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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2.10.2026 - City Countil Minutes City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING February 10,2026 CALL TO ORDER The City Council met in a regular meeting on Tuesday,February 10,2026,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 Manager Van Wagner,City Attorney Waugh,Deputy City Manager Matthys and City Clerk Howe. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Pastor Jordan of New Jacob Chapel gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT Banks Helfrich, 9100 Sams Lake Road - spoke about advocacy and working cooperatively within government. Kathy Kyle, 335 3' Street—wanted to speak on agenda items. She was informed to return when the item is discussed. Joe Fumasi, 2693 Jumping Jack Way — expressed concerns about the Wellness Ridge Community Development District(CDD)budgeting and asked for closer review of the spending of taxpayer and resident funds. Kurt Schuh — spoke about the importance of upholding oaths of office, maintaining high standards, and treating one another with respect to strengthen the community and local government.He distributed an oath of office. Vincent Niemiec, Regency Hills — spoke about the widening of Hartwood Marsh Road and requested clarification regarding the rationale for pursuing additional funding, given that the county has already secured a loan for the project. Mayor Murry closed public comments. Mayor Murry requested clarification regarding entity responsible for funding the Hartwood Marsh widening and the reason for the differences in the loan amounts mentioned. City Manager Van Wagner explained that the county handled the loan after the city declined to join, so the city is not paying for the road itself,just for moving utilities, which were already budgeted. The loan numbers differed because the costs were updated. AGENDA CHANGES City Manager Van Wagner noted there are no changes to the agenda. 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 January 13, 2026, Council Meeting minutes. 1 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING February 10,2026 Item No.2—Event and Road Closure Request Consider approval of Saturday Food Truck on Clermont Main Street—March Update March 7, 2026, with the time change of road closure 7am-5:30pm. Item No.3—Emergency Purchase Approval and Consider emergency purchase approval for Budget Reallocation temporary facilities to maintain Fire Station 2 FS No. 2 Temporary Site operations during renovations and budget reallocation from F.S. 2 Renovation project to Temporary Housing F.S. 2 account Item No.4—Request for Proposal Award Consider RFP award and execute a Term Arts& Recreation Center Cater Svcs. Contract with the top ten-ranked vendors to acquire catering and bar services for Clermont ARC. Item No.5—Request for Proposal Award Consider RFP award and execute a Term Pre-employment services Contract with Adventist Health System/Sunbelt, Inc. dba AdventHealth Centra Care to provide Medical Examination and Drug/Alcohol Tests. Item No.6—Bid Award Consider bid award approval to the three lowest Sanitary Sewer Lateral Rehabilitation responsive and responsible bidders, BLD Services LLC; LMK Pipe Renewal;and Rowland DE LLC, to provide sanitary sewer lateral rehabilitation services. Item No.7—Sole Source Purchase Approval Consider single/sole source purchase approval Ovivo USA, LLC from Ovivo USA, LLC for the acquisition of the rebuilding of the aerator gearbox at the WWTP in the total budgeted amount of$86,338. Item No.8—Resolution No.2026-004R Consider amending the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 FYE 2026 Budget Amendment#1 Budget. Mayor Murry noted that City Attorney Waugh was attending the meeting by phone. Council Member Bain stated that he had a few questions on two of the items on the consent agenda. City Attorney Waugh explained that when items are on the consent agenda,Council is allowed to comment on them. Council Member Strange motioned to allow Council Member Bain five minutes for questions and answer from staff to address consent items. Seconded by Council Member Myers. 2 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 2026 Item No.3—Emergency Purchase Approval and Budget Reallocation,FS No. 2 Temporary Site Council Member Bain requested details from Fire Chief Ezell regarding the location,timeline,and staffing to ensure the public is informed about the situation and its impact. Fire Chief Ezell stated that the temporary fire station will be set up on the west side of the Arts and Recreation Center parking lot with a trailer for personnel, a cover for the apparatus, and a small shed for gear. The setup and remodeling are expected to take about ten months, with a two-month lead time for the trailer and utility hookups. Apparatus coverage will be adjusted by moving units between stations to maintain service,and if Station Five is ready early,units will be shifted there to get it operational as quickly as possible. Item No.4—Request for Proposal Award,Arts&Recreation Center Cater Svcs. Council Member Bain asked whether the Arts and Recreation Center currently has approved caterers and if using them would be mandatory under a new process. Parks and Recreation Director Forman clarified that there is currently one approved caterer,but use of that caterer is not required.Under the proposed process,the list of approved caterers would be expanded,giving renters a choice of multiple approved vendors, but they would still be allowed to bring in any caterer they wish. Council Member Strange motioned to approve Consent Agenda items 1-8. Seconded by Council Member Myers. Mayor Murry pulled Consent Agenda items 3 and 4. Council Member Myers motioned to approve Consent Agenda items 1-2,5-8. Seconded by Council Member Petersen.The motion passed 5-0 with all members present voicing aye. Item No.3—Emergency Purchase Approval and Budget Reallocation,FS No. 2 Temporary Site Mayor Murry expressed concern in supporting the plan to renovate Station because it is not in the city's best interest, the current location is congested and cramped, and the project is not a well thought out plan compared to building at the Hartwood Marsh location. Mayor Murry opened public comment. Vincent Niemiec—expressed that the Hartwood Marsh Road location for Fire Station No.2 is too congested and impractical. Mayor Murry closed public comment. Mayor Murry explained he pulled the item because he believes Hardwood Marsh Road is a better location, citing congestion and poor fit at the current site, and feels city funds could be better used elsewhere. Council Member Strange motioned to approve item 3. Seconded by Council Member Myers. 3 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 2026 Council Member Bain stated he will support moving forward with the current plan for Fire Station No. 2, acknowledging he initially disagreed,but believes delays or changes now could hurt emergency coverage in surrounding areas. Council Member Strange stated that the Fire Station plan was carefully designed by staff to ensure all Clermont residents receive a six-minute emergency response, improving safety compared to the previous plan,and stressed it is not a political issue but a matter of public safety. The motion passed 4-1 with Mayor MgM gWosed. Item No.4—Request for Proposal Award,Arts& Recreation Center Cater Svcs. Mayor Murry questioned the new catering policy for the Arts and Recreation Center,raising concerns that it could unfairly add fees for residents selecting their own caterers, seem inconsistent with other city facilities,and may unnecessarily restrict options without improving anything. Parks and Recreation Director Forman clarified that under the current proposal,renters can use any caterer they choose with no extra fees or penalties for going outside the approved list and noted that the city already has a contract with one vendor,Premier. Mayor Murry questioned the purpose of the list. Parks and Recreation Director Forman clarified that the vetted caterer list is meant to provide renters with recommended options and promote local businesses, while also generating some revenue for the city. Mayor Murry opened public comment. Vincent Niemiec, Regency Hills—stated that a recommended list is helpful and practical since it does not any extra fees. Paula Foley, Kings Ridge— questioned the need for a fixed list of recommended caterers and whether implementing such a list could create liability. Mayor Murry closed public comment. Discussion focused on the proposed list, emphasizing that it is intended to offer vetted options and clarify fees already charged by the current contractor, Premier, and raised questions about it applying only to the Arts and Recreation Center. Council Member Bain motioned to approve with additional language to direct staff to make it clear on the application that the renter can use any caterer of choice with no additional fees for that choice. Motion died for the lack of a second to the motion. Council Member Strange motioned to approve item 4 as presented Seconded by Council Member Petersen. Council Member Bain questioned the council's reluctance to provide clarity on the application. Council Member Myers clarified that the application already makes this clear. Council Member Petersen called for the vote. Seconded by Council Member Strange. 4 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING February 10,2026 The motion passed 4-1 with Mayor Murry opposed. UNFINISHED BUSINESS The next two items were heard together and voted on separately. Item No.9—Ordinance No.2025-041,McKinnon Groves LSCPA Final AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CLERMONT, LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA, ADOPTING THE LARGE-SCALE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT FOR THE CITY OF CLERMONT, FLORIDA, PURSUANT TO THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING ACT, CHAPTER 163, PART II, FLORIDA STATUTES; SETTING FORTH THE AUTHORITY FOR ADOPTION OF THE LARGE-SCALE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT; SETTING FORTH THE PURPOSE AND INTENT OF THE LARGE-SCALE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT; ESTABLISHING THE LEGAL STATUS OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT, SEVERABILITY, THE ADMINISTRATIVE CORRECTION OF SCRIVENERS ERROR,PUBLICATION AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE. City Clerk Howe read the ordinance title aloud. Item No. 10—Ordinance No.2025-042,McKinnon Groves Rezoning Final AN ORDINANCE UNDER THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF CLERMONT, LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF CLERMONT REFERRED TO IN CHAPTER 122 OF ORDINANCE NO. 289-C, CODE OF ORDINANCES; REZONING THE REAL PROPERTIES DESCRIBED HEREIN AS SHOWN BELOW; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT,SEVERABILITY,ADMINISTRATIVE CORRECTION OF SCRIVENERS ERROR,RECORDING, PUBLICATION AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE. City Clerk Howe read the ordinance title aloud. Development Services Planner Kruse presented the items. Since the project is greater than 50 acres,a large- scale comprehensive plan review was required. The amendment(25-01 ESR)was transmitted for comment to the State of Florida, Florida Commerce Department and other state agencies for review in November 2025. The city received five responses from the reviewing agencies; two were "no comment" with one technical clarification of the specific land use category being Clermont Wellness Way North 1, and three comments were no adverse impacts. The land use has been clarified to be Wellness Way North with the number 1 added. Since no substantial comments or objections were received,the city is proceeding forward with the adoption of this request and recommends approval of Ordinance No. 2025-041. The City, as the applicant, is requesting a rezoning of the Subject property as a follow-up to the staff- initiated annexation request. The property is located south of Hartwood Marsh Road and west of the Lake/ Orange County Line and is approximately 357 acres. The property was approved under Planned Unit Development Ordinance No.2021-36 in Lake County for up to 660 single-family dwelling units along with 520,000 square feet of non-residential use (commercial, office). The project is currently moving forward, and construction activity is starting. 5 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING February 10,2026 The property was annexed by City Council on June 10 prior to building permit issuance to capture approximately $8 million worth of impact fees on the residential portion of the development. No commercial construction has started as of now. The current zoning of the property within Lake County is Planned Unit Development. The compatible zoning within the city would be Planned Unit Development as well,with the current entitlements captured within the Planned Unit Development. The zoning designation abides by the Wellness Way Community Guidelines regarding implementation. The preliminary plat and final plat for a few phases have been approved by Lake County. The Planned Unit Development zoning does not propose a conflict between the existing uses and land uses in the area. The transfer of Lake County's Planned Unit Development Ordinance into the City's Planned Unit Development Ordinance is a "like for like" with small adjustments made due to code references (County/City). The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval, 4-1, with the added condition that the developer and property owner provided advance burn notification. Additionally, the Commission recommended a secondary irrigation system; however, staff noted that this requirement is already addressed in Section 25 of the Ordinance. It was recently brought to light with our City Attorney that an existing settlement restriction with adjoining property owners on the southern end of the project had been approved. Based upon this, staff are recommending a condition added to address this. It will be placed on page 8 of the ordinance,under Section 4 item D. Staff recommended approval of the rezoning to Planned Unit Development with the conditions presented and contained in Ordinance NO. 2025-042. Mayor Murry opened the public hearing. Brian Blair, Fox Meadow subdivision—endorsed support to add language for the settlement agreement. Mayor Murry closed the public hearing. Council Member Strange motioned to approve item 9.Ordinance No.2025-041 Seconded by Council Member Myers. The motion passed by roll call 5-0 with all members present voicing aye. Council Member Bain motioned to approve item 10, Ordinance No. 2025-042 with amendments to add staff recommended language to Section 4 item D and added language to Section 13 that written notification goes to owners within 1,000 feet. Seconded by Council Member Strange for discussion. Council Member Strange asked whether that distance was appropriate and who would be impacted. Fire Chief Ezell said 1,000 feet is generally sufficient for smaller burns,but larger clearing projects may require a broader area,and noted other mitigation tools, like air curtains, can reduce smoke impacts. There were concerns about setting a fixed notification distance since burn conditions vary and are regulated by the state. Instead, council supported requiring written notice within a radius determined by the Fire Chief,allowing flexibility based on conditions. Fire Chief Ezell agreed to make that determination. Council Member Bain withdrew his motion. 6 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING February 10,2026 Council Member Bain motioned to approve item 10, Ordinance No. 2025-042 with an amendment to add staff recommended language to Section 4 item D. Council Member Bain amended his motion to approve item 10, Ordinance No. 2025-042 with amendments to add staff recommended language to Section 4 item D and added language to Section 13 that written notice go to the property owners within a distance as desiggated by the local authority having_jurisdiction. Seconded by Council Member Strange.The motion passed by roll call 5-0 with all members present voicing aye. Item No. 11—Ordinance No.2026-002, Golf Cart Extension Final 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. City Clerk Howe read the title aloud. Development Services Director Kruse presented the item.On February 11,2025,the City Council approved an ordinance to allow golf carts on City of Clermont roads within a specific boundary with specific requirements. Part of this ordinance also included an expiration date. Section 32-102(g)within Ordinance 2025-009 lists an expiration date of February 11,2026,unless extended by City Council. As of December 26, 2025, the City has issued 28 stickers for golf carts to be operated on city roads. Verification with the police department indicates that no incidents have occurred with golf carts in 2025 because of this program. During the introduction of this ordinance on January 13, 2026, it was motioned and amended by Council to add a three-year timefiame. The ordinance has been updated with this expiration date, February 10, 2029,and is being presented for final consideration. Staff recommended approval of Ordinance No.2026- 002 with the requested expiration date added. Council Member Strange clarified that this ordinance only addresses granting permission for golf cart use. A separate ordinance defines the specific area where golf carts are allowed. Mayor Murry opened the public hearing. Cathy Kyle, 335 3'Street—spoke in support of the ordinance. Mayor Murry closed the public hearing. Council Member Strange motioned to approve Ordinance No. 2026-002. Seconded by Council Member Myers. Council Member Bain said a future discussion about expanding the golf cart area may be needed, but this item is about allowing golf carts. He confirmed staff recommends approval without an expiration date and said he does not support adding a three-year sunset,as it would create unnecessary uncertainty for residents and businesses. 7 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 2026 Council Member Bain motioned to approve Ordinance No.2026-002 with the amendment to strike letter G under Section 2 which has the expiration date. Seconded by Council Member Strange for discussion. Council discussed whether to remove the proposed sunset date from the golf cart ordinance, with some members noting the small number of registered carts and wanting more time and comprehensive plan input before making it permanent. Others argued there have been no issues and that continuing trial periods creates unnecessary uncertainty. The discussion ultimately centered on balancing caution and flexibility with providing stability for residents and businesses. Deputy City Manager notified Council that there were two motions and two seconds on the floor. Council Member Bains motion failed by roll call 2-3 with Council Member Strange Council Member Myers and Council Member Petersen opposed. Council Member Stranges motion passed by roll call 5-0 with all members present voicing Ue- NEW BUSINESS Item No. 12-Resolution No.2026-OO1R, Crab Cakes Conditional Use Permit A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CLERMONT, LAKE COUNTY,FLORIDA,GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO ALLOW FOR A FOOD TRUCK TO OPERATE ON A VACANT PARCEL LOCATED IN THE C-1 LIGHT COMMERCIAL ZONING DISTRICT; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT, SEVERABILITY, ADMINISTRATIVE CORRECTION OF SCRIVENERS ERROR, PUBLICATION AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE. City Clerk Howe read the title aloud. Development Services Planner Day presented the resolution. The applicant and property owner, Rick Richardson, is requesting a Conditional Use Permit to allow for a food truck to operate on a vacant parcel designated with the C-1 Light Commercial Zoning District. The property is located at the northeast corner of Lake Ave. and W. Highway 50 intersection and is approximately .34 acres. The applicant is proposing to operate a single food truck as a take-out only service on the property. Operating hours would be up to four days a week. Since the Land Development Codes do not identify the requested use as permitted use, Section 125-313 requires this type of use only through a Conditional Use Permit. The current zoning permits restaurants and food establishments provided the use is conducted within an enclosed building. Staff have reviewed the application and found that the use would not be more obnoxious to the district due to the similarities in uses permitted. The applicant also requests a waiver for a reduction to the landscape buffer required by Land Development Code Section 123-43.(e)(1). This would allow for a ten-foot landscape buffer in place of the minimum 20- foot buffer required along West Highway 50 to the south. After careful review of the elevation contours,it is staff determination that the reduced landscape buffer may still meet the intent of the code. The property currently has a berm along West Highway 50 that then decreases in grade continually towards the north side of the property. The berm limits visibility on the site,which would be enhanced by the proposed ten- foot landscape buffer. 8 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 2026 The owner is willing to make the necessary site improvements to accommodate access, parking and stormwater retention. It is of staff s opinion that this use makes the most of a smaller, constrained parcel while offering the property owner the ability to use their property. When evaluating a request for a Conditional Use Permit, the Land Development Code, Section 101-212, requires specific development standards that are required to be met. Staff have reviewed the application as submitted in accordance with the development standards criteria and found the proposed use can meet the general criteria for granting a Conditional Use Permit. The proposed use will not be detrimental to the health, safety and welfare of the surrounding community. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval,4-3, with conditions to allow operations for up to four days instead of the original three and to require additional lighting on site if operating hours are after dusk.Staff recommended approval of the Conditional Use Permit with the conditions contained in Resolution No. 2026-001 R. Christopher Germana, Gennana Engineering, spoke on behalf of the applicants. He explained that the proposal is for a self-contained food trailer operation. The trailer will be brought in daily, parked on a designated gravel pad, and removed each night for dumping, with no on-site utility connections. The plan includes grass parking, a designated ADA space with sidewalk access, and required stormwater facilities, with final details to be determined through further engineering. Mayor Murry opened the public hearing. Vincent Niemiec, Regency Hills—expressed concern about wastewater disposal,permits, traffic, parking, lighting,ADA compliance,and safety before approving the food trailer operation. Mayor Murry asked for virtual comments. Dani Page,Tuscany Ridge—expressed concerns that the food trailer proposal may not meet health, safety, or accessibility standards. Mayor Murry closed the public hearing. Council Member Strange noted there is no current code for food trucks, and the proposal is being treated as a walk-in food service. She proposed a temporary Conditional Use Permit, emphasizing supporting the business owners without undue costs. Council Member Petersen suggested that staff draft a clear ordinance for food trucks and trailers to provide guidelines before any approvals,rather than trying to address issues case by case. The applicants, Mr. and Mrs. Richardson, explained the trailer has been in storage for years and will only serve carryout food, using a portable porta-potty for staff that is cleaned daily and stored offsite when not in use. Council discussed operational and safety considerations for the food trailer, including permanent lighting, stormwater management via a proposed dry pond, drainage and runoff with gravel versus concrete, ADA access, and the need for a clear ordinance to establish standards and ensure fairness between food trucks and brick-and-mortar businesses. Council Member Strange raised several questions and concerns, including: limiting paragraph 11 to six months instead of two years,confirming whether a food trailer qualifies as an open-air food establishment, ensuring city code references in paragraphs 2, 5, 6, and 7 apply correctly, clarifying who determines if 9 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING February 10,2026 parking is inadequate(paragraph 8), and whether operations should be limited to four days a week. They emphasized the need for a temporary period to address the lack of existing code, suggested definitions and language be reviewed by staff/attorney, and supported a trial period before considering a more permanent solution. Council Member Strange motioned to approve item 12 with amendments to paragraph 11 to reduce the period of time to begin within 6 months,to expand the hours of operation to 8:OOam to 10:00pm seven days a week and to identify if the parking is deemed to be inadequate by the City manager then it comes back to Council and with a three year time limit. Seconded by Council Member Petersen. City Attorney Waugh explained that including code compliance references in paragraphs 2, 5, 6, and 7 gives the council a clear way to revoke the Conditional Use Permit if violations occur, while section 8 implies city staff determines parking adequacy,but Council has final say.He also clarified that the Florida Department of Agriculture classifies this as a mobile food establishment, not an open-air food establishment. Council Member Bain spoke about the proposed timeline and restrictions,opposing shortening the standard timeframe and adding additional limits. He spoke about the typical two-year Conditional Use Permit standards,and potential state permitting delays. Deputy City Manager Matthys suggested adding"good faith progress" language to the timeline, allowing extensions if the applicant is actively working toward approvals, while preventing the permit from remaining valid if no progress is being made. Mayor Murry opened public comment. Cathy Kyle,335 3rd Street—spoke in support of the food truck and said it should face minimal restrictions, like any other food truck. Mayor Murry closed public comment. Council Member Strange amended her motion to approve item 12 with amendments to paragraph 11 to reduce the period of time to begin within 9 months to a year with staffs approval if it is determined by staff that the applicant is moving forward in good faith to expand the hours of operation to 8:OOam to 10:00pm seven days a week and with a three year time limit. Seconded by Council Member Petersen. The motion passed 5-0 with all members present voicin€,aye. Item No. 13—Lake County Disc Golf Event Request,Lake Hiawatha Preserve Parks and Recreation Director Forman presented the request. He clarified that the request before Council is solely for approval to complete the remaining landscaping work and to install a temporary second disc golf course at Hiawatha Preserve for the 2026 spring season. Approval of events or general park usage is not part of this action, as those are handled administratively at the staff level. To date,the landscaping work has primarily consisted of mowing and trimming within the proposed course area. This work has been inspected, and no permanent landscape alterations have occurred. If approved, any additional work will follow a detailed plan reviewed and approved by staff prior to implementation. Should an outside entity perform any work,a valid certificate of insurance will be required. 10 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING February 10,2026 All baskets and tee boxes associated with the temporary course would be removed by May 24, 2026. The landscaping improvements are intended to be temporary in nature, with natural growth expected to leave little to no long-term evidence of the course.Based on these conditions,staff recommended approval of the temporary second disc golf course at Hiawatha Preserve for the 2026 spring season, including completion of the necessary staff-approved landscaping work. Mayor Murry opened public comment. Matt Knight, President of Lake County Disc Golf Club—stated that the temporary disc golf course would significantly support hosting the 2026 United States Masters Disc Golf Championships, bringing approximately 500 players and their families to Clermont.They also noted strong volunteer and community support for the event. Sandy Gabin, Reserve at Lost Lake — expressed concern with the temporary disc golf course, stating it would harm the protected wildlife preserve and is unnecessary since the event can continue at Champions Pointe without impacting the environment. Ben Champion, Tavares, Fl — stated that he is an environmental expert as well as an officer for the Lake County Disc Golf Club and that the temporary course causes no permanent environmental damage,removes only invasive plants, and is necessary to host a major disc golf event that brings tourism and economic benefits to Clermont without costing the city. Rosie Mulholland, 10240 Lake Minneola Shores—stated that as a wildlife biologist she has concerns that even a "temporary" new disc golf course could further degrade the preserve's natural habitat. She noted that she assisted the City as a volunteer expert in writing portions of the Florida Communities Trust grant that acquired the Inland Groves property and urged the City to clearly define and enforce"temporary"while actively managing the area to protect and restore wildlife habitat in keeping with the grant's original intent. Discussion ensued regarding the temporary disc golf course and its impact on wildlife preserve.Questions about invasive species were addressed,noting that while mowing temporarily suppresses them,the city has not actively managed invasives,and proper precautions are needed to prevent long-term harm."Temporary" was defined as all baskets and equipment being removed by June 1, with Ms. Mulholland confirming the area could be restored and offering to assist Council and staff in preservation efforts. Mayor Murry closed public comment. Council Member Strange asked about the potential for future large disc golf events in Clermont and the need for temporary versus permanent courses.Mr.Knight addressed whether additional events might occur, the benefits of having two courses on the same property,and age divisions for competitions. He confirmed future events are possible,two side-by-side courses are beneficial for hosting,additional permanent courses in Clermont would allow more events, and all temporary structures, including baskets, will be completely removed after the event with no lasting impact on the preserve. Discussion was had regarding whether the Lake County Disc Golf Club had permission to perform landscaping work at Lake Hiawatha Preserve.Questions to Parks and Recreation Director Foreman clarified that Council approval was only needed for supporting additional temporary landscaping, not for the event itself.Mr.Knight stated they believed city staff had granted permission based on prior communications and emails.Public Services Assistant Director Maiworm explained that while initial discussions allowed design and staking of the course,permission to bring in equipment for mowing was never formally approved,and 11 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 2026 any actual alterations would have required Council authorization. Staff emphasized the intent was not to approve work automatically,though no permanent damage has been reported. Council Member Bain emphasized that Lake Hiawatha is a preserve,not a park,and any work should follow proper city processes rather than being done first and justified later. He also noted that the group pays no fees for use, which raises concerns about fairness for nonresident organizations. Council Member Strange explained that in her experience hosting events like this typically happens at the staff level, not requiring City Council approval, and that disc golf aligns with the preserve's intended use for passive recreation. While the process caused some confusion, it is seen as a learning opportunity to improve communication,preserve the natural area, and leverage local expertise to enhance the park going forward. Council Member Strange Motioned to approve item 13 with a removal date of June 1 2026 Seconded by Council Member Petersen.The motion passed 4-1 with Council Member Bain opposed. Item No. 14—Clermont Fire Department 2026-2030 Strategic Plan Adoption Fire Chief Ezell presented the Fire Department's 2026-2030 strategic plan, which was developed through community input and internal staff collaboration to set five-year goals, update mission and vision statements,and create an actionable implementation guide.Council was asked to review and adopt the plan to ensure the department's efforts align with community priorities and are directed effectively over the next five years. Mayor Murry opened public comment. Joe Fumasi,2693 Jumping Jack Way—Praised the fire department's event as well-organized and effective in gathering community input. Mayor Murry closed public comment. Council Member Strange motioned to approve item 14 Seconded by Council Member Myers. Council Member Bain questioned whether the strategic plan includes a periodic review or reassessment, and Fire Chief Ezell clarified that the plan is treated as a living document, with goals, objectives, and associated tasks evaluated annually. The motion passed 5-0 with all members present voicing aye. Item No. 15—Ordinance No.2026-003,Perimeter Park West III Annex Final AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CLERMONT, LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA, PROVIDING FOR THE ANNEXATION OF A CERTAIN PARCEL OF LAND CONTIGUOUS TO THE PRESENT CITY BOUNDARIES; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE, SEVERABILITY, RECORDING, AND PUBLICATION. City Clerk Howe read the title aloud. 12 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 2026 Council Member Bain motioned to introduce Ordinance No. 2026-003: Seconded by Council Member Myers.The motion passed 5-0 with all members present voicing aye. Item No. 16—Ordinance No.2026-004,Perimeter Park West III SSCPA Final AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CLERMONT, LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA, ADOPTING THE SMALL-SCALE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT FOR THE CITY OF CLERMONT, FLORIDA, PURSUANT TO THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING ACT, CHAPTER 163, PART II, FLORIDA STATUTES; SETTING FORTH THE AUTHORITY FOR ADOPTION OF THE SMALL-SCALE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT; SETTING FORTH THE PURPOSE AND INTENT OF THE SMALL-SCALE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF THE SMALL-SCALE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT; ESTABLISHING THE LEGAL STATUS OF THE SMALL SCALE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT, SEVERABILITY, ADMINISTRATIVE CORRECTION OF SCRIVENERS ERROR, PUBLICATION AND EFFECTIVE DATE. City Clerk Howe read the title aloud. Council Member Bain motioned to introduce Ordinance No. 2026-004: Seconded by Council Member Myers. The motion passed 5-0 with all members present voicinggve. Item No. 17—Ordinance No.2026-005,Perimeter Park West III Rezone Final AN ORDINANCE UNDER THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF CLERMONT, LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA AMENDING THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF CLERMONT REFERRED TO IN CHAPTER 122 OF ORDINANCE NO. 289-C, CODE OF ORDINANCES; REZONING THE REAL PROPERTIES DESCRIBED HEREIN AS SHOWN BELOW; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT,SEVERABILITY,ADMINISTRATIVE CORRECTION OF SCRIVENERS ERROR, RECORDING,PUBLICATION AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE. City Clerk Howe read the title aloud. Council Member Bain motioned to introduce Ordinance No. 2026-005: Seconded by Council Member Petersen.The motion passed 5-0 with all members present voicing aye Item No. 18—Ordinance No.2026-008,Hartle Road Subdivision Annex Final AN ORDINANCE UNDER THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF CLERMONT, LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA, PROVIDING FOR THE ANNEXATION OF A CERTAIN PARCEL OF LAND CONTIGUOUS TO THE PRESENT CITY BOUNDARIES; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT, SEVERABILITY, ADMINISTRATIVE CORRECTION OF SCRIVENERS ERROR, RECORDING, PUBLICATION AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE. City Clerk Howe read the title aloud. 13 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING February 10,2026 Council Member Petersen motioned to introduce Ordinance No. 2026-008: Seconded by Council Member Myers.The motion passed 5-0 with all members present voicing aye. Item No. 19—Ordinance No.2026-009,Hartle Road Subdivision SSCPA Final AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CLERMONT, LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA, ADOPTING THE SMALL-SCALE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT FOR THE CITY OF CLERMONT, FLORIDA, PURSUANT TO THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING ACT, CHAPTER 163, PART II, FLORIDA STATUTES; SETTING FORTH THE AUTHORITY FOR ADOPTION OF THE SMALL-SCALE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT; SETTING FORTH THE PURPOSE AND INTENT OF THE SMALL-SCALE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT; PROVIDING FOR THE ADOPTION OF THE SMALL-SCALE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT; ESTABLISHING THE LEGAL STATUS OF THE SMALL SCALE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT, SEVERABILITY, ADMINISTRATIVE CORRECTION OF SCRIVENERS ERROR,PUBLICATION AND EFFECTIVE DATE. City Clerk Howe read the title aloud. Council Member Petersen motioned to introduce Ordinance No. 2026-009• Seconded by Council Member Myers. The motion passed 5-0 with all members present voicing aye Item No.20—Ordinance No.2026-010,Hartle Road Subdivision Rezone Final AN ORDINANCE UNDER THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF CLERMONT, LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA AMENDING THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF CLERMONT REFERRED TO IN CHAPTER 122 OF ORDINANCE NO. 289-C, CODE OF ORDINANCES; REZONING THE REAL PROPERTIES DESCRIBED HEREIN AS SHOWN BELOW; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT,SEVERABILITY,ADMINISTRATIVE CORRECTION OF SCRIVENERS ERROR,RECORDING, PUBLICATION AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE. City Clerk Howe read the title aloud. Council Member Petersen motioned to introduce Ordinance No. 2026-010• Seconded by Council Member Myers. The motion passed 5-0 with all members present voicing aye. REPORTS CITY MANAGER REPORT City Manager Van Wagner— • There will be a Council Workshop on Tuesday, February 17 at 9am. • Tip a Cop is tomorrow at Texas Roadhouse. • Ultraman event is this weekend at Victory Pointe. • Downtown Wine Stroll on February 21. • Honor the Fallen 5K on February 21. • Council approved a utility bill transition from data. Staff have transitioned 5,000 customers. 14 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 2026 Mayor Murry asked about streetlights on Hooks Street. City Manager Van Wagner stated that they are in discussions with Duke Energy. Council Member Bain asked if there would be any material provided beforehand for the upcoming workshop.Deputy City Manager Matthys stated that the meeting will cover utility rates,procurement(with documents sent in advance), and a pre-budget session where department heads present major projects for council prioritization. If there are any documents staff will send them to Council. CITY ATTORNEY REPORT City Attorney Waugh— • Provided a brief update on Duke Energy negotiations, noting compliance issues on Hooks and emphasizing leverage tied to the upcoming renewal deadline. • Provided an update on SB180, noting the legislature is considering revisions to clarify vague language,reduce the disaster-area radius,and focus on rebuilding rather than new construction,though the outcome is uncertain. CITY COUNCIL REPORT Council Member Myers— • Provided information about Gwen Cherry in honor of Black History Month. • Attended the MLK celebration. • Requested Council to share one of their favorite African American contributions at the next Council Meeting. Council Member Petersen— • Provided an update of meetings in Tallahassee during Legislative Action days. • Spoke about the Lake County Library possibly purchasing the old Police Station. Council Member Strange— • Shared support for relocating the children's library downtown,noting community interest. City Manager Van Wagner stated that Lake County was no longer pursuing purchasing the building due to the cost of renovations.Mayor Murry asked City Manager Van Wagner to look at the old Badcock building as a potential site. • DPZ Charette will be February 19-23 as well as community forums prior to that beginning. Requested Council commit to not engaging during the forums and charette. Council Member Bain— • The charette schedule is on the website. • Lake County Schools is hosting a trades and transportation hiring event next Wednesday. • Recognized contributions by Mayor Murry and Council Member Myers. 15 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING February 10,2026 Deputy City Manager Matthys— • Sought Council consensus on using speaker cards for public comments on agenda items; Council decided not to implement them. • The Youth Council program will resume,running from September 9 through April 7. Mayor Murry— • He attended the MLK Day parade. • Congratulated the Fire Department on the ribbon cutting of the training facility. • Provided an update of meetings in Tallahassee during Legislative Action days. • Mayor's luncheon last week had a big turnout. • Requested information on impact fee credits to developers in Wellness Way and the Lumber Yard project. • Requested an update on a previous email asking for a for a detailed breakdown of board structures, elections,and financial responsibilities for any CDD's,MSTU's and HOA's in Wellness Way. City Attorney Waugh stated that he could provide that to Council within a week. • Questioned the City's decision not to use The Sun newspaper for legal advertising. • Asked for an update on the Community Block Grant for Bloxam Avenue. 16 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING February 10,2026 ADJOURN: With no further comments,this meeting adjourned at 6:53pm. APPROVED: Tim Murry,Mayor ATTES Tracy AckroydHo%W,MMC City Clerk 17