During the meeting, the evaluation process for the city manager position was a focus. The council grappled with deciding on the appropriate evaluation period, considering historical precedents of either six months or annual reviews. This topic underpinned the broader conversation about the current city manager’s tenure and the urgency in establishing a clear evaluation procedure.

The council also turned its attention to land use, specifically the adoption of a small-scale map amendment that would change the future land use map designation from agriculture to industrial for a particular property. The legal distinctions between quasi-judicial and legislative decisions were clarified, emphasizing that the council is obligated to approve requests that meet all requirements.

Transportation issues were another focal point, with updates from a Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) workshop being shared. The infeasibility of realigning 83 with 331 due to wetlands was noted. The council member reporting this suggested removing the option from consideration and instead sought approval to conduct a lane elimination study for a different project. The member also reported on plans for a three-lane widening between Black Creek and City Hall and the need for passing lanes on 283 to manage increased traffic and its implications for affordable housing for soldiers.

Infrastructure maintenance and improvements were not left untouched. The council was briefed on the repair of valves and timers downtown and the need for watering assistance for trees during dry periods. The upcoming audit was a point of discussion, with members seeking assurances on the timeline and resources dedicated to the process, advocating for proactive measures to prevent delays.

The meeting also addressed a variety of community and operational concerns. Notably, a council member recommended the city negotiate the capacity fee with citizens being billed for sewer costs despite not being connected to the city’s sewer system. The council considered the historical practices and policies regarding sewer connections and billing in their deliberations. Additionally, there was talk of implementing an internship program at the city and hiring for the airport position.

The council received positive news from a representative about the securing of a $300,000 grant for the city’s main affluent line, with thanks extended to the Northwest Florida Water Management District. Proclamations for the National Day of Prayer and the Sloss Avenue reunion were read, and the council approved nominations for the cemetery board and accepted a loan for a water main project, discussing various funding sources, including capacity fees and operating dollars.

The financial aspects of city operations were further scrutinized in a presentation by Mr. Thomas Jeffrey, the finance manager and CFO for Florida Gas Utility, on the procurement of natural gas and the factors affecting its pricing. The council addressed the need for improved communication with residents on billing adjustments, especially in the wake of significant price jumps.

A proposed ordinance change aimed at stabilizing volatile fuel costs was tabled for further review, and a request for proposals for employee group health insurance was approved, with the council expressing interest in exploring a partnership with the county on this matter.

Finally, the council granted a 90-day extension on the due diligence period requested by CCB Bank and authorized the rejection of city manager applicants not meeting the minimum qualifications. The position was left open until filled, with the possibility of reassessing the interim city manager’s performance in the future and potentially reopening the hiring process.