A prominent topic at the meeting was the proposal from Noel Hikes, co-owner of Cosmic Tiki. Hikes requested the commission amend the code to allow her business to secure a beach vending license at the First Street North beach access. She emphasized the role Cosmic Tiki plays in the community, transforming a previously underutilized space into a vibrant, family-friendly locale offering amenities like restrooms and showers for beachgoers. Hikes highlighted the potential benefits of her proposal, noting that it could enhance both the community experience and city revenue. Carolyn Wallace supported Hikes’ request, advocating for improvements to the current beach access area, which she described as needing attention.

The city manager acknowledged the existing beach vendor at First Street and the capped system with a waiting list of about ten applicants. A discussion emerged on whether to prioritize local businesses like Cosmic Tiki in vendor license allocations. Suggestions were made for the city attorney to review possible ordinance adjustments. Concerns were raised about fairness to current vendors and ensuring new competition does not adversely affect them. The city manager assured that the city attorney would explore necessary ordinance modifications to create a fair framework for all involved, recognizing the importance of local businesses in community growth.

Another proposal discussed was the potential display of a SpaceX rocket booster in Cocoa Beach. This idea was seen as an exciting opportunity to attract visitors, given the city’s location on the Space Coast. However, practical considerations regarding logistics, engineering requirements, foundation costs, and maintenance were discussed. Participants expressed concern about potential deterioration due to the coastal environment and debated the feasibility of scaling the display. The use of existing parks, like Centennial Square, was mentioned, though space limitations were noted.

Gabriel Hensley, a local resident, addressed the commission with a call for a cohesive city vision. He advocated for alignment between ongoing projects and the city’s strategic goals, referencing documents such as the Gateway Master Plan and the Strategic Plan. Hensley suggested the need for a dashboard to track progress and expenditures, emphasizing the importance of a leader capable of fostering this vision rather than just a professional manager.

The meeting also included discussions on tax exemptions, city events, and towing regulations. A commissioner raised concerns about tax exemptions. The mayor reported on a successful gathering at the Cocoa Beach Country Club and ongoing preparations for the city budget. Union negotiations with police and fire departments were noted, and the potential for transportation funding opportunities was discussed.

The commission addressed the annual “Surfing Santas” event, with general agreement on its importance for local businesses despite traffic and parking issues at the traditional location. The event’s economic boost and status as a cherished tradition were emphasized.

The commission moved to approve several items, including ratifying a wage reopener for the Laborers International Union contract and adopting resolutions for a grant application to repair stormwater infrastructure. An emergency ordinance regulating tow truck operations was introduced and passed, along with a resolution establishing a fine schedule for towing ordinance violations. Ordinance 1702, creating regulations for towing vehicles from private property, was also passed unanimously.