Skip to main content

Meeting Minutes for August 10, 2026

Renaissance Community Development District

The Public Budget Hearing, the Fiscal Year 2027 O&M Assessment Public Hearing and the Regular Meeting of the Board of Supervisors of the Renaissance Community Development District was held on Monday, August 10, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. at Cole, Scott & Kissane, 5220 Summerlin Commons Blvd., Suite 201A, Fort Myers, FL and via web conference.

Present and constituting a quorum were:

Doug Dickey – Chair
Linda Stuart – Vice Chair
Chris Bezaire – Assistant Secretary
Steve Epkins – Assistant Secretary
George Pattee – Assistant Secretary

Also present were:

Mandie Rainwater – District Manager, Premier District Management (PDM)
Melissa Gindling – Assistant District Manager, PDM
James Bond – Resident
Paul Halverson – Resident
Ken Kunda – Resident

Arriving later:

Brian Williams – Attorney, Cole, Scott & Kissane

Attending remotely were:

Chris Pepin – Field Manager, Community Field Services
Jessica Cribbett – Project Administrator, CE-Site
Savannah

FIRST ORDER OF BUSINESS Call to Order and Roll Call

The Renaissance Community Development District meeting was called to order and District Manager Mandie Rainwater called the roll. All Supervisors were present along with District Manager Mandie Rainwater, Assistant District Manager Melissa Gindling, and Residents James Bond, Paul Halverson, and Ken Kunda. Attorney Brian Williams joined at 9:30 am. Joining online were Field Manager Pepin, Jessica Cribbett from CE-Site and Savannah.

SECOND ORDER OF BUSINESS Approval of the Agenda

The Board approved the agenda as presented.

On MOTION by Chair Dickey, seconded by Vice Chair Stuart, with all in favor the Board approved the agenda as presented.

THIRD ORDER OF BUSINESS Audience Comments on Agenda Items

There were no audience comments.

FOUTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Public Hearing

On MOTION by Chair Dickey, seconded by Supervisor Pattee, with all in favor, the Board opened the Budget Public Hearing for Fiscal Year 2027 at 9:02 am.

A. Budget Hearing Notice Affidavit of Publication

District Manager Rainwater reported that the Affidavit of Publication was in the agenda packet, confirming that the public hearing notice had been duly published as required by law

B. Presentation of Proposed Budget

District Manager Rainwater reviewed the proposed FY 2027 budget, noting the associated 8% assessment increase.

The Board and residents discussed concerns regarding the assessment increase and acknowledged that many residents have a limited understanding of the role and responsibilities of the CDD. District Manager Rainwater explained that the District website provides a breakdown of assessments by unit type, including Operations and Maintenance (O&M) and debt service assessments. The Board also discussed that O&M and debt service assessments appear as a single charge on residents’ tax bills, which can create confusion.

Vice Chair Stuart suggested offering a “CDD 101” educational presentation to improve resident understanding, noting that residents have not found the website to be an effective resource.

C. Public Comment

No additional public comments.

D. Resolution 2026-08: Adopt FY 2027 Budget Appropriation

Assistant District Manager Gindling reported that reserve funds are being used to offset projected expenses, resulting in a negative unassigned fund balance. She noted that year-end adjustments will be made as needed to accurately reflect reserve balances.

On MOTION by Vice Chair Stuart, seconded by Supervisor Bezaire, with all in favor, the Board approved Resolution 2026-08: Adopt FY 2027 Budget Appropriation as presented.

On MOTION by Chair Dickey, seconded by Vice Chair Stuart, with all in favor, the Board closed the Budget Public Hearing for Fiscal Year 2027 at 9:13 am.

FIFTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Fiscal Year 2027 O&M Assessment Public Hearing

On MOTION by Chair Dickey, seconded by Vice Chair Stuart, with all in favor, the Board opened the Fiscal Year 2027 O&M Assessment Public Hearing at 9:13 am.

A. Presentation of Proposed Assessment Rates

District Manager Rainwater reported that the proposed FY 2027 O&M assessment would increase from $1,158.43 to $1,251.10 per unit.

Discussion of the assessment increase occurred during the preceding budget hearing.

B. Public Comment

No public comments.

C. Resolution 2026-09: Approve FY 2027 Assessment Rates

On MOTION by Chair Dickey, seconded by Supervisor Pattee, with all in favor, the Board approved Resolution 2026-09: Approve FY 2027 Assessment Rates as presented.

On MOTION by Vice Chair Stuart, seconded by Supervisor Epkins, with all in favor, the Board closed the Fiscal Year 2027 O&M Assessment Public Hearing at 9:14 am.

SIXTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Consent Agenda

A. Items to be Pulled for Discussion

B. Motion to Approve Consent Items

On MOTION by Supervisor Pattee, seconded by Vice Chair Stuart, with all in favor, the Board approved all consent items.

C. Consideration of Items Pulled for Discussion

D.  Consent Items

i. Draft Regular Meeting Minutes for July 13, 2026

ii. Financial Report for July 2026

iii. Project Tracking Log

iv. Repairs and Expenses Tracking Log    

SEVENTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Old Business

A. Discussion on New O&M Assessment Methodology  

i. DTA Public Finance Proposal Follow-up

District Manager Rainwater reported that staff had requested additional qualifications, references, and sample reports from DTA regarding the proposed assessment methodology review. The Board reviewed a sample report prepared for the City of Riviera Beach but concluded that it was not directly applicable to the District’s needs, as it focused on municipal services and operations.

The Board discussed the need for a capacity-based assessment methodology and agreed that examples specific to CDDs would be beneficial. The Board requested that staff obtain one or preferably two sample reports demonstrating different CDD assessment methodologies for comparison and further evaluation.

B. Lakes 10 and 18 Shoreline Restoration Proposals Follow-up

i.  Updated Cost Sheets from Vendors

The Board discussed resident concerns regarding the required tree plantings associated with the shoreline restoration project. Field Manager Pepin noted that the trees may be installed later in the project but must be in place prior to final County approval. The Board also discussed clustering the required trees in common areas to minimize impacts on resident views.

The Board discussed coordinating the shoreline restoration project with Triana’s planned painting project. Field Manager Pepin recommended proceeding with restoration work as soon as lake levels permit. To avoid conflicts with painting activities anticipated in March or April, the Board discussed establishing a March 31 completion deadline or requiring the contractor to temporarily vacate the site during the painting project.

Attorney Brian Williams joined the meeting at 9:30 a.m.

Field Manager Pepin noted that the contractors’ proposals do not include restoration costs for project access points. He explained that additional work will likely be required to restore disturbed sod, landscaping, and irrigation systems, resulting in additional project costs at those locations.

The Board reviewed the shoreline restoration proposals, including options for addressing existing bubbler locations. Field Manager Pepin explained that the contractors had proposed either installing catch basins connected to underground piping or eliminating the catch basins and extending underground pipe directly to existing drainage connections. 

The advantages and disadvantages of each vendor and drainage approach were discussed, and staff noted that the final number and location of catch basins and pipe connections would be determined during the pre-construction meeting. 

The Board also noted that Talon’s proposal included a $10,000 discount contingent upon including the required tree plantings. Following discussion, the Board accepted Talon’s proposal, subject to contract negotiations, and directed Attorney Williams to begin the negotiation process.

On MOTION by Chair Dickey, seconded by Supervisor Pattee, with all in favor, the Board approved the Talon proposal subject to contract negotiations.

ii.  LDO Modification Follow-up

Field Manager Pepin reported that the LDO modification utilizing a coconut mat had been approved by the County. The Board discussed County requirements for tree replacement and noted that no tree credit would be provided. Required tree plantings will be addressed as part of the shoreline restoration project and may be grouped within common areas.

iii.  Staging Area

The Board reviewed potential staging area locations and noted that restoration costs would be required for any selected access points. Concerns were expressed regarding potential damage to pavers, landscaping, and adjacent property. The Board directed staff to minimize the number of access points used in order to reduce restoration costs and project impacts.

C. Hurricane Cleanup Pre-authorization Form from Juniper

Field Manager Pepin followed up with Juniper regarding the Board’s request for reduced hurricane cleanup pricing. The request was sent to three managers; however, no response had been received as of the meeting date.

Supervisor Pattee left the meeting at 10:34 a.m.

D. SFWMD Notice of Noncompliance Update

District Manager Rainwater reported that Field Manager Pepin reached out to Matt at South Florida Water Management and reported that the preserve was treated over the past two weeks, the feeder and trail camera have also been removed. SFWMD will be performing another site visit within the next two weeks.

Supervisor Pattee returned to the meeting at 10:38 a.m.

E. RCA Request for Parking Spots for Guardhouse Employees

The RCA is evaluating the parking proposal as part of its upcoming budget process and is expected to submit a formal request to the District at a later date. The Board directed staff and Attorney Williams to provide the applicable plat and easement documents to the RCA for review.

EIGHTH ORDER OF BUSINESS New Business 

A. Discussion on Vendor Pricing and Insurance Rates

Supervisor Pattee requested discussion of vendor pricing and insurance rates at the last meeting. District Manager Rainwater reported that staff submitted an insurance application to the Chapman Group to obtain an alternative insurance quote, following a recommendation from Mr. Bond and Supervisor Pattee. No quote had been received as of the meeting date. Mr. Bond offered to follow up on the request, and staff was directed to follow up with EGIS regarding renewal and umbrella coverage options.

The Board also discussed recent sovereign immunity legislation and noted that the legislation had been vetoed by the Governor.

B. Proposals to Remove Dead Tree on Lake 0-1

The Board reviewed proposals for removal of the dead tree on Lake 0-1, including an estimate of $1,500 from RJM and an estimate of $900 from CFS. After discussion, the Board approved the CFS proposal.

On MOTION by Chair Dickey, seconded by Vice Chair Stuart, with all in favor, the Board approved the CFS proposal in the amount of $900.

C. Vegetation Removal Proposal

Field Manager Pepin identified exotic vegetation in a District maintained area outside of the preserve areas. The Board reviewed Pristine Lakes’ proposal of $1,800 for treatment and removal of the vegetation.

On MOTION by Chair Dickey, seconded by Vice Chair Stuart, with all in favor, the Board approved the Pristine Lakes proposal in the amount of $1,800.

NINTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Field Manager’s Report

The Board reviewed the field report, including:

  • Only one aerator was currently out of service.
  • Two new washouts behind 12750 Terabella Way and one new washout behind 12730 Terabella Way. Staff was directed to review the reported washouts and send letters to affected homeowners, if necessary.
  • A disconnected downspout at a residence on Lake 6 that may be contributing to erosion concerns. Attorney Williams noted that the drainage connection is the homeowner’s responsibility.
  • Vice Chair Stuart reported that the fountain near her residence was not operational.

B. Follow-up Items

i. Fountain Power Source Updates

District Manager Rainwater reported that permitting has been approved and West Coast is now able to coordinate with FPL and complete the connections/install the new meter. This should be completed within the next week or so. Staff was requested to follow up with FPL

ii. Fountain and Aerator Repairs

All previously approved tasks have been completed.

iii. Washout Repairs

All repairs were completed on 8/07/26 however, newly addressed washouts will be addressed.

iv. Sod Installation on Lake 6

District Manager Rainwater reported that the vendor advised sod installation was completed; however, Board members noted the work appeared only partially complete and requested that Field Manager Pepin verify the status.

The Board also discussed irrigation concerns that may be contributing to washouts along Lake 6. Regarding the catch basin and downspout issue near the File residence, Attorney Williams stated that the downspout is a homeowner/RCA maintenance responsibility, but if it is causing erosion to District property, the District may request corrective action. Attorney Williams will continue discussions with the resident as part of the ongoing encroachment matter.

TENTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Attorney

A. Encroachment Agreement with 12450 Vittoria Way Update    

This item was discussed earlier in the meeting during the review of the Lake 6 drainage and washout concerns.

The Board discussed concerns regarding grass clippings being blown into the District lakes by the Club. Attorney Williams noted that the practice could raise environmental compliance concerns and stated that he would send a letter to the Club’s attorney, with a copy to Rick Rainville, General Manager of the Club at Renaissance, requesting that the activity cease.

ELEVENTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Engineer

The Board noted that the Engineer’s Report had been discussed earlier in the meeting during the shoreline restoration discussion.

Ms. Cribbett also referenced an email included in the agenda packet regarding a meeting between Engineer McCleary and Abby Henderson, Supervisor of Development Services, related to the shoreline restoration project.

TWELTH ORDER OF BUSINESS District Manager

A. Quorum Check: September 14, 2026

A quorum was confirmed. Supervisor Bezaire will not be present in September, and Chair Dickey will not be present in October.

B. Upcoming Board Vacancies

District Manager Rainwater reported that notice of upcoming Board vacancies and requests for letters of interest had been posted on the District website. Staff will also coordinate with the RCA to distribute an e-blast encouraging interested residents to submit letters of interest by September.

C. Resolution 2026-10: FY 2027 Meeting Schedule

District Manager Rainwater presented the proposed FY 2027 meeting schedule and noted that the meeting dates had been reserved in the conference room at the office of Cole, Scott & Kissane, located at 5220 Summerlin Commons Boulevard, Suite 201A, Fort Myers, Florida.

On MOTION by Chair Dickey, seconded by Supervisor Pattee, with all in favor, the Board approved Resolution 2026-10: FY 2027 Meeting Schedule.

D. Resolution 2026-11: FY 2027 Goals and Objectives

District Manager Rainwater presented the proposed FY 2027 Goals and Objectives. The Board discussed adding a long-term budget planning initiative and continuing evaluation of potential I-75 fence improvements and replacement.

Following discussion, the Board approved Resolution 2026-11 with the addition of a five-year budget planning goal.

Vice Chair Stuart stated that she would continue researching the I-75 fence project even if she is no longer serving on the Board.

On MOTION by Chair Dickey, seconded by Supervisor Bezaire, with all in favor, the Board approved Resolution 2026-11: FY 2027 Goals and Objectives.

THIRTEENTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Supervisor Requests/Comments

There were none.

FOURTEENTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Audience Comments

There were none.

FIFTEENTH ORDER OF BUSINESS Adjournment

On MOTION by Chair Dickey, seconded by Vice Chair Stuart, with all in favor, the Board adjourned the meeting at 11:14 a.m.

Next Regular Meeting: September 14, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

Secretary/Assistant Secretary
Chair/Vice Chair