In a related budgetary matter, the council engaged in a workshop where the city manager presented three millage rate options, including the rollback rate, a middle-of-the-road rate, and the proposed rate. Concerns were raised about the negative impact constant tax reductions could have on future capital projects. Council members were also briefed on the proposed general fund millage rate, based on the chapter cap and information from the county budget officer. The council discussed the necessity of pay adjustments for the mayor and council members, concluding the meeting without overt disagreement on the budgetary points presented.

The council addressed an ordinance that would grandfather in non-conforming lots with single-family homes or duplexes that have not been approved by the city. This ordinance aimed to provide a path for homeowners on these lots to apply for permits, particularly in the event of natural disasters. The debate was intense, with concerns about ensuring property owners’ rights and the practical implications of the ordinance. A vote was taken, and the council narrowly passed the ordinance 3-2 on its first reading.

The meeting also featured a presentation by the Supervisor of Elections for Brevard County, Mr. Timbo Banck, on the 2024 election readiness. He provided detailed information about the election cycle, voter registration, and election integrity measures, including an automated independent audit system. The council expressed its gratitude for the comprehensive overview and inquired about the availability of sample ballots for voters.

Council members expressed gratitude as Mayor Wes Morrison presented certificates of completion for the Institute for Elected Municipal Officials (IEMO) training to council members, acknowledging the delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the mayor declared July 19th, 2024, as Parks and Recreational Professionals Day, honoring the city’s parks and recreation community affairs staff for their growth and significance over the years.

Public participation was diverse, with residents raising issues ranging from code enforcement hearings, council salaries, and participatory budgeting to suggestions for revising standard operating procedures. One resident voiced concerns about the condition of tennis court number five, highlighting maintenance issues and urging the council to address them before the Space Coast Tennis League season.

The council also discussed matters related to the city’s infrastructure, including stormwater management in the presidential streets and the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) funds. With several items flagged for further discussion, the council deliberated on scheduling future budget workshops to ensure thorough consideration of the proposed plans.

An item of community interest involved a resident’s request for the removal of a Live Oak specimen tree, citing safety hazards due to its proximity to her house. After a detailed presentation by the applicant and the review of the arborist’s report, the council was divided on the decision. Ultimately, the council voted to postpone the matter to the August meeting.

The meeting further included a resolution to amend the defined contribution retirement plan for the general employees of the City of Cape Canaveral. The HR Director’s survey findings on other municipalities’ retirement plans led to a discussion about the proposed changes to the waiting period and non-elective contribution percentage. Seeking further information, the council did not make a decision on the resolution, emphasizing the need to align with the upcoming budget cycle.

Lastly, the council tackled a new item concerning the city’s public electric vehicle charging station fee. The council showed consensus on the matter, with plans to draft a resolution and an ordinance to implement these changes.