The most significant topic of the meeting was the public hearing on the budget. The council reviewed proposed revenues and expenditures for various departments, with intense scrutiny on the figures. The General Government’s proposed revenue was noted at $3,768, marking a 4% increase from the current year, while appropriations were set at $53. The police department’s budget was set at $1,280,024 for services and $100,000 for dispatch. The fire department’s budget saw a slight decrease, while the trash department’s budget remained unchanged at $3,362. The street department received a substantial boost to $1,274. The parks budget saw a significant rise to $46,911, a 155% increase.

A resident from 1344 Stratford raised questions about specific budget line items, including intergovernmental revenue figures of $208,000 and $46,000, and the nature of these funds. The council clarified that these were state payments commencing in July 2024. The resident also inquired about a 3% cost of living adjustment for staff, which was confirmed by the council.

The discussion delved into past expenditures, with the resident pointing out that $6,000 spent on improvements was far below the budgeted $450,000. The council explained that the lower expenditure was due to carryover funds from previous years, amounting to over a million dollars. Clarification was sought on budget allocations for infrastructure, particularly how funds for sewer and water systems contrasted with those for road resurfacing. The council distinguished that state-defined infrastructure encompasses foundational work like sewer and water, while road paving falls under a separate category.

In another development, the council reviewed and approved bids for the hurricane storm outfall dredging project. Elizabeth Mo from Anchor Engineering presented three bids: HD Harders Construction at $667,528.85, Dado at $628,284, and another for $643,434. The dredging project was deemed essential due to dirt accumulation in the canal system from hurricanes Michael and Sally. The council discussed the project’s background and its importance for the drainage system before approving the most suitable bid.

The council also addressed dock applications, starting with a proposed dock on Pitts Avenue. The applicant had completed all necessary steps, and the council voted in favor of the approval, despite some questions about usage conditions. Another dock replacement proposal on West Street was also approved without opposition.

A public hearing was held for the second reading and potential adoption of Ordinance 2024 D423, which aimed to update flood study dates and flood insurance rate maps as required by FEMA. A council member queried whether the addition of retention ponds would influence insurance costs, but it was clarified that the ordinance merely involved changing dates without imposing new charges or fees. The ordinance was subsequently approved unanimously.

The council then moved on to Ordinance 2024 D424, concerning off-premises signs, commonly known as billboards. This ordinance, recommended by the Planning Commission, sought to prohibit future billboards in the city. Discussions touched on existing billboards and potential compliance costs, but it was reiterated that the ordinance would solely affect future installations. The council approved the ordinance after closing the public hearing.

During the meeting, a resident raised concerns about access to their property, alleging blockage by equipment placed by another individual. The council expressed readiness to assist in resolving the issue and discussed the need for clarity on property boundaries and ownership documents. The resident was urged to provide relevant surveys or title insurance for further investigation.

The council also discussed the search for a new clerk, noting that previous applicants had not been satisfactory. A proposal was made to allow current office staff to provide input on potential hires. Interviews were scheduled for the following Monday, with specific time slots allocated for each candidate.

The meeting concluded with the council resolving to continue addressing the various issues raised during the session, including the budget and other administrative matters. With no further public comments, the council recessed the meeting until a later time.