The Council voted on a resolution regarding meal costs for city employees on business trips, debating the contract’s length and potential cost escalations. The resolution aimed to extend the contract to five years with an annual evaluation of the franchise fee. This discussion paralleled another on riverboat operation agreements at the lakefront, which also considered a five-year extension and annual assessments of the franchise fee.

Further, a public hearing was held for ordinance number 202 24-24, which involved the closing, vacating, and abandoning of a platted right-of-way. This ordinance was approved unanimously. Similarly, ordinances 202 24-26 and 202 24-27, concerning future land use designation and zoning district assignments for a property, received unanimous approval.

The council also tackled ordinance number 202 24-21, designed to amend chapter 2 of the development process procedures and permits, to align with Florida Statutes. Despite some concerns from the council about the streamlined procedures and staff autonomy, the ordinance was passed with a majority.

A debate emerged over a proposed change to the city code that would grant authority to restrict or move non-functioning vehicles from the right of way, with some council members worried about the repercussions for parking in subdivisions. The motion to deny the change was passed. However, a subsequent ordinance related to traffic and vehicles, which aimed to address the same issue, was approved with unanimous support.

The council discussed financial matters, including increases in revenue and expenditures for the Parks and Recreation department, and federal grants for Public Safety programs. Notably, the Debt Service fund saw a significant increase due to interest payments on a loan for the 17 street ball fields project. The Capital Projects fund also experienced a substantial increase, with funds earmarked for Downtown parking improvements and Centennial Park renovation. Additionally, the Parks Impact Fee and Sanitation funds saw increases for land purchases and service rate hikes, respectively.

The meeting included the introduction of ordinances for the annexation and land use designation of approximately 6.03 acres into the city.

Furthermore, the city manager updated the council on downtown maintenance efforts. There was a discussion on the material choice for Phase 1 New York Avenue, with emphasis on ensuring the road base’s suitability for asphalt and the need for effective oversight and communication with downtown businesses during maintenance.

Finally, the council touched on the resolution of a construction dispute, moving forward with asphalt work despite concerns about quality and accountability. There was a consensus to proceed with caution.

The meeting was also marked by a proclamation recognizing Building Safety month, appreciating Bob Dethridge for his leadership in the building department. Moreover, the council celebrated Roy Campbell, a Public Works supervisor, for preventing a fire, designating him as Employee of the Month.

Public comments brought forth residents’ concerns over water authority billing, the debate surrounding the city’s celebration of LGBTQ pride month, and support for local ball fields projects. The council addressed these issues, with a council member advocating for diversity and inclusion in response to objections to the “Proud in the Cloud” event.