GRACE KNIGHT CONFERENCE ROOM
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Summary:
After confirming a quorum, the meeting was called to order at approximately 5:33 p.m. by Chair Wootten. A motion was made by Member Peterkin/Thomas to approve the agenda. Motion passed unanimously. A motion was made to approve the minutes and was unanimously passed.
Citizen comments were received. Doris Bardon (representing Women For Wise Growth) supported County environmental ordinances prevailing over municipal ordinances. Arthur Saarinen addressed a joint planning structure.
DJ Williams (Staff Liaison) advised the CRC that County staff had not completed gathering information on the joint planning structure presentation and would not be giving the presentation. There was consensus among the CRC to schedule this presentation on the March 28, 2000 meeting agenda.
The issue of County ordinances prevailing over municipal ordinances was discussed. It was explained that County ordinances prevailing over municipal ordinances and County environmental ordinances prevailing over municipal ordinances could be combined together as a ballot initiative or these could be independent of each other. There was consensus that the CRC was not interested in pursuing the broad topic of County ordinances prevailing over municipal ordinances. Based upon a handout which was distributed, the CRC reviewed the current Charter language regarding prevailing ordinances and language which was proposed to specify that County environmental ordinances prevail over municipal ordinances.
A question was raised regarding whether a 4/5 vote should be required to adopt an ordinance establishing minimum standards stricter than general law. George Nickerson (Independent Counsel) was requested to research this issue. It was also suggested that Mr. Nickerson use the proposed environmental language as a model for drafting language to specify that County environmental ordinances will prevail over municipal ordinances and identify any related case law addressing conflicts.
The CRC requested that Mr. Nickerson determine whether Broward County’s ordinance related to environmental/land use planning has been enforced. There was some interest in having an ordinance that would be as broad as possible. Mr. Nickerson stated that open space and green space requirements; as well as parking were hidden issues which should be considered.
The joint planning structure issue was discussed. There was a question related to how much can be implemented via an interlocal agreement as opposed to a charter change. Mr. Nickerson asked for someone to explain what problem needs to be fixed. The responses included problems surrounding annexations. Mr. Nickerson stated that the problem with creating a joint planning structure included the need to have such a structure approved by the appropriate City/County Commissions. He expressed concerns regarding whether anything was accomplished with this measure.
Mr. Nickerson is to review the Charter to determine whether there is language which precludes a joint planning structure. Additionally, he is to research Leon County’s ordinance to confirm that there is one land use code for the City and County governments.
The point was made again that a joint planning structure could be created without amending the Charter. Ralph Hilliard (City of Gainesville Planning Manager) was recognized to provide a report on the City of Gainesville’s planning process.
It was clarified that the assignments given to Mr. Nickerson would be presented at the March 21, 2000 meeting.
The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:19 p.m.