11/5/2002 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Nicholas F. Tsamoutales, 1900 Palm Bay Road, attorney representing the property owner, distributed a handout (written document chronology from January 17, 1997 to April 19, 2000) to each Commissioner (Copy is on file in the office of the Clerk to the Board.). He then stated his client's position and urged the Board to vote to compensate the developer. Public Works Director James Davis explained his position and stated that the Public Works Department cannot support purchase of either the US# 1 or Roseland Road property. Discussion ensued during which time Commissioner Adams spoke of the ethical standpoint and County Attorney Paul Bangel advised that he had heard nothing from a legal standpoint that would obligate the County to buy the property but he needed to research He suggested that Mr. Tsamoutales needs to talk with his office. Commissioner Ginn recommended taking County Attorney Bangel's suggestion. County Administrator Chandler called it a difference of opinion advising that Director Davis suggested in a letter to Mr West that this matter be brought to the Board two years ago. Former County Attorney Terry O'Brien had reviewed it then and agreed with Director Davis' position. After further consideration, it was determined that the County Attorney's office and Mr. Tsamoutales would discuss this matter and it would come back before the Board in approximately 30 days or sooner. Mr Tsamoutales agreed but he asked the Board to approve compensation to his client. He advised that his client would agree to an amount of $7.50 per square foot, which is significantly lower than the original offer and falls closer to the figure suggested by Director Davis. Commissioner Adams thought Director Davis' figure was about $6.60 per square foot in 2000, but she thought the attorneys should sit and talk and possibly bring this back to the Board even sooner than 30 days. November 5, 2002 89