Quarterly Meeting of the State Committee of Vendors
DRAFT
Chairman, Randall Crosby called the meeting to order at 8:31 am. Vice Chairman, Sead Bekric called the role.
Friday, December 5, 2025
The following individuals were present: Randall Crosby, Chairman; Sead Bekric, Vice Chairman
District Representatives: Alton Palmore (via Teams), District 1 Alternate; Patrick Martin, District 2; Jim Gaudette, District 3; Darryl Brinton, District 4; David Stevens, District 5; Phil Hubbard, District 6; Jose Quintanilla, District 7; Jim Warth, District 8; Mike McCrea, District 9; Antonio Gonzalez, District 10.
Bureau of Business Enterprise Staff: Alan Risk, Bureau Chief; Maureen Fink, Operations Manager; Dario Turnquest, Compliance Officer; John Ahler, Business Analyst; Brian Ashworth, Region 1 Business Consultant; Bernie Kaiserian, Region 2 Business Consultant; Jay Payne, Region 3 Business Consultant; Tony Arduengo, Region 4 Business Consultant; Alecia Brown, Region 5 Business Consultant; Yusnay Torrens, Region 6 Business Consultant; Angela Elgaard, Region 7 Business Consultant; Mary Ellen Harding, Administrative Services Consultant; Andrea Mendez, Administrative Assistant III
Florida Division of Blind Services Director: Robert L. Doyle
District Alternates/Licensed Vendors:
Career Technology and Training Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired: Raven Pulliam, BEP Instructor; Kate Curlin, Student; Vitor Almeida, Student; Cedric Mitchell, Student; Lee Whittington, Student.
Minutes Approved without objection:
August Committee Meeting Minutes
October 7 Meeting Minutes
October 13 Special Meeting Minutes
Opening Remarks (Chair: Randall Crosby)
- Welcomed new committee members and staff.
- Introduced new Bureau Chief Alan Risk and new Compliance Officer Dario Turnquest.
- Announced new Snack bar Trainer Brandi Woodard (unable to attend).
- Discussed microphone test for improved accessibility.
- Noted upcoming Sunshine Law briefing and lunch arrangements.
Public Comments: Kurt Ponchak
- Provided update on NABM legislative advocacy website nearly ready after testing.
- Encouraged members to show kindness to David Stevens during budget report.
- Offered availability for budget training questions..
Compliance Officer Introduction – Dario Turnquest
- Shared background (Bahamas origin, state compliance experience).
- Expressed openness to communication.
Grievance Board Election (1 Seat)
Nominees:
- Jose Quintanilla (accepted)
- Will Grignon (accepted via email; present later virtually)
Vote:
- Alton Palmore - Grignon
- Patrick Martin - Grignon
- Jim Gaudette - Grignon
- Darryl Brinton - Quintanilla
- David Stevens - Grignon
- Phil Hubbard - Quintanilla
- Jose Quintanilla - Quintanilla
- Jim Warth - Grignon
- Mike McCrea - Grignon
- Antonio Gonzalez – Grignon
- Crosby – Grignon
- Bekric – Grignon
Type 1 Selection Panel Election
Nominees: Lillian Pemberton and Valerie James (incumbent; accepted via email)
Two Rounds of Voting: Result remained 7–5 (neither reached 2/3 requirement).
Outcome: Election was postponed until the next committee meeting (motion passed by majority).
Summary: No candidate reached 2/3 threshold; election delayed to March Committee Meeting.
Combination of Facilities (3 Proposals)
Combine Facilities 588 and 614 (District 9)
Rationale:
- Sales declined in 614 due to closures and reductions.
- Adding 588 helps operator Guillermo Alvarez recover losses.
- Both Regional Consultant and District Rep support.
Voice Vote: Unanimous approval.
Combine Facilities 530 and 597 (District 9)
Rationale:
- Airport location (#597) sales down >50%.
- Adding prison site (#530) improves viability; operator Paola would go from ~$1,500 to $5–7k potential monthly net.
- Locations are close (<20 minutes).
Voice Vote: Unanimous approval.
Combine Facilities 320 and 273 (District 2)
Rationale:
- Combined sales near $300k annually, ideal for a stable route operator.
- Buildings within 3-block radius; operator experience and existing Type II support the merger.
- Debate noted concerns about over-combining vs. future flexibility; confirmed combinations can be undone if operator leaves.
Voice Vote: Unanimous approval.
Set-Aside Percentage Review
Context:
- Automatically reverts to 6% unless changed.
- Letter requesting increased spending authority (to ~$1M) has already left DOE and gone to Legislature.
- Expected decision by March 2026.
Discussion Themes:
- Need healthy buffer (committee members suggested $150–300k).
- If legislative change passes, having higher set-aside prevents matching shortfall.
- 6% seen as safest path until budget outcomes clear.
Motion: Keep set-aside unchanged (allow automatic return to 6%) made by Martin. Second by Warth.
Vote: Passed with a majority with one dissenting vote by Warth.
Summary: Set-aside will revert to 6% beginning January 2026.
NABM Annual Subscription Renewal
Motion: Renew $3,500 annual membership made by Warth second by Bekric.
Rationale:
- NABM provides training, national advocacy, and regulatory guidance.
- Supports BEP with compliance, policy, and training needs.
Voice Vote: Unanimous approval.
Subcommittee Structure Debate
Summary of Issue:
- Whether subcommittee chairs must be committee members or may come from the full vendor body.
- Chair and Vice Chair prefer chairs to be committee members; members may include any vendor.
- Opposing view: broader pool strengthens leadership development.
- Director Doyle clarified: subcommittees may include non-committee members, but all recommendations must return to full committee for approval.
- Sunshine Law applies to subcommittee meetings.
Motion amended by Bekric second by McCrea:
Committee will appoint committee members as chairs but may appoint non-committee members as chair only if no committee member volunteers.
Vote:
Alton Palmore - Yes
Patrick Martin - No
Jim Gaudette - Yes
Darryl Brinton - No
David Stevens - No
Phil Hubbard - No
Jose Quintanilla - No
Jim Warth - Yes
Mike McCrea - Yes
Antonio Gonzalez – Yes
Crosby – No
Bekric - Yes
Sunshine Law Presentation – Attorney Paula Harrigan
Key Points: Any committee-related communication between two committee members (call/text/email) = Sunshine Law applies. Agenda planning emails are public record but permissible if not discussing voting or positions. Subcommittees are subject to Sunshine Law (public notice + minutes required). Elections at the biannual seminar may fall under Sunshine Law—requires possible further AG opinion.
Summary: Sunshine Law obligations reinforced; committee acknowledged need for future Attorney General opinion regarding secret ballot elections.
Student Introductions (Daytona BEP Training Program)
Four students introduced themselves:
- Lee Whittington – prefers micro markets/cafeterias, open to any opportunity.
- Cedric Mitchell – strong interest in vending; enthusiastic about BEP structure.
- Vitor Almeida – relocating from SC; eager to gain points and begin a route.
- Kate Curlin – interested in highway vending and military dining.
Committee Q&A Highlights:
- Best preparation for selection panel = study for 40-question test + business readiness.
- Hardest part of first facility = labor, staffing, learning building flow, managing expectations.
- Suggestions for “new ventures” included national examples like janitorial staffing contracts, beach rental concessions.
Business Analyst Report: John Ahler
- RSA Report completed, sent to Alan, forwarded to Director Doyle, and “purple sheeted” to the Commissioner’s office for approval.
- RSA reports are publicly available on the RSA website.
Financial Highlights
- Gross Sales: Up 3.42% (from $30.6M to $31.6M).
- Merchandise Purchases: Up 1.4% ($11.5M ? $11.6M).
- Payroll Expenses: Up 9.68% ($6.9M ? $7.5M), driven by higher labor costs and Florida minimum wage increases.
- Operating Profit: Up 2.42% ($10.7M ? $10.9M).
- Net Proceeds to Vendors: Up 2.8%.
- Set-Aside Funds: Down 49% ($647K ? $337K).
Vendor Earnings
- Median net earnings: Up ~5.5–6% (approx. $84,578).
- Average net earnings: Up ~6% (from ~$98,300 to ~$103,926).
- Explanation of median vs. average provided for clarity.
Cantaloupe Data Highlights
- Comparative period: Nov 2025–Dec 2024 vs. Nov 2023–Nov 2024.
- Annual sales: Increased by ~$900,000.
- Transactions: Declining but decline slowing (8.7M ? 8.6M).
- Multi-vend transactions estimated at ~10%.
- Average vend price increased $0.13 (from $2.38 ? $2.51).
Operational Notes
- Some vendors reducing multi-vend capability due to fraud.
- Micro-market data not included in Cantaloupe reports.
- Training needs identified for vendor use of Cantaloupe reporting tools.
BEP Updates: Alan Risk
Budget Report
Set-Aside Fund
- Updated set-aside cash balance: $418,461.15 (previous error corrected).
- Only $25K used YTD; consultants’ purchases to shift to set-aside starting Jan 1.
Federal Trust Fund
- Approx. $300K remaining (subject to fluctuation based on PO usage).
Planned Expenditures
- Camera project estimated $160K–$170K, under budget.
- Anticipated increases in spending authority may support:
- Expansion of generic drink machine pilot
- Replacement of aging rest-area coffee machines
- New equipment purchases for program-wide upgrades.
NABM Conference Funding: Estimated cost: $50–55K. Funding available and already budgeted.
Sunshine Law Clarification: Randall Crosby
- Committee seeks official Attorney General clarification on whether biennial elections may legally use secret ballots.
- Interim policy: Continue secret ballots until written opinion is obtained.
- Discussion on AG’s response: AG office “defends the state, not citizens,” making guidance more complex.
Military Contracts
- Key West: 5-year contract, started May 2025 ? 2030.
- Eglin AFB: 4-year contract, May 2025 ? 2029 (Vendor: Alton Palmore).
- Hurlburt Field: 5-year contract, Aug 2025 ? 2030 (Vendor: Wanda Feldstein).
- Panama City: Contract expired; currently under month-to-month extension through Feb 2026.
- Vendor of record pending award: Mitsy Bowen.
- Camp Blanding: National Guard contract renewed through 2030 (Vendor: Ed Spence).
- Tyndall AFB: Under arbitration discussions; if awarded, vendor assignment decisions pending.
Rest Area Camera Installation: Brian Ashworth
- Regions 1, 2, 7 complete.
- Region 3 is completing this week.
- Region 4 starts approx. Dec 11–15.
- Region 5 to follow.
Key Operational Notes
- Most rest areas require 3 cameras; one rest area required 4.
- Passwords and access procedures distributed to consultants.
- Issue raised: signage visibility — theft incident occurred where only one side had signage.
Generic Drink Machine Pilot Program: Darryl Brinton
Subcommittee Installed / Assigned Locations (6 Machines)
- Mike Sumler
- Jose Quintanilla
- Sead Bekric
- Mike McCrea
- Troy Arthur (refurb)
- Will Peace (refurb on vending route)
Concerns Raised
- Committee members noted:
- Placement decisions were made at subcommittee/agency level.
- Lack of formal committee vote on who receives machines.
Bekric made the motion that this Committee review future pilot trials, approve them and where the equipment will be placed and to whom they should be awarded. Seconded by Jim Warth
Motion passed by voice vote.
Director Robert L Doyle, III
- Director Doyle aligned with earlier comments from Kurt, noting increased engagement and more dynamic conversations within the committee.
- Highlighted the term “active participation,” cautioning that when used as leverage or force, it risks alienating partners rather than fostering collaboration.
- Emphasized:
- Cooperation
- Communication
- Relationship-building
- Avoiding power struggles
Budget Request Process & Status Updates
- Committee’s recommendation for active participation in the budget request was received and incorporated.
- Process flow:
- Bureau Chief ? Director Doyle’s office ? Commissioner’s Office ? Governor’s Office (pre-screening) ? State Board of Education ? Governor’s Budget.
- Agencies’ requests are visible in the legislative tracking system before the final Governor’s budget.
- Legislative session runs January 13 – March 13.
Funding Notes:
- Previous legislative session successful with additional funding secured.
- Federal government unexpectedly provided a double cost-of-living increase for FY 2025 VR programs.
- During the government shutdown:
- State operations continued without interruption.
- RSA employees were furloughed and later rehired.
- RSA now has reduced staffing and limited capacity for monitoring or technical assistance.
Federal-Level Changes Impacting VR Programs
- Randolph Sheppard Administration is struggling with workload due to staff reductions.
- Agencies told them to skip quarterly reporting on corrective action plans due to capacity limitations.
- Politics surrounding the U.S. Department of Education:
- President has expressed desire to eliminate the department.
- Agencies are using interagency agreements as workarounds:
- Some programs are being administratively reassigned to other federal departments.
- American Indian VR Program now administered day-to-day by the Department of Interior (policy stays with RSA).
- Anticipated administrative reassignment:
- Day-to-day operations of VR programs may shift to the Department of Labor under interagency agreement.
- Outcomes depend on ongoing court challenges.
Leadership Update: Federal Oversight: Kimberly Ritchie, former colleague of Director Doyle. Confirmed by U.S. Senate as head of the Office of Civil Rights. Currently Doyle is also serving as Acting Assistant Secretary of the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) overseeing Vocational Rehabilitation programs. Leadership remains supportive of services for students and individuals with disabilities.
Consumer Protection Legislation (Proposed)
- DBS drafted legislation for the upcoming session aimed at preventing consumer exploitation by private providers offering O&M or vision rehabilitation services at a cost when they are free through DBS or CRPs.
Legislation goal:
- Require private service providers to disclose that services may be available free of charge through DBS.
Committee Discussion:
- Question raised about past solicitation/approval statutes.
- Doyle: earlier statutes mainly addressed solicitation, not direct service provision; current legislation will strengthen consumer protection.
Multi-State Arbitration Discussion
Committee previously voted to support multi-state arbitration.
Director Doyle’s position:
- Florida DBS and DOE have consistently supported arbitration when needed.
- Decision not to join multi-state arbitration should not be interpreted as lack of support for arbitration itself.
- Only 4–5 states have joined so far.
- Focus on:
- Maintaining strong relationships
- Picking battles wisely
- Avoiding unnecessary conflict that could strain state-agency partnerships.
NABM Membership Considerations
- Recent federal guidance instructs state agencies to review membership organizations for:
- Prohibition on lobbying with federal/state grant funds.
- Prohibition on dues structures tied to the size of federal grants.
- Agencies must ensure dues are not used to influence legislation.
- NABM may be fine, but due diligence is required.
Parliamentary Procedure & Meeting Effectiveness
Encouraged committee members to: Learn Robert’s Rules of Order. Know bylaws and policies. Promote effective communication. Avoid using procedural knowledge as a power weapon. Emphasized collaboration over confrontation.
Vending Machine Contract: Jose Quintanilla
Mixed performance from USI machines: Some snack models are performing well.
- Frozen, drink, and coffee units receive poor reviews (technical failures, display issues, reliability).
- Concern about pricing increases if contract is rebid.
- Sole-source purchasing discussed for specialized machines (frozen, coffee, generic drink).
- Proposal to renew USI contract for one year, keeping only the desirable machine models.
Committee Sentiment
- General support for a selective contract renewal (ambient snack machines only).
- Plan to rebid or restructure contracts in early 2026.
Training & OJT Program: Patrick Martin
Variability in OJT quality, especially for totally blind trainees.
Need for:
Orientation & mobility support
- Accessible planograms
- Training on modern accessible inventory tools (e.g., smart glasses)
- Consistent use of approved training checklist/syllabus
- Concern: Syllabus not being followed consistently at Daytona training facility.
Motions Passed
- Two OJT/mentoring documents submitted by Bekric be reviewed and considered by the Training, Retraining and Upward Mobility Subcommittee. Motion made by Sead Bekric second by Quintanilla.
- Committee formally authorizes the Training Subcommittee to:
- Review Daytona training deficiencies.
- Review of OJT procedures.
- Recommend improvements at next meeting.
Committee Procedures & Subcommittee Roles
Clarifications
- Subcommittees may research and discuss issues but cannot make administrative decisions.
- Only the elected committee can officially participate in SLA decision-making.
- Non-committee members may attend and comment but may not vote.
Regional Reports
Region 7: Angela Elgaard
Facility 639: Hurlburt/Eglin Vending Route. LOFA signed August 26th for: Hurlburt AFB, Eglin AFB, and Topsail Hills Preserve State Park (acquired October 1st)
Facility 619: NSA Panama City. Military dining contract was extended in November for a few more months.
Facility 631: Hurlburt Field AFB Reef 2 Reopening. FSIG received plans for reopening Reef 2. Planned features include small grab-and-go micro market and hot line offering hot food.
Rest Area Surveillance Installations. Surveillance camera installation completed October 3rd at Rest Areas 488, 575, 576, 578, 566, 528. Verify functionality review reports before next meeting.
Daytona Training Center. Training periods: November 17–21, and December 1–3. Worked with Brandi Woodard, new Snack Bar Manager, and provided training to the new class in the Snack Bar.
District 1: Alton Palmore
No additional updates received from district vendors.
Region 3: Jay Payne
Facility 285: Daytona Beach Vending Route. Installed new drink and snack machines at: US Post Office, 2048 Howland Blvd. Additional installations planned at another post office in Orange City later this month.
Facility 415/416: Rest Area I-4, Seminole County (Eastbound/Westbound). Arthur Johnson signed into the facility around August 28 (Type II operation). Will be included in the January bid cycle.
Facility 478: Rest Area I-75, Marion County (Northbound). Projected opening window: April – September 2026.
Facility 409: Rest Area I-95, Brevard County (Southbound – Mims). Projected opening: Late February 2026. Will be advertised once ready.
Facility 603: Ocala Vending Route. Scheduled to be advertised in the January bid cycle.
Rest Area Camera Installations. Camera installations underway across Region 3. Some locations are experiencing delays due to new-facility construction.
Facility 497: Kennedy Space Center, Building M6493 Route A. Opened a new Micro Market in OSB-2 on October 23. Well received by building occupants. Boeing and Logistics have reached out regarding adding similar markets. Discussions underway for: Additional micro markets and ghost kitchen conversion at SSPF snack bar
District 5: David Stevens
Vendors are inquiring about generic vending machines they have invested in and if they could be reimbursed for their purchase. Maureen Fink answered no.
District 6: Phil Hubbard
A vendor requested the generic vending machine for her facilities. Will Pease has taken over several responsibilities and expressed gratitude to the committee for the vending machine. Kash Ahmed is experiencing ongoing issues with lack of storage and has requested that the committee revisit potential solutions. A vendor currently running the Type II’s at Kennedy asked whether the two snack bars will still be combined as previously discussed. Question posed about whether SSPF will be transitioned into a micro market or ghost kitchen. Representative submitted a proposal to Jay for review at the next meeting. New micro market has opened; initial sales slowed by the government shutdown but are improving. Multiple facilities have requested micro markets.
After review, it was noted that at least one facility (Boeing) may not need a micro market.
Kennedy population is not growing significantly, but food choice demand is increasing. Some buildings have growing populations, supporting the micro market request. Most interest centers on adding sandwich and frozen machines rather than full-scale markets. Long-term possibility exists that Kennedy may need to be split due to workload and growth. Committee is encouraged to consider future vendor transitions and planning.
Marketing Report: Greg Coon
FY24–25 Recap
Surveys
- 40 total site surveys completed (July 2024–June 2025).
• 24 Randolph-Sheppard sites
• 16 non-Randolph-Sheppard sites.
Solicitations
- 20 solicitations evaluated.
- Proposals submitted for 2 opportunities:
• Port of Palm Beach – Awarded
• Indian River State College – Not awarded. - Submitted proposal for Osceola County Courthouse; county wished to proceed but FL Courts declined.
Installations
- 118 new machines installed (123 including 1 micro-market conversion).
- Comparable to FY23–24 levels but more work projected in FY25–26.
- Installation breakdown:
• 42% Federal
• 31% State
• 22% Additions at City/County locations
• 4% New non-Randolph-Sheppard
• Notable: 27% of additions were non-Randolph-Sheppard.
Current FY25–26 (July–Nov)
Surveys & Installations
- 15 surveys completed.
- 55 new machines installed + 1 micro-market conversion.
- Recent installations include:
• Multiple State Parks (Regions 2, 5, 6)
• Hurlburt Field AFB
• Florida DEM warehouse in Auburndale.
Opportunities in Pipeline
- Early-phase discussions with:
• GSA – Wilkie D. Ferguson Federal Building (Miami): proposed micro-market replacing existing food service.
• Veterans Benefits Administration (regional office): potential new food service facility.
• New State Emergency Operations Center (Tallahassee, Q1 2026): vending + billable beverage/coffee service. - 75–80 pending machine installations, including:
• 50 machines for Eglin AFB
• New District Court of Appeal – St. Petersburg
• Lake Griffin State Park
• DJJ Lakeland
• Senior living facility in Jupiter
Potential Q4 FY23–24 Projects (Apr–Jun 2024)
- Possible opportunities at:
• Naval Support Activity – Panama City
• Hurlburt AFB
• Eglin AFB
• Additional GSA-leased locations pending survey scheduling.
Additional Notes
- Indian River County issued a vending solicitation for services already being provided; BEP submitted a response and was awarded continuation of service.
Type II Facilities Status: Maureen Fink
27 facilities currently under Type II arrangements; list circulated to committee.
• Facility 555 (Manatee/Sarasota): Prior operator retired and abandoned cash. Interim coverage by Valerie James; northern Charlotte County locations reassigned to Facility 180 (Will Grignon). September selection received no bids; Type II coverage may expire—third-party service being considered.
• Facility 500 (Pinellas County): Awarded to David Alvarez; machine reorganization planned for Feb placement
Training Report: Mary Ellen Harding. Three OJT trainees are scheduled to finish January 16, 2026.
Four students attending the meeting today; projected training completion date of March 2026. Project launched to compile historical committee motions/adoptions into a searchable spreadsheet with links to minutes (multi-year effort).
Compliance Officer Report: Dario Turnquest
• CEU Compliance (as of Dec 2, 2025): 112 active vendors required (102 assigned, 9 unassigned, 1 exempt). 68 of 112 (˜61%) are on pace to meet/exceed CEU requirements. (Training time is not yet reflected).
• Grievances: 6 filed in fall 2025. Board rulings split 3–3; Director concurred with 4 recommendations and revised 2.
• Election Cycle: (Sep 2025): Facilities awarded—425 (I-10 WB Wellborn) to Carl Walker; 500 (Pinellas vending route) to David Alvarez. Not awarded—555 (Manatee/Sarasota route), 257 (Palm Beach route).
• New Licenses: William Pease (Jul 16), Amber Ordaz (Aug 13), Courtney Bellande (Oct 1).
• Question raised: How many operators are actively seeking assignment without a site. Answer: estimated 9 required to earn CEUs; ~3 actively pursuing opportunities:
• William Pease – licensed Jul 16, 2025
• Amber Ortiz – licensed Aug 13, 2025
• Courtney Bellande – licensed Oct 1, 2025
Regional Reports:
Region 1: Brian Ashworth:
Camera installation project began on September 10 and was completed October 15.
Mark Turner replaced two Pepsi machines with two Coke machines at Facility 423: I-75 Welcome Center. Change is expected to provide improved drink variety. Sales increased by over $4,000 compared to last year. Note: Last year’s sales were under a different operator with different pricing, so results include some variability.
Leon County DOE Pavilions. Painting of eastbound and westbound DOE-owned vending pavilions completed on October 10. The refreshed appearance is well-received.
Jefferson County – Rest Area 572 Closure & Reopening. August 14: Jim Perry received FDOT confirmation that Jefferson County WB Rest Area 572 would close within four days for a six-week repaving project. Jim began liquidating inventory to prevent losses. Operators Patrick Martin, Jason Carpenter, and Colton Knight assisted by purchasing product to mitigate impact. October 29: Rest area reopened.
New Machine Installations:
September 25
- Installed 1 snack and 1 drink machine at the new office space for the
Department of Financial Services – Criminal Investigations Unit (Tallahassee). - Added to Anthony DaGraca’s route (Facility 593).
October 23
- Installed 1 snack and 1 drink machine at new
FDLE office space at CCOC (Southwood Cafeteria location). - Added to Patrick Martin’s Facility 485.
November 19
- Installed 1 snack, 1 drink, and 1 combo machine at the
Department of Administrative Hearings (DOAH). - Added to Anthony DaGraca’s route (Facility 593).
November 25
- Swapped out a FastCorp machine at
Woody Matthews – Jefferson County Rest Area EB (Facility 571).
District 2: Patrick Martin
Coca Cola United Delivery Issue: Tony DaGraca had been shifted to bi-weekly Coca-Cola deliveries. Tony requested assistance due to inability to store two weeks of product. Caitlin Mann was contacted and restored weekly deliveries. Members were advised to notify Caitlin immediately if similar issues arise.
Biennial Reimbursement Concern: One operator, Woody Matthews, still has not been reimbursed for the biennial. Question raised about whether reimbursement could be checked on.
Turlington Building HVAC Issues: An initial estimate from DMS for new HVAC: over $300,000. Federal RSA funds cannot be used for this cost. Higherups were notified, but payment approval is unlikely. AC has been problematic, especially during summers. The facility manager previously attempted to maintain cooler temperatures on weekends. Concerns raised about: Food spoiling early, equipment failures, and operator discomfort.
Current Position: No HVAC replacement project will move forward at this time. Operator will need to make accommodations, such as: Using coolers and hoping the facility manager can maintain lower temps again next summer.
Reactions: Concern expressed regarding the reasonableness of expecting operators to continue under these conditions and cost cited as primary barrier (“$300,000 to half a million”).
Region 4: Tony Arduengo:
Facility 161: West Tampa Vending Route - Sales performing on target since recombination.
Facility 396: East Tampa Vending Route. Sales performing as predicted. Cashless payment added to washers/dryers at state park. Generated $650 in October from new cashless options.
Facility 627: Tampa Micro-Market Route. Sales were slightly below forecast. Cause: Worker losses at Federal Building and Courthouse.
Facility 555 / 555A: US Post Office Sarasota / Manatee Vending Route. Recently placed out for Type II bid. Previous operator abandoned facility and removed cash. Valerie James took over in early October. Sales are currently slow but expected to recover. Multiple machine repairs and equipment rearrangements completed.
Facility 360 / 353: Rest Area I-75 Pasco County South Bound / Rest Area I-75 Pasco County North Bound. AC replaced at Facility 353. Both sites have had ongoing vandalism for several months. Cameras are scheduled for installation in the next few weeks.
Facility 500: Pinellas County Route. David Alvarez was awarded facility in last bid. Preparing for needed equipment changes and repairs. Operator expected arrival: Early February.
Facility 112: Collier-Naples/Lee County Vending Route. Managed by Andrew Willson. Added new Leetran location at Edison Mall.
Facility 180: Fort Myers Route. Added five locations previously under Facility 555 (Northern Charlotte County). These new locations are slow to develop and will require time to improve.
Rest Areas: All rest areas scheduled to receive security cameras by end of December.
Status: Security enhancements in progress.
District 7: Jose Quintanilla
Vendors generally reported doing well. Some vendors expressed interest in obtaining newer equipment for their facilities.
Security & Theft Issues. Ongoing problems have occurred with individuals inserting dryer sheets into coin return slots to block coins and later remove accumulated change. One recent incident escalated when a machine’s coin chute was damaged. Cameras are being installed in hopes of identifying the responsible individual and reducing theft. Staff believe they may know who is involved but currently lack proof.
Card Reader Outage. A vendor inquired about the cause of a recent card reader outage and whether reimbursement would be offered. The outage was determined to be a Verizon issue, not caused by the vending equipment or the agency. A formal explanation email was previously shared with stakeholders.
General Operations. Overall, vendors appear to be performing well. Appreciation was expressed for the support and work completed on the matter.
District 8: Jim Warth
Only one person contacted the district representative, reporting two snack machines that are difficult to open and close. After discussing the issue with Maureen, it was confirmed that the policy requires machines to be replaced after 10 years. This information will be communicated to the vendor. The district has no other major concerns currently. Cameras are functioning well (5 installed and solid), and all vendors are satisfied.
Region 2: Bernie Kaiserian:
Facility 487: USPS NDC (Post-Renovation). Very strong sales following renovation. Operator Patti Fulda achieved $50K in sales for two consecutive months. Her overall sales are up 85% for 2025 through September.
Facility 564: USMC at Blount Island. Operator Orlando Ramirez recorded four consecutive months of over $40K in net sales. In April, sales exceeded $40K again, demonstrating ongoing strong performance.
BEP Trainee Engagement. Raven organized a Jacksonville tour for three BEP trainees in October.
All trainees will complete some portion of their OJT with Jacksonville operators.
Facility 616: St. Augustine Vending Route. Region 2 took over the washer, dryer, and drink machine business at Anastasia State Park in October.
Equipment Acquisition. Consultant Jay (Region 3) collected 48 dollar-counting machines acquired at no cost from DOT. Machines will be assessed, cleaned, and distributed to operators in need.
Facility 388: Vending Route at NAS Jacksonville. Operator Carl Walker accepted a facility in another region. Facility 388 will be advertised in January.
Camp Blanding Dining Service. Dining services resumed in October. Ed Spence returned to manage operations, having previously overseen them from 2015–2019.
District 4: Darryl Brinton
Patty Hubbard is very satisfied with the new frozen food machine, and overall operator morale appears positive. Orlando is recognized for doing a great job in his role. In the most recent selection cycle, no operators submitted a bid on Facility 257. The facility has now been reissued as a Type II opportunity. The district is waiting for the award outcome to determine next steps. Depending on the award results, the facility may ultimately be managed by a third-party operator.
Region 5: Alecia Brown:
Facility 257: Palm Beach County Vending Route. Remains on the Type II List. Awaiting determination for changeover scheduled for January. Vista Center (Jog Rd.) is expected to be permanently assigned to this route once Type II selection is complete.
Facility 547: Transportation Security Administration, Ft. Lauderdale. Transition from Third Party (Atlantic Vending) to Carmela McKinney George has been completed. Experienced minor delays due to the government shutdown period. TSA processing is still pending. Two new locations added to the operator’s route: West Park Broward Sheriff’s Office and Dr. Von D. Mizell Park
Facility 469: Palm Beach County Courthouse. Vista Center – Jog Rd. has been added temporarily.
Once Type II selection concludes for Facility 257, Vista Center will transition accordingly.
Facility 640: Port of Palm Beach. Determined not sufficient as a standalone facility.
Would need to be attached to a route—likely Facility 469 after the Vista Center adjustments.
Several facility assignments are dependent on the completion of the Type II selection for Facility 257. TSA clearance remains the only outstanding item for the Facility 547 transition.
Route adjustments involving Vista Center influence multiple facility alignments (469 and 257).
District 9: Mike McCrea
Contacted all vendors none of them currently have any issues. However, Ed Spence plans to apply for the Type II.
Region 6: Yusnay Torrens
Facility 015: Dade County Courthouse, 1st, and 2nd Floors Miami-Dade Courthouse. Final day of service: December 18, 2026. Facility will be closed thereafter.
Facility 156: Dade County Justice Building. Operator Retirement. Operator submitted resignation, retiring December 31, 2026/ Services end December 22, 2026. County anticipates new Agreement ready March 2026. Brummer building can be reassigned to Barbara Coleman
Facility 348: State Regional Service Center Miami. Type II Cafeteria (State Building). Performance remains strong under Guillermo. Daily sales went up 100%. Excellent outlook for next year
Facility 614: US Post Office Doral Route. Job Corps. School and Cuba Broadcasting remain open. Proposal: Merge Facility 588 into 614. SouthCo revenue: $3,500 gross / $1,500 net monthly.
Facility 510: Krome Detention Center Miami. Agreement Status. Agreement signed by agency; pending ICE final signature. Operator reports balance sheet includes non-commissary expenses, impacting her commission.
Facility 519: US Post Office Miami (NW 72nd Ave). Third-Party Agreement. Agreement ends December 31. Operator will not renew; plans to take over cafeteria. Existing vendor permitted to deliver the space by mid-January.
Facility 512: Miami FCI Class I and 2. Card Readers. Approved for installation. 12 new card readers are to be added to boost sales.
597 / 530: US Customs & Border Protection / Federal Detention Center Miami. Proposed Merger. Prison generating $12,000 gross monthly, $3,500–$4,500 net. Existing annual sales at 597: $597k. Merger would create a more reasonable, sustainable profit for Operator.
Equipment Updates. New machines placed at 117, 568, 614, and 512. Additional equipment tune-ups completed systemwide.
Future Expansion Projects. Ferguson Federal Building (GSA). Government Center. County work is stalled until Justice Building Agreement is renewed.
District 10: Antonio Gonzalez.
No report.
Saturday, December 6, 2025
The following individuals were present: Randall Crosby, Chairman; Sead Bekric, Vice Chairman
District Representatives: Alton Palmore (via Teams), District 1 Alternate; Patrick Martin, District 2; Jim Gaudette, District 3; Darryl Brinton, District 4; David Stevens, District 5; Phil Hubbard, District 6; Jose Quintanilla, District 7; Jim Warth, District 8; Mike McCrea, District 9; Antonio Gonzalez, District 10.
Bureau of Business Enterprise Staff: Alan Risk, Bureau Chief; Maureen Fink, Operations Manager; Dario Turnquest, Compliance Officer; Brian Ashworth, Region 1 Business Consultant; Bernie Kaiserian, Region 2 Business Consultant; Tony Arduengo, Region 4 Business Consultant; Alecia Brown, Region 5 Business Consultant; Yusnay Torrens, Region 6 Business Consultant; Mary Ellen Harding, Administrative Services Consultant; Andrea Mendez, Administrative Assistant III.
Chair Opening Statement – Governance & Subcommittee Appointments
Randall Crosby
- Addresses ongoing disputes regarding authority of the Chair to appoint subcommittees.
- States he believes his actions are fully compliant with bylaws and guidance from:
- Attorney Grassman
- Jesse Hartle
- Director Doyle
- Emphasizes:
- Subcommittees may begin work independently between meetings.
- Committee votes ultimately govern decisions.
- Intent is to preserve integrity of the Chair’s role.
- Announces and reaffirms subcommittee chairs:
- Training: Patrick Martin
- Policies: Colton Knight
- Public Relations: Jose Quintanilla
- Promotion & Transfer: Darryl Brinton
- Budget: David Stevens
MOTION: “All Standing Subcommittees Must Be Chaired by Committee Members”
Motion:
All standing subcommittees will be chaired by elected district committee members made by Sead Bekrick. Second by David Stevens
Roll Call Vote:
Alton Palmore – yes
Patrick Martin – no
Jim Gaudette – yes
Darryl Brinton – no
David Stevens – yes
Phil Hubbard – yes
Jose Quintanilla – yes
Jim Warth – yes
Mike McCrea – yes
Antonio Gonzalez – yes
Randall Crosby – no
Sead Bekric - yes
Motion passed 9–3.
Policies Subcommittee Report: Colton Knight
Colton presents 16 policy amendments, grouped into:
- Previously approved policies (not sent to RSA)
- New policies under development
Committee confirms these are not up for vote today—only updates and feedback.
Previously Approved Policies (Summarized)
- Daytona Training Updates – removes fixed module list; training remains 16 weeks.
- Exam Questions – pulled from study materials posted on the BEP website.
- Working Capital / Outstanding Debt Revisions – allows payment plans; includes mitigating circumstances.
- Exam Procedures – calculator rules, no devices, cannot leave without emergency.
- Interview Question Security – early disclosure may disqualify candidate.
- Temporary LOFAs (Type II) – rest area Type II LOFAs month-to-month up to 6 months.
- Adds Definitions: Micro Markets and Military Dining.
- Market Account Transfer Agreement – standardizes deposits transfer during market changeovers.
- Retail Unit Compliance (formerly 80/20 Rule) – applies to micro markets & vending.
- Fresh Food Definitions – stocking protocols established with regional consultant.
- Commercial Vehicle Insurance – allowable for any facility type; number of vehicles not capped.
- Equipment Fees Expanded – kiosks, internet costs, smart locks, etc.
Motion: Add Panoptic/AI Camera Fees as Allowable Expense
Motion: Include optional Panoptic AI camera monitoring fees as allowable expenses. Moved by Patrick Martin. Seconded: Phil Hubbard
Discussion: Camera equipment reimbursable by SLA; AI monitoring subscription optional. Monthly fee approx. $150 per market. Committee emphasized security benefits for blind operators.
Voice vote:
Passed Unanimously
Code of Conduct Development
Highlights:
- Unified code preferred (body + committee).
- Debate over conflict-of-interest language.
- Discussion of enforcement, arbitration, Chapter 112 compliance, and disciplinary pathways.
Discipline Structure Proposed (Amendment #13)
- Notice of Concern
- Notice of Non-Compliance
- Letter of Warning
- Letter of Sanction
- LOFA Termination
- License Suspension
- License Revocation
Amendment Process (Amendment #16)
- Policies approved by committee posted immediately online with “Pending RSA Approval” badge.
- Committee and SLA may begin using policies if mutually agreed (though challengeable until RSA approval).
- Annual submission of all changes to RSA.
Pepsi Contract Proposal (Chair & Vice Chair)
- Proposal distributed to committee in advance.
- Goal: create optional contract between individual vendors and Pepsi.
- Benefits sought:
- Standardized statewide pricing.
- Guaranteed equipment & repair support
- Rebates and incentives
- Concerns identified:
- Required purchase quotas each quarter.
- Flex items/promotional SKUs.
- Price competitiveness with buying groups.
Work group of Ponchak, Knight, and one additional member to renegotiate proposal and report back in March.
Roundtable Highlights
Bekric
- Acknowledges difficult meeting; optimistic disputes are resolved.
- Expresses gratitude for agency support.
Patrick Martin
- Introduces opportunity for teamwork workshop led by former NBA player Andrew DeClercq (pro bono).
- Committee receptive; Chair to schedule later in term.
Jim Gaudette
- Requests CEU credit eligibility for district meetings.
- SLA open to idea; committee must submit agendas for approval.
Orlando / Lillian (Chrome Detention Center)
- Concerns raised about fluctuating commissions, high COGS percentages, and lack of line-item detail.
- SLA confirms:
- Federal law controls expense deductions
- Attorneys from both sides are still negotiating.
- Monthly payments now implemented.
- SLA is willing to review itemized data as received.
Lillian to send last 3 months of Chrome reports directly to Bureau Chief for review.
Public Comments: No additional comments submitted.
Adjournment
Motion to adjourn passed.
Meeting ended at 11:59 AM.




