By Allison Smith
Herald Intern
The Altamonte Springs City Commission held its regularly scheduled meeting on Jan. 20.
All agenda items were approved unanimously.
Public Hearings
A resolution amending its ARPA spending plan and adjusting the current fiscal year budget to fund infrastructure repairs, park improvements, public safety needs, and storm-related projects was also approved. “It was really an extraordinary piece of management through a lot of different departments,” City Manager Frank Martz said.
An ordinance updating criminal background check requirements for certain city positions and outside contractors was approved. City officials determined the ordinance would have no financial impact on local businesses and would apply only to certain city employees and contractors.
An update to Altamonte Springs’ five-year capital improvement plan was also approved, shifting the project timeline and funding from 2025-2029 to 2026-2030.
Finance Items
A contract with Accurate Power and Technology, Inc. to maintain city-owned generators, which ensures critical services continue to run during power outages was unanimously approved. City-owned generators power essential facilities, including public safety and water services, during emergencies. The commission also waived the normal bidding process to expiate the work.
The City Commission voted for Haddonstone (USA) LTD to be the sole source vendor for replacement of limestone parts for the Cranes Roost Park railing. The vote passed unanimously to skip the competitive bid and use Haddonstone as their sole vendor.
Other Items
Martz confirmed that turf installation at Cranes Roost Park has begun, with work expected to finish shortly before opening day. Earlier delays were resolved after bond issues with the original contractor were cleared, and the project will be completed under the original contract cost.
The city has approved a lease for CareerSource Central Florida to occupy office space at the library, generating $12,000 in revenue and potentially increasing public use of library facilities. “CareerSource has hundreds of companies lined up to give summer jobs to 17- to 19-year-olds,” said Commissioner Jim Turney. “All the programs are open right now, except the dental program, and that will be opening in a couple of weeks.”
According to Martz, city officials are monitoring state legislation that could affect local funding and services, including property and business tax proposals. The city is also awaiting federal approval for funding new law enforcement technology.
