The next steps were taken in the replacement of the Planteen Recreation Center.
The last commission meeting of April began at 6:00 p.m., with everyone in attendance, with the exception of City Commissioner Mike Sparkman.
First on the agenda was recognition 26-185 the presentation of a proclamation declaring May 7, 2026, as “National Day of Prayer in Plant City.” Mayor Nate Kilton said he encourages citizens to gather for this day in his or her own manner.
During public comments, the secretary for the fire department thanked commissioners and the city manager for their continued support and efforts.
Following public comments were the consent agendas 26-137, resolution approving minutes from the April 13 meeting, and 26-183, resolution accepting the easement deed and mortgage subordination from Stack-Plant City & MLK Jr, LLC, a Utah Limited Liability Company, which passed unanimously.
Nest was the City Manager report.
26-137- Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute an Architectural Work Order with ASD/SKY, Inc. for Fire Station 1 Renovation and Addition, Design and Engineering Services.
Fire Chief Ditmon said the station, built in 1993, needs upgrades to meet modern standards and operational demands. Planned improvements include 11 sleeping rooms and a ventilated gear storage area. The approved work order totals $305,412.
“This is past due, and I am looking forward to seeing the result,” said Commissioner Bill Dodson.
The resolution passed 4-0.
26-182 – Resolution authorizing the City Manager to purchase 13 sets of structural firefighting bunker gear from Municipal Fire Equipment Company, under Lake County contract Bid No. 22-730H.
The fire department is 85% compliance with the PFAS-free bunker gear. The department is asking for money to purchase 13 more uniforms that will replace the old gear.
Ditmon asked the commission to approve $78,451.75 for the 13 uniforms from the existing budget.
The resolution passed 4-0.
26-147 – Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute Construction Contract Change Order No. 2 with Vogel Bros. Building Co. for additional grit and sand removal.
Utilities Director Lynn Spivery said one basin has not been cleaned in 10 years. The approved cost for the work is $168,300 to remove the sand and grit.
This resolution passed 4-0.
26-154 – Resolution authorizing staff to proceed with the Request for Qualification (RFQ) to secure a vendor to provide design development and construction documents as the next step in the Planteen Recreation Center replacement project.
Parks and Recreation Director Julie Garretson presented renderings of the proposed two-story facility, which would include event space, a commercial kitchen, classrooms, and offices, along with a pedestrian bridge over Baker Street. The estimated cost is $27.4 million, though it may vary.
“I thought that utilizing CIT to finance this was a very appropriate way to go. This is a referendum that the residents of the city want for projects like this,” said City Manager Bill McDaniel.
This resolution passed 4-0.
26-170 – Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute Work Order No. 25-017PK-JG-PB-02 with Witt Fence Co. for replacement fencing.
Garretson said the existing fence is rusted and no longer provides adequate safety. The project will install a 4-foot-high chain-link fence at a cost of $53,640.
This resolution passed 4-0.
26-178 – Resolution approving an agreement with JVS Contracting, Inc. for the Asbestos Abatement and Demolition of 301 West Reynolds Street.
McDaniel said the old post office was recently inspected, and the building needs to be demolished. During the inspection, there was asbestos on the pipes in the basement and in the crawl spaces.
“Some people have an attachment to the building, and trying to restore and preserve it would cost millions to bring it up to code,” he said.
McDaniel asked for $194,900 to remove the asbestos and demolition of the building.
“Demolition is the most appropriate path forward,” he said.
The resolution passed 4-0.
During final comments, Kilton proposed naming a new financial building after Commissioner Bill Dodson if the purchase is completed. He also suggested installing a plaque in the new Planteen Community Center in honor of Commissioner Mike Sparkman.
Both recognitions were approved 4-0.
Next was the legislative public hearings.
26-177 – Legislative public hearing regarding a text amendment to modify the requirements related to Murals.
Planning and zoning asked to change the definition under section 102-2071 and section 102-2072, allowing murals in all zoning districts.
This passed 4-0.
Lastly were the quasi-judicial public hearings.
26-173 – Quasi-judicial public hearing on an ordinance to modify the Parkway Plaza Community Unit District located at the northwest corner of James L. Redman Parkway and Johnson Road (PB-2024-48).
The change allows parcels previously designated for office use to be converted to retail, supporting redevelopment opportunities.
The owner of the property said there are several buyers who want to go in on the buildings but need them to be retail space.
The ordinance passed 4-0.
26-175 Quasi-judicial public hearing on an ordinance to modify the Lakeside Station Planned Development District located south of E. U.S. Highway 92, north of Coronet Road, east of South Park Road, and west of South Wiggins Road (PB-2025-30).
Modifications to the Lakeside Station Planned Development District, including changes to street layout, fewer access points, and the addition of a 50-foot enhanced buffer.
Resident William Thomas Jr. expressed support but emphasized the importance of keeping residents informed about access changes. Bren Hoven also voiced support, commending the planning team for the buffer addition.
This ordinance passed 4-0.
The meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m. The next commission meeting is scheduled for May 11.
