The meeting began with a presentation of checks from the 14th annual chili cook-off, an event celebrated for its fundraising success and community involvement. Captain McGovern detailed the event, which supported five charities: Operation 300, Warriors Renewal Coalition, Southeast Florida Honor Flight, Wounded Veterans Relief Fund, and Quest of Friends of Public Safety. Each charity received a check for $16,500, bringing the total amount donated over 14 years to approximately $844,143. Captain McGovern emphasized that all proceeds went directly to the charities, highlighting the collaboration among volunteers and local businesses. The event faced planning challenges, including security and parking logistics, but was ultimately supported by 145 volunteers and various donors and sponsors. Christine Brady from the Southeast Florida Honor Flight expressed gratitude for the council’s ongoing support.

Continuing with financial matters, the council discussed the village’s financial results for the previous fiscal year. The village reported a positive variance of $175,000 in property taxes, with expenditures under budget by approximately $867,000. Savings were seen in areas like the clerk’s office, while comprehensive planning exceeded expectations. Legal services and public works costs remained stable. The ending fund balance was projected at around $10 million, with $5.1 million designated for emergency reserves, primarily for hurricane response. Building permits generated $1.4 million in revenue, contributing to a positive financial outcome for the building fund. Concerns were raised about potential changes in state tax regulations that could affect the village’s financial stability and services, particularly in public safety and infrastructure maintenance.

Attention then turned to the redevelopment plans for the Questa Country Club. The council reviewed site plan modifications, focusing on a new maintenance facility and pickleball courts. The facility, designed to blend into the surroundings with a dark green color, will house maintenance equipment and feature open bay doors. The pickleball courts were relocated based on community feedback to minimize visibility from Questa Drive. The council emphasized the importance of transparency and communication with residents about the project. Concerns regarding parking and the impact on nearby residents were addressed, with assurances of preparations to mitigate disruptions.

The council also discussed the administration of permits for village park activities, focusing on noise and space usage on weekends. A proposed community survey for 2026 was also reviewed, with plans to gather resident feedback on various village initiatives. Changes to the survey included removing a question about undergrounding feasibility and adding questions about new phases of Remembrance Park and redevelopment plans for Questa Park, as well as e-bike and golf cart safety. Council members emphasized the importance of the survey, though noted its limitations in capturing the full range of resident opinions.