The council’s examination of impact fee adjustments stood out as a important topic. With the city’s impact fees unchanged for nearly two decades, the council proposed updates to address various infrastructure needs. These changes would see the repeal of transportation fees, replaced by a new mobility fee, and the introduction of a stormwater fee. The water and sewer fees would be assessed based on meter size, simplifying the administration for new developments. The updates aim to ensure that fees are proportional to the impacts of development, with funds directed towards necessary improvements.

Public comments revealed apprehension over the potential for increased fees, with a representative from the Builders Association of South Florida raising concerns about significant hikes, particularly for new multifamily housing. The representative argued that such increases could exacerbate housing affordability issues. A resident also highlighted existing flooding problems, urging the city to increase fees to fund infrastructure improvements and hold developers accountable for their contributions.

The council’s discussion highlighted the need for a balanced approach to fee implementation, considering both the city’s infrastructure requirements and the affordability of housing. The mobility fee, intended to fund multimodal transportation projects, was introduced as a more flexible funding source compared to traditional road impact fees. This fee would apply only to new developments, excluding current residents from additional financial burdens. The council deliberated over the timeline for implementing these fees, ultimately deciding to table the discussion for further consideration in the next meeting.

In addition to impact fees, the council faced community concerns over a proposed development project on Northeast Third Court, which would add 18 two-story townhomes. Residents expressed significant worries about the impact on flooding and traffic in the area. One resident recounted a personal experience of property damage from a truck linked to the Citadel development, emphasizing the disruptions caused by previous projects. The removal of a protective berm, which mitigates flooding, was a particular concern for residents, who feared worsening conditions if the development proceeded.

Despite these concerns, the council approved the project, citing compliance with city regulations and the comprehensive plan. The developers assured that the project would include measures to exceed the city’s drainage requirements. However, residents remained dissatisfied, urging the council to address existing infrastructure issues before approving further development.

Another topic was a proposed 20-story development near a future Brightline train station. The project includes residential, hotel, and retail components, with developers emphasizing the economic benefits and job creation potential. However, residents voiced concerns about traffic impacts and the adequacy of existing infrastructure. The council approved a conditional use permit for the project, acknowledging the need for traffic studies and further refinements during the Development Review Committee process.