4/27/1993 (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

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Bou 89 PAGE 410 -7 contribute to this paving project if the citizens wanted it. Director Davis related that Vero Lake Estates has a unique program where they tax themselves for future paving projects.. They have 70 miles of roads and many years ago they established a municipal service taxing unit. The funds are kept specifically for paving. Councilwoman Hendricksen was sure that most people were in favor of paving Willow Street, but they do not think the residents alone should carry the burden and that we should use other sources. If the City of Fellsmere could contribute some infrastructure funds and the County contributes a portion, then the burden would be lighter on individual property owners. Director Davis explained that the County has the ability to give the property owners a payment schedule over several years. When the project is approved, the paving and drainage completed, and all the costs of construction tallied, the County would prepare an assessment roll which would be sent to the County Tax Collector. The property owners have the choice of paying the assessment in a lump sum or agreeing to an extended time payment schedule. Vice Mayor Korman did not want to see the full burden fall on the citizens of Fellsmere because some people cannot afford it. Chairman Bird explained that petitions were received at the County, one in favor and one opposed to the project, and the reason for the ongoing meeting was to hear the opinions and concerns of the property owners involved and make a decision whether to go ahead with the project. Discussion ensued regarding the County's contribution and the fact that in two paving projects the County contributed 50 percent, but Director Davis explained that those two projects were on heavily travelled feeder roads with 1200 cars per day. Councilman Baker felt that paving Willow Street would start a demand for all the streets in Fellsmere to be paved because the citizens could argue that they did not live on Willow Street but had to pay for the paving. He explained that he is not opposed to the project but is voicing the comments he has heard from the people in Fellsmere. Director Davis explained that those who receive a benefit are assessed. If property owners feel they do not receive a benefit from this project, they can voice their opinion at the public hearing and the Commissioners will make a decision on a case-by- case basis. Councilwoman Hendricksen was sure that the paving will be done if the majority of the residents want it, and the major decision 6