CC12-01-2025Min LONGWOOD CITY COMMISSION
Longwood City Commission Chambers
175 West Warren Avenue
Longwood, Florida
MINUTES
December 1, 2025
6:00 PM
Present:
Mayor Brian D. Sackett Troy Feist, Fire Chief
Deputy Mayor Abby Shoemaker David Dowda, Police Chief
Commissioner Matthew McMillan Dustin Woolbright, Financial Services Director
Commissioner Matt Morgan Chris Kintner, Community Development Director
Dan Langley, City Attorney Chris Capizzi, Leisure Services Director
William Watts, City Manager Shad Smith, Public Works Director
Liane Cartagena, City Clerk
Absent:
Commissioner Tony Boni (Sick)
1. CALL TO ORDER. Mayor Sackett called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m.
2. OPENING INVOCATION.There was a Silent Moment of Meditation.
3. THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE. Deputy Mayor Shoemaker led the Pledge of Allegiance.
4. COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS. Ms. Cartagena read the following announcements.
A. The annual tree lighting and holiday concert will be held on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 7:00
p.m., followed by a musical performance from Groove Slayers at Reiter Park. Food will be
available for purchase.
B. The Longwood Christmas Parade will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, beginning at 3:00
p.m. and will make its way through the Historic District of Longwood.
C. Celebrate the Season event will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00
p.m. at Reiter Park.There will be games, food trucks, snow, and a laser light show for the finale.
D. The "Downtown Longwood Cruise-In" Car Show will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025,
from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in the Historic District of Longwood, located off Church Avenue.
5. PROCLAMATIONS/ RECOGNITIONS
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A. District#4 Presentation of the Business Person of the Month Award for November to George
Margoles, President & CEO of Recovery Connections located at 1607 Cherrywood Lane,
Longwood.
Commissioner Morgan read a brief biography on George Margoles and presented him with the
Business Person of the Month Award for November 2025. Photographs were then taken.
B. Recognition to FF/PM Louie Bruno & FF/EMT Nomar Ramos for receiving a Regional First
Responder Award from Children's Safety Village.
Fire Chief Feist recognized FF/PM Louie Bruno & FF/EMT Nomar Ramos. Photographs were then
taken.
6. BOARD APPOINTMENTS. None.
7. PUBLIC INPUT
A. Public Participation.
James Larry Howard, 1065 Ridge Street, Winter Springs. Mr. Howard expressed his opposition to
the planned restoration of the historic Lewis House, stating he believes the funds could be better
used to support existing businesses, fill vacant commercial properties, or fund city departments
like Police, Fire, and Public Works. He also thought the money could be used for the construction
of two (2) buildings in the place of the Lewis House restoration. He questioned the benefit of the
project and voiced concern about its potential location in a park.
Tisia Byrd, 544 East Warren Avenue. Ms. Byrd raised concerns about the city's hard water. After
purchasing her home in 2014, she has had to replace her water heater twice due to white
sediment buildup and has had her home repiped. She noted the problem has worsened recently
and requested that the city take action to address the water quality.
Tessa Boyd, 435 East State Road 434. Ms. Boyd requested that the Commission reconsider the
eligibility requirements for the city's Facade Grant Program. She stated that the grant is currently
limited to coffee shops and restaurants and asked that it be expanded to include other types of
small businesses wishing to improve their storefronts. She currently is considering renovations at
her building in Longwood.
8. MAYOR AND COMMISSIONERS' REPORT
District#5. Mayor Sackett attended numerous community events, including the Veterans Day
ceremony at Lyman High School on November 18, a ribbon cutting for ReNova by Design on November
19, the Senior Prom on November 20 as well as a neighborhood Thanksgiving feast for the homeless at
the Christian Sharing Center and the ribbon cutting for FORMe Wellness on the same day. He noted the
recent closing of Luna's Pizza after thirty-five (35) years in business and the soft opening of Cupid's Hot
Dogs. He praised the success of the recent Longwood Arts and Crafts Festival, which he estimated drew
10,000 to 15,000 attendees. He also mentioned his upcoming attendance at MetroPlan Orlando,
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Florida League of Cities Committee, the Christmas Parade, the Employee Awards Ceremony and
Luncheon, and Celebrate the Season.
Mayor Sackett formally recognized the Public Works Department for their outstanding efforts over the
Thanksgiving holiday weekend. He called Public Works Director Shad Smith to the podium and thanked
the team for responding to two residential water service breaks that required overnight work, ensuring
service was restored with minimal interruption to residents. Mr. Smith accepted the recognition and
stated he would pass the Commission's appreciation along to his staff. Mayor Sackett requested this
recognition be placed into the respective employee files.
District#1. Deputy Mayor Shoemaker reported in response to public comments from Mr. Howard,
stating that there is a long history regarding the historic Lewis House project, dating back
approximately twelve (12) years. She offered to meet with him one-on-one to provide detailed
background information to help him understand the context of the project.
District#2. Commissioner Boni was absent.
District #3. Commissioner McMillan reported on his recent activities, including attendance at the
ReNova by Design ribbon cutting, the Longwood Arts and Crafts Festival, and the soft opening of Cupid
Hot Dogs. He expressed satisfaction with the ongoing repaving of State Road 434. Regarding the Lewis
House, he reiterated that the Commission voted against a $120,000 expenditure and that the structure
will be used for public benefit. He commended the Longwood Historic Society for their successful
Carols and Cocoa event, noting its positive impact on community building and highlighting the city's
history to residents and visitors.
District#4. Commissioner Morgan reported on his collaboration with Seminole County Commissioner
Bob Dallari to address a resident's concern about inadequate lighting on Longwood Hills Road. This
resulted in the county committing to install eight (8) to ten (10) new streetlights along the entire road.
He noted his attendance at ribbon cuttings for ReNova by Design and FORMe Wellness. He participated
in four (4) school "Teach-Ins" and attended the Longwood Arts and Crafts Festival, suggesting that
future events feature a greater diversity of artists. Commissioner Morgan praised the Carols and Cocoa
event for successfully showcasing the city's history. He responded to public comments from Mr.
Howard about the Lewis House, emphasizing its historical significance as the oldest home in the city
and the public's strong desire for its preservation. He encouraged residents to join the Longwood
Historic Society to support these preservation efforts. He mentioned his upcoming attendance at the
Florida League of Cities Committee and thanked Mr. Margoles for choosing to locate his organization in
Longwood and for the vital services that Recovery Connections of Central Florida provides to residents.
9. COMMISSION AND STAFF ADDITIONS OR CHANGES
A. ADDITIONAL ITEMS RAISED DURING MAYOR'S AND COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS
Mayor Sackett and Deputy Mayor Shoemaker both clarified they are not members of the
Longwood Historic Society even though they fully support the group.
Commissioner Morgan said he agreed with the public comments from Ms. Boyd, about the facade
grant expanding to other businesses, not just coffee shops and restaurants. He expressed support
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for people who open a business in Longwood and contribute to the community, and if possible,
help them with a grant. He urged the City to look into this request.
Mayor Sackett added he drove along County Road 427 and other locations in Longwood and saw
businesses with paper signs instead of actual signs. He suggested this grant may help with correct
signage.
B. ANY ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA
Item 12C was pulled from the agenda.
10. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approve the Minutes of the November 17, 2025, Regular Meeting.
B. Approve the Monthly Expenditures for November 2025.
C. Submittal of Complete Streets Program 2024 Annual Report.
D. Approve a change order for$45,000.00 to Helping Hands Lawn Care, Inc. for Citywide
Landscaping Services.
Commissioner Morgan moved to approve Items 10A through 10D as presented.
Seconded by Deputy Mayor Shoemaker and carried by a unanimous 4-0 roll call vote
with Commissioner Boni absent.
11. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Read by title only, set December 15, 2025, as the public hearing date, and approve the first
reading of Ordinance No. 25-2275, which amends Article IX of the Longwood Development Code
to create Section 9.4.0, establishing regulations and procedures for Certified Recovery
Residences.
Mr. Langley read Ordinance No. 25-2275 by title only.
Mr. Kintner presented the Item explaining that it is a housekeeping measure required by changes
in Florida Statutes. The Ordinance establishes a required waiver process for certified recovery
residences (sober living homes)to request reasonable accommodation from zoning code
restrictions, such as those on the number of unrelated adults living in a single residence. He
clarified that the Ordinance does not supersede HOA covenants, conditions, or restrictions. The
State requires this process to be in place by January 1.
Commissioner McMillan noted that the Ordinance is a matter of compliance with State Law, which
now treats recovery as analogous to a disability, thus requiring an appeals process. He viewed the
Ordinance as a straightforward measure that provides a clear process for applicants.
Mayor Sackett opened the public hearing. No one spoke in favor or opposition to Ordinance No.
25-2275.
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Commissioner Morgan moved to close the public hearing. Seconded by Commissioner
McMillan and carried by a unanimous 4-0 voice vote with Commissioner Boni absent.
Commissioner McMillan moved to approve Ordinance No. 25-2275 as presented Item
11A. Seconded by Commissioner Morgan and carried by a unanimous 4-0 roll call vote
with Commissioner Boni absent.
B. Read by title only, set February 2, 2026, as the public hearing date, and approve the first reading
of Ordinance No. 25-2276, which amends Longwood Comprehensive Plan to reflect the adoption
of the City's Mobility Fee and Bicycle-Pedestrian Master Plan.
Mr. Langley read Ordinance No. 25-2276 by title only.
Mr. Kintner presented the Item explaining it was an update to the Comprehensive Plan to reflect
the recent adoption of the City's Mobility Plan and the Bicycle/Pedestrian Master Plan. The
amendments primarily involved updating language to show these plans have been accomplished
and removing obsolete terminology, such as references to the Sunrail, Lynx, and South Seminole
Hospital.
Mayor Sackett opened the public hearing. No one spoke in favor or opposition to Ordinance No.
25-2276.
Commissioner Morgan moved to close the public hearing. Seconded by Commissioner
McMillan and carried by a unanimous 4-0 voice vote with Commissioner Boni absent.
Commissioner Morgan moved to approve Ordinance No. 25-2276 as presented Item
11B. Seconded by Commissioner McMillan and carried by a unanimous 4-0 roll call vote
with Commissioner Boni absent.
C. Read by title only, set December 15, 2025, as the public hearing date, and approve the first
reading of Ordinance No. 25-2277, which amends Article IX of the Longwood Development Code
to create Section 9.5.0 addressing changes related to Senate Bill 180.
Mr. Langley read Ordinance No. 25-2277 by title only.
Mr. Kintner presented the Item explaining it creates a procedural pathway to address Senate Bill
180, which restricts municipalities from enacting regulations that are more burdensome than
previous standards. This Ordinance allows for a specific section of a City Ordinance to be
challenged and potentially removed at the staff level if found to be burdensome, thereby avoiding
the need to repeal entire Ordinances that may contain other valuable provisions.
Mayor Sackett opened the public hearing. No one spoke in favor or opposition to Ordinance No.
25-2277.
Deputy Mayor Shoemaker moved to close the public hearing. Seconded by
Commissioner McMillan and carried by a unanimous 4-0 voice vote with Commissioner
Boni absent.
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Commissioner Morgan moved to approve Ordinance No. 25-2277 as presented Item
11C. Seconded by Commissioner McMillan and carried by a unanimous 4-0 roll call vote
with Commissioner Boni absent.
12. REGULAR BUSINESS
A. Read by title only, set December 15, 2025, as the public hearing date, and approve the first
reading of Ordinance No. 25-2278, amending the Longwood City Code Section 2-2 (j) governing
appeals of trespass warnings.
Mr. Langley read Ordinance No. 25-2278 by title only.
Mr. Langley presented the Item explaining explained that since the adoption of the governing
Ordinance 25-2266, one of four appeals involved extensive debate on the constitutionality of the
Ordinance itself, which is not the intended purpose of the appeal hearing. The proposed
amendment clarifies and streamlines the process to focus hearings specifically on whether a
violation occurred and if the trespass warning was issued correctly. This change is intended to
save time and money.
Commissioner McMillan moved to approve Ordinance No. 25-2278 as presented Item
12A. Seconded by Deputy Mayor Shoemaker and carried by a unanimous 4-0 roll call
vote with Commissioner Boni absent.
B. Read by title only and adopt Resolution No. 25-1697 which amends the Fiscal Year 2025/2026
budget and authorizes funding for the installation of electricity for LED lighting at the Candyland
Sports Complex Skate Park.
Mr. Langley read Resolution No. 25-1697 by title only.
Mr. Woolbright presented the Item which requests a budget amendment to use $10,493.84 from
the Recreational Impact Fee Fund (Fund 136). The funds will be used to install and power two LED
light poles at the Candyland Sports Complex to provide additional lighting due to increased
evening traffic. He explained that impact fees were chosen because they are the most restricted
funds available and the project is a qualifying capital improvement.
Commissioner Morgan moved to approve Ordinance No. 25-1697 as presented Item
12B. Seconded by Commissioner McMillan and carried by a unanimous 4-0 roll call vote
with Commissioner Boni absent.
C. Read by title only and adopt Resolution No. 25-1705, which provides for the adoption of
Seminole County's 2025-2030 Local Mitigation Strategy Plan (LMS).
Item removed from the agenda.
D. Consideration of an amendment to the existing agreement between the City of Longwood and
Fishback Dominick LLP for the provision of legal services.
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Mr. Watts presented the Item which proposes an increase to the City Attorney's hourly rate while
keeping the monthly retainer fee unchanged.
Commissioner Morgan moved to approve Item 12D as presented. Seconded by
Commissioner McMillan and carried by a unanimous 4-0 roll call vote with
Commissioner Boni absent.
13. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
Mr. Watts provided updates on several items. He reported there are five (5) backflows in the State Road
434 median project and expressed his satisfaction with the project's progress, including the installation
of palm trees with more scheduled for arrival soon. Regarding a previous discussion on hard water, he
stated that the Public Works Department will sample the water at the specified residence to ensure it
meets established guidelines. Noting the Small Business Improvement Program's (formerly the Facade
Grant Program) success in assisting several restaurants, he advised he would receive direction from the
Commission to bring the program back for discussion at a future meeting.
The Commission requested a report on the program's history, expenditures, and available funds.
Mr. Watts confirmed he would add the grant program to a future agenda for discussion.
14. CITY ATTORNEY'S REPORT
Mr. Langley thanked the Commission for the approval of the amendment to his firm's legal services
agreement and expressed his honor and privilege to serve the City.
Mr. Langley reported on a pending lawsuit filed by over twenty-five (25) local governments challenging
the constitutionality of Senate Bill 180. He explained that one basis for the challenge is procedural,
arguing the bill's content related to land development was improperly included under a title concerning
hurricane relief. He also noted that the Florida League of Cities is advocating for a legislative
amendment to narrow the law's scope to properties directly impacted by hurricanes, rather than
applying a statewide moratorium on more restrictive land development regulations. He stated a
Resolution to the lawsuit could take a year or more.
15. CITY CLERK'S REPORT
Ms. Cartagena reminded the Commission of the Senior Christmas Pajama Bingo on Tuesday, December
2 at 9:30 a.m. and the ribbon cutting at Doughnut Ask Donut Tell, 117 E Church Avenue, on Friday,
December 5 at 7:00 a.m. She also reminded the Commission of the Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Good
Citizenship Award nomination for the next meeting, with the award presentation scheduled for the
Commission meeting on January 19. She asked the Commission to be prepared to provide a brief
overview of their nomination at the next meeting on December 15.
I16. ADJOURN. Mayor Sackett adjourned the Meeting at 7:20 p.m.
Minutes approved by City Commission: 12-15-2025.
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ATTEST:
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Liane Cartagena, City Clerk
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