The council acknowledged the recent session of the baseball committee task force that convened for nearly four hours to discuss the future of the baseball field’s surface. Representatives from the school board and experts from the University of Florida and Astroturf presented insights on natural grass maintenance and artificial turf options. The council emphasized the importance of public engagement and the need for a thorough understanding of the information before making any decisions. A public survey on turf preferences was suggested, with a focus on ensuring the community is well-informed.

Concerns about the environmental impact of artificial turf were a recurring theme throughout the meeting. A resident expressed significant worry about the potential for microplastics to enter the ecosystem, equating the removal of artificial turf to the introduction of five billion plastic bottles into the environment. The presence of PFAS, known as “forever chemicals,” in artificial turf materials was also highlighted as a serious concern. Reports from local doctors and environmental foundations warned of long-term safety and ecological risks, emphasizing the need for more research and consideration.

A soccer and lacrosse coach argued that artificial turf provides a better playing surface, especially in heavily used fields. In contrast, a member of the Local Planning Agency strongly opposed the use of artificial turf, citing poor field preparation by the school board and potential injury risks.

Beyond the turf debate, the meeting also addressed updates on the inclusive playground project. The council discussed a plan to create a single large playground with inclusive features for children of all abilities. A budget overview revealed that the project, scheduled for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, is fully funded thanks to a significant grant. The presentation highlighted the importance of inclusivity.

Attention then turned to the management of special events at local parks, with discussions on implementing a new fee structure for commercial uses at the pool. The proposed fees aim to support facility maintenance while allowing flexibility for nonprofit programs. The council also reviewed the existing special events policy, recommending a reduction in major events to prevent over-scheduling and resource strain.

Discussions on park fees revealed a proposal to maintain free access for residents while introducing fees for non-residents during peak times. Concerns about the fairness of weekend price increases were raised, with suggestions to implement a consistent fee structure to avoid negative perceptions. The council emphasized the need for further research into appropriate fee structures, particularly for the high school swim team, with plans to revisit these discussions in future meetings.