City Manager:

Reminder ~ City offices will be closed on Thursday and Friday, November 24 and 25, in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.
• The Fall/Winter 2011 edition of The CITY HALLways newsletter is now available on the City’s website, www.pgorda.us, under What’s New. Features in this issue include the Bicycle Loaner Program, History of the Community Redevelopment Agency, Meet Your City Council, Code Red, and much more.
• In the November 10 weekly report, highlights of a study performed by the Leroy Collins Institute on the financial standing of Florida Municipal Pension Plans was included and how the City’s plans compared with the study’s findings. Well, it seems that the report’s findings are being called into question by an actuarial firm that handles nearly 200 public pension plans in the state, Foster & Foster, who is also the City’s actuarial firm. Below are criticisms voiced by the actuarial firm of the report published by the Collins Institute:

1) The Institute does not understand how pension plan funding levels are calculated nor do they understand what makes a plan sustainable. It is also irresponsible to label a pension as passing or failing based on only two measurements (funding levels and costs).
2) Sustainability of a pension plan has very little to do with funding level or absolute cost. It has far more to do with the city’s ability to make the annual payment obligations each year. For instance; a plan could have a funded ratio of 100% and a relatively small annual payment, but if tax revenues will not support the annual payment, the plan’s sustainability may be in question.
3) Not every public pension plan uses the same cost method. Assigning letter grades to a subjective, non-uniform measure is a dangerous practice and reflects a material misunderstanding of actuarial information being reflected.
4) The funded ratio is dependent upon the actuarial cost method used and is not a fair reflection of the percentage of earned benefits that are covered by current assets. For instance; it is possible that a plan with a 75% funded ratio could cover 100% of its liabilities based on current levels of compensation and service.
5) The reason that general employee plans are more than likely to be better funded than either police or fire plans are due to the fact that public safety plans are partially funded by taxes on auto and home insurance premiums for city residents, and these premium tax dollars are partially used to offset funding requirements for the city. Since premium tax revenues only subsidize police and fire plans, these plans tend to be richer and have lower funded ratios that general employee plans.

The focus of evaluating pension plans should be on the benefits and associated costs with providing lifetime benefits for public servants not on subjective actuarial criteria as defined in the Institute report. If benefits and costs rise to unsustainable levels when compared to an overall operating budget, a city should work to find ways to bring these costs in line. As previously reported, Punta Gorda has already recognized rising pension plan costs and implemented or plans to enact measures to mitigate such increases.
• Tourist tax collections during FY 2011 totaled $2,146,618, which is up more than 3% over FY 2010 ($2,074,821) as reported by the County Visitor & Convention Bureau. Tourism represents one of the County’s strongest revenue producers, supports over 6,000 jobs and generates sales tax revenues of nearly $19 million. Nearly 300,000 visitors travel to the County on an annual basis. The City’s Strategic Plan recognizes the significance of tourism promotion and its positive impact on local business through its objective of marketing the City’s assets.

Public Works Department

Sanitation:
• Residents will notice NO change in trash or yard waste collections over the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday; however, recycling collection WILL be delayed by a day. Friday recycling customers will have recyclables collected on Saturday.

Engineering:
• Burnt Store Road Widening: For public information inquiries, contact Charlotte County Public Works Project Manager, Gary Grossman at (941) 575-3600.
• Aqui Esta Road Improvements Ph. 1: Staff submitted the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) closeout documents.
• Harborwalk West Boat Ramp: FPL and all secondary line relocations are complete. The seawall, ramp, decorative walk and 5 ft. sidewalk leading to the basketball court are complete. The final grade, sod placement, diamond plate trench drain, dumpster enclosure, rock, asphalt restoration and bollard placement remain. Project completion is expected by the end of the year.
• San Rocco Drainage Improvements: Punch list items were completed 11/21/11. Engineering consultant is preparing the record drawings and certification for submittal to SWFWMD. Due to equipment failure at the asphalt plant, street resurfacing is delayed, and will take place from 11/28/11 to 12/1/11.
• Shreve St. Multi-Use Recreational Trail: A 60-day check of the landscaping will take place 11/29/11, as part of the establishment period.

Punta Gorda Isles Canal Maintenance:
• Seawall installation was completed at 3324 Trinidad and is underway at 3612 Bonaire Ct.
• Seawall cap work was completed at 3319 Dominca. Cap work is underway at 5006, 5012, 5018 Captiva; 295, 311, 325, 334, 345 Belaire Ct.; 3324 Trinidad and 935 Lassino Ct.
• Backfill work is underway at 1230 Swan Ct.
• Dredging of Ponce de Leon Inlet has commenced.
• Sinkholes were filled at 18 locations.

Burnt Store Isles Canal Maintenance:
• Sinkholes were filled at 3 locations.

Right-of-Way:
• City crews replaced drainage pipe at 306 Madrid Blvd.


Growth Management Department

Urban Design
• Staff led a brief walking tour of Downtown for a group of community stakeholders from Lehigh Acres. This group is part of a contingent of the Leigh Acres Community Planning Panel a group of community members working with planning consultants and Lee County staff to develop a community plan for Lehigh Acres. Much like Port Charlotte, Lehigh Acres is a large area of land subdivided for lot sale in the middle of the 20th century and platted with inadequate provision for commercial, industrial, and public lands necessary to serve a complete modern 21st century community. The Leigh Acres Community Planning Panel is looking to mixed-use development as one strategy for addressing the inadequacies of the original plat. The members of the panel toured downtown Venice, Sarasota, St. Armand’s Circle, and Punta Gorda in order to better understand mixed-use development on various scales and intensities of development. The Lehigh Acres community members participating in the tour were quite impressed by downtown Punta Gorda, particularly the Farmers Market and the use of historic single family homes as offices, retail space and restaurants.

Upcoming Events
• December 2-3, 2011, join the Punta Gorda Garden Club for the 18th Annual Holly Days Home Tour. The tour hours are from 12 noon to 5:00 pm each day. For tickets and additional information, please contact Bonnie (941) 637-1267.
• Join the Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce and City Council for the lighting of the new Christmas Tree, December 2, 2011, at the corner of W. Marion Ave & Taylor St. For additional information and event schedule, contact the Punta Gorda Chamber (941) 639-3720 or www.puntagordachamber.com.
• After the downtown tree lighting, follow the crowds to Hector House Plaza for the lighting of the Downtown Merchants Association Christmas tree, December 2, 2011 – approximately 7:15 pm. Contact the Punta Gorda Chamber (941) 639-3720 or www.puntagordachamber.com.
• Join the Arthritis Foundation for the 2nd Annual Jingle Bell 5K Run/Walk in Laishley Park, December 2, 2011. For additional information, contact the Arthritis Foundation, (941) 423-9997 or http://2011jbrpuntagorda.kintera.org.
• December 3, 2011, come out to support the Charlotte County Chamber in the 33rd Annual Christmas Parade. The parade will step off from Charlotte High School and finish downtown Punta Gorda, on Taylor Street. For additional information, contact the Charlotte County Chamber, (941) 639-222 or www.charlottecountychamber.org.
• December 11, 2011 Annual Lighted Boat Parade hosted by Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce. For info and best viewing areas, call (941) 639-3720 or visit www.puntagordachamber.com.
• Join the Visual Arts Center for “The Uncalled for Christmas Tour”. For show hours and additional information, contact the VAC (941) 639-8810 or email info@visualartcenter.org.
• MY Promotions is hosting their Holiday Festival Art Show at the Merrill Lynch parking lot located at 1190 W Marion Avenue, December 17-18, 2011. For additional information, contact Sally at (239) 995-9549 or www.mypromotions.com
• The First Alliance Church is hosting their annual Christmas Eve Services in Laishley Park, December 24, 2011. For service hours and additional information, contact Tony Huffer (941) 625-7435 or www.firstalliancechurch.net.

For a complete list of events scheduled thru May 2012, please visit the Festivals page on the City’s website, http://ci.punta-gorda.fl.us/fest/festival.html.

Police Department

Please remember these important tips while enjoying upcoming holiday weekend:

1) Many folks will be traveling to spend Thanksgiving with family and friends. Please drive carefully, leave in plenty of time to avoid being rushed.
2) Try not to get frustrated behind the wheel; don’t let someone else’s driving actions ruin your day.
3) DO NOT text and drive. The police department recommends using a hands-free device if you must use your cellular device at all while driving.
4) Finally, and most importantly, if you consume alcoholic beverages, utilize a designated driver.
5) Department began teaching the S.A.F.E. (Self-Defense Familiarization and Exchange) program in Charlotte High School. This is the second year Officer Sills, a certified S.A.F.E. instructor, has presented the course within the school setting. The course provides young ladies precautionary measures and some basic lessons on ways to avoid dangerous situations and subsequently protect themselves if confronted by a perpetrator. Officer Sills instructs approximately 125 students over the two day period. The Department will also be holding the S.A.F.E. class for women, which is open to the public, on December 6, 2011. Please contact Lt. King at (941) 575-5525 or jking@pgorda.us for more information on the upcoming class.

Utilities Department

Engineering
• Bal Harbor Construction: On 6/17/11, the City began utility work to include construction of new 12” water main and new 12” wastewater forcemain on the east side of Bal Harbor Blvd. between Marion Ave. and Aqui Esta. Single lane closures will be required during the project. Flagmen will reroute traffic around the work zone. The sidewalk along the roadway will also be removed during construction. Upon completion, the sidewalk will be restored. Pedestrians should avoid walking in work zone while sidewalk is removed. Final completion is anticipated in February 2012.

Two Week Look Ahead - November 28: Continue Phase 1 restoration sidewalks, drives; Begin Phase 2 water main from Via Dolce Vita to Via Bianca. December 3: Begin Phase 1 water main connections, Continue Phase 1 sidewalks and drives, Continue Phase 2 water main from Via Bianca to Appian Drive.

Water Treatment Plant
• Plant Operations: Nov. 2010 Rainfall- 4.20” and Nov. 2011 Rainfall- 0.05” so far. Currently the treated water has 13 grains of Total Hardness. Hardness is a measurement of calcium and magnesium ions naturally occurring in the raw water. At the current level the City’s water is considered “hard”.
• Reservoir Information: Current Level – 5.21’; Record High for Nov 22 – 6.40’; Record Low for Nov 22 – 4.94’; and 45 Year Average for Nov 22 – 5.19’.

Water Distribution
• Construction Crew: 2,800 feet of new 6 inch water main serving Bonita Court, Magnolia Way, Chapman Boulevard, and Sturgeon Place was installed and pressure tested. The water mains were also tested for bacteriological contamination tests prior to being placed in service this week. These new water mains upgraded the water system on those streets from 2 inch to 6 inch and included the installation of 2 new fire hydrants. All that remains for project completion is sod restoration and a few driveway replacements.

City Clerk

• Volunteers interested in serving on the City’s Advisory Boards & Committees can download an Appointment Information Form from the City’s website and submit same to the City Clerk’s Office for consideration.

Current Board & Committee Vacancies
• Building Board (1 vacancy) - Meets the 4th Tuesday at 9:00 a.m. in City Council Chambers. Makes recommendations to City Council on the minimum qualifying requirements for obtaining Certificates of Competency in the various construction trades and the fees for same. Periodically reviews and holds public hearings on all building, electrical, plumbing, housing, gas, fire prevention and other related codes. Reviews enforcement of all codes relating to construction standards and acts as condemnation board in matters of violation of minimum standards. Hears alleged complaints against contractors.
• Punta Gorda Isles Canal Advisory Committee (2 vacancies) - Meets the 3rd Monday at 1:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers. Makes recommendations to City Council on effective maintenance of existing canals, waterways and navigable channels within the district, together with the maintenance and reconstruction of seawalls. Holds public hearings and makes recommendations on petitions for special permits to the provisions of Section 6-6(c) of the City Code of Ordinances.

New Businesses
• All persons, firms or corporations engaging in business or occupation within the City of Punta Gorda are required to obtain a Local Business Tax (LBT) Receipt in accordance with Chapter 12 of the Punta Gorda City Code. As part of our effort to promote economic development and vitality in our area, we offer the following list of new or transferred business within our community this week:

Priscilla Hill, Cosmetologist - 1801 Shreve Street
Jennifer Toribio, Cosmetologist – 1801 Shreve Street
Mary Pamela Hargrave, Hair Stylist - 1801 Shreve Street
Karen Goff Ford, Massage Therapist – 252 W. Marion Ave.
Body & Soul Massage and Therapy – 502 E. Olympia Ave.
Sharlene Yake Advertising Design – 265 E. Marion Ave.
Three Peas Children’s Boutique – 425 Cross Street
Destination Water Sports – 33 Tamiami Trail
Knit Wit Studios – 318 Tamiami Trail
Sandhill Family Medicine - 713 E. Marion Ave (relocated from Ste. 129 to 1211)
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City Manager

• Previously, City Council (as well as Charlotte County Commission) recommended that the State Legislature revise procurement practices by allowing local governments to include price as one of the components in selection of professional services for architects and engineers. Currently, the State only allows local agencies to consider qualifications in its initial ranking of firms to perform a particular job. House Bill 155 and Senate Bill 246 modifies this approach by promoting best value, which enables agencies to compare price and qualifications side by side in the initial evaluation and ranking process. It could be a small business development engine as it affords qualified smaller firms (those with lower overhead and operating costs) a competitive advantage when competing against larger, more established firms. City Manager sent communication to state legislators in support of both the house and senate bills.
• At its upcoming November 2 meeting, City Council will receive a final design presentation for completion of Aqui Esta sidewalks – Magdalina to US 41, consider an amended agreement with the City’s Medical Director to oversee training and certification of the City’s paramedics who will deliver Advanced Life Support services, consider a voluntary annexation agreement with Goodyear Tire Store located on US 41, and discuss the following recommended changes to land development regulations:

– Clarification of commercial uses to be allowed in the City Center Zoning District
– Clarification for demolition of primary structures and accessory uses
– Screening of mechanical equipment in the Special Residential Overlay (SRO) District
– Clarification of language for storage of trailers on private property
– Architectural guidelines for sheds outside of the SRO District

• At a prior meeting of the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), it was suggested that the City consider adding designated parking spaces for marina tenants by the dumpster area west of the marina building near the boat ramp. The area can support 5 additional spaces, and staff recommends marina tenant parking only except for the period 4 a.m. to 8 a.m. to allow for trash collection.
• The bike loaner program has expanded - 4 new bicycles were delivered to the Wyvern Hotel complimenting availability at such other locations as Laishley Park Marina, Four Points Sheraton, Charlotte Regional and Fishermen’s Village.
• Planning continues for the upcoming Brazilian Delegation visit on November 4 & 5 in Punta Gorda/Charlotte County. Presentations will be given to the delegation pertaining to the County and City economic and business development efforts, foreign loan program and trade zone, higher education, Murdock Village and health care facilities. Mayor Goldberg and City Manager will lead a tour of the City on November 4.
• Council Members Keesling and Wallace, riding in the antique fire truck, represented City Council in the Charlotte High School Homecoming Parade.

• Recently, the City was contacted by a casting agent for NBC’s "America's Got Talent". The TV show will be hosting open-call auditions for its 7th season in Tampa on November 12 & 13, 2011. This year, the show is reaching out to cities around the state in the hopes of spreading word to the average Floridian, instead of just entertainment professionals. Contestants can pre--register at http://americasgottalentauditions.com/tampa/. Who knows - the next winner might come from Punta Gorda!

Public Works Department

Engineering:
• Burnt Store Road Widening: For public information inquiries, contact Charlotte County Public Works Project Manager, Gary Grossman at (941) 575-3600.
• Aqui Esta Sidewalks – Magdalena to U.S. 41: Staff submitted the construction agreement to Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), requesting approval to work within the FDOT right-of-way to connect the sidewalk at U.S. 41 and Aqui Esta. This project will be presented to City Council 11/2/11.
• Harborwalk West Boat Ramp: FPL pole relocation is scheduled for 10/29/11. The contractor continues excavating the retention pond and grade for the proposed walk. The structures have been set and tied into the existing drainage system. Sod is scheduled for placement the week of 10/31/11.
• Harborwalk Gilchrist Park from Harvey St. to Gill St. Ph. 7: Representatives from the City, FPL and the engineering consultant met on site to discuss pole and line relocation alternatives.
• San Rocco Drainage Improvements: DM Construction commenced laying the drainage pipe at Viscaya Condos between buildings 5 & 6. Anticipated completion date is 11/2/11.
• Shreve St. MURT: Staff is reviewing the record drawings and close out documents.
• Herald Court Centre Bike Shop: Tenant separation wall framing work continues. The interior electrical work inside the tenant space is underway.

Facilities Maintenance:
• U.S. 41 High Mast Lighting: Repairs along U.S. 41 to the high mast light is underway to correct numerous poles which are not functioning.

Punta Gorda Isles Canal Maintenance:
• Seawall installation was completed at 1546 Kinglet Dr.
• Seawall cap work was completed at 2012 & 2851 Deborah Dr. and 1546 Kinglet Dr. Seawall cap replacement work continues at Lot 8 Bob White. Seawall cap replacement has commenced at 3571, 3577 & 3601 Whippoorwill and Lot 15 Kittiwake Dr.
• Backfill work was completed at 3256 White Ibis.
• Sinkholes were filled at 55 locations.

Burnt Store Isles Canal Maintenance:
• Maintenance dredging was completed around the canal exterior.
• Seawall installation was completed at 4061 & 4095 San Massimo.

Right-of-Way:
• Sidewalk and curb edging in the downtown area continue. Installed pedestrian control fencing on U.S. 41 north and south for Halloween events.
Growth Management Department

Upcoming Events
• Spirit of the American Frontier - October 15-November 12, 2011 at the Visual Arts Center. Call (941) 639-8810 or cisit www.visualartcenter.org for more information.
• Smuggler's Haunting on the Harbor, October 28-31, 2011, Laishley Park. Contact: Smuggler's Event Management, LLC (941) 637-5953 or www.puntagordahaunting.com.
• Halloween Trick or Treating in Historic Downtown – Monday, October 31, 2011 at dusk.
• Artsensation ~ November 5, 2011, at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center. For more information, contact Judy Malbuisson (941) 764-8100 or www.charlottearts.org.
• November 5, 2011, the Punta Gorda Elk’s host the annual Veteran’s Appreciation Parade. The parade starts at Charlotte High School and disbands downtown. For additional information contact Scott Buchanan (941) 889-0329.
• Veteran’s Motor Car Club Car Show at Fishermen’s Village, November 5 & 11, 2011. For additional information contact Hope Petkus (941) 575-3067.
• American Cancer Society will host their Grey Matters Round-up for the Cattle Baron’s Ball, November 12, 2011 on the top deck of Herald Court Centre. For tickets and information, contact Lori Getzen (941) 661-3016.
• “The Uncalled for Christmas Tour” will be live December 12, 2011, 7 p.m. at the Visual Arts Center. A one night only performance of Christmas story telling and songs with Bill Lepp, Kim Kamp, and Andy Erwin. Seating is limited, tickets on sale for $20 at the Visual Arts Center. Call (941) 639-8810 or email Info@VisualArtCenter.org.

Fire Department

• Annual fire safety inspection of the Charlotte County Public School Baker Center revealed absolutely no fire violations noted during this year’s team walk-thru inspection. This is an exceptional occurrence; an outstanding job on behalf of Principal Watts and support staff members!
• Public education training was conducted by A-shift with the students and teachers at Baker Center. Participants witnessed the fire truck demonstration and met their local firefighters.
• Fire Marshal, along with B-Shift staff, conducted live fire extinguisher training with the U.S. Post Office staff at the Marion Avenue facility. The annual fire safety inspection for the facility was also conducted with minimal violations noted. Kudos to Postmaster Sullivan and all staff members for 100% participation in safety procedures and training!

Police Department

• Community Services Section attended the Neighborhood Marine Watch group’s annual appreciation luncheon. Since its inception over 2 years ago, the group has grown to be the largest Neighborhood Watch group in the city with over 80 members. The police department would like to give special thanks to Bill Guenther, founder, and the entire Neighborhood Marine Watch group for their commitment to a safe City.

• Halloween Night in the City of Punta Gorda Historic District
The Police Department will be out in force for the annual Halloween activities in our historic district Monday night. Officers and volunteers will be providing patrol services and traffic direction utilizing bicycles, golf carts, a T3 Personal Mobility Vehicle, a Segway, and police vehicles to ensure the safety of all involved. The public will be required to observe a speed limit of 15 miles per hour within the confines of the Historic District festivities. This speed limit will be strictly enforced. Generally, this area includes the area from Shreve Street to Cross Street (US 41 Southbound), and Olympia Avenue to Retta Esplanade. Motorists should be particularly alert for children veering from sidewalks into traffic, particularly since many children are wearing dark-colored clothing. Community Services will also be on hand to give out goodie bags to the kids. Below are some safety tips that we would like to offer the public:

Make sure your kids dress up safely

Make sure an adult accompanies children at all times.
Check that the costumes are flame-retardant so the little ones aren't in danger near burning jack-o-lanterns and other fire hazards.
Keep costumes short to prevent trips, falls, and other bumps in the night.
Try make-up instead of a mask. Masks can be hot and uncomfortable and, more importantly, they can obstruct a child's vision -- a dangerous thing when kids are crossing streets and going up and down steps.
Make sure kids wear light colors, carry a light, wear a blinking light, or put reflective tape on their costumes.

Make trick-or-treating trouble free

Trick-or-treaters should always be in groups. Parents should accompany young children.
Make sure older kids trick-or-treat with friends. Together, map out a safe route so parents know where they'll be. Tell them to stop only at familiar homes where the outside lights are on.
Try to get your kids to trick-or-treat while it's still light out. If it's dark, make sure someone has a flashlight and pick well-lit streets.
Make sure kids know not to enter strange houses or strangers' cars.

Treats

Kids need to know not to eat their treats until they get home. One way to keep trick-or-treaters from digging in while they're still out is to feed them a meal or a snack beforehand.
Check out all treats at home in a well-lighted place.
A better way to check treats is at one of the local hospitals – they will x-ray the goodies for free.
What to eat? Only unopened candies and other treats that are in original wrappers. Don't forget to inspect fruit and homemade goodies for anything suspicious. By all means, remind kids not to eat everything at once or they'll be feeling pretty ghoulish for awhile!


Utilities Department

Administration
• Southwest Florida Water Management District Extends Water Restrictions
Rainy Season Not Productive Enough for Resources to Recover - The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board voted Tuesday, October 25, 2011 to extend Phase I water shortage restrictions for the District’s entire 16-county area through February 29, 2012, due to a disappointing summer rainy season and an approaching winter that is expected to be drier than normal. The Phase I order is intended as an alert to prepare for worsening conditions. Under Phase I, residents are asked to check their irrigation systems to ensure they are working properly. There are no changes to watering days or times in a Phase I water shortage compared to the District’s year-round water conservation measures.

Engineering
• Bal Harbor Construction: Bal Harbor Construction: On 6/17/11, the City began utility work to include construction of new 12” water main and new 12” wastewater forcemain on the east side of Bal Harbor Blvd. between Marion Ave. and Aqui Esta. Single lane closures will be required during the project. Flagmen will reroute traffic around the work zone. The sidewalk along the roadway will also be removed during construction. Upon completion, the sidewalk will be restored. Pedestrians should avoid walking in work zone while sidewalk is removed. Final completion is anticipated in February 2012.

Two Week Look Ahead:
October 31: Install water services, Begin restoration sidewalks, drives Phase 1 water main.
November 7: Install new water service lines, continue restoration, sidewalks, drives Phase 1 water main, Begin Phase 1 drainage.

Water Treatment Plant
• Plant Operations: Oct. 2010 Rainfall - 0.00” and Oct. 2011 Rainfall - 4.10”. Currently the treated water has 9 grains of Total Hardness. Hardness is a measurement of calcium and magnesium ions naturally occurring in the raw water. At the current level the City’s water is considered “moderately hard”.
• Reservoir Information: Current Level – 5.42’; Record High for Oct 27 – 6.14’; Record Low for Oct 27 – 5.00’; and 45 Year Average for Oct 27 – 5.31’.

Water Distribution
• All 2,800 feet of new water main for Bonita Ct., Magnolia Way, Chapman Blvd., and Sturgeon Pl. has been completed. The pressure test has also been completed; chlorination of the line will start today. These new water mains will upgrade the water system on those streets from 2 inch to 6 inch and will also include the installation of 2 new fire hydrants. The construction phase of this project is scheduled to be completed by the end of October.

Wastewater Treatment
• Staff met with CPH Engineers and Bailey Engineering to review 90% design details and specifications for the High Level Disinfection and Filtration Project. They will incorporate necessary changes and forward for final review. Project is on schedule to be ready to incorporate the City’s bid documents by the end of this calendar year.

Wastewater Collection
• The final tie-in of the new 14” forcemain has been made at the Master Pumping Facility located on Henry Street. Staff will now begin restoration work.

City Clerk

• Volunteers interested in serving on the City’s Advisory Boards & Committees can download an Appointment Information Form from the City’s website and submit same to the City Clerk’s Office for consideration.

Current Board & Committee Vacancies
• Burnt Store Isles Canal Advisory Committee (1 vacancy) - Meets 2nd Tuesday at 1:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers. Makes recommendations to City Council on effective maintenance of existing canals, waterways and navigable channels (including BSI boat lock) within the district, together with the maintenance and reconstruction of seawalls. Holds public hearings and makes recommendations on petitions for special permit to the provisions of Section 6-6(c) of the City Code of Ordinances.
• Firefighters' Pension Board (1 vacancy) - Meets quarterly and as called in City Council Chambers. Charged with management of the Firefighters' pension fund.
• Historic Preservation Advisory Board (2 vacancies) - Meets the 4th Thursday at 8:30 a.m. in City Council Chambers. Identifies for the City Council historically significant structures and sites that should be considered for designation as a "Local Historic Landmark" or be nominated for listing on the Florida Master Site File and the National Register of Historic Places. Makes policy recommendations for the protection of historically significant structures and sites. Makes recommendations to staff regarding certificates of appropriateness for any demolition, variance, sign or relocation of structures. Promotes public awareness of historic archaeological preservation and its community benefits.
• Punta Gorda Isles Canal Advisory Committee (1 vacancy) - Meets the 3rd Monday at 1:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers. Makes recommendations to City Council on effective maintenance of existing canals, waterways and navigable channels within the district, together with the maintenance and reconstruction of seawalls. Holds public hearings and makes recommendations on petitions for special permits to the provisions of Section 6-6(c) of the City Code of Ordinances.

New Businesses
• All persons, firms or corporations engaging in business or occupation within the City of Punta Gorda are required to obtain a Local Business Tax (LBT) Receipt in accordance with Chapter 12 of the Punta Gorda City Code. As part of our effort to promote economic development and vitality in our area, we offer the following list of new or transferred business within our community this week:

Bella Balsamic & The Pressed Olive - 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Unit B4
Galleria Antiques & Collectibles - 212 W. Virginia Ave., Unit 111
Sonopro, LLC - 210 Taylor Street, Unit 123
Sun Coast Media Group, Inc. - 312 Sullivan Street
Elaine Nunziata has relocated from 115 Taylor Street to 201 W. Marion Avenue.
The Tropical Store has relocated from 306 W. Marion Avenue to 150 Laishley Court, Unit 1112
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