A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing inconsistencies in the waste management schedule. Residents and commissioners alike voiced their concerns over unreliable waste pickup services, with reports of delays and missed collections becoming more frequent. One resident described the schedule as being more akin to a “Target,” reflecting the unpredictability of service, and urged the commission to reconsider the waste management contract. The City Manager acknowledged these issues and suggested that it might be time to seek bids from other service providers to ensure more reliable service.

Further complicating the waste management discussion, a commissioner highlighted the need for regular bulk item pickups, such as sofas and beds, which currently require an additional fee. The commissioner argued that the current arrangement “rewards bad behaviors” and proposed renegotiating the contract to include bulk pickups as a standard service. This suggestion was met with general agreement, and the commission committed to an open bidding process when the current contract is up for renewal.

The appointment of a vice mayor also sparked a debate among the commissioners, focusing on the proper rotation of the position. A motion was made to appoint a commissioner to the vice mayor role for 2025, which led to a discussion on whether a first-year commissioner should be eligible for the role. Some argued that the vice mayor position should be reserved for those in their third or fourth year of service, while others contended that experience as vice mayor is not a prerequisite for becoming mayor. Ultimately, a motion was made and seconded to nominate a specific commissioner for the role, aligning with the ongoing rotation system.

In a detailed presentation, the Cocoa Beach Police Department reported on its reaccreditation status, highlighting that it has maintained its accreditation since 2015. The chief expressed gratitude towards department members and the community, acknowledging their support as important to the successful reassessment completed in July and October.

Public comments also addressed various community concerns, with residents sharing both grievances and suggestions for improvement. One resident expressed optimism about downtown developments, proposing enhanced lighting to create a more inviting atmosphere. Another resident raised issues related to new crosswalks on A1A, seeking clarification on speed limits and expressing frustration over confusing signage.

The meeting also included updates on several infrastructure projects, including the new City Hall construction, which is slated for completion in early 2025 with a budget not exceeding $11.5 million. The City Manager assured that construction was on schedule and emphasized features like a stage and a tide clock, which aim to serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. Concerns about the adequacy of electrical outlets for the stage were addressed, with assurances of additional components being incorporated to meet event needs.

Another major topic was the slip-lining project for sewer pipe rehabilitation, funded by grants and considered essential for maintaining city infrastructure. The commission also discussed the Minuteman shoreline erosion project, which involves replacing and restoring eroded canal ends to prevent further sidewalk compromise. The estimated costs of these projects were highlighted, with an emphasis on long-term maintenance and repair savings.

As the meeting progressed, the commission addressed short-term rental compliance, revealing efforts to increase the compliance rate from 60% in June to 65% by the meeting date. Strategies discussed included expanding the registration program, employing additional code enforcement staff, and potentially utilizing volunteer assistance from residents. The commission also considered adding more magistrate hearings to manage the overloaded schedule for code enforcement cases.

Efforts to improve public amenities were also on the agenda, including plans for the Bicentennial Park renovation, which will feature a new boat ramp and public restrooms. The estimated project cost is $3.7 million, primarily funded through grants, and aims to address longstanding flooding issues that have impaired park accessibility.

Finally, the commission discussed preparations for the city’s centennial celebration, set to occur over two weekends beginning July 5.