Shindler explained that the Community Paramedic Program was inspired by a successful model from Satellite Beach. The program addresses the high volume of medical-related emergency calls—approximately 72%—many of which are preventable. Paramedics will conduct home safety surveys and follow-up visits after 911 calls to assess patients’ needs and connect them with suitable resources. This preventive approach aims to curb the number of repeated emergency calls and provide comprehensive support to residents.

Sher, a former firefighter paramedic, elaborated on the program’s operations. She receives referrals from the fire and police departments to assist residents who may require help. For instance, repeated lift assists for individuals who have fallen can result in Sher providing business cards to families for further assistance. She conducts home visits to remove hazards, such as tripping obstacles, and arranges necessary home modifications. Key code boxes are provided to residents living alone, enabling emergency responders to access homes without causing damage. The program also offers durable medical equipment for loan and a volunteer service for companionship and transportation.

Materials distributed to attendees included a “file of life” document with vital information for emergency responders, evaluation forms for program feedback, and fall assessment tools. Sher highlighted the growing demand for volunteers, particularly for companionship and assistance with medical appointments.

Another discussion involved the renovation of the Cocoa Beach skate park. The commission debated whether to replace a 40-foot section of metal coping with a concrete edge. The community expressed mixed feelings about this change. Some preferred metal coping for its performance, while others were open to trying concrete. The project manager assured that the concrete mix was designed to enhance durability and withstand constant impacts.

Despite reassurances, safety concerns persisted. One commissioner questioned the insurance implications if the concrete chipped and caused injuries. The skate park renovation budget was set at $82,700, with additional concerns about a sinking section of the park. Suggestions included using a technique to level the floor, with the project manager confirming that the repair strategy would be handled within the existing contract.

The meeting also addressed the installation of a caged ladder for city hall, raising safety concerns due to its association with past injuries and non-compliance with OSHA standards. By 2036, all caged ladders must be removed, making this installation a potential future liability. The city manager reported that city hall construction was progressing well, despite supply chain issues for electrical and elevator components. The substantial completion date was projected for the first week of February.

Public comments during the meeting included praise for the Meals on Wheels program, emphasizing its importance and high demand. Residents noted that many clients had been on waiting lists for months, urging for increased funding and volunteers. Nancy, a resident, raised a noise complaint regarding her vacation rental, Blue Wave Beach Cottage, citing ongoing issues from a nearby business.

The commission also discussed Ordinance 1690, which sought to amend the zoning designation for two parcels of land to allow a development project to proceed. A resident raised concerns about the anticipated traffic increase, citing a traffic study predicting over 1,000 vehicles per day. City officials responded that the development plan included measures to alleviate congestion, such as two exit points to distribute traffic more evenly.

Further discussions involved the potential vacating of city property, with a strong sentiment against giving away city property. The proposal had received a five-vote approval for the vacation of property and a three-party agreement necessary for this action had been approved by the County Commission. Concerns about pedestrian safety, particularly with the influx of visitors via Airbnb, were also raised.

Lastly, the commission addressed Ordinance 1692, which aimed to amend sections of Cocoa Beach’s code of ordinances related to general provisions, oceanfront building restrictions, and illegally parked vehicles. Public comments highlighted the need for clarity in contractor responsibilities regarding parking trailers on city streets and ensuring compliance with existing regulations.