By Angelina Falco
Herald Intern
Casselberry City held a city commission meeting on Feb. 9 and all items at this meeting were passed unanimously. They began with a proclamation stating that February 2026 will be formally recognized as Black History Month by the City of Casselberry. Mayor Henson noted that Alton Williams, Chairman and Treasurer of the Evergreen Cemetery Trustees, was unable to attend the city commission meeting to accept the proclamation.
Consent Agenda
A legal service invoice request of $24,267.75 for Garganese, Weiss, D'Agresta & Salzman, P.A.
City Attorney Services was unanimously approved. This invoice is for City Attorney Services for the month of January 2026 and this budget will be available in the budget account.
Public Hearings
During the second reading of Ordinance 26-1628, the commission amended various parts of Chapter 86, which covers utilities. The ordinance explains new sewer, water, and reclaimed water fees for residential, commercial, and multifamily customers, as well as annual rate adjustments going forward. The updates also included revised annexation requirements for properties outside city limits seeking water and sewer services.
Consultant Trevor McCarthy presented to the city the updated Water, Wastewater, and Reclaimed Water Rate Study. He noted a water and wastewater rate increase from April 1 to Sept. 30, 2026, will be a 3.25% increase. For fiscal years 2027 to 2030, it will be an annual 7.25% increase. Reclaimed water rates will increase 6.20% from April 1 to Sept. 30 2026, and 12.10% increase annually from 2027 to 2030.
Mark Hardin, an HOA president, requested more information regarding the changes proposed in the ordinance relating to annexation. Hardin noted that his community had some issues with annexation petitions in 2012. Mayor Henson noted that the changes address new developments only.
Felicia Verbrycke inquired if the city has a plan for customers who are on a fixed income, and will be unable to afford the new proposed rates. Mayor Henson acknowledged Verbrycke's concern and said, “unfortunately the cost of services and goods are increasing everywhere.” Mayor Henson stated that the rate increases were needed to maintain the utility infrastructure. Mayor Henson further stated the City monitors the inflation rate and adjusts or delays increases accordingly. No one else came forward. Vice Mayor Aramendia moved to adopt Ordinance 26-1628 and the motion was carried unanimously.
The rezoning of 1.04 acres located at 380 SR 436 under Ordinance 26-1629 was unanimously approved under the condition that it shall not become effective or recorded in the Official Records of Seminole County until an executed Consent and Joinder of Mortgage is received. The ordinance included an amended and restated Planned Unit Development agreement and concept plan for Mecato’s Cafe and Bakery.
Other Items
With a vacancy on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, Karen Nolan was unanimously appointed to the board, filling an unexpired term effective through Jan. 31, 2027.
Citizens Comments
Michael Don Johnson announced that he was running for Congressional District 7 for the Republican candidate seat. He voiced concerns regarding the current individual serving in that seat, Cory Mills.
