Port Orange Council Approves K9 Nico’s Retirement, Discusses Projects
-
Meeting Type:
City Council
-
Meeting Date:
05/21/2024
-
Recording Published:
05/21/2024
-
Duration:
110 Minutes
-
State:
Florida
-
County:
Volusia County
-
Towns:
Port Orange
- Meeting Overview:
The Port Orange City Council meeting was marked by the approval of the retirement of K9 Nico and the transfer of ownership to Officer Jared Alisados, and discussions on park space acquisition, public facilities financing, and employee compensation. The council also focused on various development agreements and initiatives impacting the community’s future.
The retirement of K9 Nico from the police department was a notable event, with the council approving the transition of the dog to his handler, Officer Alisados. Nico had contributed to numerous drug sniffs, evidence recovery, and money seizures throughout his career. Police Chief Manny Marino accentuated Nico’s service to the community.
Another issue was the proposed bond ordinance number 20247, concerning the financing of public parks and recreation facilities. The council members debated the necessity of this bond, which would facilitate the improvement of parks and cater to the increased community participation in youth sports. The potential for the city’s population to grow by 25,000 residents added to the urgency of expanding these facilities. The council reached a consensus on the importance of the bond for the city’s development and enhancement of public recreational spaces.
The acquisition of land for park space was a significant topic, with council members highlighting the need for preserving land for public use and addressing the impact of school security measures on shared park spaces. There was an emphasis on transparent communication with citizens regarding the costs and fees associated with maintaining the proposed park spaces.
Community members participated by expressing support for the park space projects and the importance of promoting these initiatives creatively to obtain public backing. The council deliberated on amendments to master development agreements for properties with plans for a bed and breakfast in a cottage concept and the Crystal Lake planned unit development. The amendments were aimed at assigning specific uses for city-owned property, with discussions surrounding the potential sale of the property and considerations for its use, such as affordable housing.
Employee compensation took a central role during the meeting, with discussions on salary adjustments for the city manager and the city attorney. The council deliberated a 5% salary increase for the city manager and a 2% increase in the defined contribution cap for his retirement, eventually setting his annual wage at $195,000 and a 12% contribution to his 401(k). The city attorney’s compensation was also reviewed, with the council agreeing on a salary of $180,000 and a 2% increase in the defined contribution plan, acknowledging the attorney’s performance and fiscal management skills.
In addition, reports from various council committees were presented. The Fire Pension Board reported a decrease in the city contribution, while the Police Pension Board reported an increase in the funded status of the plan. An update was provided on the First Step Shelter, noting the successful placement of individuals from Port Orange into homes.
Donald O. Burnette
City Council Officials:
Reed Foley, Tracy Grubbs, Drew Bastian, Scott Stiltner, Robin Fenwick (CITY CLERK)
-
Meeting Type:
City Council
-
Meeting Date:
05/21/2024
-
Recording Published:
05/21/2024
-
Duration:
110 Minutes
-
Notability Score:
Routine
Receive debriefs about local meetings in your inbox weekly:
-
State:
Florida
-
County:
Volusia County
-
Towns:
Port Orange
Recent Meetings Nearby:
- 10/22/2024
- 10/22/2024
- 84 Minutes
- 10/22/2024
- 10/22/2024
- 135 Minutes
- 10/22/2024
- 10/22/2024
- 380 Minutes