HomeMy WebLinkAbout1.13.2026 - City Council Minutes City of Clermont
MINUTES
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
January 13,2026
CALL TO ORDER
The City Council met in a regular meeting on Tuesday,January 13,2026,at 3:00 pm in the Clermont City
Council Chambers. Mayor Murry called the meeting to order at 3:00 pm with the following Council
Members present: Council Members Strange,Bain,Myers and Petersen.
Other City officials present were City Attorney Waugh, Deputy City Manager Matthys and Deputy City
Clerk Wisniewski.
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Pastor Jordan of New Jacob Chapel gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
PRESENTATION
Economic Development Director Norris summarized the city's December 2-3 economic development and
design tour of the 30A corridor in Florida's Panhandle, where staff visited Seaside, Rosemary Beach, and
Alys Beach to study nationally recognized examples of urban placemaking and town center design.
Although Clermont is not a resort community,these locations were selected because they best demonstrate
principles that apply to Clermont's redevelopment opportunities, particularly downtown and along
corridors such as State Road 50 and U.S. 27, where the goal is to accommodate growth while minimizing
traffic congestion and loss of natural land. The tour and extensive discussions focused on core topics
including urban versus suburban development, strategies to reduce vehicle dependence, placemaking as a
driver of economic development, streets as outdoor rooms,the importance of shade and streetscape design,
parking management, block size, form-based codes, mixed-use development, housing affordability and
missing middle housing, third places that foster social interaction, improved connectivity between
developments, support for local businesses and entrepreneurship,and the value of architectural variety and
small civic spaces. Overall, the tour provided staff with shared experiences and a common understanding
that will strengthen internal coordination and better equip them to work effectively with DPZ as the City's
comprehensive plan and downtown code updates move forward.
City Attorney Waugh provided Council with a report on the basics of the December 2-3,2025 educational
trip to Seaside, Rosemary Beach, and Alys Beach. The trip was suggested by Economic Development
Director Norris and approved by the City Manager and Deputy City Manager to help staff learn from well-
planned communities as Clermont prepares for major updates to its comprehensive plan and zoning code.
The trip was originally planned for staff, but when space became available and council members declined
to attend, additional seats were offered to local stakeholders with help from Clermont Main Street.
Participants included staff from Economic Development, Planning and Development Services, Fire, and
Parks and Recreation,along with community partners and youth representatives.Travel was by charter bus,
with tours during the day and group discussions focused on takeaways from the sites. Total costs were
$5,438.44, and Clermont Main Street contributed $2,200, leaving the City's final cost at $3,238.44.
Expenses were paid using staff purchasing cards and later reimbursed where applicable; while this process
was not ideal, staff have since worked with the Procurement Director on proposed updates to the
procurement manual to improve oversight,require advance approval for meal expenses,and prevent similar
issues in the future.
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REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
January 13,2026
Council discussed notification and inclusion of all Council Members and Planning and Zoning members in
the tour, as well as transparency, liability, and funding related to non-city participants. Mayor Murry
questioned the purpose, timing, and location of the trip,particularly why it occurred after hiring DPZ and
why a distant resort community was chosen instead of closer examples. Additionally, they discussed
approval and reimbursement of expenses, the city manager's spending authority, and the need for clearer
communication and a possible future briefing to share information with the full council.
Council Member Bain requested an email to Council with the budget line items that the$3,200 in city funds
were charged to for awareness.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Kat Woodhouse, 2010 Sunset Lane—spoke about issues with the residence at 1919 Sunset Lane.
Daryl Woodhouse,2010 Sunset Lane- spoke about issues with the residence at 1919 Sunset Lane.
Mayor Murry requested a meeting with Mr. and Mrs.Woodhouse and the Police Department to review the
recent activities and developments.
Joe Fumasi,2693 Jumping Jack Way—requested the city and the Wellness Way Community Development
District(CDD)board establish a resident advisory committee.
Cornelius Meeks,4477 Powderhorn Place Drive—expressed concern about his water bill continuing to rise.
Mayor Murry stated that there have been some complaints and staff are working to understand what is going
on.
Deputy City Manager Matthys explained that staff are looking into software to assist with leak detection.
He provided Mr. Meeks with his business card and requested to call him to investigate.
Banks Helfrich, 9100 Sams Lake Road — spoke about the property taxes fund and the ramifications if
eliminated.
Kurt Schuh, VFW — questioned who paid for non-employees' food and lodging on the economic
development and design tour.
City Attorney Waugh stated that the city did not pay for lodging of any non-employees.
Charlene Forth,939 W.Desoto Street—spoke about protecting the lake and Council being public servants.
Mayor Murry asked for virtual comments.
John Tidona,3611 Briar Run Drive—spoke about development in the city.
AGENDA CHANGES
Deputy City Manager Matthys informed the Council of the following changes to the agenda:
Item No.20—RFP Award,Downtown Parking garage
Deputy City Manager Matthys stated that this item has been withdrawn from the agenda.
Item No.21—Resolution No.2025-031R,Reimbursement
Deputy City Manager Matthys stated that this item has been withdrawn from the agenda.
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Item No.22—Variance Request,NE of Ryan and Chestnut Street
Deputy City Manager Matthys stated that applicant has withdrawn the item.
CONSENT AGENDA
Mayor Murry advised the next item on the agenda for consideration was the Consent Agenda and requested
anyone wishing to have any item pulled for discussion to please come forward at this time.
Item No. 1 —Meeting Minutes Consider approval of the November 18, 2025,
and December 9,2025,Council Meeting minutes.
Item No. 2—Surplus Request Consider declaring end-of-life inventory as
surplus from various departments providing
disposal per the Procurement Policy
Item No. 3 — Board appointments Consider appointing Derrick Larkin to the Police
Officers Pension Board of Trustees and Jane
McAllister to the Firefighters Pension Board of
Trustees.
Item No. 4—Justice Assistance Grant 230 Consider a JAG Grant for a mobile camera
Approval system with no required match from the city.
Item No. 5—Retirement Plan Actuarial Valuation Consider Annual Actuarial Valuation approval
Florida Municipal Pension Trust Fund for the FMPTF Closed Pension Plan.
Item No.6—Bid Award& Budget Amendment Consider bid award approval to Midcoast Marine
Floating Dock Installation Group for the installation of the city-provided
floating dock system in the total amount of
$159,061.20, including a budget amendment of
$160,000.
Item No.7—Bid Award& Budget Amendment Consider bid award approval to Q-ICE Builders
West Beach Pier Improvements LLC to renovate the existing pier at West Beach
in total amount of $86,600, including a budget
amendment of$87,000.
Item No.8—Bid Award Consider bid award approval to Canono
ARC Pool Resurfacing Investment LLC to provide pool resurfacing
services in the budgeted amount of$78,346.
Item No.9—Request For Qualification Award Consider Awarding Term Contracts to the top 8
Planning and Urban Design Services providers for on-call planning and urban design
consulting.
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Item No. 10—Request For Qualification Award Consider Awarding Term Contracts to the top 4
Alternate Water Supply Planning and Design firms for On-Call Alternative Water Supply
Planning and Design Services.
Item No. 11—Request for Proposal Award Consider awarding RFP approval and executing a
Lease Agreement-Recreation Operations at VP lease agreement with Luxe Rental Services LLC
to provide recreation operations at Victory
Pointe.
Item No. 12—Piggyback Term Contract Consider piggyback approval of OMNIA
Refuse&Recycling Container Solutions Partners Term Contract No.226024-01 with
Duramax Holdings, LLC d/b/a Otto
Environmental Systems to provide refuse and
recycling containers.
Item No. 13—Piggyback Term Contract Consider piggyback approval of the State of FL
Body Armor and Ballistic Resistant Products NASPO Alternate Contract Source No.
46151500-NASPO-25-ACS with Point Blank
Enterprises, Inc. to provide body armor and
ballistic-resistant products.
Item No. 14—Piggyback Term Contract Consider approval to piggyback Lee County
Fuel Tank Cleaning and Inspection Term Contract No. B220376LLP with Tank
Wizards, Inc. to provide fuel tank cleaning and
inspection services.
Item No. 15—Clermont 2026 Special Events Consider approval of the 2026 special events and
Approval their associated road closure and open-container
requests.
Item No. 16—Downtown Temporary No Parking Consider approval of temporary no parking sign
Sign Location Approval locations for events.
2026 Special Events
Item No. 17—Non-Competitive Purchase Consider approval to waive the procurement
Stryker Equipment process and directly purchase Stryker Emergency
Medical Equipment for Fire Station 5 Engine 105
and the Citywide AED Program.
Item No. 18—Non-Competitive Purchase Consider approval to waive the procurement
Fire Department process and directly purchase readily available
fill dirt for the FD training facility in the amount
of$260,000.
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Item No. 19—Resolution No.2026-003R Consider amendment to the procurement
procedures.
Council Member Strange pulled item 11.
Council Member Bain pulled items 9 and 19.
Council Member Petersen motioned to approve consent items 1-8, 10, 12-18: Seconded by
Council Member Myers. The motion passed 5-0 with all members present voicing aye.
Item No.9—Request For Qualification Award,Planning and Urban Design Services
Council Member Bain questioned staff s recommendation regarding adding three companies when the
ranking committee had originally recommended awarding contracts to five and requested clarification
regarding the deficiencies in the original five proposals that led staff to deviate from the reviewers'
recommendations.
Deputy City Manager Matthys said staff added three more firms because the top five did not have some of
the specific expertise needed, especially in urbanism and architecture related to the Comprehensive Plan
and form-based code. He also noted the benefit of having firms already working with the city, since they
have background knowledge and existing relationships. By extending the cutoff to include firms with
similar scores,staff felt having a broader range of expertise would better support future projects.
Council Member Bain questioned whether Urban Guild expertise was part of the Request for Qualification.
Deputy City Manager Matthys said it was not specified,but that expertise is becoming more important,and
the added firms provide valuable skills.
Mayor Murry opened public comment.There were no comments.Mayor Murry closed public comment.
Mayor Murry asked for clarification on the absence of important qualifications in the Request for
Qualification if they were important.Deputy City Manager Matthys explained the Request for Qualification
was intentionally broad, covering many services, and was written before current needs were known, so it
was kept flexible to adapt to future projects.
Mayor Murry questioned the purpose of the Request for Qualification and the decision to recommend more
firms despite the top ranked ones not meeting the immediate need.Deputy City Manager Matthys explained
that the Request for Qualification was meant to identify qualified firms across a broad range of services,
allow flexibility over multi-year contracts,and give the city options as needs change.
City Attorney Waugh noted that approving multiple firms is common practice and that Council ultimately
decides the number of firms to select.
Council Member Myers expressed support for the item, stating that the city is being proactive and that
having diversity is beneficial.
Council Member Strange explained that a Request for Qualification is for qualifications, not a specific
project,and supported giving staff flexibility to choose the best firm for each job. She said having multiple
approved vendors helps get better estimates and value and offered to support selecting more firms if needed.
Deputy City Manager Matthys stated that staff recommended eight firms,but ten would be even better. He
said eight should be sufficient,while noting more firms provide flexibility and competitive pricing.
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Council Member Strange motioned to approve the to ten qualified candidates: Seconded
by Council Member Petersen.
Council Member Bain expressed concern that the recommendation seemed to be based on increasing the
number of firms rather than matching specific qualifications.
The motion passed 3-2 with Council Member Bain and Mayor Murryopposed.
Item No. 11—Request for Proposal Award,Lease Agreement-Recreation Operations at VP
Council Member Strange was concerned that the proposed use of the Victory Pointe property had not gone
through a Council visioning process or been reviewed as part of the ABA and DPZ planning efforts,making
action premature while planning was still underway. Although a new redevelopment plan has just been
approved, she said that Council had not clearly established a vision before the RFP process. While both
firms were qualified and closely scored, one had experience with jet skis, an area that generates the most
citizen complaints,while the other focused on bicycles along the Coast-to-Coast Trail.Based on community
feedback, she would like to schedule a workshop to discuss the vision and would not support adding more
jet skis.
Council Member Myers stated that the RFP process required both firms to present because their scores were
so close,and that Lux remained the selected proposer. She did not see the proposal as focused solely on jet
skis, but rather include kayaks, bicycles, paddleboards, and pedal boats, and noted that the company was
locally and veteran owned. Based on that, she did not see an issue with allowing the proposal to move
forward.
Mayor Murry opened public comments.
Charlene Forth,939 W.Desoto Street—felt we should give other operators a fair chance and bring the item
back to Council and the public to consider non-motorized options.
Anna Sinclair,575 W.Minneola—This is about fit and vision,not just qualifications,she was in support of
tabling it and let Council decide.
Vincent Niemiec,Regency Hills—confused by the selection process and stressed trusting staff to make the
right choice for downtown Claremont.
Valerie Schuett, Midpoint Rec LLC. — expressed gratitude for community support. Their business,
Midpoint,is ready to responsibly activate Victory Pointe,emphasizing waterfront use,resident engagement,
environmental care, and downtown economic vitality. While some view being a newer business as a
liability, they consider it an asset, highlighting their local knowledge, experience, and commitment to
Clermont. They have built a viable, community focused business endorsed by Clermont Main Street and
aim to be a collaborative partner whose reputation reflects positively on the city.
Paola Angarita, Lux Rental Services LLC. — she emphasized that their veteran-owned, Clermont based
business has over five years of experience and is committed to community engagement, safety, and eco-
friendly tourism. She highlighted their focus on bringing visitors to Clermont, supporting local youth
through internships,and providing high-quality,safe waterfront experiences while contributing financially
and socially to the city.
Mayor Murry asked for virtual comments.
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Jenny May, 4062 Greystone Drive — supported delaying the decision to align with the city's vision and
support multiple local businesses.
Mayor Murry closed public comments.
Council Member Myers noted it is a one-year lease with extensions and saw no reason not to support a
local, insured,veteran-owned business.
Council Member Bain felt the Council had failed to provide clear vision and guidance for the partnership,
leaving staff and applicants unsupported. He said that the decision should be based on collaboration,
alignment with the city's purpose and vision, and a commitment to working with existing local partners,
rather than just points or years in business. He noted concerns that the recommended company's focus
appeared more on Orlando and jet skis than on Clermont, and worried it might compete with, rather than
collaborate with, existing city supported entities promoting the waterfront and downtown.
Council discussed the proposal for a bike rental at Victory Point stemming from an unsolicited request by
Midpoint Rec and not Council, emphasizing that deciding the use of public real estate is a vision driven
decision and that staff executed the RFP without clear guidance. Questions arose about scoring: time in
business and experience gave Lux Rental Services the edge despite Midpoint Rec scoring higher on
proposal quality, local engagement,and plan substance,while residency in Clermont had minimal impact.
Council stressed the decision should prioritize vision, collaboration, and community alignment rather than
points alone. They discussed tabling the item until DPZ and the American Bicycle Association visit to
review the site,meet with the public,and provide recommendations,allowing the Council to consider public
and consultant input before deciding,potentially bringing the item back in March.
City Attorney Waugh explained that while Council can table the item or seek additional input, any third-
party feedback will not change the original rankings, and altering the rankings would require rejecting all
bids and starting a new process.
Council Member Bain motioned to approve the award to Midpoint Rec. for one year.
Council Member Strange seconded for discussion.
Council Member Bain explained that his motion to award the project to Midpoint Rec was made because
their higher scores in key criteria focused on relationship, vision, and partnership carry more weight than
cost,and any additional input would only reinforce their lead
City Attorney Waugh explained to Council that the safest approach is always to accept the recommendation
of the evaluation committee. Procurements come to council as the final decision maker; council can
override a recommendation when it is based on the criteria set by council. The council does not have to
agree with the evaluation committee or staff. Of all the reasons I have heard not to approve the first ranked
bidder,following Council Member Baines recommendation is the most legally defensible and safest choice
for the city.
Discussion ensued on whether to table the item for a workshop to gather more input or to reject it outright.
The motion failed 3-2 with Mayor Murry, Council Member Myers and Council Member
Petersen opposed.
Council Member Bain motioned to reject the RFP. Seconded by Council Member Petersen.
The motion passed 4-1 with Council Member Myers opposed.
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Item No. 19—Resolution No.2026-003R
Council Member Bain stated that he pulled the item to seek clarification on whether it should be handled
as a policy or a procedure and asked the Deputy City Manager to provide guidance after public comment.
City Attorney Waugh stated that this was a city attorney directed item, not a staff request. He explained
that he chose to handle it as a procedure because the council has not adopted a policy on the issue,and the
intent was to apply a minimal fix to address a specific concern related only to Request for Proposals. The
item is scheduled for a future workshop for the council to establish policy,and ultimately it does not matter
which approach is chosen as long as the council adopts it by resolution.
Procurement Director Suarez clarified the difference between policy and procedure and approval authority.
He explained that policies are adopted by the city council by resolution, while procedures are typically
approved and modified by the city manager and are more detailed, operating under an established policy.
He expressed concern that council approval of the procedure could limit future administrative changes.City
Attorney Waugh clarified that this concern was incorrect: while the city manager may continue to approve
and amend procedures, any changes to local preference provisions must be approved by the council. He
also noted that local preferences had been used since 2012 without a formal legal basis, which this action
would correct.
Council Member Strange asked for City Attorney Waugh's legal advice regarding the city's use of the local
preference since 2012.
City Attorney Waugh explained that although the city's past use of the local preference was likely incorrect,
it does not appear to have caused any real issues or legal consequences. The goal now is simply to bring
things back into compliance.
Procurement Director Suarez recommended this be handled as a policy rather than a procedure.
Mayor Murry opened public comment. There were no comments. Mayor Murry closed public comment.
Council Member Strange asked for clarification,noting that approving page 17,paragraph D under section
5D seemed like adopting a policy,and that nothing else in the procedures had changed. She asked whether
there is any legal significance to calling it a policy versus a procedure. City Attorney Waugh stated that
there is no legal difference between calling it a policy or a procedure,as long as it is approved by resolution.
Council Member Strange suggested adopting page 17,paragraph 5D as a policy in a resolution on its own
which would address staff concerns.
Council Member Strange motioned to approve Item No. 19 as a resolution, to revise the
language to take paragraph 5D and incorporate it into the resolution so it is apolicy adoption.
Seconded by Council Member Myers. The motion passed 5-0 with all members present
voicing`ye.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Item No.20—RFP Award, Downtown Parking garage
Item withdrawn from the agenda
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January 13,2026
Item No.21—Resolution No.2025-03111,Reimbursement
Item withdrawn from the agenda.
Item No.22— Variance Request,NE of Ryan and Chestnut Street
Item withdrawn from the agenda.
Item No.23—Variance Request,693 Skyridge Road
Development Services Planner Day presented the item. This item was tabled at the September 23 City
Council meeting to discuss with the applicant options to redesign the request.The applicant,Peter Lumsden,
is requesting two variances to the Land Development Code on his property located at 693 Skyridge Road
as a result of a pending code enforcement case for installed pavers. The property is located within the R-1
Single-Family Medium Density Residential Zoning District.
The first variance request is to allow for a side yard setback to be less than the minimum seven-and-a-half-
foot requirement.The variance request would allow an existing paver driveway expansion to encroach into
the side yard setback at zero feet from the southwest property line.The second variance request is to allow
for an increase to the Impervious Surface Ratio on the subject parcel to be over 55 percent maximum.
After the initial public hearing, staff coordinated an onsite meeting with the applicant that occurred on
October 10 to discuss options of reducing or redesigning the request. The applicant provided an updated
plot plan utilizing a"Hollywood"driveway on the south side of the property. This proposed design would
reduce the Impervious Surface Ratio on the property to an estimate of 58 percent.
Upon review of the applicant's request, staff cannot support the reduction to the side setback of zero feet.
Land Development Code Section 125-520 states driveways must maintain at least a five-foot setback from
the side lot line; however, the subject parcel has a recorded seven-and-a-half-foot drainage and Utility
Easement on all sides and rear property lines. Thus, the driveway expansion may negatively impact the
abutting property due to stormwater runoff.
Section 101-246 of the Land Development Code requires a positive finding on the review criteria in order
to grant a variance. Staff have reviewed the application as submitted and find the application does not meet
a positive finding on three of the five criteria.Therefore,staff recommended denial of the variance request.
The applicants, Mr. and Mrs. Lumsden, were present. Mr. Lumsden stated that he met with staff at his
property and confirmed the drainage was working properly with no pooling water. He discussed the
previously suggested option of installing a Hollywood driveway and adding grass and palm trees in the
front. He expressed concern that the alternative proposal would force most of their vehicles to park on the
street,where there are frequent accidents,and they want to avoid damage to their vehicles.
Mayor Murry opened public comments. There were no comments.Mayor Murry closed public comments.
Council Member Strange shared her concern that no written approval from the homeowner's association or
neighboring property owners was included, despite a prior request to coordinate with the homeowner's
association. Mrs. Lumsden stated the homeowner's association would defer to the City Council's
recommendation but had not provided this in writing. Council Member Strange stated that she could
potentially support alternative parking and driveway solutions, she said that her approval would be
contingent on receiving a written letter from the homeowner's association confirming their support.
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Discussion focused on how to deal with ongoing parking issues in the neighborhood without making things
worse or setting a precedent.Council talked about narrow streets,large homes,and limited parking created
problems and agreed residents should not be penalized for design decisions they did not make. There were
concerns about turning front yards into solid pavements, impacts from heat and runoff, and other
homeowners expecting the same treatment. Council discussed possible fixes which included cutting back
the pavers, using a Hollywood-style driveway, lowering impervious surface to 55 percent or less, and
exploring more permeable options.The consensus was to have staff help the homeowner adjust the design,
so it meets the code,avoids the need for variances if possible,and still maintains the look and standards of
the neighborhood.
Council Member Petersen motioned to deny the variance request. Seconded by Council
Member Bain.
Council Member Petersen motioned to deny the variance request, giving the applicants 90
days to remedy the setbacks as well as the grass/gravel in the yard. Seconded by Council
Member Bain.
Mrs. Lumsden asked for clear directions to come into compliance,and council confirmed that staff
would work directly with them to identify acceptable materials and adjustments so the property
could comply without returning to council.
The motion passed 5-0 with all members present voicing aye.
Item No.24—Ordinance No.2026-001, Accessory Dwelling Units Final
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CLERMONT, LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA
AMENDING CODE OF ORDINANCES CHAPTER 2, "ADMINISTRATION"
ARTICLE VI,"FINANCIAL MATTERS"DIVISION 2"IMPACT FEES";AMENDING
SECTION 2-264 "IMPACT FEE SCHEDULE" PROVIDING FOR A NEW IMPACT
FEE SCHEDULE ADJUSTING AND REDUCING IMPACT FEES FOR ACCESSORY
DWELLING UNITS; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS OF
ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT WITH THIS ORDINANCE TO THE EXTENT OF
SUCH CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT, SEVERABILITY,
CODIFICATION, THE ADMINISTRATIVE CORRECTION OF SCRIVENERS
ERROR, PUBLICATION AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Deputy City Clerk Wisniewski read the title aloud.
Deputy City Manager Matthys reminded council that in October, a resident raised concerns about high
impact fees for accessory dwelling units, and council asked staff to review options. After evaluating fees
for services like parks,police, fire,water,and sewer, staff are recommending adoption of Ordinance 2026-
001 to amend the fee schedule by reducing Accessory Dwelling Unit impact fees to 25 percent of the single-
family rate to support workforce housing and in-law units.
Mayor Murry opened the public hearing.There were no comments.Mayor Murry closed the public hearing.
Council Member Strange motioned to approve Ordinance No. 2026-001. Seconded by
Council Member Myers. The motion passed by roll call 5-0 with all members present
voicing aye.
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Mayor Murry recessed the meeting at 6:08pm. Mayor Murry reconvened the meeting at 6:18pm.
NEW BUSINESS
Item No.25—Variance Request,4511 Lions Gate Ave.
Development Services Planner Gonzalez presented the item. He stated that the next two items involve
neighboring properties that were submitted simultaneously.While some details may sound repetitive, each
item will be presented individually and will require a separate vote.
The applicant, Adam Levy, is requesting a variance to the Land Development Code located at 4511 Lions
Gate Avenue. The property is within the Hartwood Landing Subdivision and is designated as the Planned
Unit Development zoning district by Ordinance No. 2019-09.
The variance request is to allow for a side yard setback to be less than the minimum five feet required by
the ordinance.This would allow for an existing paver walkway to remain on the property,encroaching into
the side yard setback at zero feet from the south property line.The proposed paver walkway is estimated to
be 240 square feet and would increase the property's impervious surface ratio to the maximum allowed.
This variance has been requested because of a pending code enforcement case for installed pavers. The
applicant has indicated that the area was flooding prior to the pavers being installed on the property. The
lot layout indicates stormwater flow from the back to the front of the property. After two attempts of
requesting the builder to fix the drainage issue, the applicant proceeded to have a French drain and the
pavers installed on the property.The work included the gutters positioned in a way to redirect the water off
the property,towards the road for the development's main stormwater drainage to catch the excess runoff.
The applicant has also mentioned a substantial hardship and claims that the work was necessary due to the
property flooding within the walkway towards the back of their property.
Upon review of the applicant's request, staff are unable to support the reduction to the side setback of zero
feet. Land Development Code Section 125-484 specifies that planned unit developments are specifically
approved after thorough evaluation of the projects concept plan by the City Council.Ordinance No. 2019-
09 was approved for a minimum side yard setback of five feet from the side lot lines to accommodate a
minimum five-foot drainage and utility easement.
Enclosing this easement may negatively impact the abutting properties due to an increase in stormwater
runoff and negatively impact the entire subdivision's capacity for conveyance and containment of
stormwater as a whole.
Section 101-246 of the Land Development Code requires a positive finding on the review criteria in order
to grant a variance. Staff have reviewed the application as submitted and find the application does not meet
a positive finding on three of the five criteria.Therefore,staff recommended denial of the variance request.
The applicant,Adam Levy explained the request is driven by medical and safety needs to allow safe access
for home maintenance and daily tasks,not for convenience or aesthetics. He also stated that he coordinated
with the neighboring homeowner who has similar mobility issues to fix a longstanding drainage problem
and asked the council to consider the variance based on those circumstances.
Mayor Murry opened public comment.
Joan Palmer,4515 Lions Gate Avenue—spoke in support of the request.
Vincent Niemiec,Regency Hills—stated that this is an ongoing problem Lake County continues to allow.
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Mayor Murry closed public comment.
Mr.Levy shared photos showing the drainage issue was not properly fixed by the developer and confirmed
the homeowner's association approved the request,offering to provide documentation if needed.
Council discussed whether the pavers were the right fix, setting precedent as well as drainage. Discussion
ensued among the neighbors working together as well as the homeowner's association support. Staff
explained the water already flows to the stormwater drain and the pavers will not increase runoff, so most
council members agreed to approve the variance.
Council Member Strange motioned to approve item 25 variance request,4511 Lions Gate.
Seconded by Council Member Myers.
Development Services Director Henschel requested to apply a hold harmless agreement to this since the
city has access to that area through an easement,even though the city does not own the property. If the city
ever needs to enter and alter the pavers or anything else,we want a simple hold harmless agreement signed
so the city is not responsible for restoring it afterward.
Council Member Strange amended her motion to approve the variance and include the hold
harmless. Seconded by Council Member Myers. The motion passed 5-0 with all members
present voicing aye.
Item No.26—Variance Request,4515 Lions Gate Ave
Development Services Planner Gonzalez presented the item. The applicant, Andrew Palmer, is requesting
a variance to the Land Development Code located at 4515 Lions Gate Ave like the previous variance.
The variance request is to allow for a side yard setback to be less than the minimum five feet. This would
allow for an existing paver walkway to remain on the property by encroaching into the side yard setback at
zero feet from the north property line. The proposed paver walkway is estimated to be 240 square feet.
This variance has been requested because of a pending code enforcement case for installed pavers. As
indicated the area was flooding prior to the pavers that were not remedy by the builder. After two attempts
of requesting the builder to fix the drainage issue, the applicant proceeded to have a French drain and the
pavers installed on the property.
Staff are unable to support the request under Land Development Code Section 125-484 which specifies that
planned unit developments are specifically approved after thorough evaluation of the project's concept plan
by the City Council.
Section 101-246 of the Land Development Code requires a positive finding on the review criteria in order
to grant a variance. Staff have reviewed the application as submitted and find the application does not meet
a positive finding on three of the five criteria.Therefore,staff recommended denial of the variance request.
Council clarified that this variance request would be requested to have a hold hannless agreement signed if
approved.
The applicant,Joan Palmer informed Council that her request is the same as her neighbors.
Mayor Murry opened public comment.
Adam Levy,4511 Lions Gate Ave.—spoke in support of the variance.
Mayor Murry closed public comment.
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City of Clermont
MINUTES
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
January 13,2026
Council Member Myers motioned to approve item 26, 4515 Lions Gate Ave. and include
the hold harmless. Seconded by Council Member Petersen.
Council Member Strange stated that six neighbors and the homeowner's association were in support of the
two requests. The stormwater maximum was not beyond the limit,and the water flows into the grassy area
not the street.
The motion passed 5-0 with all members present voicing aye.
Item No.27—Council Board Appointments
Council Member Bain stated that only available board positions are the ones labeled open. He asked if any
council members wanted to change their current appointments or continue with where they currently serve.
Council Members Petersen,Strange and Myers stated they would like to continue where they are currently.
Mayor Murry noted the only open positions were the liaison to the Main Street board and the MPO alternate
seat.Council Member Bain suggested improving the appointment process by letting council members rank
preferences ahead of time and providing the dates and times each board meets.
Council Member Bain motioned to appoint himself as the Liaison on the Main Street board and the alternate
for the MPO board and leave all other appointments the same. Seconded by Council Member Petersen.The
motion passed 5-0 with all members present voicing aye.
Item No.28—Selection of Mayor Pro Tem
Council Member Bain motioned to nominate Council Member Myers as Mayor Pro Tem.
Seconded by Council Member Strange. The motion passed 5-0 with all members present
voicing aye.
Item No.29—Resolution No.2026-002R
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF CLERMONT, FLORIDA,ADOPTING THE CITY
OF CLERMONT RULES OF CONDUCT RELATED TO THE CONDUCT OF
MEETINGS; THE PUBLIC'S RIGHT TO PARTICIPATE; AND THE ACTIVITIES
AND PARTICIPATION OF COUNCIL MEMBERS, APPOINTED BOARD
MEMBERS, STAFF AND THE PUBLIC; REPEALING RESOLUTION 2024-040R;
PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT, SEVERABILITY, THE ADMINISTRATIVE
CORRECTION OF SCRIVENERS ERRORS,AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Deputy City Clerk Wisniewski read the title aloud.
Council Member Bain presented some proposed changes to the council meeting rules. He recommended
changing the council meeting start time from 3:00 p.m.to 6:30 p.m.,while keeping meetings on the second
and fourth Tuesdays,and moving the fourth Tuesday starting time from 5:30 p.m.to 6:30 p.m.He proposed
updated language to clarify the public comment rule so speakers can have up to 10 minutes if needed,rather
than automatically receiving the full 10 minutes. He proposed removing the first Tuesday workshop
meeting and keeping only the third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m., with any future changes determined by council
vote. He removed the rule that allowed council members to attend two three-minute speaking sessions per
item. Finally,he adjusted the agenda format to move reports down to where they appear on the agenda.
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City of Clermont
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January 13,2026
Mayor Murry opened public comment.
Anna Sinclair,575 W.Minneola Street—spoke in support of moving the meetings to 6:30pni and questioned
Council Member Bain's request to remove the three-minute time limit for Council.
Fran Falcone, 3904 Duane Way—spoke in support of moving the meetings to 6:30pm.
Joe Fumasi,2693 Jumping Jack Way—spoke in support of moving the meetings to 6:30pm.
Vincent Niemiec,Regency Hills—spoke in support of keeping the meetings at 3:OOpm as well as the three
minute limit for council.
Mike Kramer, 208 Nautica Mile Drive—spoke in support of keeping the meetings at 3:OOpm.
Jim Cretti,2177 Cedar Ridge Way—spoke in support of moving the meetings to 6:30pm.
Cassie Murry, 574 E. Desoto Street—spoke in support of moving the meetings to 6:30pm.
Otis Taylor, 3686 Caladesi Road—spoke in support of moving the meetings to 6:30pm.
Mayor Murry asked for virtual comments.
Jenny May,4062 Greystone Drive—spoke in support of keeping the three-minute limit for council.
Mayor Murry closed public comment.
Council Member Bain explained that the current time limit rule is not being used, and if there is going to
be a policy,it should be enforced. As written, it could restrict council from asking needed questions during
important items, and it creates confusion about whether the time is for question and answer or for making
statements. He said he was okay with a time limit for statements, but the rule needs to be clearer and
structured, so it does not interfere with fact finding or the flow of the meeting. He suggested that meetings
would run smoother if council had a set speaking order to avoid the back-and-forth and interruptions we
experienced tonight.He relayed his support moving meetings later because the current 3:00 p.m.start makes
it hard for residents to attend, and most other municipalities meet much later, and he believed that a later
time would increase participation.
Council Member Strange said she understands the issue from both sides, noting that council meetings are
fundamentally business meetings that can run efficiently when members are prepared and have done their
research, while also emphasizing that she values public engagement and has clearly heard from residents
that a 6:30 p.m. start time works best for them.
She explained that her concern is that starting later cannot result in meetings routinely running late into the
night,as she does not believe sound decisions are made at 10:30 p.m.or midnight,and that if council moves
to a 6:30 p.m. start, it must include guardrails such as a firm end time around 9:30 p.m., with 10:00 p.m.
only as an exception. She suggested options to support this approach,including moving public comment to
the end of the agenda, holding separate town halls focused on public input, or adding a publicly noticed
afternoon workshop to handle questions in advance and allow for a shorter,more focused evening business
meeting, and stated that if a later start can be paired with better structure and a strict end time, she would
be open to it.
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City of Clermont
MINUTES
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
January 13,2026
Council Member Myers opposed moving meetings to a later start time, noting that council meetings
routinely last far longer than two hours and often extend four, five, or more hours. She expressed concern
for the safety and well-being of council members and staff who would be required to drive late at night,
emphasizing that public attendance typically declines after 9:00 p.m. and does not increase with later start
times, particularly given the availability of technology that allows residents to participate remotely. She
stated that if meetings were consistently limited to two hours,she would support a later start;however,until
meeting length is better controlled, she does not believe it is reasonable to risk people's safety,health,and
additional city resources simply to hold meetings later in the evening.
Council Member Petersen supported keeping meetings at 3:00 p.m.,noting that public attendance drops off
significantly as meetings run later and that the same group of residents tends to attend regardless of the start
time. He pointed out that when this meeting began at 3:00 p.m.,the room was full, including many seniors
who were able to attend during the day,but that there was little to no additional participation in the evening
hours.He also emphasized that council needs to be more consistent and disciplined with enforcing its own
time limits, as those limits are rarely applied to council members in the same way they are to the public.
Until council can better manage meeting length and hold itself accountable, he said he does not support
moving meetings to a later start time.
Council Member Petersen motioned to deny the resolution.
Mayor Murry stated that he believed meeting length was driven by agenda management rather than the
meeting start time. He explained that the consent agenda is often loaded with items that are not ready,
leading to pulled items and hours of discussion that should have been resolved during agenda review.With
better preparation,he felt meetings could start at 6:30 p.m.and still end at a reasonable hour.He also talked
about the importance of in person public participation, noting that he felt evening meetings attracted more
residents,and while safety and late nights were valid concerns,he said he ran for office understanding those
demands and believed the council's priority should be effectively conducting the people's business.
Council Member Petersen motioned to deny Resolution No. 2026-002R. Seconded by
Council Member Myers.
Council Member Bain clarified the parliamentary process for voting on motions, noting that a motion to
deny is simply the opposite of a motion to approve.He expressed hope that structural issues,such as agenda
preparation and meeting efficiency,would be addressed regardless of meeting start time. He expressed his
concern that moving public comment or relying on pre-meeting reviews could send a message that what is
said at the meeting does not matter.
The motion passed 3-2 with Council Member Bain and Mayor Murry opposed.
Item No.30—Ordinance No.2026-002, Golf Cart Extension Intro
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF CLERMONT,
LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER 32, STREETS, SIDEWALKS
AND OTHER PUBLIC PLACES TO REMOVE THE EXPIRATION DATE;
PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT, SEVERABILITY, CODIFICATION, THE
ADMINISTRATIVE CORRECTION OF SCRIVERNERS ERROR, PUBLICATION
AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Deputy City Clerk Wisniewski read the title aloud.
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City of Clermont
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REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
January 13,2026
Mayor Murry opened the public hearing.There were no comments.Mayor Murry closed the public hearing.
Council Member Strange clarified that approving the ordinance would remove the sunset date and make
the permit permanent, noting about 25 people have applied and there has been no negative feedback. She
suggested moving the ordinance forward but adding a two to three-year sunset to revisit and ensure no
issues arise.
Council discussed making the golf cart ordinance permanent versus adding another sunset period. They
noted only about 25 permits had been issued and debated whether that warranted a permanent policy.They
also talked about whether golf cart parking/charging should be addressed now or later in the code rewrite.
Council Member Strange motioned to approve Ordinance No. 2026-002 with a 3-year
sunset. Seconded by Council Member Petersen.
Council clarified the quadrant where golf carts are allowed.
The motion passed by roll call 4-1 with Council Member Bain opposed.
REPORTS
CITY MANAGER REPORT
Deputy City Manager Matthys—
• City offices will be closed on January 19 for observation of MLK day.
• There is no council workshop scheduled for January.
• The January 27 council meeting has been canceled.
• The next council meeting is February 10.
• January 14 is coffee with a cop.
• January 17 is Arbor Day at Lake Hiawatha Park.
• MLK parade and celebration will be on January 19.
• Ribbon cutting at the Fire Department public safety center on January 22.
CITY ATTORNEY REPORT
City Attorney Waugh—
• There will be training on best practices, sunshine, public records and interactions with the public
at the next Planning and Zoning Commission meeting.
• Will be sending email reminders on the same laws to council.
• The Wellness Ridge CDD Interlocal Agreement is being negotiated.
• Wellness Ridge submitted a petition to expand the CDD.
Mayor Murry requested an update on how Lake County is using the Wellness Ridge CDD funds. City
Attorney Waugh said he has been researching the matter and will provide an update at the next meeting
CITY COUNCIL REPORT
Council Member Bain—
• Lake County is having their Comprehensive Plan meeting at Aurelia Cole Academy on Thursday.
• Requested a workshop to set goals and an evaluation process for the City Manager.
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City of Clermont
MINUTES
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
January 13,2026
Council consensus was to place the item on the March workshop agenda.
Council Member Myers—
• Wished all a Happy New Year.
Council Member Petersen—
• Utility Billing department will be coming to King's Ridge to assist with the new utility bills and
suggested reaching out to other communities.
Council Member Strange—
• Welcomed Rutgers University to Clermont.
• Madden Media will be interviewing Olympic contenders in South Lake downtown areas.
• Ghost Sports is working to bring a variety of sporting events(track,triathlon,soccer, softball,golf,
swimming,rowing,wakeboarding, sailing)to the city,with bids lasting 1-5 years.
Mayor Murry—
• Questioned if the city is currently doing an Impact Fee study.
Deputy City Manager Matthys confirmed the city is currently conducting an Impact Fee study.
• Spoke about parking in the lot downtown behind the restroom.
• MLK parade and celebration will be on January 19.
• Stated his concern with the rising water bills.
• Invited Mr. Fumasi to come up and speak about the Wellness Ridge CDD and MSTU.
Mr.Fumasi provided his understanding of what was happening at the County level with the Wellness Ridge
CDD and MSTU as well as negotiations between the city and the Wellness Ridge CDD.
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City of Clermont
MINUTES
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
January 13,2026
ADJOURN: With no further comments,this meeting adjourned at 8:48pm.
APPROVED:
Tim Murry,Ma or
ATTEST:
Tracy Ackroyd Howe,MMC
City Clerk
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