The most contentious topic of the evening was the Freebie transportation service, which costs the city approximately $750,000 annually. The commission scrutinized the service’s value and financial burden, particularly in light of recent hurricanes that have exacerbated transportation challenges for residents. One commissioner raised concerns about the service’s effectiveness, noting a reduction in operating hours and ridership following the recent storm. The current hours are now from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., a significant cut from the previous schedule of 6:00 a.m. to midnight, resulting in a 34% decline in ridership compared to the previous year.

Throughout the discussion, various perspectives emerged regarding the service’s future. Some commissioners argued for a reduction in the Freebie budget. One commissioner proposed charging visitors a fee to use the service, which could potentially offset up to 50% of the operational costs while maintaining free rides for residents. This proposal aimed to balance fiscal responsibility with the community’s transportation needs, particularly for those affected by recent natural disasters.

The conversation also considered the possibility of developing advertising partnerships to generate revenue, though this idea had previously faced resistance. By exploring these avenues, the commission hopes to sustain the service without imposing undue financial strain on the city’s budget.

Public comments further illuminated the community’s reliance on the Freebie service. Several residents and stakeholders highlighted its importance, particularly for those who have lost vehicles or require transportation for daily activities. A Freebie driver shared insights into the service’s role in reducing traffic congestion and supporting the local economy by providing accessible transportation options for tourists and residents alike.

Amid these discussions, a consensus emerged to delay any immediate decisions about the Freebie contract until the scheduled January 14th meeting. This pause will allow the commission to gather more data and engage with the community to ensure that any changes to the service align with the city’s broader recovery and budgetary goals. The aim is to address transportation challenges without hastily eliminating a service that many residents depend upon.

Beyond the Freebie debate, the meeting also addressed changes to local ordinances concerning flood hazard rebuilding. The commission adopted an emergency ordinance to amend sections of the St. Pete Beach code related to property improvements in flood-prone areas. This ordinance reduces the cumulative look-back period from one year to the minimum requirement set by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), enabling homeowners to consider all permits collectively for substantial damage assessment purposes.

A consultant from the Florida Department of Emergency Management confirmed that both the one-year and zero-year look-back periods would comply with FEMA regulations. However, recent interpretations from FEMA Region 4 prompted the commission to revisit these policies to better serve the community’s needs in the wake of recent storms. The ordinance aims to provide clearer guidelines for homeowners while aligning with federal expectations.

By reconsidering the implications of the look-back period and its impact on residents, the commission seeks to facilitate property improvements and repairs without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.