Youth Championships
At the Monday, Dec. 13 Plant City Commission meeting, two youth football teams were honored for their Mid-Florida Youth Football Championships.
The Plant City Colts Junior Varsity and Plant City Colts Pee Wee teams brought back a win for their town. Junior Varsity had a winning streak through the season of 12-0. Pee Wee had a winning season of 9-3.
The City Commission Chambers almost reached full capacity as team members, in jerseys, took seats and waited to be recognized.
“We’re so honored that we had two of our teams win the super bowl this year,” said Plant City Mayor Rick Lott.
Both teams had the opportunity to stand in front of the audience as Commissioner Mary Mathis presented each with his own pin and to take photos. Angelo Murray, the Colts president, stood before everyone and spoke on the teams’ effort to make it to the top.
“This year kind of started out on shady ground,” Murray said. “We had a lot of obstacles in our way, but we pulled together.”
He also took the time to acknowledge the parents, coaches and board members who’ve been supportive toward the youth.
Retirement
Lena McLemore, who is the current executive assistant to Plant City City Manager Bill McDaniel, is retiring from her post.
For 24 years she has worked alongside McDaniel as he’s transitioned from one city department to the next. The city commission gave a proclamation for her years of service.
“It was a pleasure to recognize all of those champions that were here in the room,” McDaniel said. “This lady right here is my champion.”
She became emotional as she was commended for her work in the city. McDaniel continued stating, “Thank you so much. It’s been a pleasure. You’ve meant the world to me, you always will. I couldn’t have asked for anyone better in the last 24 years.”
McLemore’s last day will be on New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31.
Transitioning Into a New Role
Jack Holland is leaving the city division that he’s been a part of for 45 years – the Parks and Recreation Department, which he is current director of. He’s not retiring but taking on another city title – assistant city manager.
“It’s bittersweet for me to step aside from Parks and Rec.,” he said. “I’m excited for this next step to help the city move forward in other areas.”
The commission unanimously voted in favor of him taking on the new leadership role, passing approval by 5-0.
City Vehicle and Equipment Supplies
The commission granted City Manager McDaniel authorization to oversee any necessary purchases for vehicles or equipment for fiscal year 2022.
Pricing and availability in the vehicle and equipment market is ever-changing. Manufacturers may produce items with a limited supply, and in some cases production stops abruptly. This in turn, increases buyer demands and competition. As a result, McDaniel will be able to take quick action when the city is in need of these resources. As it currently stands all small city equipment needed, has already been ordered.
For larger equipment that exceeds $4,000, seven have been ordered out of 36.
One out of 29 city vehicles have been ordered, while 12 police-vehicle orders have been stalled due to contract re-negotiations. Under marketing conditions, quotes are generally valid for 10 days and a unit can be sold before the quote expires. Also, dealers cannot quote units that aren’t in stock but can sell to the first buyer once units arrive.