The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

B.C. Manion

Pasco provides details on county ‘Penny’ projects

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The Pasco County Commission has adopted a list of projects the county intends to pursue with proceeds of a proposed 15-year extension of the Penny for Pasco government infrastructure surcharge tax.

The board identified the projects during is July 12 meeting.

Voters will decide in the Nov. 8  general election whether they want to extend the tax for a third round.

The first Penny for Pasco, approved by voters, was in effect from January 2005 through December 2014. Voters approved extending the tax, from 2015 until 2024.

This time, voters are being asked to approve a 15-year extension of the tax, through 2039.

The tax proceeds are shared between Pasco County, the Pasco County School Board and the county’s six municipalities.

Of the county’s share, 20% would go for economic development; 20% for environmental land acquisition and recreation improvements; 20% for public safety; and, 40% for transportation.

Here are some of the ways the county said it would spend the tax proceeds:

  • Environmental Lands: Acquisition of an estimated 3,000 to 3,700 acres of environmentally sensitive lands; additional amenities such as picnic areas, campgrounds, hiking trails, observations towers, and associated infrastructure throughout the county; improvements at Baillies Bluff Wilderness Park and Len Angeline Wilderness and Recreation Park
  • Economic development: Efforts to support workforce development; rejuvenate semi-blighted economic corridors; encourage entrepreneurs through business incubators; provide economic incentives to attract businesses and jobs
  • Public safety: Funding for Pasco Fire Rescue and the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. Both Fire/Rescue and the Sheriff’s Office would receive for new vehicles and new in-vehicle computers and equipment. Fire Rescue also would receive specialty vehicles, including utility terrain vehicles and boats, life-saving emergency response equipment and facility upgrades
Pasco County’s Environmental Lands Acquisition and Management Program purchases environmentally sensitive lands throughout the county, using funds provided through the taxpayer-supported Penny for Pasco program. (File)

Transportation projects: This category stands to receive 40% of the proceeds, so that list is lengthy. Here’s a summary of some proposed projects:

  • A county-wide study to determine its multi-modal transportation needs
  • Proposed multi-modal improvements, including sidewalks and multi-use paths. Specific improvements, within The Laker/Lutz News coverage area include:
  • Eiland Boulevard A , from north of State Road 54 to Handcart Road, a multi-use path
  • Eiland Boulevard B, from Handcart Road to U.S. 301, a multi-use path
  • Starkey Trail bike/pedestrian overpass at State Road 54
  • Wire Road, from Pretty Pond Road to County Road 54, sidewalk
  • Sidewalk projects near schools, including Curley Road, near Wesley Chapel Elementary, Thomas Weightman Middle School and Wesley Chapel High School; Cypress Creek Road, near Denham Oaks Elementary School; and Parkway Boulevard, near Pine View Elementary School
  • Numerous other types of improvements including projects to improve connectivity and safety, including bicycle lanes, bicycle trail connections, bridge rehabilitation, accessibility improvements, roundabouts, paved shoulder safety treatments, roadway lighting and transportation technology and acquisition of right of way
  • Improvements for GoPasco: The list includes new buses, improved accessibility to bus stops, park and ride locations, and improved bus stops

Published June 20, 2022

Pasco limits new recurring expenses

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Pasco County’s revenues are up because of its burgeoning growth, but the county is taking a conservative approach when it comes to adding new recurring expenses.

The assessed taxable value in fiscal year 2023 is just at $2 billion, compared at just under $1.4 billion last year, according to Robert Goehig, the county’s budget director.

“The taxable assessed value in 2023 was actually higher than the new construction in 2008,” he said.

“So, because we can’t expect this taxable from new construction to be at this level for year over year over year, we are suggesting that we not spend this new additional revenues for new ongoing expenditures, except as they relate to Fire Rescue,” Goehig told the Pasco County Commission at its July 12 meeting.

“So, we are suggesting that we adopt a limited number of new business plan initiatives — or new spending for new ongoing expenditures — and take the remaining piece of that and invest that into one-time capital investments, into our capital improvement process to bring those projects up to speed,” Goehig said.

Emergency personnel representing Pasco County Fire Rescue repeatedly have urged the Pasco County Commission to provide them with more equipment and manpower, to reduce response time to emergencies. The county’s proposed budget reflects about $6 million in initiatives to bolster Fire Rescue operations. (File)

“So, we saw there’s an additional $21 million out there. Before we get carried away with all of this new money (and) figure out we’re going to spend it, there are lots and lots of things that we have to pay for with that new money,” he added.

Inflation, he noted, is at 11.3% in the Tampa Bay Metropolitan Statistical Area, which includes Pasco County.

“Just the cost of fuel alone has increased 38% over the past year,” he said.

Fleet-related expenditures, including fuel and increased costs for maintenance and parts is expected to increase by more than $1 million for Fire Rescue alone, he said.

“It will increase over $3 million countywide,” Goehig said.

The county also is currently conducting a compensation/classification study for its staff, which is expected to result in a 7% increase in the county’s average compensation, he said.

Wages also will increase for firefighters, he said.

Goehig also noted that Fire Station 3 and Fire Station 9 are coming online and must be funded for a full year.

As Fire Rescue responds to more calls, costs for medical supplies are expected to increase by $500,000, he added.

There also are increases to health care and retirement costs.

The county, however, is recommending a number of enhancements to its Fire Rescue services.

Those proposed budget items follow persistent requests by firefighters at board meetings, urging the county to provide the equipment and manpower necessary to address a surging number of emergency calls.

This year’s budget calls for two new fire stations to come online, four new rescue units and four peak-hour rescue units, Goehig said. That brings the total number of new ambulance units on the street to eight, Goehig said.

The budget also calls for adding 65 firefighters.

Goehig noted the call volume for Fire Rescue increased by 16% in 2021, compared to a typical rate of increase of 3% to 4%.

The county doesn’t know if the spike in call volume in 2021 was a one-time thing because of the pandemic, or if that will be the new normal.

“In either case, we have to plan as if that 16% is the new normal,” Goehig said.

In total, there are 16 business plan initiatives for Fire Rescue, totaling about $6 million, he said.

The proposed county budget also includes two additional code enforcement officers and two additional animal services officers.

The budget also calls for providing a general fund transfer of $1.6 million to the Pasco Sheriff’s Office to support the hiring of 10 deputies.

Goehig’s presentation was made in concert with an agenda item on proposed tax rate and date for the first public hearing on the county  budget for fiscal year 2023.

The county board approved the proposed tax rate and set the first public hearing on the county’s budget on Sept. 6, at 5:15 p.m. The meeting will be in the board chambers at the Historic Pasco County Courthouse, 37918 Meridian Ave., in Dade City.

The final public hearing is set for Sept. 20 at 5:15 p.m., in the board chambers at the West Pasco Government Center, 8731 Citizens Drive, in New Port Richey.

Pasco County’s proposed tax rates
Pasco County is planning :

  • No change in its operating millage rate of 7.6076
  • No change in its fire service millage rate of 1.8036

The Florida Constitution’s “Save Our Homes” provision caps the taxable value of homestead properties at 3% or the change in the Consumer Price Index, whichever is less. This year, the CPI is 7%, so the taxable value for homesteaded properties will be capped at 3%.

The taxable value of the house is $150,000, minus standard exemptions, resulting in a taxable value of $100,000. The taxable value thus increases by $3,000, based on the 3% cap. That house would pay $22.82 in additional property taxes.

Taxable values of non-homesteaded properties cannot be increased by more than 10%.

Source: Pasco County budget presentation on July 12

Want to weigh in?
The first public hearing on Pasco County’s budget is set for Sept. 6 at 5:15 p.m., in the board chambers at the Historic Pasco County Courthouse, 37918 Meridian Ave., in Dade City.
The final public hearing is set for Sept. 20 at 5:15 p.m., in the board chambers at the West Pasco Government Center, 8731 Citizens Drive, in New Port Richey.

Published June 20, 2022

County Administrator Dan Biles departs Pasco on a high note

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Pasco County Administrator Dan Biles found himself in a position he doesn’t particularly enjoy on July 12.

On that day, he stood at the podium, facing the Pasco County Commission, while a resolution was being read. It detailed many accomplishments during his five-year tenure in the county’s top job.

The resolution praised Biles “for his dedicated service to Pasco County and his contribution to creating a people-focused organizational culture.”

County Administrator Dan Biles poses with Pasco County employees on July 12, the administrator’s last meeting with the Pasco County Commission. (Courtesy of Pasco County)

It also lauds Biles’ focus on customer service and his commitment to training leaders, as well as empowering them to improve business operations.

His work in that area led to “radical cultural changes” within the organization resulting “in significant performance gains across the enterprise, as well as three different local and national ‘Best Places to Work’ awards,” the resolution notes.

The document also spells out some of Biles’ most notable accomplishments, including “his unwavering leadership and administrative creativity through the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic; his involvement in making the construction of the Ridge Road Extension a reality, providing an essential hurricane evacuation route and a new major corridor for Pasco County commuters; and his collaboration in the momentous Moffitt Pasco County Project, which will provide more than 14,000 jobs in a geographic footprint larger than Downtown Tampa and more importantly, bring hope to innumerable people for decades to come.”

Additionally, Biles’ “People, Purpose, Performance” leadership philosophy has influenced members of his team who will carry on that desire to “prioritize people, connect them to their purpose and get out of the way of their success,” the resolution states.

This shot was taken during construction of the first phase of the Ridge Road extension. That portion of the road, between Moon Lake Drive and the Suncoast Parkway, is now open to traffic. Work continues on the stretch of Ridge Road that will extend it to U.S. 41. (File)

After Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller Nikki Alvarez-Sowles finished reading the resolution, Biles told the board: “It’s a little uncomfortable today because I don’t like standing up here. I actually prefer to be in the background, out of the spotlight, and let you or the team really take the credit for the great things that are happening.”

But Biles added: “I appreciate it. It’s been truly a remarkable five years. I don’t think I would’ve imagined the things that we’ve gone through the last five years, but thank you for all of the support, thank you to the team for all of the support, because I couldn’t have done it without the team, as well.”

He told commissioners he appreciated that they allowed him to work on building an organization that’s similar to corporations such as Publix, Southwest Airlines and USAA — that are focused both on their employees and the customers they serve.

“Thank you for everything you’ve done to support me over the last five years, even when we may not have agreed. That’s part of business, right?

“I think I’ve disagreed with every one of you from time to time. That’s part of a great work atmosphere … allowing discussion, debate and those kinds of things.

“Thank you for allowing me to tell you my opinion on stuff, because that’s also important,” he said.

Commissioners shared their thoughts on the administrator’s work, too.

Commission Chairwoman Kathryn Starkey told him he was the right leader, at the right time, to bring the county to where it is today.

Commissioner Jack Mariano cited Biles’ work with the Ridge Road extension project as a prime example of his leadership capabilities.

“When you had the opportunity to get Ridge Road done quickly, you took a step back and said, ‘You know what, we’re ready to go, but we have a big development that wants to come in here, a big job employer, a big opportunity,’ Biles told Mariano.

Biles didn’t disclose the name of the prospect at the time, but it turned out to be Moffitt, and the road needed to be reset to provide what Moffitt needed, Mariano said.

A sinkhole opened on July 14, 2017, just months after Dan Biles became county administrator for Pasco County. The incident attracted international attention. (File)

Mariano said he had disagreements with Biles.

“But we always discussed it. What I always liked is, I always got the truth, and with the truth, you can work with it,” Mariano said.

Commissioners Ron Oakley and Christina Fitzpatrick both mentioned their impatience at the pace of government, but also both thanked Biles for the work he accomplished.

Commissioner Mike Moore said the board made a good decision when it hired Biles.

Biles tested early
Constitutional officers Alvarez-Sowles and Tax Collector Mike Fasano also weighed in on Biles’ contributions.

Alvarez-Sowles, who has butted heads with Biles, especially over budget issues, told the administrator: “I respect you tremendously, and your leadership.”

Moffitt Cancer Center is planning a campus in Pasco County, which County Administrator Dan Biles said will have a profound impact — not only in terms of new jobs, but also in the quest to find a cure for cancer. (File)

She reminded those gathered that during Biles’ first year on the job, he contended with a sinkhole, wildfires, floods and Hurricane Irma.

“You were tested, right off the bat, to see what stuff you were made of. Sitting back, watching you and taking part in those conversations, I was really impressed. Very impressed with your leadership — about (your style of) encouraging and giving the power to your team, so they can do their jobs and getting out of the way so they can perform well,” she said.

Fasano attended the meeting specifically to offer some remarks about Biles.

“Over the last five years, I’ve seen a dramatic change, a great change for Pasco County. Not only because of your (county board) leadership, but because of someone like Dan Biles.

“I want to thank Dan.

“Thank you for the great work you have done for our county,” Fasano said.

Pasco County used to be viewed as a stepchild of Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, but that’s no longer true, Fasano said.

The former legislator also cited Biles’ work to help bring the Ridge Road extension to fruition.

Fasano said he used to seek funding every year for that project. At one point, representatives from the Florida Department of Transportation asked Fasano to drop the request, telling him the road would never happen.

“But it did happen, under Dan Biles leadership,” Fasano said.

Biles told the board that he’ll miss both the work and the people he worked with.

“At the end of the day, we have a great team that does great work, and Mike (incoming County Administrator Mike Carballa) is going to step in and take the county to the next level, with your support and the support of the rest of the team,” Biles said.

Published June 20, 2022

Let Us Do Good Village gets OK for amenity center

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The Pasco County Planning Commission has granted approval of a special exception to the county code to clear the way for an amenity center with the Let Us Do Good Village, a community being built by The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

The requested center is planned for a site that’s slightly less than 5 acres on the south side of Parkway Boulevard, about a half-mile east of Ehren Cutoff.

Plans for the new subdivision call for 96 single-family detached homes.

The amenity center is planned for construction at the main entrance to Let Us Do Good Village, at the intersection of Parkway Boulevard and Do Good Way, according to information the planning board’s agenda packet.

In addition to the amenity center, two neighborhood parks are proposed to be located in the western section of the site, adjacent to the Panther Run subdivision.

The planning board approved the request as part of its consent agenda. The consent agenda contains a number of agenda items that are voted on, in a single motion, unless someone pulls an item for discussion.

There was no public comment on the request.

While the planning board has the authority to grant special exceptions, the Pasco County Commission can revoke them.

Published June 20, 2022

It’s not the cause, it’s the precedent, Commissioner Mike Moore says

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Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore wants his fellow commissioners to turn down a request by Feeding Tampa Bay because he fears granting it could open the door to scores of similar requests down the road.

Moore urged his colleagues to vote against a recommendation in the county budget to provide $250,000 in funding — over two years — to Feeding Tampa Bay. The money would be used by the nonprofit to construct a regional facility in Hillsborough County.

Moore’s comments came after Pasco County Budget Director Robert Goehig announced the list of budget recommendations for outside organizations for fiscal year 2023 included a new agency.

“The one new donation on this list is Feeding Tampa Bay. We are recommending that we provide $125,000 a year for two years to Feeding Tampa Bay to help them build their new facility,” Goehig said.

At that point, Moore told his colleagues: “I said, ‘No.’

“I have a serious concern about funding a capital project for a building that’s in another county.

“We have not-for-profits that feed people in Pasco County, as well. I would prefer to see those funds going to people here, closer to home, than I would a capital project outside of the county.

“If they were stating they were going to provide so many additional meals in Pasco County that was going to be pushed through one of our local organizations, then I probably would be more receptive of this,” he said.

“My fear is that you’re going to set a precedent here and next year you’re going to have 10 other organizations that are outside the door, asking you do something in another county, build a building, because they say they are providing services here,” he said.

“There’s a lot of nonprofits that aren’t located in Florida that provide services here in Pasco County,” he said.

He asked his colleagues if the board would support a similar request from a nonprofit in Louisiana because it’s providing services to Pasco residents.

Commissioner Ron Oakley responded: “The answer to that is no.”

But Moore said he wasn’t so sure, given the current request from Feeding Tampa Bay.

Oakley said he’s willing to provide a minimum level of support because “they help a lot of citizens here in Pasco County. I know they are here in East Pasco every week.”

Moore persisted: “We have additional charities here in Pasco County that do feed people.

“I’ll be honest with you, that $250 (thousand), give it to our Elderly Services and let them feed more people. We have a waiting list of people. We could divert those funds to our senior citizens, waiting there for more meals.”

Commissioner Jack Mariano agreed with Moore.

“I don’t want to spend that money for capital outside the area,” Mariano said.

He said he hadn’t thought about diverting those funds to the county’s elderly meal programs, but thinks it’s a good idea.

“I’d rather take that $125,000 and feed a whole bunch of seniors,” Mariano said.

Commission Chairwoman Kathryn Starkey said she supports the proposed expenditure.

“The number they asked for was much bigger than this,” Starkey said. “The reason I was OK with this number is because we are one of the major recipients of their food program. And so, they’re storing the food that comes up to be delivered to our nonprofits that get distributed to our people.

“That’s why I’m OK with this small amount. I hope one day they’ll have a facility in Pasco County, but right now for the region, it’s more cost-effective to have one big distribution center,” Starkey said.

“This doesn’t begin to compare to the cost of the food they’re holding for our citizens, so that’s why I was OK with this little number.”

Commissioner Christina Fitzpatrick also supports the expenditure.

“The number of citizens that benefit outweighs how much we are spending,” Fitzpatrick said.

She said Cathy Pearson, assistant administrator for public services, gave commissioners a breakdown of how many meals are provided and distributed.

“The amount that we’re investing is a lot less than it would cost us to provide those meals to all of those citizens,” Fitzpatrick said.

Unlike Moore, Fitzpatrick said she doesn’t view this as precedent-setting, but rather as a one-time thing.

Starkey added: “I personally don’t think $125,000 will even cover the cost of the racks that’s holding the food that’s coming to Pasco County.”

The discussion came up as part of a budget discussion, but the board won’t vote on the budget until September, leaving time for additional discussion on what the board will include in its fiscal plan for next year.

Moore said he appreciates Feeding Tampa Bay and what it does, but he reiterated that he won’t support this request.

“We should not be spending Pasco County taxpayer dollars to build a building that is outside (the county),” Moore said.

Published June 20, 2022

Political Agenda 07/22/2022

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Central Pasco Republican Club
The Republican candidates for Florida House District 55 — Gabe Papadopoulos, Brad Sollberger and Kevin Steele — will be featured at the July 25 meeting of the Central Pasco Republican Club. Join us to learn more about the candidates and their vision for the district.

The meeting is open to the public and the club encourages anyone that seeks to be involved in the political process to attend.

The club meets at Copperstone Executive Suites, 3632 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. The social begins at 6 p.m., with the business meeting at 6:30 p.m.

For more information, call 813-996-3011.

Endorsements
Pasco County Schools Superintendent and Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano have endorsed the Pasco County School Board’s referendum seeking a tax increase of up to 1 mil, to support increased salaries for teachers, bus drivers and other non-administrative employees of Pasco County Schools.

Supervisor of Elections updates
Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley has provided some updates regarding the upcoming Aug. 23 Primary Election, via news releases.

Corley has announced that on July 14, more than 116,000 vote-by-mail ballots for the Aug. 23 primary election were mailed to voters who had requested vote-by-mail. Ballots to uniformed and overseas citizens went out on July 8.

Voted ballots must be returned to the elections office by 7 p.m., on Aug. 23.

Corley reminded voters to be sure to allow sufficient time for first-class delivery by the U.S. Postal Service, or to hand deliver the ballots to any of the three Supervisor of Elections’ Offices in Pasco County. Voted ballots also are accepted at early voting sites, but may not be turned in at the polls on Election Day. Information on office locations and early voting sites is available at PascoVotes.gov.

Corley also noted that eligible voters who did not previously request a ballot can still receive one by calling the elections office, by submitting the request in writing, or by using the online request form on PascoVotes.gov.

Requests must include the voter’s Florida Driver’s License number, Florida ID number or last four digits of their Social Security Number; date of birth; and, Pasco County residence address.

Written requests also must include the voter’s signature.

Vote-by-mail ballots cannot be forwarded but can be mailed to a temporary mailing address if outside of Pasco County.

Voters are encouraged to confirm their mailing address when ordering a vote-by-mail ballot. Requests are fulfilled immediately, with ballots being mailed daily. The deadline to request a ballot to be mailed is 5 p.m., Aug. 13.

Written or telephonic requests for vote-by-mail ballots must come from the voter, an immediate family member, or legal guardian on behalf of a voter.

Voters may pick up ballots at any of the three elections’ offices until Aug. 14.

Those picking up ballots on behalf of someone will need a written request from the voter, designating them as the person authorized to carry out the ballot. The designee will be asked to provide a photo ID and to complete an affidavit before a ballot will be released to them.

Corley also has announced that sample ballots are available for the Aug. 23 Primary Election. The ballots are available at PascoVotes.gov.

The ballots will be emailed to Pasco County voters on July 28.

Voters are encouraged to look over their sample ballot and familiarize themselves with the candidates and issues before going to the polls.

To expedite the voting process, voters are encouraged to bring their completed sample ballots with them when early voting or on Election Day.
To view sample ballots online, voters should know their precinct and party of registration. Florida is a closed primary state, which means the candidate choices on your ballot will be candidates of the same party affiliation. All voters, including those registered without party affiliation or with a minor political party, will have non-partisan races on their ballot, such as school board candidates, judicial races, and a local referendum.

The direct link to sample ballots is https://www.pascovotes.gov/Elections/Sample-Ballots.

The Precinct Finder option is available to voters who are unsure of their precinct number, at https://www.pascovotes.gov/Precincts/Precinct-Finder.

If your voter registration is not up to date with a current address, you will not receive your sample ballot in the mail. Sample ballots are mailed to the address of record on file. To update your address, call 800-851-8754, or go to https://registertovoteflorida.gov/home.

Published June 20, 2022

Request calls for new 107-home subdivision

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The Pasco County Planning Commission has recommended approval of a request to allow a maximum of 107 homes on a 43.5-acre site in Land O’ Lakes.

The property is on the north side of Dogpatch Lane, about 390 feet west of Joy Drive, and abutting Joy Drive, about  690 feet north of Dogpatch Drive.

The application seeks to change the zoning from agricultural and agricultural-residential designations to a master-planned unit development.

County planners found the request consistent with the county’s long-range plan and land development code, and recommended approval.

The planning board voted to recommend approval to the Pasco County Commission, which has final jurisdiction over county land use and zoning issues.

The planning board’s action came despite objections from area residents who raised concerns about potential impacts on wildlife and the prospect for additional traffic on Lake Patience Road.

Cathryn Baxter Polonitza told the planning board that she’s worried about negative impacts on the area’s wild creatures.

“I know my neighbors see gopher tortoises pretty frequently. They are an endangered species,” she said.

The proposed development also appears to be closing off the wetlands, she said.

Plus, “our schools are completely overpacked, right now. We have portables.

“We have issues with traffic. I’ve seen myself, fire trucks not be able to go where they need to go because of the traffic we have on Lake Patience (Road),” Polonitza said.

She told the planning board that many of her neighbors couldn’t attend the meeting because it was being held during the middle of the day, when people are working.

Ron Rubrecht, another area resident, said he’s concerned about the wetlands and also the increased traffic.

“You’re going to put 200 more cars in the neighborhood,” he said.

There’s already backups as people pick up and drop off their children at Oakstead Elementary, which is on Lake Patience Road, Rubrecht said.

“Lake Patience is going to have to be a four-lane road with turn lanes, to accommodate the school,” he said.

Debbie Moore, who also lives nearby, told the planning board: “We’re just getting pounded and pounded and slammed in, as tight as you can possibly get.”

Like the others, she complained about adding traffic to Lake Patience Road.

“This is a very, very horrible road,” she said.

Barbara Heck, another area resident agreed with the traffic concerns: “You cannot get through Lake Patience at school time.”

Planning Commissioner Jonathan Moody asked Polonitza who had told her that gopher tortoises are an endangered species. They’re not an endangered species, he said, but are a protected species.

That means a survey will be done and the gopher tortoises will be removed and relocated, Moody said.

The planning board member said the same process likely was used to make way for other development that’s already occurred in the area.

Attorney Barbara Wilhite, representing the applicants, told the planning board that her client will comply with gopher tortoise requirements.

She also noted that the proposed density of the development is in keeping with the county’s long-range plan.

The proposed subdivision, which will consist of single-family detached homes, will be served by county water and sewer, the attorney added.

The type of development is what the county’s plan envisions, Wilhite said.

Published June 20, 2022

Pasco is taking another look at its residential parking rules

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If you live in a subdivision that’s been approved within the past 15 years in Pasco County, chances are no parking is permitted on your residential street — without a county permit.

Of course, not everybody is aware of the restriction.

“The general rule for most modern residential subdivisions is that they don’t allow parking on the street,” said County Attorney Jeffrey Steinsnyder. “That’s by the zoning restrictions.”

That’s problematic, Commissioner Mike Moore said during the county board’s July 12 meeting, adding he thinks a change is long overdue.

“Do you really want to, every time you have few friends over —  maybe it’s on a whim —  to run down to the county office and get a permit because you’re going to have three extra guests come over to your house? It’s just silliness, right?”

Moore continued: “South Tampa allows street parking.

“Everybody knows in Cleveland, and outside of Cleveland, you can’t park on the side of the street where there’s fire hydrants. Common sense, right?” he added.

Parking on both sides of the street isn’t a good idea because emergency vehicles and large vehicles can’t get through, he said.

But allowing it on one side of the street shouldn’t pose problems, he added.

Commission Chairwoman Kathryn Starkey supports the idea.

“Let staff comes back to us with some proposals. In many places on-street parking is used as traffic calming.”

Pasco Fire Chief Scott Cassin said he’d like to see whatever the county proposes and to weigh in on the issue.

Moore said he’d be happy to work with the fire chief on the issue.

Steinsnyder told the board there are areas in the county where residential street parking is allowed because the road is wide enough.

But he added, the board has granted requests in master-planned neighborhoods for streets that are just 20-feet wide.

If parking is permitted on both sides of 20-foot-wide street, there will be issues with fire service equipment or even RVs getting through, Steinsnyder said.

Moore said he’d like to see a recommendation from staff at the next board meeting.

“This is simple stuff,” the commissioner said.

Published June 20, 2022

Avalon Park Wesley Chapel celebrates birth of new downtown

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Avalon Park Wesley Chapel marked a milestone in a project that began decades ago, on State Road 54.

The community threw a party to celebrate the groundbreaking for the first mixed-use building in what ultimately will become Downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel.

Jazz Under the Starz, the Wesley Chapel Theater Group and the Pasco Fine Arts Council  provided entertainment, and refreshments were served.

Participants get ready to fling a shovel of dirt at the Downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel groundbreaking ceremony on July 14. (Courtesy of Andy Taylor/Pasco County)

It was so hot outside, though, that even a tent and air conditioning could not keep it cool for the crowd that had gathered.

So, both Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore and Beat Kahli, the CEO and president of Avalon Park Group, kept their remarks brief.

Moore told Kahli: “We’re very proud of the project. Proud of what’s yet to come.”

The commissioner noted the new downtown will provide jobs, which will allow residents to work locally instead of commuting to nearby counties.

Kahli offered a brief history about the project’s beginnings and he shared his vision of what lies ahead.

Beat Kahli, president and CEO of Avalon Park Group, offers a brief history of Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, during groundbreaking festivities for Downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. (B.C. Manion)

“You wouldn’t believe how long we’ve been involved with this project. We bought this land in 1988.

“When we bought this land, we bought it from a family, the Brown family.

“They were ranchers here. They actually didn’t want to sell their land, particularly to a developer,” Kahli said.

But he added: “We worked out a deal. We said, ‘You can farm your entire life because this will take decades.’

“Why not do a deal where we give you enough money, where you can pay for your retirement, your education of your kids, but you continue to farm.

“Unfortunately, my good friend Bill Brown died about five years ago,” but Kahli added, Brown farmed until the end.

Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore helps celebrate the long journey that has led to the beginnings of a new downtown, on State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel. (B.C. Manion)

Kahli then shared his vision for Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, a community of about 1,800 acres.

“The goal that we always have, when we do an Avalon Park, is to create a sense of safety and a sense of belonging,” he said.

He pointed to Avalon Park Orlando, a community just south of the University of Central Florida.

“It’s a complete town. We have second- and third-generations,” he said.

Plans for the new mixed-use building, as outlined in a community newsletter, call for a 73,067-square-foot building, with a variety of uses.

Those uses include 40 multifamily apartments, with 23,720 square feet of commercial/retail space on the ground floor. Initial plans for the commercial/retail space include a food hall of approximately 12,000 square feet, which will be called the Marketplace at Avalon Park.

Kahli noted the mixed-use building is just the first of many more buildings to come.

In addition to providing a glimpse of what lies ahead, Kahli introduced his two sons to the crowd and expressed gratitude to his team, noting they’ve been working for decades on the project.

He also thanked Pasco County.

“We work with many governments, around the globe actually,” he said. “Pasco County is a great county to work with.”

After Moore and Kahli concluded their remarks, they joined with others to fling a ceremonial shovel of dirt, to signify the groundbreaking of the beginning of a new downtown.

Revised July 27, 2022

Business Digest 07/20/2022

By

Center Ice names new CEO
AdventHealth Center Ice, the largest ice sports complex in the Southeast, has announced that James Mitchell is being elevated to the role of CEO (chief executive officer).

A veteran of the business since before its opening in January 2017, Mitchell has filled various roles over his six-year tenure, including marketing director and chief operating officer, according to a news release.

He will assume the role held by Gordie Zimmermann, the managing partner, who will maintain his ownership position, but will devote his time to construction projects and other business pursuits.

Mitchell was a key player in implementing policies to successfully meet the challenges presented by COVID-19.

Mitchell has had the opportunity to learn from the various leadership styles of previous and current management over the past six years.

“I am grateful and humbled by this opportunity,” Mitchell said in the release.

“I want to provide leadership that allows every member of our team to become the best version of themselves,” he added.

AdventHealth Center Ice is a 150,000-square-foot facility featuring five ice rinks (one Olympic-sized, three NHL format, and one mini-rink), 18 locker rooms, a fitness and sports recovery center, off-ice training area, full restaurant/bar, concession stand, and pro shop.

The enterprise supports the activities of community public skaters, professional figure skaters, and is home of the state’s largest learn-to-skate program, 37 youth rec and travel hockey teams, 94 adult league hockey teams, 12 regional high school hockey teams, two university hockey teams, and the Tampa Bay Juniors — the state’s leading junior hockey teams playing in the USPHL (United States Premier Hockey League).

It also hosts numerous tournaments year-round, bringing tens of thousands of participants and visitors to the area, the release noted.

The facility has played a key role in Pasco County’s tourism effort, attracting major tournaments to the area, which has resulted in overnight stays at area hotels and spending at local restaurants, gas stations and local attractions, according to stories previously published in The Laker/Lutz News.

Asurion Tech Repair & Solutions
Asurion Tech Repair & Solutions has opened in Wesley Chapel, at 6431 E. County Line Road.

The electronics repair shop specializes in the same-day professional fixes of personal electronics like smartphones, tablets and computers. Additionally, the team can provide repairs on anything with a power button — from drones and hoverboards to vintage arcade games and light-up Christmas sweaters, according to a news release.

Many basic repairs can be completed in 45 minutes or less.

The store is owned locally by Anton Hoang, who also owns a shop in Brooksville.

Hotel staff shortages
Nearly all hotels are experiencing staffing shortages, and half report being severely understaffed, according to a new member survey conducted by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA).

Of survey respondents, 97% indicated they are experiencing a staffing shortage, with 49% characterizing the shortage as severe. The most critical staffing need is in housekeeping, with 58% ranking it as their biggest challenge, the survey shows.
To meet the demand, hotels are offering a host of incentives for potential hires: nearly 90% have increased wages, 71% are offering greater flexibility with hours, and 43% have expanded benefits.

The efforts have helped, but shortages remain a significant issue, according to the AHLA’s news release.

Admissions Untangled
Admissions Untangled helps high school seniors determine which colleges or universities are the best fit academically, financially, socially, and for the student’s desired major and career goals. Each student receives individual attention and help to develop a list of reach, target and likely schools, and to work through all aspects of the college admissions process. To find out more, email , or visit https://www.instagram.com/admissionsuntangled/.

PowerGals meeting
PowerGals of Zephyrhills meets on the first Friday of each month, from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at Shell’s Killer Bakery Inc., 5718 Sixth St., in Zephyrhills. The group’s chapter leader is Rosie Paulsen and its co-leader is Monica Young. This group is about empowering women in business, to help them thrive and to help each other.

SMARTstart programs
SMARTstart is the Pasco Economic Development Council Inc.’s capstone program, aimed at engaging entrepreneurs and creating job opportunities in Pasco County. It has a suite of programs intended to benefit companies of all sizes, from start-up to established businesses. It also has incubator and microloan programs.

To find out more, visit SMARTSTARTPasco.com.