A prominent topic of debate during the meeting was the future of palm trees along Paradise Boulevard. Concerns were raised by residents about the palm trees, with some interfering with power lines and others appearing unhealthy. The commission discussed the potential removal or relocation of these trees, with a company expressing interest in taking a few of them. The debate considered the drainage swell along Paradise Lane and aesthetic concerns during prolonged rain events. The commission also explored alternative options, such as replacing irrigation and impacted grass while maintaining other landscape components. A public engagement meeting saw residents divided on whether to keep the palm trees or opt for other trees, with a narrow vote margin favoring the former.

The commission’s discussions on the landscaping project highlighted the need to address the impact on power lines, possible removal or relocation of palm trees, and drainage issues on Paradise Lane. The aesthetic appearance of the area and potential project alternatives were also subject to debate. A resident, Petra Ree, argued that palm tree replacement should be seen as normal maintenance. However, some commissioners expressed reluctance to remove healthy trees without an arborist’s opinion and requested further meetings and visual aids before deciding.

Further discussions revolved around the $50,000 stormwater funds allocation for Paradise Lane west of Paradise Boulevard. The project would involve removing bottle brush trees, replacing the irrigation system, and potentially tying in with the Elevate TI project. The commission considered the elevation of the West Causeway in line with the watershed management plan, weighing the timeline for realization and whether landscaping should be undertaken immediately.

In addition to the landscaping concerns, the meeting tackled the topic of public boardwalks with the approval of ordinance 2024-5, which introduced a definition for public boardwalks into the Land Development regulations. This change was prompted by repair and construction inquiries from local establishments and the Living Shoreline Boardwalk project. Mary Ellen Edwards, a representative from the Department, clarified that the new definition would bring existing structures into compliance and cater to future projects. Support was voiced by Amy Dennis, a student from St. Petersburg College, highlighting the benefits of clear guidelines for the community.

The commission also debated ordinance 2024-3, regarding the removal of the 50-room requirement for hotels near churches or schools. The rationale behind the requirement and its potential implications were discussed, with commissioners expressing concerns about the necessity of the 10% rule and agreeing to reevaluate the ordinance for further consideration.

The Treasure Bay Living Shoreline project was another key item, with the commission approving two grant amendments to fund the design and construction. Discussions centered on administrative adjustments to grant agreements, inquiring about specific terms such as retainage and its applicability to the project. The commission sought clarification on certain provisions before approving the grant amendments.

Technical aspects of various projects were addressed, including the requirement for retainage, SE level impact projection study, and vulnerability assessment. The commission inquired about the timeline for obtaining a permit from the division of State lands and the potential impact on associated grants. A professional engineer from the public voiced concerns about mobilization costs and the need for a second opinion on the design and construction of the living shoreline project, leading to further discussion and clarification by the commission.

Contract renewals with three civil engineering firms were authorized by the commission, allowing the city manager to sign with a purchase authority of $60,000 for the fiscal year 2024. These firms, selected in 2018, provide civil engineering reviews and inspection services for the city. The commission discussed the budgeted spending and addressed public concerns about the focus on necessary projects and costs covered by permit fees.

Lastly, appointments of city commissioners to local boards were deliberated, with the mayor expressing willingness to step away from certain boards to provide opportunities for others. The vice mayor volunteered to serve on specific boards, and other commissioners showed interest in serving on various councils and leagues.