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HomeMy WebLinkAbout9.18.2025 - City Council Meeting City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING November 18,2025 CALL TO ORDER The City Council met in a regular meeting on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, 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, Howard,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 Bishop Mark Chironna of the Church on the Living Edge gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. AGENDA CHANGES City Manager Van Wagner informed the Council of the following agenda changes: Public Comment will take place after the Oath of Office. Item No. 18—Amendment to Resolution No.2023-023R City Manager Van Wagner stated this item was being withdrawn from the agenda. ACCEPTANCE OF GENERAL ELECTION RESULTS City Clerk Howe read the official election results into the record. The official election results of the Clermont Municipal Election held on November 4,2025,for City Council Seat 2 are as follows: Bryan L. Bain received 2,888 votes and Tod Howard received 2,476 votes. Council Member Howard motioned to accept the election results: Seconded by Council Member Myers.The motion passed 5-0 with all members present voicinR aye. COUNCIL PRESENTATION Mayor Murry presented outgoing Council Member Howard with a plaque for his service to the city. Council Member Howard thanked city staff and congratulated Bryan Bain on his campaign. ADMINISTRATION OF OATH OF OFFICE ELECTED OFFICIALS FOR SEATS 2 AND 4 City Clerk Howe administered the Oaths of Office to Chandra Myers, Seat 4 and Bryan Bain, Seat 2 for a two-year term. Newly elected Council Member Bain replaced Council Member Howard at the dais. Council Member Myers thanked God, her family, and the community, and said she was grateful to be reelected unopposed. She noted the progress made over the last two years and said she will keep leading with honesty and care as the city moves forward. Council Member Bain thanked his family,friends,volunteers,and the community for their support and said he was grateful for the chance to serve. He emphasized working together, even when people disagree and promise to lead with empathy,humility,and a focus on doing what is best for the city. 1 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING November 18,2025 Council Member Myers left the meeting. Mayor Murry recessed the meeting at 3:20pm. Mayor Murry reconvened the meeting at 3:30pm. PUBLIC COMMENT Robert Mock,Veteran—thanked the city for their support of the Veterans Day Parade. Anthony Grove, 1105 Sadie Ridge Road — praised the council for accountability and tax relief and emphasized that city officials must respect citizens and serve the people. Julia DeArts, 12916 Delago—she is the founder of a nonprofit supporting domestic violence survivors.She shared a survivor's story and emphasized the importance of addressing domestic violence. She expressed hope to collaborate with the City of Clermont. Joe Fumasi,2693 Jumping Jack Way—raised concerns about a well in the neighborhood that is extremely noisy and disruptive. He said that attempts to contact Lennar were unsuccessful, and asked the city to intervene,enforce ordinances fairly,and address the excessive water waste. Mayor Murry asked City Manager Van Wagner to find out more information on the well. Natalie Kaylor, Executive Director of Brooksville Main Street — she shared that Clermont is running a month-long Small Business November initiative, where visitors can scan QR codes at local shops and restaurants to earn points and prizes. The ultimate reward for visiting all 60 plus locations is two tickets to the next Wine Stroll. Vincent Niemiec, Regency Hills - asked about delays on the Hancock project and said he has had trouble getting answers from Lake County. Paula Hoisington,564 E.Desoto Street—congratulated Council Member Bain and stated that elections are important. William Delaney, Jr., 10312 Lake Minneola Shores — suggested moving Council meetings to 6:00pm or 6:30pm. Michael Cramer,208 Nautica Mile Drive—thanked Tod Howard for his time on Council. Mayor Murry asked for virtual comments. Anna Sinclair, 575 W. Minneola Avenue—thanked city leaders, appreciated the easier way to participate, asked the city to help workers affected by the Kroger closure, and encouraged supporting more local, diverse businesses. Benjamin Maynard, 6080 Shavasana Road— asked the city to intervene with the developer after a month of nonstop noise from a nearby well has severely impacted residents' daily lives. Mayor Murry closed public comments. PRESENTATIONS Finance Director Borror presented the fourth quarter budget report.He stated that the fourth-quarter budget report showed the city's revenues exceeded projections while spending stayed below budget, leaving a positive year-end variance.The general fund performed well,and enterprise funds are under budget mainly due to pending project payments. The council was also advised to watch state sales tax revenues, and proposed amendments aim to align the budget with actual results. 2 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING November 18, 2025 Discussion ensued on the year-end financials and reserve funds. The audit is underway and minor adjustments that will take place will be made due to final payments and accounting entries. 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. I — Meeting Minutes Consider approval of the October 7, 2025, Council Workshop and the October 14, 2025, Council Meeting minutes. Item No.2—Interlocal Agreement Consider approval of the third amendment to Wellness Way Consulting Services extend an additional 5 years to September 30, 2030, with the County providing funding not to exceed an additional $35,000 per year and retroactive application to October 1,2025. Item No.3—Grant Award Agreement Approval Consider agreement approval with the State U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Board of Immigration Enforcement Grant Program to foster cooperation and coordination with federal immigration agencies. Item No.4—Justice Assistance Grant Approval Consider Justice Assistance Grant for Rifle D-JG021 Shields with a required cost to the city in the budgeted amount of$6,932. Item No. 5—Resolution No. 2025-041R Consider establishing a uniform policy on Electronic Payments imposing service charges for applicable payments. Item No.6—Resolution No.2025-042R Consider Budget Amendment#5 approval for the Budget Amendment No. S Fiscal Year Ending 2025. Item No.7—Resolution No.2025-043R Consider approval to establish a Senior Citizen Residential Utility Rate Reduction Utilities Discount Program. Item No.8—Piggyback Purchase Approval Consider purchase approval under the Florida Police Vehicles Sheriffs Asso. Contract No. FSA25-VEL33.0 with Garber Ford, Inc. and under the State of Florida Contract No.25-10000-23-STC with Step One Automotive,to purchase 7 police vehicles in the total budgeted amount of$320,053.60. 3 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING November 18,2025 Item No.9—Request for Proposal Award Consider awarding RFP and execute Term Public Communication, social media, and Brand Contracts with True North Marketing+Public Management Services Relations; Doris Bloodsworth d/b/a Crosswords Communications Co. LLC; Appleton Creative, Inc., Redevelopment Management Associates, LLC;and The AD Leaf Marketing Firm d/b/a The AD Leaf. Item No. 10—Purchase Approval Consider the purchase of AXON Tasers, In-Car Axon Enterprise Cameras, and Body-Worn Cameras with a required cost to the city in the budgeted amount of$1,999,777.41 paid over a five-year timeframe according to the payment plan attached. Item No. 11—Martin Luther King,Jr.Day Event Consider approval of the event,with road and Parade Request closures, and signs placed on City property on January 19, 2026 at McKinney Park and continuing to Waterfront Park. Item No. 12—Flordash Events and Road Closure Consider event and road closure request for Request Corporate 5k & Fitnesspalooza on January 24, 2026,and Freedom 5k on July 4,2026. Item No. 13—Road Closure Request Consider the Honor the Fallen 5k approval on 2026 Police Dept. 5K February 21,2026. Item No. 14—Events and Road Closure Requests Consider approval of the 2026 Farmers Market Clermont Main Street and Saturday Food Truck events with road closures. Item No. 15—Events and Road Closure Request Consider approval of Harvest Fest on October 31, Clermont Main Street 2026,and Hometown Holidays on November 21, 2026. Joe Fumasi pulled consent item 2. Council Member Bain pulled consent items 7 and 9. Mayor Murry pulled consent item 14. Council Member Strange motioned to approve Consent Agenda items 1 3-6. 8 10-13 and 15: Seconded by Council Member Bain. The motion passed 4-0 with all members present voicing aye. Item No.2—Interlocal Agreement, Wellness Way Consulting Services Joe Fumasi, 4693 Jumping Jack Way— stated that it is important to know where Lake County funds are coming from and asked Council to hold on any action until Lake County answers. 4 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING November 18,2025 Mayor Murry inquired if this contract with Lake County was time sensitive. Deputy City Manager Matthys stated that the item was not time sensitive and was already retroactive to October and could wait until the next Council meeting. Council Member Strange motioned to table item 2 until the next meeting: Seconded by Council Member Petersen.The motion passed 4-0 with all members present voicing aye. Item No. 7—Resolution No.2025-043R,Residential Utility Rate Reduction Council Member Bain stated that this item is about a four percent senior discount on utility bills for residents 65 and older who live in the home and have no more than one additional person. He questioned whether the discount should apply to all seniors or just year-round,homesteaded residents,rather than temporary or part-time residents. Mayor Murry opened public comments.There were no comments.Mayor Murry closed public comments. Assistant Finance Director Cassidy asked City Attorney Waugh if adding the qualifier to the form of being a year-round homesteaded resident was possible. City Attorney Waugh stated that it was possible. Council Member Strange felt that there needed to be clarification on the purpose of the discount to ensure that it does not become a one-off benefit for a specific group. She was supportive of Council Member Bains suggestion of the homestead restriction but felt Council should workshop the policy to define its goals, whether for affordability,honoring seniors,or attracting them to the area. Council discussed why the discount was set at 65 and older, the potential costs, encouraging residents to use cost-free payment methods and the upcoming rate study. There was a suggestion to have a workshop to review utility policies, including the senior discount, notification procedures, and other potential improvements. The goal would be to clarify policy goals, explore additional discount categories, and address issues like leak notifications and administrative consistency. City Attorney Waugh noted that policies are easiest to defend when they are nondiscriminatory,but if the city chooses a category, like age for seniors, it must have a clear,justifiable reason. He felt a workshop would be helpful so the council could articulate its policy goals and ensure chosen categories comply with legal standards. Council Member Bain motioned to table item 7 until the first meeting in July: Seconded by Council Member Strange. Mayor Murry requested City Manager Van Wagner to schedule a workshop in February or March. The motion passed 4-0 with all members present voicing aye. Item No.9—Request for Proposal Award,Public Communication,social media,and Brand Management Services Council Member Bain shared concern regarding awarding the request for proposal to multiple vendors for city branding, suggesting either choosing a single vendor or bringing the work entirely in-house. Mayor Murry opened public comments. Valerie Schuett,931 W. Montrose Street—expressed the same concerns as Council Member Bain. 5 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING November 18,2025 Doris Bloodsworth,President of Crosswords Communications Company—she spoke about consistency and how her team is passionate and would like to work with the city. Lorri Shabban, President of True North Marketing and Public Relations—spoke about the work that went into the proposals. Jenny May,4062 Greystone Drive—requested consideration of the growing number of Hispanics within the city. Mayor Murry closed public comments. Mayor Murry questioned whether any of the companies fully met the request for proposal requirements as well as the $40,000 budget and mention of possible future budget amendments. He would prefer to keep the work in-house,noting it would be more cost-effective,allow faster response in emergencies,and could be handled by hiring a second staff member rather than relying on outside companies. Council Member Strange stated that city branding is about vision, not just tasks, and the council should guide it. She suggested allowing the top five firms plus the two local Clermont businesses that did not make the cut to present to council so they can evaluate them directly before deciding. Council Member Petersen said that he would prefer having someone in house than hiring a company. Council Member Bain stated that he prefers to keep the focus on the bigger picture branding and communications strategy, while respecting the request for proposal process and the work already done by staff and evaluators. He said Council should go with the highest ranked firm or, if additional review is needed, his preference would be to limit it to the top one or two firms with clear expectations, rather than restarting or expanding the process. City Attorney Waugh informed Council that Procurement rules and state law require the City to follow the published objective criteria,which limits how much discretion Council has in reshuffling ranked proposals or prioritizing local firms. Council can accept the top ranked responses or reject them all, but pulling in lower ranked firms would require strong justification. Council Member Strange motioned to invite the top firm from each evaluator, which are True North,Crossroads Communications and Appleton Creative to make a presentation to this Council: Seconded by Council Member Petersen. Council discussed whether the firms should be present at a regular meeting or a special meeting, and how those presentations should be structured.They spoke about whether to give the firms specific questions and direction or allow them flexibility to present what they feel Council should know. The motion passed 4-0 with all members present voicing aye. Discussion took place on when to have the firms present. There was the suggestion of a special meeting or having it be the last item on the December 9, 2025, agenda. City Attorney Waugh noted that Florida Statute 286.0113 allows the city to exempt proposal presentations so other firms cannot watch and tailor their responses, which may require clearing the room during those presentations. 6 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING November 18, 2025 Council Member Strange Motioned to move this item to the end of the December agenda: Seconded by Council Member Bain. The motion passed 4-0 with all members present voicing aye. Procurement Director Suarez stated that while the presentations are open to the public, presenters are usually asked to leave the room while others are present.Each presentation follows a standard format of 20 minutes, followed by a ten-minute question and answer session, with breaks in between, and public comment is allowed at the end once all presenters have finished. Item No. 14—Events and Road Closure Requests, Clermont Main Street Mayor Murry expressed concern that scheduling the Food Trucks on the first Saturday in June would conflict with the Jerk Festival happening the same day. Mayor Murry opened public comments. There were no comments. Mayor Murry closed public comments. Council discussed the potential conflict between the First Saturday Food Trucks and the Jerk Festival. Council Member Strange saw simultaneous events as a draw for visitors, while Mayor Murry raised concerns about parking,competition between events,and logistics.The consensus was to wait for feedback from Main Street and the Jerk Festival organizers before deciding,potentially tabling the item until the next meeting. Council Member Petersen motioned to table the item to the December 9, 2025, meeting: Seconded by Council Member Strange. Council Member Bain suggested approving all dates except June, giving Main Street their regular events, meanwhile getting input from the Police department and Parks and Recreation on whether staffing can handle two large events at the same time.This lets us move forward without tabling the entire item. Council Member Petersen amended his motion to approve the item with the exclusion of June 2026 until Main Street responds: Seconded by Council Member Strange The motion passed 4-0 with all members present voicing aye. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Item No. 16—Ordinance No.2025-043,Police Pension Plan Final AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CLERMONT; LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE CITY OF CLERMONT POLICE OFFICERS' RETIREMENT PLAN AT CHAPTER 28, ARTICLE III; AMENDING SECTION 28-63, DISABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT, SEVERABILITY, CODIFICATION,THE ADMINISTRATIVE CORRECTION OF SCRIVENERS ERROR, PUBLICATION AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE. City Clerk Howe read the ordinance title aloud. Human Resources Director Ohlinger stated that the ordinance proposed a minor administrative amendment to the police retirement plan to explicitly state the 25 percent minimum nonservice disability benefit required by Florida law.The change has no financial impact, and staff recommends approval. Mayor Murry opened the public hearing.There were no comments.Mayor Murry closed the public hearing. 7 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING November 18, 2025 Council Member Strange motioned to approve Item No. 16 Ordinance No. 2025-043: Seconded by Council Member Petersen. The motion passed by roll call vote 4-0 with all members present voicing aye. NEW BUSINESS Item No. 17—Citizen Request Anthony Grove shared concerns about the safety of the bike and pedestrian trail crossing at Old Highway 50 and Blackstone Lake Road. He stated the increased traffic from nearby development, the confusing traffic signals,and multiple near-miss incidents have created a significant risk of serious injury or death to cyclists and motorists. He asked the city to step in and relocate this section of the trail to make the intersection safer for everyone. Mayor Murry opened the public comment. Valerie Schuett,931 W.Montrose Street—suggested a staggered gate system to force cyclists to stop at the intersection. Mayor Murry asked for virtual comments. Anna Sinclair, 575 W. Minneola Avenue—suggested making a roundabout at that intersection. Mayor Murry closed the public comment. Council discussed the intersection and acknowledged it posed a safety risk. They considered options such as a flyover, flashing stop signs,or staggered gates,noting that any changes would require county approval since the trail is on county property. Council Member Bain suggested forming a citizen advisory group to provide ongoing input on trails, mobility, and safety. Police Chief Graczyk reported no recent serious accidents but noted that enforcement of traffic rules for cyclists, including issuing citations, is possible, though limited by manpower. Mayor Murry stated that Lake County had recently surveyed the area,and City Manager Van Wagner said staff would work with the county and Public Works to explore short-term safety improvements. Mayor Murry brought up a proposed bill in Tallahassee regarding e-bikes, which may require riders on trails to follow road rules, and possibly obtain permits or registration. He asked City Attorney Waugh to track the bill, as it could significantly impact local trails and address current safety and speed concerns on the trails. Council Member Strange noted that this location has come up as potential for a park. She expressed concern about trail users accessing the park safely and emphasized the public's request for immediate action. She asked Economic Development Director Norris what resources or guidance the city should provide to City Manager Van Wagner to quickly address both immediate safety needs and long-term planning with the help of mobility and engineering experts. Economic Development Director Norris stated that he would need to visit the site himself and become familiar with it.Once he does,he will be able to identify any additional issues not covered tonight and then follow up with City Manager Van Wagner to discuss possible ways to address them from his perspective. 8 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING November 18,2025 Councils' consensus was that staff should work with Lake County,the American Bicycle Association,and outside experts to figure out a safe solution for the Highland Ranch area. Barriers are unlikely to be effective, so the focus is on relocation or redesign, with Mr. Grove serving as liaison and the Council possibility of funding recommended actions once costs are clear. Lawson Henry, 4021 Foxhound Drive—suggested posting a sign for bicyclists that tickets will be issued for not stopping at the stop sign. Item No. 18—Amendment to Resolution No.2023-023R This item was removed from the agenda and will be brought back to council later. Item No. 19—Ordinance No.2025-039,Ivey Ridge LSCPA Transmittal/Intro 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. Development Services Planner Kruse presented the item. The City, as the applicant, is requesting a Large- Scale Comprehensive Plan Amendment and Rezoning of the Subject property as a follow-up to the staff_ initiated annexation request. The property is located southeast of Lake Louisa Road and Hammock Ridge Road intersection and is approximately 58 acres.The project is currently moving forward,and construction activity is starting. The property was annexed by City Council on June 10 to capture approximately $1.8 million dollars' worth of impact fees. This is a follow-up to complete the process of the annexation. The current zoning of the property within Lake County is Planned Unit Development with the Urban Low Density future land use category. The compatible zoning within the city would be Planned Unit Development with a future land use designation of Low-Density Residential. The abutting future land use adjacent to the east within the city is Low-Density Residential, which is the established Foxchase Subdivision. The change in the future land use to the City's Low-Density Residential does not propose a conflict between the existing uses and land uses within the area. The proposed future land use is consistent with the City's Comprehensive Plan due to the use being consistent with the remainder of the plan and its goals,objectives and policies. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval, 5-0. Staff recommends transmittal of the Large-Scale Comprehensive Plan Amendment. 9 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING November 18, 2025 Item No.20—Ordinance No.2025-040,Ivey Ridge Rezoning Intro 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 item.Typically,the full annexation package, including the Comprehensive Plan and Rezoning, are presented together. However, to expedite the annexation and capture impact fees before building permits were issued,the annexation was completed on June 10 of this year. The property already had a Planned Unit Development ordinance in place with Lake County, which was being converted into the city's format,with small adjustments made to update county code references to city code. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval with a suggested additional condition, which was already addressed in the ordinance regarding landscaping. Staff recommends approval of the introduction of this ordinance. Mayor Murry opened the public hearing. Jenny May,4062 Greystone Drive—stated that the large-scale annexation would proceed regardless of the vote and that much of the site had already been bulldozed before city review.Her main concern was adding more landscaping and buffers, as well as potential traffic impacts, since the available information and conditions of Lake County were limited. Mayor Murry closed the public hearing. Mayor Murry stated that the city had initially rejected this project,but Lake County later approved.Council agreed that the development raised concerns about infrastructure and traffic. Council Member Strange focused on conditions or tools that could still be applied during rezoning to improve the project. The goal was to ensure the development would better serve the community,both now and in the future. She asked Economic Development Director Norris what the city could do with developments such as this. Economic Development Director Norris suggested taking a week to review the recurring issues from county approved developments and consult with the city attorney on possible tools to address them.The goal would be to explore questions and creative conditions to better protect Clermont's future and maintain quality of life. Council Member Strange asked the Council to table the item to give Economic Development Director Norris time to review the development and offer feedback on possible improvements. Mayor Murry stated that there is not much that can be done at this point, the issue is Lake County not respecting Clermont's wishes with developments. 10 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING November 18,2025 City Attorney Waugh was asked to explain the legal implications if the Council chose not to approve the item. He explained that short-term, nothing would happen if Council did not approve, but long-term the city could be required to apply zoning. The Bert Harris Act prevents the city from interfering with vested property rights, so while minor conditions are okay, major changes that affect investment-backed expectations could be legally risky, which is why the Planned Unit Development was presented as-is. He also noted that SB 180 could apply,but it was not an issue at the time. Council Member Strange explained that the 80-acre development, including the Hammock Ridge Lake Louisa Road property,was essentially like a small town that should provide residents with opportunities to live, work, and play. The project had gone through Lake County without full city input,which limited the ability to impose meaningful restrictions which legally tied Councils hands. Development Services Planner Kruse clarified that annexing the property allowed the city to capture impact fees and align the zoning and future land use with our framework. Council Member Strange stated that her goal was to find ways to improve it,create community spaces,and ensure long-term benefits for residents without creating conflict with the developer. City Attorney Waugh informed Council that,after further research,the city probably would not get sued or forced to act. He said that under the annexation rules, the county's rules would just stay in place until the city updated our Comprehensive Plan and Zoning. Council Member Strange motioned to table item 19 until the December meeting, giving staff time to sit down with the developer and see if they can come up with a plan. Second, by Council Member Bain. Discussion ensued regarding whether delaying the item would affect the project, how county standards applied, and whether giving staff additional time could identify any opportunities to improve the project before approval. Council Member Stranize motioned to table item 19,Ordinance No.2025-039 to December 9 2025: Seconded by Council Member Bain. The motion passed 4-0 with all members present voicing aye. Council Member Strange motioned to table item 20,Ordinance No.2025-040 to December 9,2025: Seconded by Council Member Petersen.The motion passed 4-0 with all members present voicing aye. The next 2 items were heard together and voted on separately. Item No.21—Ordinance No.2025-041,McKinnon Groves LSCPA Transmittal/Intro 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 11 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING November 18, 2025 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.22—Ordinance No.2025-042,McKinnon Groves Rezoning Intro 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.The City,as the applicant,is requesting a Large- Scale Comprehensive Plan Amendment and 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 520,249 square feet of non-residential use. The project is currently moving forward, and construction activity is starting.The property was annexed by City Council on June 10 prior to building permit issuance to capture approximately $8.3 million dollars' worth of impact fees on the residential portion of the development.No commercial construction has started at the moment. The current zoning of the property within Lake County is Planned Unit Development with the Wellness Way North future land use category. 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 future land use within the city would be identical to the County's,a future land use designation of Wellness Way North. The future land use designation aligns with the master plan for the Wellness Way Area and is consistent with the City's Future Land Use Map and Figure 2.1.5 Wellness Way North District Location. The change in future land use to the city's Wellness Way North does not propose a conflict between the existing uses and land uses within the area. The proposed future land use is consistent with the city's Comprehensive Plan and its goals,objectives and policies.The Planned Unit Development zoning does not propose a conflict with the existing uses and land uses in the area. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval, 3-2 for the Comprehensive Plan Amendment.The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval,4-1 for the rezoning,with the added condition that the developer and property owner provided advance burn notification. Staff recommends transmittal of the Large-Scale Comprehensive Plan Amendment, Ordinance 2025-041 and introduction of Rezoning Ordinance 2025-042. 12 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING November 18,2025 Mayor Murry opened the public hearing. Joe Fumasi,2693 Jumping Jack Way—expressed concerns about the lack of water infrastructure,suggested coordinating with the developer on a water system for the Wellness Way area and urged the city to stop controlled burns near future residential development due to safety concerns. Jenny May,4062 Greystone Drive—stated that the Native Tree Society had raised concerns about controlled burns on the eastern side of the property and requested coordination with the developer to salvage and replant trees before clearing the southern portion. Mayor Murry closed the public hearing. Council discussed the process of controlled burns. Council Member Strange proposed several changes to the ordinance. She began by suggesting clarification in Section 6A on landscaping requirements to explicitly reference compliance with the City of Clermont and confirmed that it effectively incorporated the previously adopted yard pattern book. She then reviewed the"may include" language in Section 8, subsections C and E, and asked whether certain elements of the wellness corridor could be made mandatory by requiring a minimum number of listed features. City Attorney Waugh explained that while setting a minimum is possible, its effectiveness depends on how the items are structured and whether a site plan has already been approved, noting that vested rights could prevent retroactive application. Council Member Strange also pointed out minor typographical errors in Section 17, including the missing "d" in"and" for fire and emergency medical services, which Attorney Waugh confirmed were straightforward to correct.Finally,she requested that the timeframe for constructing the public safety facility be changed so that the city would have ten years from the delivery of the deed, rather than from the ordinance's effective date, to allow adequate time once the property was conveyed. The Council agreed to move forward with that change. Council Member Petersen motioned to approve Ordinance 2025-041,with the stipulations that were mentioned in section 17: Seconded by Council Member Strange. Development Services Planner Kruse informed the Council that the motion made for Ordinance No. 2025- 041 did not include the amendment to Section 17,as that amendment is part of Ordinance No.2025-042. Council Member Strange motioned to transmit/introduce item 21, Ordinance No. 2025- 041: Seconded by Council Member Petersen. Council discussed whether the developer could accommodate water or wastewater infrastructure on the donated three-acre parcel, noting the property already had approved wells and was unlikely to provide additional acreage. While ten acres would better serve Wellness Way, the parcel was more relevant to Hartwood Marsh, and the developer seemed willing to work with the city if possible. Council agreed to leave the plan as is and proceed with transmittal, leaving potential utility discussions for staff to address later. The motion passed 4-0 with all members present voicing aye. 13 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING November 18, 2025 Council Member Petersen motioned to introduce Ordinance No. 2025-042, with the stipulations in section 17. 10 years from the date of the deed not the ordinance: Seconded by Council Member Strange.The motion passed 4-0 with all members present voicing aye. REPORTS CITY MANAGER REPORT Deputy City Manager Matthys reported on the well in Wellness Way,the owner applied for a permit which just completed the review process. They have a vinyl fence on order which should lower the decibels. City Manager Van Wagner— • Job Fair at the Arts and Recreation Center tomorrow from 1 Oam to 3pm. • The city will be closed for Thanksgiving. • The next Council Meeting will be December 9. • Light up Clermont is on December 5,and the Parade is on December 6. Mayor Murry informed Council that Noah Lyle will be in attendance for Light Up Clermont. CITY ATTORNEY REPORT City Attorney Waugh— • In discussion with Duke Energy on a renewal which should be ready in February or March. • Provided an update on the Encompass property access case presented to the Code Enforcement Board;the City did not prevail,and the decision may be appealed. • Reviewed House Bill 180, which proposes allowing damages and attorney fees if a code enforcement action is determined to be unreasonable. CITY COUNCIL REPORT Council Member Petersen—No report. Council Member Strange— • Spoke about attracting small businesses and Economic Development in the city. • The tourism development plan advanced to the County Commission,with capital funding opening in January and strong county support for partnering on long-term,sports-related tourism and related capital projects. • Attended the CCA fundraiser last week; I learned about the local Oyster Bar's coastal project, which recycles oyster shells to help replenish waterways. Council Member Bain— • Spoke about the closing of Kroger and the support of staff and the city for our neighbor. Mayor Murry— • Requested City Attorney Waugh review the E-bike bill in legislation. • A Property Tax proposal will be on the ballot next year, ranging from total elimination to scaling back homestead. • This Saturday, East Ridge High School is doing a community food giveaway. • Requested an update on Hancock Road. 14 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING November 18, 2025 City Manager Van Wagner stated that Lennar is waiting on the bond to be approved by Lake County for them to move forward. • Attended the Veterans Day parade and he was the Grand Marshall • Thanked all the citizens who attended the mayor's luncheon at Piesano's. • There will be a fundraiser on Sunday at 3pm at the Arts and Recreation Center with proceeds going to Jamaica. • Noted the new stop sign at 51 Street and Minneola. • Commented on the number of Council Members receiving printed packets. • Asked staff to monitor all bills and legislative activity in January. • Happy Thanksgiving. 15 City of Clermont MINUTES REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING November 18,2025 ADJOURN: With no further comments,this meeting adjourned at 7:29 pm. APPROVED: k Tim Murry,Mayor ATTEST: Tracy Ackroyd Howe. C City Clerk 16