The ordinance suggested a referendum that would authorize the city to renew these exemptions, previously set to expire at the end of 2024. Members of the public voiced their concerns about the proposed amendment, demanding clearer language and a requirement for businesses to contribute to the city’s tax base from the outset. One citizen proposed that a referendum should only proceed if backed by 4,000 signed petitions from Titusville voters. Others were skeptical about the benefits of the tax exemptions, emphasizing the importance of having all businesses contribute their fair share from the beginning.

The discussion also encompassed concerns about the city’s budgeting process, with allegations of manipulation to secure federal funding and doubts cast on the city’s financial stability. These concerns, raised by a former city employee, underscored the need for transparency and accuracy in financial matters.

In parallel, the council tackled the potential changes in the city’s zoning code, with special attention to the first reading of an ordinance concerning mini warehouses in the regional commercial zoning district. The Planning and Zoning Commission had recommended denial of this proposal due to concerns that such changes could transform the district into an industrial area, negatively impacting neighboring residential and commercial uses. Questions arose about access to storage units and the visual and noise impacts of such facilities. The City Manager provided explanations, emphasizing the need for clear language in the proposed changes.

On environmental fronts, the council deliberated on the tree canopy ordinance, expressing the aspiration to set a high standard for other communities. However, resident concerns surfaced about the process and accountability of the city manager and city attorney in adhering to the technical manual, with one resident urging the council to uphold truth and justice.

The Florida Live Local Act ordinance also underwent its first reading. The proposal sparked debate over the inclusion of impact fee waivers for affordable housing and the calculation of density for mixed-use developments. Residents voiced their hopes of shaping the ordinance by educating and organizing their neighbors.

The city’s strategic plan for fiscal year 2025 was discussed as well, with residents expressing divergent views. While some praised the new emphasis on community design, others felt that citizen input was inadequately utilized and survey results trivialized. Concerns about the city manager’s performance measures were also raised, calling for improved processes before accepting the plan.

Public comments during the session covered a spectrum of topics. Issues ranged from the right to clean water and the urgency to address pollution, to the city’s responsiveness to public records requests. The council received feedback both critical and commendatory regarding its handling of these matters.

The meeting also touched upon infrastructure and environmental conservation efforts, including the treatment of storm water outfall and the concept of storm water parks. A resident suggested the implementation of a half penny sales tax to fund projects beneficial to the Lagoon and the community, with the anticipation that a portion could be paid for by tourists.

The Public Works Department presented an overview of their accomplishments, receiving accolades from the council for their contributions to the community. The department highlighted extensive sidewalk and pothole repairs, alongside a significant investment in capital improvement projects.

In a nod to regional collaboration, a presentation on the Mission Space Coast initiative aimed to unify the 16 municipalities in Brevard County under a new brand. The well-received branding effort, “Tomorrow Launch is Here,” aimed to encapsulate the essence of the area’s space, nature, and sunrise.

As the meeting concluded, the council grappled with property-related concerns, including construction encroachments and a lean reduction request for a property on Columbia Boulevard. The latter resulted in a reduction of the lean, emphasizing the importance of compliance while offering a measure of leniency for accountability.