Reverend Crawford, representing the Oak Hill Church of God in Christ, highlighted the need for repairs to the church building, which has suffered extensive weather damage over the years. The church requires a new roof, ceiling repairs, and handicapped-accessible restrooms, alongside a functioning air conditioning system essential for Florida’s climate. Reverend Crawford underscored the importance of the church, which has been a community fixture for over sixty years. He emphasized the church’s role in sustaining community health and vitality, noting its contributions to cohesion and resilience in Tarpon Springs.

The committee discussed potential avenues for financial support, including the Solar and Energy Loan Fund (SELF), which offers low-cost loans for projects such as roof replacements and air conditioning systems. Another avenue considered was the $2.4 million in funds distributed from the sale of the recently closed Church on the Bayou. This prompted suggestions for Reverend Crawford to contact key individuals involved in the fund’s allocation to potentially secure financial support for Oak Hill Church.

Addressing broader sustainability concerns, the committee examined flood risks and stormwater management in Tarpon Springs. Zeb Atkinson, a participant at the meeting, shared insights into an upcoming event focused on sustainability, specifically mentioning flood-prone areas like the docks and the fruit bowl area, which have been severely impacted by storms. Atkinson pointed to a storm-resistant community in Manatee County as a potential model for Tarpon Springs, emphasizing the need for similar infrastructure to address flooding.

A vulnerability assessment action plan, accepted by the state of Florida, was noted during the meeting. This assessment evaluates potential conditions through 2040 and 2070, considering extreme rainfall and tidal flooding. Committee members acknowledged the ongoing flood risks’ impact on community stability, stressing that sustainability must address both physical structures and the wellbeing of families and communities. They underscored the human element in sustainability discussions.

Land preservation also emerged as a significant topic. Renee Vincent and other city officials discussed a pathway to preservation, emphasizing the benefits of maintaining land over development, especially in areas unsuitable for construction. This initiative aims to preserve natural habitats and maintain wildlife corridors, crucial for local ecosystems. The West Klosterman Preserve was identified as a potential partner in these efforts, with ongoing discussions about collaboration.

The meeting also included a discussion led by Robin Sanger about the forthcoming dedication of a peace pole in Tarpon Springs, scheduled for September 21, 2025, to coincide with the International Day of Peace. The peace pole, featuring inscriptions in eight languages, aims to promote unity and peace among diverse cultures. This project, a collaboration between the City of Tarpon Springs, the Rotary Club, and the Peace for Tarpon organization, has been in development for over four years. Sanger encouraged committee members to promote the event and ensure a robust turnout.

Further community engagement initiatives were explored, with a focus on increasing participation in sustainability efforts. The committee recognized the need for diverse representation, particularly from the Union Academy neighborhood, to reflect the community’s demographics. The application process for committee membership was discussed, with an emphasis on attracting a broader range of applicants.

Other discussions included the presence of coyotes in residential areas and the importance of urban wildlife management. The committee also touched on the progress of climate action initiatives, the upcoming Eco Fest event, and the need for community input on environmental regulations.