The commission’s approval of the solar feasibility study, at a cost of $51,196, marked a commitment to a strategic approach to clean energy. Although some concerns were voiced about the expense and the suggestion to immediately install solar panels on specific buildings, the commission ultimately underscored the importance of aligning solar installations with the city’s clean energy goals and infrastructure projects. The conversation brought to light the complexities of commercial solar installations and the potential benefits of right-sizing these installations, including leveraging reduced pricing for bulk purchases.

In addition to solar energy considerations, the commission recognized the continuation of the Library Advisory Committee, applauding its support of library services and its role in community engagement. The committee’s efforts in promoting library events and contributing to the development of a library survey were acknowledged as valuable to the city.

The commission also addressed the crucial matter of maintaining the city’s wastewater system. Contracts were awarded to Vortex Services LLC for the 2024 pipelining and manhole rehabilitation projects, which will utilize cured in place pipe lining technology, praised for its cost-effectiveness and ability to prolong the life of sewer pipes by up to 50 years.

A prominent topic of the meeting was the Skinner Boulevard Complete Streets Urban Corridor Improvement project, poised to transform the downtown area by reducing speeds, improving pedestrian and bike safety, and stimulating economic development by connecting the trail to the downtown core. The project, estimated to cost $10.8 million, will be funded through contributions from the city and partner organizations such as Ford Pellas, the Department of Transportation (DOT), and Duke. The commission approved the funding agreement and third-party escrow for the project, which is scheduled to start construction in the fall and be completed within 18 months to two years.

The commission also engaged in discussions about the community redevelopment area, praising the progress made in spurring economic growth. In addition, the underground conversion agreement for Skinner Boulevard’s complete streets project with Duke Energy was debated. While concerns were raised about the high costs, the benefits of underground utilities, such as increased reliability and reduced exposure to outages, were emphasized, and the utility reimbursement agreement was approved.

The meeting also covered the installation of smart-controlled decorative lights and the replacement of a traffic light with a pedestrian-activated signal, addressing concerns about traffic flow and pedestrian safety. Moreover, the commission approved a landscaping plan involving Royal Palms and uplighting.

The commission discussed the Bel Safe Streets for All Grant project, focusing on safety improvements for pedestrians and cyclists. This included examining crash data and proposing short-term and long-term enhancements, such as speed feedback signs, traffic circles, and crosswalk enhancements. The potential impact of converting a section of Edgewater Drive to a one-way westbound road and implementing a two-way bike facility sparked debate.

The commission members provided updates on community events and initiatives.