The meeting commenced with a formal acknowledgment of the Cocoa Beach Women’s Club, which has been a pillar of community support since its inception in 1965. The mayor commended the club for its extensive work in education, the arts, environmental advocacy, civic responsibilities, and health and wellness initiatives. The club’s noteworthy achievements include founding the first Cocoa Beach Senior Citizens Club, securing vital infrastructure like sidewalks, and providing scholarships for police and fire training. Their financial contributions have supported local facilities such as the Cocoa Beach Country Club and various community initiatives, including arts festivals and educational programs. In recognition of their longstanding service, the mayor declared the day a celebration of the Women’s Club and encouraged further community involvement.

In a separate recognition, Chief Wes Mullens and the Assistant City Manager praised officers from the Cocoa Beach Police Department for their outstanding service. Corporal Javier Miranda, Officer Jacob Wera, and Officer Henry Sherig were applauded for their compassionate assistance to a homeless mother and her infant at a bus stop on September 14, 2025. The officers took immediate action, arranging a motel stay and purchasing groceries for the family. This effort was part of a collaborative initiative with local community paramedic Sher Mafy and businessman Steve Hoskins to secure ongoing support. Chief Mullens emphasized the significance of community partnerships in addressing social issues, commending the officers for their exemplary compassion and teamwork.

The meeting also involved discussions on stormwater management, following a recent flood event in Cocoa Beach that saw 5.5 inches of rain combined with high tides and groundwater levels. This led to localized flooding in areas such as Woodland Cedar and parts of Ocean Beach Boulevard. With the sewer plant nearing capacity, residents were urged to reduce water usage. The city manager outlined the ongoing multi-decade vulnerability assessment program required by the state, scheduled for completion by June 2026. The program aims to address flooding issues through infrastructure upgrades like larger pipes and backflow preventers. However, these significant improvements are expected to take several years to implement.

Attention turned to the upcoming expiration of the waste management contract on December 31, 2026. The city manager suggested seeking bids from other companies, encouraging the commission to consider this approach. Additionally, the commission reviewed plans for local events, including an art show in November and a “Movies in the Park” event featuring “The Polar Express” in December. Updates were also provided on ongoing projects, such as the temporary closure of Ramp Road Park for construction and improvements to the Cocoa Beach Country Club Golf Course’s irrigation system.

The commission addressed a malfunctioning sign on a city building, with the city manager confirming that repairs had been made, though the cause remained unclear. An inquiry into the effectiveness of communication tools like CBNN for disseminating critical information, such as requests to limit water usage during flooding, was discussed. The city manager acknowledged CBNN’s effectiveness but noted a gap in communication for residents without access to the service.

During the meeting, concerns were raised about communication strategies during emergencies, referencing the community’s experience with Hurricane Matthew in 2016. The importance of minimizing water influx during such events was underscored, with discussions on effective communication methods, including the Cocoa Beach News (CBN) and social media.

The consent agenda included a resolution to amend garbage, waste, and trash fees, proposing a 5.39% rate increase effective January 2026. The increase aligns with the existing contract terms with Waste Management, which allows for adjustments based on the consumer price index. A commissioner noted that the contract terms were fixed, with no option to prevent the increase, but highlighted a commitment to negotiating better terms for future contracts.

Further approvals included bids for several projects, such as the Port Canaveral Force Main Air Release Valve Replacement Project, awarded to R&M Service Solutions LLC for $702,425. A task order with Kim Horn Associates, amounting to $104,390 for construction phase services related to lift station rehabilitation, was also approved. Additionally, the purchase of a new pool liner for $181,965 was sanctioned, with commendations for the Leisure Services Director for obtaining multiple quotes, reflecting fiscal responsibility.

The commission discussed holiday meeting schedules, proposing a motion to cancel specific meetings during the holiday season to alleviate staff workload. The motion passed unanimously.

An ordinance concerning civil citations was introduced. Previously, appeals were brought to the circuit court, leading to delays. The proposed change allows appeals to be heard by a special magistrate at city hall, streamlining the process. A city manager explained the burdensome nature of waiting for circuit court hearings and the associated challenges. The new process was deemed a more effective solution for handling civil citations and reducing unnecessary staff time. The ordinance was approved.