In an effort to address the city’s infrastructure needs, the Commission approved the sole-source purchase of new pumps for the wastewater treatment plant. The pumps, installed in 1986, had surpassed their expected lifespan, making maintenance increasingly cost-ineffective. A representative detailed the necessity of a complete overhaul, including new motors and concrete supports, due to the deteriorating condition of the existing system. Visual evidence presented to the Commission underscored the urgency of the replacement, which aims to ensure the plant’s continued efficiency and reliability.

The authority expressed a willingness to explore partnerships with the city and county to develop new housing units. Acknowledging past collaboration issues, the authority emphasized the importance of investing in community relationships and addressing disinvestment challenges. The dialogue stressed the need for ongoing collaboration between the Housing Authority and city entities to effectively tackle homelessness and expand affordable housing.

The Commission also engaged in discussions regarding the logistics of the upcoming Blue Crab Festival, an event for the city. Concerns centered on street closures that could impact local businesses during critical sales periods. Commissioners emphasized the necessity of maintaining business access during the festival, agreeing that street closures would only occur after business hours, specifically at 5 p.m. on Friday. Adjustments to signage and communication with businesses were discussed to ensure visibility and access throughout the event. This decision followed feedback from merchants who had previously expressed dissatisfaction with event coordination.

Further addressing city improvements, the meeting featured updates from the planning and code enforcement departments. The planning director reported on the city’s growth, with approximately 800 new dwelling units projected to increase the population by 20%. This development is expected to generate around $5 million in impact fees for infrastructure. The planning department is processing numerous development applications. Notable projects include Silver Bay, a restricted age residential community, and various townhouse developments. The planning director also highlighted non-residential projects, such as a new restaurant and a mixed-use development featuring a hotel, restaurants, and an event venue.

The code enforcement department shared its ongoing efforts to enhance community compliance, proposing a departmental name change to “code compliance” to reflect a more collaborative approach. The department aims to foster relationships through community footwalks and ensure vacant properties are registered for emergencies. A flex schedule for staff is being implemented to improve coverage, particularly on weekends. Data showed improved compliance within the community, with reported cases and magistrate appearances reduced from the previous year.

In other business, the Commission discussed enhancements to city infrastructure, including the addition of lights at Hank Brian Park for nighttime safety and plans for a new public works building. The fire department reported successful CPR and first aid training for 30 new employees, with plans for further sessions. The finance department completed an audit of the golf club, with no discrepancies found in revenue reporting.

Public comments during the meeting included inquiries about the safety of a stone wall on River Street and expressions of gratitude for recent improvements to the boat ramp and marina parking lot. Concerns were also raised about the policy for nonprofit funding, particularly regarding the eligibility of religious institutions. The Commission agreed to refine the language to ensure clarity and fairness, allowing for nonprofit religious organizations to be considered for funding without specifically naming them as excluded entities.