19:28The primary focus of the meeting was the proposed park project, which drew considerable criticism from the community. Consultants from Half Associates presented a design that residents found inadequate and poorly planned. The proposal included a large pavilion and event space directly behind residential homes, leading residents to argue that the park seemed designed for large gatherings rather than neighborhood use. Concerns were raised about the location of the event space in a residential area rather than a commercial zone, with suggestions made to consider a city-owned lot in the Downtown Development area instead.

Residents also expressed alarm over the potential removal of nearly every tree on the proposed site, despite assurances from city staff and consultants that the tree canopy would remain largely intact. The marked trees and lack of detailed removal and replacement plans exacerbated public concern. One resident summed up the sentiment by stating, “A park should enhance our green spaces, not eliminate them.”

Security issues and budgetary concerns were also highlighted. The consultants reportedly had not addressed existing safety concerns with the Temple Terrace police department, and the project was already over 30% planned without clear funding sources or maintenance plans. Although potential state or federal funds were mentioned, there was uncertainty about securing these funds, leaving residents and council members questioning the financial viability of the project.

Public feedback called for increased resident involvement in the planning process, with suggestions for community-led efforts and surveys to better align the park with neighborhood needs. A resident offered to volunteer to lead such initiatives, emphasizing the desire for a more transparent and participatory approach.

In another significant agenda item, the council addressed the resurfacing project for Ferncliff Avenue and Belleview Avenue. City Engineer Brian McCarthy presented the project, which had received four bids ranging from $715,000 to $950,000. The project included full-depth reclamation and other improvements, with discussions focused on funding reimbursement options through a joint agreement with FDOT, Hillsborough County, and Temple Terrace.

35:38The council approved a resolution awarding the resurfacing project to Asphalt Paving Systems, contingent on finalizing the funding agreement with the county. Council members raised concerns about communication with residents regarding project delays, stressing the importance of keeping the community informed through electronic notifications and door hangers.

Beyond infrastructure and park projects, the council also tackled emergency provisions for purchasing a commercial sanitation truck. Public Works Director Jason Warrenfeltz highlighted the aging fleet and increased commercial accounts as reasons for the emergency purchase. The council discussed the bypassing of usual bidding processes to expedite the acquisition, noting the urgency of maintaining service levels, particularly for significant accounts like Amazon.

On the legislative side, the council conducted a second public hearing and reading of Ordinance 1579, which establishes a trespassing policy for public property. The ordinance details the process for issuing trespass warnings, including an appeal mechanism, and stipulates conditions for access to previously trespassed properties for First Amendment activities or municipal business. The ordinance passed without opposition.

52:52The council also approved an ordinance amending the Land Development Code concerning fences and walls. The amendments removed hedges from regulation scope, clarified the types of beams prohibited, and consolidated decision-making authority within the Community Development Director’s role. These changes aimed to address community concerns about visibility and streamline the permitting process.

1:11:00Other notable discussions included a proposal to address pet abandonment at the Riverfront Preserve and potential partnerships with local animal rescue organizations. A council member cited an increase in abandoned animals, prompting the council to explore collaborative efforts with rescues to mitigate the issue.