The most significant action taken by the council was the approval of a progressive design build contract with Kaufman Lynn Construction for the construction of two new fire stations. Town engineer Thomas Hernandez provided a detailed background, explaining the selection process, which began with a request for qualifications issued in June 2024 and culminated in the selection of Kaufman Lynn as the most qualified respondent. The contract will enable the contractor to refine the design to 100% completion while negotiating a guaranteed maximum price for the project. Phase one will include design, demolition, and earthwork, with the initial in-service date projected for spring 2026.

The council also approved Resolution 10324, which allocates surtax proceeds for the construction of the fire stations.

Another topic was the proposed changes to residential waste collection routes by Waste Management. The current contract with Waste Management is effective from March 1, 2023, to September 30, 2031, with operations six days a week. The proposed route change aims to reduce operational days from six to five by eliminating Saturday collections and standardizing bulk collection to Wednesdays. This change aims to minimize truck presence in residential neighborhoods on Saturdays, a day typically associated with family activities.

Concerns were raised about the implications of these changes, particularly the potential confusion among residents. One council member pointed out that the term “service days” is not defined in the contract and stressed that the obligation to maintain six operational days must be upheld. Waste Management representatives confirmed their compliance with the agreement and acknowledged the significant adjustment for residents in adapting to the proposed shift in bulk pickup days. To address these concerns, a robust communication strategy was outlined, including two mailers and social media alerts. The first mailer will provide detailed information about the changes, while the second, a postcard, will serve as a reminder to residents. Engaging with Homeowners Associations (HOAs) was also suggested as a means to enhance outreach efforts.

The council also discussed the efficiency of the existing complaint management systems. There was a disagreement over the necessity of a secondary web-based tracking system, with one party emphasizing the redundancy of having two platforms and another insisting on the need for comprehensive oversight. The council highlighted the importance of clear communication with residents regarding bulk waste collection schedules and the need for improvements in the complaint handling process. Waste Management representatives assured that complaints submitted through both Jupe Connect and the call center would be tracked and addressed, although there were acknowledgments of previous lapses in data entry.

Public concern was notably raised regarding potential development in Jonathan Dickinson Park, particularly the possibility of a golf course. The vice mayor expressed hesitance to comment due to the lack of concrete information but acknowledged the importance of the park to the community. Efforts were being made to gather details from representatives’ offices, but substantial information was still lacking. Concerns were specifically raised about the impact on sensitive environmental and historically significant land, such as the Camp Murphy mountain bike trails. The vice mayor emphasized the need for full context and information before taking any action and mentioned the possibility of drafting a letter to express opposition if more information becomes available.

The passing of former mayor Robert Bobby Culpepper was also commemorated. Culpepper’s extensive public service, including his tenure as mayor and a member of the Palm Beach County Commission, was recognized, with the council extending condolences to his family.