The commission approved a resolution authorizing the city to enter into an 80-year lease agreement with Brightline Trains LLC for the construction of a passenger rail station. The station, planned to be between 8,000 and 10,000 square feet with 200 parking spaces, will be located on Flagler Avenue. The lease consists of a 40-year term with a 40-year option, and the city and county are expected to fund the project up to $45 million, though actual costs may be lower.

The station’s design aims to maintain Stuart’s character, opting for a one-story building with surface parking to preserve existing oak trees. Brightline will handle maintenance, operation, taxes, and insurance for the property, while the city will retain ownership of the land until construction begins. The project is slated to start in spring 2024 and complete by early 2027.

Commissioners raised concerns about parking arrangements, including the potential need for a future parking garage. They discussed reserving space for a garage and applying for federal grant funds to mitigate upfront costs. One commissioner mentioned attempts to develop a parking garage for 14 years, expressing hope that the Brightline project would provide the necessary opportunity.

Public comments included concerns about the impact of a parking garage on Stuart’s small-town character. The resolution passed unanimously, signaling collective support for the project.

The meeting also featured a discussion on the US1 congestion management study. Beth Beltran, administrator of the Martin Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), and Stuart Robertson from Kimley-Horn updated the commission on efforts to address traffic congestion on US1 from Joan Jefferson Way to the St. Lucie County line. The segment has the highest traffic volume in Martin County, second only to I-95.

The study aims to identify non-widening solutions to improve transportation options, as widening the roadway is not feasible. Recommendations include creating more separation between bike lanes and vehicle lanes to encourage biking and walking. Observations from field reviews noted frequent stopping and turning vehicles during peak hours. The study, structured over 12 months, includes public engagement activities and aims to align recommendations with the State Department of Transportation’s target zero program to address safety issues.

The commission also addressed community achievements, notably the Kiwanis Club of Stuart’s recent success in an international contest. Virginia Hill, president of the Kiwanis Club, praised the club’s 86 years of service and highlighted a 35-year partnership with the city that led to developing Kiwanis Park at Woodlawn. The park’s development was spurred by a donation from the estate of Mr. William Hesler and included numerous projects such as constructing pavilions and installing accessible playground equipment. The Kiwanis Club’s project won a silver award in the Kiwanis worldwide community service competition.

The meeting included a proclamation for Constitution Week, recognizing the anniversary of the U.S. Constitution’s signing. Service awards were presented, acknowledging Theodore Delany Jr. for 20 years of service. The commission also received updates on the Vision Zero initiative, aimed at reducing traffic injuries and fatalities, and plans to incorporate recommendations into the US1 Congestion Management Plan.

Senator Gail Harrell highlighted the city’s successful $500,000 appropriation for Guy Davis Park. The commission expressed gratitude to local representatives for securing state funding for the park’s revitalization. The meeting also addressed community concerns about properties in the East Stewart area and issues with the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding for home improvements.

A presentation by the development department introduced an open government program to increase transparency regarding city projects. The new website feature categorizes projects into three groups: approved, under review, and under construction. The initiative aims to provide residents with easy access to project information, promoting transparency and accountability.

The commission also discussed the safety of electric bikes on sidewalks, prompted by resident concerns. The City of Jupiter’s ban on electric bikes from sidewalks was mentioned, leading to suggestions for similar discussions in Stuart. The commission considered the balance between mobility for individuals who rely on electric bikes and public safety.

Finally, the commission addressed the Kingswood 3 water service line replacement agreement, crucial for residents facing potential water shutoff due to litigation. The city proposed constructing a new water line, with costs recouped through charges added to residents’ water bills.