The council devoted significant time to the red tide issue, receiving an update from a representative of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The red tide, caused by the algae Karenia brevis, has been a recurring problem in the region, with the current event noted for its extended duration. The council learned that while current red tide levels were lower compared to previous years, the semi-closed nature of St. Joe Bay poses challenges in clearing the algae. Concerns about aquatic grass conditions in Lake Wimico were raised, with assurances that the distress was cyclic and not directly linked to red tide. The council discussed possible interventions, including the trial use of dispersants to mitigate red tide effects, though it was acknowledged that this technology is still under development.

The council emphasized the need for better public understanding of red tide impacts and supported forming a dedicated group to monitor and disseminate information. This group could work in collaboration with the FWC to ensure community members are informed, especially given the repercussions on local tourism and fishing activities. The potential for additional sampling sites in White City was also discussed, given signs of unusual fish mortality in the area.

Attention then shifted to a strategic discussion on the potential acquisition of a 22-acre property adjacent to a county-owned site, which was going up for auction. The council debated the merits of bidding on the property, considering its strategic value for future developments such as workforce housing. The council was cautious about publicly discussing bidding strategies, given the competitive nature of public auctions. Ultimately, the consensus was to pursue the property, with a motion made to place a reasonable bid during the auction, emphasizing its proximity to existing county assets and potential for future development.

The meeting also addressed ongoing issues with beach access, notably the challenges with Eglund regarding property transfer. The council referenced a letter from Senator Moody’s office suggesting that Congressman Patronis would file a bill to facilitate the transfer. The council underscored the need for this political solution to restore access, criticizing Eglund’s proposed pedestrian-only concessions as inadequate. The discussion included historical context, detailing how restrictions had intensified since an initial agreement in 1999. Members highlighted the potential ecological benefits of local management, such as addressing beach erosion through preventive measures like a jetty system.

Additional topics of interest included procedural discussions on disaster recovery and debris removal services, with unanimous approval of motions to bid out and monitor these services. A change order request for the White City water treatment plant was also approved, focusing on improvements to flow management and maintenance efficiency by transitioning to above-ground systems. Furthermore, the council discussed a planning agreement for a living shoreline project, inspired by successful models in Franklin County, and addressed infrastructure concerns, such as the condition of a bridge on Victoria Avenue.

The meeting concluded with administrative matters, including the approval of a travel policy amendment and the acceptance of bids for the State Housing Initiative Partnership program. The council expressed gratitude for staff efforts throughout the year, acknowledging accomplishments and emphasizing the importance of preparedness for legislative changes affecting property taxes and health insurance planning.