The meeting also focused on the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), which delineated the allocation of approximately 12.7 million dollars for various projects. Discussions included the need for structural inspection of the sponge dock structure, the purchase of the spoil site property, and the prioritization of funds. Concerns were raised regarding the budgeting for a canopy over the fire crew’s boat and the cost of dredging activities. There was also a suggestion to use inline pumps instead of vaults for flood abatement at the sponge docks.

Financial aspects were central to the discussions, with an overview of the water and sewer fund budget presented, including the potential impact of a proposed 3.75% rate increase for 2025. The necessity of a future rate study was highlighted, alongside the unrealized gain and loss related to investments. The sanitation fund was brought up, particularly the issue of residents misusing waste services and a potential review of the yard waste operation.

The stormwater fund and plans for a future revenue sufficiency study were mentioned, as were the golf course fund’s revenue increases and the possibility of a new clubhouse and liquor license to boost revenue. The Marina and Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) funds were also subjects of the meeting, with a vacant position in the CRA noted.

The meeting delved into the fiscal year 2025 budget, with focus on the CRA. Concerns were raised about the lack of formal documents for loans between the city and the CRA and the potential sale of CRA-owned properties without resident input. The allocation of salaries within the CRA was questioned, particularly in relation to overtime expenses from Hurricane Ian. There was also a call to action on landscaping and infrastructure improvements, specifically the revamping of aging brick pavers and medians, with a discussion on the eligibility of these projects for CRA funding.

A grant application for a $3 million FEMA project was debated, with commissioners expressing concerns about the project’s true effectiveness and the lack of technical information. The replacement of cast iron and galvanized steel pipes in the city’s water system was also discussed, with a focus on addressing water quality and supply concerns.

Furthermore, the commissioners discussed a water well plc network project and an electrical life extension resiliency project aimed at modernizing the city’s wastewater treatment facility. The need to replace aging electrical components and elevate electrical systems to better withstand storm surges was highlighted, alongside the prioritization and management of infrastructure improvements.

Commissioners engaged in a dialogue about the budget, particularly focusing on the CRA’s anticipated revenue and the allocation of funds from the city and the county. There was also a discussion about discrepancies in budgeting for freight and postage expenses within the code enforcement and police departments, emphasizing the need for clarity in budget allocations.