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November 19, 2013
Regular Meeting
The regular Tuesday meeting of the Okaloosa County Board of
County Commissioners was called to order at 8:30 a.m. at the
Water & Sewer Administration Building in Fort Walton Beach.
Members present were Don R. Amunds, Chairman; Dave Parisot, Vice
Chairman; Wayne Harris; Nathan Boyles; and Kelly Windes. Also
present were Gary J. Stanford, Finance Director, Clerk’s Office;
Ernie Padgett, County Administrator; and John Dowd, County
Attorney.
PRESENTATION — H.E.R.O. AWARD
Mr. Padgett asked Sam Sims, Sign Tech 2 for the Public Works
Department Road Division, to come forward. Upon request, the
county installs a memorial sign on roadways where a _ fatal
accident has occurred and the family of the deceased is notified
when the sign is to be installed. Mr. Sims was placing a sign
at Kennedy Bridge where Rocky Lucas was killed in a motorcycle
accident. Mr. Lucas’ sister, Linda Lucas, was present and
became emotionally distraught. Mr. Padgett told of Mr. Sims’
kindness and the assistance provided to Ms. Lucas. Public Works
Director John Hofstad nominated Mr. Sims for the Humanitarian
Efforts Recognized by Okaloosa County Award (H.E.R.O. Award).
Mr. Sims was presented with a plaque and given a round of
applause.
PRESENTATIONS - EMPLOYEE SERVICE AWARDS
Mr. Padgett presented service awards to the following employees:
Ronald Cliff------- Ten Years
Todd Gay----------- Ten Years
Dorothy Paice------ Fifteen Years
PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER UPDATES
Mrs. Kathy Newby, Public Information Officer, opened with a
promo for the Okaloosa Today television program which airs on
Cox Channel 6. Mrs. Newby highlighted the Public Works
Department, showing photographs of repair work for a sink hole
caused by pipe failure on Sycamore Drive in Niceville. The
first annual Okaloosa County Airports Chili Cook Off was held
with proceeds going to the United Way of Okaloosa County.
Airports Director Sunil Harman was the Judges’ Choice winner and
Anita Brinson of U.S. Airways was the People’s Choice winner.
November 19, 2013 -1- Minute Book 70, Page {137
Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners
Mrs. Newby reminded everyone the Eco-Nomic Living Expo is
scheduled for February 1 at the Emerald Coast Convention Center.
COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR‘ S UPDATE
Mr. Padgett reported the county’s response to the Auditor
General's Report was transmitted to Tallahassee last Tuesday.
He said he is not certain when the final AGO Report will be
issued.
Mr. Padgett advised this afternoon (beginning at 1:00 p.m.) he
and four other members of the Tourist Development Director
screening committee will begin interviewing candidates. The
interviews will be followed by a “meet and greet” at 6:00 p.m.
at the Convention Center.
Mr. Padgett stated he plans to place an item on the next agenda
for clarification of the surplus equipment policy.
COMMISSTONER‘'S MINUTE
Mr. Boyles stated 150 years ago a backwoods lawyer gave a
special address honoring fallen soldiers and concluded that
speech with government of the people, by the people, and for the
people shall not perish from the earth.
Mr. Parisot reported a training session was held yesterday on
the Sunshine Law and ethics. He noted 134 elected officials and
staff were present for the training program provided by the
State Ethics Commission and the State Attorney General’s Office.
Mr. Windes stated he was invited to Washington D.C. by Senator
Rubio to speak on the Sustainable Fisheries Act. Both Senators
Nelson and Rubio were in attendance.
Mr. Harris said he has no comments.
PUBLIC COMMENT RELATED TO THE CURRENT AGENDA
There were no public comments at this time.
CONSENT AGENDA APPROVAL
Mr. Parisot stated item #17 is the adoption of the Aviation
Advisory Committee Policy. He said one section calls for
appointment of five members at large and suggested each
November 19, 2013 -2- Minute Book 70, Page 138
Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners
commissioner appoint one person from his district. Airports
Director Sunil Harman said he did not want to prescribe the
criteria for the appointments and that is why they were silent
on the matter. He also noted this committee is already
constituted. Mr. Parisot suggested the committee be
reconstituted and anyone desiring to sit on the committee to
send an application to the County Administrator’s Office. Mr.
Amunds noted that will require an amendment to the current
policy.
Mr. Parisot referenced Item #18 which requests a public hearing
be scheduled to consider an ordinance repealing/replacing the
Airports’ Ground Transportation Policy. He suggested that be
scheduled for the second meeting in December in South County.
Mr. Parisot made motion, seconded by Mr. Harris, to approve the
Consent Agenda with the above noted changes.
1. Public Safety: Approve Certificate of Public Convenience
and Necessity for the Okaloosa County Public Safety
Department to provide non-emergency medical transportation
within Okaloosa County from January 10, 2014 ‘through
January 9, 2016
2. Public Works: Resolution amending Resolution No. 07-108,
removing stipulations to prevent construction of a
concrete driveway
RESOLUTION NO. 13-182
3. Resolution authorizing Surety Land Title to prepare
quitclaim deeds for successful bidders converting their
Okaloosa Island leasehold interests to fee simple titles
(Roy M. Young; Robert H. Griffin and Linda M. Griffin;
Joshua L. Dodson and Lella Erin Dodson)
RESOLUTION NO. 13-183
4. Public Works: Special Public Event Permit request from
Worldwide Spirit Association to hold WSA Beach Nationals
Cheerleading Event at The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island,
March 29-30, 2014
5. Public Works: Approve Addendum #2 to Contract #C14~2099-SW
with The Environmental Quality Company, addition of items
and materials to pricing list
6. Public Safety: Approval to purchase and implement
Workforce Ready Timekeeping System from Kronos, Inc., for
eleven EMS stations at a total cost of $65,811
7. Purchasing: Request to purchase two correctional vans off
the state contract from Hub City Ford—-one for $32,495.80
and one for $33,295.80
November 19, 2013 -3- Minute Book 70, Page 139
Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16,
17.
18.
19.
20.
Growth Management: Appointment of Elliot Kampert as
Okaloosa County’s representative to the Tri-County
Community Council’s Board of Directors for 2014
Proclamation designating November as Pancreatic Cancer
Month in Okaloosa County
Airports: Final contract payment in the amount of
$5,751.66 to GAT Airline Ground Support for skycap services
for curbside baggage and escort services
Corrections: Final contract payment in the amount of
$4,040 to Securus Technologies for installation and
operation of inmate telephones and related equipment
Public Works: Accept for recording two drainage easements
in Bella Vista Estates; one from J. Steve Burks and wife,
Michele R. Burks and the second -one from Jack Carey
Public Works: Fy 2014 Florida Fish and Wildlife
Conservation Commission Artificial Reef Construction Grant
application
Public Works: Appointment of Gerald Rush to Parks Advisory
Committee to serve remainder of Mike WrightReynolds’ three-
year term (position expires October 2015)
Purchasing: Recommendation to award bid for packaged
generator system to Energy Systems Southeast, LLC as low
bidder meeting specifications with a bid of $65,215
Public Works: Reappointment of Parks Advisory Committee
members to three-year terms: Jody Smallwood, Maryl Bednar,
Carol Bernich, and Paige Floyd Hart
Airports: Approval of Aviation Advisory Committee Policy
(NOTE: See discussion above under Consent Agenda heading. )
Airports: Authorization to advertise for public hearing on
Ground Transportation Policy at the December 17, 2013
meeting
Water & Sewer: Lease renewal with Joseph E. McKenzie of
Joe’s Upholstery for Unit 310F Oddfellow Road in Fort
Walton Beach; annual rent is $5,088
Finance: Budget Resolutions and Budget Transfers
(a) Resolution amending FY 2013 Budget, General Fund
(appropriations from various sources)
RESOLUTION NO. 13-184 (BA #157)
(6b) Resolution amending FY 2013 Budget, Emergency Medical
Services Enterprise Fund (ambulance fees)
RESOLUTION NO. 13-185 (BA #158)
{c) Resolution amending FY 2014 Budget, General Fund
(hazardous materials planning and prevention grant)
RESOLUTION NO. 13-186 (BA #6)
November 19, 2013 -4- Minute Book 70, Page 149
Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners
(d) Resolution amending FY 2014 Budget, General Fund
(appropriations from City of Crestview for fixed-route
transit service)
RESOLUTION NO. 13-187 (BA #7)
(e) Resolution amending FY 2014 Budget, Emergency Medical
Services Enterprise Fund (EMS County Grant)
RESOLUTION NO. 13-188 (BA #8)
(f) Budget Transfer: Capital Outlay Construction Fund;
Technical assistance for Crestview Courthouse project;
BT-14-05
(g) Budget Transfer: General Fund; MOA with City of
Crestview for fixed-route transit service from
November 4, 2013 to February 2, 2014; BYT-14-06
21. BCC Records: Approval of Minutes for October 1, 2013
Regular Meeting; October 4, 2013 Special Called Meeting;
and October 15, 2013 Regular Meeting
22. Public Works: Authorization for staff to provide
assistance to Sheriff's Department by conducting grading
work with bulldozer at Grimes Avenue firing range site in
Crestview
5 yeas.
GROWTH MANAGEMENT - FINAL PLAT APPROVAL FOR MOSSY OAKS
PLANTATION PHASE II
Mr. Elliot Kampert, Growth Management Director, presented for
approval the final plat for Mossy Oaks Plantation Phase II, a
36-lot single-family residential subdivision. The plat is
submitted by Southern Engineering Group on behalf of Devin Jones
and Khader Daoud. The property is located on Highway 4 and
Garret Mill Road in Baker and contains 24.31 acres. Mr. Boyles
made motion, seconded by Mr. Harris, to grant final plat
approval for Mossy Oaks Plantation Phase II. 5 yeas.
PUBLIC WORKS — MOSSY OAKS PLANTATION PHASE II, ACCEPT INTO
TEMPORARY MAINTENANCE PROGRAM
Mr. John Hofstad, Public Works Director, requested approval to
accept Mossy Oaks Plantation Phase II into the county’s
temporary maintenance (18-month warranty period) program. Mr.
Boyles made motion, seconded by Mr. Harris, to accept Mossy Oaks
Plantation Phase II into the 18-month warranty period. 5 yeas.
November 19, 2013 -5- Minute Book 70, Page 141
Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners
PUBLIC WORKS - VETERANS PARK IMPROVEMENTS
Mr. Hofstad stated staff has been working on concept drawings
for the development of the remaining acreage on Okaloosa Island.
He stated County Engineer Jason Autrey will detail the ideas for
Board consideration.
Mr. Autrey noted the Public Works’ staff and the Tourist
Development Department (TDD) staff have worked together on these
concepts. Portions of the 35-acre parcel have been leased to
Wild Willy’s and the Marine Life Center. Other site
improvements include a Convention Center Exhibit Pad and
additional boat trailer parking for Marler Park. Approximately
15 acres remain and are planned for development into Veterans
Park. He said Public Works has taken on this project with a
target date of March 1 for opening of the park.
Phase I would consist of a walking trail and tie into the
existing parking lot at the Emerald Coast Convention Center and
provide access around the existing lake. Options for Phase II
include coastal dune access, boardwalk to restrooms and boat
launch area at Marler Park. Phase III would extend on that
concept with vehicular parking and bathrooms in the center of
the park. Mr. Autrey said staff would like for the Board to
consider a memorial wall to be constructed at the park entrance
to honor the different branches of the military.
Mr. Amunds stated the boat trailer parking at Marler Park is
scheduled to be opened in the spring and asked if the walking
trails could be completed by then. Mr. Autrey replied that the
Phase I walking trails could definitely be completed by spring.
Mr. Harris questioned the Phase III concept and stated there was
never consideration for a large parking lot with bathrooms in
the middle of the park nor a large monument in the center, A
brief discussion ensued regarding the commemoration for the five
branches of the military. Mr. Autrey said there would be
recognition of some type but could not commit to a stone wall.
Recognition could be a plaque and flag.
Ms. Paula Hudson, representing the Okaloosa Island Leaseholders
Association (OILA), referred to the Restrictive Covenants for
Okaloosa Island and said when the Board of County Commissioners
took over the responsibility for the Island from the Okaloosa
Island Authority, it took on the responsibility of protecting
the land and recreational areas. Ms. Hudson stated one year ago
November 19, 2013 -6- Minute Book 70, Page 142
Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners
the Board approved leases with the Guif Coast Marine Life Center
and Wild Willy’s for the two front parcels, adding the lease
fees were to go to maintenance of the remaining 15 acres which
were to remain in their natural state. She noted that a small
parcel was also provided to the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge
for rehabilitation of animals. Ms. Hudson expressed concern
that enlarging Marler Park could displace native
animals/wildlife and asked for the remaining property to be
retained in its wooded, natural state. Upon inquiry by Mr.
Harris, Ms. Hudson stated the OILA has no objection to the
walking trails. Mr. Amunds asked Ms. Hudson if she would object
to a pavilion and water fountains. She replied “leave it
natural” and felt a pavilion and rest areas would destroy the
wild life habitat.
Ms. Gloria Turner, Shalimar, spoke on behalf of the Parks
Advisory Committee and said the committee never agreed to
changing the natural environment of this area. She felt the
entrance should be through the parking lot at the Convention
Center.
Mr. Parisot stated Ted Corcoran, President of the Fort Walton
Beach Chamber of Commerce, could not be here this morning but
sent a letter. Mr. Amunds stated he received a call that a
representative of the Chamber would be present and was told to
disregard the letter.
Mr. L. A. Woodall, representing the Fort Walton Beach Chamber of
Commerce, stated they were one of the stakeholders which met to
discuss development of Veterans Park. He said the Chamber would
like for the park to remain in as natural a state as possible.
Mr. Woodall asked for the letter from Mr. Corcoran to be
disregarded because the Chamber did not have all the information
to comment on when the letter was written. He said the Chamber
will leave the decision to the Board and to its quality staff to
make these decisions.
Mr. Windes stated he agrees with Mr. Harris on the walking
trails option and said there is no need for any concrete. Mr.
Harris made motion, seconded by Mr. Parisot, to approve Phases I
and II and to disregard Phase TII. Mr. Harris amended his
motion to agree to a small memorial at the entrance. Mr.
Parisot confirmed his second. Mr. Hofstad stated the proposal
for a memorial will be brought back to the Board for
consideration. 5 yeas.
November 19, 2013 -7- Minute Book 70, Page 143
Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners
PUBLIC HEARING - ORDINANCE AMENDING LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE,
AMENDING TEXT IN CHAPTER 2
Mr. Stanford read the advertised legal notice for public hearing
to consider the request of the Growth Management Department to
amend Ordinance No. 91-01 (Land Development Code) by revising
Chapter 2 Zoning Regulations, Section 2.20.00 “Special Uses” and
creating new subsection 2.20.09 entitled “Aircraft Restricted
Zone.”
Mr. Elliot Kampert, Growth Management Director, stated this
proposed ordinance is in response to issues relating to
helicopter sightseeing operations beginning in and around the
Destin Pass area. He pointed out this is the second hearing on
this issue and he will not read the entire staff report because
it was discussed at the last hearing.
Mr. Kampert stated staff felt creating an aircraft restricted
zone would be a prudent measure to prevent conflicts involving
water-resource use in the East Pass and Destin Harbor area. A
copy of the Boating Accidents Statistical Report 2012 published
by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission was
shown on the screen. He said the report shows a preponderance
of boating accidents occurring in the proposed restricted zone.
Mr. Kampert stated the proposed ordinance does not include an
exemption for emergency and military aircraft in the zone but if
it is approved, he will ask the Board to include that exemption.
Mrs. Kathy Newby, speaking as the Public Information Officer
(PIO) and as a wife of a helicopter pilot, stated she believes
the real issue here is that of one tourist’s experience
impacting that of another tourist's experience. She asked, “How
do we make these work together.” Mrs. Newby said as the PIO she
has gotten many telephone calls about Timberview Helicopters and
the callers’ primary concerns are safety. She asked if the
helicopter pilots have the ability to respond to a mechanical or
engine failure in such close proximity to people on the beach
and in the water.
Mr. Michael Percy, Fort Walton Beach, stated he is a seaplane
pilot and his company manufactures and sells amphibious
aircraft. He said he enjoys showing his customers the beauty of
Destin from the air and water and lands there to rest, refuel
and eat. Mr. Percy advised the proposed restriction would limit
seaplane landing options around Destin. He said on calms days
you could land outside the restricted zone but for most days,
November 19, 2013 -8- Minute Book 70, Page 144
Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners
the restriction would remove Destin as a destination. Mr. Percy
pointed out this area is only crowded for a small part of the
year. He advised that seaplane pilots are highly trained, want
to protect their investments, and have not caused any accidents
(reference to earlier boating accident report presented by Mr.
Kampert) .
Mr. Percy stated the Okaloosa County Planning Commission
unanimously rejected this second attempt at regulation, noting
there is no evidence there is a problem or if there were a
problem that this regulation would solve it. He asked the Board
to support the Planning Commission’s recommendation.
Upon inquiry by Mr. Amunds, Mr. Percy said he could find other
places to land but not to refuel and eat. Mr. Percy spoke about
fair and equal use of the waters. He pointed out the proposed
ordinance will not change the complaints about noise because the
Sightseeing flights will still be over the beaches and Crab
Island will always be a loud, noisy place.
Mr. Boyles posed several questions. Mr. Percy answered when his
seaplane hits the water, it is considered a vessel; the no wake
zone would apply to him; and when taking off the seaplane does
have a small wake. Mr. Percy pointed out seaplanes are already
regulated by federal and state rules.
Ms. Nicole Black, Fort Walton Beach, came forward to voice her
opposition to the proposed ordinance. She stated she is not a
business owners but a realtor. Ms. Biack felt the proposed
regulations will not resolve the issues which have been cited,
are an unnecessary restriction, and will set a precedent for
other restrictions.
Mr. Justin Johnson, owner of Timberview Helicopters, said he has
operations in Kansas City and Atlanta and typically all aircraft
operations in cities are around densely populated areas. He
stated pilots are trained to get back to an airport or open area
in the event of engine failure or other mechanical issues. Mr.
Johnson stated his helicopters fly off the beach, not over the
beach. He pointed out they do not land on water (land on the
barge) and do not interact with boats. Mr. Johnson emphasized
it is a commercial activity and not a private pilot with a new
license.
Mr. Johnson stated his research for the past ten-year period
reveals no report of an accident involving a boat and a
November 19, 2013 ~9- Minute Book 70, Page 145
Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners
helicopter in the State of Florida. With regard to noise, he
said the highway traffic is louder than the helicopter. He
requested approval to submit the following documents: FAA
Determination of Landing Area Proposal dated November 12, 2013;
FAA Certificate of Waiver, Banner-towing Operations; FAA Waiver
or Letter of Authorization Issuance and Applicability; and FAA
Letter of Authorization Summary of Authorizations (commercial
air tour operations). (NOTE: These items were given to the
Clerk and have been placed in the public hearing file.)
Upon inquiry by Mr. Parisot, Mr. Johnson stated except for take-
off there is no minimum AGL flying time. Mr. Parisot stated the
complaints he hears are low flight height and noise. He pointed
out the Air Force restriction is 1500 feet. Mr. Johnson said he
has seen the military fly over the water at 500 feet and
sometimes lower. He added that he flies higher than 500 feet in
a crowded environment and avoids fixed-wing aircraft.
Mr. Boyles asked Mr. Johnson if the red zone were compressed to
the existing no wake zone, if he could live with that. Mr.
Johngon answered that he is not going to operate near people.
He said areas are being penciled off where there are no
problems, such as beyond Crab Island. Mr. Boyles asked if that
igs a “no.” Mr. Johnson said he does not understand the no wake
restriction when it is not a relevant factor.
Ms. Jamie Jones, Destin, stated she is a business owner on the
Destin Harbor and Harbor Chair for the Destin Chamber of
Commerce. She said the helicopter operates 100 yards from her
business and it is difficult to answer telephone calls. Ms.
Jones stated it is disruptive and “it does not work on the
harbor.”
Mr. Guy Tadlock, Destin, stated he is President of the Holiday
Isle Owners Association and the Holiday Isle owners support the
proposed ordinance. He said they feel the aerial tours should
take off and land from a land base or from the airport. He said
their board of directors is concerned about the safety of its
residents and the boating public. Mr. Tadlock noted there are
200 to 300 condo units and townhomes within a 1500-foot radius
of the helipad, as well as Harbor Walk and the fishing fleet.
He encouraged the Board to adopt the ordinance and keep the
harbor safe.
Mr. Roger Bias, Baker, said he hears a lot of rhetoric about
safety but it seems to be primarily complaints about noise. He
November 19, 2013 -10- Minute Book 70, Page 146
Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners
spoke about the decibel levels of the type helicopter being used
for the sightseeing tours and compared that to the noise level
in this meeting. Mr. Bias was of the opinion jet skis and boats
would generate more noise than the helicopter. He also said
there are already rules in place from the FAA to protect the
non-participating public.
Mr. Chris Sullivan, Highway 98, stated he is an attorney for Mr.
Percy’s business. He noted that as he drove over the bridge at
’ Destin today and there were no boats out. Mr. Sullivan said it
is fairly busy during the summer but not so much during the rest
of the year. He was of the opinion the restricted area appears
to be arbitrary and unnecessary. Mr. Sullivan stated the
proposed legislation is not artfully drafted and it attempts to
define aircraft. He referred to jet packs and said it is a jet
ski with a hose. Mr. Sullivan did not recommended approval of
the proposed ordinance.
Mr. Percy’s wife, Bridgett, stated she disagrees with the
ordinance. She emphasized this is an aviation community.
Mr. Merlin Allen, Miramar Beach, said he represents Keith Howard
and the Howard Group. He stated when he and his wife went to
Las Vegas they took a helicopter tour. Mr. Allen stated he did
some research and learned that the City of Las Vegas does not
allow helicopters in the city and most of them take off and land
from the airport, pointing out Las Vegas knows how to preserve
tourism. He said he supports the ordinance.
Mr. Robert Gore, Highway 98, said as a boat captain he has not
seen any incidents involving aircraft. He stated the federal
navigable channel cannot be blocked.
Mr. Claude Perry, Destin Harbor, stated no one is trying to
destroy industry or Mr. Percy's aircraft business or prevent
anyone from enjoying this area. He felt the ordinance is
necessary to protect tourist and boaters. Mr. Perry read a
letter from Tim Finnegan of Shalimar which voiced opposition to
granting a permit for Timberview Helicopters and supported
passage of the proposed ordinance.
Mr. Mario Wolfe, Crestview, stated he is a commercial pilot and
operated a sightseeing helicopter for two years in South Dakota
over the national monument and parks. He said he is very
familiar with the aircraft. Mr. Wolfe noted helicopters are
designed to operate outside an airport and that is why life
November 19, 2013 -11- Minute Book 70, Page 147
Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners
flights use them. He stated he is against the ordinance and
does not see safety as the issue.
Mr. Mike Griffith, reporter with The Bay Beacon, referred to the
controversy between Eglin Air Force Base and the City of
Valparaiso regarding the F-35s. The issues were noise and
safety. Mr. Griffith pointed out that one report says many
parts of the city are not suitable for residential uses yet the
Board supports the F-35s at Eglin. He asked why the
inconsistencies.
Mrs. Mary Anne Windes, Chairman of the Destin Chamber of
Commerce, stated they are trying to make Destin a great place to
live and play. She said the population of the city swells from
12,000 to more than 100,000 during the tourist season. Mrs.
Windes said many times people get off a land base so they cannot
be regulated. She asked the Board to go forward with the
proposed regulations.
Mr. Sandy Williams, Fort Walton Beach, stated he is the founder
of Boomer Aviation. He spoke of his flying experience and his
banner-towing business. Mr. Williams pointed out many things
have changed after the 9-11 tragedy, such as no planes above
stadiums. He cautioned the Board against any regulations which
could hurt businesses. Mr. Williams also felt the laws already
on the books should be enforced rather than making new ones. He
added there are enough rules out there already from the FAA and
NTSB. Mr. Williams continued, saying that from observing the
two meetings on this issue, the problem is with helicopters but
the proposed ordinance will affect other businesses.
Mr. Parisot directed his comments to Mr. Dowd. He said
yesterday there was a question about grandfathering-in status
for existing businesses and asked if Timberview Helicopters
would be included in that grandfather provision. Mr. Dowd
replied that businesses currently operating would be
grandfathered in and if they discontinued operations for six
months, they could not continue.
Ms. Myra Williams, Destin, stated she is pro-business but not at
the expense of people with long-standing businesses being
affected. She said some of the visitors to our area have come
generation after generation. Ms. Williams stated this is not
Miami and Destin has its own distinct ambiance and she would
like for it to continue. She felt the helicopters should
operate out of the Destin Airport.
November 19, 2013 -12- Minute Book 70, Page 148
Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners
Mr. Johnson referred to the documents he submitted earlier and
said where he is located is designated as a private airport and
FAA has jurisdiction over it.
Mr. Boyles noted there must be appropriate zoning for an airport
designation and local government entities are involved in the
process. Mr. Kampert commented that an individual cannot just
go to FAA and get a backyard airport determination.
Ms. Misty Hurley, Destin, said this issue seems to be narrowed
to helicopters and noise. However, the proposed regulations
will affect so many other businesses. She felt adoption of the
ordinance would do more harm than good.
Mr. Amunds closed the public comment portion and brought the
discussion back to the Board. Mr. Windes said we are not
talking about Miami, Kansas City, Cocoa Beach or South Dakota
but the congested water way in Destin. He stated this has been
under review for 13 months. Mr. Windes noted Destin pays one-
third of the ad valorem taxes and two-thirds of the bed taxes.
He said there needs to be reasonable and common sense rules. He
continued, stating the waterways are part of the economic engine
and he also realizes Destin is not a sleepy fishing village any
more.
Mr. Windes stated he has an amended version of the ordinance for
consideration. His proposal will change the restricted area and
he asked Mr. Kampert to come forward and show the proposed
changes on the map. He felt this change would be an adequate
compromise.
Mr. Boyles said he thinks Mr. Windes’ proposal is in keeping
with the direction he is heading. He asked about jetpack
issues, noting the Board can define aircraft issues how it wants
to. Mr. Boyles stated under the current proposed ordinance
jetpacks are considered aircraft and he does not think that it
is necessary to include them on that list.
Mr. Windes stated if you spend much time in the bridge area, you
know about the congestion. He said jetpacks are very
distinctive and out of the mainstream.
Mr. Harris said he has wrestled with this for 13 months and
thinks the ordinance is arbitrary and capricious. He stated he
has no doubt this is about the helicopters but it has included
November 19, 2013 -13- Minute Book 70, Page 449
Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners
the jetpacks, Mr. Percy’s business, and others. Mr. Harris said
there is no data saying there is an aircraft problem in this
area. He asked Mr. Percy about the areas where he lands (color
codes were used on the map). Mr. Percy said he has landed in
the purple and green areas. When asked by Mr. Harris if
adoption of the ordinance would put him out of business, Mr.
Percy replied, “no.” However, Mr. Percy said it may put Destin
off limits for him and landing there will become dependent on
wind, waves, and boat traffic.
Mr. Harris asked Mr. Johnson how this proposal will affect him.
Mr. Johnson replied that he does not operate within the proposed
restricted area. Mr. Harris said Mr. Johnson indicated he was
agreeable to the compromise and told him the western portion of
the area on the southwest side of the bridge would be adequate.
Mr. Johnson replied that he did have a site but there were
problems with currents, dealing with people and the location of
the bird sanctuary. Mr. Harris said his primary concern is not
putting people out of business. Mr. Amunds commented they want
the freedom to operate where they want to without restrictions.
Mr. Harris stated he believes Mr. Windes’ compromise is trying
to accommodate as many people as possible.
Upon inquiry by Mr. Parisot, Mr. Percy said you cannot see the
lines of the restricted area from an aircraft. Mr. Parisot said
he assumes it will be done with GPS coordinates. Mr. Parisot
stated one thing that is key is the Destin Harbor belongs to the
City of Destin and he wished they had drafted this regulation.
He felt this to be a Destin issue and asked if the Board could
table this item until after the Destin City Council “chimes in.”
Mr. Parisot said he believes the proposed regulation is to
control the helicopter operations, referencing the petitions
signed by Destin business owners opposing that operation. He
stated if the ordinance is adopted, it will not solve a problem
with the helicopters because that business will be
grandfathered-in. Mr. Parisot advised that he cannot support
this change.
Discussion continued. Mr. Windes said the commissioners are not
there every day but he is there and sees the issues. He said
there needs to be some kind of solution. Mr. Windes stated
there would be markers for the designated areas which will be
distinguishable from the air. With regard to the grandfather
provision, Mr. Dowd stated that provision is included in the
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Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners
ordinance. Upon inquiry by Mr. Harris, Mr. Dowd stated it would
preclude future business in that area.
Mr. Windes made motion, seconded for discussion by Mr. Boyles,
to approve the ordinance with the change to the restricted area
as previously proposed by Mr. Windes. Mr. Boyles stated he can
support this motion if Mr. Windes will amend it by pulling out
jetpacks. Mr. Windes accepted this amendment. Mr. Amunds said
he does not know if he can support this motion because of
questions about the grandfather clause. Mr. Amunds then asked,
“Tf it passes, would current businesses be grandfathered in?”
Mr. Dowd replied, “Yes, sir.” Mr. Amunds said he can support
the motion. The vote was taken-4 yeas, 1 nay. (Mr. Parisot
voted no.) Mr. Kampert asked if the motion includes the
exemption for military and emergency aircraft, to which Mr.
Windes replied, “absolutely.”
ORDINANCE NO. 13-25
RECESS - The meeting was recessed at 11:15 a.m. and reconvened
at 11:25 a.m.
PUBLIC HEARING — ORDINANCE AMENDING LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE,
REVISING CHAPTER 1 GENERAL PROVISION “DEVELOPMENT ORDER HEARING“
Mr. Stanford read the advertised legal notice for public hearing
to consider the request of the Growth Management Department to
adopt an ordinance amending the Land Development Code (Ordinance
No. 91-01) by revising the text in Chapter 1, General
Provisions, Section 1.11.08 “Development Order Hearing.”
Mr. Kampert stated the LDC was substantially revised in January
2011, including Section 1.11.08. This section was revised to
provide due process in the form of a development order hearing
for any party which might take exception or challenge the
issuance of a Development Order by the Growth Management
Department. Subsequently, there have been three challenges,
Based on these experiences, staff believes the language is too
broad and vague for staff to prepare a defensible response to
the petition for the Planning Commission to be fully informed
about the objection or the challenge at issue. The revised
language would refine the appellate procedure.
No one came forward to speak in favor of or in opposition to the
proposed ordinance.
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Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners
Mr. Parisot made motion, seconded by Mr. Boyles, to adopt the
proposed ordinance. 5 yeas.
ORDINANCE NO. 13-26
PUBLIC HEARING - REQUEST TO AMEND FLUM DESIGNATION AND REZONE
9.2 ACRES AT 720 ESSEX ROAD IN FORT WALTON BEACH
lan
Mr. Stanford read the advertised legal notice for public hearing
to consider the request submitted by Choctaw Engineering as
agent for Watree Construction & Land Development, Inc. and
Conquistador, Inc. to amend the Future Land Use Map (FLUM)
designation for 9.2 acres from Institutional (INST) to Medium
Density Residential (MDR) or a more restrictive FLUM
designation. And if approved, to rezone subject property from
Institutional (INST) district to Residential-2 (R-2) district or
a more restrictive zoning district.
Mr. Kampert stated this is the site of the former Ocean City
Elementary School. The applicants purchased the property from
the School District and propose a straight forward residential
development. He advised no public comment or opposition has
been received and the Planning Commission voted unanimously to
recommend approval at its October 10, 2013 meeting.
No one came forward to speak in favor of or in opposition to the
requested changes. Mr. Parisot made motion, seconded by Mr.
Harris, to adopt the ordinance amending the FLUM designation as
advertised. 5 yeas.
ORDINANCE NO. 13-27
Mr. Parisot made motion, seconded by Mr. Harris, to adopt the
ordinance rezoning the parcel as advertised. 5 yeas.
ORDINANCE NO. 13-28
PUBLIC HEARING - REQUEST BY FORTUNE 900 LLC TO VACATE PORTION OF
ALLEY IN BLOCK 7 OF BAY VIEW SUBDIVISTON
Mr. Stanford read the advertised legal notice for public hearing
to consider the request submitted by Choctaw Engineering for
Fortune 900 LLC to vacate a portion of a 20-foot wide alley
bounded on the west by Lots 9 and 10, bounded on the east by
Lots 19 and 20 and bounded on the north by Second Avenue in
Block 7 of Bay View Subdivision in Fort Walton Beach.
Mr. John Hofstad, Public Works Director, stated the right-of-way
in question fronts Eglin Parkway and is the site of the Black
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Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners
Angus complex. The agenda request noted that the applicant owns
the property on both sides of the alley. Mr. Hofstad stated the
request is consistent with prior vacation requests in this area
and no objections have been received.
Mr. Alonzo Campbell stated his property adjoins the alley in
question and he uses it to access the rear of his property. He
asked how he would access the back of his property if it is
vacated and the owner installs a fence.
Mr. Hofstad said he cannot answer for the applicant and noted
that he does own all surrounding parcels. He advised there
would be limited stipulations but the county would maintain
stormwater or infrastructure (utilities). Mr. Hofstad said the
applicant would be able to put up a fence.
Mr. Mark Siner, Choctaw Engineering, stated the alleyway goes
from Second Avenue to First Avenue and is connected on the south
end at the Goofy Golf. He said there would still be access
through the public alley and Mr. Campbell could come in from the
other end of the alley.
Upon inquiry by Mr. Parisot, Mr. Dowd stated there are no
requirements regarding the number of access points to right-of-
way. Mr. Dowd did say Mr. Campbell may have rights if there
were restrictive covenants filed with the plat regarding
individual lot owner access.
A question arose regarding the overgrown nature of the remainder
of the alley. Mr. Siner stated his client has maintained this
end of the alley which allows access for Mr. Campbell. He said
if the other property owners would have cleared the county
property as his client did, they would have access from the
other end of the alley. Mr. Siner said the county could come in
and clear the alley from one end to the other but it has done
nothing to maintain this right-of-way. With regard to other
issues about use of the alley, Mr. Siner said the residents
should address use of the right-of-way with the county or code
enforcement. However, those issues have nothing to do with this
request to vacate the alley.
Mr. Boyles said the county has no future use for the alley and
he supports unloading it as it exists. Upon inquiry by Mr.
Boyles, Mr. Siner stated he has not met with any of the
residents who oppose this request. Upon further inquiry by Mr.
Boyles about a possible meeting with the residents, Mr. Siner
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Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners
said he cannot speak on behalf of his client in this regard.
Mr. Siner said one of the reasons his client is making this
request is because the alley igs not maintained, there has been
property damage and it has had a negative effect on his
property.
Upon inquiry by Mr. Parisot, Mr. Siner stated the property was
posted for public hearing. Mr. Parisot suggested this hearing
be tabled until December 17 and give the applicant an
opportunity to speak with other residents.
Ms. Marilyn Cagnon, Ms. Linda Kulaw, Mr. Charlie Dyess, Mr. Doug
Ayres, and Mr. Allen Bullard came forward to voice their
concerns and objections to the proposed right-of-way vacation
and Mr. T’s current use of the alley.
Mc. Parisot made motion to table this public hearing until
December 17 at 6:30 p.m. Motion dies for a lack of a second.
Mr. Windes stated he is reluctant to reward someone for
violating the codes. Mr. Kampert noted they have received
complaints but said some of those trailers may be grandfathered
in and it will need to be investigated. Mr. Windes said he
would like to have details on the grandfather issue and if there
are code violations. Mr. Parisot made motion, seconded by Mr.
Windes, to table this public hearing until December 17 at 6:30
p.m. 4 yeas, 1 nay. (Mr. Boyles voted no.)
TOURIST DEVELOPMENT - TASK ORDERS 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115,
AND 117 WITH PETER MAYER ADVERTISING
Mr. Parisot made motion, seconded by Mr. Harris, to approve the
following task orders with Peter Mayer Advertising with the
stipulation that all sole-source documents are properly
executed:
e Task Order #110 for BP print and radio media pass through
costs in an amount not to exceed $168,445
e Task Order #111 for BP television media pass through costs
in an amount not to exceed $509,025
e Task Order #112 for Online media portion of the BP
Marketing Plan in an amount not to exceed $191,255
e Task Order #113 for Print media pass through costs in an
amount not to exceed $533,197
e Task Order #114 for Radio and digital outdoor media pass
through costs in an amount not to exceed $50,895
November 19, 2013 -18- Minute Book 70, Page 154
Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners
e Task Order #115 for Online media pass through costs in an
amount not to exceed $244,049
e Task Order #116 for Ongoing visitor profile research in an
amount not to exceed $55,200
5 yeas.
PUBLIC COMMENT
No one came forward to speak.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Board, the
meeting was adjourned at 12:13 p.m.
DON W. HOWARD DON R, AMUNDS, CHAIRMAN
CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
(These minutes were transcribed by Teresa Ward.)
November 19, 2013 -19- Minute Book 70, Page 155
Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners