Community Events and City Commission Updates in Newberry, Florida
Newberry City Commission held its regular meeting on July 28, marking several key developments in the city. Among the updates were changes to the law enforcement service agreement with the Sheriff’s Office, setting a proposed maximum millage rate, and the voluntary annexation of 15 properties totaling around 200 acres.
The meeting started with two presentations. The Early Learning Coalition requested $30,000 for educational programs, while Blossoming Butterfly announced an upcoming breast cancer awareness event on October 11 at the Mentholee Norfleet Municipal Building. Attendees may have access to free mammograms if there is enough interest.
Annual Community Fun Day on August 2
Michelle Sherfield from the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office shared details about the annual Community Fun Day, scheduled for August 2. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the main Sheriff’s Office. Activities include bounce houses, water features, food, garage sales, and informative resources. This will be the first time the event is held at the main office, offering families a chance to engage with local services.
Splash Days on August 8
Chris Mack of Newberry Main Street announced that August 8 will be the third and final Splash Days of the summer. The event will feature a water park, snow cones, bubble machines, and music by Twisted-H Productions. It is free and open to the public from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Consent Agenda and Employment Agreements
The commission unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included ratifying the employment offer for new City Clerk Randa Paul and the contract for new City Manager Jordan Marlowe.
Law Enforcement Services Agreement with Sheriff’s Office
Assistant City Manager Dallas Lee presented an update on the law enforcement services agreement with the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office. The new two-year contract includes an annual price escalator of 3.75% and the addition of a traffic patrol deputy stationed at Southwest 15th and 27/41 during school hours. The cost for this additional deputy is approximately $34,000 per year.
Commissioner Tony Mazon moved to approve the agreement, and it passed 4-0, with Commissioner Monty Farnsworth absent.
Mayor’s Youth Council Ordinance
City Attorney Scott Walker introduced the first reading of an ordinance establishing a Mayor’s Youth Council. The ordinance had previously been reviewed, and the commission adopted it on first reading with a 4-0 vote, again with Farnsworth absent.
Proposed Maximum Property Tax Millage Rate
Lee introduced the item to determine and set the proposed millage rate. The preliminary rate was set at 6.0623, higher than the current rate of 5.900 mills. This adjustment aims to offset the diversion of General Fund property taxes to the Community Reinvestment Area (CRA). Two budget hearings are planned for September 8 and September 22, with budget workshops scheduled for August 13, 20, and 27.
Commissioner Clark moved to set the proposed maximum millage at 6.0623, and the motion passed 4-0.
Annexation of 15 Parcels
Chelsea Bakaitis from the Community Development Department introduced 15 ordinances to annex 15 parcels of land totaling 200 acres. Most parcels range from 1 to 10 acres, with two larger ones at 22 and 111 acres. All 15 ordinances passed 4-0 on first reading, with Farnsworth absent.
Champions Park and Chip Sealing Update
Marlowe provided an update on the Champions Park project, noting that work is well underway. The park has seen improvements such as netting removal, added misting fans, and bathroom refurbishments. City Hall is on schedule for a September move-in, with plans for a ribbon-cutting event. Meanwhile, 30th Avenue is being prepped for chip sealing, starting on Thursday.
Legislative Town Hall on August 23
Mayor Tim Marden announced a legislative town hall on August 23, featuring Senator Stan McClain and Representative Chad Johnson. Kat, a local representative, may not attend due to her pregnancy, but someone from her office will be present. The event will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the municipal building.
