The Commission gave unanimous approval to manage the grant funds. The project is anticipated to have a transformative effect on waterway accessibility and transportation efficiency within the region.

In addition to the infrastructure grant, the Commission reviewed and unanimously approved an invitation to bid for the Stuart pavement maintenance project to M&M Asphalt Maintenance Inc. The project, with a total unit price of $38,988, is part of a routine maintenance schedule that ensures the upkeep of major city arteries. This preventive approach is divided into five zones, each receiving maintenance every five years.

The meeting also addressed a service agreement with Stuart Main Street Inc., with the Commission authorizing a $70,000 contribution budgeted in the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) budget. The organization, which has been operational since 1987, received the Commission’s support to continue its revitalization efforts in the downtown area. The service agreement is a renewal of the previous agreement that expired in September 2023. The discussion on Stuart Main Street’s role extended to its contributions to the community, including the successful management of the Flagler Center and the organization of cultural events that add vibrancy to the city’s life.

Debate ensued regarding the efficiency and outcomes of Stuart Main Street’s grant pursuits and event management, with some commissioners questioning the return on investment for grant writing expenses and the selection of improvement projects. Despite concerns, the motion to approve the service agreement was moved, seconded, and passed unanimously. A proposal was made to amend the agreement to a one-year term necessitating annual review, which was denied after a vote. A subsequent motion was passed to appoint a commissioner as an ex officio member of the Stuart Main Street board.

The Commission’s engagement with the community extended to addressing concerns about public parking issues near Flagler Park, particularly the conditions and policies of the valet parking service, and the impact on fishermen’s access to their traditional spots. The Commission clarified that the valet service was not permitted to charge for parking and that spaces reserved for fishermen had been lost due to a county settlement agreement. Efforts to resolve the parking challenges included plans to elevate a walkway to prevent trespassing and potential revocation of easement by the railroad company.

At the meeting, a resolution in support of a referendum for a half-cent sales tax to purchase and conserve natural lands in Martin County was also discussed. The resolution was unanimously approved.

Administrative matters were not overlooked, as the Commission moved to continue a date certain item to March 25th and concluded the meeting with a motion to adjourn.