Central to the meeting was the application of Sip and Scoop for a 2COP alcoholic beverage license, allowing for the sale of beer and wine for on-premises consumption at their existing cafe in John’s Pass Village. City staff reviewed the application and concluded that the addition of alcohol would not negatively impact neighborhood character, traffic congestion, or public safety. The staff’s findings, recommending approval with the condition of installing a bike rack with at least three stalls, were presented in detail. James Cody Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of Sip and Scoop, spoke in favor of the application, emphasizing their commitment to fostering a family-friendly environment and clarifying their extensive food offerings, including breakfast and lunch options. The Commission’s approval followed a review of the establishment’s proposal and public comments that included support for the variety of food and beverages offered at Sip and Scoop.

The meeting also delved into the issue of noise disturbances as raised by resident Tom Edwards. Edwards reported that the noise from an event at Mad Beach Cantina exceeded the city’s noise ordinance limits. He proposed a workshop to address the issue and suggested changes to the permitting process, including advanced notice for permit applications and a platform for residents to submit written objections. Mayor Rostek recognized the concerns and assured that the matter would be discussed further at an upcoming workshop.

In terms of city governance, the commissioners passed several ordinances, including Ordinance 20244, which amended the city’s code enforcement procedures, and Ordinance 20246, adjusting the compensation rate approval process for the special magistrate. Ordinance 20245 was also approved, dealing with the appointment and removal of the special magistrate. The approval of these ordinances was unanimous and occurred without public comment.

Another decision was the passing of Ordinance 202-24-5, adopting the fees and collection procedures manual. A 5-0 vote approved the ordinance, which had not changed since its first reading. Additionally, the commissioners unanimously approved a contract for the construction of a code enforcement satellite office, emphasizing that the project would be funded through the building fund and not general funds. This construction, which is not to exceed $260,000, will provide much-needed space and facilities for the building department and local law enforcement.

Further discussions at the meeting included the consideration of Ordinance 20242, which proposed regulations for open accessory structures in relation to total lot size and zoning district setbacks. A suggestion to increase the allowable percentage of open accessory structures from 3.5% to 4% was debated, with concerns about the potential for such structures to exceed maximum size limits.

The commissioners also debated Ordinance 110-485, concerning accessory structures for working waterfronts or marina uses. After a discussion on the potential impact on long-standing businesses and residential areas, the ordinance was accepted with amendments, including a height restriction adjustment and a lot size increase to 4%.

Other items on the agenda were a resolution amending the budget for fiscal year 2024, unanimously approved, and discussions on the upcoming Board of Commissioners workshop agenda. Matters such as the hiring of a grant writer and the grant writing process, along with the beach chairs and umbrella issue, were proposed for discussion. The 2024 meeting schedule was reviewed, with date changes for September and October. The city clerk provided a summary of actions taken at each meeting, and the city manager reminded the commissioners of the upcoming budget workshop.