Dunedin Envisions Enhanced Connectivity with Broadband Internet Fiber Project
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
03/21/2024
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Recording Published:
03/21/2024
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Duration:
161 Minutes
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Towns:
Dunedin
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County:
Pinellas County
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State:
Florida
- Meeting Overview:
The recent Dunedin City Commission meeting centered around a notable move to enhance city connectivity through a broadband internet fiber project, with discussions on funding and approval for engineering and design services leading the agenda. The commission approved a contract with McKim Creed Inc. for the engineering and design work of the ARPA broadband internet fiber projects 2, 3, and 4, earmarking $393,100 for the design phase and an overall project budget of $2.6 million. The broadband project aims to provide free public Wi-Fi access in underserved areas, improving security and connectivity throughout the city.
The meeting also highlighted a range of infrastructure and community initiatives, including sustainability efforts such as the greenhouse gas assessment, wildlife corridor expansion, and the “Ready for 100” program for conducting energy audits in collaboration with Duke Energy.
Updates on city infrastructure projects were plentiful. The commission reviewed the progress of the downtown Looper pilot project, which saw higher ridership than anticipated. The success of this initiative prompted a scheduled presentation for the following month. Furthermore, the commission received updates on drainage projects, which after being reprioritized, are moving forward with preliminary designs and surveys, funded by storm water rate approvals.
The event, set to begin with a ceremonial pipe band march, celebrates Dunedin’s rich Scottish heritage and cultural ties. Additionally, in recognition of National Library Week, the commission highlighted the vital role of libraries in the community and encouraged public participation and appreciation for library services.
Concerns were raised over the structural integrity of the local boat club, prompting discussions about the challenges in conducting a necessary assessment without damaging the property. A consensus was reached on the urgency of this issue, with the city engineer addressing the difficulty in accessing the substructure for evaluation.
Economic development was another key topic, with the commission addressing the closure of the local Coca-Cola plant and exploring options for repurposing the property, as well as the impact on the environment. Moreover, the city’s financial strategy was also on the agenda, with the unanimous approval of Resolution 246, authorizing the issuance of a non-ad valorem revenue note series to finance capital projects, including golf course renovations.
Public art initiatives and community development did not go unnoticed, with the commission deliberating on funding for the public art master plan and updates on the historic resources survey. The completion of the library playground and the design and bid process for the pickleball courts were also discussed, though their completion was not expected before the summer season.
A local business representative supported the continuation of the Freebie Looper service, citing its positive impact on commerce and community convenience.
Julie Ward Bujalski
City Council Officials:
Jeff Gow, Maureen Freaney, Robert Walker, John Tornga, Jennifer K. Bramley (City Manager)
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
-
Meeting Date:
03/21/2024
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Recording Published:
03/21/2024
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Duration:
161 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Florida
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County:
Pinellas County
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Towns:
Dunedin
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