One of the most debated topics was the proposal to rename the Sponge Docks District to “Greek Town.” Lisa Benitez, a fourth-generation resident, expressed strong opposition to the name change, arguing that it would misrepresent the district’s diverse history. Benitez emphasized that while Greek Americans have indeed been a part of the area’s heritage, they are not the only group with historical ties to the district. She suggested that a historically accurate name would be “Fish House,” reflecting the district’s past before it became known for sponge diving.

Following Benitez’s comments, the board discussed other agenda items, including the renewal of various contracts and insurance policies. The meeting included an update from Chief Young on EMS and fire contracts with Pinellas County, which required amendments to include funding for new fire stations and vehicles over the next five years. The board approved these contracts unanimously.

The board also addressed the renewal of property and casualty workers’ compensation insurance with the Florida Municipal Insurance Trust (FMIT). Jane Kniffen, the HR director, explained that the city had experienced an 11.37% premium increase due to claims experience, inflation, and the city’s high-risk designation. She highlighted the implications of rising premiums and the need for the city to address claims frequency and severity.

Another topic was the discussion of charter amendments proposed by Dr. Kerry Rue, chair of the Charter Revision Committee. Rue outlined several key changes, including allowing drainage and spoilage sites as acceptable reasons for using eminent domain and increasing the maximum purchase limit for the Board of Commissioners without requiring a referendum from $350,000 to $500,000. Additionally, the committee proposed extending the qualification period for office from seven days to thirty days to encourage public engagement in elections.

Public comments during the meeting reflected community concerns about various local issues. Residents shared emotional accounts of the impact of September 11 and expressed concerns about historic preservation, procedural clarity in city meetings, and the conduct of unauthorized site work by the Morgan Group. One resident, Anita, noted the need for civility in campaigns, urging the board to avoid the “road of hate.”

Frank Perry raised issues related to homelessness, recounting an incident at a local Panera Bread where a waitress was attacked by an individual described as homeless. Perry called for action to address the increasing presence of such individuals and their disruptive behavior.

The meeting also included a proclamation for Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance on September 11, with the police chief and fire chief expressing gratitude for the acknowledgment of first responders’ sacrifices.

Another discussion revolved around the process for filling the vacated mayoral seat following the mayor’s resignation on August 22nd. The city attorney outlined the requirements set forth in the city charter, emphasizing that the vacancy must be filled within 60 days. The board deliberated on potential candidates, with one commissioner suggesting that appointing a former commissioner might be the fairest approach. Commissioner Michael Eisner proposed Commissioner Frank DiDonato, citing his previous experience as mayor and ability to maintain civility within the board. However, DiDonato expressed a preference to remain in his current position.

The board acknowledged the need for transparency and public engagement in the appointment process, agreeing on a proposed timeline for making the appointments by October 1st. There was a consensus on the importance of not rushing the decision and ensuring that potential candidates met the city’s qualifications for the office.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the renewal of employee healthcare insurance, highlighting the significant pressure on the industry due to rising obesity rates and the high cost of medications. The board approved the renewal of medical, life, and disability insurance contracts, noting that dependent costs had been budgeted across all departments.