Jennifer Zurawski

The Town of Stockton Comprehensive Plan Update is a long-term guide for future growth and development, addressing issues and opportunities, housing, transportation, utilities, community facilities, agricultural, natural and cultural resources, economic development, intergovernmental cooperation, and land use. The update process, which began with assistance from the Portage County Planning and Zoning Department, aims for adoption in late 2025.

The document outlines the Economic Development Strategic Plan for the City of Lake Butler, Florida, designed as a dynamic roadmap to adapt to community needs. Developed through public discussions and supported by a Competitive Florida Partnership Grant, the plan is guided by the City's Mission and Vision Statements. It focuses on five global goals: fostering a community of choice, promoting economic prosperity, enhancing community amenities and quality of life, ensuring an attractive, sustainable, and secure environment, and maximizing social and economic development. The plan aims to provide a unified approach for achieving future outcomes and guiding resource allocation.

The public hearing addressed a special exception concerning land development regulations for Union County BOCC. Discussions focused on proposed plans to upgrade courthouse security, including modifications to both the East and West sides of the Courthouse. The board addressed the need for proper permits and compliance with city protocols, particularly regarding construction that had commenced without the necessary approvals. Concerns were raised about a screening wall being added to protect the Sheriff's Office and the Clerk's office, and whether these modifications required a special exception. The board also discussed the concurrency management report and its coverage of the proposed improvements.

The meeting addressed concerns about the smell in the water, with updates provided on the CROM project. The board approved Amendment No. 1 to the Engineering Services Agreement for FDEP 0.7 MGD SBR and Sprayfield Modifications, as well as the consent to assignment and assumption of obligation for transfer of an existing contract. They also approved the Clean Water State Revolving Fund Construction Loan Agreement and adopted Resolution No. 2025-11. Additionally, the board reviewed and discussed the Request for Qualifications for the Townsend Green Building Rehabilitation Project, approved state-required restrictive covenants for the same project, and proclaimed October 2025 as American Pharmacists Month. They adopted Resolution No. 2025-12 regarding administrative authority for plats and replats, and adopted Ordinances No. 2025-01, 2025-02, and 2025-03. The board also discussed and approved the Occupational License Fee Schedule and changed the Halloween Trick-or-Treating date and time. Updates were provided on various city projects, and financial reports were presented and approved.

The City Commission held a public hearing for the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Annual Operating Budget and Millage Rate. The commission opened and closed public hearings for both the millage rate and the annual operating budget, during which no public comments were made. The board approved Resolution No. 2025-10 for the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Millage Rate and adopted Ordinance No. 2025-04 for the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Annual Operating Budget for the City of Lake Butler.