12-13-94 DECEMBER 13, 1994
A Regular Meeting of the City Commission of the City of
Delray Beach, Florida, was called to order by Mayor Thomas E.
Lynch in the Commission Chambers at City Hall at 6:00 P.M.,
Tuesday, December 13, 1994.
1. Roll call showed:
Present - Commissioner Jay Alperin
Commissioner Ken Ellingsworth
Commissioner Barbara Smith
Mayor Thomas E. Lynch
Absent - Commissioner David Randolph
Also present were City Manager David T. Harden and City Attorney Susan A. Ruby
2. The opening prayer was delivered by Reverend Greg
Barrette, Unity of Delray Beach Church.
3. The Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United
States of America was given.
4. Agenda Approval.
Mr. Ellingsworth requested that Item 8.D. (HOLD
HARMLESS AGREEMENT/SPLENDID BLENDEDS, INC.) be moved to the
Regular Agenda as Item 9.A.A.
Mr. Ellingsworth moved approval of the agenda, as
amended, seconded by Mrs. Smith. Upon roll call the Commission
voted as follows: Mrs. Smith - Yes; Dr. Alperin - Yes; Mr.
Ellingsworth - Yes; Mayor Lynch - Yes. Said motion passed with a
4 to 0 vote.
5. Approval of Minutes:
Regular Meeting of November 15, 1994.
Mayor Lynch noted a misspelled word on Page 10, Line 6
from the bottom. Mr. Ellingsworth moved to approve the Minutes
of the Regular Meeting of November 15, 1994 as amended, seconded
by Dr. Alperin. Upon roll call the Commission voted as follows:
Dr. Alperin - Yes; Mr. Ellingsworth - Yes; Mayor Lynch - Yes;
Mrs. Smith. Said motion passed with a 4 to 0 vote.
6. Proclamations: None
7. Presentations: None
8. Consent Agenda: City Manager recommends approval.
8.A. FINAL PLAT APPROVAL/ESTATES MANGO DE PARIS: Approve
the final plat for Estates Mango de Paris, a proposed 15 lot
single- family subdivision on 9.5 acres. The subject property is
located on the west side of N.W. 4th Avenue, between N.W. 12th
Street and N.W. 13th Street.
8.B. RESERVATION AGREEMENT/PALM TRAIL PLAZA: Approve a
reservation agreement with Palm Trail Plaza, Inc., 800 Palm
Trail, providing for the reservation of the southernmost 15 feet
of Lot 10, Block 5, Sophia Frey Subdivision, for future
conveyance to the City for road widening of the George Bush
Boulevard right-of-way.
8.C. HOLD HARMLESS A/qD MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT/PALM TRAIL
PLAZA: Approve an agreement with Palm Trail Plaza, Inc., 800
Palm Trail, to provide for the maintenance of the parking area
along the Palm Trail right-of-way and further providing a hold
harmless agreement to the City.
8.D. THIS ITEM WAS MOVED TO THE REGULAR AGENDA.
8.E. AGREEMENT WITH COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY/WEST
ATLANTIC AVENUE REDEVELOPMENT PLAN: Approve an agreement between
the City and the Community Redevelopment Agency for the
preparation of a Redevelopment Plan for West Atlantic Avenue
(Redevelopment Area #1).
8.F. UTILITY EASEMENT FROM COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
FOR HISTORIC HOMES: Accept an easement deed from the Community
Redevelopment Agency granting an 8 foot utility easement along
the south boundary of Lot 6, Block 60, to provide a water main
extension to the two historic homes on Swinton Avenue.
8.G. UTILITY EASEMENT FROM COUNTRY MANORS ASSOCIATION:
Accept an easement deed from Country Manors Association granting
a 12 foot utility easement in Country Manors, Section 3, to allow
for the installation of water main improvements east of Military
Trail.
8.H. THIS ITEM WAS REMOVED FROM THE AGENDA.
8.I. RESOLUTION NOS. 95-94 THROUGH 98-94/ACQUISITION OF
PROPERTIES UNDER HOPE 3 HOUSING PROGRAM: Approve Resolution No.
95-94 authorizing the acquisition of property at 511 SE Angler
Drive, Resolution No. 96-94 authorizing the acquisition of
property at 264 N.E. 14th Street, Resolution No. 97-94
authorizing the acquisition of property at 5072 N.W. 5th Street,
and Resolution No. 98-94 authorizing the acquisition of property
at 239 N.E. 1st Avenue for use under the Hope 3 Housing Program.
The captions of Resolution Nos. 95-94 through 98-94 are
as follows:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY
OF DELRAY BEACH, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO
PURCHASE FROM SELLER CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY IN
PALM BEACH COUNTY, FLORIDA, AS DESCRIBED HEREIN,
HEREBY INCORPORATING AND ACCEPTING THE SALES
CONTRACT STATING THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR THE
SALE AND PURCHASE BETWEEN THE SELLER AND THE CITY
OF DELRAY BEACH, FLORIDA, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE
PALM BEACH COUNTY HOUSING PARTNERSHIP, INC.
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(Copy of Resolution Nos. 95-94 through 98-94 are on
file in the official Resolution Book)
8.J. RESOLUTION NO. 99-94/AMENDED HOUSING INCENTIVE PLAN:
Approve Resolution No. 99-94 which amends the Housing Incentive
Plan pursuant to direction from the State Housing Finance
Agency.
Copy of Resolution No. 99-94 is as follows:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY
OF DELRAY BEACH, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE AFFORDABLE
HOUSING INCENTIVE PLAN PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS
OF THE STATE HOUSING INITIATIVE PARTNERSHIP
(SHIP) PROGRAM, FLORIDA STATE STATUTES CHAPTER
420.9076; PROVIDING FOR SPECIFIC INITIATIVES TO
ENCOURAGE OR FACILITATE AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND A
SCHEDULE FOR IMPLEMENTATION; AUTHORIZING THE
SUBMISSION OF THE AMENDED PLAN TO THE STATE
HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY; PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
(Copy of Resolution No. 99-94 is on file in the offi-
cial Resolution Book)
9.K. AWARD OF BIDS AND CONTRACTS:
1. Contract Award - one year renewable contract to
Vulcan Peroxidation Systems, Inc. for chemicals to
remove odor causing hydrogen sulfide from the
City's wastewater transmission system, in the
amount of $116,997.20 with funding from Lift
Station Maintenance - Chemicals (Account No.
441-5144-536-52.21).
2. Lease agreement - three-year lease of a Canon
NP-8530 copier for the Planning & Zoning and
Community Improvement Departments. The monthly
lease which includes a service contract is $589.65,
with funding from Planning and Zoning Rentals and
Leases - Equipment (Account No. 001-2511-515-
44.30) .
3. Lease/purchase of photocopier (Kodak Model 2085)
for City Clerk's Office - from Eastman Kodak
Company, via GSA Contract, with lease financing
through Barnett Bank at a monthly cost of $861.11
for 48 months, plus $337.00 per month maintenance.
Funding is available from Debt Service -
Lease/Purchase (Account No. 001-7111-519-71.50).
4. Contract Award to Hardrives of Delray, Inc. for the
North Tank/City Attorney Office Site Modifications;
reconstructing an asphalt parking lot, stormwater
retention basin, landscaping, and irrigation
improvements, with funding in the amount of
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$161,420 from Capital Outlay - Improvements City
Attorney Block (Account No. 441-5161- 536-63.91).
5. Bid Award - to Telcon, Inc. for the 24" Raw Water
Main - Phase III and associated road restoration
from Military Trail to Homewood Boulevard, with
funding in the amount of $977,443 from 1993 B Water
and Sewer Revenue Bond Construction - Wells
Morikami Park 6 (Account No. 440-5179-536- 63.61).
6. Grant Awards - Four Housing Rehabilitation Grant
Awards, through the State Housing Initiatives
Partnership Program (SHIP) and the Home Investment
Partnerships Program (HOME), to be awarded as
follows: $17,619 for rehabilitation at 305
Roosevelt Avenue, $25,184 for 313 S.W. 15 Terrace,
$18,884 for 216 S.W. 3 Avenue, and $13,613 for 709
SoW. 10 Street. Funding is available from SHIP
(Account No. 118-1924-554- 49.90), and HOME
(Account No. 118-1923-554-49.19).
Mr. Ellingsworth moved to approve the Consent Agenda,
as amended, seconded by Mrs. Smith. Upon roll call the
Commission voted as follows: Mr. Ellingsworth - Yes; Mayor Lynch
- Yes; Mrs. Smith - Yes; Dr. Alperin - Yes. Said motion passed
with a 4 to 0 vote.
9. Regular Agenda:
9.A.A. HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT/SPLENDID BLENDEDS, INC.:
Approve a hold harmless agreement with Splendid Blendeds, Inc.,
432 East Atlantic Avenue, to permit the establishment of a
sidewalk cafe in the public right-of-way adjacent to the
restaurant.
Mr. Ellingsworth stated that the placing of additional
tables would make it more confusing for pedestrian movement. He
brought attention to the fact that the traffic light is affixed
to a large pole and is located within the public right-of-way,
along with the traffic control box.
Mayor Lynch reported that the property owner, Splendid
Blendeds, Inc. and three other merchants have agreed to the
additional tables and entered into a private agreement.
It was explained by the City Attorney that any
agreement between private parties is just that an agreement
between private parties and the City does not enforce private
agreements.
Mr. Ellingsworth moved for denial of the Hold Harmless
Agreement with Splendid Blendeds, Inc., on the basis that the
placement of additional tables within the public right-of-way
would be difficult for pedestrian movement. There was no second
to the motion.
4 12/13/94
Diane Dominguez, Planning Director, pointed out that
the area in question is unusual and agreed with Mr.
Ellingsworth's comment regarding the structures located there.
She noted that the sidewalk is wide enough to accommodate
additional tables. She noted that several potted plants were
located within the cleared area which add to the restriction as
well; and, perhaps the owner of the cafe could remove or replace
them with less restricted plantings.
Mayor Lynch commented that several years ago the
Chamber of Commerce took a stand that they would like to see more
pedestrian activity on East Atlantic Avenue. He felt the outside
cafes were beneficial in this respect and the Commission should
reach some sort of compromise rather than deny the request.
Discussion ensued. The consensus of the Commission was
that staff should study the issue further and return with a
recommendation before formal action is taken.
Mrs. Smith moved to postpone the Hold Harmless
Agreement with Splendid Blendeds, Inc., until such time that
staff has studied the matter further and return with a
recommendation, seconded by Mr. Ellingsworth. Upon roll call the
Commission voted as follows: Mayor Lynch - Yes; Mrs. Smith
Yes; Dr. Alperin - Yes; Mr. Ellingsworth - Yes. Said motion
passed with a 4 to 0 vote.
9.A. REVIEW OF APPEALABLE LAND DEVELOPMENT BOARD ACTIONS:
Consider accepting the actions and decisions made by the Site
Plan Review and Appearance Board and the Historic Preservation
Board during the period December 5, 1994 through December 9,
1994.
Dr. Alperin moved to receive and file the report,
seconded by Mr. Ellingsworth. Upon roll call the Commission
voted as follows: Mrs. Smith - Yes; Dr. Alperin - Yes; Mr.
Ellingsworth - Yes; Mayor Lynch Yes. Said motion passed with a
4 to 0 vote.
9.B. CONDITIONAL USE APPROVAL/PARKING LOT IN THE OLD SCHOOL
SQUARE HISTORIC ARTS DISTRICT: Consider conditional use approval
for the establishment of a parking lot on vacant property located
across from the Community Center on the east side of N.W. 1st
Avenue.
Dr. Alperin moved for approval of the Conditional Use
Approval for the Parking Lot in the Old School Square Historic
Arts District, seconded by Mr. Ellingsworth. Upon roll call the
Commission voted as follows: Dr. Alperin - Yes; Mr. Ellingsworth
- Yes; Mayor Lynch - Yes; Mrs. Smith - Yes. Said motion passed
with a 4 to 0 vote.
9.C. SPECIAL EVENT APPROVAL/BOOKFEST OF THE PALM BEACHES:
Consider endorsement of BookFest, approval of a temporary use
permit for the use of tents and closure of N.E. 1st Avenue,
approval of staff support and waiver of one-half of associated
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overtime costs, and waiver of LDR Section 4.6.7(J) (ii) to allow
banners and signs to be put up more than one week prior to the
event. BookFest is to be held in Delray Beach on February 17-19,
1995.
Bob Barcinski, Assistant City Manager, stated that the
BookFest will be a very large event. BookFest will be using the
grounds at Old School Square; a part of the street will be closed
off; activities will be held at the theatre and the gym; a
lecture series will be held in the Commission Chambers; and,
events held at various business locations along Atlantic Avenue.
Mayor Lynch stated the request for the 50/50 split for
overtime costs was the same as the Delray Affair and other
events.
Ms. Sally Bailey, BookFest Sales Committee Chair, was
present and expressed appreciation to the Commission for its
consideration in this matter.
Dr. Alperin moved for approval as recommended by staff,
seconded by Mrs. Smith. Upon roll call the Commission voted as
follows: Mr. Ellingsworth - Yes; Mayor Lynch - Yes; Mrs. Smith -
Yes; Dr. Alperin - Yes. Said motion passed with a 4 to 0 vote.
9.D. REQUEST FOR CONTRIBUTION/BOOKFEST OF THE PALM BEACHES:
Consider BookFest request for contribution in the amount of
$2,500.
Mr. Ellingsworth was hesitant to approve another
contribution as the Commission has been trying to wean itself
from such requests.
Mayor Lynch offered to write a letter to the Village of
Palm Springs stating that it is a good commitment; however, the
City of Delray Beach has offered to contribute to overtime costs;
and has a share of In-Kind Services in the approximate amount of
$2,5oo.
Dr. Alperin moved to deny the request for a donation in
the amount of $2,500.00 in support of the BookFest of the Palm
Beaches and that Mayor Lynch will forward a letter informing the
Village of Palm Springs of the City's commitment, seconded by Mr.
Ellingsworth. Upon roll call the Commission voted as follows:
Mayor Lynch - Yes; Mrs. Smith - Yes; Dr. Alperin - Yes; Mr.
Ellingsworth - Yes. Said motion passed with a 4 to 0 vote.
9.E. SPECIAL EVENT APPROVAL/DELRAY AFFAIR: Consider
approval of a special event request from the Chamber of Commerce
for the Delray Affair which is scheduled for April 21, 22 and 23,
1995.
Dr. Alperin moved for the approval of the Special Event
Approval as recommended by staff for the Delray Affair, seconded
by Mr. Ellingsworth. Upon roll call the Commission voted as
6 12/13/94
follows: Mrs. Smith - Yes; Mr. Ellingsworth - Yes; Dr. Alperin -
Yes; Mayor Lynch - Yes. Said motion passed with a 4 to 0 vote.
9.F. FORMATION OF A SOUTH PALM BEACH COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD
ADVISORY GROUP: Consider a recommendation of the Education Board
that a School Board Advisory Group be established consisting of
representatives from Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, Boca Raton and
the unincorporated areas west of these communities.
Kathy Shabotynskyj, member of the Education Board,
distributed maps to the Commission which outlined the districts
and indicated there would be three members of the School Board
representing the three cities. She pointed out that this is a
conceptual plan and the Education Board would like to know if the
City feels it is a good idea before the board does more research.
The primary idea for the formation of the School Board Advisory
Group is to act as a viable vehicle. The Advisory Group will
review items that are relative to these three cities before being
forwarded to the School Board. This will allow for more control
and would assist the School Board to be more efficient. She
asked if Mayor Lynch could contact the mayors of Boynton Beach
and Boca Raton to see if they would be receptive to the idea.
Mayor Lynch stated that he viewed the four geographic
areas as having diverse needs and was unsure how to go about
getting the group together. He pointed out that the City of
Delray Beach has the most critical situation as the City's
children are being bussed more than the other areas. Also, Delray
has the oldest schools, therefore our needs will be greater in
the future. He pointed out further that Boynton Beach has
already received approval for two new schools. He also felt
since the Education Board has been a very strong pro-active board
for many years they should retain its strength. In conclusion,
Mayor Lynch felt that the City of Delray Beach would be better
off acting alone in this regard.
It was emphasized by Dr. Alperin that the School Board
has a huge district and it has become too difficult to handle at
the present time. He commented that the southern portion of the
County has approximately half of population of school aged
children and felt that the southern portion of the County should
consider separating and dealing with its own problems.
After discussion, it was the consensus of the
Commission to have the Education Board proceed to see if there
was interest and the Mayor would do whatever was necessary to
accomplish the formation of the South Palm Beach County School
Board Advisory Group.
9.G. CHANGE ORDER NO. 1/HARDRIVES OF DELRAY, INC.: Consider
Change Order No. 1 to the contract with Hardrives of Delray, Inc.
for the removal of either 23 or 43 existing stabilized sod
parking spaces and replacement with paved parking along the south
side of the Tennis Center parking area on Atlantic Avenue, in the
amount of $12,391.00 for 23 spaces, or $17,182.00 for 43 spaces;
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with funding from Tennis Center - Permanent Parking (Account No.
334-4145-572-63.10).
Mayor Lynch explained that Change Order No. 1 is for
additional work on the south side of the stadium. Parks and
Recreation and Environmental Services recommended that all 43
parking spaces be completed now in order to minimize maintenance
costs; and, the City Manager's recommendation for 23 parking
spaces in order to retain the open space. This area would be
available for parking during overflow times.
It was suggested by Mayor Lynch that the four most
easterly parking spaces be deleted.
It was explained by the City Manager that the code has
been changed since the facility was initially designed. In
response to Mayor Lynch's suggestion, the City Manager suggested
retaining the two most easterly spaces and delete the two most
westerly spaces.
Dr. Alperin moved for the approval of Change Order No.
1 to the contract with Hardrives of Delray Beach, Inc. for the
removal of 21 existing stabilized sod parking spaces as
recommended by the City Manager, seconded by Mr. Ellingsworth.
Upon roll call the Commission voted as follows: Dr. Alperin -
Yes; Mr. Ellingsworth - Yes; Mayor Lynch - Yes; Mrs. Smith - No.
Said motion passed with a 3 to 1 vote.
9.~. CF~%NGE ORDER NO. 1/O'CONNOR AND TAYLOR: Consider add
Change Order No. 1 in the amount of $16,095.00 with O'Connor and
Taylor for additional pavement replacement at the Golf Course
Clubhouse project site; with funding from Golf Course Clubhouse -
Buildings (Account No. 445-4763-572-62.10), through budget
transfer from Contingency (Account No. 445-4763-572-99.02).
Mrs. Smith moved for approval of Change Order No. 1
with O'Conner and Taylor, Inc. in the amount of $16,095.00,
seconded by Mr. Ellingsworth. Upon roll call the Commission
voted as follows: Mr. Ellingsworth Yes; Mayor Lynch - No; Mrs.
Smith - Yes; Dr. Alperin - Yes. Said motion passed with a 3 to 1
vote.
Prior to roll call Mayor Lynch stated that he would not
vote in support of the Change Order No. 1 on the basis of
principle.
9.I. CONTRACT ADDITION/INTERCOUNTY ENGINEERING, INC.:
Consider a contract addition (Change Order No. 1) to Intercounty
Engineering, Inc., for water main and fire hydrant installation
at three locations (NE 5th Street, NE 3rd Street and CRA complex
on Block 60). Total amount of contract addition is $70,900.00,
with funding as follows: $9,450.00 from Capital Outlay - Water
Mains (Account No. 441-5161-536-63.50); $47,250.00 from Connec-
tion Fees - Other Improvements (Account No. 441-5181-536- 63.90);
$14,200.00 from Renewal and Replacement - Water Distribution
8 12/13/94
Improvements (Account No. 442-5178-536-61.78). Also included is
a 45 day extension of the contract time.
Dr. Alperin moved to approve the Contract Addition with
Intercounty Engineering, Inc. in the total amount of $70,900.00,
seconded by Mrs. Smith. Upon roll call the Commission voted as
follows: Mayor Lynch - Yes; Mrs. Smith - Yes; Dr. Alperin - Yes;
Mr. Ellingsworth - Yes. Said motion passed with a 4 to 0 vote.
9.J. APPOINTMENT TO THE DELRAY BEACH HOUSING AUTHORITY:
Appoint a resident member to the Delray Beach Housing Authority
to a four year term ending July 14, 1998.
Mayor Lynch noted that at the Commission meeting of
November 15, 1994, Mr. Randolph had passed his recommendation to
the next member in the rotation.
Mayor Lynch recommended the appointment of Robin
Preston to the Delray Beach Housing Authority.
Mr. Ellingsworth moved to appoint Robin Preston as a
resident member to the Delray Beach Housing Authority to a four
year term ending July 14, 1998, seconded by Dr. Alperin. Upon
roll call the Commission voted as follows: Mrs. Smith - Yes; Dr.
Alperin - Yes; Mr. Ellingsworth - Yes; Mayor Lynch - Yes. Said
motion passed with a 4 to 0 vote.
9.K. APPOINTMENT TO THE DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY:
Appoint a member to the Downtown Development Authority to fill an
unexpired term ending July 1, 1995.
Mr. Ellingsworth moved to appoint Marguerite (Meg)
Eaton to the Downtown Development Authority to fill an unexpired
term ending July 1, 1995, seconded by Mrs. Smith. Upon roll call
the Commission voted as follows: Mrs. Smith - Yes; Dr. Alperin -
Yes; Mr. Ellingsworth - Yes; Mayor Lynch - Yes. Said motion
passed with a 4 to 0 vote.
9.L. SETTLEMENT OFFER/ELAINE WHITE VS. THE CITY OF DELRAY
BEACH: Consider settlement in the above referenced case.
The City Attorney stated that the settlement offer
relates to a case of Elaine White versus the City of Delray
Beach. The Plaintiff is suing the City for an alleged failure to
promote her in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.
It was pointed out by the City Attorney that the City
has acted properly in this particular case; however, there was a
potential for a trial. She noted that litigation expenses could
possibly amount to $90,000.00 and to avoid the uncertainty of the
outcome, recommended the Commission approve the settlement offer.
Mr. Ellingsworth moved to approve the Settlement Offer
with Elaine White versus the City of Delray Beach in the amount
of $17,950.00, seconded by Dr. Alperin. Upon roll call the
Commission voted as follows: Dr. Alperin - Yes; Mr. Ellingsworth
9 12/13/94
- Yes; Mayor Lynch - No; Mrs. Smith - Yes. Said motion passed
with a 3 to 1 vote.
At this point the Commission moved to the First
Readings portion of the Agenda.
12. First Readlnqs:
12.A. ORDINANCE NO. 100-94: An ordinance amending LDR
Section 1.3, "Non-Conforming Uses, Lots and Structures", to
provide for a grace period for post-disaster reconstruction of
residential and hotel/motel structures to existing heights and
densities. If passed, public hearing on January 3, 1995.
The City Manager presented Ordinance No. 100-94:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY
OF DELRAY BEACH, FLORIDA, AMENDING ARTICLE 1.3,
"NONCONFORMING USES, LOTS, AND STRUCTURES", OF
THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS OF THE CITY OF
DELRAY BEACH, FLORIDA, BY AMENDING SECTION
1.304(B) AND SECTION 1.3.5(C), TO PROVIDE FOR AN
EXCEPTION AS SET FORTH IN SECTION 1.3.8;
ENACTING A NEW SECTION 1.3.8 TO PROVIDE FOR THE
RECONSTRUCTION OF NONCONFORMING RESIDENTIAL
STRUCTURES DESTROYED BY CATASTROPHE; PROVIDING A
GENERAL REPEALER CLAUSE, A SAVING CLAUSE, AND AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
The City Attorney read the caption of the ordinance.
Mayor Lynch expressed concern that the word
"catastrophe" is not clearly defined. Also, he questioned the
second paragraph of Section 1.3.8 which states that in cases of
post-disaster reconstruction of nonconforming residential
structures does not apply to structures which are damaged or
destroyed by deliberate action such as arson. He asked if a
tenant caused the arson, would it still damage the property
rights of the owner?
The City Attorney responded that it would apply in this
particular scenario and that the property owner would not be able
to reconstruct. She explained that "catastrophe" does exclude
intentional acts.
It was suggested by Mayor Lynch that the language of
the ordinance be modified to clearly define "catastrophe" and to
reflect that the damage is beyond the property owner's control,
such as an Act of God.
Another concern expressed by Mayor Lynch is that
buildings (i.e. Seagate Club) which are located in critical areas
of the City should have a definite time limit for reconstruction
when applying for building permits. He felt there should be a
text amendment to the LDRs so that damaged structures have to be
reconstructed within a three year period (assuming that the
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building permit application was submitted within the one year
period required by code).
Mayor Lynch asked the Planning Director to direct the
Planning and Zoning Board to review the issue of building permit
applications.
Although this was not a public hearing item, the
following individuals were allowed to address the Commission:
Sandy Almy stated that it was her understanding that in
case of post-disaster the Seagate Hotel could not rebuild because
it is located east of A-1-A and is not residential; however, the
club house would be allowed to rebuild.
In response, Mayor Lynch noted that Ms. Almy was
correct. The hotels and condominiums such as the Seagate Club,
Banyon House, Barr Terrace, etc. would not be able to rebuild.
He commented that should there be a major disaster, the tax base
would be severely affected.
Diane Dominguez, Planning Director, stated that the
Planning and Zoning Board's Nonconforming Uses Committee was
reluctant to include nonconforming structures in non-residential
areas because there are many nonconforming structures that are
undesirable.
Mayor Lynch asked if the Seagate Club was destroyed,
could they rebuild or ask for a repeal?
The City Manager stated that there was a possibility
that if this should happen, they could ask to rezone the
property.
It was pointed out by Mayor Lynch that in the insurance
industry, if a building is not reconstructed, then the insurance
company will not pay for the replacement cost. He stated that
he had a problem in this regard.
Ms. Dominguez pointed out that the Planning staff will
be looking into the possibility of allowing hotels and motels to
be a conditional use in the RM zoning district. This was an item
which was directed by the Nonconforming Uses Committee and is
supported by the Planning and Zoning Board.
Jean Beer, Planning and Zoning Board, concurred with
concerns expressed previously by Ms. Almy regarding the fact that
in the event of a post-disaster the hotels and motels located
east of A-1-A could not be allowed to rebuild.
The City Attorney recommended that the ordinance be
denied which will then allow the City Attorney's Office and the
Planning and Zoning Board to address these issues
administratively and return to the Commission with a clean
ordinance.
-11- 12/13/94
Mr. Ellingsworth moved to deny Ordinance No. 100-94 on
First Reading, seconded by Dr. Alperin. Upon roll call the
Commission voted as follows: Mr. Ellingsworth - Yes; Mayor Lynch
- Yes; Mrs. Smith - Yes; Dr. Alperin. Said motion to deny passed
with a 4 to 0 vote.
At this point, the time being 7:05 P.M., the Commission
moved to the duly advertised Public Hearing portion of the
Agenda.
10. Public Hearings:
10.A. ORDINANCE NO. 91-94: An ordinance repealing Chapter
112, "Alarm Systems", of the City Code in its entirety, and
enacting a new Chapter 112, "Alarm Systems", to provide for the
regulation of alarm systems. Prior to consideration of passage
of this ordinance on Second and FINAL Reading, a public hearing
has been scheduled to be held at this time.
The City Manager presented Ordinance No. 91-94:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY
OF DELRAY BEACH, FLORIDA, AMENDING TITLE XI,
"BUSINESS REGULATIONS", OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES
OF THE CITY OF DELRAY BEACH, FLORIDA, BY
REPEALING CHAPTER 112, "ALARM SYSTEMS", IN ITS
ENTIRETY, AND ENACTING A NEW CHAPTER 112, "ALARM
SYSTEMS", TO PROVIDE FOR THE REGULATION OF ALARM
SYSTEMS WITHIN THE CITY OF DELRAY BEACH;
PROVIDING A GENERAL REPEALER CLAUSE, A SAVING
CLAUSE, AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
(Copy of Ordinance No. 91-94 is on file in the official
Ordinance Book)
The City Attorney read the caption of the ordinance. A
public hearing was held having been legally advertised in
compliance with the laws of the State of Florida and the Charter
of the City of Delray Beach, Florida.
The City Attorney stated that three versions of the
proposed ordinance have been presented for consideration this
evening. They are: (1) an ordinance with no registration fee,
but still requiring that everyone sign up; (2) an ordinance with
a reduced fee of $10.00; and (3) an ordinance that requires
people to register after the first false alarm, with the
registration fee left at $25.00 at that time.
Mayor Lynch opened the public hearing. Speaking from
the audience were the following:
(1) Mr. Maury Burns, 2715 SW 6th Street, stated that
he hoped the Commission would decide to adopt the version of the
proposed ordinance with no registration fee. In addition, Mr.
Burns objected to Section 112.21(B) (6) relative to emergency
notification (i.e., the requirement to provide the names,
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addresses and telephone numbers of at least two persons or
entities who can be contacted at any time for notification
purposes, to arrive at the alarm site within 30 minutes after
receiving a request to do so, and to grant access to or enter the
premises and deactivate the alarm system). He felt that this
would impose a burden on anyone who has an alarm system, whether
hooked up to a service or not, by having to give your house key
to another individual such as a neighbor and also having to give
them your alarm number to deactivate as well as your personal
code number. Also, by having multiple contacts, he felt that
this could result in additional delays and paperwork for Police
personnel who respond in the event that the first contact cannot
be reached. Mr. Burns went on to to state that it is sometimes
difficult to determine what set off an alarm and questioned who
would have the responsibility to decide whether an alarm was
"false" or not. He urged the Commission to consider these issues
before adopting any ordinance.
(2) Mr. Joe Camarodi, 764 Avocet Road, stated that he
agreed with Mr. Burns in that he would not give his key or any of
his pass codes to his neighbors or any other individuals. As an
alternative to what is being proposed, he suggested an ordinance
to control the type of alarm systems which would be allowed, such
as the type that would shut itself off after a certain amount of
time, or would contact the owner or the Police Department. He
felt that this type of system would significantly reduce the
number of false alarms responded to, and would also reduce the
problems with alarms that continue to sound for long periods of
time without cutting off. Mr. Camarodi stated that he was not
opposed to the $25.00 registration fee, but he is opposed to
providing private information on his alarm system to other
individuals.
The public hearing was closed.
The City Manager noted that he had discussed with the
Police Department whether or not alarm systems help to catch
criminals and, in their view, they do not. However, they do act
as a deterrent and the Police Department does feel they are an
asset. The biggest problem they have is with substandard or low
quality systems.
The City Manager further stated that staff had done
some study on the cost of a registration system, and Community
Improvement feels the cost to them would be about $9.80, or say
$10.00, for setting up and administering a registration system.
Also, in researching the months of September, October and
November for burglar alarms, staff found that we had 1,271 false
alarms in that period. Of that number, 264 of them came from 50
individual properties. Twenty-six of them had four alarms; the
others had more, with one property having fifteen alarms within
the three month period. One property had five false alarms
within one day. This information is provided to give a feel for
the kind of problem we are dealing with.
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For clarification, Mr. Ellingsworth asked if the $10.00
would be the cost per registration? The City Manager stated
that the Community Improvement Department would administer the
registration system. The fee would cover the cost of the sticker,
forms, staff time, mailings, and everything else connected with
it.
Discussion by the Commission followed.
Dr. Alperin emphasized that the purpose of the proposed
ordinance is not to punish anybody, but to stop the people who
are abusing the system and costing everybody else in the City
money by having Police and Fire personnel respond unnecessarily
to false alarm calls. Idealistically, he would like to say we
don't need any registration system; let's just fine those people
who violate it constantly. But then we have the Fire and the
Police Departments saying that we do need a registration system.
Mayor Lynch asked Eric Hightower, Police Legal Advisor,
and Mike Cato, Fire Marshal, for an explanation of the primary
purpose of the ordinance; why do we need an ordinance at all?
Mike Cato, Fire Marshal, responded that the City
currently has an ordinance in place. However, it has done
nothing to reduce the problem of false alarms and, in fact, the
number of false alarms has continued to increase over the years.
The purpose or registration is to identify specific information
to assist Police and/or Fire personnel who respond to an alarm
and no one is at the premises. If a response is made and no one
is at the premises, depending on the nature of the alarm, it may
be necessary to break into the property to determine if there is
in fact an emergency. For example, if a medical alert call is
received, staff doesn't know if there is a person inside who has
passed out or perhaps may be in danger of dying. There is no
visible sign outside, so it may be necessary to break into the
premises to determine if there is or is not an emergency.
On question from Mayor Lynch about medical alerts, Fire
Marshal Cato explained that there are no provisions in the
current code to require emergency notification information. Even
though the Fire Department doesn't have medical alerts coming
directly to it, the companies that dispatch the Fire Department
in these cases sometimes are as far away as New Jersey and the
Fire Department has no way of knowing what information they have,
if any. In some cases, direction has been received as to where a
key is located, but no direction has been provided for a contact
to assist in gaining access to a premises. If the City has
emergency notification, information on file, when the call comes
in, dispatch can notify someone designated on the registration to
help emergency personnel gain access. This is the purpose of the
registration; to provide assistance for gaining access to the
property when it is needed. Also, the ordinance addresses the
issue of the automatic shut-off after 30 minutes, but for systems
which are not in compliance and the alarm continues to sound all
night long, the registration would provide a means for the City
to ask someone to respond to silence the alarm.
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In response to further question from Mayor Lynch, Eric
Hightower, Police Legal Advisor, stated that if an alarm is
responded to and evidence of a crime is apparent (such as a
broken window or a door broken open), it would be viewed as a
possible crime scene and investigated as a possible burglary. If
an officer responds to an alarm and, after doing a perimeter
check, finds nothing but the alarm is ringing, then he would call
dispatch who would then contact the emergency notification. But
the first thing that would be done in any event would be a check
of the premises because there is no way to know if an alarm is
false or not until the area has been examined.
Mrs. Smith stated that the City's primary concern seems
to be with the false alarm situation; that is, when an alarm goes
off, a Police officer or the Fire Department responds and there
does not appear to be a crime or an emergency, so the system has
probably malfunctioned. She would favor going with the option
that requires registration after the first false alarm because
that means the system is not working correctly. Mrs. Smith then
asked how it is determined whether a call is for a medical
emergency?
Fire Marshal Cato responded that if it is a monitored
alarm, the monitoring company will indicate to the Fire
Department when it calls the type of signal they have received,
whether it is medical or otherwise.
Mrs. Smith stated she felt it could be very important
to have emergency information available for medical alerts, but
to require this type of information for every single alarm in the
City could be burdensome.
Fire Marshal Cato stated the Police and Fire
Departments support the third option which is to require
registration of alarm systems after the first false alarm, with
one minor change. That option includes a renewal process and
staff would recommend that we not do any renewal at all. The
ordinance requires a system owner to notify the City of any
changes to the information on file.
Mayor Lynch asked about the length of time an alarm can
ring before shutting off? Fire Marshal Cato referred to Section
112.04(B) which prohibits audible security/burglar alarm systems
which do not automatically deactivate within 30 minutes.
Mayor Lynch stated that most alarm companies recommend
three to five minutes for automatic shut off, and asked if the 30
minutes could be reduced to something more reasonable, like ten
or fifteen minutes. Mrs. Smith concurred, stating that the alarm
companies she had talked with all told her fifteen minutes or
less.
With respect to the requirement to have at least two
parties available to come to a premises within a certain period
of time (Section 112.21(6) and Section 112.22), Mayor Lynch
clarified that if there is an automatic shut off this would not
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be required. Fire Marshal Cato stated these provisions would
only apply to systems not working properly or not having the
automatic shut off.
At this point, the City Attorney stated that the
ordinance is on tonight's agenda for second reading. However, in
view of the numerous changes which have been made over the course
of discussion, Ms. Ruby recommended that Ordinance No. 91-94
before the Commission this evening be denied, and that a cleanly
drafted ordinance with all of the changes incorporated be brought
back for first reading in January.
Further discussion followed on the intent of the
ordinance being to penalize the habitual abuser and not the alarm
system owner who has one or two false alarms. The City Manager
pointed out that all a first false alarm case would require is
registration of the system, the cost of which can be $25.00 or
whatever the City Commission chooses it to be. Staff would be
satisfied with $10.00.
On question from Mayor Lynch, the City Manager stated
that we can allow people to register voluntarily and we can
register new systems as they are installed which is part of the
building permit process. Mayor Lynch clarified that if he chose
to pre-register his alarm system and then he had a false alarm,
there would be no charge to register because it was already done.
So there would be an incentive to pre-register.
The City Attorney clarified that the intent is to not
charge a fee for alarm system owners who choose to voluntarily
register their systems, nor charge an extra fee for registration
of systems as part of the permit process. The only fee that
would be charged would be for those who have had their first
false alarm and have never registered.
It was the consensus of the Commission to support the
ordinance as modified by this discussion (i.e., essentially
Option #3 which requires registration after the first false
alarm, but allows the opportunity to pre-register with no fee as
well as registration through the permit process at no additional
cost).
Mrs. Smith moved to deny Ordinance No. 91-94, seconded
and FINAL Reading, seconded by Mr. Ellingsworth. Upon roll call
the Commission voted as follows: Mayor Lynch - Yes; Mrs. Smith -
Yes; Dr. Alperin - Yes; Mr. Ellingsworth. Said motion to deny
passed with a 4 to 0 vote.
Mayor Lynch stated the alarm systems ordinance will be
modified and brought back in January for reconsideration.
10.B. ORDINANCE NO. 95-94: An ordinance amending Chapter 33,
"Police and Fire Departments", Subheading "Pensions", of the City
Code by creating a new Section 33.70, "Direct Transfers of
Eligible Rollover Contributions". Prior to consideration of
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passage of this ordinance on Second and FINAL Reading, a public
hearing has been scheduled to be held at this time.
The City Manager presented Ordinance No. 95-94:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY
OF DELRAY BEACH, FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER 33,
"POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENTS", SUBHEADING
"PENSIONS" OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY
OF DELRAY BEACH, FLORIDA, BY CREATING A NEW
SECTION 33.70, "DIRECT TRANSFERS OF ELIGIBLE
ROLLOVER CONTRIBUTIONS"; PROVIDING A SAVINGS
CLAUSE; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
(Copy of Ordinance No. 95-94 is on file in the official
Ordinance Book)
The City Attorney read the caption of the ordinance. A
public hearing was held having been legally advertised in
compliance with the laws of the State of Florida and the Charter
of the City of Delray Beach, Florida. The public hearing was
closed.
Mrs. Smith moved for the adoption of Ordinance 95-94 on
Second and FINAL Reading, seconded by Dr. Alperin. Upon roll
call the Commission voted as follows: Mrs. Smith - Yes; Dr.
Alperin - Yes; Mr. Ellingsworth - Yes; Mayor Lynch - Yes. Said
motion passed with a 4 to 0 vote.
10.C. ORDINANCE NO. 96-94: An ordinance amending Chapter 35,
"Employee Policies and Benefits", Subheading "Retirement Plan",
of the City Code by amending Sec. 35.089 to clarify the defini-
tion of "actuarial equivalence"; amending Sec. 35.097, "Retire-
ment Income; Basis, Amount and Payment", to reflect the normal
form of benefit as a single life annuity; creating a new subsec-
tion 35.097(J), "Maximum Pension", a new subsection 35.097(K),
"Commencement of Benefits", a new subsection 35.097(L),
The City Manager presented Ordinance No. 96-94:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY
OF DELRAY BEACH, FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER 35,
"EMPLOYEE POLICIES AND BENEFITS", "RETIREMENT
PLAN", OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF
DELRAY BEACH, FLORIDA, AMENDING SECTION 35.89,
"DEFINITIONS", TO CLARIFY THE DEFINITION OF
"ACTUARIAL EQUIVALENCE"; AMENDING SECTION 35.097,
"RETIREMENT INCOME; BASIS, AMOUNT AND PAYMENT" TO
REFLECT THE NORMAL FORM OF BENEFIT AS A SINGLE
LIFE ANNUITY; CREATING A NEW SUBSECTION
35.097(K), "COMMENCEMENT OF BENEFITS"; CREATING A
NEW SUBSECTION 35.098(L), "DISTRIBUTION OF
BENEFITS; CREATING A NEW SUBSECTION 35.097(M),
"DIRECT TRANSFER OF ELIGIBLE ROLLOVER
CONTRIBUTIONS"; PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE;
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
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(Copy of Ordinance No. 96-94 is on file in the official
Ordinance Book)
Mrs. Smith moved for the adoption of Ordinance No.
96-94 on Second and FINAL Reading, seconded by Mr. Ellingsworth.
Upon roll call the Commission voted as follows: Mr. Ellingsworth
- Yes; Dr. Alperin - Yes; Mrs. Smith Yes; Mayor Lynch - Yes.
Said motion passed with a 4 to 0 vote.
11. Comments and Inquiries on Non-Aqenda Items from the
Public- Immediately followinq Public Hearinqs.
11.A. City Manaqer's response to prior public comments and
inquiries.
The City Manager responded to Mrs. Beer's earlier
comment regarding the oil spill in the Tropic Isles Subdivision
going from the stormwater system. He explained that the
stormwater drainage pipes discharging to the canals connecting
from Federal Highway to the Intracoastal Waterway were designed
following design practices and regulations used at that time.
The drainage lines were designed and installed prior to water
quality regulations for stormwater discharge. The identification
of needs for mitigation of polluted discharges from stormwater
outfall such as these is part of the National Pollution Discharge
Elimination System Program in which the City currently
participates in conjunction with a Countywide Joint Building
Permit Application. The assignment of responsibility to the
violator is done by Federal Law. This Federal Legislation was
enacted subsequent to the recent Alaska spill and is administered
by the United States Coast Guard. Generally, the violator bear
the expense of the cleanup, restoration and/or mitigation of any
damages resulting from the event.
Regarding the complaint by Mr. Blake, the City Manager
stated that the complaint was unsustained. The Police
investigation did not locate any independent witnesses to
substantiate either account of what might have occurred. There
is a conflict of accounts between Mr. Blake and the officer
involved. The Police Department has had four contacts with Mr.
Blake since 1989, all with different officers, and each time it
was alleged that the Police acted inappropriately. Three of
these have been unsustained for basically the same reason. He
noted there is one active investigation which is underway
regarding one of the complaints.
In regard to the sidewalk east of the wall on the north
end of A-l-A, staff is looking at a variety of options. Although
there is no final solution, the problem is recognized and will be
resolved.
11.B. Comments and Inquiries on Non-Aqenda Items from the
Public - Immediately followin~ Public Hearinqs.
11.B.1. Jean Beer, Tropic Isle, expressed concern regarding the
cleanup from the recent oil spill resulting from Mazda Automobile
-18- 12/13/94
Dealership. She emphasized that the seawalls, particularly at
low tide, were tremendously coated with oil. After contacting
the City's Environmental Services Department, she was informed
that staff was not sure if the Coast Guard would allow the City
to clean these seawalls. Mrs. Beer distributed photographs to
the Commission which reflected the damage from the oil spill and
on behalf of the residents of Tropic Isle, requested that there
be stricter regulations regarding drainage in this particular
area.
Mrs. Beer reiterated a prior concern that she had
expressed at a previous Commission meeting, regarding the time
limitation of storing moveable building materials and vehicles on
vacant lots while waiting for construction to begin. She pointed
out that the violators were moving these items after they had
been cited by Code Enforcement, only to return and place the
items back onto the property; thus repeating the entire
situation. Mrs. Beer suggested that the LDRs should be reviewed
and/or amended to reflect a time limitation at the time of the
building permit process.
Mayor Lynch suggested that Mrs. Beer put her request in
writing and present it to the Planning and Zoning Board. He
agreed that the LDRs should be amended and that building permits
should have a time limitation to complete construction.
In regard to Mrs. Beer's concern regarding the recent
oil spill, the City Manager stated that if the residents are not
satisfied with the oil spill clean up, they should contact the
Delray Mazda Dealership. If they are not satisfied with a
response from the dealership, then they should contact Lt. Brian
Peter at 305) 536-5691.
The City Manager stated that he would direct staff to
inquire if the City has the authority to require special
equipment to be installed (oil skimmer) at the dealership in
order to eliminate any future spills.
11.B.2. Helen Coopersmith distributed a letter to the
Commission requesting that the Commission give direction to the
Planning and Zoning Board regarding annexation of property. She
suggested that perhaps the City Commission and the Planning and
Zoning Board should have a joint meeting to discuss the issue of
annexation of properties west of Military Trail.
13. Comments and Inquiries on Non-Aqenda Items.
13.A.1. Mrs. Smith stated that she has received inquiries from
several parents whose children attend the new school on Barwick
Road. She explained that there is a long wait at the
intersection at Barwick/Lake Ida Roads and the parents have
request that a left turn arrow be installed at the traffic light
at that intersection.
The City Manager stated that the City will ask Palm
Beach County to check into this matter.
-19- 12/13/94
13.A.2. Mr. Ellingsworth stated that he agreed with Mrs. Beer's
concern voiced earlier this evening and felt that the Planning
and Zoning Board should review the issue of the time limit for
building permits for new construction.
13. A.3 Mayor Lynch stated that he had received three telephone
calls regarding shopping carts which were used by the homeless
for collecting items such as aluminum cans, etc., and that these
carts were being discarded on private property. Also, he
received a complaint from a business owner who discovered that a
dumpster was filled to capacity when he arrived at his place of
business. Mayor Lynch felt this matter should be addressed.
Mayor Lynch expressed concern regarding the amount of
low to medium rental communities being constructed in the City
and the potential for lowering of rents, thereby affecting the
economic base. Also that the Commission should relate to the
Planning and Zoning Board that more middle class housing is
needed and that higher quality leasing communities are preferred.
He asked that staff be directed to look into the situation so
that the City's housing structure is balanced.
In regard to a complaint expressed in a previous
meeting by a parent who complained of the way an employee from
Police Department spoke to his child, Mayor Lynch stated that the
department was doing an internal investigation. He noted that
sometimes people may think the situation is biased. He felt that
perhaps more citizen input should be received.
He reported that he had recently met with
representatives from Office Depot, which is one of the largest
employers in the City. They have expressed a desire to become
more involved in City issues. Mayor Lynch suggested that a
strategy meeting with staff be set up for sometime during the
month of January, 1995. Also, that a bus tour of the City be
included so that Office Depot can see how they can become more
active in City issues.
13. B. The City Attorney did not have any comments or
inquiries.
13. C. The City Manager did not have any comments or
inquiries.
Mayor Lynch declared the meeting adjourned at 7:35 P.M.
ATTEST:
-20- 12/13/94
The undersigned is the City Clerk of the City of Delray
Beach and that the information provided herein is the minutes of
the meeting of said City Commission of December 13, 1994 which
minutes were formally approved and adopted by the City Commission
on ~/fL~ ~3 ~ ~ / 9g~
NOTE TO READER:
If the minutes that you have received are not completed as
indicated above, then this means that these are not the official
minutes of the City Commission. They will become the official
minutes only after they have been reviewed and approved which may
involve some amendments, additions or deletions to the minutes as
set forth above.
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