Key contributors such as Dr. Larry Schooler and Raphael Montavo were praised for their roles in facilitating communication with families and survivors. The city’s Chief of Staff provided an update on the memorial planning, emphasizing transparency and community engagement as the city took over the effort following the dissolution of the One Pulse Foundation. The formation of a diverse Pulse Memorial Advisory Committee, selected from over 150 applications, was highlighted as a step in guiding the memorial’s development.

The design process, dubbed the “5D design process,” involves desire, discovery, design, discussion, and documentation. The mission is to create a space embodying sanctuary, healing, and reflection, reflecting themes of love, hope, resilience, and honoring the voices of survivors and first responders. The proposed design includes an “angel ellipse” with 49 columns representing the lives lost, gardens, a visitor pavilion, and a reflection pool. Security features such as cameras and lighting were also discussed to ensure the site’s safety and accessibility around the clock.

The council also addressed the preservation of the existing Pulse building, acknowledging its emotional significance but recognizing its structural limitations. A consensus emerged to preserve the building digitally, allowing visitors to access its history through technology rather than maintaining a physical structure. The project leaders planned to release a design-build Request for Proposals (RFP) with an extended outreach period, aiming for the memorial’s completion by the latter half of 2027, coinciding with the tragedy’s ten-year mark.

In other council business, the meeting included discussions on various community initiatives and developments. A funding agreement for the Homeless Services Network was approved to enhance disaster preparedness. A memorandum of agreement with Orange County Public Schools aimed to improve educational data reporting, benefiting programs like the 21st Century Learning Center Grant. The council also addressed the commencement of construction at Camping World Stadium and various community events, such as the Spring Festival in Vista Lakes.

Commissioners reflected on the passing of State Senator Geraldine Thompson, honoring her legacy as a public servant and civil rights advocate. They also highlighted community events and achievements, including the upcoming documentary on Jones High School’s 130-year history and the significant role of local schools in community engagement.

The meeting concluded with ordinance readings that addressed growth management, property conditions, and zoning district amendments. Each ordinance was approved without significant opposition.