The most notable topic of the meeting was the proposal to change the city seal’s “Jewel of the Space Coast” designation to “East Coast Surfing Capital.” The discussion revealed a divide among commissioners and public commenters, emphasizing the balance between Cocoa Beach’s historical ties to the space program and its reputation as a surfing destination. One commissioner argued that the current designation captures Cocoa Beach’s multifaceted identity, noting its contributions to tourism, property values, and space exploration. In contrast, another commissioner highlighted that “East Coast Surfing Capital” is more commonly associated with Cocoa Beach online and is favored by a public survey, although the survey’s validity was questioned.

Public comments further fueled the debate, with residents underscoring the importance of both space and surfing to Cocoa Beach’s identity. Rick Anderson, a local resident, voiced a strong opinion that the city should more visibly embrace its space heritage, lamenting the lack of streets named after astronauts. Another resident, Janice, raised concerns about the financial burden of rebranding.

Despite the discussion, the commissioners voted unanimously to deny the proposed name change, choosing to retain the current branding that honors the city’s historical ties to the space industry. They emphasized the need for further public input and a balanced representation of Cocoa Beach’s heritage and attractions.

Another topic was the approval of city support for the 2026 Cocoa Beach Air Show, an event expected to draw significant crowds and bolster the local economy. The air show, featuring the Navy Blue Angels, is scheduled for April 11th and 12th, 2026. The commission agreed to provide $30,000 in in-kind support, including police, fire, and public works services, while using Sydney Fischer Park for parking. Although some commissioners expressed caution about approving unbudgeted funding, they ultimately recognized the air show’s economic impact and unanimously approved the support.

The meeting also touched on the legal distinctions between for-profit and nonprofit events, with some attendees scrutinizing the use of municipal resources for the air show, a for-profit venture. Concerns were raised about the potential noise and traffic issues associated with the event, especially with a new hotel opening prior to the 2027 air show. Despite these concerns, the commission acknowledged the air show’s role in supporting local businesses and maintaining economic vitality.

In addition to branding and event support, the commission discussed proposed regulations on temporary signage, focusing on real estate open house signs. New regulations limit temporary signs to private property, with a maximum of two signs allowed per home.

The proposed regulations sparked debate over the number of signs permitted and the timing of their placement. While some participants emphasized the importance of maintaining clear and enforceable signage rules, others advocated for more flexibility to accommodate real estate practices. An amendment to increase the maximum number of signs from three to five was approved by a 4-1 vote.

The commission also addressed concerns about the enforcement of signage regulations, particularly on state roadways like A1A. A consensus emerged that while the city can enforce its regulations, state rules ultimately take precedence, complicating enforcement efforts.