15:07The proposal to increase the salaries of the mayor and commissioners was a focal point of the meeting. The committee deliberated on the time commitments of these positions, estimating that commissioners spend approximately 539 hours annually on their duties, while the mayor dedicates around 929 hours. This data, coupled with a comparison to neighboring cities like Dunedin, where mayoral and commissioner salaries recently rose to $19,000 and $15,600 respectively, prompted the committee to reassess Tarpon Springs’ compensation structure. The approved recommendation set the new salaries at $15,500 for the mayor and $11,500 for commissioners.

09:28The discussion extended to the effectiveness of outreach methods for commission seats, primarily advertised through social media and the city website. The committee debated whether increased salaries would entice younger candidates to run for office, acknowledging that financial incentives alone might not be sufficient. Despite some members expressing personal indifference to the raises, they agreed it could serve as an incentive for potential new candidates. The recommendation for a regular review of mayor and commissioner salaries every three years was also approved.

17:11Following the salary discussion, the meeting transitioned to departmental budget presentations. The City Clerk’s office detailed its operating budget of approximately $74,000, emphasizing that election costs constitute over half of the department’s budget. A recent municipal referendum election cost $52,455, with expenses allocated across legal advertising and other operational categories. The clerk highlighted that election years are particularly costly due to multiple elections and new charter requirements for voter notifications. She projected potential costs for mailings, which vary based on the number of registered voters and other factors.

26:48The meeting also covered the Human Resources (HR) budget, noting an overall decrease due to changes in salary with a new HR director. The committee discussed the 7% to 10% increases in employee insurance premiums and the last adjustment passed onto employees two years ago. The HR budget also allocated funds for training, with staff attending HR management certificate classes at the University of South Florida.

47:37Infrastructure and utility operations were another major focus. The committee reviewed the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), emphasizing the needs of the reverse osmosis plant and aging wastewater infrastructure nearing 40 years old. A long-term metallic pipe replacement program and proactive maintenance of sewer lines were discussed, with a budget to line approximately 4,000 feet of piping annually.

48:34The golf course’s budget was examined, revealing plans for a $4.1 million clubhouse renovation funded through the enterprise fund and a ten-year construction loan. The anticipated 3% revenue increase in 2027 was attributed to the new event space. The committee addressed concerns about the impact of increased play on pace and the 4% annual increase in play costs to keep pace with inflation.

55:59The fire department’s budget of approximately $7.7 million was presented. This rise was mainly due to salaries and benefits. The department’s vehicle replacement plan was reviewed, emphasizing the need for timely budgeting for new acquisitions due to lengthy wait times, particularly for ladder trucks.

Further discussions on public safety included plans to replace outdated equipment and infrastructure at the Public Safety Building. The committee explored replacement options for a 25-year-old alert system and other critical equipment nearing the end of its life.

01:10:41In economic development, updates on the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) master plan and ongoing infill projects were provided. The economic development manager highlighted efforts to revitalize areas like Pinellas Avenue and the CRA’s role in incentivizing property enhancements. The vacant Forbes property on Tarpon Avenue was open for development proposals, with incentives available through the CRA.