The meeting began with a proposal from Joseph and Laura Bot for the construction of a new concrete seawall, marina dock, and boat lift at their property located on Pelican Lane. Their agent, Eileen, presented plans, emphasizing that approvals had already been secured from both the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDP) and the Army Corps of Engineers. The project intends to add a new seawall in front of the existing structure for added support, with a 24×36 inch cap for integration. The new seawall would span approximately 95 linear feet and be positioned within 18 inches of the existing seawall.

Eileen highlighted the use of composite decking material, Barefoot Gray, for the dock due to its durability and low maintenance. Samples of the decking material were provided to board members for examination. Questions arose regarding the time limits on FDP approvals, to which Eileen responded that they generally range from three to five years, with renewal options available if necessary. There were also concerns about title issues on the property, which were resolved by confirming that the title had been unified and the seawall would remain within property lines.

Environmental implications were a point of discussion, particularly regarding the marginal dock’s potential encroachment into the narrow canal. The design’s appropriateness given the canal’s dimensions was questioned, and additional clarification was sought about the boat lift’s height, which was confirmed to be flush with the seawall cap. Aesthetic concerns were raised about the boat lift posts exceeding four feet above the seawall, emphasizing compliance with town code restrictions on structure heights. Eileen agreed to confer with the engineer to incorporate specifications for the boat size and height into the plans.

Following a discussion, a motion was made to recommend approval of a level three architectural site plan for the construction of the seawall, dock, and associated elements, contingent upon adherence to town specifications. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

The meeting then transitioned to discussing a demolition permit for an existing home on Avenue O, represented by Carrie Glickstein of Bluewater Cove LLC. The homeowner’s preference for removing a large black olive tree in the front yard was a focal point, due to its messiness and the need for a new driveway. However, board members expressed concerns about the tree’s removal impacting the area’s visual appeal and privacy. The board debated the timing of the tree’s removal.

Skepticism about removing the tree without a replacement plan was voiced, with references to prior experiences where tree removal negatively impacted Gulf Stream’s iconic tree canopy. The owner’s representatives argued for practicality. Board members insisted on maintaining the tree until a concrete replacement plan was in place to avoid prolonged visual disruption. The discussion stressed the importance of meaningful and substantial replacement trees to restore the area’s visual integrity within a short period, ideally five years.

A tentative consensus emerged that the tree could remain during initial construction phases, with a detailed landscaping proposal to follow. This approach aimed to respect the community’s values regarding tree preservation and aesthetic continuity. The board agreed to revisit the issue once the new landscaping plan was submitted.

The meeting also addressed shoreline management and permits related to the Blue Water Cove Lots. The project involved removing mangroves and restoring the area, a condition of a land swap agreement, and required coordination with multiple state and federal agencies. The Army Corps of Engineers’ jurisdiction over the waterway prompted a westward shift in the planned bulkhead location. Dredging was necessary, with plans to reuse dredged materials for fill on the lots. The construction timeline suggested the most disruptive activities would last about two months, with the entire project estimated to take no longer than four months.

Board members inquired about mangrove replacement, with assurances that the new planting area would exceed the removed section. Visual impacts for residents on the east side of the intercoastal waterway were discussed, with the final outcome expected to improve the landscape significantly. The bulkhead’s height and appearance would meet required standards and blend with the natural environment.

Concerns about excessive property lighting were addressed, with suggestions for subtle illumination under sea grapes to minimize disturbances to neighboring properties. Compliance with side setback regulations for a proposed spa was also discussed.