The most significant issue discussed at the meeting was the approval of resolution number 2024-21, which set the final millage rate for the fiscal year 2025 at 6.1644 mills. This rate represents an 8.25% increase over the rollback rate of 5.6945 mills. The commission had previously adopted a tentative millage rate during a public hearing on September 4, 2024. One commissioner voiced concerns about the implications of the proposed budget, particularly the addition of a million dollars for capital improvements that were not included in the previous five-year plan. Another commissioner emphasized the need to keep the millage rate stable and urged careful budget management to avoid exceeding current expenditures.

Public comments on the millage rate and budget were varied. One resident pointed out that property taxes for long-term homestead residents in Cocoa Beach had increased only 1% per year over the last 12 years, arguing that claims of over-taxation were overstated. Another resident asked for clarification on the city’s debt situation before voting on the millage rate. The city’s current debt was reported to be around $36 million, projected to decrease to $33 million next year, with reserves at approximately $13 million. The importance of maintaining employee salaries to ensure a competent workforce, highlighted as the city’s largest expense, was also a topic of discussion. A roll call vote on the proposed millage rate resulted in the resolution passing 4-1.

Following the millage rate approval, the commission moved on to resolution number 2024-22, which involved adopting the final budget for fiscal year 2025, totaling approximately $123 million. This budget included capital improvement expenditures. Public comments included concerns about the city’s deficit spending and the large budget figure, with one individual questioning the city’s financial management practices.

The commission also approved resolution number 2024-23, adopting a five-year Capital Improvements program for fiscal years 2025 through 2029. A resident expressed gratitude for the support in securing funding for boat ramp repairs, particularly acknowledging one commissioner’s efforts to keep the funding in the budget despite potential delays.

Another notable discussion involved the approval of resolution 2024-25, which aimed to adopt changes to financial policies and practices for the fiscal year 2025 budget. This motion passed unanimously following a brief discussion. The commission then approved the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) budget through resolution 2024-1, after clarifying the terminology used in the resolution.

During the public comment segment, an individual shared insights on Airbnb regulations, advocating for fair enforcement and consistent treatment of short-term rental businesses compared to traditional businesses. They urged the city to manage these entities as commercial businesses to promote compliance.

A resident also proposed a business plan for utilizing a building on South Orlando Avenue as indoor self-storage, pointing out that current city code prohibits such use in the Town Center District. The resident requested the commission consider revising the code to allow for their intended use, highlighting the disparity in existing regulations that target outdoor storage but not indoor self-storage facilities. The proposal received some support from the commission, with suggestions for city staff to explore possible code modifications.

The meeting included an announcement of a political forum scheduled for Saturday, September 28th, at the library, featuring candidates for various city positions. Additionally, progress was reported on a long-standing effort to secure a vote in the House of Representatives concerning benefits for former Civil Service employees. Congressman Bill Posey signed on to support the initiative, and the necessary 223 signatures were gathered to force a vote on the House floor.

Public comments also covered a recent bomb threat incident at Cocoa Beach Junior Senior High School. The evacuation process was handled with calmness and professionalism, with various agencies cooperating to ensure the safety of students and staff. The incident highlighted the importance of proper communication channels during emergencies.

Staff reports included a discussion about ocean rescue lifeguard funding options. The commission explored the establishment of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to facilitate lifeguard services, reaching a consensus to authorize the city manager to accept one of the proposed funding options.

The commission also discussed the golf course irrigation project, with a request to negotiate a contract for the project totaling approximately $2.1 million. Concerns were raised about previous budget allocations and the consultant fees associated with the project. Public comments emphasized the need for the commission to engage with golfers and professionals in the community to gain insights into pricing and course management.

In unfinished business, the commission adopted Ordinance 1693 on second reading, amending city code regarding restrictions on camping and sleeping in public spaces. The ordinance passed unanimously. In new business, a request to approve new performance measures and standards for the downtown Cocoa Beach CRA was introduced, with a focus on promoting a strong identity for the area, enhancing walkability, and maintaining a mix of uses. Discussions included the feasibility of affordable housing, with some commissioners expressing skepticism about the practicality of such initiatives.