Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
NOTICE
UPCOMING MEETINGS:
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board
LOCATION (ZOOM Virtual Platform): (Due to the COVID-19 and need for social distancing, this meeting will be virtual via ZOOM platform)
DATE: Thursday, August 13, 2020
TIME: 6:00 PM - BPAB Orientation Session (Optional)
LINK: https://zoom.us/j/93105201284?pwd=Ri8xbURpcDB0OFl2TFVua01yS1dQUT09 PHONE: 1 (929) 205-6099 MEETING ID: 931 0520 1284
Computer PASSCODE: rrBF9f / Phone PASSCODE: 940321
7:00 PM - BPAB Regular Meeting (*Required Attendance*) LINK: https://zoom.us/j/95703060088?pwd=Mzg0YlYvS3hYMHFxMkRmTHJ3NGJDQT09
PHONE: 1 (929) 205-6099 MEETING ID: 957 0306 0088 Computer PASSCODE: rrBF9f / Phone PASSCODE: 479952
Special Accommodations/Meeting Input: (352) 393-8493
[email protected] / www.gnvbikeped.com BPAB Members, if you are unable to attend this meeting,
please contact staff at the info above.
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board Orientation Workshop Draft Agenda – Thursday 08/13/2020
Online BPAB info: www.gnvbikeped.com Page #1 of 2
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board Orientation Workshop Draft Agenda
DATE: Thursday, August 13, 2020 TIME: 6:00 PM LOCATION (Virtual): (Due to the COVID-19 coronavirus and need for social distancing, this meeting will be conducted in a virtual format)…Join this meeting via the ZOOM platform: To Join meeting…
LINK: https://zoom.us/j/93105201284?pwd=Ri8xbURpcDB0OFl2TFVua01yS1dQUT09 MEETING ID: 931 0520 1284 COMPUTER PASSCODE: rrBF9f PHONE: (929) 205-6099 PHONE PASSCODE: 940321 Provide Input during meeting: (352) 393-8493 / [email protected] / www.gnvbikeped.com
I. CALL TO ORDER – 6:00 PM A. Attendance: Attendance sheet will be circulated B. Introductions:
II. PURPOSE & OBJECTIVES
The purpose of this presentation is to orient newly appointed Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB) members as well as refresh the established membership with pertinent information, operation, resources and history for BPAB functionality. The presentation will address the group’s history, agency collaboration, meeting process, budget, general operations and available resources.
III. ORIENTATION ITEMS
A. History The BPAB group has evolved from a group of citizens interested in safe routes to school issues in the late sixties to a Board that advises elected officials who direct projects, finance and decisions that directly impact bicycle and pedestrian related matters in our community.
B. Agency Collaboration The BPAB advises the City Commission, County Commission and the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization (MTPO) separately as needed, however, the MTPO area includes both city and county areas and often address issues of both agencies under their umbrella regularly.
C. Meeting Process One of the main functions of BPAB meetings is to gather actions/recommendations to advise the BPAB agencies and provide opportunities for the group to impact the community in the form bike/ped related matters. The BPAB Chair may appoint members to serve as liaisons to community committees/groups so that they may report back to BPAB as needed or represent BPAB at the meeting. The BPAB Chair may designate a subcommittee to further investigate, plan, discuss or pursue the group’s efforts. The group operates under the general guidance of “Robert’s Rules of Order”.
D. General Operations
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board Orientation Workshop Draft Agenda – Thursday 08/13/2020
Online BPAB info: www.gnvbikeped.com Page #2 of 2
Aside from advising the BPAB agencies and pursuing community education & encouragement outreach efforts, BPAB has no jurisdiction or authority over any entity. BPAB is an advisory body as opposed to a program, political group, agency or advocacy group. The group has staff to execute limited BPAB administration and meeting functions (as indicated in the inter-local agreements). Execution of BPAB special projects and events may be dependent on BPAB member participation and coordination. BPAB decisions are established in BPAB meetings (which have to be publicly noticed and include the potential decision/subject listed on agenda for that meeting). Each year BPAB elects a Chair to lead meetings and represent the group at meetings. A Vice Chair is also elected to fill-in for the Chair in their absence.
E. Budget BPAB funding is handled through inter-local agreements between City-County and City-MTPO. BPAB has opportunities to seek additional funding through sources such as City of Gainesville Advisory Board Special Projects funding requests and community resources such as Bike Florida’s “Share the Road” mini-grant. BPAB operates under the City of Gainesville biennial budget process and has to decide projects to pursue.
F. BPAB Online Resources 1.) CITY OF GAINESVILLE WEBSITE – http://gnvbikeped.com/ The “Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board” section of this web location includes information on County/City/MTPO inter-local agreements; meeting materials & dates; attendance; special project pursuits; member roster; membership history; by-laws & resolutions; BPAB information directory; Sunshine Law information; How to apply to BPAB or submit an agenda item; orientation and other important information resources. 2.) MTPO WEBSITE – www.ncfrpc.org/mtpo This web location includes Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization (MTPO) information on funding, membership, definitions of major project plans & programs, staff listing, MTPO & committee agenda and minutes archive and library of reports and publications of interest to the group. 3.) ALACHUA COUNTY WEBSITE – https://alachuacounty.us/depts/bocc/advisoryboards/pages/default.aspx This web location includes information on Alachua County operations and lists BPAB meeting agendas & minutes, as well as other BPAB information in the Advisory Board section.
G. Staying Connected/Agency Update Opportunities BPAB agencies have various ways for the public to stay connected to opportunities such as press releases, updates, meetings, presentations and input via resources such as Facebook, Twitter; mailing lists; video archives and YouTube. List located at the BPAB section of the BPAB Webpage at: http://gnvbikeped.com/bicycle-and-pedestrian-advisory-board.
H. Other Information Documents and other resources (BPAB Orientation Power Point; Advisory Board Guides: City of Gainesville / Alachua County / MTPO / BPAB.
III. ADJOURNMENT
If you have questions/comments/concerns regarding the agenda or meeting materials, please contact: Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board Staff Liaison - Dekova Batey, City of Gainesville
(352) 393-8493 or by email: [email protected]
NAME: Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB) Attendance ATTENDANCE ROSTER: JANUARY 1, 2020 through DECEMBER 31, 2020 Forward to: [email protected]
WORKSHOPS / SUBCOMMITTEES
# At
tend
ed
▼ NAME OF MEMBER ▼ 2/6/20
Orient.
4/2/20
Orient.
8/13/20
Orient.
Jonathan Coron (City1) C C 0 Jess Larsen (City2) VCHAIR** C C 0 Ana Fajardo (City3) C C 0
James Moss (City4) C C 0 India Blachard (City5) Stud. Seat*** C C 0 Gina van Blockland (County1) C C 0 VACANT (County2) E E E 0 Tim Martin (County3) C C 0
Brent Christner (County4) CHAIR* C C 0 Christine Larsen (MTPO1) C C 0
Allyson Gill (MTPO2) SECY.**** C C 0 Adam Carr (MTPO3) C C 0 Maxine Stallings (MTPO4) C C 0
No longer Appointed to BPAB
0 0 0 0 0 0
*BPAB CHAIR / **BPAB VICE-CHAIR / ***BPAB STUDENT SEAT / BPAB SECY.**** KEY: A = ABSENT P = PRESENT Authorized by: ____Allyson Gill _08_ /_13_ / 2020 (BPAB Secretary) X =DISREGARD (Workshop/Subcomm. C = MEETING CANCELLED R = RESIGNED/REMOVED E = EXPIRED TERM Q = CANCELLED FOR LACK OF QUORUM
Prepared by: Clerk's Office/blb
1
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board
BPAB Orientation & Information Workshop
Prepared by: Dekova Batey, BPAB Staff Liaison, Revised June 2019
The Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB) is advisory to the City & County Commissions and the Metropolitan Transportation Planning
Organization (MTPO).
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
1
Information & Orientation Presentation
ORIENTATION PURPOSE
-The Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board Orientation was created to orient newly appointed BPAB members as well as refresh the established membership with the history, purpose and updates of the BPAB group. This presentation also provides opportunity for greater understanding and operation concerning BPAB business, meetings and issues.
2
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
ORIENTATION TOPICS-The Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB) Orientation will cover the following items:
-History
-Meeting Information
-Meeting Operations
-Duties
-General Operations
-Budget
3
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
HISTORY-The impetus for the Board came from Littlewood Elementary school P.T.A. and focused on off-street bicycle facilities, and a citizen movement for safe bicycle and pedestrian access to schools.
Feb. 1968 – Littlewood Ele. P.T.A. bikeway and Bike Path Safety Committee organized
Summer 1969 – Bikeways Advisory Committee formed to advise the City of Gainesville Recreation Department.
2
4
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
HISTORY continued…Nov. 1969 – Citizens Bikeway Council established to advise Gainesville City Commission through the City Recreation Department.
August 1982 – Urban Area Bicycle Advisory Board (UABAB) created and approved by City, County and MTPO with each appointing (4) voting members.
August 1995 – UABAB becomes the Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB) with resolutions of the City and County Commissions and the MTPO. BPAB expands focus to include pedestrian issues.
5
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
DUTIESMain Duty-The duty of BPAB is to advise the City & County Commissions and MTPO agency on all matters concerning planning, implementation and maintenance of policies, programs and facilities for the safe and efficient integration of bicycle and pedestrian transportation into the Gainesville Metropolitan Area and Alachua County transportation systems.
-BPAB is also to make recommendations to the Commissions and MTPO regarding their budgetary matters in connection with bicycle and pedestrian concerns.
6
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
DUTIES…continuedOutreach-BPAB has the opportunity to plan/host events, activities, programs, etc. which are in line with the groups desired outreach to educate and encourage the community. These events/activities would represent the BPAB advising agencies and need to be decided upon by the group.
Majority of WorkMuch of the work for BPAB includes routine/cyclical handling of MTPO agency items in monthly meetings (i.e. review/approve/comment/revise/update reports, plans, documents, policies, budgets, roadway projects, etc.).
7
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
DUTIES…continuedMedia Matters-BPAB representation should be based in accordance of the group’s meeting action, by-laws and protocol of the advising agencies. BPAB members are able to disclose their BPAB affiliation, however, not allowed to directly represent/speak for the group without approval in a BPAB meeting prior.
Sunshine Law-The BPAB advises elected officials and are an extension of these agencies, therefore, any business/operation
3
8
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
DUTIES…continuedSunshine Law…continuedmust be conducted in the public sphere. Any communication among 2 or more BPAB voting members regarding current or possible future agenda action items, must be made in a publicly noticed BPAB meeting per Sunshine Law. (myfloridalegal.com or ethics.state.fl.us)
Agency RepresentationAs a representative of the agency which appointed you (City/County Commission or MTPO), where applicable, you should keep that constituency in mind when making decisions. 9
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
MEETING INFORMATIONMeeting DatesAround Nov./Dec. each year, MTPO staff lists the upcoming year’s BPAB meetings, along with the other MTPO committee’s meeting dates, so issues are discussed and input continually provided at MTPO meetings throughout the year.
Meeting TimeBPAB currently meets about 1 Thursday each 2 months at 7:00 p.m. The 6:00 p.m. hour is sometimes used for BPAB subcommittee/Special meetings as they are periodically scheduled as needed.
10
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
Meeting LocationBPAB meetings are located inside the Alachua County Administration Building (Grace Knight Conference Rm., 2nd
Floor) unless otherwise indicated. BPAB must meet in a location accessible by the public, those with special needs/requests should contact the BPAB staff liaison.
Public Notice of MeetingsBy law, BPAB meetings must be publically noticed/posted. Many of the agencies take care of this, as well as advertise in the Sunday Gainesville Sun meetings section, the week prior to meetings.
MEETING INFORMATION…continued
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
Staffing City Public Works/Department of Mobility County Public Works/Growth Mgmt. MTPO (North Central FL Regional Plann Council rep.) FDOT (District 2 Office)
These non-voting members may attend meetings from time to time to address agenda items or make presentations under the agenda’s “Agency Items” section.
GENERAL OPERATIONS
11
4
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
Staffing
The City provides general administrative/operational staffing for BPAB business and meetings.
BPAB functions as an advisory board, as opposed to the more detailed operation of an organization or program. BPAB staff is utilized in a limited function for the advisory board as indicated in the BPAB inter-local agreements.
GENERAL OPERATIONS…Continued
12
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
GENERAL OPERATIONS…ContinuedAppointmentsBPAB appointments includes 4 - regular appointees (3-year terms) from the MTPO and each of the City & County Commissions, as well as a student seat appointee (2-year term) from the City Commission. Student Seats are only appointed in the fall.
By-LawsThe BPAB general operation & structure is further detailed in the BPAB by-laws.
13
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
14
GENERAL OPERATIONS…ContinuedMembership ProcessingBPAB Appointments, terminations and resignations are handled by the individual agencies (MTPO or City/County Commissions). Your appointing BPAB agency has specific information, guidelines, processes and other requirements.
Providing Input BPAB members can provide input to the group on BPAB issues in a publicly noticed BPAB meeting, or by contacting/submitting information to the BPAB staff liaison. Other non-agenda BPAB info./input can be sent out directly to BPAB members.
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
15
MEETING OPERATIONSEstablishing a BPAB MeetingBPAB meetings are set each year by MTPO staff. Additional BPAB meetings can be set by the BPAB chair or subcommittee chair at anytime, or by a majority vote of the group at a publicly noticed BPAB meeting.
Cancelling a BPAB MeetingA BPAB meeting is automatically cancelled at any point when the group fails to meet the quorum requirements (50% + 1 persons currently appointed to BPAB, excluding the Student Seat appointment). The BPAB chair or subcommittee chair can cancel their meeting at anytime.
5
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
16
MEETING OPERATIONS…ContinuedMeeting ProtocolBPAB meetings operate under the “Robert’s Rules or Order” structure or basic parliamentary procedure. Visit (robertsrules.com) for more information.
Parliamentary Law/ProcedureAn organized system of basic principles and rules to determine how the group will proceed through the decision-making process. This system helps to protect the rights of individuals, to combine their efforts with others to accomplish common goals. It allows for the opportunity to debate, and take action in an equitable manner with a minimum of controversy.
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
17
MEETING OPERATIONS…ContinuedConflicts of InterestBPAB voting members must vote on all items unless they have a conflict of interest where they will directly gain or lose as a result. Must fill out Form (8B) for conflicts.
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
18
MEETING OPERATIONS…ContinuedItems for AgendaTo have an item placed on the BPAB agenda, either suggest during the “Member Comment” section of a BPAB meeting, or contact the BPAB staff liaison to check what information may be needed. Please allow about 2.5 weeks to prepare the item. Due to time constraints, some items may be moved to a future meeting date based on a first-come, first-serve basis and priority of issue importance.
Meeting Mail OutsMeeting information and backup items will arrive via mail a week prior to the meeting, as well as be available at the City of Gainesville Bicycle/Pedestrian Webpage.
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
19
MEETING OPERATIONS…ContinuedAgenda SectionsBPAB meeting agendas are divided into sections:
---------------------------------------------------Call to Order – Opens meeting (Agenda/Minutes)
Public Comment – Non agenda open floor for publicAgency Items – Agency specific issues (Mostly MTPO)
Staff Report – Administrative/Operational issuesBoard Items – Member/community specific issues
Member Comment – Member input/requests issues Adjournment – Dismissal
6
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
20
MEETING OPERATIONS…ContinuedBPAB OfficersOfficers are elected to facilitate meetings and be a spokesperson for meeting actions. No agency or person directs BPAB’s representation, only actions in publically noticed BPAB meetings.
CHAIRBPAB elects a chair to run meetings and be the designated spokesperson for the group when information is approved.
VICE CHAIRA vice-chair is also elected to fill-in in the absence of the chair.
SECRETARYTake attendance at meetings.
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
MTPO INFORMATION
MTPO OVERVIEW
• Staffed locally by the NCFRPC (North Central Florida Regional Planning Council)
• Planning Councils are designated by Florida law and are quasi-gov’t org. to address concerns in Florida’s outer local areas
• Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPO) are federally supported transportation policy making groups in the US and is made up of local government reps. and gov’t. transp. authorities.
• Our MPO - MTPO includes City & County Commissions, UF and rural area rep.
MTPO Details
21
MTPO OVERVIEW
• Addresses annual updates and reviews to maintain continued area planning in our transportation network
• May address other projects or programs to impact our area in the way of transportation
• Federal funding is from FHWA & FTA
• FDOT matches federal funds with cash & in-kind services. City/County also match funds
• MTPO has several groups to advise them to help gather community input and expertise
MTPO Details
22
7
MTPO OVERVIEW
• BPAB
• Technical Advisory Committee (TAC)Group of area agency staff
• Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC)Group of area citizens representing the greater community.
Other committees:• Alachua County Transportation Disadvantaged Board
• Alachua County Community Traffic Safety Team
MTPO Committees
23
MTPO OVERVIEW
• Federal Gov’t. requires an area authority like MTPO to advise FDOT on uses for funds, projects, plans, etc.
• Meet to advise FDOT on Federally funded projects, plans for our urbanized (highly populated/developing) areas
• Meet about six times a year
• The groups meet in the same week to provide input for the next MTPO meeting
• MTPO is not all of Alachua County
MTPO Details
24
MT
PO
AR
EA
MA
P
25
MTPO OVERVIEW Plans and Programs
26
• Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP)
• Needs Plan
• Multimodal Level of Service Report
Website: livablecommunity2040.com
How the multimodal transp. system will evolve over the next 25 years with 5 year updates
Continued multimodal mobility access updates with street connection and trail expansion possibilities
Annual assignment of the levels of traffic congestion for arterial and collector (high to mid level traffic) roads in the MTPO area
8
MTPO OVERVIEW Plans and Programs cont.
27
• Transportation Improvement Program
• Unified Planning Work Program
• Transportation Disadvantaged Program
• Transportation Project Priorities
Yearly adopted service plan providing services to those limited by income, age or disability
Adopted each summer, grouping of ranked lists for our area
Adopted every 2 years in the spring…Identifies planning by all area agencies to maintain a comprehensive, cooperative and continuing transportation planning program
Adopted each spring…Needed, unfunded transportation project priorities with a five year outlook
MTPO OVERVIEW Plans and Programs cont.
28
• Transit Planning Program
Transit Development PlanRegional Transit System (RTS) 5-year plan update of existing and future transit demand
Transit Service EvaluationProvides an update to the LRTP
Annual Transit Ridership ReportRidership tracking, status updates & trends
Annual Transit Ridership ReportRidership tracking, status updates & trends. Uses TIP to
improve transportation services to elderly and persons with disabilities.
MTPO OVERVIEW Plans and Programs cont.
29
• Mobility Plan
• Bicycle Master Plan & Updates
• Bicycle Usage Trends Program
UPDATESBicycle Master Plan Addendum – 2004
Archer Braid - 2008
Contains bicycle planning strategies for Alachua County
MTPO adopted in 2001
MTPO staff tracks bicycle activity trends at certain locations/times in the area every 5-years
Congestion management system developed to enhance the mobility of people and goods in the MTPO area
MTPO OVERVIEW Plans and Programs cont.
30
• Public Involvement Plan
• Citizen’s Guide to Transportation PlanningMTPO’s Administrative/Operational guide
Reviewed annually, updates and explain the purpose, types and response to public involvement and outreach in our area (based on Federal requirements).
9
MTPO OVERVIEW Common Terms
31
• Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization (MTPO)
• Project Development and Environmental Study/ PD & E
An agency created under federal and state law to provide a forum for cooperative decision-making in regard to regional transportation issues. Voting membership includes the Mayor and six City of Gainesville Commissioners and the five Alachua County Board of County Commissioners.
A study performed to determine the feasibility of a transportation modification by identifying possible alternatives and evaluating the social, economic and environmental impacts associated with each alternative.
MTPO OVERVIEW Common Terms cont.
32
• Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st
Century (MAP-21)
• Multimodal Transportation System
• Intermodal
A federal act established to develop a national intermodal transportation system which is economically efficient and environmentally sound, encourages citizen participation, provides the foundation for the nation to compete in a global economy and will move people and goods in an energy efficient manner.
A comprehensive transportation system including modes such as auto, bus, truck, motorcycle, bicycle, pedestrian and transit
Moving people and goods using various combinations of transportation modes (transit, rail, automobile, truck, bicycle, airplane and ship)
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
33
BUDGETInter-local Agreements To provide the basic funding structure for BPAB, the County and MTPO entered into agreement with the City. The agreement covers funding for specific staffing and administrative services, as well as projects. To receive the funding, the City has to invoice both agencies for BPAB services, and the County for $1000 in special projects.
City Special FundingThe City allows their advisory boards to request special funds for outreach projects/events that help to reach their goals. Since the City operates on a 2-year cycles, that funding allocation is available for 2 years before another request is needed.
Fiscal Year 2011 & Fiscal Year 2012 Special Projects
City CommissionSpecial Funding Fiscal Year 2011
City CommissionSpecial Funding Fiscal Year 2012
1. Recycled Bicycles $ 725 $ 725
2. Light Up the Night $ 600 $ 600
3. Cycle of Youth (SWAG) $ 2,000 $ 1,800
4. BPAB Website $ 150 $ 150
5. Bike Repair Stations $ 800 $ 800
2011 Total: $ 4,275 $ 4,075
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
34
BUDGET…ContinuedCity Special Funding…Continued
10
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
35
BUDGET…ContinuedPurchases In order for BPAB to purchase/process payments, someone needs to get with staff to propose a presentation on the purchase as an agenda item at a BPAB meeting. If the group approves the purchase in the meeting, staff will purchase under the City’s purchasing protocols, as the BPAB account is under the City’s financial structure. Please provide staff with special details/requests so items can be produced at the group’s prerogative. In the original presentation, the person who proposes purchase/production should communicate event/use date, purpose, as well as the pick-up/drop-off details.
BPAB MEMBERSHIP: As of May 2019
Information & Orientation Presentation
36
THANKS & ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
* = BPAB Chair ** = Vice Chair *** = Student Seat **** = Secretary
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
MTPO: Allyson Gill**** / Christine LarsenAdam Carr / Maxine Stallings
County: Gina van Blokland / Tim MartinRichard Pushaw / Brent Christner*
City: David Gilland / Jess LarsenJames Moss
Former MembershipLuke Jolly* / Jordan Brown***
Joseph Floyd / Arthur Stockwell
StaffMichael Escalante, MTPO
Jeff Hays, Alachua Co. Growth Mgmt.Dekova Batey, City of Gainesville DOM
Derek Dixon, FDOT District 2
37
PIC
TUR
ES
38
MO
RE
PIC
TUR
ES
11
39
MO
RE
PIC
TUR
ES
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)
Information & Orientation Presentation
END
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board (BPAB)Dekova Batey, Staff LiaisonCity of Gainesville Dept. of MobilityP.O. Box 490, MS 5Gainesville, FL 32627-0490--------------------------------------Phone: (352) 393-8493Email: [email protected]: www.cityofgainesville.org/bikeped
Prepared by: Dekova Batey, BPAB Staff Liaison rev. June 201940
ADVISORY BOARD PARTICIPATION HANDBOOK
City of Gainesville’s Guide to Informed Citizen Participation
2
City Commissioners
Lauren Poe, Mayor Administration Helen Warren Omichele D. Gainey Gail Johnson City Clerk David Arreola Harvey Ward Gigi Simmons Adrian Hayes-Santos, Mayor-Pro Tem
Dear Citizen; This handbook contains the information you will need to better understand your responsibilities as an advisory board/committee member. It also includes some of the rules which govern all board and committee members, such as parliamentary procedures and Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine Law. The City of Gainesville has an exciting future and we want you to be a part of it. Your valuable knowledge and expertise are essential as we prepare for the many challenges ahead. Again, thank you for serving as an advisory board/committee member. We look forward to working with you. Sincerely, Lauren Poe, Mayor City of Gainesville
P.O. Box 490 ■ Gainesville, Florida 32627 ■ Tel. (352) 334-5015 ■ Fax (352) 334-2036 Commissioners’ E-Mail:[email protected] ■ Home Page: www.cityofgainesville.org
3
Congratulations on your appointment to a City of Gainesville advisory board! We are pleased that you are willing to devote your time and efforts to improving the quality of life in our community. The 2018 City Commission Members are:
Mayor Lauren Poe At-Large
(352) 334-5015 [email protected]
Commissioner Helen Warren
At-Large (352) 334-5015
Commissioner Gail Johnson At-Large
(352) 334-5015 [email protected]
Commissioner Gigi Simmons
District 1 (352) 334-5015
Commissioner Harvey Ward District 2
(352) 334-5015 [email protected]
Commissioner David Arreola
District 3 (352) 334-5015
Mayor Pro Tem Adrian Hayes-Santos District 4
(352) 334-5015 [email protected]
4
What is an advisory board?
Advisory boards are created by motions, ordinances, resolutions or Florida Statutes. Advisory board members are normally appointed by the City Commission. The City Commission also appoints citizens to other types of boards which provide different services for City government, i.e. quasi-judicial or administrative boards. Requirements for board/committee members
Board/Committee members should have:
• The expertise necessary to accomplish the board’s objectives. • A reputation for integrity and community service. • An interest or experience in the board's area of service. • Sufficient time available to prepare for and attend meetings.
Financial Disclosure
Some board members are required by law to file financial disclosure forms (Section 112.3145, Florida Statutes). If appointed to one of these boards, you must file a Form 1, Statement of Financial Interest, with the Alachua County Supervisor of Elections within 30 days of your appointment. When you resign or your term is up, you must file a financial disclosure statement within 60 days of leaving. Your board's City liaison can help you obtain these forms or they can be found at this website: www.ethics.state.fl.us . Boards which require financial disclosure include:
• Board of Trustees of the Consolidated Police Officers’ and Firefighters’ Retirement Plan
• City Plan Board • Code Enforcement Special Magistrate • Development Review Board • Gainesville Housing Authority
5
Electing Officers
Once per year, usually in October, Advisory Board members elect a Chair, Vice-Chair, and any other officers required by their founding legislation or bylaws. Before you accept a nomination, please consider whether your term as an Advisory Board member will expire during the coming year. No one is guaranteed re-appointment. If you are not appointed to a new term your board will have to hold an emergency election at their next meeting. Correspondence & Communication
Any use of City government logos or letterhead must be coordinated with your staff liaison to prevent misrepresentation of board or City policies. Formal correspondence which states the board's position on an issue should always be coordinated with your staff liaison and approved by the respective Charter. Be careful when communicating with the media – please be very clear that you are expressing your own opinions and are not speaking on behalf of your board.
6
Advisory boards are successful when members and City staff understand the board’s purpose and work together to achieve it. This provides the foundation for a good relationship built on mutual respect and a clear understanding of each other’s responsibilities. Board members should:
• File a financial disclosure form, if applicable. • Notify staff or the board chair of any anticipated meeting absences. • Speak openly and clearly during meetings. • Listen and respond to members of the public who attend the meetings. • Vote on all motions (unless you have a conflict of interest - more on that in meeting
guidelines). • Note a conflict of interest and follow the appropriate procedures. • Monitor their attendance requirements.
City advisory boards are the first step for many important issues that go before the City Commission. The purpose of advisory boards is to advise the City Commission; it is not to make policy. Your recommendations will always be considered; but, keep in mind the recommendations your board makes may not always be adopted by the City Commission, which frequently must take other factors into consideration before making a policy decision. Staff members:
• Create the meeting agenda, with help from the board chair. • Supply background information on agenda items to board members sufficiently in
advance of meetings. • Attend board meetings in a non-voting capacity. • Record attendance. • Take and distribute meeting minutes. • When requested, staff may make recommendations on agenda items. • Inform board members of City Commission actions concerning routine
recommendations and appeals. • Provide technical and administrative assistance to the board. • Provide initial orientation and continuing education for board members. • Monitor attendance of members and notify members whose attendance record is in
jeopardy.
7
Board members and staff share these responsibilities:
• Be on time for meetings. • Know and practice parliamentary procedure, as utilized by the Committee. • Be familiar with the issues: review backup information, the agenda and prior minutes
before the meeting. • Be courteous to each other and to members of the public. • Be open and responsive to questions and concerns.
8
Q. How often does my board meet? A. The number of times a board meets depends on its area of service, goals and mission. Please check with your staff liaison regarding meeting times, dates and locations. Q. What is the policy for Excused Absences for Advisory Boards? A. Board members may be granted two (2) excused absences per calendar year for a medical reason or professional/educational obligation. Board members shall notify the board secretary of an excused absence prior to the meeting, if practicable. Please contact your staff liaison if you will be absent prior to the meeting. Q. What is the policy for Excused Absences for Quasi-Judicial and Administrative Boards? A. The Board member has failed to attend four or more consecutive meetings or the board member’s overall attendance record is less than 66 2/3 percent for the 6 most recent board meetings at which voting occurred. Board members may be granted one excused absence per calendar year for a medical reason or professional/educational obligation. Board members shall notify the board secretary of an excused absence prior to the meeting, if practicable. Please contact your staff liaison if you will be absent prior to the meeting. Q. How long will I serve? A. Most board member terms are three years with two term limits (except for the Board of Adjustment, City Plan Board, Development Review Board, Historic Preservation Board and Utility Advisory Board). Q. What if I can't finish my term? A. Submit a letter of resignation to your City staff liaison and Board Chair. Q. May I serve another term? A. We hope this will be a rewarding experience for you and for city government. You will be contacted by your city liaison near the end of your term and asked if you would like to apply for another term. Advisory Boards/Committees generally serve a maximum of two terms. Members appointed to the Board of Adjustment, City Plan Board and Development Review Board do not have term limits, but need to reapply at the end of their term. Q. May I serve on more than one board at the same time? A. Yes, with some exceptions, you may serve on more than one board (limited to membership on two advisory boards or one quasi-judicial and one advisory board). Q. Who do I call if I have a question about advisory board procedures or need more information on some aspect of City operations? A. A City representative is present at each advisory board meeting. This person will assist you in getting the information you and your board need.
9
Public records
Public records are defined as all materials made or received by an agency in connection with official business which are used to perpetuate, communicate or formalize knowledge. This includes advisory boards and you as an advisory board member. In addition to written documents, public records can be tapes, e-mails, photographs, films, videos and sound recordings. Florida's public records law establishes rules for how long these materials must be retained and when they can be destroyed. Your City staff liaison keeps master copies of board agendas, minutes, etc. Sunshine Law and Public Records Law
Florida’s Sunshine Law was enacted in 1967. It establishes a basic right of access to most meetings of boards, commissions and other governing bodies of state and local governmental agencies or authorities. The Sunshine Law requires: 1) Meetings of public boards or commissions must be open to the public; 2) Reasonable notice of such meetings must be given; 3) Minutes of the meetings must be taken and promptly recorded. The Sunshine Law applies to elected and appointed boards at the state and local level and to any gathering of two or more members of the same board to discuss some matter that will foreseeably come before that board for action. As an advisory board member, you must observe these laws. Therefore, do not talk with your fellow board members in person or by phone, letter, e-mail, etc., about any matters related to your board. Florida’s Public Records Law provides a right of access to the records of state and local governments. Public Records include all materials (e.g. e-mails, sound recordings, software, etc.) made or received by a public entity or representative used to perpetuate, communicate, or formalize knowledge in connection with the transaction of official business. Every person who has custody of a public record shall permit the record to be inspected and copied at a reasonable time by any person desiring to do so.
• It is a good idea to consider everything you say or do at a board meeting to be a public record; let this guide your actions.
• If you receive requests from citizens or members of the news media for public records in your custody, you must (with certain limited exceptions) provide access.
• You and/or City staff may not manipulate the timing of the release of public records.
10
To keep your meetings productive and on track, here are some handy tips: You'll become very familiar with meetings as an advisory board member. You'll quickly learn to appreciate meetings which run smoothly, as opposed to those which drag on endlessly, yet accomplish little.
• Study any background materials beforehand, but don't make up your mind. Additional information may be presented at the meeting, and you'll want to keep an open mind so you can fairly consider all the facts.
• Before the board can get down to business, it must have a quorum - in general a majority of members present or as defined by the bylaws.
• The Chair is responsible for moving the meeting along. But members should assist with getting to the heart of an issue so a conclusion can be reached in a reasonable amount of time.
• The board may establish and publicize general guidelines governing the length of presentations and public participation.
• After the presentation and public participation, board members may want to ask questions. This time should be limited to board questions only, with discussion for or against an issue held until after a motion has been presented (the motion helps focus the discussion).
• After questions are answered, a voting board member should make a motion. After the motion is seconded, the Chair can open the floor to board discussion, making sure each member keeps comments short and to the point.
• The Chair should try to keep members focused and moving to a conclusion. One way is for the Chair to occasionally summarize what is being discussed.
11
Voting conflicts
Simply put, you can’t vote on an issue that may result in a special private gain or loss to you or your relative, business associate, or employer/client. An example of a special private gain is where you or your spouse owns something that would be affected by the vote or have an ongoing business relationship with someone whose interests would be affected. If a voting conflict exists
If the conflict is known prior to the meeting:
• Disclose in writing and file with the staff liaison prior to the meeting (ask the staff liaison for a memorandum of voting conflict form).
• You may participate in the discussion, but… • Abstain from voting.
If the conflict is unknown prior to the meeting:
• Disclose orally at meeting. • Within 15 days of the meeting, disclose in writing and file with the staff liaison. • You may participate in the discussion, but… • Abstain from voting.
Members should contact their staff liaison and the City Attorney’s Office (352-334-5011) if they have a voting conflict question.
12
Imagine a meeting where everyone talks at the same time. Not much will get done. That's why there is parliamentary procedure. These common sense rules allow for the orderly flow of ideas and discussion and are widely used to govern meetings. Some committees follow Parliamentary Procedure a guide to parliamentary procedure for more than fifty years. Don't worry if at first the process seems confusing. You’ll learn the lingo in a short time and before you know it, the procedures will become second nature. A key element of parliamentary procedure is the motion. There are seven recognized steps in making a motion, as follows.
1. A member asks to be recognized: “Mr. or Madam Chair.” 2. The Chair recognizes the member: “Ms. Smith.” 3. The member states the motion: “I move the application be approved.” 4. Another member (without waiting to be recognized) seconds the motion: “I second the
motion.” 5. The Chair repeats the motion and calls for discussion: “It has been moved and
seconded that the application be approved. Is there any discussion?” 6. After discussion, the Chair puts the motion to a vote: “If there is nothing new to be
added to the discussion, we are ready to vote. All those in favor of the application being approved say ‘yes.’ Those opposed say ‘no.’" The Chair pauses for the vote.
7. The Chair counts the votes and announces the outcome: “The motion passes/fails by a five to four vote.”
Here are other motions which are a part of parliamentary procedure: Main motion: Only one motion before an assembly at a time; cannot be introduced when any other motion is before the group. Motion to amend: Changes a motion before it comes up for final vote; takes precedence over the motion to which it applies (you must vote on the amendment before voting on the main motion). Substitute motion: Amends by substituting another form, changed or additional wording.
13
We hope you found this handbook helpful. Below is the list of advisory board staff liaisons (subject to change), and on the following pages, you will find descriptions of each board. Additional information, as well as a copy of this handbook, is available online at http://www.cityofgainesville.org/ClerkOfTheCommission/AdvisoryBoardsCommittees.aspx Thanks for reading!
Advisory Board Name Staff Liaison Contact
# e-mail address
Gainesville Art in Public Place Trust Russell Etling 393-8445 [email protected]
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board Scott Wright 393-8493 [email protected]
Board of Trustees of the Consolidated Police Officers’ and Firefighters’ Retirement Plan Brian Sergeant 393-8493 [email protected]
Citizens’ Advisory Committee for Community Development Sheera Greene 393-8863 [email protected]
City Beautification Board Liliana Kolluri 393-8188 [email protected]
City Plan Board Dean Mimms 393-8688 [email protected]
Development Review Board Lawrence Calderon 393-8690 [email protected]
Empowerment Center Oversight Advisory Board Tom Tonkavich 264-6738 [email protected]
Fire Safety Board of Adjustment Joseph Hillhouse 393-8377 [email protected]
Gainesville Code Enforcement Special Magistrate
Kelly Lofland Connie Farrell 334-5030
[email protected] [email protected]
Gainesville Housing Authority Beth Pannell 872-5502 [email protected]
Gainesville Human Rights Board Myra Brantley 393-8392 [email protected]
14
Gainesville Cultural Affairs Board Russell Etling 393-8532 [email protected]
Gainesville/Alachua County Regional Airport Authority Allan Penksa 373-0249 [email protected]
Historic Preservation Board Jason Simmons 393-8697 [email protected]
Nature Centers Commission Linda Demetropoulos 393-8445 [email protected]
Pension Review Committee Brian Sergeant 393-8493 [email protected]
Public Recreation and Parks Board
Glenda Walton-Tucker 393-8357 [email protected]
Regional Transit System Advisory Board
Kimberly Sweigard 393-7852 [email protected]
State Housing Initiatives Partnership Affordable Housing Advisory Committee John Wachtel 393-8568 [email protected]
Student Community Relations Advisory Board Connie Farrell 393-8470 [email protected]
Tree Advisory Board Matthew Mears 393-8184 [email protected]
Tree Board of Appeals Matthew Mears 393-8184 [email protected]
Utility Advisory Board Robin Baxley 393-1032 [email protected]
Wild Spaces Public Places Betsy Waite 393-8187 [email protected]
15
City of Gainesville SUMMARY
ADVISORY BOARDS/COMMITTEES
GAINESVILLE ART IN PUBLIC PLACES TRUST - Russell Etling (352) 393-8445 City Residency NOT Required Ordinance 960440 (01/13/97) hereby created and established in the City Art In Public Places Trust Committees and Legislative #000829. Each Art In Public Places Trust Committee shall consist of five (5) regular members appointed for a project that qualifies for placement of art as described below. For each committee, whenever possible, two of the five appointed members shall be citizens with appreciation for the visual arts and three of the five appointed members shall be represent one or more of the following classifications: architect or interior designer, professional in the field of art, and art or architectural historian. Five (5) members of the committee shall be appointed by the City Commission. The director of the division having jurisdiction over the public building being constructed and the authorized architect for the project shall be designated as Members of the Art In Public Places Trust for that particular project. If there is no architect for the project, the Commission shall appoint an additional member representing one or more of the aforementioned classifications. All trust members shall serve without compensation. Members will serve on the committee until the artwork for the committee’s particular project as described in section 5.5-4 has been approved. BICYCLE/PEDESTRIAN ADVISORY BOARD – Scott Wright (352) 393-8423 (13 members; 4-members appointed by the City; 4-members appointed by the County; and 4-members appointed by the MTPO; 1 Student Seat appointed by the City Commission) 3-year terms) CITY Residency REQUIRED FOR CITY APPOINTEES The Board shall study and make recommendations to the City Commission, the County Commission, and the MTPO on all matters concerning planning, implementation, and maintenance of policies, programs, and facilities for the safe and efficient integration of bicycle transportation into the urban area transportation system. This shall include, but not be limited to, the design of highway bicycle facilities, bicycle paths, bicycle parking, and the enforcement of traffic and bicycle safety regulations. The board will make recommendations to the City Commission and the Organization regarding budgetary matters in connection with its duties. BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE CONSOLIDATED POLICE OFFICERS' AND FIREFIGHTERS' RETIREMENT PLAN – Brian Sergeant (352) 393-8772 CITY Residency REQUIRED for the Two (2) Members appointed by the City Commission. The Board of Trustees oversees and administers the pensions of the Police Officers and Firefighters for the City of Gainesville. The Board composed of five (5) members; two (2) year terms): two (2) members appointed by the City Commission; one (1) Police Office and one (1) Firefighter elected by eligible members of the Police Officers' and Firefighters' Retirement Plan; and a (1) fifth member chosen by a majority of the previous four members and such person shall be appointed by the legislative body of the municipality. (Reference F.S. Chapters 175 and 185 and Ordinances 3342 (06/01/87) and 3439 (06/20/88).
16
City of Gainesville
SUMMARY ADVISORY BOARDS/COMMITTEES
CITIZENS’ ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT – Sheera Greene (352) 393-8863 City Residency NOT Required Fifteen (15) members, three (3) year terms. Created by Resolution #R-74-144 (11/18/74), Reference Ordinance Numbers 1011, 1912, 2554. City Residency NOT Required. The Citizens’ Advisory Committee for Community Development (CACCD) makes recommendations to the City Commission and City Manager relating to the Community Development Program and shall lend support to, and seek support from, desirable programs and projects. CITY BEAUTIFICATION BOARD – Liliana Kolluri (352) 393-8188 City Residency NOT Required 15 Members; 3-year terms. City residency NOT required. The City Beautification Board was created by Ordinance No. 1011 (10/10/60); amended by Ordinance No. 1912 (08/20/73), Ordinance No. 2554 (10/03/77), Ordinance No. 3195 (02/17/86), and Ordinance No. 3222 (06/02/86) and 950289 (7/24/95). The City Beautification Board studies, investigates, develops, assists, advises, and recommends to the City Commission any and all matters pertaining to beautification, sanitation, environment and citizens’ participation relating to same. In carrying out its function and duties, the board shall advise and recommend plans to organizations and groups in the City and promote public interest in the general improvement of the appearance of the City. CITY PLAN BOARD – Dean Mimms (352) 393-8688 (7-members; 3-year terms) (Ordinance Nos. 874, 1158, 1998, and 3777) (60 Day Probationary Period) CITY Residency REQUIRED. Quasi-Judicial Board. The City Plan Board (CPB) gathers information and makes recommendations to the City Commission on a comprehensive plan of the City showing all major projected changes; the needs of the City with regard to recreation, parks and boulevards, the extension and opening of streets and avenues or other public ways or places and all other city plans and improvements; and changes and improvements in building and fire limit ordinances.
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD – Lawrence Calderon (352) 393-8680 (7-members; 3-year terms) (Initial terms: two (2) one-year terms to expire November 1, 1991; three (3) two-year terms to expire November 1, 1992; and two (2) three-year terms to expire November 1, 1993). (60 Day Probationary Period). CITY Residency REQUIRED. Quasi-Judicial Board. Created by Ordinance No. 3679 (November 19, 1990) and Ordinance No. 3777 (June 10, 1992). The Development Review Board is a citizen board to review and approve or deny development plans submitted for its review pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 30 of the Gainesville Code of Ordinances; and shall be composed whenever possible of at least one from each of the following: 1) An architect or landscape architect; 2) A Civil Engineer; 3) A person engaged in real estate sales or development; 4) A professional with experience in natural or environmental sciences.
17
City of Gainesville SUMMARY
ADVISORY BOARDS/COMMITTEES
FIRE SAFETY BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT – Joseph Hillhouse (352) 393-8377 City Residency NOT Required (5-members; 3-year terms) (appointed by City Commission) (Ordinance No. 3388). Quasi-Judicial Board. The Fire Safety Board of Adjustment serves as an Appeals Board and to the greatest extent possible are qualified by training and experience in building construction and fire safety standards, and hereby authorized to hear appeals and to vary the application of any provision of the City of Gainesville Code when the City Code and the Building Code are in conflict. GAINESVILLE CODE ENFORCEMENT SPECIAL MAGISTRATE – Kelly Lofland, Connie Farrell (352-334-5030) One person for terms set forth in the signed contract, one-year with up to four one- year extensions. ALACHUA COUNTY Residency REQUIRED. Quasi-Judicial Board. The Gainesville Code Enforcement Special Magistrate shall have jurisdiction to hear and decide cases in which violations are alleged of any provisions of the Gainesville City codes and ordinances relating to buildings, electrical code, fire protection, housing code, licenses, plumbing, signs and street graphics, ventilation, heating, air conditioning, refrigeration, and zoning. The minimum qualifications of a Special Magistrate are as follows: 1) be an active member in good standing of the Florida Bar; and 2) reside in Alachua County; and 3) not be an employee of the city or hold any office with the city government, nor hold any other elective or appointive office in the county or state while serving as special magistrate; 4) and comply with the Code of Ethics of the State of Florida. Reference Ordinance No. 121102. GAINESVILLE HOUSING AUTHORITY – Beth Pannell (352) 872-5502 City Residency NOT Required (5 members; 4-year terms; membership includes one (1) tenant-commissioner) (Created by Resolution, August 1, 1966 - Page 572, Minute Book 73). Amended by Resolutions R- 84-70 (09-17-84) and R-88-27 (08-01-88) City Residency NOT Required. The Gainesville Housing Authority (GHA) establishes policy of the Authority and is responsible for the planning, financing, construction, leasing, managing and maintaining of low rent public housing, subject to applicable laws and contractual relations with U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the City Commission. GHA created by Resolution, August 1966. Note: Members of the GHA are referred to as Commissioners.
GAINESVILLE HUMAN RIGHTS BOARD – Myra Brantley (352) 393-8392 (Seven (7) members; 3-year terms). CITY Residency REQUIRED. Membership should be representative of the city’s population. Created by Ordinance 980524 (12/14/98) amending Chapter 8 of the Code of Ordinances. The Gainesville Human Rights Board serves as a Quasi-Judicial board authorized to: 1) adopt rules and procedures necessary to conduct the business of the board; 2) subpoena and compel the production of evidence necessary for investigation of complaints filed for any alleged discrimination based upon sexual orientation, race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, marital status, disability, or gender identity as it relates to housing, employment, public accommodation, and fair credit; and, 3) provide for informational, educational, and civil actions, penalties, and other remedies to carry out the purposes of this chapter.
18
City of Gainesville SUMMARY
ADVISORY BOARDS/COMMITTEES
GAINESVILLE CULTURAL AFFAIRS BOARD – Russell Etling (352) 393-8532 10-members; 3-year terms members appointed by the City Commission City Residency NOT Required. NO MEMBER MAY BE ON THE STAFF OF AN ARTS ORGANIZATION. Reference Ordinances 2397, 3154, 3486 and 3913. Add one Student Adjunct Member [Ordinance No. 3427 (03/28/88)]; and changing name of board and method of appointment of five members [Ordinance No. 3586 (11/14/88)]; and consolidation of Art in Public Places Trust (Ordinance No. 3913; 10/18/93); and the separation of the Art in Public Places Trust (Ordinance No. 960440; adopted 01/13/97). The Gainesville Cultural Affairs Board (GACCAB) advises the Director of the Department of Cultural Affairs in the promotion of fine arts, literary arts, performing arts and crafts, develops local art resources and assists the Director of the Department of Cultural Affairs in the planning and implementation of community arts involvement in and around the City of Gainesville. CULTURAL AFFAIRS BOARD SUBCOMMITTEES: 1) Arts Education; 2) Budget and Grants; 3) Planning; 4) Outreach; 5) Cultural and Economic Development GAINESVILLE/ALACHUA COUNTY REGIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY – Allan Penksa (or Suzanne Schiemann) (352) 373-0249 (Nine (9) members; 3-year terms) (Created by HB 1419 of the 1986 Florida Legislature) ALACHUA COUNTY Residency REQUIRED. The purpose of the Authority is to manage and operate the airport and airport facilities, hereby creating an independent special district to be known as the Gainesville/Alachua County Regional Airport Authority. HISTORIC PRESERVATION BOARD – Jason Simmons (352) 393-8697 Nine (9) members; three (3) year terms. [Reference Ordinance No. 2842 (03/28/83); Ordinance No. 3541 (Name Change) (06/12/89)]. CITY Residency REQUIRED. Quasi-Judicial Board. All members of the board shall be residents of the City. One (1) member shall be a registered architect. The City Commission shall, when possible, appoint a representative from each of the following areas of expertise: 1) History; 2) Real Estate and/or Real Property Appraisal and/or Finance; 3) Urban Planning and/or Law; 4) Engineering and/or Building Construction; and 5) Landscape Architecture. The responsibility of the Historic Preservation Board (HPB) shall be to: 1) update the official inventory of cultural resources and submit recommendations and documentation to the City Commission; 2) develop programs to stimulate public interest in urban neighborhood conservation policies and goals; 3) advise property owners concerning funding and grant sources which might be available for the identification, protection, enhancement, perpetuation, and use of historic, architectural, archeological, and cultural resources; 4) cooperate with city, county, regional, state and federal government agencies in planning proposed and future projects to reflect the concerns and policies expressed in this article, and assist in the development of proposed and future land use plans; 5) advise property owners and local governmental agencies concerning the proper protection, maintenance, enhancement and preservation of cultural resources; 6) advise the City Commission concerning the effects of local governmental actions on cultural resources; 7) review and recommend sites, buildings, structures, objects, areas and districts, both public and private, for listing on the local register for historic places; and otherwise further the objectives and purposes defined in section 12-2 of the Gainesville Code of Ordinances.
19
City of Gainesville SUMMARY
ADVISORY BOARDS/COMMITTEES NATURE CENTERS COMMISSION – Linda Demetropoulos - (352) 393-8445 City Residency NOT Required (12-members; 3-year terms) City Residency NOT Required. The Nature Centers Commission (NCC) assists the City Commission through recommendations and advice given in respect to developing programs, ordinances, use regulations and resource management policies as required to protect the natural system and other values to the Nature Centers of the City of Gainesville. The NCC was created by Ordinance 2062 (07/21/75); amended by Ordinances 2592 (04/27/81) and 3088 (12/17/84). PENSION REVIEW COMMITTEE – Brian Sergeant (352) 393-8772 City Residency NOT Required Five (5) members; five (5) year terms. City Residency NOT Required. SUCCESSFUL INVESTMENT AND ADVISORY EXPERIENCE REQUIRED. Created by Ordinance No. 31409; Reference Resolutions R-8338 (07/11/83); R-83-65 (10/03/83) and R-84-39 (06/04/84); and Amending Section 2(b) entitled “Appointment and Membership” by creating staggered five-year terms, eliminating ex-officio non-voting members, and clarifying that the Plan Administrator or designee acts as Secretary to the Committee (Resolution 001219 (05/14/01). The Committee shall assist the City Commission in carrying out its fiduciary responsibility as Board of Trustees of the City's pension funds by acting as an Advisory Committee on investment matters and Board referrals. The Committee shall also review investment policies and Investment Manager Performance. PUBLIC RECREATION AND PARKS BOARD – Glenda Tucker (352) 393-8357 City Residency NOT Required Nine (9) members appointed by the Gainesville City Commission; three (3) year terms; two (2) ex-officio members - one (1) School Board appointment, one (1) Alachua County Appointment and one (1) Student Adjunct Member. City Residency NOT Required. The Public Recreation Board (PRB) advises the City Commission and offers recommendations as to the needs of the City on all matters pertaining to recreation within the City. Reference: Code of 1949 amended with Ordinance 1650 (01/05/70) and Ordinance 2592 (04/27/81). Name changed from Public Recreation Board 01/23/06, #050420. REGIONAL TRANSIT SYSTEM ADVISORY BOARD – Kimberly Sweigard (352) 393-7852 City Residency NOT Required (Nine (9) Members; 3-Year Terms. Board recreated with the adoption of Ordinance #960051 (March 10, 1997). The duties of the Regional Transit System Advisory Board shall be to advise the City Commission on all matters relating to public transit development in the City of Gainesville and Alachua County including 1) to develop and analyze policies concerning the operation of the regional transit system; 2) to develop approaches for financing the regional transit system on a long-term basis; 3) to review rider-ship, routes, rates and other related matters; 4) to consider questions referred to it by the City Commission. All recommendations must include City Manager or designee comments. And, to review all matters relating to the Regional Transit System that must be approved by the City Commission. The issues will then be sent to the City Commission with the recommendations of both the board and City Manager or designee. Membership shall be composed of: Six (6) CITY RESIDENTS appointed by the City Commission and three (3) Residents of Alachua County appointed by the County Commission from among the following individual groups: (1) Regular user of the transit system; (2) Senior Citizen; (3) Person with a disability; (4) University of Florida student; (5) Chamber of Commerce Representative; (6) Major employer in the local area; (7) Environmental community; (8) Neighborhood/homeowners associations; (9) Student oriented housing developments; (10) Santa Fe College student; (11) Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization Citizen Advisory Committee.
20
City of Gainesville SUMMARY
ADVISORY BOARDS/COMMITTEES
STATE HOUSING INITIATIVES PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM AFFORDABLE HOUSING ADVISORY COMMITTEE – John Wachtel (352) 393-8568 CITY Residency REQUIRED Eleven (11) members, three consecutive (2) year terms. Created by Ordinance #070872 (04/14/2008). City Residency IS Required. The State Housing Initiatives Partnership Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (SHIP AHAC) makes recommendations to the City Commission and City Manager relating to the SHIP Program; makes recommendations for strategies to reduce regulatory barriers to developing affordable housing in the community; and shall lend support to, and seek support from, desirable programs and projects. The advisory committee may perform other duties at the request of the City including making recommendations to the City Commission and City Manager for other City funded programs. STUDENT COMMUNITY RELATIONS ADVISORY BOARD – Connie Farrell (352) 393-8470 (7-members; three (3) Students attending a postsecondary educational institution; (3) non-student (defined as a person who is not a student as defined previously); and one (1) administrator member. The three (3) Student and three (3) non-Student members must be CITY RESIDENTS. The City Commission may appoint two (2) additional administrators from postsecondary educational institutions to be non-voting members of the board. Student Members shall be appointed for a term of one (1) year. Administrator and non-student members shall be appointed for a term of two (2) years. Members may be reappointed for consecutive terms, but nonmember shall serve more than four successive years. The goal of the Student Community Relations Advisory Board is to strive for a more cohesive non-student and student community; to act as a vehicle for students and non-students to voice their concerns and opinions; to review, discuss and forward recommendations as appropriate, on issues, concerns and initiatives relevant to students and non-students; to assess and address needs of non-students as they pertain to student issues; to be a knowledgeable liaison between the City Commission and the students and nonstudents of Gainesville; to encourage involvement by non-students and students in planning and implementation of improvements; and to ensure that student issues are addressed by providing a link between the students, non-students, and the City Commission. TREE ADVISORY BOARD – Matthew Mears (352) 393-8184 City Residency NOT Required (5-members; three (3) year terms; 4 members should have knowledge of urban forestry. Terms shall expire on January 1st of the year the terms expire. Appointments shall be made for three (3) year terms or for unexpired terms.) Reference Ordinance No. 3592, January 22, 1990. The Board shall act as the technical information collector; clarify tree regulations; act on referrals; guide the creation of a Master Tree Plan; assist in the development of the goals and objectives for the City's Comprehensive Plan with respect to trees; advise all departments of the City on tree issues; communicate general tree information; and develop tree projects; serve on the Tree Board of Appeals. TREE BOARD OF APPEALS – Matthew Mears (352) 393-8184 (3-members nominated by the Big Tree Committee and appointed by the City Commission; 3-year terms) City Residency NOT Required. Quasi-Judicial Board. The Tree Board of Appeals has been established to hear appeal regarding dangerous or dead trees designated for removal (including those recommended for removal (including those recommended for removal by the City Arborist). Established by Ordinance No.3529 (04/10/89).
21
City of Gainesville SUMMARY
ADVISORY BOARDS/COMMITTEES UTILITY ADVISORY BOARD – Robin Baxley (352) 393-1032 (7-members; 4-year terms) (Initial terms: three (3) two-year terms to expire March 3, 2018 and four (4) four-year terms to expire March 3, 2020.) All members shall reside within the utility service area and receive utility service. A minimum of one member shall reside outside Gainesville city limits. The Membership shall be comprised of the following: (1) a representative of a major business (defined as having 25 or more employees) that is a utility commercial customer; (2) a person with utility management experience; (3) a person with investment banking, financial or certified public accounting experience; (4) a licensed attorney with business, contract or corporate law experience; (5) a person with engineering experience; and (6) two persons with any qualifications the City Commission deems relevant or beneficial to service on the board. The Utility Advisory Board is hereby created as an advisory board to advise and make recommendations the City Commission regarding all matters of utility governance of the city's electric, gas, telecommunications, water and wastewater utilities. Created by Ordinance 140384 (November 19, 2015). Wild Spaces Public Places – Betsy Waite (352) 393-8187 CITY Residency REQUIRED (5- voting members; 3-alternate members; 4- year terms) All members must be residents of Alachua County. Two (2) of the members plus one (1) alternate will be appointed by the County, two (2) of the members plus one (1) alternate shall reside within the Gainesville city limits and will be appointed by the City of Gainesville, and one (1) of the members plus one (1) alternate will be recommended by the eight remaining incorporated cities and appointed by the County. Members may not be county or municipal elected officials or employees Created by Resolution 17-36 (Alachua County) March 28, 2017 The Citizen Oversight Committee was created to ensure that Wild Spaces Public Places infrastructure surtax revenues are expended consistent with the ballot language approved by the voters. For assistance please call the City Clerk’s Office at (352) 334-5015
ADVISORY BOARD PARTICIPATION HANDBOOK Alachua County’s Guide to Informed Citizen Participation
Revised 09/23/13
Adapted from Volusia County’s “Connecting with County Government” handbook by Cindy Finney, Volusia County Manager’s Office.
Used with permission.
59
Alachua County Board of County Commissioners
Mike Byerly, Chair Administration Lee Pinkoson, Vice Chair Randall H. Reid Susan Baird County Manager Charles “Chuck” Chestnut Robert “Hutch” Hutchinson
Dear Citizen;
Advisory board members are an integral part of the policy development process in Alachua County government. Your role is to research and make recommendations or suggestions to the County Commission on various topics of public concern.
This handbook contains the information you will need to better understand your responsibilities as an advisory board member. It also includes some of the rules which govern all board and commission members, such as parliamentary procedures and Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine Law.
Alachua County has an exciting future and we want you to be a part of it. Your valuable knowledge and expertise are essential as we prepare for the many challenges ahead.
Again, thank you for serving as an advisory board member. We look forward to working with you.
Sincerely,
Mike Byerly, Chair Alachua County Commission
MB/mvl
P.O. Box 2877 ■ Gainesville, Florida 32602 ■ Tel. (352) 264-6900 ■ Fax (352) 338-7363 1-800-491-4496 (toll free) ■ Suncom 651-5210 ■ TDD (352) 491-4430
Commissioners’ E-Mail: [email protected] ■ Home Page: www.alachuacounty.us
60
Welcome! Congratulations on your appointment to an Alachua County advisory board! We are pleased that you are willing to devote your time and efforts to improving the quality of life in our community.
How County Government Works The County of Alachua operates under a Commission/Manager form of government. The Alachua County Commission is comprised of five members, each representing one district (in which they must reside). All Commissioners are elected at-large, meaning that anyone in the county can vote for any commissioner. The foundation for our Commission/ Manager form of government is the County's Home Rule Charter. It provides the framework for self-government within the guidelines of Florida law. The Charter was approved by Alachua County voters in a special county-wide referendum; it became effective on January 1, 1987. The County Commission is the legislative and policy-making body for County government. The County Manager, who is hired by the County Commission, works with its members to assist in formulating policies and programs. The County Manager is the top administrator for some 800+ full-time County employees and is responsible for the ongoing operations of many County services, including growth management, road repair, animal services and environmental issues. The County Commission also appoints the County Attorney, the County government’s chief legal advisor. The Commission Chair serves as the official and ceremonial representative of County government and presides at all meetings and executes ordinances and various other documents. All Commissioners serve four year terms. The County Commission meets at 9 a.m., usually on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month in the Jack Durrance Auditorium on the 2nd floor of the County Administration building, 12 S.E. 1st Street, Gainesville, Florida, 32602. If you cannot attend, you can view Commission meetings and workshops on streaming video through the County's website, www.alachuacounty.us.
61
The 2013 County Commission members are:
Chair: Mike Byerly District 1
(352) 264-6900 [email protected]
Vice-chair: Lee Pinkoson District 2
(352) 264-6900 [email protected]
Susan Baird District 4
(352) 264-6900 [email protected]
Charles “Chuck” Chestnut District 5
(352) 264-6900 [email protected]
Robert “Hutch” Hutchinson District 3
(352) 264-6900 [email protected]
Alachua County Manager Betty M. Baker (352) 374-5204
62
How Advisory Boards Work What is an advisory board? An advisory board is created by ordinance, resolution or Florida Statute. It is designed to provide advice and recommendations to the County Commission on diverse matters of public concern. Advisory board members are appointed by the Alachua County Commission. The County Commission also appoints citizens to other types of boards which provide different services for County government, i.e. quasi-judicial boards and authorities. Quasi-judicial boards, such as the County's Code Enforcement Board, perform functions in a manner similar to courts, but more informally. An example of an authority is the Gainesville/Alachua County Regional Airport Authority, which insures that the Gainesville Regional Airport is managed in the most efficient manner to ultimately benefit its customers. Requirements for board members Board members should have:
• The expertise necessary to accomplish the board’s objectives. • A reputation for integrity and community service. • An interest or experience in the board's area of service. • Sufficient time available to prepare for and attend meetings.
Financial disclosure Some board members are required by law to file financial disclosure forms (Section 112.3145, Florida Statutes). If appointed to one of these boards, you must file a Form 1, Statement of Financial Interest, with the Alachua County Supervisor of Elections within 30 days of your appointment. When you resign or your term is up, you must file a financial disclosure statement within 60 days of leaving. Your board's County liaison can help you obtain these forms or they can be found at this website: www.ethics.state.fl.us . Boards which require financial disclosure include:
• Code Enforcement Board • Board of Adjustment • Local Planning Agency/Planning Commission
63
Electing Officers
Once per year, usually in October, Advisory Board members elect a Chair, Vice-Chair, and any other officers required by their founding legislation or bylaws. Before you accept a nomination, please consider whether your term as an Advisory Board member will expire during the coming year. No one is guaranteed re-appointment. If you are not appointed to a new term your board will have to hold an emergency election at their next meeting.
Setting goals
Advisory boards must submit an annual workplan/report to the County Commission indicating their achievements and progress for the year. Your staff liaison will assist you in preparing these reports, which are due each year by October 1. An annual report encourages boards to develop focused work plans and ensures the County Commission is kept informed of board activities. Advisory boards are encouraged to present their annual workplan/report to the County Commission during one of their twice-monthly regular meetings.
Correspondence & Communication
Any use of County government logos or letterhead must be coordinated with your staff liaison to prevent misrepresentation of board or County policies. Formal correspondence which states the board's position on an issue should always be coordinated with your staff liaison. Be careful when communicating with the media – please be very clear that you are expressing your own opinions and are not speaking on behalf of your board.
Financial responsibilities
A few boards have specific responsibilities which task them with making financial or funding recommendations. Most County boards, however, do not have these management or budget oversight duties. It is the County Manager's role to recommend and direct County budget issues.
The purpose of an advisory board is to give the County Commission an in-depth assessment of an issue related to the board's area of expertise and offer a recommended course of action.
64
In Summary… Advisory boards are successful when members and County staff understand the board’s purpose and work together to achieve it. This provides the foundation for a good relationship built on mutual respect and a clear understanding of each other’s responsibilities.
Board members should:
• File a financial disclosure form if applicable.• Notify staff or the board Chair of any anticipated meeting absences.• Speak openly and clearly during meetings.• Listen and respond to members of the public who attend the meetings.• Vote on all motions (unless you have a conflict of interest - more on that in Meeting
Guidelines).• Note a conflict of interest and follow the appropriate procedures.
County advisory boards are the first step for many important issues that go before the County Commission. The purpose of advisory boards is to advise the County Commission; it is not to make policy.
Your recommendations will always be considered; but, keep in mind the recommendations your board makes may not always be adopted by the County Commission, which frequently must take other factors into consideration before making a policy decision.
Staff members:
• Create the meeting agenda, with help from the board Chair.• Supply background information on agenda items to board members sufficiently in
advance of meetings.• Attend board meetings in a non-voting capacity.• Record attendance.• Take and distribute meeting minutes.• When requested, staff may make recommendations on agenda items.• Inform boa rd me mbe rs of County Commis s ion a ctions conce rning routine
recommendations and appeals.• Provide technical and administrative assistance to the board.• Provide initial orientation and continuing education for board members.
Board members and staff share these responsibilities:
• Be on time for me e tings . • Know and practice parliamentary procedure.• Be familiar with the issues: Review background information, the agenda and previous
minutes before the meeting.• Be courteous to each other and to members of the public.• Be open and responsive to questions and concerns.
65
Frequently Asked Questions Q. How often does my board meet? A. The number of times a board meets depends on its area of service, goals and mission. Please check with your staff liaison regarding meeting times, dates and locations.
Q. What if I miss a meeting? A. Advisory board members who miss 4 out of 6 regularly scheduled meetings shall be automatically removed from the board. This is because a board cannot meet if it does not have enough members present for a quorum (a quorum is more than 50 percent of the members).
There is no such thing as an excused absence. If you know that you will not be able to attend at least 50% of your board’s meetings, it would be best to notify your staff liaison and submit your resignation. Then, when circumstances have changed, you can reapply and your chances of appointment will be much better than if you were removed for an attendance violation.
Q. How long will I serve? A. Most board member terms are two years. In most cases, members may be removed by the County Commission without cause, meaning no reason must be given.
Q. What if I can't finish my term? A. Submit a letter of resignation to your County staff liaison and copy the Advisory Board Program Coordinator.
Q. How is an ‘Alternate’ different from other board members? A. As alternate, you are subject to the same attendance rules as all other members. You will be welcome to join in the discussion at each meeting, but you cannot make a motion, second a motion, or vote unless one or more voting members are absent.
Q. May I serve another term? A. We hope this will be a rewarding experience for you and for County government. You will be contacted by County staff near the end of your term and asked if you would like to apply for another term. Members appointed to advisory boards should generally serve a maximum of two terms. The County Commissioners may make exceptions to this general policy on a case-by-case basis.
Q. May I serve on more than one board at the same time? A. Yes, with some exceptions, you may serve on more than one board. Members of quasi-judicial boards, such as the Code Enforcement Board and the Local Planning Agency/Planning Commission, are considered to be appointed County office holders which may not hold more than one office. Therefore, if you are an appointed or elected County, municipal or state office holder, you cannot serve on one of these boards.
For example, you can't serve on the City of Gainesville Code Enforcement Board and the County Code Enforcement Board. This would constitute dual office holding, which is prohibited by Florida law. Please check with your staff liaison if you need additional clarification.
Q. Who do I call if I have a question about advisory board procedures or need more information on some aspect of County operations? A. A County representative is present at each advisory board meeting. This person will assist you in getting the information you and your board need. County staff members can be reached through the County switchboard at 374-5204 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, or via County email.
66
Public records & the Sunshine Law Public records
Public records are defined as all materials made or received by an agency in connection with official business which are used to perpetuate, communicate or formalize knowledge. This includes advisory boards and you as an advisory board member.
In addition to written documents, public records can be tapes, e-mails, photographs, films, videos and sound recordings. Florida's public records law establishes rules for how long these materials must be retained and when they can be destroyed. Your County staff liaison keeps master copies of board agendas, minutes, etc., and you should turn in to the liaison any public records you receive directly outside of your advisory board meetings.
Government-in-the-Sunshine Law
Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine Law was enacted in 1967. It establishes a basic right of access to most meetings of boards, commissions and other governing bodies of state and local governmental agencies or authorities. The Sunshine Law requires:
1) Meetings of boards or commissions to be open to the public.2) Reasonable notice of meetings.3) Minutes of the meeting must be taken.
The Sunshine Law applies to elected and appointed boards at the state and local level and to any gathering of two or more members of the same board to discuss some matter which will foreseeably come before that board for action. As an advisory board member, you must observe these laws.
Follow the Sunshine Law to the letter. Do not talk with your fellow board members by phone, letter, e-mail, etc., about any matters related to your board.
• All meetings and discussions between two or more elected/appointed officials who serve onthe same board/commission require public notice.
• It is a good idea to consider everything you say or do at a board meeting to be public recordand let this guide your actions.
• If you receive requests for materials from citizens or members of the news media, you mustprovide them a copy.
• You and/or County staff cannot manipulate the timing of the release of public records. Staffwill do their best to keep you informed before you read it in the newspaper.
For more information
The County Attorney has prepared a video that provides an overview of the Sunshine Law as it specifically relates to advisory boards. To view this video, go to www.alachuacounty.us/advisoryboards and click on ‘Sunshine Law Presentation’.
The Office of the Attorney General maintains a website with Sunshine Law and public records information, including answers to frequently asked questions. The website address is http://myfloridalegal.com/sunshine.
If you require additional information, please contact a member of the County Manager’s staff at 352-374-5204.
67
Meeting guidelines To keep your meetings productive and on track, here are some handy tips:
You'll become very familiar with meetings as an advisory board member. And you'll quickly learn to appreciate meetings which run smoothly, as opposed to those which drag on endlessly, yet accomplish little.
• Study any background materials beforehand, but don't make up your mind. Additionalinformation may be presented at the meeting, and you'll want to keep an open mindso you can fairly consider all the facts.
• Before the board can get down to business, it must have a quorum - a majority ofmembers present. A board majority is more than 50 percent of its members.
• The Chair is responsible for moving the meeting along. But members should assistwith getting to the heart of an issue so a conclusion can be reached in a reasonableamount of time.
• The board may establish and publicize general guidelines governing the length ofpresentations and public participation. Fifteen minutes is usually enough time for themain presentation; three minutes is the usual time limit for members of the public.
• After the presentation and public participation, board members may want to askquestions. This time should be limited to board questions only, with discussion for oragainst an issue held until after a motion has been presented (the motion helps focusthe discussion).
• After questions are answered, a voting board member should make a motion. Afterthe motion is seconded, the Chair can open the floor to board discussion, making sureeach member keeps comments short and to the point.
• The Chair should try to keep members focused and moving to a conclusion. One wayis for the Chair to occasionally summarize what is being discussed. When the Chairthinks the debate has been brought to a close, he/she should "call for the question" orask members if they are ready to vote. Other board members can also call for thequestion.
Voting conflicts Simply put, you can’t vote on an issue which may benefit you or benefit the business that employs you (“special private gain” is the official term). Special private gain exists if you or your spouse own something that would be affected by the vote or have an ongoing business relationship with someone whose interests would be affected.
If a voting conflict exists • Before the issue is discussed, publicly explain the conflict for the record (so the
information is entered in the minutes).• Abstain from voting.• Within 15 days of the vote, document your conflict in writing (ask the County staff
member who attends your meetings for a memorandum of voting conflict). Return thecompleted form to this person. You cannot participate in the board's discussion of theissue (Florida Statute 112.3143).
Members should contact their staff liaison and the County Attorney’s Office (352-374-5218) if they have a voting conflict question.
68
Parliamentary procedure Imagine a meeting where everyone talks at the same time. Not much will get done. That's why there is parliamentary procedure.
These common sense rules allow for the orderly flow of ideas and discussion and are widely used to govern meetings. Alachua County Government follows The Standard Code of Parliamentary Procedure (Alice Sturgis), a guide to parliamentary procedure for more than fifty years. Don't worry if at first the process seems confusing. You’ll learn the lingo in a short time and before you know it, the procedures will become second nature.
A key element of parliamentary procedure is the motion. There are seven recognized steps in making a motion, as follows.
1. A member asks to be recognized: “Mr. or Madam Chair.”2. The Chair recognizes the member: “Ms. Smith.”3. The member states the motion: “I move the application be approved.”4. Another member (without waiting to be recognized) seconds the motion: “I second the
motion.”5. The Chair repeats the motion and calls for discussion: “It has been moved and
seconded that the application be approved. Is there any discussion?”6. The Chair then asks, “Do any members of the public wish to comment on the motion.”7. After discussion and comments are complete, the Chair puts the motion to a vote: “If
there is nothing new to be added to the discussion, we are ready to vote. All those infavor of the application being approved say ‘yes.’ Those opposed say ‘no.’" The Chairpauses for the vote.
8. The Chair counts the votes and announces the outcome: “The motion passes/fails bya five to four vote.”
Here are other motions which are a part of parliamentary procedure:
Main motion: Only one motion before an assembly at a time; cannot be introduced when any other motion is before the group. Motion to amend: Changes a motion before it comes up for final vote; takes precedence over the motion to which it applies (you must vote on the amendment before voting on the main motion). Substitute motion: Amends by substituting another form, changed or additional wording. Motion to extend or limit debate: Sets time to be spent on matter before assembly, either by limiting time allowed for each speaker or by indicating a time in which to discontinue further discussion (amendments and debate related to type and time of limitations are allowed). Motion to refer: Refers question to a committee (either standing or ad hoc) or to a person for further study/report. Motion to postpone to a certain time: Puts off consideration to a definite date. Motion to table or motion to lay on the table: Temporarily puts aside the motion being considered. Must be taken from the table at that meeting or the next meeting. Not amendable or debatable. Motion to reconsider: Action taken to bring a question up again after it has been adopted or rejected (debatable but not amendable).
69
Motion to rescind: Action taken at a later meeting to repeal the previous action (debatable but not amendable). Motion to recess: Indicates a recess for a short period of time during a meeting (amendable and debatable, with restrictions). Motion to adjourn: Ends all discussion at this meeting (amendable and debatable with restrictions). Question of privilege: Deals with the rights and comforts of a member and the assembly. For example, requests for persons to speak louder or to turn up the air conditioning (does not require a second). The Chair makes a decision on such minor motions or requests such as point of order, parliamentary inquiry, withdrawal of a motion and or second (none of these require a second).
The following motions must be seconded
1. "I move the report be approved with a recommendation that necessary funding beprovided to implement the projects in the report." (main motion)
2. “I move to amend that funding be provided on projects 2-10 only.” (amendment)3. "I offer a substitute motion to accept the report for further study.” (substitute motion)4. “I move to refer the report to the finance subcommittee for an in-depth analysis of the
availability of necessary monies.” (motion to refer)5. “I move further consideration be tabled.” (motion to table)6. Later in the same meeting, a member on the prevailing side of any of the foregoing
motions: “I move to reconsider our previous actions regarding …." (motion toreconsider)
7. At a subsequent meeting, a member on the prevailing side of 1-5: “I move we rescindour action of (date) regarding….” (motion to rescind)
70
Congratulations! We hope you found this handbook helpful. Below is the list of advisory board staff liaisons (subject to change), and on the following pages, you will find descriptions of each board. Additional information, as well as a copy of this handbook, is available online at www.alachuacounty.us/advisoryboards. Thanks for reading!
2010 Staff Liaisons for Advisory Boards
Advisory Board Name Staff Liaison Contact
# e-mail address
Affordable Housing Advisory Committee Tahlia Williams 337-6284 [email protected]
Alachua County Historical Commission Kathleen Pagan 374-5249 [email protected]
Alachua County Housing Authority* Herbert Hernandez 372-2549 [email protected]
Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Board*
Dekova Batey* (X5249) 393-8493 [email protected]
Board of Adjustment Elizabeth Ricks 374-5246
CHOICES Sandra Barton 264-6718 [email protected]
Citizens with Disabilities Advisory Committee Jackie Chung 374-5275 [email protected]
Code Enforcement Board Kathy Bruning 337-6189 [email protected]
Community Agency Partnership Program Lee Roberts 264-6707 [email protected] Criminal Justice, Mental Health & Subst. Abuse Grant Planning Comm. Shetiquea Davis 338-7390 [email protected] Early Learning Coalition* (external board w/county appointee)
Gordon Tremaine*/Brent Waible (X6761)
375-4110 ext 137 [email protected]
Economic Development Advisory Committee Leslie McLendon 374-5249 [email protected]
Environmental Protection Advisory Committee
Gus Olmos/Kay Orozco 264 6806 [email protected]
Fair Housing/Human Rights Advisory Board
Jill Weinsier/Mary Neiberger 374-5275 [email protected]
Florida Works Board* Celia Chapman* 244-5148 [email protected]
Gvl/Alachua County Art in Public Places* Russ Etling 374-5231
71
Gvl/Alachua County Cultural Affairs Board* Russ Etling 393-8529
Gvl/Alachua County Regional Airport Authority*
Suzanne Schiemann*
373-0249 x13 [email protected]
Health Care Board Megan Lang 264-6754/6725 [email protected]
Health Facilities Authority Barrie Hamilton* 376-5226 [email protected]
Housing Finance Authority Tahlia Williams 337-6284 [email protected]
Land Conservation Board Ramesh Buch 264-6804 [email protected]
Local Planning Agency/Planning Commission Patricia McAlister 374-5249 [email protected] Original Florida Tourism Task Force *(Jayne Moraski @ North FL Reg Pl Council is formal contact, Roland Loog is county liaison) Roland Loog 374-5231 [email protected]
Recreation & Open Space Adv. Comm. Kim Carter
374-5245 ext 247, 210
Regional Transit System Advisory Comm.* Nancy Wininger* 334-2609 [email protected]
Rural Concerns Adv. Comm. Ken Zeichner/Holly Banner 374-5249 [email protected]
Tourist Development Council John Pricher 374-5260 [email protected]
Value Adjustment Board Deanne Williams 374-3605 [email protected]
Veteran Services Advisory Board 264-6740
Victims Services & Rape Crisis Center Adv. Council Barbie Hechavarria 264-6762 [email protected]
Wild Spaces & Public Places Citizen Oversight Committee Ramesh Buch 264-6804 [email protected]
*Indicates Advisory Board administered by external agency
72
Advisory and other County-appointed boards
Affordable Housing Advisory Committee – Recommends affordable housing incentives targeting regulatory reform, and assists the County with local projects funded by the Community Development Block Grant Program. Contact: 337-6284 Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board - Recommends ways to improve bicycle and pedestrian facilities and policies to promote bicycle and pedestrian travel. Contact: 393-8493 Board of Adjustment - Reviews zoning regulations and establishes variances: Contact: 374-5249 CHOICES Advisory Board - Assists with the implementation and ongoing review of the CHOICES Program, established by the1/4 cent indigent healthcare surtax. Contact: 264-6700 Citizens Disability Advisory Committee – Advises the Equal Opportunity Office Director in the areas of employment and program accessibility. The application process for this advisory committee differs from that of others, please be sure you have the correct application. Contact: 374-5275 Codes Enforcement Board - Rules on alleged violations of all County ordinances. Contact: 374-5249 Community Agency Partnership Program Advisory Board - Reviews budget requests from community agencies and recommends funding of the requests. Contact: 264-6700 Criminal Justice, Mental Health and Substance Abuse Grant Planning Committee – Makes formal recommendations to the County regarding the implementation of the Criminal Justice Mental Health Substance Abuse Reinvestment Grant. Contact: 338-7390 Early Learning Coalition – Ensures that at-risk children ages 0-5 are prepared for school, administers the Voluntary Pre-K program in Alachua County. Contact: 375-4110 Economic Development Advisory Committee – Works to develop and provide policy recommendations to the County related to the promotion of sustainable economic development. Contact: 374-5249 Environmental Protection Advisory Committee - Develops plans for protecting natural resources and reducing threats to the environment. Contact: 264-6800 Fair Housing/Human Rights Board - Reviews complaints of discrimination. Contact: 374-5275 Florida Works Board - Community leaders from the public and private sector who share the goal of developing and sustaining a qualified and effective regional workforce. Alachua County maintains a number of seats on this board. Contact: 244-5148 Gainesville/Alachua County Art in Public Places Trust - Helps implement the County's Public Art ordinance and recommends art for public buildings. Contact: 393-8532 Gainesville/Alachua County Cultural Affairs Board - Advises the City and County on the promotion of fine arts, literary arts, performing arts and crafts. Contact: 393-8358 Gainesville/Alachua County Regional Airport Authority - members are appointed by County, City, and State officials. Insures that Gainesville Regional Airport is managed in the most efficient manner to ultimately benefit its customers. Contact: 373-0249
Health Care Board - Identifies health services available for low-income residents and develops recommendations for improving service. Contact: 264-6700 Health Facilities Authority - Assists health facilities in acquiring, financing and refinancing projects. Contact: 376-5226
73
Historical Commission – Assists in identifying, preserving and interpreting the County's history and historical sites. Contact: 374-5249 Housing Authority Board - Sets policy for the Housing Authority. Contact: 372-2549 Housing Finance Authority - Helps in obtaining financing for housing projects. Contact: 374-5249 Land Conservation Board - Selects properties to recommend for acquisition through the Alachua County Forever Program and recommends policies related to the program. Contact: 264-6803 Original Florida Tourism Task Force - Promotes development of tourism within 11 counties, including Alachua County. Contact: 374-5231 Local Planning Agency/Planning Commission - Reviews and makes recommendations on land development regulations, rezoning requests, comprehensive plan updates and amendments, revisions to land-use regulations and other land-use matters. Contact: 374-5249 Poverty Reduction Board - Provides advice to the Commission regarding poverty within the County. Contact: 264-6700 Recreation and Open Space Advisory Committee - Establishes an annual work program; engages in an annual review of the Capital Improvement Project list pertaining to recreation projects; assists and advises on future policies and directions. Contact: 374-5245 Regional Transit Authority Advisory Committee – Advises the City of Gainesville on all matters relating to public transit development in the City of Gainesville and the County. Contact: 334-2609 Rural Concerns Advisory Committee - Provides guidance and advice to the County regarding rural concerns and issues. Contact: 374-5249 Tourist Development Council - Makes recommendations to the County regarding uses of tourist development tax revenues and helps promote tourism. Contact: 374-5260
Value Adjustment Board – Processes taxpayers’ petitions contesting the value of real estate and personal property as assessed by the Property Appraiser’s Office. Contact: 374-3636 Veterans Service Advisory Board - Reviews operation of the Veterans Services Office and provides advice on future policies. Contact: 264-6740 Victim Services and Rape Crisis Center Program Advisory Committee - Advises the County on future policies and directions concerning the Victim Services & Rape Crisis Center. Promotes community awareness of the program. Contact: 264-6760 Wild Spaces & Public Places Citizen Oversight Committee – Ensures that the proceeds from the ½ percent sales tax are expended only on eligible projects. Contact: 264-6804
74
BPAB CONTACT INFORMATION: Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board Dekova Batey, Staff Liaison PO Box 490, MS 58 Gainesville, Florida. 32627-0490 Phone: 352-393-8493 Fax: 352-393-7987 Email: [email protected] Website: www.cityofgainesville.org/bikeped
BPAB Information & Resource Directory January 2014 Organized by: Dekova T. Batey, BPAB Staff Liaison / City of Gainesville Public Works
Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning September 30, 2013 Revised March 29, 2019
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area
Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
The preparation of this report has been financed in part through grants from the Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration, United States Department of Transportation, under the State Planning and Research Program, Section 505 [or Metropolitan Planning Program, Section 104(f)] of Title 23, United States Code. The contents of this report do not necessarily reflect the official views or policy of the United States Department of Transportation.
Prepared by Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area With Assistance from North Central Florida Regional Planning Council 2009 NW 67th Place Gainesville, FL 32653-1603 352.955.2200 September 30, 2013 Revised March 29, 2019
This page left blank intentionally
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning Page 1
Table of Contents Introduction ......................................................................................................................... 3
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area .............. 3
Staff .................................................................................................................................... 5
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board ......................................................................................... 6
Citizens Advisory Committee ................................................................................................. 7
Technical Advisory Committee ............................................................................................... 7
Transportation Disadvantaged Coordinating Board ................................................................. 8
Plans and Programs .............................................................................................................. 8
Information Documents ...................................................................................................... 10
Ways To Participate ............................................................................................................ 10
Definitions ......................................................................................................................... 11
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area
Nondiscrimination Notice ................................................................................................ 13
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
Page 2 Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
This page left blank intentionally
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning Page 3
Citizens= Guide to Transportation Planning Introduction How can YOU influence the future of transportation? In the Gainesville Metropolitan Area, a well-designed efficient, effective and livable transportation system is critical to the mobility of the region, the viability of the community and ultimately the economy. Transportation is more than roads. Transportation affects our quality of life and provides a link for our essential needs such as food and medical assistance. As the basic structure of the public space of the community, our transportation system affects us in many ways, both as users and neighbors. It provides for a variety of transportation alternatives including automobiles, trucks, buses, motorcycles, bicycles and pedestrians. And it defines our neighborhoods and business districts. Because the transportation system is to serve YOU, the people, YOU are encouraged to get involved in the transportation planning process. Why? Because YOU travel our roads and sit in rush hour traffic, you may have specific travel needs and desires you want to communicate. YOU travel on the transportation system nearly every day and see the need for improvements. YOU also enjoy bicycling and walking and may have ideas for sidewalks and bikeways that you want to share. YOU live in a neighborhood and can see the effect of roads on the quality of life of your community. YOU are an important part of the planning process. This guide is designed to help YOU gain a better understanding of the transportation planning process and to help YOU get involved and participate in the decision-making process concerning how YOUR transportation funds are spent in this area. This guide also shows who you can contact for more information and explains some of the technical terms used in transportation planning. We want your input -- comments and concerns. YOU have the opportunity to get involved and make a difference in your community. Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area What is a Metropolitan Planning Organization? A Metropolitan Planning Organization is a policy board comprised of locally-elected officials that is required for urbanized areas with a population over 50,000. The Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area has direct authority over transportation decisions in the Gainesville urbanized area. It is mandated by federal and state legislation and is responsible for establishing a continuing, cooperative and comprehensive transportation planning process. The Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area is responsible for making transportation decisions, in other words, planning how to meet short-term and long-term travel needs. As a contributor, you can help the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area develop plans which meet the mobility needs of the community and are practical to implement given financial, environmental and social constraints.
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
Page 4 Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
What area does the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area cover? The area of planning responsibility for the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area does not include all of Alachua County, but rather the developed and developing portions in and around the City of Gainesville. As of 2010, the Gainesville Metropolitan Area consisted of the Gainesville Urbanized Area (as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau), portions of the City of Gainesville outside the Gainesville Urbanized Area and portions of unincorporated Alachua County within the Gainesville Urban Reserve Area. The boundary is reviewed in accordance with each decennial census.
Transportation Planning Boundary How is this transportation planning funded? Federal funding for highway, transit, bicycle and pedestrian planning is provided by the Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration. The Florida Department of Transportation matches these federal funds with both cash and in-kind services. The Alachua County Board of County Commissioners and the Gainesville City Commission provide a local cash match. Special funding for planning related to the Transportation Disadvantaged is provided through the Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged. These funds, derived through a fee on motor vehicle registrations, do not require a local match.
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning Page 5
Who serves as members of the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization or the Gainesville Urbanized Area? Voting members of the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area include the Mayor and six City of Gainesville Commissioners and the five Alachua County Commissioners. The membership framework is established by the Governor. A Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area member also serves on the Statewide Metropolitan Planning Organization Advisory Council. Advisory Members Florida Department of Transportation District 2 Secretary or the Secretary=s designee University of Florida Vice-President for Business Affairs serving for the University of Florida President Rural Advisor Alachua County League of Cities Designee The Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area meets at least quarterly during the year usually on the second Mondays of the month at 3:00 p.m. or 5:00 p.m. These meetings are currently held in the Jack Durrance Auditorium located on the second floor of the Alachua County Administration Building. Staff Pursuant to a staff services agreement, the North Central Florida Regional Planning Council participates in the urban transportation planning process by providing staff services to the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area. Planning Council staff provides day-to-day transportation planning expertise to the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area and carries out the policy decisions of the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area. Staff Members
Scott R. Koons, AICP, Executive Director Michael B. Escalante, AICP, Senior Planner Lynn C. Franson-Godfrey, AICP, Senior Planner
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
Page 6 Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
The address for the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area is 2009 NW 67th Place, Gainesville, FL, 32653. Office hours are from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Office Location Map Who else is involved? In addition to citizen input, the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area also receives comments and recommendations from five standing committees - the Bicycle/ Pedestrian Advisory Board, the Citizens Advisory Committee, the Technical Advisory Committee and the Transportation Disadvantaged Coordinating Board. Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board The Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board consists of citizen volunteers representing the Gainesville Metropolitan Area who have a special interest and expertise in bicycle and pedestrian issues. This Board reviews transportation plans and programs from a citizen perspective and makes recommendations to the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area.
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning Page 7
Members of this Board are appointed by the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area, the Gainesville City Commission and the Alachua County Board of County Commissioners. If you are interested in serving on this Board, please contact the City of Gainesville Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator at 352.334.5000, extension 5411. The Board meets on a regular basis, usually on the Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. Board meetings are held in the Grace Knight Conference Room, at 12 Southeast University Avenue, Gainesville. The public is invited, and encouraged, to attend meetings of this Board. Citizens Advisory Committee The Citizens Advisory Committee consists of 15 citizen volunteers representing the Gainesville Metropolitan Area. This Committee reviews transportation plans and programs from a citizen perspective and makes recommendations to the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area. In addition, this Committee also serves as an advisory body to the Alachua County Board of County Commissioners. Each year, as a County advisory body, the Committee reviews the draft Alachua County Transportation Improvement Program prior to its adoption by the Alachua County Board of County Commissioners. Usually, five citizens are appointed to the Committee by the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area each year. Committee members serve three-year terms. If you are interested in serving on this Committee, please contact the staff at 352.955.2200. The Committee meets on a regular basis, usually on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. Committee meetings are held in the Grace Knight Conference Room of the Alachua County Administration Building at 12 Southeast 1st Street, Gainesville. The public is invited, and encouraged, to attend meetings of this Committee. Committee meeting minutes and current meeting packets are viewable on the following website- http://ncfrpc.org/mtpo/index.html Technical Advisory Committee The Technical Advisory Committee consists of local, regional and state agency representatives. The Committee reviews transportation plans and programs from a technical perspective and makes recommendations to the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area. The Committee meets on a regular basis, usually on Wednesdays at 2:00 p.m. Committee meetings are held in the Gainesville Regional Utilities Conference Room, 301 Southeast 4th Avenue, Gainesville. The public is invited, and encouraged, to attend meetings of this Committee. Committee meeting minutes and current meeting packets are viewable on the following website- http://ncfrpc.org/mtpo/index.htm Technical Advisory Committee agency representation includes:
Alachua County Growth Management Department; Alachua County Public Works Department; Alachua County School Board; Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board Staff, City of Gainesville; City of Gainesville Department of Doing (Planning & Development Services); City of Gainesville Department of Mobility (Planning, Regional Transit System and Traffic Operations) and Public Works Department; Florida Department of Transportation; Gainesville Regional Airport; University of Florida Facilities Planning & Construction; and University of Florida Parking Services Administration.
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
Page 8 Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
Transportation Disadvantaged Coordinating Board The Alachua County Transportation Disadvantaged Coordinating Board provides advice and direction on the provision of transportation services for elderly individuals, low-income individuals, persons with disabilities and children at risk. Members of this Board are appointed by the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area. If you are interested in serving on this Board, please contact the staff at 352.955.2200. The Coordinating Board, which makes recommendations to MV Transportation, the Community Transportation Coordinator for Alachua County, has representatives from:
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area [Chair]; Citizen Advocates - Agency & User; Community Action Agency; Early Childhood Services; Elderly; Florida Department of Children and Families; Florida Department of Education; Florida Department of Elder Affairs; Florida Department of Transportation; Mass Transit Agency; Medicaid- Agency for Health Care Administration; Military Veteran; Persons with Disabilities; Private Transit; and Public Education.
The Coordinating Board meets quarterly. The Coordinating Board meetings are held in the Jack Durrance Auditorium located on the second floor of the Alachua County Administration Building. The public is invited and encouraged to attend meetings of this Board. Plans and Programs Long-Range Transportation Plan A 25-year transportation plan has been adopted by the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area through the year 2040. This Plan identifies major improvements to the transportation system which will be needed in the future to address projected patterns and volumes of traffic. Updates to this plan are prepared and adopted about every five years. Transit Planning Transit planning activities include the development of a Transit Development Plan. The Plan is a short-range plan, prepared by the Regional Transit System, concerning existing and future demand for transit service. This plan establishes a five-year plan for bus service. A current and up-to-date Transit Development Plan is required in order to receive federal and state financial assistance for the Regional Transit System. A transit service evaluation is conducted to coincide with the Long-Range Transportation Plan Update.
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning Page 9
Bicycle Facility Planning The Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area is actively involved in conducting bicycle planning studies. In 2001, the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area adopted the Alachua Countywide Bicycle Master Plan. In addition, the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area also monitors bicycle activity. This information is reported every five years in a document entitled Bicycle Usage Trends Program Report. Management Systems - Gainesville Metropolitan Area Mobility Plan Work continues to implement management systems required for the Gainesville Metropolitan Area by the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act. The Mobility Plan serves as the congestion management process for the Gainesville Metropolitan Area. As of 2007, the staff prepares an annual status report on the Mobility Plan strategies. Results of this report are used and incorporated in the development of the Transportation Improvement Program. This occurs primarily through the annual development of transportation priorities that are developed over the summer and forwarded to the Florida Department of Transportation annually. Level of Service Studies Each year, the staff, working in cooperation with state and local agencies, develops multimodal [automobile, bicycle, pedestrian and transit] information concerning levels of service (traffic congestion) for arterial and collector roads in the Gainesville Metropolitan Area. This information is shared with state and local agencies and is used to support local comprehensive planning activities. Transportation Improvement Program The purpose of the Transportation Improvement Program is to identify all transportation projects to be funded over the next five-year period. This document is used to coordinate needed transportation projects with respect to timing, location and source of funding. In Alachua County, there are two different Transportation Improvement Program documents. One is prepared and adopted by the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area, while the other is prepared and adopted by the Alachua County Board of County Commissioners for the remainder of Alachua County. These documents are developed, reviewed and adopted in the spring of each year. Unified Planning Work Program The Unified Planning Work Program identifies the planning efforts to be undertaken by all agencies in the Gainesville Metropolitan Area in order to maintain a comprehensive, cooperative and continuing transportation planning program. This document serves as the program budget for the staff. This document is developed, reviewed and adopted in the spring every two years
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
Page 10 Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
Information Documents The following information and documents are available. If you would like copies of this material, contact the staff at 352.955.2200.
Alachua Countywide Bicycle Master Plan Year 2035 Long Range Transportation Plan Summary Public Involvement Plan (reviewed annually) Regional Transit System Ridership Report (updated annually) Traffic Counts and Level of Service (updated annually) Transportation Disadvantaged Service Plan (updated annually) Transportation Improvement Program (adopted each Spring) Transportation Project Priorities (adopted each Summer) Unified Planning Work Program (adopted every two years in the Spring)
Several documents are viewable/downloadable from the following website at http://ncfrpc.org/mtpo/publications/MTPO_Publications.html Ways To Participate Provide Comments The Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area encourages you to provide written or verbal comments as often as you wish. ’ Written Comments
1) Type or write legibly, type or print your name under your signature, include your complete address;
2) Keep a copy for your records; and 3) Send written comments to: Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville
Urbanized Area, 2009 Northwest 67th Place, Gainesville, Florida 32653-1603. ’ Verbal Comments
1) Have a pencil and paper ready for taking notes; 2) Ask for the name of the person taking the call for future reference; and 3) Call the staff at 352.955.2200.
’ In Person
You are always welcome to stop by the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area Offices located at 2009 Northwest 67th Place, Gainesville, Florida and speak to the staff.
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning Page 11
Attend Public Meetings ’ Public Workshops Workshops are where you are brought up-to-date on the details of the plan or program being presented at the workshop. You will also be provided with details regarding the next steps to be taken prior to the next workshop or public hearing. You are invited to provide comments regarding the plan or program being presented. Public workshops are held prior to crucial decision-making in the planning process. ‘ Public Hearings Public hearings are held by the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area to consider the adoption of the plan or program being presented at the public hearing. ‘ Advisory Committee and Board Meetings As noted earlier, there are several advisory committees and boards that advise the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area, Gainesville City Commission and Alachua County Board of County Commissioners concerning transportation issues. You may contact the members of these committees and boards, or attend the meetings, to voice your questions and comments regarding transportation planning issues. ‘ Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area Meetings The public may speak at these meetings with the approval of the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area chairperson. The Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area meets at least quarterly, usually on the second Monday of the month. However, meetings may be cancelled when there is no business requiring Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area action. Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area meetings are televised live on Cox Cable Channel 12. Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area meeting minutes and current meeting packets are viewable on the following website at http://ncfrpc.org/mtpo/index.html Definitions Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Board - Citizen volunteers who provide input to proposed bicycle and pedestrian transportation planning and programming and also make recommendations to the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area. Citizens Advisory Committee - Citizen volunteers who provide input to proposed transportation plans and programs, provide input to proposed transit transportation plans and programs and also make recommendations to the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area. Congestion Management System - A systematic process that provides information on transportation system performance and alternative strategies to alleviate congestion and enhance the mobility of persons and goods. Florida Department of Transportation - State agency granted the legislative authority to develop and maintain State transportation facilities and services.
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
Page 12 Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
Intermodal - Moving people and goods using various combinations of transportation modes (transit, rail, automobile, truck, bicycle, airplane and ship). Long-Range Transportation Plan - A transportation plan which provides guidance in the development of an efficient transportation system over a period of 20 years. Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area - An agency created under federal and state law to provide a forum for cooperative decision-making in regard to regional transportation issues. Voting membership includes the Mayor and six City of Gainesville Commissioners and the five Alachua County Board of County Commissioners. Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century - A federal act established to develop a national intermodal transportation system which is economically efficient and environmentally sound, encourages citizen participation, provides the foundation for the nation to compete in a global economy and will move people and goods in an energy efficient manner. Multimodal Transportation System - A comprehensive transportation system including the following options: auto, bus, truck, motorcycle, bicycle, pedestrian and transit. Project Development and Environmental Study - A study performed to determine the feasibility of a transportation modification by identifying possible alternatives and evaluating the social, economic and environmental impacts associated with each alternative. Technical Advisory Committee - Local and state planners, engineers, transit operators and other technical representatives who provide technical input regarding transportation plans and programs and make recommendations to the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area. Transit Development Plan - This is a short-range plan which profiles existing and future demand for service, analyzes current bus routes and establishes a five-year plan for bus service. The Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area staff provides the support necessary for the development of the annual Transit Development Plan. A current and up-to-date Transit Development Plan is required for the receipt of federal and state financial assistance. Transportation Disadvantaged - Refers to those persons who, because of physical or mental disability, income status, or age or who for other reasons, are unable to transport themselves or purchase transportation.
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning Page 13
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area Nondiscrimination Notice It is the policy of the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area that no person shall on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, familial status, religious status, marital status, sexual orientation, or gender identity, as provided by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987 and the Florida Civil Rights Act of 1992 be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination or retaliation under any Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area program or activity. It is the policy of the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area that Minority Business Enterprises as defined in 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 23, as amended, shall have the maximum opportunity to participate in the performance of contracts financed in whole or in part with Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area funds. For further information about these laws, regulations and discrimination complaint procedures for resolution of complaints of discrimination, contact Mr. Michael Escalante, Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area Title VI Liaison, at 2009 NW 67th Place, Gainesville, Florida 32653-1603, telephone number 352.955.2200, extension 114. Organización Metropolitana de Planificación del Transporte Para el Área Urbana de Gainesville Aviso de No Discriminación Es la política de la Organización Metropolitana de Planificación del Transporte para el Área Urbana de Gainesville, que ninguna persona sea excluida de participar, se le niegue beneficios, y que de ninguna manera sea sujeta a discriminación o retaliación por cualquier programa o actividad de la Organización Metropolitana de Planificación del Transporte para el Área Urbana de Gainesville, ya sea por motivo de raza, color, origen nacional, sexo, edad, incapacidad, familia, religión, el estado civil, orientación sexual o identidad de género, de acuerdo a lo previsto por el Título VI del Acta de Derechos Civiles de 1964, el Acta de Restauración de Derechos Civiles de 1987 y el Acta de Derechos Civiles del Estado de la Florida de 1992. Es la política de la Organización Metropolitana de Planificación del Transporte para el Área Urbana de Gainesville que las Empresas de Negocio de Minorías como definidas en el 49 Coda de Regulaciónes Federales Parte 23, como enmendado, tendrán toda oportunidad de participar en el funcionamiento de contratos financiados en su totalidad o en parte con fondos de la Organización Metropolitana de Planificación del Transporte para el Área Urbana de Gainesville. Para mayor información sobre estas leyes, regulaciones y procedimientos para quejas de discriminación y resolución de quejas de discriminación, puede contactar al Sr. Michael Escalante, del Título VI de la Organización Metropolitana de Planificación del Transporte para el Área Urbana de Gainesville, al 2009 NW 67 Place, Gainesville, Florida 32653-1603, teléfono 352. 955.2200, extensión 114.
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
Page 14 Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning
This page left blank intentionally
t:\scott\sk19\staff\citzguide19.docx
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area Citizens’ Guide to Transportation Planning Team Scott R. Koons, AICP, Executive Director * Michael Escalante, AICP, Senior Planner Lynn Franson-Godfrey, AICP, Senior Planner * Primary Responsibility ** Secondary Responsibility
Use the QR Reader App on your smart phone to visit
our website!
Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization for the Gainesville Urbanized Area
2009 NW 67th Place Gainesville, FL 32653-1603
352.955.2200 www.ncfrpc.org/mtpo
![cert Xerox Color 550-560 Printer Supplementary Guide · 2018-08-20 · • Passcode Entry from Control Panel Default [On]. • The System Administrator Passcode Change the default](https://img.pdfslide.us/doc/110x75/5e8d4b1cee9f5d66726c9ae5/cert-xerox-color-550-560-printer-supplementary-guide-2018-08-20-a-passcode-entry.jpg)
