February 2024
Hello Clermont Champions!
I am very pleased with the turnout for several recent meetings and workshops and hope good attendance continues.
Our February Council workshop focused on the 8th Street Docks and Meet Us in the Middle Plaza project. The revised plan reflects community suggestions and highlights outstanding details of the project such as 28 standard and 16 specialized boat slips, increased green spaces with decreased concrete surfaces, a clever pedestrian pathway over the water, and abundant areas for dock fishing.
From the protective breakwater and location of specialized boat slips to the recognition as an Outstanding Florida Waterway and strict measurements in place to protect Lake Minneola, this will truly be something Clermont can be proud of for years to come. If approved, a majority of the estimated cost to build will come from Recreational Impact Fees and grants.
The second community meeting for Clermont’s Comprehensive Plan update was also well attended. Staff continues to work with the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council to collect community input for the updated plan to be completed. I encourage everyone who is part of Clermont to take a few minutes and complete the survey. A successful plan is dependent on solid community input.
The survey will be available online at https://bit.ly/3SQHPi9 through March 30. You will also have the opportunity to complete the survey at March’s First Friday Food Truck event on March 1 in downtown.
Our visit to Tallahassee during Legislative Week was very important as well as very busy. Council Member Michael Gonzalez, City Manager Brian Bulthuis, Chief Charles Broadway, and I made sure our elected officials heard from Clermont. We will see how successful we were once the State’s budget is finalized.
My monthly “Lunch with the Mayor” continues to grow and I always look forward to the first Tuesday when I get to share updates and answer your questions on City activities and events. In March, we will meet at Portillo’s (1251 E. Highway 50) and in April at Cantina’s Mexican Kitchen (2507 S. Highway). You don’t need to register; just show up if your schedule allows it. I hope you can join us for good food and better fellowship.
Qualifying for the May 14 special election to fill the remaining term of Council Seat No. 2 begins at noon on March 4 and ends at noon on March 8. If you are a registered voter who lives in the City of Clermont and are interested, you must complete and return a qualifying packet to the City Clerk by the deadline to be an eligible candidate.
I remain thankful for the opportunity to serve as your Mayor and as always, you can reach me at tmurry@ClermontFl.org with any questions or concerns.
Until next time,
Mayor Tim Murry
