Atna’s representative presented the company’s case, highlighting their preparedness and expertise to commence the project in June, along with their track record of successfully completing similar projects. The council’s consultant, Michael PF, emphasized the necessity of following the bid documents and relying on the advice of their experts. Despite a bid protest and the complexities involved in the selection process, the motion to deny the bid protest was unanimously approved, leading to the council’s decision to pass the resolution with Atna.

This beach nourishment project is a response to the need for restoration due to erosion caused by recent hurricanes. Safety concerns and the capabilities of Atna versus other bidders, such as Calo Marine, were scrutinized during the meeting. Calo Marine’s representatives voiced their apprehensions about Atna’s bid, particularly regarding the use of offshore dredging equipment and the safety implications. Nevertheless, the council proceeded with the approval, highlighting the urgency of addressing beach erosion.

The council also discussed the potential legal and financial implications of altering the project’s course based on differing professional opinions. A council member expressed skepticism about the consultant’s production estimate, considering it overly optimistic and potentially unsafe. The discussion extended to the possibility of revisiting funding sources, including FEMA, to secure additional funds, and the potential of a lawsuit from the successful bidder if the decision were reversed.

Aside from the beach nourishment project, the council addressed several other matters. A proposal to offer free parking in downtown areas during specific times to support businesses during the summer months led to a debate on the plan’s logistics, revenue impacts, and management of parking times. Concerns were raised about the potential changes to density calculations in the town’s comprehensive plan, with council members questioning the implications of increased density for commercial properties, traffic, and infrastructure.

Other resolutions included approving a special exception for the Edison Beach condominium to rebuild aspects of their pool deck and a variance request for a property on Estero Boulevard. The council also discussed a resolution for a Florida Division of Historical Resources Grant to rebuild the underground exhibit at the Mound House.

Moreover, the meeting highlighted local achievements and recognitions. Councilor Scott Safford commended the efforts of Mike and Don Miller, and Vice Mayor John Scott acknowledged the success of the Beach Talk Radio event. New Harbor Master Curtis Lewig was welcomed, and there was an update on turtle nests from Cindy Johnson of Turtle Time.

The meeting touched on the addition of a pickleball court to a property on Court Street. Despite concerns about noise and the impact on neighbors, the council debated and agreed to impose a restriction on the court’s hours of operation, settling on 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. A representative from the planning and zoning department, Jason SMY, provided information about the variance necessary for the court’s location, and the council approved the resolution.

Furthermore, the council considered a proposed ordinance for a 7-Eleven convenience store on Estero Boulevard, which required deviations from the Land Development Code. Despite no public comments during the hearing, the proposal, which had already received unanimous approval from the Local Planning Agency (LPA), was approved by the council with a second reading scheduled for a later date.

Finally, the council addressed Resolution 24-99 and discussed updates on FEMA’s response and budget planning. A proposal for a public-private partnership for a VPK program was also presented, with potential fiscal impacts and the need for future discussions.