retail Sales or Services. The applicant stated they are deliberately proposing a smaller, scaled-down project to be harmonious with the neighborhood; luxury garage condominiums with motor vehicle and boat storage are a better product for the area. An environmental ecological site assessment will be performed at the time of site plan review. The impact on Town services was also discussed. He stated the applicant is present to answer questions.

Mayor Kussard asked if the Commissioners or anyone from the public had any comments or questions.

Phil Mathias of Lakes of Lady Lake commented that the traffic on CR 466 is so heavy already. He asked how these businesses will be able to come out on this road. He stated this needs to be taken into consideration.

Jill Greenberg of 111 Costa Mesa Dr. stated the residents of this area care passionately about the disposition of this property. She stated they are pleased about working with the Mayor and Mr. Miller, and she hopes that the Commission will make sure the commitments promised are met, and will monitor conservation issues such as gopher tortoises.

Upon a motion by Commissioner Holden and a second by Commissioner Rietz, the Commission approved the Second and Final reading of Ordinance 2021-18, by the following roll call vote:

Commissioner Vote
Hannan YES
Kussard YES
Holden YES
Vincent YES
Rietz YES

11. Ordinance 2021-19 (First Reading) — Rezoning— Gelcorp, Inc. — Change the Zoning Designation from Lake County Ranchette District (RA) to Lady Lake Planned Commercial (CP) for Property Owned by A. Papish, Inc. and Connie Hecht; being Approximately 26.77 Acres; Referenced by Alternate Key Numbers 3337956, 1698626, 1279712, and 1279640, within Lake County, FL (Thad Carroll)

Town Attorney Derek Schroth read the title of the ordinance.

Growth Management Director Thad Carroll presented the background summary for this agenda item. He stated the applicant is present to answer questions.

The subject property proposes luxury garage condominiums for motor vehicle and boat storage, a business park or office-warehouse with a maximum building height of 30 feet. The applicant proposes a 50-foot conservation easement along the western boundary, Landscaping Buffer Class “A” on the east and south boundaries and along the north boundaries there will be approximately 300 linear feet of open space including retention pond areas. The developer will work with staff to preserve as many trees as possible.

The rezoning application meets the requirements of the Land Development Regulations and the Comprehensive Plan.

Mayor Kussard asked if the Commissioners or anyone from the public had any comments or questions.

Jill Greenburg of 111 Costa Mesa Drive stated she appreciated the public meeting organized by the Mayor and dealing with Mr. Miller. She hopes that there will be a walk-through from the other side of the property. Also, she wants it on the record that that she would like to expand the conservation easement beyond the 50 feet. She also suggested that the pictures of 466 be retaken because there is a lot more traffic now because of the apartments and the traffic signal. She again thanked Mr. Miller and Mayor Kussard.

Upon a motion by Commissioner Rietz and a second by Commissioner Hannan, the Commission approved the first reading of Ordinance 2021-19, by the following roll call vote:

Commissioner Vote
Hannan YES
Kussard YES
Holden YES
Vincent YES
Rietz YES

11. Ordinance 2021-19 (Second and Final Reading) — Rezoning— Gelcorp, Inc. — Change the Zoning Designation from Lake County Ranchette District (RA) to Lady Lake Planned Commercial (CP) for Property Owned by A. Papish, Inc. and Connie Hecht; being Approximately 26.77 Acres; Referenced by Alternate Key Numbers 3337956, 1698626, 1279712, and 1279640, within Lake County, FL (Thad Carroll)

Town Attorney Derek Schroth read the title of the ordinance.

Growth Management Director Thad Carroll presented the background summary for this agenda item. He stated the applicant is present to answer questions.

Mayor Kussard asked if the Commissioners or anyone from the public had any comments or questions.

Elizabeth Royster of 184 Palermo stated her property backs up to this area. She asked if she could get a copy of part of the presentation showing figures. She expressed her concern for saving the existing trees, and asked if there would be a  problem with her planting trees on her property line.

Mr. Carroll stated dimensions will be shown at time of site plan, although it is roughly 300 feet to the property line. He stated he can provide a copy.

Mr. Scott Miller stated that the existing tree line will stay in place. He confirmed that there will be an approximate 300 foot buffer, and a tree survey will be done soon. He stated more details will be available at the site plan stage. He stated they would not be opposed to trees being planted on the property line.

Mayor Kussard commented that she has walked the property with the developer and agrees with the concern about the trees.

Mike Gabrysiak of 190 Palermo Place asked what the flex space will be used for and stated he has not seen the retention pond on the plans previously.

Mr. Miller stated the retention pond has been on every drawing and will look pretty much the same. He stated the flex space will allow the developer to make it a lower traffic impact.

Upon a motion by Commissioner Holden and a second by Commissioner Rietz, the Commission approved the Second and Final reading of Ordinance 2021-19, by the following roll call vote:

Commissioner Vote
Hannan YES
Kussard YES
Holden YES
Vincent YES
Rietz YES

12. Ordinance 2021-21 (First Reading) — An Ordinance Granting Approval to Rescind the Development Order for The Tri-County Villages Lake Development of Regional Impact (Thad Carroll)

Town Attorney Derek Schroth read the title of the ordinance.

Growth Management Director Thad Carroll presented the background summary for this agenda item. The Florida Statutes, under 380.115, affords a process by which a DRI no longer subject to operation of law may elect to rescind the development order. The applicant has stated that they have satisfied all required mitigation of the development order; specific mitigation with respect to transportation, housing, and wildlife are listed in “Exhibit 2” of the applicant’s submitted materials and have been incorporated into Ordinance 2021-21 under “Request for Rescission” on pages 13 and 14 of the Ordinance. The Tri-County Villages Planned Commercial (CP) zoning and supplemental Memorandum of Agreements shall remain in effect, in addition to the Mixed Residential Medium Density (MX-8) and Planned Unit Development (PUD) zoning designations, as the established land use entitlements for further development of the property. Mr. Carroll stated the applicant’s attorney, Jo Thacker, is present to answer questions.

Mayor Kussard read a statement agreeing with staff’s recommendation to rescind the DRI, although she stated she would have liked to have had the opportunity to work with The Villages on their development.

Commissioner Hannan also read a prepared statement regarding previous promises The Villages developer made to residents. He stated he feels the Commission has no choice but to agree to this, although he is not in favor of it.

Commissioner Rietz stated he would like to have a workshop to discuss the impact of this after 33 years.

Mr. Schroth recommended that the Commission and approve first reading and schedule a workshop later if they wish.

Commissioner Hannan stated there would be no reason to have a workshop as The Villages has met their requirements under the statute.

Jo Thacker, Attorney for The Villages, stated her client has met the obligation and the Commission has the burden to approve this request. She noted that the Town’s existing zoning and land use will stay in place.

Commissioner Rietz stated it is a lot for him to understand as he has only been on the Commission for a year. He stated he does not understand why he is being asked to vote if he has no choice.

Ms. Thacker explained that The Villages has met their obligation for mitigation and the order states the Town shall approve their request. She asked if the Commission decides to have a workshop, that they have it before the scheduled second and final reading so they can move forward.

Mayor Kussard asked if anyone from the public had any comments or questions.

Phil Mathias of Lakes of Lady Lake stated the Commission has their hands tied behind their back on this issue. The Villages has changed Spanish Springs and closed Katie Belle’s and wants to bring apartments.

Mayor Kussard stated this is not about apartments in Spanish Springs.

Upon a motion by Commissioner Holden and a second by Commissioner Hannan, the Commission denied the first reading of Ordinance 2021-21, by the following roll call vote:

Commissioner Vote
Hannan NO
Kussard YES
Holden YES
Vincent NO
Rietz NO

Mr. Schroth clarified that Commissioner Hannan could second a motion to approve, then vote to deny it.

Mr. Schroth noted that another option is to move forward with the suggested workshop if there is not an approval tonight. He stated he thinks the Commission should try to move this forward based on the clear statutory language, “the Town shall approve…”. He stated the law requires that the Town approve this recission of the DRI since The Villages has met their obligations.

After further discussion, the Commissioners agreed to schedule a workshop to discuss this matter and bring the first reading of Ordinance 2021-21 back for a vote at the November 1, 2021 Commission meeting.

Commissioner Hannan made a motion to continue the first reading of Ordinance 2021-21 to the November 1, 2021 Commission meeting. Commissioner Rietz seconded the motion. The motion passed by a roll call vote as follows:

Commissioner Vote
Hannan YES
Kussard NO
Holden YES
Vincent YES
Rietz YES

Attorney Thacker asked for clarified the status of the application for recission.

Mr. Schroth replied that it is tabled to November 1st.

Mayor Kussard stated she prepared for this vote by reading the packet over the weekend. She asked why the other Commissioners did not move forward with this. She stressed that Commissioners should make use of staff and the town attorney as they are resources if the Commissioners have any questions about an agenda item prior to the meeting.

Commissioner Rietz stated he did, but still does not understand.

H. Town Manager's Report

Town Manager Bill Lawrence reported that Mike Burske has raised over $5,000 for the fireworks event next year, and is selling 50/50 raffle tickets to raise funds as well. He gave a shout out to the Utilities Customer Service staff, Kathy Learn and Philomena Bodie, as they had one of the lowest utility shut-off counts this month.

I. Mayor and Commissioner's Report

Mayor Kussard asked if any of the Commissioners had anything to report. There were no reports.

J. Public Comment

Mayor Kussard asked if there were any comments from the audience. There were no comments.

K. Adjourn

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:09 p.m.

Minutes transcribed by Nancy Slaton, Town Clerk