A significant portion of the meeting centered on the council’s ongoing efforts to improve the downtown area through landscaping enhancements. Council members discussed a proposal to partner with Main Street and local businesses to sponsor landscaping projects, such as installing flower pots and pine straw, and maintaining the plants. The conversation revealed concerns over aesthetic consistency, with some members advocating for a uniform design that complements existing brick structures. The council considered formalizing a sponsorship program to standardize contributions from businesses.

The logistics of managing these beautification efforts were also a topic of concern. Members debated whether city staff or external landscapers should handle the installations and maintenance, given the staff limitations and other city responsibilities. A proposal was made to create a separate account for landscaping donations, which would allow Main Street to manage funds and expedite the beautification process. The council acknowledged the need for a coordinated plan among the city, Main Street, and the tree board to prevent confusion over responsibilities and ensure a unified vision for the project.

In addition to the downtown beautification efforts, the council discussed an urban orchard project intended to bring fruit-bearing trees to Chipley Park and Lake DeFuniak. With a budget of $7,500 allocated for the project, the council considered planting fig, kumquat, satsuma, and loquat trees, sourced from local nurseries. The aim was to complete the planting by January of the following year, allowing the trees to establish before seasonal changes. While the project was generally well-received, concerns were raised about the maintenance needs and viability of certain tree varieties, such as peach trees, which prompted suggestions for alternative options like loquat or mulberry trees.

The council also touched on the Veterans Memorial Master Plan, emphasizing the need for a structured approach to planning and avoiding reactive decisions. The discussion included potential locations for the memorial, with members expressing differing opinions on where it would be most visible and appropriate. The idea of incorporating the amphitheater into the master plan was proposed.

In another segment, a resident’s proposal for a fountain in Lake DeFuniak sparked interest for its potential benefits, such as aeration for fish and aesthetic enhancement. Although no formal action was taken, the idea of using the fountain as a fundraiser through a unique event involving local businesses was positively received by the council.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the need for more pet waste stations and garbage cans in Chipley Park, particularly on the east side, where facilities are lacking. The council recognized the importance of these amenities in promoting responsible pet ownership and agreed to consider budgeting for their installation in the future.

The meeting also saw discussions on infrastructure improvements, such as the installation of pavers and a bike rack at a local business’s request. The council agreed to seek quotes for these enhancements.

In terms of community aesthetics, ideas for improving the town’s water tower through a mural or decorative design were floated, though the council acknowledged potential resistance to such changes. The suggestion of wrapping the tower with a colorful image representing local landmarks was noted as a way to celebrate the town’s history and charm.

Finally, the topic of an unused tower described as an eyesore was raised during the citizen comments section. The current owner was open to its removal, and the council expressed interest in pursuing this further. Plans for a mural on a nearby wall were also discussed, highlighting ongoing efforts to enhance the community’s visual appeal.