 Marathon Florida Keys Journal
City of Marathon, Florida Keys, Paradise
Volume 12 † Issue 9 † September 2006
[In The Keys] [Kitty Talk] [Internet Stuff] [Poetry Corner]
[Hockey Puck] [Twins of the Dark Star] [The Dull Stuff]
Marathon Florida Keys Journal proudly presents our 12th year of quality publishing services and continues to focus on the Florida Keys. The lead article is the In The Keys section that offers opinions and even some editorializing. There are also articles concerning the local political beat. These articles may be published in other media outlets. They might edit them to suit their needs. We appreciate your visit and patronage. Please enjoy yourself while you are here and come back soon! Please do us a big favor and sign up for our monthly reminder of the next upcoming issue of Marathon Florida Keys Journal. Please click on this link marathon_journal-subscribe@topica.com. When you get a return email to confirm your choice, sign up at Topica, but bypass all the solicitations. Again, thanks a lot! In The Keys {for current news, see our Daily News Queue} [Jaci Rae] [Offices] [Housing Committee] [Near Shore Waters] [Ros-Lehtinen Press Release]
[Council 8th] [Code Board] [Parks & Rec] [MKCLT] [Marathon Budget 15th & 16th]
[OVHOA] [LDRs 17th] [FIRM] [Airport] [Council 22nd] [Marlin Bay] [What's Happening!]
[Miscellany] [Finally] [ACRONYMS] ~Some articles have photos, go to http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.~
~Events scheduled to be covered, go to http://runesofao.com/schedule/index.htm.~ From Jaci Rae July 30th: Hi everyone,
A quick note as many have been asking.
I have been asked to sing live on a few national and international shows that can also be heard live on the net with streaming audio.
The first show will be on Jesse Dylan's show, The Good Life (he is Bob Dylans son go figure that I cover his Dad's stuff sometimes!) (Canada, US and some international broadcast or maybe all. I don’t know how Sirius works)
It will be at 9 AM PST / 11 AM CST / 12 PM EST
To hear on the net, go to: http://www.tglshow.com/ He is also on Sirius Satellite Radio. I don't know the call letters. Then on August 11th I will be on WGBB Long Island Dating singing live as well. That is from 3 PM PST / 5 PM CST / 6 PM EST. You can go to the hosts personal site: www.BonnieTV.com and click on the radio button and she will have it streaming from their station. The station broadcasts on the East Coast and is located in Long Island. For future stuff, just go too: www.jacirae.com and click on the tour button. But many of you have asked when I will be singing live. I haven't had a chance too, so busy!
We shall see how this goes as I will be singing via a telephone, not even a link up because I am very busy right now, so it has to be over the phone, which I will be holding while trying to get the music through the phone, my one ear covered with the head set and singing through a funky head set LOL! But it's fun.
Hope you come and join me! Also, for my NY friends I will be there as a panelist / speaker for CMJ October 31 - November 4th so I hope to hook up with my NY friends there. Bruce is great and the most wonderful of course LOL! Other things are awesome as well.
I know it's a little early, but you know how much I love Christmas and I had written several Christmas stories and published them in 2000 and have sold them here and there, so it's just my passion.
Five years ago I put up a Christmas site and then took it down the following, but I redid it and put it back up, so check it out and if I missed anything, let me know. Believe it or not, Christmas is only 4 1/2 months away!
(And by the way, I really don't think anything will come of it, but a few years ago, someone approached me about making one of my Christmas books into a special. I can't remember why I didn't follow up on it.
I finally put together a proposal in my spare time of the show I thought would be cool and a major network is looking at it! Can you believe it?! At any rate, again, I don't really think nothing will come of it (not a negative way of thinking, just realistic because of the shows that come and go), but it was sure an honor. They contacted me about it a week ago. So if you have young family members, or are into Christmas, the site is http://www.christmaswithlove.com Everything you would ever want to know about Christmas and whole lot more (if I missed anything, please let me know!) Still talking to HSN and QVC about my product, a huge newspaper out here found out about my product yesterday and wants to do a spread on everything, which is amazing and a major television show is pitching me for an appearance, again I don't want to say as well as one of the premiere magazines!
Yikes, it's an honor, I can't imagine those two things coming through, but just to be called (the show has called two times and sent six email), is amazing. Really, it has nothing to do with me and it's all up to God, really! I have been keeping a low profile lately so I am amazed anyone even knows I am around.
I think that is everything, other than the most important of all. Bruce and I are getting our two families together in Ohio, yes sir! I am very excited!
Miss everyone. Love and hugs. Jaci
To a better day in every way - Jaci Rae www.jacirae.com www.winningromance.com or www.grannysnaturalpopcorn.com New monthly feature will be called Offices. We started with the offices of Marathon City Manager Mike Puto, Marathon Receptionist Debra Reeher, and Marathon Project Manager Susie Thomas. The photos are published for a short period of time at http://RunesofAo.com/press/. Mike Puto's office has a lot of fire/rescue items lining the walls. Volunteer and paid fire/rescue people have a special place in his heart. Mike has also received a lot of gifts and mementos. The latest items are from the recent roast conducted at Mike's expense for a good cause, United Way. There is also the Kiwanis baseball team that contains many of today's movers and shakers. A favorite photo of Mike's is the one of him and his shadow, when he was an official for youth basketball. Debra Reeher has some neat items on her walls. One by the front of her desk is all about pets in funny situations with captions that are even funnier. Debra and her office is very popular with the public. If you want to know why we need a city hall, just look at the picture of Debra's office. She is under the stairs and laughingly refers to herself at "the troll under the stairs." Susie Thomas and friends used to be stuffed in an alcove upstairs. Now she is in the new city hall trailer at 98th Street. She really didn't want any pictures, but Susie and staff are quite pleased to be in a bigger space. She and her stuff are always very. If you want your office featured, just give us a call at 305-743-9648. This is just a fun way to get to know each other in our fair City of Marathon. The Marathon Housing Task Force met August 3rd at the City Hall Conference Room. Councilwoman Tempest was in attendance. Committee members attending were Bill Daniels, Josh Mothner, Lynda Berrigan, and Frank Greenman. They discussed the LDRs rejected by the DCA and remedies required. The next subject was affordable housing incentives. The committee wanted to mitigate tax, insurance, and rental issues. Tax and insurance mitigation took up a lot of discussion time. There was concrete progress made in coming up with realistic solutions. The next discussion topic was affordable housing at different possible locations throughout the city including 104th Street. That led to talk about the number of allocations still remaining to build workforce housing. The next meeting is scheduled for 11:00 AM September 16th at the City Hall Conference Room. The Marathon Near Shore Waters Committee met August 3rd at the public library. There were only 2 members of the public. Councilwoman Tempest was also in attendance. Hurricane Wilma cleanup of boats, traps, and other debris is ongoing. Funding has been a continuing issue, but county rep George Garrett has obtained funds to continue the progress. Canal cleanup is coming as well. There was a lengthy discussion on preserving the working waterfront. Marathon has made the most progress with the Marina Siting Plan. Compliance issues were considered as well. The new Boot Key Harbor mooring field is getting very close to installation. The lat and long of each buoy is being given to the FWC. The committee prioritized the upcoming tasks. Preserving the working waterfront was number one. Public access, improving marina services to the transient boaters, and improving compliance were considered next in importance. The next meeting is scheduled for September 7th at 6:30 PM in the public library conference room.
PRESS RELEASE
For more information:
Alex Cruz, Press Secretary
Office 305-270-1111 or 202-225-3931
Cellular 202-225-8200 or 202-225-4630
Pager 1-877-704-9087
August 4, 2006
Monroe County, Florida --- Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen is asking the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to reconsider its decision to not provide federal screeners at the marathon Airport. Ros-Lehtinen informed the TSA that this decision will have serious ramifications for both the airlines and passengers traveling to our community.
Ros-Lehtinen wrote to the TSA “It is my understanding that in September 2005, the Marathon/Key West Airport accepted a grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation, Small Communities Air Service Program. This grant has attracted Gulfstream International Airlines and Delta Airlines to the airport, which would help increase our economy by tourists enjoying the beautiful sites that Key West/Marathon has to offer.”
“According to correspondence, TSA has kindly suggested that these airlines should be able to provide service to passengers traveling from a non-sterile airport to a non-sterile area, Delta has already affirmed that this suggestion is not feasible. The screeners at the Marathon Airport need to screen passengers through the security checkpoint before they enter the sterile location so that connecting flights will not be affected in other airports. They believe that this scenario would create difficulties for passengers connecting onto other destinations within the sterile area of Atlanta.”
Said Ros-Lehtinen, "I have contacted the TSA and asked them to immediately re-visit this issue, which is of the utmost importance to Monroe residents and myself. I also reiterated to the TSA that I strongly support the interests of the airport and I informed them that this decision will have serious ramifications for our security and for the livelihood of countless Monroe residents." The Marathon City Council met at the government center August 8th. The first item of business was to have been a special presentation by Mayor Chris Bull to the soccer championship teams. This recognition included all the teams as well. Because some couldn't attend this meeting, the presentation was rescheduled to the next council meeting on August 22nd. Under City Manager Mike Puto's report, he identified August 15th and 16th meetings for budget items. LDR work will continue at a meeting on August 17th. Puto went on to report that the old airport fire station was removed old and architectural work is progressing. He stated that the new mooring field installation project needed to be re-advertising, because a contractor does not need to be helix qualified which would open up the field to more bidders and possibly reduce cost. Puto informed the council that a batting cage proposal would be presented to the Parks & Recreation Committee at their next scheduled meeting. A request for proposal will come out for cleanup around town and specifically for Grassy Key. A ribbon-cutting ceremony for Community Park Phase II should be around the weekend of August 25th. He introduced the new HR Officer, Susan Funk.
The written wastewater update is contained on page 7 of the agenda packet. The update included information on locations for different elements of the system. Survey work has been completed in 4 areas and continues in Area 5. Updated information was presented on the status of ongoing work along Sombrero Beach Road. A timeline chart identified that all work should be completed by the 2010 deadline.
Deputy City Manager C. J. Geotis presented funding options for Treasure/Tingler Island dredging. FDEP wants more information. There seems some support to do a study on the need of a Sombrero Beach groin. The cost of a study is around $30,000 in which they pay half. County representative George Garrett has money for maintenance dredging program funding. The DCA might have money for culvert and canal restoration.
Planning Director Fred Gross asked for council direction on a Liquor License Distance Ordinance. He also wanted email input from the council and other sources. The results of this will come up at a future council meeting.
Under citizens' comments, a Sombrero Beach Road resident wanted to know why his culvert is blocked. Staff will investigate. John Whalton from Grassy Key requested a fix for Little Venice 2nd Avenue flooding. Whalton owns property on that street. He also wanted the Dodge Lake boat ramp completed and opened. The city has issues with the contractor and the slope of the ramp.
Second reading, Ordinance 2006-018 amended the ROGO regulations concerning the number of allocations. Marathon now has 30 allocations annually. 24 are market rate, while 6 are for affordable workforce community housing. Previously, the city had 24 with 19 for market and 5 for affordable allocations.
Ordinance No. 2006-019 approved a legal framework to impose non-ad valorem assessments relating to capital improvements and related services. Several projects will use this funding including the Avenue K and various future wastewater utility projects.
Resolution 2006-104 established a final ranking of the proposals for professional auditing services and Authorized the City Manager to negotiate a professional auditing services contract with Rachlin, Cohen & Holtz, the highest ranked firm.
Resolution 2006-118 authorized an agreement to reimburse the Monroe County Property Appraiser for non-ad valorem assessments to construct the Avenue K roadway.
Resolution 2006-119 authorized an agreement to reimburse the Monroe County Tax Collector for non-ad valorem assessments to construct the Avenue K roadway.
Resolution 2006-120 authorized the City Manager to enter into a grant agreement with Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program (FRDAP) for community park and marina improvements for $200,000.
The American Legion, Marathon Post Number 154, Inc., filed an administrative appeal regarding the city’s Planning Department decision to deny a sign permit on property owned by the American Legion and located on Overseas Highway nearest mile marker 49. The Planning Commission recommended approval of the appeal. The sign is actually the same size as before. Steve Williams represented the American Legion. Council granted appeal. Councilwoman Tempest requested a year-end contract personnel review. The end of the year is September 30th. The council will evaluate the city manager and legal contracts.
Informational items and reports included the RFQ for Construction Manager at Risk to build City Hall/Library and City Council meeting minutes.
Under citizens' comments, Peter Rosasco spoke as private citizen. Many of his scarified lots on FEMA list had their flood policies canceled. He called that absurd.
The meeting adjourned short of 8:30 PM. The Marathon Code Board met August 9th at the Sheriff's Aviation Hangar second-floor training room. Council members Marilyn Tempest and Jeff Pinkus were in attendance. Long-time committee member Glenn Robinson is leaving the city soon and relinquishing his seat. The board presented him with an award for his service over the years. The photos are published for a short period of time at http://RunesofAo.com/press/. In the first case, Gilbert Angermann is the owner of vacant commercial lot on 123rd Street Gulf. He was cited for placement of fill on a vacant parcel without a permit. He request for continuance was granted until October 11th. In the second case, Ricky and Barbara Allen are the owners of 2383 Dolphin Drive. The violation was interior and exterior construction in progress without a permit. Their continuance request was granted until September 13th. In the third case, Peter Karras is the owner of 500 70th Street Gulf. He was cited an in progress roof replacement without a permit. There has been a lot of progress over the last 48 hours. The board assigned an administrative fee and gave the owner 30 days to comply. In the fourth case, Larry Breedlove is the owner of a vacant commercial lot adjacent to 13900 Overseas Highway. The violation was working through a stop-work order issued March 21s for removal of vegetation and placement of fill. This case was continued to September 13th. In the fifth case, Larry Breedlove was cited for a Sea King Party Boar sign attached to the Driftwood Marina Sign. The property cited is the same as above. The city stated that this case is now in compliance. The case was dismissed. In the sixth case. Larry Breedlove was cited for removal of vegetation, illegal land clearing, and placement of fill for the same property listed above. This case was continued to September 13th. The board decided to amend its rules to have the chair determine continuance request. The Marathon Parks and Recreation Committee meeting for August 10th was canceled at the last minute with no notification on the website. A staffer who showed up at the library said that Mayor Chris Bull and some members of the committee couldn't make the scheduled meeting. The Middle Keys Community Land Trust Board of Directors met August 14th at the City Hall Conference Room. Under President Debbie Love's report, a plaque was given to a director. Administrator Rick Casey's report included information on the Islamorada Woods Corner project. Casey also said that routine reports would be submitted in written form to allow more time for important board discussions. Treasurer Josh Mothner's report details the ongoing annual audit process. The tentative draft was approved with the final report coming very soon. The Land Trust's financial outlook continues to be good with all the proper audit requirement in place and working. Director Larry Shaffer provided the board an update on the IT risk assessment outlook. Discussions were held on the Woods Corner project, acquisition opportunities, and the possible City of Marathon contract. The meeting closed out with general talk about the City of Marathon's affordable housing stance. The Marathon City Council held two budget workshops on August 15th and 16th at the Sheriff's Aviation Hangar second-floor training room. The council met with staff and only 1 person from the public to consider the proposed budget. The budget includes the general fund, the marina enterprise fund, special revenue funds, and a five-year capital program from the capital infrastructure funds. The source of the general fun is the ad valorem tax on property. The city's share is just a small slice of that overall tax. Other entities take out much bigger chunks like the schools, the county, and mosquito control. Other agencies like the South Florida Water District and FKAA grab at those tax dollars as well. The marina enterprise fund is funded totally from revenue the marina generates. This is the first year that they have not needed a subsidy from the general funds. They actually gave money back to the city. Special revenue funds come from a lot of different sources like grants and cost sharing. These fund are not property taxes. You and I as citizens don't pay for any of these funds directly. Capital infrastructure funds are from the state and do not cost the average citizen anything directly. Assessed value for Marathon is over 2.766 billion dollars. Yes, that is billion with a b! That is a $550M increase. Rollback rate is 1.6315 mills. That is the rate that would collect the same amount of money as last year. The proposed budget is 1.9714 mills, which is a lower rate than last year. Higher revenues come from increased development. City employees got a COLA raise, which still places them at a disadvantage to other cities. The lack of affordable housing makes retention nearly impossible. Key Colony Beach pays for the Marathon Fire/Rescue service. They did not want to accept an increase this year, but that is unfair to Marathon citizens. It would cost Key Colony Beach more to start their own service than pay for Marathon's service. The city should collect what is fair for everyone on the fire/rescue services. The biggest increase in general fund expenses is the fire/rescue department. More staff is needed to safely provide services to the city. The Legal Department budget was questioned extensively, but litigation and LDR work drove up overall costs. The council will hear more information at the September 5th meeting. Capital Infrastructure Funds will pay for the stormwater/wastewater system, fire/rescue facilities, city hall/library, vehicle replacements, and infrastructure improvements to roads, bridges, boat ramps, and so on. The first public hearing for the budget is scheduled for September 5th. The Overseas Village Home Owners Association met on site August 16th. President Derrick Johnson gave his report on the appearance of the common areas, the wastewater contract, and the ballot issues. The treasurer's report was given by Director Larry Shaffer. He reported that the association has met all budget targets. The previous minutes were approved. The fence/punch lock repairs will be accomplished soon. The repairs of damaged lighting will be done as well. The website will be hosted by the Middle Keys Land Trust once the site information is transferred to the Land Trust IT. The next meeting is tentatively scheduled for September 14th at 6:00 PM. The Marathon City Council held a special call meeting August 17th to continue hashing out the details of the new set of LDRs based on the Comprehensive Plan. There are photos available for a short period of time at http://RunesofAo.com/press/. Resolution 2006-125 approved $30,000 for aerial photos for the entire city for the GIS base layer. The interlocal agreement between Monroe County and Marathon spells out the details. Mayor Bull was appointed to the Marathon Airport Task Force to replace former Mayor Bartus. Vice Mayor Mearns is the other continuing appointment. Councilman Jeff Pinkus held discussions with the Key Colony Beach Mayor Clyde Burnett that the old rate for fire/rescue services can't remain at last year's rate. The new rate considering the ratio of assessed property value and income between the 2 cities will be somewhere around $425,000. Talks will continue. The council considered temporary locations for the fire/rescue station, while the new one is under construction. Councilman Pinkus will worth with acting Fire Chief Dale Beaver and City Manager Mike Puto to finalize a location and arrangements. City Planning Technician Walters presented an update of the Housing Task Force Committee. The committee has input for an affordable housing ordinances and LDRs. The council also discussed pushing for the completion of the affordable housing study due from the contractor in Septembers. The cost so far is $51,600 of a total $65,000. Planning Director Fred Gross will report on the status at the Tuesday council meeting. An update of the new TBR ordinance denied by DCA was provided. DCA representative Rebecca Jetton was replaced by Claude Turner. Staff is working with DCA to iron out the problems. Fred Gross introduced a new planner for his department. His name is Troy Perry. There was a long discussion of the Keith & Schnars contract. The contract will be modified to identify an exact scope of work with deliverables by certain deadlines. Sandra Walters, who represented Sandler at Greater Marathon Bay who destroyed a community at Gulfstream Trailer Park, suggested Rebecca Jetton vice continuing with Keith and Schnars. Jetton is now working on her own. Council scrapped that idea though. The council, staff, and the public reviewed LDR Table 104.03.1 Allowed Uses by Zoning District. The item continues to be heavily modified. More work continues to be necessary before the deadline. NEWS FROM THE FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION - [August 17th] For Immediate Release: Contact: Bob Lotane or Jonathon Kees 850/ 413-2515 MCCARTY REJECTS RATE REQUEST AND ORDERS CITIZENS
INSURANCE TO REDUCE RATES IN MONROE COUNTY TALLAHASSEE (8/17/2006) - Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today rejected a request by Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (Citizens) to increase rates in Monroe County and ordered it to reduce homeowners insurance rates for the area. By law, Citizens rates have to be higher than private insurers' rates in all areas of the state. However, Monroe county has been found to not have a competitive insurance market, therefore rates are only required to be actuarially sound. Citizens is the state-run insurer for those who cannot access insurance in the private market. Citizens had asked for approval to raise rates in Monroe County by 25.9 percent for homeowners' policies, however, McCarty ordered it to reduce rates by 32.2 percent. Citizens had also asked for approval to increase mobile home rates by 20.4 percent, but McCarty ordered a lesser increase of 15.2 percent. Pursuant to the order Citizens will be required to refund any premium collected in excess of the ordered rates for the period it had instituted the rate hike. In both cases, McCarty based the difference in rates contained in the order on results derived from Florida's public hurricane model. The rates now will be comparable to rates charged in areas of similar risk in the state. "Many Floridians are struggling to pay rapidly rising hurricane insurance cost, and perhaps none more so than those living in Monroe County," said McCarty. "We will continue to aggressively scrutinize all rate requests and where we find that rates are not justified we will not allow them." A televised public hearing on the Citizens rate filing was held in Key West on August 1st. Officers of Citizens were questioned at the hearing by senior staff and counsel from the Office of Insurance Regulation, by representatives from Monroe County, and by the advocacy group Fair Insurance Rates for Monroe County (FIRM). The Florida Keys Airport Task Force met August 21st at the Sheriff Aviation Hangar second-floor training room. There are photos available for a short period of time at http://RunesofAo.com/press/. Monroe County Director of Airports Peter Horton started the meeting. He welcomed everyone. Everyone introduced themselves. Some notables were former county commissioner David Rice, Marathon Mayor Chris Bull, Vice Mayor Mearns, and Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen's congressional aide Kim Sovia-Crandon. Peter Horton reviewed the task force's history. This has been a three-year initiative to get regional air service into Marathon. Various sources of income has come from federal grants, TDC, FAA, commercial entities, and others. The Florida Keys Airport Initiative Inc was formed to handle the project and monies. Delta and Gulfstream [Continental] were going to start in October. The TSA then denied request for screeners. Congressional aide Kim Sovia-Crandon updated the efforts of players in Washington. Pressure is being brought to bear on TSA and those above the agency. Peter Horton outlined a proposal that would cost TSA nothing. The proposal would use a program to allow private screeners approved by the TSA. Boyd Group representative Mike Mooney said that Delta will move its starting date to December 16th, while Gulfstream [Continental] would start in February 2007. Marathon Airport Division Director Reggie Paros gave an update on the progress of ground transportation, courtesy and taxi services, food service facility, visitor's information kiosk, and advertising improvements. The first year the airport will not charge vendors for these services. The terminal improvements will have the western portion done soon with the remaining eastern portion to be done last. The next meeting will be September 26th at 1:30 PM at the airport departure lounge, if completed. The Marathon City Council met August 22nd at the government center in a special meeting to consider 2 referendum questions.
There were no citizens' comments, because there was only one public member. He was the former mayor, John Bartus.
Ordinance 2006-20 provides for a binding referendum ballot measure to eliminate council seats and elect council members at large. Councilman Pinkus was worried about not requiring 50% + 1 majority to elect a council member. Worthington was worried about having runoffs. Tempest said that at large is not ideal but realistic. She said that she trusted the electorate. Former mayor, John Bartus, favored 50% + 1. Larry Shaffer favored 50% + 1. Jeff Pinkus moved approval with a change of 50% + 1. Mearns is scared of impact of political groups without 50% = 1. Bull worried about runoffs. Pinkus motion failed 3-2 with Mearns and Pinkus voting yes. Worthington motion was to approve as is passed 3-2 with Mearns and Pinkus voting no.
Ordinance 2006-21 provides for a binding referendum ballot measure to extend the term limits of council members to 3 years vice 2 years. Passed 5-0.
Second reading of both ordinances is scheduled for August 29th.
The special call meeting adjourned at 6:26 PM. The Marathon City Council then met for their regularly scheduled meeting. There are photos available for a short period at http://RunesofAo.com/press/.
Mayor Chris Bull presented the Women’s Equality Day Proclamation.
Under City Manager Mike Puto's report, he reported on Fire Station 14 progress. Temporary location of fire/rescue is ongoing. County commissioners voted favorably for Marathon’s $1 million wastewater funds. Puto reported that the budget process was ongoing, and the remaining schedule is as follows:- September 5 6:30 First public hearing on tentative budget and proposed millage rate
- September 9 Advertisement of final budget hearing
- September 12 5:30 Final budget hearing to adopt the final budget and millage rate
- September 15 Millage levy resolution is forwarded to the Property Appraiser and Tax Collector
- September 22 Certification of Final Taxable Value (DR-422) will be hand delivered by the Property Appraiser's Office
- September 26 Certification of Final Taxable Value due to Property Appraiser's Office
- October 6 Certification of compliance with Florida Statutes to the Florida Department of Revenue
Under citizens' comments, Grassy Key resident talked about a hotel renovation that he wants. He requested a contingent renovation permit. The hotel/motel ordinance needs amended to identify a maximum square footage. Then DCA would have no problem. DCA representative Robin Brandis confirmed the resident’s comment. The ordinance objectives needs narrowed. Council directed city manager to process the resident’s permit contingent on language of the amended hotel/motel ordinance.
DCA had some issues with the amended hotel/motel ordinance. DCA wants the ordinance intent narrowed somewhat. Attorney Jimmy Morales said that the city made the changes required.
The council continued the Knights Key Corporation development agreement and major conditional use to September 26th. This will be advertised again.
Council approved a variance to the minimum side yard requirements for property located at 958 East 105th Street. The property is close to mile marker 52.5. Javier Rodil, Jr., is the applicant. Pinkus voted no. Mayor Bull didn’t care for approving this without first changing the regulation.
Council approved another variance to the minimum side yard requirements for property located at 960 East 105th Street. The property is close to mile marker 52.5. Gerardo & Maria Rubio are the applicants. Pinkus voted no. Mayor Bull didn’t care for approving this without first changing the regulation.
Ordinance 2006-22 amended the city code to permit in certain zoning districts detached single-family residences on lots smaller than 4500 square feet with reduced setbacks. Frank Greenman worried that this will make many properties vacation rentals, which will decrease affordable housing. He suggested that the ordinance be amended to make substandard lots ineligible to be vacation rentals. Morgan Hill wants to protect property rights and not restrict these owners. City Attorney Jimmy Morales will present language to restrict these properties from being vacation rentals at the next meeting.
Ordinance 2006-023 amended the Comprehensive Plan Table 6-1 “Capital Improvement Program” to establish a 5-year cycle. During this 5-year cycle, the city expects to spend nearly $139 million. Capital improvement funds are a state-revenue sharing system and don’t come out of property taxes assessed by the city.
Resolution 2006-126 approved the market rate residential dwelling unit and affordable housing residential dwelling unit allocations. There are 8 market rate and 4 affordable allocations available. There are 123 market rate applicants and no affordable applicants. The top ranked applicants will receive the available allocations.
Resolution 2006-127 approved the Non-Residential Building Permit Allocation System (NROGO) evaluations and rankings. There are 38,076 square feet available. There are 2 applicants requesting a total of 9,176 square feet. Council approved the 2 requests.
Second reading, Ordinance 2006-019 approved a legal framework to impose non-ad valorem assessments relating to capital improvements and related services. Several projects will use this funding including the Avenue K and various future wastewater utility projects.
Council discussed the location of city hall/library. The two possible sites centered on 104th Street property or the Events Field. Jim Hendricks on behalf of Max Sutter is concerned about affordable housing at a high-density rate. Max Sutter has strong opposition to high-density affordable housing. Vice Mayor Mearns favored the location on 104th Street and keeping the Events Field as is. Councilman Worthington, Pinkus, and Mayor Bull favored building on the Events Field. Councilwoman Tempest favored the Events Field also. Seafood Festival will work at Community Park. Building on the Events Filed passed 4-1 with Mearns voting no.
Affordable housing workshop is scheduled for August 30th if LDR meeting is canceled. Fred Gross says LDR meeting on the 30th probably not occur. City manager officially canceled the 30th LDR meeting in favor of an affordable housing workshop.
Tempest reported on contractor evaluation process.
Resolution 2006-121 approved a professional services agreement between the city and the Middle Keys Community Land Trust, Inc. for assistance in accomplishing the goal of providing and preserving affordable/workforce housing for $50,000 annually. Islamorada contracted the Land Trust for similar purposes, which has resulted in the Woods Corner venture and other future housing developments coming soon. The Land Trust Administrator Rick Casey answered questions.
Resolution 2006-122 authorized the city manager to do change order # 1 to the Universal Beach Services contract. The changer order covered additional scope of services. The 2-year renewal is for $71,149 annually. Councilman Worthington wanted the contract put out for re-bid. Worthington voted no.
Resolution 2006-123 outlines the actions necessary to fund and construct Avenue K. The total is $446,804.
Consent item, Resolution 2006-124 approved American Legion’s administrative appeal, allowing the sign.
Consent item, council approved the August 8th council minutes.
Code Compliance Board Appointment Bill Hauck was approved. Late applicants were denied.
The Middle Keys Land Trust applied for waiving the $250 fee for an on site review and letter of current site conditions for 2 properties located on 65th Street and 73rd Street respectively.
The fire station construction contract was changed to pay for drawings ahead of time.
Avenue K residents spoke about their perceived increase costs for constructing their road. Susie Thomas and Mike Hatfield refuted those perceptions.
The meeting adjourned earlier than normal.
What's Happening! This last month was full of bad news. My cousin's husband died suddenly without warning. Another one of my aunts died. I only have 2 left now. I have an uncle who is struggling with medical problems. One of my aunts is having memory problems. Life marches on, but it seems cruel at times.
Miscellany: Spencer Slate has tried to derail David Rice's quest for the state house. When Spencer Slate had financial irregularities, David Rice didn't respond in kind. That tells us a lot about these candidates. Finally: Did you know that Tennessee's state bird is the Mockingbird? The flower is the Iris. The tree is the Tulip Poplar. The capital is Nashville. Statehood was granted June 1, 1796. Selections from the Florida Keys Council of the Arts Who What When and Where brochure: On second and third Wednesdays, the Marathon Garden Club presents the Wonder Garden series of Keys friendly gardening classes. Marathon Garden Club, 5270 Overseas Highway [MM 50 bayside], Marathon. Call 305-743-4971 for information and required advanced registration. http://www.keysy.com/mgc. Middle Keys Arts Alliance meets the last Thursday of each month; call Alison at 305-743-7869 for locations and times certain. Ballroom and Latin dance party open house first Friday of the month. Free. 8 - 10 p.m. Theo & Ganine's Dance Center, 11450 Overseas Highway, Suite 203, Marathon. 305-743-0660. ACRONYMS: | ACOE | Army Corps of Engineers | | AYSO | American Youth Soccer Organization | | BPAS | Building Permit Allocation System | | CAMP | Creative Arts and Music Program | | DCA | Florida Department of Community Affairs | | ECMC | Educational Coalition for Monroe County | | EMS | Emergency Medical Services | | EOC | Emergency Operations Center | | FAA | Federal Aviation Administrator | | FDEP | Florida Department of Environmental Protection | | FDOT | Florida Department of Transportation | | FEMA | Federal Emergency Management Agency | | FIRM | Fair Insurance Rates in Monroe County | | FKAA | Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority | | FKCC | Florida Keys Community College | | FKEC | Florida Keys Electric Cooperative | | FLUM | Future Land Use Map | | FRDAP | Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program | | FWC | Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission | | GIS | Geographic Information System | | GSG | Government Services Group | | H4H | Habitat for Humanity | | HR | Human Resources | | HUD | US Department of Housing and Urban Development | | IS | Improved Subdivision | | ISD | Improved Subdivision Duplex | | IT | Information Technology | | LDRs | Land Development Regulations required by the Comprehensive Plan | | MCSO | Monroe County Sheriff's Office | | MGS | Marathon Garbage Service | | MHS | Marathon High School | | MKCLT | Middle Keys Community Land Trust | | MSTU | Municipal Service Taxing Unit | | MU | Mixed Use | | MUC | Mixed Use Commercial | | NROGO | Non-Residential Permit Allocation System | | OVHOA | Overseas Village Home Owners Association | | RFP | Request for Proposal | | ROGO | Rate of Growth Ordinance | | RV | Recreational Vehicle | | SC | Suburban Commercial | | SR | Suburban Residential | | SRF | State Revolving Fund | | TBA | To be Announced | | TBR | Transfer of Building Right | | TDC | Tourist Development Council | | TRIM | Truth in Millage | | TSA | Transportation Security Administration | | UR | Urban Residential |
Kitty Talk
These journals are dedicated to Kitty GreyCat's spirit. She is at RainBow Bridge now along with her human friends, Leo and Doris. We all loved you, Kitty! Click the cat graphic to visit her Memorial page. Kitty born June 6, 1982. Died July 9, 1997. Please use our email form linked below to make suggestions or offer praise. Now, really, the cats have thoughts and meows that are badly interpreted by a human for publication here. So believe what you will, but enjoy nonetheless. All complaints, flames, and such like will end up in the litter box! >^..^<  Ebony: Human bean is well trained by us cats. All we got to do is scratch on a cabinet door, and he gets up and opens it for us. I curled up for a nice, comfortable catnap on a big yellow power cord. I like to catnap in very strange far-off places inside our humble catdom. >^..^<
Abby: I get human bean to do stuff for me too. I investigate under the kitchen sink what has double doors all the time. All I got to do is paw at the door and meow. He a good egg. >^..^<
Ebony: Abby you meow about an egg. Human bean been bringing us some chicken yummies in a can. Those nummies are very good. We both come running when you hear the can open. >^..^<
Abby: I like nummies. I not like going with human bean when he goes car traveling. Ebony likes to go with bean, and she been a lot of places, but I run and hide when bean got a sparkle in his eye and want go travel. >^..^<
Ebony: Abby, you are a scaredy cat, for sure. You not scared on the cat carriers. Bean puts catnip in there with toys. I love to play inside and knock them toys around making lots of noise. Catnip makes me mellow. >^..^<
Abby: Human bean gives me catnip in the other cat carrier too. I play in there. But I won't walk on the street with human bean like you did. That would be too scary. Why there a big, old dog across the street! >^..^<
Ebony: Abby, you want to nose about scary, then you should go with human bean when he gets the car monster thing washed in the car washer monster thing that bigger than our apartment! I was clinging to bean then. >^..^<
Abby: Ebony, I did go out for a while once this month. The neighbors all admire me. You just interested in lizards, eating grass, and catnapping under the car. At least I got local fans what like me more than you. >^..^<
Ebony: I got a big paw slap right here for you. Use is full of yourself, like always. I like to catnap in different, interesting places. What wrong with that? I catnap under the covers on the bed. Nice and dark, warm, and no noises like from the mower man. He always mowing or weed eating or even messing with them hurricane shutters. I like to give him what for, you nose. I asked human bean to talk at him some. >^..^<
Abby: All you good for is complaining is what you is. Human bean loves us and probably me more than you. Bean likes to put stickers on me what come off the fruits he buy. He thinks it funny when I remove them. When he do it to you, Ebony, you just shake and twitches. Even I was laughing at you. Use is just a nit, you nose? >^..^<
Ebony: I swatted you once today, and I can do it again. I growl at bean when he does them things. You just reward him with constantly meowing at him. Why don't you just stuff a lizard tail in it and be quiet some? >^..^<
Abby: Ebony, go take another catnap, meow. Well, that all there is this month. Ebony and me did the thunder huddle close by human bean some this month though. Ebony hissed at a dog on the television thing. Silly, isn't she? One final thing I can meow at you all is that Ernesto hurricane thing wasn't fun no way, now how! >^..^<
Internet Stuff
Here are the latest DVD films from http://www.NetFlix.com: Rumor Has It is a great romantic comedy about loves across the generations. Life is more exciting than fiction. The romantic film is fully of such characters, a must see. The Shaggy Dog, the 2006 version, is really funny and quite charming. The 2006 version The Pink Panther is unique in its own way. Steve Martin’s influence and take on this classic story brings laughter and smiles throughout the film. This version is well done, but still can’t match the classic version. Still, I thoroughly enjoyed this movie. Pure is an outstanding but stark movie of a young boy’s attempt to get his mother off heroin. What I liked about the movie is the possibility that thing work out in the end. The New World is the melding of two worlds, while at the same time the disparity between the two. Pocahontas falls in love with Capt. Smith, but goes on to make a life with another and remains the princess that she was. The movie plays on all senses, but the story lags. Larry the Cable Guy: Health Inspector is a naturally funny movie that comes across as real and down-home sensibilities. The story was secondary to the film. Just enjoy. The Lost City is the sad story of one family’s life during the so called Cuban revolution. They lost everything, but one member came to New York and started again. The movie is wonderful, but the film does tend to drag and plod along tediously. RV with Robin Williams is straight on funny and natural at the same time. Family fun, some raccoons, and wild flashes of humor all make this a fun time for everyone. Scary Movie 4 was a funny movie in spots, but overall seemed redundant. The Benchwarmers was a good, old-fashioned comedy about kids and adults who act like kids. Score one for the nerds, the downtrodden, and the American way of life. Or some such nonsense like that, this film was funny regardless of all the old skits wrapped up in zany shenanigans. Poseidon 2006 was much more than I ever thought a remake could be. The story is different as well as the characters. The scenes are larger than life. And the action is relentless. The movie is over before you take the first breath. Well done! Just My Luck didn’t sound too good, but I watched the movie anyway. I wasn’t disappointed. This is a fun, charming, romantic comedy. While not the best film of the year, the comedy pleased my sense and let me escape a little. That’s what entertainment is all about. Hoot was a slightly charming but unbelievable movie. Young kids might like the film better. Interesting websites we visited recently: http://www.bellsouth.com has been most helpful this month. We ordered 2 more phone lines and check on the status of various items. Our billing is automated with no paper copies. This allows other features of the website to be available. Offsite online backups are a must during this hurricane season. All these sites offer a free trial. This listing below is in no particular order.
http://www.carbonite.com/default.aspx?utm_source=MSN&utm_medium=PPC&utm_content=online backup = $5 per 5 GB
http://www.globaldrive.com/pricing.aspx = $16 per 5 GB
http://www.buyerzone.com/computers/backup-remote/qz_questions_7.jhtml?_requestid=17176 will help get quotes from multiple vendors, but they usually get bidders who are too high compared to a wild search. Using the features at http://www.sunpass.com has always saved me money on the toll roads. Find out how old you will get at http://www.eons.com. Fortunately, I am going to make it to 95! If I follow some easy steps listed on the website, I could go over 100! We get our pet supplies at www.CanadaVet.com.
Poetry Corner
"Something Moves"
August 2, 2004
Rain spatters the ground
Wind changes direction
The very sounds increase
And something moves
Slowly at first
Starkly different
Standing out
From natural chaos
The storm passes
Surely calm must
Arrive, but there
Remains something
Moving, thinking
Seen and unseen
Only today matter
Tomorrow is death
The past is pain
As sunset nears
Something moves
In the tall grass
Silence is the evil
Eyes light the soul
Flickering light
Slowly wanes
A single thought
Careens through
And into us all
Something moves © 2006 L. E. Shaffer
Hockey Puck
NHL: The summer interlude is about over. The clash of ice hockey warriors is just around the corner. PGA: Tiger Woods won his 50th win by the age of 30. He finished 3 strokes ahead of second place to win the PGA Buick Open. Tiger Woods won his 12th major at Medina. Tiger won the WGC BRIDGESTONE INVITATIONAL. NASCAR NEXTEL: Jeff Gordon finished 16th and is 8th in chase points, while Dale Earnhardt Jr. was 6th in the race and 10th in the chase points. Jeff finished 15th, Dale Jr. 20th, and Bill Elliot 19th. Both Jeff and Dale Jr. are still in the top ten in points for the Chase. Dale Jr. won the Michigan Busch race. Jeff finished 2nd, while Dale Jr. ended up 6th at Michigan. Dale Jr. finished 3rd, while Jeff slipped to 5th on the last lap at Bristol. NBA: The Heat are glad that Pat Riley is coming back to try to win back-to-back championship. So is Alonzon Mourning. NFL: Ricky Williams is out with an injury. He will rejoin his CFL team soon. MLB: The Florida Marlins won 7 straight games and are back in the wild-card race. But in better baseball action, Columbus, Georgia, won the Little League World Series over an extremely good Japanese team. It was a shame someone had to lose.
Twins of the Dark Star
Book One Tears from Ao, Book Two The Mountains of Ao and four poetry collections, Pages of Life, Visions of Life, Moments of Life, and The Book of Kalian Mysticism are available at http://RunesofAo.com/aobp/. The Runes of Ao project is ongoing. Book Three Twins of the Dark Star novel is in the outlining phase. Falling Star poetry collection is a work in progress. A collaboration with K. Young on a novella called Dragon Embers is now published on the fan site known as Runes of Ao.com. Other dragon artwork is available as well. Finally, in collaboration with K. Young and Linda Hall, a group novel project is in progress and currently titled Starsongs.
The Dull Stuff
All opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of this magazine, company, or its advertisers. Inputs, email, suggestions, and letters to this journal are subject to approval by the Journal Editor. Submittals may be edited for content and length and become the creative property for the one-time nonexclusive publication of: Shaffer Novels/Poetry Company
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www.RunesofAo.com/LarryShaffer/ Publication date: August 28, 2006
Author: L. E. Shaffer
Company: Shaffer Novels/Poetry Company &
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