The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 158, along with the American Legion John G. Duran Memorial Post 158 and the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 158, made substantial financial contributions to support various community services. The Auxiliary Unit 158 donated $2,200 to the Parks and Recreation Department scholarship fund to assist families with camp registration fees. Additionally, the Ladies Auxiliary gave $700 each to the Treasure Island Police Association and the Treasure Island Fire Association, plus $100 to the Fire mascot, Captain. The American Legion Post 158 contributed $1,200 to the scholarship fund, and $2,000 each to the Fire and Police Associations. The Sons of the American Legion Squadron 158 donated $1,000 to the Parks and Recreation Department’s Everyone Plays Fund, $750 each to the Police and Fire Associations, and a $11,000 to the Everyone Plays Fund. These donations were unanimously approved by the commission and provided a strong testament to the organizations’ commitment to the community.

The commission also discussed the second reading and public hearing of Ordinance 20241, which aimed to amend the comprehensive plan text and map to align with changes in state requirements and current community conditions. The ordinance proposed amendments to existing elements, the addition of a new element, updated maps, and the removal of outdated data and analysis. Concerns were raised by a resident about the accuracy of certain maps, prompting the City staff to commit to verifying and correcting any discrepancies before final transmission of the ordinance. The commission subsequently approved the ordinance unanimously.

Another point of interest was the State Legislative update, which detailed a $117.46 billion budget approved by the legislature, encompassing allocations for education, health and human services, and general government. Notably, the governor’s proposed $4.6 billion cut from current spending levels was not approved by the legislature. This decision had a direct impact on local funding, with a Treasure Island roadway and drainage improvement project receiving only half of the requested amount. Additional updates were anticipated after the special legislative session.

The Federal legislation update presentation outlined the current status of FY 24 spending bills, the debt limit deal, and the possibility of incorporating a Wastewater collection system lining project into the FY 2025 bills. The challenges of discretionary spending were discussed, as well as the difficulties of passing certain bills before the upcoming election.

Public comments brought attention to local concerns such as city development, the work of the Life Intervention Focus Team (LIFT), and beautification issues. The LIFT board’s efforts in aiding at-risk residents and coordinating mental health first aid classes were highlighted. Additionally, the beautification of utility boxes and ballards was a topic of discussion.

The commission also touched upon several community events and projects. The authorization for the city manager to enter into a contract with Run for the Beaches Inc. for the annual Run for the Beaches 5K walk was approved. The city manager was also authorized to enter into a contract with Alpha Fireworks for upcoming fireworks displays, with the rates fixed for the duration of the contract. Furthermore, the Parks and Recreation Department received approval to purchase playground equipment and shade structures for Sunset Beach Pavilion and Isle of Palms, with a budget not exceeding $82,900.

Finally, discussions on a potential ban on personal fireworks on public beaches revealed concerns about safety and environmental impact. Over 100 signatures were presented in support of the ban. The fire chief underscored the importance of public education and outreach to address these concerns.