Public Meetings - Ocala, Florida

The Ocala City Council convened on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at 4:00 PM at Ocala City Hall. The meeting included proclamations, public hearings on rezoning and development agreements, and approval of numerous general business items. All votes were unanimous (5-0) unless noted. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda, including a $64,500 contract with Via Transportation for SunTran software, appointment of Charles Hannah to the Municipal Code Enforcement Board, reappointments to the Utility Advisory Board, and meeting minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - Mamie Fisher, a resident of Bear Track Ranch, expressed concerns regarding the KAS Ocala LLC development (Item 9G). She stated that the developer had not met with the community since February 2025, despite claims otherwise, and raised issues about increased traffic from 2,300 units. Attorney Fred Hart (representing KAS) responded that community meetings had been held and that the amended agreement was merely a cleanup, not an expansion. Council President Bethea directed staff to send the approved PD plans to Ms. Fisher. Discussion Items - Rezonings (Ordinances 2027-4, 2027-5, 2027-6): Three rezoning requests were presented by Planning Official Endira Madraveren: - 2027-4: Approx. 2.80 acres at 5203 SW 20th Street from B-1A to B-1 (Neighborhood Business). Also terminated a developer's agreement restricting alcohol sales. Approved. - 2027-5: Approx. 13.34 acres at 2015 & 2141 NE 14th Street from various zonings to Institutional for a church. Approved. - 2027-6: Approx. 1.11 acres at 1920 NE Eighth Road from R-3 and B-4 to B-2 (Community Business) to unify zoning. Approved. - Alcohol License (Item 9E): Approval for on-premises beer, wine, and liquor sales at the new AC Hotel by Marriott Downtown Ocala (211 SW Broadway Street). Staff noted no objections. Approved. - Event Resolution (Item 9F): Resolution 2027-6 renamed “Christmas in July” to “Christmas on Broadway” and rescheduled to December 13, 2026, maintaining downtown event zone alcohol sales authorization. Approved. - Concurrency Development Agreement (Item 9G): Amended and restated agreement for KAS Ocala LLC (approx. 248 acres east of I-75). Attorney clarified it is a cleanup of existing agreements, incorporating conditions from the approved PD plan. Approved after public comment. - Representation Request (Item 10A): Approval for former City Attorney Rob Batsel to represent Flyover Ocala LLC and R.C.P. Ocala LLC regarding a rezoning request west of I-75. Approved. - Pool Deck Resurfacing (Item 10B): Contract awarded to RenoSys Corp. for $252,360 to resurface 16,500 sq ft at Hampton Aquatic Center. Approved. - Fiber Optic Contracts (Items 10D & 10E): Renewal of aerial/underground installation contract with American Cable Electric LLC ($1.5M) and additional expenditure with Gulf Coast Custom Cables for splicing and final build-out ($3M), supporting citywide fiber expansion. Approved. - Vehicle Routers (Item 10F): $138,059 for replacement of mobile routers for Police and Fire Rescue vehicles. Approved. - Drainage Improvement Grant (Items 10G & 10H): Modification to extend grant agreement and add $164,179 for drainage project northeast of 16th Avenue, with corresponding budget amendment. Approved. - Overdose Medical Services (Items 10I & 10J): Agreement with Marion County Hospital District ($199,999) for medication-assisted treatment, with budget amendment. Approved. - SECO Energy Utility Services (Item 10K): $260,000 over three years for street lighting in Four Ranch subdivision. Discussion arose about billing fluctuations, number of lights, and audit efforts. Approved. - Homeless Information System Grant (Item 10L): Budget resolution accepting $237,244 from HUD for Continuum of Care HMIS software. Approved. - Vehicle Purchases (Item 10M): Approval to purchase 85 vehicles and equipment for $13,378,535 via cooperative agreements. 70 are replacements; 15 are new. Approved. - City Attorney Appointment: Melissa Alexander appointed as assistant city attorney at a salary of $130,000. Approved. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items and public hearing items were approved unanimously (5-0) by the Council (Council President Bethea, Pro Tem Musleh, Council Members Dreyer, Hilty Sr, and Mansfield). - The Council directed staff to send approved PD plans to residents who requested them. - Staff will conduct an audit of SECO Energy streetlight billing and report back on cost recovery and number of fixtures. - The meeting included proclamations honoring Alina Stoothoff with the Mayor’s Citizen Recognition Award and declaring November 14, 2026 as “Look Up Marion, Put Down the Phone Day.”

The Ocala Special Magistrate met on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at 10:00 AM in the Council Chamber at Ocala City Hall to hear code enforcement cases. Special Magistrate Jeremiah Blocker presided, with Code Enforcement staff presenting complaints concerning property maintenance, primarily violations of Section 34-95 (weeds/trash). The transcript begins partway through the docket; no separate minutes were available. The magistrate found respondents in violation in each case heard, imposed fines and costs, and approved a settlement petition for one property. Consent Calendar - Approval of the September 30, 2026, minutes was listed on the agenda; the available transcript does not include discussion of this item. - The agenda also included the swearing-in of officers; this portion is not captured in the transcript. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the transcribed portion of the meeting. At the end of the docket, the magistrate asked for audience comments before adjourning, and none were noted. New Business Cases - Earlier agenda items CE26-0895, CE26-1025, CE26-1031, and CE26-1085 are not included in the available transcript. - CE26-1128 (Coe Frank) – The transcript opens mid-case for a property in the 2000 block of NW 3rd Street with a Section 34-95 violation. The magistrate found the respondent in violation and accepted staff recommendation. The specific penalty was not detailed in the available transcript. - CE26-1153 (Pierre Vaingueur; Pierre Louijeunie) – Inspector Anthony Eaglen (appearing as Anthony Aglin in the transcript) reported a Section 34-95 violation at 2000 block NW 3rd Street and noted homeless activity on the parcel. The magistrate ordered compliance; upon abatement, respondent must pay a $100 service fee and $183.62 in prosecution costs by November 26, 2026. (The transcript renders the respondents' names differently from the agenda.) - CE26-1155 (Albert E. Davis Estate) – The magistrate found the estate in violation of Section 34-95 at 2432 NE 4th Avenue, ordered the property cut and cleaned by November 26, 2026, and imposed a $100 service fee and $151.20 in prosecution costs. - CE26-1370 (Michael A. Stewart Estate, repeat violator) – Staff reported the property at 1224 NE 10th Avenue, that the owner is deceased with no heirs, and that the residence had previously been demolished. The magistrate imposed a $50-per-day fine from September 18, 2026, and ordered the property cut and cleaned, plus a $100 service fee and $132.26 in prosecution costs by November 26, 2026. - CE26-1386 (Diane M. Beuschlein, repeat violator) – For the property at 715 NE 2nd Street, the magistrate confirmed the repeat-violator designation, ordered abatement, imposed a $50-per-day fine from September 22, 2026, and assessed a $100 service fee and $132.26 in prosecution costs by November 26, 2026. (The transcript renders the name as Diane M. Boy Shalane.) Petition - CE25-1302 (Niely Ellen T. Estate) – Staff explained the property at 1676 SW 5th Place was sold on April 30, 2026, and the new owner was unaware of the violation at purchase. The new owner paid the $219.21 hard costs, and staff recommended reducing fines to $2,050 for the prior owner's period of noncompliance. The magistrate accepted the petition as recommended. (The transcript refers to the estate as LT Neely estate.) Old Business - The agenda listed a consent agenda for a non-compliance (Massey) hearing, but no discussion of this item appears in the available transcript. Key Outcomes - The magistrate found violations in every new business case heard and entered compliance orders; deadlines of November 26, 2026, were stated for several cases. - Fines for repeat-violator cases CE26-1370 and CE26-1386 were set at $50 per day from September 18 and September 22, 2026, respectively. - Prosecution costs assessed in the transcribed cases ranged from $132.26 to $183.62; a $100 service fee was applied upon abatement where specified. - The city requested that all evidence and testimony be made part of the record; the magistrate agreed, and the hearing was adjourned.

The Ocala CRA Agency Board convened at 3:45 PM on October 20, 2026, at Ocala City Hall. The board unanimously approved items related to grant program frameworks: administrative decisions for small grants, revisions to residential programs, and revisions to commercial and historic programs. A public comment from a local developer prompted discussion on multi-year grant flexibility. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - The minutes from September 15, 2026 were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Todd Riddiani (2441 NE 3rd Street, Ocala) expressed strong support for the CRA programs, citing a 37% traffic increase at a Verizon building project on the boulevard. He requested board direction to allow applicants to apply for a second grant before the first is closed out, provided progress is shown, and suggested advisory board review. Discussion Items - Framework for Administrative Decisions (Item 5a): Planning Director Aubrey Hale presented a proposal to authorize administrative approval of CRA grants under $10,000, with a 10-day turnaround and an annual budget of $50,000 per sub-area ($200,000 total across four areas). Staff recommended approval. The board voted unanimously in favor. - Revisions to Residential Grant Programs (Item 5b): Hale described changes to reduce processing time from 76 to 50 days by removing some advisory board approvals. The program introduces a two-tiered priority system: Group A standalone items (e.g., re-roofing, exterior doors, windows) and Group B items (e.g., fencing, landscaping) requiring at least three or accompanying a Group A item. A $5,000 bonus was added for new single-family homes meeting affordable housing definitions. A board member confirmed that the downtown CRA is excluded from this program. Unanimously approved. - Revisions to Commercial and Historic Grant Programs (Item 5c): Hale outlined a similar two-tiered structure for commercial and historic grants. Group A includes parking lot improvements and infrastructure; Group B includes fencing, landscaping, and signage. Processing time is reduced from 76 to 50 days. Owners of multiple units or buildings on a single parcel may receive multiple grants for different scopes. The city grant match increases from 60% to 75% along primary corridors. Todd Riddiani then raised the multi-year grant issue noted above. The board discussed implementing a cap (e.g., two applications per project) or requiring 50-60% completion before approving second grants. Hale indicated staff could bring back a revision to address this. The item was unanimously approved. Key Outcomes - All four agenda items (minutes, Item 5a, Item 5b, and Item 5c) were approved unanimously by the board. - The board directed staff to bring back a revision to the commercial and historic grant program that would address multi-year or sequential grant applications, with potential caps or progress milestones.

The Ocala City Council met on October 20, 2026, for its regular meeting. Councilmember Kristen Dreyer was excused at the start and participated after arriving later. The council approved the consent agenda, adopted multiple ordinances and resolutions, approved contracts and reappointments, and received departmental reports and public comment. Proclamations and Awards - Mayor Marciano presented the Mayor's Citizen Recognition Award to Chris Hickman for more than 25 years of community service and youth mentorship. - Mayor Marciano presented a Key to the City to the Crawford family in memory of Terry Crawford, recognizing his philanthropy and leadership with the Monroe Regional Medical Center/AdventHealth foundation. - Ocala Fire Rescue service awards were presented to Beth Antis and Fire Captain Steven Welfel, each for 20 years of service. Presentations - Jaye Baillie, Executive Director of the Marion Cultural Alliance (MCA), presented the annual MCA report and 25th anniversary highlights. She reported 425,000 individuals impacted, $701,000 in grants to arts organizations, 229,000 visitors to Brick City Center for the Arts, 1,250 artists impacted, $623,500 in scholarships and honorariums, three National Endowment for the Arts grants totaling $100,000, and 10,467 visitors to Brick City last year. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda 4-0, with Dreyer excused, by motion of Musleh and second by Mansfield. It included $65,000 for umpire and referee services; the Oakcrest Park conceptual subdivision; Greenway Reserve and Winding Oaks developer agreement amendments; a $75,000 City Hall flooring contract; a $17,102 FDOT/FAA grant match for the Runway 36 Safety Area Grading project; the Fiscal Year 2026 management action plan follow-up; meeting minutes; and reappointments of the Internal Auditor, Police Chief, City Clerk, and City Attorney. - Item 6o, the reappointment of City Manager Peter Lee, was pulled by Councilmember Hilty. Hilty said he could not support reappointing someone he had voted against when the contract was first approved. The reappointment passed 3-1, with Hilty voting no and Dreyer excused. Ordinance Introductions (First Readings) - Ordinance 2027-4, to rezone 2.80 acres at 5203 SW 20th Street from B-1A to B-1, was introduced by Musleh. Final reading is set for November 3, 2026. - Ordinance 2027-5, to rezone 13.34 acres at 2015 and 2141 NE 14th Street to INST, was introduced by Hilty. Final reading is set for November 3, 2026. - Ordinance 2027-6, to rezone 1.11 acres at 1920 NE Eighth Road to B-2, was introduced by Mansfield. Final reading is set for November 3, 2026. Public Hearings and Final Adoptions - 9a: Denied 1-3, Dreyer excused. The request was for off-premises beer and wine sales for Mikael 25 Inc., doing business as Spot on Liquors, at 125 NW 27th Avenue. Councilmember Hilty cited the daycare within 500 feet and another liquor establishment nearby; denial was based on Section 6-33E proximity to schools, daycares, and churches. Staff had recommended approval but corrected an earlier report to note the daycare. - 9b: Approved 4-0, Dreyer excused, for on-premises beer and wine sales at Yummy House, 2510 SW 27th Avenue, operated by Ocala YH 88 LLC. - 9c: Adopted 4-0, Dreyer excused, Resolution 2027-4 allowing beer, wine, and liquor sales in the downtown event zone during the 2026 Ocala Art Festival on October 24-25 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Participating restaurants must use the approved cup and sticker. - 9d and 9e: Adopted 4-0 each, Dreyer excused. Ordinance 2026-35 rezoned 4.26 acres at 325 SE 24th Street from PUD-RO to PD, and Resolution 2027-5 approved the PD Plan and Standards Book for New Ocala MOB LLC. The PD allows a 21,000-square-foot medical office building, with 40.8% open space exceeding the 25% minimum. Conditions include sidewalks, signage limits, and on-site drainage. - 9f: First public hearing only; no vote. The amended and restated concurrency development agreement for KAS Ocala LLC (formerly Ransom Group Investors) will return for a final public hearing on November 3, 2026. - 9g: Adopted 5-0. Ordinance 2027-1 repeals the local business tax, business tax receipts/certificates, and occupational license requirements. Staff estimated roughly 4,400-4,500 active BTRs but said the number of operating businesses is likely double that. Council directed staff to process refunds for businesses that paid the current 2026-27 BTR. - 9h: Adopted 5-0. Ordinance 2027-2 updates flood-related definitions and Florida Building Code cross-references, including letter of map change, market value, repetitive flood damage, and cumulative substantial improvement. - 9i: Adopted, but the minutes list the result as ADOPTED while also recording ABSTAIN for all five members, so the individual tally is unclear. Ordinance 2027-3 grants Peoples Gas System/TECO a non-exclusive franchise to use city rights-of-way for natural gas distribution, with the city receiving approximately $622,000 per year. Councilmember Hilty expressed concern that the prior franchise expired four years earlier and questioned management. City Attorney William Sexton said the delay was largely his responsibility and that continued performance kept the agreement enforceable. Councilmember Dreyer asked for electronic monitoring of contract end dates. General Business - 10a: Approved 5-0 a waiver of the one-year waiting period for resubmitting a rezoning application related to the recently approved Mockingbird Ridge PD, approximately 283.55 acres, after a 108.74-acre portion was sold to Fly Over Ocala. - 10b: Approved 5-0 $190,936 in additional expenditures for four fire apparatus units from Matheny Motor Truck Co. Fleet and Facilities Director John King said he mistakenly applied a new prepayment policy to an already approved prepayment, forfeiting the credit. He reported the city earned more than $135,000 in interest and received a $56,000 credit. Council members discussed transparency and process improvements, and City Manager Peter Lee took responsibility. - 10c: Approved 5-0 a contract with Commercial Industrial Corp. for the Ocala International Airport Runway 36 Safety Area Grading, not to exceed $379,282. - 10d: Approved 5-0 a three-year cemetery grounds maintenance agreement with Extreme Enterprises of Marion County Inc., estimated at $192,259. - 10e: Approved 5-0 a three-year City Complex grounds maintenance agreement with Squeekie Klean Landscaping LLC, estimated at $104,850. - 10f: Approved 5-0 a three-year janitorial services contract with Mega Services Solutions Inc., $38,460 annually and $115,380 aggregate. - 10g: Approved 5-0 an additional $500,000 for underground boring and conduit installation services with Bellmore Enterprises Inc. Discussion included coordinating fiber and utility conduit installation; staff said a monthly citywide project coordination meeting exists. - 10h: Approved 5-0 a one-year renewal with Milsoft Utility Solutions Inc. for outage reporting and management, estimated at $107,100. Reports - Internal Auditor: No action; report received. - City Manager Peter Lee: Provided updates on CLEAR team contracts, strategic priorities milestones, the October 21 State of the City and United Way Day, downtown construction logistics and a business owner meeting, FAFO on October 23-24, recreation events, and recognized Planning Director Aubrey Hale, who was leaving the city. - Ocala Police Department: Chief Michael Balken reported 7,154 incidents, down 6% from last year; 326 crimes, up from 305; 218 arrests, up 8%; more than 900 traffic stops; 173 vehicle crashes; and average priority one response of 1 minute 18 seconds. - Ocala Fire Rescue: The fire chief reported 1,200 calls for the two-week period, 22,643 year-to-date, 99 motor vehicle accidents, 30 community paramedicine calls, 12 new Special Operations Team members, and fire prevention visits to more than 2,400 children in 20 days. - City Attorney William Sexton: The council approved 5-0 the subordination of city waterline and sewer utility interests to FDOT for the SR 40/NE 46th Avenue commercial development, at no cost to the city. The council also approved 5-0 the appointment of Camille C. as Assistant City Attorney. Public Comments - Kent Guinn, former mayor and attorney, asked for an update on Ocala Fiber Network expansion and said his client Wire 3 remained uncertain about its prior $35 million offer until seeing a coverage map. Staff said Ocala Fiber is building out in the Deerman area, total financing will likely be less than $46 million, and a coverage map would require a non-disclosure agreement because it involves critical infrastructure. Several councilmembers expressed reluctance to revisit a sale and requested monthly progress updates. Mayor and Council Comments - Mayor Marciano wished Aubrey Hale well, asked staff to assist Carriage Hill residents with road access and provide a timeline, discussed code enforcement action against a smoke shop's excessive signage/mural, and praised Recreation and Parks for the Haunted Trail. - Councilmembers Mansfield, Hilty, Dreyer, Musleh, and Bethea recognized Aubrey Hale. Hilty noted the McCoy house ribbon cutting. Dreyer requested a briefing on House Bill 399 at the next council meeting. Musleh said mistakes happen in large organizations and praised the city manager's honesty. Key Outcomes - The council approved all general business items 10a-10h and adopted most public hearing items. The only denial was 9a (Spot on Liquors). The KAS Ocala concurrency agreement received its first hearing and will return November 3. - Reappointments were approved for city leadership, including City Manager Peter Lee on a 3-1 vote. - Staff was directed to process refunds for 2026-27 local business tax receipts, provide monthly Ocala Fiber progress updates, prepare an HB399 briefing, and improve contract expiration monitoring. - The next regular council meeting is scheduled for November 3, 2026.

The Ocala Airport Advisory Board met at 9:00 AM on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at Ocala City Hall Council Chambers, 110 SE Watula Ave, Ocala, FL. The board approved the September minutes, received an airshow update, voted to keep the airport's "International" designation, accepted an FDOT grant, and reviewed the Airport Director's report. Board members also raised safety concerns about the lack of radar in the tower and bid farewell to a departing member. Roll call was taken; Kevin Reed was absent. Consent Calendar - September Meeting Minutes: Approved unanimously by voice vote. Discussion Items - Airshow Planning (Unfinished Business): Staff presented updates for the three-day airshow scheduled for April 30, May 1, and May 2 at the airport. Organizers expect 45,000-50,000 attendees over the weekend, about 15,000 per day. Friday will feature an afternoon airshow, a twilight/night airshow with fireworks and a drone show; Saturday and Sunday are the primary airshow days. Performers include a U.S. military demo team (F-22, F-35, or F-16 still being negotiated), a C-17 that staff believed was confirmed, and historic aircraft such as an F-86 Saber. The layout includes vendor/exhibitor and static display areas, a hot ramp, VIP/gold parking, and 180 tailgate spots (12 ft x 40 ft) with entry based on seat-belt capacity. Some hangar access may be affected; the T-Hangar campus should be unaffected, and the emergency gate near Robert's hangar was recommended for hangar access. The promoter is coordinating with Ocala Fire, Ocala Police, food and drink vendors, and the airport restaurant. - Airport Name Change (New Business): Staff revisited the possibility of renaming the airport. The Airport Director stated there is no FAA requirement to change the "International" designation and noted the name can cause confusion because the airport does not currently have customs. The director expressed support for "Ocala National Airport" but recommended keeping "Ocala International" until a final customs determination is made after Taxiway Charlie is built. Board members discussed the Roberts family's possible customs needs and the distinction between animal/equestrian and passenger customs. One board member argued the confusion is manageable and preferred keeping the current name for now. The board passed a motion to keep Ocala International Airport as the name and requested that staff begin dialogue with Customs and Border Protection before Taxiway Charlie is complete. - FDOT Amendment 1 Grant - RWY 36 Safety Area (New Business): The board considered FDOT Amendment 1 to grant 457809, a state grant to help offset the city's match for an FAA runway protection zone regrading project on Runway 36. The FDOT grant is $17,102, lowering the city's match to $4,275, with the FAA contributing about $46,000. The contractor agreement will go to City Council the following Tuesday. The board approved the grant unanimously. Airport Director's Report - FDOT Pond Relocation: In design. - MALSR/RPZ RY36 Grading: Contract award expected next Tuesday at City Council. - Sheriff Hangar: Site work began September 1, 2026; slab pouring expected late next week. - Terminal Apron Rehabilitation: Complete; project closeout underway; ShellTerra will handle electrical connections. - Master Plan: Submitted to FAA; the assigned FAA planner is deploying to the Middle East for 2-3 years, likely causing delay. - A9 Driveway: 100% designed; awaiting stormwater permit from Southwest Florida Water Management District, then will go to bid. - T-Hangar Campus Rehabilitation & Concrete Pads: Pre-bid meeting held; four contractors attended; out for bid. - A12 Infrastructure: Negotiating with a developer interested in building hangars. - Taxiway Charlie Phase I: Design amendment underway; saving about $700,000 by eliminating or relocating stormwater infrastructure. - ATCT Lighting Controls: In design. - Airfield Paint Project: Contracts awaiting signatures; expected later fall or early winter; includes Taxi Alpha hold bars, Runway 18/36 centerline, crosswind, and Taxiway Bravo. - Fuel and Operations: September operations totaled 8,280; Avgas sales were 21,000 gallons; jet fuel was about 69,000 gallons; total fuel sales were 91,000 gallons, above September of last year. Sales were still not at record levels in the post-Iran conflict period but remained well above the same time last year. A fuel price comparison showed ShellTerra Ocala remains in about the same competitive position as the past 3-4 years, with Avgas full-service pricing still in the top third. - Runway 18/36 Width Issue: Resolved through paperwork; the non-standard width (approximately 149 ft on the north third) will be corrected at the next rehabilitation. Board Comments - A board member reported a near conflict while flying in the day before, saying the tower never saw his aircraft and a Cirrus was in the same position; he stated it is dangerous and expressed hope it will not take a fatality to get radar. Another board member agreed that radar should be pursued given the mix of operations, jet traffic, and training traffic. - The board thanked Thomas Smallen, who attended his last meeting before rolling off the board on November 2, 2026. Key Outcomes - Approved the September 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous). - Voted to keep the name "Ocala International Airport" (unanimous). - Approved FDOT Amendment 1 grant 457809 (unanimous). - Directed staff to begin dialogue with U.S. Customs and Border Protection regarding customs service as Taxiway Charlie progresses. - Board members urged continued efforts to improve radar coverage or tower visibility.

On October 12, 2026, the Ocala Planning & Zoning Commission met at Ocala City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call; a quorum was established. Chairman Kevin Lopez and non-voting School Board Representative Allison Campbell were absent. The commission acknowledged the published meeting notice, approved the prior minutes, voted to postpone the proposed off-site advertising sign ordinance, and received staff training information. No public comments were offered. Administrative Items - Proof of publication was acknowledged: the public meeting notice was posted at City Hall, 110 SE Watula Avenue, and published in the Ocala Gazette on August 28, 2026. - The commission approved the September 14, 2026 final meeting minutes by a motion that carried. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comments. Discussion Items - Ordinance 2027-XX (COD 26-0002) - Off-Site Advertising Signs: Planning staff requested postponement of the proposed amendment to Chapter 110 of the City of Ocala Code of Ordinances, which would clarify definitions and regulations pertaining to off-site advertising signs. Staff explained that additional time was needed to work through the ordinance change. A motion to postpone the item to the November 9, 2026 Planning & Zoning Commission meeting carried. - Staff Training Resources: Staff briefed the commission on available ethics and planning training options, including a free Florida ethics resource, a paid Planetizen planning commissioner course costing $279 for 10 training sessions, an option offering access to more than 300 planning-related videos, and a free Planning Peeps resource with tiered content, including affordable housing topics. Staff indicated they would look into whether budget funding was available for paid training. Key Outcomes - Approved the September 14, 2026 meeting minutes. - Postponed Ordinance 2027-XX (Chapter 110 off-site advertising sign definitions and regulations) to the November 9, 2026 Planning & Zoning Commission meeting. - The next meeting was scheduled for November 9, 2026, and the meeting was adjourned.

The Ocala Municipal Code Enforcement Board convened on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at City Hall Council Chambers (110 SE Watula Avenue). Code Enforcement Manager Jennipher Buller led the case presentations. Six board members were present - Edward Ferrentino, Michael Gartner, Bruce Gonseth, Michael Kroitor, Shirley J. Wright, and Charles Hannah - while Kevin Steiner was excused. The agenda listed a 5:30 PM start; the supplied transcript is timestamped 2026-10-08 10:45 UTC. The transcript also includes a Contractor Licensing Board case before the Code Enforcement Board was formally reconvened. Contractor Licensing Board Session (Preceding Session) - The transcript opens with CON26-014, an unlicensed contracting case at 901 NW 22nd Street involving Andres Mauricio Tamayorjuela and Humberto Peguero Pino. City building inspector Greg McClellan testified that work exceeded a re-roof permit and included framing, roof extension, structural changes, and payment by the property owner. The board found Tamayorjuela not guilty for lack of evidence and found Pino guilty, imposing a $150 fine plus prosecution costs. This case is not listed on the posted Code Enforcement Board agenda, so it appears to come from the related contractor board session. Petitions for Fine Reduction - SP SM Apartments LLC / Berkeley Point Apartments (2833 NE 7th St; case 202310332): Approved reduction of the daily fine to $100,000. Hard costs of $316.86 had been paid. Staff listed the total daily-fine amount as $428,750, while the respondent recalled the original fine as $419,000. The respondent requested a waiver or further reduction, citing replacement of HVAC systems in 32 units at about $360,000, $800,000 in owner-funded investment, and the property's 100% affordable-housing status. The vote was approved with one opposed. - Emily Pardee petition (agenda case 20192092; staff described it as four consolidated cases): Zero hard costs had been paid; remaining fines were $198,550; staff recommended $32,285.27. A granddaughter who owns 3301 NE 23rd Ave said she did not know about cross-attached liens from her deceased grandmother's property. The board voted to release 3301 NE 23rd Ave from the lien, leaving the lien amount on the original case property. - Nathan Sands (case 202410605): Hard costs of $381.79 had been paid; remaining fines were $23,250; staff recommended $4,650. Sands requested a complete waiver, citing heavy investment and an $80,000 engineering repair. The board instead reduced the fine to $2,325, payable within 30 days, with reversion to the full amount if not paid. - Robert J. Hale (case CE26-0228): Hard costs of $182.38 had been paid; remaining fines were $2,650; staff recommended $1,325. The respondent's representative said the property was cleared after an inspector texted a 30-day extension, while the inspector testified compliance was not confirmed until September 1. The board voted to reduce the fines and costs to zero. Contested New and Old Business Cases - CE26-1015 (Ragindra; 720 NW 7th Ave; dangerous building): Approved an extension to November 12, 2026, with one opposed. - CE26-0870 (Haynes/Taylor/Hester; 2029 SW 4th St; fire-damaged dangerous building and weeds): Required a demolition permit by November 12, 2026 and completion of demolition within 60 days; the dead tree on the property must also be addressed. - CE26-1317 (College Park Plaza LLC; 3131 SW College Rd; repeat violator, weeds): Declined the owner's waiver request and approved $300 in daily fines plus $178.21 in prosecution costs, for a total of $478.21. - CE26-0205 (Carlos A. Fuster; 4505 SE 13th St): After the owner said permits were issued and demolition was scheduled for November 2, granted an extension to November 12, 2026. - CE26-0287 (Jamie Rodgers; 1315 SW 4th St): Granted a 30-day extension to November 12, 2026. New Business Staff-Recommendation Cases The board approved staff recommendations in the following cases, generally with no respondent present: - CE26-0217 Ocala Metro Properties LLC, 2677 NW 10th St, tree removal without permit. - CE26-0438 Kingcade Avis, 2718 NE 4th Ave, dangerous building. - CE26-0794 PMF Ocala 91 LLC, 206 SW 8th St, tree removal without permit. - CE26-0810 Brown Norman, 2628 NW 6th Ave, weeds/trash. - CE26-0877 Sims Thomas, 205 NW 11th Ave, weeds/trash. - CE26-0899 Hyman Alesia, 2005 NW 27th Ave, weeds/trash. - CE26-0957 Lewis Lula Mae Estate, 1310 NW 12th St, weeds/trash. - CE26-0964 J & L Global Inc, 700 block NW 23rd Ave, weeds/trash and fence code. - CE26-0974 A & G Real Estate Investment USA LLC, 725 SW 2nd St, weeds/trash and tree removal without permit. - CE26-0977 Tarpon IV LLC, 1942 NW 13th St, weeds/trash. - CE26-0988 Benitez Manuel A, 632 SW 2nd St, weeds/trash. - CE26-1103 McCray Cecil Alfonzo Sr, 1710 NW 2nd St, permitted-use, abandoned vehicles, and weeds/trash violations. - CE26-1287 Exit Strategy May 13 LLC, 2117 NW 1st St, repeat violator, weeds/trash. - CE26-1308 Adiyah Homes LLC, 400 block SW 7th Ave, repeat violator, weeds/trash. - ENV26-0082 Kut Different Inc, 2900 block N Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, prohibited signs and tree removal without permit. - ENV26-0302 South Forty Industrial Park Phase II Owners Assoc Inc, 400 block SW 33rd Ave, weeds/trash. Consent Agenda - Liens and Massey Non-Compliance Hearings - The board approved filing liens in: 202411041 (Fuce Ollie M Estate c/o Mary Walker); CE25-0844 (Tyrone Alexander and Ernestine Armstrong); CE25-1105 (Vimalgiri Investment LLC), with daily fines reduced to $2,500 on top of $35,002.81 in hard costs after 194 days of non-compliance on a property valued at $210,000; CE25-1114 (Cassandra Annette Saulsbury Estate); and CE26-0006 (Jeffrey D. Vernam Estate). - The board approved proceeding under the previous order for non-compliance cases CE26-0440 (Dalo Properties LLC), CE26-0734 (Andrew Williams Estate), CE26-0789 (James E. Crawford Jr), ENV26-0148 (Colin R. Walton et al), and ENV26-0220 (MDC Coastal 1 LLC). - The board granted a 90-day extension for 20228006 (Smart Fill Investments LLC and First RA Services L) to January 7, 2027. Key Outcomes - The board approved the minutes of September 10, 2026 after reconvening at the end of the meeting. - The city's request to have all evidence, testimony, and presentations included in the record was accepted. - Fines and cost reductions were approved as described; most votes were unanimous, with announced opposition only on the contractor case, the SP SM Apartments petition, and the Ragindra extension. - The next regular meeting was scheduled for November 12, 2026, and the meeting was adjourned.

The Ocala City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 4:00 PM in Council Chambers at Ocala City Hall, 110 SE Watula Avenue. Mayor Ben Marciano and all five Council members were present: Council President Ire J. Bethea Sr., Pro Tem Jay A. Musleh, and Council Members Kristen M. Dreyer, James P. Hilty Sr., and Barry Mansfield. The Council approved the consent agenda, introduced three ordinances, adopted the FY 2026-27 Transportation Improvement Plan, approved a beer and wine permit for a new Circle K store, approved 14 general business items and two budget resolutions, and appointed two members to the Ocala Municipal Arts Commission. All roll call votes were unanimous (5-0). Proclamations and New Employees - New employees welcomed: Stephany Garcia (Electric), Sarah Geter (Human Resources/Risk), and Lashanna Young (Internal Audit). - Mayor Marciano proclaimed October 22, 2026 as Central Florida Community Action Agency Day in honor of CFCAA's 45th anniversary. A CFCAA board representative said the agency serves Alachua, Levy, and Marion Counties — with most clients in Marion County — through the LIHEAP energy assistance program, home rehabilitation partnerships, and the RISE educational self-sufficiency program, and invited Council to the October 22 annual meeting in Gainesville. - Mayor Marciano proclaimed October 4-10, 2026 as Fire Prevention Week, themed Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging is a Superpower, highlighting lithium-ion battery risks. Fire Chief Clint Welborn accepted the proclamation. Presentation: 2026 Citywide Team Engagement Survey - Strategic and Legislative Affairs Administrator Jeannine Robbins reported 93% overall employee satisfaction for 2026, with 88% of employees recommending the city as a great place to work. This is the third consecutive year above 91% overall satisfaction; 2025 and 2026 are the two highest results on record, and the five-year trend has held between 88% and 93%. - All four engagement drivers (my job, my immediate leader, my direct team, my growth) scored above 89%, with my job highest at 94.7%. - The survey was a confidential paper survey distributed in May with 18 questions; completed surveys were stored in the city vault and collected by an independent outside contractor. - Of 60 Florida municipalities contacted through public records requests, only four conducted employee engagement surveys in 2026; Ocala's 93% satisfaction and 88% recommendation scores compared favorably with those four peer cities. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (motion by Pro Tem Musleh, second by Council Member Dreyer; ayes: Musleh, Dreyer, Hilty Sr., Mansfield, Bethea Sr.). Items included: - Contract with Florida Home Contractors, Inc. for rehabilitation of the Suggs Cadet-Hopson residence at 631 West Silver Springs Place, total project cost not to exceed $98,000. - Purchase and installation of a slide for Fire Station Six from J.C.I. Stanford and Son Inc., $61,500. - First amendment to the agreement with North Florida Container and Truck Repair, LLC for dumpster painting and repair services, maximum expenditure $95,000. - Purchase of a 34-cubic-yard roll-off compactor from Sunbelt Waste Equipment through the Sourcewell cooperative purchasing agreement with Marathon Equipment Company, $51,000. - SunTran 2026-2029 Title VI Plan update. - Resolution 2027-1, supporting a $200,000 State Revolving Fund loan application for the Water Treatment Plant No. 2 project and designating the Council President and City Manager to execute related documents. - Purchase of various inventory items for Ocala Fiber Network from multiple vendors, not to exceed $57,457. - Updated Tri-Party Net Metering Agreement Template for the city's Net Metering Program. - Approval of City Council meeting minutes. Introduction and First Readings of Ordinances - Ordinance 2027-1 (introduced by Council Member Dreyer): repeals Chapter 62, Taxation, Article III (Local Business Tax) and removes references to local business tax, business tax certificates, business tax receipts, and occupational licenses throughout the Code of Ordinances. - Ordinance 2027-2 (introduced by Council Member Mansfield): amends Sections 90-2, 90-20, and 82-33 to clarify the definition of letter of map change, revise the definition of market value to be consistent with the FDEM definition, and clarify Florida Building Code provisions on repetitive flood damage and cumulative substantial improvement. - Ordinance 2027-3 (introduced by Council Member Hilty Sr.): approves a franchise agreement granting Peoples Gas System, a Division of Tampa Electric Company, a non-exclusive franchise to use public rights-of-way for construction, maintenance, and operation of a natural gas distribution system. - Second and final readings are scheduled for October 20, 2026. Public Hearings - Resolution 2027-2 (adopted unanimously; motion Hilty Sr., second Mansfield): adopts the Ocala Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) for FY 2026-27. Growth Management Director Jeff Shrum said the plan covers capacity projects, operational intersection projects, bicycle and pedestrian projects, and public transportation projects. Since the May workshop, TPO rankings were added, and a new project (M2) was included with $100,000 in design funding in 2030 and the remaining $812,000 programmed in 2032. Staff is coordinating with the school board on bus stop and sidewalk safety data and may bring amendments later. - Circle K beer and wine permit (approved unanimously; motion Musleh, second Hilty Sr.): quasi-judicial approval for off-premises sale of beer and wine at the new Circle K 6867 under construction at 4755 W. Hwy 40 (Parcel 22854-000-00). Planner David Sablan reported the 5,641-square-foot store provides 24 parking spaces, will operate 24/7 with alcohol sales limited to 7 a.m.-2 a.m. per code, had one police service call in the last two years, a clean criminal history check, no comments or objections from police or fire, and no schools, churches, daycares, or other alcohol establishments within 500 feet. General Business All items below were approved unanimously (5-0). - 10a. Task work order No. 56 with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. for additional engineering and design services for the Northeast Eighth Avenue Improvement project, $62,180 (motion Mansfield, second Hilty Sr.). - 10b. Contract with Genesis Construction & Management, Inc. to construct 15 new bus stop shelters, not to exceed $317,515 (motion Dreyer, second Musleh). Eight bids were received on July 13 with Genesis the lowest responsible bidder. Transit Administrator Tom Duncan said all 15 shelters are new, located within city limits, and prioritized by access to city and county government offices, health care, and high-density shopping destinations on major roadways. Council members questioned the site selection; one member suggested shelters at high-volume stops would likely help ridership by protecting riders from Florida weather. - 10c. Agreement with the Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership (CEP) for business creation, retention, and attraction services, $190,000 (motion Hilty Sr., second Dreyer). Planning Director Aubrey Hale said CEP completed its prior work plan and that the agreement is being updated to align with the 2050 vision plan and community redevelopment areas. Reported results included 33 targeted marketing campaigns, 40 prospect visits (13 at the airport), a GIS-based property portal with over 180 monthly visits, 280 direct business development assistance appointments (15% in downtown and midtown), and 13 responses to requests for information. - 10d. Purchase of ShinMaywa pumps and equipment from Power & Pumps, Inc. for FY 2026-27, estimated annual expenditure $300,000 (motion Dreyer, second Mansfield). Water Resources Director Bryan Heller said the city operates 151 lift stations; ShinMaywa pumps are used for special applications below 10 horsepower with flush-valve capability. Sole source posting 210 was advertised 15 business days and closed August 23, 2023 with no protests. - 10e. Purchase of Grundfos pumps and consumable parts from FJ Nugent and Associates, Inc. for FY 2026-27, estimated annual expenditure $450,000 (motion Dreyer, second Musleh). Approximately 70% of submersible pumps in the system are Grundfos models ranging from 2 to 137 horsepower; the oldest was installed in June 2000. Sole source posting 192 closed November 22, 2022 with no protests. - 10f. Purchase of Sulzer pumps and equipment from Hydra Service, Inc. for FY 2027, estimated annual expenditure $450,000 (motion Hilty Sr., second Mansfield). Sulzer pumps are used for high-flow, high-head-pressure applications. Sole source posting 211 closed September 7, 2023 with no protests; Heller noted standardization saves on training and response time. - 10g. Contract with Extreme Enterprises of Marion County for grounds maintenance at Ocala Wetland Recharge Park (2105 NW 21st Street), not to exceed $147,535 (motion Musleh, second Dreyer). Eleven vendors bid; the lowest bidder's contract was terminated, and Extreme Enterprises was the next qualified bidder. The initial three-year term runs October 7, 2026 through July 12, 2029 with two one-year renewal options. The amount reflects removal of $5,200 in phase one mowing performed by another vendor and adds 10 extra mows for the rainy season. - 10h. Budget Resolution 2027-101 (adopted; motion Hilty Sr., second Mansfield): appropriates $2,057,098 total for SunTran operating expenses — $837,458 in FDOT Public Transportation Grant Agreement funds, $788,775 in city matching funds, $210,865 in Marion County matching funds, and $220,000 in program income. - 10i. Budget Resolution 2027-102 (adopted; motion Dreyer, second Mansfield): accepts and appropriates $4,694,694 in Federal Transit Administration funding for SunTran capital and operating expenditures; the local match is met through Resolution 2027-101. - 10j. Purchase of citywide information technology equipment — desktops, laptops, tablets, and monitors at end of life — estimated at $645,800 (motion Dreyer, second Mansfield). - 10k. Purchase of a data backup system from Dell Technologies, estimated at $112,015 (motion Hilty Sr., second Musleh). IT Director Christopher Ramos said the current appliance, installed in December 2019, is at end of life after seven years and is the city's key defense for recovering from ransomware attacks. - 10l. Purchase of Infoblox software upgrade and virtualization, $136,770 (motion Dreyer, second Musleh). The agenda lists Mel Poole as presenter, but the presenter identified himself as Kenneth Jameson, Deputy Director of Ocala Fiber Network. The current system was purchased in 2021 and is at end of life; the upgrade replaces physical servers with virtual machines for a more resilient and scalable network. - 10m. Annual renewal of Computer Information Systems software and interfaces, $172,944 (motion Hilty Sr., second Dreyer). Police Chief Mike Balkin presented on behalf of IT Director Joshua Sasso; the software covers call taking, records management, vehicle software, and evidence. - 10n. Renewal of the one-year contract with PCN-Strategies for Getac in-car video and body camera computer-aided hardware and software, estimated at $229,279 (motion Dreyer, second Mansfield), presented by Chief Balkin. Appointments to the Ocala Municipal Arts Commission - The Council filled two vacancies created by the resignations of Dean Flauten and Tito Comas, choosing from three applicants: Michael Bray, Bradley Latcher, and Tasha Neasman. - On the first ballot, Tasha Neasman received votes from four Council members (a majority), while Michael Bray and Bradley Latcher tied with three votes each. In a runoff, Michael Bray received three votes to Bradley Latcher's two. Neasman and Bray were appointed for the remainder of four-year terms ending March 1, 2028 and March 1, 2030. - A Council member asked that future board applicants come to the podium to introduce themselves before appointments; the Council President said applicants will be invited to do so. City Manager's Report - City Manager Peter Lee said the City Hall elevator repair will be completed by October 16, before the next Council meeting. - Upcoming events: Sunset Song Series, Friday, October 9, 7-9 p.m. at Citizen's Circle; Haunted Trail, October 17 at Fort King National Historic Landmark; Women in Business Symposium, October 15, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Mary Sue Rich Community Center; Ocala Fine Arts Festival (FAFO), October 24-25 downtown; State of the City, October 21 at the Reilly Arts Center. - Lee said the information promised on aid-to-private organizations is being compiled and will be brought to the next meeting. - Council Member Dreyer requested an advance look at FAFO road closures and logistics to avoid blocked business entrances. Staff said the traffic plan will be reviewed and vendors will be kept clear of entrances. Department Reports - Ocala Police Department (Chief Mike Balkin): two-week figures were flat versus last year, with total incidents up by only four cases. Officer-initiated calls increased 2% while dispatch calls dropped 3%; reported crimes increased 14%; arrests held flat at 217; traffic enforcement rose 22% with just over 1,300 stops; traffic crashes investigated fell 21% to 143. An apparent 62% increase in violent crime, with reported incidents rising to 81, was driven almost completely by simple misdemeanor battery cases. Priority one response times averaged less than a minute from dispatch to arrival, a 20% improvement; priority two response times rose 3% (about 10 seconds per call). - Ocala Fire Rescue (Chief Clint Welborn): Rescue 1 had the most responses at 256 and Engine 1 had 168 for 911 calls; OFR responded to 116 motor vehicle accidents (224 citywide), two fires, and 21 community paramedicine and core calls. Calls for the period totaled 1,628, bringing the year-to-date total to 21,443. The period included commercial structure fires and several complex motor vehicle accidents involving compromised utility lines, rollovers, and vehicles in retention ponds. - City Attorney's Report: no report. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment cards were received; no members of the public addressed the Council. Calendaring and Informational Items - Upcoming: CRA Agency meeting (October 20, 3:45 p.m.) and City Council meeting (October 20, 4:00 p.m.) in Council Chambers; TPO Meeting October 27 at the Marion County BOCC Auditorium; City Council meetings November 3 and November 17; Light Up Ocala November 21, 3:00 p.m. on the Downtown Square; Veterans Day (November 11) and Thanksgiving (November 26-27) holidays. - Informational items included fully executed contracts under $50,000, the monthly budget-to-actual and Capital Improvement Project status reports as of August 31, 2026, the August 2026 Power Cost Adjustment Report, and Mutual Aid Assistance Expense. Comments by Mayor and Council Members - Mayor Marciano cited two recent deaths at Ole Miss from Kratom overdoses and reported that underage buys at smoke shops and gas stations over the last two weeks resulted in 10 arrests of establishments selling to minors. He said the city is working with the Attorney General on further actions, will launch an educational series with the Children's Alliance, and expects to bring forward an ordinance in the coming weeks. He also invited residents to the Breeds Equine Parade downtown on Saturday, 9-11 a.m., featuring 72 different horse breeds. - Council Member Hilty Sr. promoted the Salvation Army Red Kettle fundraiser and shared a QR code for volunteers to sign up for bell ringing; Council Member Dreyer suggested the OPD Explorers program as a service project. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved 5-0 (items 6a-6i). - Resolution 2027-2 (FY 2026-27 Transportation Improvement Plan) adopted 5-0. - Circle K 6867 beer and wine off-premises permit approved 5-0. - General business items 10a-10n approved 5-0, including budget resolutions 2027-101 ($2,057,098 for SunTran) and 2027-102 ($4,694,694 in FTA funds for SunTran). - Tasha Neasman and Michael Bray appointed to the Ocala Municipal Arts Commission by ballot vote. - First readings held for Ordinances 2027-1, 2027-2, and 2027-3; second and final readings scheduled for October 20, 2026.

The Ocala Historic Preservation Advisory Board convened on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 4:00 PM in Ocala City Hall Council Chambers. The board reviewed four Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) applications for properties within the Ocala Historic District, all of which were approved with varying conditions. No public comments were received, and staff provided updates on guideline reviews and upcoming board training. Discussion Items - COA 26-0044 (733 E. Fort King Street – Edward Holder House): Applicant Robert Hayes/BFJ LLC requested replacement of 56 existing wood windows with Norandex PerfeXion Platinum vinyl replacement windows (double-hung, casement, and fixed picture units) installed as retrofit within existing openings. Staff recommended approval with conditions: existing wood frames/sills remain; structural bucking replaced only where deteriorated; existing single-hung windows replaced with single-hung units; alternative manufacturer requires additional review. A key discussion centered on four windows featuring a diamond-shaped grid pattern, which staff noted was likely a later addition. The board requested that those four windows replicate the diamond pattern (simulated divided lights) to maintain visual compatibility. Motion approved unanimously with condition to replicate diamond pattern. - COA 26-0060 (906 E. Fort King Street – William J. Marshall House): Applicants Stacy and John Harris sought to install a custom-made steel handrail with matte black powder finish along the front porch stairs, required after code-mandated stair replacement. Staff found the handrail visually compatible and limited in scale. No public comment. Motion approved unanimously. - COA 26-0062 (723 E. Fort King Street – E.H. Cox House): Applicant Denise Deluna requested installation of 98 linear feet of 4-foot-high aluminum fencing with spear-top pickets in the front yard. Staff noted the fence matches existing adjacent fencing and complies with height limits. Applicant confirmed the design (rectangular with sphere) matches fences nearby (e.g., Discovery Center). Motion approved unanimously. - COA 26-0064 (514 SE 8th Street – Mrs. Henry Sistrunk House): Applicants Roger and Louisa Ogilvie (returning after a previous vinyl fence rejection) requested replacement of dilapidated fencing with 6-foot wood stockade privacy fencing in rear and side yards and 4-foot wood picket fencing along the side yard adjacent to a school parking lot. Staff found the proposal compatible with the district’s residential character and consistent with height regulations. Board clarified that the picket fence location was along the side (not front) and would be 4 feet high. Motion approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All four COA applications were approved by unanimous votes: COA 26-0044 (with condition to replicate the diamond pattern on four windows), COA 26-0060, COA 26-0062, and COA 26-0064. - Applicants for COA 26-0064 were reminded they have six months to begin work, and extensions can be coordinated with staff. - Staff (Jeff Shrum, Growth Management Director) announced upcoming board training focused on quasi-judicial procedures, staff roles, findings of fact, and competent substantial evidence, likely in November or December 2026. - Next regular meeting scheduled for November 5, 2026. - Board comments included a reminder to keep conversations audible for compliance with sunshine laws and an update on elevator repairs. Staff Comments - Charlita Whitehead noted ongoing review of guideline updates and coordination with the Public Information Office; a workshop or discussion will be scheduled. - Jeff Shrum confirmed board training plans and mentioned the elevator in City Hall was temporarily out of service but expected to be operational by the next meeting.