The City of Stuart Weekly - April 19, 2024

April 22, 2024

General News ArticleCommunityPress Release

Skimming the Waves, Pelican Waterbirds bronze sculpture by Geoffrey C. Smith located in The Creek District of Arts and Entertainment, Stuart, Fla.

two Public Safety personnel honored by Stuart Rotary Club

This week, the Stuart Rotary Club honored two exemplary individuals from the City of Stuart for their exceptional dedication to service with the prestigious Service Above Self Awards.
Among the recipients were Stuart Fire Rescue's Lieutenant Sean Eichling and the executive assistant to the Stuart Police Chief, Lisa Scott.
Before their commendable tenure with the City of Stuart, both Lt. Eichling and Ms. Scott served honorably in the U.S. Army, reflecting their deep commitment to public service.
Lt. Eichling's journey within Stuart Fire Rescue has been marked by continuous growth and dedication. Starting as a firefighter/EMT, he has ascended the ranks, embodying the spirit of leadership as he now serves as Fire Rescue Lieutenant. Notably, he also undertakes the crucial role of the department's SCBA technician, ensuring the safety of his fellow responders in challenging environments.
Meanwhile, Ms. Scott's remarkable 37-year tenure at the Stuart Police Department speaks volumes about her unwavering dedication and professionalism. Beginning as a Police Clerk/Typist, she has seamlessly transitioned into pivotal roles, culminating in her current position as Executive Assistant to the Police Chief. Her numerous accolades and reputation as the "glue" of the department underscore her indispensable contribution to its smooth operation.
Let us extend our heartfelt congratulations to both Lt. Eichling and Ms. Scott for their outstanding contributions. Their unwavering commitment to service embodies the very essence of the Service Above Self Awards, and we are immensely grateful for their invaluable service to our community. Thank you, Lt. Eichling and Ms. Scott, for your tireless dedication and selflessness.

Lieutenant Sean Eichling (holding plaque).

Ms. Lisa Scott (holding plaque).

Backyard composting going strong

This week's Backyard Composting workshop drew an enthusiastic crowd of eco-minded individuals eager to transform their trash into treasure. Jennifer Pelham, UF IFAS Extension Martin County, illuminated the diverse methods of composting, showcasing just how simple it is to cultivate rich soil from organic waste.
Ann Ellig Hawkins, Utilities and Engineering Program Manager, introduced attendees to the composters that City of Stuart residents will soon have access to after attending the one-hour session.
Mark your calendars for the upcoming "lunch and learn" composting workshop on August 13, 2024, from 12 noon to 1 p.m. To secure your spot, reach out to Anne Ellig Hawkins at (772) 600-1206 or via email at AEllig@ci.stuart.fl.us. Join us in our mission to nurture our environment and create a greener, more sustainable future!

FDEM Encourages All floridians to be wildfire ready

The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) encourages all Floridians to be wildfire ready and make a plan for what to do if a wildfire threatens your community as well as learn how you can help reduce the chances of a wildfire in your area.
"Wildfire season is year-round in Florida; however, it typically peaks during the heart of the dry season from March-May, said FDEM Executive Director Kevin Guthrie.
"We are now entering the peak of wildfire season, which means Floridians should take extra precaution during these drier months to protect people and property,” said Florida Forest Service Director Rick Dolan. “The Florida Forest Service encourages Floridians to be Wildfire Ready by preparing your yard, home, and emergency kit, and knowing Florida’s outdoor burning laws.”
The leading cause of wildfires across the state is people, specifically unauthorized burns and individuals burning yard waste. Yard waste refers to any vegetative debris such as brush, leaves or tree limbs collected from yard maintenance. When burning yard waste, it is imperative you meet the following requirements:

Yard waste must fit in an 8-foot diameter pile or noncombustible container.
Fire must be ignited after 8 a.m. CT/9 a.m. ET and must be extinguished one hour before sunset.
The fire must be 25 feet from your home, wildlands, brush or any combustible structure.
The fire must be 150 feet from other occupied buildings and 50 feet from paved public roads.

There are many actions that can be taken to help reduce wildfires, including burning yard waste safely and following all guidelines provided by the Florida Forest Service. Prepare your yard by clearing all debris and dead vegetation and create a buffer between trees, patio furniture or other items that could catch fire. Regularly clean your roof and ensure you have working fire extinguishers and smoke alarms on each level of your home.
Visit FloridaDisaster.org/hazards/wildfire to learn more about wildfire safety and to stay up to date on the fire danger index and active fire locations in your area.
For weather updates and safety tips, follow the Division on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @FLSERT.

City notes

Poppleton Creek Dog Parks

Poppleton Creek SMALL & LARGE Dog Parks closed for turf repairs April 15-May 10, 2024.
All other amenities at Poppleton Creek will remain open.
During this closure, please feel free to take your pups to our other dog park at Haney Creek, 391 Baker Road, Stuart.
QUESTIONS? Please call (772) 288-5398.

Poppleton Creek Small and Large Dog Parks closed for turf repairs. Dog parks will reopen May 10. All other amenities at Poppleton Creek Park remain open.

Temporary road/lane closures

All left turn movements at the intersection of SW Ocean Boulevard and SR 5/US 1 will remain closed for sidewalk restoration and traffic signal work. Project is expected to be completed by May 3, with a contingency day of May 10. For more information, contact FDOT Community Outreach Specialist Samantha Kayser at (772) 579-5479.
Intermittent lane closures, Ernest Lyons Bridge eastbound-westbound single-lane closure, Monday, April 22, 2024- Tuesday, April 23, 2024, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Intermittent lane closures, Evans Crary Bridge eastbound-westbound single-lane closure, Monday, April 22, 2024 - Tuesday, April 23, 2024, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

SPECIAL NOTICES AND EVENTS

Woman's Club Historic Marker Dedication Save the Date

aPRIL 22, 2024, Regular City Commission Meeting AGENDA

City of Stuart Commission meetings are conducted in the City Hall Chambers and are streamed live. (View HERE). City Hall Chambers are open to the public during the meetings.
The following is the proposed agenda for the Monday, April 22, 2024, City Commission Meeting.
ROLL CALL
INVOCATION
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
PRESENTATIONS
1. DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT PROJECT UPDATE
COMMENTS BY CITY COMMISSIONERS
COMMENTS BY CITY MANAGER
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC (Non-Agenda Related - 3 minutes max.)
CONSENT CALENDAR
2. APPROVAL OF 04/08/2024 CCM MINUTES (RC)
3. HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF STUART, FLORIDA RE-APPOINTMENTS OF TWO (2) BOARD MEMBERS (RC):
RESOLUTION No. 33-2024: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF STUART, FLORIDA, RATIFYING THE RE-APPOINTMENTS OF TWO (2) BOARD MEMBERS OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF STUART, FLORIDA FOR A FOUR (4) YEAR TERM FROM MAY 21, 2024 THROUGH MAY 21, 2028; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
4. SAILFISH CAY FINAL PLAT (REPLAT OF TOWNE PARK) (RC):
RESOLUTION No. 39-2024; A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF STUART, FLORIDA TO APPROVE A PLAT TITLED, “REPLAT NO. 1 OF TOWNE PARK”, BEING A REPLAT OF TOWNE PARK, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 11, PAGE 85, PUBLIC RECORDS OF MARTIN COUNTY, FLORIDA, ALL LYING AND BEING IN SECTION 9, TOWNSHIP 38 SOUTH, RANGE 41 EAST, CITY OF STUART, MARTIN COUNTY, FLORIDA, CONTAINING 4.88 ACRES, MORE OR LESS PREPARED BY MICHAEL T. OWEN OF ENGINEERING DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION, INC, AND MAPPER NO. 5556 FOR SAILFISH CAY RPUD; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
5. OLD CITY LANDFILL EXTENSION (RC):
RESOLUTION No. 46-2024; A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF STUART, FLORIDA EXTENDING THE DUE DILIGENCE PERIOD AT THE OLD CITY OF STUART LANDFILL FROM APRIL 30, 2024 TO SEPTEMBER 30, 2024; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
6. REFERENDUM LEASE AGREEMENT REQUEST FROM STUART HERITAGE MUSEUM (RC):
RESOLUTION No. 47-2024; A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF STUART, FLORIDA, PROVIDING FOR A REFERENDUM UNDER CITY CHARTER SECTION 9.05 SEEKING VOTER APPROVAL FOR THE CITY TO LEASE, FOR MORE THAN 10 YEARS, THE PROPERTY KNOWN AS THE STUART FEED STORE, LOCATED AT 161 SW FLAGLER AVENUE TO THE STUART HERITAGE MUSEUM; SAID LOT ADJOINS CITY PROPERTY FRONTING THE ST. LUCIE RIVER, PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
7. LEASE AGREEMENT WITH MARINE INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION FOR THE CITY OWNED PROPERTY LOCATED AT 401 SW FEDERAL HIGHWAY, STUART, FL (RC):
RESOLUTION No. 48-2024; A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF STUART, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A LEASE AGREEMENT WITH AN ELECTED OFFICIAL, MARINE INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION OF THE TREASURE COAST, OR ANOTHER NON-PROFIT AGENCY FOR THE CITY OWNED PROPERTY LOCATED AT 401 SW FEDERAL HIGHWAY, STUART, FL; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
8. APPLICATION OF CYBERSECURITY GRANT AGREEMENT (RC):
RESOLUTION No. 49-2024: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF STUART, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING SUBMISSION OF A FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF MANAGEMENT SERVICES DIGITAL SERVICE CYBERSECURITY PROGRAM GRANT TO CONTINUE ENHANCING AND SUPPORTING THE CITY’S CYBERSECURITY FRAMEWORK, TO MITIGATE RISK, AND TO PROTECT INFRASTRUCTURE; AND AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF A GRANT AGREEMENT IF AWARDED; AND FURTHER AUTHORIZING ANY MINOR AMENDMENTS TO THE GRANT AGREEMENT TO FACILITATE THE PROGRAM AS APPROPRIATE; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
9. SITE PLAN APPROVAL AND FUTURE LAND USE AMENDMENT APPLICATIONS FOR GARAGE FACILITY RELOCATION (RC):
RESOLUTION No. 50-2024; A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF STUART, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO SUBMIT SITE PLAN APPROVAL AND FUTURE LAND USE AMENDMENT APPLICATIONS NECESSARY TO RELOCATE THE CITY OF STUART GARAGE FACILITY; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
END OF CONSENT CALENDAR
COMMISSION ACTION
10. FISCAL YEAR 2024 MIDYEAR BUDGET ADJUSTMENT (RC):
RESOLUTION No. 40-2024; A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF STUART, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING BUDGET AMENDMENT NO. 9 TO THE 2023-2024 BUDGET; APPROPRIATING AND AUTHORIZING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS TO ACCOUNT FOR ADDITIONAL REVENUES AND APPROPRIATIONS IDENTIFIED AT THE MIDYEAR; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
11. (INFORMATIONAL ONLY) CLARITY POINTE PUD - SMALL-SCALE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FUTURE LAND USE MAP AMENDMENT LOCATED AT 500 SE INDIAN STREET (LEGISLATIVE) (RC):
ORDINANCE No. 2529-2024; AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF STUART, FLORIDA, REQUESTS FOR A SMALL-SCALE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FUTURE LAND USE MAP AMENDMENT AS DEFINED IN F.S.§163.3187; AMENDING THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FUTURE LAND USE MAP FOR AN APPROXIMATE 9.46-ACRE PARCEL OF LAND FROM MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL TO THE COMMERCIAL FUTURE LAND USE DESIGNATION; AMENDING THE FUTURE LAND USE MAP; PROVIDING DIRECTIONS TO THE CITY CLERK; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE, AND OTHER PURPOSES.
ORDINANCE SECOND READING
ORDINANACE FIRST READING
12. CLARITY POINTE PUD - REZONE FROM THE CITY OF STUART OFFICIAL ZONING ATLAS FROM RESIDENTIAL PLANNED DEVELOPMENT (RPUD) TO THE MIXED-USE PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (MXPUD) ZONING DESIGNATION LOCATED AT 500 SE INDIAN STREET (QJ)(RC):
ORDINANCE No. 2530-2024; AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF STUART, FLORIDA, REQUESTING TO REZONE FROM THE CITY OF STUART OFFICIAL ZONING ATLAS FROM RESIDENTIAL PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (RPUD) TO THE MIXED-USE PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (MXPUD) DESIGNATION FOR AN APPROXIMATELY 9.46 ACRE PARCEL OF LAND LOCATED ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF SE INDIAN STREET AND APPROXIMATELY 540 FEET EAST OF KANNER HIGHWAY, TO CONVERT THE EXISTING 84-BED ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY (ALF) WITH MEMORY CARE KNOWN AS CLARITY POINTE TO ALLOW FOR AN INPATIENT PRIMARY MENTAL HEALTH AND RESIDENTIAL DRUG AND ALCOHOL FACILITY WITH MEDICAL DETOX; PROVIDING FOR MASTER SITE PLAN APPROVAL; PROVIDING FOR CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL; PROVIDING FOR SPECIFIED COMMERCIAL USES; PROVIDING FOR SIGNAGE REQUIREMENTS; PROVIDING DIRECTIONS TO THE CITY CLERK; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND OTHER PURPOSES.
DISCUSSION AND DELIBERATION
ADJOURNMENT

City Attorney Lee Baggett, City Clerk Mary Kindel, Commissioner Troy McDonald, Mayor Becky Bruner, Commissioner Eula Clarke, Vice Mayor Campbell Rich, Commissioner Christoper Collins, and City Manager Michael Mortell.

Future city of stuart meetings

Regular City Commission Meeting
April 8, 2024, 4:00 p.m.

Local Planning Agency (LPA)
April 11, 2024, 5:30 p.m.
Joint CRA/CRB/CCM
April 22, 2024, 4:00 p.m.
Regular City Commission Meeting - 4th Monday
April 22, 2024, 5:30 p.m.

Calendar of Events

Riverside Yoga
Every Tuesday, 11:45 a.m.
Every Wednesday, 9:30 a.m.
Riverwalk State, 300 St. Lucie Avenue
More information: (772) 288-5340

Zumba
With Certified Instructor Linda Mendoza
Every Tuesday, 10 a.m. AND 5:30 p.m.
Downtown Riverwalk Stage, 300 St. Lucie Avenue
More information: (772) 288-5340
Tai Chi on the River
With FAI Certified Instructor Patti Craig
Every Thursday, 10 a.m.
Downtown Riverwalk Stage, 300 St. Lucie Avenue
More information: (772) 288-5340
Market on Main
Every Sunday, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Flagler Park, 201 SW Flagler Avenue
Produced by Stuart Main Street
More Information: (772) 286-2848

Rock'n Riverwalk
Every Sunday, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Riverwalk Stage, 300 St. Lucie Avenue
Produced by Stuart Main Street and DBA
More information: (772) 286-2848
First Friday Art Walk
First Friday of Every Month, 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Produced by the Creek District of Arts & Entertainment
More information: http://thecreekdistrict.org.