Ocoee leaders consider safety upgrades to gated communities

By Zak Kerr
| 8:20 a.m. February 12, 2015

West Orange Times & Observer
News

OCOEE — The Ocoee City Commission held the first reading of an ordinance Feb. 3 that would amend the city’s code pertaining to access provisions for gated communities.

This proposed ordinance would ensure new subdivisions and current subdivisions with emergency vehicle access systems that those systems would be up to date and meet the best standards in new development, within the field of emergency vehicle access.

The second reading and public hearing for this ordinance are scheduled for the next regular commission meeting, 7:15 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17.

In its unanimously passed consent agenda, the commission approved fuel-monitoring system upgrades, reappointments to the Planning and Zoning Commission, a reappointment to the Community Grant Review Board and an increased project budget to upgrade the City Commission Chambers broadcast system.

The fuel-monitoring system from TRAK Engineering has been in use for at least 10 years and performed satisfactorily, but it is obsolete, according to Public Works staff. TRAK will upgrade the system for $33,707.

Jim Sills and Don Marcotte received reappointment to the Planning and Zoning Commission following expiration of their current terms this month. Glenda Dunn’s term also expires this month, but she did not seek reappointment, leaving a vacant spot on the board.

Keith Carrington’s two-year term on the Community Grant Review Board expires next month, but the commission reappointed him for another two years.

Staff received $15,000 more for upgrades to the City Commission Chambers broadcast system, putting the maximum total at $45,000. Among upgrades are replaced podium electronics; new large, high-definition monitors on the chambers’ side walls for commissioners’ viewing; and various changes to the broadcast booth.

IN OTHER NEWS

• Mayor S. Scott Vandergrift issued proclamations in recognition and commemoration of Black History Month in February and Crossing Guard Appreciation Week Feb. 6 to 13.

• Fire Lt. James Kelly of Ocoee Professional Fire Fighters Local 3623, presented a check of $3,250 to BASE Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation.

• Jack Vinson, left, presented trophies to 2014 Ocoee Tennis Players of the Year Luke Lence, of Ocoee High School, and Madison Fitch, of Dr. Phillips High School.

Contact Zak Kerr at [email protected].