A major concern raised during the public comment session revolved around the Bureau of Offshore Energy Management’s consideration of the Eastern Gulf for oil drilling. A community member highlighted the potential hazards to water quality, urging the council and surrounding municipalities in the Florida Keys to unite against the federal proposal. This speaker stressed the vital importance of safeguarding the region’s ecosystems, already vulnerable to algae outbreaks and coral reef degradation. The council was urged to back a collective resolution objecting to the drilling, with an invitation for public support at an upcoming Board of County Commissioners meeting.

The topic of land development dominated the council’s agenda, particularly discussions around the Machado property and Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) policies. The council faced a divided opinion regarding the future of the Machado property, earmarked for affordable workforce housing. Opinions varied on whether to sell or lease the property long-term, with some members advocating for maintaining ownership to prevent future land availability issues. A proposal to lease the property at a nominal rate met skepticism, sparking a broader debate on the strategic benefits of retaining control over village-owned land.

Attention then shifted to proposed changes in TDR policies, with the council considering amendments to facilitate the transfer of development rights across different zones and habitats. Despite initial encouragement from the Florida Department of Commerce, the council received an objection letter from the department after the first reading of the ordinances. Residents expressed concern over proceeding with the amendments without clear guidance from the state, fearing potential premature decisions. The council ultimately voted to approve the ordinances, despite reservations about moving forward before a plan review.

The meeting also addressed infrastructure development, with an update on the village’s drinking water installation project. The contractor reported 80% completion, acknowledging challenges with unexpected utility encounters and groundwater issues. To mitigate disruptions, a plan was enacted to maintain access during peak school hours, with law enforcement and flaggers assisting at key intersections.

Another infrastructure-related discussion involved a grant from the Florida Department of Transportation for the village’s “Freebie” ride service. The council deliberated whether to continue the program as a free service or introduce a rider fee. Council members generally favored sustaining the program, emphasizing its importance to the community. The potential introduction of a fee was debated as a means to offset operational costs, with concerns raised about ensuring a competitive service procurement process.

The council also navigated complex discussions on a baseball field licensing agreement with the Monroe County School Board. Key issues included maintenance responsibilities, approval timelines, and a proposed five-year termination clause, which conflicted with a two-year term in the interlocal agreement. Public comments highlighted discrepancies between the village’s and the school board’s agreements, emphasizing the need for alignment and transparency.

A notable public comment period saw residents voicing concerns over park usage fees for hotel guests, particularly those from luxury accommodations. The council debated the fairness of charging a fee to hotel guests, who already contribute to the local economy through sales taxes. A consensus emerged to adopt a flat fee structure, yet concerns lingered about the potential impact on lower-income visitors.