The commission’s discussion on stormwater infrastructure took center stage, addressing the need for a rate increase to fund vital projects. The rate adjustments were proposed to be around $3.75 per month per year for the next three years. This decision came after a review of stormwater program needs, a revenue sufficiency analysis, and a detailed presentation of the financial model, which underscored the necessity for additional funding to cover the capital expenses required for the maintenance and improvement of the stormwater system. The consultants from Raap Talis Financial Consulting emphasized the impact of inflation on construction costs and the need for proactive operation to ensure fiscal sustainability.

Technical challenges with audio were encountered during the presentation, but adjustments were made to facilitate clear communication. The commission thoroughly analyzed the rate study results, focusing on the operational and financial challenges of the stormwater utility. The discussion also included the exploration of various solutions for stormwater infrastructure, such as pump stations, barriers, and raising seawalls, specifically in vulnerable neighborhoods like Baywood Shores and North Douglas.

The commission reviewed the city’s capital improvement plan. The plan outlined a three-year strategy for rate adjustments to meet near-term funding needs, stressing the significance of proactive capital improvement. The Board of Finance and Stormwater had previously reviewed the comprehensive plan, and the commission engaged in a analysis of the suggestions.

Additionally, the meeting touched upon the city’s debt strategy, with a recommendation to issue debt resulting in annual payments of over $400,000 per year, totaling 1.7 million over a decade. The discussion also covered staff reclassification in the stormwater department to improve efficiency and the potential use of the Penny fund for future infrastructure projects.

The meeting also approved the Leland Chase outdoor gallery public art project, which will celebrate diversity through the display of artwork reproductions on the exterior wall of the Dunedin Wastewater Treatment Center. The project honors Alira Chase and Lorraine Leland, two women who made contributions in a neighborhood settled by black workers in the 1880s. The commissioners supported the project, noting the vibrancy and inclusiveness it would bring to the city.

In other discussions, the commission deliberated on the purchase of truck lifts for maintenance of city vehicles, such as garbage and fire trucks, and the oversight for the golf course restoration project. A contract with an engineering firm was unanimously approved to provide administration services for the golf course project.

The commission also considered altering the meeting schedule by merging the Tuesday morning meeting with the Thursday evening meeting but ultimately withdrew the proposal after deliberation highlighted the potential issues with frequent changes.

Citizens can expect a workshop focused on the survey questions for the next meeting, which will add to the agenda. The commission also acknowledged the state of the city event, with members expressing gratitude for the successful organization and positive feedback from residents. The city manager provided updates on the Binding Cost Estimate for the undergrounding project and sought approval to execute a new estimate when it arrives.