Meeting Minutes for July 31, 2026
Lake Lucie
Community Development District
A regular meeting of the Board of Supervisors of the Lake Lucie Community Development District was scheduled for July 31, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at the Village of Lake Lucie Pool Cabana, located at 8452 Village of Lake Lucie Drive, Port St. Lucie, Florida, and also via web conference.
Present and constituting a quorum were:
Jean Auletta – Chair
Tom Wood – Vice Chair
George Rowe – Assistant Secretary
Anthony Kerzic – Assistant Secretary
Also present were:
Mandie Rainwater – District Manager, Premier District Management (PDM)
Joseph Caouette – Candidate for appointment to the Board
45+ residents
Attending remotely:
Matt Gindling – Assistant District Manager (PDM)
Melissa Gindling – Compliance Manager (PDM)
Glen Kunkle
The following is a summary of the actions taken at the Lake Lucie Community Development District (CDD) Board of Supervisors meeting.
FIRST ORDER OF BUSINESS Call to Order and Roll Call
The meeting was called to order at 10 a.m. by Chair Auletta, who took the roll: Chair Auletta, Vice Chair Wood and Supervisors Rowe, and Kerzic were present and constituted a quorum. Also present were District Manager Mandie Rainwater, Candidate for appointment to the Board, Joseph Caouette and many residents. Joining online were Assistant District Manager Matt Gindling, Compliance Manager Melissa Gindling, and Glen Kunkle.
SECOND ORDER OF BUSINESS Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was observed.
THIRD ORDER OF BUSINESS Approval of the Agenda
On MOTION by Supervisor Rowe, seconded by Vice Chair Wood, with all in favor, the Board approved the Agenda as presented.
FOURTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Audience Comments on Agenda Items
Resident Maria Acciavatti asked about the loan balance. District Manager Rainwater advised the topic would be discussed later in the meeting and reported the current principal balance as $127,313.
FIFTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Resolution 2026-07: Rescheduling of Budget FY 2026-2027
District Manager Rainwater explained that Resolution 2026-07 ratifies the action of the District Manager for the rescheduling of the budget hearing to July 31, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.
On MOTION by Chair Auletta, seconded by Supervisor Kerzic, with all in favor, the Board approved Resolution 2026-07 which ratifies the action of the District Manager for the rescheduling of the budget hearing to July 31, 2026.
SIXTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Public Hearing
On MOTION by Supervisor Rowe, seconded by Chair Auletta, with all in favor, the Board opened the Budget Public Hearing for Fiscal Year 2027.
A. Presentation of Proposed Budget
District Manager Rainwater reviewed the proposed FY2027 budget, noting a $445 per household increase in O&M assessments, anticipated interest income from District investments, and a projected reduction of approximately $40,000 in beginning fund balance due to reimbursements paid to the HOA.
B. Public Comment
No public comments were heard on the proposed budget.
C. Motion To Create Reserve-Operating Fund
District Manager Rainwater explained the purpose and benefits of maintaining operating reserves to address unforeseen expenses. The proposed FY2027 budget includes $40,841 in operating reserves, and Chair Auletta expressed support for establishing the reserve in the best interest of the community.
On MOTION by Chair Auletta, seconded by Supervisor Rowe, with all in favor, the Board approved the creation of a reserve-operating line item, budgeting funds of $40,841 during Fiscal Year 2027.
D. Resolution 2026-08: Adoption of FY 2026-2027 Budget Appropriation
District Manager Rainwater explained that if one adds the various budget items together, the total budget listed on the document is less than that number. This is done in anticipation of the fees collected by the tax collector as well as the early payment discounts provided to residents.
On MOTION by Vice Chair Wood, seconded by Chair Auletta, with all in favor, the Board approved Resolution 2026-08 adopting the Budget for Fiscal Year 2027.
E. Advertisement Notice Affidavit
The advertisement notice affidavit, which ran on July 9 and July 16, 2026, was presented for the Board’s information.
On MOTION by Chair Auletta, seconded by Supervisor Rowe, with all in favor, the Board closed the Budget Public Hearing for Fiscal Year 2027.
SEVENTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Fiscal Year 2027 O&M Assessment Public Hearing
On MOTION by Vice Chair Wood, seconded by Supervisor Kerzic, with all in favor, the Board opened the Assessment Public Hearing for Fiscal Year 2027 at 10:12 AM.
A. Presentation of Assessment Rates
District Manager Rainwater noted that the proposed assessment rates were reflected in the budget, and no further discussion occurred.
B. Public Comment
- Resident Jerry Stencel asked about supervisor term limits. He also noted that he owns numerous vacant lots and did not understand what his assessments would be. District Manager Rainwater explained that notices had been sent to the owner of each property by mail. She additionally read his assessment rates based off of the assessment spreadsheet on file with Premier District Management.
- Resident John Badini asked if the reserve funds are earmarked for anything specific. District Manager Rainwater explained that the reserve funds may be used for unforeseen expenses, such as those related to post-hurricane expenses and other unplanned repairs or improvements within the District.
- Resident Sean Lynch questioned the difference between the gross and net budget amounts and expressed concern that the assessment calculations did not appear to align. District Manager Rainwater explained that the budget accounts for tax collector fees and anticipated early-payment discounts and is structured to ensure sufficient funds are available to meet budgeted expenses
- Resident Maria Acciavatti asked about the assessment increase and the status of the District’s loan payments. District Manager Rainwater confirmed that the District is current on its loan obligations.
C. Resolution 2026-09: Approving the FY 2026-2027 Assessment Levy
On MOTION by Chair Auletta, seconded by Supervisor Rowe, with all in favor, the Board approved Resolution 2026-09 adopting the Assessment Levy for Fiscal Year 2027.
On MOTION by Vice Chair Wood, seconded by Supervisor Kerzic, with all in favor, the Board closed the Assessment Public Hearing for Fiscal Year 2027.
EIGHT ORDER OF BUSINESS Seat 5 Resignation and Discussion
A. Supervisor Glen Kunkle Resignation
On MOTION by Supervisor Rowe, seconded by Chair Auletta, with all in favor, the Board accepted supervisor Glen Kunkle’s resignation.
B. Joseph Caouette Letter of Interest
District Manager Rainwater reported that the Board had received a letter of interest from Joseph Caouette and provided an overview of his military and law enforcement background, including service in the United States Army and his current role as a Special Agent with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. She highlighted a statement from his letter noting, “My military and law enforcement experience has instilled in me the importance of accountability, fiscal responsibility, transparency, and making decisions that serve the best interests of the community.”
C. Consideration of Joseph Caouette as Supervisor
On MOTION by Vice Chair Wood, seconded by Supervisor Kerzic, with all in favor, the Board approved the appointment of Joseph Caouette to the vacant Seat 5 of the Board of Supervisors.
Joseph Caouette took the oath of office and was sworn in by District Manager Rainwater, who provided the proper documents to for Supervisor Caouette to fill out.
NINTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Board Reorganization Discussion
District Manager Rainwater reviewed the proposed Board reorganization and explained that the reorganization resolution included designated Premier District Management staff positions. She noted that she would continue to serve as Secretary and Assistant Treasurer, Cal Teague would remain Treasurer, and Melissa Gindling would serve as Assistant Secretary. The Board discussed its organizational structure and agreed to maintain the current officer positions, Jean Auletta as the Chair, Tom Wood as the Vice Chair, George Rowe and Anthony Kerzic as Secretaries, with Joseph Caouette added as Secretary.
A. Resolution 2026-10: Reorganization of Board
On MOTION by Supervisor Rowe, seconded by Vice Chair Wood, with all in favor, the Board approved Resolution 2026-10 for the Reorganization of the Board.
B. Resolution 2026-11: Check Signers
District Manager Rainwater reviewed the updated check signer authorization, which designated Cal Teague and Mandie Rainwater as authorized check signers. She clarified that the authorization would not change the District’s existing check approval process, which would continue to require four-person review and approval process.
On MOTION by Chair Auletta, seconded by Supervisor Kerzic, with all in favor, the Board approved Resolution 2026-11 to update Premier District Management staff to act as check signers for the District.
TENTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Approval of Meeting Minutes
A. Draft Meeting Minutes for April 17, 2026
On MOTION by Supervisor Rowe, seconded by Chair Auletta, with all in favor, the Board approved the meeting minutes from April 17, 2026.
ELEVENTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Old Business
A. Ratification – Christmas Palms Planting
District Manager Rainwater reported that the proposal from A. Reyes Lawn & Landscape for the Christmas palm planting had been executed by Chair Auletta and was presented for Board ratification.
On MOTION by Supervisor Rowe, seconded by Chair Auletta, with all in favor, the Board ratified the proposal from A. Reyes Lawn & Landscape for the removal of Christmas Palms Planting in the amount of $2,935.
B. Ratification – Hedge Trimming and Debris Removal
District Manager Rainwater reported that Chair Auletta had executed the A. Reyes Lawn & Landscape proposal for hedge trimming and debris removal in the amount of $1,200, which was presented for ratification.
On MOTION by Chair Auletta , seconded by Supervisor Kerzic , with all in favor, the Board ratified the proposal from A. Reyes Lawn & Landscape for hedge trimming and debris removal in the amount of $1,200.
C. Stormwater Pond Pipe Culvert Repair Update – 8232 Sand Pine Circle
There has been no movement on this repair due to rainy season, making the culverts inaccessible to the contractor.
TWELTH ORDER OF BUSINESS New Business
A. Tree Trimming Discussion and Proposal
District Manager Rainwater reviewed the proposal from Tri Brothers Tree and Landscaping in the amount of $26,900, noting that it was approximately $8,000 less than a previously received proposal and included palm trimming and removal of a maple tree affected by root rot at 8272 Sandpiper Circle.
Discussion followed regarding a potential replacement tree, expressing a desire to ensure site conditions would support successful future planting. Chair Auletta noted the vendor’s strong communication, recommendations, and arborist expertise, and stated that additional information would be obtained regarding site conditions.
It was further noted that sufficient reserve funds were available to complete the work during the current fiscal year and that an expedited project start was preferred. District Manager Rainwater reiterated that the District would realize a savings of approximately $8,100 by selecting Tri Brothers Tree and Landscaping.
On MOTION by Vice Chair Wood, seconded by Supervisor Rowe, with all in favor, the Board approved the proposal from Tri Brothers Tree and Landscaping for a total of $26,900.
B. Invoices From HOA
District Manager Rainwater reviewed an HOA reimbursement request related to cabana ceiling repairs and explained that previous confusion regarding CDD and HOA maintenance responsibilities had resulted in the HOA completing work that was ultimately the responsibility of the CDD. She noted that structural components of the cabana are CDD responsibilities, while services such as pool cleaning, cabana cleaning, and restroom supplies are HOA responsibilities. She further stated that, had the District been notified beforehand, the work could have been coordinated directly rather than through a reimbursement request.
Chair Auletta acknowledged the prior misunderstanding regarding CDD and HOA responsibilities and noted that proper procedures have now been established to ensure future work is assigned to the appropriate entity.
On MOTION by Chair Auletta, seconded by Supervisor Kerzic, with all in favor, the Board approved the reimbursement to the HOA for a total of $18,600 for the work performed by Colorfy Painting & More for ceiling repairs to the cabana.
THIRTEENTH ORDER OF BUSINESS District Manager
A. Resolution 2026-12 – FY 2026-2027 Meeting Schedule
District Manager Rainwater reviewed the proposed Fiscal Year 2026-2027 meeting schedule and noted that the annual meeting schedule would be advertised in the newspaper at the beginning of the fiscal year, with monthly meeting notices subsequently posted on the District’s website.
On MOTION by Chair Auletta, seconded by Vice Chair Wood, with all in favor, the Board approved Resolution 2026-12 for setting the District’s regular meeting dates for Fiscal Year 2026-2027.
B. Resolution 2026-13 – FY 2026-2027 General Election
District Manager Rainwater explained that the election resolution had been inadvertently omitted and she noted that all required election activities had already been completed, including publication of legal notices and candidate qualification, and that the resolution was being presented to formalize the actions taken and maintain complete District records.
On MOTION by Supervisor Rowe, seconded by Chair Auletta, with all in favor, the Board approved Resolution 2026-13 to publish the District’s general election on April 24, 2026.
C. FY 2025 Financial Audit Letter
D. FY 2025 Financial Audit Report
District Manager Rainwater reviewed the annual audit report prepared by Berger, Toombs. She reported that the audit contained no findings.
On MOTION by Chair Auletta, seconded by Supervisor Rowe, with all in favor, the Board accepted the Fiscal Year 2025 financial audit.
E. Communications With Residents
District Manager Rainwater provided an overview of recent resident communications, including notification letters regarding CDD tree trimming, inquiries related to the budget and assessments, and a public records request. She also reported that the District would not incur costs for a second mailing of corrected assessment notices sent to residents.
District Manager Rainwater presented a resident request to trim preserve vegetation encroaching onto private property at 1712 Primrose Court. She explained that vegetation extending from preserve areas onto private property is generally the responsibility of the homeowner to maintain to the preserve boundary, while trees located within CDD easements are maintained by the District and may only be trimmed in accordance with applicable standards. She noted that the Board could choose to assist the resident but that doing so could establish expectations for similar requests elsewhere within the preserve system. After discussion, the Board tabled the request to allow for further discussion with the resident.
Discussion also occurred regarding maintenance responsibilities within CDD easements. It was reiterated that residents are not authorized to trim trees located within CDD easements and that the District would retain a contractor to perform the work. Following a resident comment regarding the practice of homeowners mowing around lake banks located within CDD easement areas, District Manager Rainwater and Chair Auletta agreed to evaluate whether residents should continue this practice and whether it could negatively affect the integrity of the lake banks.
FOURTEENTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Financial Statements
A. March, April, May, June 2026
District Manager Rainwater reported that the District’s finances were current and that adequate funds were available to support operations until assessment revenues begin being collected in November and December.
On MOTION by Supervisor Rowe, seconded by Chair Auletta,, with all in favor, the Board accepted the March, April, May and June, 2026 financial statements.
FIFTEENTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Attorney
A. 2026 CDD Legislative Summary
District Manager Rainwater provided an overview of recent legislative updates affecting community development districts. She reported that HB 145 was not signed into law by the Governor and reviewed SB 1180, which was signed into law. She noted that the legislation authorizes residents to recall supervisors for causes including malfeasance, misfeasance, neglect of duty, drunkenness, incompetence, permanent inability to perform official duties, or conviction of a felony involving moral turpitude, with the law becoming effective in October 2026.
SIXTEENTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Engineer
No report was provided.
SEVENTEENTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Supervisor Requests/Comments
Chair Auletta addressed the residents in attendance and explained the importance of the Board’s work in keeping the District in compliance with state regulations and also providing the necessary upkeep which is expected within the Community. Upon extensive review of the Budget, the Board did not have a choice but to increase assessments, which will be in the best interest of the Community. Chair Auletta also gave examples on how the Board has been diligently working with vendors as well as residents in being fiscally responsible when signing proposals for recent jobs, specifically noting the culvert replacement project. She noted that the District originally received a proposal to inspect the culverts for $23,000, but was able to find another vendor to fix the actual issue for $8,000.
Chair Auletta noted that, in the absence of a field manager, project oversight responsibilities have been assumed by the Board, resulting in an estimated annual savings of approximately $18,000 to the District. She commented that the savings help support the District’s efforts to address its outstanding loan obligations. Chair Auletta also welcomed Supervisor Caouette to the Board.
EIGHTEENTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Audience Comments
- Resident Sharon thanked the Board for its service to the community and requested to discuss HOA-related matters. She was advised that HOA business is not within the scope of a CDD meeting and was therefore not discussed.
- Resident Richard Hamilton inquired about the anticipated timeline for the culvert repairs. It was noted that the culverts are currently inaccessible due to standing water and that the repairs will proceed once site conditions improve during the drier season.
- Resident Rich DeLucia asked about the encroachment of preserve vegetation onto private property, and mentioned he mailed a letter. Supervisor Caouette provided the phone number for Florida Department of Environmental Protection for residents to call about preserve trimming, but noted that the District will be cited if FDEPA comes on site and notices other violations, such as trash or invasives within the preserves.
- A resident requested that the District replace any removed trees.