Dave Mecusker

The meeting included discussions on code enforcement, particularly regarding long-standing issues and the need for citations. Certificates of Appreciation were presented to various individuals and organizations. The board reviewed and approved Amendment 4 to the City of Lake Butler CDBG Grant Agreement and the Engineering Services Agreement with Mittauer & Associates. The Annual Financial Report for Fiscal Year 2023-2024 was presented and accepted. An update was given on the Florida Boating Improvement Grant Project, with a decision to reallocate funds within the project scope. Proposals from commercial realtors for the sale of city property were reviewed, and Keller Williams was selected. The board discussed and approved the surrendering of city property at 102 W Main Street. A discussion was held regarding a one-time event fee for vendors, and the City's trash pickup policy was amended. The board also discussed rental rates for the Townsend Green Building, storage sheds, and travel trailers/campers within city limits. Updates were provided on the Fletcher Myers Park Dedication, and reports were given from the Public Works and Water/Wastewater Departments. The financial report was reviewed and approved, and the meeting concluded with comments from the commission.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda format. During Public Comments, the Rotary representative provided an update on plans for the 2026 Fourth of July celebration, including discussions regarding a larger fireworks display positioned on a concrete dock. The consent agenda, which included minutes from the previous month's meeting, was approved. Key discussions centered on the update for the sale of the old Public Works Property, including considerations for a potential buyer's rezoning request to Heavy Industrial. Updates were also provided on the Boat Ramp Improvement Project and the completion of the Townsend Green Building Roof Project. The Board addressed Code Enforcement matters, adopting Ordinances concerning Code Enforcement Procedures, Junk Vehicles, and Overgrowth of Lawn, while tabling the Ordinance regarding Dangerous Buildings pending further review and collaboration between the Code Enforcement Officer and the City Manager. The City Manager reported on updates to the Community Center and Splash Park, and the Board granted City employees additional paid days off for upcoming holidays. Finally, updates were given on staffing changes in the Public Works Department and the review and approval of the monthly financial reports for October 2025.

The special meeting focused on the Board's review, discussion, and consideration of an offer for the sale of the old Public Works Property located at 9422 SW SR 121. Discussions clarified terms regarding the deposit amount, financing options (SBA vs. conventional), the effective date, and liability concerning the brokerage fee if either party defaults, particularly during the 60-day due diligence period for review of well, septic, survey, and appraisal. It was noted that the buyer is vested in the property and intends to proceed, which requires a zoning and land use change that must follow legal procedures. The Commission unanimously accepted and approved the offer and authorized the Mayor and City Manager to execute the Commercial Contract paperwork. The Board also set dates for subsequent special meetings and hearings.

The City Commission held a budget workshop to discuss the 2025-2026 Annual Operating Budget. Key discussion points included a proposed cost-of-living adjustment for city staff and commissioners, potential capital outlay projects such as new carpet for City Hall, a new vehicle, and funding for the Christmas by the Lake event. The commission also discussed improvements to city facilities, including the Community Center and parks, as well as addressing issues such as lighting, vandalism, and animal care. The board reached a consensus on several items, including the need for new equipment, the cost-of-living adjustment, and the Christmas by the Lake event. They also decided to postpone replacing the carpet at City Hall and to explore options for repairing the splash park.

The meeting focused on the discussion, review, and approval of Amendment No. 5 to the Water/Wastewater Services Agreement by the City of Lake Butler for the Department of Corrections. The amendment included details on getting the 125% for being out-of-city, and an additional 13% oversight fee which is being used to pay for the other Public Works position.