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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014 State of the City2014 STATE OF THE CITY ANNUAL REPORT TABLE OF CONTENTS Page Number Mayor's Message 1 City Manager's Message 2 Cape Canaveral Vision Statement 3 City Clerk's Office 4-5 Financial Services 6-7 Human Resources 8-13 Community & Economic Development 14-30 Leisure Services 31-39 Public Works Services 40-60 CANAVERAL SERVICE PROVIDERS Brevard County Sheriff's Office Canaveral Fire Rescue 61-63 64-65 MAYOR'S MESSAGE Mayor's Message The path to our future continues as we move towards an upscale, seaside oriented community. The entire credit for each and every item in the following list of accomplishments/events to make our community a better place to live, work and play goes to our untiring Staff. As our City begins year 2015, we continue to ask the question to each new idea submitted: "Does the approval of this specific item fit into one of the 'Five Principles' within our Vision Statement?" For our readers who may be new to the area, this deserves an explanation. In May 2006, the City hired University of Central Florida to conduct a survey of our residents regarding the types of businesses and professional services they desired to locate to our community. In May 2009, the City initiated public Vision sessions that were conducted by the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council. The sessions were a resident driven process without any predetermined outcomes. Information was gathered regarding desired future development including type, design and location as well as input on a new sign code. The results were shared with City Staff and residents and became the Cape Canaveral Vision Statement which is included in the Weekly Updates as well as the City's website. I encourage you to now read the balance of the State of the City report as each department explains their 2014 accomplishments. I believe you will agree they have followed our residents' desires to enhance our community as a wonderful place to call home. For 2015, I expect the following existing long-term improvements to continue: CRA (Community Redevelopment Area), Secure large scale investors to take advantage of our Brownfields area and Overlay District, Continue to streamline our permitting procedures for site plan approvals and Continue to require banks as lenders to register/maintain foreclosed properties. For 2015, I expect the following large capital items being completed for those now in process or to begin and be nearing completion of new projects initiated in 2015: Repair/replacement of many lines of our 50+ year old buried infrastructure, stormwater and sewer lines, Completion of our second complete streets project, North Atlantic Avenue, Begin construction of a City Center Area with a New City Hall Building to serve our residents and Staff, Begin construction of a new reclaimed water storage tank to reduce discharge to the Banana River during rain days, Completion of Homeland Suites Hotel on Al A, Begin construction of Assisted Living Facility on West Central Blvd. and Plan for a Community Center by renovating current existing City Hall. 1 CITY MANAGER'S MESSAGE City Manager's Message Staff is pleased to present the 2014 State of the City Annual Report, which outlines the initiatives, achievements and Visioning elements of each Department towards the City Council's priority areas as established in the Envision Cape Canaveral Report. Department Directors created a Strategic Plan that includes goals, strategies and actions for the successful implementation of the Envision Cape Canaveral effort which is the prime motivator for the Fiscal Year 2014/15 Budget. The 2014/15 Annual Budget of $34,350,529 is a responsible spending plan, which provides our residents and taxpayers with the same or higher level of service as in previous years. It also provides the City Council and Staff with the tools needed to provide programs, projects and services that will improve the community's overall quality of life. As you read through this Report, you will see the many initiatives that were accomplished. I thank the City's Department Directors and members of the City team for their continued hard work and dedication. We look forward to a positive and successful 2015. 2 CAPE CANAVERAL VISION STATEMENT WE ENVISION: A bike -able and walk -able Cape Canaveral that retains and enhances its residential feel, characterized by low-rise buildings not more than 4 stories in height. This residential and business friendly atmosphere is one of a live -able, attractive, safe, secure and sustainable coastal community that embraces the beach and riverside as the main amenities, and supports local culture and education. WE ENVISION: A 1 A as a "complete street" with a native -landscaped and tree -lined median with traffic calming elements and dark -sky street lighting. "Complete street" amenities include bicycle facilities, covered transit stops, and safe pedestrian crossings that invite pedestrians and bicyclists to access the beach, river, local neighborhoods and adjacent communities. Our improved "complete streets" will allow us to calmly travel to intimate waterfront destinations and a walk -able downtown core. Multi- use paths lined with shade trees should be wide enough for bikes and pedestrians and lighted so anyone can walk or bicycle safely anywhere in town, day or night. WE ENVISION: Welcoming community entrance features that create a sense of arrival and unique community identity. The "downtown" will contain an architecturally rich and unique mix of uses, with wide tree shaded sidewalks and umbrella covered cafe tables at restaurants and bistros where friends gather, interact, and enjoy drinks and dinner. WE ENVISION: A community that; removes or transforms blighted and unfinished buildings into attractive structures, offers city-wide green spaces, provides a pet -friendly park with ample shade, and actively recruits and supports businesses that enhance economic viability and serve our residents and visitors. WE ENVISION: Open shorelines and rivers accessible to the public including amenities that take advantage of the water, such as limited and quaint water -view establishments and intimate public gathering and entertainment places that may include pavilions, gazebos, or a performance stage. 3 CITY CLERK'S OFFICE City Clerk's Office General Information: The City Clerk's Office, a Division of Administrative Services, is comprised of the City Clerk and Deputy City Clerk. It provides support to City Council, City Manager and all City Departments, as well as the Community Redevelopment Agency, Community and General Public in a variety of ways. The Division is primarily responsible for: • Preparing agendas, agenda packets and minutes for City Council Meetings • Ensuring codification of City Ordinances • Notary Public Services • Handling Public Records Requests • Serving as Records Management Liaison to the State of Florida • Serving as Qualifying Officer for City Council candidates Envision Cape Canaveral effort: The Division continues to work toward creating a sustainable community by managing records and information technology items. This included replacement of computers and the continued implementation of a Citywide Records Management System a/k/a Laserfiche. Use of Facebook has improved and spread to multiple departments. The use of social media expanded to include Twitter. Thanks to Leisure Services for their continued efforts/assistance. Operational Statistics for Fiscal Year 2014 (10/1/13 to 9/30/14): Legislative Services: • 15 meetings, including Regular City Council, Special City Council and City Council Workshops. Agendas and Agenda Packets were produced for each. • 3 Candidates qualified for the General Election in November 2014 for two Council Member seats. • 7 Volunteer Board Members were appointed and orientation materials provided. • 21 Volunteer Board Members were reappointed. • 1 Volunteer Board Member was removed due to non-attendance. City Records Management: • 471 boxes of records were held at off -site storage as of 9/30/14. • 4 boxes/6 cubic feet were destroyed. Assistance from Volunteers: 121.25 hours were contributed by one volunteer, who assisted with updating of the City website; boxing and processing records for storage and destruction; scanning records and/or verifying scanned records. Community Involvement/Humanitarian Activities: • Cocoa Beach, Cape & Port Canaveral Relay for Life — This was the third year members of the Division coordinated the City Team "Sun, Space & Sea". The event was held at Lori Wilson Park 4 and raised approximately $31,000, after expenses. This was the first year the City Team assisted with Luminaria sales. Thanks to the efforts of all involved, a great time was had by everyone. The event has been re -named "Central Brevard Beaches Relay for Life" and will be held at Port Canaveral's Exploration Tower on April 11 & 12, 2015. • Participation in "Trash Bash", a Citywide cleanup effort. 5 FINANCIAL SERVICES Financial Services Financial Services is responsible for management and support of all aspects of City business. The Division provides accurate and timely information regarding the City's financial affairs and has increased its focus on analysis and efficiency. Current leadership has focused specifically on what drives the City's success and ensures the elements are in place to meet/exceed our objectives. Transparency and thoroughness in all we do are paramount in performing at a superior level. This focus and persistence will help ensure the residents are receiving the most return from their investment in their City. To achieve this, Financial Services provides the following dedicated services: Collection of Revenue — Revenue is collected from a variety of sources including User Charges, Ad Valorem Tax, Utility Service Taxes, Franchise Fees, State Shared Revenues and Communication Service Tax. Other revenue sources of note include Local Option Gas Taxes, Leisure Services Revenues and interest earnings. The well thought-out pursuit of Revenue streams enables the City to grow and, at the same time, does not overburden the residents. This was clearly evidenced by no increase in the FY2014 Ad Valorem Tax. Purchasing — Purchase Orders are managed for acquisition of equipment, supplies and services needed for the City to accomplish its mission. This entails reviewing, approving or holding for disposition Purchase Orders for accuracy, proper account assignment and compliance with purchasing procedures. As a member of the Brevard County Cooperative, the City continues, at every opportunity, to take full advantage of contracts which will help the City ensure it is getting the best price for materials and will allow more dollars to be available in the City's overall budget. This year, the City realized savings of over $450 for lighting retrofits at several facilities; over $500 from the Florida Contract for the Verizon City phones; and over $900 through careful analysis regarding material and equipment usage. Owner Direct Purchase (ODP) — The execution of the ODP program has allowed significant tax savings in material purchases. This method of purchasing allows the City to directly purchase materials for major projects and realize all tax savings associated with this material. Consequently, it reduces the costs to the overall contract value. Specific tax savings have resulted in over $36,000 for the construction of the New Fire Station and over $10,000 for the Wastewater Treatment Plant refurbishment. Distribution of Funds — Payments are made to vendors for services/materials received. City vendors are much better served due to checks being issued on a weekly basis. Employee payroll checks and related benefits are paid on a bi-weekly basis. The Finance Division's prior -year consolidation of banking functions into one Institution and closure of unneeded accounts continues to save the City thousands of dollars in service fees. The Positive Pay Program has all but eliminated the threat of fraud, overdrafts and ensured timely payment. Accounting/Financial Services — Detailed accounting is achieved by recording financial transactions in the City's Financial System (Springbrook). Each of the City's General Ledger Accounts is unique and individually budgeted; performance against these budgets is monitored. Accounting/Financial Services remains strong and is driven by a Staff consisting of the Finance Director, two Full -Time Accountants, and an Accounting Technician. This composition allows for completion of an increased workload, greater control of the City's Fixed Asset Inventory and increased returns in the Accounts Receivable arena. Financial Reporting — The Division prepares all County, State and Federal Financial Reports. This includes issuance of the City's Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR). The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) awarded the City a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its Fiscal Year 2012-2013 CAFR. This marks the 19th straight year the City has 6 received this award. Monthly Financial and Investment Reports are also provided through the City Manager. Budgeting — The Division, under the strong guidance of the City Manager, provides financial management required to maintain a sound fiscal structure, budgetary control and long-range financial planning. This includes assisting the City Manager in coordination and preparation of the Five -Year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and the City's Annual Budget. In October 2014, Florida Department of Revenue (DOR) notified the City that all Truth in Millage (TRIM) documents filed, including the Maximum Millage Levy Calculation Final Disclosure, met certification requirements. Florida DOR has determined that the City is in compliance with the maximum total taxes levied requirements and, thus, the maximum millage levy requirements set by Florida Statutes. Annual City Audit — James Moore and Company conducted the Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Audit of the City's financial activities and is currently in the process of Fiscal Year 2013-2014 City Audit. The Division coordinates the Audit. Success through Sound Investment/Loan Practices - As National, State and Local economies continue to strengthen, the City has strived to diversify its revenue streams to position itself for redevelopment and success in the future. Through continued financial diligence, as of September 30, 2014, the City's General Fund investments total $8,486,908.28; Special Revenue investments total $735,273.44; and Enterprise Fund investments total $1,428,342.28. The Grand total of all investments is $10,650,524.00. In addition, the City secured a $5,500,000 Capital Improvement Note for 10 years at a low 1.99% interest rate. Moreover, the City has been successful in attaining a $4,445,062 State Revolving Fund Loan for 20 years at a 2.30% interest rate. The City's financial strategies have and will continue to pay off as evidenced by the completion of a New Fire Station and complete refurbishment of the Wastewater Treatment Plant. In the upcoming year, the City will construct a New City Hall which will bring the City to the forefront reinforcing its vision and commitment to its residents. Numerous capital projects in the Public Works Services arena have been completed and more wait in the wings; a $2.5Million Reclaimed Water Tank and Lift Station Rehabilitations to name a few. The City's financial position is sound as it moves to become an upscale, seaside city with an abundance of amenities to stimulate the local economy for decades to come. 7 HUMAN RESOURCES S 1 CO I= a riiwo r strategy teatri Cle\ C?4,1C>'it ttwr i tgl Division Overview Achieving the City's Mission/Vision requires a highly skilled workforce fully engaged and committed to performing the "heavy lifting" necessary to achieve the City's Quality of Community/Life objectives. Throughout the 2013/14 Fiscal Year, Human Resources has implemented a step by step process of attracting, developing and retaining an engaged and highly skilled workforce. Maintaining a highly skilled team requires an aggressive focus on financial sustainability. Human Resources critically assesses all costs and contracted services associated with the Human Resources/Risk Management function in order to achieve maximum value and asset protection. Risk Management Cost Containment As the City undertakes infrastructure, City-scape and facility renovations associated with the Mission of transforming the City into a premier beachfront community, costs and services associated with Risk Management which include General Liability, Property, Workers' Compensation and City Vehicle Insurance require continued scrutiny. In an effort to reduce or eliminate risk exposure while ensuring competitive pricing, Risk Management Insurance providers with municipal expertise were invited to present quotes for the City's Risk Management services. Providers included: Florida Municipal Insurance Trust (FMIT), Public Risk Management of Florida (PRM) and Public Risk Underwriters of Florida (PGIT). A matrix of policy terms and conditions was created in order to uniformly assess the individual provider's product and offered level of risk exposure protection. Areas of comparison focused on price, vendor reputation, coverage levels, deductibles/exclusions and quality of supportive services. This effort resulted in a premium savings of more than 25% ($67,000.00). In addition and as a result of Safety and Workers' Compensation claims prevention and vigilance, the City received an FMIT refund in excess of $32,000.00 for premiums paid in 2013. Group Health/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance Cost Containment With a commitment to resolving the challenge of securing quality employee HealthNision/Dental/Life benefits while balancing the necessity for premium cost containment, the Human Resources Division sought Employee Benefit quotes for the 2014/15 Plan Year commencing December 1, 2014. Group Health premium costs, which represent 95% of the City's employee benefit costs, by necessity, received the greatest scrutiny. Upon review of quotes received from Cigna, Health First HMO Plans HFP, Florida Blue, United Healthcare and Aetna, the City elected to contract Group Health Benefits through United Healthcare PPO (UHC). UHC Standard PPO and UHC 80/20 PPO Plan Options provided City employees 8 with an affordable premium rate for dependent coverage and afford the City a 6.2% savings as compared to current enrollment level pricing. The City's ability to attract and retain qualified talent within a competitive labor market requires an ability to provide quality Health Benefits with affordable premium rates for dependent coverage. The City is pleased to report the resolution of this "long standing" employee retention and recruitment challenge. This City will grant employees a choice between two (2) Plans, the second of which offers 80/20 benefit coverage with affordable dependent premium rates. Dental, Vision and Life/Disability Plans were renewed with minimal or no rate increase. Employee Engagement Initiative An "engaged workforce" is essential to achieving the Mission/Vision set forth for the City. Supervisors individually meet with current Staff to: • Ensure Staff fully appreciates their specific critical role in achieving the Mission/Vision of the City. • Identify strengths, weaknesses and career aspirations of Staff to more accurately identify employee development needs and formulate a realistic succession strategy. • Encourage workplace innovation and welcome suggestions for increased efficiency. • Establish a firm employee commitment to the Mission/Vision of the City. • Employee Engagement is incorporated into the New Employee Mentoring and Training Plan as outlined below. Workforce Analysis Human Resources maintains and evaluates data pertaining to workforce longevity, educational levels, compensation, age, gender and workforce as distributed by Department. Average Years of Service with City Average Annual Rate of Pay (Government Sector) ' Employee % ByEducation Department (Highest Level Completed) Average,15 va Gender Admin. Services W U Leisure Serv. 3 a, High School Associates Bachelors Masters a> I' cc 5.66 $ 43,576.00 17.3 17.3 15.2 52.2 61% 11% 24% 4°„ 48.62 67.4% 32.6% Florida S 47.898 r., ' 17°„ 9 4". 40 48.9%0 51.1 % Brevard 548,353 ()(i3 NA 26.4 I NA 45 42.9% 57.1% * Workforce characteristics as of 10/1/2014 (46 Total Employees) * Florida data source: U.S. Census Bureau Quick Facts. * Brevard data source: U.S. Census Bureau and State of Florida Government Revenues and Expenditures. * Average Pay for Florida and Brevard restricted to government sector employees. 9 New Employee Mentoring and Training Plan A great deal of time, energy and resources are expended in the recruitment of talented employees. In appreciation of this investment, we recognized that the first ninety days of employment represents a critical period for ensuring performance success. While a current employee promoted or transferred into a new position is familiar with City policy and general Department operations, a well-defined Mentoring and Training Program is no less important. That said, all employees newly appointed to a City position are presented with a 90 day Mentoring and Training Program specific to the position which includes the following: • Clearly defined job knowledge and skills needed to successfully perform the job. • Establish employee engagement with the Mission/Vision of the City. • Provide identity of the individual(s) responsible for delivering training. • Specific follow-up dates during which the supervisor will meet with the new employee for purposes of receiving and delivering feedback relating to employee progress toward training goals. • Mentoring to include support, encouragement and a point of contact for questions and concerns. • Establish clearly defined criteria and accountability for the performance outcomes. Staff Level Assessments by Department and Division It is not enough to have a sufficient number of Staff per Department. Reporting structures, job assignments and skill levels must be critically assessed to determine the most appropriate staffing levels, cost efficiencies, need for technological upgrades, accountability and workflow efficiencies. An analysis of City staffing levels has resulted in the following: • Greater emphasis on cross training. • The need to identify and retain multi -skilled employees who favor smaller work environments where duties are more diverse. • The need to identify and retain employees who welcome opportunities to learn new skills and thrive in a flexible work environment with changing priorities. • An aggressive campaign to encourage continuing education as a means of "growing our own" supervisors and managers as our existing workforce matures and nears retirement. By successfully promoting continuing education, the City is better able to "promote from within". Staffing Activity Turnover during Fiscal Year 2013/14 provided the City with an opportunity to reorganize Departments in such a way as to provide greater flexibility, cost savings and employees with skills better suited to the City's current needs. COMPARISON QUANTITY FTE SALARY VALUE Terminations 18 15.85 $644,188.80 New Hires 18 15. 1 0 $542,880.00 10 TURNOVER ANALYSIS Voluntary Resignation 83.3% Retirement 11.1 Involuntary Termination 5.5% MANPOWER COMPARISON FY 13/14 FY 14/15 Full Time Employees 47 42 Part Time Employees 4 4 Seasonal Employees 5 5 Temporary Employees 0 0 Training Providing Staff training opportunities remains a high priority for the City as evidenced by the following: Plant Operations In response to a Labor Market shortage of certified Wastewater Plant Operators, the City is currently piloting an Operator Trainee Program. During FY 2013/14, the City sponsored two (2) Plant Operator Trainees. To date, one (1) Plant Operator Trainee has obtained "C" Plant Operations licensing and received confirmation of passing "B" certification in December 2014. The second employee is currently studying for the "C" exam. Supervisor Skills Training In-house Supervisory Skills training was provided by the Human Resources Division in preparation for launching the Employee Engagement Initiative. Supervisors received training in small groups and were given skills training, tools and materials needed to ensure employee engagement, assess performance and raise performance standards. Brevard County Sponsored Training Opportunities City Staff continues to take advantage of training opportunities offered through the County of Brevard. The Human Resources Division anxiously awaits the completion of the Public Worker Services Training facility anticipated in January 2015. Training Topics "ready for presentation" include: • Sexual Harassment Awareness • Blood borne Pathogens: Knowledge is Prevention • Equal Opportunity in Employment • Safety is Everyone's Business Technical Training Equipment Distributors and Regulatory Agency personnel have committed to providing cost free training to City employees in the PWS Training Room (scheduled for completion January 2015) in exchange for the City permitting other municipalities to participate contingent upon available space. 11 Workers' Compensation The City reported five WC claims, of which two accounted for 94.69% of the year's total WC expenditures. Workers' Compensation claims and incurred compensation, medical and other claim expenses totaled $36,934.45. Until these two claims are closed, $19,623.39 will be held in reserve resulting in a negative Loss Ratio of 1.527. Risk Management efforts will focus on accident prevention and closing outstanding cases with minimal additional expenditures which will release monies held in reserve and return the City to a favorable Loss Ratio, where losses are less than premiums paid. The City's Experience Modification Rate (average Loss Ratio for three previous years) remains favorable at .278. The City's Experience Factor Rate (rate that indicates how the City's claims experience compares with other Cities) also remains favorable at an average of .80 for the past four (4) years: 2011-12 (.80), 2012-13 (.80), 2013-14 (.73), 2014-15 (.87). Staff has received training and tools enabling a uniform and thorough investigation into accidents, injuries and "near misses". Safety The City Safety Committee has updated Safety Policies and Procedures to ensure every effort is made to prevent work related accidents/injuries. Committee membership includes employees from all departments and includes employees most at risk of job related injuries/accidents. Accident/injury prevention will remain the focus of our Risk Management effort with inclusion of all employees in the formation of a Code of Safety which entails the following: • Empower employees to communicate safety concerns and suggestions for process improvements. • Strong focus on new employee training as well as visual safety reminders prominently posted. • Increased vigilance through regular equipment and facility inspections and incident investigation and post incident discussions. Recognizing that accident/injury/illness prevention remains the most important component to any Safety Program, City paid Tetanus and Hepatitis A and B inoculations are available to Staff. Paid time off to receive preventive inoculation is granted to further remove any barriers. Property Liability Claims The City experienced one new (1) property liability claim the total of which is to be determined. Damages resulting from a September 19, 2014 Lightning strike at Public Works Services are estimated to exceed $50,000. Generator damage and cost of renting a back-up generator while replacement/repair parts are obtained will likely account for nearly 50% of the claim. Projects and Initiatives • The United Way pledge drive for 2014 concluded November 21, 2014 with a goal of exceeding the City's 2013 pledge total of $3,371.00. The 2014 Pledge Drive total exceeded the established goal by more than 18% for a total of $3,981.80. • Empowering active employee participation in the development of a Safety Program that adapts to changing duties and technological demands. 12 Status of Collective Bargaining Contract Union contract negotiations between the City and International Union of Operating Engineers Local #673 amicably came to an end on September 11, 2014 prior to the expiration of the current one year extended contract on September 30, 2014. The City received verbal notification from the Union's Business Manager that IUOE would no longer represent City employees. All parties expressed their appreciation for the fairness and professionalism demonstrated throughout the years. On October 31, 2014, the City received notice of a PETITION TO DISCLAIM INTEREST IN REPRESENTING BARGAINING UNIT OF EMPLOYEES OF THE CITY OF CAPE CANAVERAL. Following a hearing conducted by the State of Florida Public Employees Relations Commission, Local #673 of the International Union of Operating Engineers was granted permission to disclaim interest in further representing City employees, following a fifteen day waiting period when exceptions to the recommendation could be heard. With no exceptions received, a Final Order Revoking Certification of Local #673 was issued December 19, 2014, thus severing a relationship in existence since January 15, 1988. The City will continue to move forward with its commitment to rewarding performance excellence, innovation and the highest standards of customer service. The City will continue to strive to be an Employer of Choice, empowering every employee to achieve their full potential. 13 CITY OF CAPE CANAVERAL COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Community and Economic Development General Information Community and Economic Development consists of eight employees whose primary functions include Planning & Zoning, Economic Development, Building/Code Enforcement and Business Tax Receipts Program Administration. ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR YEAR 2014 Visioning and Economic Development Accomplishments In 2009, Cape Canaveral engaged in a community based, Citizen driven process to create a vision for the City's future. Over 200 Citizens participated in six public workshops resulting in a Vision Statement promoting a vibrant community that meets the economic, recreational, social and retail needs of its Citizens. A Visioning Report was produced and listed recommendations to implement the Visioning, which included increased code enforcement, revisions to the comprehensive plan and zoning code to allow for mixed -use development and a town center, a proactive approach to economic development and others. The primary goal of Staff has been the implementation of the Visioning, its recommendations and its Vision Statement. Staff is continually seeking improvements to the way we do business which are related to the guiding principles of the Vision Statement. Several of which are included in this report. A1A Action Team and A1A Multimodal Corridor Planning and Engineering Analysis. Cape Canaveral is a founding member of the AlA Action Team. This group of private Citizens and municipal officials is actively engaged in securing funding to improve the look and function of the Al A corridor. The Action Team includes representatives from Port Canaveral, Cape Canaveral, Brevard County, Cocoa Beach, Patrick AFB and the Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization. Florida Department of Transportation has commissioned the Al A Multimodal Action Plan that will remake Al A into a "Complete Streets" roadway. Complete Streets focuses on safety, reduced speeds, pedestrian/bicycle travel, transit accommodations and beautification. The Analysis will identify needed improvements, estimate costs and prioritize candidate projects. Phase II of the Analysis (Engineering Phase) began this year and addresses wayfinding signage, undergrounding of utilities, landscape/beautification, signalization and intersection improvements, etc. Meetings of the AlA Action Team were held in January, June, August and December. Visit www.actionala.com for information on the Al A Action Plan and meeting summaries. During the reporting period, Staff engaged with Florida Department of Transportation, the consulting firm of Kimley-Horn & Associates as well as the Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization regarding State Road A1A Multimodal Corridor Improvements. One of the results of this partnership is the list of "Prioritized SR A 1 A Improvements" below. A supporting Resolution for which was approved on the July 15th City Council agenda. Public Safety Priority Items 1. Realignment of International Drive. This will require right-of-way (ROW) acquisition funding to realign International Drive with North Atlantic Avenue. This improvement must address not only the roadway alignments, but also stormwater drainage (possible wet detention pond) and pedestrian/bike crossings. 2. Urban roadway profile. a. Installation of wider landscaped medians with managed turning movements; low landscaping in medians to maintain driver visibility, with higher landscaping along sidewalks/pedways. 14 b. Installation of landscaping from North Atlantic Avenue to south of City on the sides of the roadway with cluster landscape settings. c. Installation of street furniture and decorative lighting. d. Construction of curb and gutter along both sides of roadway. This will require limited/as- necessary right-of-way acquisition funding for stormwater ponds and clipped corners at intersecting roadways. Consider bio-swales within landscaping plan for SR Al A; bio-swales will need to be located near existing storm drain inlets so stormwater overflow can enter system. 3. Lower speed limit (i.e., 35 miles per hour). 4. More crosswalks. Crosswalks need to be safe and at key locations (i.e., bus stops, car rentals, commercial areas, etc.). Columbia Drive is one location with a high population of children who cross SR A 1 A. City's mobility study should tie to these criteria. LED lighted crosswalk (for non - signalized intersections) at two critical SR Al A pedestrian crossing locations as follows: • Columbia Drive (across SR A1A); and • SR AlA between 7-Eleven and Thrifty Car Rental. 5. Pedestrian/Bicycle Safety Improvements. a. Construction of wide sidewalks along SR AlA to more safely accommodate pedestrians and bicyclists; most sidewalks along SR A1A are not ADA compliant. Construction of wider pedway (8' — 10') along east side of SR A1A from North Atlantic Avenue to south of the City. This concept will need to be coordinated with commercial property owners. b. Construction of improved crosswalks within existing intersections; provide additional mid -block crosswalks to provide safer pedestrian/bicycle movement across SR A1A at selected locations. Crosswalks and bus stop locations should be aligned. c. Installation of a signal or crosswalk at SR Al A and Columbia Drive. d. Coordination of a bikeway (10' - 12') from the Port's Cove, underneath flyover, and connecting to the City's riverfront parks (Banana River and Manatee Sanctuary). Construction of improved bike lanes by width, striping, reflectors and signage; installation of bike racks and rest areas in shaded landscape settings. 6. Construction of stormwater improvements that address ponding and water quality, including pre- treatment for nitrogen and phosphorus; stormwater gardens might be considered in historic ponding areas. These improvements will need to be low -maintenance and near stormwater outfalls. 7. Intersection improvements. a. Installation of brick pavers or STS Paveway Systems crosswalks; and b. Construction of a right turn lane on westbound Central Boulevard to accommodate northbound turn movement onto SR A1A. City Vision Items 8. Reduction in overhead lines to include undergrounding of utilities and replacement of existing utility poles with decorative poles. There are over 100+ overhead wires crossing SR Al A in the City. Any reduction in these wires (without impacting existing services) would improve the aesthetics of the entire corridor. 9. Synchronized signal timing. Vary timing to allow for industrial traffic times. 15 10. Provide two or more bus turn off lanes including shelter and bicycle rack. To be coordinated with bus traffic and high pick-up points. 11. Support City signage at both ends of City coordinated with City branding. 12. Kiosks placed along landscaped walkways directing pedestrians to Parks, Police and City facilities. A1A Overlay District — Expansion. This proposal expands the current boundaries of the EOOD to include the balance of the A1A corridor to the southern City limits. Specifically, those properties that are within both the Community Redevelopment Area and the Brownfields Area are included. Both of these districts were created to support redevelopment and were demarcated by following established criteria consistent with Florida Statute. In addition, properties adjacent to the Port are also included in the proposed expansion area. As the City continues to experience development pressure along the AlA corridor, it is critical that consistent rules be established that both encourage development and provide guidance to meet community standards. This project will facilitate a consistent, seamless development pattern which will lead to a sense of identity throughout the entire length of the Al A corridor. Branding. In response to RFP #2014-01, the City distributed twenty-one RFP packets to potential bidders for the purpose of developing a City Branding Initiative to increase the overall awareness/ positive perception of the City, by engaging residents and businesses to market the City internally and externally as a vibrant, attractive City in which to live, work, play, learn, invest and visit. On June 17, 2014, the Business and Economic Development Board met and ranked the top three responses from a pool of five received. On June 30, 2014, the RFP Review Committee interviewed the top three Finalists and selected Prismatic as the top firm due to its intimate knowledge of Cape Canaveral, its unique approach to the City's branding campaign and the quality of relevant experience. City Council awarded RFP #2014-01, Branding Contract with Prismatic of Orlando. The six-month project began on September 2"d. To date: • Prismatic has developed its strategy for public outreach and requested City participation to reach the largest audience possible for community input. • Target audiences for public outreach include the business community, residents and tourists. • Leisure Services offers programming to a large variety of citizens. Leisure Services Director is assisting with outreach to a diverse sample of citizens through its activities, classes and groups. • A two-hour community workshop and possible outdoor guerilla marketing stunt are being developed to excite and engage Citizens. • Selected upcoming community events will serve as outreach opportunities, with details to be determined. • Prismatic and City to have weekly update calls to establish/maintain community outreach timeline. Cape Caribe. City Council approved the Termination of Beach Access Easement between Cape Caribe, Inc. and the City because the easement was under-utilized. City Council approved Ordinance No. 16-2013 related to the Ron Jon Cape Caribe Resort to amend rezoning restrictions to allow a building consisting of additional timeshare units subject to terms/conditions of the Second Modification to the Binding Developer's Agreement. Per the Development Agreement, a building permit application must be submitted to the City by April 22, 2015. 16 The Resort was sold to Orange Lake Resorts, Parent Company of Holiday Inn Club Vacations. The sale was completed on April 30. Signs were updated to reflect the new ownership. RON JON SURF GRILL Casa Canaveral Assisted Living Facility. Extended approvals for the Casa Canaveral ALF located at 700 W. Central Boulevard. The 288-bed Casa Canaveral Assisted Living Facility will be over 200,000 square feet, create 250 full and part-time jobs, provide a needed housing option, increase the tax base and be a $25 million dollar investment in the City. Infrastructure improvements will include installation of a replacement sewer line, completion of lift station refurbishment/expansion activities and streetscaping of West Central Boulevard. The streetscaping project will include construction of a pedway and sidewalks, installation of energy efficient lighting and landscaping improvements. Conducted October 22` d Board of Adjustment meeting with the following outcomes related to this facility: • Variance No. 2014-01 for the following: (1) to allow for a building length of 353 feet and a building width of 320 feet rather than the 185 foot maximum length or width per Sec. 110-316(7); and (2) to allow for a 25 foot setback from an adjacent residential lot line rather than the 50 foot required setback per Sec. 110- 488(a). - APPROVED • Special Exception No. 2014-04. The project consists of a 288 bed facility on 7.7 acres and is within the R-3 zoning district. - APPROVED City Hall Project. City Hall was built in 1966/67 and has served the City well. The building no longer meets the City government's needs. It is ripe for redevelopment and continuation as part of the government services campus. Possible uses could include a City Welcome Center where local business brochures, historic items and/or art could be displayed. The Space Shuttle on the front lawn is already a draw for tourists. The facility could also be utilized to expand leisure services activities such as a senior center, youth center, multi -generational center or community center. A New City Hall has been part of the community conversation since the mid 1990's. In May 2007, Architects Design Group, Inc. (ADG) developed a Spatial Needs Assessment and Master Plan Report for the Cape Canaveral City Hall. ADG gathered data related to existing operations, staffing levels, equipment utilization, the City's service delivery philosophy, quantifying land and other resources. The following departments were included in the assessment of square footage space needs: City Council, City Manager, City Clerk/HR, Financial Services and Community & Economic Development. ADG estimated 17 that in 2015, these departments would need a total of 16,182 square feet and in 2025 would need 17,687 square feet. The building uses identified in the 2007 Spatial Needs Assessment are challenged to properly function in three separate buildings. Two that were built in the late-1960s and early-1970s are aging/obsolete. In October 2012, a City Hall Facility Committee was formed. It reviewed the as -is condition of City offices/meeting facilities, the 2007 Spatial Needs Assessment and the ongoing conversation/documented perceptions of citizens, businesses and community development entities. Efficiencies/image improvements can be realized by combining the three building uses into one. Current low construction/financing costs provide a unique opportunity that will likely not be repeated. The design includes a two story, 18,517 square foot City Hall at 7510 N. Atlantic Avenue, which will require demolition of the existing building. The property has been readdressed to 100 Polk Avenue. The City purchased the adjacent property at 110 Polk Avenue to provide a larger site. Staff is currently utilizing this building for operations while the City Hall site is being prepared. After a presentation by GLE Architects, the City Council selected the Mediterranean Revival exterior elevation option for the New City Hall Facility. On November 19th the Community Appearance Board considered and approved a Level 1 review associated with the new City Hall Building which is situated on a 1.29 acre parcel. This option represents the strength and heritage of the City of Cape Canaveral. Parking for the building, which will be located to the rear of the building, will consist of 70 standard spaces and four accessible spaces for a total of 74. Proposed lot coverage is approximately 33 percent. The mean building height is 34.3 feet which is under the maximum permitted height of 45 feet in the C-1 zoning district. In anticipation of the EOOD expansion, which is proposed to include this property, several adjustments to the site plan have been made that would otherwise not be allowed in the C-1 district. The most significant is the placement of the building relative to the property lines. The typical setback in the C-1 district is 50 feet from the Al A right-of-way and 25 feet from a public or private road. However, setbacks are reduced to 15 feet from A1A and 10 feet from side streets within the overlay district. Consistent with these revised setbacks, the proposed City Hall building has been located 15 feet from the A1A right-of-way and 10 feet from the Polk Avenue right-of-way. As part of this project, a portion of the Polk Avenue right-of-way is proposed to be closed. This will allow the creation of a paver brick piazza/plaza adjacent to Al A. This area will support the goal of a connected community campus of buildings as well as provide a public gathering area that will serve both the current and New City Hall buildings. 18 ��0 0 0Qo Vial FROM SAAIA stwTomossomvsrcows fl GLE Hi maws Ear EN'F�:1, ',t ITERAWAN REA* Census Statistics. University of Florida Bureau of Economic and Business Research (BEBR) released its estimate of the City's population. The estimate is 10,022 residents as of April 1, 2014. As a point of reference, the City's population on April 1, 2010 was 9,912, 9,936 on April 1, 2011, 9,926 on April 1, 2012 and 9,987 on April 1, 2013. Comprehensive Plan. Compiled an electronic copy of the City's Comprehensive Plan to include a detailed list of the Goals, Objectives, and Policies (GOPs) of the various plan elements. The GOPs provide a road map for the physical development of the City and are used to assist advisory boards in making decisions/recommendations. The document has been posted on the City's web page to provide easy access to residents interested in researching this document. Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). The City Council adopted Resolution No. 2012-16 adopting the Finding of Necessity to establish the Cape Canaveral Community Redevelopment Agency, and declared the City Council to be the CRA Board. The Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Board met and approved the following items: • Adoption of FY 2014/15 annual CRA budget, • Approval of FY 2014/15 CRA Meeting Schedule and Financial Reporting Requirements. • Ratification of RFP #2014-01 Consulting Services for the City of Cape Canaveral/City of Cape Canaveral Community Redevelopment Agency Branding Initiative Award to Prismatic and approve an expenditure of CRA funds in an amount of 50 percent of the contract cost, or $15,000. Staff will soon propose CRA incentive programs. There will ultimately be many incentives offered/available to the property owners including, but not limited to: • Improvement and Beautification Programs such as Commercial Improvement Grants and Multi - Family Residential or Residential Neighborhood Improvement Grants, matching Facade Grant, Exterior and/or Interior improvements, Paint Voucher Grant. • Rehabilitation, Redevelopment and Repurposing of Existing Buildings such as repurposing existing building(s) including commercial projects that are hospitality, entertainment, industrial, office, technology based businesses, retail or a jobs producing entity. • Rehabilitation Matching Revitalization Grants such as Commercial Life Safety Compliance Grants, Site Preparation to assist with demolition/removal of obsolete structures. • Incentive Fund for Opportunity Site Grant Programs and Events and Marketing Grants. • Waivers and Reimbursements program for City building permit fees and plan checking fees deferral plan (Program pays the fees up to $1000 - not a waiver of fees). • Impact Fee Assistance/Deferment Program. 19 City Mobility Plan. Staff worked with City based bicycling activists to develop a Plan to provide policy guidance regarding construction of a network of bicycle/pedestrian paths throughout the City. The Plan will consider timing, funding and design of said paths. Dollar General Store. Located at 6395 N. Atlantic Ave., the 9,100 s.f building has a 7,300 s.f. showroom. The exterior features masonry finishes, parapets with crown molding, split face block pilasters and canvas canopies. ATION East Central Florida Corridor Task Force. Attended the East Central Florida Corridor Task Force meeting at Port Canaveral. It was established to evaluate/develop recommendations on future transportation corridors serving established and emerging economic activity centers in Brevard, Orange and Osceola Counties. EDC. Department Director regularly attends the Economic Development Commission of Florida's Space Coast (EDC) Ad Valorem Tax Abatement Council meetings as well as EDC Board of Directors meetings. FEMA/NFIP Recertification. Completed annual recertification packet that will be submitted to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in support of the City's participation in the National Flood Insurance Premium (NFIP) program. This program provides flood insurance discounts for participating communities based on how well the local regulations are enforced and on how well the community executes its various outreach programs. Staff will continue to maintain/improve all achievable floodplain management activities so that citizens can reap the benefits of reduced flood insurance premiums. Completed annual FEMA outreach project to residents located in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). This project contributes to lowering the City's Flood Insurance rates and includes: o Information on property protection measures, o Contact information for designated storm shelters in Brevard County and special needs assistance, o Information about availability of flood insurance and o Important contact numbers in the event of a tropical storm. Fuel Terminals. In cooperation with the City Attorney's Office and the Florida League of Cities, drafted Resolution No. 2014-10 urging the Florida Legislature to preserve the ability of local government to enact and enforce local zoning laws related to fuel terminals. Homewood Suites Hotel. This project is a 6-story, national -brand, extended stay hotel located at 9000 Astronaut Boulevard. The proposed building is located on a 3.54 acre parcel, consists of 112,000 square feet and includes 153 units. The project represents a $17 million investment in the community. This was the first project reviewed under the Al A Overlay District guidelines including unique site planning, landscaping and signage. This project received approval from the Community Appearance Board to build to a height of 65 feet. The design team utilized a stepback approach during the design process that stairsteps upper floors to breakup an otherwise monolithic presence. Issued a Site Development Permit Agreement for the Hotel. Held pre -construction meeting to coordinate development activities including 20 administrative inspection procedures, details related to paving, grading, drainage and utility installation, etc. Developer mobilized its work force and began Site Development activities on Monday, October 13th. Project completion is anticipated to be December 2015. Staff attended groundbreaking along with (from left to right): Hayne Hollis, Bill Duncan, Betty Walsh, Bob Hoog, Rocky Randels, Beau Benton, Buzz Petsos and John Bond. Imperial Boulevard Easements. In support of the Cape Canaveral Vision Statement and as an economic development initiative, Staff worked with property owners to secure new Public Utility Easements supporting the infrastructure needs of the undeveloped commercial properties on the east side of Astronaut Boulevard/AlA at the north end of the City. Initially, the new Easements will be used to provide sanitary sewer and an 8-inch water line to all of the parcels served. This initiative is related to the scheduled expansion and enhancement of Lift Station #6 on Imperial Boulevard. Interlocal Agreement with Brevard Public Schools. The City Council approved an update to the Interlocal Agreement (ILA) between the City and the Brevard County School Board. The ILA pertains to school facility planning and school concurrency matters. ISO Recertification. The Insurance Services Office (ISO) has completed its analysis of the building codes adopted by the community. Staff is proud that the resulting Building Code Effectiveness Grading Classification is for one -and -two family residential properties and for commercial and industrial properties. This grading period saw an increase in each sub -category, but not enough to change the City's classification. The Building Code Effectiveness Grading Classification is an insurance underwriting and information tool that provides rating credits to individual property insurance policies in recognition of community effort to mitigate property damage due to natural disasters. 21 Port Canaveral Rail Extension. Attended the Surface Transportation Board meeting at the Radisson. The Board is the licensing agency for the proposed Port Canaveral Rail Extension application and will oversee the environmental study process, which could take 12 to 16 months. This was a scoping meeting toward the Board's creation of an Environmental Impact Statement. The purpose was to obtain Public Comment. The majority of the comments made were about the negative impacts associated with the potential disturbance of the Banana River Lagoon north of S.R. 528, the proposed location of the railway expansion. Many who opposed the crossing of the River supported the railway seeking a path over land, through the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station property, ultimately connecting to the existing railway on Kennedy Space Center property. Other facts: • The public has until Dec. 19th to comment on potential routes for the proposed rail line, archeological or environmental issues or other concerns. • The proposed rail would link with 17 miles of existing rail line at KSC, connecting with a main line of the Florida East Coast Railway. • The rail would begin near the Port's North Cargo Area, cross the Banana River along one of two proposed routes, enter KSC on Merritt Island south of Kars Park, then head north through the east side of KSC. There, the rail would link with NASA's existing rail line, which crosses the Indian River Lagoon via the Jay -Jay Bridge, then connect with the Florida East Coast main line just north of Titusville. • The Port envisions a single-track rail completed by 2017 with three or four trains per week, going up to 10 miles per hour. The trains would carry 170 rail cars per week, increasing to 220 within 2%2 years. The project website address is www.portcanaveralraileis.com. The docket number is FD 35852. Port of Call. Prepared annual report to include review/inspection of the Port of Call Development Agreement to reflect the project is in compliance with the terms and conditions of said Agreement. Phase 2 of this Agreement calls for the plan submittal for the construction of retail, restaurant and other consumer services by July 29, 2015. Recreational Vehicles in Mobile Home Parks. After thorough review, the City Attorney provided a detailed report on the legislative history and determined that the parking of Recreational Vehicles in Mobile Home Parks is a lawful practice in the City. Statutory regulations and definitions have evolved over 80 years and have ultimately distinguished Recreational Vehicles from Mobile Homes. However, over the years the City's Code of Ordinances has blended the two terms into one category through its definitions. Mobile Home Parks remain a legal non -conforming use. As such, the use remains subject to discontinuance through abandonment. State law requires that a Mobile Home Park which has six or more Recreational Vehicle spaces is subject to Recreational Vehicle Park licensure. The City will monitor Parks for compliance with this requirement. As the City moves forward with Redevelopment Initiatives, such as the N. Atlantic Ave. Streetscape Project, Staff will seek opportunities to work with mobile home park owners on creating/developing beautification/landscaping easements which will benefit the mobile home parks and beautify public spaces. Residence Inn. Marriott International named the Residence Inn Cape Canaveral as its Residence Inn Hotel of the Year out of 645 Residence Inn hotels worldwide. The selection was based on its performance on several criteria including its overall guest satisfaction score, revenue per available room, quality audits conducted by an outside company and the hotel's community service involvement. SNAP Recertification. Worked with Space Coast EDC staff to prepare City's Bi-annual SNAP Report to include an analysis of review and submittal times for commercial site plans and building permits. 22 Spaceport Amoco/U-Haul. A special exception was approved for 8000 Astronaut Boulevard for the expansion of allowable uses to include a truck and trailer rental facility. The special exception limited the hours of operation as well as the maximum number of vehicles allowed within view of the public. Tall Ship Event. Staff assisted members of the National Air, Sea & Space Foundation promoting the Tall Ship Event, which returned to Port Canaveral in November for the opening of the new cruise terminal. Ordinance Revisions Banks of Detention Ponds. City Council approved Ordinance No. 06-2014, amending the allowable slope of the banks of detention ponds to be consistent with the SJRWMD standard (from 6:1 slope to 4:1 slope), unless otherwise approved by the City Engineer. Encroachments. This ordinance expands the list of allowable encroachments within required setbacks to include air conditioning and pool related components in rear and side yards. FEMA Risk MAP and Revised Flood Ordinance. City Council adopted Ordinance No. 04-2014 amending the City's Flood Damage Prevention codes. This was the result of a multi -year, multi -phase effort by FEMA which included revisions to the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (now all -digital). In preparation, Staff assisted with FEMA's initial Coastal Discovery Kick-off meeting for FEMA Risk MAP. This meeting was for Cape Canaveral and other Cities along the east coast of Central Florida to draw out specific flood -related challenges we may have that were not represented in the Flood Zone Maps. Once the project scope, goals, timeline and technical approach were completed, FEMA promulgated new Floodplain regulation requirements for jurisdictions and produced a draft Model Ordinance and encouraged all jurisdictions to adopt the Model. The 2010 FL Building Code contains many new flood -related provisions and the Ordinance is intended to dovetail with the 2010 FL Building Code. The new Flood Maps may be viewed at the Building Department. There are very few changes to Cape Canaveral properties, and only to the property owner's benefit. Streamlining Development Approvals. This ordinance revised the Code to streamline the development approval process related to the extension of Community Appearance Board and Site Plan approvals. Currently, extensions are required to be approved by the granting board at the conclusion of a public hearing. This is an added cost to the City as well as the applicant. Medical Marijuana. City Council approved Ordinance No. 09-2014 which regulates the location and operation of Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers. Similar to a pain management clinic, a MMTC will be allowed as a special exception in property zoned C 1, C2, or M 1 and be subject to locational requirements as well as limitations to days and hours of operation. The opening and/or operation of a medical marijuana treatment center as defined by the Florida constitution or Florida law shall occur only upon and after the effective date upon which medical marijuana treatment centers are deemed legal by the State of Florida. Sign Code Revisions. City Council approved Ordinance No. 08-2014 amending the City's Sign Code, which included the following changes: • Provides definition for "Right -of -Way" and includes a helpful graphic. • Provides definition for "Warning Sign" and an exemption therefore. • Provides definition for "Window Lighting" and prohibits same. • Provides a clarifying revision for the definition of "Window Sign". • Exempts: 23 o Signs erected entirely within the confines of a commercial establishment, provided they cannot be viewed from a public right-of-way. o Warning signs. o Temporary signs approved under an outdoor entertainment event permit. o Any sign erected or temporarily placed by the City or other governmental body. • Prohibits: o Signs placed on fences or gates, other than warning signs; and o All temporary signs not specifically authorized. • Specifies that a permit is required for changes of sign faces and changes to the name of a business on a sign. • Authorizes the Administrator to waive permit fees for any temporary off -premise sign for a new business. • Modifies temporary signage regulations: o Presents all temporary sign regulations in a simplified table format. o Limits the number and type of temporary signs. o Addresses sidewalk encroachment and parking space encroachment concerns. o Allows one Sandwich Board sign for each business located in the C1, C2 and M1 zoning districts. Sandwich Boards must comply with the following requirements: (1) Shall not exceed five (5) feet in overall height. (2) Shall not exceed twelve (12) square feet in area. (3) Shall not be displayed from dusk to daybreak. (4) Shall be substantially secured or weighted to resist movement. (5) Shall not encroach into vehicular circulation areas or be located so as to reduce parking areas. • Permits an electronic sign to be installed in either a monument sign (15 ft. max. height) or a pylon sign (20 ft. max. height). • Decreases the minimum length of time an electronic message must be displayed from 7 seconds to 4 seconds. • Removes temporary signs from Table 94-96-1. • Provides for the termination through an amortization schedule of these non -conforming signs: o Abandoned (discontinued) signs, o Damaged/destroyed signs, o Signs on Redevelopment Sites, o Pole signs (must be made into pylon signs) and o Signs located in the visibility triangle. • Provides an incentive to eliminate nonconforming signs. The City Manager is authorized to waive sign permitting fees for any sign application that is filed for purposes of eliminating or modifying a nonconforming sign and making it in full compliance with the provisions of this chapter. • Provides Administrator the ability to exempt legally existing nonconforming signs from the requirements of the chapter related only to height, sign area and projection from the building, if the sign owner can demonstrate that the nonconformity is within twenty (20) percent of each specific requirement. • Allows for a Business Park/Area Multi-user sign to be erected on SR Al A, Center Street and/or Central Boulevard to provide signage for properties/businesses located along Center Street, Imperial Boulevard, Brown Circle and Commerce Street. Tree Code Revisions. Ordinance No. 01-2014. The City Historian proposed an initiative to modify the Tree Code to require the planting of a sapling for each dead or invasive tree removed by property owners. The intent was to ensure the establishment/preservation of the next generation of healthy, appropriate trees in sufficient quantities to support global ecological concerns. After discussing the proposal with 24 Staff, all agreed that it would be more appropriate to revise the Code to direct funds collected through the issuance of tree permits to the City's existing "Tree Bank" and use those funds for tree planting/landscaping projects City-wide. Previously, the Tree Bank was only funded through penalties assessed for violations of the Tree Code and voluntary contributions from property developers who did not wish to perform onsite tree mitigation. The Ordinance also adopted these State -maintained databases: • Florida Native Plant Society's list of Native Plants, as applicable to the East Central Florida Region, into the List of desirable species and plants and • Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council's Invasive Plant Species List, as applicable to the East Central Florida Region, into the List of undesirable species. Water Supply Facilities Work Plan. Ordinance No. 12-2013; adopting Comprehensive Plan Amendments consistent with the City's Water Supply Facilities Work Plan. Departmental Accomplishments Building/Code Enforcement. The Building Department welcomed its new Building Official and its new Building Inspector. Completed Annual Emergency Management update training. Attended additional Damage Assessment Training. Participated in the Annual Emergency Operations Center training at the Fire Department. Attended C.O.C. (Canaveral Operations Center) Port/City Quarterly Drill/Exercise of Heavy Weather Plan in Port Canaveral. One Code Enforcement Officer attended an eight hour Microsoft Office Advanced Excel workshop presented by the Senior Staff Assistant at Brevard County Sheriff's Office. Code Enforcement. Throughout the year, Code Enforcement Staff works to bring blighted, unfit and/or unsafe properties into compliance through the use of the Property Maintenance Code. Initiating new Code Enforcement Cases frequently means posting properties as "Unfit for Human Occupancy" and posting properties with an "Imminent Danger Posting" to insure the safety and welfare of the public. As necessary, and in cooperation with the Brevard County Sheriff's Office, Code Enforcement Staff will condemn, board up and post properties, which are sometimes illegally occupied. These structures, when left unattended, create a neighborhood nuisance. Code Enforcement issues civil citations for many categories of violations and issues $500 citations to contractors for performing work without a permit. 25 In support of City Government Week, Code Enforcement Staff hosted the 2°a Annual Capeview Elementary School Mock Code Enforcement Board Hearing. Four groups of 6th graders had a chance to sit in the seats of the Code Enforcement Board and hear mock cases, ask questions, hold deliberations, make and vote on motions. Staff had a blast! (The kids did too!). Turtle Lighting. Staff continues to monitor for turtle lighting violations during Turtle Season, May 1 Sc through October 31S`. We are working with several Condominium Associations for voluntary compliance with the assistance of Brevard County Natural Resources. Code Enforcement dedicated one evening to conducting turtle lighting inspections in conjunction with staff from Brevard County Natural Resources. The inspections were generated by three Turtle Disorientation Reports. Inspections revealed lighting 26 violations at several condominiums. Staff will resolve these violations by contacting the Condominium Associations and requesting voluntary compliance. Compliance alternatives include: turning lights out from 9:OOPM - 7:OOAM, redirecting the light, shielding the light and/or retrofitting the structure with turtle -friendly lighting fixtures and bulbs whenever possible. Civil Citation Procedural Document. Updated civil citation procedural document for Canaveral Precinct Deputies. City Parks - verification of official current addresses. Resulting from a request from the Florida Communities Trust (FCT), Staff worked with Administrative Services and Leisure Services to verify official current addresses for all City Parks with the Brevard County Address Assignment Office. As a result, the following corrections were made: o Canaveral City Park was changed from 355 Monroe Ave. to 7920 Orange Ave. o Banana River Park was changed from 901 River Park Dr. to 901 Puerto Del Rio Dr. o The unnamed Park at 300 Washington Ave. was named Bennix Park. o Veteran's Memorial Park was changed from 265 Polk Ave. to 201 Polk Ave. Weekend Code Enforcement. Staff continues to perform random weekend Code Enforcement. Board Activity for 2014 Board of Adjustment. Held three meetings and rendered decisions on four Special Exceptions, two Variances and two time extensions. The Board approved an application for the sales/service/display of electric vehicles at 7077 N. Atlantic Avenue. Business & Economic Development Board. Held three meetings. Among the items discussed: • Reviewed and ranked proposals for the City's Branding Request for Proposal (RFP). The top three firms that were selected to make presentations to the RFP Review Committee included Chisano Marketing Group from Longwood, FL, Prismatic from Orlando, FL and Protoype: Tourism from Forest, Virginia and selected Prismatic as the top firm due to its intimate knowledge of Cape Canaveral, its unique approach to the City's branding campaign and the quality of relevant experience. • BrevardWORKS representative spoke on the upcoming referendum related to continuation of the Ad Valorem Tax Abatement (AVT) program. When the Florida legislature created it more than two decades ago, they did so with a built-in expiration date of every 10 years. As a result, voters have the opportunity to debate the benefits of the program on a reoccurring basis. It has been 10 years since Brevard voters approved the AVT abatement program in 2004; voters approved renewal for the next 10 years on November 4, 2014. • Directional/Wayfinding Signs - It has been reported that by 2017, Port Canaveral will attract more than 6 million annual passengers. Many of these cruisers begin and end their journey at the Port; however, an increasing number disembark for the day and head to local attractions. Add these visitors to the areas residents and the result is a significant number of potential customers travelling in and around our City each day. The Board agreed with the need for a signage program that tied into the branding efforts and directed Staff to move forward with its creation. Code Enforcement Board. Held 7 meetings, heard 36 cases, issued 24 Board Orders and filed 5 liens. Community Appearance Board. Held three meetings and approved architectural elevations for four new projects. Other considerations: Granted one time extension request. 27 Planning & Zoning Board. Held eight meetings and made recommendations regarding requests for six Ordinance revisions, three Special Exceptions and one new site plan. Other considerations: appointment of one new Board member. Conducted August 27th Planning & Zoning Board meeting where the following actions were taken: • Interviewed potential Board Members and recommended an individual to fill the vacancy. • Recommended an Ordinance to amend the A1A Economic Opportunity Overlay District (EOOD) to expand the boundaries and revise various Sections of City Code. • Recommended an Ordinance to revise Section 22-43 to provide for streamlining of development approvals. The Board unanimously recommended approval to City Council. • Recommended an Ordinance to revise Section 110-538 to allow certain encroachments within required setbacks. The Board asked Staff to examine past zoning codes to determine what other encroachments may have been allowed. • Recommended approval for a Special Exception for Truck/Trailer rentals at 8000 Astronaut Boulevard (Spaceport Amoco). • Recommended an Ordinance to revise Section 90 of the City Code to allow a revised slope of retention/detention ponds. Statistics for the period October 1, 2013 — September 30, 2014: • (935) Permits issued • Permitting fees: $178,411.96 • Sewer fees: $23,467.30 • (1678) Building Inspections performed • (91) Notices of Violation issued • (66) Notices of Compliance issued • (36) Cases presented to Code Enforcement Board • Liens paid: $69,329.50 • (6) Properties posted "Unfit for Human Occupancy" • (174) Illegal signs removed • (32) Vehicles posted with courtesy tags and/or vehicle tow notices • (92) Code Enforcement violations resolved in field • (5) Flood Zone inquiries processed • (48) Doors Tagged with Code Enforcement Courtesy Requests • (233) Lien search requests processed • (3) Citations issued for Work Without Permit • (10) Stop Work Orders posted • (19) Address assignment requests processed • (264) Follow-up site visits • (864) Local Business Tax Receipt Renewals (BTR's) for FY 14/15 were issued to 373 (43%) Commercial Businesses, 365 (42%) Rental Businesses and 126 (15%) Home Businesses • (147) Alarm Permits were issued GOALS FOR YEAR 2015 Goals: Bicycle Mobility Plan. Staff met local volunteer consultant to discuss the Bicycle Mobility Plan in preparation for presentation to Planning & Zoning Board. Staff participated in a bike tour of Cape Canaveral and Port Canaveral. It included an overview of bikeable, community assets that could be leveraged as part of the 28 City's economic development efforts. Discussed outline of the Cycling/Pedestrian Mobility Plan to include identification of improvements to create a cohesive, functional network. EOOD Expansion. A proposed Ordinance to expand the existing A1A Economic Opportunity Overlay District in two locations. These properties are generally within the Community Redevelopment Area and/or the Brownfields Area (Cape Canaveral Economic Enhancement District). Both of these districts were created to support redevelopment and were demarcated by established criteria consistent with Florida Statute. 1. A northern expansion to include properties northeast of the current EOOD near the Port facilities, properties within the N. Atlantic Avenue corridor and the property that is the site of the proposed Casa Canaveral Assisted Living Facility on W. Central Blvd. 2. A southern expansion to include properties from the current EOOD boundary to the southern City limit. As the City continues to experience growth pressure within the corridor, it is critical that uniform rules be established that result in a seamless development pattern along the entire length of Al A. This consistency is a critical ingredient of creating a sense of identity called for in the Visioning initiative. In addition to the geographic expansion of the EOOD, this proposal also includes several policy revisions. Mixed -Use Overlay Ordinance. Continued work on the proposed Mixed -Use Overlay Ordinance. The City's consultant Firm, Planning Design Group, has prepared the draft ordinance. It is envisioned that the overlay will be applicable in the A1A Economic Opportunity Overlay District. The intent of this Code Section is to: • Allow a mixture of complementary land uses that may include housing, retail, offices, commercial services, light industrial, light manufacturing and high-tech services, civic uses and public open spaces to create economic and social vitality and support diversity of housing opportunities. • Develop mixed -use areas that are safe, comfortable and promote a multi -faceted pedestrian friendly and walkable environment to encourage the linking of trips. • Reinforce streets as public places for additional street level activity that encourage pedestrian and bicycle travel. • Create a "sense of place" that also provides for community gathering places and pedestrian/visitor amenities. • Establish a distinct storefront character associated with the district. • Provide flexibility in the siting and design of new developments and redevelopment to anticipate changes in the marketplace. • Provide for the efficient use of land and services by facilitating compact, high -density development and minimizing the amount of land that is needed for surface parking. • Provide roadway and pedestrian connections as well as land use transitions to adjacent neighborhoods and commercial areas. • Facilitate development (land use mix, density and design) that supports public transit, where applicable. • Provide appropriate locations and design standards for automobile and truck -dependent uses. • Maintain mobility along traffic corridors and State highways. • Maintain and enhance the area's character through design guidelines. Paving ordinance revision. Staff is working on a minor revision to the paving ordinance which would authorize the use of asphalt millings under limited conditions (i.e., screened storage yards, not visible from the public). This would reduce development costs in certain scenarios and also provide for more recharge to the aquifer. 29 Permitted Use Table. Create a permitted use table for inclusion in Chapter 110 of the Code of Ordinances. This table will create a much more user friendly document to assist customers with determining allowable land uses within the various zoning categories. It will also allow the list of uses to be updated/expanded. An analysis of permitted uses v. Special Exceptions will occur as well. Springbrook Software Conversion. Representative Staff from Community & Economic Development and Financial Services attended an on-line demonstration of Springbrook's Building Permit, Business Tax Receipt and Code Enforcement software programs in support of a potential migration/expansion of Springbrook's cross -platform functionalities. Springbrook currently administers and supports the software used by the City for control of Financial and Accounts Receivable processes. User Fees. Revision of user fees related to City land use approvals and building permits. Analysis included a determination of allocated Staff time by approval type as well as a review of a fee survey for cities within Brevard County. With an eye towards maintaining, or even reducing ad valorem rates, Staff is reviewing the current Planning & Zoning fee structure and Building Permit fee structure to determine what opportunities are available to generate additional user fees. Variance Process Revisions. Addressing the legal underpinnings of variances as well as how other communities are approaching them. Proposed update will add more flexibility to current process and provide the City with another tool to encourage redevelopment consistent with the Community Visioning. Yard definitions. Create an ordinance to define a "side yard," "rear yard" and "front yard." Zoning Analysis. Discussion regarding N. Atlantic Ave. Zoning Analysis. By consensus, the P&Z Board directed Staff to complete further analysis of zoning within the corridor and return with any recommended changes. 30 LEISURE SERVICES Leisure Services Friday Fest Family Street Party Friday Fest continues to be the keystone of the City's monthly events. Vendors selling everything from arts and crafts to clothing and food gather to sell their wares to over 1,000 guests who regularly visit. Live music fills the streets while the laughter of children enjoying the Kids Zone caps the family friendly feel of the night. Friday Fest also provides an opportunity for local non -profits to raise funds for their organizations through the vending of adult beverages. Organizations like Space Coast Little League, Cape Canaveral Soccer Club, Miles of Love Inc., Port Canaveral Cove Association and Cocoa Beach Jr. High School Booster Club raise thousands of dollars while volunteering at the event. Friday Fest is in direct line with the Cape Canaveral Vision Statement, providing public gathering and entertainment places in a bike -able and walk -able community. Movie in the Park The Movie in the Park program has seen a great resurgence since the move to the little league outfield at Canaveral City Park. The event takes place on the 3'd Friday of every month and is much anticipated by dozens of Cape Canaveral Families. The greatest impact of the move, besides attendance, is that the new location allows for the majority of attendees to walk to the movie. Concession sales during the movie help to raise funds for the Brevard County Sheriff's Office Canaveral PAL program. Athletic Leagues Tennis and racquetball leagues are held three nights a week for advanced and intermediate players. Morning social tennis leagues continue to meet on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The City provides individual, group and team tennis lessons taught by a certified U.S.T.A. Tennis Professional. Pickleball continues with open style play on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Year round adult coed kickball leagues are held on Mondays and Wednesdays, while adult coed softball takes the field on Thursday evenings. This year, we saw many new teams out on the field for competitive fun play. The leagues are officiated by accredited referees and umpires. Cape Canaveral's athletic leagues promote healthy outdoor activities for the community in a safe and structured social setting. 31 Farmers Market The Farmers Market was re -energized this year with a move from Thursdays to Saturdays and a new location in front of City Hall. The move has made the market more accessible to residents who work during the week while attracting tourists who drive by City Hall. Canaveral Police Athletic League The Brevard County Police Athletic/Activities League (PAL) offers a Youth Directors Program for the City's youth. These young people make unique and valuable contributions by volunteering their time and skills to the City through their dedicated service, and in the process learn lessons that help them mature and become good citizens and leaders. For the first time in the history of BCSO PAL, three local members were selected to serve on the Youth Directors Council (YDC) which is considered the most prestigious board at the state level. No other PAL in the state of Florida has this amount of involvement from a single PAL chapter. It is with great pride to mention that these youths are all residents from the City of Cape Canaveral. Back To School Jamboree 2014 marked the 7th anniversary of this event. In an effort to increase this program's effectiveness, it was held in combination with Cape View Elementary's registration. This small change made it a huge success; attendance was higher than ever before. 200 backpacks were stuffed with school supplies and provided to 32 any parent in need. By the end of the day, every single backpack had been given out. Parents were very thankful to the City and children were excited to receive a brand new backpack. BCSO PAL and City volunteers helped stuff the backpacks the night before and assisted in handing them out. Brevard County Sheriff's Office Canaveral Precinct was an active partner, as well as some local private businesses that stepped up with donations. Art Shows The 12th Annual Cape Canaveral Professional Art Show took place on January 24-26 at the Cape Canaveral Library. Residents and visitors enjoyed artwork from members of the Central Brevard Art Association. Awards and festivities took place during the reception brunch on Sunday, January 26. A generous donation of one hundred dollars was made by the CBAA to the Friends of the Library. It was their way of saying thank you for helping with the Show during the past twelve years. This year's Mayor's award, a beautiful painting of a sunset view from Manatee Sanctuary Park, was presented to a local Cape Canaveral resident. The 15th Annual Student Art show was held on February 7 in conjunction with Friday Fest. Local participating schools included Roosevelt Elementary, Cape View Elementary, Merritt Island High School and Rockledge High School. The winner of the poster contest was a student from Merritt Island High School who received a $100.00 VISA gift card. The best overall piece from each designated school took 33 home a $50.00 VISA gift card. Both Art Shows support the City's vision of local culture and education throughout the community. Founders Day Spring Festival This event took place at Manatee Sanctuary Park on Saturday, March 29. Mr. Richard Thurm, one of the City's founders, was honored with a Key to the City plaque. Activities included a Touch a Truck area, trackless train rides, bounce houses, live music, face painting and vendors. Due to inclement weather, the event ended early. However, it was fun for those in attendance. Florida Today wrote a wonderful article showcasing the event. It is available online at the following link: http://www. floridatoday.com/story/news/local/2014/03/30/founders-day-honors-cape-canaverals- pioneers/7073849/ Annual Egg Hunt This event was held on Saturday, April 20 at 10:00 a.m., at the Canaveral City Park ball fields. Those in attendance enjoyed prizes, refreshments and a great photo opportunity with the Bunny. It was a huge success and well received. National Kids to Parks Day On Saturday, May 17, children in Cape Canaveral and across the nation took part in a grassroots movement to discover America's parks through play, commemorating the National Park Trust's (NPT) third annual Kids to Parks Day. 34 Mayor Rocky Randels proclaimed Kids to Parks Day in Cape Canaveral and encouraged locals to participate by exploring Manatee Sanctuary Park and Canaveral City Park. A Youth Kickball Tournament took place at Canaveral City Park, in partnership with the Cape View Elementary P.T.O., to raise funds needed for repair of the school's playground. The Tournament began at 10:00 a.m. with music, refreshments and raffle prizes. As part of an evening celebration, The Croods was shown in the little league outfield at Canaveral City Park. The event was very successful. Many families participated in daytime and evening activities; funds were raised for a worthy cause. Summer Camp Summer Camp is held at the Youth Center on Orange Avenue for children ages 5-10. Its mission is to offer a quality, safe, inclusive and affordable summer experience for children and families throughout the community. It is designed as a large group interaction experience with activities including games, sports, crafts, special entertainers, field trips, refreshments and science experiments. The daily schedule consists of indoor and outdoor games/activities, sports, arts & crafts, free time, lunch and snack. 2014 was the first year we were able to provide weekly field trips along with educational guest speakers for the campers. Field trip expenses were included with the weekly price of Camp and transportation was provided by a local shuttle service company. On select days of each week, Staff arranged for campers to enjoy a special featured outing. Tuesday mornings, Staff and campers traveled to the Cobb Theaters in Merritt Island to see a free weekly movie. Wednesdays featured activity was a trip to the Cape Canaveral Library where campers had the opportunity to participate in the Summer Reading Program called "Fizz, Boom, Read" — a program designed to promote good summer reading habits. Each Thursday, the children had the opportunity to enjoy the 50 meter pool, diving board, jumbo water slide, children's pool (0 to 3') and water spray park at the Cocoa Beach Aquatic Center. On Fridays, Staff and campers returned to the Cape Canaveral Library to join in another informative program led by the Youth Services Librarian. The Friday program included many games and activities that correlated with the books campers chose to read for the week. Additional field trips were taken to Glow Golf and the Shore Lanes Bowling Alley. Special guests and educational visitors included: • Animal Love Inc. • Corporal Sang with the Brevard County Sheriff K-9 Unit • Catrell Cooney with Zumba for kids • David and Judy Cox "the Jolly Magicians and Funny Business" • Pet Rescues of Brevard • "Banjo Bill" a human sized singing banjo playing puppet • Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science representatives • Brevard County Naturalists 35 • Ventriloquist David Wade • "Mr. Science" 2014 Summer Camp was very successful with all eleven weeks filled to capacity. Staff and campers are looking forward to next summer as we continue to research opportunities for improving the program in 2015. Surveys were conducted to gauge how parents felt about the program; an overwhelming majority of the attendees responded with exceptional feedback. Cape Canaveral Leisure Services continues to offer the most affordable, safe and fun municipal summer program in Brevard County. Government Week On Monday, October 20, 37 fourth graders from Cape View Elementary visited the Nancy Hanson Recreation Complex. They participated in a fun tennis game organized by the City's contracted tennis instructor, a Staff led shuffleboard game, a presentation of Leisure Services and its role in the City and ended with a group Zumba lesson from the City's contracted instructor. It was a very action packed hour. Light Up Cape Canaveral This event took place on Saturday, December 6, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. The venue was Xeriscape Park with lighted Christmas trees throughout the Park as well as spotlights and LED lights projecting under the mighty Oak trees. The program included performances by Cape View Elementary School Chorus and the Dickens Carolers, kids' holiday crafts hosted by the Cape Canaveral Library, complimentary refreshments and a special guest from the North Pole. Being centrally located, this event was appreciated by a wider range of residents for a longer period of time and enhanced Friday Fest Family Street Party which was held the night before. This Winter Wonderland gave a true feeling of the holiday spirit to residents and visitors alike. 19te Annual Reindeer Run The 19th annual 5K Run/Walk took place on December 13th and over 450 runners/walkers participated, raising over $11,000 for the Brevard County Police Athletic League (PAL). Like previous years, the Reindeer Run/Walk partnered with local race directors in the Beach Run Series which included the "Fall into Winter 5K" and the "Turkey Trot 5K". BCSO PAL organized the event from beginning to end with support from the City. 137 Special Projects Manatee Sanctuary Park Manatee Sanctuary Park experienced an amazing uplift with paving of the parking lot and the half mile Pedway. Improvements to the Park include a beautifully landscaped island as well as decorative solar lighting. As the City's flagship riverfront park, it has become an even more proud asset. Nancy Hanson Recreation Complex The multipurpose room inside the Recreation Complex also received some much needed attention in the form of fresh paint, new mirrors and laminate flooring. The renovations have been very well received by all users and will inspire a broader appeal that brings new recreation programs to the City. Racquetball Courts Maintenance was performed on the Racquetball Courts in September. Work included sealing of the roof to prevent leaks and stripping/painting of the interior walls. The upgrades were very much appreciated by the league players and subsequently led to the return of the Fall Classic Racquetball Tournament which is the longest running tournament of its kind in the state of Florida. 38 Banana River Park City was awarded the Florida Inland Navigation District Grant. Funds will be used to construct Phase I of the project. The City initially applied for the Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program (FRDAP) Grant to acquire said funding, but the application was denied by the Florida Legislature. The City has reapplied with FRDAP in hopes of acquiring assistance with Phases II and III of the project. Due to funding issues, the project has been re -phased with Phase I now including infrastructure work, waterside amenities, a pavilion/restroom building and the south parking area to accommodate the pavilion/restroom. Banana River Park- Landing Area,..40 39 PUBLIC WORKS SERVICES Public Works Services General Information Public Works Services (PWS) Staff consists of 24 employees whose primary purpose is to provide and maintain utility services for the general public as well as maintain all City streets and facilities. Staff provides services in four main categories which include: • Administration; • Sanitary Sewer/Reclaimed Water; • Stormwater; and • Infrastructure Maintenance. Accomplishments for 2014, as well as goals for 2015 from each of these service categories, are detailed as follows: ADMINISTRATION City of Cop* C Public WOIU ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR YEAR 2014: Communications Improvements Staff coordinated the upgrade of employee cell phones/IPADS, which greatly enhanced interdepartmental communications and overall operating efficiency. This effort resulted in a savings of approximately $500/month in Verizon Wireless mobile phone charges. Used Equipment Auctions Staff coordinated four internet auctions with Public Surplus, Inc. for the sale of used/outdated City equipment. These auctions resulted in over $12,800 in revenue to the City. Computer Mapping Program Staff scanned/archived over 120 City utility maps into Laserfiche. This allows for the easy retrieval of historical site plans, utility plans, etc. Administrative Activities Staff performed the following administrative activities: • Updated City's Facebook and Twitter accounts; 40 • Filled Public Library kiosk with stormwater-related materials on a quarterly basis; • Website maintenance; and, • Assisted other City Departments with Administrative Operations as necessary to enhance and support their daily operations. City Government Week Staff conducted an onsite tour of the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) for fifty 5th grade students from Cape View Elementary School. The tour included hands-on experiences in laboratory, sludge belt press, maintenance and recycling/reuse operations. Emergency Training Staff trained on numerous occasions with personnel from Brevard County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and Cape Canaveral Volunteer Fire Department as members of the City's EOC Team. Liaison with City Contractors and Governmental Agencies Staff continues to act as liaison between the general public and the City's contractors/governmental agencies including: • Waste Pro of Florida, Inc. (Waste Pro - solid waste contractor); • Florida Power & Light Company (FPL); • Florida Department of Corrections (Work Release Program); • Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT); • Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP); • St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD); • Caribbean Conservation Corporation (CCC); • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA); • WEX Universal Online Program (Gas Card Program); • Brevard County - Traffic Signals and Signs Department; • Brevard County - Natural Resources Management Office (BCNRMO); • Brevard County - Mosquito Control Department; • Sunshine State One Call of Florida (utility locates); • USA Services (street sweeping); • Marine Resources Council (MRC); and • Keep Brevard Beautiful (sea oats plantings and beach cleanings). 41 Staff acts as intermediaries and forwards/documents residents' requests to contractors and governmental agencies, and follows -up to ensure requests are addressed in a timely and professional manner. MAJOR GOALS FOR YEAR 2015: Administrative Services Staff will continue to provide the highest quality administrative services — both in service quality and response time. Staff will continue to: • Provide communications services between the general public and the City's contractors and governmental agencies; • Monitor all expenditures within PWS; • Evaluate/implement cost-cutting methods for all PWS purchases and services; • Monitor, assign and track City-wide Work Order Program; • Respond to residents' complaints within 30 minutes; • Coordinate Staff activities with other City Departments; and • Improve/correct information technology issues within PWS. SANITARY SEWER/RECLAIMED WATER Sanitary Sewer/Reclaimed Water Programs Improvements/expansion of the sanitary sewer and reclaimed water systems, and routine maintenance activities of both systems, are completed throughout the year with funding from the Wastewater Enterprise Fund. The City's WWTP is an Advanced Wastewater Treatment (AWT) Facility with a capacity of 1.8 million gallons per day (MGD). Operation of the City's reclaimed water system ensures that treated wastewater is primarily used for irrigation purposes and not discharged to the Banana River. Approximately 350 million gallons of reclaimed water were distributed to residents for irrigation purposes in 2014. As part of these Programs, the City has received a loan from FDEP through the State Revolving Fund (SRF) Program. This Program provides low interest loans to governmental agencies for construction of wastewater and stormwater-related capital improvement projects. The City included four major wastewater improvement projects as part of the SRF agreement. The City's Sanitary Sewer/Reclaimed Water Programs meet the following goal of the 2010 Envision Cape Canaveral Report: "WE ENVISION: This residential and business friendly atmosphere is one of a live -able, attractive, safe, secure and sustainable coastal community that embraces the beach and riverside as the main amenities, and supports local culture and education." 42 ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR YEAR 2014: WWTP Building Renovations The Main Building at the WWTP was updated and renovated. Improvements included construction of new restrooms, storage areas, a training room, kitchen facilities, a second floor Operations Control Room, a bleach system building and hardening of the exterior of the building to current Code requirements. Lift Station #4 Emergency Generator An emergency generator was installed on Coquina Drive in the Harbor Heights neighborhood. This Lift Station is the 5t to be modified to include an emergency generator for use during long power outages. Emergency Repairs to Sanitary Sewer Pipes Sanitary sewer pipes were replaced and associated manholes repaired at several locations throughout the City including the 100 block of Madison Avenue and the 400 block of West Central Boulevard. The pipes (constructed of clay) were subsiding, deteriorating and clogging with debris, and were replaced with PVC pipe. Engineering Drawings and Bid Specifications for SRF and Non-SRF Projects These documents were prepared for the following SRF and non-SRF wastewater system improvement projects to be completed in 2015: • SRF Projects: o Holman Road Sanitary Sewer Improvements (Phases I, II and III); o Sludge Belt Press Refurbishment (WWTP); o Building Addition for the second Sludge Belt Press (WWTP); o 2.5 Million Gallon Reclaimed Storage Tank (WWTP); and o Oxidation Ditch Improvements (WWTP). • Non-SRF Projects included: o Force Main #3 Replacement (West Central Boulevard); o Grit/Bar Screen Replacement (WWTP); and o Lift Stations #6 (Imperial Drive) and #7 (West Central Boulevard) Upgrades. Additional Services Staff will continue to provide residents with the highest quality of services concerning sanitary sewer/ reclaimed water services. Staff will also continue to: 43 • Conserve moneys and work within established budgets; • Perform preventive system maintenance; • Continue to replace outdated equipment with energy -efficient models; and • Continue to answer all residents' complaints within 30 minutes. MAJOR GOALS FOR YEAR 2015: Force Main #3 Replacement Project includes replacement of Force Main #3 in the northeastern portion of the City. This Force Main is the oldest in the City (installed over 25 years ago) and has experienced numerous breaks over the past few years. Staff developed a new route for the Force Main which reduced the required length of the underground pipe by 900 feet. Holman Road Improvements The sanitary sewer pipe located beneath Holman Road will be replaced with a 10-inch diameter pipe to (1) allow for future development in the area and (2) alleviate sewer back-up in a residence along Holman Road. The two pumps in Lift Station #9 located along Banana River Drive will also be replaced with smaller pumps to lessen flow. This Work is the first phase of a three -phased Project to replace the entire sanitary sewer pipe to Lift Station #2 located along Center Street. Reclaimed Storage Tank Project includes construction of a new 2.5 million gallon reclaimed storage tank at the WWTP. It will allow the City to eliminate discharges of treated wastewater to the Banana River and provide additional reclaimed water to residents, Port Canaveral and the City of Cocoa Beach. The City will also receive a significant amount of credits from FDEP's Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) Program for eliminating substantial nitrogen/phosphorous discharges to the Banana River. Sludge Belt Press Refurbishment The City's Sludge Belt Press is over 20 years old. Its purpose is to press solids from the wastewater process and direct the solids into dumpsters for transport/disposal at the Brevard County Landfill. Upon installation of a second sludge belt press, the existing sludge belt press will be refurbished. 44 Building Addition for Second Sludge Belt Press Project includes design and construction of a sludge belt press building addition to house a new, second sludge belt press. There is currently no redundancy with only a single sludge belt press. Adding a second sludge belt press will allow for improved maintenance and redundancy in the wastewater process. Oxidation Ditch Improvements Project includes complete redesign of the Oxidation Ditch system at the WWTP. There is currently no redundancy and the redesign will provide a second Oxidation Ditch process for use in emergency situations and will also allow for improved maintenance. The Work will include refurbishment of all pumps/valves for a more efficient system and installation of a cover over the existing Oxidation Ditch to limit offsite spray. Lift Station Rehabilitations Lift Station #7 located along West Central Boulevard will be upgraded and moved to Manatee Sanctuary Park. This upgrade is in response to planned development along the West Central Boulevard corridor. The Lift Station will also be moved to the Park to provide ease of maintenance and allow space for the installation of an emergency generator and other equipment. Lift Station #6 located along Imperial Boulevard will be upgraded in response to planned development in the northeastern portion of the City. Grit/Bar Screen System Replacement The existing grit/bar screen installed in the mid-1990s is outdated and in need of improved efficiency. Too much solid waste is passing through the screen and causing inefficiencies in the wastewater treatment process. The grit/bar screen will be replaced with an updated and energy -efficient model. Routine Maintenance Programs and Additional Services Staff will continue to provide residents with the highest quality of services concerning sanitary sewer/ reclaimed water services. Staff will also continue to: • Evaluate cost-cutting methods for the purchase of all WWTP supplies; • Conserve moneys and work within established budgets; • Perform preventive maintenance; • Continue to replace outdated and inefficient equipment with energy -efficient equipment; and • Continue to answer all residents' complaints within 30 minutes. STORMWA TER Stormwater Improvement Program Stormwater improvement projects and routine maintenance activities are completed throughout the year with funding from the Stormwater Enterprise Fund to improve the quality of stormwater discharging to the Banana River. Recognizing the economic and aesthetic benefits of a healthy estuary system, the City maintains an aggressive Program to improve the overall environmental condition of the Banana River. As part of this Program, the City has received a loan from FDEP through the SRF Program. This Program provides low interest loans to governmental agencies for construction of wastewater and stormwater- related capital improvement projects. The City included three major stormwater improvement projects as part of the SRF agreement. 45 The City's Stormwater Improvement Program meets the following goal of the 2010 Envision Cape Canaveral Report: "WE ENVISION: This residential and business friendly atmosphere is one of a live -able, attractive, safe, secure and sustainable coastal community that embraces the beach and riverside as the main amenities, and supports local culture and education." ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR YEAR 2014: Exfiltration Systems Installation Exfiltration piping was installed at two intersections to help alleviate significant street flooding after heavy rainfall events. Exfiltration piping, which consists of perforated stormwater pipe encased by gravel in synthetic sheeting, allows infiltration of stormwater into the surficial aquifer instead of direct discharge to the Banana River. Blue Life Program and Other Public Education The City contributed $3,024 to the Blue Life Program, which conducts a Stormwater Educational Program targeting the general public throughout Brevard County. This Program is administered by BCNRMO and helps meet the educational requirements of the City's National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit. Staff also provides stormwater-related educational materials to the general public through informational kiosks located at the City's Public Library and PWS Facility. Stormwater Inlet Replacements The City continued this long-term Project to replace older style stormwater inlets with new Type "C" inlets. These newer inlets require less maintenance, are not damaged as easily by vehicular traffic, prohibit larger debris from entering the stormwater system and provide improved stormwater flow. The City replaced 20 inlets in 2014. 46 TMDL Program This is a 15-year Program administered by FDEP to improve the quality and reduce the amount of stormwater discharged to water bodies throughout the State. Locally, FDEP is requiring that governmental entities and private stakeholders significantly reduce their runoff of nitrogen and phosphorous in stormwater to the Banana River. Staff worked closely with FDEP in 2014 to continue implementation of this Program. Basin Management Action Plan (BMAP) Committee Staff is involved with the Banana River BMAP Committee, which was formed as part of the TMDL Program. This Committee oversees stormwater improvements completed by governmental agencies and private stakeholders located in the Banana River Basin to ensure that progress is being made to reduce concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorous in stormwater. Stormwater Master Plan A new Stormwater Master Plan was prepared for the City; a previous Plan was prepared in 2000 and was outdated. The new Plan includes detailed mapping of the City's drainage basins and recommends projects to meet the requirements of the TMDL Program. In addition, most grant programs require that applicants maintain an updated Stormwater Master Plan to receive grant funding. Engineering Drawings and Bid Specifications for SRF and Non-SRF Projects These documents were prepared for the following SRF and non-SRF stormwater improvement projects to be completed in 2015: • SRF Projects: o West Central Boulevard Pipe Replacement; o Central Ditch Dredging (southern portion - West Central Boulevard); and o Canaveral City Park Exfiltration System (Jackson Avenue). • Non-SRF Projects include: o Central Ditch Dredging (northern portion); and o North Atlantic Avenue Streetscape Project. Routine Maintenance Programs The City routinely maintains its stormwater infrastructure. Routine maintenance tasks in 2014 included removal of debris from all nine nutrient -separating baffle boxes after heavy rainfall events, removal of 47 debris from stormwater inlets, monthly street sweeping and inspection/cleaning of manholes. The work was conducted primarily by the City's Inmate Work Squad. MAJOR GOALS FOR YEAR 2015: Canaveral City Park Exfiltration System Project includes re -directing stormwater in the International Drainage Basin to Canaveral City Park. Existing stormwater pipes will re -direct stormwater to exfiltration structures to be installed beneath the softball and Little League fields. Exfiltration structures, encased by gravel in synthetic sheeting, allow infiltration of stormwater into the surficial aquifer. Exfiltration of stormwater will eliminate a portion of the City's stormwater that flows to the Banana River. North Atlantic Avenue Streetscape Project Project includes construction of improvements to North Atlantic Avenue from the intersection with SR Al A to Port Canaveral. The streetscape improvements will include construction of bio-swales, a pedway/sidewalk system and installation of solar -powered lighting. A majority of the Project is being funded with moneys from Brevard County Transportation Impact Fees and FDOT. Stormwater Line Replacement (West Central Boulevard) The stormwater pipe located along the northern side of West Central Boulevard between the Central Ditch and Brown Circle will be replaced. The metal pipe will be excavated and replaced with reinforced concrete pipe of similar size. Central Ditch Dredging Project (Southern Portion) The Central Ditch located between West Central Boulevard and SR Al A contains significant organic muck in the channel bottom. This Project will include dredging of the ditch bottom and removal of debris from the ditch channel from West Central Boulevard to approximately 900 feet south. Central Ditch Dredging Project (Northern Portion) The Central Ditch located from the Oak Manor Trailer Park to its northern terminus near Port Canaveral contains significant organic muck in the channel bottom. This Project will include dredging of the ditch bottom and removal of debris from the ditch channel for a distance of approximately 1,300 feet. 48 Exfiltration Systems Installation Exfiltration piping will be installed at selected locations which experience significant street flooding after heavy rainfall events. Exfiltration piping allows infiltration of stormwater into the surficial aquifer instead of direct discharge to the Banana River. Construction will occur throughout the year. Blue Life Program and Other Public Education The City will continue to fund the Blue Life Program with an annual contribution of $3,024. Blue Life conducts a Stormwater Educational Program for the general public through various media. Staff will also continue to provide stormwater-related educational materials through informational kiosks located at the City's Public Library and PWS Facility. TMDL Program The City will continue to work with FDEP to improve the quality and lessen the amount of stormwater discharged to the Banana River. FDEP is requiring that governmental entities and private stakeholders significantly reduce their runoff of nitrogen/phosphorous in stormwater to the Banana River. The TMDL Program is a 15-year initiative. BMAP Committee Staff will continue to be involved with the Banana River BMAP Committee, which was formed as part of the TMDL Program. It oversees stormwater improvements completed by governmental agencies and private stakeholders located in the Banana River Basin to ensure that progress is being made to reduce concentrations of nitrogen/phosphorous in stormwater. Stormwater Inlet Replacements The City will continue to replace older style stormwater inlets with the new, more efficient Type "C" inlets. Twenty inlets are scheduled for replacement in 2015. Routine Maintenance Programs and Additional Services Staff will coordinate numerous stormwater improvement and maintenance projects in 2015 on an as needed basis. These improvements and routine maintenance typically include: • Construction of replacement curbing; • Cleaning of nine nutrient -separating baffle boxes after heavy rainfall events; • Street sweeping; 49 • Inspection/cleaning of manholes, pipes and stormwater swales; • Removal of debris from stormwater inlets. RECYCLING City Recycling Program With the assistance of the City's Solid Waste/Recycling Contractor (Waste Pro), Staff incorporated a number of enhancements to the City's Recycling Program in 2014. Staff and Waste Pro will continue to provide additional enhancements in 2015. ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR YEAR 2014: Program Enhancements • City Single Stream recycling awareness labels were applied to many recycling carts and recycling dumpsters at businesses and condominium/apartment complexes; • Via the City's web page and Blackboard Connect, Staff promoted Earth Day on April 22 and America Recycles Day on November 15; • Recycling and trash carts were provided for City sponsored events such as Friday Fest, Farmers Market, National Night Out, etc.; • Recycling amounts doubled at the WWTP due to renovations; • Recycling information was updated on the City's web page; • Recycling Public Awareness Booth, attended by Staff, was set up at Friday Fest and City Government Week events; and • City's recycling rate increased from <18% to 20% for the year. INFRASTRUCTURE MAINTENANCE Infrastructure Maintenance (IM) Program IM projects are completed throughout the year as part of a proactive Program to maintain, as well as improve, the City's infrastructure/amenities including roadways, sidewalks, buildings, beach -related facilities, streetscapes, landscaped areas and public parks. The Program meets the following goals of the 2010 Envision Cape Canaveral Report: 50 "WE ENVISION: This residential and business friendly atmosphere is one of a live -able, attractive, safe, secure and sustainable coastal community that embraces the beach and riverside as the main amenities, and supports local culture and education." ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR YEAR 2014: Beach Cleaning Activities Staff performed annual beach cleaning with the beach rake. Parking at the Washington Avenue beach crossover area was limited due to the placement of roll -off containers for debris storage. Four dumpsters of debris were collected and removed from the beach. Support for Leisure Services and City -related Events Staff provided maintenance and logistical support for Leisure Services and City -related public events including Friday Fest, Movie In The Park, Fall Festival, Space Coast Music Festival, Reindeer Run, soccer leagues, Little League and Library book sales. Mowing and ChemicaUFertilization Contracts The City's Mowing Contract was awarded for another year to JB's Lawn Control, Inc. of Titusville. The City's Chemical/Fertilization Contract was awarded for another year to Black's Spray Service, Inc. of Merritt Island. Ridgewood Avenue Streetscape Enhancements "Welcome to City of Cape Canaveral" banners were installed at the southern end of Ridgewood Avenue. Additional landscaping was planted and rock bedding was installed as part of continuing beautification efforts. Structural Repairs to Beach Crossovers Program includes refurbishing the City's beach crossovers. The Polk Avenue and Buchanan Avenue crossovers were refurbished in 2014 by Staff and the City's Inmate Work Squad utilizing lumber rock, a new composite material. Community & Economic Development Building Improvements In order to prepare for the new City Hall Building, Staff assisted in the renovation of 110 Polk Avenue, which is being used as temporary offices for Community & Economic Development Personnel. 51 Sidewalk and Curb Repairs Sections of sidewalks and curbs throughout the City were replaced in 2014 as part of ongoing maintenance activities to replace damaged curbs and sidewalks. A new sidewalk was constructed along the northern side of Banana River Drive from the City limits to the end of the roadway. Sea Oats Plantings Staff coordinated the annual planting of 7,200 sea oats by citizen volunteers along the City's beachfront. Sea oats were ordered through BCNRMO. Manatee Sanctuary Park Landscaping As part of parking lot improvements, Staff relocated the existing irrigation system, landscaped the center median and performed drainage improvements to the onsite stormwater swale system. Keep Brevard Beautiful (KBB) Activities The City, again, funded KBB with an annual contribution of $2,300. KBB conducted several environmental -related projects in the City such as beach cleanups, road and park cleanups, etc. Following is a summary of KBB activities conducted and estimated dollar values to the City from July 2013 through June 2014: • Adopt -A -Shore (AAS): 347 volunteer hours removed 4,500 pounds of trash (100% increase from 2013): Value = $6,246; • Adopt -A -Road (AAR): 128 volunteer hours removed 870 pounds of trash: Value = $2,304; • Trash Bash: 52 volunteer hours removed 300 pounds of trash: Value = $936; • Florida Coastal Clean-up: 100 volunteers - 400 volunteer hours removed 500 pounds of beach debris: Value = $1,800; • Total Measurable Value to City of Cape Canaveral = $11,286. KBB also participated in the following projects in the City: • Recycling Education Program was presented to 4th and 5th grade classes and consisted of two presentations (five classes and 110 students); • Anti -Litter Programs that assist teachers in educating students about litter are in place for kindergarten through 3rd grade; and • Sea Oats Dune Replacement Program assists students from Cape View Elementary School with adopting the 2nd beach entrance at Cherie Down Park — sea oats are planted, cultivated and watered. As of April 2000, the Litter Hotline has been available for motorists who witness littering on local highways/streets. These reports result in letters from BCSO to the observed offenders. Each month, the Hotline averages 75 to 100 reports. MAJOR GOALS FOR YEAR 2015: Sea Oats Plantings Staff will again coordinate this annual volunteer event to plant 7,200 sea oats along the City's beachfront on February 7, 2015. Plantings will be ordered through the BCNRMO. 52 Beach Cleaning Activities Staff will continue to perform annual beach cleaning with the beach rake in accordance with all FDEP requirements (i.e., only use the rake during non -nesting season for sea turtles). Support for Leisure Services and City -related Events Staff will continue to provide maintenance and logistical support for Leisure Services and City -related public events including Friday Fest, Movie In The Park, Fall Festival, Space Coast Music Festival, Reindeer Run, soccer leagues, Little League and Library book sales. Ridgewood Avenue Streetscape Decorative Street Signs Decorative street signs will be installed along the entire roadway as part of a continuing beautification program. Similar signs will also be used on the North Atlantic Avenue Streetscape Project. Infrastructure Maintenance Building Improvements Engineering plans and bid specifications will be prepared to construct upgrades to the IM Building at the PWS Facility. Improvements to the restrooms, break room, bay area and storage areas will be performed. Sidewalk and Curb Replacement Significant sections of damaged curbing and sidewalks will be replaced. This is part of routine maintenance activities to replace aging infrastructure and improve pedestrian safety throughout the City. Structural Repairs to Beach Crossovers The City will continue this Program to construct structural repairs to beach crossovers. The Jackson Avenue crossover will be refurbished in 2015. Estuary Rehabilitation Project Project includes clear -cutting of City -owned property located at the western end of Long Point Road. Existing vegetation on the property includes Brazilian pepper and other non-native species with little or no ecological value. Native vegetation will be planted and the property may eventually become a passive neighborhood park. Funding is from the City's General Fund, as well as a grant from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACOE). 53 KBB Activities The City will continue to fund KBB with an annual contribution of $2,300. KBB conducts several environmental -related projects in the City such as Brazilian pepper -busting events, beach cleanups, etc. Routine Maintenance Programs and Additional Services IM Staff will continue to assist other Departments in 2015 in the following areas: • Construction projects at City parks and buildings; • Routine maintenance activities at City parks and buildings; • Beautification projects throughout the City; and • Special City -related events. In general, Staff will perform duties/provide services to other Departments to minimize use of contractors. SUSTAINABILITY Defmition and City Goals As defined by USEPA, the concept of sustainability is based upon a single principle: Everything that we need for our survival and well-being depends, either directly or indirectly, on our natural environment. Sustainability creates and maintains the conditions under which humans and nature can exist in productive harmony, that permit fulfilling the social, economic and other requirements of present and future generations. Sustainability is important to making sure that we have and will continue to have, the water, materials, and resources to protect human health and our environment. Or more simply defined: Sustainability meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Sustainability has emerged as a result of significant concerns about the unintended social, environmental and economic consequences of rapid population growth, economic growth and consumption of our natural resources. Focus areas of sustainability for government agencies and the general public include: • Energy independence; • Climate protection; • Air quality; 54 • Material resources; • Public health and nutrition; • Urban design, land use, green building and transportation; • Parks, open spaces and habitat conservation; • Water resources and flood protection; and • Public involvement and personal responsibility. A major goal of the City is to make sustainability the next level of environmental protection by drawing on advances in science and technology to protect human health and the environment, and promoting innovative "green" business and operational practices. The concept of sustainability is also one of the major goals of the City's Vision Statement which states: This residential and business friendly atmosphere is one of a live -able, attractive, safe, secure and SUSTAINABLE coastal community that embraces the beach and riverside as the main amenities, and supports local culture and education. City Staff has embraced the Vision Statement and the concept of sustainability when completing infrastructure projects, and preparing future Capital Improvement Plans and budgets. Several City Programs and recently completed projects promote sustainability and are discussed in the following sections. Parks and Green Space Areas The City constructed a number of parks and green space areas. The largest parks include Manatee Sanctuary Park and Banana River Park along the City's riverfront and Canaveral City Park in the central portion of the City. Manatee Sanctuary Park consists of approximately ten acres and recent improvements include: • Stormwater detention pond, swales and underground piping; • Paved parking facilities with solar -powered lighting; • Additional trees (over 100 palms) and shrubs (i.e., beautification); • Numerous sculptures and educational information kiosks; and • Paved walking path with exercise stations. 55 Banana River Park consists of approximately five acres and future improvements (2015) include: • Pavilion area; • Expanded parking facilities with solar -powered lighting; • Improved stormwater treatment areas; and • Additional trees (15 palms planted to date) and shrubs (i.e., beautification). Canaveral City Park consists of approximately five acres and future improvements (2016) include: • Construction of an underground stormwater treatment area; • Improved stormwater inlets; • Upgraded softball and other sports facilities; and • Additional trees and shrubs (i.e., beautification). The underground stormwater treatment area for the Park will be somewhat unique in that stormwater will be directed to underground chambers for infiltration into the surficial aquifer instead of discharging to the Banana River. The use of underground chambers will allow for the same current land use (softball and Little League fields) after construction activities are completed. This type of stormwater treatment is used most successfully in areas with sandy soils and where land is not available for large stormwater detention ponds. Six other park facilities are located throughout the City for recreation purposes. Additional parks and green space areas may be constructed in the future if properties and funding become available. Complete Streets The complete streets concept is a major component of the City's Vision Statement and is defined as: A roadway where the entire right-of-way is designed and operated to enable safe access for all users. Pedestrian, bicyclists, motorists and transit riders of all ages and abilities are able to safely move along and across a complete street. City Staff has worked closely with the Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization (SCTPO) to construct complete streets projects and obtain outside funding. Projects completed to date or in the construction/planning phases include: • Ridgewood Avenue Streetscape Project — completed in 2011 on Ridgewood Avenue from the southern City limits to the northern terminus of the roadway (1.1 miles in length); • North Atlantic Avenue Streetscape Project — to be constructed in 2015 on North Atlantic Avenue from the intersection with SR Al A to Port Canaveral (1.1 miles in length); 56 • • Central Boulevard Streetscape Project — future complete street on Central Boulevard from Ridgewood Avenue to Thurm Boulevard — will provide easy access to the beach and riverfront (1.3 miles in length); • Thurm Boulevard Streetscape Project — potential future streetscape to provide safer access to riverfront parks in the northwestern portion of the City (0.6 miles in length); and • Center Street/Buchanan Avenue Streetscape Project — potential future streetscape project to provide easy east -west access to the beach and riverfront in the southern portion of the City (0.6 miles in length). For these completed projects, the City received the April 2014 "Outstanding Engineering Efforts in Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety" from SCTPO. These complete streets projects will provide easy north - south and east -west access to all areas of the City as well as: • Increase safety for motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians; • Support economic development; • Improve stormwater treatment; • Expand ability for residents to "move around"; and • Support an overall healthy community. Reclaimed Water Program The City operates and maintains a reclaimed water system at the 1.8 MGD Water Reclamation Facility located at the PWS Facility. Wastewater is treated to advanced treatment standards through a high-level disinfection process, and is continually monitored and analyzed to insure consistent high quality and compliance with State regulations. The primary benefits of maintaining a reclaimed water system are to reduce (1) the demand upon potable water supplies (aquifers) and (2) effluent discharges to the Banana River. Future projects include construction of a 2.5 million gallon reclaimed water tank that will allow the City to (1) increase the amount of reclaimed water available to residents and (2) eliminate discharges of treated wastewater to the Banana River thus reducing loadings of nitrogen and phosphorous. Stormwater Program The City completed construction of nine nutrient separating baffle boxes in all of the major stormwater outfall pipes. The baffle boxes collect debris, sediment and nutrients in stormwater prior to discharge to the Banana River, thus improving water quality. Through these stormwater improvement projects, the City was the first municipality in Florida to provide treatment of all stormwater prior to its discharge to the receiving water body. For these projects, the City received an award from the Marine Resources 57 Council for "outstanding efforts by a municipality to improve the health of the Indian River Lagoon". These and other future stormwater improvement projects are a part of the City's Stormwater Master Plan (revised in November 2014) to reduce the discharge of nutrients, sediment and debris in stormwater to the Banana River. City Staff is currently reviewing proposed stormwater improvement projects included in the Stormwater Master Plan to determine the most cost-effective way to meet the City's TMDL requirements. Future regulatory changes (Federal and State) may also require additional improvements to the City's existing stormwater management system. Beach Improvements The City previously performed two sand fence installation Projects along its beachfront. These Projects were completed with moneys from Infrastructure Maintenance and funds from FDEP through the Canaveral Port Authority. Work included installation of hundreds of sand fences to trap windblown sand to further stabilize and extend seaward the primary sand dune. The sand trapped by the fences also allows natural vegetation to grow and further stabilizes the primary sand dune. Through these efforts, the City received the "Environmental Project of the Year Award" in 2000 from the American Public Works Association (APWA). City Staff coordinates the annual planting of Sea Oats along the City's beachfront. These Projects are performed by citizen volunteers and include planting Sea Oats on the primary sand dune along the Atlantic Ocean. The Sea Oats (native vegetation) are planted to trap windblown sand, thus stabilizing the primary dune, and to beautify the City's beachfront. The extensive root systems of Sea Oats hold sand in - place, thus further stabilizing the primary dune. The City will continue to coordinate Sea Oats Planting Projects with citizen volunteers in order to maintain an aesthetically -pleasing beachfront. Citizen volunteers also participate in beach cleanup events sponsored by KBB. These Events are typically performed twice per year (Spring and Fall) and include the removal of litter from the City's beachfront and general cleanup of the primary sand dune area. The City will continue to coordinate beach cleanup events with KBB and citizen volunteers in order to maintain a clean City beachfront. Lighting Improvement Projects The City has completed a number of lighting improvement projects to (1) decrease light pollution, (2) lower utility costs, (3) improve energy efficiency and/or (4) reduce the City's carbon footprint. These projects include: • Installing shields on 65 utility pole lights along the beachfront area to limit impacts on sea turtle nesting; • Installing light -emitting diodes (LEDs) on new, decorative light poles at the City's Public Library parking lot; • Installing solar -powered, LED lighting as part of the Ridgewood Avenue Streetscape Project (also the upcoming North Atlantic Avenue Streetscape Project); • Installing solar -powered, LED lighting as part of the improvements to Manatee Sanctuary Park; and • Retrofitting T-12 lighting fixtures with more energy -efficient T-8 lighting fixtures in five City buildings. Future lighting improvement projects will also include the use of LEDs and solar -powered lighting, where appropriate, thus improving energy -efficiency and reducing the City's carbon footprint. Fire Station/WWTP Main Building/New City Hall Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards (Silver Certification) were used as building guidelines in recent new construction and/or rehabilitation of City buildings. These buildings included the construction of the new Fire Station and the rehabilitation of the Main Building at the WWTP. These standards were developed by the U.S. Green Building Council to encourage a more sustainable approach to building design, construction and operation. The LEED Program is composed of five main categories and includes: • Sustainable Sites — curtail pollution and soil erosion; • Water Efficiency — use 20% less water than standard buildings of similar size; • Energy and Atmosphere — use 10% less energy than standard buildings of similar size; • Materials and Resources — use recycled materials in building construction and ongoing operations; and • Indoor Environmental Quality — use ventilation and off -gassing of materials to reduce energy demands. LEED standards (Silver Certification) will continue to be used as a guide for all future construction and renovation of City buildings, specifically, in the construction of the New City Hall. Tree/Shrub/Flower Plantings The City maintains an aggressive tree, shrub and flower planting program in City parks and rights -of - way. Through these efforts, the City has been designated a "Tree City USA" by the Arbor Day 59 Foundation for the past 25 years. Just a few of the plantings that have occurred during the past few years include: • Manatee Sanctuary Park: 100+ large palms moved from Port Canaveral/West Central Boulevard; 15 large shrubs planted around the pavilion and turtle sculpture; two trees and eight large shrubs planted in the parking lot median; six wax myrtles replaced along the property line; and hundreds of flowers/low-lying shrubs/ground covers/chord grasses planted throughout the Park. • Banana River Park: 16 large palms moved to Park; 15 wax myrtles replaced along the property line; 10 large palm trees planted at the kayak launch; will add trees/shrubs/ground covers/flowers as part of future Park improvements in 2015. • Ridgewood Avenue Streetscape Project: 96 large trees planted; 48 large shrubs planted; and thousands of flowers/low-lying shrubs/ground covers/chord grasses planted. • North Atlantic Avenue Streetscape Project (to be completed in 2015): 97 trees, hundreds of large shrubs and thousands of flowers/low-lying shrubs/ground covers/chord grasses will be planted. • Central Ditch: 15 large trees planted. • Others: Five large Memorial trees planted and four large Arbor Day trees planted. In general, it is City policy to: • Move trees whenever possible — do not cut down; • Replace dead trees/shrubs as needed (funds budgeted annually); • Continue to add flowers/low-lying shrubs/ground covers/chord grasses to ROWs, medians and parks throughout the City (funds budgeted annually); and • Trim Oak trees by a licensed arborist only. The City will also continue to include funds in the annual budgets for planting new trees at selected locations throughout the City. Conclusions The City recognizes the concept of sustainability and embraces these principles into all planning activities, budget preparation and building designs. One of the City's goals is to "lead by example" when utilizing sustainability principles so that activities conducted by private enterprise will follow the same principles. As previously stated, the ultimate sustainability goal is detailed in the City's Vision Statement: This residential and business friendly atmosphere is one of a live -able, attractive, safe, secure and SUSTAINABLE coastal community that embraces the beach and riverside as the main amenities, and supports local culture and education. 60 CANAVERAL SERVICE PROVIDERS BREVARD COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE BREVARD COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE CAPE CANAVERAL PRECINCT ANNUAL REPORT 2014 61 CAPE CANAVERAL PRECINCT FRONT DESK The Cape Canaveral Front Desk is staffed by two (2) civilians and open Monday thru Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Front Desk Totals 2014 Data collected from October 1, 2013 to September 30, 2014 Type oM ss stanceRendered 013 201 "' o Change Total Citizens Assisted 1758 3279 46% Fingerprints Completed 169 269 37% Notary Services Provided 329 210 -57% Calls for Deputy Assistance Initiated 147 331 56% Record Checks Completed 29 48 40% CAPE CANAVERAL PRECINCT PATROL DIVISION The Brevard County Sheriff's Office Cape Canaveral Precinct staffs 28 sworn law enforcement officers serving the citizens of the City of Cape Canaveral and Avon by the Sea. Statistical Trends for 2013 — 2014 Data collected from October 1, 2013 to September 30, 2014 Category NM 201 , 2014 0/0 Change Total Calls 15,783 21,050 33% Case Reports 2,440 2,727 12% Warrant Arrests 628 746 19% Juvenile Arrested 12 31 158% Adult Arrested 618 709 15% Felony Charges 68 48 -29% Misdemeanor Charges 635 790 24% Domestic Violence Arrests 90 93 3% Burglaries — Vehicle 84 46 -45% Burglaries — Residential 75 65 -13% Burglaries — Business 6 4 -33% Robberies 9 5 -44% Drug Arrests 56 90 61% DUI Arrests 102 148 45% Traffic Citations (Criminal) 166 204 23% (Non -Criminal) 607 625 3% Traffic Warnings Issued 1,178 1,240 5% Traffic Accidents 202 215 6% Parking Tickets 150 317 111% 62 CAPE CANAVERAL PRECINCT GENERAL CRIMES UNIT The Cape Canaveral Precinct General Crimes Unit investigated 270 cases between October 1, 2013 and September 30, 2014. Of these cases, 115 were for information purposes only and 155 were assigned for further investigation. The General Crimes Unit recovered $70,614.00 in stolen property during the year. The unit also closed 22 cases by arresting individuals and issued 2 arrest warrants for crimes committed in the City of Cape Canaveral. TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT UNIT The Cape Canaveral Precinct Traffic Enforcement Unit provides traffic enforcement and education through the City of Cape Canaveral. Between October 1, 2013 and September 30, 2014, the Cape Canaveral Motor Unit completed Traffic Enforcement Calls, resulting in 321 traffic citations and 607 Written Warnings. COMMUNITY OUTREACH The Brevard County Sheriff's Office Cape Canaveral Precinct Special Operations Unit assisted with numerous events and programs during the year to include: ➢ National Night Out — The Brevard County Sheriffs Office partners with the Cape Canaveral Volunteer Fire Department to host National Night Out each year. This event provides the community a hands-on understanding of the equipment and resources available through the Sheriff and Fire Departments. ➢ Thanksgiving Meals — The Cape Canaveral Precinct helps to provide local families in need and those who are a part of the Meals on Wheels program with complete Thanksgiving meals. ➢ Christmas Angels — Partnering with local businesses, the Cape Canaveral Precinct and Fire Department provide toys for local children whose families are under financial strain. Last year, the program provided 115 local children and senior citizens with items for Christmas. We provided 21 families, including seniors, with Christmas dinners provided by Publix. ➢ Cape Canaveral Police Athletic League (PAL) — This program provides recreational activities for youths as an alternative to involvement in criminal conduct or gang involvement. This program is open to youth ages 13 to 17. ➢ Citizens Observer Patrol (COP) — The Citizens Observer Patrol is designed to assist deputies in combating crime. These volunteers are an extra set of eyes and ears in local neighborhoods and help to report and deter criminal activity. During the year, these volunteers logged an astounding 2,899 volunteer hours. ➢ Neighborhood and Business Watch — The Neighborhood and Business Watch programs center on neighbors and law enforcement personnel working together to increase community awareness and reduce crime. The Brevard County Sheriff's Office Crime Prevention unit offers a variety of programs to assist home and business owners in reducing their risk of crime. The Special Operations Unit also assists with many City sponsored events during the year such as Friday Fest, Space Coast Music Festival, Chili Cook -Off, Reindeer Run and many more. They work hand in hand with the Culture and Leisure Services Department of the City of Cape Canaveral to ensure that each function runs smoothly by providing a Law Enforcement presence. 63 CANAVERAL FIRE RESCUE CANAVERAL FIRE RESCUE Serving the city of Cape Canaveral & Canaveral Port Authority • Canaveral Fire Rescue (CFR) responded to 2426 calls for service; 69 less calls than last year. 1581were in the City. • The average response time in the City was 4 minutes and 57 seconds. • Emergency Medical Services represented 80.7% of all calls. 1345 ground transports, 29 Medical Helicopter fly outs, 110 Motor Vehicle Crashes, 100 physically disabled assists and 494 Advanced Life Support patients. • CFR Volunteers contributed 1914 hours. The majority of these hours were dedicated to training and coverage of special events. • CFR received and placed in service New Self Contained Breathing Apparatus. It was purchased with funds received from The Assistance to Firefighters Grant. Total funding received was $134,840. • Seaport Canaveral sent two CFR personnel to Williams Foam School in Texas. • Three personnel successfully completed Paramedic school. • All personnel re -certified as EMTs or Paramedics. • Firehouse 53 was successfully built and opened in September. This project was on time and within budget. This facility is one that the City can be proud of and will serve the Citizens for years to come. • Three additional shift personnel were added and funded by the Canaveral Port Authority (CPA). • CFR personnel worked closely with the Brevard County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) to make sure that the neediest were taken care of during the Holidays and throughout the year. CFR continued to assist BCSO with donated funds to sponsor community events. As always, BCSO/CFR received overwhelming support from the Community. The area Corvette Clubs, The Cove Association, Sea Port Canaveral, Ex -cell coatings and numerous others continue to be gracious supporters in these endeavors. • Department personnel provided the City and Port employees training on the following Emergency Management courses: Damage assessment and Emergency Operations Center Ops. • Training hours completed in 2014 were in excess of 4081 hours. • The Department conducted several Mutual Aid trainings with Cocoa Beach, Brevard County and the U.S. Coast Guard. 64 CANAVERAL FIRE RESCUE Serving the city of Cape Canaveral & Canaveral Port Authority • Over 400 contacts with grade school students throughout the year. • Numerous facility tours for community organizations. • Assisted with the City's/Community events: Kids Community Awareness, National Night Out, USCG Field Day, Summer Camp, Community Health Fair, Healthy Kids, Fall Festival, Reindeer Run, Santa in the City, Corvette Club Christmas, Cape View Elementary School Government Week, Friday Fests and numerous others. • Provided additional coverage for several major events including Concerts, Sea Food Festival, Space Coast Art Show, boat races and numerous activities at the Exploration Tower. • Completed 52 Port Canaveral Maritime Academy Firefighting trainings and 57 CPR courses. • Conducted 15 firefighting days for Eastern State College. • All required Pre -Fire plan drawings and updates were completed in the City and Port. • Fire Prevention conducted 831 inspections, 574 re -inspections, 138 plans reviews and 208 public information requests. • Lifeguards performed 12 personnel rescues, 4932 preventative actions, located 96 missing persons, treated 215 for minor injuries and provided major medical care to 3. 65