At the forefront of the meeting, the council discussed and approved a resolution authorizing the negotiation and execution of a contract with Bandy’s Construction for the White Way Utility Service Center. The project, with a budgeted amount of $7 million, is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and is scheduled for completion by September 2026. During the discussions, concerns about budget overages and the project’s tight schedule were addressed. The response included details about the contingency budget and the possibility of using the reserve for the water and sewer fund if necessary. To ensure adherence to the tight schedule, the contract includes liquidated damages provisions.

Additionally, the council approved on first reading an ordinance amending the terms of Board of Adjustment members. This change is intended to stagger the terms and avoid simultaneous expirations. There were debates on the length of terms and the staggered nature of appointments, with some expressing concerns about potential confusion and the need for future amendments. The second reading of the ordinance was scheduled for July 16, 2024.

Another item on the agenda was the request for a continuance on the rezoning of a property on Davis Road. The applicant sought additional time for engineering coordination, which the council granted, postponing the matter to the next meeting.

The topic of traffic and safety in the community was also a concern. The council approved the construction of speed humps in the Sagebrook community on Indigo Breeze Court and Water Chestnut Drive. City engineer Brian McCarthy presented the proposal, citing the evaluation process and outreach to residents. Despite two emails opposing the installation, a resident from the Sagebrook community spoke in favor, emphasizing safety concerns.

The city’s transportation and event planning were discussed as well, with a resident suggesting van pooling to city events to alleviate traffic and parking issues. The idea was to gauge citizen interest in the program and potentially promote it at the city’s July 4th event.

The council also addressed the upcoming Fourth of July celebrations in Temple Terrace, which will feature a parade and evening activities, including live music, food trucks, games, and fireworks. In terms of community engagement, the Vice Mayor provided updates on the bicyclist and pedestrian advisory committee’s (BPAC) activities, mentioning the submission of an application for the Bike Safe Communities program and the installation of bike racks in the city.

In matters of governance, Mayor Ross was designated as the voting delegate for the upcoming Florida League of Cities annual conference. The scope of the League’s legislative priorities and the decision-making process were outlined.

The meeting closed with recognition of the city clerk’s service and an appreciation resolution from the Florida Association of City Clerks. Lastly, the City Attorney provided clarification on the impact of Governor DeSantis’s veto of the vacation rental bill, stating it had no effect on the city as there was no existing ordinance regarding short-term rentals.