A issue that dominated the meeting was the severe erosion at Sunset Beach following a recent storm. A resident named Hiard described the beach’s critical condition, highlighting the lack of sand, the dangerous slopes into the water, and the exposed tree root systems. Hiard urged the commission to provide more detailed and frequent updates on the beach restoration process, including regulatory meetings and potential alternative pathways beyond the Army Corps of Engineers. In response, a commissioner acknowledged the outdated information on the city’s website and the need for better communication regarding ongoing restoration efforts.

In addition to the beach erosion concerns, the commission addressed the issue of seawall elevations, with discussions dating back to July 2021. A commissioner noted the complexities in developing a plan that allows property owners to elevate their properties without negatively impacting neighbors. Another commissioner criticized the prior lack of public awareness and suggested that a simple ordinance allowing for non-structural fill could have been implemented sooner.

The commission also approved Ordinance 2024-21, establishing the property tax rate for fiscal year 2025 at 3.81 mills, 10.04% higher than the rollback rate. Despite a resident’s plea to reduce the rate due to increased property values and tax revenues, the commission unanimously approved the unchanged rate. The final property tax rate drew concerns about the city over-collecting taxes and not spending budgeted funds on projects.

Following the tax rate approval, the commission discussed and adopted Ordinance 2024-22, finalizing the fiscal year 2025 budget. The budget included detailed attachments such as a budget reconciliation document, a carry-forward list, and a five-year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) report. Questions arose regarding the prioritization of carry-forward items, particularly those dating back to 2021. A commissioner emphasized the need for detailed worksheets for all 39 carry-forward items to ensure accurate budget assessments and cost projections.

Public concerns about the budget were voiced by Byron Magby, who expressed frustration over the lack of timely execution on approved projects. Magby highlighted the significant amount of $17 million in carry-over funds and urged the commission to act immediately on budgetary items, particularly the Public Works building project with a projected cost of $10 million. The commission discussed a proposal to study the outsourcing of waste removal services, which could potentially eliminate the need for a new Public Works building and alleviate financial burdens.

The meeting also addressed Ordinance 2024-19, recognizing $3 million in federal funds for the Wastewater fund’s master lift station reconstruction. This amendment was a continuation of a budget amendment introduced in August. The commission unanimously approved this ordinance, as well as another amendment focused on adjusting fiscal year 2025 Personnel Services costs, including the addition of an economic development position and a parking community enforcement position.

Additionally, the commission discussed Ordinance 2024-9, which aimed to remove the exception allowing micromobility devices on West Gulf Boulevard sidewalks. The ordinance was approved unanimously after clarifying the distinction between sidewalks and the beach trail.

The final significant topic was the authorization for the city manager to approve a contract with AAA Service Company for the demolition of the Old City Hall and the Public Works Administration building. Concerns were raised about the impact of closing the associated parking lot on local businesses. The city manager expressed willingness to explore options for keeping the parking lot open during the demolition phase.

Residents highlighted the need for clarity and adherence to both city and state regulations, emphasizing the importance of effective communication and accountability in city governance.