On the agenda: Live Oak Suwannee County Board of County Commissioners — AI data center (Jun 2)

SUWANNEE COUNTY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
101 WHITE AVENUE SOUTHEAST
LIVE OAK, FLORIDA 32064
TENTATIVE AGENDA FOR JUNE 2, 2026 AT 5:30 PM

Invocation
Pledge to American Flag
ATTENTION:
● The Board may add additional items to this agenda.
● Affirmative action on any item includes authorization of the Chairman’s or designee’s signature
on all associated documents.
● Individual speakers from the audience will be allowed three (3) minutes to speak following
recognition by the Chairman and must speak from the podium. Speakers may only make one
(1) trip to the podium to address concerns regarding all items on the consent agenda. (Filling
out of Comment Card required, and forward to Chairman or County Administrator.)
● Groups or factions representing a position on a proposition or issues are required to select a
single representative or spokesperson. The designated representative shall identify the group
or faction which (s)he represents and the issues on which (s)he is going to speak. After
identification of the group and issues, the Chairman shall ask those at the meeting to raise their
hands if (1) they are a member of the group or faction and (2) they wish the designated
representative to speak on behalf of the group or faction. A minimum of two members of the
audience (not including the designated speaker) must raise their hand at the call of the
Chairman. If enough people do not raise their hands, the designated speaker shall be limited to
the speaking time allowed to individuals. If the requisite number of people raise their hands,
the designated speaker will be allowed to speak for seven (7) minutes following recognition by
the Chairman and must speak from the podium. Speakers may only make one (1) trip to the
podium to address concerns regarding all items on the agenda. (Filling out of Comment Card
required, and forward to Chairman or County Administrator.)
● For general updates or questions regarding County business, contact the County Administrator
during regular business hours at (386) 364-3400.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
1.

May 19, 2026 Regular Meeting

PUBLIC CONCERNS AND COMMENTS:
PROCLAMATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS:
CONSENT:
2.

Approval of payment of processed invoices.

Page 1 of 44

3.

Approval of a credit card for Emergency Management with a limit of $5,000.

4.

Approval of a credit card for Development Services with a limit of $5,000.

5.

Approval of the reappointment of Mr. Robert Ford to serve on the Live Oak, Suwannee
County Recreation Board.

6.

Appoint Dorothy Gischel to the Suwannee County Historical Commission to complete an
open position with a term that expires September 30, 2027

7.

Approval to hold Budget Workshops on Wednesday, August 5, and Thursday, August 6,
2026, beginning at 9:00 a.m. each day. The workshops will be held at the Judicial Annex
Building, 218 Parshley Street SW, Live Oak, FL.

8.

Approval of Change Order No. 1 with Anderson Columbia Co., Inc. for work associated
with CR250 from 193rd Road to SR 51 resurfacing project. Budget impact: $157,686.00, to
be funded by FDOT.

9.

Approval of a modification to the Music Construction agreement regarding the electrical
service supporting the Wastewater Treatment Plant project.

TIME-SPECIFIC ITEMS:
10. At 5:35 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the matter can be heard, hold a public hearing to
consider Special Permit Request No. SP-26-06-01 by Brant Ratcliffe authorized agent for
property owner David B. and Carl Thomas, requesting a Special Permit under Section
14.11 of the Suwannee County Land Development Regulations for an essential service
(240 feet self-support communications tower and associated equipment) on property zoned
Agriculture-1 (A-1). (Ron Meeks, Development Services Director)
CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS ITEMS:
STAFF ITEMS:
COMMISSIONERS ITEMS:
COUNTY ATTORNEY ITEMS:
CONSULTANT ITEMS:
GENERAL BUSINESS:
11. Additional Agenda Items - Chairman calls for additional items.
ADMINISTRATOR'S COMMENTS AND INFORMATION:
BOARD MEMBERS INQUIRIES, REQUESTS, AND COMMENTS:

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Book 74, Page ??

May 19, 2026
Regular Board Meeting
Live Oak City Hall
Live Oak, Florida

5:30 p.m.
The Suwannee County Board of County Commissioners met on the above date and time for a
regular meeting, and the following were present: Chairman Franklin White; Commissioner Don Hale;
Commissioner Clyde Fleming; Commissioner Travis Land; and Commissioner Leo Mobley. Deputy Clerk
Eric Musgrove, County Attorney Adam Morrison, and County Administrator Jason Furry were also present.
Chairman White called the meeting to order at 5:32 p.m. The invocation and the Pledge of
Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America were held.
MINUTES:
The first item on the agenda was approval of the May 5, 2026 Regular meeting minutes.
Deputy Clerk Musgrove noted a monetary correction regarding the mower approval.
Commissioner Hale moved to approve the minutes of the May 5, 2026 Regular meeting, as
corrected. Commissioner Mobley seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.
Chairman White noted that consent agenda item fourteen had been pulled from the agenda for
discussion at a later date.
It being 5:35 p.m., Chairman White moved to Time-Specific Items.
TIME-SPECIFIC ITEMS:
The fifteenth item on the agenda was at 5:35 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter could be
heard, to hold a public hearing to consider adoption of an ordinance pertaining to application CPA 26-01
by Suwannee County, to amend the Future Land Use for a parcel of land from Agriculture-1 to Industrial.
Chairman White opened the public hearings.
Attorney Morrison swore in all those wishing to speak.

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Book 74, Page ??

May 19, 2026
Regular Board Meeting
Live Oak City Hall
Live Oak, Florida

Development Services Director Ron Meeks stated he would discuss this item and the next
together, since one approval or denial affected the other. He then discussed the application for rezoning
in detail, noting that the 30-acre parcel to be rezoned was owned by the County and located at the Catalyst
Site on the eastern side of 169th. It was originally intended to be used as a spray field for the wastewater
treatment plant but now would be used by an industrial business. The file was submitted into the record.
Chairman White opened the floor to public comments. There being none, the floor was closed.
Commissioner Mobley moved to approve an ordinance pertaining to application CPA 26-01 by
Suwannee County, to amend the Future Land Use for a parcel of land from Agriculture-1 to Industrial.
Commissioner Fleming seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. (Ordinance No. 2026-10)
The sixteenth item on the agenda was at 5:35 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter could be
heard, to hold a public hearing to consider adoption of an ordinance for application LDR 26-01 by
Suwannee County, to amend the Official Zoning Atlas for a parcel of land from Agriculture-1 to Industrial.
Commissioner Land moved to approve an ordinance for application LDR 26-01 by Suwannee
County, to amend the Official Zoning Atlas for a parcel of land from Agriculture-1 to Industrial.
Commissioner Mobley seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. (Ordinance No. 2026-11)
The seventeenth item on the agenda was at 5:35 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter could
be heard, to hold a public hearing to consider adoption of an ordinance for application CPA 26-02 by
Russell and Vickie DePratter, to amend the Future Land Use for a parcel of land from Agriculture-1 to
Industrial.
Director Meeks stated that he would discuss this application along with the next and noted that
they were related to the previous two applications. The 64.5-acre property owned by the DePratters
adjoined the 30 acres previously discussed and would be used by the same company. The file was
admitted into the record.

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Book 74, Page ??

May 19, 2026
Regular Board Meeting
Live Oak City Hall
Live Oak, Florida

Chairman White opened the floor to public comments. There being none, the floor was closed.
Commissioner Fleming moved to approve an ordinance for application CPA 26-02 by Russell and
Vickie DePratter, to amend the Future Land Use for a parcel of land from Agriculture-1 to Industrial.
Commissioner Land seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. (Ordinance No. 2026-12)
The eighteenth item on the agenda was at 5:35 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter could
be heard, to hold a public hearing to consider the adoption of an ordinance for application LDR 26-02 by
Russell and Vickie DePratter, to amend the Official Zoning Atlas for a parcel of land from Agriculture-1 to
Industrial.
Commissioner Land moved to approve an ordinance for application LDR 26-02 by Russell and
Vickie DePratter, to amend the Official Zoning Atlas for a parcel of land from Agriculture-1 to Industrial.
Commissioner Mobley seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. (Ordinance No. 2026-13)
The nineteenth item on the agenda was at 5:35 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter could
be heard, to hold a public hearing to consider Special Temporary Use Permit #SPTU 26-04-01 by TNT
Fireworks to hold a firework tent sale from June 24, 2026, through July 5, 2026.
Director Meeks discussed the application, noting the details were the same as previous years, and
then admitted the file into the record.
Chairman White opened the floor to public comments.
Mrs. Cheryl Pruitt, 125 2nd Street Northwest, Live Oak, expressed concerns with fireworks going
off for many hours and how it upsets animals and some people.
There being no further comments, the floor was closed.
Commissioner Hale moved to approve Special Temporary Use Permit #SPTU 26-04-01 by TNT
Fireworks to hold a firework tent sale from June 24, 2026, through July 5, 2026. Commissioner Land
seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. (Resolution No. 2026-34)

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Book 74, Page ??

May 19, 2026
Regular Board Meeting
Live Oak City Hall
Live Oak, Florida

Commissioner Land and other Commissioners understood Mrs. Pruitt’s concerns and
recommended that citizens be mindful of their neighbors during the celebrations.
Chairman White closed the public hearings and returned to public comments.
PUBLIC CONCERNS AND COMMENTS:
Mr. Moses Clepper, 14581 102nd Path, Live Oak, asked about an update on the Cherry Bekaert
uudit results and was concerned about the 26 FEMA trailers allegedly still missing from the audit. Mr.
Clepper suggested a 12-month moratorium on AI data centers to determine their detrimental effects and
then discussed concerns with several items in the agenda.
PROCLAMATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS:
There were none.
CONSENT:
Item fourteen was pulled for a later date and items six and twelve were pulled for discussion.
The second on the agenda was approval of payment of $5,659,249.59 in processed invoices.
The third on the agenda was acceptance of E911 Rural County Grant in the amount of $81,928.18,
including the Chairman’s signature, and consent to process invoices totaling the same, to AK Associates
and INdigital for the yearly maintenance of the E911 System. (Agreement No. 2026-74)
The fourth item on the agenda was approval to hold the June 2, 2026, regularly scheduled Board
meeting at Live Oak City Hall, 101 White Avenue S.E., Live Oak, FL 32064, at 5:30 p.m.
The fifth item on the agenda was approval of an amended resolution authorizing staff to apply
for the Florida Boating Improvement Grant (see Resolution No. 2026-25). (Resolution No. 2026-25-01)

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Book 74, Page ??

May 19, 2026
Regular Board Meeting
Live Oak City Hall
Live Oak, Florida

The sixth item on the agenda was renewal of an interlocal agreement with the Town of Branford
and the City of Live Oak to renew the distribution of gas tax proceeds.
This item was pulled for discussion.
The seventh item on the agenda was approval of a one-year lease extension with Ring Power
Corporation, for CAT 140GC Motor Grader in the annual amount of $66,950. Budgeted item. (Agreement
No. 2024-35-01)
The eighth item on the agenda was approval of Change Order No. 6 (with Blackwater
Construction) for $87,073.83 to meet the Federal Davis-Bacon Prevailing Wage requirements on the CV
Building project (FL Commerce CDBG Grant 22CV-S11H2482), pending FL Commerce review and approval.
(Agreement No. 2025-61-06)
The ninth item on the agenda was award of and authorization for the Chairman to execute a
contract for Bid No. 2026-05 ITB Construction of Livestock Building to FSV Construction Company, pending
County Attorney review (Bids were opened March 9, 2026). (Agreement No. 2026-75)
The tenth item on the agenda was award of and authorization for the Chairman to execute a
contract for Bid No. 2026-08 ITB Pineview Elementary Generator Installation to J. Phillips Electric, Inc.,
pending County Attorney review (Bids were opened April 13, 2026). (Agreement No. 2026-76)
The eleventh item on the agenda was renewal of Purchase, Installation, and Maintenance Service
Contract with AK associates (Suwannee County Agreement No. 2019-60). (Agreement No. 2019-60-02)
The twelfth item on the agenda was (approval of a resolution) authorizing the Supervisor of
Elections to place the half-cent sales surtax to benefit Suwannee County Schools on the ballot as
authorized by Suwannee County School Board Resolution 2026-07-R.
This item was pulled for discussion.

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Book 74, Page ??

May 19, 2026
Regular Board Meeting
Live Oak City Hall
Live Oak, Florida

The thirteenth item on the agenda was approval of Supplemental Agreement No. 1 with the
Florida Department of Transportation for additional funds in the amount of $108,047.00 for resurfacing
of CR 250 from 193rd Road to SR 51 and adoption of the enabling resolution. (Agreement No. 2024-96-01
and Resolution No. 2026-35)
The fourteenth item on the agenda was approval of Change Order No. 1 with Anderson Columbia
Co., Inc. for work associated with the CR 250 from 193rd Road to SR 51 resurfacing project. Budget impact:
$157,686.00, to be funded by FDOT.
This item was pulled for discussion at a later date.
Commissioner Fleming moved to approve consent items 2-5, 7-11, and 13. Commissioner
Hale seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.
The sixth item on the agenda was renewal of an interlocal agreement with the Town of Branford
and the City of Live Oak to renew the distribution of gas tax proceeds.
Commissioner Land noted that the distribution had been determined by a previous Board.
Attorney Morrison discussed the default process in Statutes to disburse gas tax proceeds, which
was based upon a pro rata share of road projects, or an interlocal agreement could be approved for a
different rate (which has been done since 2014). This was another short-term renewal to allow the parties
to address any potential adjustments.
Commissioner Land commented on the City’s discussion at their latest meeting and tabling of
approval of the interlocal agreement. He suggested that the City work with the County to find an
equitable amount but was concerned with the City’s desire that the taxes be disbursed according to where
the taxes were collected, not where the road projects were located.
Chairman White noted that the City Manager had contacted him about the issue, and a potential
workshop was discussed.

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Book 74, Page ??

May 19, 2026
Regular Board Meeting
Live Oak City Hall
Live Oak, Florida

Discussion continued on having a meeting with the City and that the vast majority of roads were
located within the County.
County Attorney Morrison noted that renewing the agreement would allow time for a workshop
and for each entity to make plans for the future.
Commissioner Land moved to renew an interlocal agreement with the Town of Branford and
the City of Live Oak to renew the distribution of gas tax proceeds. Commissioner Mobley seconded,
and the motion carried unanimously. (Agreement No. 2025-79-01)
The twelfth item on the agenda was (approval of a resolution) authorizing the Supervisor of
Elections to place the half-cent sales surtax to benefit Suwannee County Schools on the ballot as
authorized by Suwannee County School Board Resolution 2026-07-R.
County Attorney Morrison discussed reasons for the proposal from the School Board, noting that
Statutes required the County Commission to authorize the Supervisor of Elections to put it on the ballot.
The Board noted that the citizens would make the ultimate decision as to whether or not to assess
the tax, not the School Board or the County Commission.
Commissioner Hale moved to approve a resolution authorizing the Supervisor of Elections to
place the half-cent sales surtax to benefit Suwannee County Schools on the ballot as authorized by
Suwannee County School Board Resolution 2026-07-R. Commissioner Land seconded, and the motion
carried unanimously. (Resolution No. 2026-36)
CONSITUTIONAL OFFICERS ITEMS:
There were none.
COMMISSIONERS ITEMS:

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Book 74, Page ??

May 19, 2026
Regular Board Meeting
Live Oak City Hall
Live Oak, Florida

Chairman White updated the Board on the North Florida Water Utilities Board, noting that he was
unhappy with Columbia County’s decision to sell their new wastewater plant at the mega-industrial site
to the City of Lake City without coming before the Utilities Board. He noted that there was a better process
for utilities than before the Utilities Board was set up, and that ultimately it was still the best way forward.
The Board was not happy with the decision of Columbia County but agreed the Utilities Board was
probably the best avenue forward.
Chairman White asked for a vote of confidence regarding the Utilities Board, noting that Columbia
County would be doing the same at their next meeting.
Commissioner Fleming noted that he had some concerns, especially after the loss of the hospital
in Live Oak over a dozen years ago and asked that the Chairman and County Administrator look into
bringing back full hospital facilities.
Discussion continued on Columbia County’s decision to sell a wastewater treatment plant to Lake
City and that legally, Columbia County still owned the plant and could therefore sell it.
Mr. Wayne Hannaka, 11883 93rd Road, expressed concerns with minutes of the Utilities Board not
really giving a good representation of what happened in the meetings, and since the meetings were not
videoed, it was difficult to determine what happened. He discussed financial concerns with the long-term
viability of the Utilities Board along with its administrator.
Commissioner Land moved to give a vote of confidence to the North Florida Water Utilities
Board and continue moving forward with it. Commissioner Hale seconded, and the motion carried
unanimously.
Mr. Clepper was thankful for Suwannee County’s representation on the Utilities Board and that
they had spoken up against the sale without bringing it before the Utilities Board. He discussed the

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Book 74, Page ??

May 19, 2026
Regular Board Meeting
Live Oak City Hall
Live Oak, Florida

original intent of the Utilities Board was to draw in more users to help spread the expenses, which had
not yet happened.
Chairman White stated that the Utilities Director had been reaching out to other entities, but
utilities management work was expensive.
COUNTY ATTORNEY ITEMS:
County Attorney Morrison noted that a quiet title action and lawsuit from Mrs. Van Der Berg had
been resolved on the County’s behalf or dismissed.
County Attorney Morrison discussed the deeding of an abandoned road right-of-way to Mr. Shilpa
Mhatre, Trustee, in Sections 15 and 16 in Township 2 South, Range 16 East off CR 136, to be made part of
Parcel ID # 16-02S-15E-00149-000000/15-02S-15E-00126-001000.
Commissioner Land moved to deed an abandoned road right-of-way to Mr. Shilpa Mhatre,
Trustee, in Sections 15 and 16 in Township 2 South, Range 16 East off CR 136, to be made part of Parcel
ID # 16-02S-15E-00149-000000/15-02S-15E-00126-001000. Commissioner Mobley seconded, and the
motion carried unanimously.
County Attorney Morrison discussed the anonymous monetary donation of a Suwannee County
citizen that had been mentioned in previous meetings. The donor requested: 1) that the funds not be
split into several projects but used for one project; 2) the project be permanent, or as close to permanent
as possible; and 3) that it be used for the enjoyment of the public (not an administrative building, etc.).
Commissioner Land moved to accept the conditions of the anonymous donor. Commissioner
Fleming seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.
County Attorney Morrison recommended that the funds be placed in Ameris Bank in a CD pending
the Board’s decision on a project on which to use the funds. He therefore needed Board action to open

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Book 74, Page ??

May 19, 2026
Regular Board Meeting
Live Oak City Hall
Live Oak, Florida

an account in Ameris Bank, to authorize Clerk of Court Barry Baker as comptroller to be signatory and
controller of the account, and to administer the funds as he would any other County funds.
Brief discussion ensued on the matter and that using Ameris Bank had been the donor’s desire.
Commissioner Hale moved to open a CD account in Ameris Bank, authorize Clerk of Court Barry
Baker as comptroller to be signatory and controller of the account, and to administer the funds as he
would any other County funds. Commissioner Land seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.
County Attorney Morrison read a letter to be sent to the donor honoring his wishes and asked for
approval to send it.
Commissioner Land moved to authorize and sign a letter to the anonymous donor honoring his
wishes. Commissioner Mobley seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.
County Attorney Morrison noted that a question had arisen regarding Board committee
assignments since the death of Commissioner Maurice Perkins, and although Commissioner Fleming had
unofficially stepped into those committees, official Board approval was needed.
Commissioner Hale noted that he had been filling in for one or two of the committees and asked
if the Board wished for him to continue.
Chairman White assigned Commissioner Fleming to all committees previously assigned to the
late Commissioner Perkins other than North Florida Regional Planning Council until elections were held.
STAFF ITEMS:
Public Safety Director Dan Miller noted that he had temporarily lifted the burn ban due to several
days of rain, although the Division of Forestry was continuing its ban. He was fine continuing without the
ban for now and that it could be reviewed at the next meeting.

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Book 74, Page ??

May 19, 2026
Regular Board Meeting
Live Oak City Hall
Live Oak, Florida

Commissioner Mobley moved to confirm the lifting of the burn ban. Commissioner Fleming
seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. (Resolution No. 2026-32-02)
Chief Miller noted that a statewide fire magazine, Fire Service, had Suwannee County Fire Rescue
on the cover as well as an article about it.
Mr. Rusty DePratter thanked the Board and Fire Rescue for their service and reminded the public
that it was still dry in the area and to be careful.
The Board recommended common sense with fires.
Public Works Director Brenda Flanagan asked for direction regarding some issues noted by the
Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) that could not be corrected by Public Works for the 164th
Street Bridge, which would cost approximately $1 million.
Mr. Jimmy Pitman, Pitman Engineering, discussed the corrective actions required, noting that the
bridge was a historic one built by Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) I in 1940 and was similar to the 180th
Street Bridge that had been recently replaced. The Board could close the bridge or repair/replace the
bridge for between $1 million and $8 million, depending upon which option was chosen.
Discussion ensued on options and that the State would probably not contribute funding, despite
its historic nature. It was noted that the current daily traffic was only 20 vehicles, and there were
alternative routes close by if the bridge was closed.
Mr. Pitman noted that there were other bridges with which FDOT had found issues, some of which
were the fault of FDOT’s design itself.
Chairman White discussed cheaper alternatives to repairing or replacing the 164th Street Bridge.
The Board directed Public Works Director Flanagan and Mr. Pitman to review options with the
State and to come back with a task order and options at the next meeting.

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Book 74, Page ??

May 19, 2026
Regular Board Meeting
Live Oak City Hall
Live Oak, Florida

Mr. Marcus Durham, Maintenance Director, updated the Board on various projects. The
Courthouse windows were on a punch list for final trim out, the Courthouse dome replacement was
underway and should be completed in 2-3 months, the Dowling Park Library air conditioning replacement
was moving forward, the Economic Development Building renovations were underway, the Public Works
Building reroofing was completed, air ducting replaced, and windows replaced and insulated, the
Courthouse elevator project was complete and the damaged floor was in the process of being replaced,
and he discussed roofing damage to the Passenger Depot from Hurricane Helene. O’Neal Roofing found
some antique terra cotta tiles suitable for use, saving some $50,000 for a total cost of around $25,000.
CONSULTANT ITEMS:
There were none.
GENERAL BUSINESS:
The twentieth item on the agenda was additional agenda items.
There were two:
The first additional agenda item was to discuss, with possible Board action, permanently lifting
or reinstating the burn ban.
This item was discussed under County Attorney Items.
The second additional agenda item was approval of an Addendum to Contract with Nelson and
Company for the removal and replacement of the Dowling Park HVAC system. Budget impact: $115,000,
currently allocated in the library’s budget.
Commissioner Land moved to approve an Addendum to Contract with Nelson and Company for
the removal and replacement of the Dowling Park HVAC system. Budget impact: $115,000, currently

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Book 74, Page ??

May 19, 2026
Regular Board Meeting
Live Oak City Hall
Live Oak, Florida

allocated in the library’s budget. Commissioner Hale seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.
(Agreement No. 2026-77)
ADMINISTRATOR’S COMMENTS AND INFORMATION:
Administrator Furry updated on an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) grant that was part of a
$3.1 million total grant and that the new EOC was intended to be placed on the 100-acre property recently
purchased by the Board on US 129 South. He also noted Emergency Management Director Sharon Hingson
was busy reaching out to partners, that budget discussions would begin soon, funding had been requested
from various Federal agencies, State appropriations were underway in special session, and that
community center construction was underway.
Discussion ensued on the September completion date for the Branford Community Center.
BOARD MEMBER’S INQUIRIERS, REQUESTS, AND COMMENTS:
The Board thanked everyone for attending, staff for their work, and wished everyone a safe
Memorial Day.
Commissioner Land moved to adjourn the meeting. Commissioner Mobley seconded, and the
motion carried unanimously.
There being no further business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:14 p.m.

ATTEST:
___________________________, DC
BARRY A. BAKER
CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

_______________________________
FRANKLIN WHITE, CHAIRMAN
SUWANNEE COUNTY BOARD OF
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

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Approval of payment of processed invoices.

Page 16 of 44

Emergency Management
Executive Summary
Objective:
Approval of a credit card for Emergency Management with a limit of $5,000.
Considerations:
• Allow staff to reserve and pay for hotels when traveling for training, when
an overnight stay is required.
• It will also allow EM online purchases when online payment is required.
Budget Impact:
N/A
Recommendation:
Staff respectfully requests the Suwannee County Board of County
Commissioner's approval of a credit card for Emergency Management with a limit
of $5,000.
Respectfully Submitted:
Dated:05/19/2026
Sharon Hingson, Emergency Management
Director

Page 17 of 44

Parks & Recreation
Executive Summary
Objective:
Reappoint Mr. Robert Ford to serve on the Live Oak, Suwannee County
Recreation Board for another term.
Considerations:
• The Live Oak, Suwannee County Recreation Board consists of five
members appointed by the City of Live Oak and Suwannee County.
• The County appoints three members to the board, each member serving a
four-year term.
• Mr. Robert Ford currently serves on the board and his term expires June
30, 2026.
Budget Impact:
None
Recommendation:
Reappoint Mr. Robert Ford to serve another term on the Rec Board
Respectfully Submitted:
Dated:05/21/2026
Alden Rosner, Parks & Recreation Director

Page 18 of 44

Page 19 of 44

Clerk of Court
Executive Summary
Objective:
Appoint Dorothy Gischel to the Suwannee County Historical Commission to
complete an open position with a term that expires September 30, 2027
Considerations:
To appoint Dorothy Gischel to the Suwannee County Historical Commission to an
open position whose term expires September 30, 2027.
Budget Impact:
$0
Recommendation:
Approval
Respectfully Submitted:
Dated:05/22/2026
Eric Musgrove, FCRM Historian,
Purchasing, Records Management, TRIM,
Professional Develop

Page 20 of 44

County Administration
Executive Summary
Objective:
Approval to hold Budget Workshops on Wednesday, August 5, and Thursday,
August 6, 2026, beginning at 9:00 a.m. each day. The workshops will be held at
the Judicial Annex Building, 218 Parshley Street SW, Live Oak, FL.
Considerations:
The following date, time, and location have been provided for Board
consideration:
Budget Workshops (2)
Wednesday, August 5, 2026, and Thursday, August 6, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Location: Judicial Annex
Budget Impact:
N/A
Recommendation:
Staff respectfully requests that the Suwannee County Board of County
Commissioners approve to hold Budget Workshops on Wednesday, August 5,
and Thursday,
August 6, 2026, beginning at 9:00 a.m. each day. The workshops will be held at
the Judicial Annex Building, 218 Parshley Street SW, Live Oak, FL.
Respectfully Submitted:
Jason Furry, County Administrator

Dated:04/13/2026

Page 21 of 44

Public Works
Executive Summary
Objective:
Approval of Change Order No. 1 with Anderson Columbia Co., Inc. for work
associated with CR250 from 193rd Road to SR 51 resurfacing project. Budget
impact: $157,686.00, to be funded by FDOT.
Considerations:
• The change order replaces bid item 347-7-82, Asphalt Concrete Friction
Course 1", with 347-7-83, Asphalt Concrete Friction Course 2", to be
consistent with the construction plans.
• The bid table in the bid documents was incorrect; the change order
corrects it to align with the construction plans.

Budget Impact:
$157,686.00 to be funded by FDOT.
Recommendation:
Staff respectfully requests that the Suwannee County Board of County
Commissioners approve Change Order No. 1 with Anderson Columbia Co., Inc. in
the amount of $157,686.00 for CR250 from 193rd Road to SR 51 resurfacing
project.
Respectfully Submitted:
Brenda Flanagan, Public Works Director

Dated:05/13/2026

Page 22 of 44

Ervin T Williams Jr.

Digitally signed by Ervin T Williams Jr.
DN: CN=Ervin T Williams Jr.,
dnQualifier=A01410C0000019B0DFDD84D00453856,
O=Anderson Columbia Company Inc., C=US
Date: 2026.03.30 14:05:18-04'00'

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Suwannee County Change Order Supplemental Form
(information must be included as part of every Change Order)
Explain how the work to be performed pursuant to this Change Order is different from
the work requested by the initial request for information/request for qualifications/task
order.
This change order replaces bid item 347-7-82 Asphalt Concrete Friction Course 1"
with 347-7-83 Asphalt Concrete Friction Course 2" to be consistent with construction
plans.

Explain why the work contemplated by the Change Order was not included in the original
submission by the vendor/contractor prior to being awarded the contract or assigned the
task order.
Change order did not originate from contractor. It corrects the bid table to be consistent
with construction plans.

Explain why the vendor/contractor could not have known that the work required by this
Change Order could not have been known prior to being awarded the contract or
assigned the task order.
The bid table included in the bid documents was incorrect.

Ervin T Williams Jr.

Digitally signed by Ervin T Williams Jr.
DN: CN=Ervin T Williams Jr.,
dnQualifier=A01410C0000019B0DFDD84D00453856,
O=Anderson Columbia Company Inc., C=US
Date: 2026.05.14 09:22:58-04'00'

________________________________
Signature of Contractor / Vendor (must be same person,
or person must occupy the same position as the person, who
executed contract or accepted task order.)

________
Date

Approved by Suwannee County

Lisa Baker

_______________________________ _________________________
Project Manager / Engineer (if applicable)
Chairman BOCC / County
Administrator

5/13/26

__________
Date

__________
Date

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Economic Development
Executive Summary
Objective:
Approval of a modification to the Music Construction agreement regarding the
electrical service supporting the Wastewater Treatment Plant project.
Considerations:
As a part of the wastewater treatment plant, electrical service must be run to each
individual lift station. Staff met with representatives from SVEC on site to evaluate
the most appropriate method of installation within the Suwannee County Regional
Industrial Corridor and to consider opportunities to enhance infrastructure
resiliency. Overhead electrical lines could inhibit future development of our
service area therefore, it was recommended that the County go to underground
service within the industrial corridor. The proposed installation includes (4) threeinch PVC conduits to accept large diameter electrical service wire, which would
be necessary to support industrial-type projects. Also recommended was the
installation of (1) two-inch conduit for future fiber optics. This will provide longterm capacity and improved system hardening.
Budget Impact:
None. To be paid from grant DO255.
Recommendation:
Approval of a modification to the Music Construction agreement regarding the
electrical service supporting the Wastewater Treatment Plant project.
Respectfully Submitted:
Jimmy Norris, Economic Development
Director

Dated:05/27/2026

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Planning & Zoning
Executive Summary
Objective:
Request to construct a 240 feet Self Support Tower and associated equipment.
Considerations:
The property is zoned Agriculture-1. The regulations allow a tower to be
constructed with a Special Permit. The application meets the requirements of the
zoning regulations.
Budget Impact:
N/A
Recommendation:
Recomendation is for approval.
Respectfully Submitted:
Ronald Meeks, Development Services
Director

Dated:05/26/2026

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Page 39 of 44

SUWANNEE COUNTY
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-______
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF SUWANNEE
COUNTY, FLORIDA, CONCERNING AN APPLICATION FOR A SPECIAL PERMIT FOR
AN ESSENTIAL SERVICE, AS AUTHORIZED UNDER SECTION 14.11 OF ORDINANCE
92-11, AS AMENDED, ENTITLED SUWANNEE COUNTY LAND DEVELOPMENT
REGULATIONS; GRANTING A SPECIAL PERMIT FOR AN ESSENTIAL SERVICE (240
FEET COMMUNICATIONS TOWER AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT) ON CERTAIN
LANDS WITHIN THE UNINCORPORATED AREA OF SUWANNEE COUNTY, FLORIDA;
REPEALING RESOLUTIONS IN CONFLICT; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 92-11, as amended, entitled Suwannee County Land Development
Regulations, hereinafter referred to as the County’s Land Development Regulations, empowers
the Board of County Commissioners of Suwannee County, Florida, hereinafter referred to as the
Board of County Commissioners, to grant special permits for essential services as authorized
under Section 14.11 of the County’s Land Development Regulations;
WHEREAS, an application, SP-26-06-01, for a special permit for an essential service (240 feet
communications tower and associated equipment), as described below, has been filed with the
County;
WHEREAS, pursuant to the County’s Land Development Regulations, the Board of County
Commissioners held the required public hearing with due public notice having been provided on
said application, as described below, for a special permit for said telecommunications tower and
associated equipment, and has considered all comments received during said public hearing
concerning said application, as described below, for a special permit for said telecommunications
tower and unmanned communications facility;
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners has found that it is empowered under Section
14.11 of the County’s Land Development Regulations to grant a special permit for said 240 feet
communications tower and associated equipment;
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners has determined and found that:
a.

The need exists for a communications tower and associated equipment at this location;

b.

The location of a communications tower and associated equipment on the property
described below is in the public interest;

c.

The location of the communications tower on the property is not within required setbacks
of said property line; and

d.

The application for a special permit for a communications tower and associated
equipment on the property described below is in compliance with the provisions of
Section 14.11 of the County’s Land Development Regulations.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD
COMMISSIONERS OF SUWANNEE COUNTY, FLORIDA, THAT:

OF

COUNTY
Page 40 of 44

Section 1. Pursuant to an application by Brent Ratcliffe, authorized agent for David B. and Carl
Thomas, to request a special permit for an essential service (240 feet communications tower and
associated equipment), as provided for in Section 14.11 of the County’s Land Development
Regulations on certain lands within the County described as follows:
The NW ¼ of NW ¼ of SW ¼ of Section 30 Township 04 South Range 13 East, Suwannee
County, Florida less and except the South 25 feet thereof. Parcel ID# 30-04S-13E-09054000000
The Board of County Commissioners hereby grants a special permit for an essential service (240
feet telecommunications tower and associated equipment) for said property subject to the
conditions, if any, listed on Attachment I.
Section 2. All resolutions in conflict with this resolution are hereby repealed to the extent of
such conflict.
Section 3. This resolution shall become effective upon adoption by the Board of County
Commissioners.
PASSED AND DULY ADOPTED in regular session with a quorum present and voting, by the
Board of County Commissioners, this 2nd day of june 2026.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
SUWANNEE COUNTY, FLORIDA
Attest:

____________________________________
Franklin White, Chairman

____________________________________
Barry Baker, Clerk

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Attachment I
1.

That Suwannee County shall be granted co-location use of the tower, at no charge, for
purposes of locating emergency communications equipment, if requested at a minimum
height of 90 feet.

2.

Must provide a generator for power backup for a minimum of 48 hours.

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DENIAL OF DEVELOPMENT PERMIT

Application Number: __________________________________
Name of Applicant: ___________________________________

Date of Hearing: ______________________________________
The Board of County Commissioners of Suwannee County, Florida (the “Board”) sat as a
quasi-judicial board to consider the above referenced development permit. The Board
notes that the hearing was properly noticed and open to the public.
During the hearing, the Board received evidence in support and in opposition of the
permit. After thorough consideration of the evidence presented, the decision of the Board
was to DENY the permit. As grounds for denial, the Board finds:
1) As its legal basis for denying the application, the Board cites

____________________________________________________________
2) The competent and substantial evidence which supports the Board’s denial was

____________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________
Based upon the foregoing, the application was DENIED in open session.
Dated this ____ day of ______________________, 20___.

____________________________
Hon. Barry Baker
Clerk of Court
Confirmation of Receipt of Denial of
Development Permit on date indicated

____________________________
Chairman
Suwannee County
Board of County Commissioners

A copy of this Denial of Development Permit was sent to the Applicant this _______ day
of _________________, 20____.

____________________________
Clerk of Court
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THE CHAIRMAN CALLS FOR ADDITIONAL ITEMS.
1.___________________________________________________
2.___________________________________________________
3.___________________________________________________
4.___________________________________________________
5.___________________________________________________

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