0:05At the forefront of the council’s agenda was the need to identify alternative funding sources for the Capital Improvement Program. With the local option sales tax set to expire at the end of 2025, historically contributing $600,000 to $700,000 annually, the council explored ways to mitigate the financial shortfall. The internal facilitator, Jeremy, emphasized the significance of transitioning to reliance on the general fund, outlining allocations such as $710,000 for roads and $170,000 for sidewalks. Discussions centered on sustainable budgeting practices to ensure continued financing for infrastructure projects.

Stormwater management emerged as a concern, with emergency repairs over recent years depleting available funds for major projects. Jeremy proposed utilizing the water utility tax as a new funding source for stormwater initiatives, which could prevent sharp increases in assessments. This proposal sparked debate among council members, particularly about reallocating funds between enterprise funds. Jeremy clarified that the water utility tax feeds into the general fund. He further contextualized the tax’s re-establishment in 2020, aimed at offsetting village costs.

37:19The council’s strategic planning consideration included a vulnerability assessment funded by a $145,000 grant, addressing sea level rise and stormwater challenges. Integrating its recommendations into the strategic plan was discussed, with emphasis on aligning potential grant opportunities with community needs. A member highlighted a nearby municipality’s success, securing $11 million in funding from a similar assessment.

51:34Enhancing recognition within the village was another topic, with discussions about a trophy awarded to departments securing the most grant funding. This recognition program has proven popular. Additionally, the introduction of impact fees, enabled by recent state law changes, was discussed. These fees would primarily apply to new developments increasing capacity, requiring a study costing approximately $50,000 to set appropriate structures. Retaining 100% of the fees collected could benefit local capital projects, though concerns about shared responsibilities with the county were noted.

1:06:38Community space improvements, particularly at Remembrance Park, were also debated. There was consideration of collaborative opportunities with nearby entities like the library and post office. While one member prioritized complete funding for Remembrance Park’s second phase, discussions revealed uncertainty about potential connectivity benefits between the library and post office and the anticipated community engagement from such investments.

The council touched on environmental initiatives, including transitioning from an adopt-a-tree to a tree rebate program. This shift aims to encourage residents to enhance village greenery, supporting the village’s Tree City USA designation. Additionally, discussions on carbon footprint reduction initiatives revealed hesitance towards prioritizing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, with some members questioning their necessity and potential financial return for the village.

1:36:21Tequesta Park’s construction plans featured prominently, with costs reduced to under half a million dollars. The council expressed satisfaction with this progress, albeit noting that a local bill to transfer park property control to the village would not proceed in the current legislative session. Real estate acquisition strategies were discussed, focusing on creating pocket parks or exchanging smaller parcels for larger land to benefit long-term planning.

Beautification efforts along Old Dixie Highway were deliberated, with historical significance acknowledged. Complications arose due to county funding restrictions and the village’s limited land control. Despite these challenges, there was consensus on the need for aesthetic improvements, drawing on past council discussions.

Safety concerns regarding e-bike usage in the village prompted discussions on potential solutions, such as community forums for open dialogue. The council acknowledged the complexities of state regulations and the need for continued public education and enforcement efforts by local police.