City Attorney Norm Fugate reported on the status of funds available to the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) February 7, with Chairman Gene Hodges presiding. Much of Mr. Fugate`s report revolved around itemized projects near completion and relations with the SunTrust bank that issued the CRA bonds. CRA Chairman Hodges asked at the beginning of Mr. Fugate`s report, "Can $87,000 be spent on dredging the marina?" The short answer from Mr. Fugate was that the bank may need to approve any new project such as dredging because there is a lien on the bonds. Commissioner Scott Dennison opened discussion of communication between the CRA Board and attorneys and the bank. He moved and Commissioner/Mayor Heath Davis seconded a motion that requires a statement in writing to the CRA Board once a decision is made on legal advice regarding use of bond funds. Following discussion of the need to have faith in the advice of the City Attorney, the motion passed, four to one, with the support of all commissioners except Sue Colson. Commissioner Dale Register remarked that once the advice is in writing it becomes "a fact of life."
Commissioner Register reported at another point in the meeting that the City has now received nearly $90,000 from The State of Florida for completed energy saving projects. Furthermore, the City has begun the process to receive additional funds for replacement of doors and windows of municipal buildings to improve energy efficiency. | 