The meeting began with a focus on the Archerald Snack Shack, a community landmark with a history. Community Development Director Marcy Forbes presented an update on the structure’s renovation, highlighting the need for additional contractor bids to address issues with the subfloor and the sand beneath it. Forbes emphasized the importance of maintaining the building’s historical integrity, referencing past community efforts to preserve it through a referendum that resulted in an ordinance protecting the structure from demolition. This historical context was deemed critical in guiding the decisions regarding its future.

Public input underscored the community’s attachment to the Snack Shack. Captain Dolan Hubard from Hubard’s Marina articulated the structure’s cultural significance, stressing the need for careful consideration of all options to ensure its preservation. He described the potential loss as detrimental to both residents and visitors, advocating for a thorough exploration of renovation possibilities.

The commissioners deliberated over the implications of the historic ordinance passed in 2008, which could impact renovation decisions. A key issue was whether the ordinance would limit current actions concerning the renovation. Concerns also arose about the costs associated with potential excavation work needed to assess the building’s condition. One commissioner expressed reservations about the necessity of extensive sand removal.

Complicating matters were FEMA regulations, specifically the 50% rule, which restricts repair costs to half of the structure’s value annually. Forbes noted that the anticipated renovation costs, based on received quotes, would likely exceed this threshold unless the building secured a historic designation. This designation would provide protections at city and state levels, potentially mitigating financial constraints.

The commissioners acknowledged the urgency of resolving these issues, balancing historical preservation with practical renovation considerations and compliance with FEMA guidelines.

The structural integrity of the building was another focal point, particularly concerning termite damage. A recent inspection revealed concerns, but details on the extent of the damage were pending. The relationship between termite inspection results and the need for sand removal was debated. It was suggested that a vote on sand removal might depend on the termite inspection’s findings, especially if severe structural compromise was identified.

The financial aspect of sand removal was also examined, with bids ranging around $30,000. Despite concerns over costs, the expenditure was seen as necessary for the building’s preservation. A lower bid from Molly Contracting for $49,340 was recommended and unanimously approved, allowing sand removal to proceed without floor removal, potentially reducing costs.

Following the Snack Shack discussion, the commissioners addressed the dredging project at John’s Pass. The Public Works Director updated the board on the bids received, with CNM Dredging disqualified for an incomplete response. The project was divided into a base bid for disposing of sand at a Class 1 facility and an alternate, lower-cost option to deposit sand on newly acquired city property. This alternative was viewed favorably, providing a cost-effective solution pending permit modifications needed from the Army Corps and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

Public comments highlighted the urgency of the dredging project, citing increased sand buildup affecting navigation due to recent beach renourishment efforts. A state appropriation of $1,556,000 was noted for the project, with funds remaining after the alternate bid approval. A motion to accept the bid from Bayside Dredging LLC for $1,294,550 was unanimously passed, with dredging expected to commence in January following the completion of a county project.