The primary focus of the meeting was the rise of fraudulent invoices targeting residents applying for development permits. Council members discussed how individuals were receiving invoices from unknown sources, which appeared legitimate due to the inclusion of official city markings, including the city seal. The invoices, not authorized by the city, posed a serious concern, prompting the council to urge increased vigilance among residents and city officials. A council member recounted how one resident nearly processed a payment of $5,200, and another instance involved a $6,000 invoice, highlighting the sophistication and potential financial impact of these scams.

Further complicating the issue, scammers were reportedly operating from outside the United States, making it challenging to trace and address the fraudulent activities. In response, the council considered drafting a communication to warn applicants about these scams and advise them to verify any invoices received. Additionally, the council suggested involving local law enforcement, particularly the Bay County Sheriff’s Department, to leverage their expertise in dealing with such fraud.

The council also discussed a peculiar incident involving a resident who mistakenly believed she had paid her water bill to an unauthorized person. Described as wearing a white hat and coat, the individual collected the payment outside the office, yet the resident could not provide a receipt. This incident underscored the need for caution and awareness among residents about potential misrepresentation and improper payment channels.

Beyond the fraud concerns, the meeting addressed various community events and administrative matters. Plans were underway for a Santa Claus visit, aimed at distributing stuffed animals to children, with the support of local organizations. The council expressed gratitude for community involvement and highlighted the importance of supporting children, especially through an ongoing fundraising effort for children’s underwear requested by local schools.

Administrative issues were also on the agenda, with the council noting that the application period for the clerk’s position had closed, leaving around fifteen candidates for review after the holidays. The code enforcement officer’s role in narrowing down applicants was acknowledged, as was the limited interest in the planner position.

In property management news, the council reviewed an application for a partial combination of properties, which had been vetted by the planning council. The applicant, Mr. Sellers, sought to combine two parcels to facilitate future development and streamline property ownership. Council members expressed support for the combination after light-hearted remarks about potential agricultural uses.

Conversely, a lot split application faced scrutiny due to discrepancies in property size reported by Bay County and existing surveys. The council emphasized the need for accurate dimensions and verification that the property had not been previously split before granting final approval. Mr. Sellers assured the council he was working to resolve these discrepancies through a new survey, committing to meet all conditions required for approval.

In a touching community gesture, Florida Power and Light surprised a disabled veteran by decorating their home for Christmas. The council praised the positive impact of such acts, though they noted that they were unaware of the initiative until after it occurred.