A comprehensive presentation by the Green Mills Group detailed their proposal for a new affordable housing development. The group outlined the necessity for the city’s financial support and emphasized the project’s alignment with the city’s housing action plan. Mitch Rosenstein, a principal at Green Mills Group, provided insight into the number of units, income eligibility criteria, amenities offered, and the company’s extensive experience in affordable and workforce housing development. The presentation included visual aids, such as site plans and sample floor plans, to illustrate the proposed project.

During the meeting, concerns were voiced about the development’s potential to affect the East Stuart community’s character and the potential displacement of local workforce. Opposition was expressed regarding the construction of multi-story buildings and the importance of ensuring that the development benefits current residents. A Housing Solutions Council representative spoke about the need for collaborative efforts among local nonprofits, the city, and the county to offer affordable housing solutions without solely relying on tax credit deals. The commission debated the significance of diversity, economic diversity, and community engagement in their decisions. A motion to place an item on the agenda for a future presentation and vote passed with a 3-2 vote.

In addition to the affordable housing debate, the commission addressed other notable concerns. Public comments brought attention to the issue of valet parking at Hudson on the River and its impact on fishermen’s access to parking spaces. Helen McBride, a community member, highlighted the issues with valet parking and the potential safety concerns it might pose. The commissioners discussed the historical context of the parking agreement, with the city manager providing details about the allocation of parking spaces dedicated to fishermen. The need to revisit the parking agreement to ensure equitable access was recognized.

Commissioner Clark commended the approval of a matching grant for a mural on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and advocated funding for the NAACP annual Gala, which led to the approval of purchasing up to two tables at a cost of $1,200 each. The president of the NAACP Branch of Martin County urged the city to support the event, emphasizing its community significance.

Commissioner Collins raised the issue of water discharges, proposing that the commission send letters to the South Florida Water Management District and the Corps of Engineers to advocate for the adoption of loom guidelines. Commissioner Rich addressed inaccuracies in a previous report on the number of new residential units approved for 2023.

The commission also discussed the updated city proclamation policy, seeking to establish criteria for issuing proclamations and potentially limiting their number during meetings to maintain meeting efficiency. Discussions also covered the updated procurement policy, which includes a new dispute procedure and updates to the procurement division’s address, which the Commissioners approved.

The intention to abandon a portion of Southeast Arapaho Avenue right of way was discussed, following a request from property owners on Southeast 13th Street due to safety concerns. The Public Works Department agreed that the right of way was no longer needed for public use and did not object to the abandonment. A resolution declaring the intent to abandon was approved by the commission, and the property owners will be responsible for the associated costs for a survey and appraisal.