The commission discussed the ambitious parks and recreation master plan presented by Lumi Fuentes, which outlined a detailed and comprehensive strategy for upgrading various parks across the city. The plan emphasized the need to enhance existing amenities and introduce new features to accommodate the city’s changing demographics, particularly focusing on the needs of senior citizens and the youth. Fuentes stressed the importance of improving comfort features in parks, such as restrooms, lighting, and seating areas, along with upgrading sports fields and courts. The demand for new recreational facilities, such as a splash pad or spray ground, emerged as a community request, highlighting the need for spaces that cater to families and provide relief from the region’s hot climate.

The proposed improvements were not limited to physical upgrades but also included strategic enhancements to infrastructure that would ensure safety and accessibility, such as sports lighting and drainage improvements. For Sherbondi Park, the introduction of artificial turf for fields, the development of an amphitheater for events, and the addition of outdoor restrooms and concession stands were among the recommended upgrades. Seagull Park’s plan focused on bolstering safety through perimeter parking and adding a multigenerational fitness area compliant with ADA standards.

The commission also explored financial strategies to support these extensive upgrades, considering park bonds and grants as potential funding avenues. A phased approach was suggested, with immediate attention on low-cost site amenities and a gradual rollout of larger projects over the next 15 years. The importance of aligning these improvements with the city’s comprehensive plan was underscored.

Alongside discussions on parks, the commission deliberated the potential reinstatement of a community newspaper, which was once a vital communication tool for residents and businesses. While acknowledging the newspaper’s historical role in disseminating local news and fostering community engagement, commissioners expressed caution regarding the timing of allocating funds in the upcoming budget. The proposed allocation of $40,000 for the newspaper sparked debate, with some commissioners advocating for alternative communication channels, like social media and local cable channels, to reach residents effectively.

The commission ultimately decided to defer the newspaper’s funding discussion until after thorough budget workshops, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the city’s financial position.

In addition to these topics, the meeting addressed several governance issues, including budget amendments to align city expenditures with revenues and the repeal of an outdated ordinance concerning the employee handbook. An ordinance amending the civil service board’s functions was also passed, refining its role and responsibilities to better serve city employees.

Community engagement remained a central theme throughout the meeting, with commissioners emphasizing the importance of resident involvement in shaping the city’s future. Upcoming events, such as a family fishing tournament, hurricane preparedness training sessions, and a mobile unit from the clerk of the courts, were promoted as opportunities for community participation and support.