City Commission - Regular Meeting

Oh, thanks. Hey, Tracy. You know, after all that, I lost my blue imaginations. Hey, Vanessa.

I have three and I don't know if they're blue, though. Oh, you know what? This one's cute. Take them off. Good evening. We'll call the uh Monday, March 23rd, 2026, Winter Haven City Commission meeting to order. City clerk, roll call, please. Commissioner Davis, here. Commissioner Dolison, here. Commissioner Birdong, here. Mayor Prom Mercer here. And Mayor Yates

here. Okay, we'll have invocation by Minister Al Abdul Al Katib from First First Missionary Baptist Church, followed by the pledge of allegiance from city clerk Vanessa Castillo. Please stand if just want to make a correction. He's a reverend now.

Thank you. Yes. Let us pray. Almighty God, we gather in this chamber with hearts humbled by the privilege to serve. We thank you for the city of Winter Haven, a place of beauty, resilience, and promise. As this commission meets, we ask for your divine guidance. Let wisdom flow through every conversation, and may each decision reflect justice, compassion, and the common good. Lord, bless our mayor, commissioners, and all who labor for the welfare of this city. Strengthen them with integrity, patience, and vision. May they lead not for personal gain but for the flourishing of every resident from the youngest child to the eldest neighbor. We lift up our community especially our women during this month. Women and girls in this month celebrating leading the change. Women shaping a sustainable future. We lift up our families, schools, businesses and neighborhoods. Let peace dwell in our streets and let hope rise in every heart. May we seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which you have carried us and in its welfare find our own. We commit this meeting into your hands. May your presence guide us and your purpose for real. In your holy name we pray and all God's children said, "Amen." I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Good evening, mayor and city commissioners. We have a number of presentations for you this evening. Uh our first presentation is child abuse prevention month. It's a proclamation for that. Uh here to receive it we have

Katie and Parchment, prevention and diversion program manager, Sean Butler, director of community relations, and Taiisha Gent, community engagement specialist from H Heartland for Children. Whereas Florida is committed to improving the lives of its residents and securing a better future for the citizens of the state and children who have adverse childhood experiences, who are at higher risk of short and long-term physical, psychological, and behavioral challenges that can impact the individual and the greater community. And whereas parents and caregivers who have resources and provide support are better equipped to give children safe and nurturing experiences. And whereas children have better mental health and physical health and academic success when they are raised in a safe, stable, and nurturing environment. Whereas the Florida Department of Children and Families Secretary has a vision for holistic services by integrating systems and services. Whereas the state of Florida has established Hope Florida, a pathway to prosperity, a personalized approach to helping families overcome barriers to self-sufficiency through community collaboration. And whereas Flidians can call 850300 hope to speak with a care navigator for support to develop a plan to achieve economic self-sufficiency, referrals to local partners, and help identify goals and barriers in their lives. And whereas during the month of April, Prevent Child Abuse Florida in collaboration with the Governor's Office of Adoption and Child Protection, the Florida Department of Children and Families and the ounce of Prevention Fund of Florida implement Pinwheels for Prevention, a statewide coordinated campaign to raise awareness of child abuse prevention efforts by teaching about healthy child development and positive parenting practices and establishing a circle of parents peer support groups. And whereas child abuse prevention month provides everyone a chance to learn how they can play a role in preventing abuse and neglect, including ACEs, which are the adverse childhood experiences mentioned earlier. And whereas child abuse prevention month reminds Flidians of all ages that they can help ch children increase positive childhood experiences which lead to happier, healthier childhoods. Now therefore, William Brian Yates, mayor of the city of Winter Haven, Florida, does hereby extend his support to all observing April 2026 as child abuse prevention month in the city of Winter

Haven, Florida, and witness whereof, he has here to set his hand and cause the seal of the city of Winter Haven, Florida to be affixed this 23rd day of March 2026. Signed, William Brian Yates, mayor. Attest Vanessa Castillo, city clerk.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you for having us here tonight. I first want to acknowledge that we have um two board members who sit on the board for Heartland for Children um here tonight to join us. So, if they would stand for a moment, they are who help us to make sure that our kids are safe. Thank you. And again, thank you for proclaiming April as child abuse prevention month in the beautiful city of Winter Haven. We sincerely appreciate the city of Winter Haven's continued involvement in the pinw wheels for prevention campaign each and every year. And if you don't know, this is a pin wheels for prevention. And it's used as a symbol to represent child abuse prevention month. We encourage we are very encouraged to see many cities, schools, and county municipalities displaying pinw wheels and engaging in important conversations about how we can strengthen families and keep children safe. The pin wheels for prevention campaign uses a simple child's toy, a blue and silver pin wheel to represent happy, healthy childhoods that all children deserve. It also serves as a powerful reminder that each and of us play a vital role in protecting children. Hartland for Children is proud to serve as the lead community-based care agency under the Department of Children and Families. We are deeply committed to child safety and to supporting families through prevention efforts, services, and resources that help children remain safe and connected to their communities. To provide a snapshot of the families we currently serve, I'd like to share a few data points with you. As of March 2026, there are a total of 142 I'm I'm sorry, 1452 children with open child welfare cases across Poke Highlands and Hardy counties. This is a decrease from last year. During the last fiscal year out of

that number, um 547 children in our tri county area were removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect, or threatened harm. Currently, Pulk County alone has 1,073 active Department of Children and Family cases. Of those, 662 children have been removed from their homes and placed in out of home care. That is 22% of those children living in traditional foster homes and approximately 22% of them those foster homes are outside of Pulk County. So this highlights our greatest ongoing need, the recruitment for more quality foster homes. At present, we ha we are at 131 traditional foster homes across the tri county area of Pulk Highlands and Hardy counties. While 121 of these are located in Pulk County, we are still in need of about 50 additional foster homes here to ensure that we can children can remain in the close close to their families, schools, and communities that have brought them up. There are so much there's so much to celebrate though. During the year, the fiscal year of 2024-25, 178 children were adopted in our tri county area. That's 178 children who found forever homes and that's something to be celebrated. We are proud to share that this fiscal year we have already matched 178 children with permanent loving families exceeding last year's total amount for the entire year. Our goal for the 202526 go um year is 230 adoptions. So, we invite the community to visit our adoption gallery on the H Heartland for Children website to learn more. Throughout April, we encourage everyone to display pin wheels, share information, and engage in meaningful conversation both in person and on

social media about child abuse prevention. We also ask that you proudly wear your pen wheel lapel pen to um that's been provided to you as a visual symbol of support. Together, we can make a lasting positive impact on the lives of children and families in Pole County. Thank you again for your commitment to children and families in Winter Haven. Have a blessed night. All right. One, two, three. Perfect. All right, our next proclamation this evening is for water conservation month and Amanda Sat, the government affairs and regional manager for the Southwest Florida Water Management District is here with us along with Cassidy King, our customer relations specialist from our Winter Haven water department. Whereas water is a basic and essential need of every living creature. And whereas the state of Florida's water management districts and the city of Winter Haven are working together to increase awareness about the importance of water conservation. And whereas the city of Winter Haven and the state of Florida has designated April, typically a dry month, when water demands are most acute, water conservation month to educate citizens about how they can help save Florida's precious water resources.

Whereas the city of Winter Haven has always encouraged and supported water conservation through various educational efforts and special events. Whereas every business, industry, school, and citizen can make a difference when it comes to conserving water. And whereas every business, industry, school, and citizen can help by saving water and thus promote a healthy economy and community. And whereas efficient irrigation design, programming, and maintenance can conserve water, the city of Winter Haven encourages citizens and businesses to evaluate their irrigation systems for potential efficiency enhancements. Now therefore, William Brian Yates, mayor of the city of Winter Haven, Florida, does hereby proclaim April 2026 as water conservation month, and the city of Winter Haven, Florida, and call upon each citizen and business to help protect our precious resources by practicing water saving measures and becoming more aware of the need to save water. For this, the 28th year of water conservation month, there will be a special focus on irrigation system evaluations. and witness whereof he is here in two set his hand and calls the seal of the city of Winter Haven, Florida to be affixed this 23rd day of March 2026 signed William Brian Yates mayor attest Vanessa Castillo city clerk.

Thank you. Good evening commission. My name is Amanda Simmit, government affairs regional manager at the Southwest Florida Water Management District. I'm here today with Cassidy King, customer relations specialist of Winter Haven Water. Water conservation month is an important opportunity to reinforce the simple, practical actions that help protect our water resources, support resiliency, and ensure we can meet the needs of our growing community. Your support of this proclamation helps raise awareness, encourages responsible water use across the city. By prioritizing water conservation, we can ensure a future where clean and accessible water is available to people all around the globe. I'd like to extend a sincere thank you to the city of Winterhaven for its continued leadership and partnership in promoting water conservation. Your efforts make a real difference and we appreciate your commitment to safeguarding our shared resources. Thank you. All right, our Next proclamation this evening is for child gun safety education month and Robert Dumit uh the executive director of engage pulk county and Dr. Emanuel Finesca, chairman of the Child Gun Safety Education Campaign, are here with us. Whereas there's been a dramatic increase in child involved unintentional shootings nationwide in the past 20 years. And whereas in its 2023 unintentional firearm injury deaths among children and adolescence aged 0 to 17 report, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention determined child involved unintentional shootings to be a public health crisis. And whereas the

largest percentage of these deaths were among children aged 11 to 15 years. And whereas the majority of victims were fatally injured at a house or apartment, including their own. And whereas approximately two-thirds of shooters were playing with or showing a firearm to others while it when it discharged. And whereas the CDC has determined unintentional firearm injury deaths of children are preventable. And whereas it is important to promote child gun safety education and educate Florida's youth in gun safety practices and make Florida the nation's leader in reducing and eliminating unintentional firearm injuries and deaths of child leaders. Now therefore, William Brian Yates, mayor of the city of Winter Haven, Florida, does hereby recognize April 2026 as child gun safety education month in the city of Winter Haven. And witness whereof, he has here to set his hand and cause the seal of the city of Winter Haven, Florida to be fixed this 23rd day of March, 2026. Signed William Brian Yates, Mayor Vanessa Castillo, city clerk. Mr. Mayor and commissioners, I'm Robert Demet, uh, executive director of Engage of Pulk County right here in Winterh Haven. And we had our mere beginnings back in 2015. And our focus is firearm safety and education. Last year 2025 in the first four months of the year we had three child related gun fatalities which gave us the impetus to start this campaign of April being child gun safety education month. It is recognized that there are over 500 million firearms in the hands of the citizenry of the United States. Guns are not going anywhere. Our goal is to train and to teach, educate our youth in the recognition of and the safe handling of

and the avoidance of these firearms and to educate them in the correct use when they are of the given age. And we is our honor and privilege to be here to receive this plamation this evening. I'd like to introduce you to at this time our campaign chairman Dr. Fence. Mayor, commissioners, thank you for the opportunity to be here. Education is is our is always have been our our primary focus in the United States. We educate kids on how to be safe on everything we do. Um from um don't don't drink and drive, don't text and drive, etc. Now, we're focused on gun safety, and that's important. There's four things that a kid should always learn. If you see a gun in your home, you stop. You don't touch. You turn around, leave the room, and you get an adult. Because firearms are left not on purpose, but unintentionally as we clean guns, as we work with them, try to learn more about our our own weapons, including myself. Sometimes I I would lay the gun down, but I don't have kids in my house, but many people do. So, teaching kids how to recognize a danger, it it always helps them become better and hopefully keep safe in the future. Thank you. We'll take you

Sorry. Anything else? Thank you. All right, our final presentation this evening um is a special one. So, it is actually not a proclamation. It is a resolution because it is signed by all five of the city commissioners is in honor of our former mayor and commissioner Ellie Threckle and uh Dr. Jim and family are here to accept So I'll read the resolution from the top. Eleanor Ellie Threkel 1937 to 2026 former mayor and city commissioner. Whereas Eleanor Ellie Threel was born in Kohala, Hawaii on June 30th, 1937 to Andrew and Gertude Walker. She attended and graduated from Annie Wright High School in Tacoma, Washington in 1955 and attended graduate attended and graduated from Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee in 1960. It was there she met and married her husband, Dr. Jim Thruckle. And whereas after Dr. Thruckle completed his medical training and residency, Dr. and Mrs. Thrle ventured to Winter Haven, Florida, where he began practice at the Guestler Clinic. Ellie established her mark in Winterhaven where she became involved in a variety of organizations and was a full-time mother to their three girls. And whereas Ellie was committed to serving the Winter Haven community, she loved in 1988, she was elected to serve as a city

commissioner, reelected in 1992 and served until 1996. In 1991, 1992, and 1993, Ellie was chosen by her fellow city commissioners to serve as mayor, which she did until 1994. She also served as mayor prom in 1989. During her time in office, Ellie engaged in many community projects, one of the most impactful being in 1992, helping to secure the Cleveland Indians for spring training at the Chand Lake Stadium. She was a member of the city's planning commission, the Ridge League of Cities board, and appointed to the state's juvenile justice commission. Ellie was the first elected official to receive the Ridge League of Cities Netty Dropton Award in 1996 for her eight years of service to the league. She served on the police and fire department pension boards. And whereas Ellie was a member of the Garden Club of Winter Haven, having served as president and a member of distinction, a charter member of the Junior League of Greater Winter Haven and served as a committee chairperson and ruling elder of First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven. Ellie served on the boards of Good Shepard Hospice Florida, Presbyterian Homes, and Hartland Crimes Stoppers. She she was also awarded the Bankers Cup woman of the year in 1984, the Girls Incorporated of Winter Haven's Julie Pope She knows where she's going award in 1997, and the community service award by the Junior League of Greater Winter Haven in 2007. And whereas Ellie will always be known for championing the city of Winter Haven and its employees, her ability to make people feel appreciated, her love of sports, and her hats. And whereas Ellie 88 passed away peacefully at home on February 14th, 2026, and is survived by Dr. Jim Threkle, her husband of 65 years, daughter Kit Threckle and Pyth and Peggy Threckle, grandson Casey Ray, son-in-law Andy Ray, and his wife Sherry, and sister-in-law Mimi Thrle. She was predispaced by her adored daughter Libby T. Ray. Now therefore, be it resolved that on behalf of the city of Winter Haven, the Winter Haven City Commission extends deepest condolences to the family of Eleanor Ellie Thruckle and our heartfelt thanks and their heartfelt thanks for sharing her with the Winter Haven community. Many of

these words of comfort be kept with the Thrule and Ray families and we recommend a copy of this resolution be kept in the official records of the city of Winter Haven. In witness whereof, they have here to set their hands and cause the seal of the city of Winter Haven, Florida to be a fixed this 23rd day of March, 2026. Signed William Brian Yates mayor Tracy Mercer mayor prom Nathaniel J Birdong Jr. City Commissioner Cliffany Dawson City Commissioner Chad Davis city commissioner attest Vanessa Castillo city clerk mayor and commissioners. My mom would be so humbled. We thank you. She loved the city of Winter Haven. She loved this community. She always wanted to make it a better place. So, while you can't wear her hats, you can follow in her footsteps and continue to make this a better place. Thank you. Look here and I'll let two Thank you.

Thank you. Okay, commissioners, we have uh no developments of note this evening. However, there are two sets of minutes for review. Is there a motion on these minutes?

Mr. Mayor, yes. I make a motion to approve the minutes. Let me turn the page um for March 4th um agenda review session minutes and for March 9th of 2026 for the regular commission meeting. Thank you commissioners. Any discussion on these minutes? Seeing none, all those in favor signify by saying I. I oppose like sign. Motion carries.

All right. Comments from the audience. We do have one individual that has signed up this evening. Uh what we typically do is if you have an item that you would specifically like to speak to on the agenda, please hold until that item uh is is before us. Um, this does not have a specific item. So, I will just call I believe it's Paula Billard. Bill Boulevard. Yes. Sorry. If you'll please state your name and address for the record. And you have five minutes.

My name is Paula Aariat. My business address is 3013rd Street Northwest, unit 363. And uh that's my Winter Haven address for my business. And that's what I'm going to be discussing today. Uh basically, I've been here since 1962. I remember when we actually had a friendly system to where if we needed help, whether it was zoning, whether it was licensing or permitting, we would get the help. And there was not a lot of say, well, I'm so and so, so I'm not going to allow you. But nowadays, after 26 years, we've been in third in central, we had no issues. I pulled the licenses. I hired licensed people to do all our work in our business in a restaurant and there was no issue. We lost our lease and this year we had to go into a new business or locate our business, relocate. We did and I started asking questions as far as what I needed to do that we were going to be pulling out licenses. What did we need to do? not knowing that things had changed so drastically 26 years. I was told that um I had to go through GC contractors and then the GC would hire the subcontractors to do the work that needed to be done in the restaurant. This restaurant was already a restaurant in previous years. It used to be part of the anti aquarium. So there was items already there that did not need to be solved besides uh renewing the items. But this has been back since se 17th of January that we have been trying to pull out permits asking what is what does it

need? What do we need to do? Just kind of secondguing because nobody wants to really tell you what you need to do. It's like hire a GC. Well, I picked up the phone and I called several gypsies. They don't want small businesses. They don't want popom restaurants. They want big money. So, we're left there hanging. And so far right now there has been no help coming from the city of Winter Haven that used to be a friendly pray place because everybody is looking or going after something just today. I got some licenses signed to get my permit and then somebody from the permitting department went and said, "Well, you have to she has to put a uh grease trap." And I was called on that that I had to put a grease trap in my business that's right behind. It's square right behind there's a big gas pipeline that runs back there. There's very little room to do a grease trap. Well, prior to that 26 years, we were given permission to use a Joe SAM because we don't use a lot of grease. We cook our meals. We don't grease them. So, um I was actually told today, well, you need to have a grease wrap. I'm going to authorize and you have to have a grease wrap. And I said, well, I already have the signatures from the zoning department stating that I don't need a grease strap. But all these things have been going on. It's one thing or another. There's little issues, little technicalities, and it's lasted me already two months. A lot of people don't last that long. I have held on. But I really would like to see if there's any consideration for

small pop businesses, not only restaurants that have help from the city or appoint people that actually work with us because there's many of us that are small pop uh businesses and Winter Haven is made up a lot of small pop businesses. So some people might have a deep pocket. I don't. But I've held on and all I ask is whoever it is that we need to direct ourselves to get the help that we need. I'm almost there. So, I'm almost out of it. But just like me, there'll be other businesses that are coming into town that need the help also. And there has to be some consideration for these businesses because they most of them won't have deep pockets, won't have a hundred or $200,000 to make a small popom place. They just want to be able to be their own their own part of Winter Haven. That's all they want and that's all I want to. But I would really like to see being a little bit more considerate of those needs. Okay, thank you. Uh, red tape is not a fun thing and it's certainly uh not a fun thing for small businesses. So, I apologize that you have had some challenges over the past couple of months. We will have a member of staff reach out to you here just a moment once you have a seat and we'll get your information and then we'll have uh the appropriate individuals reach out to you tomorrow.

Yes. and we'll try to get some better answers and get get to a conclusion so you can get your restaurant open. Okay. Thank you. Thank you. Appreciate you coming tonight. Okay. I don't have anyone else that has signed up uh this evening. However, if there is anyone else that would like to speak, now is the opportunity unless you want to speak to a specific item later this evening. Anyone else? Okay. Seeing none, we will close the uh comments from the audience. We'll open the second readings. Uh we have ordinance 0-26-07. City attorney, will you read by title only, please?

Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Ordinance number 0-26-07 an ordinance amending chapter 21 of the code of ordinances of the city of Winter Haven Florida by reszoning a parcel from industrial- light I-1 zoning district to multif family residential- low density R-3 zoning district providing for the administrative correction of scrier errors repealing all ordinances in conflict here with and providing an effective date general location 15198 street southwest the area covered by this request is 0.48 48 plus or minus acres. Thank you. Thank you. Uh deputy city manager.

Yes, sir. This is the reasoning of a parcel for development of a residential duplex. Uh there are no changes from the first reading. Staff recommends city commission approve ordinance 02607 and authorize a city manager or is designated to take all necessary actions related there too. Thank you. Okay. Uh is there commissioners? Is there a motion on this item? Mr. Mayor? Yes. Move approval of 02607 on second reading. Public hearing.

Thank you. Motion's been made. We'll close the commission meeting, open the public hearing. Anyone wish to speak to this item? Seeing none, we'll close the public hearing, reopen the city commission meeting. Any other questions or discussion on this item? Seeing none, all those in favor signifi signify by saying I. I. Oppose like sign. Motion carries. Okay. City Manager by or excuse me, city attorney by title only 0-26-11.

Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Uh, commission. Ordinance number 0-26-11, an ordinance of the city of Winter Haven, Florida, amending ordinance number O-25-29 regarding appropriation of funds for deferring expenses of the municipal government of the city Winter Haven for the fiscal year commencing October 1, 2025, providing for severability and for the administrative correction of scrier errors, and providing for an effective date. Thank you. Thank you, Deputy City Manager. Yes, sir. This is an amendment to the city's budget to reflect encumbered purchase orders from last year. There are no changes from our first reading. Staff recommends the city commission approve ordinance 02611 and authorize city manager or his designate to sign all documents and take all necessary actions related there too. Thank you commissioners. Is there a motion?

Mr. Mayor, yes. Move approval of 02611 on second reading public hearing. Thank you very much. Motion's been made. We'll close the commission meeting. to open the public hearing. Anyone wish to speak to this item? Seeing none, we'll close the public hearing, reopen the city commission meeting. Any further discussion or questions on this item? Seeing none, all those in favor signify by saying I. Opposed like sign. Motion carries. All right, we have the consent agenda. Mr. Mayor, yes. Move approval of the consent agenda in its entirety.

Thank you. Okay, motion's been made. We'll close the commission meeting, open a public hearing. Anyone wish to speak to any item listed on the consent agenda. Seeing none, we'll close the public hearing, reopen the city commission meeting. Any further discussion or questions on any item within the consent agenda? Seeing none, all those in favor signify by saying I. I oppose like sign. Motion carries. We have a couple resolutions. Resolution R-26-09, City Attorney.

Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Or from the city commission. Resolution number R-26-09, a resolution of the city commission of the city of Winter Haven, Florida, authorizing the city manager and appropriate city officials to execute and to take all of the necessary actions regarding that certain standard grant agreement between the city of Winter Haven and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection FD under agree agreement number WRP16 for funding for the design and construction of Bradco Farm Extension wetland restoration parenthesy a sapphire necklace project close parenthes providing for severability conflicts and an effective date. Thank you. Thank you, Deputy City Manager.

In July of 2024, the city applied for funding assistance through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Protecting Florida Together program. We were notified in March of this year of the grant award in the amount of $2,458,78. This grant requires 50% matching funds and the work plan covers land acquisition, pre-construction or design uh wetland restoration, construction activities. Matching funds can include costs incurred by the city starting from the agreements uh that we have under the uh public private partnership with HGS LLC, formerly known as RES. Um so they can cover those costs starting from the effective date of that agreement in July of 2024. Funds are budgeted for in fiscal year 2526 to support the project funding and staff recommends the city commission accept the Florida Department of Environmental Protection WRP16 grant a sapphire necklace project execute resolution R2609 and authorize the city manager or his designated to take any and all actions necessary there too.

Thank you commissioners. Mr. Mayor, yes. Move approval of resolution R2609. Thank you. Motion's been made. We'll close the commission meeting. We open a public hearing. Anyone wish to speak to this item? Seeing none, we'll close the public hearing, reopen the city commission meeting. Any other questions or discussion on this item? Seeing none, all those in favor signify by saying I. I. Oppose. Like sign. Motion carries. Resolution 26-10. City attorney.

Thank you, Mr. Mayor, Commission. Resolution R-26-10, a resolution of the city commission of the city of Winter Haven, Florida, approving the local housing assistance plan as required by the state housing initiatives partnership program act subsections 420.907 through 420.9079 Florida statutes and rule chapter 67-37 Florida Administrative Code authorizing and directing the mayor to execute any necessary documents and certifications needed by the state authorizing the submission of the local housing assistance plan for review and approval by the Florida Housing Finance Corporation and providing severability for the administrative correction of scrier's errors and providing for an effective date. Thank you.

Thank you, Deputy City Manager.

SHIP is a state program formed through the uh William E. Saddowski Act. It designates the Florida Housing Finance Corporation FHFC to administer the program and they have established guidelines for SHIP operations. SHIP program is available to all counties in the state as well as to all cities which have a population of 50,000 or more. In order to participate in the program, the local government must develop a local housing assistance plan or LHAP, which covers a three-year period and outlines the various housing activities that the jurisdiction will undertake in the next three years. The city's expected to receive approximately $422,449 in funding in fiscal year 26-27 and has prioritized rehab and emergency repairs as its area of concentration, but we'll also provide down payment assistance as we've done in the past. Uh there are a number of changes that'll get made to um a section of that focused on owner occupied rehabilitation strategies which we reviewed at the workshop and the require those requirements are consistent with make our program consistent with PK county's owner occupied rehabilitation strategy requirements. A notification was published in the Winter Haven Sun on March 4th, 2026 to offer the final draft of the LHAP for public review and comment. To date, no comments have been received. There's no direct financial impact associated to the city associated with this item as these funds are provided by the state. However, if the LHAP is not transmitted to the FHFC annually, the city's future SHIP allocations may be withheld. The city's affordable housing advisory committee met on March 2nd, 2026 and unanimously recommended approval of the LHAP as presented and is forwarding to the city commission for action. Staff recommends the city commission approve resolution R2610 approving the city's LHAP and authorizing the mayor to execute the same along with the necessary certifications and authorizing the city manager or his designated to submit the LHAP and related documents to the Florida Housing Finance Corporation for review and approval.

Thank you. City commissioners, Mr. Mayor. Yes. Motion to approve R 2610 local housing assistant plan.

Okay. Thank you. Motion's been made. We'll close the commission meeting. We open the public hearing. Anyone wish to speak to these items to this item particularly? Seeing none, we'll close the public hearing, reopen the city commission meeting. Commissioners, do you have any other questions or comments on this item? Oh, I have I have one. Um, and I probably should have asked this at the agenda review, so I apologize, but I know for several years, um, several years ago, we had trouble in spending all these funds and and getting them deployed so that, you know, they were utilized. Of course, the state legislature didn't help when they withheld those funds or shrunk those funds to where um they couldn't do a lot, but just a probably should have asked for a preparation on this, but just can we get like a quick highlevel viewpoint of what how we're doing in that program?

Yeah, and that program has uh has gotten very successful in recent years. I think Eric, do you want to touch on that? Sure. And we have uh Nancy Hurley here as well who was our affordable housing compliance manager. Um but that program over the last um I would say four years has um has really got its legs under itself and um you're right in years past um particularly with a lack of funding um we had some issues deploying this money out in the community. Um, we have an active waiting list, I believe, of over 30, I'm looking at Nancy, maybe 30 or so applicants. On the waiting list, and we've got five,

21 on the waiting list, five more that are in the application process. Um, we I'm sorry, that's that's to acquire a home or fix a home. They are primarily um the owner occupied rehab strategy. We do we do do down payment assistance, but the majority of them are the owner occupied rehab. Um we effectively one down one down payment assistance and the rest are are rehabs. Okay. Uh on the waiting list. We we would like more money because we can't spend it fast enough. Okay. Okay. Sorry that was a curveball. I know but I just thought it was good for a high level.

They staff was prepared. I've got giant spreadsheets in here. Okay. All those in favor uh of the motion signify by saying I. I posted like sign. Motion carries. No first readings this evening. We do have two new business items. We've got a memorandum memorandum of of understanding between the city of Warner Haven, Florida and far fourstar real estate group inc. I guess uh who wants this? city attorney or I'll defer to the deputy city manager tonight.

I got it. This one um maybe with some support from Eric D. Fourstar Real Estate Group is the developer of the Harmony Lake Eloise subdivision division. In 2023, the city entered into a developer agreement for um in transportation impact fee credits. So, it's that's to cover the cost and expenses relating to realigning the improved Westlake Eloise Drive. uh to date up to 97% of that cost uh that work has been completed and the developers provided sufficient documentation showing that 97% of the total costs and expenses related to realigning that road are $4,523,799. So we agreed to those expenses ahead of time. What theou that you're approving considering now uh is for is establishing how that arrangement works. So it outlines the total impact fee credit amount, the terms, so they have seven years from the effective date to utilize those credits, establishes an impact fee voucher form, provides for transferability of those impact fee credits, provides a mechanism for tracking. So if they were to transfer those credits to somebody else, um how does the city track it and ensure accountability on that? And then it holds the city harmless and indemnifies the city. So there's no financial impact associated with this. and staff recommends the city commission approve the memorandum of memorandum of understanding with FourStar Real Estate Group Incorporated and authorize the city manager to execute the same.

Thank you. We need a motion on this item. Mr. Mayor, move approval of new business item memorial memorial of understanding trouble too between the city of W Haven, Florida and Forester Real Estate Group uh incorporated. See it sounds like an memorandum had the legal legal guy involved but will suffice

there now he tells us okay uh a motion's been made we'll close the commission meeting open the uh public hearing anyone wish to speak to this particular item seeing none we'll close the public hearing reopen the city commission meeting any questions or discussion seeing none all those in favor signify by saying I oppose like sign motion carries carries. Okay. Establishment of a fee schedule. Deputy city manager.

Yes, sir. We had a good discussion on this one Wednesday night. Um the Winter Haven Recreation and Cultural Center is a newly constructed recreation Phil facility designed to expand recreational opportunities, community engagement, and city sponsored programming for Winter Haven residents. Historically, city recreation facilities have offered limited rental opportunities under approved fee structures while prioritizing public programming and community use. Staff reviewed past recreation rental practices and evaluated how those models should be updated to reflect Winter Haven Recreation and Cultural C Center's modern design amenities and anticipated demand. The proposed fee schedule and facility rental use policy are intended to provide a consistent framework for facility use while ensuring that Winter Haven Recreation and Cultural Cent's primary focus remains programs and community service. The proposed fee schedule is structured to offset operational costs associated with staffing, facility setup, maintenance, and utilities related to rentals. Revenue generated from facility rentals will support ongoing operations at Winter Haven Recreation and Cultural Center while ensuring that the facility remains accessible, affordable, and affordable to the community. Given that Winter Haven Recreation and Cultural Center is a program focused recreation center, rental activities expected to be moderate and to supplement core programming. Staff recommends the city commission approve Winter Haven Recreation and Cultural Center fee schedule and facility rental use policy to be effective upon approval.

Thank you, commissioners. Mr. Mayor, yes. A motion to approve the establishment of the fee schedule and the facility rental use policy for the Winter Haven Recreation Center. Thank you. Motion's been made. We'll close the commission meeting, open the public hearing. Anyone wish to speak to this item? Seeing none, we'll close the public hearing, reopen the city commission meeting. Any other uh questions or discussion on this item? Okay. All those in favor signify by saying I. I. Oppose. Like sign. Motion carries.

All right. City commissioners liaison reports. Commissioner Bzong. How about we start?

I'll start off. I have a few items. I'd like to say I since I've been on the commission, I don't ever remember going to as many funerals as I've gone to since we last met. I mean, that's just it's been been really something. Uh, Mayor TKLE's uh, wake and funeral. Uh, Delick Leonard's uh, wake and funeral and two of my frat brothers wakes and funerals. Um, and then one that I had never attended a military wake and funeral. And uh I attended the the funeral of uh Major uh Cody Cork that was killed in the wall and uh they had it at the Winter Haven Worship Center which will hold over a thousand people and it was pretty much full but uh it was a very touching service. um got to meet his uh his family. So um uh that's I'll say that that was a sobering uh wake for me and funeral. Um attended the EDC meeting. um attended the uh POT TDC LCB which is the uh disadvantaged transportation uh organization of uh the Pope TPO

and uh the PRWC we were the PRWC filed a lawsuit against the uh Tampa Bay water in relationship to the Alifire River. And um I can now say that because the they went into mediation and um came out of the mediation with an agreement and the uh PRWC signed the agreement, but Tampa Bay Water added some additional language incent sent that to us of which we didn't approve. And so the water management district staff met uh the same day that we met because they were in agreement with the uh settlement that we had mediated. And so now it'll go before the full uh water management district board which is this week. And so, uh, we're hopeful that they will, uh, agree with the, uh, mediation settlement that had been put forth. Uh, and even if they do, then the Tampa Bay Water can actually uh, not agree and we would end up back in litigation. So hopefully that won't happen, but we'll know definitively before the uh the next meeting. um

attended the uh Pulk County Red Cross Museum and there were some artifacts in there that were truly amazing and the curator was saying to me she don't have any idea how those artifacts got there. There were pictures, there were uh proclamations signed by the presidents, two different presidents that was, she said it was in a storage upstairs in that facility. There were all kind of pictures in there. And uh it's just really amazing. So, if you get a chance, you ought to go by and look at the museum because it's it's really something uh to behold. And uh I thoroughly uh enjoyed myself. And the final thing is is is that uh my family gave me a surprise birthday party. And I'm not going to tell you how old I am.

That's not public information. But at any rate, I had a joyous time on uh Saturday evening and uh my uh official birthday was uh yesterday. So, thank you. And I hear there are some cupcakes. Yep. In our office and so I plan to eat some of those. So, let's hurry up. Okay. Well, happy birthday, uh Commissioner Bird Song. Uh Commissioner Davis.

Yes. I echo what uh Commissioner Birdong said. It's been a heavy couple weeks with the funerals. Um spending time with the families and friends and the community. I especially want to thank all of our community who came out to support Major Cody Cork. Um that was uh particularly moving to me when we were driving back in the procession and seeing everybody come out with their flags and their their children and people of all ages. um just really coming out to show to show not just the family but everyone else how how much uh we owe to those who sacrificed their all for our country and uh you know we showed up because it was important and uh so I'm just very grateful to have had that opportunity. Um I also was given a a tour of the Winter Haven Recreation and Cultural Center and got to take a look at that. It's coming along very nicely. I'm I'm very proud of our staff and what you've done there. That's that's going to be quite an asset to our community. I look forward to grand opening next month. And uh then yesterday I stopped by the art festival downtown in Central Park. Um really enjoying the weather. It was nice to just get out and walk around and see everybody come out. And that's all I got.

Thank you, Commissioner Dolson.

Good evening. I u say happy birthday again to uh Mayor Excuse me, Commissioner Bertz. Just saying that. and uh we celebrate you. Uh also we were able to um attend the homegoing services for uh former mayor Ellie Threkle. I met um Mayor Threel uh in the early 90s and um she was a first class uh individual and really appreciated her uh and all that she contributed to the city and to know her personally and to appreciate the woman that she was and the difference that she made uh in this uh in Winter Haven. I was not able to attend the service for Major Cody uh in my uh daily regular duties. I serve as a lead pastor and so I had to penalize one of my uh deacons of our church on at the at actually at the same time, but certainly honor his service and uh send my condolences to the family as well. was able to attend the Ridge League of Cities um dinner in Barto. Uh was really festive. Enjoyed the fellowship as always and also had the uh uh the honor well you know the challenge of having one of my sons in the ministry uh the Reverend D. Arthur Leonard who was a great uh community worker and supporter here in Winter Haven and uh left an indul mark uh truly in the great work that he had done in many spheres of of service here in Winter Haven. Um toured the uh cultural center. uh a lot of emotions uh walking through that building um

remembering the old facility that was there and the fact that the city would embark upon a great uh endeavor such as this is really u uh true a blessing to the community. uh many ways I believe that the part of our community certainly needs uh that kind of um I guess um what word do I want to use uh something that I think brings that u I think a first class facility uh to an area that uh I think has been challenged in some ways uh but we're seeing great improvements that are truly commendable and uh appreciative to uh to see that. Look forward to the uh ribbon cutting and I know that many will come out. Uh the facility will honor many African-Americans who uh were part of the early beginnings of Winter Haven and uh I think that is certainly uh honorable to do so. Uh the church that I serve is a historical church celebrating 145 years this October and so we look forward to even hopefully having an event or something there in the facility in the near future. I do hope also I was sad to hear of uh the uh comments that were made from one of our small business owners uh who seemingly have been very successful in this area and wants to continue to do so. I'm hopeful that and I'm sure that all efforts will be made to address her concerns and allow her to continue to do uh what she loves doing and uh and really adding I think a great contribution to our city. Uh so uh look

forward to hearing how that turns out. Okay, Mayor Prom.

Yes. Um I did attend uh the funeral and the visitations I guess. Um both um Major Kirk Cork and um of course naturally on the procession back to Winter Haven from the airport um there were so many people lined up at every street corner along the streets. Their hands were over their heart. Their hats were over over their hearts. They were flying flags. they were um uh just you know if that's a comparison to um the way the respect and the honor um that they provided along the way then I think you know we're in pretty good shape in America today um at least with our military and so it's like you said some give he gave it all um for that and I'm glad that we were able to honor him in that way, too. Um, as far as Mayor Threckle, I worked here when she was mayor and when she was commissioner. So, um, she was always available if you wanted to talk to her no matter what. So, um, and she always had a smile. So, she was very good. Um and I attended the Ridge League where we got reports on some of the bill updates and um um also I guess um they had recessed and the budget will be coming in next week I guess and so we will hear more I guess on the bills. Uh then also attended um the um American Red Cross Museum. Um, like you said, there were a lot of historical items that they had on display. They had a lot more. They gave

um a lot of the details on that. And um one of the families that uh had helped keep uh up with some of this uh she was there and she's 104 years old. So yeah, and um so uh also um I was at the uh torch run for the Special Olympics. I participated in it for a couple years and then um I've been haven't in the last two years I guess. Um, so I have a knee that bothers me a little bit and so u now didn't I had a torn meniscus and had that repaired and for 10 years it's been good. So um but anyway I'm going to try to see if I can make it next year uh for that. um uh did the um Winter Haven recreational tour. Um and I would like to say that staff just thought of everything. Every question you could ask, they could tell you what they had done and and everything. Um there were lots of planning and everything seemed to be all covered. I couldn't imagine that large a facility and I'm sure they probably did in the background but um they had everything just covered. They thought of everything. So um and that's quite a big facility to think with all the planning and everything that goes into a facility like that. But um so I think that was about it for me this week or the past two weeks.

All right. Thank you. Uh just a couple items this evening. Um so Mayor Threckle, I I met her first when I was in elementary school, so I'm a little bit younger than most up here. Um but we had a moment where where we got to talk uh while she was there. And I had to remind her once, I think, when I was probably in high school or so when I uh had an opportunity to speak with her again. And I looked a little bit different from fourth grade to high school. Um but she never forgot that moment. And she never she she remembered that moment. And even um when I all the way up till just a few months ago, I I knew that she remembered that moment and that interaction and she was a very very special lady here in Winter Haven. And um I I think she would be tickled that at our service they played take me out to the ball game and um uh if if I can have a service that cool that that'd be that'll be neat. But um I think there was only a few of us that uh remembered the actual special word and take me out to the ball game and that is we root root root for the Indians and um and so that that was uh that was that was just cool to to be a part of that and we will miss her dearly in this community. Um, Major Cody Cork, as everyone has mentioned up here, um, attending, you know, you don't want to ever attend those services, but the fact that, uh, we were able to attend, we were able to u greet uh, Major Cork when he arrived at Lakelander Airport. we were able to speak with the family and

you could tell at that moment that family truly appreciated the heart and wellw wishes and and everything that Winter Haven and the nation has done to recognize uh Major Cork's sacrifice and um as as everyone else has stated you know the roads were lined and and that was an incredible moment to be a part of. I hope that I'm never part of one again. Um, but an honor to be um, in service to the city of Winter Haven and to honor Major Cork in that way. I want to thank the Winter Haven Police Department, the Winter Haven Fire Department for their efforts in the services and all of city staff that that had a part in it. um we rolled out the red carpet and um the family acknowledged that and uh we're just so great grateful and and appreciative. So um it's one of those moments that you are so proud to be part of a community that is Winter Haven. Um with that couple other items I wanted to talk about. So, the Winter Haven Recreational Cultural Center tour, that was magnificent. I think I can actually make it across that swimming pool that we built there. Wouldn't stand a chance at Rowdy Gains, but I can probably do do at least one lap in the pool out there. Um, not that I'm going to attempt it, but we'll see. Um, but the double courts and you can hold four volleyball matches at one time in there and the technology that we're going to put in there is just second to none and I couldn't be happier that that uh building is nearing completion and can't wait for the ribbon cutting on them. Um,

Winter Haven Youth Football uh out at Curtoma. I went and I toured their facilities uh about a week ago and um you know that program was on the brink of of closing. Um the past director had left. Um new individuals then stepped forward and said, "Hey, we don't want this to go away. We don't want this to go into a private company's hands in in youth sports." And so they stepped up and um in a big way and I appreciate their efforts for that. I toured the what was once the storage facility that's out there and I'll just say that's in bad shape. Um it's definitely a health hazard if you were to go into that building and sit in there for too long. I knew I wore a mask while I was in there and was in there for no more than 10 minutes. had a headache for two hours afterwards. So, we've got and that building is not being utilized for anything today, but we need to step up and that building needs to go away. And they're doing some major things with the press box and the facilities that oversee the fields. You know, we did a phenomenal job not too long ago with the baseball fields out at Sertoma and the press boxes there and the overlooking the the fields. Um, I I'm asking for a call to action this evening on that. I know we've got a budget specifically for that, but I'd like really like staff to work with the the group out there with where they've come, where they're at today. Let's put together a budget. Let's get those facilities right out there so that our youth can enjoy those facilities just

like the baseball players um and the other magnificent facilities that we have in and around Winter Haven. So, not asking for this overnight, but I definitely want to try to sooner than later put some things together so that we can put in motion a facility that is worthy of our youth and out there playing football. Um, and I had oh, Highway 17 and Boulevard. So, I think Deputy City Manager is going to talk about this a little bit, but I just wanted to take a moment and say thank you to the city crews that worked overnight um to get that intersection back open uh by 8:00 a.m. this morning. I think it's probably even earlier than that. It's probably closer to six. Um, many many members of our community didn't think that that was possible and our team got it done. And so, thank you for that. And I won't steal any of uh deputy city managers um thunder on what we think occurred out there and how we're going to fix it. But um let's just say any social media comment that you saw was incorrect. So with that, city attorney.

Thank you, Mr. Mayor, Commission. Nothing this evening other than to wish uh Commissioner Birdon a very happy birthday belatedly and hope you have very many more. Thank you, Deputy City Manager.

All right, sir. Well, thank you first of all for recognizing efforts of staff at Winter Haven Recreation and Culture Center for their work overnight last night and their efforts to honor Captain Cork last week. That's all much appreciated. Um, as you noted, there's a number of improvements underway already at Sartomo Park and I know there are more in the works and we'll be sure to coordinate with the teams out there and make sure that we we kind of get where we need to be. Um, quick update on Quiet Zone. I just wanted to provide. We had a visit from the FRA in early March of this year. Um, when they were here, they raised some concerns on the type of timing equipment that CSX has installed on the railroad tracks. Um, as it relates to being able to install a quiet zone. This had been raised before. We resolved it. They've raised it maybe again. We're waiting on a formal kind of report from that visit, which we have not received yet. We continue to stay in communication with them about getting that. Once we get some formal feedback from them on on what's there and what their perspective on it is, then we'll be able to kind of develop a plan forward one direction or another, but we can't really do anything until we get that clarity from them. So, it's something we're staying on top of, but just wanted to keep you guys a breast of that. Uh, so Highway 17 and Cypress Gardens Boulevard. Yes, yesterday we had yesterday afternoon we had a small hole open up in the asphalt kind of right in the middle of the intersection um closer to the uh western side uh kind of between Taco Bell and where the old McGee Tire is underneath that small hole in the asphalt was about a 7 to 10 foot void underground. Uh so we had to shut the intersection down immediately. I believe fire department were the first ones on the scene. um began closing that and then working with public works and the police department to develop a detour uh quickly and creatively on the fly. That's a big intersection of detour even at that time of night. Um DOT that's a DOT roadway. So most of the infrastructure in there is DOT's um worked very closely with them. Uh city teams and DOT opened up that roadway uh

to examine kind of what's going on. There's multiple pieces of infrastructure in there. So there's major water lines and sewer lines that we're having to work around, but ultimately there's a there's a 60inch storm water pipe. So it's about a 5ft diameter storm water pipe that's about 12 feet deep underneath that road underneath all that other infrastructure I already talked about. Uh so sediment from above that looks like it had gotten into the pipe and that's what was causing that void was there's little bits of sediment going into that pipe over time where it had separated at a joint. So, we're able to kind of um get that sealed up and then refill the hole and again get the re road reopened by about 7:30. Uh everything that's out there now is a pretty temporary repair. Uh but they'll DOT will come back through and schedule um night work at a time that makes sense and do a more kind of permanent repair within that. But exceptional coordination all around from all of our departments internally, everybody working together, but also just great coordination with the DOT and others involved. So,

was it their storm water pipe? It was their storm water pipe. Yes, ma'am.

Uh, and we'll keep coordinating with them and make sure that communication gets out on that as soon as we uh we know everything about it. But it was tricky situation. Um, glad we were able to get it resolved and opened back up. That was everybody's nightmare, I think, was not being able to get that open back up before the rush of traffic in the morning. So, uh, great work all around. Um, other note, I was notified today, if you guys recall, we submitted two federal appropriation requests, one for South Lake, uh, North Lake Ship Drive and Willowbrook Road. Um, of the two, Congressman Franklin's office selected Willowbrook Road and has submitted that as one of their 20 projects they get to submit for community funding. Uh, so that's in the mix and we will continue to chase that in DC and see if we can get some additional dollars. Remember, we've already got um a $3 million appropriation for Willowbrook Road. So, we're chasing an additional three. Um that would give us six that we could then match for a total of about 12 million to get that new road built between MLK Boulevard and Lousern Park Road. So, we will continue to watch that and follow it.

Do you think that we'll start the bridge first? Like would it make sense to say, "Hey, let's get the bridge going, get that complete, even though the rest that's the hardest part of that project certainly by by far." Fair.

Would it I I hate to build two roads that go to nowhere essentially, you know, or or end at a canal that you can't cross over. Is there an order of operation that we look at when saying, "Hey, let's go ahead and get this platform or or some sort of, you know, most safe and appropriate uh construction type. I I don't know. I'm not a road person, but to me, you build, you know, like a concrete platform. You just lay over the top of it because the canal is not that big. But I'm not an engineer, and an engineer would say, "Are you crazy? You shouldn't do that." But is there a an order that we would look at in getting things completed?

Yeah. What we So, the first thing we have to do is do some proper design work. We haven't done that yet. That's if we were uh we requested funding from the state for design. It was included in the House budget, but it not in the Senate. We'll have to see how all that shakes out as the legislature comes back together. If we don't get that state appropriation, we would look at moving forward uh probably in the next fiscal year with funding some design in house. And as we go through that design process, um there's a lot of permitting that'll be involved, especially when you get to the bridge because that covers that flowway is owned and operated. our water management district folks have left, but um by the water management district, so that's an important drainage system for them. Um but as we get in there and we do that design work, that's where we'll start to lay out probably some different phasing options so that we could build sections of it if that's all the funding we had to ultimately get to a final product. But when we go through design, that's when we would do that.

I don't think it's too important to them because they can't maintain it properly. That's another discussion for another day.

Yes, sir. Um, another item I have tonight, uh, if if I'd like to recognize, uh, Britney Hart, our public works director, uh, has been recognized by the American Public Works Association, so the West Coast branch, uh, as young for the young leader award. So, kind of their young leader of the year award. It's given to recognize young leaders who have already contributed meaningfully to the profession. She's distinguished herself by modernizing systems, improving efficiency, and strengthening culture in her team. It was also noted in there that her leadership um it was also noted that her leadership to help not only the city's public works department achieve accreditation, but she also serves as the chair for the state committee that helps other agencies across the state do their jobs better in the public works profession. Um, lastly, she's also been routinely sought out to present at state and national conferences, uh, and received a special invite last year to be part of a joint panel between the American Public Works Association and the International City County Managers Association on helping public works directors and city managers communicate better together. And I think I heard earlier today that she's teed up for about three presentations at the APWA state conference this year. So, she reflects very positively on the city organization and the community. I just want to take a moment to recognize HER FOR THAT. I WOULD I WOULD ALSO BE remissed not to recognize the mayor who recently received an award from Citizens Bank and Trust as the 2025 community leader for his service and leadership in the community. SO, and then a happy birthday to Commissioners Bird Song and Dawson. I think that's enough for me for the evening. Yes,

city clerk. And I just want to wish you, Commissioner Bertson, a belated happy birthday and Commissioner Gallison, an early happy birthday since your birthday's on Friday. Thank you, sweet. Thank you, Deputy City Clerk. All right, with that, there's some cupcakes if anybody wants to stick around for a cupcake, but uh come partake and uh we will uh adjourn the meeting.