Amber Carroll, Executive Director of the Brevard Homeless Coalition, presented the council with an in-depth overview of the homelessness crisis in Brevard County. Carroll emphasized the critical role of the Brevard County Continuum of Care in managing federal and state funds for homeless services. She explained the implications of House Bill 1365, which permits lawsuits against municipalities that allow individuals to sleep on public property. Carroll highlighted statistics, noting a 177% increase in unsheltered individuals and a 72% rise in chronic homelessness in Bard County. She urged the council to send a representative to a workgroup meeting to address the requirements of the bill. Carroll concluded by expressing hope for collaborative solutions, with council members acknowledging the importance of her presentation.

The council recognized Council Member Don Willis for achieving the Florida League of Cities University Gold Certificate of Excellence for Elected Municipal Officials for 2024. Following this, the public participation segment revealed community frustration regarding homelessness and city governance. John Benton voiced concerns about a code reduction hearing, alleging that the investigation into his living arrangements was flawed and biased. He criticized the city’s handling of the issue.

The council then proceeded to financial matters, particularly focusing on the adoption of a final millage rate and city budget. Despite some opposition, the council approved the resolution with a 3-2 vote. The budget for the fiscal year 2024-2025 was subsequently adopted unanimously after the city attorney and city manager provided insights into the budget’s structure and contingency measures.

A significant portion of the meeting centered on the Oak Lane improvements project, which faced complications due to an easement agreement with the ownership group of La Cantina restaurant. The city manager presented options to proceed with the project while addressing the easement issue. The council debated whether to continue the project and withhold payment for stormwater improvements or to delay until the easement was secured. The city attorney confirmed the feasibility of structuring the contract to protect the city’s financial interests while moving forward. The urgency of making a decision was emphasized, given the nearing end of the 60-day bid period.

Additionally, the council discussed the necessity of appointing a representative to an advisory council related to House Bill 1365. Due to staffing changes, the council decided to revisit this issue in the future. Council Member Kay Jackson brought attention to the misalignment of the 120% Area Median Income threshold for affordable housing with the needs of Cape Canaveral residents. Jackson highlighted the disparity, noting that this threshold did not adequately support local service personnel.

The council also addressed ongoing projects and documentation processes within the city’s departments. The city manager provided updates on various matters, including the status of a new building official and progress on the Filmore Town Homes project. Council members emphasized the need for improved standard operating procedures and better documentation practices to ensure compliance with state law and enhance operational efficiency.

Concerns about record management were raised, with council members expressing dissatisfaction with the progress on resolving these issues. Discussions included the potential need for additional training or external assistance to optimize the use of the city’s document management system. A proposal for a special meeting to address these concerns was suggested.

The meeting also touched on environmental concerns, specifically regarding the trimming of vegetation on city property. A council member proposed the need for a policy or ordinance to regulate vegetation maintenance to ensure compliance with environmental standards.