South Beach Park’s potential parking expansion was a focal point of the meeting, with numerous residents expressing objections to the proposal. They emphasized the importance of preserving the park’s character and trees, with one resident stating, “nobody wants their house across the street from a parking lot.” Residents cited the lack of sidewalks, possible increase in traffic, and the detrimental effect on property values as major concerns. They suggested that the focus should be on creating more parks rather than expanding parking facilities.

The proposal to expand parking stemmed from issues related to the park’s growing popularity, which has led to an overflow of cars and a shortage of available parking spaces. Ideas such as implementing paid parking or closing the park when the lot is full were discussed as potential solutions. Attendees debated the safety concerns due to the lack of sidewalks and considered options like extending the fence to create a safer walkway, adding more bike racks, and using signs to direct visitors to other parks when the parking lot is full. There was also talk of the need to update the park’s sign technology and to better regulate parking to ensure safety and order.

Aside from the park parking issue, the CRA addressed other community concerns. The pier repairs due to uneven center boards were mentioned, with contractors working on the project. The board awaited final plans for the passive park and discussed various infrastructure maintenance issues, including the need for paving repairs, drainage projects, and the cleanup of overgrown areas and debris in drainage ponds and storm drains.

The functionality of parking on First Street was another point of contention, with the current situation described as hazardous and confusing. The possibility of a curbless street design was considered as a potential solution to discourage parking and reduce sign clutter. The Police Department’s negative stance on the current parking layout was noted, and suggestions were made to investigate making some spaces ADA-only, creating designated unloading zones, and expanding sidewalk dining options to more streets.

Moreover, the meeting touched upon the need for a long-term plan to address downtown design and safety, with immediate low-cost solutions such as improved paint and signage proposed to tackle immediate concerns. The eligibility of businesses for the sidewalk dining program, particularly distinguishing between restaurants and bars, was discussed.

The retail development on North along First Street was also mentioned, with the report indicating no progress on seeking reimbursement for the approved incentive.

In addition, there was a discussion about the potential use of a property for food trucks and picnic tables as part that could be part of the beautification program. Non-conforming signs in the city were brought up, with a proposal to consider an amortization schedule to remove them. Other topics included the peer entryway project, security grants for downtown businesses, and the 2025 annual budgets, with revenue estimates provided by the CFO.