The council meeting began with a presentation from the Rotary Club representatives, Dion Mon and Wayne Heisel, who introduced a proposal to install rescue tubes along Destin’s beaches. These rescue tubes, modeled after successful implementations in Navarre and inspired by the Rescue Tube Foundation from Hawaii, aim to reduce drowning incidents, particularly during times when lifeguards are off duty. The speakers provided compelling statistics: drownings are the third leading cause of unintentional deaths worldwide and the leading cause of death for children ages one to four. Florida alone reported 464 accidental drowning deaths in 2022.

Mon detailed the mechanism of the rescue tubes, which are attached to a 12-foot post buried in the sand and can accommodate multiple individuals, safeguarding rescuers as well. Each tube costs approximately $235, with an estimated total of $3,055 for 13 beach access points. The Rotary Club has already secured $500 in donations and aims to raise the remaining funds. Maintenance plans include regular checks every four to six months and prompt replacement of any damaged tubes.

Council members engaged in a discussion about the proposal. One member suggested additional signage at beach access points to raise awareness, while another raised concerns about the spacing between rescue tubes to ensure strategic placement. There was also a conversation about incorporating tracking devices like AirTags to prevent theft and aid in recovering misplaced tubes. The motion to approve the plan, coordinate with city staff for publicity, and consider future phases of implementation was met with unanimous support.

In other business, the council addressed ongoing stormwater management issues. An individual named Don Dallas voiced concerns about recurring water accumulation in his garage and broader issues relating to public parking, walkways, and bicycle trails. These comments prompted a council member to express gratitude towards city staff for their prompt assistance in similar situations, highlighting the city’s responsive approach to resident concerns.

Financial considerations were also a focal point, particularly regarding a lease agreement with the fire district. The council debated the actual costs associated with the lease, including utilities and the necessity of a boat slip at a proposed location. Some members questioned the fairness of splitting utility costs based on slip occupancy, while others raised jurisdictional issues related to Joe’s Bayou. Ultimately, a motion was made to defer the decision until further consultation with city staff, emphasizing the need for clarity on the lease’s implications.

The Mobility Plan discussion revealed the council’s efforts to address transportation and safety issues through 2050. The plan includes projects aimed at enhancing connectivity and proposes new impact fee structures, which could exceed current rates. Council members raised concerns about the financial implications for residents, particularly single-family homeowners, and the need for a balanced approach to funding and project prioritization.

Another topic was the budget for fiscal year 2025. The council scrutinized various budget cuts, including reductions for the Aquatic Center and engineering professional services. Concerns were raised about the feasibility of these cuts and their impact on city operations. The council emphasized the need for thorough budget scrutiny to ensure effective allocation of resources while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

The meeting also covered the potential relocation of City Hall and the community center. Various proposals were discussed, including relocating both to the Morgan Sports site to create a centralized hub for civic activities. The council weighed the benefits of enhancing the community center to better serve families and maintaining current programs during construction.

Addressing code violations, the council deliberated on a property with ongoing issues since 2019. Options included waiting for the property to change hands, foreclosure, or seeking injunctive relief. A motion was made to explore clearing the adjacent property to improve the situation.