Agenda (PDF)

City Commission - Regular Meeting · 2026-07-16 · agenda

[200 East University Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601; case 2026-429] The City Commission accepted the City Auditor's report on the Gainesville Police Department Forensic Crime Unit. The audit found that the unit is understaffed due to lower starting salaries compared to other Florida cities, leading to higher turnover. The report recommended increasing the budget for competitive salaries or finding other retention strategies. Management agreed and plans to explore using funds from a vacant position for compensation adjustments and professional development, and will continue evaluating long-term strategies for staffing sustainability. [case 2026-429B] Audit of Gainesville Police Department Forensic Crime Unit operations reviewed adequacy and effectiveness of controls. Scope covered April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2026. The unit processes crime scenes, uses NIBIN for ballistic evidence, and sends evidence to FDLE lab when needed. A benchmarking survey of 13 Florida cities in April 2026 showed Gainesville's unit responsibilities align with others, but Gainesville has shorter average staff service length and lower salaries for forensic technicians. The audit concluded that internal controls are adequate but governance should be strengthened to ensure adequate staffing. Opportunities for improvement were identified in staffing, specifically lower starting salaries and higher turnover for forensic crime technicians compared to other surveyed cities. Recommendations include increasing the unit's budget for competitive salaries or identifying other retention strategies. Management agreed and will evaluate using funds from a vacant Field Service Technician position (approx. $37,000 annually) for compensation adjustments and professional development. Long-term strategies include reviewing compensation competitiveness, exploring internal workforce development, seeking incentives for training positions, and collaborating with HR and OMB. Expected implementation date is March 31, 2027. [Gainesville Fire Rescue buildings; case 2026-431B] Audit of Gainesville Fire Rescue Badge and Physical Access controls assessed adequacy of badge access controls and management of physical keys to ensure risk of unauthorized access is managed. Scope included physical security measures from October 1, 2024, to April 1, 2026, covering perimeter security and physical entry controls (badge systems, physical keys, electronic keypads, remote bay door access). The audit excluded Knox Boxes, narcotics boxes, Fire Stations #3 and #9 (due to upcoming construction), and Fire Station #6 (owned by Airport Authority). Methodology involved inquiry, observation, and substantive testing focusing on processes for granting, managing, and monitoring physical access. [case 2026-432A] City Auditor's Quarterly Update for the third quarter of FY 2026, summarizing core activities including auditing, fraud investigations, and post-audit reviews. Recently completed projects include the Gainesville Police Department Forensic Crime Unit Audit and the Gainesville Fire Rescue Badge Access Audit. Audits in progress include the Workday General and Applications Control Audit. Upcoming audits include the Gainesville Fire Rescue Community Resource Paramedicine evaluation and the Capital Assets – Buildings and Building Improvements Audit. The report details the status of audit issues, with 17 closed, 1 partially implemented, and 14 open, relating to Asset Management, Facilities Management Administration, HR Recruiting and Hiring Process, and PCI Process. The document also notes presentations at a regional conference and provides statistics on fraud hotline and investigations. [Regional Transit System property; case 2026-446] Recommendation for a specified source award for electric charger equipment for the Regional Transit System (RTS) to Gillig LLC. The cost is $203,400.00, funded by Federal Transit Administration grants. Gillig LLC was the manufacturer of RTS's Battery Electric Buses (BEBs), and they partner with Chargepoint for charging equipment. To maintain compatibility with existing BEBs and chargers, RTS must continue using Chargepoint equipment supplied through Gillig. The award is for expanding the existing charging station to accommodate three additional BEBs in production. [451 Discovery Drive, Livermore, CA 94551 (GILLIG LLC); 34 SE 13th Rd, Gainesville, FL 32601 (City of Gainesville); case RFP 21-980369] This document outlines a contract between the City of Gainesville and GILLIG LLC for the purchase of electric charging equipment. The contract includes various federal requirements, certifications, and terms and conditions. GILLIG LLC is providing charging equipment, including ChargePoint dispensers and power modules, for use with battery electric buses. The total contract amount is $203,400.00. The contract term is from the Effective Date until March 31, 2027. Key provisions include compliance with FTA requirements, Buy America certifications, E-Verify system usage, and prohibitions on certain telecommunications equipment. GILLIG LLC is acting as a reseller and is not responsible for installation. The City of Gainesville will pay GILLIG LLC net 45 days from invoice receipt. This document is a subrecipient agreement detailing funding, record-keeping, audits, reporting, and procurement requirements for a subrecipient working with the Florida Department of Emergency Management (FDEM). It outlines the terms for cost reimbursement, maximum reimbursement amounts (up to $49,000.00), and compliance with federal and state regulations. Key aspects include record retention for three years, audit requirements by independent auditors, quarterly and close-out reporting, and strict procurement procedures to ensure full and open competition. It also addresses liability, default, remedies, termination clauses, and mandates compliance with various federal laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Copeland Anti-Kickback Act. The agreement specifies that intellectual property rights and copyrights accruing from the work belong to the State of Florida, with certain exceptions for pre-existing intellectual property. It also prohibits the use of funds for lobbying and requires contractors to certify they do not employ unauthorized alien workers and are not debarred or suspended from federal contracts. The agreement emphasizes merit-based selection for all procurement and employment actions. This document outlines contractual requirements and compliance obligations for subrecipients, specifically Gainesville Fire Rescue, related to federal grant funding. It details stipulations for contractors regarding wages, working conditions, compliance with the Clean Air Act and Federal Water Pollution Control Act for contracts exceeding $150,000, and suspension/debarment procedures. It also mandates adherence to the Byrd Anti-Lobbying Amendment for contracts over $100,000 and requires affirmative steps for contracting with small and minority businesses, women's business enterprises, and labor surplus area firms. The document specifies that $49,000.00 in funding is awarded under the State Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP) from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), for Issue #10 – SRT Hazmat Sustainment. It also includes restrictions on using grant funds for certain telecommunications and video equipment/services as per Section 889 of the National Defense Authorization Act. The scope of work focuses on maintaining current capabilities and replacing end-of-life equipment related to Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive (CBRNE) agents. This document outlines the allowable costs and requirements for grant funding under the Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP), focusing on preparedness, prevention, protection, mitigation, response, and recovery from acts of terrorism and other catastrophic events. It details eligible expenses for training, exercises, equipment, management and administration, and construction. Specific provisions include compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act for construction projects, the Build America, Buy America Act, and requirements for cybersecurity, reporting, and equipment disposition. The document also lists numerous federal statutes and regulations that subrecipients must adhere to. [case 2026-476] City of Gainesville is appointing members to various advisory boards and committees. Julie DeCarmine and Jacob Ihde are appointed to the Downtown Advisory Board. Larry Fowler is appointed to the Gainesville Community Reinvestment Area Advisory Board. Faye Ricker is appointed to the Nature Centers Commission. Harrison Scoville is appointed to the Public Recreation and Parks Board. [14608-000-000; case 2026-482] Grant of a perpetual egress easement to Alachua County on Tax Parcel No. 14608-000-000 (City Lot 13) to allow the County's State Attorney's parking lot to exit onto Southwest 1st Street instead of Southwest 1st Avenue, as part of the reconstruction of Southwest 1st Avenue. The City will be responsible for all construction, permits, fees, and maintenance on City Lot 13. [case 2026-474] The Gainesville Community Reinvestment Area (GCRA) provided a general update on its programs and projects for FY 2026, including the Cornerstone EHEDI and GTEC Center, the 8th and Waldo Economic Development Incentive Program, the Heartwood Neighborhood improvements, the Downtown Gainesville Strategic Plan (including The Streatery project), and the Porters Quarters development. The report details accomplishments and planned activities for each area. [case 2026-444] Resolution authorizing the City Manager or designee to execute grant applications and enter into agreements with the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for projects, infrastructure, and funding. This blanket resolution aims to streamline the process for obtaining federal transportation grants. [case 2026-458] The Police Advisory Council (PAC) submitted its Annual Report for October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026, detailing its mission, key activities, and ongoing work. The report highlights the PAC's role in advising the Chief of Police, City Manager, and City Commission, reviewing internal affairs investigations, and engaging with various community neighborhoods. The PAC also presented updated Rules of Procedure/Bylaws. [case 2026-473] The City of Gainesville is seeking approval and submission of the Program Year 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan (AAP) to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This plan identifies specific projects to achieve goals outlined in the Consolidated Plan, utilizing Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) funds. The estimated federal funding for FY 2026-2027 is $1,430,548 for CDBG and $654,934.93 for HOME. Funds will support Block Grant Administration, Neighborhood Revitalization, and City Housing Programs. A portion of CDBG and HOME funds are available to non-profit organizations and public agencies through a competitive process, with recommendations from the Citizens Advisory Committee for Community Development (CACCD). CACCD recommended $180,000 for Outside Agency Housing Programs and $210,000 for Outside Agency Public Services from CDBG funds. For HOME funds, CACCD recommended $46,000 for Outside Agency Housing Programs and $98,240 for Community Housing Development Organization Reserve. Public input was gathered through four in-person engagement meetings and public hearings. The City Commission is recommended to approve and adopt the AAP, authorize its submission to HUD, and allow the City Manager to execute necessary documents and sub-recipient agreements. This document details the City of Gainesville's Annual Action Plan for 2026-2027, outlining community development and housing activities funded by CDBG and HOME grants. It includes consultations with various agencies and organizations, public hearing information, and expected resource allocations. Specific projects focus on housing rehabilitation, homeowner assistance, new construction, public services, and infrastructure improvements. The plan also addresses geographic distribution of funds and affordable housing goals. The Gainesville City Commission approved the plan on July 16, 2026, for submittal to HUD. Several organizations were consulted, including Star Center Theatre, Boys and Girls Clubs of NE Florida, Episcopal Children's Services, The Hutchinson Foundation, SEVA Care of Alachua, ISKCON of Gainesville, Girls Place, Inc., Gainesville Regional Utilities, Office of Equity and Inclusion, Alachua County Emergency Management, and GIRL SCOUTS OF GATEWAY COUNCIL, INC. Public hearings were held on July 13 and July 16, 2026. The plan anticipates $1,430,548 in CDBG funds and $654,934.93 in HOME funds. Projects include Program Administration, Public Services, Center for Independent Living (wheelchair ramps), GHDMC renovations, NHDC program delivery and HOME projects, Rebuilding Together NCF programs (energy upgrades, critical repairs, weatherization), City HCD housing rehabilitation, replacement, and roof replacement, and Neighborhood Revitalization. The HOME program includes acquisition, construction, rehabilitation, and down payment assistance. This document outlines the City of Gainesville's strategic plans and actions for housing and community development for Program Year 2026-2027, focusing on affordable housing, public services, and community revitalization. Key initiatives include advancing major development projects like Woodland Park Phase II (144 units) and planning for the redevelopment of Oak Park (101 units). The city will continue to support down-payment and closing cost assistance programs for public housing residents and work with the Gainesville Housing Development and Management Corporation (GHDMC) on various housing projects. The document also details strategies for reducing homelessness, addressing barriers to affordable housing, and mitigating lead-based paint hazards. Funding for these efforts will come from Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) funds. The 'Streets, Stations & Strong Foundations' (SSSF) initiative is a major infrastructure program funded by a half-cent infrastructure surtax. The 'Yes-in-God’s-Backyard' (YIGBY) initiative is a framework to allow faith-based organizations to develop affordable housing on their property. Public comment is not explicitly detailed in this section, but the process emphasizes collaborative review between residents, stakeholders, and the City. [2002 SW 112th Street, Gainesville, FL 32607; case 2026-477] The City Commission is considering an appointment to the Gainesville/Alachua County Regional Airport Authority. Randall C. Wright, residing at 2002 SW 112th Street, Gainesville, FL 32607, is applying for a term from August 1, 2026, to July 31, 2029. Wright previously served on the authority from 2018-2021 and has extensive experience in media operations and public service, including chairing airport advisory boards. He expresses a lifelong interest in aviation and a desire to contribute to the airport's future engagement and positioning. [case 2026-436] The City Commission is considering an ordinance to rename the Office of Equity and Inclusion to the Equal Opportunity Office. This change amends Chapters 8 and 14.5 of the Code of Ordinances. The ordinance aims to rename the office and adjust related administrative and enforcement provisions. The proposed ordinance is scheduled for adoption on August 6, 2026, after passing on first reading on July 16, 2026. [case 2026-318] The City Commission is presented with an update on the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Development process. The report details a projected General Fund shortfall of $8,609,062 as of July 1, 2026, after accounting for updated taxable values and revenue estimates. The City Manager's recommendation proposes closing this gap through a combination of departmental reductions ($1.44 million), an increase in the Fire Services Assessment to 85% cost recovery ($7.79 million), and using excess Fleet Fund balance for vehicle replacement ($1.18 million), with no millage rate increase and no elimination of filled General Fund positions. Six alternative balancing scenarios were also reviewed, involving different combinations of millage adjustments, departmental reductions, and fire assessment increases. The Commission is asked to set the maximum millage rate for FY 2027. [case 2026-318A, 2026-318B] This document details the City of Gainesville's FY 2027 budget development process, outlining scenarios to address a projected budget gap. It includes discussions on fire assessment rates, millage adjustments, and operating budget reductions across various city departments. Specific budget decrements are detailed for departments including City Manager, Communications and Marketing, Financial Services, Fire Rescue, Housing & Community Development, Human Resources, Management & Budget, Non-Departmental, Parks Recreation and Cultural Affairs, Police, Procurement & Contracts Management, Public Works, Risk Management, Sustainable Development, Technology, and Transportation. The document also addresses the potential impact of state legislative changes, specifically HB 1329 regarding property tax reform, and the proposed constitutional amendment on the homestead exemption and non-homestead property assessment caps. The Ironwood Golf Course's financial performance and potential disposition are also discussed, including an unsolicited proposal from HangTime Golf and a directive for a competitive Request for Proposals. [case 2026-318B] This document outlines proposed budget reductions across various city departments, detailing specific line items and personnel positions targeted for elimination or reduction. The primary impact is on service delivery, with potential consequences including reduced program availability, slower response times, increased reliance on third-party providers, and diminished capacity for essential functions. Specific impacts are noted for Athletics, Police, Public Works, Sustainable Development, Technology, and Transportation departments. The document does not detail specific new construction or development projects but rather focuses on cuts to existing services and personnel. [case 2026-318B] This document details budget reductions across various city departments, including City Manager, Communications and Marketing, Financial Services, Fire Rescue, Housing & Community Development, Human Resources, Management & Budget, Non-Departmental, and Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs. Specific reductions involve eliminating positions, cutting operational budgets for programs like Resiliency Office and Eviction Prevention, reducing travel and training funds, and decreasing supplies and contractual services. For example, the City Manager's office proposes eliminating the Legislative Coordinator and Chief Resiliency Officer positions. Communications and Marketing plans to transition to AI captioning and discontinue the GNV on the Move program. Financial Services proposes eliminating the Armored Car Service and reducing travel/training funds. Fire Rescue proposes eliminating the Gun Violence Intervention Program Manager and several Community Resource Paramedicine Responder positions. Housing & Community Development proposes eliminating the Eviction Prevention Program and the Neighborhood Planning Coordinator position. Human Resources proposes downgrading a manager position and eliminating several specialist roles. Management & Budget proposes reducing software and contractual services. Non-Departmental includes eliminating funding for the Hippodrome Rental Account, Family Unification Program, CiviGators Intern Program, Holiday Parade, and GRACE Marketplace homeless services. Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs proposes numerous reductions, including eliminating funding for various uniforms, discontinuing holiday events like the Thomas Center Tree Lighting Ceremony and Sparks in the Park fireworks, reducing landscaping contracts, and eliminating the Athletics Unit and associated programs. Several departments cite potential impacts such as slower response times, reduced service levels, decreased staff capacity, and increased workload for remaining personnel. [case 2026-318B] This document details proposed budget reductions across various city departments for fiscal year 2027. It outlines specific cuts to positions, services, and operational budgets, with the goal of closing a $10,388,119 gap. The document presents several balancing scenarios, including the City Manager's Recommendation which combines fire assessment revenue with department reductions and a transfer from the Fleet Fund. Other scenarios involve varying levels of millage increases and department-wide reductions. The majority of the document provides a detailed breakdown of proposed reductions within departments such as Public Works, Technology, Parks and Recreation, and Police, specifying the impact on services and the number of Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) affected. No specific development projects, addresses, or zoning changes are mentioned; the focus is solely on internal budget adjustments and service level impacts. [case 2026-318B] This document details budget reductions across various city departments, including Communications & Marketing, Financial Services, Fire Rescue, Housing & Community Development, Human Resources, Management & Budget, Non-Departmental, Parks Recreation and Cultural Affairs, and Police. The reductions primarily involve cuts to operational expenses, supplies, travel, training, and the elimination of specific positions and programs. There are no specific development projects, zoning changes, or new construction opportunities detailed in this excerpt. [case 2026-318B] This document details proposed budget reductions across various city departments for fiscal year 2027. It outlines specific line-item cuts, position eliminations (both vacant and filled), and reductions in travel, training, and operational expenses. The primary goal is to balance the budget through a combination of millage increases, fire assessment revenue, and departmental spending cuts. No new construction or development projects are detailed; the focus is on internal budget adjustments and their service impacts. [case 2026-318B] This document details proposed budget reductions for various city departments as part of a balancing scenario. Specific reductions include eliminating positions, reducing travel and training budgets, and decreasing funding for programs and services across departments like Police, Public Works, Fire Rescue, and Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs. For example, the Police Department's Forensic Crime Lab faces the elimination of a Latent Print Examiner position and a Forensic Crime Technician position, impacting evidence processing and investigations. The Fire Rescue Department proposes eliminating the Gun Violence Intervention Program Manager and several Community Resource Paramedicine positions. Public Works plans to move material and supply costs to the Roadway Resurfacing Fund and the Tree Mitigation Fund. Procurement & Contracts Management will print business cards in-house instead of outsourcing. Risk Management will reduce its security contract by 731 hours, leading to less security guard coverage at City Hall. Transportation will reduce garage security to peak periods, potentially affecting downtown safety. Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs will discontinue the Thomas Center Tree Lighting Ceremony and other holiday displays, as well as Free Fridays and Movies, impacting community events and downtown economic activity. The document also outlines reductions in travel, training, and supplies across multiple departments, with stated impacts on service levels, staff development, and operational efficiency. [case 2026-318B] This document details proposed budget reductions for FY 2027 across various city departments. It outlines specific line-item decreases, reallocations of funds to different accounts (e.g., from General Fund to Tree Mitigation Fund or Roadway Resurfacing Fund), and the elimination of certain positions and programs. The reductions are part of balancing scenarios, primarily focusing on departmental cuts and revenue adjustments like fire assessment cost recovery. No specific development projects, new construction, or zoning changes are mentioned; the focus is on operational and administrative budget adjustments. [case 2026-489] The City Commission will hear a presentation on a proposed fare increase for the Regional Transit System (RTS) for Fiscal Year 2027. Fares have not changed since October 1, 2008. The proposed increase, if implemented on January 1, 2027, is projected to generate an additional $92,208 in revenue for FY2027. The process includes public engagement and an equity study as required by the Federal Transit Administration. The City Commission is asked to authorize staff to proceed with the public engagement process. Specific fare increases include a 33% increase for a one-way fare to $2.00, a 67% increase for an all-day pass to $5.00, and a 43% increase for a monthly pass to $50.00. A new 3-month pass is also proposed. [200 E University Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601; case 2026-478] The City Commission is considering setting the Proposed Maximum/Not-to-Exceed Millage Rate for Fiscal Year 2027 at 6.7297 mills, which is the same rate as FY 2026. The certified taxable value for the City of Gainesville for Tax Year 2026 is $12,625,373,917. The proposed millage rate is 5.42% higher than the rolled-back rate of 6.3839 mills, requiring a Notice of Proposed Tax Increase. Two public hearings are scheduled: the first on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at 5:30 PM, and the second on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at 5:30 PM, both in the City Hall Commission Auditorium at 200 E University Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601. The document also details the impact of the proposed millage rate on homesteaded and non-homesteaded properties and compares the City's millage rate with other overlapping jurisdictional rates.