The council considered multiple financing methods, including a $15 million surtax and a $35 million contribution from property taxes, while keeping open the option to increase the total amount. The debate focused on the appropriateness of asking citizens to vote for a property tax increase and whether the surtax, which would distribute costs more broadly, would be a better alternative. The council members expressed a strong desire to explore all available funding sources and to engage in thorough discussions before finalizing the referendum language, emphasizing the need for transparency and careful consideration of the financial implications for taxpayers.

Community members participated during the public comments section, showing support for the new police building and underscoring the critical role of public safety. Opinions varied, with some community members indicating their willingness to accept a property tax increase, while others called for the consideration of alternative funding sources such as building grant monies and impact fees. The possibility of a special election was also proposed, allowing citizens to directly decide on the project’s funding.

Following the public discussions, the council decided to convert an upcoming workshop into a special meeting, dedicating time to a more detailed examination of bond structures and other potential funding options for the police headquarters. The council unanimously passed motions to instruct the city manager to work with staff and identify the necessary experts for this analysis and to amend the agenda of the special meeting to include a discussion on funding options for the 100% design plans.

Another topic of significant interest was the city’s infrastructure maintenance programs, with a focus on the North and South Tamiami Trail access road projects. The Projects Manager updated the meeting on the projects’ status, noting their complete design and the concerns regarding parking in the area. The discussion explored the possibility of property assessments on businesses that would benefit from improved parking as a means to fund the project. This prompted a discussion among council members, with positions varying from strong support to reservations about the proposal. The council ultimately directed the City Manager to work with staff to provide an estimate for the construction costs and to engage with local businesses regarding off-street parking assessments.

Furthermore, the meeting included a review of the city’s stormwater management strategies, highlighting the city’s dedication to maintaining waterways and flood mitigation systems, particularly in the Myakka Hachi Creek area. The importance of environmental stewardship was underscored, with discussions on balancing development with the conservation of natural resources, and the significance of tree protection codes and community involvement in environmental preservation.

The meeting also touched upon various community services and programs, such as the “Float for Life” aquatics program aimed at teaching children water safety, the city’s solid waste management, and emergency management protocols, including the importance of having a go-kit and understanding evacuation zones. The council heard from emergency management officials about the challenges first responders face during and after storms and the need for prioritizing calls and clearing roads for emergency vehicles.

In addition, the North Port City Council discussed the reconstitution of the Mosquito Task Force, allocation of grant funds for homeowner rehabilitation, affordable housing projects, and infrastructure improvements, as well as career trades training initiatives. A highlight was the presentation by the Awaken Outreach Center, which reported community impact through its food pantry, outreach efforts for children and families, support for Ukrainian refugees, and other services.