A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the debate over the speed bumps in Mt. Highlands, with commissioners and residents voicing differing opinions. A analysis presented by a commissioner highlighted the complexities of speed bump installation, noting that typical requirements include a petition signed by a high percentage of residents. The discussion revealed that Florida regulations discourage the use of speed bumps on public streets, which influenced the decision to remove them to avoid legal liabilities.

Residents shared their experiences with the speed bumps, citing physical discomfort and a lack of prior communication from the city regarding their installation. One resident described experiencing pain due to a broken hip when navigating the speed bumps, while another noted that many were unaware of the installation until after it occurred. These comments underscored the community’s dissatisfaction and the perceived lack of transparency in the city’s decision-making process.

The commission considered these concerns and decided to remove the speed bumps, with a majority voting in favor of the motion. The mayor recused themselves from the vote due to their involvement in hosting related town hall discussions. Following the decision, the commission discussed conducting a new speed study in early 2025 to evaluate traffic patterns post-removal and address ongoing concerns about speeding in the neighborhood.

Another topic was the proposal to allow alcohol at private events within the city, such as weddings and community celebrations. A commissioner introduced the topic, stressing that any approval would come with strict guidelines to mitigate liability concerns. The commission recalled past decisions against allowing alcohol in city parks and suggested public feedback on the proposal, signaling openness to community input before any formal vote.

The meeting also included discussions on several significant agenda items. The commission approved a motion to replace the data communications phone system with a contract valued at over $785,000. Additionally, they held a public hearing on ordinance 1170, which involves the contraction of city limits to exclude specific parcels of land. The ordinance passed unanimously after discussions reiterated points from previous meetings.

Another ordinance, number 1172, regarding revisions to cross-connection control and backflow prevention, was introduced. These revisions are necessary to comply with state statutes and update definitions and processes for appeals, with costs to be borne by customers. The commission approved a task order with Panhan Engineering for stormwater improvements, despite concerns about the firm’s previous performance.

The commission also addressed the purchase and installation of an additional census antenna base station for the city’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure project. This decision, justified by the need for system redundancy, was approved unanimously.

The Finance Review Committee was another point of discussion, particularly regarding its extension and the necessity for transparency in financial decisions impacting the city. A citizen expressed concerns about the committee’s effectiveness due to low attendance, prompting the commission to assure the importance of citizen appointees and their role in the committee’s decision-making process.

Additionally, the meeting’s public commentary segment included expressions of gratitude toward veterans and concerns about traffic violations in Lynn Haven. A resident raised issues about traffic monitoring during events at Kinol Park, while others discussed the importance of individual responsibility in adhering to traffic laws.