Delving into the heart of the meeting, the board scrutinized the current regulations concerning vacation rentals in residential areas. This topic garnered considerable attention due to its impact on the preservation of neighborhood character and the challenges posed by the operation of these rentals. The board explored the fine line between residential property use and the burgeoning presence of vacation rentals, which some feared might be undermining the residential feel of neighborhoods.

The board members brought up the issue of the vacation rentals encroaching upon the residential spaces, creating a dichotomy between the needs of the community and the interests of property owners. The proliferation of such rentals led to a debate on the sufficiency of existing local regulations and the possibility of implementing homeowner associations in areas lacking them to maintain local control. There were mentions of properties being partitioned into multiple rooms, effectively turning them into mini-motels, a trend that raised flags about the potential erosion of the residential fabric of the city.

The registration process for vacation rentals was another focal point. The board discussed the distinction between new applications and renewals, as well as the integration with the Business Tax Receipt (BTR) application. Specific restrictions were highlighted, such as parking requirements and occupancy limits, along with the need for rental owners to either reside within Cocoa Beach or appoint a local representative capable of addressing rental issues promptly. The board members also talked about the use of software to track unregistered vacation rentals and the challenges this posed.

State regulations were a topic of frustration for some board members, as they seemed to limit the city’s ability to exert local control over the matter. The board voiced concerns over state legislation’s encroachment on local governance.

In addition to vacation rental issues, the board expressed a strong interest in addressing the city’s affordable housing, particularly for First Responders. These strategies included a density bonus for new developments and the potential creation of a fund dedicated to affordable housing. The use of tax credit financing and leveraging density as incentives were also considered viable options to encourage development in this sector.

The year-end report presented at the meeting outlined the 2023 activities, with a special focus on the meetings that proceeded as planned. The board updated on various ongoing projects, including those at the Weston, Westgate, near the Hampton Inn, and the Glass Bank project. The potential sale of property near the Presbyterian Church, which had received prior site plan approval, was also mentioned as part of the city’s development landscape. The next scheduled meeting was announced for March 4th.

The election of the new chair and vice chair set the administrative tone for the upcoming year, with Lenny Arnold and Lisa Colo taking the helm. Their unanimous election by the board members demonstrated a collective confidence in their leadership abilities and the direction in which they are expected to steer the board’s efforts.

The meeting concluded with the 2025 Comprehensive Plan update, where staff members, including Randy Stevenson, emphasized the importance of ongoing amendments to meet state requirements. Stevenson pointed out the necessity of crafting a public participation plan.