02:14One agenda item was the approval of Resolution R219, which addressed a grant from the FDOT for updating the Winter Haven airport master plan. The current plan, completed in 2016, requires reassessment due to regional changes. The update aims to enhance land lease opportunities and expand the terminal apron to accommodate increasing aircraft operations. The $592,000 project will be primarily funded by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which will cover 90% of the costs, with the remaining expenses shared between FDOT and the city.

17:56Another topic was the strategic expansion of city facilities, particularly the administrative offices for the Winter Haven Building Division. The commission reviewed a proposal from Whitehead Construction for the design and permitting phase of a facility expansion, with a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) set at $355,930. This expansion is part of a broader $7 million capital improvement plan, with funds sourced from building division permit and inspection revenues. The move aims to enhance service delivery by relocating the finance department, thereby allowing the engineering division to occupy the vacated space. Concerns were raised about the long-term implications of investing in the current facility, particularly regarding future plans for a new city hall complex. The discussion also touched on the potential for a satellite office in Southeast Winter Haven to accommodate growing commercial development.

34:21The relocation of Winter Haven Fire Station 4 was another focus. Scheduled to open on May 21st, the new facility will alter existing coverage zones, substantially reducing response times by over two minutes for most calls. This reduction is crucial in emergencies, where response time can impact outcomes. The commission also discussed the activation of the dispatch system to ensure prompt and accurate unit deployment. Additionally, plans for Fire Station 5 are underway, with Whitehead expected to provide a GMP. The new station will be built at Lake Cartridge Nature Park, featuring roadway and watershed improvements to support the community effectively.

40:49The commission addressed the challenges posed by the increasing prevalence of electric vehicles (EVs), especially regarding firefighting. The fire department has acquired electric vehicle blankets to manage fires related to lithium-ion batteries, which require substantial water volumes to extinguish. These blankets, reusable after inspection, will be carried on all fire engines to mitigate the unique hazards posed by EV fires.

48:12In the realm of water management, the commission focused on enhancing system reliability following a recent boil water notice. The disruption was attributed to communication issues within the SCADA system, which monitors the city’s water treatment operations. Efforts are underway to improve the system’s robustness by integrating fiber and radio connections, reducing the risk of atmospheric interference that could disrupt operations. The commission underscored the importance of maintaining water quality and preventing contamination through effective pressure management and anti-siphon devices.

01:04:36Emergency communication improvements were also on the agenda, with the acquisition of new radio communication equipment to address the limitations experienced during Hurricane Milton. The city is preparing to deploy 100 radios, with training planned for employees. These radios will enhance coordination and communication across various city departments.

59:49Lastly, the commission discussed the installation of SUFFA boards in local parks as part of a communication enhancement initiative. These digital signs, which will display emergency notifications and local events, do not require electricity and can be easily installed. The boards align with the city’s strategic goal to improve public communication and engagement.