A significant portion of the meeting revolved around the proposal by Keep Brevard Beautiful (KBB) for a three-year contract extension to continue their beach and causeway cleanup efforts. KBB’s request included the addition of the Pinita Causeway and outlined a plan to clean five causeways annually at a cost of $157,000. The TDC voted to approve the recommendation, amending the proposal to designate funding from the currently suspended million dollar Indian River Lagoon (IRL) grant, which is part of the beach committee fund. This decision was made after considering KBB’s previous funding history and the potential implications for future allocations if the IRL grant was reinstated. The motion passed, and the matter is now scheduled to be reviewed by the County Commission for further consideration.

In addition to the cleanup contract, the TDC discussed a new contract request presented by a project manager for the city of Cocoa Beach. The request emphasized the importance of maintaining clean beaches and State Route 520 for tourism, detailing the cleanup operations, volunteer events, and community service programs undertaken by KBB. Concerns were raised about the increased costs compared to the expiring contract and the sustainability of these expenses. Nevertheless, the council recognized the importance of these efforts in ensuring the attractiveness of the Space Coast to visitors.

The fiscal year 2425 budget was another focal point of the TDC meeting. The director provided an overview of the projected Tourist Development Tax (TDT) revenue, administrative costs, operating and capital expenses, and the increase in the county’s cost allocation. The budget review covered the Beach Fund, Capital Facilities, Visitor Information Budget, Cultural Funds, and the Zoo Fund, with a unanimous approval from the council for the proposed budget.

Marketing initiatives also featured prominently in the discussions, with the marketing committee reporting on a visitor study that will inform the county’s marketing strategy. The study highlighted a stagnation in new room inventory and a slowdown in the growth of vacation rentals, prompting strategic considerations for the tourism industry. The TDC reviewed plans for a new website, TV commercials, digital advertising efforts, and seasonal campaigns targeting specific visitor segments, including families and individuals traveling without children. Marketing strategies encompassed both domestic markets, such as Miami and Orlando, and international markets like the UK and Canada.

Additionally, the TDC discussed lobbying for additional funding for the Brightline station and the Ellis Road project. The meeting concluded with updates on community events and initiatives, including a human trafficking symposium and the Rose Awards, before a motion to adjourn was made.