Blue Sky Communities’ petition to rezone a parcel of land from single-family residential small lot (R-2) zoning District to multifamily residential low-density (R-3) zoning District was a focal point. The commission inquired about the types of developments Blue Sky Communities specializes in and emphasized the importance of recreational amenities and security measures for future residents. In addition, an ordinance amending the Winter Haven comprehensive plan was discussed to address septic to sewer conversions, which aligns with House Bill 1379. These changes aim to introduce a goal to tackle on-site septic systems, restrict the use of new and replacement septic systems, and require new septic systems to maintain a minimum of 150 feet from any lake’s high water mark. The Planning Commission had unanimously recommended approval, and the ordinance was successfully approved on the first reading and sent to the Florida Department of Commerce for review.

Another central topic was the city’s pension plans. There was a debate regarding the assumed rates of return, which range from 6.5% to 7.5%. The auditors from Molden Jenkins presented an unmodified opinion on the city’s annual comprehensive financial report. They reported no findings related to the city’s internal controls and compliance with significant laws and regulations. The general employee pension plan was noted to be 76% funded, which falls within the common range for such plans.

Financial performance and the city’s readiness for natural disasters were also discussed. The auditor highlighted the city’s strong financial position, noting that the city’s unassigned fund balance exceeded the recommended percentage. Additionally, the commission approved Ordinance 0-24-24, which sought to amend the budget for the replacement of the police department’s roof at an estimated cost of $292,900. This ordinance will progress to a second reading scheduled for May 13th.

Infrastructure projects received attention, with the commission approving the annexation of a property on Cypress Gardens Boulevard and presenting a grant for the design of roadway, sidewalk, and landscape improvements on Avenue C Southeast. The focus here was on enhancing pedestrian infrastructure near schools and mitigating traffic concerns. Moreover, an agreement with the State of Florida Department of Transportation was approved for the design of further roadway improvements.

The commission also approved the release of a subdivision bond for the Peace Creek Reserve subdivision, reducing the bond from $3,981,291 to $472,192 to cover incomplete improvements.

Additionally, reports on community engagement activities from commissioners touched on a range of topics from public safety to local events. Clarifications on state statutes and updates on ongoing litigation were also presented. The City attorney briefed the commission on the form six litigation, where a decision by the judge was imminent and would be communicated to the commission.

The City manager mentioned an upcoming trip to Washington, D.C., for discussions with Congressional members and visits to the Environmental Protection Agency and the Federal Aviation Administration. The manager also noted potential changes to the trip’s agenda due to developments in D.C.