Village Council - Regular Meeting

All right, good evening. Thank you all for coming tonight. We're going to call to order this meeting of the Wellington Village Council for Tuesday, June 30th. And we're going to start off with the invocation from Reverend Matthew Tease of St. David's, coincidentally enough, to be followed by the pledge. So please rise. Let us pray.

Let us pray. Gracious God, as we gather this evening as the representatives and members of the village of Wellington, we're mindful of the trust and responsibility you have placed here. We ask that this meeting be guided by the shared commitment to the well-being of our residents. Almighty God, we ask as we celebrate our nation's 250th anniversary that we may prove ourselves to be a people mindful of your will. that as we pray for justice and peace, that we may be an example to all nations. Save us from violence, bless our people, and fill our hearts with thankfulness. All this we ask through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Congratulations to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

All right, Mr. Barnes. That brings us to the approval of the agenda, and with the following amendments, staff would recommend approval. First amendment is to add item S7R, reciting the authorization for the village manager to execute the amendment to the Wellington Athletics Comprehensive Agreement, incorporating fee exemption pursuant to policy number VW-0-261, and adding that again as 7R. Removing public hearing item 8 a ordinance number 2025 dash 26 Which is the 14 8 3 3 50th Street comprehensive plan amendment and that will be removed from the agenda due to the withdrawal by the applicant Next removing public hearing item 8 B, which is ordinance number 2025 dash 27 14 8 3 3 50th Street rezoning and that will be removed from the agenda also due to a withdrawal by the applicant and Next item is removing public hearing item 8E, ordinance number 2026-17, amending chapter 14 of Wellington's code of ordinances to prohibit the operation of electric bicycles and motor scooters in certain Wellington parks and clarifying definitions and enforcement and removing that from the agenda. And similarly, removing Public Hearing Item 8F, Ordinance Number 2026-16, amending Chapter 22 of Wellington's Code of Ordinances, clarifying the penalty for golf cart violations, and creating a new article addressing the operation of electric vehicles, motorized scooters, and other micromobility devices on public rights-of-way, and also removing that from the agenda. With those modifications, staff recommends approval of the agenda as amended.

Is there a motion to approve?

Move to approve.

As amended.

Second. All in favor? Aye. Opposed? Hearing none. Amended. Agenda is approved.

Taking us to presentations and proclamations. And the first item is recognition of Coach Dave Jimenez. And Mr. Hagopian is here together with other team members from Parks and Recreation to present this item.

Good evening, Council. Thank you for allowing me to be here today. Coach Dave, as he's often referred to, has been part of the Parks and Rec Department for as long as I can remember. I've been here 18 years. And as a program coordinator, he was one of our coaches. coaching his own kids, and then continuing to coach many seasons after that when his kids were out of the program. Many times, three teams a season. So that's many practices and many games on Saturdays that he was there for. He was a Wellington resident since 2004 and continues to help with the soccer programs in the village of Wellington. He's currently now the head coach for the Palm Beach Central High School team. I know he still continues to try to play as much as he possibly can as well. So soccer is his world. So it's my honor and privilege to be able to recognize him for all his years of service to the village of Wellington. and volunteering his time and helping the kids with being able to play and practice and enjoy our programs. Without volunteer coaches, we don't get to do what we get to do. So it's a big testament to their time and their effort that they continue to allow us to run programs that we do. So without further ado, I'd like to bring up Dave, if you could say a couple words.

Jim, thank you. Johnny. This is a big part of my life. Coaching these kids since I moved here in 2004 was a pleasure. Coaching my own kids, my son Christopher and Kayla, and then went on to coach all these other, which they're my kids. I consider them my kids. I started off with eight teams and then I finished with one team and won the championship. And the girls that won the championship were sitting right back there. And I wanted to go out as a champion and win that for them, go undefeated, and help these kids thrive. And what's good is all these kids that I've seen and coached and touched and their families, I see them now in high school programs. whether it's boys or girls, because I did both. And now I coach the boys at Palm Beach Central. And it's grateful, and I do miss it. But I'm still coaching, waiting for high school to start up in October. And again, like Ryan said, I play in the men's league. Just continuing, but I do do miss. I do miss the game coaching these kids going to the park every morning, spending my whole Saturday there. From from 730 till about 4 o'clock, because I coached the U19 and they ended again, right? They ended late so, but it's a pleasure and I do thank you. Thanks for everybody being here and that's all I got.

Don't run off. We're going to do a picture. But, Coach, thank you for your service. You're a legend in Parks and Rec, although yesterday Mr. Barnes said a Barnes coach team never lost to your coach team. I don't know if that's true or not, but he did say that. Ed confirmed that, too.

The biggest thing is they all wanted to beat me. All the teams wanted to beat me.

You had a target on your back.

It was a pleasure.

We're going to come down and do a photo, or we're going to make Mr. Barnes be in this one.

I just told Jim he might want to get it.

Congratulations. Good luck.

Mr. Barnes. All right, it brings us to our next item, which is the Let's Move March Challenge Award presentation. And Ms. Garvey is here to present this item with a few other team members.

Good evening, Council. It's with great pleasure that we welcome the Digital Vibes team to speak about the annual Let's Move program. The Let's Move Commit to Challenge Physical Activity Challenge is a countywide initiative and encourages Palm Beach County residents to get active and live healthier. Presented annually by Digital Vibes and the Palm Health Foundation, the challenge takes place March 1st through the 30th. The village encourages our staff, residents, businesses, and community partners to join our team to log the most minutes. Joining us tonight to speak more on the challenge is Alicia Trice, project coordinator with Digital Vibes.

Good evening.

Good evening. Good evening, everybody.

There's two trophies.

Hello. On behalf of the Palm Hill Foundation and Digital Vibes, thank you for inviting us to celebrate this incredible achievement. Today, we're excited to celebrate the success of the 2026 Let's Move March Challenge winners. Year after year, the Village of Wellington continues to show what consistency, teamwork, and show commitment to what wellness and health really looks like. And this year is no different. The Village of Wellington Parks and Rec's team earned first place in the top subcategory, logging an incredible 15,252,228 minutes of physical activity. Yes, yes, yes. And overall, the Village of Wellington once again secured the first place top team in the organization category with an outstanding 15,998,893 minutes logged. Congratulations. Those numbers represent more than minutes. They represent community that continues to make health and wellness a priority. Your leadership inspires others across Palm Beach County to stay active and embrace healthier lifestyles. Congratulations to all of the staff, participants, volunteers, and the residents who made this possible. Your dedication continues to set the standard for wellness in our county. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Thank you.

Yeah, this is truly something we can't win without our residents because they logged all their minutes to make this worthwhile. And the most exciting thing about this trophy is it only says Wellington on it. Every year it's Wellington, Wellington, Wellington. Yes, it does. We love trophies. We like these trophies the best. So we'll come down and do a photo with our trophies.

Okay, awesome.

Do you want all your biking seats? Hello?

You already did all that. Alright.

Big smiles. 3, 2, 1. Thank you so much. Good job.

All right, Mr. Barnes, more good stuff. What's next?

All right, next item is presentation and proclamation of recognizing St. David's in the Pines Episcopal Church on its 50th anniversary. And I will turn this over to Ms. Cohen to present this item.

For me to present? That's what it says.

Well, it's a it's a huge milestone in the life of not only our church but the community at large it was the first church in Wellington and We there's some interesting history that goes along with that at one point we had Prince Charles, who visited on an Easter Sunday. I've forgotten the year. Father Tease may know. And so, you know, we've served the community faithfully for all of that time. We have a lot of members present tonight who are celebrating this milestone. And with that, I would ask the clerk to read the proclamation.

Whereas St. David's in the Pines Episcopal Church was established in Wellington in 1976 as a mission by a group of dedicated individuals with the vision to create a place of worship, fellowship, and spiritual growth in Wellington. The church grew rapidly and therefore applied for parish status in late 1978. St. David's in the Pines was awarded parish status in May 1979, and whereas it is a church for people of all races, ethnicities, and ages. On April 6th, 1980, Prince Charles was welcomed by then Reverend John Mangrum and celebrated Easter services at St. David's in the Pines. And whereas for 50 years, St. David's in the Pines has served as a beacon of faith, hope, and compassion, providing guidance and spiritual support to its members and the surrounding community. And whereas the church has reached a significant milestone, celebrating its golden jubilee. reflecting half a century of unwavering commitment to its ministry and its mission. And whereas the congregation of St. David's in the Pines has grown from its humble beginnings to become a vibrant, diverse, and enduring cornerstone of the community. And whereas through its various ministries, outreach programs, and fellowship initiatives, St. David's in the Pines has enhanced the quality of life for residents and contributed to the moral fabric of Wellington. Now, therefore, the Village Council of Wellington, Florida does hereby recognize St. David's in the Pines Episcopal Church on its 50th anniversary and commend St. David's for 50 years of spiritual leadership, dedication, and service to God and the community. In witness thereof, I have hereunto set my hand and cause the seal of Wellington, Florida to be affixed this 30th day of June 2026, signed Mayor Michael Napoleone.

Does Father Tease want to say a few words?

i just want to thank the town of wellington i've been here a whole like six months and it has been we it's been a wonderful welcome and i think part of what i've been able to learn as part of this community is our members are part of this community we see them everywhere i see you everywhere so i want to thank you for your commitment to st david's and please know you're going to count on st david's for your needs as well and as we can support the community please let us know And I just want to commend to you the faithful people of St. David's who are here, many of whom are lifelong members and have been here for the majority of that time. Can we please acknowledge the St. David's vestry and our members?

Well, thank you all for coming out. Congratulations. You're 20 years older than the village.

Good job. Somehow that's possible.

We'll come down and do a photo with you all. I have the proclamation. I guess I'll give it to Father Tease to take back to the church.

Father Tease, great to see you. Just after. You're still baby Jesus? One, two, and we'll look here. Perfect. We might all leave. Great.

Everyone's leaving before the ethics presentation?

I don't know why. As usual, I've managed to clear the room. Usually my job.

What's your call?

This chair keeps sinking. I don't like this chair. You're getting lower for the whole meeting.

Oh, you might have my old one.

I have your broken chair? Great.

We're talking about our chairs. They're like... Yes.

It'll disappear soon.

Don't go to sleep.

All right, Mr. Barnes. That brings us to our next presentation item, which is a presentation by the Palm Beach County Commission on Ethics. And we're all keyed up and ready to go. Ms. Levesque is here.

Most ethics missteps we see don't start with bad intent. They start with uncertainty. Good evening, and thank you for having me. My name is Gina Levesque, and I serve as your liaison to the Palm Beach County Commission on Ethics in my role as Intake and Compliance Manager. Today, I'd like to briefly focus on how ethics shows up in your daily responsibilities and how we can support you when questions arise. Before I do that, let me briefly explain who we are and what we do. The Commission on Ethics was established to promote integrity in public service, build public trust, and ensure that private interests do not interfere with public duties. We provide oversight for more than 12,000 public officials, employees, advisory board members, and certain vendors and lobbyists throughout Palm Beach County, including all 39 municipalities. Many of the matters we address involve well-intentioned employees and employees navigating complex relationships, outside employment, vendor interactions, or perceived conflicts of interest. And these are not always clear, and that's where we come in. Our role is not just enforcement, it's guidance. We're here as a resource to help you navigate those gray areas before they become problems. Whether it's a quick question or formal advisory opinion, reaching out ahead of time can make all the difference. Advisory opinions in particular provide guidance based on your specific circumstances, and when relied upon in good faith, they offer protection moving forward. If there's one takeaway I'd like to leave you with, it's this. If something causes you to pause, even briefly, that's the time to reach out. You don't need to be certain there's an issue. You don't need to know whether the code applies. If you're unsure, ask. You can find resources or contact us at palmbeachcountyethics.com or by calling 561-355-1915. Thank you again for your time and for your continued commitment to public service. Because ethics isn't a moment, it's a mindset. I'm happy to answer any questions you may have. And I expect a picture.

I'll come up with a picture. Thank you again for coming every year and reminding us that you're out there as a resource to those of us who might have questions and things we don't know. Because there's a lot of stuff we don't know if we can or can't do it. And you should always ask before you do it. This is better to ask permission than forgiveness in this instance. Absolutely. Ask first, act later is our tagline. You don't always get forgiveness if you do it wrong. So it's better to ask first.

Any questions?

Questions?

No? Good. Thank you very much.

Thank you for coming. Thank you so much. Yes, you're up. One more presentation.

It brings us to item E, which is resolution adopting preliminary trim rates for Wellington to Acme Improvement District and the Saddle Trail Park Neighborhood Improvement District as follows. And Ms. Hall can read the balance of it if we need to. Otherwise, Ms. Crickle is here to get us started.

Resolution number 2026-28, a resolution of Wellington, Florida's Council, adopting the preliminary ad valorem millage rate for Wellington truth and millage purposes for the municipality's fiscal year 2026-2027 budget within the jurisdictional boundaries of Wellington and providing an effective date. Resolution number AC2026-05, a resolution of the Board of Supervisors of the Acme Improvement District, adopting the district's preliminary non-evaluam assessment rates for truth and millage purposes and providing an effective date. resolution number are 2026-29 a resolution of Wellington Florida's Council adopting the preliminary non ad valorem assessment rates for the Saddle Trail Park neighborhood improvement district for truth and millage purposes within the jurisdictional boundaries of Wellington and providing an effective date good evening we're here to present the preliminary proposed fiscal year 27 budget and trim overview

Thank you for the opportunity to present our 27 budget. The foundation of our budget begins with Wellington. Our budget process focuses on the five fundamentals, neighborhood renaissance, economic development, protecting our investment, responsive government, and respecting the environment. We then developed the budget using insights and information from the 26 direction workshops with Council to develop the budget priorities to support the fundamentals to deliver essential services efficiently, support community priorities, fund operations and maintenance of facilities while minimizing tax impacts, and responsibly invest in Wellington's future. We propose no change in the current millage rate, which is at 2.47 mills. There is no change proposed for ACME rate of $275. For solid waste, the proposed fiscal year 27 preliminary assessment rates are for curbside per unit $325 and container per unit $240, each reflecting a $5 increase from the current year rates. These rates increases cover the service contract cost. For water and wastewater user rates, we propose the annual indexing rate of 5.08%, which is an average monthly bill increase of $4.79. These rates are based on an annual review of the utility with a five-year plan for operations, maintenance, and capital. This rate is in accordance with the utility rate resolution and provides for the annual indexing at the greater of 3.5% or the water and sewer CPI per year. The saddle trail assessments are based on property size and the total debt service amount. The per acre assessment rate is $1,721, which is unchanged. The properties are assessed over a 15-year term, and this is the 11th year of that assessment. The 27 proposed budget continues Wellington's commitment to stable budgeting for sustainability. The total proposed 27 budget is $149.97 million, which is $5.9 million or 3.8% less than the current year budget of $155.9 million. The $5.9 million decrease is primarily due to reduced capital improvements, elimination of positions, leasing of major equipment, and no election expense. Detailed information regarding major capital projects will be presented at the upcoming Capital Workshop on August 10, 2016. Out of the proposed 27 budget of $149.9 million, tax revenue provides $32.5 million in revenue using the 2.47 millage rate. With an estimated 4.9% increase in the 26 taxable value to $13.87 billion, the strength of Wellington's residential market provides ad valorem tax revenues of $1.35 million more than last year at the same preliminary 2.47 millage rate. This is the 14th consecutive year of increased property values since 2013. The revenue value of each tenth of a mill is $1,317,000 in 27 compared to $1,252,000 in 26. And of the almost 23,000 properties in Wellington, approximately 62% are residential properties with homestead exemptions and less than 1% are vacant properties. The preliminary budgeted governmental revenues total $102 million, down from budgeted 26 revenues by $4.3 million. There is a small increase in ad valorem taxes, interest income, and for the new school zone camera speed program, and there are decreases in state shared revenues, including sales surtax, which has ended, and in building department revenues and in transfers from other funds. Ad valorem property taxes account for 32% of governmental fund revenues followed by transfers in for indirect cost, permits and fees, intergovernmental revenues, and utility and fuel services are each at 9% and charge for services at 7%. The general fund receives $5.6 million in transfers from other funds or 19% of total revenues. Proposed legislative changes in the economy remain major factors in the preparation of this year's budget, given the influences from sustained capital project cost, competitive labor and benefits challenges, and maintaining exceptional levels of service. Our departments focus on these ongoing pressures as we work through the budget process and to address projects and services on a daily basis. To expand upon budget changes in the governmental funds, there is a $353,000 increase for the PBSO contract or 3% contract increase. And there's approximately a $650,000 increase included for personnel expenses For across the board, wage increases, FRS and health insurance increases. There are decreases in property insurance and risk management costs. There is no election expense, decreased asset purchases and reductions in major maintenance of roads, parks and buildings and capital projects. For the enterprise funds, annual utility capital projects are increased. There's approximately a $565,000 increase for utility and solid waste personnel expenses for across the board wage increases and FRS and health insurance increases. We are in the sixth year of the solid waste contract with FCC and with $237,000 in increased expenses. The utility maintenance and chemicals and property insurance expenses are slightly decreased, and the utility debt service is decreased due to scheduling per the funding for the meter replacement project through the low-interest loan with the state drinking water fund. Ad valorem tax revenue of $32.7 million represents 45% of general fund revenues for fiscal year 27 and support multiple expenditure categories ranging from enhanced safety and security, village appearance and mobility, community support and investment, quality of life, protecting investments, capital improvements and maintenance, economic outreach, and responsive governance. This is an important slide demonstrating the percent of the general fund budget used for the various services and functions for the operation of Wellington. The largest capital and major maintenance projects focused for fiscal year 27 include continuing work on the multi-year ACME stormwater pump station renovation and rehabilitation program to enhance and modernize the nine pump stations for the area. Turn lanes and traffic engineering funding, streetscape and equestrian trail improvements, athletic and governmental facilities funding, multipurpose and bicycle lanes funding, Parks Improvements and the Traffic Signal Improvements Program. Utilities capital projects include major funding for water supply improvements, water treatment system projects, water reclamation facility improvements, and force main wastewater system projects. The summary of capital projects and programs in the preliminary 27 budget include utility capital project funding of $11.5 million and ongoing programs of $8 million in the governmental funds. With the proposed millage rate of 2.47 mills, the impact on a homesteaded property valued at $450,000 is a $30 increase. The impact on the same non-homesteaded property would be $111. The average 18-year millage rate is 2.47 mills. And as previously presented, the impact on a homesteaded property valued at $450,000 is a $30 increase, and the impact on the same non-homesteaded property is $111. Some other potential millage rate impacts are presented here. It is important to remember that while the millage rate is unchanged, homeowners may still see an increase in their taxes if their property value increases. Now we have a sample tax bill showing 18.6% of the total tax bill going to Wellington. The largest portion of the tax bill is paid to the school district, followed by Palm Beach County. This will be updated in subsequent presentations to reflect proposed 27 rates from other taxing authorities other than Palm Beach County Fire, Rescue, and Wellington. What to expect in fiscal year 27 budget? Continued focus on maintaining infrastructure with major maintenance and capital project funding, supporting our schools, expanding senior transportation and programming, continued support for athletics and recreation programs and special events, maintaining a strong focus on crime reduction and safety initiatives, and sustaining the environment, ongoing environmental maintenance and programs. And yes, we are pleased to present this proposed fiscal year 27 budget to you. It funds Wellington's high levels of service and includes great projects with a continued stable millage rate. The budget calendar is shown here with the process continuing with public outreach to gain input from residents and stakeholders with multiple engagement options. The ClearGov online survey and flash vote along with presentations, social media, and Wellington's website. Outreach is currently active through August the 3rd as the Village continues budget development throughout the summer. Following the outreach, we will hold the capital workshop on August 10th to review the capital improvement plan in detail. We will also receive Department of Revenue Office of Tax Research municipal revenue estimates in late July and will make necessary adjustments based on these revenue estimates. The 27 proposed budget before council tonight reflects what has always guided Wellington's financial stewardship, responsible fiscal planning that delivers exceptional services while protecting the long-term financial health of our community. Every line in this budget is reviewed with an eye toward efficiency and doing more with less. And the council makes hard budget choices every year to ensure Wellington residents receive outstanding value. That discipline is not new. It is the standard we hold ourselves to. I would be remiss not to acknowledge the proposed property tax change ahead on the November ballot that Wellington residents should be aware of as we plan for the years ahead. On June 2, 26, the Florida legislature passed the Save Our Homes from Excessive Property Taxes Amendment, a proposed constitutional amendment that would substantially expand the homestead property tax exemption for non-school levies. The amendment is intended to deliver meaningful property tax relief to Florida homeowners, and that intent deserves to be acknowledged. If approved by at least 60% of voters on November 3rd, the homestead exemption would rise from the current $50,000 to $150,000 effective January 1-27 and to $250,000 effective January 1-28. The legislature has also been directed to develop a schedule for the eventual full phase-out of non-school homestead property taxes. We encourage residents to understand both what the amendment would provide to homeowners and what it would mean for the services they depend on every day. And here is what the numbers look like for Wellington. Ad valorem taxes generate $32.5 million, approximately 44% of the general fund. That is revenue that keeps Wellington safe and running. It funds the law enforcement contract that helps make our community one of the safest in Palm Beach County and in Florida. It pays for road overlays, park maintenance, athletic and recreation programs, senior transportation, environmental preserve stewardship, school support programs, building permits and code enforcement, and the community events that bring Wellington together. These are not abstractions. They are the services residents use every day and have come to expect. Based on preliminary modeling, if approved by voters, Wellington could face an estimated revenue reduction of $5.3 million beginning with the fiscal year 27-28 budget, not the budget before you tonight, but the budget in the subsequent year. growing to an $8.2 million revenue loss in fiscal year 28-29 and continuing in subsequent years as the expanded exemption fully phases in. Furthermore, the proposed legislation provides limitations on the usage of ad valorem taxes. The hard choices that come with every budget could become significantly harder. Staff will continue to model potential revenue impacts and bring forward accurate, complete information to Council as the November election approaches. Wellington's history of prudent financial management, strong reserves, and deliberate capital planning puts us in a better position than many municipalities. We will not take that foundation for granted. Whatever Florida voters decide in November, our commitment remains the same to give this council everything it needs to make sound decisions on behalf of the community we serve. We present the budget tonight with confidence in what it achieves for Wellington today and with clear-eyed awareness of the planning challenges that may lie ahead. Thank you for your consideration. We will try to answer your questions, and a very special thanks to Christine Fisher and Ruby Cabret, who worked tirelessly to put this budget together. Happy to answer questions.

Thank you, Ms. Quickle, and thank you to your team for every year after year putting together an excellent budget. I think we all appreciate the fact that this year's budget is going to drop by $6 million from last year's budget. And I think people, it's important to know that this is only setting, tonight we're setting the maximum rate. Correct. We can always go lower when we actually get into the meat of the budget discussions, but tonight we're setting the highest it can be. It can only go down from here. Correct. So I think that's important for people to understand when we get into the discussions of what we might want to try to cut from the budget, in addition to what you've already cut, and how we want to plan going forward should the property tax amendment pass. And I think your slide 10 is a good example. It shows all the things that are paid for through ad valorem which are the things our residents that's why they live here these are the things that make wellington special um and it's 45 of our general funds is 32 million dollars it's it's not nothing it's a big number to cut five million eight million and then eventually whittle it down to there's no more homestead property tax being collected it's going to have a significant impact on how wellington looks and operates so that's that's stuff for a later meeting and later meetings and later years to discuss tonight we're just setting the the trim rate the top rate does anyone have any questions or comments or observations from ms quickle or any of her team listening in anyone

I just want to say, Ms. McGill, I know it's challenging times for your department. Thank you, because I know all of you have been working really hard on this. It's probably going to look different in a year, year and a half. But I do appreciate, and one of the things that I was very adamant about during our 101 is to protect our PBSL budget because I do believe that safety is top priority for Wellington and our budget. So I do appreciate you really sharpened the pencil on this one. Thank you.

I like the budget going in that direction, so I commend you on that.

The department directors fully understand that, and they did a tremendous job. Before we even started the process we review with Mr. Barnes, they had significantly reduced and made significant cuts with that, so we appreciate the commitment from everyone toward that.

Perfect.

What is this, our third one with you? It is. Yeah. You guys are amazing. You're an amazing team. And you always do such a good job. And it's really impressive to see how you work everything in. And thank you for reducing the budget by that much.

It helps to have a great council to work with. Y'all are very responsive when we meet with you because it's a lot of information to go through.

And I think we need three motions, correct, Mr. Barnes? You have three items? Three separate resolutions? That's correct. So if anyone wants to start making motions, they're on page 16 of your book. A, B, and C are the three motions, the three resolutions.

Move to approve resolution number R2026-28. Second.

All in favor? Aye. Opposed? Hearing none. Passes 5-0.

Would anyone like to do the next one?

Just keep it.

Okay. Move to approve resolution number AC2026-05. Second.

All in favor? Aye. Hearing opposed? None. Passes 5-0.

And move to approve resolution number R2026-29. Second.

All in favor? Aye. Opposed? Hearing none. Passes 5-0. Ms. Quickle, thank you. Thank you all for your team.

Thank you, Ruby. Thank you, Christine.

And the rest.

Mr. Barnes, are we at the consent agenda now? That brings us to the consent agenda, and staff recommends approve the consent agenda as amended. Do we have a card on the consent agenda?

I'm just going to ask the vice mayor if we had any cards on the consent agenda.

All right, who do we got?

Mr. Tooman.

Mr. Tooman has left the room.

I believe he's right outside the door.

I have a feeling you're right.

There he is.

Mr. Tooman, make your way to the microphone. You have the customary three minutes. Only two now that it took you a minute to get in.

The TV is like 30 seconds or a minute late out there. Okay. This is my name is Bruce Tooman and my primary and homestead exempt of zero lot line property is 752 Lake Wellington Drive in the village of Wellington. This is the consent agenda that I pulled, correct?

Yes.

If I have a point of order, Mayor, pursuant to Section 2.13, Article 2, Council of our Code of Ordinance, this session shall be enforced parliamentary procedure with Robert Rules of Order, which will require the consent item to be relocated to the regular agenda item. Why? So my elected officials can discuss it individually and vote on it individually, independent of the consent agenda. So, Mayor, do you want to reposition this to the regular agenda? Or maybe somebody should ask our attorney if this is the right way to do this.

Why don't you tell us which item you're talking about? Pardon me? Why don't you tell us which item you're talking about?

This is 7L, correct?

You haven't said that yet, so I don't know.

Well, that's not my job. That's your job. So are you going to re-locate this to the regular agenda, or should I keep on going on the protest?

This is your time to talk. If we want to pull it off the consent agenda, we'll do that.

So again, I think this is not following the proper rules. The Lakeview room, $15,000 for some projections. Grand Ballroom, $48,000 for more projections. $64,000 for renovations. Do we really need these toys? Did the public demand this? You know, wasteful spending is the reason why the state is trying to take away your property taxes. Well, here it is. But you won't be able to vote on it individually, will you? Because this entire agenda is why it should be relocated. So the last thing, the automatic concealed fire sprinkler system. I'm a fire protection guy. The ceilings in the grand ballroom, those heads cannot be painted. If you paint it, you lose the warranty, and most importantly, they may not activate. So make sure you don't paint them. I will be talking to the fire inspectors to make sure they do that. And, boy, this was a very long agenda. I wonder if everybody agreed to it. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Toomey. Mr. Barnes, are we painting over our fire sprinklers?

We will do everything that meets the code.

Thank you for that. Anyone want to pull this off consent? We talked about this extensively yesterday at an agenda review, which was televised. If you wanted to watch and learn about what the item was, if no one wants to pull it, I'll look for a motion on the consent agenda.

Move to accept consent agenda.

Second.

All in favor? Aye. Consent agenda is approved 5-0. Mr. Barnes, next item.

That brings us to our public hearing items. And for our public hearing items, the first item is ordinance number 2026-11. And Mr. Stillings is here to present this item. Ms. Hall can read the ordinance by title.

In ordinance of Wellington, Florida's Council, amending section 642A of Wellington's land development regulations related to residential district plan unit development, specific development standards. Amending section 644A of Wellington's LDR related to design standards for residential zoning districts, providing a conflicts clause, providing a severability clause, and providing an effective date.

Mr. Stillings. Good evening. The item before you tonight is Ordinance 2026-11. It is a zoning text amendment related to pergola and shade structures. I'd like to enter the file into the record.

I don't want to end my slide presentation just yet. We'll go all the way back to the front.

So the proposed zoning text amendment was requested by the Architectural Review Board, has been prepared by staff to amend section 642A and 644A of Wellington's LDR related to regulations for freestanding accessory pergolas and shade structures within PUDs and residential zoning districts. So for background, the building department has received an increased number of requests for detached pergolas and shade structures similar to those pictured here. Since 2023, the ARB has reviewed and approved 13 pergola requests. The current code requires these structures as accessory structures greater than 120 square feet that are not constructed of the same materials as the principal structure to go to the ARB for approval. Earlier this year, the ARB asked staff to look into the changes to the code to allow these structures to be approved simply by building permit as the step added cost the resident extra time and money. And given the number that they had approved, they felt it was appropriate to incorporate that approval into the code. So the changes are summarized here on this slide. It provides standards for accessory shade structures over 120 square feet, including setbacks, screening, location, and height. Provides standards as to the maximum amount of flat roof structures that can be on a property. Within the proposed amendment are minor updates and clarifications including throughout section 42642 and 644. This amendment was reviewed by the ARB at the April meeting and the PZAB at their June meeting. The proposed language includes all the standards that have been applied to pergolas that have been approved by the ARB. And as I mentioned, it will reduce the time and expense to residents for these types of structures. Staff has no other – concludes our presentation and available for questions.

Great. This is a public hearing item. Is there a motion to open public hearing?

So moved.

Is there a second?

Second.

All in favor? Aye. Public hearing is now open. Do we have any public hearing cards? Because we have someone at the podium. I expect he's got a card in. Yes. Mr. Tooman, you have three minutes.

My name is Bruce Tooman. My primary and homestead is zero lot line property. It's at 752 Lake Wellington Drive in the Villas of Wellington. I started my engineering company back in the 80s, and one of my disciplines is forensic engineering. I've done a lot of hurricane losses, a lot of fire losses. And I'm always concerned about public safety first. We can always rebuild. We can never bring back a life. Well, this ordinance will address the aesthetics of these shelters, the color, the screening, the height, the flat roots, and the setback requirements. How will these structures deal with hurricanes? Will these structures be required to meet the Florida building code? And will they be inspected by the building department and not just the code enforcement? Thank you.

Any other cards, Madam Vice Mayor, on this item?

Not on this item.

Any other public comment on this item? Seeing none, is there a motion to close public hearing?

So moved.

Motion to close.

Second. All in favor? Aye. Aye. Public hearing is now closed. Do we have any questions for Mr. Stillings on this item? Mr. Stillings, these structures would still have to get a building permit issued, correct? Yes, sir. So they would still go through whatever approval process that requires to get a building permit? Yes, sir. But it relieves the residents from the burden of having to come to ARB and ask for permission to build what they've already got a permit to build or what they're going to get a permit to build.

Correct. Particularly in this case if it didn't match the color and material of the principal structure. Okay.

So as far as the inspection process, everything is the same as it was?

Same as it was. You're just removing the ARB requirement for certain structures.

Got it. And since ARB recommended this change, they've had more considerations even at last night's meeting, which they approved.

Yes, and they reviewed the standards and felt it was consistent with the approvals that they had previously approved.

Was that unanimous approval by the ARBI? I believe so, yes.

Well, they just reviewed it and provided their comments, so they weren't really a recommending body on this, but they. PZAB recommended it. PZAB recommended it, yeah.

Okay, thank you. Yeah. If there's any other questions, let's have them. If not, let's get a motion.

I move to approve ordinance number 2026-11. Second.

All in favor? Aye. Opposed? Hearing none. Passes 5-0. Thank you, Mr. Stillings.

Thank you. Next item is ordinance number 2026-15 in the local service boundary agreement. Mr. Stillings will remain with us and present this item as well.

And Ordinance of Wellington, Florida's Council, adopting an interlocal service boundary agreement with Palm Beach County to coordinate future land use, public facilities, and services in advance of future annexations within the area defined by the ISBA. Authorizing the mayor to execute the agreement, providing a conflicts clause, providing a severability clause, and providing an effective date.

good evening this is an interlocal service boundary agreement with palm beach county the boundary of the proposed agreement is illustrated on the slide on the screen in red it includes the artistry lakes property that was recently annexed as well as several parcels to the east and west This gives you some detail information of the acreage and the number of parcels within each one of those four sub areas within the ISBA area. The process for this agreement adoption, it's an ordinance so it'll be adopted by the council, transmitted to the county for their consideration, which is tentatively scheduled. I have July 14th, but I think we're looking at August now. It'll then come back to the council after that for your adoption and then return back to the county for their final action. A couple key points. This interlocal boundary agreement does not annex any property. It just simply defines the processes for annexation and establishes the Palm Beach County consent prior to that action as well as addressing the current objection for the Artistry Lakes annexation. It defines the future land use and density for a few of the parcels that have not been annexed that are anticipated to be residential. It establishes the infrastructure requirements and service delivery provisions in terms of who will be providing the service, whether it's the village or the county. And then the term of the agreement is 20 years unless it is amended or extended. You do have in your package a minor change to the agreement that has been requested by FPL as their property is within the boundary. This would be incorporated into the agreement on page 70 as an add-in to Section 3E. And it just simply separates them from being included with any other properties for an annexation consideration so that they would be, if annexation were considered, they would be independent or on their own.

They would vote on their own. They wouldn't be swept up with other votes. It would be their own vote, yes or no.

Well, they would be their own action. So they wouldn't be part of a larger annexation consideration. They would be.

Site specific to them. Yes.

Did I characterize that?

Yeah.

So we thought that change was appropriate and acceptable. And I have no other.

Okay. This is a public hearing. Is there a motion to open public hearing?

So moved.

Is there a second? Second. All in favor, public hearing is now open. Madam Vice Mayor, cards. No cards on this item. Anyone wish to speak on this item? Seeing no one moving towards the podium, is there a motion to close public hearing?

So moved.

Second. All in favor? Aye. Public hearing is now closed. Mr. Stillings, thank you for pointing out to people who might be watching that this is not an annexation decision. This is a what would happen if we decided to annex something and how we would work out those terms with the county and how that would all work. But this is not a statement by Wellington that we are annexing any property now. We're looking to annex any property. And should we decide to do that in the future, we would have to get a vote so the affected property owners to come into Wellington because we can't do a hostile takeover. This only really impacts the Artistry Lakes footprint, which we've already annexed, correct?

That's correct.

Okay.

I'll mention also that this is a provision that's provided for in Chapter 171 of the statutes, and it ensures that we minimize or eliminate any duplication of services.

Smooth transition if there was an annexation. Correct. Okay. Any questions for Mr. Zillings? Pretty cut and dry. Is there a motion?

I'll move to approve ordinance 20-26-15. Second. All in favor?

Aye. Opposed? Hearing none. Passes 5-0. Thank you, Mr. Stillings. Thank you.

Concludes our public hearing agenda and we also do not have any regular items and I believe we have some public comment card.

This is public forum.

We have cards on non-agenda item Mr. Mr. Barnes, did we add the Consent Thank you

So this is a public forum. We have cards. If you are present and you don't wish to speak, we'll read your card. If you're not present, your card will be part of the file. So Madam Vice Mayor, take it away.

All right. As I call your name, please come up to the podium, one on each side. First one is Mr. William Stitt. Next will be Robert Valpo.

Good evening, sir. And for everyone, name and address, and you have three minutes.

My name is William Stitt, 14627 Hunter Lane, Wellington, Florida. Take it away. Okay. Well, I came originally for the the 50th Street property. But I still want to talk about that. So what I want to know is how a property that was owned when I moved there for five farms, as of right, is now zoned for almost a million square feet of space. You know, that happened in the last, you know, several years where, you know, staff seemed to push some agenda to move this into a whole different area. It was sold as the Littlewood Horse Show. Mr. Bellissimo bought the property, the rights, you know, the show dates, and he bought Dave Burton, you know, has him as an employee. He could have opened a show. He's made no intent to open a show there. They're not going to have a show. They don't want to have a show. So staff seems to say, well, we need to reconsider what can be done there. Well, now they can build something that's almost the size of the Wellington Green Mall based on the floor area ratio. And they've only used two acres of it. And it's destroying the entire area with the truck traffic on an equestrian trail. I bought there. I wanted to be able to ride out onto the trail, have my kids ride out onto the trail. And you can't even ride out on the trail because it's clouds of dust all day long. I just want to, you know, say that how did this happen? You know, what was, you know, what are you, I don't know if the council's aware of it, but staff seems to be aware of it. They've approved, you know, things. And if they're saying it's ag uses, it's not ag uses. There's a gas station approved by the, by the gas station approved. There's a, they're calling it a biochar facility. It's a solid waste disposal system. That's what it is. And there's ash that comes out of it. They're guising it as biochar and it's an ag use. I don't believe it's an ag use at all. Yes, you can put it in the soil in some cases, but it contains heavy metals. You know, they intend to discharge 150 Let's see, 171 tons of VOC, nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide, you've all heard this, and other hazardous pollutants. And that doesn't even include the, I don't think they took into account the pharmaceuticals that all the 90% of the horses here are competition horses. And they're just... you know, medication on a regular basis, and they're going to be burning that and sending that into the atmosphere. You know, horses are prey animals, and they're very skittish. So all those trucks, more trucks, you know, it's just not right. I appreciate it. Thank you, sir. Okay.

Council members, thank you. My name is Robert Volpe, 119 South Monroe Street. Tallahassee and first I apologize for my appearance my car was struck by lightning on the turnpike today and I spent two hours on the side of the turnpike in pouring rain and so this is the change of clothes I had that was dry so I I was here also for the public hearings on Ordinance 2025-26 and 2025-27, and I spoke with you all at the first transmittal hearing. And I represent Arian Holdings, LLC, Happy Horse, LLC, Steffex USA, Inc., PBP 40, LLC, PBP 41, LLC, Jarasla, Mexicana, Stables, Florida, LLC and the William T. Stitt Revocable Trust, all of which are property owners surrounding this property. I think it's interesting that these two items have been processed as cleanup and as fixing the legal description and aligning the zoning and the comp plan, yet they were pulled by the applicant today in response to, I think, in response to media, this being in the media and public outcry. If these were truly just cleanup items, then they could have been processed by staff and it would have just been simply fixing a scrivener's error in the legal description, there would be no need for applicant input at all. But in fact, these are major substantive changes to restrictions that were put on this property, and those restrictions have effect. They have meaning, and those restrictions are to guide, as the comprehensive plan does, to guide the uses of this property. Also, since the last hearing, between the last hearing and now, staff has approved two what are called floodplain development permits. One is for ag waste storage. These are items, permits BP26-1223 and BP26-1224. One is for ag waste storage, and the other is for process agricultural waste into biochar, parentheses, AG waste processing. A floodplain development permit is what is required for a non-residential agricultural building, not an industrial process, not waste storage and processing. These are being purported as agricultural uses. There has never been a demonstration of bona fide agricultural uses. The property appraiser has not granted the agricultural classification for this property. And there's been no demonstration of any applicable agricultural exemption. When an agricultural exemption is claimed, there are criteria, and those criteria have to be met by demonstrating facts on the ground of the property that meet those criteria. There has not been any demonstration of any of those criteria. It's mainly a claim that these are agriculture, and that is accepted as fact without any demonstration, and then permits are granted based on that agricultural classification. Mr. Volpe, you got struck by lightning to get here. You can have an extra minute. Oh, thank you. I only have a third point, and I appreciate that. The third point is that you all have the authority and the obligation to regulate the uses of land for the health, safety, and welfare of the community. You've heard from the community. You have the ability to regulate the use of this land, and I'd ask for, first, you look into those permits that were issued and consider rescinding those permits because they don't meet the agricultural classification. And they also don't meet the restrictions. The reason we were here tonight, the reason that these initial restrictions Agenda items were on the on the agenda were to remove these restrictions or to request to remove these restrictions obviously processing agriculture waste into biochar and an AG industrial waste processing operation does not meet those listed restrictions and Clearly I think maybe one permit got in front of in front of another because of timing and they they couldn't work it out to remove the restrictions before they were granted and a permit that is clearly in conflict. On behalf of all the parties that I represent, we ask that you look into these issues, consider rescinding those permits, and you regulate the use of this land as it was intended. Thank you. Thank you, sir.

Glad you're okay.

Glad you're safe.

I don't think I set a precedent. If you get struck by lightning, you get an extra minute. You can prove it. That's fair enough.

Up next is Sherry Moretta-Carfee, wishes to speak. And next is Gil Scott Knight, does not wish to speak.

Is he here? Mr. Scott, are you here?

However, there is comment.

If he's not here, then we don't read the comment. Okay.

And they're not here either, so.

Okay.

These are the same. And Gary Swedenberg.

Good evening, ma'am. Hi there. My name is Sherry Moretta-Karfi. I'm the owner of 20 Acres, 50 feet away from this subject property. Little Woods, 20 to 25 years ago, my husband and I fought for that property to not have 60 RVs. CAMPERS SITES THERE. BUT ANYWAY, I WANT TO KNOW WHY THIS IS GOING THROUGH. IF YOU PUT AN INDUSTRIAL WASTE FACILITY IN THIS LAND, MY PROPERTY WILL BE WORTHLESS. I HAVE COURTS THERE. I ALSO HAVE A SANCTUARY FOR, EXCUSE ME, A SANCTUARY FOR VERY CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES. I AM A 501C3 FACILITY, FULLY LICENSED FOR THE STATE OF FLORIDA. I strongly object to this facility being right behind me, 50 feet. There's only a water canal separating us. I want to know why staff and every one of you are for this property going into industrial. Who has bought you guys? I am sorry if this upsets you. But Bellissimo, I've known him for a long time. He sat in my dining room saying exactly what he was going to do to Wellington 25 years ago, and he's doing it. You need to get rid of this industrial property. It is an ag area for equestrian preserve. If you put this biochar facility there, it will destroy my property value. So think about it. Put it next to one of your properties. Put it next to staff's properties. This is not what this area is supposed to be for. We are equestrian. We have horses. We have kids riding down the street. I have to deal with these trucks every day going past Osprey Road to their facility there. Kids ride their horses. One of these kids, including me, I'm not a kid, but we're going to be hit by one of them. Please reconsider this property going back to the equestrian preserve area. Do not have this industrial size complex here. It's going to cause a lot of financial problems for everybody around this position. And Bellissimo doesn't care. You should care. You are responsible for the village of Wellington. You are responsible for its residents. I am one of the residents. Bill is one of the residents. You need to think hard on this whole proposal. Thank you.

Ma'am, can we get your address as well? Pardon? Your address.

1, 4, and 9, 9, 0. I used to be the whole 20 acres was 1, 4, 9, 9, 0. But I find that they put 1, 4, 9, 5, 0 on one of the properties. We used to be lot 37, 38, 39. And then they changed the address.

I understand. And just for clarification, if you go back and look at the record, I voted no on both of those. So it's not that all of us are approving this.

Well, but somehow it's sneaking through. I know 25 years ago I met with Ann Garrick to complain about that property there. She says, well, he has the right to do whatever he wants there.

Yeah, that's Ann, but I would say that when you say all of you or- One of you or all of you, but you know what?

It's just terrible. This is my only asset, my 20 acres.

I fully understand. I agree with you.

Thank you, ma'am.

Thank you.

Is there anything else? No, that's it. Thank you, ma'am.

Any other cards?

Please think. Did you have a question for me?

No, next card. Yes, sir. Hi.

Hi.

My name is Gary Swedenborg. I live at 12770 Westport Circle. Sorry for my attire.

Did you get struck by lightning?

I didn't get struck by lightning, but I ran out.

You're better dressed than the attorney, so don't worry.

Anyways, this is a different topic. This is about a parking violation that was given in our neighborhood. So on May 25, a PBSO community service observer patrol volunteer, he ticketed a vehicle on Westport Circle. The violation was parked on the roadway, which I thought was very strange, because I've seen parking on the swale being a problem, parking across the sidewalk being a problem. So I looked it up, and it says you're not allowed to park on the street. A parking prohibited municipal code 22-10B16. That's what was on it. A yield of $35 fine. And this was paid. This was a Palm Beach County firefighter who was parked in front of someone's house. And it was Memorial Day. And he was given a ticket while we're doing a Memorial Day party. And I think it's ridiculous. Because you look up The code says that anytime we want to park on the street, we have to get permission to park on the street. Now, right now, today, there was like 17 trucks on my street because they're redoing a roof, and then the lawn guys came, and all these different things. They're not getting tickets. This guy's working on Memorial Day, giving out tickets. What message does this send to the residents of Wellington? That we don't want people coming over to your house on Christmas. Thanksgiving, we're always parking on the streets. We have impromptu parties all the time when people show up at their house. This should not be in the ordinance.

6.30, and that's all I have. Did we have a lawyer's report?

I don't have.

Thank you. Tonight. Excellent. Balance of the week.