One notable issue at the meeting was the legal dispute between Gulf County and the city over a contested annexation and the adherence to an interlocal agreement. A judge ruled in favor of the county, determining that the city breached the agreement. This summary judgment mandates the city to comply with the terms outlined in the agreement. The council is preparing for further legal arguments related to the city’s creation of three enclaves, hoping for a ruling that could negate the need for additional hearings.

In tandem with the court victory, the council expressed strong opposition to a new annexation effort by the city. This proposal involves developing a residential area adjacent to the Marine Academy and involves property historically zoned for industrial use. The council passed a resolution against the annexation, citing non-compliance with the community’s comprehensive plan and emphasizing the area’s industrial character—home to facilities such as a floating dry dock and an industrial park established decades ago.

A council member criticized statements by the city’s consultant claiming the property was residential, labeling them as misleading. The council reinforced that the land was re-designated as residential only after the city’s annexation, raising concerns about the integrity of the city’s claims. The council also highlighted the potential adverse effects of the proposed housing development, given the proximity to significant industrial operations. These operations, involving activities like rock transportation and aggregate work, could impact future residents in terms of noise and living conditions.

Further complicating the matter, Eastern Ship Building, a major local employer, expressed opposition to the proposed development. A council member mentioned the city’s alleged claim of not receiving a letter from the company, prompting the council to furnish a copy during the meeting. This incident raised doubts about the city’s consideration of community input and the broader implications of the housing project.

The council transitioned to discussions on infrastructure and legislative priorities, focusing on the White City training facility and marine services training facility. The White City facility, mothballed after a new fire station was built, has garnered interest from state fire marshals due to its potential for regional training. The marine services facility is still in planning, with a proposed agreement with the port authority nearing finalization. This facility could provide diverse marine-related training programs, and the council agreed to gather more information and visit existing facilities for insights.

Traffic congestion on Highway 98, specifically through St. Joe Beach, Beacon Hill, and Windmark, was also a point of concern. Increased traffic has impacted emergency services, with ambulances facing delays. One council member noted this as a significant safety issue and emphasized the need to inform the legislative delegation, with plans to discuss the problem with the new secretary.

The council addressed funding needs for critical projects, particularly a $10 million gap for a water project extending from White City to Cape. Securing this funding was deemed essential to complete the project, described as the final stretch needed. The airport project also required additional funds, with a phased approach suggested to prioritize the main entrance road, as turn lanes are unnecessary until the airport is operational.

The condition of the old courthouse in Wewahitchka was raised, with uncertainty about adding it to the project list until further discussions with designated grant funding individuals.

A motion was made and seconded to proceed with legislative priorities requests, which passed unanimously. Public comments included a resident’s inquiry on accessing meeting agendas and materials, followed by the ratification of Value Adjustment Board appointments. A scheduling conflict for the next meeting on the 26th was resolved, agreeing to shift the time due to local school testing.