High Springs Staring Down $1 Million Problem

HIGH SPRINGS – The High Springs City Commission closed out its 2024–25 agenda and ushered in a new governing year during a Nov. 13, 2025, meeting that included the swearing-in of a returning commissioner, board appointments, grant approvals and progress on several major city projects.

Unfinished Business Concludes FY 24–25

Commissioners began the evening by addressing remaining items from the previous fiscal year. The board voted unanimously to hire Fred Fox Enterprises, Inc. to provide administrative services for the city’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Neighborhood Revitalization project.

High Springs was awarded a $700,000 small cities CDBG grant through Florida Commerce. To support the initiative, commissioners also approved CPH Consulting, LLC in response to Requests for Qualifications for professional engineering services.

In addition, the Commission voted unanimously to approve three firms for continuing engineering contracts: CPH Consulting, Kimley-Horn and Woodard & Curran. CPH—previously known as Mittauer & Associates—has a long history with the city, including engineering work tied to major sewer system improvements.

With all unfinished business resolved, Commissioner Tristan Grunder, who had been re-elected, formally adjourned the final meeting of the 2024–25 fiscal year.

Commission Reorganized for FY 25–26

City Clerk Angela Stone administered the oath of office to Grunder as he began his second term on the City Commission. During the reorganization, Commissioner Andrew Miller was elected mayor and Commissioner Wayne Bloodsworth Jr. was chosen as vice mayor. Commissioners then switched seats as Miller assumed leadership of the meeting.

The annual reorganization also included appointments to city advisory boards. Grunder was named chair of the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). Zachary Walter was appointed to the Plan Board, while Linda Hewlett and Joanne Trembly were reappointed to the Parks and Recreation Board.

Commissioners also authorized the standard list of check signers for the new fiscal year. The mayor, vice mayor, city manager and city clerk are empowered to sign city checks. Following approval, an updated resolution is submitted to the bank to formalize the authorization.

Public Safety and City Projects Move Forward

High Springs Police Chief Antoine Sheppard informed the Commission that the city has been awarded a $65,000 grant to replace aging police radios. Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the funding.

The board also unanimously authorized a services agreement with Hoffman Construction, Inc. for structural roof repairs to the historic Priest Theatre. In September, the city awarded Hoffman a contract totaling $550,828 for roof replacement and structural upgrades, along with an additional $18,280 to replace the parapet wood apron on the building’s front elevation.

Budget Adjustments Reviewed

Finance Director Diane Wilson presented the Final Budget Amendment for Fiscal Year 2025, outlining significant adjustments and responding to commissioner questions. After discussion, the Commission approved the ordinance on first reading.

#     #     #

Email cwalker@

alachuatoday.com