One notable issue discussed was the proposed changes to the city’s recycling ordinance. The council considered setting limits on the number of recycling containers allowed for both residential and commercial properties. Residential owners could be allowed two 96-gallon cans or a total of 384 gallons in various combinations, while commercial properties might be limited to four 96-gallon toters. Concerns were raised about compliance and enforcement, with participants noting the challenges posed by the current volume of recycling placed curbside.

A notable point of discussion was the difficulty in managing cardboard recycling, with the ordinance requiring that cardboard be broken down and tied. Enforcement issues were highlighted, especially considering the high workers’ compensation claims associated with the task. There was a proposal to consider recycling volume in cubic measurements to simplify compliance and enforcement.

The conversation also touched on the designated zones for recycling collection, particularly how these routes accommodate commercial properties with multiple units, such as condos. Debates arose over whether multi-unit properties should be classified as residential or commercial, with some suggesting that buildings with four or more units should be considered commercial due to their potential impact on recycling volume.

A specific business reportedly had 36 toters for recycling, prompting discussions on when a business’s recycling obligations should exceed what the city can handle. It was emphasized that businesses with excessive recycling should have their own pickup services. The council discussed the strain on city resources from such volumes, with one representative sharing their experience of picking up recycling at a particular location, highlighting the costs to the city.

Further suggestions included establishing a notification system for residents undertaking renovations to manage increased recycling volumes better and opening a central recycling station year-round on Wednesdays to provide more disposal options.

The council also delved into updates on licensing and development fees, which had not been revised in 20 years. Ordinance 543-2020 aimed to amend Chapter 310 of the city code regarding licensing fees, consolidating various codes and adding new activities requiring licenses. A five-year cumulative Consumer Price Index analysis helped determine appropriate fee increases to cover operational costs. There were concerns about the magnitude of these increases, with some fees potentially rising by 50%, prompting a call for a balanced approach.

Similarly, Ordinance 544-2022 aimed to update Chapter 211 regarding development fees, aligning local fees with county averages. The council discussed the importance of upfront collection of escrow fees to streamline the process and ensure timely payments to board professionals. Concerns were raised about steep fee increases, particularly for informal reviews, and the necessity of regular fee reviews was emphasized.

Public safety was another key topic, with Lieutenant Walker, Lieutenant Maza, and Captain Bobic from the police department preparing for a busy weekend with events like October Fest. There was a noted increase in traffic, especially during the summer, with concerns about congestion and emergency preparedness as hurricane season approaches. The police department’s efforts to address DUI issues over the summer were commended, alongside the availability of alternative transportation options.

The meeting also featured the appointment of Patrick McCarthy as the new tax assessor, with the council highlighting his leadership qualities and the significance of his role in property valuation and taxation.

Public comments included concerns about the West End of Beach Avenue Improvement project, particularly its impact on local businesses and drainage issues. Another resident raised issues about beach regulations and the need for more signage indicating dog restrictions.

The city manager provided updates on various topics, including the performance of electric vehicle charging stations, which generated significant revenue, and the introduction of digital beach tags, which saw high adoption rates. The council discussed the importance of swimming at guarded beaches and efforts to keep beaches guarded beyond Labor Day.