This Commission Meeting was conducted utilizing Communications Media Technology.  Some Staff members were present in the Commission Chambers while others were present via the Zoom application to respect the social distancing guidelines.

 

Elected Officials Present in Chambers:

Shirley Groover Bryant, Mayor

Brian Williams, Vice Mayor, Commissioner, Ward 3

Sheldon Jones, Commissioner-at-Large 1

Harold Smith, Commissioner, Ward 1

Tambra Varnadore, Commissioner, Ward 2 (Entered the meeting at 4:32 p.m.)

Tamara Cornwell, Commissioner-at-Large 2

 

Staff Present in Chambers:

Mark Barnebey, City Attorney

Mohammed Rayan, Public Works Director

Scott Tyler, Chief of Police

Jim Freeman, City Clerk

Jeff Burton, CRA Director

Penny Johnston, Executive Assistant

Vanessa Cochran, Assistant City Clerk

 

Staff Present Electronically:

Todd Williams, Information Technology (IT) Consultant

 

Mayor Bryant opened the meeting at 4:30 p.m.

 

 

1.   RIVER REGATTA 2022

Mr. Fetchko presented an overview of the River Regatta 2022 event and provided a Programming List of the various activities that will take place, and the list is a part of the minutes.  He expressed that it had been a difficult year and the return of the prestigious event has everyone looking forward to the February 12, 2022 event.  The many favorite attractions are returning and more are being added.  Mr. Fetchko announced that the Hernando Desoto Historical Society has entered into a partnership to do the event and introduced Trey Horne, Marketing Director. 

 

 Mr. Horne spoke on what is required from the vendors who participate in the event.  And, he emphasized that local vendors are encouraged to participate.  He addressed the security arrangements pertaining to beer sales/consumption at the event.

 

  Mr. Fetchko commented that he welcomes the nonprofit agencies that provide aid or benefits to the public.  He continued by mentioning the various agencies that provide this service and is encouraging their participation.  He specified that 2 trollies will be available on the Green Bridge to transport people to and from the event, and the service will be coordinated with the police. 

 

 

 

Commission Workshop Meeting

May 17, 2021

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Mr. Fetchko added that at least 10 spaces will be available for the local merchants.  He specified that through the media and advertising, celebrities could be added to the event to help it expand.    And, fireworks coordinated with music will be provided.  Then, he welcomed questions and comments from the Board.     

 

RIVER REGATTA 2022 DISCUSSION 

 Commissioner Williams asked how many sponsors listed on the Programming List will be located on the Palmetto’s river side.  Mr. Fetchko replied all that are listed except the LED Ferris Wheel because they are looking for a new insured group to operate it.  He discussed the numerous news channels that have promoted the event, and the potential ones as well.    

 

  Mayor Bryant requested more details concerning the trolley services at the event.  Mr. Fetchko replied that 2 trollies will run continuously from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm from Sutton Park to the front of Riverside Drive. 

 

  Commissioner Jones thanked Mr. Fetchko for selecting Palmetto for the event.  And, Commissioners Varnadore and Smith stated that they were also thankful for the event being a part of Palmetto.   

 

 Mayor Bryant requested a date that the event could be added to the agenda, and Mr. Freeman, City Clerk, replied that it could be added tonight with Board’s consensus. 

 

 Commissioner Williams inquired about street closures for the event, and Chief Tyler responded as more details are collected, a decision will be made at that time.

 

Mayor Bryant adjourned the meeting at 5:07 pm