The committee debated the possibility of including building height restrictions in the city’s charter. The discussion centered on whether to specify height limits or to allow for flexibility, requiring a charter referendum for any future changes. This debate highlighted the committee’s effort to balance the preservation of the city’s character with the need for development.

Another topic involved the procurement services director’s recommendation to increase the current threshold limit of $25,000 to $50,000 or $75,000 to streamline the procurement process and account for inflation. Additionally, the idea of allowing the city manager, mayor, or a designee to authorize change orders up to a certain figure without prior approval was deliberated. Such changes aim to expedite operational processes while also maintaining necessary budgetary oversight.

The committee also addressed the allocation of funds for sidewalk repairs, which sparked a thorough conversation. There was a focus on the adequacy of the current allocation of $200,000, split between the general fund and the sidewalk improvement fund, in addressing the city’s sidewalk repair needs. With estimates for the current year’s repairs exceeding $600,000, members expressed concerns over the sufficiency of existing funds. The growing costs of sidewalk repairs due to inflation and the need for a more comprehensive plan were central to the discussion. Members considered the challenges in balancing the budget for sidewalk improvements and the growing need for substantial funding to maintain the city’s infrastructure.

Furthermore, the possibility of implementing a sidewalk impact fee for vacant lots and budgeting for sidewalk improvement projects over a specified period was discussed. The committee also deliberated on the allocation of personnel and funds for the removal of invasive species, such as Brazilian peppers, and the availability of grants for these purposes.

The challenges of limited space in the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and the affordability of living in Tarpon Springs for first responders were also brought up. The discussion here included the impact of residency requirements on recruitment and retention of essential personnel, such as police and firefighters. There was a consensus on the need to consider various factors, including the evolving nature of the city, when determining residency requirements.

Additionally, the committee touched on the completion of a roundabout at MLK and Spring, the review of financial statements, emergency protocols, and the necessity for essential personnel during an emergency. A significant motion to change the percentage required for a referendum from 15% to 10% was also debated, as well as the timing and permission for such referendums.