The committee engaged in a debate regarding the need for a lobbyist to secure grants and funding for the city. Members exchanged differing opinions on the practicality and necessity of hiring a professional lobbyist. Some underscored the importance of such a role in effective communication and coordination to support the city’s projects, while others emphasized the need to involve residents directly in decision-making processes.

Additionally, the topic of civil service received considerable attention. The committee discussed the Civil Service Board’s functionality, with varying levels of support among members. The possibility of employees forming a union also surfaced, highlighting employees’ rights to seek representation.

Discussions on the city’s budget and property purchase thresholds were also critical points during the meeting. The current limit for property purchases, set at $350,000, spurred debate over whether an increase is appropriate and how much residents should be involved in such decisions. The Anclote River and the potential revival of the Marine Commerce Committee were focal points for community involvement in decision-making. The role of the Planning and Zoning Board in minor issue resolutions was scrutinized, with concerns about the impact of decisions and elected officials’ accountability taking center stage.

The committee deliberated over the increasing cost of property value adjustments and the challenges related to elections for property purchases. The necessity of more frequent dredging and the costs of leasing property were also discussed in the context of overall city management.

Furthermore, the committee considered the qualifications for office, including the current office qualification fee. There was a suggestion that appointed individuals should not run for the board seat in the subsequent election to avoid any potential undue advantage. The guidelines for excused absences were also questioned, pointing to issues around meeting attendance and member responsibility.

The process of filling vacancies on the committee was another topic of discussion, especially the practicality of the 60-day timeframe for filling a vacancy and the requirements for a quorum, which some suggested should be three votes to pass anything on the commission.

Qualifications of members of boards and commissions were also debated, with the suggestion to specify the inclusion of professionals like engineers, architects, and city planners. There was consideration of working with the Planning and Zoning Department to create guidelines for board member qualifications, as well as the possible expansion of the charter to include other committees like the land preservation district.

Lastly, the committee addressed the responsibilities of the internal auditor, specifically the authority to handle sensitive personnel issues. Concerns about privacy violations and legal implications of disclosing such information were raised, and it was decided to request the internal auditor for further discussion on this matter.