Leesburg: Leesburg Meeting
Summary. The Leesburg City Commission met on February 9, 2026 (note: transcript shows 2026-03-23 date but meeting was called for February 9). The meeting began with presentations recognizing outgoing Fire Chief Mira for his service and swearing in new Fire Chief Henry, along with promoting Nate Barlow to Deputy Fire Chief. The Commission approved the consent agenda unanimously. The primary business item was the first reading of three related ordinances for the Lake Margareta Phase Two project - an annexation, comprehensive plan amendment, and rezoning for approximately 25 acres to allow 75 single family homes. The second reading was scheduled for March 23. The Commission also addressed a significant airport lease default issue with Aerostat, ultimately directing staff to pursue a compromise option that would create a new 10-year ground lease at market rate while allowing the tenant to retain the hangar facility.
Agenda Items
Presentations. Fire Department Leadership Recognition and Promotion Ceremony
Recognition of outgoing Fire Chief Mira and swearing in of new Fire Chief Henry, with promotion of Nate Barlow to Deputy Fire Chief
- City Manager praised Chief Mira's service and departmental advances
- Emphasized the department's ability to groom and train internal candidates
- Chief Henry was sworn in and received his badge
- Nate Barlow was promoted to Deputy Fire Chief
Public Comments. Public Comment Period
One public speaker thanked the Commission for Soul Festival support and announced art gallery recognition
- Simone Richardson thanked city for allowing Soul Festival
- Artist with a Purpose selected for Harlem Finds Art Show in New York
- First black-owned art gallery in three counties (Lake, Sumter, Marion)
- Expressed excitement about community involvement
6B1, 6B2, 6B3. Lake Margareta Phase Two - First Reading Ordinances
First reading of annexation, comprehensive plan amendment, and rezoning for 25.07 acres to allow 75 single family homes
- Property located south of County Road 48, east of Number 2 Road, west of Trimpey Road
- Extension of existing Lake Margareta project
- Density of 2.98 units per acre (75 homes on 25 acres)
- Planning Commission voted to approve
- 30-day gap required between first and second reading for annexation
Information Reports. City Attorney and City Manager Reports
Attorney reported victory in shuffleboard lawsuit; City Manager sought direction on airport lease default
- Judge ruled in city's favor dismissing shuffleboard complaint
- Aerostat lease holder (Miss Cochran) formally notified of default
- City Manager presented three options: proceed with default, waive default, or compromise solution
- Commission directed pursuit of compromise - new 10-year ground lease at $1/sq ft ($23,000/year)
- Lease would be non-transferable with city retaining asset ownership
Motions & Votes
Motion to approve the consent agenda
Moved by Mayor Burry, seconded by Not clearly identified
Passed 5-0
Motion to adjourn
Moved by Not clearly identified
Passed
Action Items
Negotiate compromise lease agreement with Miss Cochran for Aerostat hangar
Assigned to City Manager and City Attorney · Due Report back at next meeting
Prepare second reading materials for Lake Margareta Phase Two ordinances
Assigned to Planning staff · Due March 23 meeting
Frequently Asked Questions
What was decided at this meeting?
The Leesburg City Commission met on February 9, 2026 (note: transcript shows 2026-03-23 date but meeting was called for February 9). The meeting began with presentations recognizing outgoing Fire Chief Mira for his service and swearing in new Fire Chief Henry, along with promoting Nate Barlow to Deputy Fire Chief. The Commission approved the consent agenda unanimously. The primary business item was the first reading of three related ordinances for the Lake Margareta Phase Two project - an annexation, comprehensive plan amendment, and rezoning for approximately 25 acres to allow 75 single family homes. The second reading was scheduled for March 23. The Commission also addressed a significant airport lease default issue with Aerostat, ultimately directing staff to pursue a compromise option that would create a new 10-year ground lease at market rate while allowing the tenant to retain the hangar facility.
What was on the agenda?
This meeting covered 4 agenda items: Fire Department Leadership Recognition and Promotion Ceremony; Public Comment Period; Lake Margareta Phase Two - First Reading Ordinances; City Attorney and City Manager Reports.
How many motions were voted on?
2 motions were voted on during this meeting. See the Motions & Votes section above for each motion and its result.
What action items came out of this meeting?
2 action items were identified. See the Action Items section above for details and who they were assigned to.
Who attended this meeting?
11 members were recorded as present: Mayor Burry, Commissioner Conell, Commissioner Burry, Commissioner Peterson, Commissioner Reisman, City Manager, City Attorney, Dan Miller, Chief Mira, Chief Henry, Miss Cochran.
What county is Leesburg in?
Leesburg is located in Lake County, Florida. Browse other Lake County meeting summaries to see what local governments across the county are working on.
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