City Council - Regular Meeting

To the flag of The United States Of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, for liberty and justice for all.

Please remain standing for a moment of silence. Normally, do it for thirty seconds Tonight, I'm going to request we do it for a minute. And please keep Officer David Jewell's family in your thoughts and prayers as you continue the moment of silence. We've had a tragedy occur here in the community. Thank you.

Item two, approval changes or modifications to the agenda. Are there any at this time, Madam Clerk or Mr. Manager?

No, sir.

Item three, approval of the minutes, seeing none at this time. Item four, presentation, proclamations, plaque certificates and or donations. Item 4A, Senator Tom to present a check from state appropriations awarded to the city for canal armoring. This has been a historical year here in the city of Edgewater. I want to thank our great state Senator, Tom Wright, for all he's done, state representative Chase Traymond in our district.

And I want to thank a wonderful person that has became a dear friend of mine, Georgia McEwen, who I thought was going to be here tonight, but I don't. Come on up here, Georgia. You need to be recognized. She's the most wonderful lobbyist in the whole entire world. We appreciate all that you've done.

Senator Wright.

Georgia spends a lot of time in her office, so yes, you should thank her for all she does to remind us of all the good communities here in Volusia County that we should be helping. I want to say good evening to all the mayor, to the mayor, the council members, and everyone here tonight. I was in, as you may know, I was in Pensacola on Friday, so I wasn't able to make your event, which I really deeply wanted to be here. So before I begin, I wanna take a moment to acknowledge the tragic tragic loss of officer David Jewell. I wore my pin tonight in his honor.

His passing has left a deep mark on the Edgewater community and all of us who value the men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting others. Officer Jewell's service and his sacrifice will never be forgotten. And my heart goes out to his family, his fellow officers, and the community as we all grieve together this tragic loss. As your state senator, I've been to state trooper funerals, deputies to funerals, and police officers. There's just too darn many.

Too many. Well, I want to gather us back into focus and recognize that the project that we're talking about tonight is a long term strength and resilience project for the city of Edgewater. I'm proud to present funding for the canal armoring project in Florida shores. This project addresses a serious need, stabilizing canal embankments to prevent erosion and flooding and the loss of property for the residents. Beyond protecting this property, this project is all about protecting the quality of life here in Edgewater.

It's about giving residents peace of mind that their homes are safe, their environment is healthier, and their community is more resilient to the storms that may come our way. I want to applaud you, Mayor DePue, and the rest of your counsel for having the forethought and economic discipline to see the need for this critical project and to allocate the 50% necessary for the funds, which is why I'm proud to present the check from the state of Florida legislature's budget, representing over 50% of the funding needs in the amount of $1,000,000

He just yelled at me back there.

Look at me real quick.

Very historical moment here in the City of Edgewater. It's the first time we have ever received state funding here in our community. Thank you so much, Senator and our State Representative, Chase Tremont. All right. Item four, 4B, proclamation remembering a great gentleman named Jack Hayman.

Honoring Jack Hayman. Whereas Jack Hayman was a highly decorative army veteran on both the Korean and the Vietnam War, earning the Silver Star and other awards for his valor during the Vietnam War as a company commander of the Infinity in the eighty second Airborne Division and retired after thirty one courageous years of combined Army servicing, attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. And whereas, following retirement, dedicated his life to community service as the Mayor of Edgewater for four years and as a Volusia County Council member for eight years. And whereas he was a sixty year master mason of the New Smyrna Lodge number 149 and a charter member of the Edgewater United Methodist Church. And whereas is remembered by his wife, Patricia, of sixty nine wonderful years, his children, grandchildren and great, great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

And whereas Jack Haman will be remembered by his commitment to his family and to his community throughout the years. Now, therefore, I, Deezer De Pugh, on behalf of the City of Edgewater, Florida, do hereby recognize and honor Jack Hayman for his lifelong dedication of public service and witness. Therefore, I here and do set my hand this September 2025 and caused the seal to be affixed. Is Jack's family here tonight? Awesome. Well, come on out.

We're gonna take a bunch of them. Everybody smile. Smile. Just realize I'm yelling into the microphone. I apologize.

Thank you. Congratulations.

Jack Haven will never be forgotten. If you talk to anybody in the community that's been here since the '80s, they know Mr. Haven. He was a tremendous individual and played a key role on shaping Edgewater's future. He'll never be forgotten. I'm sure Mayor Thomas knew him.

Yeah, he was a great man. And I laughed because if he said jump, you better jump. He was a good man. I really enjoyed his company. And he was a great leader.

Another tragedy here in the city of Edgewater that we have to honor, the life and service of Officer David Jewell that was taken before any kind of date should have been taken from a man. He was a tremendous individual, gave his whole entire adult life to public service. He started a nine eleven operating division and then came to Lake Helen Police Department and then to the City Of Edgewater, gave his whole adult life to public service. What a cowardly act. It never should have happened.

Proclamation honoring the life and service of Officer David Jewell. Whereas Officer David Jewell faithfully served the citizens of Edgewater as a police officer for 2023 to 2025 and prior to that, served the Lake Calum Police Department and the Volusia County Sheriff's Communication Center, dedicating his whole life to public safety. And whereas Officer David Jewell was a devoted husband, father and public servant who conflicted pride, humility and dignity in all that he did. And whereas on 09/15/2025, while off duty, Officer Jewell tragically lost his life to homicide, leaving behind a legacy of courage, honor and sacrifice. And whereas, the City of Edgewater recognizes the profound impact Officer made on his family, his fellow officers and the community he served.

Whereas it is fitting that the City of Edgewater honor the life, service and memory of Officer Jewell by preserving his name and sacrifice for all time. Now, therefore, be it proclaimed, I, Diesel DePueh, Mayor of the City Of Edgewater, Florida, do hereby proclaim and declare September 15 of each year of Officer David Jewell Day in the City Of Edgewater and call upon all citizens to honor his memory, recognize his service and carry forward his legacy and dedication to the community and family. And witness where, therefore, I here and do set my hand the September 2025 to cause this fix to be a field. Please honor the legacy of Officer Jewell. He'll never be forgotten here at the City of Edgewater.

There will be more than a proclamation. Item five, City Manager Report.

Good evening. I just want to personally thank you, Mr. Mayor, and the council for the support that you've shown our police department and the Jewell family and the overwhelming support from the community. It was truly wonderful to see how quickly this community can come together during a tragedy. So thank you.

Thank you all. Now to get back to normal business. I spoke at the last meeting about having a presentation for the Majestic Oaks 1st Business Park community. Myself and Ryan Solstice, the Development Service Director and Mrs. DeBolt Balbo and Ms.

Moger met. And we believe it would be best if we have a presentation at a special community meeting that we set for October 2 to really just meet with the residents of Majestic Oaks, to show what the actual site plan is, what we're doing with the oak trees that we're able to save all except one and really get their feedback and then maybe bring those results back to the council at the November meeting. I have an update for the city clerk. Julie Christine, our HR Director, and I conducted interviews. We have the top five candidates selected.

I can tell you the two internal candidates are both included in this top five list. We believe they both are capable to perform the requirements of the job, and you couldn't go wrong with choosing either internal candidate. We already know their demeanor, and we both have a great knowledge of their work ethic. With that being said, all five people we interviewed appeared competent to inform the requirements of the job. So you couldn't go wrong hiring any of the five.

And I'll give you the top five in alphabetical order. They were Jennifer Baker, Derek Eiger, Cheryl Hebert, Cassandra Kilgore and Kelly McQuillan. You have a couple of options moving forward. You can request to interview each candidate individually, one on one, and reconvene at the October or November City Council meeting for selection. Or you can request to interview each publicly at a special meeting. That would be open to the public. I'm seeking some direction there.

What would be the consensus on that? Or would they be allowed to be both? One private, one public?

I become from meeting privately one on one with each candidate to meet them and get to know them a little bit. Since it will be counsel and counsel going forward who will be working with them daily.

I agree. So I think maybe we could hold a public meeting as well where I'm sure they could be present and talk if they wish. So privately and then potentially publicly. Does that work with the council?

Thank you. And then in regards to holding two city council meetings per month, I think originally, was mentioned that we're going to hold the second one if needed. So in October, we plan to go back to just the first Monday meeting as long as I have consensus for that.

Absolutely. What date is that?

I believe it's October it's October 8, I believe. October 6,

we The already

next scheduled meeting, October 6, will be the only meeting in October. City Council meeting, that is. And then just the a management change in public works. On September 15, I appointed Robert Palizzi as the Interim Public Works Director. And that should be a temporary position for the next couple of weeks until we find a permanent interim director there. Other than that, I've just met with a copious amount of residents, and we're still working through a lot of different issues in stormwater, but we are definitely making some progress. Completes my report.

Thank you, sir. Item six, Citizens Comments. This is a time for the public to come forward with any comments they may have. Citizens comments related to any agenda matter may be made at the time the matter is before the council. State your name, address, and please limit your comments to three minutes or less. And please remember the disability pledge. Linda

Mosier, 319 Leaning Oak Drive, President of the Majestic Oaks Phase one and two Homeowners Association. Can you hear me? First, let me thank you for keeping the concerns of our neighbors in mind by scheduling the October 2 community meeting for added discussion in an open forum. Protecting safe access into Majestic Oaks remains of utmost importance to those homeowners. In support of that effort, I wanted to reiterate how this issue mirrors the city's SB180 fight to protect home rule at its most basic level.

The city seeks to retain its rights to local governance that weighs the economic impacts of commercial development against that of the personal and property rights of all its citizens. It's complicated. Majestic Oaks HOA seeks to retain its hyper local interest in preserving its residential entrance and oak tree canopy on behalf of the personal and property rights of all its homeowners. It's also complicated. In both cases, unreasonable state demands in the form of SB 180 and FDOT regulations are the root of each argument.

The city is fortunate in having an in house council, dedicated staff, and the ability to join forces with a larger consortium to gain strength in numbers for its fight. Our HOA has best intentions and a little free time to search through those documents. So what's tonight's point? Simply that we're in the same boat and we hope that the council will remain constant in its message to Edgewater residents by standing up to protect the long held land use rights of Majestic Oaks Phase 1 And 2. Thank you.

Thank you, ma'am, for your comments and being involved in the community. It's truly appreciated.

Chuck Martin, 205 Cherrywood Lane, Edgewater, Florida. I just wanted to thank Mr. Mahoney, Mr. Geiger, and mayor DePieu on their work and professionalism and dedication for the candlelight vigil for our fallen officer. It hit hard on me because my son is a disabled police officer and was attacked.

Fortunately, he survived that, we didn't have to go through what the Jewell family went through. I was amazed that you were able to get through it. The outpouring of support and love is nothing like I've ever seen in my life. It was incredible. And it just shows that in Edgewater,

our community, the love they

have for our first responders. I talked to a lady that came here all the way from Oregon, and it was nothing like I'd ever seen in my life. It was incredible. And I was thinking, if I was a police officer that was there and and witnessed the outpouring of love and support for that family and the support that the council gives our first responders, that's what makes us Edgewater right there. You know, we're one family.

We may have our differences of opinions, but we're we're one family. And I think Mr. Mahoney's leadership has proven once again that we have the right person to lead us into the future as our permanent city manager. I hear it. There's a reason why we went through all these people, and we had nobody when he was sitting here right before us.

So I would ask that in the future when the time's right, that our council would would make that decision and and give this man the position that we truly yearn for that we need. He's a true leader. He was sent here for us. Us.

Thank you, sir. We appreciate your comments. Thank you for your condolences to the family. Item seven, Council Reports. Councilman Thomas.

Yes. I really don't have anything to report, but I've got a little story I'd like to share with everyone. As you well know, I went in the hospital on September 7. Due to lack of blood, they had to give me three units of blood to get me back. Internally.

And anyway, the council meeting was the next day, which was September 8. And I wanted to vote on to join in the lawsuit against Senate Bill 180. And I wanted to vote on the millage rate, 6.33. And so anyway, Joe knew I wanted to vote on that. So who shows up in my hospital room? But Mr. Mahoney. He had to meet with the hospital staff because I'm not in a private room. Had to line it up where I could vote. And they now they were going to do the test that day.

They were going to run a thing down my throat and they were going to run a tube up the lower end to try to find the bleeding. And but anyway, he met with the hospital staff and made sure we could send somebody up there from the city of Edinburgh so I could vote. And so I got to thinking, said, you're going to run that tube down my throat. I said, I might not be able to talk. I said, can I do this or this or does the citizens Edgewater got to hear me?

And so he had to he had to go get an opinion from mister Wolfe where I could do this or this out of his busy schedule just so I could vote. You talk about out of the box thinking and thinking about us and wanting to get this city right. You know, we have caught us a good fish. You're allowed one fish. Why throw him back and hope for something better?

I I think we need to take the reins off of him and let him go because we have found the man right there. He proved to me that day that, you know, he's he thinks about not only us, the city, but he thinks out of the box on how to solve problems, not just any problem, but of that problem. And it was amazing to me to just watch that. So that's my story. Thank you very much.

Counsel on Davao.

I have no report. But I do want to say my deepest condolences for the Officer David Jewell's family for their tragic loss. And my deepest condolences for our I'm not going to get upset for the condolences for our peace department for their loss of their brother in blue. He will be missed by many, not forgotten. And I want to thank them all for taking that pledge to serve and protect and putting your lives on the line every day. So thank you.

Very sad times. Kazeman Rainberg.

Like like quite a bit of stuff and I'd like to go last if I can. It's going take a

little longer. Sure. Request to go last. I just want to state how terribly sorry I am to Officer David Jewell's family. I can't imagine what the police department is going through.

I just want to say that this week has been a tough week for many, but the glue that was keeping the city together and the community together was Joe Mahoney and Chaz Geiger and Sarah Geiger. I've seen it first hand. Joe was calling me probably every thirty minutes telling me what was occurring, although he didn't have to. He was keeping us all in the loop and knew how much media requests I was getting. Kept me in the loop as well.

I agree with Councilman Thomas and the community as well when they say that I don't think you're going to find a better man for the position. But we'll see how it goes. But I just want to say thank you both for all you've done this week. It's been a tragic week here in the city of Edgewater. Officer Jewell was a great individual, like I stated earlier.

And what I love the most about the city of Edgewater is that and it's very unfortunate as well during the time of tragedy, during the time of a natural event, disaster here in our community, we always rally together in some happy events, luckily. I just want to say that there's going to be a memorial ride next Saturday. You can participate in motorcycle or by car. It starts at Teddy Morris, Harley Davidson and Ormond Beach at 11:00 registration. It starts at eight All proceeds will go straight to the family.

And I want to thank the American Legions here in the community that did an event last night, I believe, that was very successful. We appreciate all that they had done. Councilwoman Gillis.

I kind of just wanted to speak from the heart tonight. I didn't really prepare anything, but I'm going to kind of follow along with where Debbie was going as well. Mostly, I just wanted to extend my condolences to Officer Jewell's family and also to everybody at RPD. You can see it in each and every one of them, and I know I'm the emotional one, I'm sorry. To echo other thoughts, everything that everyone said about Joe and Chaz and Sarah as well, they stood strong.

And I don't think I broke until I I don't think I fully broke until I saw them cry. And they said sorry. They stood strong through everything, and I'm thankful for who we have at our police department. Say condolences to everybody who was rocked by this, and that lost family or a friend or a brother in blue. And then I also wanted to extend my gratitude to all the surrounding police departments.

I know that so many reached out to our guys to check on them, to offer anything they needed. We had the sheriff's office and NSPPD in different offices around here covering ground to make sure that our guys could get to the services and make sure that the city was safe and covered. Just the outpouring of community support, not just from our community, but from surrounding communities. Senator Wright's office had reached out. Office had reached out. Everybody throughout the state is just asking, what does Edgewater need? How can we help? And it's awful that it always comes from times of tragedy, but there's strength out there. And I'm just very thankful for everyone that has reached out to our people. So thank you.

Yeah, the world's greatest police department, I think that I can speak for all the councils that our thoughts and prayers are with each and every police officer. Like you stated, they lost a fellow. Rather.

I did want to say this is go off of the other as well. As far as Joe, because everybody else was kind of speaking on Joe, I have seen more more positive things that I was looking to see changed moving forward in the last three, four months than I have in the last two, three years. And I'm very thankful for you. And I give you much credit on pretty much all of that. Thank you.

Absolutely. Councilman Rainberg. Good evening, Edgewater.

It's been a pretty eventful week. On the sixteenth, I attended a vigil for Charlie Kirk at New Smyrna Beach. It was a great turnout and pretty heartwarming that they offered they mentioned offers to JUUL several times, and I thought that was kind of great. I got to meet state representative, Chase Tremont. He took me aside, and he said to tell the people of Edgewater that he understands why we're challenging SB180.

We are doing what you want us to do and need us to do. And he said that that was great, that we're standing up for our people, and he totally understands why we're doing that. We then attended a memorial for Officer Jewell in front of the police department by his flower draped car. Great turnout for a sorely missed man. And then there was the police department service for Officer Jewell at the Edgewater Alliance Church, such huge support from so many municipalities.

I come around the corner underneath the flag and seeing the motorcycles lined up, it just gave you chills. The efforts of Mr. Mahoney and Mr. Geiger as well as the city staff were truly amazing. They lost not only employee and an officer, but a man that they call a friend. Truly tragic event. Yet with all that effort they put into making sure that David and his family were getting the best care they could, this city did not miss a step. The staff held operations together despite the city manager, acting chief and the mayor. Mr. Mayor, how many interviews did you do in one day?

20? 29. 29 interviews in one day. We were pretty much shut down, but we weren't. They kept it together. This whole city performed perfect. After that service, we then went across the street to prepare the memorial ride at Godfather's Customs here in Edgewater. As the mayor pointed out, it will be starting at Teddy Morris, escorted ride down to Hawks Park, and we plan to have a big event here in Hawks Park to show the love and support to the family. Mr. Geiger, Mr.

Mahoney, city staff are jumping in to help. Once they got the local stuff here, we have some stuff we have to get ready at Hawks Park. They just asked, what do you need? And they got right into it. So in closing, you guys heard quite a bit of discussion.

And I'd like to end my report in a kind of an unusual way. While watching all these news reports about Officer Jewell's tragedy, this murder, murder, I kept seeing this word showing up with the Sheriff Chitwood interviews, interim, interim chief, interim city manager, and kind of stuck in my craw. And I don't even have to tell you in the last couple of months, I've seen enough. I owe you the best that we can find for you. And I don't think I'd be doing you correctly if I didn't make a motion to make Mr. Joe Mahoney our city manager.

Please no public participation at this time. So you're making it. Sir. Second. An official motion. Yes, sir. Second. Roll call.

Councilman Thomas.

Yes.

Councilman Dabo.

Yes, but I have to say that I'm still I want to have a discussion, so let's have a discussion. I want to have a discussion.

There's a motion for permanent city manager. There is a second on the floor. Is there a motion to open it for discussion?

Make a motion to open it for discussion.

Second. Roll call for discussion.

Councilman Thomas? Yes. Councilwoman Dabo?

Yes.

Councilman Rainbird?

Yes.

Mayor DePue?

Yes.

Councilwoman Gillis?

Yes. Well, I'll go first. I've been there with Joe for the past, what has it, only been, three months?

About 3.5. I think

we talk probably two or three times a day. If I send you an email, you've been overwhelmingly responsive. I think this community feels like they have a friend. But not only do they have a friend, they have a leader. And now I want to ask you to begin with, Pete, would you accept the role? And I would like to go into how the contract would be stated in the past.

Yeah, absolutely. I love Edgewater. I want the best for it. And I think I've shown you how hard I'm willing to work over the past three point five months. So of course, I would love the opportunity to serve in this capacity. I'm okay with a long probationary period as well, just to put everyone's mind at ease.

Well, I'm just going to go ahead and follow that because we've discussions. And I asked you, I believe it was two or three weeks ago when a resident was asking me, what have you done exactly and what are your qualifications? And they didn't have any words because they couldn't speak. So it's going to be a little while, but I'd like to go ahead and read this. Acquired two tall trailer mounted eight inches pumps to support our storm water management efforts.

Duck Lake project completed. That was talked about for over two years. Strategic adjustments, robust response to rain event, Invest ninety three, almost had five houses flooded, the water was gone in an hour certified stormwater inspector change proactive code enforcement for storm season maximizing capacity weekend over time for storm measurements. Several high priority stormwater projects have been initiated to address long standing drainage concerns and improved system performances ahead of peak rainfall, vacuum truck deployment and pipe cleaning scheduled job equivalency city hall was remodeled, the robust hurricane response pre storm gearing event and post storm operational plan. Council chamber sound system in progress.

It's back ordered. Great. Business tax receipt elimination discussion is in progress. The Chamber of Commerce is in support. Council chambers improvements.

Public Works operational management changes. Drainage base and boxes repairs were completed. Facility enhancements lobby conduct rules completed staff parking address control and progress collective bargaining agreement ratified for the police and fire unions resolving citizens' conflicts and previous ongoing issues acquired two trailer mount eight inches pumps to storm water issues. These were purchased using existing funds. Owning this crucial equipment ensures the immediate availability during weather events rather than relying on rental availability or the State of Florida Department of Emergency Management in the time of need.

One pump will be deployed to support the Duck Lake Outfall and project the gas light subdivision. The second will be assigned to the 18th Street Canal, approving discharge during heavy rain A maintenance and operational policy has been implemented to ensure readiness and proper deployment when needed. Duck Lake project completed. The construction includes 72 feet of pipe underneath Needle Palm and 17th Street, installation of the control structure at the Northeast corner of Needle Palm and 17th Street that we pump into the concrete pad installed on 17th Street near the Southwest Corner of Duck Lake to place the pump. Strategic acquisition, CRA funding aligns with our vision plan, 104 North Park Avenue 104 North Riverside purchase, 114 North Riverside Drive purchase, 123 East Park Avenue anticipated quarter one twenty twenty six.

That's been purchased. Rain event, INVEST ninety three. The rain system affected our city on July 15, with the majority of the rainfall between eight a. M. And noon. We received four to six inches depending on location. The total rainfall we received over a forty eight hour period was approximately 10 inches. Overall, the city fared very well. We had a robust response with all hands on deck. We utilized our new pump to move water in the areas of Queen Palm and Lime Tree Drive. Outside our back trucks and used to move water to prevent water intrusion at a specific home. Public works did a great job as well as the other city departments with their assistance. Certified storm water inspector. Three of the building inspectors are now certified storm water inspectors throughout the National Storm Center. They are officially recognized as storm water certified professionals.

The certification empowers our team to inspect construction sites for erosion, sediment control compliance, evaluate the placement and fixing of silt fences, screens and other control measures, enforce permits, conditions and best management practices tied to stormwater regulations. The initiative trains our internal capacity, promotes regulatory compliances and reinforces city's commitments to response development and environmental protection, proactive code enforcement for storm season. As part of our hurricane season preparedness, code enforcement was directed to comply forward with all the storm water related code compliance for the past year. The Public Works Department informed, identify and reinspect no problem areas, ensure proactive compliance with stormwater regulations, mitigate the professional flooding or drainage issues before major storm events occur. The collaboration effort straightens our ability to respond and effectively help protect vulnerable areas ahead of time.

Maximizing capacity weekend overtime for stormwater to accelerate stormwater system maintenance ahead of storm season. Immediate overtime has been authorized for a public works crew to begin mowing drainage and canal basins on the weekend. Initiative will expand available work without pulling resources from weekday operations, increase overall productivity across critical flood prone areas, improve system readiness before peak storm activity. The approach allows us to stay ahead of vegetation, overgrowth, enhance drainage flow and make the most of our staff's ability during the regulated work rate. Several high priority stormwater projects have been initiated to address long standing damage concerns and improve stormwater performance ahead of peak rain flow.

Umbrella Tree Drive, removal of invasive trees obstructing stormwater flow, River Edge and Air Park Road, reenaging the intersection to correct runoff affecting Oak Trail, San Remo Subdivision, inflammation of our tolerated stormwater flow resolution plan, Dayton Street retention maintenance and repair of the aquatic bubble system to restore retention functions citywide response addressing multiple long pending systems complaints related to stormwater and flooding vac truck department and pipe cleaning schedule To productively maintain stormwater flow, reduce flooding risk cities rented a vac truck and launched a detailed plan, cleaning driveways, culverts and pipes starting in neighborhood throughout the remainder of the year. Job equivocalization. Identify two categories of employees that we can utilize. Experience over requirements to hold a high school diploma or GED. The requirement was to change the preferred for these job categories: maintenance worker, equipment operator, city hall remodel.

This project continues. Parks has done a great job so far, just been in completion of October 2025. More robust hurricane season will response pre storm during event, post storm operation plan. Again, business tax history, council chamber sounds, council chamber improvements, public work operational, management changes, drainage box, facility enhancements, and collecting environment agreement for fire and police. Resolving the citizens' conflicts and ongoing issues.

Joe Mahoney, over twenty years of public safety and executive leadership experience. 2011, promoted to Police Sergeant. 2013, promoted to Second in Command as Police Cabinet. 2018, promoted as Interim Chief of Police. 2019, promoted to chief of police. June 2025, interim city manager. Education. Bachelor of Applied Science Supervision and Management. Associate of Science in Criminal Justice. National Leadership Academy, ten week program, FBI Master Courses.

Graduated EPD to become self resilient, Advanced Police Department is today, enhance the operational capabilities, public perception and law enforcement peer perception of the Edgewater Police Department fostered an environment to continue to be full staffed even though the department was on the lower side of starting salary, and the public sentiment towards law enforcement was at a low point. I can manage anything we need to continue to fix the operations of the city and the task ahead. I love my community and want to see it thrive. I was born and raised in the city of Port Arms, and I hope I can serve the residents of Edgewater back in this capacity and continue what has already been started. So discussing that, I think what we should do as a council is have council comments open up for council citizens' comments.

But also, I will say, Mr. Mahoney has always been involved in our community, has owned real estate in our community and lived in our community until approximately two years ago. He is a resident, and it's so far away, it's approximately fifteen minutes away of the city of Port Orange. That's the only holdback. Now, Mr.

Attorney, correct me if I'm wrong. The way to go about it would be there's already a motion on the floor in the second to make Mr. Mahoney not interim but permanent. So what we could do is a probationary period for twelve months, revisit the contract and make him move at that point in time or continue the probationary period until he has a chance to move because you do have a daughter in high school that just was on homecoming court, so that would be a little tough to uproot your whole family at that age.

Right. The city charter requires the city manager reside within the city of Edgewater within six months after the probationary period ends. So that's how the charter reads.

Okay. And then the other point of view is that I want to point out to our residents is when Mr. Erby was fired, what we said was that we were going to do a national wide search. The council promised that. Three members were on the council, made the motion for that. We did it. We did. We didn't have any candidates at all that were thrilled. And I'll tell you right now that we didn't have any candidates that would do half a job that Mr. Mahoney has done. I've seen it firsthand. We've become very close. This week alone, we need unity in the city of Edgewater after the terrible tragedy that took place. Seeing how you and Chaz handle it, I'm really speechless this week. We have gone through the search period.

We were going going to revisit it because we weren't thrilled at all. And for the record, that search, somebody wanted $10,000 just to come to our community to interview. And all candidates, except for one, I believe, lived in the state of Florida. So there's that point as well. But we did a nationwide search, and I don't think we're going to find a better man. You hold an educational degree in management. You've managed the department well and you've managed the city well. And there's individuals that haven't been thrilled in years that are now happy with the management in our community. But what I'm going to do now, we're still council reports. And with the consensus of the council, let's open up the citizens' comments so that the citizens comment on this before we vote.

Okay. Let's continue with council comments.

You're reading so fast. Did you also put in there that he got the 30th Street Canal opened up and got permission to drain that water into the hammock, which is now owned by the state.

I was not in there, good catch. Good catch. And he has a great relationship with our surrounding communities and our state leaders and Representative Chase Tremont in him have a great relationship already. Chase has called me and told me I can publicly state that he recommends Joe Mahoney for the job. This was approximately a month ago that we had that conversation.

He thinks that Joe is the gentleman to bring us forward. So I think we already have that relationship at the state level. And if you have a new individual from out of the area, let's start that relationship all over again. So moving forward, what the motion would have to state Mr. Rain Bird, and you made the motion to, have him not as interim, but I'd like for you to restate your motion for Mr. Mahoney to be the permanent city manager with a probation period of twelve months revisited. All right, continue counsel discussion.

Okay, well, I'll go next. And first off, I'm very impressed and interested in how quickly you had this ready to go, Mr. Mayer. So thank you for having that at hand. One of my questions was and you kind of addressed that, the contract, what it looks like in salary, that will all be discussed.

We didn't complete the search for this new city manager because we had that we were down the last three. We spent many months going through that process. And when the month came for us to do this to do the three interviews that we needed, three candidates, we had to postpone the search because counsel wasn't available for that. So we had to postpone it until June. During that time, the third candidate had to withdraw to get more jobs.

So then we were only down to two. We had three up until May when we were supposed to start the interview process. So we went through the whole process until the very end, but we did not complete the process. So I need to go on record saying that. And also, it wasn't going cost $10,000 for one candidate to come to the city. We had budgeted $10,000 so that the two remaining that were still applying would have would cover the cost. And whatever didn't whatever the cost was remaining at the end will go back into the budget. So it wasn't $10,000 for one employee. Having said that, Joe, will you accept this position?

Yes, of course. I'd be happy to serve in that capacity. And I appreciate the list of accomplishments. But I must point out that I couldn't do that without the great staff and team we have. I'm very proud of them. And they've helped me a lot in this last three point five months. And you're not going to find anybody that's going to

But to have sufficient staff, you have to have a sufficient leader.

And I want to say your team building since you took on. I mean, see the growth. I see the change, the mindset in our city with employees and the department heads, so I appreciate that. The residents, so many residents have reached out to me when they have an issue. I get a hold of you right away. And I appreciate the fact that you get right on it. And you follow back with me and let me know what's happening, what's going on next. So I appreciate that. The open communication is wonderful. You started with boots on the ground.

You get in there and you do it and you don't ask questions. Well, you do ask questions, but you get it done. I appreciate your help, sitting on counsel, guiding me and letting the conversations we have venting and giving guidance. I really appreciate that. Your words stick. So I'm going tell you right now. So I appreciate all that you do, and I think you're going to make a wonderful city manager for us.

Well, just for the record that I think when we held the meeting, you're correct, it wasn't just one, it was $10,000 for all three at the time. And, I think that, if I can remember correctly, us three were not thrilled with the candidates at all. And, you two didn't make a motion to move forward with the candidate search to have them come to the community. But seeing their background, I was not thrilled with them. I didn't think that Edgewater would be a good place. And I'd say to Wyatt at that time, I'm on record.

I won't rehash that, but agree to disagree that candidates, one of them had extensive experience in our type of city. We just didn't get that opportunity to be heard. That's Joe, I'm so excited that you're taking the opportunity to become the City Manager. You did a wonderful job. I know, obviously, the council, we really appreciate you.

I appreciate your confidence.

I think this whole community has faith in you. I think that you will be a great leader and mentor to so many that you already have. And like you stated, we need stability in our community. I think having a permanent city manager is one way to do that. We'll have a permanent city clerk here in a short time while. And our city attorney contract will be finalized. Okay. With that, if there's any other comments.

I just wanted to say that he's not just boots on the ground, he's boots in his truck. Any time I had an issue, I'd send Joe a message. He's like, give me a little bit. He'd go out there. I had one just over the weekend. And I said, hey, Joe, unfortunately, we're dealing with Officer Jewell. He still went out there, still told them what they were doing. I have the same degree that man has. I have a BAS in business supervision. And one of the best things that any leader can do for a hiring group is hire from within.

That man had to step away from the job that Chaz is in now. They just stepped up, knew what to do. He had them already trained. And if something were to happen to him, they knew what to do. They knew their job. Something did happen to him. He sat in that chair. They all moved up. Chaz is handling like a champ. And being the chief of police, for the last six years, the changes made in the last six years that we see, and you know every twist and turn in every street in this town, that would be a bigger learning curve for somebody to come from somewhere else.

So I think we owe it to our city to try to hire from within because now PD sees that they all got a chance to move up rather than bringing somebody else out. Oh, I'm not going nowhere. I'm going look for another job. Rewarding to let people step up instead of step aside.

To that point, I had a resident comment saying that a berm was almost broke on the 35th Street and it was 07:45 at night. I texted the picture to Joe. I said, we're going to have this problem. He goes, oh, it's causing me. I'm like, oh, go enjoy your family time. He goes, I'm just leaving City Hall. I'll go down there and check it out and let you know. Call you back within five minutes. We're good. Still not near capacity. It's not going to breach. We're in good shape. So absolutely, your statements are 100% correct. Are there any other comments? Did you want to say something?

I will, but you can go next.

I wanted to add to my story a little bit about the hospital story. I forgot that part of it that the nurse said that I might not be able to vote because they were going to do that procedure that afternoon and I might not be under the I still might be under the influence of the anesthesia. What does he do? He gets a paramedic to come up here and to make sure I'm okay to vote. How many people think like that?

I mean, that's what you gotta do. And he does that. He thinks out of the box. And and I'm pretty simple. If I'm going fishing for redfish, redfish limit is 18 to 27 inches. And if I catch me a 26 and a half inch redfish, am I going to throw that joker back and hope for a 27 measure? I don't think so. I got me a keeper, buddy.

Good story. Good story. Good

the way

I think. I got me a keeper. I was just about to say that. I

just I can't even tell you the amount of residents that I've had reach to me to thank me for sending them Joe. Like I had so many people that said, I've reached out to this before, nothing got done, I'm having issues with this, I don't even know who to call anymore, I tried this person you put me in contact with and I could come back with lately. You haven't talked to Joe yet. Let me get you on Joe's list of people Joe's going to call back. And everybody, like clockwork, has said, I don't know how he does it.

They're like, I didn't know how I felt about the police chief moving into that position. But he has been amazing. And they were excited to see changes moving forward. So I have gotten so much positive feedback of Jess people. Issues that somebody had had for years and they couldn't get something addressed, that you took care of in in like an hour, just done. Like, why haven't we done this? Here, that's easy. Go get this done. And it's been amazing to see. And I'm just very positive looking towards the future. And I'm thankful for you.

I can't speak for staff, but it takes a great team. And I think that they're more than happy to work with Chief Mowen. I've talked to several of them.

That's something I'll say as well. I have had a lot of staff reach out to me that they were very happy with a lot of positive changes they've seen recently, that they were very thankful and they were hopeful for the future.

So I need to amend my point.

I think that there is consensus to open it for Citizens' ments at this time. But I think that, yes, you need to amend your motion to have a permanent but probationary contract for twelve months and then revisit.

Right. And it would be effective, October 6, I think, when the contract is And

when we talk about the salary and the benefits then?

Yes. And I can work with Ms. Christine, perhaps do a survey of the city manager of salaries in the county, similar sized cities, and we can negotiate the contract and bring that to you on October 6.

Thank you. Please do.

Do we want to hear from

the people first or go ahead

make Yes. Let's hear from the people first before the vote is finalized. At this time, we're going to open it to citizens' comments.

Who's taking off? What's going on? What's so funny?

Staff's laughing.

Staff's laughing. Okay, good. I just wanted to mention, I'm going into my ninth year here in Edgewater, so I've seen a lot of changes and a lot of action taken from the dais. And as concerned as I've been about that, and this is Joe, we had a meeting earlier in the week where we both had to say, Hey, I like you, bot. I've got another point.

This is really not about Joe at all. This is about being able to follow a process that allows the end to be positive without any question. So in the interest of a good media or a PR standpoint and in the interest of transparency, put this on

an

agenda and let the rest of the city take part in supporting your decision instead of it just being an unexpected

go ahead and reason.

Answer that. It would be on October 6 council meeting before anybody from the public can comment. That's where where we're going going with I'm sorry if we didn't make

that clear. That wasn't clear. Seems like that was an action that was going to take place tonight and you guys were going to decide right then.

No, ma'am. We'll move forward with the contract process.

Okay. That's good. Like I said, let's make sure that lots of people know there can be lots of people that can make these same types of good comments about the chief.

And then

that lets everybody understand where everyone's head is at in terms of trying to he doesn't seem like he's a flight risk. I he wants the job. He's not going anywhere. So yeah, if we were going to do it tonight, I was going to say, please hold on. Let's put it on an agenda. Let lots of other people speak to what seems like it's going to turn into a really good idea. So he's certainly been helpful to me as well. So I shared a lot of the good thoughts about Chief Mahoney. I just want to make sure that it's a solid decision that everybody feels like they've taken a good part in.

Well, you, ma'am. And thank you for allowing me to clarify that for the residents. Thank you for pointing that out. Appreciate it.

-See you

in a couple of weeks.

-Thank you. Great.

Chuck Martin, Edgewater, Florida. You know, I think back to when we had our emergency management meeting, and we had the director here We're talking about the flooding and the storms, and I brought up the fact about pumps, how bad we needed the pumps. And I'm glad that mister Mahoney was listening. Now I've stated before, I've been in this business for forty three years, in the construction business, building flood plans and a lot of other stuff. And I just can't say how pleased I am that and I know that he was considering this long before I mentioned it, but, he did it.

He got the pumps. He went against what, some other people were telling him, and and he did it. He went out and he pulled the trigger and he got these pumps and he saved these homes, and he's going to continue to save these homes. And we have a city manager, and he will be our city manager, that can't be bought, and that's important. That's real important.

That's nearly impossible to find. That's right. I said it. You know, it's not by chance that he's sitting up here and has opportunity and that we desperately need him so bad. And I kinda disagree with what somebody said earlier that everybody needs to be comfortable and agree.

Everybody's not gonna agree, and everybody's not gonna be comfortable, and I think we heard that tonight. But it's about a majority vote, and that's how we operate up here. We have five awesome people that are gonna make a decision, and I feel they're gonna make the right decision. Thank you for letting me share.

Thank you, sir, for your comments. I appreciate it.

Corey Sapp, twenty six point three zero Travelers Palm. First, I want to say, Joe, you're doing a fantastic job. I know from family connections that you've done great with the police department. And I have no problem with you being the city manager. The way this came up sure does sound like it was orchestrated ahead of time. It came up with too much information on hand. Nobody walks into a meeting with all this if it wasn't talked about previously. Has the Sunshine Law been broken? Needs to be looked into. Again, I think you're the perfect person.

And it would be great to see the moving up the ranks. But this whole thing looks orchestrated.

Thank you for your comments. Are there any other comments? Okay. Mr. Attorney, how would you wish that the motion be read at this time?

Motion to go forward with negotiating a contract with Mr. Mahoney to be permanent city manager with a twelve month probationary period. And this would be an agenda item for the October 6 meeting to vote on the contract.

Okay. There was a motion on the floor. Would you like to amend your motion?

I'd like to amend my motion to move Joseph Mahoney to City Manager for the twelve month probationary period with the contract to be presented October 16.

Is there a second? Second. Roll call.

Councilman Thomas?

Yes.

Councilwoman Dalbo?

Yes.

Councilman Rainbird?

Yes.

Mayor DePue? Absolutely. Councilwoman Gillis? Yes.

And this is just moved to October 6, where there will be a final vote in the public to participate. Okay. Item eight, consent agenda. All matters listed on the consent agenda are considered to be routine by the City Council. It will be acted upon by one motion. There will be no separate discussion of those items unless discussion is desired by a member of the City Council, in which case the Mayor will remove that item from the Consent Agenda and such items will be considered separately. Is there a motion to approve the Consent Agenda?

I would like to pull D and E just for conversation, please.

Is there a motion to approve the consent agenda excluding item D and E?

I make a motion to approve the consent agenda excluding items D and E. Second.

Roll call.

Councilman Thomas?

Yes.

Councilwoman Dalbo? Yes. Councilman Rainbird?

Yes.

Mayor DePue? Yes. Councilwoman Gillis? Yes.

Item A. D. Acceptance of donation of used concession trailer.

I'd just like a little more just so everyone is aware that this is happening. I think it's a wonderful thing that Duston's is doing. I'd like to just give a little bit of information about it, please.

Yes, of course, Mayor and Council. The Edgewater Police Department is requesting City Council approval to accept the donation of a two thousand and one twenty eight foot Cargo Express concession trailer from Westbrook's Barbecue. This donation will enhance the city's ability to respond effectively during natural disasters and other large scale emergencies. The trailer will be shared between the police department and fire department and will serve as a mobile kitchen unit. During disasters, local stores and restaurants are often closed, creating challenges and providing meals to on duty personnel.

At peak times, the city may have more than 200 employees working in the field, all of whom require continue operations. Additionally, when the police or fire department respond to mutual aid requests in other jurisdictions, the ability to be self sufficient is critical. The trailer will also provide the capacity to prepare and distribute meals in areas without infrastructure and in times of extreme disaster could be utilized to provide meals to affected residents. Acceptance of this donation represents a significant improvement to the city's disaster preparedness and operational resilience. New trailers like these are typically sold for more than $75,000 Staff recommends approval and thanks Dustin's barbeque.

Wow, that's tremendous. Thanks for pointing that out. It's great they're doing that. And I'm pretty sure that Mr. Larracy and I paid their light bills. That's great.

Agree. And also now for E, what the Rotary is doing for the improvements at Rotary Park.

Yes. The Rotary Club of Edgewater would like to donate $27,865.92 worth of improvements to Rotoey Park. The proposed improvements included adding benches, curbing and replacing the stone path with asphalt millings. We thank the Rotoey, and we recommend approval. Thank you.

Well, this is also two great patrons of the community. So a motion to approve item 8D and E on the consent agenda.

I make a motion to approve items D and E on the consent agenda. Second.

Roll call.

Councilman Thomas?

Yes.

Councilwoman Dalbo? Yes. Councilman Rainbird?

Yes.

Mayor DePue? Yes. Councilwoman Gillis? Yes.

Item nine, public hearing ordinances and resolutions, Item 9A. Second reading, Ordinance number twenty twenty five-zero-seven, amending and modifying the schedule of impact fees related to Chapter 21. Please read into the record.

Ordinance number twenty twenty five-zero-seven, an ordinance of the City Of Edgewater, Florida amending modifying the schedule of impact fees related to Chapter 21, Land Development Code Article 17, development impact fees of the City Of Edgewater Code of ordinances provided for conflicting provisions, severability and body providing for an effective date and adoption.

Thank you. Staff report.

This is a second reading. No additional information. And staff recommends approval.

Open a public hearing, citizens' comments. Council comments. Close to public hearing. Is there a motion to approve?

I make a motion to approve the second reading, ordinance number twenty twenty five-zero-seven.

Roll call.

Councilman Thomas?

Yes.

Councilwoman Dalbo? Yes. Councilman Rainbird?

Yes.

Mayor DePue? Yes. Councilwoman Gillis? Yes.

Item I b resolution twenty twenty five dash r dash 21 file, Edgewater operating millage rate for fiscal year 2025 to 2026. Please read into the record.

Resolution 2025Dash r Dash21, a resolution of the city Council of Edgewater, Florida adopting final operating millage rates for the city for fiscal year twenty twenty five, twenty twenty six, providing for completing provisions, severability, and affidavit funding for an effective date.

Staff report.

Good evening, mayor and council. Bridget Vassier, finance director with the City of Edgewater. Tonight, council shall set the final millage rates for the final fiscal year twenty twenty six budget as noticed in the proposed property tax or truth and millage notice as well as advertised in a local newspaper. City of Edgewater must publicly announce that the final Edgewater INS two thousand and five, Edgewater INS 2016, Edgewater operating levies, and the final original fiscal year twenty twenty six budget. Per Florida Statute 200.065, provides that the city council shall adopt the final operating millage rate prior to the final budget.

Budget. The City of Edgewater is the taxing authority. Staff recommended millage rate of 6.33 per thousand of taxable value. This millage is being held flat from current year, represents a 7% increase over the rollback rate of $5.9161 Current year taxable value for operating purposes is $2,222,709,693 This increase will cover the increased cost of operations as well as additional staffing needs maintenance within the general fund, including 6% wage increases for existing employees and additional staffing needs, including three police officers, police sergeant, three firefighter driver engineer EMT, full time public information officer, an accountant, a parks and rec team lead, and a deputy city clerk. This millage requires a twothree vote or four of five of the governing body.

Staff recommends approval. Motion requested this evening is to approve Resolution twenty twenty five, R-twenty one, for the final Edgewater operating millage of 6.33.

Thank you. Open to public hearing, citizens' comments. Council comments. Just want to point out that the millage rate was held flat and did not increase so that Councilman Thomas can vote on this one.

Thank you.

Is there a motion to approve?

Make a motion to approve Resolution twenty twenty five R-twenty one, the final Edgewater operating rate of 6.33 for the fiscal year twenty twenty five-twenty twenty six.

Second. Roll call.

Councilman Thomas?

Yes.

Councilwoman Dabo? Yes. Councilman Rainbird?

Yes.

Mayor DePue? Yes. Councilwoman Gillis?

Item 9C, Resolution No. Twenty twenty five R-twenty two Edgewater INS 2,005 vote, debt service millage rate for the animal shelter for fiscal year twenty twenty five-twenty twenty six. Please read and to the record.

Resolution twenty twenty five-twenty two, a resolution of the City Council of Edgewater, Florida adopting final vote of debt service millage rates for the city for fiscal year twenty twenty five-twenty twenty six, providing for a completely provision, severability and a fully defined for an effective date.

Thank you. Now go to public or staff report.

Edgewater INS 2005. It is the City of Edgewater is the taxing authority. Current year taxable value for operating purposes, dollars 2,222,709,693. This millage rate is to cover the voter approved limited or general obligation for the animal shelter. 0.01 is the staff recommended millage rate, which will cover the principal and interest for the required voter approved debt service for fiscal year 2026.

And very noteworthy, this would be the last year of payment on this particular debt service. Motion requested this evening is to approve 2025 R-twenty two for final Edgewater INS 2,005 millage rate of 0.01.

Thank you. Question, Mr. Mayor.

I was going to open the public hearing. Then citizens' comments and now the council comments.

How long have we got to pay on this?

This is the last fiscal year '26 is the last year of payments on this particular

pest I was wondering because I was the mayor in 2005 when this started. The citizens of Edgewater voted, I forget how much, to buy the animal shelter, but they didn't give us any time to run it. So we had to figure out how to run it. But I'm glad this is the last

year. Okay. Close the public hearing. If there's no further comments, is there a motion to approve?

I make a motion to approve resolution number twenty twenty five R-twenty two, final Edgewater INS 2,000 five vote, voted debit service millage rate for Edgewater Animal Shelter fiscal twenty twenty five-twenty twenty six in the amount of 0.01.

Is there a motion to approve? Or is there a second? Second. Roll call.

Councilman Thomas?

Yes.

Councilwoman Dobo? Yes. Councilman Rainbird?

Yes.

Mayor DePue?

Yes. Item nine.

One more, sorry. Councilwoman Gillis?

Yes.

Thank you.

Item ID, Resolution No. Twenty twenty five R-twenty three, final Edgewater INS 2016, Boat Debt Service Millage Rate for GO or PARS for the fiscal year 2025 to 2026. Please read them to the record.

Resolution twenty twenty five R-twenty three, a resolution of the City Council of Edgewater, Florida adopting final vote in debt service militaries for the city for fiscal year twenty twenty five-twenty twenty six, providing for completing provisions, severability, and applicability, providing for an effective date. Staff report.

So this is the other debt service millage rate that we have here at the City of Edgewater. The City of Edgewater is the taxing authority for INS 2016. The current year taxable value for operating purposes is $2,222,709,693 This millage rate is to cover the voter approved limited general obligation for Go For Parks. 0.1129 is the staff recommended millage rate, which would cover the principal and interest for the required voter approved debt service during fiscal year 'twenty six. The motion requested this evening is motion to approve Resolution twenty twenty five R-twenty three for final Edgewater INS twenty sixteen millage rate at 0.1129.

Thank you. Open to public hearing. Citizens' comments. Council comments.

What would happen if we voted it down?

So this is already a voter approved debt service obligation. So it's a required, this is just a formality, if you will, the required, voter approved. But we would not vote down yet.

When do pay this one off?

What's that?

When do we pay this one off?

I do not have that date on But the bill, I I can get that information to you.

Okay. Is there a motion to approve?

I make a motion to approve Resolution No. Twenty twenty five R23, final Edgewater INS Twenty Sixteen Voted Debt Service Millage Rate for the Go Parks for fiscal year twenty twenty five-twenty twenty six. Millage rate, 0.1129.

There a second? Second. Roll call.

Councilman Thomas? Yes. Councilwoman Dobo? Yes. Councilman Rainbird?

Yes.

Mayor DePue? Yes. Councilwoman Gillis? Yes.

Item 9E, Resolution twenty twenty five R-twenty four, final budget providing for appropriations for fiscal year 2025 to 2026. Please read into the record.

Resolution twenty twenty five R-twenty four, resolution of the City Council of Edgewater, Florida adopting the final original general fund, enterprise funds and all other related funds budgets and the capital improvements program for the fiscal year twenty twenty five-twenty twenty twenty six provided for appropriations, providing severability and for an effective date.

Thank you. Staff report.

Absolutely. The budget that is being requested approval for this evening final budget for fiscal year twenty twenty six operating budget, as discussed throughout the year in various budget workshops. The city of Edgewater is the taxing authority. The budget includes operational costs for fiscal year 'twenty five-'twenty six, increased operational costs, as well as increased employee cost and additional employees being brought on. The city of Edgewater is the taxing authority, and the 'twenty six budget includes the general, special revenue, debt internal service funds.

For the city charter, we budget at the fund level. Citywide fiscal year 'twenty six operating and capital budgets for all funds is $80,516,543 Motion requested this evening is to approve Resolution twenty twenty five R-twenty four, the final original budget for fiscal year 'twenty five-'twenty six of $80,516,543

Thank you. I'll open a public hearing for citizens' comments. Council comments. Is there a motion to approve?

I make a motion to approve resolution twenty twenty five dash r 24, final budget providing for appropriations for the fiscal year twenty twenty five twenty twenty six, 80,516,543.

Second. Roll call.

Councilman Thomas? Yes. Councilwoman Dabo? Yes. Councilman Rainbird?

Yes.

Mayor DePue? Yes. Councilwoman Gillis? Yes.

Item nine f, resolution number twenty twenty five dash r dash 34, acceptance and support for the Volusia County Local Mitigation Plan 2025. Please read into the record.

Resolution number twenty twenty five R-thirty four, resolution of the city of Edgewater, Florida supporting the Volusia County Local Mitigation Plan 2025 authorizing reporting and repealing resolutions of conflict. You are provided for severability and affidavit and establishing an effective date.

Thank you. Staff report.

Mayor and Council, the local mitigation strategy is a plan required by FEMA that is required to be updated every five years. The plan outlines community based efforts to prevent and build more resilient communities. The local mitigation strategy enables the city to be eligible for the National Flood Insurance Program, Community Rating System and grants including HMPG, EMPH, These are federally funded grants. Most importantly, approval of the local mitigation strategies required to be part of the Volusia County Local Mitigation Strategy Working Group. This body meets to vote and rank HMGP grant applications for funding consideration countywide. Staff recommends approval.

You. Over to public hearing, citizens' comments. Council comments. Is there a motion to approve?

Make a motion to approve resolution number 2025DashRDash24, acceptance and support.

It's 34. I'm so sorry. That's a typo on my Okay.

Resolution number 2025DashR34, acceptance and support for the Volusia County Local Plan 2025.

I'll second. Roll call.

Councilman Thomas? Yes. Councilwoman Dabo?

Yes.

Councilman Rainbird?

Yes.

Mayor DePue? Yes. Councilwoman Gillis?

Yes. M nine g, resolution number 2025DashRDash36, creating a charter review committee. Please read into the record.

Resolution number 2025DashRDash 30 6, a resolution of the city council of the city of Edgewater, Florida, agreed in a charter review committee provided for the purpose and duties of said committee appointing membership and defining the role of city staff in relation to the committee, reviewing all resolutions and conflicts you're with and providing for an effective date.

Thank you. Staff report. Mayor and council, per the current charter, the charter must be reviewed by a committee appointed by the city council every five years. The last review was completed in 2019. The purpose of the committee is to review the charter under the advice of the city attorney and should the committee feel any changes are needed to be made, make a recommendation to city council for a referendum to be placed on the ballot at the next regular election, which is November 2026.

The following individuals are proposed to be appointed to the committee, Mayor Diesel DePuze citywide appointment is Donna McDavid Councilwoman Charlotte Gillis, District one is Mandy Bullard Councilwoman Mike Thomas, District two Patrick Fisher Councilwoman Debbie Dabo, District three is Linda Mosier and Councilman Eric Rainberg, District four is Gary Conroy. The clerk will set the meeting, and Mr. Wolf will advise the board on parliamentary procedures and staff recommends approval.

Thank you. I just have a question. Is it too late to change our deck?

Just curious. Mr. Wolf?

No, it's not too late.

Open to public hearing, citizens' comments. Counsel comments.

Okay. Well, I'm glad you asked that question. I want to bring up a couple of concerns I had. I believe Mr. Fisher sits on the PNZ now, which is wonderful. Maybe we should I'm not sure who chose that, Mr. Fisher. Would that be?

Was Mr. Thomas or Since

Mr. Fisher is now officially on the Board, would it be possible to find another resident? We have 23,000 residents in our city. Someone else who might want to participate in city activities. I think that would be wonderful. If not, that's fine. I just wanted to say that he's now on. Thank you for your working with the P and Z. Just maybe there's someone else out there now that and I think when you recommended him, he had not yet been put on the P and Z.

My question is, can he serve as dual authority?

Mr. Attorney?

Yes, right. Well, Mr. Fisher does serve on the P and Z Board, so that does sense that. A what

be do

advisory committees. So he could serve on this advisory committee for charter review while still serving on the P and C Board without violating the dual office provision.

In that case, I'll leave it as is.

Okay. Thank you. And one more comment. Don McDavid has already sat on the Board as well. I feel there are so many more residents out there who are willing to get involved in our city. And if we keep picking the same people, we're not mixing it up. We're not getting other opinions. So she's been very active and she did a great job with the city manager search. Whenever we're going to again put her on another committee, I just think that maybe we should look outward at other residents and give someone else a chance to sit on a Board or a committee. It's just my thoughts. I just want to put it out there for the record that we have a lot of residents who would like the opportunity to sit on a committee. Let's pick more than one person.

Well, was approached by one person out of the city that asked me to do it, that was Mr. Fisher out of the other 23,000.

The other individual that I was approached by has already held public office.

And I had to reach out to quite a few residents, so I understand, Mike. And thankfully, accepted. Yes. I just to put that out there. That's all. I mean, I have no problem just saying that it would be nice to have someone else, someone new The on problem is they don't want

to do it.

Well, it's a lot of time consumption. I've been

in this since 2005, and they just don't want to put their time in. That's why we get the same ones over and over and over again. I'm sorry, I would like to do it, but he came to me and asked me if he could do it. And out of the 23,000 other residents, nobody is coming.

I appreciate that. I just wanted to just put that out there.

I was on the last one. It is pretty time consuming. It's Three hours, 3.5 each time. A lot of reading, a lot of research, a lot of paying attention, a lot of ideas.

Is there a motion to approve?

I make a motion to approve resolution twenty twenty five R dash 36 creating a charter review committee.

Second. Roll call.

Councilman Thomas?

Yes.

Councilwoman Dobo? No. Councilman Rainbird?

Yes.

Mayor DePue? Yes. Councilwoman Gillis?

Yes. Item 10, board appointments. Item 10A, Volusia County Opioid Advisory Board member appointment staff report.

Mayor and Counsel, in 2023, the city of Edgewater, along with the majority of other Volusia County governments, joined in a class action lawsuit against seven drug manufacturers over the dangers of opioid use and addiction. The suit was successful and a monetary judgment was awarded. City of Edgewater is required to appoint a representative to this board to safeguard the best interest of its citizens in the use of the settlement money. On 03/06/2023, the City Council appointed myself to serve as Edgewater's representative. However, with my appointment to interim city manager, I'm no longer able to serve in this capacity. It is therefore recommended that Captain Charles Geiger, acting chief of police, be appointed to represent the city of Edgewater on the Opioid Advisory Board moving forward.

Over to public hearing, citizen's comments. Council comments.

Who did he nominate? I didn't understand it.

Charles Geiger, acting chief of police. Seeing no further comments.

I make a motion to appoint Chaz Geiger to the Volusia County Opioid Advisory Board. Second.

Roll call.

Councilman Thomas?

Yes.

Councilwoman Dobo? Yes. Councilman Rainbird?

Yes.

Mayor DePue? Yes. Councilwoman Gillis?

Yes. Item 11, other business? While we're still on board appointments,

just for clarification, what if, on the last appointment of the Charter Review Committee, what would have happened if it was a Novo that would have gone back to repooling other nominees? Or what were the consequences of Novo?

Mr. Attorney or Manager?

Right. Well, the charter requires that there be a charter review committee. So we need to come back in front of the council, perhaps with different, I guess, appointments.

Are you wishing to go back to that discussion at this time? No.

I just was wondering, I mean, it is a charter mandate, and we would have just had to come back and try to get agreeable numbers, I guess.

Item 11A, discussion and selection of legal counsel for the City of Edgewater. Item 11A staff report.

Mayor and council, requested by city council, staff requested proposals from qualified attorneys or law firms who were interested in providing professional services as the City of Edgewater General Legal Counsel. Five proposals were received for counsel review, discussion and selection. The firms that provided proposals were Mr. Wolf's firm Sabatini Law Firm Smith, Gramble and Russell Vega Law Firm and Voslaw Firm. To move forward, you have a few options.

You can request to interview each firm one on one and reconvene at a later city council meeting for selection. You can request to interview each publicly at a special meeting that would be open to the public. You can request to interview each publicly at a city council meeting, or obviously, you can select the firm now.

Thank you. Okay. Open to public hearing. Citizens' comments. Council comments. Citizens' comments.

Was waiting to see if anybody else wanted to do that.

Chuck Martin, 205, Cherry Woodland Edgewater. You know, every time he's asked a question, bam, he's got it. Okay? Just want to start off that way. Before council votes on removal and appointment of a city attorney, we, the taxpayers who pay his salary, would like to hear a discussion and facts as to why Mr. Wolf should be replaced. What has he done or hasn't done? I think we deserve it. I feel Mr. Wolf has saved us tens of thousands of dollars, if not millions, and especially if we are gonna be fighting SB one eighty.

You don't get rid of your soldier right in the middle of a battle you're fixing to start.

That all you agreed upon, by the way, for this SB one eighty.

As far as I know, none of these attorneys have as much experience as him. I'm just saying

that because he's probably older than most of them, but that's just my opinion. You can't beat experience. I mean, he's part of our family. Look what we just went through. These two men right here are running our city.

Nobody knows what we're going through more than mister Wolfe. My recommendation is to renew his contract until our new city manager and police chief are in place permanently out of

respect for mister Mahoney and staff. If this man right here leaves, can you imagine what's gonna happen over here, what he's gotta go through? It would be undermining Mr. Mahoney in my opinion. We we can't do that. We we can't. Now when his contract comes up in January, if that's something you guys want to

do, well then go for it. That's up

to you. That's your job. Mister Wolf's family, he's he's stuck through through thick and thin. He's always been. He's been here every meeting I've been to. He's never been late. Anytime you guys ask for direction, he gives it to you. He's part of our family. So just remember that. He's always been here for us.

He's never lied to you or or given you any false direction, and I hope you all would feel the same way. We need them. We need them, just like we need Joe and Chaz. Thank you for letting me speak.

Thank you, sir, for your comments. We truly appreciate it.

Renee Sortman, Umbrella Tree Drive. Historical event here. I absolutely agree with Chuck. I absolutely agree with everything he just said. It's making me shake.

I feel that we got the right city manager. Really good thing. I think that with all the change with when you've come into office, we have skippity doo dahed everybody out the door because either you haven't learned quick enough that you're a figurehead right now and you're doing you're moving towards doing certain things and changing the whole landscape of everything. And I think legal counsel is very important. He has done his job.

He's been in here forever. He knows, and when we're going to go up with Lennar, we're going go up with all the other things, he knows what he's doing. I'm just going to say it here, I know you and Anthony Santini are good friends, and I just see a it was posted somewhere today. What you're doing with and I'm totally against it. I think we need to stay with Mr. Wolf. He brings credibility. He brings, integrity. I think what you're fixing to do, wiping everybody out and starting and who knows where we're going to be next year, it's wrong. My opinion. Thank you.

Thank you, ma'am, for your comments. I appreciate it. All right. Well, I'll go ahead and go first. I've expressed dissatisfaction before on the council, but it's not about this man. It's not about whoever is in the audience that is an attorney. What it means to me is I don't know why the city of Edgewater prolongs contracts for so many years. I think it's about fiscal responsibility. And it has been estimated that our legal costs and fees are going to go up $100,000 this year. And I think when it goes up to such a high amount, it should be able to be rebidded.

And I think that you can't just go I can't go up $100,000 on a loan client when I have them and just expect them not to be rebidded. I don't care who I'm friends with or not friends with. I think that fiscal responsibility comes into play here. And normally, when you're in city business, you take the most fiscal responsible contract unless they do have experience. In our play, we do have someone with experience, tremendous experience, and we are close to February.

So my recommendation would be to hold private meetings, but my overall comment is fiscal responsibility tonight. And I think that everybody should be able to, if Mr. Wolf has done tremendous job, not saying he hasn't, he should be able to interview well of why he should keep this position. I think fiscal responsibility comes into play. You can't just go up $100,000 without any kind of comment as to why or rebid, my comments.

Private interviews is what I would say, and then anybody could come to public with any kind of discussion.

I'll go next. Fiscal responsibility. I reviewed the five applicants, and I'd like more time. And I'd like to also meet with them privately one on one for the discussion. I was looking at the cost, Mr. Wolfe's firm was right where it needed to be. There were three of the firms who were more extremely high Mr. Wolfe's was. They were giving per hour cost and two of them were either monthly or per hour, which is appreciated that ability for flexibility. If we're worrying about costs, I think Mr.

Wolfe is doing a wonderful job. And I do agree from time to time to open it up if that's what we need to do. You feel the city doesn't search enough, that's fine. But just from what I've looked at so far, he's very fiscally responsible. He's right in line with everyone else and on the lower end. I I say, there's only one firm that was $3 lower than him. Imagine that. That's how you bid when you're catering. You'll undercut him by $10 and you get the job. But there's more to it than $3 There's more to it than the cheapest way to go.

Being fiscal responsible is also being morally responsible. I just think that when we make this decision, we have to look at all aspects of it. We have Lenora coming up on Thursday. We're starting to get into more litigation here. We have Lenora coming up. We have All Florida Plumbing coming up. As counsel makes decisions that puts our city in liable state, we're going to have to have a lawyer represent us. So this is what he's doing. He's representing us, but this is going to cost the taxpayers and us more money. So we can't be fiscally responsible and say, we want the cheapest bang for our buck, at same the time putting more work on that lawyer because of the decisions we're making as a counsel in full.

I mean, I'm one of five. So I'm here with you, but I'm just saying that we're putting more work on him because of our choices, but then you want someone who's going do it cheaper. No matter who comes in here, they're charging us by hour, and we're going to pay the same per hour, more or less, no matter who we go with. So being episcopally responsible is also how we work and how we do things on counsel to keep us out of litigation. So that's where I want to be with that.

I don't disagree with you at all. Great points. And I don't think we're just going to say to whoever we choose, if it's not Mr. Wolf, hit the door. Have a great day. It's going to have to be a slow breakup. If we do breakup with Mr. Wolf, there is ongoing litigation. But I don't think we're just going to say, thanks for your service. Get the hell out. I mean, I don't think that that's going to be the case at all.

I hope not. In the past, it seems to have been that way. So that's good to know that. Mr. Wolfe, what is your what is a plan that you would have in place if that were to go that way?

Well, the contract provides that the city count either party, either the law firm or the city council can terminate the contract without cause on thirty days notice. So there would be at least that thirty day transition period that I could work with a new firm if that's what the city council chooses. As far as the litigation, it would be again up to the city council. I could continue on as your litigation counsel on the pending matters. And you could even, if you wanted to, assign future lawsuits, litigation to my firm, if you wanted. Or you could ask that the insurance company reassign court to get to

move forward with the interview process. To

Does anybody have any consensus on to if public, interviews, private interviews or no interviews.

I thought we were going to move mean, obviously, we've not done this before, and I've not seen this done years as long as Aaron's been here. I thought this would be something that we would move forward. We would each interview them the way we were planning on doing the city clerk. So that's something I would like to see is just having us have our own one on ones with everybody, Mr. Wolf included.

So do we need a motion, Mr. Wolf, to move forward with private interviews or consensus?

Just consensus, I think.

I would agree with the private interviews.

You consensus have to move forward with private interviews.

Just a little bit of direction. When do you want those interviews to be completed by?

January, December. I

think that the second October meeting is we don't have an abundance of candidates.

So we're at September 22 right now. I'd have to narrow down each of your schedules and then narrow down the firm's. Would it be acceptable to get it completed and then either we do a special second meeting in October to discuss or to the November, depending on their availability and your availability. I mean staffing get it done next week if everybody is available and you're available. Don't know if those firms are that responsive or your schedules will allow.

Okay. November then, I suppose.

I would just have to go last after 04:00. That's all I request. I don't want to rush into this.

It's safe to say, I will have the meetings completed before the November city council meeting as long as everybody's schedule works. So I will do my best to have those completed quickly.

I would also be comfortable if you had to do a second meeting in October, but I know we just wanted to get rid of that. So it's all up to everybody else's schedule. I'm fine with however we choose to move forward. I'm fine with November.

Consensus for November. Item 12, officer report, city clerk.

I have nothing at this time, but did we ever set a time for the city clerk interviews as well? Would that in November as well for the consensus?

I'm sorry, I missed the question.

It's okay. I asked if the city clerk interviews were included in the November time range for consensus? It was mentioned, so I just wanted to make sure I didn't miss it.

I believe I said by November.

Sorry.

I don't think we set a date, did we?

Yeah, we said we would reconvene in either at the October or November city council meeting. So once again, pretty tight time frame. We can try to get the five interviews before the agenda is rolled for the October 6 meeting, if

you want that to be

the goal or we can also include that on the November meeting.

Consensus. Let's go with consensus. I think the faster we can get a permanent hire, the better. We're just comfortable with you.

No offense to Great job. I will try to get it on the October City Council meeting. If we're unable to, then we'll get it in November.

There's consensus for that. How about that? Okay. Do you have anything else to report on?

I'm good. Thank you so much.

Item 12, City Attorney.

Yes. Just a real quick litigation update. As far as the Lennar litigation, which is the appeal of the denial of final plat, the final hearing on that is this Thursday. All the briefs have been completed. So the judge will hold a one hour hearing and then in due course issue a final ruling on that case.

With respect to All Florida Plumbing, which is the pre litigation under the Dispute Resolution Act, we have a mediation set for October 10, which is the first step in the process. If the case does not get resolved at mediation, if it is if some agreement is reached at mediation, it would be subject to city council approval. So we would bring it back in front of you for a vote. If it doesn't settle at mediation, the next step is an arbitration type hearing to be set in the future, and we don't have a date for that yet. And that's all I have.

Great. Thank you. Just at this time, I want to I forgot to do it earlier. Just want to say thank you, Bridget, for a great fiscal budget this year. Truly appreciate all your work and Julie helping you along the way, along with our internal city manager. Thank you guys for your help with getting the budget approved this year with increases. You. Item 13, Citizens Comments.

Agnes Witter, 223 Flagler Avenue. I just have a question. I was wondering that if when someone comes and they ask to be annexed into the city, are we obligated to accept them into the city?

It depends on the ISBA agreement, but typically the city council approves it or denies it.

It depends on what?

Typically what occurs is in our ISBA jurisdiction, and then it goes to the city council for approval or denial.

And define ISBA?

Inter service boundary agreement. Okay. There are several little lots across Edgewater that are still in the county.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

Patrick Fisher, 2100 South Airport Road. Mister Mahoney, I appreciate all you're doing for the city, taking my calls, spoke with me, answered my questions. Anytime I had anything you know, I've emailed all you guys at one point in time or another. You guys know where I stand. I've spoken for a lot of things.

And I again, I appreciate you for allowing us the opportunity to serve on the Charter Review Committee. I attended a comprehensive planning sessions, very poor participation. It's terrible, and, it's it's disappointing. I don't have any agendas other than that, trying to be available to help where help is needed. And I'm getting hammered now by the water's edge truth on Facebook about I'm in the back pockets of every all the buts in the council.

I don't go eat I mean, we don't go hang out, do all these crazy things. I know you through my participation and trying to get you to make decisions that I would like to see. You guys know where I stand on a lot of issues because I've emailed you and I've told you that. I asked to be on the planning and zoning board. Chairman Kennedy, every meeting, tell folks, if you don't like the way things are going, get on a board. And guess what? I did that.

Thank you.

Right? Asked to be on the charter review committee. Mister Thomas, thank you for sticking up for me. I just wanna help. I've got no agendas. I'm not trying to work any backroom shady deals. Just trying to be open and up front and out front. So I appreciate that. I am a new perspective, and I'm trying to learn. There's a lot of things I don't know.

I have to call mister Solstice every now and then and ask a few questions, and he gets right back to me and gives spends whatever time is needed to get answers. So I think everybody's real open and honest in trying to put the information out there so that we can those of us that are trying to participate can make a good representation and try to do the right thing to help and support you. So thank you.

Thank you, sir, for your comments and your participation in our community.

Chuck Martin, Edgewater, Florida. It's been a great meeting tonight. Thanks for letting me share. I know you guys look forward to it when I get up here. No, but it's been good. You know, we're in a healing process right now, and I'm very pleased with every one of you. I haven't agreed with all of you at times, but your integrity awesome, especially you. You have a great deal of integrity. We always know where you stand. You're an awesome person.

Hope to see you back up here again in the next four years. I really do. You know, with that being said, I had the pleasure of working with a person that was a flood victim on Edgewater Canal Road for the last couple weekends. I know you guys were out there, checked out the flooded property. I went out there with myself, a couple other people that I think most of you know, and dug some ditches and moved some dirt around.

And I think we got her a property where the snakes and the mosquitoes won't be living on it right now. Talked to Mr. Mahoney about, you know, the progress that we made out there the last couple weekends, and I think he's working with the county on getting some of those flow valve things to go in the pipes there that really help out. But we got the mosquitoes and the snakes out of the yard. I did want to mention that. I don't post stuff like that. I don't put it out there. It's That's not me. It's not what I do. I don't charge.

Help I people. It's just what I do. And I want to close with this. I've had some experiences in the past with attorneys, and I don't know if you guys realize, but a litigation attorney is very valuable, very valuable. There's not many around.

A litigation attorney with this man's experience right here is priceless. Thank you.

Thank you, sir, for your comments and your involvement in the community.

Donna McDavid, 1201 Bond Street. I came in with fire in my eyes tonight. I've calmed down a little bit, but I do have a couple of things I do want to say. No one trashes your name better than the person that is terrified that you are going to tell people the truth, and that is because they know that their own reputation and credibility are built on shaky ground. The moment you reveal the truth, their facade will come crashing down, so they preemptively destroy your credibility and your reputation, hoping to discredit you before you expose them. But in reality, their own guilt and insecurity and ultimately the truth will come to light and those who have been deceived

by

the lies and manipulation will see them for who they truly are. To the individual or individuals behind water's edge truth talk, you and your information that you are putting out there is grossly out of date factual. You are doing nothing but undermining the interim city manager, creating hate, discontent, and division within our community. And you need to stop whoever you are.

Thank you, ma'am, for your comments. They're truly appreciated. Okay. We are adjourned. Oh, there's one more citizen's comments. I apologize.

The fact of the matter is

Could you please take

your Yep, I can. I'm Lana Fisher, 2100 Air Park Road. You guys have handled yourselves with the utmost professionalism. You get slammed. You get accused of doing things that you have never done. You get torn apart on Facebook. There's horrible people in this world, and I'm sorry that y'all have to endure that. Mr. Mahoney, you did a fantastic job for us when we asked for your help. Mr.

Solstice has done a wonderful job. I had the opportunity to personally email Mr. Geiger. Very approachable. I hope you all know what a jewel he is. Same with Sarah Geiger. She handled the donations and the fundraising amazingly. My condolences are to that family. It's hard for me to talk about that because it just rips my heart out that somebody is going through such a profound loss. I've been there.

But it's not about me. I just want to say what a wonderful job all of you all did throughout the process. And we do appreciate having such great leadership. I appreciate you. I know my husband appreciates you, whether we're accused of being your minions or whatever. We're not. But we do appreciate the job that you do. So thank you.

Well, you, ma'am, for your comments. And you are appreciated for all you guys do for the community and for Officer Jewell's family. We are adjourned.