05:43The council examined an employee-level implementation cost estimate related to the village’s job and pay framework. This was an essential update aimed at providing the village manager with reliable guidance for making pay decisions for new hires or internal promotions. The Human Resources Department, led by an individual named Merlene, highlighted the importance of conducting a comprehensive pay review every five to seven years to accommodate organizational changes and market shifts. The review involved surveying local organizations, expanding from five to ten to include areas such as Green Acres and Lake Park, in order to better understand the local labor market, especially post-COVID.

This pay structure update primarily focused on base pay, with the goal of keeping pay ranges current. The analysis showed that the village’s practice of periodically adjusting pay ranges had kept them competitive. However, it was noted that five part-time employees in the parks and recreation department were below the new minimum pay rate due to rising minimum wages in Florida. The plan proposed a 5% increase to align all employees with the new pay ranges, with specific adjustments for five employees based on their tenure. The overall cost of these adjustments was approximately $217,483, covering part-time employee adjustments, a general 5% increase, and equity adjustments for specific individuals.

20:27The conversation also touched on employee morale and retention, particularly for non-union employees. Concerns were raised regarding the impact of pay adjustments, and it was clarified that while pay ranges increased by about 9%, employee raises would be determined individually. The need for ongoing evaluation and adjustment of pay structures to meet market demands was emphasized, with acknowledgment given to the HR department and consultants for their work in maintaining pay competitiveness.

29:52Following the pay discussion, the meeting transitioned to an update on the mobility plan study. Led by the community development director, the study outlined 27 key projects with ten prioritized for implementation. The lead consultant from KDson Associates detailed the goals of enhancing safety, improving traffic, and fostering multimodal improvements. The study utilized both quantitative data and qualitative public engagement, reflecting community needs in areas like US1 and Old Dixie Highway, known for high accident rates. The consultant emphasized public engagement’s role, noting events like Food Truck Friday which attracted over 100 participants, as part of gathering community feedback.

35:59A synthesis map illustrated various mobility challenges and opportunities, with identified projects categorized into six areas: traffic operations and calming, safety access, multimodal improvements, pedestrian and bicycle enhancements, sustainability, and wayfinding. The council expressed gratitude for community participation and insight.

The meeting also addressed several transportation and safety projects, including the Tequesta Drive complete streets project and intersection improvements at Willow and Fiesta, which have gained traction alongside the Village of Tequesta parks connector project. Community feedback highlighted desires for quicker project implementations and more manageable improvements. Discussions included policy improvements related to land use and zoning, exploring placemaking opportunities, and enhancing connectivity along Old Dixie Highway.

The council also explored the potential for implementing quick-build resource ideas, referencing guides developed for rapid project realization. There was recognition of the importance of securing funding from various sources, including federal and state agencies, to support these initiatives. Intersection improvements at Village Boulevard were highlighted as critical safety measures.

A notable aspect of the discussion involved the feasibility of using golf carts on shared paths, with concerns about their compatibility with existing bike paths. The council considered creating a “low-speed vehicle connections map” to inform residents of safe operating areas for golf carts.

A resident emphasized the importance of being informed about community efforts, highlighting the multifaceted nature of transportation and community safety issues facing the council.

01:33:32Finally, the council discussed the Environmental Advisory Committee’s structure and a proposed tree rebate program aimed at incentivizing tree planting within village limits. The program proposed two tiers of trees with a cap of $10,000 for the first year, distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Council members agreed on the need to fine-tune the program’s details and address public concerns, particularly around the reimbursement process.