PORT ORANGE CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
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www.portorangeareanews.com
The web site for the City of Port Orange is at
http://www.port-orange.org/index.php
You can find City Council and Special City Meetings Agendas at
Port Orange City Council Meetings Agenda
=======================
you can see a list of budget workshop dates for the City of Port Orange at;
http://198.66.210.228/PORT%20ORANGE%20CITY%20COUNCI%20MEETINGS.html
and
Meeting Documents
Here you can find the agendas and minutes for all city meetings.
poanposted 5 9 10 at 837 am
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poanposted 5 1 10 at 1111 am
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HOW CAN I WATCH PORT ORANGE CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS?
A Poan reader wants to know.
(Comments and/or corrections are welcomed.)
The city has regular council meetings at city hall, every Tuesday, except the
second Tuesday of a month.
In addition, there are other special meetings for city staff which are held on various days.
You can see a schedule of such meetings as well as their agenda on the City Web site.
The dates and links to agenda for meetings open to the public can be found at
http://www.port-orange.org/egov.php \
Click on the agenda/meetings link.
These meetings are open to the public to attend.
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POG TV, channel 199, Bright House, broadcasts the meetings, live.
http://www.port-orange.org/pogtv.php
You can see the POG TV schedule at http://www.port-orange.org/pogtv/pogtv2.php
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You can watch live streaming of POG TV broadcasts on the city web site at http://www.port-orange.org/pogtv/pogtv6.php
This way, if you can't receive Brighthouse channel 199, you can watch a live broadcast of a
city council meeting at this link just provided.
in addition, complete videos of past council meetings can be seen when they are ready
at
http://www.port-orange.org/egov.php click on the agenda/meetings link.
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The Port Orange Area News web site, www.portorangeareanews.com reproduces selected video segments from
city council meetings. They are posted on You Tube, under the name of CaptNemo72000
You can get a list of all Captnemo72000 videos, including segments of Port Orange City Council
meetings at http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&rls=com.microsoft%3Aen-us%3AIE-SearchBox&rlz=1I7ADBS&q=captnemo
72000+site%3Ayoutube.com&btnG=Search&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&oq=&gs_rfai=
If you want e mail alerts from Port Orange Area News regarding City Council Meetings and Special Meetings,
request to be put on the list for City Council Meetings and Special Meetings,
poanposted 4 22 10 at 403 am
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CITY BUDGET WORK SHOPS CALENDAR
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City seeks 9 percent solution
Daytona Beach News-Journal
On April 27, staff members presented an array of options to help control costs as Port Orange officials, as well as those throughout the state, face another ...
See all stories on this topic
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Request halts land purchase -- for now
Daytona Beach News-Journal
By KELLY CUCULIANSKY, Staff writer PORT ORANGE -- The purchase of a half-acre property that could be used to control Dunlawton Avenue flooding is on hold. ...
...Medical Associates, a general partnership and owner of the property, is asking for 15 percent above the appraised market value determined by a member of the Appraisal Institute.
Resident Ted Noftall asked for 30 days to examine the appraisal report for the property.
"We've got an appraisal, but we all know appraisals will say whatever it is we want the appraisal to say ... Let's assume it's not developable," he said. "Why are we paying that kind of money for it?"
City staff couldn't say whether the land is "developable," but Mayor Allen Green said it's possible.
"There's always some creative person who can make it marketable in my opinion," said Green, who felt it was important to control the property for long-term stormwater engineering.
To avoid litigation, City Attorney Margaret Roberts advised the council to give Noftall time to review the document. She also told the council the appraised value is within the parameters of what the council was willing to spend and has spent on properties in the past.
Instead of Noftall's 30-day request, the council elected to give him two weeks. The purchase contract will be back before the council May 18 for a vote. ....
more at
.....Request halts land purchase -- for now
poanposted 5 7 10 at 911 pm
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Councilman Kennedy thinks it is only fair that Port Orange city council members cut expenses where they can, since they are asking other city workers to do the same.
-Mr. Kennedy, thank you for your response and explanation. I understand and accept what you are trying to do. I guess what bothers me is that we have to go to such lenghts in our local budgets in order to make up for the risks wall street, bankers and mortgage companies took, at our expense. I understand that for the council members who are working day jobs before spending the almost 4 hours at special and regular council meetings, that it is possibly inconvenient to get in a good dinner on Tuesdays nights. So be it, and thanks for thinking of making everything fair and equal in these tough financial times. sincerely - hank ---
"Kennedy wrote: > Hank. > > > > I am truly sorry that you were appalled at my suggestion to cut our > salaries and refrain from eating at the tax payer's expense. Understand > that we have had to ask our city employees to reduce their time, lower > their pay and accept that they were not getting raises. We have > directed our department heads to further reduce their budgets by 9%, it > seems only fair that we reduce our expenses similarly. Yes I realize > that we are not the highest paid council in the area but we are > fortunate to serve the best community that in itself is a reward. I can > only speak for myself but the pay that we receive is not the reason for > taking the time away from my family or the time spent reading and > responding to e-mails the hours spent going over the council packet > getting ready for our meetings or the effort we all make to try and keep > the Port Orange budget in line, being part of our community means a > great deal to me personally. The dinners that are provided between > meetings are nice but again this is an expense that I don't feel needs > to be born by the citizens of Port Orange. Each of us would be eating > dinner at home if we were hungry, seems only natural that we should eat > before or after our meetings. These two changes will not make a huge > dent in the budget issues that we are facing but I personally feel that > we need to make the adjustments that we are asking our employees to > make. > > > > Again, I speak only for myself here but I wanted to get this out to the > council for consideration in the only way that we have, in the public > forum. Thanks for taking the time to voice your opinion on this matter. > > > > Dennis Kennedy > >
________________________________ > > From: Port Orange Images [poimages@cfl.rr.com] > Sent: Tuesday, May 04, 2010 9:11 PM > To: Green, Allen; Pohlmann, Bob; Kennedy, Dennis; Steindoerfer, George; > Parker, Ken; Martin, Mary; Port Orange Images > Subject: Eat and be nourished > > > > > > April 4 2010 at 904 pm > From Port Orange Area News > www.portorangeareanews.com > Hank Springer, Publisher/Editor > poimages@cfl.rr.com > 386 852 3178 > > > > I myself see no need for city council members to stop the city dinners > in between the budget work shop meetings and city council members. I > prefer to see my council people well fed and nourished while they do > their city business in a public forum, and considering the measely > salaries they receive for city work, I do nto find it extravgant for > citizens to provide them witha meal, how and relieve them of the added > chores to gulp down a meal either before or after a long night in the > city counci chambers. Indeed, with so little time between budget and > council meetings, I would expect that those meals served in city hall, > also have to be gulped down. While I snack with a beer and pretzels > watching you on POG TV, I would feel guilty if we citizens don't provide > with you that little amenity. > > -- hank
poanposted 5 5 10 at 927 pm
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www.portorangeareanews.com
Hank Springer, Publisher/Editor
poimages@cfl.rr.com
386 852 3178
poanposted 5 5 10 at 409 pm
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5 2 10 , Part 3, Meeting between Councilman Pohlmann
and POAN Hank
A POI/POAN video.
The City Manager can not tell the city council members what the individual council people
might be thinking about an issue.
Reading all the reports necessary in order to be prepared before a City Council meeting
takes a lot of time.
Land owners have rights to develop their properties according to the zoning laws applicable.
Concurrency standards are factors in granting land owners permission to build according to
their intentions.
Hank noted that he still thinks it was wrong for the City Manager to not pass on a memo
from the planning board to the city council, in which memo the planning board asked
for a moratorium on developments .
City Council members can not share their e mail among themselves, unless it happens to be
a memo from a citizen which included all city council members in the addressee section.
A lot of people are happy with the way things are going with the city council.
you can also see this video on you tube at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThAY4wf6IEM
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5 2 10 , Part 2, Meeting between Councilman Pohlmann and POAN Hank
A POI/POAN video
The council members get along well, are congenial and do not display adversarial attitudes
among themselves.
When councilman Pohlmann decided to reverse his promise to the Bonks Landing Group,
he had not known prior, that the Mayor was going to take the same position on reversing the promise
that there would be no city park built in Bonks Landing.
The city of Port Orange has no intentions of grabbing up property that is within the county of Volusia.
Councilman Pohlmann thinks that kind of land grabbing idea regardingthe city of Port Orange
started in Volusia County about 30 years ago.
Everything the city council does is "above board".
you can also see this video on you tube at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BJEcmNUZMZY
poanposted 5 3 10 at 731 pm
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Meeting with Councilman Pohlmann.
May 2 2010
Today I met with councilman Pohlmann and we discussed things
for about one hour and 40 minutes. The councilman agreed to let me
video record our discussion, and little by little, every day, I will post
segments from the video.
I'll post some notes tomorrow. In general, the figures of the council people and mayor's salaries
have been corrected, and they are close to the corrected figures given to us by
Craig E. Young.
We discussed aspects of limitation of communication as a result of the Sunshine Law.
You will see in the video, from what Bob tells me, that I think the council members are reluctant to speak
on issues, unduly afraid of being in violation of the Sunshine Law.
Off camera, as I walked
Bob to his car, he told me that Mayor Allen Green is a great guy,
and has done wonderful things for Port Orange. Once you get to know him,
he is personable, socialable and does a lot of nice personal things for people.
Also he likes to kid Bob Pohlmann. And therein lies my mistaken
notion that Bob Pohlmann has a Ph.D. in education, since the Mayor
refers to Bob at city council meetings, as Dr. Bob.
Bob has a Master's Degree, and is the assistant principal at Creekside Middle School.
I told Bob Pohlmann, that there is a lot about Bob Pohlmann as a city council person
that I admire, like and respect.
The Green Construction Company which is listed as a contractor for the small mall strip
next to Summer Trees Road, on Taylor Road, is a company owned by Mayor Green's son.
More to come in the days to come.
--- hank
poanposted 5 2 10 at 430 pm
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The council seems to be sort of cheerleaders.
poanposted 4 30 10 at 1102 am
----- AND PREVIOUSLY -----
Hank, 90% of your recent comments are, indeed, incorrect.
Received 4 29 10 at 854 pm
Hank, to be honest with you, about 90% of your recent comments are, indeed, incorrect. I do not mean to sound adversarial but, if your incorrect comments are believed by your readers, a lot of misinformation is being put out there; much like the misinformation that has been going on all across America today. Please remember that council members are not the enemy. We are all good, honest, hard working citizens. Just like most of our city residents. It is easy to take pot shots at us from a distance. I can assure you that our city council is 100% legitimate and always looking out for the best interests of all our citizens. We may not always agree with each other, or some citizens, but we are elected to make decisions. It might surprise you to know that we get many emails supporting our decisions. Apparently you and I are both from “up north” where we are used to “shady politicians”. That is certainly not the case in Port Orange. I can only speak for myself in saying that I got into local politics because I have a firm belief in the American political system. Government does work for the people, not against the people. We have as good a city council as anywhere in America. Don’t lose faith. There are sunshine laws in Florida that we must adhere to. These are the tightest laws of any state in America. We follow the laws under the professional guidance of our city manager, Ken Parker, and our city attorney, Margaret Roberts. Both are top notch in their areas of expertise.
Perhaps it is time for an interview to set the record straight.
Bob Pohlmann
Port Orange City Council
District 3
poanposted 4 30 10 at 859 pm
----------- AND POAN HANK REPLIES -----------
Bob, thank you so much for responding and expressing your thoughts. I think we all
appreciate hearing from a City Council member on matters that I think many of us
are thinking and concerned about.
Without a doubt, I want to publish correct information, and I am pleased that you are
taking the first step to set the record straight. I find it suspicious when city council members
do not respond to "pot shots" at them, and at another time we might discuss the self defeating tendency
of politicians to ignore and not respond to what they consider to be incorrect information
posted on blogs.
I think we should be polite, but not let worries about an adversarial posture hamper frank
discussions about issues. I agree with what Ted Nostfall recently said at a council meeting,
that there appears to be no spirit of debate among the council members. I had noted
that sentiment, last year.
Briefly, I would like to note that misinformation that might be going on all across this nation,
is being fed by elected political leaders and their loyal cohorts. This is very concerting to
all the citizens who want a clear picture of the truth as to what their elected leaders are
doing. It is very hard to get, and I don't think Sunshine Laws are really the obstacle
in the way.
I would like to see or know about the e mails city council members get from people
either supporting their work or condemning it. For some reason, that kind of information
does not easily reach us. How nice it would be if at City Council meetings, council members
report on the number of positive e mails, and negative e mails they have received during
the past week.
I do read on a weekly basis the e mails that the City Manager receives, but not the e mails that come and
go to city council members. If the city council members would start reporting at city council meetings,
the number and nature of positive and negative e mails, I think I would not have to ask under the
freedom of information act, to read the e mails of city council members.
Let me note here, that I am grateful for how easy the City Manager has made it
for me to read his e mail correspondence on a weekly basis.
I appreciate your affirmation of your belief in the American political system,
and would take this opportunity to state, that I do not. I think polls across the nation
show that most Americans do not, which includes implications of detesting the special lobbying
interests, and the actions of elected leaders responding to finances supplied by special
interest lobbying groups. But your stated thoughts, followed by your actions can convince us
otherwise. I take the opportunity here to commend you for having voted no against
buying the Lohmann funeral home. That decision by you goes a long way in my estimation
of you as a man of principle, and I will remember it for a long time.
Two other members of the CRA board, one councilman and one non councilman member, expressed
reservations about the city purchase of Lohlmann's, but voted yes to buy the property.
Those kind of decisions go a long way for me to remember, and speculate
that something is wrong here. Especially when those two who could have
turned down the purchase, but made an affirmative vote, with no explanation
as to why they were voting for a purchase they previously stated they did not like.
In a nutshell, therein is where skepticism develops.
I would be happy to meet with you and hear from you on any
issue you would like to discuss.
Let me know when we can meet.
Sincerely, thanks for you response.
--- hank
poanposted 4 30 10 at 931 am
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Solar power Port Orange looks to installing more solar power ...
A successful solar power project at two Port Orange fire stations has city officials interested in installing more photovoltaic panels, and possibly, ...
www.orlandosentinel.com/.../os-port-orange-solar-power-201...
poanposted 5 3 10 at 242 pm
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Safety issues trump Port Orange trail offer
Daytona Beach News-Journal
By KELLY CUCULIANSKY, Staff writer PORT ORANGE -- A proposal to build a roughly mile-long multipurpose trail in a remote area seemed like too big of a ...
. . . . Having a crosstown bike path is something that's been in the city's comprehensive plan, or blueprint for growth, for years, Parker said.
"It is a laudable goal that is something we should pursue, but I think from the council's side, you just need to be aware, it is not just a simple bike path," he said. "It is going to be a different type of facility than just building something along a roadway."
In addition to the need for developing security, the path may also not please certain homeowners near the right of way, he said.
Mayor Allen Green said in previous years it might have been feasible, but "today is not a good world" to be pursuing the project because of safety concerns and the dollars it will take to provide security.
Councilman Bob Pohlmann said a bike path on Willow Run Boulevard "basically serves the same purpose."
"I have to ask the bottom line -- is it really necessary?" Pohlmann said. "I'm not too sure."
For Councilwoman Mary Martin, the idea was not out of reach. She was the only council member to vote in favor of it, saying the new path could not be compared to the one on Willow Run.
"I know it would be more secluded and could present some problems, but I see bike paths of this kind in areas all across the country," she said. "They've become a thing to do." . . .
poanposted 5 2 10 at 832 am
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POPD sgt. request Port Orange City Council
to reconsider its tough stance regarding the PBA
contract with the city.
A video segment from POG TV, channel 199, Bright House cable
you can also see this video on you tube at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPZPMs3W0ic
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George is fed up with the county of Volusia
Allen is disappointed with Josh
Kid who performed a neat skate board trick in the skate park
wants a copy of surveillance video at the park
so that he can post his skate board feat on you tube
4 27 10 city council comments port orange
Video segment from Port Orange City Council meeting
as seen on POG TV, channel 199 Bright House Cable TV
you can also see this video on you tube at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFb1Vm_QZLI
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How much do City Council members make,
and how much do they work?
Received from Al Giggliotti, Port Orange, Fl.
April 29 2010
I am pretty sure Al is asking about the Port Orange City Council members. --- Hank
Hank, we have to ask the most import question ,"How much salary do these people make for how many hours worked that they put in. this will surprise you. Get them to break it down then we have a good case against them.(your Thoughts) ?
Al, let me jump to the bottom line, and wonder about what advantages come to city council members
from special interests, like developers, real estate people, consultant firms, and others.
I wonder how many of those just listed contribute money to campaign finances.of candidates for election
or reelection. That is why I am watching and checking to see who are currently contributing to the campaigns of
5 candidates for city council positions this year. I am also watching the finance report of Mary Martin and
Margie Patchett, who are running for Volusia County at large council person. I think the next filing
of finance report is due in 3 months.
The last check I made I found out the following:
See my latest findings about campaign finance reports at
Candidates for City Council, Port Orange, Fl., 2010
Mary Martin presently lists $ 1,370 as contributions which partially include money from
2 law firms, a transportation group, and a civil engineer.
see Mary Martin's financial filing
In my opinion, probably the city council member who gets the most auxiliary advantage out of
being a council member is the Mayor, Allen Green. I am sure he has done a lot of good work
for the City of Port Orange, but I don't think it can be denied that his construction business has
benefited from the years Allen Green has been on the City Council.
The mayor always excuses himself from voting on an issue that relates to a project
his construction business might be currently involved in. However, I don't think it prohibits Mayor Green
from mentioning to the City Manager what his own personal opinion is about an issue
coming before the other council members, for a vote. And I suspect, that the city manager
is not prohibited from relaying to other council members what the Mayor, although he
will abstain from voting on the issue, really thinks the council members should consider
when they vote.
I imagine there are issues that come before the Mayor when his construction company is not actively
doing business with another business interest in the issue, but which business the Mayor might
have done business with in the past.
And I would suspect, that how the Mayor votes on a particular matter, might have bearings
on future business deals for the Allen Green Construction Company.
All of my background speculation does not mean by itself that anything illegal is going on.
The last I heard was that the Mayor makes $13,000 a year as the Mayor.
(new information indicates the figure should be $18,740)
I am sure he spends a lot of time during the week on matters that concern the city,
He seems to be very interested in development and construction. When all the other
4 council member last year voted not to allow a hotel to be built in Port Orange
by the Halifax River, Mayor Green abstained, and I understand that he did this
so that he can bring the issue again to the city council, for another consideration.
One of the things that bothers me, is the deal among the city of Port Orange, the developer,
Mr. LaCour and Lohman's funeral home.
From what I understand, the City Manager,Developer Mr. LaCour, and Mayor Allen Green
looked into the possibility of buying Lohmann's funeral home and property
on Ridgewood ave., located within the future River Walk area. Mr. La Cour,
told the City Manager and the Mayor, that Lohmann's funeral home had plans
to expand, and if that were done, when the city wanted to buy the 2/3 acre. property
it would cost the city more money and a problem, rather than buying it during
2009. I see no indication that any of the other council members were aware
that this kind of a deal was being contemplated, until they were asked to vote
on the issue.
During a CRA meeting before the city council, the deal was officially presented
to the CRA members, including the council members.
A CRA member was annoyed that the first he heard of this deal, was on Friday,
and now on this following Tuesday, he was expected to vote on the deal,
which he clearly did not like. The Mayor shut him up by telling Ben Talluto,
"That's enough Ben!".
Councilman Pholmann had done some research on the internet, and found
that Lohlmann's bought the property from Cardwell Funeral home two years
earlier for $500,000. Since that time, property in our area had depreciated,
but the developer, a partner with the city, had gone and bought the
property for $800,000 and wanted the city to reimburse him that amount.
Here is how the CRA board voted:;
Tom Jordan - no
Bob Pohlmann - no
Dennis Kennedy - yes
Mayor Green - yes
Mary Martin - yes
George Steindoerfer - yes
Ben Talluto - yes.
Why did Ben vote yes, when he had stated that he was clearly against buying property for
$800,000 when it was worth less than $500,000?
Dennis Kennedy too had during the discussion stated that he
did not like this business transaction.
If Kennedy and Talluto had voted no, the Developer Mr. La Cour
would not have gotten his $800,000. It would have been 4 no, and 3 yes.
Does it sound to you a little like political wheel and dealings like Washington D.C?
The last I heard was that city council members make $8,000 for their work as
city council members, (new information indicates the figure should be $13,701) and the Mayor $13,000, per year.
(new information indicates the figure should be $18,740) There are reports to read over,
budget, special meetings and weekly council meetings to go to.
They go to special events, grand openings of businesses,
and probably spend a lot of time on the telephone with
city work.
I would say they spend much more time, hours and effort working
as City Council members, than it is worth the money they receive as a salary.
I can't knock them for that. I do a lot of work on my two web sites,
and get very little financial return for it.
But it does give me a little influence and I do make contacts,
not for money, but for influence advantage. Should I say "power" advantage?
The power of the press?
Maybe the power that comes with influence is what most interest people to become council members.
But I don;'t think we can eliminate the side effect of monetary advantage,
hopefully legal. If I contribute to a council person's campaign,
I would expect him/her to try and get a job for my nephew, if I ask him/her.
Maybe even in the construction business.
This is all legal.
A lot of good comes from council people working for the citizens of Port Orange,
but it can't be denied that a lot of money is affected by their decisions
and votes.
I welcome corrections and/or comments.
I hereby extend an invitation to city council members to tell us
how they spend their days and weeks working as a council member.
They can do that by e mail, or if they prefer, I would be glad to
meet them for an interview.
poanposted 4 29 10 at 708 pm
----- AND -----
Received from Al Gigliotti, Port Orange, Fl.
4 29 10 at 1053 pm
Thanks Hank, what you told me fits in w/ typical politics. I can't go to those meetings because I get pissed . I worked for ma Bell in New York & for soutwestern Bell for a total of 34 years. The reason they sent 200 hundred of us to Texas was the stealing going on and not meeting thier buget. For ever bid that we looked at there was a manager from every deptment present so that everyone got an even break for work over 100,000 bucks. It took 9 years to straighten the mess out but we got it done. I can show you letters I recevied for doing my job. Plus the bull shit that weren't man enough to show his or her face to discus the issue. Maybe I am wacky but after serving Korea '50-'52 ,nothing stops me from telling the truth. If I go to one of those meetings I would diffenently say the wrong thing just like me writting up the crook FEENEY. That brough the FBI to my house. Now I have two new friends. I admired what you are doing but I think you got more guts than Me. Keep up the go job . I'm am for paying the Police & firemen more money ad reducing the (... deleted) we have running this city). let's get together and I'll buy you one.
poanposted 4 30 10 at 1002 am
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Received from Craig E. Young, Port Orange, Fl.
How much do City Council members make,
and how much do they work?
(Received from Al Gigliotti, Port Orange, Fl.
April 29 2010)
poanposted 4 30 10 at 950 pm
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Plain Speak".
From Craig E. Young, Port Orange, Fl.
Ted Notfall recently asked when the city council had decided to cut the budget by 9 percent.
The answer given was in the city council meeting (or meetings). Ted noted that he
didn't hear it mentioned at a city council meeting, and Vice Mayor Mary Martin
said something about it not necessarily being mentioned at a city council meeting, but people
were talking over her, and there was no follow up on her comment.
I think I can clear this one up;
Early in the City's Budget process, expected revenues were discussed for the upcoming Fiscal Year, and it was at that time, the Council was told that property values had fallen approx 16 percent in the City over the past year, based on preliminary numbers from the VC Property Tax Appraisers Office.
And it is this drop in property values that translates into a 9 percent reduction in the City's General Fund. (Not 8, not 11...but exactly 9 percent)
So, Ted may never find the exact phrase of a "9 percent reduction" being discussed by the City Council....because it was "inferred" as being the figure necessary to balance General Fund's spending with General Fund's expected revenue, based on the City's falling property values.
But, I can certainly understand why Ted and others are a little confused...After all, any new comer to our City Council Meetings walks away rather confused......since they constantly speak in what I call "City Hall Jargon", with their sentences full of legalese, gobbledygook and abbreviations, such as ACE, CRA, DEP, TCEA, DCA, MPO, TIF etc. And then there are the words like "Concurrency" which I'm sure some people assume has something to do with the Federal Reserve, instead of our roads, water, sewer, parks and so on.....
And of course, then they often get Offended, when somebody asks a question like.....
"What in the Hell are you talking about?"
(Because they couldn't understand their Pig Latin!)
And you know, I really believe a lot of this is tolerated during these Council Meetings, because using all this "City Hall Jargon" moves things along much faster....and then everybody can go home....But you know, I believe, it leaves us common folk, confused, and even more irritated then ever at our local government.
ps
Our current Governor came out with a "Plain Speak" Handbook entitled "A Two-Way Conversation With the People of Florida, Turning the needlessly complex into understandable communication: a handbook for state agencies" and signed an Executive Order that ordered our State Agencies to start talking to The People, in a language that The People could understand!
( see them attached)
And maybe, we need our City Council to do the same.......a Resolution to speak to "The People" in "Plain Speak".
poanposted 5 1 10 at 128 pm
If you want to see the 2 PDFs supplied by Craig E. Young, contact me and I will send it to you via e mail
Local leaders consider solar power
Hometown News
By Michael Salerno PORT ORANGE - When it comes to "energizing" the city, officials said they want to look for alternatives to traditional power sources, ...
poanposted 4 30 10 at 956 am
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5 2 10 , Part 3, Meeting between Councilman Pohlmann
and POAN Hank
A POI/POAN video.
The City Manager can not tell the city council members what the individual council people
might be thinking about an issue.
Reading all the reports necessary in order to be prepared before a City Council meeting
takes a lot of time.
Land owners have rights to develop their properties according to the zoning laws applicable.
Concurrency standards are factors in granting land owners permission to build according to
their intentions.
Hank noted that he still thinks it was wrong for the City Manager to not pass on a memo
from the planning board to the city council, in which memo the planning board asked
for a moratorium on developments .
City Council members can not share their e mail among themselves, unless it happens to be
a memo from a citizen which included all city council members in the addressee section.
A lot of people are happy with the way things are going with the city council.
you can also see this video on you tube at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThAY4wf6IEM
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APRIL 27 2010
PORT ORANGE CITY COUNCIL MEETING
POAN SELECTED HIGHLIGHTS:
The golf course at Cypress Head is expected to be in the deficit this year, between $50,000 and $100,000.
The city's policy is that bad weather is no excuse for a loss in revenue. Amazing policy, don't you think?
POPD sgt. appeared before the city council and asked the council to reconsider its position in negotiations over the contract with the police union. I will post a video segment of this officer's statement. The officer feels the city is being "unfair and unreasonable" in its position with the police union.
A discussion was had over the possibility of a bike and pedestrian trail, running from City center to Nova Road. The path would carry some liabilities, since it is remote. Needed to get started is a $26,000 survey. No city council member wants this trail except Vice Mayor Mayor Martin. At a time when the city is trying to cut 9 percent from its budget, I have speculated as to why the Vice Mayor would vote yes on this project. I suspect that perhaps, she knows an engineering consultant firm that could use the work, or such a nature trail would be a feather in her red hat, since she knows a lot of people on the Municipal Planning Organization. That name by the way is being changed to Municipal Transportation Organization. The vote was 4 to 1 against starting the nature trail.
Speaking of hats, I saw councilman Steindoerfer wearing a good luck basebal cap. I bet councilman Pohlmann has a NY Mets cap. I saw the city manager, years ago, wearing a Florida or was it a Texan hat, with a safari type outfit.Councilman Kennedy probably wears a surgeon's cap when he is in the mood. Mayor Green wears his hard head, no I mean hard hat to bed? Could be?
I will post a video segment of comments by the city council people. Mayor Green does not like Josh Wagner. According to the Mayor, he can't get an appointment to speak with Josh, and Josh does not represent the interests of Port Orange.
George is very irritated with Volusia County.
--- poanposted 4 28 10 at 555 pm
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April 27 2010
Port Orange City Budget Workshop.
This session pertained only to Parks and Recreation. There may be another session planned for Parks and Recreation budget issues.
POAN selected highlights:
It was suggested that the city charge fees for parking at major events in the city parks. Also considered was charging for a pre planned arranged parking space fo cars with boat trailers, in the Riverwalk Project area, where launching of boats is possible.
Mayor Green lamented the loss of parent participation and volunteers.
At sports events many times parents leave their kids off, and the parents leave. Coaches some times are playing the role of baby sitters.
(Where is the Dawn View Square Park in Port Orange. I need to find out.-- hank
It is on Dawnview located in the woods subdivision it backs up to the all children’s park.
Recreationally Yours,
Susan L. Lovallo, CPRP
Parks and Recreation Director
1000 City Center Circle
Port Orange, Fl 32129)
Perhaps grass in the parks need only be cut once a month.
Council man Pohlman suggested that to save money the parks do its own grass cutting. Mayor Green disagreed, citing the cost of maintenance of equipment.
Perhaps there can be a fee charge for playing tennis at night.
Perhaps there can be a fee to use the dog park.
Cut down Family Days and Kids Days to two or one day.
Have a smaller Christday parade and move it to the City Center complex.
Council man Kennedy suggested charging $5.00 to park for the 4th of July park event.
City manager suggested considering getting major sponsorhsips for park events. Like Budweiser, Coke Cola and Pepsi.
poanposted 4 28 10 at 1142 am
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4 27 10 baby sitting by coaches in sport events
A video segment from POG TV, channel 199, Brighthouse,
Port Orange City budget workshop about cost of Parks and Recreation.
you can also see this video on you tube at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ckgJ4LsBXAk
poanposted 4 28 10 at 1202 pm
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5 2 10 pt 1 Councilman Pohlmann , Port Orange, Florida
At Hank's house.
I have 100 minutes of video covering our conversation.
This is part 1. I cut out the first 5 minutes where I explain
how I received a better New York State Pension
by transferring from the L.I. State Parkway Police
to the New York State Police, and some of the other reasons
why I made the move.
A POI/POAN video
you can also see this video on you tube at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zPk2EqAHD8s
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Port Orange City Council Meeting for April 27, 2010.
See the complete agenda for the April 27 2010 City Council Meeting
POAN selected highlights follow:
Item 5 - Financial and Actuarial Review of General Employees Defined Benefit Pension Plan as of 9/30/09 and Subsequent Financial Activity Through 3/31/10 Report
(this link does not work)
Attached is the Annual Valuation Report of the City of Port Orange General Employees Defined Benefit Pension Plan as of 9/30/09 and a copy of the cost and market summary and related financial activity through 3/31/10. David G. Leonard, Actuary for the Pension Plan, will be present to review the attached reports with City Council and answer questions pertaining to the Plan’s financial position, transactions, or benefit computations. This item is presented for discussion and review only at this time.
City Manager’s Comments: Last year, the City Council requested each of the Pension Plan Actuaries to appear before the City Council and make a presentation. David Leonard is the Actuary for the General Employees Pension Plan. He will be present on Tuesday night to make a presentation to the City Council related to the General Employees Pension Plan
Item 12 - Request for Approval to Submit Projects for the MPO’s 2010 Transportation Improvement Program Priority List
Staff requests that the City Council approve and authorize submittal of applications for projects to be placed on the MPO’s 2010 priority list. The proposed applications to be submitted this year include:
- · Dunlawton Avenue/Spruce Creek Road intersection (Traffic Operations/ITS/Safety),
- · Herbert Street sidewalk and paved shoulders from Nova Road to Jackson Street (Bicycle/pedestrian facility), and
- · Dunlawton Avenue environmental mitigation/drainage (Enhancement project).
The traffic operations and bike/ped projects require a 25 % local government match, estimated at $430,255. With the Enhancement project, the City pays for the project up front and is then reimbursed. Please see the attached memo for additional information.
Staff recommends that Council approve and authorize the City staff to submit applications for the 2010 Priority Project requests for transportation improvements to the Volusia Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO).
City Manager’s Comments: We are working through the MPO to obtain funding for several different projects. The City has under design the intersection improvements at Spruce Creek Road. This is a Community Redevelopment Area and potentially qualifies for funds from the Eastport Redevelopment Agency. Also, potentially, this project qualifies for Community Development Block Grant funds. The Dunlawton Avenue environmental mitigation/drainage program potentially qualifies for Redevelopment Agency funding as well. The bicycle path funding, if funded, would come from gasoline taxes. Also, the gasoline taxes would be used as part of the local match for the turn lane improvements and the environmental/drainage enhancements.
em 18 - Special Exception for a House of Worship in the “PO” Zoning District – Port Orange Presbyterian Church
This is a request for a Special Exception to allow a house of worship to continue operating in the “PO” (Professional Office) zoning district and reserve the ability to develop a house of worship on the abutting parcels, subject to approval of the rezoning Ordinance 2010-6. Please see the attached staff report for more information.
Planning Commission Recommendation: The Planning Commission recommends approval 5-0 (Commissioners McMasters and Booth excused).
Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends approval.
Item 20 - Resolution No. 10-23 - Local Area Program (LAP) Agreement with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) – (Eastbound right turn lane on Dunlawton Avenue at Village Trail)
The purpose of this Agreement is to provide for the Florida Department of Transportation’s participation in the project described above and to provide financial assistance to the City of Port Orange in accordance with the terms and conditions as described in the appended agreement. The Project funding as specified in Exhibit “B”, Schedule of Funding identifies $20,995.00 funding for the design of the Dunlawton Avenue right turn lane. Funds will be available during the FDOT Fiscal Year 2009-2010 on a 75% FDOT, 25% City match basis.
Funding for these projects is available in fund 312 (Transportation Impact Fee fund).
Staff recommends that Council approve the attached resolution implementing the LAP Agreement with the FDOT for the design of a eastbound right turn lane on Dunlawton Avenue SR 421 at Village Trail, FPN 427632-1-38-01 and to authorize the Mayor and City Manager to sign the agreement.
City Manager’s Comments: For some time, we have been working with FDOT to have a right turn lane installed at Village Trail and Dunlawton. This would authorize the Mayor and City Manager to enter into the agreement with FDOT for the design of the turn lane. The DF makes reference to the match which would come from Port Orange Transportation Impact Fees. The funds cannot come from Transportation Impact Fees. Therefore, the local match would come from gasoline taxes.
Item 21 - Resolution No. 10-24 - Local Area Program (LAP) Agreement with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) (Eastbound right turn lane on Willow Run Boulevard at Clyde Morris Boulevard)
The purpose of this Agreement is to provide for the Florida Department of Transportation’s participation in the project described above and to provide financial assistance to the City of Port Orange in accordance with the terms and conditions as described in the appended agreement. The Project funding as specified in Exhibit “B”, Schedule of Funding identifies $17,525.00 funding for the design of the Willow Run Boulevard right turn lane. Funds will be available during the FDOT Fiscal Year 2009-2010 on a 75% FDOT, 25% City match basis.
Funding for these projects is available in fund 312 (Transportation Impact Fee fund).
Staff recommends that Council approve the attached resolution implementing the LAP Agreement with the FDOT for the design of an eastbound right turn lane on Willow Run Boulevard at Clyde Morris Boulevard FPN 427621-1-38-01 and to authorize the Mayor and City Manager to sign the agreement.
City Manager’s Comments: This is an intersection that the City of Port Orange has identified as needing improvements. Also, this is an area that Warren Pike has identified as a maintenance problem. He has proposed that the medians be removed at this location as one of the cost cutting proposals for the next budget year. Because this project is on a City road, not a State or County road, the local match could come from City Transportation Impact Fees.
Item 22 - Resolution No. 10-25 - Local Area Program (LAP) Agreement with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) (Multi-purpose trail from City Center Drive to Nova Road)
The purpose of this Agreement is to provide for the Florida Department of Transportation’s participation in the project described above and to provide financial assistance to the City of Port Orange in accordance with the terms and conditions as described in the appended agreement. The Project funding as specified in Exhibit “B”, Schedule of Funding identifies $106,615.00 funding for the design of the multi-purpose trail. Funds will be available during the FDOT Fiscal Year 2009-2010 on a 75% FDOT, 25% City match basis.
Funding for these projects is available in fund 312 (Transportation Impact Fee fund).
Staff recommends that Council approve the attached resolution implementing the LAP Agreement with the FDOT for the design of a multi-purpose trail from City Center Drive to Nova Road FPN 247630-1-38-01 and to authorize the Mayor and City Manager to sign the agreement.
City Manager’s Comments: There is a lot of work that would need to be done in order to construct this bike path. Many years ago, the City had an easement granted by FPL for a bike path through this area. Because of the remoteness of the area, the City abandoned the path. We retained the right for a reclaimed water line. In fact, this is the route that the first reclaimed water line followed when reclaimed water service was established at City Center. Does the City Council desire to construct a bike path that would eventually extend along the FPL easement from Nova Road to South Williamson? If so, the City would need to think about more than just extending the path surface through this area. There are lighting and security issues that would have to be addressed along the path. For years, the City has discussed this path. We discussed the path with the Coraci family prior to them selling land to the Presbyterian Church on Clyde Morris. As I recall, the City retained a right to construct a bike path through the Church Property. The City has an easement adjacent to Cross Creek. We would need to secure additional land in order to extend to South Williamson. Some people will voice concern about the bike path being located adjacent to their homes and their properties. That is why it is important for the City Council to think about how a variety of issues will be handled in order to not disrupt the neighborhoods.
poanposted 4 25 10 at 1046 am
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Port Orange City Council Meeting of 4 20 10
ended at 750 pm
Some highlights reported by POAN:
Council man Dennis Kennedy said he got a lot of phone calls about the new sign that went up
on Thursday, advertising a new CVS being built on Dunlawton and Taylor Branch.
Mr. Kennedy noted that there are a lot of pharmacy stores in Port Orange.
I hope in the coming days to post a video of his remarks.
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Mr. Kennedy said he has been asked about the city's response and procedures to raccoons.
It seems that there are a lot more raccoons in the city. Mr. Kennedy sees about 10 to 15 raccoons in the
early mornings when he arrives at Halifax Hospital on Dunlawton Ave. When a racoon is brought
to the Halifax humane society, the city has to pay the cost of "taking care" of that racoon.
Mr. Parker will get back to the council about the policy and procedures towards raccoons by the city.
I hope to post a video of this discussion.
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The mayor noted that there have been some e mails of "heat" to the city manager, regarding the
tough position the city has taken towards pay and pensions for the unions. The mayor noted that
Mr. Parker is just following the direction given to him by the city council, and the city council members
are always available to those who want to communicate about these issues.
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The city manager said that signs at the Pavilion shopping center have been removed, meaning
those signs that mistakenly implied that the one percent charge was going by way of a sales tax. This is
not correct, and new signs with the correct information are being prepared.
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One day of sunshine in Florida can power the energy needs of the entire state of Florida for one year.\
------ Bill Gallagher, Solar Fit
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Ted Notfall, citizen asked the Mayor how much the city has decided to try and cut its costs.
The mayor replied, 9 Percent. Ted asked if this was discussed at city council meetings,
because he did not hear it discussed. Reply was that it was discussed at city council meetings.
Ted noted that in the city council meetings, there is no spirit of debate among the council.
I have noted that before, too. I agree. I had at one time wanted to get into discovering
just what the flow of communication was among the city council members,
understanding that they are restricted by sunshine laws.
Instead an opportunity came to me to review the e mails coming to and from the city manager,
and I have been spending time doing that.
I wonder, if the Mayor can tell the city manager, that he thinks the council should aim for a 9 percent
reduction in City costs, and then the city manager when speaking to others in the council,
repeats what he heard from another council member. Would that be a violation of a sunshine law.
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MPO and earmarks were discussed, and the city Manager gave a good explanation
of how that works. Earmarks can have bearings on the city's seeking state funds for the flooding
condition that occurs at Dunlawton Ave. and Spruce Creek Rd.(Blvd?, I always forget)
--- hank
poanposted 4 20 10 at 807 pm
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Eastport Redevelopment Area meeting Port Orange, Fl.
551 pm, April 20 2010
The city of Port Orange did not get the $400,000 (EPA?) grant it had put in for.
The city of South Daytona did receive a grant.
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Vice Mayor Mary Martin, seemed to me, to have a different style of speech tonight.
Perhaps she has a cold, but besides a lower tone voice, she spoke her words more
directly and succinct than I have noticed before. Perhaps she is being coached.
I liked it.
-- hank
poanposted 4 20 10 at 650 pm
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.
Town Center CRA meeting, Port Orange, Fl.
April 20 2010 , 5:30 to 550 pm
Fl. DOT has plans to change the intersections of Herbert St. and Dunlawton Ave. on Ridgewood Ave
.see video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_NasttnDVo8
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In the Rivewalk Mobile Home park, the final 6 occupants of homes are scheduled to sell their homes to the City by or in, June, 2010. Mayor Green asked if the land will be environmentally checked, and the assistant to the City Manager answered in the affirmative.
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Discussion about making up signs announcing the Riverwalk project, to be positioned on
Ridgewood Ave.
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Ben Tulloto said something about land owned by Mr. LaCour that is blocking immediate use of
the Riverwalk Project area
SEE THE COMPLETE AGENDA FOR THE APRIL 20 2010 PORT ORANGE CITY COUNCIL MEETING.
POAN selected highlights of the April 20 meeting follows:
Item 4 - Information Regarding Solar Technology – Bill Gallagher
Bill Gallagher of Solar-Fit will make a presentation to Council at this time regarding solar technology. Solar-Fit was the company that provided solar water heating systems for the two new Fire Stations in Port Orange.
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Item 10 - Subordination of SHIP Down Payment Assistance Second Mortgage
On October 6, 2008, the City of Port Orange executed a second mortgage and note in the amount of $10,500 with Mr. Jeffrey E. Culpepper to assist in his purchase of a home located at 45 Summer Trees Road.
The City of Port Orange’s Down Payment Assistance is a deferred loan and encumbers the homeowner’s property as a second mortgage. Bank of America is currently in first lien position.
Mr. Culpepper has requested that the City subordinate its second mortgage in favor of a new first mortgage provided by Bank of America. This proposed new mortgage lowers the current interest rate on his first mortgage from 6.675% to 5.5%. This decrease in interest rate provides a monthly savings of $196.
Staff has evaluated the information provided by Bank of America and has determined that Mr. Culpepper is not including payment of any consumer debt in this proposed new mortgage and he will not receive any cash upon the closing of this loan.
Staff recommends that Council authorize the City Manager to execute subordination for a SHIP second mortgage loan in the amount of $10,500 to a new first mortgage for the purpose of reducing the monthly principal and interest payments on a home located at 45 Summer Trees Road (Applicant: Jeffrey E. Culpepper).
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poanposted 4 18 10 at 247 pm
ADDED:
At the city council meeting, this item was passed, 4 to 1, with Mayor Green voting "no".
poanposted 4 21 10 at 333 am
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