A major point of contention was brought forward by local business owners who expressed frustration over perceived harassment and inconsistency in the city’s code enforcement practices. One business owner detailed his struggles with sourcing parts and managing the accumulation of vehicles on his property, which led to allegations of code violations. He presented photographs and a satellite image showing vehicles purportedly parked on adjacent city land, church property, and the right-of-way along DuBall Street. The business owner emphasized, “I probably had probably 50, 40, 50 cars at a time,” explaining that logistical challenges had delayed repairs, causing the buildup.

The business owner further argued that he had made efforts to remove abandoned vehicles but faced legal complications in doing so without proper procedures. He stated, “I can’t just haul it off, that’s Grand Theft,” underscoring the legal ramifications of removing vehicles improperly. A council member expressed concern about the community’s visual impact, mentioning the need for a respectable city appearance.

The discussion also touched on the fairness of code enforcement. The business owner advocated for equitable treatment, stating, “I want to be treated like everybody else,” and highlighted other violations in the area, questioning why his business was singled out. He lamented the lack of space and the challenges in managing his business under the constraints imposed by local regulations.

Another business owner named Rick voiced grievances against a code enforcement officer named Bruce, alleging inappropriate behavior and unprofessional conduct during inspections. Rick insisted that he had complied with code requirements, including installing necessary fencing and signage, yet felt harassed by Bruce’s aggressive approach. He warned, “If he comes in there cussing me again, you’re going to need PD to get him off,” indicating his readiness to escalate the situation if necessary.

The council acknowledged these concerns and emphasized the importance of equitable enforcement. One council member suggested a more consistent application of regulations across all businesses, advocating for a uniform approach to code compliance.

In terms of community projects, the council discussed the installation of exercise equipment and a disc golf course at LCKD Park. A speaker emphasized the community’s interest in these amenities, urging the council to approve the budgetary allocation for the improvements.

A proposed amendment for $50,000 for the design of new disc golf courses and exercise equipment was brought forward, with discussions about specific locations within the parks. Some council members expressed reservations about the financial climate. The idea of delaying the exercise equipment decision for six months was also considered to allow for a thorough financial review.

The council also addressed budget amendments and infrastructure projects, including a resolution to apply for a State Revolving Fund (SRF) loan for sewer improvements. This resolution was described as critical, with an emphasis on compliance before further funding could be pursued. The council discussed the historical context of the sewer system and the long-term planning involved in waste management improvements.

Another discussion revolved around street lighting improvements. The council member discussed ongoing efforts to upgrade street lights to more efficient LED models and the installation of Smart nodes for real-time monitoring of light functionality. Concerns were raised about the visibility and brightness of the new LED lights, with some towns expressing dissatisfaction. The council acknowledged the complexities involved in managing and upgrading the lighting infrastructure and emphasized the need for community engagement in identifying areas requiring improvements.

The meeting concluded with discussions about the city’s holiday preparations, including a motion to send Christmas cards to city staff. The council also reviewed the status of various city projects, including damage assessments from a recent hurricane and efforts to modernize the city’s fuel management system.