January 2019 Meeting Overview

The Southwood CDD held its January 2019 meeting on January 10 at the Southwood Community Center. Highlights included:

Board Changes

The District Manager administered oaths of office for three new Supervisors: Jennings DePriest, April Johnston, and Kyle Rojas. The Board re-elected Brian Kelley as Chair and elected Jennings DePriest as Vice Chair.

Lake Maintenance Update

Jess Van Dyke with Van Dyke Environmental Services presented an update on his treatment of Catfish Pond, as well as his recommendations and outlook for additional Southwood ponds. Robert Berlin provided detailed info about the influx of silt that washed into the Southwood stormwater system after stormwater facilities that the developers of the area currently under construction north of Orange Avenue are building failed during December’s heavy rains. The Board expressed their interest in the issue and encouraged Robert to continue working with the City and Developer to clean-up and address the issue and to keep track of any District expenses

Southwood Big House Update

The Board discussed selling a small parcel of open space adjacent to the Southwood Big House to the current owners. The owners agreed to fund an appraisal of the property, and Vice Chair DePreist will work with staff on this matter. The Board also voted unanimously to send the City a letter supporting the current owners’ plans to redevelop a portion of the Big House property. Developers Bill Pfeiffer and Josh Kasper were present and responded to questions.

DRI Update

The Southwood CDD is part of a development of regional impact (DRI), which is a large-scale development affecting more than one county that is subject to state-level review. John Curtis, the new Community Manager for the Southwood HOA, discussed future planning for St. Joe’s build-out of the community and his intentions to work closely with the CDD and residents for input and support; he asked to be included on future agendas.

Traffic Study Update for Parking at Four Oaks Roundabout

The data needed to begin evaluating traffic impacts from the possible addition on parking at the roundabout on Four Oaks has been collected and analysis of the data should begin soon.

Additional Items

Robert Berlin has filed initial claims with FEMA so the CDD can be partially reimbursed for the costs related to Hurricane Michael recovery.

The next meeting of the Southwood CDD is Thursday, February 7 at 6:30pm at Southwood Community Center.

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