The town commission faced a issue when Dr. Robert Dudley presented an application for a roof replacement on Canary Walk. Initially, the town recommended a white roof tile, but Dr. Dudley reported that the specific tile had been discontinued. Seeking approval for a slate grey alternative, he emphasized its aesthetic compatibility with other homes in the area. The Architectural Review Board had already recommended the slate grey tile, and after examining samples and discussing code amendments, the commission approved the application. This decision underscored the need to adjust town codes to reflect current market availability and maintain aesthetic standards.

Town Attorney Nazaro provided insight into the necessity of amending the code, acknowledging that the slate grey tile met the town’s design manual standards. The commission’s approval also highlighted the town’s adaptability in response to evolving market conditions.

Infrastructure was another focal point, with updates on road construction projects affecting several streets, including Sea Road, Banyan Road, Lake View Drive, and Golf View Drive. Town Manager Dunham reported progress on asphalt connections to A1A, drainage work completion, and ongoing water main testing. However, uncertainty surrounded the timeline for inspection completion, estimated to range between 30 to 45 days, contingent on state health department approval. The commission discussed the challenges of dewatering and the associated delays, noting that while 99% of dewatering was completed, inlet drainage inspections were pending.

Efforts to redesign the curve between the police department and town hall were also discussed. The engineering firm Baxter Woodman was tasked with expanding the road by four to five feet to ease navigation for larger vehicles. Yet, some members questioned the necessity of a four-foot increase. Concerns were raised about potential unintended consequences, such as increased vehicle speeds. The commission weighed options like adding valley gutters instead of widening the road extensively.

Community safety was another topic, with the theft of a firearm from a resident’s home drawing attention. The incident highlighted the need for awareness regarding firearm storage, although no legal requirements exist for adult-only homes. The police department also addressed seasonal package theft risks, urging residents to promptly retrieve deliveries and offering assistance when needed.

In a positive development, the police department announced Sergeant Michael Balac’s graduation from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Leadership Program. Additionally, the department’s decision to deunionize was noted as a step towards fostering direct communication with the town commission and management.

Administrative updates included a change order for three driveways due to unforeseen roadway elevation adjustments. The commission also reviewed proposed changes to the employee handbook following the police department’s deunionization. Amendments included allowing employees to accrue benefits from their hire date, aligning policies with budget discussions.

The commission approved Ordinance 252, which amended the Gulf Stream Design Manual to permit coded white tiles and allow for the approval of gray or slate-like roof tiles through a less review process. This ordinance aimed to streamline the approval of roofing materials that align with market availability and community aesthetics.

Finally, there was a proposal to grant town staff a day off on the Friday following Christmas.