14:26The most newsworthy aspect of the meeting was the discussion surrounding the city’s financial outlook, revealing a projected deficit with total expenditures estimated at $50.4 million against expected revenues of approximately $13.3 million. This discrepancy underscored the urgency of addressing the financial imbalance to prevent negative consequences for the city. A transfer of $400,000 in 2025 was previously executed to avert a deficit scenario, but the city continues to face potential cost increases, notably due to Pinellas County Utilities’ plan to meter reclaimed water, which could add financial burdens.

30:56Another focal point was the capital improvement plan, particularly regarding projects aimed at restoring aging infrastructure and enhancing community amenities. Officials detailed projects planned for the years 2026 through 2030, emphasizing that not all proposed projects could proceed due to financial constraints. Key projects highlighted included dune and beach restorations, improvements to IT infrastructure, and potential FEMA reimbursements for specific initiatives. The citywide security cameras initiative was also discussed, with plans to replace an outdated system and add integrated cameras for enhanced security.

26:01The board also examined the financial stability of various city funds. The stormwater fund, for example, generates around $1.2 million through wastewater charges and a stormwater tier 2 assessment, yet struggles to cover larger capital project requests, such as a $30.1 million allocation for the Don Cesar Bokea area resiliency adaptation. Similarly, the wastewater fund’s revenues, primarily derived from wastewater charges, were insufficient to support both operations and capital projects without general fund subsidies.

21:38Discussions at the meeting turned to the need for revenue diversification and exploring local funding opportunities. The city’s reliance on ad valorem taxes as the largest funding source was apparent, with parking facilities falling short of revenue expectations. The county EMS reimbursement was expected to be fully received, yet the city has no direct influence over the half-cent sales tax controlled at the state and county level. Opportunities related to bed tax collection in Pinellas County were mentioned as a potential support for beach maintenance.

Financial best practices were a recurring theme, with concerns raised about general fund subsidies to enterprise funds like wastewater, sewer, and stormwater, which ideally should be self-sustaining. A fee and impact study was underway to develop a 10-year financial forecast, and the city is working to adopt practices aligned with the Government Finance Officers Association to qualify for their annual distinguished budget award.

01:01:21The meeting also addressed staffing levels for inspectors post-hurricane recovery. Current funding allows for seven additional full-time staff and four contract plans examiners and inspectors for the next year, yet this model is not sustainable long-term. A proposal for a long-term rental permit system was suggested to regulate short-term rentals and potentially fund inspector positions.

37:46The board emphasized the importance of a structured approach to capital projects, categorizing them into restoration, resiliency, and amenity enhancements. This categorization would aid in prioritizing future projects and ensuring alignment with city needs and realities. Establishing a reserve policy for emergency responses was also discussed, to maintain financial viability while awaiting federal assistance.