The biggest decision Tuesday was about roads. Marion County commissioners unanimously approved setting up the financing team for up to $190 million in infrastructure sales tax revenue bonds, a step toward borrowing against future sales tax money so the county can speed up major road projects instead of waiting years to pay as it goes. County Engineer Stephen Coon said that could move forward work on the 38th/40th Street corridor near the high school, the road west of the new Buc-ee’s interchange back to 225A, and the Marion Oaks Manor flyover extension.

The board also delayed a neighborhood assessment hearing for Belleview Heights Unit 8 until June 16, 2026, at 10 a.m. Staff asked for more time after saying no one came to a community meeting, and resident Charlene Legassi told commissioners she had not received notice. For affected property owners, that means no decision yet while the county does more outreach.

In Silver Springs, the board extended the Community Redevelopment Area by 10 years, through fiscal year 2053-54. That keeps the redevelopment district in place longer as the county works on future improvements and grant activity there.

The afternoon zoning session brought the clearest disagreement. A Dunnellon-area household asked for a reasonable accommodation to keep goats, geese, and ducks on residential property, saying the animals provided therapeutic and emotional support. Neighbors objected over noise, odor, flies, appearance, and animals getting loose. Commissioner Michelle Stone moved to deny the request, and the board agreed unanimously. Chairman Carl Zalak said those animals should be removed within 30 days.

Commissioners also approved covered RV and boat storage in Belleview, a contractor yard in Summerfield, a funeral home crematorium on South Pine Avenue, a zoning change in Anthony, and an Oxford Downs PUD amendment. Looking ahead, the Salt Springs water plant item returns October 20 at 2 p.m., and the Belleview Heights assessment hearing comes back June 16, 2026.

Key takeaways: - The board approved establishing a financing team for infrastructure sales tax improvement revenue bonds, to be issued in one or more series not to exceed $190 million, to accelerate multiple road projects. The vote was unanimous by voice vote. (0:33:32)

• The board continued the Belleview Heights Unit 8 assessment hearing to June 16, 2026, at 10 a.m. after staff said no one attended a May 11 community meeting and a resident said she had not received notice. The vote was unanimous by voice vote. (1:14:29)

• The board approved extending the Silver Springs Community Redevelopment Area by 10 years, through fiscal year 2053-54. The vote was unanimous by voice vote. (1:21:32)

• In the afternoon zoning session, the board denied a reasonable accommodation request to keep goats, geese, and ducks on residentially zoned property, and approved several land-use items including covered RV/boat storage in Belleview, a contractor yard in Summerfield, a funeral home crematorium on South Pine Avenue, a zoning change in Anthony, and a PUD amendment at Oxford Downs. Votes were unanimous by voice vote. (2:35:04) (4:23:08)

Opening announcements and roll call

Chairman Carl Zalak called the meeting to order, followed by the invocation, pledge, and roll call. Present were Chairman Carl Zalak, Vice Chairman Matt McClain, Commissioner Craig Curry, Commissioner Kathy Bryant, and Commissioner Michelle Stone. (0:15:43) (0:17:46)

Before agenda items, Chairman Carl Zalak announced that the Bellevue Heights Estates public hearing scheduled for 10 a.m. would be continued to June 16, 2026, at 10 a.m. He also announced that afternoon item 15.4.6, the Salt Springs water plant special use permit, would be requested for continuance to October 20 at 2 p.m. Staff said more information would be provided that afternoon before the board considered the continuance. (0:18:06)

Emergency Medical Services Week proclamation

The board approved and presented a proclamation designating May 17 through 23, 2026, as Emergency Medical Services Week in Marion County. The motion passed by unanimous voice vote. Fire Rescue staff accepted the proclamation, and the fire chief thanked the board and emergency responders. (0:19:11) (0:20:52) (0:23:22) (0:23:22) (0:23:22) (0:23:22) (0:23:22) (0:23:22) (0:23:22)

Agenda public comment

Len Rassiopi, speaking on behalf of the Marion County Republican Executive Committee, said he was glad the Salt Springs item was postponed. He said the Planning and Zoning Commission had been given incorrect information about the number of wells at the site and said that affected the commission’s inquiry. Chairman Carl Zalak said staff would do more investigation, including whether the land could be acquired, before bringing the item back. (0:25:56)

Keith Fair of the Housing Finance Authority asked the board to consider creating an alternate member position for that board because of quorum concerns tied to upcoming bond funding matters. County Administrator Monir Bouyounes said staff would look at whether an ordinance change was needed. (0:27:56)

Minutes approved

The board approved minutes for February 3, February 17, February 18, and February 26, 2026, by unanimous voice vote. (0:29:18)

Budget amendments and related consent items

Clerk Gregory C. Harrell presented budget amendment items 5.1.1 through 5.1.17, noting some related to consent agenda items. Commissioner Michelle Stone said she wanted tourism-tax-funded park improvements brought back for discussion by the first meeting in August; staff said a consultant study should provide more information between June and July. The board then approved the budget amendments and related consent items by unanimous voice vote. (0:29:31) (0:30:16) (0:32:55)

Financing team for road bonds

The board approved the clerk’s request to establish a financing team for infrastructure sales tax improvement revenue bonds, to be issued in one or more series not to exceed $190 million, for accelerating multiple road improvement projects. Clerk Gregory C. Harrell said the agenda title had incorrectly said “public improvement revenue bonds” and should have said “infrastructure sales tax improvement revenue bonds.” (0:33:32)

County Engineer Stephen Coon said the bond financing would help move shovel-ready projects, including the 38th/40th Street corridor widening near the high school, the road west of the new Buc-ee’s interchange connecting back to 225A, and the Marion Oaks Manor flyover extension. The motion passed by unanimous voice vote. (0:34:08) (0:36:02)

Health Department property disposition

The board approved item 5.2.2, disposition of miscellaneous property from the Health Department, by unanimous voice vote. (0:36:21)

Consent agenda

The board approved the consent agenda except for item 7.3.5, which Commissioner Craig Curry pulled for discussion. The remaining consent items passed by unanimous voice vote. During comments, Commissioner Kathy Bryant said she was glad to see item 7.5.1, the Chatmire Road project, moving forward. County Engineer Stephen Coon said grants were in place and construction was being awarded. (0:36:37) (0:37:16) (0:40:55)

Pulled consent item: health insurance cost increase

Commissioner Craig Curry discussed item 7.3.5, the request to approve a health insurance cost increase to both employer and employee. He said self-insured programs can face higher costs over time as claims increase and urged employees to use the county clinic when appropriate instead of freestanding emergency rooms. (0:37:27)

Assistant County Administrator Amanda Tartt said the clinic has been open since October, employees and spouses are using it, and HR would continue outreach during open enrollment. She said some high-dollar claims were unavoidable and said staff was working to help employees better understand when to use the clinic, quick care, or an emergency room. The board approved item 7.3.5 by unanimous voice vote. (0:38:56) (0:40:47)

Road projects update

County Engineer Stephen Coon gave an update on several road and stormwater projects. He said work continues on Southwest 80th Avenue Segment 1, including turn lanes at Southwest 90th Street, stormwater pipe installation, and utility relocations. He said property offers had been mailed for the northern phase and that the contractor could be released in about 60 days. (0:42:35)

He also updated the board on Southwest 49th Avenue Segment F and Southwest 145th Place, saying Segment F was about 20 percent complete and Southwest 145th Place was about 60 percent complete. He said traffic could possibly begin using sections of those roads within three to four months. He also said Southeast Timaquan Road culvert replacement work was nearly complete. (0:44:04) (0:45:37)

Commissioners asked about other projects, including the 66th Street/I-75 area, traffic signal timing near 40th Street and 49th Avenue, and the long-term flooding issue on 27th Avenue. Stephen Coon said utility work near 66th Street was close to complete, FDOT bridge work would follow, and the 27th Avenue project design was nearing completion with a pump contemplated as an early measure. (0:47:21) (0:49:03) (0:52:20)

Commissioner Michelle Stone asked that the Transportation Improvement Program approved on consent be highlighted publicly, including how gas tax funding is used. (0:54:40)

Heagy Burry boat ramp and Orange Lake update

Parks and Recreation Director Jim Couillard updated the board on low water conditions at Orange Lake and other lakes and gave boating safety reminders. He said the Heagy Burry boat ramp project had completed the boat ramp approach, paving, landscaping, restrooms, and park finishes, with some remaining work still needed before opening to the public. (0:56:00)

Jim Couillard also described the Major League Fishing “Heavy Hitters” event underway at the site and said the tournament’s impact on the park was limited. He said remaining items before public opening included parking lot striping, signage, and some railings. He initially said staff was planning a soft opening in early June and a ribbon cutting in mid-June, with June 22 held on calendars. (1:07:20)

Chairman Carl Zalak said he was not willing to wait two or three more weeks before allowing public boat launches and directed staff to figure out how to open the ramp by Saturday after the tournament ended Friday. Jim Couillard said staff would work on it. (1:09:09)

Belleview Heights Unit 8 assessment hearing continued

At the 10 a.m. public hearing, Municipal Services Director Chad Wicker asked to continue the Belleview Heights Unit 8 per-parcel assessment hearing to June 16, 2026, at 10 a.m. so staff could do more outreach to affected property owners. A resident, Charlene Legassi, said she was unaware of the matter and had not received notice. Chad Wicker said no one had attended the May 11 community meeting, which prompted the continuance request. (1:14:29) (1:15:15)

The clerk corrected the proof of publication read earlier in the meeting. The board approved the continuance to June 16 at 10 a.m. by unanimous voice vote. Assistant County Administrator Tracy Straub said for the record that the project covered a limited stretch of Southeast 44th Avenue between 142nd Lane and 144th Street. (1:16:43) (1:17:15)

Silver Springs CRA extension

The board, sitting jointly as the Marion County Community Redevelopment Agency Board, held a public hearing on modifications to the Silver Springs CRA plan. Chris Rising of Growth Services said the CRA was established in 2013 and currently ran through fiscal year 2043-44. He said the proposed changes would identify the original plan as Volume 1, the 2024 master plan update as Volume 2, and extend the CRA by 10 years through fiscal year 2053-54. (1:18:45)

No one spoke during public comment. Commissioner Kathy Bryant made the motion to approve the attached resolution modifying the CRA plan and extending the duration. The board approved it by unanimous voice vote. Chris Rising also said staff expected the first building and facade grant application for the CRA to come in for the June meeting. (1:21:32)

Board and committee appointments

The board acted on three committee items: - For the Code Enforcement Board alternate seat, the clerk said only one applicant had applied and had not been selected, and said re-advertising would be appropriate. The board approved re-advertising and additional recruitment by unanimous voice vote. (1:22:13)

• For the Housing Finance Authority unexpired term ending September 2026, the clerk said William John Mess had received the appropriate votes. The board approved the appointment by unanimous voice vote. (1:22:46)

• For the WellFlorida Council purchaser/consumer member term ending May 2028, the clerk said Jennifer Martinez had received the appropriate votes. The board approved the appointment by unanimous voice vote. (1:23:11)

General public comment

Lou Weenak announced a June 13 family event at Tuscawilla Park tied to Faith and Family Month and asked that it be publicized. Chairman Carl Zalak suggested contacting Kelly Wave of Things to Do Ocala. (1:25:24)

Charlene Legassi asked about a Lake County matter involving Embry-Riddle and the Deepwoods Ranch airstrip in the Ocala National Forest area. Chairman Carl Zalak said it was a Lake County application, not a Marion County one, and said he was not prepared to make statements because the board was not deliberating on it. (1:27:42)

Joseph Walker raised concerns about a code enforcement case involving tires, a homeless encampment, and fires on a property. Staff said the property already had a Code Enforcement Board lien, the county would continue pursuing an injunction to clean it up, and cleanup could take about three months. Staff also said one of the people on the property was believed to be an owner, which affected the legal process. (1:33:53) (1:37:16)

Commission comments

Commissioner Michelle Stone announced the grand opening of the new animal services facility for May 21 at 1:30 p.m. on Highway 40 near 60th Avenue and invited the public. (1:42:52)

Commissioner Craig Curry asked about adding Hall of Fame names at Veterans Park. Staff said Parks and Recreation, Veteran Services, and Public Relations were working on a plan and would bring back a proposal, with Commissioner Craig Curry saying he wanted it done by July 4. Staff also updated the board on the America 250 monument project with the Daughters of the American Revolution. (1:43:30) (1:47:42)

The morning meeting recessed until 2 p.m. for the zoning session. (1:52:01)

Afternoon session: Salt Springs water plant item continued

The board reconvened at 2 p.m. for the zoning session. Before taking up the listed cases, the board heard a request to continue item 15.4.6, the county’s special use permit for a Salt Springs water plant upgrade and expansion. David Tillman of Tillman & Associates said the utilities department had held a community meeting and wanted time to pursue purchasing property from the federal government where the plant is currently located rather than relocating it. He asked for a continuance to October 20 at 2 p.m. (2:08:56) (2:11:05)

Resident Sam Cullen of Salt Springs said he opposed moving the plant into the park, supported exploring purchase of the current site, and also raised concerns about increasing pump size and effects on the lake and park use. The board approved the continuance to October 20 at 2 p.m. by unanimous voice vote. (2:12:51) (2:14:49)

DRC waiver: water main connection denied

Utility Director Tony Cunningham presented a waiver request from Fred Bennett to disconnect from a central water system and remain on a private well. He said the parcel was already connected to the system, the well permit on file was for irrigation rather than domestic use, and the meter had been locked because of backflow compliance issues that created a contamination risk to the FGUA system. He said the Development Review Committee had unanimously recommended denial. (2:21:31)

FGUA representative Rosalinda Silva said the issue began with a billing dispute after backflow caused the meter to spin and that FGUA preferred the customer remain connected. After discussion about backflow prevention and code requirements, the board denied the waiver by unanimous voice vote. (2:26:34) (2:34:04)

Reasonable accommodation for animals denied

Planner Eric Kramer presented a reasonable accommodation request for a property at 6500 Southwest 202nd Court in Dunnellon to allow three goats, four geese, and two ducks on 0.95 acres in an R-1 zone. He said the request was tied to an ongoing code case and that staff had found five goats on site during an inspection, though he had since been informed that two babies had been removed and one animal was a lamb. Staff recommended denial, citing concerns including the watering area and reports that animals had gotten off the property. (2:35:04)

Property owner Karen Loges said she had allowed the tenants to keep the animals and had not known the zoning restrictions. Tenant Jennifer Jones said the animals provided therapeutic and emotional benefits for her household, including for her husband and daughter, and said she had medical documentation supporting a reasonable number of support animals. Ryan Jones also spoke about depression, anxiety, autism, and the comfort the animals provided. (2:41:02) (2:43:43)

Neighbors Glenda Lumpkin, Wesley Weisman, and Rafael Marrero spoke in opposition, citing noise, odor, flies, appearance, and animals getting loose. Code Enforcement and Sheriff’s Office staff said the animals appeared to be in good condition, and code staff said the chickens were allowed but the geese, ducks, and rooster were not. (2:51:23) (2:56:21) (3:05:36)

Commissioner Michelle Stone said the household already had animals that could satisfy support-animal needs and made a motion to deny goats, geese, and ducks. The board approved the denial by unanimous voice vote. Chairman Carl Zalak said those animals should be removed from the property within 30 days. (3:14:14)

Partners Self Storage covered outdoor storage approved

The board heard a special use permit request from Partners Self Storage, LLC, for covered outdoor storage of RVs, boats, and trailers at 7655 East Highway 25 in Belleview. Staff said the site had previously been approved for outdoor storage and was returning because covered parking required a new special use permit. Staff showed the revised concept plan with 95 covered outdoor storage stalls and screening. (3:15:16)

Attorney Fred Roberts, for the applicant, said the applicant accepted staff’s revised landscaping condition, including evergreen plantings and replacing some palms with magnolias and live oaks for more screening. The board approved the special use permit with conditions by unanimous voice vote. (3:18:23) (3:20:15)

Contractor yard in Summerfield approved

The board approved a special use permit for FCH Properties, LLC, to allow a construction or contractor yard at 13866 South U.S. Highway 441 in Summerfield. Staff said the 5.02-acre site was the former Travelcamp RV sales and service center and that the proposed user, Chinchor Electric, would use it as a local headquarters and staging area for roadway improvement work. (3:21:09)

Attorney James Hartley said Chinchor Electric had been in business for 40 years and wanted a local base for work in Marion County, including projects near I-75 and State Road 200. He asked for a 20-year initial term instead of the staff-proposed 10-year term. The board approved the special use permit with conditions and a 20-year initial term by unanimous voice vote. (3:24:24) (3:29:43)

Funeral home crematorium approved

The board approved a special use permit for 848 Broadway LLC to allow operation of a funeral home crematorium facility at 7075 South Pine Avenue in Ocala. Staff said the 1.65-acre site was in heavy business zoning and near industrial and commercial uses, including a marble and granite business, a scrapyard, and RV sales. Staff said no funeral services or on-site sales were proposed there and recommended approval with conditions, including a modified C-type buffer along South Pine Avenue. (3:30:54)

Attorney Chris Hamilton, for the applicant, said the crematorium would be freestanding and that no exterior changes were proposed other than what was needed for the operation and the hedge condition. The board approved the special use permit with conditions by unanimous voice vote. (3:37:18) (3:39:41)

Anthony zoning change approved

The board approved a zoning change for Gironj, LLC from R-1 to B-2 for 9645 Northeast 21st Avenue in Anthony. Staff said the applicant had originally requested B-5 but later revised the request to B-2. Staff said the parcel had commercial future land use and was next to the applicant’s existing B-5 metal shop property, and that B-2 would allow parking and related site functions without expanding the building onto the parcel. The board approved the zoning change by unanimous voice vote. (3:40:29) (3:46:50)

Oxford Downs PUD amendment approved with conditions

The board considered a PUD amendment for Marion Gaming Management, LLC at 17996 South U.S. Highway 301 in Summerfield. Senior Planner Cindy Chen said the request involved three main changes: authorizing six pickleball courts and two manufactured buildings that had been built without permits, modifying buffer requirements, and expanding allowable uses to B-2 uses while changing the site layout and drainage areas. She said staff supported the first and third requests but recommended denial of the buffer request as proposed. (3:47:19) (3:50:48)

David Tillman, for the applicant, said the main disagreement was over buffers. He said the owner also owned adjacent parcels to the west, east, and south and argued there was no reason to buffer against the owner’s own land. He also said the owner would likely seek to expand the RV park in the future. (4:03:16)

During board discussion, commissioners focused on requiring buffering for the RV park area and how to handle common ownership. The board discussed moving the western buffer to the outer edge of the commonly owned parcel rather than the current PUD line. After discussion, the board approved the amendment with conditions as stated during the hearing, by unanimous voice vote. (4:13:49) (4:23:08)

Ordinance adoption and adjournment

After the zoning items, the board approved moving the ordinance by unanimous voice vote and adjourned. (4:23:24)

Watch the full meeting recording

Vote tallies in this recap were checked against the body’s official roll-call record.

How this was reported: The Public Eye uses AI tools to transcribe and draft coverage of public meetings from official recordings. Every article is reviewed and verified by a human editor before publishing. Our coverage is limited to what happened on the public record — we don’t publish opinion or investigations. The Public Eye is independent and not affiliated with any government body, developer, or other news outlet. Spot an error? Email office@thepubliceye.ai and we’ll correct it promptly.

The biggest decision for most residents was the county’s new firefighters’ labor deal. Marion County commissioners approved two agreements with the Professional Firefighters of Marion County, Local IAFF 3169, including a $20,000 increase to base salary for covered employees and a matching boost to starting pay. That means starting annual base pay would rise to $65,000 for a firefighter EMT and $75,000 for a firefighter paramedic. County staff and Fire Chief James Banna said the goal is to help recruit and keep firefighters, reduce mandatory overtime, and improve work-life balance. A second agreement runs through September 2029 and sets up a phased move to a 24-72 shift schedule. The vote was unanimous among the commissioners present.

The board also decided not to set new nonconsensual towing rates. Matt McClain made the motion after staff said that if Marion County took no action, corrected Alachua County rates would continue to apply by default. So for now, the current system stays in place.

In the afternoon zoning session, the board unanimously denied a special use permit for Wood Resource Recovery of Marion County, LLC and Denali Water Solutions to add a human food-grade depackaging operation at an existing compost site on NW Gainesville Road. Neighbors and nearby property owners raised concerns about odor, groundwater, traffic, and compatibility with homes, farms, a church, and a school. Michelle Stone moved to deny it, saying it was not in the public interest and did not fit the surrounding area.

The board also approved routine business, including budget amendments and consent items, and pulled one County Attorney item to bring back later because staff was still working through the numbers. Chairman Carl Zalek said Kathy Bryant was absent because she was unwell. Staff said the pulled legal item could return at the next meeting.

Key takeaways: - The board approved two collective bargaining agreements with the Professional Firefighters of Marion County, Local IAFF 3169, including a $20,000 base-salary increase for covered employees and starting pay increases, with one agreement effective June 20, 2026 to September 30, 2026 and a second effective October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2029. The votes were unanimous among the commissioners present. (0:35:29)

• The board did not adopt new towing rates and left the default arrangement in place. On a motion by Matt McClain, seconded from the dais, the board voted unanimously among the commissioners present to leave the matter as-is after staff said Alachua County’s corrected rates would continue to apply by default if Marion County took no action. (1:15:05)

• In the zoning session, the board unanimously denied a special use permit for Wood Resource Recovery of Marion County, LLC and Denali Water Solutions to add a human food-grade depackaging operation to an existing composting site on NW Gainesville Road. The motion to deny cited public interest and compatibility with surrounding properties. (4:19:32)

• The board approved the consent agenda, budget amendments, property disposition forms, and notation-for-action items, and it removed County Attorney item 8.1 from the agenda to return later because staff was still working on some of the numbers in the agreement. (0:30:44-1:02:06)

Call to order, roll call, and announcements

Chairman Carl Zalek called the meeting to order, led announcements, and said Kathy Bryant was absent because she was unwell. Roll call showed Carl Zalek, Vice Chairman Matt McClain, and Michelle Stone present at that time; Craig Curry arrived later during the morning session. (0:12:28)

Proclamations and presentation items

The board approved the proclamations and presentation items by unanimous voice vote of the commissioners present. (0:14:03)

Chairman Carl Zalek presented a proclamation for National Homeownership Month. Community Services Director Cheryl Butler showed a video about the county’s purchase assistance program, stating that in fiscal year 2026 the county had helped 59 families purchase homes through more than $4.6 million in SHIP funding and that eligible families may receive up to $100,000 in assistance through the program. Rob Peters of Habitat for Humanity of Marion County also spoke. (0:14:15)

Chairman Carl Zalek then presented a proclamation for Faith and Family Month to Amber Panuto and others. Pennuto thanked the board and announced a June 13 event at Tuscawilla Park. (0:22:08)

Agenda public comments before board action

Roland Boyd, who identified himself as president of the Professional Firefighters of Marion County Local 3169, spoke on agenda items 9.1 and 9.2. He thanked the board, county administration, fire chiefs, and staff involved in negotiations and said the agreement would support recruitment, retention, and the future of emergency services in Marion County. (0:27:45)

Joseph Walker spoke on items 9.1 and 9.2 and raised concerns about county property near a fire station in the Forest area, including an open gate, litter, dumping, used needles, and a homeless camp. (1:02:53)

A resident, Jennifer Morrell, then spoke from the audience after being recognized and criticized a remark made to Walker, saying it was disrespectful. Chairman Carl Zalek responded that commissioners had not taken raises. (1:05:52)

Minutes, sheriff parcel request, clerk budget amendments, and consent agenda

The board approved the March 3, 2026 A and March 3, 2026 B minutes by unanimous voice vote of the commissioners present. (0:30:11)

The board approved item 4.1, Sheriff Billy Woods’ request for approval to pursue the purchase of Parcel No. 21935-002-00, by unanimous voice vote of the commissioners present. (0:30:24)

Clerk Gregory C. Harrell presented budget amendment items 5.1.1 through 5.1.7, including amendments of $50,000, $392, $1,600, $7,034, $830,989, $2,825, and $550. The board approved them by unanimous voice vote of the commissioners present. (0:30:44-1:02:06)

The board also approved item 5.2.1, the acquisition or disposition of miscellaneous property forms, by unanimous voice vote of the commissioners present. (0:31:06)

The board approved the consent agenda by unanimous voice vote of the commissioners present. No consent items were pulled for separate discussion. (0:31:31)

County Attorney item 8.1 removed

County Attorney Minter said item 8.1 was being pulled because staff was still working out some of the numbers in the agreement and hoped to bring it back at the next meeting. Chairman Carl Zalek said the item would be removed for now. (0:32:02)

Animal Services video

County Administrator Monir Buenas introduced a short video about the new Marion County Animal Shelter. The video described the new 20-acre campus and 37,000 square foot facility and said it was open on West Highway 40. (0:32:49)

Firefighters’ collective bargaining agreements: items 9.1 and 9.2

Assistant County Administrator Amanda Tartt presented two proposed collective bargaining agreements between Marion County management and the International Association of Firefighters Local 3169. She said negotiations began in June 2025. She reviewed prior contract changes, including a $3.43 per hour across-the-board increase in the 2018-2021 contract, and changes in the 2021-2024 and 2023-2026 agreements. (0:35:29)

Tartt said item 9.1 would run from June 20, 2026 to September 30, 2026 and would give each covered employee a $20,000 increase to base salary while also increasing starting pay for all positions by $20,000. She said proposed annual base pay would become $65,000 for a firefighter EMT and $75,000 for a firefighter paramedic. (0:39:18)

Tartt said item 9.2 would run from October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2029 and would implement a 24-72 shift schedule by September 30, 2029. She said the phased implementation would allow time for planning and staffing. (0:40:20)

Fire Chief James Banna said the agreement was intended to improve recruitment and retention, reduce mandatory overtime, and support firefighter health and wellness. He said Marion County Fire Rescue would become one of the largest agencies in the state to adopt the 24-72 schedule. (0:42:03)

Commissioners Craig Curry, Matt McClain, Michelle Stone, and Chairman Carl Zalek each spoke in support of the agreements. They referenced recruitment, retention, overtime, work-life balance, and the county’s penny sales tax as part of the broader funding context. (0:46:43-0:58:20)

The board approved item 9.1 by unanimous voice vote of the commissioners present. (0:58:20)

The board approved item 9.2 by unanimous voice vote of the commissioners present. (0:58:37)

After the votes, Chairman Carl Zalek invited firefighters, chiefs, and the negotiating team forward for a group photo. (0:58:57)

Notation for action items 11.1 through 11.3

The board approved items 11.1 through 11.3 together by unanimous voice vote of the commissioners present. Those items were: - scheduling and advertising a June 16, 2026 public hearing on the Local Mitigation Strategy Five-Year Plan 2025 Update,

• scheduling and advertising July 7, 2026 and August 4, 2026 public hearings for the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Annual Action Plan for CDBG, HOME, and ESG,

• ratifying a May 21, 2026 letter of support for the Ocala Rapid Response Aerial Pilot federal grant for the Ocala Police Department. (1:01:46)

Public hearing on nonconsensual towing ordinance and rates: item 6.1

Chief Assistant County Attorney Dana Olesky said the hearing was a continuation of the May 5, 2026 public hearing on an ordinance creating section 18-8 on nonconsensual towing and a resolution establishing maximum rates. She said one revision had been made to the ordinance so tow companies could not exceed maximum rates or charge additional fees not listed in the resolution. (1:12:57)

Olesky said three draft resolutions had been published: one with staff’s proposed rates, one with rates proposed by Professional Wrecker Operators of Florida, and one showing the rates last used by the Florida Highway Patrol in 2024. She said the third was not an FHP proposal, only the last rates FHP had used. (1:13:46)

She also said that if the board did not adopt rates, Marion County would default to Alachua County’s rates. She said a prior Alachua County listing of $5,000 for a Class D hookup fee had been a scrivener’s error and had been corrected to $500. (1:15:05)

Captain Jonathan Young of the Florida Highway Patrol said FHP had asked the county to consider setting rates because of “crazy tow bills” tied to the Alachua County error. He said FHP no longer sets rates after a January rule change and that if Marion County adopted rates, they could also affect Levy County depending on how the rates compared with Alachua County’s. (1:16:45)

Public speakers included John Duggan, who said he had met with staff and FHP and believed there had been agreement on rates, and Mike Seaman of Professional Wrecker Operators of Florida, who asked the board to adopt rates that were “fair and equitable” and clarified in response to a question that he was referring to PWOF’s proposed rates, not Alachua County’s. (1:18:46)

Matt McClain moved not to adopt rates and to leave the current arrangement in place, saying the Alachua County error had been corrected and that adopting rates would amount to accepting an unfunded mandate from the state. The board approved that motion by unanimous voice vote of the commissioners present. (1:21:46)

General public comments in the morning session

Several speakers addressed the board about the missing-person case of Sarah Gayle Ebersole and related concerns about law enforcement response, public awareness, protests, and jail treatment. Speakers included Michelle Tullis, who identified herself as Ebersole’s sister; a resident, Melanie Connell; Barbara Decker; Heather Miller; Kayla LaCroix; Wendell London; and Jennifer Morrell. (1:24:29)

Michelle Tullis said Sarah Gayle Ebersole had been missing since March 3, 2023 and said it had taken 705 days for updates to be reflected on a missing-person flyer. She also said a presumptive death letter had been issued without notice to the family and that there was now an active death certificate while Ebersole was still listed as missing and endangered. (1:25:00)

Barbara Decker asked what more could be done to get answers. County Attorney Minter said public rights-of-way are traditional forums for peaceful protest, though he said he was not commenting on the facts of any specific law-enforcement interaction. Matt McClain offered to meet with the speakers after the meeting or on another day to review what they had done and discuss possible next steps. Craig Curry suggested contacting State Attorney Bill Gladson. (1:34:28)

Kayla LaCroix said she had been arrested at a public protest and said she was denied medical treatment in the Marion County jail. Wendell London said the board had more power than it was saying because it approves the sheriff’s budget. Chairman Carl Zalek and Craig Curry responded that law-enforcement matters would need to be addressed with law-enforcement officials or FDLE and that the board’s role with the sheriff is budget approval. (1:40:30)

Commission comments and record items

During commissioner comments, Craig Curry, Matt McClain, and Michelle Stone each said they had no comments. The board then moved on to notation-for-record items without separate discussion in the transcript. (1:47:33)

Planning and zoning session: roll call and procedure

At 2:00 p.m., the board reconvened for the zoning portion of the meeting. Roll call showed Chairman Carl Zalek, Vice Chairman Matt McClain, Craig Curry, and Michelle Stone present; Kathy Bryant was absent. (2:01:00)

County Attorney Minter explained the quasi-judicial process for the special use permit items, including that decisions must be based on competent substantial evidence and that the board must find consistency with the comprehensive plan, public interest, and compatibility with surrounding property. He also swore in anyone who might testify. (2:03:14)

Planning and zoning consent item approved: 260501SU

Deputy Director of Growth Services Kenneth Weirich presented case 260501SU, a special use permit for Ward-Merrill, L.L.C. to allow an accessory structure on property without a primary residence in an R-1 zone on 1.64 acres at parcel 4938-001-001. No one asked to pull the item from consent. The board approved it by unanimous voice vote of the commissioners present. (2:13:12)

Planning and zoning item denied: 260503SU for Wood Resource Recovery / Denali

Senior Planning Staff member Kenneth Odom presented case 260503SU for Wood Resource Recovery of Marion County, LLC and Denali Water Solutions. He said the request was for a special use permit to add a human food-grade depackaging facility to an existing vegetative-debris composting operation on parcels 12869-001-00 and 12907-003-00 at 8510 and 8548 NW Gainesville Road. He said the site had operated as a vegetative-debris composting facility since 2009. (2:14:35)

Odom said the proposal involved expired grocery-store food being brought to the site, separated from packaging, processed into a slurry, and then used with vegetative debris in compost windrows. He said staff expected about three trucks per day, or about six trips. He also said Gainesville Road was operating at about 43 percent of capacity and at level of service C. (2:15:14)

Odom said staff had proposed 14 conditions for the special use permit, including conditions related to odors and operations, and noted that Marion County code already prohibits noxious odors detectable at property boundaries. He also said the permit was revocable if violations occurred. (2:22:34)

During questions, Craig Curry asked about comparable facilities in Florida. Odom said one in Vero Beach had just opened and was next to a landfill, making it a poor comparison, and that another was in Alachua County and associated with the applicant. (2:25:56)

Applicant Levin Gaston said the operation would be safe, profitable, and environmentally responsible and said the company could operate without odors affecting the church, school, or neighbors. He said if the company could not do it right, it would have to fix it or close it down. He described the process as receiving expired foods, separating packaging, processing the food into slurry, blending it with carbon material, and then composting it. He said the operation would not contaminate groundwater and said the company would have to install four monitoring wells. (2:31:45)

Sarah Harrison of Denali, who identified herself as the company’s environmental director, said Denali is the largest organics recycler in the country and acknowledged that the company was not “perfect.” She said the violations referenced by opponents were primarily associated with land application sites, not this type of facility. She said the Marion County site would also require a Florida DEP permit, a stormwater permit, and an NPDES industrial stormwater permit, and that the facility would include trench drains and stormwater storage. She said the site would not be designed to store more than 24 hours of incoming material. (3:58:28)

Public speakers opposing the permit included Tracy Walker of the Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park; attorney Alexandra Scales on behalf of several property owners; Wes Price; Pastor Martin Smith of Progressive Union Missionary Baptist Church; Joe McCants; Kenny McKenzie; Justin Wilson; Laura Domus; Robert Walker; Jeanette MacDonald; Busy Shires speaking for the St. Bernard Foundation; Abigail Rose McCoy; Asante Craig; Gail Stern; Ed Gaska; Iris Stern; Cynthia Hill; Greg Thompson; Mike Negrini; and Linda Ward. (3:03:04-3:56:26)

Among the concerns raised were odor, leachate and groundwater contamination, compatibility with nearby homes, farms, churches, tourism businesses, and Fessenden Elementary School, possible effects on private wells and Silver Springs, traffic, noise, birds, and the applicants’ compliance history. Several speakers also referenced the prior Compost USA operation in Marion County and said this proposal was not compatible with the area. (3:03:04-3:56:26)

After public comment, Chairman Carl Zalek said he liked the idea of the operation in general but not at that location. He also said the property’s existing M-2 and Commerce District zoning already allows a range of intensive uses without a special use permit, and he listed examples from the code. He said a special use permit at least gives the county some regulatory control, but he added that he was not in favor of the proposal “as it stands today.” (4:14:15)

Michelle Stone said she was not willing to take the risk of allowing “an unknown type of industry” in that community and said she would vote no. Matt McClain said he agreed and said he did not think the applicant had provided the assurance he needed to move forward. (4:17:31)

Michelle Stone moved to deny the request, stating that she did not believe it was in the public’s best interest and did not think it was compatible with surrounding properties. The board approved the motion by unanimous voice vote of the commissioners present. (4:19:32)

Adoption of ordinance after zoning action

After the denial vote, the board approved the ordinance item by unanimous voice vote of the commissioners present. The transcript does not specify the ordinance number or text at that moment beyond “move the ordinances.” [unclear] (4:19:53)

Watch the full meeting recording

Vote tallies in this recap were checked against the body’s official roll-call record.

How this was reported: The Public Eye uses AI tools to transcribe and draft coverage of public meetings from official recordings. Every article is reviewed and verified by a human editor before publishing. Our coverage is limited to what happened on the public record — we don’t publish opinion or investigations. The Public Eye is independent and not affiliated with any government body, developer, or other news outlet. Spot an error? Email office@thepubliceye.ai and we’ll correct it promptly.

The decision most likely to shape daily life down the road was the board’s 4-1 approval of a $428,195 master plan study for the U.S. 27 area between the new I-75 interchange and the World Equestrian Center. County staff said the study is meant to map out roads, trails, connections, and growth before more development arrives. Michelle Stone opposed spending that much on a study, saying the money should go to more immediate transportation needs. Matt McClain, Carl Zalak, Kathy Bryant, and Craig Curry supported moving ahead, arguing that planning now could prevent piecemeal growth later.

The board also approved a road assessment for Belleview Heights Estates Unit 8 and awarded the construction contract to John L. Finch Contracting. For property owners on that short stretch of Southeast 44th Avenue, that means paving is expected to start within 30 to 60 days. Staff said the maximum cost per parcel would be $20,385.63, paid over 15 years at $2,160.22 a year.

Another practical vote: commissioners adopted the county’s updated five-year Local Mitigation Strategy, which staff said is required to keep Marion County and its cities eligible for certain FEMA-related funding.

During zoning, the board approved rezoning for the Backhoe Boys property to R-1, clearing the way for about 90 single-family homes. It also approved changes to the Jax Road/Woodridge Place development, including capping it at 261 units and making Northeast 59th Street emergency access only. In Summerfield, commissioners rejected a larger truck-parking request but allowed one tractor-trailer on a 3-2 vote, with Carl Zalak and Craig Curry opposed.

Staff said ARPA-related funding items will come back for action at the next meeting, and budget workshops are scheduled for July, with maximum millage rates needing to be set by July 21.

Key takeaways: - The board approved the Belleview Heights Estates Unit 8 road assessment and awarded Bid 26B-049 to John L. Finch Contracting. Staff said the maximum cost per parcel would be $20,385.63, spread over 15 years at $2,160.22 per year. (1:27:01)

• The board adopted the 2025 Local Mitigation Strategy five-year plan update, which staff said is required to maintain eligibility for certain FEMA-related mitigation funding. (1:30:49)

• The board approved the U.S. 27 Area Study master plan contract with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. on a 4-1 vote after discussion about planning for future growth and the project cost of $428,195. (2:33:47)

• During zoning, the board approved a rezoning for the Backhoe Boys property to R-1 and approved the Jax Road PUD amendment with changes discussed at the meeting; it also approved one tractor-trailer, rather than four, for a Summerfield special use permit. (4:09:39) (5:10:25) (5:59:04)

Call to order, roll call, and announcements

Chairman Carl Zalek called the meeting to order, followed by the invocation and Pledge of Allegiance. At roll call, Carl Zalek, Vice Chairman Matt McLean, and Craig Curry were present. Kathy Bryant and Michelle Stone were not heard during the initial roll call response. Chairman Carl Zalek announced two 10 a.m. public hearings and said a June 18 public hearing location had changed from the Rainbow Lakes Estates Municipal Services building to the Rainbow Lakes Clubhouse at 4020 Southwest Deepwater Court, Dunnellon, Florida 34431. (0:18:30) (0:20:15) (0:21:13)

Citizens Academy recognition

The board approved the proclamations and presentations agenda . Roger Waddell, public relations specialist, presented recognition of the 2026 Citizens Academy graduating class and described the program as 14 sessions over four months involving 24 county departments and offices. A class video was shown, and graduate Amber Panupto spoke about the program. Graduates then received certificates and pins. Two honorary graduates, Nadine Knight and Rebecca Ramirez, were also recognized. (0:21:40) (0:22:04) (0:32:53) (0:49:59)

America 250 flag presentation

U.S. Representative Kat Cammack presented an America 250 flag to the board. She said she had been in Washington reviewing historical material and spoke about Marion County being named after General Francis Marion. She said the flag was from the United States Capitol and was presented in honor of America’s 250th birthday. (0:26:57)

Eagle Scout proclamation

The board recognized Walker Harrell for attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. Vice Chairman Matt McLean read the proclamation. Gregory C. Harrell spoke about Walker Harrell’s scouting history and said his Eagle project involved renovating an exhibit at the Silver River Museum. Walker Harrell thanked the board, his family, and Dr. Don Sloan. (0:52:32) (0:53:29) (0:55:16) (0:57:45)

PTSD Awareness/Teal Out Day proclamation

The board presented a proclamation declaring June 27 as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Teal Out Day in Marion County and encouraged residents to wear teal and join the annual PTSD awareness walk on June 27 at 8 a.m. Speakers included Lacey Larramore, Todd Belknap of Vets Helping Vets, Paul Bloom from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office critical aspects unit, and Alex Caban. They discussed support resources, shirt sales, and the annual walk. (0:59:18) (1:01:09) (1:05:01) (1:07:25)

Agenda public comments: Wrigley Fields fireworks concerns

During agenda-item public comment, Brooke Bailey, who said she lives adjacent to Wrigley Fields, spoke about proposed July 4 fireworks at the park. She said her family supports the park but raised concerns about noise, animals, traffic, trespassing, fire hazards, and impacts on a newborn because she said she was due July 2. She said she had started a petition with nearly 900 signatures. (1:13:32)

After her comments, Michelle Stone said she had talked to staff about whether the fireworks could be moved and said she was willing to support moving them or not doing fireworks at that location. Kathy Bryant said she agreed with Michelle Stone and cited concerns about animals and nearby agricultural uses. Chairman Carl Zalek said staff had planned fire, sheriff’s, and traffic arrangements and said residents in that part of the county had also asked for events there. Craig Curry said he had received emails against the fireworks and wanted to review what would be involved in moving or canceling them. (1:18:56) (1:19:07) (1:20:27) (1:21:52)

Assistant County Administrator Amanda Tarr said staff had received about 15 phone calls or voicemails and multiple emails after letters were sent to neighbors. She said all permits, insurance, sheriff’s office arrangements, and other preparations were in place. She said the county had paid a $60,000 deposit on four sites totaling $120,000, with Wrigley’s total site cost at $30,000. She said if fireworks at Wrigley were canceled, $15,000 already paid for that site would be lost, but the remaining $15,000 for that site would not have to be paid. She also said the event funding was from sponsorships and not public money. No board vote was taken on the fireworks during this discussion. (1:22:46) (1:23:46) (1:24:47)

Belleview Heights Estates Unit 8 road assessment and bid award

At the 10 a.m. public hearing, Municipal Services Director Chad Wicker presented the Belleview Heights Estates Unit 8 road improvement project on Southeast 44th Avenue from Southeast 144th Street to Southeast 142nd Lane. He said the project covered 0.11 miles of new roadway, was citizen-initiated, and had passed with 80% approval of mailed petitions. He said the lowest qualified bid was $53,000 and the loaded project cost was $241,000, including engineering and legal fees. He said the maximum cost per parcel would be $20,385.63, spread over 15 years at $2,160.22 per year, or about $180 per month. (1:27:01)

Resident Sean Fenner spoke in support and said he had lived on the property about 20 years. He cited dust, debris, increased traffic, and reckless driving, and said neighbors had asked him when the road would be paved. (1:28:26)

The board approved the assessment and awarded the contract to John L. Finch Contracting on a unanimous voice vote after a motion by Michelle Stone and a second by Craig Curry. Staff said construction would start within 30 to 60 days. (1:29:53) (1:30:10)

Local Mitigation Strategy five-year plan update

Kenneth Odom presented the 2025 Local Mitigation Strategy five-year plan update. He said the plan is part of a FEMA program administered by the Florida Division of Emergency Management and must be updated every five years to maintain eligibility for certain mitigation funding. He said the plan covers Marion County, Belleview, Dunnellon, Ocala, Reddick, and McIntosh and addresses hazards including storms, flooding, train derailments, and pandemics. He said projects can be funded on a 75-25 match, with 25% the county’s responsibility and 75% from FEMA. (1:30:49)

Michelle Stone moved approval and noted that McIntosh needed its current list of officials updated. The board approved the resolution unanimously after a second by Matt McLean. (1:36:40)

Minutes

The board approved minutes for March 17, March 18, and March 23, 2026, by unanimous voice vote after a motion by Michelle Stone and a second by Craig Curry. (1:37:27)

Budget amendments

Clerk Gregory C. Harrell presented budget amendment items 5.1.1 through 5.1.11 and noted that item 5.1.3 related to consent item 7.5.5 and item 5.1.7 related to consent item 7.4.1. The board approved the budget amendments unanimously after a motion by Michelle Stone and a second by Matt McLean. (1:37:50)

Proposed FY 2026-27 budget, CIP, and workshop schedule

Clerk Gregory C. Harrell presented the proposed fiscal year 2026-27 budget, the proposed 2026-27 through 2030-31 Capital Improvement Program, and the detailed budget workshop schedule. He said the budget documents were available on the clerk’s website and described the annual process, including July workshops and September public hearings. He also said a revision moved departments originally scheduled for Monday morning, July 13, to Monday afternoon at 1:30 p.m., and departments originally scheduled for Monday afternoon to Wednesday afternoon, July 15, at 1:30 p.m. (1:39:01)

He also discussed anticipated property tax reform and said one joint resolution, identified as 4F, would affect rollback rate calculations and voting thresholds if signed by the governor. He said the board would need to set maximum millage rates by July 21 because the first August meeting would be after the statutory deadline. (1:44:50)

The board approved items 5.2.1 through 5.2.3, including the revised workshop schedule, unanimously after a motion by Matt McLean and a second by Craig Curry. (1:47:17)

Property disposition forms

The board approved the acquisition or disposition of property forms unanimously after a motion by Matt McLean and a second by Kathy Bryant. (1:47:47)

Value Adjustment Board commissioner appointments

The board appointed Michelle Stone and Matt McLean to serve on the 2026 Value Adjustment Board and appointed Matt McLean as chair. The vote was unanimous after a motion by Michelle Stone and a second by Matt McLean. (1:47:47) (1:48:41)

Consent agenda

No consent items were pulled. The board approved the consent agenda unanimously after a motion by Michelle Stone and a second by Craig Curry. The approved items included the America 250 memorandum of understanding with the School Board, opioid abatement plan submissions, multiple procurement items, right-of-way and subdivision agreements, utility resolutions and agreements, and other listed consent items. (1:49:03) (1:49:21)

County Canvassing Board appointment

County Attorney Guy Minter presented the annual appointment of a commissioner and alternate to the County Canvassing Board. The board appointed Michelle Stone as the member and Guy Minter as the alternate. The vote was unanimous after a motion by Matt McLean and a second from the board [speaker not clearly identified in transcript]. (1:49:35) (1:50:08)

Reverse Trade Show update

Aria Young from Procurement Services presented an update on the second annual reverse trade show. She said 20 agencies would participate, including local, regional, state, and educational entities, and that the event would allow vendors to meet procurement representatives in one place. She said informational sessions would include how to do business with the state of Florida and federal contracting opportunities through the Small Business Development Center. Commissioners commented favorably on the event. No vote was taken. (1:50:23)

Roadway projects update

County Engineer Stephen Cahoon presented updates on several road projects. He said work was nearing completion at the intersection of Southwest 66th Street and Southwest 49th Avenue related to the new road behind Heath Brook. He said the signal would go into a burn period and that after June 19 the intersection would reopen, while the 66th Street bridge over I-75 would remain closed for Florida Department of Transportation repairs expected to last 12 months. He also described the detour using Southwest 43rd Street Road. (1:53:19)

Kathy Bryant asked about backups and turn-lane issues near State Road 200 and Heath Brook and said she expected emails from residents. Stephen Cahoon said the interim period would be difficult and that staff was working with the city on signal improvements. (1:56:13)

He also updated the board on the Northwest 80th/70th Avenue segment between State Road 40 and U.S. 27, saying the bid opening had been moved to June 25 and right-of-way acquisition was progressing. He also gave an update on the Emerald Road Extension, saying completion was estimated for June of next year. No vote was taken. (1:58:51) (1:59:51)

ARPA funding update

Assistant County Administrator Andrew Russell presented an update on American Rescue Plan Act funding. He said 95.9% of the funds had been obligated, with overall funding of $109 million. He said $96.76 million had been spent or obligated, leaving $4.15 million not allocated or obligated. He said the original ARPA allocation was $71 million, leveraged with a $26 million state grant for septic-to-sewer projects, $3.3 million in program revenue from waterline extensions and pro rata shares, and $650,000 in interest earnings previously authorized for short waterline extensions. (2:01:56)

He said utility projects had expended 87.1% of $90 million, or $78.92 million, with $11.66 million still under construction. He said original ARPA funds had to be tied to previously reported scopes and spent by December 31, 2026, and that program revenue also had to be spent by then or returned to the federal government. He proposed using remaining original funds to extend Silver Springs Shores phase 2 into phases 3 and 4 with water mains and using program revenue to extend waterline work in Marion Oaks. (2:02:42) (2:05:43) (2:07:45)

Board members expressed support. Russell said staff would return with action items at the next meeting and that he was seeking consensus from the board. Matt McLean commended Andrew Russell’s work. (2:12:01)

U.S. 27 Area Study master plan

County staff presented a request to engage Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. for the U.S. 27 Area Study master plan and to realign funding for the project. Growth Services Director Chuck Varon said the study area covered more than 3,000 acres between the new I-75 interchange and the World Equestrian Center and would include current conditions, community input, a five-day charrette, and a final master plan. He said the original budget was $225,000 and staff proposed funding the $428,195 scope by using the original $225,000, money from a Marion Oaks PSA master plan that had not moved forward, money from a Marion Oaks trails project to be handled through a University of Florida practicum, and some money from land development code updates. He also said a $75,000 Florida planning technical assistance grant had been applied for. (2:33:47) (2:17:42)

Michelle Stone moved to deny the request, saying she did not think it was prudent to do the study at that dollar amount and citing other transportation priorities and concern that studies can sit unused. Matt McLean said he was hesitant to deny it because residents often object to unplanned growth, not growth itself. Chairman Carl Zalek said he supported the study because it could help avoid isolated development and plan transportation, trails, and connections. Kathy Bryant said she had seen examples elsewhere of internal road networks reducing direct access points on major roads and said planning ahead could help. (2:19:36) (2:21:12) (2:22:03) (2:23:18)

After discussion, Matt McLean moved approval and Kathy Bryant seconded. The board approved the item 4-1, with Michelle Stone dissenting. (2:26:48) (2:33:47)

Additional construction managers RFQ rejection

County Administrator Mounir Bouyounes and Procurement Services Director Susan Olson brought forward item 9.5, a request to reject all submittals for 20Q-161 Additional Construction Managers 2026. Matt McLean objected to rejecting the submittals after firms had spent money responding and said the process had hurt the county’s credibility. He said the board had previously discussed adding one more construction manager and that nothing had changed. Michelle Stone said she had not supported opening the process in the first place. Mounir Bouyounes said staff’s position had not changed since January and that staff had originally said five construction managers could handle the work. (2:34:05) (2:35:08) (2:36:59)

The board voted 3-2 to reject all submittals, with Michelle Stone, Kathy Bryant, and Craig Curry voting in favor and Matt McLean and Chairman Carl Zalek dissenting. (2:38:21)

Veteran Services Hall of Fame plaque

Veteran Services Director Daisy Diaz updated the board on the Veterans Hall of Fame plaque. She said the plaque would be installed inside the Veterans Resource Center lobby for now and that Facilities would construct it. She said Veteran Services would continue working with Parks and Recreation on a future outdoor placement consistent with the master plan. Commissioners discussed the layout and the number of honorees per year. No vote was taken. (2:38:39)

Committee appointments

The board approved several committee appointments by unanimous voice vote: - Reappointed Jackie [last name unclear], Brooke [last name unclear], Christian Hager, and alternate Samuel Hunt to the Board of Adjustment for terms ending June 2029. (2:47:51)

• Reappointed Rusty Branson and Harvey Vandaven to the Marion County Hospital District Board of Trustees for terms ending June 2030. (2:48:22)

• Appointed W. James Gooding and Marco V. Maridi as alternate members of the Land Development Regulation Commission for terms ending December 2029 and June 2030, respectively. (2:48:47)

• Reappointed Lee Black as the citizen member of the Value Adjustment Board for the 2026-27 cycle. (2:49:26)

Workshop scheduling

The board approved notation-for-action workshop items, including a revision moving the property tax workshop from July 15 at 1:30 p.m. to Monday, July 13 at 9 a.m. in the budget schedule. The motion passed unanimously after a motion by Matt McLean and a second by Craig Curry. (2:49:44) (2:50:01)

General public comments

Joseph Walker spoke about conditions in the “Maricamp Dust Bowl area,” including a planned crosswalk near a new Tractor Supply, fire hydrant maintenance, overgrown areas, and a panhandler. Assistant County Administrator Tracy Straub said the area was within a recently created MSTU and that maintenance would begin after collections started with the next tax cycle, but that private property owners remained responsible in the meantime. (2:51:45) (2:56:22)

Vincent Small spoke about a rezoning case later on the agenda and said his written opposition had been quarantined by the county email system before the Planning and Zoning Commission hearing. County Attorney Guy Minter said the Planning and Zoning Commission’s action was only a recommendation and that the Board of County Commissioners would make the final decision at the later hearing. (2:57:27) (3:01:49)

Louise Eck thanked the board, county administration, and staff for the Citizens Academy program. Hillary Turlington, speaking about the construction manager RFQ, said her firm had participated in good faith, had been ranked first by the selection committee, and was disappointed by the rejection after firms had spent money on the process. (3:10:43) (3:12:50)

Commission comments

Michelle Stone asked that the county’s Tallahassee delegation be invited to the budget workshops as observers and said designated seating should be reserved for them. She also highlighted the library’s summer “Words” magazine and county offerings for families. (3:15:32)

Kathy Bryant wished fathers a happy Father’s Day and said fathers’ involvement in their children’s lives is important. (3:18:18)

Planning and zoning session opening

The board reconvened for the 2 p.m. planning and zoning session. Roll call again reflected Carl Zalek, Matt McLean, and Craig Curry present, with Kathy Bryant and Michelle Stone not heard during the roll call response. County Attorney Guy Minter explained quasi-judicial procedures, standards for competent substantial evidence, and the order of presentation. (3:21:27) (3:22:05) (3:23:30)

DRC waiver: Watching Park Farms agricultural lot split

The board approved the waiver from Land Development Code Section 2.16.1.B(8)(g) related to establishment of a county municipal services benefit unit for Watching Park Farms Agricultural Lot Split 000287. The vote was unanimous after a motion by Matt McLean and a second by Michelle Stone. (3:32:33)

DRC waiver: Target of Ocala buffer requirements

Staff presented a waiver request related to buffer requirements for the Target of Ocala project near State Road 200 and Southwest 80th Avenue. The request was to allow an opaque fence instead of a wall. Michelle Stone said she generally dislikes the fences but the board approved the waiver unanimously after a motion by Matt McLean and a second by Michelle Stone. (3:33:18) (3:39:00)

DRC waiver: Melody Preserve buffer requirements

Staff presented a waiver request related to buffer requirements for Melody Preserve, part of On Top of the World. The request involved using an opaque fence instead of vegetation in certain buffer areas. Parks and Recreation staff member Susan Hayen said trees could grow there but maintenance would be an issue and said staff was okay with the fence, with some softening vegetation if possible. The applicant said the fence would be one foot off the property line. (3:39:34) (3:42:52) (3:47:04)

The board approved the waiver 4-1 after a motion by Michelle Stone and a second by Matt McLean. Kathy Bryant dissented. (3:52:09)

Planning and zoning consent item: Greater Ocala Dog Club

The board approved the consent special use permit for Greater Ocala Dog Club Inc. to allow dog events and RV parking in A-1 zoning. The vote was unanimous after a motion by Kathy Bryant and a second by Craig Curry. (3:53:04)

Special use permit: tractor-trailers in Summerfield

Staff presented case 260601SU for Juan Carlos Diaz Marrero and Yelaine Trujillo Ravelo, requesting a special use permit for parking tractor-trailers on 4.83 acres in A-1 zoning at 13660 Southeast 80th Avenue, Summerfield. Staff said the original request was for five trucks, but one had been sold, leaving four. Staff said the case began as a code enforcement matter and that seven letters of support had been received, two from within 300 feet. Staff recommended denial of four trucks but said it would support one truck and trailer with conditions. Planning and Zoning had recommended denial on a 3-1 vote. (3:54:08)

A neighboring resident, George L. Rivera Jr., spoke against the request and said if the applicant wanted a commercial company, he should buy commercial property. (4:05:35)

The board first voted on a motion to deny the request. That motion failed 2-3, with Craig Curry and Chairman Carl Zalek voting in favor and Matt McLean, Michelle Stone, and Kathy Bryant opposed, based on the transcript’s named dissenters and result. The board then approved one tractor-trailer with staff conditions on a 3-2 vote after a motion by Matt McLean and a second by Michelle Stone. Chairman Carl Zalek and Craig Curry dissented. (4:06:58) (4:09:39)

Special use permit: miniature horses in Rolling Hills

Staff presented case 260602SU for Stefan Merhl and Cathy Merhl, requesting a special use permit to keep two miniature horses on 1.54 acres in R-1 zoning in Rolling Hills. Staff said the site plan included a pasture area of 24,000 square feet, a small barn, and manure management. Staff recommended approval with conditions. Planning and Zoning had no recommendation because a motion to deny failed 2-2. (4:10:46)

Applicant Kathy Merhl said the site plan had been designed to preserve vegetation and include manure management. A neighboring resident, Donald Sedgwick, said he remained opposed and cited concerns about smell, drainage, and future expansion. Veterinarian Patricia Kallenbarn said the horses were much smaller than standard horses, would produce limited waste, and would not free-graze continuously. Marion County Sheriff’s Office agriculture investigator Justin McClure said the horses looked healthy and that he had no welfare concerns. (4:16:17) (4:18:29) (4:20:13) (4:22:51)

The board approved the special use permit unanimously after a motion by Michelle Stone and a second by Craig Curry. Chairman Carl Zalek said if the applicants wanted to expand in the future, they should look for agricultural property rather than residentially zoned property. (4:23:41)

Special use permit: telecommunications tower

Staff presented case 260606SU for Ronald and Shirley Adams, requesting a special use permit for a 125-foot monopole telecommunications tower and support facility on 63.90 acres in R-4 zoning. Staff said the tower would be in the middle of the property and that the only waiver involved distance to a county-owned utility parcel zoned residential but used for a public purpose. Staff recommended approval with conditions, including revised language proposed by the applicant. Planning and Zoning also recommended approval. (4:24:29)

Applicant representative James Hartley said the site was heavily wooded, the nearest dwelling was more than 500 feet away, no FAA lighting was required, and the site would operate without a backup generator. He said the tower would improve T-Mobile coverage and that the applicant proposed preserving a 30-foot area of existing vegetation around the site. (4:31:27)

The board approved the special use permit unanimously after a motion by Michelle Stone and a second by Craig Curry. (4:41:10)

Rezoning: Backhoe Boys LLC

Staff presented case 260607ZC for Tillman & Associates LLC on behalf of Backhoe Boys LLC, requesting rezoning of a 31.13-acre portion of a 36.73-acre parcel from A-3 and A-1 to R-1. Staff said the site was just east of Belleview, within the urban growth boundary, and designated medium residential. Staff said approximately 90 single-family homes were planned and that the development would connect to City of Belleview water and sewer. Staff recommended approval. (5:10:25)

During discussion, Chairman Carl Zalek asked about traffic on Southeast 92nd Loop and County Road 25. Staff and applicant engineer David Tillman discussed current counts, future deficiencies, and possible proportionate-share obligations. (4:44:18) (4:45:49)

Residents Vincent Small, Shelby Frostman, Deborah Small, and Joshua Frostman spoke against the rezoning. They cited concerns about lot sizes, compatibility, traffic, schools, wildlife, trees, private wells, and neighborhood character. Vincent Small also argued that a straight R-1 rezoning would not allow the board to impose custom conditions. (4:54:14) (4:58:57) (5:01:10) (5:03:00)

The board approved the rezoning unanimously after a motion by Michelle Stone and a second by Matt McLean. (5:10:25)

PUD amendment: Jax Road / Woodridge Place

Staff presented case 260608ZP for Jax Road, LLC, a PUD amendment to the previously approved Woodridge Place development on 79.21 acres at 5823 Northeast Jacksonville Road. Staff said the original 2022 approval allowed 240 single-family units, not to exceed 321, with amenities including a pool, cabana, activity field, walking trail, and playground. The amendment proposed 261 units, not to exceed 321, a reduced front setback from 25 feet to 20 feet, and an alternative amenity package that could include pickleball courts instead of the pool and cabana. Staff also noted that because of updated acreage, the actual maximum under the land use would be 316 units. Staff recommended approval with conditions, and Planning and Zoning also recommended approval. (5:59:04)

Applicant representatives Matt Fabian and David Tillman said they wanted flexibility to choose between a pool or pickleball courts while still providing a clubhouse/cabana, playground, activity field, and mail kiosk. They also requested changes to conditions related to fencing timing, phasing, and previously approved plans. (5:17:53) (5:19:47)

Public speakers raised concerns about school capacity, traffic, parking, and a connection to Northeast 59th Street. One resident asked that the development not connect to that street. (5:42:43)

The board discussed several changes: - limiting the project to 261 units rather than leaving the higher maximum in place,

• changing setbacks so the side with sidewalks would remain at 25 feet and the other side would be 23 feet,

• tying fencing to first certificate of occupancy in each phase,

• treating the Northeast 59th Street connection as emergency access only,

• and removing or revising a condition if plans had already been approved. (5:50:57) (5:52:43) (5:56:57)

The board approved the PUD amendment 4-1 after a motion by Michelle Stone and a second by Craig Curry. Kathy Bryant dissented. (5:59:04)

Adoption of ordinances

The board adopted the ordinances for the approved zoning items unanimously after a motion by Michelle Stone and a second by Matt McLean. (6:02:08)

Watch the full meeting recording

Vote tallies in this recap were checked against the body’s official roll-call record.

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