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HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-12-2024 VC REG-MPresent: ROLL CALL MINUTES OF THE REGULAR SESSION VILLAGE COUNCIL OF NORTH PALM BEACH, FLORIDA SEPTEMBER 12, 2024 Susan Bickel, Mayor Deborah Searcy, Vice Mayor Lisa Interlandi, President Pro Tem Kristin Garrison, Councilmember Orlando Puyol, Councilmember Chuck Huff, Village Manager Len Rubin, Village Attorney Jessica Green, Village Clerk Mayor Bickel called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. All members of Council were present. All members of staff were present. Mayor Bickel asked for a moment of silence in remembrance of the lives that were lost in the terrorist attack that occurred on September 11, 2001. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Vice Mayor Searcy led the public in the Pledge. APPROVAL OF MINUTES The Minutes of the Special Session held July 18, 2024 and the Minutes of the Regular Session held August 8, 2024 were approved as written. STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC Friends of the Library members Mary Phillips, Shawn Woods, Patty Sullivan and Cathy Graham expressed their acknowledgement and appreciation for Zak Sherman, Director of Leisure Services who accepted a position with another municipality. The members gave examples of Mr. Sherman's accomplishments and expressed their gratitude for his leadership abilities with his staff and stated that they would miss him greatly and wished him the best of luck. Mayor Bickel acknowledged and thanked Mr. Sherman and the Friends of the Library for all they do for the community. Mark Michels, 648 Shore Road, spoke on behalf of the Waterways Board. Mr. Michels stated that recommendations from the Waterways Board for the Comprehensive Plan were sent to Council by email. Minutes of Village Council Meeting held September 12, 2024 Page 2 of 13 STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC continued Mr. Michels reviewed the information sent to Council which included recommended revisions to the Coastal Management Element, the Conservation Element and to provide education awareness to educate youth and the community about the value of bi valve benefits to water cleaning. Mr. Michels stated that the Waterway's Board commended the Council for providing code enforcement on the waterways and for adopting a resolution opposing developments to Jonathan Dickinson State Park. Steen Erikson, of Professional Firefighters of Palm Beach County read a letter on behalf of Treasurer Angelo D'Ariano who was unable to attend the meeting. In the letter, Mr. D'Ariano thanked Village Council and commended Village staff for their dedication and professionalism in negotiating the IAFF Bargaining Agreement. INTRODUCTION OF RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD APPLICANTS Mayor Bickel stated that there was an unprecedented situation wherein a Councilmember's family member has applied to the Recreation Advisory Board. Mayor Bickel asked Mr. Rubin if there were any ethical limitations or ramifications to appointing a family member of a Councilmember. Mr. Rubin explained that per the county ethics code and the state ethics code, generally a family member of a Councilmember could not be appointed to an advisory board or committee, but there was an exception for municipalities with a population of less than 35,000 wherein they can appoint relatives of Councilmembers to boards that do not have land planning and zoning responsibilities. Mr. Rubin stated that the occurrence has happened in other smaller municipalities. Vice Mayor Searcy stated that she was uncomfortable with appointing a family member of a Councilmember and that a smaller municipality should be held to the same standards as a larger municipality. Vice Mayor Searcy stated that Council would be revisiting the code regarding Advisory Boards and Committees early next year and recommended adding language to prohibit nepotism. Mr. Rubin stated that the Council could adopt their own code provisions to the Advisory Boards and Committees code. The following applicants were introduced to the Village Council: Karen Paxton Bobby Puyol The following applicants were unable to attend the meeting: Richard Blankenship Jason Frogge Tim Jenkins CONSENT AGENDA APPROVED President Pro Tem Interlandi moved to approve the Consent Agenda and Councilmember Puyol seconded the motion, which passed unanimously. The following items were approved: Motion approving the inclusion of the Village Clerk position in the compensation study. Resolution approving expenditures with Siteone Landscape, LLC for Fiscal Year 2024 in an amount not to exceed $40,000 for the purchase of landscaping supplies and materials. Receive for file Minutes of the Library Advisory Board meeting held 7/23/24. Minutes of the Village Council Regular Session held September 12, 2024 Page 3 of 13 RESOLUTION 2024-74 — APPOINTING MEMBERS TO THE RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD By written ballots, the originals of which are attached to the minutes of record, the Council appointed members to the Recreation Advisory Board, as follows: Jason Frogge and Karen Paxton. A motion was made by Vice Mayor Searcy and seconded by President Pro Tem Interlandi to adopt Resolution 2024-74 entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF NORTH PALM BEACH, FLORIDA, APPOINTING MEMBERS TO THE RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Vice Mayor Searcy thanked all of the applicants for their willingness to serve and encouraged Bobby Puyol to attend the Recreation Advisory Board meetings and to stay involved. Mayor Bickel stated that she was uncomfortable having to bring up the subject of nepotism as it related to the Village's Advisory Boards and Committees, but was unable to discuss the matter with Councilmembers outside of a Council meeting. Mayor Bickel also encouraged Bobby Puyol to attend the Recreation Advisory Board meetings and to stay involved. President Pro Tem Interlandi also encouraged Bobby Puyol to be involved with the Recreation Advisory Board and recreation programs. Councilmember Puyol stated that the nepotism prohibition for Village Advisory Boards and Committees needed to be added to the Village code. Mayor Bickel agreed and stated that there would be a future discussion regarding the addition prohibiting family members of Councilmembers from being considered for Village Advisory Boards and Committees. Thereafter, the motion to adopt Resolution 2024-74 passed unanimously. PUBLIC HEARING AND OUASI-JUDICAL MATTERS PUBLIC HEARING AND FIRST READING OF AD VALOREM TAX MILLAGE RATE ORDINANCE AND BUDGET ORDINANCE A motion was made by President Pro Tem Interlandi and seconded by Vice Mayor Searcy to adopt on first reading Ordinance 2024-14 entitled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF NORTH PALM BEACH, FLORIDA, ESTABLISHING AND ADOPTING THE FINAL LEVY OF AD VALOREM TAXES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2024 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2025; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. A motion was made by Vice Mayor Searcy and seconded by President Pro Tem Interlandi to adopt on first reading Ordinance 2024-15 entitled: Minutes of the Village Council Regular Session held September 12, 2024 Page 4 of 13 PUBLIC HEARING AND FIRST READING OF AD VALOREM TAX MILLAGE RATE ORDINANCE AND BUDGET ORDINANCE continued AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF NORTH PALM BEACH, FLORIDA, ADOPTING THE ANNUAL BUDGET OF THE VILLAGE OF NORTH PALM BEACH FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2024 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2025 AND AUTHORIZING ALLOCATIONS, APPROPRIATIONS AND EXPENDITURES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE BUDGET AND AS AUTHORIZED BY LAW; APPROVING A COMPREHENSIVE PAY PLAN AND AUTHORIZING THE VILLAGE MANAGER TO MAKE TEMPORARY APPOINTMENTS TO BUDGETED POSITIONS; APPROVING A MASTER FEE SCHEDULE; PROVIDING FOR THE CREATION OF GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS WHEN NECESSARY; PROVIDING FOR THE RECEIPT OF GRANTS OR GIFTS; PROVIDING PROCEDURES FOR BUDGET AMENDMENTS; PROVIDING FOR THE LAPSE OF OUTSTANDING ENCUMBRANCES AND THE RE -APPROPRIATION OF UNEXPENDED APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE PRIOR FISCAL YEAR; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Mr. Huff thanked staff for their work on the budget. Deputy Village Manager Samia Janjua began a presentation on the budget. Mrs. Janjua reviewed and explained the following: Fiscal Year 2025 Council Budget Schedule, Phases in the Municipal Budget Process, Key Financial Considerations for the FY 25 Budget, the FY 25 Budget Highlights, the FY 25 Total Budget which included the General Fund plus the Enterprise Funds, the Millage Rate History (Last 10 Years), Taxpayer Impact, FY 2025 General Fund Budget, Fiscal Year 2025 General Fund Personnel Cost Increase, Fiscal Year 2025 General Fund Operating Cost Increase, Fiscal Year 2025 Enterprise Funds Budget (Country Club + Stormwater Utility Fund), Fiscal Year 2025 Country Club Personnel Cost Increase, Fiscal Year 2025 Country Club Operating Cost Increase, FY 2025 — FY 2029 5-Year Capital Improvement Plan Summary, Key Capital Projects with an estimated total cost of over $500,000, FY 2025 — FY 2029 5-Year Capital Improvement Plan Total 5-Year CIP = $31,016,264, and Budget Cycle. Mayor Bickel opened the public hearing on the Ad Valorem Tax Millage Rate and FY 2025 Budget. These residents addressed the Council with their concerns regarding the proposed Ad Valorem Tax Millage Rate and FY 2025 Budget: John Rhodes, 720 Jacana Way Mary Romero, 808 Buttonwood Road Stephanie Camp, 704 Buttonwood Road Mary McLoughlin, 110 Shore Court There being no further comments, Mayor Bickel closed the public hearing. Councilmember Puyol began a presentation that he prepared regarding the Ad Valorem Tax Millage Rate and FY 2025 Budget. In the presentation, Councilmember Puyol reviewed the following: General Fund Budget Highlights, Country Club Budget Highlights, Departmental Expenses Review, and Employee Salary Changes. Councilmember Puyol concluded with a summary of the following: • As a Councilmember, additional information is required to assert reasonable oversight in light of the significant changes to the budget and the resulting proposed millage rate. • It should be noted that last year's millage rate was 6.9%, and the proposed millage rate for this coming year is 7.4%. Minutes of the Village Council Regular Session held September 12, 2024 Page 5 of 13 PUBLIC HEARING AND FIRST READING OF AD VALOREM TAX MILLAGE RATE ORDINANCE AND BUDGET ORDINANCE continued • However, the rollback millage rate of 6.44% computed from the increased property values meets last year's budget. Therefore, the proposed increase is almost 1% over last year's millage rate. • The proposed increase in salaries and retirements is unprecedented, and the rationale for such changes is not apparent. • A more reasonable proposed salary and retirement increase should be a target of 3% to 5%. • This would reduce the budget by over $2 million and be more in line with the overall economic environment and result in a millage rate consistent with the prior year. • Additional expense savings may be possible based on review and challenge of Professional Services and Other Expenses. • We should keep in mind that salaries and retirement increases are funded through monies gathered from Village residents. • Those residents also have jobs, and it is highly unlikely they will receive a 20% increase this year. Mayor Bickel stated that she appreciated Mr. Puyol's presentation and input and stated that she understood that there was an oversight in the FY 25 budget process whereby other Councilmembers were more familiarized with the budget process and didn't need as detailed of an overview. Mayor Bickel stated that background information had not been presented regarding decisions that were made for the proposed budget such as the fact that the Village lost a quarter of its police force due to salary deficits and the Village has also had difficulty in retaining quality personnel. Mayor Bickel that she was not okay with losing police officers to other municipalities and stated that she did not want to lose the additional services that the Village provides to its residents. Mayor Bickel stated that the proposed tax increase was lower then what it was three (3) years ago. Mayor Bickel stated that she valued the employees and would like to make sure that they are paid commensurate with neighboring communities so that they will stay working for the Village. Vice Mayor Searcy stated that the Village did not become the safest city in Palm Beach County or the best place to live under the sun by underpaying its police force or employees. Vice Mayor Searcy stated that she was offended at the disrespect shown to employees by the statement that was made that they were not worth an average salary of $102,000. Vice Mayor Searcy stated that the Village had incredibly professional employees with Master's degrees in their field of study who are experts at what they do and should be paid appropriately. Vice Mayor Searcy stated that the Village has an audit every year that has won awards for its transparency. Vice Mayor Searcy stated that 23% of the Capital Improvement Plan is funded through grants. Vice Mayor Searcy recommended that the Golf Department begin paying rent since they have been using the Country Club facility rent free for the past five (5) years. Vice Mayor Searcy concluded by stating that the compensation study placed the Village's employees in the 60th percentile in comparison to neighboring communities that would only be a pay rate that was slightly above average. Vice Mayor Searcy concluded by explaining that the Village was the only municipality in Palm Beach County that was a full service community and stated that she was comfortable with the proposed budget. Councilmember Garrison explained her reasoning for not agreeing with roll back rates. Councilmember Garrison stated that if the millage rate had stayed steady at approximately 7.5 millage rate and was not lowered last year to 6.9, the Village would be in a better position. Councilmember Garrison stated that she was not in favor of deferred maintenance and that she was comfortable with the proposed FY 2025 budget and millage rate of 7.4 mils. Minutes of the Village Council Regular Session held September 12, 2024 Page 6 of 13 PUBLIC HEARING AND FIRST READING OF AD VALOREM TAX MILLAGE RATE ORDINANCE AND BUDGET ORDINANCE continued President Pro Tem Interlandi stated that she agreed that Council should have a more detailed budget process next year. President Pro Tem Interlandi recommended starting earlier on the budget process. President Pro Tem Interlandi agreed that if the millage rate was kept at a higher rate, the Village would have been in a better position this year. President Pro Tem Interlandi stated that the increases in payroll were due to the compensation study showing that the employees were not being paid adequately and those employees should not have to drive a longer distance to be paid less than what neighboring municipalities closer to their homes are paying. President Pro Tem Interlandi sated that the Village would not be what it was without the employees who should be adequately compensated. President Pro Tem Interlandi stated that she was comfortable with the proposed budget and millage rate. Councilmember Puyol referred to page 6 of the Village Manager's budget presentation and stated that he wanted to clarify that the 2024 millage rate of 6.9 mils accumulated $41,546,758 for the Village. The rollback rate is reflective of the increase in property values which would make the millage rate 6.44 and by increasing the millage rate to 7.40 mils the Village would accumulate $46,905,977. Councilmember Puyol stated that he had a conversation with Mr. Huff and from the conversation understood capital improvements and the fund balance. Councilmember Puyol stated that just $1,000,000 of the $46,905,977 was for capital projects. Councilmember Puyol expressed his concerns with employees of the Village having an average salary of $100,000 where 40% of the Village residents did not. Mayor Bickel reopened the public hearing. John Marasco, 142 Atlantic Road, expressed his concerns with the budget process and asked that Council assist Councilmember Puyol in understanding the budget process since he is a new Councilmember. Mr. Marasco stated that the entire Council should be in agreement on the budget and millage rate. There being no further comments, Mayor Bickel closed the public hearing. A motion was made by Vice Mayor Searcy and seconded by President Pro Tem Interlandi to establish an ad valorem tax millage rate of 7.4000 mils. Thereafter the motion passed 4 tol with Mayor Bickel, Vice Mayor Searcy, President Pro Tem Interlandi and Councilmember Garrison voting aye and Councilmember Puyol voting nay. Mayor Bickel announced that the rolled back rate was 6.4464 mils, the percentage increase over the rolled back rate was 14.79%, and the millage rate to be levied was 7.4000 mils. The motion to adopt on first reading Ordinance 2024-14 approving the Ad Valorem Tax Millage Rate passed 4 tol with Mayor Bickel, Vice Mayor Searcy, President Pro Tem Interlandi and Councilmember Garrison voting aye and Councilmember Puyol voting nay. The motion to adopt on first reading Ordinance 2024-15 approving the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Annual Budget passed 4 tol with Mayor Bickel, Vice Mayor Searcy, President Pro Tem Interlandi and Councilmember Garrison voting aye and Councilmember Puyol voting nay. Minutes of the Village Council Regular Session held September 12, 2024 Page 7 of 13 PUBLIC HEARING AND 2ND READING OF ORDINANCE 2024-13 COUNTRY CLUB BUDGET AMENDMENT A motion was made by Councilmember Puyol and seconded by President Pro Tem Interlandi to adopt and enact on second reading Ordinance 2024-13 entitled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF NORTH PALM BEACH, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE ADOPTED COUNTRY CLUB BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024 TO TRANSFER $328,001.00 FROM THE APPROPRIATED NET POSITION ACCOUNT TO THE CONTRACTUAL SERVICES ACCOUNT TO FUND THE CONTRACTUAL PAYMENT TO FARMER'S TABLE FOR THE AMORTIZED COST OF IMPROVEMENTS AT THE COUNTRY CLUB; APPROVING THE PAYMENT; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Mr. Rubin explained that the purpose of the ordinance was to amend the Country Club budget in order to make an amortized payment to Farmer's Table for the pavilion improvements and pool concession improvements that they made to the Country Club. Discussion ensued between Councilmember Puyol, Mr. Rubin, Mr. Huff and Mrs. Janjua on the allocation of the initial funds that would be received from Lessing's Ventures LLC and if those funds would be used toward the budget amendment. Mrs. Janjua stated that the funds from Lessing's Ventures LLC would be received in Fiscal Year 2025 and would sit in a capital contribution account and when the FY 2025 budget process begins, Council can decide where those funds would be allocated. Thereafter, the motion to adopt and enact on second reading Ordinance 2024-13 passed unanimously. Mayor Bickel passed the gavel to Vice Mayor Searcy and stated that she had a family emergency and she could not stay for the remainder of the meeting. RESOLUTION 2024-76 — ANCHORAGE PARK DRY STORAGE RENOVATIONS CONTRACT A motion was made by Councilmember Garrison and seconded by Councilmember Puyol to adopt Resolution 2024-76 entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF NORTH PALM BEACH, FLORIDA APPROVING AN AGREEMENT WITH E&F FLORIDA ENTERPRISES INC. D/B/A CREATIVE CONTRACTING GROUP FOR RENOVATIONS TO THE ANCHORAGE PARK DRY STORAGE FACILITY AND REPLACEMENT OF DOG PARK FENCING, GATES, AND POSTS AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR AND VILLAGE CLERK TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT; AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE MAYOR AND VILLAGE CLARK TO AMEND THE CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND BUDGET TO TRANSFER $499,091.00 FROM THE CAPITAL RESERVE ACCOUNT TO THE PARKS AND RECREATION — CONSTRUCTION AND MAJOR RENOVATION CAPITAL ACCOUNT TO FUND THE AGREEMENT; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Minutes of the Village Council Regular Session held September 12, 2024 Page 8 of 13 RESOLUTION 2024-76 — ANCHORAGE PARK DRY STORAGE RENOVATIONS CONTRACT continued Zak Sherman, Director of Leisure Services explained that an Invitation to Bid was issued for the renovation of the boat storage yard at Anchorage Park. Additionally bidders were asked to provide alternate pricing for three (3) alternates related to the replacement of dog park fencing, gates, and posts for two of the Village's three (3) dog parks. A total of four (4) proposals and three (3) alternates were received. Mr. Sherman stated that after evaluating and ranking all of the proposals, E&F Florida Enterprises, Inc. d/b/a Creative Contracting Group provided the lowest bid. Mr. Sherman described the proposed project and details of the contract and pricing. Rita Budnyk, 804 Shore Drive, spoke on behalf of the Recreation Advisory Board stating that the project was long overdue and the project was finally coming to fruition due to Mr. Sherman and his staff. Ms. Budnyk stated that the Recreation Advisory Board was in support of the project. Discussion ensued between Mr. Huff and Councilmember Puyol regarding how the project would be funded and where the funds for the project were allocated. Thereafter the motion to adopt Resolution 2024-76 passed with all present voting aye. RESOLUTION 2024-77 — LANDSCAPING AND GROUNDS MAINTENANCE SERVICES CONTRACT A motion was made by Councilmember Puyol and seconded by President Pro Tem Interlandi to adopt Resolution 2024-77 entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF NORTH PALM BEACH, FLORIDA, ACCEPTING THE PROPOSAL SUBMITTED BY PRECISION LANDSCAPE COMPANY OF PALM BEACH COUNTY, INC. FOR LANDSCAPING AND GROUNDS MAINTENANCE SERVICES AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR AND VILLAGE CLERK TO EXECUTE A CONTRACT RELATING TO SUCH SERVICES; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Marc Holloway, Field Operations Manager discussed and explained the Request for Proposals process that took place stating that eight (8) proposals were received. A Selection Committee met to rate the proposals and based on the ratings, recommended awarding the contract to Precision Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance Services. Deborah Cross, 2560 Pepperwood Circle S, expressed her concerns with Precision Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance Services. Mr. Holloway stated that the incidents that Mrs. Cross referred to with Precision Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance Services happened on a private property and not within the Village's parameters. Mr. Holloway stated that he has not had any issues working with the company and gave examples of their professionalism. Discussion ensued between Mr. Holloway, President Pro Tem Interlandi and Vice Mayor Searcy regarding the mulching around trees. Councilmember Puyol asked if the contract also included the grounds surrounding the Country Club. Minutes of the Village Council Regular Session held September 12, 2024 Page 9 of 13 RESOLUTION 2024-77 — LANDSCAPING AND GROUNDS MAINTENANCE SERVICES CONTRACT continued Mr. Holloway stated that the scope of work was included in the contract. Thereafter the motion to adopt Resolution 2024-77 passed with all present voting aye. RESOLUTION 2024-78 — VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT CONTRACT A motion was made by Councilmember Puyol and seconded by President Pro Tem Interlandi to adopt Resolution 2024-78 entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF NORTH PALM BEACH, FLORIDA, ACCEPTING THE PROPOSAL SUBMITTED BY APTIM ENVIRONMENTAL & INFRASTRUCTURE, LLC TO DEVELOP A VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT FOR THE VILLAGE AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR AND VILLAGE CLERK TO EXECUTE A CONTRACT RELATING TO SUCH SERVICES; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Mr. Holloway explained that the contract was the second stage of the stormwater vulnerability piece. Mr. Holloway stated that three (3) proposals were received and a Selection Committee met to rate the proposals. Based on their findings, the Selection Committee was recommending awarding the contract to APTIM Environmental & Infrastructure LLC. Deborah Cross, 2560 Pepperwood Circle S, expressed that she needed clarification on the purpose of the assessment. Mr. Holloway explained that the Stormwater Master Plan and the Stormwater Vulnerability Study were necessary to receive grant funds to complete the new stormwater drainage system. Mr. Rubin explained that the study was statutorily required. Thereafter the motion to adopt Resolution 2024-76 passed with all present voting aye. RESOLUTION 2024-79 — STORMWATER MANAGEMENT UTILITY ASSESSMENT A motion was made by Councilmember Puyol and seconded by President Pro Tem Interlandi to adopt Resolution 2024-79 entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF NORTH PALM BEACH, FLORIDA, ADOPTING AND CERTIFYING THE NON -AD VALOREM ASSESSMENT ROLL FOR THE STORMWATER MANAGEMENT UTILITY ASSESSMENT FOR PARCELS OF REAL PROPERTY WITHIN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE VILLAGE; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Chad Girard, Public Works Director explained that the non -ad valorem assessment for the stormwater utility assessment was required to be certified each year. No changes were proposed to the non -ad valorem assessment for 2024. Councilmember Puyol asked what the non -ad valorem assessment fee was. Mr. Girard stated that the fee was $7.78 per residential unit. Minutes of the Village Council Regular Session held September 12, 2024 Page 10 of 13 RESOLUTION 2024-79 — STORMWATER MANAGEMENT UTILITY ASSESSMENT continued Thereafter the motion to adopt Resolution 2024-79 passed with all present voting aye. RESOLUTION 2024-80 — COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT WITH PBA A motion was made by Councilmember Garrison and seconded by President Pro Tem Interlandi to adopt Resolution 2024-80 entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF NORTH PALM BEACH, FLORIDA, APPROVING A COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE VILLAGE AND THE POLICE BENEVOLENT ASSOCIATION OF PALM BEACH COUNTY, INC. AND AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF THE AGREEMENT; APPROVING AND ADOPTING A TAKE HOME VEHICLE POLICY; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Mr. Huff discussed and explained the negotiation process that took place and stated that staff did a phenomenal job. Mr. Huff reviewed the negotiated items in the agreement which were as follows: • Updated holidays and sick leave incentive pay to match the actual scheduled shift of 8 hours, 10.5 hours, or 12 hours. • Increase in vacation accrual schedule, adding more tiers in an effort to retain employees. • Adjusted holiday schedule language so that if an employee works on the actual holiday, they are paid at time and a half. • Add a personal day per fiscal year. No cash value and does not roll over. • Increased percentage for out of grade pay from 5% to 10%. • Wages were adjusted as follows: o Effective on October 1, 2024, the salary ranges for Police Officers will be increased by 8% and the salary ranges for Police Sergeants will be increased by 7%. o Police Officers are then eligible for an 8% salary range increase and a 4.5% performance -based step increase on their anniversary date of each subsequent year. Police Sergeants are then eligible for a 7% salary range increase and a 4.5% performance -based step increase on their anniversary date of each subsequent year. They will no longer receive an adjustment on October 1st each year, as well as an increase on their anniversary date. After the initial slotting adjustment on October 1st, 2024, they will only receive increases on their anniversary date. Sergeant Lou Pearson discussed the challenges in recruitment and retention over the past years and stated that he has never had a more professional contract process than the process that was just completed. Sergeant Pearson stated that Mr. Huff, Mrs. Janjua and Ms. Cain were fair, consistent and responsive to the PBA's concerns and requests. On behalf of the Village's Police Department, Sergeant Pearson expressed his gratitude to Council and the Village. Vice Mayor Searcy expressed her gratitude to the Police Department. President Pro Tem Interlandi expressed her gratitude and pride in the Village's Police Department and Village staff for their professionalism in the negotiations. Thereafter the motion to adopt Resolution 2024-80 passed with all present voting aye. Minutes of the Village Council Regular Session held September 12, 2024 Page 11 of 13 RESOLUTION 2024-81 — COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT WITH IAFF A motion was made by Councilmember Puyol and seconded by President Pro Tem Interlandi to adopt Resolution 2024-81 entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF NORTH PALM BEACH, FLORIDA APPROVING A COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT WITH THE PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS/PARAMEDICS OF PALM BEACH COUNTY, LOCAL 2928, IAFF, INC. THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 2027; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Mr. Huff discussed and explained the negotiation process that took place with the Fire Department. Mr. Huff reviewed the negotiated items in the agreement which were as follows: • Updated'the number of uniform t-shirts to be provided by the Village. • Updated language for vacation accruals so that the next tier of accrual starts at the beginning of year five of service instead of the end. • Updated language so that only the driver shall be subject to post -accident drug screening instead of the entire crew. • The Village and the Union agreed to file a joint petition to PERC to include the position of Lieutenant and Firefighter/EMT in the collective bargaining agreement, pending the approval of the positions by Village Council in the pay plan and the PERC Final Order granting the petition. • Pension: 1. Changed normal retirement to age 52 or 25 years of service instead of both. Employee must be vested. 2. Increased the benefit accrual rate to 3% for all years of credited service on or after 10/1/2021. Employer paid to match PBA. 3. Health Insurance Subsidy of $15 per year of credited service added. 4. Employee contribution will be increased on April 1, 2024 to 11% to pay for items one and three. • Wages were adjusted as follows: o Effective on October 1, 2024, the salary ranges for Firefighter/Paramedic, Driver Engineer/EMT, Driver Engineer/Paramedic, and Captain will be increased by 5%. o Employees are then eligible for a 5% salary range increase and a 4.5% performance -based step increase on April 1st of each subsequent year. They will no longer receive an adjustment on October 1st each year, as well as an increase on April 1st. After the initial slotting adjustment on October 1st, 2024, they will only receive increases on April 1st. Anthony Giarusso, 513 Harbour Road, thanked Village staff for the professionalism in the negotiation process. On behalf of the Fire Department, Mr. Giarusso expressed gratitude to Village staff and the Council. Pat Friedman, 1208 Marine Way, on behalf of Old Port Cove thanked the Police Department and the Fire Department and stated the Village had the best Police Department, Fire Department and Village staff. Ms. Friedman commended Mr. Huff, Mrs. Janjua and Ms. Cain for their professionalism in the negotiation process. Minutes of the Village Council Regular Session held September 12, 2024 Page 12 of 13 RESOLUTION 2024-81 — COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT WITH IAFF continued Vice Mayor Searcy expressed her gratitude to the Village's Fire Department. President Pro Tem Interlandi expressed her gratitude and pride in the Village's Fire Department and Village staff for their professionalism in the negotiations. Thereafter the motion to adopt Resolution 2024-81 passed with all present voting aye. MOTION — VILLAGE MANAGER MERIT INCREASE AND SALARY ADJUSTMENTS Jennifer Cain, Human Resources Director, explained that Mr. Huff was eligible for a 4% merit increase based on the total score he received through the evaluation process. The effective date of the increase would be retroactive to February 9, 2024. Mrs. Cain explained that a comprehensive study was conducted to bring all positions to the 60th percentile based on the Village's comparators with the intent to implement the results of the study on October 1, 2024 pending the approval of the FY2025 budget and pay plan. The compensation study resulted in a calculation of the Village Manager's salary at the 60th percentile of $245,586.55 annually, a 24.28% increase over the 4% merit calculation. An increase of 14.09% over the 4% merit calculation to $230,000.00 annually is necessary in order to avoid inequity and compaction in the newly proposed pay plan. Mrs. Cain stated that staff was recommending an adjustment of the Village Manager's salary up to $230,000 annually. Discussion ensued between Councilmembers regarding the Village Manager's salary and merit increase. A motion was made by Councilmember Puyol and seconded by Councilmember Garrison to raise Village Manager Huff s salary to the 60th percentile and award the 4% merit increase. Thereafter the motion passed with all present voting aye. Mr. Huff thanked Council and the community and stated that the Village had the best residents and employees. MAYOR AND COUNCIL MATTERS/REPORTS Vice Mayor Searcy thanked staff for the Beats and Eats event. Vice Mayor Searcy announced the Touch a Truck event on September 21st beginning at 10 a.m. President Pro Tem Interlandi announced an Anchorage Park cleanup on September 21 st beginning at 8:30 a.m. Councilmember Puyol asked for an update on the Village Place proposed project. Mr. Huff stated that a meeting was planned between staff and the developer on September 25th to discuss next steps. Vice Mayor Searcy asked Country Club Manager Beth Davis to give an update on the new restaurant. Ms. Davis stated that the Lessing's Group was slowly taking over by cleaning and training staff. Lessing's Group will begin taking over on Monday, September 16th. Ms. Davis gave a schedule and explanation of the transitional steps and soft openings of the new restaurant. Minutes of the Village Council Regular Session held September 12, 2024 Page 13 of 13 VILLAGE MANAGER MATTERS/REPORTS Mr. Huff gave an update on the FDOT bridge replacement and should begin in the first quarter of next year. Mr. Huff stated there would not be any road closures during construction Mr. Huff discussed and explained a memo he provided to Council regarding the Golf Advisory Board and the former Country Club Advisory Board. Mr. Huff gave a brief history of the former Country Club Advisory Board and the reasons it was dissolved. Mr. Huff recommended that Council move to reestablish the Country Club Advisory Board to ensure that all aspects of the North Palm Beach Country Club were properly represented and managed. Councilmember Puyol asked for an update on the Lighthouse Drive bridge replacement. Mr. Girard provided an update on the Lighthouse Drive bridge replacement. The price proposal was received from the engineering consultant for the Lighthouse Drive bridge replacement, and after fee negotiations, the item will be brought to Council for consideration at the first Council meeting in October. Councilmember Puyol congratulated Pat Friedman and Don Solodar on their recent engagement. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to come before the Council, the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m. Jessie reen, MMC, Village Clerk SEPTEMBER 12, 2024 VILLAGE BOARDS AND COMMITTEES TALLY SHEET Villa tt rney 7 Village clerk RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD Name Vote for 2 Round 2 Round 3 Round 4 Blankenship, Richard Frogge, Jason ) ) i 1 Jenkins, Tim Paxton, Karen i 1 f k Puyol, Bobby I VILLAGE BOARDS AND COMMITTEES BALLOT September 12, 2024 Mayor Bickel RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD Name Vote for 2 Round 2 Round 3 Round 4 Blankenship, Richard Frogge, Jason Jenkins, Tim Paxton, Karen Puyol, Bobby VILLAGE BOARDS AND COMMITTEES BALLOT September 12, 2024 n President Pro Tem Interlandi RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD Name Vote for 2 Round 2 Round 3 Round 4 Blankenship, Richard Frogge, Jason Jenkins, Tim Paxton, Karen Puyol, Bobby VILLAGE BOARDS AND COMMITTEES BALLOT September 12, 2024 RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD Name Vote for 2 Round 2 Round 3 Round 4 Blankenship, Richard Frogge, Jason ✓ Jenkins, Tim Paxton, Karen ✓ Puyol, Bobby VILLAGE BOARDS AND COMMITTEES BALLOT September 12, 2024 Cow memr Garrison RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD 1 Name Vote for 2 Round 2 Round 3 Round 4 Blankenship, Richard Frogge, Jason Jenkins, Tim Paxton, Karen Puyol, Bobby VILLAGE BOARDS AND COMMITTEES BALLOT September 12, 2024 ilmembr Puyol RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD Name Vote for 2 Round 2 Round 3 Round 4 Blankenship, Richard Frogge, Jason Jenkins, Tim Paxton, Karen A Puyol, Bobby X.