5.5.26 Pasco County Board of County Commissioner Meeting (Morning Session)

Oh, we didn't talk.

Hey, son. The reason we have that one do everybody's here on the west or the east

except for your cities. We have to

figure they give him shots here. He's tougher than me. Coffee is wearing off. It's too early for that. Going to be a long day. These are dirty. There she is. last few time.

Good morning. I would like to call to order the Pasco County Commission meeting at 10:00 meeting May 5th. At this time, please silence all electronic devices. Please rise for the invocation pledge of allegiance.

Good morning, honorable commission. Chaplain Anthony Shy, Pasco County Fire Rescue. Let us pray. Almighty God, we come before you today with grateful hearts for the blessings of this community and the opportunity to serve the people of Pasco. We ask for your guidance upon this board of county commissioners. Grant them wisdom in every decision. We lift up those faithfully who serve in our community every day. Our county employees, civil servants, first responders, law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency personnel. strengthen them, protect them, and give them courage to carry out their duties. Bless this meeting and our work today as we contribute to the strength and safety and future of Pasco County. Amen.

Amen.

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Madame clerk, please call the role.

District one, Commissioner Oakley

here.

District two, Commissioner Weightman,

present.

District three, Commissioner Starky.

District four, Commissioner Joerger

here.

District five, Chairman Mariano

here and Commissioner Starky is excused.

Now is the time for public comment. Citizens are given an opportunity to comment on any current or future agenda item coming before the board and on any other business under the board's purview. Today's public comment will be handled as follows. First, we will take public comment from those who are here in person. Then, we'll take public comment for those who are pre-registered for an online link and are currently on Q. We request when you address the board, comments are not directed personally at a commissioner or team member, but rather directed at the issues. This provides mutual respect between the board members and the public. After stating your name and address for the clerk, a three-minute timer will be activated and a green light will be shown on the podium. After two minutes is up, a yellow light will indicate you have one minute left. When your time is up, a red light will dis be displayed. Three beeps will sound and you should close your comments. Online participants will be disconnected automatically when their time is up. Madam clerk, do we have anyone signed up for public comment?

Mr. Chair, we have six individuals signed up for public comment. I will go ahead and read the first three. We have Pasco Fire Captain Garolo and Battalion Chief Ruton Ruten. And then we have um Christy Zimmer followed by Tom Smrna.

Good morning. For the record, David Goff, 5038 Silver Charm Terrace, Wesley Chapel. Brandon Rutson 36841 Summers Drive.

Good morning, honorable chair and commissioners and Mr. Carbala and your entire staff. We're here today for a little bragging. Pasco County firefighters uh took part in the annual stair fight for air stair climb on April 11th and we came home again with the trophy three years in a row.

Oh wow.

We raised the most money. That's what that trophy represents. And there was 10 firefighter teams. I made the top 10 in the area. And seven of the teams combined, we raised more than them. So that's pretty awesome. And we couldn't do it without the support from you guys, from our staff, uh, led by Chief Gwyn. And it's just, it's amazing to be a part of. I wanted to thank you. We also wanted to tell you this trophy is going to be in Pasco County, and we go from station to station with it for people that actually took part in it. And about 2 weeks before the stair climb took part, I was approached or I'm sorry, contacted by Joanna Cheshshire and she wanted to take part in it. And she said she didn't know if she's going to have time to get there because she was doing a 5K in the morning across the bay. So I said, "Well, I don't think you'll be able to do both because it's a stair climb, 42 flights." Well, she said, "What time is it?" And I said, "Around 11:00." She said, "I could probably be there." So I'm going to let Battalion Chief Rustin explain the next part. So, I had never met her before, had any experience with her. So, I didn't even know what she looked like. When he started uh talking with Miss Cheshire, I was like, "Who's that?" And she had like glitter on her cheeks or something. And then he told me who it was. And I was like, "Oh, hey, nice to meet you." She al pulls out a bag of bunker gear. And I'm like, "Oh, you're you're going to climb in gear." And she's like, "Yeah, they you know, Chief Martinez suggested." And so all of a sudden now this person who hasn't trained, we train for this. We wear our gear. We train for this a lot. And I was like, "Wow, that's that's pretty neat." And then as we're getting ready to go, she's getting the gear on and she sees us all with air packs and she's like, "You guys have an extra pack." And I'm like, "No, seriously, this thing's like 32 lbs." Like, trust me, you you don't want to do all this. Just just wear that. And she's like, "But do you have an extra pack?" And I'm like, "Yeah." So, we get her an extra pack. She puts it on like a trooper and she goes up and climbs like she's been doing it after running a 5K. It was super impressive. But just just her being there and just supporting us in that way, but also participating, it was it was absolutely amazing. And I'm pretty sure she beat him. But that's

she would have beat me, but she was actually pushing me up. So around the 20th floor, she found me kind of bent over and she's like, "Keep going." But uh, no, leading by example is what us leaders do. Obviously, it starts at the top and having someone that leads by example and represent you guys is awesome. So, thank you. Thank you.

I feel like Joanna should stand.

Yeah. Christy Zimmer and she's asked for 30 extra seconds so I granted it.

Okay. I'm here doing nice today. You're going to like me today. Christy Zimmer, 36 3615 Pineome Court Land Lakes, Florida. I am here to present Mr. Seth Weightman with a very special gift. Do we move to receive?

I second.

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Today I'm here to present a gift to Seth Weightman. The gift is a cookbook that his uncle Tom Weightman put together in the early 70s

when he was the president of the Loots Land Lakes Rotary Club. I had given him the original and had a copy made for him to keep and to give the original to his uncle Tom.

For whatever reason, my mom kept this book in her very important papers for all these years and I had to go through a file box of her stuff recently and found that book and felt like I needed to give it back to the rightful creator. I recently had to go through all her belongings and found that. And there are some amazing recipes in this book from some very prominent men including but not limited to the following. Jack Harris with 97 WFLA Loel Thomas Guy Pakola state senators at the time. President Jimmy Carter Governor Ruben Ascu Bob Bondi. Yes, he's related to Pam. He Jerry Bmer and Charles Bean who were Hillsboro County Commissioners at the time. William Poe who was a mayor of Tampa. Richard Dick Stone and Lton Childs who were US senators. Lou Panella of the New York Yankees, Doug Dicki of the University of Florida head football coach, Ralph Turlington who was a commissioner of education, many local businessmen, several deans and professors from USF, priests, pastors, and several Rotary pres presidents from around the state, including our own Thomas Waitman in this book. It's absolutely adorable. It's called menus that men use. and he wrote a letter. Dear friends, all of the members of the Ludel Lakes Rotary Club hope that you will enjoy reading about and using the recipes that are in our cookbook. Recipes have been provided by Rotarians, public officials, sports personalities, and many other men who shared their favorites with us. We want to thank everyone who contributed to the menus men use. Our purpose in doing this cookbook as a club project was twofold. Many women's groups have published cookbooks, so we thought it would only be fair that the men have equal rights. Secondly, our menus menus is a fundraising activity so that our Rotary Club can support worthwhile community activities. We hope you find a recipe that will be a special treat in your castle and thank you for supporting this pro project. The members of that time, go back so I don't lose my place. The members at that time of the Rotary Club, you may recognize some of these old-time names. Russell Adams, Brian Code, Steven Dumbrascus, Roy Cable, Bill Laney, Frank Ler, Curtis Law, John Long, Dave Marshall, Jerry McCarthy, Charles Moore, Robert Palmer, Dane Piercefield, Jim Richardson, Charles Rushi, Paul Sidlo, Leonard Terero, Burns Warfield, John Warren, Tom Weightman, Garrett Westfall, Todd Woods, and Jack Ant. It's absolutely adorable. It's all done on in a castle theme. We're going to be selling these books for $50 a piece. That sounds like a lot, but when you get a recipe from one of these officials, it's important. But understand that the fundraiser is for our very own camp out of Wild of Florida. Located right in the heart of Pasco County and Land of Lakes. They provide the ultimate camping experience yearround for our autistic and special needs children and adults. 100% of the proceeds will go directly to the camp. He has our signup sheet. I've already gotten several people signed up this morning already and I will let him

pass that around and get that back to us and we will have the books available in about two weeks. So, if you want to order a menu that men use and it go to Camp Ottawa, we would appreciate it.

All right. Thank you.

Thank you, ma'am.

I'm going to call the motion to receive and file. All in favor say I.

I.

All right. Now he has to give it up.

Yeah,

it's pre and and so Tom's son, my cousin Ken Wakeman did the artwork in this.

Okay.

I'm sure that uh my late aunt Mary Sue uh helped out quite a bit in the kitchen back back then. But um Miss Zimmer, thank you. These are incredibly special and um we'll be excited to share them with Tom who we just celebrated 90 years of Tom Weightman a few months ago. and um he had a shoulder replacement done a year or so ago and on the campaign trail back four years ago. I didn't realize how many weapons he doled out

to so many folks over the years. I guess that was his job as assistant principal is doing disciplinary action. So I figure that's probably what led up to a shoulder replacement. Outside of that, he's doing pretty dog on good. So, thank you for sharing this with us today.

Yes.

Hi,

Mr. Chair. I just want to make sure that um this will not go into the official record for this meeting. This is is a gift. So, I just wanted to make sure that that was a joke.

It was, but I was still trying.

I know.

I'll still donate the 50, though.

All right.

Send me back the form when you get it filled.

Yes, ma'am.

All right. We have um Tom Smyrna followed by Karen Sears followed by Pastor Troy Peterson and then Jason Sheddin.

Good morning.

Move to receive and file. Second. All in favor say I. I. name and address. My name is Tommyers, uh, 10315 Armadillo Court, Newport Richie, Florida. The reason I'm here today is my neighbor is running a complete semi restoration and repair shop next to my property, which is zoned er residential subdivision. I've listened to semis coming in and out of an illegal driveway for the last two years. They were told not to use the illegal driveway by Mr. Miller from Pasco County right away. They they were to get a permit and restore the property back to the original condition which they never done or pulled permits for. The building is a 40x 80 metal building, 3200 square ft. The building does not have a paint booth in it, proper ventilation, and where is he disposing the material which is highly flammable? This should not be allowed. I have called code out number of times about the situation and nothing has been done. I'm tired of hearing compressors running, sanding, buffing, grinding air tools all day long. Um, and and to say the least, the paint when he paints, the lacquer smell in my backyard is just horrendous. I cannot go out in my yard at all. For example, um on March 4th, a white semi came in with uh windows taped, logos off, and almost ready to be painted. They worked on it for five days straight. Then on the 9th of March, the truck came out shiny painted orange, which I have pictures of. Uh the pictures of how this is not a business. Sometimes need to do what we need to do. The latest project appears to be a white a white vehicle which possibly could be the counties, but I'm not sure. It's got a side light on it by the front door. I have a beautiful home and a piece of property that I want to be able to re to enjoy my retirement. If this is not enough information to open eyes, then I will be back at the next meeting with more documentation. Thank you. Good morning. My name is Karen Sears. I live at 12422 East Point Drive in Dade City, Florida. My sister is Thomas Meyer's wife. So, I have been to this property. I have visited several times. I was there on Easter of 20124 when there were vehicles. I have three semi tractor trailer trucks all lined up against the fence and we show pictures here and I have marked them one, two, and then there's another one that's a dark one that's a a duplicate. So there were three there for a whole week moving back and forth, back and forth there to get work done on them and their trailers. Okay. This is not what 530.16 is supposed to be about. It was supposed to allow a commercial vehicle to be on the property if it's enclosed within the building. It did not tell us what kind of vehicle that was, what category of vehicle, commercial vehicle that was, but is it a class B, 33,000 pound semi that's supposed to be on a a

state residential lot. A state residential lots, as we all know, are for residents and small animals. It says within a 509 code that it does not even allow you to have a rooster. Okay? Hence only because roosters make noise. No dog pounds because dogs make noise. But yet we can have this going on. So let me give you a little sample of what this is. Well, well, well. 25 till 4. It's been going on all day. I can hear the whining in my eyes. This is at night. For those of you who can see, it's night time when this is being done.

Okay.

Can I just comment on that?

Yes, Commissioner.

Okay. Um I know as of yesterday they were cited by code. So code did go out see them and give them a citation.

May I ask?

Um

for the they were driving on their they made them get rid of the driveway.

Okay.

So um and also with your complaint and now it's at the county's attorney's office as well. So we are handling it. And if you would like to have somebody from code talk to you, David Allen and Chase.

Yes, I would like. Okay. Thank you.

Y but there's an update at least for you.

Three minutes doesn't give me very long time.

Well, so with Chase Daniels and David Allen there that are going to help out, but Mr. Jagger, I know you've been working hard on it's been it's been a difficult issue, but hopefully this will elevate it to the points it needs to be. We have uh Pastor Troy Peterson followed by Jason Jason Sheddon.

Troy Peterson, 8114 Leo Kid Road, Port Richie, Florida. Uh good morning, chair, staff, commissioners, Mr. Cabela. Um I guess the first thing is um some exciting news. Some of you may be aware that I was asked to u launch turning point faith Pasco. Um and that's kind of exciting in light of what happened with Charlie Kirk. We just thought let's let's jump on that bandwagon and really uh to unite the church uh and government in in Pasco County. Um with that, um we last year, um Mayor Rector of Clearwater, um just newly elected, he came to to us and asked, "Well, what are we going to do? Uh I really don't want to fly the gay pride flag in June, and I don't want gay pride month in my city." And so we presented to him, nothing against gay pride month or anything like that, an alternative option which is faith and family month. And so we worked with five city mayors last year, including Mayor Recctor, uh doing a resolution, a proclamation um that faith uh June would be faith and family month. This year we have 20 mayors including a couple counties um that have done resolutions that June is faith and family month. Um we're doing concerts in several different cities uh familyfriendly concerts uh including uh June 6th uh in water or waterfront park um from 4:30 to 8:30. And uh so I just wanted to throw that out there. We'll have one more meeting that I can actually bring flyers and and uh it's going to be really a blessed time with different worship teams coming in. Uh Commissioner Whiteitman, you talked about baptisms. Uh we are going to have the the baptism tank um set up and just expect a good time of family and community uh there in June 6th in Waterfront Park. Uh lastly, uh some of you know that I've been on the board of the continuum of care, uh with you know, people used to come to me, oh, you know, about my homeless ministry, and I'm like, I don't have a homeless ministry. You know, homeless show up and what what are you going to do about it? But being on that board, I found that one of the the biggest problems that we have with homeless here in Pasco County is affordable housing. Um, that's why I I believe the last I had heard there are over 400 on the by name list. I believe I have an option for affordable housing that I'd like to talk with you all about. Thank you for your time.

Thank you,

Jason Shettton. How you doing? My name is Jason Shettin. I'm coming here today um with a group of

Mr. Shettin. Um your address for the record.

Oh, I'm sorry. It's uh 52 and 19. It's 11840US19 Harm Reduction Anonymous. Um we we help people, you know, any way we can. Um the main reason we come we are coming here today is we we fund this thing ourselves. We don't have anybody helping us. We you know we we have somebody helping us with our building but we we pay for all the food. All the clothing gets donated sometimes. But you know our our impact is cuz we want cuz I've been there. I've been in their shoes you know. So um we give out clothing narcan uh food we can to help these people out. And it it's tough to do by yourself. Um, you know, I was I I I died 19 times about two years ago. So, this is, I think, my calling. Um, today is my five-year day. It's over.

Job.

Yeah. Congratulations.

I just think this is God's plan. said, uh, if there's any way you guys can help us, the sheriffs came, uh, on Thursday, two sheriffs came by and said, you know, the overdoses rate is down because of us. I've never heard any sheriff say anything like that before. Um, so, you know, I kind of came here on a whim. I didn't even know this thing started until 8:00 this morning, you know, and uh the fact that I'm here on the day that I'm 5 years sober, I just think it has a a lot to do with everything. But um I appreciate your time. That's all I got.

Thank you.

Thank you,

Mr. Chair. That is all that I have signed up on the sheet.

All right. Is anyone online?

No one's online.

Okay. Anyone else here that would like to address a board under public comment? Okay, we'll close public comment. We go to resolutions RS1. If you are here for National Historic Preservation Month, please step up to the podium.

Hi, David Engel, planning and economic development director. Uh I'm here to uh accept uh a resolution from the board because this is National Historic Preservation Month and they wanted the oldest living fossil be up here today. Um you know and I and I take pause. We're entering into the 250th anniversary of our great country and it's it's certainly timely to also celebrate the wonderful historic history of Pasco County. Um, we take Pasco County's historic preservation and preservation of archaeological structures and places very seriously. Uh, Darin Roy is our historic preservation planner. Uh, Darin has done a great job in doing an inventory of our historic sites and structures and we do maintain a proactive uh, preservation strategy to preserve the cherished history of Pasco County. And it's really nice that we're here in the historic courthouse today and we have historic structures and places from one side of the county to the other. Uh give you an example um of the history of the county. Trilby a 100 years ago was the largest city in Pasco County. It was blessed by commerce uh stimulated from our agricultural tradition. We had the CR mill in Luchi which is one of the oldest cypress mills in the country. We had a a very prosperitydriven area there. And coming on the west side, um we have the Baker House which is located on Lube Road. It was built in 1882. It's on the historic registry and it's a very interesting structure because it highlights Florida Cracker architecture and um in 1980 when they built Centennial Park and the county did uh they preserve the uh location of this historic structure and in 1989 the county had it restored and preserved. So we have a breath of um wonderful opportunities to preserve our history and our heritage and also to celebrate what we've already done. Uh today uh in support of this um month we have um date cities representative city of Newport Richie town of St. Leo San Antonio city of Zephr Hills. We have two guest archae archaeologists from the Florida public archaeology network. Uh Morgan Dean from the county attorney's office was very helpful and our facilities management team and planning staff. So, thank you very much for sponsoring this month and thank you, Commissioner Oakley, for bringing this forward.

I think there's a reason why they chose me to present this. So, the fact of it is I've been here eight decades. Um, I was a young man living with grandparents cuz my mother passed away when I was 10 and I was they lived in Luchi and that plant closed down 66 years ago. I happened to be be there at the time. So, um, the community, like you said in the beginning, David, was one of the oldest communities and largest in the county of Pasco County and a lot of history there. I was able to see a lot of that history and um, Cypress houses been they throw I don't know if you ever price pecky cypress, but if if you ever price it, it's very very expensive. Back in the day when they were making that back in in those early days, the fact of it is it was $5 a truckload. So, Mr. Larkin, which lived here in in the community, would go with truckloads and build rental houses all throughout Luchi. Some of them are still standing. And uh those historic housing that they were doing back then were made out of that pecky cyprress that had holes in it. So they had a way and make it make it right. So but a very good homes and I even have a picture down in my office. I should have brought that up today, but uh of me when I was about three or four years old standing in front of front of my grandparents house that was made out of Cyprus. So yeah, it's it's very much needed that we take care of our history because historic courthouse, you cannot imagine how beautiful this building is and how many people that we have cuz my office is here and Mr. Waitmanland's office is also here. The fact of it is we welcome people in here just to see this courthouse because it is a very beautiful landmark here in in the city of Date City. And talking about history, the east side of Pasco County has all the all the cities located within District One. So, it's kind of strange when we have our meeting with cities and county. They're all my cities. So, uh, I appreciate all the citizens in all over Pasco County for they do so much to preserve what we have and the way of life we've had in the past. I know there's a lot of growth and all going on, but yes, we struggle to to keep things going the right direction and also keeping things uh preserved for for the future. Okay, I'll uh I'll fellow fossil,

we need a motion.

Do you want

Oh, we need a motion.

Move. Do you want me to read it? Yeah. You got a motion? Uh, let's let's read it.

Oh, yeah. Maybe go ahead to read it.

All right. Resolution number

all out of whack.

Yes. 26- um 207, a resolution by the board of county commissioners of Pasco County, Florida, declaring May 2026 as National Historic Preservation Month in Pasco County. Whereas preservation month began as national preservation week in 1973 and in 2005 the national trust extended the celebration to the entire month of May and declared it preservation month to provide an even greater opportunity to celebrate the diverse and unique heritage of our country's cities and states. Andraz, the first presidential preservation proclamation stated, "As the pace of change accelerates in the world around us, Americans more than ever need a lively awareness of our roots and origins in the past on which to base our sense of identity in the present and our directions for the future. Anra Pasco County continues to discover and celebrate the county's diverse cultural heritage found in irreplaceable places that hold the stories of all Americans. Anra Pasco County recognizes the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation as a statewide preservation nonprofit that promotes the preservation and the inclusive sharing of diverse architectural, historical, archaeological heritage of Florida. Andres, the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation benefits historic communities like Pasco County through advocacy, connection, education, and stewardship. Andres, by preserving our historic built environment, we have tangible and intangible assets such as community stories, traditions, and values. Now therefore, be it resolved by the board of county commissioners of Pasco County, Florida, that said board hereby proclaims May 2026 as National Historic Preservation Month in Pasco County, and calls upon all Pasco County residents to join their fellow citizens across the United States in recognizing and participating in this special observance done and resolved in regular session with a quorum present and voting this 5th day of May, 2026.

Move approval.

Second.

All in favor say I.

I. I. I don't need to go back through everything I've already said since I said it a little early. So, but uh it is great to live in Pasco County and there's there's really um a great way of life here in Pasco that we have that a lot of people want and I think that's why you see a lot of people coming here because they want to have the same type of life that we all have and u we try to do our best to keep it as real as possible but

with all the demands that are out there. But I'll come down. We'll take a picture and then uh go from there.

Okay. rest of you want to stand up there, I guess, cuz we got quite a few.

Were you changing? and I'll go to RS2. All right. If you are here for um the National Day of Prayer, please step up to the podium.

All right. I'll go ahead and read the resolution first. Resolution number 26-208, a resolution by the board of county commissioners of Pasco County, Florida, observing Thursday, May 7th, 2026 as the National Day of Prayer in Pasco County. Whereas the National Day of Prayer is an event deeply rooted in our country's history, dating back to the first Continental Congress in 1775. In 1952, Congress passed a joint resolution re recognizing a national day of prayer. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan signed a law setting aside the first Thursday of May as the date on which the National Day of Prayer is officially observed. And whereas the National Day of Prayer unites Americans from all socio socioeconomic, political, and ethnic backgrounds in prayer for our nation. This diversity was intended by Congress when it designated the National Day of Prayer. Not that every fa Not that every faith and creed would be homogized, but that all who sought to pray for our for this nation would be recognized to do so in any manner deemed appropriate. And whereas during this important time in our nation's history, we continue to give thanks and pray for the brave members of our armed forces who are defending our freedoms and their families. We humbly ask God for their protection, for the recovery of the wounded, and for the peace throughout the world, which we all seek. And whereas on Thursday, May 7th, 2026, Americans will unite all over the country to pray for our nation, state, and local communities, giving thanks for the many blessings we have received and asking for protection and blessings upon our nation and our nation's leaders. Now therefore, be it resolved by the board of county commissioners of Pasco County, Florida, that said board hereby observes Thursday, May 7th, 2026, as a national day of prayer, and encourages all citizens to join in observing this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities done and resolved in regular session with a quorum present and voting this fifth day of May, 2026.

Move approval.

Second.

All in favor say I.

I. Commission W.

Yes. Well, I'd be remiss if this isn't shouldn't be a shared resolution from Chair Mariano, and I I guess I beat him in getting it on getting it on the record, but um so this Thursday uh morning, we'll be having National Day of Prayer here at 7:30 at the historic courthouse. We'll be celebrating 75 years of celebrating National Day of Prayer here. And Commissioner Mariano will be hosting it at noon

noon. Yes,

noon time at the West Pasco Government Center in the in the front there. There's better parking on the west side, but we have better atmosphere on the east side. Not that there's a competition ever, but um no, it's just a be a beautiful morning to have fellowship and and uh and and have everybody come out and uh with faith and fellowship and um you know, just just a nice morning to keep us all grounded and uh look forward to all those who come out and uh pray with us and uh show our father how much we appreciate him for all that he does in our lives. So, Pastor Troy or

whoever.

Good morning, honorable commission. Again, Anthony Ship, chap Chaplain for Pasco County Fire Rescue. We welcome everyone to this meeting of the county commissioners today. Thank you to our county staff and our members of the community and all who are present joining us remotely. We gather to conduct important work serving Pasco County. work that affects families, businesses, and future of our community. We recognize that public service is both a responsibility and a privilege. And we are committed to carrying out all these duties with integrity, transparency, and respect for all. We pause to recognize that something has been long been a past of a fabric of our nation. So, an opportunity to reflect, to give thanks, and seek wisdom beyond ourselves. Respectfully, in short order, I'd like to recognize the National Day of Prayer as it was done Thursday, May 7th, a special day that will be honored uh annually across the United States. And it's a moment to reflect on the values that guide us, to seek wisdom in our leadership, and to ask strength for times and challenging situations. Today, I'd like to uh present our five commissioners with a challenge coin. It's a prayer coin on your honor to serve Pasco County. We're thankful for your service and giving us the opportunity to serve you and our community and our firefighters and police departments. So, let me take that opportunity to present these to you. All right. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you so much.

It is an honor to serve you as the chaplain for Pasco County Fire Rescue. Thank you so much.

I noticed that coin was the full armor of God. How important is it to understand that our wrestle is not against flesh and blood, but spiritual wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, place on the full armor of God, the breastplate of his righteousness, the sword of the spirit, which is the word of God. And I like to pull out the sword a lot, which is the word of God. And what I noticed is there are many governing bodies, local, state, and federal that are actually united in the United States of America with this very flyer right here. praying specific scriptures for church, family, education, business, workplace, military, government, arts, and entertainment. Um, that's what we'll be doing on the west side. Um, you know, uh, commissioners over on the east side, since you guys are starting at 7:30, you can come on over to the west side and and join us. We'd be honored if, uh, you could be there. And, uh, maybe I ought to come over here. Um, I think that's a good idea. I'm gonna I'm gonna try to do that if I if I can. Um, with this National Day of Prayer um that so many uh governing bodies are going to be praying um on Thursday. It starts out now this being the 75 75th anniversary as Commissioner Whiteitman said um there's this prayer on the back that just really kind of impacted me. For 250 years you God have guarded and guided America in wisdom in grace, mercy and love. We praise and thank you for your founding fathers, for all who sought you in fervent prayer throughout history and answered your call to defend justice and freedom to protect, to serve, to preach and to teach, innovate, communicate, learn, work uh workmanship and establish our laws. Is that powerful or what? It's God who speaks to us to establish laws in the land. Isn't that so true? May your kingdom come and your will be done in our lives, in our families, in the church, in education, business, military, government, arts, and entertainment. As it is in heaven, we prayerfully commit to glorify God among the nations, seeking him in all generations. Right down on the bottom it says in Jesus name. Amen. In Jesus name. Now for several years I came in here and said the only way to the father is through the son in Jesus name. There is no other name.

Pastor Troy we need to go. We got bunch of resolutions we got to finish.

Okay. But I would encourage I would encourage to get back to praying in Jesus name. Amen. Amen. Amen. You come down here chair. There is week.

All right. If you're here for correctional officers and employees week, please step to the podium. I see a couple.

They brought their view with them.

Look at that.

Oh, wow.

What is this? Oh.

Oh. All right. Shall I go ahead and read? Okay. Resolution number 26-209, a resolution by the port of board of county commissioners of Pasco County, Florida, declaring the week of May 3rd through 9th, 2026 as Pasco County Correctional Officers and Employees Week. Whereas on October 1st, 2022, Pasco County assumed all duties and responsibilities of the management and operation of the Pasco County Jail in Lando Lakes, Florida. Anra El Paso County Jail is documented as the 10th largest county correctional facility in Florida due to housing over 1,000 offenders. ANRAZ correctional facilities across the United States, both public and private, military and civilian, are run by highly qualified and experienced men and women with a deep understanding of the challenges and difficulties within their profession. And whereas correctional officers are highly trained professionals dedicated to maintaining secure facility, sorry, maintaining secure correctional facilities and ensuring public safety for our communities. And correctional officers and and professionals serve admirably in many different capacities, including jail administrators, supervisors, officers, and support staff. and they work in very demanding and stressful conditions, face many challenges, and put their lives at risk every day. An RAZ correctional officers and employees are responsible for the custody, care, safety, security, and reform of thousands of offenders every year, as well as the maintenance of safe and secure facilities. And whereas correctional officers and employees guide, counsel, mentor, teach, train, treat, and assist the rehabilit rehabilitation of offenders and provide offenders with direction, guidance, and a new focus while preparing them for community re-entry. And correctional officers and employees rise to meet any challenge faced with courage, honor, and excellence. Now therefore, be it resolved by the Board of County Commissioners of Pasco County, Florida. That said, board hereby proclaims the week of May 3rd through 9th, 2026 as Pasco County Correctional Officers and Employees Week, and encourages the citizens of Pasco County to join in expressing appreciation for the hard work, extreme diligence, exceptional service, and unwavering dedication provided by the individuals who work in our county correctional facility. Done and resolved in regular session with a quorum present and voting this fifth day of May, 2026. Move approval.

Second.

All in favor say I.

I. Well, Chief Jenkins and and your team, you know, it's been what, three and a half years now since the transition and talk about overcoming so many challenges for you and your team as we embarked on essentially creating an entire new branch of government uh and services in a department for the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners. And it's it's often times that your crew is overshadowed by the sheriff's department, but know that you're not forgotten about. We appreciate your work. We understand that when you become a corrections officer that you're dealing with someone who is really hit a low point in their lives. And you all have a calling and to do this duty. and you're there to protect them, protect one another, protect those folks from their from themselves and our community. And so you really are doing uh humane work for the folks that are in your care and that this county is responsible for. And so for that, we're forever grateful for you all choosing to do this this job and to keep everybody in your care safe and as healthy as possible while keeping you all safe. Known to keep yourselves from being burned out uh from the constant, I'm assuming controlled chaos that can go on in the facility. So that it's our honor to have you here today and to recognize your work and for us to tell you thank you and that we appreciate you and that we're here for you and that we hope that all your days are are full of uh safe and health and good practice. So we're glad to have you here today, Chief Jenkins.

Thank you Chairman Mariano and honorable commissioners. I'd first like to thank Commissioner Weightman for sponsoring this resolution. Since 2022, this staff has proudly served under the board of county commissioners. Many of our citizens may not have an understanding of the work done by members within the facility, but today I want to highlight the tenure and experiences of the members joining me today. I have civilian control room operator Amanda Lindsay. She's one of our most junior members in the control room, followed by one of our most senior with CRO Keith Blair. These civilians provide control and security of the facility by being individuals responsible for door controls, access, and security points of the facility. They're also another set of eyes for our sworn officers. Officer Harden has six months on the job. Officer Tidwell with a year. Corporal Lindsay, seven years, and Sergeant Claritas, 17 years. All worked within inmate housing. Officer Shane Banner has nine years working within our classification section. He's responsible for classifying inmates in the appropriate spots within the facility, ensuring their safety. Lieutenant Anne Phillips has 27 years experience within housing, intake, release, classification, and now professional development. She's charged with our accreditation process. Last week, we underwent our Florida model jail standards inspection, which looked at our entire operations to include inmate programs, intake release, inmate housing, uh, religion, food service, and these inspectors noted zero violations within our facility. Lastly, I I want to not lastly because I also have Captain Hagen here who was a surprise to me this morning. I I welcome him also. But I also want to acknowledge Corporal Steve Olsen who has 18 years experience and he is currently assigned to our jail expansion team. He's been instrumental in overseeing the construction clearing construction workers for uh site site work. Um, Commissioner Weightman, you've expressed in the past that you are now wardens of the of the jail.

Five wardens.

That That's correct, sir. So, in appreciation of your commitment and support to corrections and as leadership who should be recognized as correctional professionals, we would like to present each one of you with a piece of jail history. These jail bars were taken from an area of the east jail, the old jail currently being renovated during phase 2 construction. We felt it well suited to provide each commissioner with this momentto in addition to the corrections challenge coin provided only to the members who went through the transition with us. On this point, you will see Pasco County corrections was established in October 1, 2022. In addition, um, Corporal Olsen created these, um, you know, as they're removing items from the jail, we decided to put some of them to good use, but you'll also see they will have, uh, the the thin gray line which supports correctional officers and correctional employees. So, um, we'd like to present these to you and and, uh, look forward to, uh, getting our photograph taken with you. But thank you, county administration, and thank you board for supporting county jail. Thank you, Chief. And it's important to note, and I I missed this in my opening remarks, but since taking since the countyy's taken over the jail, we've exceeded the model standards for jailing, correct? Every every year. So, you guys are exceeding uh baseline standards if you want to.

Yes, sir. We're exceeding baseline standards and we are also also um accredited by the Florida Correctional Association. Yeah,

Mr. Kal. your junior warden under us.

So again, chief, want to thank you and and the team for everything that you do. I know I've I've been to the facility several times. Respect uh exactly the hard work that goes into it. You often talk, Commissioner Muay mentioned it that this is a calling and and I see that it's evident. It's evident in the uh the familial um relationship that you have with the team and that you guys are you guys are all in when it when it comes to uh to doing the hard job that you are asked to do. It's been a pleasure. Our anniversaries are the same day actually. Uh you know when uh so so coming having having you in the family has been been an amazing experience and it's just been it's just been great to watch watch this grow. Look at the culture that you've established within within the facility and with your team and how it just mirrors and merges so perfectly in what we do here at the county. So, can't thank you enough for the hard work that you guys do. Uh, you know, both both on sworn and civilian. Um, you you knock it out of the park every single day. So, thank you for that.

All right, come down.

Take a picture here.

We want to hold these up.

I think you should hold them like this.

That's a duck, right?

I like the reference of that.

Should we duck into them like this? Hi.

Stand to the side of the line.

County attorney's excuse.

You don't want to know.

You're not in jail at all.

Here, we'll just get you a window there.

Oh, yeah.

This will be pull up one. Yeah. You want me to pull that arrow?

It's heavy, huh?

It is.

Thank you. We can put them up there. Thank you all for your service.

We'll go RS4.

Okay. If you are here for Araxia awareness day, please step forward to the podium. You can also step forward to the podium, please. Yes. Can I begin?

I was going to read the resolution first.

Yes. I procured this resolution on behalf of my daughter.

Hold on one second. She's going to read the resolution.

Oh, sure. Yes.

All right.

We'll let you know when it's

decided. Thank you.

All right. Resolution number 26-210, a resolution by the board of county commissioners of Pasco County, Florida, declaring May 14th, 2026 as Araxia awareness day in Pasco County. Whereas Araxia Awareness Day is a nationally recognized day of advocacy and community awareness during which citizens, families, and healthc care advocates unite to raise awareness about childhood araxia of speech. CAS. Is it CIS or Cass?

Cass.

Okay, I'll say Cass. A series a serious and often misunderstood neurological speech disorder that affects approximately one in 10,000 children with one-third having an identified genetic causal basis. Andraz childhood araxia of speech causes children to have significant difficulties planning and executing the precise movements required for clear speech and is among the most severe speech deficits affecting children profoundly impacting a child's ability to communicate and participate fully in school and community life. ANRAZ. Unlike most children for whom learning to speak occurs naturally, children with Cass require early diagnosis, appropriate intervention, and intensive speech language therapy, often sustained for many years to develop the ability to use their own voice effectively. Andraz without timely and appropriate speech therapy intervention. Children with child childhood aroxia of speech face not only severely diminished communication abilities but are also at significantly elevated risk for secondary impacts including difficulties in reading, writing, spelling and academic performance broadly. andraz these primary and secondary impacts of unadressed if unadressed can limit a child's future independence restrict employment opportunities and challenge their ability to become fully contributing members of the community and public awareness about childhood aroxia of speech is essential so that families affected by this disorder and those who support them can access the services funding and advocacy necessary to provide these children with the opportunities they deserve and whereas aroxia Kids is the nation's leading nonprofit organization exclusively dedicated to childhood aroxia of speech and works to strengthen the support system surrounding affected children and serves families and professionals in Pasco County. Anra Pasco County is home to children living with childhood aroxia of speech and the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners sends their appreciation to the dedicated families, therapists, and advocates who tirelessly champion their right to be heard. Now therefore, be it resolved by the board of county commissioners of Pasco County, Florida, that said board hereby proclaims May 14th, 2026 as a proxia awareness day in Pasco County and encourages all citizens, schools, healthc care providers, community organizations, and businesses of Pasco County to increase awareness and understanding of childhood aroxia of speech done and resolved in regular session with a quorum present and voting this fifth day of May, 2026.

I procured this resolution. Oh, sorry. More

approve it now. A motion.

Move to approve.

Second. All say I.

I.

I appreciate your patience. First proclamation.

Ready. Ready.

All right. Round three. I procured this resolution on behalf of my daughter and the families of Pasco County affected by childhood array of speech. Thank you to Pasco County for recognizing aroxy awareness day. My name is Isabella Bogs. Both my daughter and I have childhood aroxia of speech and I am a legal advocacy volunteer for Araxia kids. My great grandma ana Quinn, my grandpa Fu, and my grandmother Burl always used their skills and voices to advocate for their family, their community, and for anyone who needed it. When I was little, my grandma Burl, who helped raise me, would sit with me patiently talking about cherry hand pies, textiles, cats, rainbows, books, and roses. She would incorporate anything that I love to help me practice the mouth movements that didn't come as easily. She put me at a typewriter as I became a teenager and urged me to write poetry, giving me another way to find my voice. She inspired me to use mine the same way she used hers. My daughter is the reason I do and every word she speaks is pure gold.

Every child with araxia deserves someone who will be their voice until they can find their own.

Thank you.

Yep. I'd just like to make a comment. You guys can go to the podium that I was I was so honored when you asked me to do this resolution and this this hits home for me because um my son when he was little, he he did not have words. So he was very frustrated. He would hit, he would bite, he'd throw himself on the floor and the whole thing he was just frustrated because he didn't he couldn't communicate with us. So we learned sign language and he had every interventionist known known to man and we started it very early and thanks to parents like you guys that that did start that journey early. Your kids are going to be amazing and no one will ever know that they ever had a proxia. And um my son Jacob, these these two know him very well. you would never know that he had any issues. So, um thank you again for bringing awareness to you. Um th the this next few I'm I'm um very excited to have. This is Jackson and his mom's Jenny and Jenny. Um Jen and Jenny, sorry. And they want to tell you a little bit about Jackson's journey. And then we also get to hear Jackson when he was little. We have a recording. So,

I'll leave it to you guys. Today we support a resol a resolution recognizing Araxia awareness day a cause that is deeply personal to our family. Our child Jackson was diagnosed with araxia in 2016. At at the time we didn't fully understand the road ahead only that communication something m many take for granted would be one of his greatest challenges. It took years of therapy, patience and relentless practice for him to find his voice. As parents we adapted along with him. We taught him simple signs so that he could express his needs. And we learned to understand him in ways others couldn't. Through his inflection, through vowel sounds, and through the determination in his eyes when he was trying so hard, trying so hard to be heard. Every single breakthrough was hard-earned and celebrated. Today, Jackson has found his voice, and most of the time, it's a very loud one. It fills our home with joy and reminds us daily how far he has come. We are honored to stand here and be part of this important resolution not just for Jackson but for every child and family navigating araxia. Raising awareness means early earlier supports, stronger resources and m and more voices being heard. Thank you for recognizing the importance of this day and for helping to bring attention to this journey that so many of our families share.

Okay,

Jackson, would you like to say anything? No. Okay, then let's play.

No. Okay.

You're welcome. Okay. So, let's listen to Jackson's Journey. Say,

say hi.

Hi.

My name is Jackson.

Put your hand down. Say thank you everybody

for supporting me. and wearing blue

and wearing blue

for araxia

awareness

day

I love you

I

now blow kisses

say hi

hi

my name is Jackson

thank Thank you everybody.

Thank you everybody.

For supporting me

for supporting me

and wearing blue

for araxia

foria

awareness

day

day.

I love you.

Now blow kiss.

Now blow kisses.

Bye-bye.

I don't know about you guys, but I have goosebumps all over my body. So to parents out there who are listening, early intervention is key. And Jen, so I just want to give a little bit of context to that video. Um, every year on Araxia awareness day, May 14th, I took a video over the course of four years um, as Pasco County Schools recognized Jackson and everybody wore blue and it was a big push even back then when he was that little. And so every year for four years, I documented his journey. We documented his journey saying the same message and that and it has just exploded. Pasco County Schools has used it. You guys have now used it. All Children's John's Hopkins has used it. Like it is just amazing to see. And the awareness that this very sharply dressed young man is, you know, bringing for everybody is just we we we can't thank you enough.

All right, let's finish. Well, I'm glad we have our East Pasco Blue on today.

Hello, blue.

I got blue. It ain't getting messy. That's all right.

Rather be lucky than good. Awesome. And then we Go to RS5.

Hey,

some of these kept cast.

You have jokes. If you are here for Older Americans Month, please step up to the podium.

I made it.

You gonna put up with that?

You're gonna take it?

I have to. I have to.

Oh my gosh.

Where's the archaeologist at?

I I will go ahead and read the resolution. Resolution number 26-211. a resolution by the board of county commissioners of Pasco County, Florida, declaring the month of May 2026 as older Americans month in Pasco County. Whereas in May, whereas May is a time for us to recognize and honor Pasco County and the area agency on aging of Pasco Penellis, older adults and their immense influence on every facet of American society. And through their wealth of life experience and wisdom, older adults guide our younger generations and carry forward abundant cultural and historical knowledge. And whereas older Americans are a vital part of Pasco County's demographic makeup, contributing their time, wisdom, and experience to the community. And whereas every citizen in Pasco County should strive to recognize, understand, and address the evolving need of older adults. And whereas older Americans improve our communities through intergenerational relationships, community service, civic engagement, and other activities. and RAZ the area agency on aging of Pasco Penllis and its community partners provide essential services including nutrition, health and wellness programs, caregiver support, Medicare counseling and inhome services that help older adults remain safe, healthy, and independent. And whereas these programs strengthen our community by promoting healthy aging, reducing isolation, and ensuring that older adults have access to the resources they need. ANRAZ in 2026 theme of the older Americans month is champion your health which emphasizes the importance of prevention wellness and empowering older adults to take an active role in managing their physical, mental and social well-being. Andres, Pasco County and the area agency on aging of Pasco Penellis urges all Pasco County citizens to recognize the contributions of older adults and to join in promoting programs and activities that foster connection, inclusion, and support for older adults. Now therefore, be it resolved by the board of county commissioners of Pasco County, Florida, that said, board hereby declares the month of May 2026 as older Americans month in Pasco County, done and resolved in regular session with a quorum present and voting this fifth day of May, 2026.

Approval second.

All in favor say I.

I.

Mr. Jagger.

Well, I am honored to bring this resolution for older Americans. I had my grandpa was just shy of 105 when he passed away and my grandmother was 94 and they were so cute. Um they were Joseph and Mary. And um when he was 102, we said to our kids, we go, "What are we gonna get grandpa for his birthday?" And he said when he was 101, they said, "Dalmatians." Because what do you get somebody that's over over 101? But um just the the you know having that longevity with them and those conversations and you know being able to pick their brain. I think that's what I say to everybody is, you know what, have those conversations while they're here because when they pass a piece of history passes, you're never going to get that firhand knowledge from them. You know, like they had their papers from Ellis Ellis Island sitting on the on the wall and just very unique all the stories. He he didn't have shoes until he moved to the United States till he was 14. So just you know all these little things that I learned but um very thankful and also I I serve on the board of area of aging so I wouldn't have missed this resolution for anything but um thank you guys for everything you do and um we're just really hoping to get some funding so our seniors don't have to sit on a waiting list and you know sitting there for months. So, um, but Ann Marie runs a tight ship and she tries to get all of our phone calls answered and our our senior service and thank you to to um Pasco County for our our seniors. We love everything we do with them. We have so much fun. We go and pop in and bingo. Bingo's that's that's real. Like you better be ready for bingo. Paulo one time called a wrong number and let me tell you, they gave Paula the look of death. But um they are super fun and they get they get into all the games and the crafts and everything. So, uh, thank you guys and I'll turn it over to you.

Brian, you can start.

I'll start us off. Hello. Good morning, members of the board. Brian Hoben, director of community services. Want to first and foremost thank you all for your continued support of Pasco County senior services team of our phenomenal partnership with area agency on aging of Pasco Penellis and of course of older Americans month. I also want to just take a second and personally thank you Amarie. Uh, I want to thank you and your phenomenal team. uh you know you guys have without your support without our collaboration and partnership there's no way we'd be able to serve the food insecure seniors uh the atrisisk seniors that we do every day that partnership is key and we really appreciate that I also just want to take a a minute just to thank the team they're the ones doing the work every day uh they're the ones feeding the the food insecure seniors I know you hit on the wait list commissioner Jagger we currently have 820 seniors on that waiting list right now but I also before I turn it over to Emory I just want to leave one last data element that really demonstrates the hard work of the team. Last year alone, fiscal year 2025, the team has served 235,000 meals um to approximately 2,000 seniors at our dining sites and through our home delivered meal program. So, phenomenal work is being done um and and to your point, still more work yet to do really

and our food pantry is up and thriving.

The food pantry is up and thriving at Alers. It's it's a phenomenal impact as well. So, I want to turn it over and give a few minutes to Amory as well. Thank you, Commissioner Mariano and Commissioners. First, I want to thank uh Commissioner Joerger. She is an amazing board member. She's very active. Um and uh in terms of phone calls, she takes mine. So, thank you very much. Um I I want to recognize our partnership with Pasco County. It truly is a partnership. Um we are very highly regulated. Um and every single day, uh they don't let those regulations get in the way of providing quality services to seniors. So when we talk about food insecure seniors, your staff are making sure that seniors are not hungry in Pasco County. Your staff are making sure that seniors can get to life-saving medical appointments. Your staff are making sure that the utility bills of seniors are paid for. Um, and that is possible through the federal and state funding that we received that we are grateful uh to partner with Pasco County on. So, I want to thank Kathy Pearson, Brian Hoben, Tom Snee, Victoria, Mary Kyle, um, and and Marissa, Marissa, and everybody else because it truly is a partnership. Um, but we do need additional funding to help the the more than 8,000 seniors that are on the waiting lists for all the different services that we provide. Thank you very much for recognizing Older Americans Month,

Kathy Kathy Pearson, Assistant County Ministry of Public Services. Thank you to this amazing team. But I invite each and every one of you one day, one year, one sometime. I know Commissioner, you spend a lot of time coming out to the senior centers and they really do appreciate that. Take a ride on the home delivered meal route. Come on out, see the seniors, visit them. They are so happy to see people. Um, sometimes that's their only contact. So, I invite you in the next year, please join one of our home deliver drivers. I'd love to have you. So, thank you all.

Just one more comment. Your Halloween party is a blast. And the other day I caught myself thinking, what are we going to do for Halloween? Because we have to amp it up.

Yeah.

As long as we can keep Ryan Hoben under control. So,

yeah. They really thought you were nice as the they they were like, "Oh, he looks great.

Stand up here."

Ryan, stand right over there. I want him to feel the pain.

Hey, you're big, dude.

You're the biggest guy in the room, dude.

Left.

All right. All right.

You're the only one that can stand behind.

Tiptoe. I got I got to be aware on this.

Tomorrow's breakfast. Just wanted to say real quick as Commissioner Weman just reminded me that tomorrow morning 7:30 at Advent Health Ice Center is feeding Pasco's elderly uh annual breakfast fundraising. Uh they're a phenomenal partner and the money that they raise goes to helping again food and secure seniors right directly through Pasco County Senior Services. So thank you for that reminder, Commissioner.

Thank you. And RS6,

if you're here for travel and tourism week, please step up to the podium. Oh, he's in town.

He's here.

What are we on?

I'll go ahead and read the resolution. Resolution number 26-212, a resolution by the board of county commissioners of Pasco County, Florida, declaring the week of May 3rd through the 9th, 2026 as Travel and Tourism Week in Pasco County. Whereas National Travel and Tourism Week established by the congressional resolution in 1983 is an annual nationwide observance held each May to recognize the essential role that travel plays in strengthening the US economy, supporting businesses, and enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors. And whereas tourism in Florida's is Florida's top economic driver, awareness of the tourism industry's integral role in the Florida's economy success, will encourage promotion of tourism activities and continue to increase the number of visitors to the state of Florida and to Pasco County. ANRAZ Florida Sports Coast, Pasco County's destination management organization, works hard year round with industry partners to promote great reasons for visitors to come to Pasco County for sports, leisure, and business activities. And tourism contributes to the success of all industries, including manufacturing, agricultural, defense, healthcare, and more by driving sales, growth, innovation, education, and operations that power our economy, our nation, our state, and Pasco County. Andraz in fiscal year 2025 visitors to Pasco County had an economic impact of 1.12 billion, an increase of 14.1% over fiscal year 2024, including over 765 million in direct spending by approximately 1.5 million visitors. Visitors spending in 2025 saved Pasco County household $418 in state and local taxes. And whereas in fiscal year 2025, the tourism industry supported 9,480 jobs in Pasco County, generating more than 330.6 million in wages and salaries with every 165 visitors supporting one job within the local economy. And whereas travel is an essential industry and we must continue to communicate that growing tourism leads to economic growth, benefits businesses, fosters mutual understanding and connects the nation. Andraz on May 14th, 2026, Florida Sports Coast will celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week by hosting their sixth annual tourism banquet and awards honoring individuals and organizations that demonstrate exceptional leadership within Pasco County's tourism industry. Now therefore, be it resolved by the board of county commissioners of Pasco County, Florida, that said, board hereby proclaims May 3rd through the 9th, 2026 as Travel and Tourism Week in Pasco County, and urges all Pasco County residents to recognize the importance of this vital industry to our area. Done and resolved in regular session with a quorum present and voting this 5th day of May 2026. Move

approval. Second.

All in favor say I.

I. I. I.

Very good. And Chris Christina Cardone, I see you in the back. You come up here, too. you know, years years a couple years back when we had the wire grass sports ranch and it took parks and wreck to step in and run that operation with the help of, you know, the great team of tourism, that operation ran ran smoothly. And I will tell you that uh we are working on a park and garage to make that thing even more effective for down the road. So, thank you Mr. Carbella for helping keeping that thing moving, but there's some great things coming. But I I want to thank the board as well for all their support for all the things when we invest in our community different ways. Um, it helps enhance the tourism and the purpose of tourist development. I learned my second year as a commissioner from Larry Pendleton who used to run the sports sports group for the state. He says the purpose of tourist development is not tourist development. It's economic development and you guys are radiating that we're creating heads and beds which is the primary obligation. So what you're doing is great. Adam Kathy, thanks for bringing Adam on because since he's come on I think it's elevating elevating. So, Adam, please.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Adam Thomas, director for for Pasco County. Thank you so much for uh for sponsoring this this resolution. Mr. Chairman, thank you so much for all your support. Fellow commissioners, I I do want to recognize our our our vice chair uh here uh for the tourist development council uh Councilman Burgess and uh my team behind me. I mean, I I'm just one person that uh that gets to work uh side by side with some some great individuals in a great industry. But the National Travel and Tourism Week isn't just a celebration. It's a reminder of the power powerful role our industry plays in shaping communities, driving economies, and creating unforgettable experiences. Here in Pasco County, tourism is more than just visitors coming and going. It's opportunity. It fuels our local businesses, supports our workforce, and showcases the very best of who we are as a county. From our coastline and trails to our growing sports scenes, every athlete who competes here, every va family who vacations here, and every every event we host contributes to something bigger. They're investing in our community. They're helping us build a destination that's vibrant, welcoming, and has been on the rise for quite some time. National Travel and Tourism Week gives us a moment to recognize that impact. But more importantly, it challenges us to keep pushing forward, to innovate, to elevate, and to continue telling Pasco County story in a way that inspires visitors to keep coming back again and again because what we're building here, it is something special. So, thank you so much. Thank you to the industry. Thank you to my my team behind me and uh thank you to the county administration and Kathy for all your support. Thank you. Enough for a picture.

Y'all keep channeling your inner Chuck Norris.

Unfortunately,

I know.

Are we staying up here?

Yes.

Yes. Okay,

put me in jail for this.

He's kicking butt. You got to get used to this.

Don't start. He's got

Okay, I remember that. That shall do it for the resolution. So now, Madam Clerk, thank you for your patience and let us get to your item.

Yes. So, um, we have R34. So, if um, Matt and Sean could come up to the podium, please. Commissioners, this is our semiannual financial investment report to the board of county commissioners. And coming to the podium is Mr. Sean Ganon with PFM. Um he is a director with PFM asset management and PFM manages portion of our investment portfolio. And also with him is Matt Lazar. He is my office's director of finance and my office also manages a large portion of the county's investments. So we'll start with a u market update by Mr. Ganon, then Matt will talk about um the portfolio that my office um actively manages and then Sean will talk about the part part of the portfolio that PFM manages. Mr. Ganon, thank you.

Thank you. Um good morning. It's great to be with you all. Just give us a brief update. So, as as Nikki mentioned, my name is Sean Ganon with PFMS management. I wanted to start by saying if you have any questions about the presentation, please feel free to interrupt me and and ask those. Um, but to start with um kind of what what we do, so we again we manage a portfolio of bonds of short-term fixed income on behalf of the county. Um, so when we think about portfolio management, investment management, we take into account macroeconomic factors as well. Um, so on this slide, I'm not going to read off it directly, but just to say that, you know, things that we're looking out for are the things that you see in the news headlines, right? Um, conflicts in the Middle East, the the uh rising prices that we've seen reflected in inflation, um, and the potential job growth or or lack thereof uh, within the economy. The second focal point is the Fed. Um, so you hear a lot about the Fed in in recent months. they have a direct impact on a lot of the county's investments. Um, so with the change that's happening where the Fed chair is stepping down, uh, new chair is expected. Uh, there could be a policy shift and that would have an impact on investments on budgeted earnings um, and and potential debt issuments. Uh, to look at at this, so this is what we'd call a yield curve. This represents where uh you can invest and and that the yields are a forward-looking number of expected earnings uh for the the investments of the county. The uh shift you can see and I'll touch on this later on is that the the dotted the dashed line there uh represents where we were at the end of the prior quarter. The solid line represents where we are at the end of this quarter. Um and we see a shift upward. Uh if you recall maybe two three years ago we had pretty strong negative numbers, negative performance numbers. That was because interest rates shifted upward. So that reflected a negative market value movement. Um we saw the same thing happen in the past quarter. Our performance was not negative. We did generate a positive performance but it was reflective of a of a lower number uh closer to that zero mark because of of this shift and move upward in in yields. Um so when I you know oh Matt hand it over here you Matt in a second but just to to touch on something. Um the expected Fed policy is a more aggressive stance to move downward. Um their job is to control inflation and spur employment. So, with Kevin Worsh expected to be the the uh uh next chairman of the Federal Reserve, that would pull interest rates downward and decrease the yield curve um would result in in better income and better earnings uh in the short term for for the portfolio as well. Um so, with that, Matt, I'll give it to you for the next few. Sorry for the height difference. We'll move this down here a little bit. What I'm going to do is take that broad brush that Sean just painted for the market and show you how that's impacted the

portion of the portfolio that the clerk's man office manages on behalf of the county. Um, we're going to the total portfolio for the county sits at over $2 billion. What we're going to focus on here on this slide is the unrestricted portfolio, which is $1.7 billion. That is specific to not being tied to a debt covenant. So about $500 million is specifically related to the debt acquisitions and the investments of those funds. But on here with the unrestricted investments, you have both the short-term, which is going to be one year or less, and then the long-term investments down in blue. Those are going to be one year or greater investments. Right now, the team that I have the pleasure of working with in finance, they are balancing all the information that Sean outputs with his team along with all the various market updates to find the best avenue to ensure that the unrestricted dollar for the county uh remain available for cash flow needs as well as looking at the county's investment policy that was adopted back in 2017 um in conjunction with Florida statute which I just remind you it goes right liquidity, safety of principle, And then very last is going to be return on investment. But why invest if we can't get a return? So obviously it's always nice to see those. Overall for unrestricted investments, the county has seen for this fiscal year $24 million in interest earnings. That those funds are then taken and allocated across the county's over 100 funds. More specifically, the general fund has seen about $3 million in interest allocated. A few other operating funds that we monitor to to see where balances sit is going to be the municipal services fund, which is just under $250,000 so far in interest earnings this year. The municipal services fire fund sits at just excuse me under $1 million this fiscal year. And then two other funds we we monitor on a quarterly basis will be the stormwater management fund which is a highly used fund got about 650,000 and the newly established road rehabilitation capital projects fund has received this year $253,000 in interest allocated uh based on earnings. big picture. When you look at this slide, the big takeaway you're going to see here is right now the portfolio as a whole, even with the market being very uncertain, the clerk's office through management of these funds is exceeding all benchmarks when it comes to all county investments. Um, for example, short-term investment just under 4% at about 3.5 per six is the industry standard. Um, we are between four um and and four and a half on a lot of these earnings. And then the longer term in blue they're about 3.76% where you can see we are exceeding if you look at that trailing 12 month total return well into the 4.2 range. Um with that any questions overall for the county's portfolio. Good. And then just this is the last slide before Sean wraps it up is this is the investment policy and picture form. So these are the restrictions for the

different sectors for the county's investments. On the left are the different sectors. In gray, the outlined box, that is the limit per the adopted investment policy. And you can see shaded in blue is where we currently stand as of March 31st. All well within the allowable amounts and percentages for the county's investment policy. With that, I will turn over to Sean to do the last few slides. Matt. Um so again just to to be brief you we you see the slide every six months and and uh to highlight on the on the top right we are well diversified across sectors. Um the issuers baked in here um are not listed but um roughly 170 different issuers within the portfolio. So of a wide variety of securities and um the portfolio has done well. And I want to call out two specific numbers in a table on the top left. It's it's yield at cost and yield at market. So yield at cost represents the actual earnings in the portfolio. That is a number that changes on purchases, on sales, on maturities. Yield of market represents what you would be given if you went out with that basket of securities that's in the top right, that same diversification, and went out on March 31st. What would you get? So you can obviously see those numbers are different. Um, you all are earning 4.1%. the portfolio or the market is giving 4.04%. Um a quarter ago that number that yield that yielded market was around 3.75. So the portfolio was was doing much better but again just kind of bring it into the yield movements that we've seen just over the past month that is that has compressed a little bit. So still outperforming but outperforming by a a smaller margin. Now when we look at the performance so again yield forward looking what could we expect to earn total return past looking what didn't we earn um so looking at the past quarter so just the past 3 months uh 0.37 compared to the benchmark 0.29 um you know that that number's relatively low uh the reason for that if you look up at the the dollar figures right interest income month you know dollars generated to the portfolio 5.6 6 million um from high

5.8

5.8. Yeah. 5.8 million. Um and then the change in market value was negative, right? That's the that's represents that shift that we saw. Uh the Fed decided they're not cutting interest rates. They're going to slow it down. Um there's concern about inflation. So that move in the market had an impact on the portfolio returns. Um but when we look out over the past 12 months, still really strong performance. You know, 4.26% compared to the benchmark 3.75. So uh in a portfolio of fixed income you know the the the idea is low and slow it's not stocks it's not private equity uh the idea is to earn a steady uh return while achieving that safety and liquidity goal first. Um so last slide or here we have you know another slide but just to touch on this one too. This one strips out that market value movement. It just represents acrual based earnings. Um, so over the past three months, past one year, uh, you know, the past one year number to to Matt's point, you know, just shy of $24 million in income generated, uh, over the the the 12 months. Uh, but, you know, still really strong numbers. We're enjoying some of these higher yields in the or in the portfolio, some higher returns, and with the, uh, shift in pet Fed policy, we're expecting to see that hopefully stick around for a little bit longer. Um, but we will keep an eye on that for you. Um, and with that I'll wrap up. See if you all had any questions or or comments before I

any questions?

Good job.

I just like put a comment. You you guys have done a phenomenal job from when we first started looking at these things. Yep.

Bringing it.

Uh, it's gotten better and better and now it's like a nice stable position where the market you can't control, but

what you're doing is maximizing results which is phenomenal.

Great. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I appreciate that.

Thank you.

All right. Thank you. Okay. Okay, now we're going to go to the consent agenda. Few polls.

Broke the streak. Chairman,

I'm sorry.

Broke the streak.

The pull sheet.

Three. All right. C23. We're going to pull C25 and C28. Are there any other items to be pulled from the agenda?

Okay. Motion for move.

Second.

All in favor say I.

I. I.

Okay. Commissioner Whitman. C23.

Yes. So, uh, thank you, chair. So, for 23 and 25, uh, same comment for each. These are sidewalk projects on the east and west side of the county. There's schools right nearby, and just wanted to pull and highlight those and and and share that we're continuing to uh fill the gaps and uh very grateful for the emphasis on on filling the sidewalk gaps since courtesy busing has ended in this county and getting kids to and from school safely and parents can feel confident that they can go to work. uh on time and uh so with that I just wanted to thank staff and and share share the good news. So with that I move approval.

Second just for the further discussion on those two items. Can we do we can do one one at a time or we can do them both at a time?

Uh move approval of C23.

You can do since they were pulled up and do one at a time.

Okay. So do

move C23.

Yeah. Second. Okay. And just a further discussion. There's a project we've been working on for many years called Zimmerman where the sidewalk project also a road kind of shifting project. I want to say I had a great meeting with staff. They did a phenomenal job. They did improvements over in Jasmine, too. So, the team is doing a great job as far as getting these things done, pushing through the process. So, thank you for that. All right. All in favor say I.

I. I.

Now, C25.

Move C25.

Move.

Second.

All in favor say I.

I.

And item C28.

C28. Uh, just a large number. Kind of make it practice. It's over 10 mil. I pull it and this was 18. Uh Mel Brothers does a fantastic job really setting setting the stage and the benchmark for how bio solid should be handled across the state of Florida. And uh so just wanted to to pull it based on the the dollar amount on the account. So move approval.

Second.

Okay. I just like to add with Mar Brothers since they've come along from the RFP which they won. They've done a phenomenal job. And I said this from the get-go. This is not only going to good for Pasco County, it's good for the state, it's good for the nation. So hopefully they keep on leading the way. And uh I told them I continue to help wherever I can for seminars, whatever. But they're doing a phenomenal job.

All right. So move approval. You have a motion. Second. All in favor say I.

I.

Okay. Now we're going to move to R35.

I see a lot of reinforcements in the team here. Very good. Well, commissioners, it is uh it is my pleasure today to uh present to you for confirmation to the position of assistant county administrator of public safety, uh Miss Miss Joanna Cheshire. Before I really get into that, I I want to talk about the process that we we use to sort of vet senior leaders and especially executive leaders here here in the county. You know, there's there's, you know, a lot of people can slam slam dunk an interview, but it's tough to do a grueling day of of interviews as well as looking at uh meeting with folks, breaking bread together. you learn a lot about you learn a lot about people through that through that process and uh you know I I also seek a lot of input uh during during the process of making selections. So this particular process involved a number of folks not only uh not only senior leaders within the public safety branch but union representation from from the fire unions and uh and and the police benevolence association uh were there uh senior department heads across our organization. And that's important too because an assistant county administrator doesn't just work in a silo. They they work they're bridgeuilders and they work across our organization and with our public. And so it's interesting you got to have that perspective from other senior leaders uh in the organization as well to make sure are we sharing our culture? Are we sharing our values uh as well as the assistant county administrators as well that that peer group that everyone are uh that that they will that they will work with? you know, and I I I've met with all of these folks uh individually, debriefed with them personally and and took took their input prior to to making uh making a final final decision. So after consulting with these trusted adviserss, you know, I I am I am confident that Miss Cheshire uh best embodies the leadership competencies and needs for for this post and and she is a thoughtful and attentive leader with just a natural presence uh and an authenticity capable of of building trust and collaboration which I think is is a is a prerequisite here within within the public safety uh safety community. So, I just want to thank you just as as administrator again for your continued support as as we journey uh journey through uh through things. Um you know, we are strengthening our leadership team and uh really kind of doubling down on our strategic commitments to our citizens of Pasco County. And so, um I just thank you for that.

Okay. All right. We have a motion.

So, move then I'll second.

I'll second. All in favor say I.

I. I.

Joanna, congratulations. Like to say a few words. Thank you. Thank you so much. Joanna Cheshire, assistant county administrator. Public safety. Public safety is really a foundational is foundational to a vibrant community that we all strive for because without without the safety of the community, we can't do the other things that we we look to do. I understand that this role carries a lot of responsibility and trust that's from you all, from the community, and from the branch. I'm committed to being a steady, accountable partner, aligning our teams, being a good steward of resources, and delivering results that the community can actually see and feel. Thank you for your support and for this opportunity to grow and continue the good work in an organization and a community that I love. I'm very honored. Thank you.

Congratulations. I think you're going to do a phenomenal job. I know the job is very important. We've we found in the past years with J when JJ was here how important it was to bring our first responders together to the table and build those relationships work together going to DC trying to bring money back for the safer grants, etc. and the other things we're working on. So that cooperation is is critical for everything. So I'm glad you're up for the role and congratulations. Let's do a picture.

I I think with all this crowd here, we got to do a picture. So, uh would everyone like to come up to sit as well?

Congratulations.

You're in the middle.

I guess everybody That's

why I'm sure I'm sorry. Too late. Too late.

Goldstein in here.

Okay. Item I 36.

Acquisition schedule for Ga Consolidated Pasco Systems and presentation. Good morning, chairman, vice chairman, and members of the board. My name is Joshua Wood, director of public infrastructure, fiscal, and business administration. As our county continues to grow at a remarkable pace, our public infrastructure, especially our water utility, must keep pace with both the demands of organic growth and the responsibility of integrating existing systems into our network. The next phase of the FGUA acquisition is a critical component of that work. Item R36 before you today is a presentation only item. Its purpose is to formally signal our intent to move forward with the next phase of the planned FGUA water utility acquisition and to also discuss private utility acquisition options. Um, as I continue to settle into my role, I'm quickly learning that the county's plan to acquire FGUA utilities is connected to a deep history going back more than a decade, but is also tied to private utilities, which is why we will discuss both today. In this presentation, we'll outline the project's impacts, discuss rate considerations, and review the timing associated with this phase. As you will learn, we are currently about six months behind our original schedule. That delay is largely the result of rapid growth, shifting priorities, the need to remain agile as countywide demands evolve. We are now prepared to advance this work, and it is important that the board is aware of our readiness to proceed. In addition to the FGA update, we'll also provide an update related to private utility acquisitions. These opportunities continue to emerge and they play an increasing important role in shaping the long-term stability and efficiency of our water system. While today's primary focus is the next phase of the FGUA plan, we intend to continue evaluating private utility options in parallel. Our goal is to ensure that the county grows. We are assessing every viable path to strengthen our infrastructure and deliver reliable, sustainable services to our residents. This presentation will offer historical context, walk through the financial and operational considerations, and highlight the benefits of completing this phase as we have successfully done in the past. I welcome your questions at any point. Our intent is clear to move forward to stay aligned with our long-term plan and to continue building a resilient water utility that supports the growth for years to come. Can just go to the next slide, please. Just a little bit about FGA. So FGUA, also known as the Florida Government Utility Authority, is an independent special purpose government entity. Was created to help local governments acquire, stabilize, and improve water wastewater utilities that require additional support. It was formed in 1999 through an interlocal agreement among several Florida

counties. FGA was designed to allow local governments to pull resources, reduce costs, and ensure reliable services for customers across the state. Today, FGA owns and operates more than 98 utility systems across 15 counties, serving approximately 120,000 customer connections. FGA structure gives local government the ability to influence utility operations and rate setting. Now in 2008 in in one of these interlocal agreements that we discussed the utilities that we're talking about that we've acquired what we've required already too and we're talking about the next two. Um there was also discussion around several private utilities. Those are the ones that we'll discuss today. two of which that we'll discuss more specifically, NY Florida and Hudson Waterworks at the time, also known as Hudson Utilities. So, it's important that we mention that because at the time when we when this was falling into FGOA, we we we saw this kind of divergence with private utilities. The model in FGA has allowed FGUA to acquire and rehabilitate systems with significant operations, financial or water quality changes, often serving as a transitional step before long-term local ownership. In FY20, as you see on the slide, Pasco County began the process to acquiring several systems that were experiencing substantial water quality issues. We acquired in FY20 the Pasca Pasco aqua systems and in FY22 we acquired our Lindric utility systems as you see highlighted by the check marks. Our next system is the consolidated utility system and we'll talk a little bit about that. We have some maps to kind of show that. I'm just wanting to note here the the date of 2027 is retarget date. our initial and you'll see some of that reflected when we discuss some of the rates but our initial target was this year fiscal year 2026. So it's important that we discuss that especially as we think about existing infrastructure and some of the pressures on existing infrastructure such as wastewater treatment um plant expansions etc. And then you can see our planned Pasco utility systems in FY29. And that's really really due to the size of these. As you look at Pasco Aqua Systems, you see 3,200 customers. Lindrich was a little bit over 3,000. You may wonder why why uh Lindrich second Lindrich had some interesting dynamics around the facilities um and also some interlocal agreements that we had at the city of Newport Richie. The Pasco Utility Systems also has its own wastewater treatment plant. So it definitely comes with some unique dynamics there. We can uh advance to the next slide. Consolidated systems overview. So there's 13 service areas represented and and consolidated. Uh we can read them there. Antlode, Angus, Angus Valley, Colonial Manor, Dixie Groves, Virginia City, Westwood, and then Madhatter East and West. And if you would, um, you can see here how those two communities, east and west, all kind of

represent smaller little communities as is set up um, often as we can see in Pasco County. If we can just go to the next slide and we can look at the maps. So you can kind of see here how the consolidated system um not my name of choice definitely FGA but represents our far western part of the county and then some central uh parts of Pasco County there. So we see uh just south here in Lando Lakes. The Pasco system overview is while it just largely represents again name choice by FGUA uh represents Seven Springs and Alohar Gardens and you can see how big and and and how encompassing both of those systems are as well. So let's talk a little bit of numbers. I won't try to overwhelm us here, but I think ultimately what I want uh the board to understand is um Pasco County Utilities you see here by PCU can reasonably absorb the operational capital expenses from the FY27 consolidated system acquisition. So what what are these bar you know what are these line graphs really trying to represent? If you look at the blue line, that's basically what's happening in the utility without the acquisition. The yellow line is pretty much on top of what we're dealing with today. Those lines being together means we can handle it. As you start to see as we get into FY29, they start to separate. So that rate of absorption, think of it like a rubber band, starts to stretch out a little bit, puts a little bit more pressure on us. One thing to note is that this is all based on estimations and what we've received from FY24. So, our consultants that have done this study um really wanted uh brought that to my attention because you have to understand when we actually get into this, those lines are actually spreading a little bit out and which kind of goes to why we want to move forward uh immediately because we're already delayed. So it's important to know that our debt impacts of FGUA acquisition. This is also important. I'll just take you a little bit left to right. You can see what happened in 2020. Aqua we we brought in when we brought in the system $20 million of debt. What you don't see here represented which is good news story is Lindrich because on the Lindric side we had ARPA funds. So we we were able to um you know forego that debt that would have come onto the system but you can see our original plan was to bring in consolidated in 2026 now retargeted goes to 2027 and why this is important because that's an important inflection point for the county. In 2027, the county has planned to bring on approximately $412 million of debt to support our existing infrastructure around wastewater treatment plant expansions. This is important to note because obviously consolidated, as you can see, would also bring in approximately $18 million. I will like to note here that the utility is currently has a debt portfolio of $192 million. So we are at a point now where

we are beginning to manage some big dollars in terms of our system which is just really a testament to our growth. Here are some average bill impacts to customers with and without acquisitions. You can see here in FY26 uh our rate increase our rate plan calls for 3.75% increase and in FY27 it calls for a 4.75% increase. I will I would actually like to note on the with acquisitions. I actually have to make a correction here on the spot, but it just goes back to why it's important for us to move forward. In FY26, we had planned to take 3.775% and add a 1% increase which would impact all rate payers across the county uh so that we can absorb consolidated. But as you can see there, I put it in FY27. But in FY27, if you look at the table above, you see it's 4.75. So it's actually the correction here is it should be 4.75 plus 1%. So that impact is a little bit higher now that we're going into the next year because of our delays. So, it's important for us to to note that I think the county still believes, you know, from a um or team still believes uh still something that the county can reason reasonably absorb, but it's important that we move forward uh soon. And then you can see the rates in the outy years uh as we move into like the Pasco system. FGA customer rate impacts. I thought this was important. When you look at consolidated, we just look at the bottom first and we can work our way up. FGA total bill is average at 9657. This is considering 4,000 gallons. If you bring in pass you bring them into the Pasco County system, you can see that they benefit from approximately a $27 uh discount by coming into our system. So, it would have a quite an impact. And not to mention the water quality obviously would improve and you could see the impacts for the Pasco systems as well. So this is where I want to talk about private utilities operating in Pasco County. Uh as of now we have identified 29 total private utilities in Pasco County. This is super important. Uh we've grouped them into multicluster areas and single cluster areas. And you can see here we have highlighted Hudson Waterworks and NY Florida. Uh it's important to note that these are ones that going back to my uh original opening remarks around the time that we brought in and we identified uh utilities that fell under the Florida Government Utility Authority. These were two that really probably should have fallen in as well, but there were um some updates and some changes. Some mix of really staff at the time and I'm coming off as some reading here today, but our staff was really engaged in kind of stepping in and doing some work and then there were some private utility acquisitions that took place at that point. So recommendation and I placed this here for board discussion. Our recommendation is to move forward

with the FGA plan and consolidated in FY27. And you can see this second bullet point. We'd like to in parallel in FY27 28 really kind of work a strategy around the integration of private utilities as well. Um, I think the initial recommendation from the team is to commission a formal appraisal for NY Florida and Hudson Waterworks. Uh, we've obviously looked at some numbers, but it's not really fair to uh speak to those numbers unless we get an actual formal appraisal and and then begin to have further discussion with the board around that. And then of course the Pasco systems and FY29. So, uh, I think that really concludes my portion. So, I'll see if there are any questions or comments at this point.

I want to say, you've done a great job. Uh, we've had a couple of discussions about this. I was going to come before the board a little bit ago and, uh, we went through more discussion and we did try to work again hard on Hudson. I just want to talk about that for just a little bit. 2004 when I was running for office, Senator Fano at the time came to me, says, "This is a big issue for us to go forward with." um in the coming forward with it. We need to take care of water quality. We had people showing coming up at public hearings with babies in black bathwater uh pictures of sludge and a lot of things that were a big issue for families that try to live and survive. And again, the big ones at the time were Aqua, Lindri, Aloha, and the Hudson systems. So with all that said, it was good that the Aqua system sold, Lindric system sold, and Aloha did. But because the PSC was operating the way it was and granting Hudson another big rate, um the gentleman could actually get more money sell on it privately than he could from us. So without even giving us an opportunity, they paid more money. And the utility that bought it justified, well, even if I pay too much for it, I'm going to be able to raise my rates, go justify my rate of return, and on we go. So that's what led has been my passion to try to help all these utilities. We did a great job on the board with summit tree a few years back getting state help etc to make it happen. This could be something we could do as well but I want I want us to go forward with looking at the Hudson one as well as doing all the all the others we're doing with the FGA because if we don't it's going to get worse and Hudson has got a lot of struggles in there. We had a property on Tower Drive flooded out year after year when we finally put the project together a couple years ago. You guys may not remember, but it took a long time to get it done. We didn't know where the water lines were from the private utilities to where we had it and it delayed us like 6 months for getting the project done, trying to get it through and increased costs. Last year, you saw last two years you saw Old Dixie Highway. All the projects we've done in storm water have been fixed. The reason we found out, we just found out after the season, the reason that Hudson was flooding at Old Dixie was the pipes underneath weren't cooperating together. One was leaking affected the other one and affect service on both ways. I can tell you I've got and I'll do some public hearings on this just like we've done before. I will bring the people of Hudson together. We will craft what their issues are, what their problems are, and I think we build a strong case to get the support to go forward and buy this utility one way or the other. And I saw Hillsboro County did it years ago. U they just stepped in and said, "We're going to do this. It's the right thing for our citizens." Now, the good thing with Hudson, if we do that one, you're going to be able to keep the rates about the same, it's going to be less of an impact to the citizens. The other ones, the good thing is even if you're going

to impact the sections, when we did the people at Aqua, their rates went down. They were extremely happy and it really helped the neighborhood bounce back. When we did Lindrich, those people were ecstatic because now they could get better system. So, you're going to feel a little bit of an increase for the folks, but the long run it's better for the county that we take all these things over anyway. The FGA makes it a little bit easier, though it's been more expensive because they haven't paid down the debt like we expected them to. But, um, you've done a great job and I think we can run the Hudson utility system acquisitions separate but parallel to everything else you're doing.

I agree, Chairman. Yeah, we'll pursue that.

All right, Commission.

Thank you.

Yeah, Mr. would and Mr. Grant. Glad you all got two of you now. One on either either side of the of the door. I I appreciate you all taking the time to run through my litany of questions and um help me understand. So, I wasn't around when this initially this endeavor was aspiring to happen and I understand the I guess almost humanitarian health nature of this of this um program. But I have reservation and concern based on the debt strategy in the position that this in our debt position that that this this deal could potentially lead us in the shaky territory in our bond rating and you name it. I understand it's a it's a it's a good deal for the folks that are on the FGUA systems and are on the the private utility, but it's also fee increase on the existing consumers boilerplate just from a business level. Take feelings and motion out of it. This isn't a good deal um financially. So, I'm for moving forward and trying to put together a comprehensive and cohesive strategy on how to uh help folks and provide good, clean, quality, safe, consumable water. Um, but I I'm I'm confident in you all and Mr. would as we've spoke over the course of time and your ability to help us understand our uh debt impacts and the position that it can put us in. And if we need to restrategize along the way, I think we should. We need to be incredibly deliberate uh on how we move forward here. Um because I don't want to see us end up in a real pickle. Uh so I just share those remarks with you. I appreciate all the time and Justin, you working with our team. Uh, it worked out great because you understand our language and I assume when the questions went forward, you probably said, "Oh, those got to be from Weightman." Um, which is good. You already know how our thought process is, but I very much appreciate your both and your patience and the whole team uh looking into our concerns. So, thank you, Chairman. Thanks, Commissioner.

I'll just go my my um conversations much more direct as far as what we want to look at. And again, this is something that the way the county grew is how these small system get started, how they got acquired. Um I think it's good to let these next steps take place. We haven't voted on it. Haven't voted to do anymore, but continue the process because that was we told the people when we were going to put them under the F2A, we're going to continue the process to look at it. Uh I'm very happy the fact that we did the Aqua and Lindric systems. I think there's a path forward to keep on going. And you know, between I think there's an orangewood that's down. They got PAS. It's a small one oneoff oneoff system. Then maybe PAS money we can put toward that would make sense uh to get credit. uh the Hudson system. It could be something where the great thing with that system is the people are paying let's say similar rates to the county when you add both of them in together taking them over you're not going to see the bump in it's just a matter of negotiating the price. So I think studying doing the appraisal going to look at it let let's do the public hearings out there to find out what's out there. I think you'll find a way that there's there's a path forward somewhere. We just don't know yet. But I think we should move forward with the recommendation going forward for the F2A systems and I think we should add in looking at the Hudson system too and then it's going to come back to us. We can study it further, see how it looks and then make a decision in the entirety with more information.

So we have any motions?

No action.

Do you need do you need any any motion or can you just work parallel with Hudson doing the appraisal?

No. Uh no, Mr. I mean we'll we will continue uh with our efforts. Um

the results of this presentation only today is just a signal to the board our intent to move forward. There will be several actions from here. U our our new date is June of 2027. So just know from here until June of 27 we'll be we'll be bringing uh several items to the board. Well, I appreciate your discussions with me to listen Justin Joseph to to go forward and make all this happen because it is going to be the best for the citizens. So with that, thank you very much. We'll break for lunch.

Thank you for 1:30.

Made you jump.

Okay. Made you jump.

I had to learn how to cook. You know Tom Wakeman doesn't cook.

What's the best recipe you do? Probably my aunt, my late aunt Tom cook.

I'm taking myself.

I know all their wives that

you know that beautiful handwritten handwriting. My goodness. Like that.

You see it?

I know. Not going to pay attention. That's beautiful. He's raised the bar. Come on. His is a nice signature.

Awesome. Huh?