The most notable topic of the meeting was the approval of a special exception for a 100 linear foot seawall and a 450 square-foot dock on South Ocean Boulevard. This application garnered attention due to its use of a hybrid seawall design incorporating glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) instead of traditional steel rebar. This material is touted as being three times stronger and four times lighter than conventional steel, addressing common problems such as rust and structural failure. The seawall’s design involves U-shaped panels filled with concrete and GFRP rebar, embedded deeply into the ground to prevent water leakage and enhance stability.

The proposal included innovative features like mangrove planters to mitigate environmental impact. However, skepticism was expressed regarding the suitability of the new design for areas experiencing significant subsidence, such as Belo Isle. Concerns about the use of steel in certain anchor rods led to discussions about the potential obsolescence of traditional materials in favor of newer, more durable options.

The board’s building official highlighted that the new seawall technology could extend the lifespan of seawalls, with the potential to last over 100 years. This development was framed as a modern solution to an old problem, with the building official stating, “There’s nothing to rust, which is the biggest problem.” Despite some reservations, the application was unanimously approved.

Another application that featured prominently in the meeting was the request for a special exception to install a seawall and dock on Tranquility Drive. The proposed seawall would sit more than 18 inches waterward of the current structure, adhering to a 25-foot setback requirement. This application also faced scrutiny due to concerns about the stability of the existing home on the property, which has reportedly sunk over time. The board discussed the importance of constructing the seawall prior to any new home development to ensure proper backfilling and stabilization of the land.

The challenges posed by the region’s sinking conditions were a recurring theme throughout the meeting, with discussions emphasizing the need for lighter construction techniques to mitigate these issues.

In contrast, the application for a 1,000 square-foot dock at 11:07, 11:09, and 11:11 Russell Drive was more straightforward. The existing wooden dock, deemed to be in poor condition, was set to be replaced with a new structure. This application had already received approval from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and with no setback requirements for the interior lot, the board quickly moved to approve the application without public comment.

The meeting also featured a discussion on the structural integrity of construction projects, particularly the use of helical anchors and their implications for shear strength in building materials. Questions about the durability of the new materials and construction techniques were addressed, with assurances given about the engineering requirements and the implementation process.