A critical point of debate centered on the potential use of eminent domain for acquiring spoil sites, an issue that has divided opinions due to concerns about overriding the public’s will. After deliberating on the language and the historical use of eminent domain by the city, the committee decided to expand the areas where eminent domain could be utilized by adding dredge and spoil sites to the charter’s relevant section. This decision sparked a discussion on the need for specific language in the charter to justify the use of eminent domain and the possible repercussions of such a move.

In tandem with the eminent domain discourse, the committee engaged in a conversation about building height restrictions. Public comments at the outset of the meeting revealed a clear concern for preserving the character of Tarpon Springs’ downtown and historic neighborhoods, with calls to incorporate sustainability and limit building heights. Renee Vincent, the planning director, was involved in discussions about the feasibility of adding citizens to the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) board and the implications for building height restrictions in the charter.

The legality of including such provisions in the city charter was a point of contention, prompting the involvement of the city attorney and discussions on compliance with Pinellas County requirements. The committee weighed the options of codifying specific building height provisions in the charter against addressing them through city ordinances. Ultimately, they resolved to recommend that the Board of Commissioners adopt an ordinance requiring any variances to height restrictions to be approved by the Board of Adjustments.

Another issue that emerged was the question of who should have the authority to grant variances to building height restrictions. While one member proposed that this power should reside with the Board of Commissioners and necessitate a supermajority vote, the committee did not reach a consensus. They did agree to defer action on adding citizens to the CRA board until further information could be gathered.

The topic of sustainability also featured prominently in the discussions. The committee debated whether to include a sustainability committee and plan in the city charter, with some members stressing the importance of addressing invasive species and ecological concerns. Opinions varied on how detailed the charter should be concerning sustainability, but the committee ultimately adopted language recommended by the city attorney, modified to add the sustainability committee, and agreed to make further recommendations to the Board of Commissioners.

Further discussions illuminated the possibility of allowing property and business owners, in addition to residents, to serve on city boards and committees. While some members supported this idea to ensure these stakeholders have a voice in community matters, others expressed reservations about accountability and prioritizing Tarpon Springs residents’ participation.

Among other topics, the committee addressed the enforcement of board qualifications and considered recommendations for the Board of Commissioners. A member raised environmental concerns about boat launching ramps impacting manatee migration and suggested reserving them for non-motorized watercraft, alongside proposals to increase boat ramp numbers and provide trailer parking.