The impact of the homestead exemption and property appraisals on the city’s tax revenue was also considered during the deliberation.

In conjunction with tax rate discussions, the commission addressed the city’s investment portfolio, specifically the allocation within the fund balance and the investment in Israel bonds. The interim finance director presented details on the current portfolio, including decisions made by the city’s investment adviser. There was an emphasis on transparency and understanding of the decision-making process, with queries raised about the consistency of recommendations brought to the commission.

Attention was also given to the city’s infrastructure, with presentations on utility fund capital improvements. The commission discussed projects across various neighborhoods, such as Lake Side Gardens, Sea Meadows, and Coquina Cove, focusing on water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure improvements. The use of grants to fund these projects was a point of note, as well as updates on supply and treatment projects, including main repair work, structural repairs, and generator installations.

Another area of significant investment was cybersecurity for the city’s water utilities. The importance of protecting infrastructure from cyber threats was acknowledged, with funding allocations discussed. Additionally, the commission reviewed an array of development projects including the north side’s Tropical Breeze development and the Hearth of Boynton project, with a projected completion in 2027. The conversation also extended to park improvements, safety enhancements at fire stations, and IT and transportation projects.

One part of the meeting included discussions on the Capital Improvement Project presentations for funds 302 and 303. These presentations detailed proposed budgets for various sectors, including general government, public safety, and parks and recreation. Notable projects highlighted included security camera replacements, playground repairs, and park restroom modifications. The commission also considered alternative funding sources for future projects, such as the potential renewal of the surtax in 2026 and the investigation of creative solutions like parking fees to fund city projects.

The commission tackled the challenge of funding for parks and green spaces, especially in light of the upcoming residential developments. The allocation of park impact fees for new parks or expansions was discussed in detail, emphasizing the need for strategic planning in capital asset management. Furthermore, the commission explored the use of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) funds for housing programs and community improvements, with an emphasis on fair housing coordination and rehabilitation programs for the elderly and disabled.

Public comments brought to light the community’s support for increased fire assessment fees to improve Fire Station Three and the development of Meadows Park. Concerns were also raised about the restructuring of city departments and the need for professional oversight in specialties such as historic preservation and art curation.