On the agenda: Inverness City Council Meeting - 3rd Tuesday — Data Center (Oct 20)

AGENDA FOR REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
INVERNESS, FLORIDA, VALERIE THEATRE, 207 COURTHOUSE SQUARE
October 20, 2026 - 5:30 PM

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
Any person who decides to appeal any decision of the Governing Body with respect to
any matter considered at this meeting will need a record of the proceedings and, for
such purpose, may need to provide that a verbatim record of the proceeding is made,
which record includes testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based
(Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes).
Accommodation for the disabled (hearing or visually impaired, etc.) may be arranged
with advance notice of seven (7) days before the scheduled meeting, by dialing (352)
726-2611 weekdays from 8 AM to 4 PM.
ENCLOSURES*

1)

INVOCATION, PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE & ROLL CALL

2)

PLEASE SILENCE ELECTRONIC DEVICES

3)

ACCEPTANCE OF AGENDA

4)

PRE-SCHEDULED APPEARANCES / RECOGNITIONS
a)

Florida City Week Proclamation

b)

Florida City Week Mayor's Essay Contest Winners

c)

Cootertober Lamp Post Winners

5)

PUBLIC HEARINGS / WORKSHOPS

6)

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
The public is invited to speak. (Speaking time limit: Individual - 3 minutes;
Group/Organization - 5 minutes)

7)

CITY ATTORNEY REPORT

8)

CONSENT AGENDA

9)

a)

Bill Listing *

b)

Council Minutes * - 10.06.2026

CITY CLERK'S REPORT

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AGENDA FOR REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
INVERNESS, FLORIDA, VALERIE THEATRE, 207 COURTHOUSE SQUARE
October 20, 2026 - 5:30 PM
10)

CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
a)

Whispering Pines Park Local Bill - Community Outreach/Support

b)

Citrus County Chronicle Annual Advertising Agreement

c)

Project and Program Update
• Cootertober
• City Boat Ramps
• Ebikes
• Other

11)

MAYOR & COUNCIL SUBJECTS / REPORTS
a)

Mayor Plaisted

b)

Councilwoman Bega

c)

Councilwoman Hepfer

d)

Councilwoman Lizanich

e)

Councilman Davis

f)

Councilman Craig

12)

NON-SCHEDULED PUBLIC COMMENT
(Speaking time limit: Individual - 3 minutes; Group/Organization - 5 minutes)

13)

ADJOURNMENT
a)

DATES TO REMEMBER
Florida City Week
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 – Small Business Recognition
Thursday, October 22, 2026 – Community Partners Recognition
Friday, October 23, 2026 – Best Photo Contest
Saturday, October 24, 2026 – Community Service Day
Sunday, October 25, 2026 – Sonny Cooter Around Town
Online
Chili Cook-Off & Cornhole Tournament
Saturday, October 24, 2026 from 9:00am – 4:00pm
Depot Pavilion

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AGENDA FOR REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
INVERNESS, FLORIDA, VALERIE THEATRE, 207 COURTHOUSE SQUARE
October 20, 2026 - 5:30 PM
Valerie Players Presents – Wait Until Dark
Saturday, October 24 & Sunday, October 25, 2026 @ 2:00pm
Valerie Theatre
Under Siege Enterprises Presents – Misery
Friday, October 30 @ 1:30pm & 9:30pm
Saturday, October 31, 2026 @ 2:30pm & 9:30pm
Valerie Theatre
Tri-Cooter Sprint Triathlon
Saturday, October 31, 2026 from 7:30am – 9:30am
Wallace Brooks Park / State Trail
Cooterween Trick or Treat & Kids Costume Contest
Saturday, October 31, 2026 from 5:00pm – 8:00pm
Downtown Inverness
Inverness City Council Regular Meeting
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 @ 5:30pm
Valerie Theatre

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CITY OF INVERNESS
CASH REQUIREMENTS REPORT
VENDOR DOCUMENT

INVOICE

VOUCHER

DESCRIPTION

DUE DATE

TOTALS FOR AUTOZONE

DUE 09/30/27
37.00

TOTALS FOR CARMAIN, BETH A.

1,999.66

TOTALS FOR CENTRAL MATERIALS CO INC

275.15

TOTALS FOR CLYDE COSGROVE BUILDERS, INC.

80.82

TOTALS FOR COLLAZO, JAMES

175.99

TOTALS FOR GFL SOLID WASTE SOUTHEAST LLC

174.40

TOTALS FOR INFOSEND, INC.

5,407.61

TOTALS FOR KERR, RICHARD

3.18

TOTALS FOR LEE, ELI R.

60.85

TOTALS FOR LEWIS, JOAN

69.46

TOTALS FOR LOWES

128.70

TOTALS FOR QUICK SERVICE CAPITAL PARTNERS, LLC

200.37

TOTALS FOR ERIN SLEEZER

400.00

TOTALS FOR SWEEPING CORPORATION OF AMERICA
TOTALS FOR UNIFIRST CORPORATION

6,642.80
50.04

TOTALS FOR WASTE MANAGEMENT OF CENTRAL FL

39,407.39

TOTALS FOR WRIGHT EXPRESS

5,038.50

TOTALS FOR WXOF, INC

970.00
REPORT TOTALS

61,121.92

** END OF REPORT - Generated by Stacey Iddings **

Report generated: 10/15/2026 16:48
User:
siddings
Program ID:
apcshreq

Page

1

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October 6, 2026
5:30 PM
The City Council of the City of Inverness met on the above date in Regular Session at 212 W.
Main Street, with the following members present:
President Lizanich
Vice President Bega
Councilwoman Hepfer
Councilman Craig
Councilman Davis
Mayor Plaisted
Also present were City Manager Williams, City Attorney Hartley, Staff Members, and City
Clerk Jackson.
The Invocation was given by Mayor Plaisted and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by the City
Council.
ACCEPTANCE OF AGENDA
Councilwoman Hepfer motioned to accept the Agenda as presented. Seconded by Councilman
Davis. The motion carried.
PRE-SCHEDULED APPEARANCES
None
PUBLIC HEARINGS / WORKSHOP
None
OPEN PUBLIC MEETING
Karen Esty thanked the City for the 9/11 ceremony and exhibit. Spoke of the need of a
sidewalk on Independence Highway and contacted legislators and had no responses. Praised
staff’s work on the recent budget.
Sean Amidon Florida Trail Association Executive Director provided details of the trail and
becoming the new executive director. Excited to work together with the City.
Citizen stated being the President of Regency Park and concerns regarding construction in the
area and issues with debris, etc.
Citizen spoke of the Too Far booth at the bike fest and thanked the organization.
CITY ATTORNEY REPORT
None
CONSENT AGENDA
a) Bill Listing*
• Recommendation – Approval
b) Council Minutes* – 09/15/2026
• Recommendation - Approval

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Councilwoman Hepfer motioned to accept the Consent Agenda.
Councilwoman Bega. The motion carried.

Seconded by

CITY CLERK’S REPORT
None
CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
10)a) Inverness Government Center Painted Turtles Donation* with City Manager
Williams stating the City entered into an Exhibition Agreement on January 3, 2025 concerning
two sculptures created by Paul Hertensen, identified as the “City Turtle” and the “Patriotic
Turtle,” which consists of one large and one small painted cooter turtle, which have been
exhibited at the Inverness Government Center (IGC). The Creative Arts & Culture Alliance
has formally notified the City in correspondence dated August 26, 2026, wanting to conclude
this Agreement. As a result, Mr. Hertensen donated the turtles to the City and they will remain
on display at the Inverness Government Center. The City appreciates the opportunity they
provide in celebrating local creativity and making public art accessible to residents and visitors,
contributing to the efforts to enhance the historic downtown and create welcoming, memorable
public spaces. The City is grateful to Mr. Paul Hertensen for his creativity, craftsmanship, and
generosity in contributing these distinctive painted turtle sculptures to the community and will
place a plaque in his honor. The turtles have become a recognizable part of Inverness's publicart landscape. The City anticipates working with Mr. Hertensen on a future donation of painted
turtles at the corner of the Old Historic Courthouse that currently does not have a turtle
sculpture to further enhance the unique character of the historic courthouse and surrounding
downtown area. Paul Hertensen stated is has been a pleasure bringing the project forward for
people to enjoy for years to come. Spoke of the recent maintenance that was done to the
various turtles. Councilman Craig spoke the hard work put into the project and noted the
hundreds of photos that have been taken by visitors to the downtown. Councilwoman Bega
thanked him. Councilwoman Hepfer remembered when the project was first mentioned.
Councilman Davis remembered seeing the turtles in raw form. President Lizanich thanked
him for the time and effort. Mayor Plaisted kudos to Mr. Hertenson, very appreciated. No
action required.
10)b) Festival of the Arts 2026* with Program Coordinator Brown providing a presentation
and stating the Inverness Festival of the Arts is the longest running art festival in Citrus County
and has been a staple since 1971, providing a two-day festival that brings fine art to the historic
downtown square for visitors to explore and shop. This year’s Festival of the Arts will focus
on interactive and immersive art opportunities for visitor experience while offering an
alternative to the traditional juried art show. The art show offers free registration to fine art and
fine craft vendors, with a People’s Choice award rather than a juried format. The City looks
to partner with local schools and organizations to bring performances to the center stage
including live art demonstrations, entertainment, music, and interactive art throughout the
festival. Partnerships with the County will be explored to bring activities to the Historic
Courthouse. This year’s Festival will take place November 7th–8th, with Saturday’s hours
extended until 7pm, giving visitors more time to enjoy the festival and artists additional
opportunities to showcase and sell their work. In response to feedback from downtown

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businesses, road closures for event load-in will begin later in the day on Friday, preserving
access to downtown shops and restaurants for more of the business day while accommodating
event setup. Mayor Plaisted praised the nice presentation. Councilwoman Hepfer Coordinator
Brown should be applauded and noted the focus on youth is the best idea. Councilman Davis
stated the City is fortunate to have the Parks & Rec team and praised Coordinator Brown. No
action required.
10)c) Wallace Brooks Skate Park & Basketball Court* with Assistant City Manager
Marshall providing a presentation announcing an important milestone in the development of
the new skate park and basketball court at Wallace Brooks Park. Kimley-Horn has completed
construction plans allowing the move from design into the construction and procurement
phase. A more cost-effective approach, by dividing the project into specialized components,
a qualified contractor for the site construction work, including the concrete slabs, sidewalks,
fencing, and related improvements will be used and once the concrete infrastructure is
complete, staff would procure the specialized recreational components utilizing existing
competitive bid cooperative or piggyback contracts where available. For the basketball court,
staff are evaluating modular tile playing surfaces such as VersaCourt or a comparable system,
using Sourcewell or similar cooperative/piggyback contract pricing. Staff intends to follow the
same approach for the skate park by obtaining competitively established contract pricing for
the skate park apparatus and equipment rather than incorporating those specialized items into
a traditional general construction bid. By separating the civil/concrete work from the
specialized basketball and skate park equipment provides an opportunity to reduce contractor
markups and overall project costs while still delivering the approximately 5,000 square foot
basketball court and 5,000 square foot skate park envisioned for Wallace Brooks Park.
Councilman Craig confirmed the companies would work together and questioned the guards
on select ramps. Councilwoman Bega questioned the fence height and stated it all looks very
nice. Mayor Plaisted spoke of the material of the ramps with the City’s option being a wood
composite that is guaranteed. Councilman Davis encouraged using local contractors. Council
consensus direction was for staff to proceed as presented.
10)d) Inverness Government Center HVAC Building Automation System* with I.T.
Director Johnston stating the original HVAC controls at the Inverness Government Center
were installed in 2006 and has reached the end of its functional life cycle. Mainstream technical
support has been officially discontinued, and replacement parts have become increasingly
obsolete and difficult to obtain. Pricing from EMCOR Services–Integrated Solutions for the
purchase and installation of the Trane Tracer Building Automation System has been
determined using the Lake County School Board's competitively solicited ITB #25-0219-ITBKF494, Cooling and Heating Service, Repair and Replacement, awarded to Mechanical
Services of Central Florida, Inc. The proposed pricing of $36,192 includes site planning, BAS
programming and graphics, installation, travel/material delivery, project management, followup, and final verification in concert with a one-year manufacturer's parts warranty and a 90day labor warranty on workmanship. Councilwoman Bega motioned to approve the
purchase of the Trane Tracer Building Automation System upgrade from EMCOR
Services – Integrated Solutions as presented for $36,192.00 utilizing the applicable

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piggyback procurement agreement. Seconded by Councilwoman Hepfer. The motion
carried.
10)e) Inverness Government Center Data Center AC Replacement* with I.T. Director
Johnston noting the Inverness Government Center data center HVAC cassette/ductless split
system was put into service in 2006 and has reached its useful end of life and needs to be
replaced. Staff has obtained favorable pricing from EMCOR Services MSI – Mechanical
Services for the removal of the existing rooftop condensing unit and ceiling-mounted cassette
air handler and installation of a new matched outdoor condensing unit and BAS-ready ceilingmounted cassette-style air handler. This includes refrigerant recovery, equipment removal,
crane services, installation of the replacement equipment, flushing and testing of the existing
refrigerant line set, startup and commissioning, and configuration of the system for operation
through the existing local wall controller. The proposed price of $24,911.00 includes a oneyear manufacturer warranty on parts and a 90- day MSI workmanship warranty for labor and
workmanship included within the contract. The pricing is being obtained using a piggyback
via the Lake County School Board's Cooling & Heating Service, Repair & Replacement
contract, ITB #25-0219-ITB-KF494, awarded to Mechanical Services of Central Florida, Inc.
Councilwoman Bega motioned to approve the purchase and replacement of the existing
cassette/ductless split HVAC system from EMCOR Services MSI – Mechanical Services,
utilizing the Lake County School Board's contract for $24,911 and authorize the City
Manager to execute the necessary documents. Seconded by Councilwoman Hepfer. The
motion carried.
10)f)

Project/Program Updates with City Manager Williams (Verbal)
• Cootertober presentation of the first week recap of various events with record
attendance.
• Public Art Project near the hospital will be put out for artist review.
• I.T. Smith and Events Specialist Spittlehouse provided a presentation of the
City website refresh. A modern experience for viewers with zero cost.
Highlighted various changes that will go live tomorrow.
• Lt. Fischer provided an e-bike update and spoke of education, visiting schools,
students, and parents. Provided a video by Sheriff Vincent. Introduced Lt.
Blair transitioning to Inverness and Lt. Fischer to Crystal River. Lt. Blair gave
a brief history of 23 years with the CCSO and is excited to be part of the City.

COUNCIL/MAYOR SUBJECTS
Mayor Plaisted stated this was another great meeting. Commented on Cootertober and the
Valerie Theatre events. Inverness has so many amenities and events.
Councilman Craig thanked the staff for being so creative.
Councilwoman Hepfer agreed with the previous comments. Commented on the great staff and
Lt. Fischer will be missed. Welcome to Lt. Blair.
Councilwoman Bega thanked Lt. Fischer for 3 ½ years of service to the City and noted various
upcoming events at the Valerie Theatre.
Councilman Davis thanked Lt. Fischer and wished him good luck. Spoke of being blessed
with great weather during recent events.

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Council President Lizanich thanked Lt. Fischer and hopes he comes back to visit. Provided
highlights of the CCCCF board meeting. Excited for the skate park.
CITIZENS NOT ON AGENDA
Debbie Wheatley thanked the City for all they do and welcomed Lt. Blair, thanked Lt. Fischer,
and thanked staff for Cootertober. Excited for the painted turtles, skate park, etc.
Citizen spoke of the impressive new entrance at Whispering Pines Park.
Meeting adjourned at 6:50 p.m.

________________________________
City Clerk

__________________________________
Council President

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Agenda Memorandum - City of Inverness
October 20, 2026
TO:

Elected Officials

FROM:

Eric Williams, City Manager

SUBJECT:

Whispering Pines Park Local Bill - Community Outreach/Support

CC:

Aidan Marshall, Assistant City Manager, Susan Jackson, City Clerk

Enclosures:

1.

WPP Support

Over the years, there have been numerous discussions about the future of Whispering Pines
Park and how best to preserve and improve this longstanding community landmark. The park has
welcomed generations of families for youth sports, outdoor recreation, and community programs.
While the City operates and maintains the park, the land remains owned by the State of Florida
and leased to the City.
The City believes pursuing a local legislative bill to transfer ownership to Inverness is the best
pathway forward. Ownership would provide greater certainty as we plan for the park’s future, help
protect public investment, and strengthen our ability to seek grants and other funding for aging
facilities and future improvements.
To help move this effort forward, the City has launched a public outreach campaign inviting
residents, park users, and community organizations to share their support. The City’s website
provides a simple form to submit a letter of support, and comments may also be emailed to
[email protected]. A flyer with a QR code will be placed throughout the City and on signs at
events in order to direct individuals to the support form on the website. This is an opportunity for
the community to help preserve a place that means so much to Inverness while supporting its
future for generations to come.
Recommended Action:
1. Allow staff to present
If you wish to discuss this further, please contact me at your convenience.
Eric C. Williams
City Manager

Page 10 of 15

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Agenda Memorandum - City of Inverness
October 20, 2026
TO:

Elected Officials

FROM:

Eric Williams, City Manager

SUBJECT:

Citrus County Chronicle Annual Advertising Agreement

CC:

Susan Jackson, City Clerk, Alexis Koter, Finance Director, Aidan Marshall,
Assistant City Manager, Woody Worley, Parks & Recreation Director

Enclosures:

1.

2026 -2027 - city of inv advertising agreement.pdf (2)

On May 3, 2022, Council was presented with a pilot program for utilizing the Citrus County
Chronicle for the City's advertising needs. The program was successful and therefore, the City
has continued the partnership on an annual basis since that time.
The partnership has had a positive impact on event promotion. It is recommended that the City
continue in this partnership with the Chronicle and approve this year's advertising agreement as
presented. The agreement is structured in an à la carte pricing of; $5,714 for major events, $1,800
for minor events, and $2,600 for reoccurring monthly events. This provides the City flexibility to
conduct event promotion throughout the year.
Recommended Action 1. Allow Staff to Present
2. Motion and second to approve the Chronicle-Paxton Media Group's advertising
agreement as presented and allow the City Manager to execute the document
3. Deliberate the matter
4. Vote on the matter.
If you wish to discuss this further, please contact me at your convenience.
Eric C. Williams

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Digital Advertising

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City of Inverness Marketing Proposal - Addendum A
10/1/2026 - 9/30/2027
Contract based on 3 Major events at $5,714 each. 12 months of reoccurring events at $2,600 each from Oct 1,
2026 though Sept 30, 2027. Minor events as needed at $1,800.

Major Events

Number of Runs

Size

2-3 per event

Digital

Chronicle Digital Calendar

Per Event

Digital

Digital Ads promoting event

100K Impressions

Various

Event Ads: Citrus County Chronicle

4

1/2 page

Event Ads: Greenbelt & Pinnacle

2

1/2 page

Event Ads: Weekly Newspapers

4

1/2 page

Number of Runs

Size

50K Impressions

Various

Chronicle Digital Calendar

Per Event

Digital

Facebook Post

1 per event

Digital

Event Ads: Citrus County Chronicle

4

1/4 page

Event Ads: Levy, Tri-County, Riverland, Marion

1 per newspaper

1/4 page

Event Ads: Greenbelt & Pinnacle

2

1/4 page

Number of Runs

Size

48

4 columns x 8 inches

Event Ads: Greenbelt & Pinnacle

24

4 columns x 8 inches

Event Ads: Levy, Tri-County, Riverland, Marion

12

4 columns x 8 inches (3)

What's Happening Inverness Spadea

4

Spadea

Targeted Email Newsletter Accompanying Spadea

4

32,500 emails

Facebook Posts

Minor Events

Digital Ads promoting event

Reoccurring Events

Event calendar in print, full color each Saturday

In addition to the Facebook posts during the months of the Spadea, the stories of the Spadea are found on the Citrus County
Chronicle websitewith over 300,000 website users a month having access to the content.

City of Inverness:
Chronicle:

________________________
________________________

Date:
Date:

________________
________________

Page 14 of 15

Agenda Memorandum - City of Inverness
October 20, 2026
TO:

Elected Officials

FROM:
SUBJECT:

Project and Program Update
• Cootertober
• City Boat Ramps
• Ebikes
• Other

CC:
Enclosures:

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